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Sunday Edition

Sanctity of Truth Sunday, May 18, 2014 Vol. 1 No. 89

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Nigeria’s most authoritative newspaper in politics and business

POLITICS

BODE GEORGE TO Nigerians: DON’T PLAY POLITICS WITH CHIBOK

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Faith

Business

REDEEMed Parish, another Church fight over land

10,000 drivers yet to collect licences in Lagos

Sanctity of Truth

ON SUNDAY

Page 15, MAY 18, 2014

NTWEEKEND ONLINE AT www.newtelegraphonline.com/body&soul

I was born to play politics

–Elder Orubebe Get inspired, go for stripes

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abductions

Boko Haram targets more Northern schools lParents withdraw children from colleges lJonathan explains reluctance to visit Chibok lSect kills 30 in Borno, Cameroon Cephas Iorhemen Makurdi

I

L-R: President Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger Republic; President Francois Hollande of France, and President Goodluck Jonathan, during the Paris Summit for Security in Nigeria held at the Elysee Palace in Paris…yesterday

ndications have emerged that Boko Haram insurgents are planning to invade more Northern schools and abduct their pupils.

This follows the kidnap of 276 female pupils of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State on April 14.

About two months earlier, on February 25, 2014, Boko Haram had attacked Federal Government College, Buni Yadi, Yobe State and killed 59 male students. The sect also abducted 25 female pupils.

After the Chibok incident, Boko Haram abducted eight female pupils aged between 12 and 15 from Warabe, Borno State.

A week later, the sect abducted the wife and two children of a divisional police officer in Adamawa State.

The Chibok abductions have stirred global outrage, CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Tackle inflation, Utomi advises new CBN Gov lApex bank’s MPC meeting may boost equities market –Report Chijioke Iremeka

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professor of Political Economy and director at the Centre for

Applied Economics, Lagos Business School, Prof. Pat Utomi, has advised incoming Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. God-

win Emefiele, to focus on reducing inflation and raising the confidence of investors in Nigeria’s economy.

Utomi, who spoke in an

interview with our correspondent, said the apex bank did not need a ‘strong man,’ but someone who would focus on the task of

strengthening the economy.

“CBN should increasingly make efforts to institutionalise right processes instead of becoming another ves-

tige of the strong man. CBN should be a knowledge centre, where there should be institutional memory of the character of the Nigerian economy, focusing on its CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

News

Boko Haram targets more Northern schools CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

with various world leaders, local and foreign celebrities, activists, politicians and students demanding action to rescue the girls.

About 80 of the Chibok pupils were identified in a video posted on YouTube on Monday by Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau.

The fresh threat came through an alleged letter from the sect to the principal and teachers of Government College, Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

They also said they would attack a neighbouring school, Mount Saint Gabriel’s Secondary School, anytime soon.

In the letter, which is already causing panic in the state, the sect threatened to invade GCM between Friday and Monday (tomorrow) to abduct the male pupils from their dormitories.

The Principal, Mr. Ugudu Godfrey Apine, confirmed the receipt of the letter to our correspondent yesterday. He said he saw the letter captioned ‘Boko Haram’ when he got to his office on Wednesday last week.

He said it was slipped into his office through the outer door while a second copy was forced through the door of one of the four staff rooms.

Ugudu, who described the letter written in Pidgin as

‘threatening,’ said, “In the letter, they stated that they would be in my school, Government College, on Friday or on Monday. But their mission, according to them, was to get some boys and have the girls they had abducted at GSS, Chibok, marry them (boys).

“They also asked me to inform my colleague at MSGSS to be cautious. I photocopied the write-up and sent it to the principal (of MSGSS) and told them we are facing a situation that is likely to affect them and the need for them to be on the alert.”

Ugudu said the boys-only school has a total capacity of 787 boys, comprising boarders and day pupils.

He said the matter has since been reported to the police in Makurdi as well as to the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh.

He said the commissioner had informed the state Governor, Gabriel Suswam, about the threat.

Ugudu expressed satisfaction with the swift response of the state government as well as the deployment of armed security operatives in the school, adding that despite the threat of abduction, the school would re-open tomorrow for normal classes.

When New Telegraph on Sunday visited the school, soldiers and policemen were seen on guard in the premises.

L-R: National President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr Garba Mohammed; National Publicity Secretary, All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; representative of President Goodluck Jonathan, Alhaji Garba Kakarfi; and National President, Nigerian Association of Women Journalists, Mrs. Asabe Baba-Nahaja, at the opening of NAWOJ national delegates conference in Badagry...yesterday.

Our correspondent observed that a notice was conspicuously pasted on the school’s fence for students of the National Teachers Institute, Makurdi Study Centre, who usually receive lectures at the college. The notice informed them of the suspension of normal lectures for two weeks.

It was also observed that the school was virtually empty as parents were said to have thronged the school to with-

Why I haven’t visited Chibok - Jonathan

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Emmanuel Anule

resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday said he had not visited Chibok, Borno State, where Boko Haram insurgents kidnapped 276 female pupils of Government Girls Secondary School on April 14 because it would “not solve any problem.”

Speaking at a joint press conference after a security summit attended by French President, Francois Hollande; as well as the presidents of Cameroon, Chad, Benin and Niger, Paul Biya, Idriss Derby, Yayi Boni and Mahamadou Issoufou respectively, the Nigerian leader also said Boko Haram’s activities were no longer a local issue.

“These girls are not held in Chibok. Sometimes, people want the President to go to Chibok. If the President goes to Chibok today, it does not solve any problem. The problem facing the President and indeed the Nigerian government is how to get these girls from wherever they are,” he said.

Jonathan has been widely criticised for not visiting the town where the girls have been kidnapped, despite a global campaign to push his government to act on the matter. He cancelled a scheduled visit to Chibok on Friday after the plan leaked to the media.

Also at the press confer-

ence. Jonathan said the Boko Haram sect was “acting clearly as an al Qaeda operation” in its terror attacks on Nigeria.

He said, “We have shown our commitment for a regional approach. Without West African countries coming together we will not be able to crush these terrorists,” he added.

Also speaking, his Cameroonian counterpart said, “We are here to declare war on Boko Haram.”

In his remarks, the Chadian leader said, “There is determination to tackle this situation head on ...to launch a war, a total war on Boko Haram.”

For his part, Yayi said the African leaders at the summit had finally “decided to pool our efforts, our resources at the regional and international level.” he added that religious intolerance has noplace in Africa.

Issoufou described the summit as an opportunity to discuss the long-term economic and socialdevelopment of the West African sub-region.

Hollande noted that “the plan adopted by the summit provides intelligence coordination, exchange of information, the central control means, border surveillance, a military presence around LakeChad and response capability in the event of danger. There is no need for

France to deploy military units, they are present in the region.”

His comments raised the likelihood that France might activate its 3,000 troops stationed in West Africa to assist in the rescue of the Chibok girls.

During the summit, Jonathan had stated that over 20,000 troops as well as aircraft had been deployed in the area in search of the girls without success.

“At the international level, we should take concrete steps to designate the Al Qaeda in West Africa, alias Boko Haram, as a Terrorist Organisation on the basis of the Proscription Order that my government has already imposed on the organisation.

“We should also accelerate the implementation of other international sanctions, particularly under the auspices of the United Nations, on Boko Haram, Ansaru and their principal leaders.

“We are already making thorough intelligence efforts to identify their sponsors and their sources of funding and arms supply. I have no doubt that with the cooperation of Nigeria’s neighbours, it would be possible to rein in these organisations until this scourge is ultimately eliminated and defeated. We will not succumb to terrorists and their dangerous tactics. Terrorists will not be allowed to CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

draw their wards.

The spokesperson for the state police command, Mr. Daniel Ezeala, confirmed the incident, saying, “The police are aware of the incident and are on top of the situation.”

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday in Paris, France said the Boko Haram sect was “acting clearly as an al Qaeda operation” in its terror attacks on Nigeria.

Speaking at a joint press conference after a security summit attended by French

President, Francois Hollande; as well as the presidents of Cameroon, Chad, Benin and Niger, Paul Biya, Idriss Derby, Yayi Boni and Mahamadou Issoufou respectively, Jonathan said Boko Haram’s activities were no longer a local issue.

“We have shown our commitment for a regional approach. Without West African countries coming together we will not be able to crush these terrorists,” he added.

He also vowed that the 276

female pupils abducted from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State

by Boko Haram on April 14 would be rescued soon.

Also speaking, his Cameroonian counterpart said, “We are here to declare war on Boko Haram.”

The Chadian leader said, “There is determination to tackle this situation head on ...to launch a war, a total war on Boko Haram.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

2015: 500 POLITICIANS TO WATCH

Wamakko, Bafarawa, Tambuwal, Shagari, Maccido battle for Seat of the Caliphate

One of the battlegrounds for the 2015 elections is Sokoto State. The elections will witness friends turned foes doing electoral battles in the dominant political parties – the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Will Governor Aliyu Wamakko continue to overshadow his former principal, Attahiru Bafarawa, in Sokoto? How would the electoral battle be fought in the Seat of the Caliphate? Will the Sultanate continue to dominate the Sokoto Central Senatorial District seat or bow to Wamakko’s fire power for the seat? Who are the gladiators angling to take over the Government House?

Watch out tomorrow as New Telegraph gives an insight into the political gladiators who will shape Sokoto State in 2015.

New Telegragh …Nigeria’s most authoritative newspaper in Politics and Business

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

News

FG appoints Rasheed Olaoluwa BOI MD Boko Haram targets Abdulwahab Isa Abuja

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resident Goodluck Jonathan has appointed Mr. Rasheed Adejare Olaoluwa as the new Managing Director of Bank of Industry (BoI), the government’s industrial bank.

Aged 50, Olaoluwa expected to resume tomorrow(Monday) was Group Director, Financial Services Sector at Heirs Holdings prior .

He had at various time, served as the group Chief Executive Officer of UBA Capital Plc, a leading pan-

African asset management and investment banking group, from January 2013 to May 2014.

He also served as Executive Director at the United Bank for Africa between March 2008 and December 2012.

He also served as the chief executive officer of UBA International of United Bank for Africa Plc as well as chief executive officer of UBA West & Central Africa.

Prior to joining UBA in 2006, Mr. Olaoluwa had an illustrious working career that saw him through Arthur Andersen and in the banking industry, various

senior roles in marketing and relationship management, treasury management, currency trading and investment banking, culminating in his appointment as the managing director/chief executive officer of the erstwhile Universal Trust Bank PLC. The finance expert is an Associate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.

He holds a first class honours degree in Civil Engineering and an executive MBA degree from International Graduate School of Management (IESE), Spain.

Olaoluwa holds a first class honours degree in

Civil Engineering and an MBA from International Graduate School of Management, Spain.

The position of MD of BoI was occupied by Waheed Olagunju in acting capacity following a hurried controversial exit of former MD, Ms. Evelyn Oputu, whose eight years turbulent tenure ended on December 13, 2013.

The Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) is currently investigating the last three years of Oputu’s reign in BoI due to the alleged discovery of discrepancies in the bank’s financial accounts for the years – 2010, 2011 and 2012.

L-R: Head, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, Margareta Wahlstrom; Deputy Prime Minister, Swaziland, Paul Dlamini; and Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Muhammed Sidi, at a news conference at the end of fifth African Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in Abuja…on Friday

more Northern schools CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

For his part, Yayi said the African leaders at the summit had finally “decided to pool our efforts, our resources at the regional and international level.” he added that religious intolerance has no place in Africa.

Issoufou described the summit as an opportunity to discuss the long-term economic and social development of the West African sub-region.

Hollande noted that “the plan adopted by the summit provides intelligence coordination, exchange of information, the central control means, border surveillance, a military presence around Lake Chad and response capability in the event of danger. There is no need for France to deploy military units, they are present in the region.”

His comments raised the likelihood that France might activate its 3,000 troops stationed in West Africa to assist in the rescue of the Chibok girls.

Prior to the summit, British Foreign Secretary, William Hague, said the Nigerian armed forces were not well structured to confront the Boko Haram challenge.

“Nigerian security forces have not been well structured for this kind of thing and that has been shown by the problem getting worse.

We can help with that which is why we are offering to embed military advisers within the Nigerian headquarters,” he said.

On Friday, United States President Barrack Obama and Hollande held a phone conversation, during which they discussed the security situation in West Africa and the rescue of the Chibok girls.

Meanwhile, no fewer than 29 people were killed when Boko Haram insurgents fired rockets into market in Nguro-

soye village, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

The insurgents rode into the market on hundreds of motorcycles and six Hilux vans and began shooting sporadically as they fired rocket launchers at traders.

Security sources said they counted 29 bodies while several others sustained varying degrees of injury.

In a separate development, one Chinese man was killed and 10 others kidnapped when Boko Haram terrorists attacked a road camp in Northern Cameroon overnight Friday.

Security sources said the heavily armed insurgents attacked the camp in five vehicles after many of the Rapid Intervention Battalion soldiers guarding the facility were withdrawn to the capital, Yaoundé, for the May 20 national day parade.

The few soldiers remaining in the camp battled the insurgents for some hours.

The insurgents also attacked a police station in Waza and seized many weapons.

Early last month, two Italian priests and a Canadian cleric were abducted in Northern Cameroon. It was the same region where where a French priest as well as a French family were kidnapped in 2013 by the sect.

The telephone line of the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Justin Amase, was switched off when our correspondent tried to reach him for comments.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Affairs, Dr. Cletus Akwaya, in a reaction, described the letter as “the handiwork of criminally minded persons who are out to create panic in the state.”

He said the state government had taken adequate measures to ensure the security of the pupils and the entire people of the state.

Why I haven’t visited Chibok - Jonathan Tackle inflation, Utomi advises new CBN Gov CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

be allowed to define who we are or instil fear in our people and cause destruction and mayhem. The time has therefore come for all peace-loving peoples of the world to unite against this new threat to global peace and stability,” he stated in his address.

Prior to the summit, British Foreign Secretary, William Hague, said the Nigerian armed forces were not well structured to confront the Boko Haram challenge.

“Nigerian security forces have not been well structured for this kind of thing and that has been shown by the problem getting worse.

We can help with that which is why we are offering to embed military advisers within the Nigerian headquarters,” he said.

On Friday, United States President Barrack Obama and Hollande held a phone conversation, during which they discussed the security situation in West Africa and the rescue of the Chibok girls.

Meanwhile, no fewer than 29 people were killed when Boko Haram insurgents fired rockets into market in Ngurosoye village, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

The insurgents rode into the market on hundreds of motorcycles and six Hilux vans and began shooting sporadically as they fired rocket launchers at traders.

Security sources said they counted 29 bodies while several others sustained varying degrees of injury.

In a separate development, one Chinese man was killed and 10 others kidnapped

when Boko Haram terrorists attacked a road camp in Northern Cameroon overnight Friday.

Security sources said the heavily armed insurgents attacked the camp in five vehicles after many of the Rapid Intervention Battalion soldiers guarding the facility were withdrawn to the capital, Yaoundé, for the May 20 national day parade.

The few soldiers remaining in the camp battled the insurgents for some hours.

The insurgents also attacked a police station in Waza and seized many weapons.

Early last month, two Italian priests and a Canadian cleric were abducted in Northern Cameroon. It was the same region where where a French priest as well as a French family were kidnapped in 2013 by the sect.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

core functions.”

One of the core functions of CBN is to contain inflation due to the financial policies just made. Every economy has people who react to movement in different ways. CBN has to work on the loss of confidence of consumers, prudence and investment confidence, deep institutional memories of how things happen and make choices that spur bank responses from movement in the consumer pricing index.

“It is important that the initial and qualitative analysis of CBN is world class.

It’s also important that we have decision makers, who are motivated more by professional skills and CBN banking skills than by legal or other agenda.”

We have had a history of strongmen in the CBN instead of strong institutions.

These are my views. I still think of then Joseph Sanusi, who almost got to the golden age of the CBN, a strong leader but who wasn’t looking for any publicity.

I wished he had one additional attribute that would have made him perfect. He was not much a banker as a professional economist.

“There is the tendency for operational bankers and professional bankers to be consumed by the issues of managing banks rather than looking at the raw economy in terms of strength and things that stimulate economic activities on one hand.”

Those who are not professional bankers are economy managers. But the temperament of Sanusi is definitely

the temperament of a professional banker. If we return to that CBN leadership that concentrates on institutional building, we would do much better.” (See full interview on Page 59) Meanwhile, a report by Meristem Securities Limited says that the forthcoming CBN Monetary Policy Committee meeting will not record any shift from major policy variables.

The report states that if the meeting scheduled for tomorrow and Tuesday does not take any policy shift, the Nigerian equities market is likely to retain its positivity in the coming week.

The MPC meeting, to be presided over by Acting CBN Governor, Mrs. Sarah Alade, will be the last before Emefiele resumes on June 1.

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Moments

L-R: Members, Adonia Partners Mission, Nigeria, Mr. and Mrs. Okorojie Onoh; and President, Adonia Partners, USA, Richard Erhiawarien, at the Barnabas Gathering, an annual fund raising dinner of Adonia Partners, USA, held at Sheraton Hotels and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos.

L-R: Minister of Land, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi; Managing Director, Federal Housing Authority, Mr. Teve Gemade; and Permanent Secretary, Land, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Ezekiel Oyemomi, during the visit of the minister to Festac Town in Lagos...on Friday

L-R: Vice President, Association of Food, Beverage and Tobacco Employers, Mr. Sunil Sawhreey; President, Mr. Paul Gbededo; and Executive Secretary, Mr. Aderemi Adegboyega, at the 35th Annual General Meeting of the association in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO: TONY EGUAYE

L-R: Director General, Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Anthony Anuforom; Acting Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Benedict Adeyileka; and Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Saleh Dunoma, at a wedding ceremony between Solomon Terna Iorshe, and Sewuese Ortom, daughter of the Supervising Minister of Aviation, Samuel Ortom, in Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi...recently

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

L-R: Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi ; a former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Paul Alabi and an ex-governor of the State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, during the Fayemi Re-Election Campaign train’s tour of Ijesha Isu, in Ikole Local Government Area of the State on Friday.

L-R: Vice Chairman, Wilson Badejo Foundation, Rev. (Mrs.) Yinka Badejo: Founder, Rev. Wilson Badejo; members, Rev. Akin Akeju and Mr. Isaac Adeyemi, during a press conference to announce the foundation’s seventh lecture and the founder’s 67th birthday in Lagos… on WednesdayPHOTO: GODWIN IREKHE.

Former National President,Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Mrs. Toro Oladapo presenting Positive Thinker award to former Majority leader, Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Aneke Ifemeni, on behalf of the Chairman, Social Insurance Trust Fund, Mrs. Ngozi Olejeme, during NAWOJ National Awards ceremony in Lagos...on Thursday PHOTO: GODWINN IREKHE

Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori looks on while Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (right) presents a gift to the Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers,, Osun State chapter, Alhaji Isiaka Afolabi, during a dinner organised for NURTW members at Government House, Osogbo, Osun State.

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

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Moments

L-R: Award Panel Member; Mr. Ejiro Omonode; Chairman, Award Panel, Mr. Ikeddy Isiguzo; another member of the Award Panel, Mrs. Falilat Ogunkoya, and General Manager, Unmissable Incentives Limited, Mr. Kayode Idowu, during a press conference for the 2014 edition of the Nigerian Sports Award in Lagos…on Friday

Souvenir by the Sudanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Tagelsir Mahagoub Ali, (right) presenting a Souvenior to Niger State Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu during a courtesy visit on the governor in Minna…on Thursday

L-R: Former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Chief Mrs. Stella Odife; Special Adviser to the President on Ethics & Values, Chief Mrs. Sarah Jubril; Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, and his wife, Mrs. Ebele Obiano, during Jubril visit to the Government House, Awka...on Friday.

L-R: Public Affairs Officer, Australian High Commission in Nigeria, Mr Okokon Odiongenyi; Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonathan Richardson; Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, and Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Taiwo Adeoluwa, during the high commissioner’s visit to the governor in his Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta office…yesterday

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Citibank Nigeria, Mr. Akinsewon Dawodu; Managing Director, Cohub, Mr. Tunji Elesho; Managing Director, HOD Consulting, Mrs. Simi Nwogugu and General Manager, Operations, Esso Exploration Producing Nigeria Limited, Mr. Oladotun Isiaka, during the unveiling of Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) Ambassadors in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO:SULEIMAN HUSAINI

A cross-section of Women of Grace Assembly Church after a service on the Bring Back Our Girls campaign in Lagos...on Thursday

Managing Director, Infrastructure Bank, Adekunle Oyinloye, being assisted by his wife, Foluke ,to cut his 50th birthday cake in Lagos

L-R: Immediate Past President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Segun Aina; newly elected President/Chairman of Council, Mrs ‘Debola Osibogun, and past president, Mr. Luke Okafor, during the Investiture of Osibogun as 18th President/Chairman of Council of the Institute, at the Bankers House, Victoria Island, Lagos …yesterday. PHOTO:SULEIMAN HUSAINI

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

News GOMBE Dankwabo seeks law to compel health test on intending couples

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overnor Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe State, Saturday urged the state House of Assembly to enact a law for intending couples to know their health status before marriage.

Dankwambo made the call in Gombe at the opening ceremony of the annual sensitisation programme for clerics, organised by Da’awa and Relief Organisation.

The governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Religion Matters, Alhaji Sa’ad Hassan said, this would reduce the risk of spreading HIV/ AIDS and other diseases.

He thanked the organisation for the sensitisation programme, and advised clerics in the country to al-

ways preach peace to their followers.

Earlier, Malam Muhammed Lawan, Chairman of the organisation said the aim of the programme was to encourage Muslim clerics to always follow due process established by Islam while preaching.

He said that the organisation is also involved in rendering assistance to orphans and the less privileged, as well as conflict resolution.

According to him, the group has constructed nursery and primary schools, computer and skills acquisition centres for orphans and the less privileged in the state.

The chairman said the organisation had so far registered 1, 500 orphans in the state, who were being given assistance in the areas of education, health and feeding.

ADAMAWA Grazing: Expert blames Northern govs for conflicts

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n agriculture expert, Dr Walia Hamman, has blamed northern governors for their lack of interest in the restoration of the 1960 Northern Nigeria Grazing Reserve Gazettes.

Speaking recently in Yola, Walia, who is the National Livestock Project Coordinator, North East zone attributed the constant conflicts between farmers and pastoralists in the region to the lukewarm attitude of the governors to restore and implement the gazettes.

“In order to restore peace to the conflicts areas, governors from the region must show interest in the restoration and implementation of 1960 gazettes.”

He expressed regret that since the conflict spread to other states across the country, over 20,000 pastoralists had migrated to

neighbouring countries.

Walia observed that all states in the north, excluding Benue, had federal and state grazing reserves for cattle rearing.

The expert said that the 1960 gazette clearly specified fundamental issues which, if properly implemented, could solve the conflicts once and for all.

Walia also noted that the issue of stock route, which he described as a matter of concern, had also remained unresolved.

Walia said that due to the conflicts, Nigeria had lost no fewer than three million cattle, sheep and goats to the neighbouring countries.

Referring to records contained in the 2011 National Livestock Development Programme, he said that the Federal Government had demarcated over 4,500km of stock routes in the North East zone of the country.

Akpabio charges Air Force on surveillance in oil producing areas

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kwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio, has charged the Nigeria Air Force to increase surveillance in oil producing areas to curtail crude oil theft, bunkering and vandalisation of oil pipelines by miscreants.

Akpabio, who gave the charge Friday when the Commander of 207 Special Mobility Group, Calabar, Air Commodore Charles Ohwo, paid him a courtesy visit at Governor’s Office, Uyo, said such effort would restore losses in the monthly oil derivation accruable to government.

The governor bemoaned upsurge of sea piracy in the country’s territorial waters coupled with the harassment of sea passengers and fishermen and the resultant effects on their means of livelihood.

He commended the airforce chief for what his men are doing in partnering other security agencies in “Operation Thunder”, and appealed for more cooperation in ensuring the safety of lives and property.

Akpabio further lauded the efforts of the airforce in fighting terrorism in the country, saying, “Although terrorism is a global problem, what we

are seeing in the country is totally un-Nigerian.

I want the Nigerian Air Force to add more value to the security of lives and property.”

On the forthcoming air force seminar in the state, the governor welcomed the idea, and hoped that it would boost more collaboration in security between the government and the air force, describing the Informat. He described the ICT unit in Akwa Ibom International Airport manned by men of the Nigerian Air Force as second to none and a great innovation.

He congratulated the commander on his new appointment, positing that “You must have proved your appointment as an efficient and hard working person hence the elevation. And I have no doubt that you’ll prove your mettle in this new position”.

Air Commodore Ohwo who said his area covered Uyo too and his duty was to ensure safety of the sky, thanked the Governor for receiving him in the state.

He announced that the Nigerian Air Force would this year hold a seminar in Akwa Ibom, which would involve deployment of aircrafts and helicopters to boost the operations.

Bomb scare: Fashola commends Lagosians for vigilance

Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi (right), exchanging pleasantries with the Managing Director/CEO, Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, during Ogunsanya’s courtesy visit to the governor in Ibadan, Oyo State…on Friday

Anarchy: Commission warns Police Affairs Minister Wale Elegbede

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inister of Police Affairs, Mr. Abdul-Jelili Adesiyan, has been warned to be cautious in ways he conducts himself as a public servant especially in Osun State, in order not to cause anarchy in the build-up to the elections.

The warning which was given by the Public Complaints Commission is coming on the heels oallegations that he orchestrated violence during the April 3 Peoples Democratic Party primaries conducted at the Ideal Nest Hotel in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The minister allegedly

used policemen to harass, intimidate and prevent the first Governor of the State, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who was contesting the governorship primaries with Senator Iyiola Omisore, who later emerged the candidate of the party.

In a letter dated 11 April 2014 and signed by its National Commissioner, Professor Razaq Abubakre, the Public Complaints Commission, described the conduct of the minister at the primaries as a recipe for anarchy.

The letter entitled: ‘Complaint on Arbitrariness and Abuse of Office’ read in part: “I wish to recall the disturbing

incident of April 3, 2014 at the Ideal Nest Hotel, Ilobu Road, Osogbo in which you were alleged to have used policemen to harass, intimidate and embarrass Senator Isiaka Adeleke, the first civilian Governor of Osun State and the contestant to your own favoured candidate in your party for the gubernatorial ticket in your capacity as the Hon. Minister of Police Affairs.

“It is obvious that this reported conduct is a recipe for anarchy if all ministers were to act in the same manner. As a citizen of the State of the Virtuous, your reported action, if correct, will send a wrong signal to all the believers in justice

and fair play around the globe.”

The commission stated that such action by the Police Affairs minister was capable of sending wrong signals to all stakeholders in the state and one that may obstruct peace, fair play and justice.

Justifying the commission’s role, Abubakre said as ombudsman, it has a duty to draw attention of anybody whose act may lead to injustice against any citizen of the state or country.

He noted that the report the intimidation and embarrassment caused Senator Adeleke is one capable of engendering injustice and causing anarchy.

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overnor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State has commended Lagosians residing on the Island for their vigilance in the discovery of the strange object that was suspected to be a bomb last Thursday.

Fashola gave the commendation through his Senior Special Adviser on Security, Maj. Babatunde Panox, while inaugurating the Nigeria Police Family Support Unit (FSU) at Adeniji-Adele on Lagos Island.

He said that such alertness was expected from all residents of the state. Fashola urged the people not to relent in their effort in supporting the police and other security agencies with a view to making the state a safe place for all.

The governor commended Ford Foundation and Justice for All (J4A) for building the facility, stressing that such gesture would help to improve the services of the police.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Central Police Station, Adeniji-Adele, CSP Monday Agbonika, said that the FSU was built to handle domestic violence, sexual offences against minors and other juvenile

cases.

According to him, the police in support of Ford Foundation and J4A decided to build such unit in the area because they have high record of such cases in the community.

The DPO said the trained officers and the station would serve as models to other stations nationwide. ``We, therefore, have a vision to be able to focus on the victims, so that the vulnerable section of our society will have a voice. We are relying greatly on partnership with some women groups, the Ministry of Youths, Sports and Social Development. ”We shall also partner with the judiciary, Office of the Attorney-General, Office of the Public Defender, Civil Society among others,’’ he said.

Regional representative of Ford Foundation in West Africa, Mr. Innocent Chukwuma, said the reason they supported the project was to have true police reform and to encourage police officers.

The National Programme Manager of J4A, Dr Bob Arnot, said that that a similar facility would be built in Enugu and in some states in the north.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

News

Youths vandalise Jonathan, governor’s billboards in Lafia

Arson: Ohakim cancels guber declaration

Ahmed Tukur

Steve Uzoechi

Lafia

N

o fewer than 50 armed youths yesterday stormed the Lafia campaign office of a Peoples Democratic Party governorship aspirant in Nasarawa State, Alhaji Yusuf Agabi, and vandalised his billboard as well as those of President Goodluck Jonathan.

They also pulled down other billboards of the aspirant and Jonathan as well as those of the state

PDP Chairman, Chief Yunana Iliya, in other locations around the city.

The incident, which occurred a day after Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, paid a condolence visit to Governor Tanko Al-Makura in Government House, Lafia caused widespread panic.

Danladi Gado, a trader close to a car stand where one of the billboards was destroyed, said the youths were singing the praises of the All Progressives Congress as they

vandalised the billboards.

Already, tension has enveloped the state capital over fears of reprisals.

Checks by New Telegraph on Sunday revealed that over 12 billboards belonging to Agabi were pulled down while three belonging to the governor were also vandalised.

The PDP youth leader, Muhammad Barde, expressed dismay over the incident and called for restraint.

But in a swift reaction,

the newly sworn in State APC Secretary, Aliyu Bello, denied the involvement of APC. “I’m not aware but ask about those who directed the vandalism of the governor ’s billboards,” he said.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Umar Numan, said he was not aware of any complaints in that regard.

“I’m yet to be briefed about ahy complaint in that regard,” he said.

OWERRI

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he declaration of a former governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, to contest the 2015 elections could not hold yesterday as scheduled.

The cancellation of the well publicized event followed Thursday’s bomb attack on his residence in Owerri, the state capital.

Ohakim, who had earlier vowed to go ahead with the declaration, may have been prevailed upon to call it off owing to the massive influx of sympathisers to his country home in Okohia.

A source close to the former governor told New Telegraph on Sunday that the influx of people into his country home had made the declaration impossible.

“I can tell you for sure that His Excellency was bent on making his declaration on Saturday, but if you see the rate sympathisers trooping to Okohia (his country home), you will understand that there is no conducive space for such

declaration ceremony now.

Again, it may also be important to tell you that he returned from medical check up overseas and came home straight to primarily participate in the burial of his uncle,” the aide said.

Our correspondent learnt that some security men in the former governor’s residence had been arrested in connection with the incident.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the state police command, Andrew Enwerem, said, “Investigation is still ongoing so it would be to hasty to say what exactly caused the inferno that destroyed the home of the former governor. But I can assure you that we are leaving no stone unturned in this investigation. We are inviting bomb experts and forensic specialists to unravel the cause of the fire and root out the perpetrators. So far, no arrest have been made but some people considered as prime witnesses have been invited for discussions with the police.”

Mutiny: Expert wants defence budgets monitored Biyi Adegoroye

Distribution of materials by the National Emergency Management Agency to the affected communities after armed attacks in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa state…yesterday

Fayose chides Tinubu over comment on Yoruba Obas Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

P

eoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, has slammed the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Senator Bola Tinubu, over the latter’s comment on the forthrightness of traditional rulers in Yorubaland.

Tinubu, penultimate week, had been quoted as saying that “the good Obas in Yorubaland, who are forthright, firm and are standing by the truth are not up to five.

They are just three - Oba Awujale of Ijebu-Ode, Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos and one other.”

In a statement signed by the Director-General of his campaign organisation, in Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, Fa Chief Dipo Anisulowo ,yose, warned Tinubu to

desist from insulting Yoruba Obas, especially those in Ekiti State.

Fayose, who described Tinubu’s statement as an insult to the traditional institution in Yorubaland, added that: “Only someone without history will open his mouth to castigate our Obas, who are the custodians of Yoruba culture and tradition.”

The PDP candidate maintained that “traditional rulers in Ekiti State are not useless, and we take serious exception to any individual or group rubbishing our revered Obas.”

He commended the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, for rising in defence of Yoruba Obas against Tinubu’s insults, urging other notable traditional rulers to also “rise and defend the Yoruba traditional institution, which is being ridiculed by Tinubu and his APC.”

While eulogising the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, during his 80th birthday, Tinubu had said the Awujale was not part of the useless Obas in Yorubaland, “who are sellouts, we know them, and it is not yet time to mention names”, adding that “the good Obas’ in Yorubaland, who are forthright, firm and stand by the truth are not up to five, they are just three.

Oba Awujale, Oba Akiolu and another.”

However, the PDP governorship candidate, in his reaction, said the implication of Tinubu’s statement was that “it is either all Obas in Ekiti State are not forthright, firm and honest or there is just one of them that is forthright, since he (Tinubu) had already mentioned two Obas among the three that he believed are forthright in Yorubaland”.

Fayose also saw Tinubu’s

comment as a calculated attempt to “cause disunity among our revered royal fathers by playing certain Obas against others.

The PDP candidate said all true sons and daughters of Oduduwa must rise against any attempt by politicians to sow discord among traditional rulers through careless and unguided talks.

“We are also not unmindful of the refusal of the APC government in Ekiti State to pay palace staff and denial to our Obas the five percent share in the Excess Crude oil proceeds.

“Tinubu’s statement is therefore a continuation of the APC’s contempt for our traditional institution, and we condemn this insult on our revered traditional rulers in Ekiti State in its entirety…We also demand an apology from Tinubu and his party, APC,” he said.

A

Lagos-based security consultant, Mr. Godspower Okunsuwa, has called on security authorities in the country to ensure good management of funds for the prosecution of emergency rule to make it possible for effective security service delivery.

Speaking against the backdrop of the mutiny by some military operatives in Borno State last week, Okunsuwa also called for a budget monitoring mechanism to ensure funds are utilised for the purposes they were meant.

Arguing that the war on terror is very dangerous to fight due to porosity of the borders and the fact that terrorists often use human shields, without observing rules of engagement, he called on defence authorities to pay adequate attention to proper equipment of soldiers and their welfare.

“As we speak, the army is in a complex situation now having to combat Boko Haram insurgency and the insincerity of some of our elders and political class. They are handicapped by the rules of engagement. Even if they have the weapons, they can never deploy them to fight Boko Haram

insurgency, because they do not want to be accused of genocide. No military commander enjoys seeing his officers and men being killed or maimed daily by these insurgents” Okunsuwa said.

He observed that : “On top of it all, the military have to contend with the triple problems of fear, doubt and mistrust between the army, local populace and the various state governments.

“You will recall the other day that the Governor of Adamawa State, Murtala Nyako, a retired admiral of the Nigeria Navy, accused the President of genocide! Earlier, some Northern leaders threatened to call on the International Court of Justice to probe former Chief of Army Staff, Azubike Ihejirika!

He called on Governor Kashim Shetima of Borno State, to provide security agents with information on the over kidnapped 200 girls, instead of speaking to the media, and sending signals to the insurgents to relocate.

“His aides should also give the governor some coaching in information security in order to avoid a situation where he will rather be motivating the insurgents while demoralising the troops with his comments, ” he said.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

News

Group wants Jega to probe missing Enugu voter registers Onyekachi Eze

A Abuja

s the Independent National Electoral Comission (INEC) is about to commence the issuance of permanent voters card (PVC) this week, the Enugu Roots Initiative (ERI) over the weekend has raised alarm over the alleged mysterious disappearance of 620 voter registers from the commission’s office in Enugu.

The group in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Malachy Uzendu, expressed shock at the development and called on INEC chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega to immediately launch investigation into the matter and recover the missing registers According to the statement, “Somebody somewhere is playing a dangerous game but this is too expensive. We hereby call on the INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega to immediately set up an administrative panel to unravel how the registers disappeared from Enugu INEC. “This is important because not only were these registers used in the 2011 general election, they were also supplied by INEC and used in last December, 2013 Local Government election in Enugu State. So, at what point did they disappear?”

The group believed that the aim was not just to disenfranchise people of the state but ultimately to prune down the number of constituencies in

Enugu in the forthcoming delimitation exercise.

It was alleged that names of prominent politicians and top government functionaries including Governor Sullivan Chime; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Eugene Odo; Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo; Enugu State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Vita Abba among others, have been wiped off the INEC voter register.

Of the 2940 polling booths in the state, 621were said to have disappeared from INEC, which its Enugu state office claimed was caused by “machine and human error”.

Worst hit, according to the commission were Nsukka, Igbo-Etiti and Nkanu West Local Government Areas where voter register for 230, 190 and 148 polling booths respectively, were completely wiped off, both in hard and soft copies.

Other LGAs affected included: Aninri (2), Awgu (6), Enugu East (20), Enugu North (2), Enugu South (4), Ezeagu (2), Igboeze North (25), Igboeze South (4), Isi-Uzo (1), Oji River (5), Udenu (3), Uzo Uwani (4), while two polling booths were said to be missing in Governor Chime’s home Udi LGA. While the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Lawrence Azubuike informed that a fresh voters’ registration exercise would be conducted in the state from May 28th to June 1st during the distribution of Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) and asked people whose polling booths were

affected re-register during the exercise, Kayode Idowu, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, said it was impossible that what Mr. Azubuike claimed happened.

Idowu said: “Even if the voter register for a ward is missing, we have replicated copies at the local government level, then another at the state level and then yet another at the national level.

“Who told you that INEC register is missing or that names simply wiped off the data bank? It is not possible.

It because we know that our data are intact and secure that we were able to discover people who did double or multiple registration.”

Already the leadership of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, have threatened to drag INEC to court if the anomaly were not rectified

before the elections, accusing the electoral body of deliberately trying to collude with some “desperate” politicians to disenfranchise majority of the people of the state in the coming elections.

Chairman of the PDP in the state, Vita Abba, displaying his temporary voter’s card which he used in the 2011 general elections and last year’s LGA election in the state, said they would have none of that.

He accused INEC of planning to derail democracy, noting that the people of the state would not tolerate such arrangement where over 40 per cent of registered voters have already been delisted few months to the next election.

He further claimed it was a ploy to deny Enugu North Senatorial Zone the opportunity of producing the next governor of Enugu state.

ADAMAWA

ANAMBRA APGA youths tackle chieftains over threat to recall Rep

Politicians blamed for CAN’s problems

A

Ibrahim Abdul

ll Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Youth Coalition has described as inconsequential the vote of no consequence allegedly passed on Hon Emeka Nwogbo ( member, Awka North and South Federal Constituency), describing it as a deliberate attempt to intimidate the lawmaker .

A chieftain of the party, Chief Marcus Ndigwe had penultimate week passed a vote of no confidence on the lawmaker, insinuating that he had been ineffective in representing the constituency at the lower chambers of the national assembly.

Reacting to the vote, however, Reginald Udoka and Prince ObinnnaAnaigor, national coordinator and secretary-general of the coalition, said having investigated from the constituency, claims the move was an attempt to score cheap political goals.

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he Chairman Adamawa State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rv. Fr. Moses Taparki has decried the incursion of politicians into the religious orgainsations, stating that they were responsible for saying majority of the problems bedeviling the organisation in the state.

Taparki made the disclosure during a press briefing which took place at NUJ Secretariat in Yola yesterday, added that most of the problems in the state were politically motivated.

He called on Christians in Adamawa state to disregard any directive or invitation in the state that might come from any individual or groups other than the elected state can under his leadership.

Abducted girls: AFLPM applauds world leaders’ support

A

frican First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) has lauded the support given by the world leaders and global institutions to Nigeria in the fight against insurgency.

The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan and the president of the mission, expressed the appreciation in a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday.

The statement said that Mrs. Jonathan noted the efforts of the international community at sending out a strong message; consistent with the objectives of the mission in promoting peace and stability.

According to the statement, the support of the world leaders is cardinal to ensuring the safe return of the girls abducted from Government Girls Secondary School Chibok, Borno, on April 14.

It said Jonathan noted that the entire world stood in solidarity with the government and the people of Nigeria against injustice

and impunity. ``The mission will always uphold the commonly accepted global values that promote justice, stability and peace in all nations,’’ it quoted Jonathan as saying.

The statement further said Jonathan expressed the belief that the contributions of the international community and Nigeria’s commitment would boost the efforts at rescuing the abducted girls.

According to the statement, the first lady reaffirms the total commitment of the mission to bringing back the abducted girls safe. ``We appeal to all political parties in Nigeria to rise above partisan interests and focus at this time on the national interest and the urgent task at hand to bring back our girls. ``AFLPM calls on mothers and women across Africa to continue to pray that the ongoing efforts at rescuing the girls will be successful,’’ the statement quoted her as saying.

Abia State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji (right), acknowledging cheers from the pupils of Holy Rosery Secondary School Umuahia, during his recent visit to the School in Abia State

Kwankwaso picks successor as violence mar LG elections Muhammad Kabir Kano

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overnor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of Kano State, may have settled for a member of the House of Representative, Alhaji Kawu Sumaila as his successor in 2015.

This is coming just all the over 16 Kwankwasiyya Groups that saw the victory of the governor in 2011 have agreed to join ranks for Kawu.

Hafizu Alfindiki, who is the chairman of the Kwankwasiyya forum who combated to Kawu Sumaila 2015 project that even Kwankwaso hold the opinion of the having somebody who is relatively youth to replace him in 2015 that is why his mind has been on Kawu since the merger of APC, PDP in Kano and

others.

Meanwhile, the conduct of Kano Local Government elections Saturday was marred by violence, ballot boxes snatching and attacks by political thugs, which left scores of people, including a reporter of African Television in the state,

Ms Adabison, seriously injured In Tsanyawa, Kunchi, Takai, Bebeji, Kura and some part of Madobi and Shanono local government areas, there were outbreak of serious violence, even as election materials missing or were snatched by thugs

in a free for all.

In Nassarawa local Government area, Ms Adabison who tried to record an alleged rigging process by politicians was attacked and the wind screen of her official bus was smashed from the rear and her microphone badly damaged.

Insurgency will strengthen Jonathan’s 2015 presidential bid – Anambra PDP Onah.O. Onah Onitsha

A

nambra State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has vowed that nothing would stop it from voting President Goodluck Jonathan even as the Boko Haram insurgency in the country is threatening the corporate existence and

peace of the country.

He reiterated that the activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups would not stop the president from contesting the election even if the activities of the terrorists were meant to frustrate him.

Addressing newsmen in Onitsha, state secretary of the party, Chief Chidi Gilbert Okoye disclosed that the

party in the state led by Chief Ejike Oguebego was strongly in control of the state even if the state was incidentally ruled by another party 2015.

He described Anambra State as the heartbeat of the South East geo-political zone, pointing out that the All Progressive Congress, APC, bid to get at least a state in the zone would be highly impossible.

EDITORIAL

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Our VISION

To build a newspaper organisation anchored on the sanctity of truth.

Our MISSION

To publish a newspaper of superior value, upholding the fundamental ethics of journalism: balanced reporting, fairness, accuracy and objectivity.

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Sanctity Truth Sanctity of ofTruth www.newt e le g r aphonline .com

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Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth – Buddha

SUNDAY, MAY 18, 2014

NHRC Report on the Apo Killings

he National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), recently said security agents who carried out an operation in the Apo district of Abuja on September 20, 2013, did not kill eight squatters in self-defence as claimed by the State Security Service and the Nigerian Army. The Commission ordered the Federal Government to pay a total sum of N135m as compensation to the victims – including N10m for each of the deceased persons, as well as N5m to each of 11 injured survivors. According to the State Security Service (SSS), the fatalities were recorded after suspected Boko Haram members in the building opened fire on the operatives who retaliated.

In the wake of contradictory reports that the victims were operators of commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, the NHRC decided to conduct a public hearing into the development, in line with its constitutional mandate. A panel of the NHRC, including the Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, and the Executive Secretary, Prof. Bem Angwe, took submissions from parties involved in the affair, particularly the SSS, the Army and the National Association of Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association. The NHRC, in its report which was released about three months after the conclusion of the public hearing, held that the SSS and the Army where economical with the truth in blaming the death of the eight squatters

and serious injury to eleven others on a provoked attack.

The NHRC should be commended for having the courage to come out with an objective report given the sensitive nature of the matter, and no matter how unpalatable it is for those in government. Human lives cannot be replaced and there is no amount of money that can compensate for departed souls, but the NHRC report would go a long way to assuage the feelings of the people that have lost their loved ones in a very tragic circumstance, as well as those that were injured. It is better than not doing anything at all. This will send a very strong signal that human life is sacrosanct and nobody can wantonly take human life.

This will also go a long way to stop the idea of “wasting human lives”, which is the usual refrain of uniformed men.

Human lives must be respected especially in a time of security challenges, because there are subsisting laws that must be upheld, otherwise chaos will become the order of the day. A high pre-

The government and its security agencies should obey the report and not dismiss it with an air of arrogance. We must not allow security agencies to be above the democratic institutions and the people.

mium must be placed on protecting the lives of citizens and not exposing them to needless danger. There is no overwhelming evidence to show that those killed and injured were planning attacks or planting bombs. So, how did the security agencies conclude that they were Boko Haram insurgents?

It must be noted that those who ordered the killing of these defenceless citizens should be summarily dismissed to serve as a deterrent to those who might want to abuse their power by mortally hurting people. Also, it must pointed out that the SSS has changed from what it used to be in the past, when its performance was driven by diligence and professionalism. It has been noted by experts on security that: “The challenges of effective control and oversight of intelligence are significant and daunting, particularly in environments where perceptions of threats to security are heightened. The paradox of striving for transparency in an inherently secretive area and the degree of professional discretion that effective intelligence requires are central issues. Nevertheless, the values and norms which are fundamental to democratic systems require that intelligence agencies are accountable and subject to internal control and external oversight.”

The outcome of the NHRC is correct and should be implemented to the letter within the time specified. Security operatives must know that at any point in time, they are serving the country, and

not the people in power or their bosses, or some other hidden agenda. The security services in the country must be thoroughly professionalized, there must be training and re-training in accordance with international best practices.

Fortunately, the NHRC has recommended a review and harmonisation of the Rules of Engagement governing the operations of security agencies to bring them into compliance with the applicable rules of international humanitarian law governing non-international armed conflicts.

The Federal Government, the SSS and the Army were also ordered to file a certified text of the harmonized and updated Rules of Engagement with the secretariat of the NHRC within two months of the decision, in accordance with section 22 (1) of the National Human Rights Commission Act (as amended).

The government and its security agencies should obey the report and not dismiss it with an air of arrogance. We must not allow security agencies to be above the democratic institutions and the people. They must subordinate their authority to the laws of the land underpinning the subsisting democratic ethos.

That is the standard in all democratic cultures. Nigeria must key into this trend and not be an embarrassment to itself, with the international spotlight currently fixed on the country. Surely, there can never be any justification for extra-judicial killings and this is a chance to chart a new course.

GABRIEL AKINADEWO Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief IKE ABONYI Deputy Managing Director/DEIC FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU Managing Editor, South SULEIMAN BISALA Managing Editor, North YEMI AJAYI Editor, Daily LAURENCE ANI Editor, Saturday EMEKA MADUNAGU Editor, Sunday LEO CENDROWICZ Bureau Chief, Brussels MARSHALL COMINS Bureau Chief, Washington DC SAM AMSTERDAM Editorial Coordinator, Europe EMMAN SHEHU (PhD) Chairman, Editorial Board JULIET BUMAH Deputy Editor (Sunday) PADE OLAPOJU Production Editor TIMOTHY AKINLEYE Head, Graphics ROBINSON EZEH Head, Admin.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

OPINION WEF and challenges of PPP in Nigeria

T

Olusegun Kehinde

he just concluded World Economic Forum on Africa (WEF) almost stifled in the heat of the burning protests over hundreds of school girls abducted by Boko Haram sect in Chibok, Borno State since April 14, and other terrorist activities that have kept the country on edge.

Established in 1971, as a not-for-profit Foundation with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, WEF is committed to improving the state of the world through public-private cooperation.

Among other things, WEF engages political, business, academic and other leaders of society in collaborative efforts to shape global, regional and industry agendas. Together with other stakeholders, it works to define challenges, solutions, and actions, always in the spirit of global citizenship.

In pursuance of these objectives, WEF brought together about 1000 regional and global leaders to discuss for three days (May 7 – 9) in Abuja, Nigeria, how to forge inclusive growth and create jobs for Africa’s growing population.

Participants spoke very well. They harped on the provision of resources and environment that would make business thrive.

While watching the event on TV, I took note of two quotable quotes: President Goodluck Jonathan said, “We recognise that the private sector will be the engine of growth and job-creation.

And we are putting in place the necessary conditions to support this private sector growth.”

Group CEO, First Bank of Nigeria, Olabisi Onasanya, said, “This is the right time for anyone to come and invest in Africa.”

Well said, but can investors take their words for it?

Many Nigerians saw this event as just another jamboree; much ado about nothing.

Going by the bitter experiences of those who have been doing business with government, no one can blame Nigerians and foreigners with deepening pessimism over public private partnership (PPP) in this country.

Many investors who dabbled into this venture now have their projects buried in a cemetery of dreams where the Nigerian government has allegedly consigned them to, after subjecting them to years of misery.

Investors have been complaining that government agencies don’t respect agreements voluntarily entered into, neither do they respect the courts.

Among those with sad stories today are the Chairman of Virgin Atlantic, Sir Richard Branson, and concessionaires in the Aviation sector – Maevis Limited, AIC Limited, and BiCourtney Limited.

Branson recently exposed the rot in our system.

He said, “…We have Virgin’s ill-fated footsteps by setting up a new airline in Africa in conjunction with Nigerian government…

The details of the doomed attempts to crack the Nigerian market in the 2000s are better imagined… We put together a very good airline – the first airline in West Africa that was ever IOSA/IATA operational safety audit accredited, but unfortunately it got tied down to the politics of the country… We led the airlines for 11 years… we fought a daily battle against government agents who wanted to daily make a fortune from us, politicians who saw the government’s 49% as a meal ticket to seek for all kinds of favours… watchdogs (regulatory bodies) that didn’t know what to do and who were persistently asking for bribes at any point…

Nigeria people are generally nice, but the politicians are very insane… that may be irony because the people make up the politicians… but those politicians are selfish… We did make N3billion for the Federal Government of Nigeria during the joint venture… realising that the government didn’t bring anything to the table/partnership, except dubious debts by the previous carrier, Nigeria Airways… The joint venture should have been the biggest African carrier by now if the partnership was allowed to grow, but the politicians killed it… Nigeria is a country we shall never consider doing business again…”

AIC has been engaged in a big battle with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) over the lease of a parcel of land for a hotel project at MMIA. Bi-Courtney, the first indigenous firm that successfully delivered a PPP project, the MMA2, in the country, has been crying ever after.

Since it was conceived in 2003, the MMA2 project had gone through, at least, eight ministers of aviation and seven to eight managing

Directors of FAAN, with all having different ideas and different positions about how the project should be implemented. This has led to inconsistencies and frustrations beyond imagination.

Rather than receive cooperation, from the Grantors – the Federal Government and FAAN, the concessionaire has been receiving calculated opposition to the whole project.

A fundamental clause of the agreement between FAAN and Bi-Courtney is that all domestic airlines will operate from MMA2.

That provision has never been obeyed by the government.

Initially, the government was competing with Bi-Courtney, by allowing Arik and Virgin to operate from the international airport. When the President then, Umaru Yar’Adua, directed that all domestic airlines should move to MMA2, the Ministry and FAAN opened up the current GAT terminal, which is where Arik operates from now. It was a direct violation of the terms of the agreement.

I’m aware that Maevis and Bi-Courtney have a judgment against FAAN running to billions of naira, which is a liability created by FAAN. FAAN had, on October 31, 2007 entered into an agreement with Maevis Limited to provide an integrated Airport Operations Management System (AOMS) for airports in the country.

Maevis had described itself as a technologyfocused company, which provides world class infrastructure assets, Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) solutions to the Nigerian and West African transportation (Air, Land and Sea) and logistics Industry.

This credible credential must have attracted FAAN to the company to help it shore up its revenue base at the airports, following which it entered into a concession agreement with it.

The authority was expected to have scrutinised Maevis, and the other concessionaires in the aviation industry thoroughly and their capability to deliver on the terms of their concessions promptly before inking any agreement with them.

FAAN, backed by the Ministry of Aviation and the Senate, ingloriously terminated the concession agreement with Maevis on May 23, 2011 after the company had invested billions of naira in equipment and personnel in fulfilment of its own part of the agreement.

The Managing Director of FAAN at the time,

Mr. George Uriesi, explained to a bewildered nation that the move to terminate the concession agreement “was in line with the turnaround strategy of the agency to restore it to a state of normalcy and reposition it as a strong going concern.”

Immediately the announcement was made, officials of FAAN invaded the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and physically roughened up Maevis employees as they drove them out of the airport.

FAAN thereafter handed over Maevis’ project to the multi-national Societe International Telecommunication Aeronautiques (SITA), which earlier bidded for the same project and lost, even after a court of competent jurisdiction had restrained the authority from terminating the concession of the same project to Maevis.

Expectedly, Maevis went to court again and flatly beat FAAN. The court awarded N5 billion as general damages to Maevis and said that it was wrong for SITA to have fraudulently taken the job from FAAN, after losing its bid initially, when it was aware of a pending court case over the project.

There are several other pathetic cases.

PPP in Nigeria is a concept undergoing development. But inconsistencies on the part of government have given it a bad name.

Has anybody ever bothered to ask why government has been fighting its concessionaires?

For a party to an agreement at any stage to wake up and say it’s an agreement it doesn’t like and so will break it, shows that Nigeria has not moved forward as a country interested in commerce. Commerce is governed by the rule of law, not by the whims and caprices of anybody.

The cost of Nigeria’s infrastructure gap is calculated at over N30 trillion, and the billion naira budget devoted to it is grossly inadequate.

It’s so plain to see that there is no alternative to PPPs, to close this gap. The money cannot be sourced locally, as our financial institutions simply do not have the capacity for this level of funding; and it must ultimately be raised in the international financial markets.

We want PPP to work in Nigeria, but who will invest when the government is blowing hot and cold?

•Olusegun Kehinde, a Transport/Aviation sector analyst, sent the article from Lagos vis olukehindee@ gmail.com

Creating quality culture for nation building C O N T I N U E D F R O M l a s t w ee k

O

Sam Azoka Onyechi f course Nigerians love good life and love good things even more than most citizens of the world. One cannot easily forget the “Owambe” Parties of the fun-loving Yorubas or the endof-year flashy cars galore display of the Igbos when returning home to their villages from the diaspora or the heavy Salah celebrations of the Hausa-Fulanis during the various Eids. But those were in the days of yore when Nigeria was instinctively moving towards implementing a quality initiative in life and living, then the downward plunge of the 80s came and all seemed lost. But not necessarily, for something can be done. The only problem that is assumed intractable is the one without yet a solution or those other humans have not yet encountered and applied their minds to.

Nigeria’s potential for greatness is immeasurable and incomparable. Nigeria is so blessed climactically and geographically with enough arable land mass that she can feed the whole world easily without much effort. Even right now that our potential for agriculture is not fully exploited; we still produce enough food to feed ourselves and our immediate neighbours, even after over 40% of the produced foods are wasted from lack of preservative means and capability.

Crops that we waste seasonally in large percentages include maize, beans, potatoes, etc as well as various fruits and vegetables like oranges,

mangoes, carrot, tomato, onions, garden eggs, lettuce, water melon, etc. A trip to the fruit garden markets of the country shows you ample evidence of my assertion in a Country wheresome citizens sometimes go to bed hungry.

What is the answer to these issues that are keeping us earthbound instead of soaring on the wings of the eagle that God bestowed upon us? SIMPLE – Aplanned and sustainednational Quality Culture (NQC) with a comprehensive National Quality Infrastructure (NQI).

Nigeria needs to join the emerging global markets of nations with such potentials by developing a comprehensive national quality policy that will guide trade, investment, environment, health and safety of the nation and her citizens. The nation just like any serious business concern as we have stated, must develop, implement and sustain a structured policy framework for achieving desired quality initiatives and also develop an independent institutional framework needed to oversee the implementation of clearly stated quality goals and objectives. We must develop a Quality Policy and Plan (QPP) for firstly creating awareness of the need for quality in whatever we do and for sustaining the initiative through continual improvement. It is worthy of note that the challenges posed by the global economy can be met by Nigeria only when such a quality infrastructure is in place and sustained over time to send the global market a clear message that our house is in order, with internationally acceptable trade practices as spelt out by the United Nations Industrial Development Orga-

nization (UNIDO) among other international trade stakeholder watchdogs.

The national quality infrastructure in general must consist of practices/quality establishments that would comply with and enforce internationally recognized accreditation systems to show conformity with world’s best practices before we can even attempt an entry into the global market with its promises of high per capita growth and technological transfer.

Who in the world except Nigerians can buy meat in that type of stall described at the beginning of this article? What safety standards are the local fish petty traders complying with in using a poisonous substance in fish preservation? These are the questions quality bodies would need answers to in assessing our readiness to join the global market. It is more than obvious that the widespread use and application of sub-standard products and services in the local market pose a dangerous and serious threat to the health and safety of the Nigerian consumers.

Nigeria’s quality initiatives must show genuine commitment to achieving quality goals and answer the following questions as a minimum before anyone can begin to take us seriously as a developing nation and an emerging market: Is there a comprehensive National Quality Policy to ensure supply of safe and quality products in our market?

Is there a documented and implemented protection of the rights ofthe Nigerian consumers?

Has Nigeria established and implemented a strong and effective regulatory mechanism

using accredited laboratories, certification bodies and inspection agencies to control the use of sub-standard products and services in the market?

Has Nigeria developed strong quality infrastructure covering Metrology (certified weights and measures), Standardization, Testing and Quality Assurance?

Has Nigeria effectively enforced compliance of all national sectors to stated technical regulations guiding productivity and trade?

The answers to above must all be yes. Government must show a commitment to create a quality environment. Nigeria must establish and maintain a National Quality Council (NQC) made up of individuals and corporate bodies that would oversee the development and establishment of a National Quality Infrastructure (NQI). This will not be handled in the usual lip-service approach that characterize most of our governmental initiatives but a serious and committed, consistent and transparent practice aimed at assuring a national capacity for safety, integrity and marketability of goods and services. Nigeria must establish a National Accreditation Body (NAB) and National Metrology Institute (NMI) and encourage other support institutions – both public and private such as NAFDAC as well as Inspection Agencies to collaborate and cooperate to bring to reality an organized national trade and exchange culture that meets international standards for global trade.

•Sam AzokaOnyechi is a social crusader and CEO Inspection and Tests Nigeria Limited

Life

Why I’m in love with Nigeria – American actress ps.12&13

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#BringBackOurGirls;

The good, bad, and very funny

Oby Ezekwesili defies police to stage protest

S

Ahaoma Kanu

ince April 14th when over 250 students of the Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State were abducted by members of the terrorist group, Boko Haram, Nigeria has been in the news across the world. From Myammar to Prague, from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Statue of Jesus the savior in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders, celebrities, journalists and people from every part of the world have come together to support Nigeria in the #BringBackOurGirls campaign launched to urge the government of Nigeria to rescue the girls.

So many events, incidents and actions have occurred since the campaign gained momentum on April 23 when women from Borno State led by Hajia Hadiza Usman and Dr. Obiagele Ezekwesili staged a protest in Abuja, calling for government action towards bringing the girls back. When the campaign started as social media campaign on Twitter and a Hashtag handle #BringBackOurGirls was created, little did Nigerians know that they were on the path to getting global attention all over the world, the type that has not been witnessed since the Nigeria civil war ended.

The revelation by the Federal Government that it did not know the whereabout of the missing girls and the subsequent threat made by the wanted leader of the terrorist group, Abubakar Shekau, to sell the girls in the market, raised ten-

sion. His latest video showing the girls all dressed in Hijab and announcing to the world that they had all converted to Islam did not only enrage a country and its people but the whole world in general.

The United States of America, United Kingdom, France, China, Canada and Israel have given their support in the efforts to rescue the girls, with some of the countries having initiated air surveillance operations in Nigeria air space.

There have been debates all over the world over President Goodluck Jonathan’s handling of the issue. Some of the international media in their editorials, gave the Nigerian government knocks, while the search for the girls continued with prayers that they would be rescued alive being said in many churches and Mosques all over the world. New Telegraph On Sunday takes a look at some of the events that happened around this issue.

The women who shouted so loud that the world heard The abduction of the girls on April 14 was overshadowed by the bombing same day in Nyanya, a settlement near Abuja, which killed over 85 persons and injured more than 200. That was the first time that Boko Haram would be attacking Abuja after about two years. The Chibok abduction filtered in the next morning but the focus was more on the victims of the bomb. No one really paid attention to the kidnapping of the girls despite an incident that happened in a

school in February that led to the death of over 50 students sleeping in their dormitories.

Nigerians were more annoyed with the decision of the President and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to go ahead on an political rally in Kano while some victims of the bomb blast were yet to regain consciousness. While the horse trading between the ruling party and the opposition party continued, little attention was paid to Chibok. It took the decision of Nigeria women to initiate the BringBackOurGirls campaign for the media to start paying attention to the missing girls. By the time the announcement came from the Nigeria Army spokesperson that of some the girls had been rescued and the rebuttal by the principal of the school, the issue got full attention but many where still in doubt about the actual number of missing and those that were said to have escaped. It took the efforts of Hajiza Usman and other women including the former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, to drive the campaign to a whole new level. By the time the campaign was getting some attention, a documentarian by the name of Ramaa Mosley, went on CNN to make the claim that she originated the hashtag campaign, but when Nigerians disputed this claim, saying Ezekwesili was the originator, she corrected them. She tweeted to explain that the slogan was actually coined by Hadiza Usman who initiated it. Her tweet read thus: “Please follow @hadizabalusman.

It was Hadiza that initiated the on-the-

ground-march in Abuja which set off the massive marches all over”. If anyone wants to dispute Ezekwesili’s claim on behalf of Hadiza, let them do so with facts, but no one should give the originating credit to Ezekwesili. She is content being part of the fight, but no one should dress her in borrowed robes.”

Frida Ghitis former CNN producer, correspondent and author of The End of Revolution: A Changing World in the Age of Live Television wrote an opinion piece entitled, “Why no international effort for 200 kidnapped girls?” challenging the world on why the case of the girls was being treated differently from the missing Malaysian MH370 airplane.

“If it had happened anywhere else, this would be the world’s biggest story. More than 230 girls disappeared, captured by members of a brutal terrorist group in the dead of night. Their parents are desperate and anguished, angry that their government is not doing enough. The rest of the world is paying little attention. The tragedy is unfolding in Nigeria, where members of the ultra-radical Islamist group, Boko Haram, grabbed the girls, most believed to be between 16 and 18, from their dormitories in the middle of the night in mid-April and took them deep into the jungle,” she wrote. The awareness started growing that by the time Malala Yousoufzai came into the issue calling the missing girls her sisters, the world heard. The First Lady of the CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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Diaspora Notes

Why I’m in love with Nigeria

-American actress

She has graced the covers of celebrity magazines, walked on the runway of many fashion shows, and acted in a couple of movies in the United States. But Melinda Yum-yum Bells wants a taste of Nollywood. she tells AHAOMA KANU in this interview why she is in love with Nigeria

You are described in many ways: photographer, college psychology student, actress, model, radio-show host, how will you describe Malinda “Yumyum” Bell? am professional, humble, and take great pride in my work. Also, I love to laugh and have fun.

It brings me great joy to connect with people in being their inspiration as well as them inspiring me and helping me learn more about where they come from and what they do.

Looking back at the industry, there was not so much room for black models way back in the 70s, 80s, what will you say opened the door to black models nationally and internationally?

Era, culture, open vision, and timing give models of color opportunity. There also has to be a strong belief system in knowing that the popular aesthetic of beauty does not pertain to one group of people. On another level, there are trailblazers who create their own businesses to kick down the door instead of waiting for someone else to open it for them.

Can you tell me how the story of how your nickname “Yumyum” came about?

I ‘m aware of the obvious, that when people hear it, their mind may wander and assume it’s derived from something sexual, but it’s a childhood nickname that just stuck. It’s a fun, cheerful, and happy nickname that I embody. I want people to smile when they hear it. I want people to say, “I LOVE YUMYUM, THAT’S MY GIRL!”

Between modeling, acting and your other endeavors, which came first and how were you able to balance your studies with your career?

Acting came first for me and I studied theater at an early age.

Modeling came about two years ago. I balance my studies by setting aside time to go to the library or if at home, I turn off my phone so I can focus on reading and writing essays.

I

Take us back to your growing up years, did your family in any way influence the choices you have made in all your careers?

My father was heavily into photography and very artistic. My mother always wanted to be different in her fashion choices; therefore, she always went to a seamstress to have her clothes made. She also pushed education, knowing your history, and learning about different cultures. My parents influences have shaped who I am in that I am now a photographer, I tend not to follow what the crowd does, my thirst for knowledge, and a desire to travel more and study various cultures. who would you say inspired you and introduced you to the art of modeling?

I never thought about modeling until a friend called me up one day and persuaded me to go to a casting for a fashion show.

Up until then I would say I’ve been inspired by watching old Hollywood and Blaxploitation movies ing about the great actresses of and readour time.

As a kid, who were those celebrities that you would say you always wanted to be like?

My super favorites are Sophia Loren, Marilyn Monroe, Carol Brunett, Grace Jones, Pam Grier, Janet Jackson, Queen Latifah, and Nia Long.

As a model, can you recall your first day on the runway?

It was a local fashion show in Brooklyn, New York in an outdoor flea market setting. There were tiny pebbles and huge cracks on the ground and the walkway was very small.

I was nervous because I was walking in heels. I remember admiring how the seasoned models walked with no fear and wanting to be in that same mental space of being confident and having no fear.

What challenges did you face when you started out and how were you able to beat the peer pressure to remain focused in your pursuits?

There are still many challenges I face. I don’t think that will ever stop in life. Some challenges include always looking your optimum best on minimum budget, remaining optimistic, keeping a pulse on what the industry is doing, and to keep pushing no matter how many people tell you no. Maintaining focus requires a faith and determination towards the goal you want to achieve.

You have graced the cover of so many magazines and what gives you confidence to keep your head up in the modeling industry despite the fact that there was a time plus size models were not really sought after like models with a lower BMI? I was always taught to keep my head up no matter the situation.

My ultimate goal is to challenge what society deems as acceptable or beautiful. I would like to validate and inspire not only full figure women, but for all women.

Really-everyone. I want to make images that are fun, sensual, political, and glamorous. Pictures that are forever remembered and revered in memory are important for my legacy.

You have done some projects like Snap Journalz, Memoria, which are documentaries, tell me why you are into documentaries and what stories do you want to tell?

The stories that I want to tell are endless. I would like to deal with real life situations that people go through everyday in relationships. In documentaries, I would like to deal with people’s perception of how beauty is defined.

In your acting career, what major role have you played in a movie?

I have played the sexy girlfriend, psychiatrist, daughter, gang leader, and office worker.

Are you conversant with Nollywood movies from Nigeria?

I am familiar with many that are in United States. They are very popular amongst my friends. The story lines and acting are awesome, and as you

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Diaspora Notes

Why I’m in love with Nigeria – American actress know, they can become quite addictive.

Tell me about your connection with Nigeria and what you think about the country and her people?

I have many friends who are from Nigeria and they tell me Nigeria is a beautiful country I would love to travel. I’ve been encouraged to go there by so many people I feel that it is in my destiny to visit. The people I have met have been designers, dance teachers, artists, business professionals, and students. I find Nigerian people to be intelligent, friendly, unselfish, and welcoming in teaching others about their country. I am excited about visiting soon.

You want to feature in Nollywood movies, why do

What I like most about African men is that their posture is kingly.

They tend to be driven towards upward mobility in their careers; and as family men, they are providers. On the fashion side, I love the fact that they are not afraid to wear bright colors and prints. I find that the colors look magnificent against their dark skin.

Will you marry a Nigerian man if he fits the attributes of your Mr. Right?

Yes, as I think any woman would marry if her prince charming comes along. In my opinion, race should not be a bearing factor in determining your love for someone.

What drives your fashion sense and do you like Nigerian designs?

My fashion sense is driven by love. If I do not love something, I do not purchase the item. I love animal prints, bright colors (pinks, yellows, greens, blues), textures, and geometric patterns. Since I’m a fun person, I like clothes, shoes, and accessories that stand out. I love Nigerian designs because it is culture and fashion mixed together which altogether represents a stronger character of art, inventiveness, and perception.

Which Nigerian designer do you admire most?

I enjoy the clean cut and colorful silhouettes of Duro Olowu and Ernest Mahomane. I am also enamored by the energetic femininity of MilQ & Honey designs. I tend to be attracted to boldness, beautiful shapes that accentuate curves, wild colors, and prints.

you want Nollywood when you have a much bigger platform in Hollywood?

What a great question! I do not want to limit myself to one platform. In building an international platform for myself, it is imperative that I do not think locally but to be in the realm of connecting with all people of the world.

You are planning a show in Nigeria this year, tell me about it?

Bringing the Kurvy Plus full figure model movement to Nigeria is on the way. This would include fashion shows, television appearances and interviews, and photo shoots.

Connecting with the talented up and coming designers and beautiful full figure models of Nigeria is exciting because this will bring awareness that the full figure woman is becoming more recognized and regarded.

Do you like Nigerian men and if yes, what do you love most about them?

What advice will you give to young people aspiring to be successful in life?

First, studying your history and culture in terms of selfdefinition and pride. Second, pursue an academic education and being able to communicate effectively with people on all levels; from a homeless person to an executive. If there is a particular field that interests you, go to school for it and learn soak up all the knowledge from the best people around you. Third, a foundation of spirituality is also an essential key in growth.

Fourth, allowing yourself to make mistakes and having the wisdom to learn from them so your mistakes are not repeated is also important. Fifth, having a strong support system of family, friends, and a mentor helps when you are having a rough time and need a shoulder to lean on.

And last but not least, knowing what makes you different and not following what everyone else does.

You want to be happy with yourself at the end of the day.

A student at a primary school in Durban, South Africa wrote a message on a blackboard as part of a Bring Back Our Girls project. CreditRajesh Jantilal/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

United States Consul General hosts Nigerian YALI participants Ahaoma Kanu

T

he United States Consul General in Nigeria, Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins, will tomorrow host Nigerian youths selected to participate in the Washington Fellowship for Young African Leader Initiative (YALI). The YALI program designed to advance U.S. understanding of and access to Africa’s youth population, encourages African youth to contribute to economic, political, and social development at home. The program created by the Obama administration in 2010 seeks to empower the next generation of African

Mr Jeffrey Hawkins

leadership.

The program consists of three tracks of business and entrepreneurship; public management; and civic leadership. A total of 500 YALI Fellows selected from throughout Africa will travel to the United States to participate in a six-week program at a U.S. university. President Obama and leaders from government, business, and the non-profit sector will participate in a YALI summit According to the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Consulate General, the reception will hold at the residence of the Consul General at Ikoyi, Lagos by 5pm. Attendance is strictly by invitation.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 11, 2014

Life

Support from India

Unconfirmed picture of Sen. Ahmed Yerima ourney campaign

#BringBackOurGirls;

The good, bad, odd and very funny C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1 1

United States, Michelle Obama made a statement with her picture, which brought the needed attention to Nigeria.

First lady Dame Patience Jonathan attempt at rescue While many were commending Michelle Obama for daring the odds to join the campaign, Nigeria’s First Lady, Dame Patience was criticised for her efforts in calling for a fact-finding meeting at the State House. Her performance, which went viral immediately it was televised, was more comical than alleviating. Her show of emotions has been translated to mean a mere cosmetic effect done for the camera; another show that went south. So many remixes of her asking, “Na only you waka come,” has surfaced online and Tee shirts has been produced on that misadventure. As if the comic presentation was not enough, Nigerians got more annoyed to learn that a representative at the meeting who was leading the #BringBackOurGirls campaign was arrested on the orders of the First Lady that many advised her to just learn from the US first lady on the ethics of championing a national issue.

CNN’s Isha Sessay

Asari Dokubo and his infamous protest

CNN’s Isha Sessay is one presenter Nigerians love so much and was the one the international media organisation unleashed on Nigerians. If some Nigeria’s government officials had seen her picture holding the #BringBackOurGirls, they would have known that she came down to Nigeria to help instigate a rescue for the girls. Isha has become a pain in the neck of the Nigeria government image-makers. She normally gets hold of them in the evening in the open where they can have some air bombards them with questions, the type that they will normally not tolerate if asked by Nigerian journalists. Special Assistant to the President on Public affairs, Dr. Doyin Okupe, became one of Isha’s victims in one of her interviews. One online commentator posted this, “Okupe did sweat it out with Isha. I think he was deceived by the pretty face and lost balance when the questions started coming.”

Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, got a dose of the pressure from the foreign media that she showed her exasperation saying, “ I am tired of talking about Chibok.”

Asari Dokubo and his 15-man anti #BringBackOurGirls campaign Former Niger Delta militant and leader of the Niger Delta

Freedom Volunteer Force, Asari Dokubo, was looking like a lost man when he held an anti-BringBackOurgirls campaign which had faces of people obviously bought over for the protest. He received knocks from all over the country on his claim that the Chibok missing girls story was a scam. His campaign could not have been noticed if not that people re-tweeted his post more in an attempt to make mockery of him than give him publicity.

Ahmed Yerima joining #BringBackOurGirls?

One of the pictures that really stirred laughter and criticism among Nigerians was the picture of Senator Ahmed Yerima carrying a #BringBackOurGirls placard in support of the Chibok girls rescue. Many Nigerians urged the leaders of the campaign to be very watchful of the senator because they believed he had a different motive for joining the campaign.

Abba Moro out of public radar The Minister of Interior, Comrade Abba Moro, tried very much to shore up public acceptance when he came out to state that the FG would not deal with Boko Haram on the conditions they gave for releasing the girls.

Inasmuch as he tried to whip up sentiment, they reminded him

that he was not supposed to be in government after the manner in which job seekers died while coming to write exams for employment in the Nigeria Immigration.

Activivists and 15 minutes So many activists tried to cash in on the #BringBackOurGirls Campaign to gain popularity.

Prominent among them is Shehu Sani who has granted interviews to all the leading international media organisations. He even goes to the extent of posting the pictures he takes with these foreign reporters on his social media accounts.

This Northern Elders Forum Immediately the United States Secretary of States, Senator John Kerry, announced that the US had offered the Nigeria government assistance and that it accepted, some members of the Northern Elders Forum visited the President to press that the FG should not use force to rescue the girls from the Boko Haram but instead, they would initiate negotiation with Shekau. Many people wondered why they had not done that since 2009. Their agenda was dead on arrival.

Going topless for #BringBackOurGirls The model girlfriend of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Irina

Doyin Okupe being interviewed by CNN’s Isha Sessay

Shayk, faced a backlash of criticisms when she went topless in support of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. Many of her fans considered her strategy, ‘disrespectful and ignorant.’

But what her fans did not know is that Nigerian women have vowed to march to Aso Rock naked should the girls be left in the hands of the insurgents.

He who wears the crown This is definitely not the best of times for President Goodluck Jonathan as he is in the eye of the #BringBackOurGirls storm. He has received so much negative press in foreign media agencies that both the New York Times and Times of London declared him incompetent. As if that was not enough, the Commanderin-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria has been made to hear his army being described as incapable of engaging Boko Haram and he was also accused of aborting a journey to Chibok because of security fears. President Jonathan has promised that he will not sleep with his two eyes closed until the girls are found and his service chiefs’ keeps making vows after vows.

Most Nigerians believe it is time that Mr. President restores the dignity of Nigeria in the eyes of the world with some action as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

Sanctity of Truth

ON SUNDAY

Page 15, MAY 18, 2014

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I was born to play politics

–Elder Orubebe Get inspired, go for stripes

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CELEB LOUNGE

AMAA this year is going to be unique and special in several ways because we intend to use the occasion of the event to showcase our rich cultural heritage and to promote the tourism and investment opportunities in the state} 47

GLAM DUDES You can make fashion statements with your sandals only if they are of good quality and fit your feet perfectly

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OUR LOVE STORY

The first time he approached me, I wondered what kind of person he was. He told me to get in touch with him before the end of that week.

When I got home and reviewed everything, I felt it had to be a stepping stone for my career. I went to look for him and he was not there} 45

BED, WORK & LIFE

She wished this pregnancy was her husband’s but

it was obvious it wasn’t. She had decided to keep the medical report which certified him ‘unfertile’.

You never know, it could come in handy when the bubble burst.

Really, the mind of man is evil

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B

T h e Te a m l Juliet Bumah (Editor)

l Bayo Adeoye (Senior Correspondent) l Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent) l Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) l Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics) l Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) +234 (0) 811 675 9770, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 chibumah@yahoo.com julietbumah@newtelegraphonline.com

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Accessories

Modern art meets accessories Biwom Iklaki

B

right colours, iridescent hues, cut-outs, candy and jelly-like pieces all make up the modern art. Somehow, they have found their light-spirited way into

our accessories.

The modern/contemporary artists do not take themselves too seriously as they play with colours, textures and subjects. So also does the accessory lover of today. They play with their colours and

textures while complimenting and contrasting their chosen piece of the day.

Because they are so playful, one needs to be careful how you wear them and when.

To pair with office wear,

try to choose one piece to highlight your outfit rather than numerous playful pieces lest you come out looking unserious.

Knock yourself out when going to a party but again, remember, less is more!

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Body&Soul

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

I was born to play politics Former Minister of Niger Delta, Elder Peter Godsday Orubebe, bares his mind on politics, his relationship with God and aspirations in this interview with BAYO ADEOYE

How has life been since you left office?

Not many people know that I am of the clergy sector; I run a church. The third year anniversary of the church, Glory Sanctuary Christian Centre (GSCC), Ogbogbagbene, Burutu Local Government of Delta State was held recently while the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) President, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, was the guest speaker at the event. The vision to establish the sanctuary came in 1998 to preach the gospel and win souls in the creeks of the Niger Delta and beyond. I have been busy with the work of God, not full-time though. I am also busy attending to the needs of my people. I tell you, you don’t need to serve your people only when you are in office, as service goes beyond that. God has been so wonderful to me.

I brought the people of my community closer to God by establishing Glory Sanctuary Christian Centre in Ogbogbagbene.

The importance of the church which has a capacity for no fewer than 10,000 worshippers is that it has not only provided a worship centre for the people of Ogbogbagbene community but those from surrounding communities, including Burutu people who also worship in the church.

I never lobbied to become minister; instead, I went to God in prayers, and God told me I was advertising Him. I did not come into politics by accident or through the assistance of some benevolent personalities; no! I actually

started from the grass roots in a hard way, through the divine guidance of God. As a young man, I had the opportunity to work in five different organisations, which include the Nigeria Police and Nigerian Customs Service but I turned down the offers because I had a calling from God to go into politics and serve my people. The puzzle then was where I would raise the money to contest for political office when as a young school leaver, I had no financial means to achieve all this.

How far with your aspiration to be the next governor of Delta State?

I am consulting with God and my leaders, from the councillor level to the presidency level, to declare to the good people of Delta State that I am humbly willing to come and offload what God has deposited in me.

How was your journey into politics?

I was born to play politics. I started right from my school days. While at the University of Lagos, I served as the Student Union leader, Public Relations Officer and a member of the Parliament.

Going back to the roots, I started as a supervisory councillor in Burutu Local Government Area and second member of the state Education Board. I later became the chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State. As the chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, I facilitated developmental changes to the area by ensuring the development of infrastructure such as schools, rural electrification, water, roads and health care. The health care centre I built in 1992 is still serving the indigenes of the area.

I was the Special Adviser to Governor James Ibori on Urban and Regional Planning from 2004 – 2005. My modest achievements during this period of service included developing, planning and implementing strategic and useful policies and modalities for urban poverty intervention and rural area development, with the sole aim of increasing the socio-economic activities for the betterment of the people. I also submitted a bill on urban development to the governor, which was passed into law and is still in operation in the state.

It also serves as a model for other states.

Between 2007 and 2008, I served as the Honourable Minister, Special Duties to President Umaru Yar ’Adua. While working with the President, I contributed to his Seven – Point Agenda through a series of routine comprehensive reports on government activities. During this period, I was also a member of a special committee saddled with the responsibility to oversee the Amnesty Act under the supervision of then Vice President Goodluck Jonathan, who worked on the Amnesty act seeking an end to the Niger Delta crisis.

The amnesty programme saw the light of the day and is still being implemented and has restored peace to the region. My tenure as Special Duties minister also saw an unparalleled increase in revenue generation to the management of the National Lottery. Perhaps I must also humbly say here that my modest achievements must have directly or indirectly led to my being appointed Honor-

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Body&Soul

- Elder Godsday Orubebe able Minister, National Planning Commission and Deputy Chairman, National Planning Council. We were able to focus on organisational development and restructuring of the Commission for optimal efficiency and effectiveness. I also contributed to the formulation of developmental oriented policies which formed the backbone of the late President’s governance in terms of administrative policies.

How do you view President Goodluck Jonathan’s ‘Transformation Agenda’ Under President Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria is experiencing unprecedented developments as being witnessed in the revived railway system in the country. There is peace and security in the Niger Delta, cutting down on corruption in the civil service by the introduction of an automatic payment system which is exposing government waste in over payment and the existence of ghost workers, roads construction which the East-West Road falls under. In agriculture, thousands of jobs have been created for young and old Nigerians and recently, we were all witnesses to the successful privatisation of the PHCN which millions of Nigerians have unilaterally expressed their support for the President’s action, seeing that he is on the right track to rescue Nigeria from the decay of the past.

What was your major achievement as Niger Delta minister?

I must humbly say that my tenure as Minister of Niger Delta was quite rewarding and beneficial to the people of the Niger Delta. On the list was the opportunity and encouragement given to me by Mr. President to personally generate funds for the development of the region; hence the progress on the East West Road as at today. This has been made possible by the bold step taken by the Ministry of Niger Delta and President Jonathan to ensure a future of hope for the present, future and unborn generations.

I can only urge Nigerians to be more tolerant, wait on God and be patient with their leaders so that all aspirations on policies and implementations can be actualised. I can confidently tell all that under President Jonathan’s administration, Nigerians now have access to information from the government which was an impossible thing in the past; this has placed this administration as the most transparent in the history of Nigeria. Also, I must say that the present Nigerian economy is the fastest growing economy in Africa since the assumption of office by President Jonathan.

Tell us about Delta Peoples Forum Delta Peoples Forum symbolises a new era of handling political issues. Gone are the days of declaration without vision in the Niger Delta. This is an era of peace, hope, transformation, development and above all, security for the people and the society.

DPF will ensure transparency in governance and also promote an ‘All-inclusive’ method of public service which is targeted at placing the Niger Delta in her place of glory. I am personally endorsing and supporting the vision of DPF because it is geared towards ensuring good governance, transparency and integrity. It will deliver to the people unending support for nation building in empowering women in the society to become good ambassadors of peace and societal development. DPF as an NGO will ensure that everyone will regain confidence in government as the highest level of integrity will be followed and maintained. A new era is born because of the caliber of growth that is about to be experienced.

Tell us about your political ‘calling’

God directed me to go and contest election as a councilor in my local community. I could not believe it because I had no money to obtain the registration form, not to talk of money to spend in the electioneering process. But I obeyed His command and everything just fell in line as I committed my all to the hands of God who called me. At my first political attempt, it was my people from Ogbogbagbene Community of Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State who gathered in solidarity to sponsor my councillorship election. My coming into politics was divinely planned by God. My story is that of grass to grace. Initially, I had no money to even purchase the registration form not to talk of money to spend in the electioneering process.

I obeyed God and everything fell into place. Consequently, my divine callings and high achievements are evident in my good works in the light of human capital and socio economic development we are all witnessing in the Niger Delta today.

What lesson has life taught you?

Life has taught me so many things but I can say that the two major ones are faith in God and focus.

Life has taught me to be absolutely faithful to God, to be unapologetic about total submission and belief in Him. Secondly, life has taught me to be very focused in whatever I set out to do. Politically, I have refused to be distracted or discouraged. I have set out to serve my people and up till today, I have never for a day considered stepping aside or pulling out. It amuses me when I hear statements connoting me as an accidental politician. I laugh because I am not an accidental politician. A politician is one experienced in the art of science of government, devoted to advancement in public office, a statesman engaged in civil administration and I ask you, can the office of Minister of the Niger-Delta be run by a rookie politician?

I called myself ‘double minister’ when I was a minister of the Federal Republic and also a Minister of God. I like to be seen as a man with deep love of God, a man of God who has whole heartedly contributed to his immediate community in drawing the lost souls to the salvation of God. As a starting point and as

a man who believes in the teachings of God, it has created opportunity for the people to come closer to God and directly spread the message of love and peace among them which had invariably made the once volatile Niger Delta environment for all to live together peacefully. Also, and as a minister of the Federal Republic overseeing the affairs of the Niger Delta, I have worked hard to establish a good foundation required for the ministry to change the neglect and under development of the region which can be seen in the light of human capital and infrastructural development. I have created a peaceful and conductive environment for the oil companies to operate in and as thus led to an increase in oil production through my youth empowerment programme.

How do you relax?

Sure, I unwind… I am a ‘home boy’ to the core. If I am not preaching, you will see me enjoying my golf but my best way to relax is to eat my local kpokpo garri with fish and ‘madiga’ with my childhood friends, all of whom I grew up together with. Anytime I am in my village, I invite them all and we all sit down to eat kpokpo garri.

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Body&Soul

with

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Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770 chibumah@yahoo.com

Love is a beautiful thing

uth looked at the figure written on the cheque and gasped again. She could not believe it. A man who could part with such dizzying amount at a go would not be allowed to slip away.

“I must fight to keep him,” she muttered to herself.

Not so fast, fate seemed to tell her as her phone rang.

“Patricia,” old Jim’s voice cackled in her ears and she winced and kept quiet.

“Him don go ba? Martha say him carry bag comot for house early in the morning. I go come home sleep today as you don return,” he added.

“He has not gone. He went for his business,” Ruth lied, but he cut her short.

“No just start that your lie lie. I dey come sleep this night. I don tire to dey hide up and down. I wan come stay with my children. Make you prepare food for me,” he said.

“They are Richie’s children,” Ruth said and he cut her off.

“Who get children? How many belle he give his wife?”

Jim asked and Ruth sighed. It was useless arguing with Jim. He never let go.

They were back home from the hospital. She needed to hide the cheque. Old Jim and John must not see the cheque or she would have very little left of the money. She was happy with her two male friends until Richie came into her life and started spoiling her silly. John was more understanding. Since she introduced John to Richie as her ‘brother’, John had been behaving like one, but Jim had been proving difficult.

“I wish he would just behave like the uncle I introduced him to be,” she muttered. *********** Patra preened in her bedroom mirror. The bump was visible. Her bust was very full. She looked very pregnant now.

Betty, her childhood friend, was back from her business trip abroad. Patra had told her the good news but didn’t reveal her worries.

Betty, a dealer in luxury fashion items, had been away for six months. She had travelled to France, Italy and New York in search of unique fashion items for her discerning customers.

Betty was happy for her friend. Her two daughters were in a boarding school in Lagos while her husband, a banker, was based in Switzerland. She had prayed countless times over her friend’s childless state. She was, therefore, very happy to hear that their prayers had been answered. They would see this weekend and catch up on old times.

Patra looked forward to that visit. For once, she would be able to pour her heart out to her friend.

Pius would come back from the US in a few days time. She longed to see the man who turned her world around with few fertile thrusts. She wondered how Betty would react to the news that Richie, her husband, was not responsible for her change of fortune.

“Pius,” she whispered and her face lit up with a smile.

One mind told her to pack her things and leave the house before Richie returned and another told her to stay and handle the situation. She decided to obey the latter. She realised that she loved her husband. She would pour out her heart to Betty.

If she hadn’t chanced upon Richie’s medical report, she wouldn’t have been in this dilemma. She wished this pregnancy was her husband’s but it was obvious it wasn’t. She had decided to keep the medical report which certified him ‘unfertile’. You never know, it could come in handy when the bubble burst.

Really, the mind of man is evil. How could her husband lead her on to subject herself to all manner of medical tests, drink all sorts of concoctions all in a bid to get pregnant when he knew he was responsible for her inability to conceive?

Another thing she just couldn’t understand was why her husband pretended he was responsible for her pregnancy... the way he pretended to own the strange woman’s children.

She was sure the strange woman had given birth because the pregnancy she saw on that fateful day in February was advanced.

“Lord, please forgive me. I have sinned. I never ever wanted this to happen. I prayed for a happy home but see what I got now,” she prayed silently.

She wondered how she would face her husband when he returned.

“I’ll not run away like a frightened animal,” she said to herself, but she nearly fainted when she heard a thud as the door of a car closed outside. ************ The rate at which Richie aged surprised even himself. He

glanced at the side mirror of the cab once again and was shocked. Each time he did that, he appeared to have aged a fraction more. He thought of his life before he met Ruth. His joy was full then even if they didn’t have a child.

He mused, “At what point did the devil enter my home?

When Ruth came into my life? No, the devil had been there.

My inability to impregnate my wife is the devil and he has succeeded in tearing my life to shreds. But for how long has my wife been cheating on me? For as long as I had been cheating on her? No! How can I face her now that I have accepted that I couldn’t have impregnated either her or Ruth? I wish my parents or hers were still alive!”

He thought of asking the cabbie to change destinations, but to where? He thought of moving to a hotel but rejected it.

“I love my wife. This is one problem I can’t solve by running away. I need to confront this demon,” he mused, but immediately he sighted his house, he had an urgent urge to move his bowel and he started sweating. ********* Patra fluttered forward as the door bell chimed. She threw open the door and was shocked. Richie looked pale and had sweat beads on his face.

Murmured greetings, perfunctory kiss, a brief hug and Richie rushed into the guest restroom.

Patra watched as the gateman brought in Richie’s luggage, took it to the room and went out, closing the door gently behind him. She stood at the door, lost in thought until she felt a movement in her womb again. The baby had been moving more frequently. ********* Richie sat on the toilet bowl. He was shaken. When they hugged, he felt the bump and was sure he felt the baby move.

It was no longer a dream. There was a baby in his wife’s womb! ******** After more than 20 minutes and he didn’t come out of the loo, Patra moved to the door and with panicky fingers, knocked.

“Are you alright dear,” she asked and Richie jumped.

“Yeah,” he replied, almost in a whisper and turned on the sink tap.

He took another five minutes or so before opening the door. She was standing there.

“My! You look ill,” she said, concern written all over her. Richie nodded, grateful to whatever illness that might have invaded his body in that short while.

She led him by hand to the couch and immediately he sat down, she unbuttoned his shirt, helped him out of his clothes and kissed him tenderly before going to get him breakfast.

As she watched him eat, she wondered if she could leave him. This was the only man she loved. She still loved him but Pius had given her joy! Tears began to well in her eyes.

Richie ate slowly, his heart troubled.

He stole a glance at his wife and noticed she was looking so sad. She was lost in thought. She looked so beautiful and weary. He realised that no matter what, he loved her and wouldn’t want to lose her. He noticed the tears in her eyes.

“It is now or never,” he thought, dropped his cup, stood up and walked to her.

He pulled her up, unzipped her gown and took her to his bedroom.

Patra followed. She didn’t utter a word, not even when her gown dropped to her ankles as they neared the door. She stepped out of it and entered the room.

On the bed, Richie ran his fingers through her full rack and swollen belly. She gasped as he lowered himself gently into her, muttering words of endearment. They rocked to and fro, moved into the past -before their lives were shattered - and relieved the joy that only two people in love could give.

Patra was lost in a dreamworld. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the sweet feeling that travelled all over her. The man giving her the joy sprouted two heads -heads of the two men who love her so much merged at the neck. Then the heads merged into one again. She didn’t want to wake up.

“Patra,” he moaned and she responded, “Richie”. “Patra, I love you so much,” he called out again and she replied. It went on and on as he thrust in and out lovingly from the side and suckling from her rack, careful not to harm the baby nestling in her womb. Patra sobbed as the tingly feeling overwhelmed her sorrow.

Then he poured out his heart, “I love you Patra. I’m sorry I failed you. I didn’t mean to hurt you. I love you so much.

You mean the world to me. My sweet wife, I’ll do everything to make you happy...my wife...” Tears ran down his cheeks.

They moved together through the storm. Suddenly, the cloud started dissipating, and the sky brightened. They cried out together and continued to cry as they convulsed with passion, each letting out passion fluid.

“Patra, do you still love me?” Richie asked gently as he kissed her tears away, while tracing an imaginary image on her tummy. Patra felt as if she would die. Deep inside her, she loved her husband so much, but she felt something deep for Pius. How could she give love to two men at the same time?

“I love you, my love,” she said truthfully, but inside her, she knew she would not let go of Pius whose seed was growing in her womb. She wondered how she would handle her predicament.

Richie heaved a sigh of relief. The next question concerned the heavenly gift growing in her womb.

He searched for the right words but couldn’t find them.

He knew he must ask that million dollar question. He felt a lump in his throat. He tried to clear it repeatedly and failed.

“Patra,” he began and she sobbed louder.

Hmmmmmmm I wouldn’t want to be in their shoes. Join me next week Sunday as this moving series continues.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

Shun the shine Biwom Iklaki

I

f you have shiny skin, then it is likely you have oily skin. Having oily skin is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it means your skin will stay youthful for longer.

Many women whose skin secretes a lot of oil, even after toning and moisturising, have shiny faces. This may be an inconvenience as the face attracts all the light and

makes it look washed out.

To fix this beauty blob, first, you must use the right skincare products.

Your skincare regime must be tailored for oily skin. The biggest mistake you can make is to eliminate moisturising.

Instead, use moisturisers for oily skin.

Secondly, you must avoid cream foundations.

A creamy foundation will only encourage a greasy face and by the middle of the day, you will have a

very shiny face. Opt for powder or a foundation with matte finish, as it will absorb excess oil.

Many women find it helpful to carry a compact of translucent face powder. Blotting tissues are great too to soak up the oil. Having a shiny face due to excessive oil secretion may be a daily nuisance but it is very likely everyone will wonder why you just never get lines and wrinkles.

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Body&Soul

Vanessa Okwara

S

tripes are making a comeback on the fashion scene this season. Whether as dresses, tops, shoes or skirts, they are fun and flattering on practically any item in your wardrobe.

have always been a staple pattern in fashion and the print is continuing to make an impact.

As a general rule, vertical stripes lengthen your frame, but wide horizontal lines create the illusion of a bigger frame. However, when you wear the right stripe, there is noth-

good option. If you want to elongate your legs so that you have a long and lean look, then vertical stripe is what you need. You can chose a skinny vertical piece in traditional hues, but opting for soft pastel tones will give your look a fresh take.

It’s understandable that some peo-

Get inspired, go for stripes

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

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Hardball Chibok: It's not time for blame game p.28

biyi adegoroye, ASSISTANT Editor, Politics biyi.fire@yahoo.com

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Tel: 08033024007

MAY 18, 2014

Interview ‘Era of sharing A’Ibom money is gone’ p.30

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Politics ON SUNDAY

Between Nigeria’s defence budgets and national security

T

hese are not the best of times for the country, its president and its security agencies. More than ever before, their capacity and capability to defend the nation have been put to the test by the current pervasive security miasma occasioned by the destructive activities of the insurgent group, Boko Haram.

The daily attacks on hapless villagers, school children, bus stations and churches by the fiendish sect in its vehemence to impose Sharia on the North have not only sent thousands of Nigerians to their early graves, but have also exposed the tardiness of the nation’s armed forces and the intelligence community.

Of particular interest is the recent abduction of over 200 girls of the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, in Askira Local Government Area of Borno State, which has elicited international outrage and prompted the support of the US, Britain, China and Israel in a search and rescue operation across national borders.

As if that was not bad enough, the killing of 12 soldiers in ambush by the insurgents infuriated the troops last week, forcing them to stage a mutiny. The soldiers who had seen tens of their colleagues felled by the sect in the past one year, resorted to shooting at the vehicle of the General Officer Commander (GOC) of the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Amadu Mohammed. They were also outraged by the lack of military equipment and none payment of their allowances for 15 days The development brought to the fore the issue of adequacy of the nation’s defence budget sas well as whether it was conceived to procure requisite combat and surveillance equipment for the protection of its citizens..

For instance, while the nation currently enjoys the benefits of the United States Africa Command, AFRICOM Defence Pact, a number of observers believe that all might not be well after all with the nation’s security apparatuses after all. Bearing in mind the criticality of defence budget to the realization of this onerous objective of securing the nation, how sufficient is the fund allocated to the armed forces? Closely related to this is the apprehension about how effectively has it been disbursed and utilised for purpose for which they are allocated.

Like many Nigerians and other stakehold-

Amid growing worries about the capacity of the Nigerian armed forces to protect the nation, especially in the face of their current performance in the war on terror, BIYI ADEGOROYE examines the impact appropriate defence budgets, foresight and professionalism can make innational security

Defence Minister, Lt. Gen. Aliyu Gusau

ers in the Nigerian project, the All Progressives Congress (APC) recently raised the alarm over these; calling on the National Assembly to, as a matter of national importance, urgently initiate a probe on the utilisation of budgetary allocations to the military in recent years.

In the opinion of the party, such inquest

capital budget in three years Year

Army

Navy

Airforce

2014

N4.8 billion

N7.9 billion

N7.6 billion

2013

N8.4 billion

N14 billion

N10.6 billion

2012

N5.7 billion

N10 billion

N5.9 billion

Source: Budget office

Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

would establish whether or not the military is adequately empowered to effectively tackle the worsening scourge of terrorism in the country, especially when viewed in the light of the fact that Nigerian military comes highly recommended globally because it has excelled, since 1960, in peacekeeping operations around the world.

Equally horrifying in the current dispensation is that the Nigeria Army, which has performed credibly in internal security operations in the past, has all of a sudden become suddenly lethargic, causing people to call their capability or patriotism to question.

Could this be traceable to paucity of fund?

Save for the 2014 fiscal year which recorded a reduction, the nation’s defence budget has been progressively on the upward swing

in the past few years. Put together, from 2012 to date, allocations to defence stand at N1.03trillion. The sum covers procurement of defence equipment and ammunition, provision of military uniforms, salaries, and sundry utilities for the armed forces.

In 2014 for instance, the nation’s defence budget indicates that government earmarked the sums of N340.3 billion for the sector, with capital expenditure standing at a paltry N34.2 billion, while recurrent is put at N306billion.

The recurrent budget is made up of personnel and over head costs, at N273.8 billion and N32billion respectively.

A breakdown of the allocations shows that the Nigeria Army was allocated the sum of N137.8billion, with N4.8 billion for recurrent

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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Politics / Analysis

Nigeria’s defence budgets and national security C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 3

and capital expenditures respectively, while the sums of N7.9 billion and N65billion were earmarked for capital and recurrent expenditures for the Navy.

Though the Nigeria Air Force is getting N7.6billion and N65 billion for its capital and recurrent expenditures in that other, the sum of N3.3 billion and N4.1 billion goes to the Defence Intelligence Agency for capital and recurrent spending respectively. Five months into the year, the budget is yet to be passed by the National Assembly.

In 2013, the total package that constituted defence budget for that year was N364 billion, with N59.2 billion earmarked for capital expenditures and N304.9 billion allocated to recurrent. Out of this total figure, the Nigeria Air Force had the sum of N74 billion, and N63.9 billion approved for its recurrent expenditures, and N10.6 billion for capital.

For the Army, it was N132billion out of which N123.8 billion goes to recurrent and N8.4 billion to capital expenditures. The Navy was allocated the sum of N74.2 billion. The sum of N14 billion went to capital and N59 billion for recurrent expenses.

In the same vein, the sum of N326billion was approved for the nation’s defence in 2012 – spread into N291.8billion for recurrent and N34.65 billion for capital respectively. A breakdown of this figure to the armed forces showed that a paltry N122billion representing N5.7 billion capital and N122billion for recurrent expenditures, for the Army.

The Navy got N69 billion, split into N10 billion for capital and N59.2 billion for recurrent expenditure, while the Nigeria Air Force got N64.3 billion, broken down into capital expenditures of N5.9billion and recurrent expenditures of N58.3 billion. By the same token, the sum of N5billion was earmarked for the Defence Intelligence Agency in the year.

A comparative study of South Africa’s defence budgets shows that it is way ahead of Nigeria in military expenditures despite its lower population and high technological development. In 2013, South Africa earmarked the sum of R40.2 billion, (N628billion) to defence. Even at that, it was said to be a little low, though it was about R1.8blioon over that of the previous year.

It has also been investing heavily in the procurement of weapon though the years.

In 1999, South Africa spent $4.8 billion on the purchase of weaponry. The Defence Acquisition committee purchased frigates, submarines, light utility helicopters, fighter trainers and advanced light fighter aircrafts as part of its rearmament programme.

As far as Nigeria is concerned, it is very glaring that throughout the years, allocation to the army has been very little, as if it was government’s deliberate efforts to down grade it and whittle down its capacity. In the past three years, capital allocation to the army has been less than N8 billion each year.

While some may have chosen not to discuss the vexed issue because in their opinion, it is tantamount to exposing the nation’s security to the outside world, others argue that mystifying security merely gives the vague impression of the nation’s status, playing the ostrich and living in a fool’s paradise. The is borne out of the fact that in many developed nations, leaders are accountable, providing citizens access to the website of their defence ministries to have a glimpse of their armament to give them a sense of security.

Security experts and some stakeholders argue that a probe into the nation’s budgetary expenditure is not only timely, but also in the best interest of the nation, especially at this particular period in the nation’s history when Nigeria is under siege of terrorists. It is also said in conformity with global best practices, a periodic appraisal of such as carried by the

Ambassador Keshi

Whereas Nigeria's defence budget in 2013 was N364 billion, South Africa earmarked R40.2 billion (N628 billion) for the same period United States during the Iraq war when the country had to ascertain that the troops were adequately provided with the appropriate body armour and that their armoured personnel carriers, to see that they could withstand the enemy firepower.

Speaking on this issue, a retired majorgeneral and officer commanding one of the mechanized divisions on the Nigeria Army said the fund situation of the armed forces in the country is pathetic. “The system we are running where recurrent is more than 70 per cent is defective. When we were in government, we talked of millions but now, it is in millions without effect. Yet barely anything goes into capital and development of military hardware.”

According to him, during state of emergency, government is supposed to make more money available for its military because it is an emergency situation. “That means more money. As it is now, it a case of big sign board, small business. You make a man a four stargeneral like chief of defence staff without giving him fund commensurate with his rank and his job. I do not envy Barde. His situation is very unfortunate,” he said President of the AISSON, Dr. Ona Ekhomu, said the current budget of the military establishment is “grossly inadequate to fight the war on terror and meet other security challenges confronting the country.”

According to him, the budget has very small capital vote (20%) component, and the bulk of the budget is for recurrent items. He argued that without buying new equipment, building new structures, training and purchasing combat consumables, the military cannot maintain its fighting form at the required level.

Ekhomu observed that given the fact that the country is now facing Boko Haram in-

Dr. Ona Ekhomu

surgency and other serious security threats, failure to have adequate budget means that “the military cannot maintain the top adaptive and nimble form that will enable it combat and defeat terrorism.”

Asked whether the military the military would be able to acquire state-of-the art weapons with this kind of budget, Ekhomu said: The answer is a resounding no. Military hardware is expensive to procure, maintain, operate and service. If equipment is not in top shape it may not deliver top performance when required.”

He added that top of the line equipment and systems ought to be purchased and adopted in a modern army. These are expensive and it is not easy to get something for nothing, adding that the budget realities must align with the operational realities of the new Nigerian military.

If the budget is paltry, another kettle of fish is whether the whole sum is disbursed, whether the military have authourity to incur expenditure. “The military brass are in a better position to answer this question. However, speaking generally, we know that not all budgeted sums are released to the entities for which they are meant. Nigeria has been in a season of budget down-sizing because of steep fall in government income from oil due largely to the nefarious activities of oil thieves in the Gulf of Guinea” He said these drop in appropriated receipts cut across all agencies of government – the military included. “There is a need to ensure that appropriated sums are received since the military is fighting an undeclared war, and needs to be in top fighting form in order to continue to assure the security of Nigeria.

Government should understand that military budgets are important to the effectiveness of the military institution, so they cannot be trifled with or politicized. Military budget should be prioritized and even increased in order to get top performance. To whom much is given, much is expected”.

Former Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Netherlands and one time envoy in the United States and Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Joe Keshi lamented the status of the nation’s defense allocation, stating that it is inadequate, and apparatuses need to be improved upon.

He said: “Like it or hate it, the Boko Haram

insurgency has exposed our incompetence and inadequacies. Look at what happened in the case of the abduction of these girls. Look at our reaction. It took us three weeks to act.

And then it was too little and too late. I am not sure we understand in this country that the world has changed.”

In his view, the nation is trying to build a 21st country and economy with outdated institutions. “When we are looking at social issues – power and infrastructure, - we must also look at security and fix it as well. Otherwise things will not work. Look at where our Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria, (DICON), established in 1964 and compare it with those of Pakistan and Brazil which came up about the same period. We are far behind.

He said that though our DICON has the vision to operate the ordnance factories, manufacture and supply of arms and ammunition as well as inspecting, testing and recommending ordnance material intended for use by the Armed Forces and other security organizations, while using the excess capacity to support the development of local Industries, today, the nation still imports military uniform, boots and accoutrements.

That, he said, is not good enough.

He said the nation must, as a matter of urgency reposition its military, ensure it is adequately funded, adequately trained and improve on its intelligence capabilities. “Intelligence gathering, analysis and utilisation are very vital. “The absence of intelligence brought us to this point. Intelligence has failed us. It failed us in Sierra Leone and it has failed us again here.”

Keshi hoped that the nation has learnt his lessons. “I am sure we will learn some lessons from this, because with this incident, we have opened up ourselves to the whole world, but we must know that our incompetence and ambivalence must stop, so that we can move on from here,” he said.

While the nation battles insurgents who are home-grown terrorists group, even with suspected external support, Nigerians want their leaders to avoid paying lip service to security, but to ensure adequate funding for the military for the 21 century, any less as they challenge their military officers to exhibit professionalism, competence and commitment in the defence of the nation.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Politics / Interview

If elected Rivers gov, I'll rebuild its economy, says Nimi Walson-Jack Nimi Walson-Jack is a civic educator, lawyer, criminologist and former commissioner, Public Affairs in the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). He is also the vicepresident of Civitas International, a global consortium of civic educators. Walson-Jack, who is a nursing an ambition to govern Rivers State in 2015, speaks on the raging riverineupland dichotomy in the state and other issues. Joe Ezuma captures the interview

W

hat is that unique thing you want to bring to governance in Rivers State that other aspirants lack?

Not necessarily that they are lacking anything but that they have not been done any big thing up to this stage in our governance. What is that? It means making government what government ought to be.

Government is not rocket science, that is a phrase I'm getting to repeat everyday. There are some basic processes that makes government a system. For example, maintenance of social services is not a campaign issue. You don't have to campaign that you are going to maintain roads, that you will maintain hospitals, that people will have water. All that is normal. These are not campaign issues, those are social contracts.

Schools would be open and you have quality teachers. But if you watch, over time, it is looking like you have to go to the moon and come back before you can have them. And I'm saying is that no governance is much simpler than how we have presented the issues. We want to work towards getting everybody involved in governance. Democracy is a market place of ideas. Everybody has something to contribute.

If we go that way, if we run an inclusive government, we are likely to come up with a better government that delivers service properly to the people rather than the one in which the elected leaders are seem to be regarded as the wisest and the best. No, democracy does not guarantee that the wisest should be elected. But what is important is that that leader is able to bring people together and then use resources judiciously to achieve results. And so in a nutshell, I just want to show that government can be simpler and the people can have better lives.

What side of the divide do you belong to in the Upland/Riverine dichotomy in Rivers politics?

For the record, my campaign is being run on qualification, competence and experience because I believe that the people are entitled to a government that is elected on merit. Now to the other side of it. The late Margaret Thatcher once said, 'Democracy has a moral content.' It is that same moral content that made many of us oppose the Hausa/Fulani hegemony in Nigeria. And it is that same moral content that our founding fathers who got us Rivers State saw and used the natural boundaries of the rivers to talk about development based on an upland/ riverine dichotomy. So in Rivers State, it is not playing out. We have lived with it from the creation of this state. This state has an Upland/ Riverine divide and everything we've done here since we were created has been based on that. And we are sensitive to it. So it is not a question of choice, it is natural, we are born into it. So, that moral content of democracy then means that one ethnic group or one interest group should not dominate over the others. So even if you come to the riverine, it means that one ethnic group should not dominate over others, not to talk of others in the upland. That is the idea behind what you will now call the reactivation or the reminder of who we used to be in Rivers State.

Will this actually help the politics of Rivers State and its people?

Walson-Jack

Definitely, now, don’t forget the same way the politics of Nigeria has been helped by a minority being a vice-president and a President, it is the same way the politics of Rivers State would be helped when every section of this state, whether on the upland or the riverine, has an opportunity to govern. But that does not, don’t forget that the underlining qualification, the underlining issue is that in everything you do, you can still not compromise the issue of merit.

Merit is paramount but for you to say that one ethnic group, for example, should rule, you are saying that the others don’t have people, even on merit, which is not correct.

How do you plan to tackle the high rate of poverty in the state?

The problem has been identified. It is worrisome because for the amount of money we get in Rivers State on a monthly basis, whether it is N19 billion, N20 billion or N25 billion, if you google our annual budget in Rivers State, you will find that it is is the equivalent of some three, four country on the West coast put together. So even in the madness of our general society, it is still possible to make a difference in Rivers State with the amount of resources we have. I have traveled to some other states in Nigeria and i am not talking of the SouthSouth states and it is clear in some states they don’t even have 10 billion naira in a month and yet they have four lane highways, with flowers and street lights. Between Ondo and Illesha, there are about five higher educational institutions, both government and private, so the fact that we have this type of money means that we can do better, so we think that it is time

to look at how we use our resources. We must think of the future. We have to put in place something that can first: stimulate the economy. Rivers State has lost its economic base.

We are not talking of just producing oil and getting allocation at the end of the month. No, we are talking of a Rivers State that can build on what we inherited from Eastern Nigeria and we were industrialised. Trans Amadi Industrial Estate is not just a name, there were industries in that place and people were properly employed. So there was a time in this state we have no unemployment problem but today we have an unemployment problem. Why? This is because there are no industries to employ people. People cannot be employed in the air. It is clear to us now that privatisation has failed in Rivers State because we don't have the economic base for privatisation. And I think the best think to do is that government has to go back to industrialisation. We have to work, even if it is with other business members of the business community. We have to work to re-establish industries and employ people. In a situation where we don’t even have a toilet roll factory in this state, it is worrisome. So the solution doesn’t lie in, say, the civil service employment, they can’t employ everybody.

People have to be put to work. We are going to use our money to train and retrain our people so that they can be marketable, not just in Rivers State but in Nigeria and around the world.

In the Philippines, they train people for the rest of the world. There is a Ministry for Migrant Labour in the Philippines and anywhere you go whether in the Dubai or around the world,

you see them. They are working and their government knows they are there. They have been trained for that market. We need to do that, everybody can’t stay in Port Harcourt and so something has to be done about the type of education we get so that our people can go out there. Definitely, the government must use the money to back the people so that we can rebuild economy, the economy is the problem.

We have to rebuild the economy.

What about your education policy?

My education policy starts from the primary school. All over the world it has been identified that the Montessori education is the best form of education. And my reasoning is if individuals, men and women, can run a Montessori education, you and I can say that that a school is a good one. There is no reason why Rivers State Government, with our access to abundance of human manpower, we pay better salaries than the private schools, we have better facilities, we have more money, generally, there is no reason why we cannot build and operate schools that meet international standard. So that is the beginning, primary education is the foundation. Second, we shall return to the boarding school system. I'm aware that the state government has started building boarding schools, because I was a part of it. I organised the education summit. We wrote the blueprint for the education so we know what is contained therein, we are not starting afresh.

We have to go back to boarding. Boarding has a lot of benefits.

Much of the tribalism we witness today in Rivers State is a function of people being born in their communities, doing primary and secondary school in their communities and in most cases ending with universities, in and around them. It is a very shallow world view.

But when you live six years with other Nigerians in the hostel, you come out a different person. So we are going to achieve the objective of building a united citizenry. Then we are also going to stimulate the economy in another way.

Children in boarding schools have services; somebody must feed them, beds must be produced. I am just taking it to the basics, that is a whole set of economy that we would stimulate just by having boarding schools. It is only in boarding school that we are going to have this contract with our young ones. When I was growing up, my mother made me believe and I found out later that it was the situation in their generation. They all, even the parents of my friends, made my friends to know that education is one area where we all can compete.

There is no minority or majority; once you have Grade One, it is Grade One. First Class is First Class and if you are a professor, you are a professor. Now if we tackle education from that angle, then our children will know that they owe us a duty to study and pass well. What is our own part of the bargain? We will pay their bills and we will pay their bills under a scholarship system, so I won't call it free education. It will be a scholarship system, where the money will be transferred to the scholarship board and the scholarship board will pay the Ministry of Education for every child that is in that boarding school. Your business is to make sure that you pass at the agreed standard. If you fail, there will be consequences; and so we can improve on it. Today, our pass rate is 58 points, yes, we are third but 58 points is not first class. So we should be looking at having our kids get the same thing that is obtainable in private schools, where children graduate with 80 CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

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Politics

Many options to rescue Chibok schoolgirls

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hese are definitely not best of times for President Goodluck Jonathan.

What started as a sectional issue that could ordinarily be managed internally, has today degenerated not only into a national crisis but a global outrage.

With the excesses of the Boko Haram sect rising by the day, from attacks on government establishments to the killing of security personnel, this sect is today known for its notoriety of abducting young school children whose whereabout till date remain unknown.

Unfortunately, its mode of operation currently appears to be giving both citizens and the government sleepless nights. In the words of Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, everyone today is a victim.

President Goodluck Jonathan himself has had cause to announce publicly that he has traded sleep for braveness to face squarely the current insecurity challenges in the country until Nigerians know peace.

But the topical issue on the insecurity saga at the moment which of course has been giving the President sleepless nights is the abduction for over a month now, of over 200 schoolgirls at the Government Girls Secondary School Chibok, Borno State.

"And I will not sleep with my two eyes closed until these girls are brought safely back to their parents. As a father and the President of this country, I feel pained and I don't sleep with my eyes closed," Jonathan told a world press conference recently in Abuja.

From left, right, back and front, government appears to be receiving bashing for the near-absence of appropriate options to rescue the abducted students. What is not in doubt again is the fact that the decision by President Jonathan to extend invitations to Britain, France, Isreal, China and America for assistance may also be borne out of not only a shared commitment to tackle headlong the issue of insecurity but some level of frustration.

Anule Emmanuel emmyanule@yahoo.com Within the inner circles of the seat of power, the Presidential Villa, the general feeling is that whatever it takes to bring back the girls, is the option. Also, considering the recent condition given by the leader of the sect, Abubakar Shekau, in a video which has been widely publicised and the pressure, from parents of the girls, Nigerians and the international community, government however seems boxed to the conner with a negotiation option as a viable alternative that would lead to the girls' freedom.

This is against calls from several quarters that a military option of clamping down on the sect early enough should have been the appropriate strategy. Those pushing for such an option forget the fact that government is dealing with a group to which life and living mean nothing.

During his recent visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, President Jonathan and his Congolese counterpart did not mince words in demanding the unconditional release of the female pupils being held by Boko Haram.

Again, when he met with the British Minister for Africa, Mark Simmonds, at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, this firm stand of ruling out negotiation with the sect that involves a swap of the abducted schoolgirls for prisoners was further re-echoed.

Despite the ‘all-options are open’ approach which the Minister of Information, Mr. Laba-

ran Maku, has confirmed is also the position of the Federal Executive Council, there is an exception. It is not clear that if government decides to embrace negotiation, there will be an exception of no swap for prisoners to get

the release of the girls.

One expects that other strategies to secure the release of the girls and assist in ending insurgency generally would likely play out soon from the security summit to be held in Paris, France between the Federal Government, Chad, Cameroon, Niger and Benin, as well as officials from the US, Britain and the European Union.

Whether government engages the sect in negotiations or not is immaterial to the parents of these girls, who obviously are presently going through psychological trauma and the girls themselves who may have been variously abused. The end, they say, justifies the means - the girls needs to be rescued.

Minister double speaks

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he abduction of the over 200 schoolgirls by the Boko Haram sect in Chibok, Borno did not come with some 'doubting Thomases', those whom at the early stage held a strong belief that no child was missing. In their opinion, it was all a charade designed to paint the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan black.

Some people in this category were among several women leaders who met with the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, twice at the Presidential Villa to unravel the truth behind the whole saga.

Joined at the stakeholders meeting organised by the First Lady was the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Zainab Maina.

The minister had played a prominent role which led to the quizzing of relevant persons on the Chibok issue. Hajia Maina may have already distanced herself from the collective resolution of that meeting which had concluded earlier that no girls were

missing, having realised the global attention and dimension which the matter has taken.

As the First Lady put this question to the women at the meeting, the women affairs minister was not left out in joining the chorused loud negative answer. "If you are President Jonathan, will you believe what we have in our hands now that children are missing? ...,,..NO, no, no. Then the first Lady concluded, “I did not say so, you Nigerian women have said so.”

When the women affairs minister was asked by stakeholders after the Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday whether the decision at their meeting was wrong, she could not provide an answer. She had earlier joined her council colleagues in condemning the abduction of the girls. Maybe, Madam Minister has now come to the realisation of the reality on ground and has pitched tent with those in search of the abducted schoolgirls.

INEC, Confab committee and election timetable

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he debate on the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the conduct the 2015 general elections reechoed once again last Tuesday at the ongoing National Conference in Abuja.

The order of the elections has been generating comments since the electoral body released the timetable in January this year.

According to the timetable, Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 14, 2015 while the Governorship and House of Assembly elections will follow two weeks after.

INEC chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, who appeared before the National Conference Committee on Political Parties and Electoral Matters told the members that "INEC, as it is now, cannot hold elections in one day," noting that "the associated logistics is going to be enormous. The cost and the risk will outweigh the benefit of trying it."

Besides, the INEC Chairman disclosed that the announcement of the election results will be another problem should the elections were held in one day, adding "it will take at least a week to tabulate and announce it and this will create tension".

That was in reaction to the committee’s suggestion that the elections should be conducted in one day. INEC, in the timetable just released, adopted top-to-bottom approach, placing the presidential and National Assembly elections before that of the governorship and House of Assembly. This is against the previous timetable, especially at the beginning of the present democratic journey in 1998, when the bottom-top approach was

INECDiary Onyekachi Eze

We must also appreciate the handicap INEC might face if the elections were to be conducted in one day. Besides the logistical challenges, there may be the consequence of high void votes adopted. Then, the local government polls came first, followed by the governorship/ House of Assembly, the National Assembly and finally the presidential election.

Before last week’s invitation by the confab committee, Jega had been taken to task by the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), among others, on the commission’s decision to stagger the 2015 polls.

Those opposed to the top-bottom method (mainly opposition political parties) expressed fear over bandwagon effect this

ezekatchy@yahoo.co.uk

might cause. The NEF expressed fears that the timetable would encourage electoral irregularities and contended that if the electoral umpire could not revert to the former approach; let all the elections hold in one day.

This, to some extent, is true. In 1983 when the then Federal Electoral Commission (FEDCO) reversed the order of the elections and conducted the presidential election first, the ruling National Party of Nigeria (NPN) had a "landslide” victory in that year's general elections. The party did not only retain all the seven states controlled by it since 1979, it secured more states from the opposition political parties.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which became the ruling party when Nigeria returned to civil rule in 1999 repeated the same feat in 2003 when it won the governorship of all but one of the six states in the South West geopolitical zone in addition to Gombe, Kwara and Kogi States, to bring the total number of states under its controlled to 27 from 21 in 1999. Again, the order of the elections was reversed to top-bottom approach.

It is not entirely true that holding presidential election first would have bandwagon ef-

fect. In 2003, PDP lost Kano and Anambra States to the opposition parties. In 2011, despite the fact that national elections were held before the governorship and House Assembly elections, PDP still failed to retain Oyo and Ogun States that were under its control since 2003. What this means is that Nigerian electorate are becoming wiser; they vote for individuals of their not necessarily political parties.

Besides, the victory of PDP in South West in 2003 was because of political miscalculation of former governors of the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD) who decided to play the politics of “next-of-kin”, which eventually consumed them. It was only Senator Bola Tinubu of Lagos State who survived the tsunami. The former governor believes that politics should be dynamic and not static.

Again, it is even wrong to assume that we know the direction the election would go.

About 20 political parties will field candidates in next year’s presidential election. To say that there will be a bandwagon effect in favour of a political party is to concede victory even before the elections commence.

We must also appreciate the handicap INEC might face if the elections were to be conducted in one day. Besides the logistical challenges, there may be the consequence of high void votes because of the literacy level of Nigerians.

But this is not to say there is no merit in the options canvassed by the people. It is left for INEC to prove that its decision was meant to promote Nigeria’s electoral process and not to hamper it. The taste of the pudding is in the eating, as it is always said.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Politics

Senate and extension of emergency rule

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he Federal Government first declared a state of emergency in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States in the North-East geo-political zone of the country on the 14th May, 2013. The emergency rule was to last for six months in the first instance. The decision was taken to contain the Boko Haram insurgency, which escalated and made the three states virtually ungovernable because of the wanton killings and destruction of property of innocent citizens that went on unabated in the area.

The intension of the government was however, not to perpetuate the state of emergency in those states, but to return to full democratic rule in the affected states, if at the expiration of six months the terrorism in the area was brought under control.

Unfortunately, the situation waxed worse as the sect advanced its attacks and extended its violence beyond the frontiers of the initial flash points.

Consequently, at the end of the six months, which was approved by the National Assembly, government had to review the performance of the military operations in the area and found it necessary to sustain the state of emergency. Accordingly, President Goodluck Jonathan, in accordance with constitutional requirement on imposition of a state of emergency, wrote to the two chambers of the National Assembly to approve the extension of the rule.

Although it was common knowledge that the situation had not improved, but the parliament would not just approve the request without being briefed on the progress made at the time by the security chiefs who were manning the military operations in the troubled region. Accordingly, the Senate and the House of Representatives summoned

From the Chukwu David chukwudavid68@yahoo.com

Senate, and indeed all right thinking citizens of this country must not play an iota of politics with any measure(s) taken by the Federal Government to eliminate insurgency from the land. the heads of all the security agencies in the country, who came and gave them detailed firsthand account of the progress made, and the need to extend it for another six months.

Based on the conviction of the lawmakers, they gave express approval to the demand of Mr. President, to enable the Government further intensify efforts towards ridding the affected states and the country in general of insurgency and terrorism. Apart from granting approval for the extension of the emergency rule, the National Assembly also stressed on the need to improve on the funding of the security agencies in order to enhance their performance in the field.

This explained why the Senate Commit-

tee on Defence and Army gave express approval to the 2014 budget proposal of the Ministry of Defence, without subjecting it to detailed scrutiny as has been the tradition and constitutional requirement in the process of budget passage. This gesture shows that the legislators are really being disturbed by the security situation in the country, and want it resolved in the shortest time possible.

Regrettably, the insurgency has resisted all efforts to make it history. The Boko Haram insurgents have become resilient and the security situation deteriorates on daily bases.

The latest terrorist escapades of the sect were the April 14 and May Day bombing of two adjoining motor parks at Nyanya, a satellite town in the nation's political capital, as well as the April 15 abduction of over 200 female students of the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok in Borno State.

These heinous acts have attracted international outrage and sympathy to Nigeria, with some foreign nations, including the United States of America, Britain, France, China, Canada and Israel, offering military and technological assistance to help the country rescue the girls, who are still in the captivity of the Islamic sect.

In prompt response to the situation, President Jonathan, determined to end the menacing activities of the insurgents in the country, sent a letter to the Senate on Tuesday May 13, 2014, impressing on it to approve the extension of the state of emergency to enable the Federal Government, through the military forces eliminate the insurgency from the land.

However, this time around, the President did not have a smooth ride through his request; as some Senators from the North, under the aegis of Northern Senators' Forum kicked against it on Wednesday, after holding a meeting that lasted for three and half hours on the matter. It is obvious that the Senators are working in liaison with the governors of the affected states, who have also expressed their disapproval of the proposed extension.

Ironically, the House of Representatives, which was feared by most political analysts that it would oppose and Jettison the request of Mr. President, though with dissenting voices, has approved the extension of the emergency rule in the three states. Therefore, it is imperative that the Senate tows the noble path of the House, which has in this particular occasion demonstrated high sense of patriotism by placing national interest above all other parochial considerations.

The security situation in the North-East, with its attendant spill-over effects in other parts of the country has in colossal proportion, devastated the economy and the citizenry of this nation. Therefore, the Senate, and indeed all right thinking citizens of this country must not play an iota of politics with any measure(s) taken by the Federal Government to eliminate insurgency from the land.

Reps’ surprise endorsement of emergency rule

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ot a few Nigerians expected the request by President Goodluck Jonathan to extend the emergency rule in the three North-East states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe to have a smooth sail in the House of Representatives. Perhaps, based on its antecedents, many political watchers had envisaged a protracted and long drawn battle between the House and the Presidency over the request.

Of course, the Seventh Assembly is known for its critical and uncompromising stance on issues. It has consistently refused to be taken on a roller coaster ride. But surprisingly, the Green Chamber endorsed the request happily and unanimously without batting an eye lid.

However, contrary to the seeming belief that the lawmakers’ tacit and prompt endorsement of the extension of emergency rule was achieved on a platter of gold, the exercise was not devoid of intrigues and nocturnal scheming. A lot of effort was invested in the request leading to the unanimous acceptance of the decision to further review the emergency rule by another six months. In other words, it was not a tea party. So, how did it happen?

Shortly after the letter was read on the floor and the House deferred consideration of the request on Wednesday and insisted on receiving briefs from service chiefs before ruling on the matter, the Presidency swung into action by deploying its lobbying apparatuses to secure the support of the leadership to impress on the legislators to see reason with the extension.

From the

GreenChamber

Philip Nyam “Having interacted oneon-one with the service chiefs, they were convinced that in the interest of peace of the North-East and the nation generally, another emergency proclamation is desirable and that the military needs more time to deliver” The top echelon of the nation’s security also moved in through the Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Aliyu Gusau (retd) and the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd). This procedure saved the day because majority of the lawmakers from the North-East and North-West were opposed to any extension and had resolved to frustrate the request. Opposition lawmakers were also gearing up for a show down.

The opposition was obvious and it ac-

ternyam@gmail.com tually manifested shortly after Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal read the letter of request from the president on Wednesday. Hon. Sani Ali Madaki (APC, Kano) had raised a point of order citing Order 47 of the House Standing Rules. His intent was to lay a veritable foundation for the request to be thrown out. But the speaker who had gauged the mood of the members tactically and subtly ruled Madaki out of order, by asking him to reduce his observations into writing and submit same to him.

This was to pave the way for realignment of positions and it worked after all.

If Tambuwal had allowed Madaki to put forward his point of order that would have become a clog in the wheel of the request. The final magic was sealed at the meeting with the service chiefs. How the service chiefs did stole the show?

Although, the meeting was held behind closed doors, we got what transpired during the interaction. At the meeting, the service chiefs were simply professional in their approach. They avoided politics and lay the facts as clear as possible. I have it on good authority that, although the service chiefs gave assurances that the mili-

tary was “on top of the situation”; they nevertheless painted a scary picture of the unfolding scenario in the North-East.

The service chiefs had instilled fear in the lawmakers telling them that they can subdue the insurgents but also needed adequate time to effectively check the menace of Boko Haram. Members had taken the service chiefs on how funds were utilized and the allegation of embezzlement of allowances of soldiers on the battle fields.

Sources at the meeting confirmed that what actually disarmed members who were opposed to the extension to back down was the declaration by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah that the country “was at war” and desperately needed an emergency situation to redress the unfortunate development.

At this point, majority of the lawmakers who were blowing tough mellowed down from the high horse.

This shows that the House opposes the Executive based on reasons. It is not just for the sake of legislative checks but for national interest. The House had the opportunity of denying President Jonathan of his desire to extend emergency in the troubled states. The lawmakers would have settled for deployment of soldiers only, which is also constitutional. But having interacted one-on-one with the service chiefs, they were convinced that in the interest of peace of the North-East and the nation generally, another emergency proclamation is desirable and that the military needs more time to deliver.

It came as a surprise but it was on point.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Politics / Hardball

Chibok: It’s no time for Former Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and currently a delegate at the National Conference, Chief Bode George, speaks with JULIET BUMAH and VANESSA OKWARA on the polity, security and other issues

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hat is your impression of the threat posed by the Boko Haram sect?

It is becoming a serious problem. When you have this kind of insurgency anywhere, people say the government should go and solve it. So the opposition is cashing in on that, as if those who are being killed are not Nigerians. I am sure those who have been killed belong to one political party or the other, or they have sympathy for one party or the other. These are Nigerians for God’s sake. So this is not a blame game now.

As a soldier, insurgency can be brought down when the community gives information to the security agencies. Without information, what can the soldier do? These insurgents are fellow Nigerians who also wear the same clothes that normal people wear. So it is not a conventional warfare where you know that there is a dividing line. This is a situation where the man sitting next door to you could be carrying a bomb. So it is a national issue that every committed Nigerian must get involved in. Let us all be our brothers' keeper. This thing is running us out of steam.

Please don’t put it on the doors steps. People must be planting these bombs somewhere and bringing them.

I want to appeal to these guys, that is the Boko Haram sect, that the people they are killing are innocent people. They are innocent Nigerians who have no stake in saying what government should do or not to do. These people are also looking for support from the government.

We are currently painting ourselves in a colour that will be detrimental to the future economic activity with any international community. Is that where we want to place our country? We are looking for investors to come, especially with the World Economic Forum held here in Nigeria. The government had created some avenue for discussion before. I don’t know why it failed and a blame game is not acceptable anymore. Government cannot do it alone. We must all join hands together, both Muslims and Christians, all the tribes must come to terms to make sure that we solve this problem.

I am happy with what is going on at the National Conference right now. Fixation and mindsets are beginning to shift for us to appreciate ourselves and to also know that as Nigerians, we should be our brothers’ keeper.

We are rebuilding and closing up that division so that we can work together. Initially, the first week was quite intense at the confab. Now people are beginning to further appreciate the need to work with one another. Our size is our strength; let us understand that there are differences in us, especially in cultures and beliefs. We are only 16 years old in serious democratic practice. America is over 200 years old in democracy. They were worse off when they were 16 years old, then might was right. Once you draw a gun at that time, you are the big man; now a black man is ruling them. So we will graduate to that level too. I am appealing to our people that I have seen both sides- the military and the civil. The common denominator is human being and our behaviour.

Over 200 Chibok school girls are still missing. What do you think about this issue right now?

That is another sour point in our country

right now. When the news broke, (I also have daughters), I was torn inside me. Suddenly you start to hear some stories. Some said it was not true while others said that they have been seen or married away. Two hundred girls abducted is a large number. Who would they want to marry them off to? I believe that we have a working relationship with Cameroon and other neighbouring countries. Nigeria is working with their governments on joint operation. This is because if it happens in their country, we will also be involved. You know the saying that if your neighbour is out of job, you will think it is a recession, but if you don’t help, and you lose your job, it becomes a depression. We must all get involved. I am sure those in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all these people must have a link. ECOWAS and AU must all collectively sort this out. I cannot believe that somebody will just carry 200 children and marry them off to another country without the government of that country knowing about it. It is a large number, and I believe it is easy to trace them. The truth about it is that we are hearing all kinds of stories. Some are saying that children are not abducted while others are saying otherwise.

In your opinion do you think the Nigerian Army has the facility or capability to stop the Boko Haram insurgency. Or that foreign intervention is the way out?

Any help from anybody will be welcomed. The government will know to what extent to which they require support. Yes I am a strong member of the PDP, but it is not an issue of the party right now.

The government is our government collectively.

That is why I keep saying that the Ministry of Information must let us know. They must have done their own assessment with the military on what kind of help or support they require. America for example has satellite information. You can pick this pebble up anywhere and time, the move-

ment can be done, even if they are asking that we should pay. Look at the Malaysian aircraft that disappeared from radar and the sudden support from the international community.

We have neighbours who are friendly with us. They are also members of the AU. They all like the president. We have a good rapport with our French speaking neighbours as well.

If it is getting too much for what we can handle, I don't think there is anything inhibiting us from asking them for support. To me if anybody says he wants to help you, allow them to come. They have this satellite information imagery system and it is real. They will take the pictures of all the movements of the insurgents and they will locate them. Please it is important for the Ministry of Information to keep people posted. If there is no information, people will fill in the gap and it is very key now because

the

situation is getting out of hand. There must be a desk that should keep people posted especially on this issue of the school children and the issue of Boko Haram, so that whatever story that is coming out comes directly from the government.

What do you make of Governor Murtala Nyako’s statement?

I had a long relationship with him. I don’t know what happened because since this thing started, we have not been able to be in any communication. I have not asked him. I was shocked. I had known him as long as I was a small officer. When I heard the statement, I had to go and get the paper to read it and I have not been able to get in touch with him to know what happened and why he got very seriously emotional. I don’t know him to be that kind of a person. So I am still puzzled why he made that statement. I will just leave it like that. I will only say that I am shocked by it and we have not spoken since then. A lot of people know that we are very close, good friends, but that kind of statement was very inflammatory, and I don’t know why 'Oga' said it. In this game called politics,

George

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Politics / Hardball

blame game –Bode George you need to hold yourself. It is not every time someone pinches you that you fire up on both sides. When I see him, I will advise him to retract his statement. We are very good friends but I don't support that kind of statement.

Something must have triggered it because he is not that kind of person; he must have been so emotionally charged up and when this politics get you to that level, the best thing is to recoil and take a deep breath. Words are like arrows, once they are fired, it is difficult to take them back. He is still my friend but I do not agree with the statement he made.

Recently, the All Progressives Congress called on the President to imitate the South Korean leader who resigned in a similar situation. What is your take on it?

I get annoyed when I hear such stories from these people. They are playing politics with these innocent people who are being murdered. Some of them who have been governors in their states, we know how irresponsible they behaved. Now they are calling on the President to resign. Some people even believe that the things that are happening are politically motivated.

This is not the time to play politics. This is the time that right thinking, committed and loyal Nigerians must support government’s efforts to find a solution to it. They should shut up and stop playing politics with this situation. Are they calling on the President to resign so that they can come to the Aso Rock?

What have they done before? When you see Bola Tinubu gallivanting, hopping all over the place, you cannot but ask yourself what are his track records? What has he ever done successfully in his life? It is a pity that people like my boss, General (Muhammadu) Buhari, is sitting and dining in the same room, talking to him. If we can wake up the people who were killed to ask them which political party they will vote for, they may say A,B or C. Their solution is only for President Jonathan to go.

That is the only thing they want.

With this current insurgency, some people say that the PDP may not win the Presidency in 2015...

When I listen to people who say these things, I just shudder. So the decision of who gets to the Villa will be because PDP couldn’t solve the problem of the North-East insurgency? Are you making me to believe that the APC are responsible? This issue is a national problem irrespective of your leaning or tribe.

But if they continue to make their comments the way they have been doing it, they will tell Nigerians that they are the ones responsible for it. It is a problem that we must all join hands to solve.

Where do you think Nigeria will be 50 years from now?

I believe there will be continuous democratic practice because we should mature and be able to understand ourselves better. There will be no military personnel coming behind you with a whip. There will not be any hegemonic ethnic activities. For instance, did anyone expect people like Chief Alex Ekwueme, Bola Ige, Solomon Lar, Alhaji Adamu Chiroma, all of whom were fighting Sani Abacha government, to later belong to the same political party? It was like a divine intervention and that was how PDP started. As individuals, they came together. We have been at it now for almost 16 years and that is what has sustained democracy. I have been Director-General of the national campaign; I have snaked through this country and every state capital, moving from one end and seeing the enormous gift that God has given this nation. There is no corner of this country I have not campaigned.

I have seen the differences as you go from swampy forest to the savannah. There is

George

I have been at the highest mountain of this country, even in the bedroom of this country’s President. I have also been at the bottom of the worst valley in Nigeria goodness in every village, but all we need to do is to reduce the biases against ourselves and learn to harness them for our benefits.

We may do something in one location.

There are some things we are copying from each other’s tribes. That is the effect of living together as one. The owambe parties of the Yorubas are now being practiced in both the North and Eastern parts of the country.

But when we fight for political power, that is when it breaks down. That is why PDP is of the concept that power should be rotated.

That it has worked out. There are top six positions and each must be given to each of the zones and rotated. These tribal political parties didn’t want it at the beginning, but you could see them merging now. We were lucky. The six political positions include the president, vice president, senate president, speaker, secretary to the government.

How do you think this country’s problem can be solved?

You see, we are looking at this thing as if it is a North/South issue. It should never be.

Initially it was on a religious line, now it ceases to be religion. Now we don’t know whether it is on the political line, or otherwise. So we are rebuilding this country. I am happy with what is going on at the conference right now.

It is allowing all those with all kinds of fixations. Today, such mindset are beginning to shift for us to appreciate ourselves and to also know that Nigerians should be their brothers' keepers. This is to say you are from this tribe or from that tribe as if we have the Berlin Wall around us. Even the original Berlin Wall has collapsed. We are rebuilding and packing up that division so that we can work together.

Initially, the first week at the National Conference was quite intense. Now people are being to further appreciate the need to work with your brother in an association. We are very viscous ethnic setting. We cannot win it all. I can see averagely people are talking about the division of power. They are saying that we must reduce the power at the centre

and everybody is agreeing with it. There are so many other contentious issues we are negotiating and there is symbiosis. You can never win it all; you win some you lose some. Our size is our strength but let us respect ourselves, let us understand that there are differences in us in culture and beliefs. We can understand it and melt it up together.

We are only 16 years old in serious democratic practice. Where can you think of a 16 year old as a matured mind? America’s democracy is over 200 years old. They were worse off!

When they were 16 years old, the philosophy was that might was right. Once you draw a gun at that time, you are the big man. Have you forgotten about the Wild Wild West era in America? The guy who could draw the gun was the leader and if you go against him you get shot and nobody can arrest. Also in the 30’s in Chicago before Edgar Hoover came as the FBI’s head. Also at a time in America it was a taboo for a southern person to rule in there, or for a Catholic until President Kennedy came on board. Now a black man is ruling them. So we will graduate to that level too.

I am cajoling and appealing to our people that I have seen both sides - the military and the civil. The common denominator is human behaviour. Whichever system you run, we should have it at the back of our mind that we our treating another human being and accept to treat him well. No matter who is the villain, he will not be there forever. Now at the confab, we are saying they should expunge that larger than life immunity clause. So if you are in government and misbehave, you will be treated like a common criminal.

Some peole are already saying that like the Oputa panel, this confab will not amount to anything. Some are saying that after 100 years, Nigeria should divide.

That is why this talk shop is very appropriate. This is the first time we have been taking.

I think the barrier is being broken now. People are now taking straight shots; things that you have never heard before, you will hear it at the confab. People will say 'Yes we agree', or 'No we don’t agree'. See the opportunities we have on the congregation. We have people who were there in 1954 as delegates, those who were ministers in the First Republic in 1960 are there. Those who fought on either side of the civil war are also there; those who have been military generals on both sides are there.

Now the younger generation who didn’t even grow up to hear about one premier, they only know about state governors and presidents,

are also there. So this congregation is fullfledged enough for us to start reassessing ourselves and break down the barriers of lack of communication. That has been the greatest problem because if you don’t talk, those biases will remain there. Proper understanding of ourselves is what I believe will assist us. Those who are going to be on the political platform, the opportunity is there for us. I think that by the time we finish, yes, we cannot say that whatever is said there becomes the constitution; there are some aspects that will just be for policy purposes. There are others that will go into the constitution. If on consensus, the majority accept any policy or issue, those who are lawmakers will be heading back for election soon. These issues will become election matters. That is the beauty of it. I want to differ from those who are saying the confab will not work. It is the same perception they have over everything that happens in the country. It is timely because between June and February next year, we are all going to be in the election period. Most of the discussions we are having now at the confab will become election issue.

Some are saying let us go and do referendum.

We only do referendum when it is a 'yes' or 'no' issue. But there are so many contentious issues. So which one of them do you subject to referendum? What I believe is that the referendum will be on election floor and we will take it to the people and let them know that this is the new Nigeria that we want.

Do you find time to relax despite your busy schedule?

When I have a goal to achieve, I go for it. I think it comes from my military background.

I sleep late, like 3-4 in the morning. I don’t get up till it is mid-day. But once I get up, I can continue to work till late at night. On weekends, if there is nothing to do, I will go on a walk or just sit down with the family and sort out household things. I was blessed with a little girl which we were not expecting but she came and she is a special gift because she looks exactly like my mum. Once I am home, she takes my full time.

What are you most thankful for in life?

I should just continue to thank God; I have had varied experiences in life. There was a time I was wrongly accused and went to jail for a convoluted conspiracy. But like the Supreme Court people said, how can you convict somebody on conjecture, on a nonexisting law because you want to punish him politically? I never thought that was possible in this country and one man who was at the centre piece of this madness is the one raging all over the country now, a huge clown, trying to position himself. He is just a huge joke. He wants to position himself as the vice president of this country. Everything about him is a lie! That is why I fight that this kind of thing does not happen again to any other Nigerian. Anywhere such a thing happens, I will be there to fight for that person.

I still thank God because I have been at the highest mountain of this country, even in the bedroom of this country’s President. I have also been at the bottom of the worst valley in Nigeria. From these, I can now understand the people and what they suffer. When I was in prison, I saw cases of people who have been there awaiting trial and they are more than those who have been tried and convicted.

So I assisted many of them, especially when they come out, I ensure they enrol in the Open University system to better their lives. When I was there, I was able to assist someone who was on death row for 28 years to get pardon from his governor. Because of these varied experiences, I have told my family that I want to set up Atono Collective Foundation to assist the youth.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Politics

‘Era of sharing A’Ibom money is gone’ Pastor Anietie Ukpeh is the chief press secretary and senior special assistant to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio.

A thoroughbred journalist, Ukpeh in this interview with TONY ANICHEBE explains some issues about the activities of the governor

W

hy is Governor Godswill Akpabio keen on power shift to Eket Senatorial District when he contested the same position in 2007 with 56 people from the three senatorial districts?

In 2007, there was an understanding with the political situation then that Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District should produce the governor.

Hence, the significant majority of those who contested the election were from that district.

Those people who contested from Uyo District were actually eyeing, perhaps, the position of deputy governor or other political offices. Eket Senatorial District has not produced a governor since 1999. Interestingly, the second highest votes scored at the primaries were for somebody from that district. But everybody knew it was a straight fight between Ikot Ekpene and Eket senatorial districts. Thus as you watch the unfolding scenario, you will see that there is nobody from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District in the governorship race. People know that it is because of the zoning arrangement. They know Ikot Ekpene people have had their turn.

People who question zoning should worry about the federal character principle. The federal character principle notes that appointments made in government should reflect the diversity of the people. We cannot sacrifice the peace and unity of the state on the altar of selfish ambitions. Those who are kicking against zoning currently know in their hearts that it is the turn of Eket Senatorial District to produce the governor of the state.

Local contractors here lament that Governor Akpabio, unlike his predecessor, has abandoned them for foreign firms even when they can do good jobs too.

The governor of Akwa Ibom State has been giving jobs to local contractors based on their capacity. Please, I want you to fault me; is there any local construction firm here in Uyo that can build the quality of the bridges Julius Berger builds here? There are certain projects you can’t play games with; projects you can’t risk the lives of people with by giving them to those without the technical know-how. Look at the new international stadium. Is that a project you will use for political patronage? Are you going to use the pipe jacking flood control system buried 40 meters under the earth, under people’s homes without them knowing for political patronage? The local contractors that have the capacity have enjoyed the patronage of the governor, and had done most of the township roads in Eket, Oron and even in Uyo. For instance, Bassey Engineering participated in Enen Nsit Road. You have Bennet, Emem and Sons and several others who have done one project or another. Look, it depends on the goals set by an administration. Governor Akpabio’s administration plans to execute quality life touching projects that will enhance the living standards of the people. For political patronage, there are 6,000 projects scattered around the state, with over 4,000 of them commissioned already. The inter-ministerial projects which involve construction and rehabilitation and the like you can execute on the basis of political patronage and empower people with those ones. But you will not award contracts like the one for the construction of the Government House Complex on the basis of political patronage. This involves very detailed construction.

We must agree that the governor tries to

gauge the capacity of contractors before handing over projects to them. Now look at Ewet Housing Estate. Those roads there were awarded to local contractors by the previous administration. Go and check the history. They abandoned the projects, now the government is spending more money reconstructing roads there. So the era of sharing Akwa Ibom money against the interests of the people is long gone; the people’s money must be used for them. So those few stakeholders who are used to earning money without doing anything or doing very little should understand that time and tide have changed and that the development of the state and the interest of the people remain paramount.

There is nobody who will see the quantum of projects executed under this administration that will not doff his hat for Governor Akpabio, who has constructed over 5000 kilometres of roads. Have you heard of any government in Nigeria which has achieved that? Have you heard of any state government which constructed five overhead bridges? I want to be corrected if there is any.

Look at the beautiful roads and up to 35 bridges built by one government in different local governments and we are taking them for granted. Look, these things are not found elsewhere. Anybody who drives on a good road is a beneficiary of dividends of democracy. Any parent whose child is enjoying free and compulsory education here is a beneficiary of uncommon transformation.

Any man or woman who attends a public hospital and pays nothing for the services; anybody who sees the new look Uyo, the brand new stadium which is at advanced stage of

construction; five general hospitals, the international airport that was not there before now is a beneficiary of uncommon transformation.

You live in this state and saw a cleared field and a man decided, out of sheer courage and doggedness, to build a new international airport for people to fly. Are you not flying through it? Are you not a beneficiary of uncommon transformation? People should commend Governor Akpabio. Akwa Ibom people in the wider society are happy for the ongoing transformation in the state.

This is how societies are built; when you

Ukpe

have God-fearing and committed leaders in the mould of Governor Akpabio. Akwa Ibom has become a reference point when people are talking about development in Nigeria. People are trooping down to Akwa Ibom now because so much is happening here.

Could that be the reason behind the allocation of 80per cent of the state’s budget to capital and 20 per cent recurrent expenditure respectively?

The point is this - assuming that you are in a race that involves about 400 people and you started the race late. The fact is that you must run faster or forever remain behind. Akwa Ibom was not created the same year with many states in Nigeria. We would have remained perpetually behind if not for the transformation leadership of the governor. The key programme that facilitates it is the budgeting system which enables an infrastructural revolution to bring the state at par with the first states created in Nigeria. I don’t see anything wrong with the budgeting system here; in fact other states and nations are copying the Akwa Ibom experiment.

The Ibaka Deep Sea Port would have addressed unemployment problem in the state if completed but it appears the project is stalled. What is the position now?

For those who come from a village, it is a known fact that you can build a mud house in one day. All it takes is to gather able bodied men and as they sing and chant, a house is built. But for a skyscrapper, you will need professionals like architects, structural and civil engineers. The bigger the project, the more attention you pay to details. The deep sea port is a massive project and a lot of things need to be put together for its realisation. The good thing is that the project is on course and will soon come on stream. The present administration, knowing the benefits accruable from such a magnificent project, is very passionate about its realisation. We also know the impact the project will have on the economy of our state.

It will get a lot of our job seekers off the streets.

Do you see the project coming on stream within the life of the current administration?

It is a gradual thing. We are talking about a massive project with a deep sea port for all manners of vessels, an oil and gas zone and many other allied industrials, all within a designated area. It will emerge gradually, bearing in mind that government never ends with one administration.

'If elected Rivers gov, I'll rebuild its economy' C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 5

per cent and they are angry because they have been trained to get 90 per cent and 100 per cent.

Now that is what I'm looking at. When we produce this class of brilliant students and it is possible to do that if we give them the backing, then they can go into the universities, the polytechnics and higher institutions very confident of what they are going to get.

For the universities within our own jurisdiction, say for example the UST (Rivers State University of Science and Technology), The Polytechnic in Bori, education will be a business, that is there will be no need for interference. I am just trying to remodel my own university. I went to a university that had hostels for foreign students, so in my school the foreign students from around the world paid University of Ife, then, in pounds and dollars. Now, why do we have to care about who does what in a university if they can administer themselves?

They should have the right hostels, have the right facilities. They should answer the name 'university' and produce proper graduates.

When they do that, then we can have the first

class and second class upper graduates, who can go ahead to study for their masters and doctorates. If they fail in that, we are going to have the situation we have today, where there are more people in the pass level and third class level, and so it is more difficult for them to proceed. The bottom line is that education is one of the focus areas. The things we can't do today, the educated ones can do them in the future if they come out right; that is, if they get the right education. The right education will place them in a position to provide service at home, compete with the rest of the world.

It doesn't matter where they go for further studies; they can hold their ground because we would endeavour to provide for our own educational institutions the right facilities. So, there will be content in our education.

Aren't you threatened by Dame Patience Jonathan's rumoured support for the Supervising Minister of Education, Nyesom Wike?

Thirteen months ago, I commenced a consultation process, reaching out to different segments of the society to tell them that I want to be the next governor of Rivers State.

What do you think? Thirteen months ago, if

you had done an opinion poll or if you had done a discussion about who are those who are likely to become the governor of Rivers State, you would never have mentioned Nimi Walson-Jack. But today, you can't hold a discussion about the potential governor of Rivers State without mentioning Nimi Walson-Jack.

That support was not bought by newspaper adverts. It wasn't bought by a rented crowd.

It was bought by talking to the people. If you ask me for my grass roots support, conduct a survey by yourself and you will get that grass roots support. There is no scientific analysis so far, so I cannot tell you of any percentage.

And I'm not an unrealistic person to tell you that if an election is held today, that 99 per cent of Rivers people will vote for me; that is not me. But the point is that I have come a long way from the day I said I wanted to run.

I still have six months to go to the primaries.

I'm sure that will tell you where I stand. Until some days ago, I was the only one who had declared that I want to be governor. Do you know of any other person? I'm the only one who has set up an office that is coordinating my effort.

Football Thompson Usiyan: Going to America was my best option p.32-33

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MAY 18, 2014

Golf Odoh dedicates Cameroon win to late buddies p.34

Dapo Sotuminu, Deputy Sports Editor dapo.sotuminu@newtelegraphonline.com 08099400190, 08038154192

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Sp rt

Did you know?

First African to score at the World Cup: Abdulrahman Fawzi, who scored both Egypt’s goals in 2-4 loss against Hungary in 1934

Don’t put Eagles under pressure, Ekpo begs Nigerians Dapo Sotuminu

T

he Super Eagles of Nigeria would be appearing in their fifth FIFA World Cup finals at Brazil 2014 which kicks-off on June 12 and a number of the country’s ex-internationals have been tipping the Eagles to either play in the semi-finals of the competition or win the cup, but Friday Ekpo, a former national team midfielder believes the Eagles are already under intense pressure to achieve the near impossible.

He told the New Telegraph in an exclusive interview in Lagos that, those who are expecting the Eagles to win the Brazil 2014 World Cup are doing the national team a disservice.

“When the team is put under such pressure ahead of a competition as big as the World Cup, they end up floundering.

“For me I don’t expect the Eagles to win the 2014 World Cup, I will be putting the players under pressure which is highly unnecessary, I will be also be putting myself

under pressure as a former player who would be watching the World Cup from the television.”

The former Abiola Babes of Abeokuta star midfielder stated that his advice for the team is to take their matches one after the other as it would be wrong to assume that they have won a game when they are yet to play.

“This happened to the Eagles at the France 98 World Cup, where the team projected to play against Brazil when they were yet to beat Denmark. Ofcourse, the Eagles team that had the likes of Sunday Oliseh, Nwankwo Kanu, Daniel Amokachi, Tijanni Babangida and some other top stars fell like a pack of cards against Denmark losing 4-1.

“Eagles must take the group games as they come. It’s very important and this would help Nigeria progress to the second round which is the knock-out stage.

“At this point they are expected to re-strategise so that they won’t be knocked out and they can progress to where God wants

them to be at the World Cup.” The former Leventis United of Ibadan legend said he is not scared of the Lionell Messi-led Argentina, as they are known devils, while Iran and Bosnia are the angels we don’t know, and they stand very dangerous.

“We know Argentina so well, as the Eagles have played them at the 1994, 2002 and 2010 World Cup finals.

We

Ekpo

know them to have some world class stars and the Eagles would work extra hard to stop them from running away with victory on June 25, but what about Iran and Bosnia that we do not know anything about, that is more dangerous.

“How do we approach them?

What do we do to win the match and who are their dangerous players who could wreak havoc on us? These questions won’t be answered until after 90 minutes against these two teams. While in the case of Argentina, we know they have Messi, Ze Maria, Zabelleta and some others. We can plan to mark them out and frustrate all their moves, but what do we know about Bosnia and Iran.”

He stressed that the Eagles technical crew should perfect strategies that would help the team first and foremost get to the second

round. This would change in the second round and that of the quarter finals must also be different.

He called on Nigerians not to blame the Eagles chief coach for the list of players submitted to the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, ahead of the World Cup. “For me it is a good list and the coach knows the players better. He is the one who wears the shoe and he knows where it pinches. He has selected the best, and we should all accept the fact that not all the players can play at the same time, so those excluded should wait for another opportunity.

“Even in the list of 30, seven players would still be dropped and some people would complain.

We should all support Keshi and pray for him too. We should also pray that the players do not sustain injuries at the training camp so that the coach won’t have the problem of presenting a solid team.

“No matter the stage they get to at Brazil 2014, Nigerians must support the Eagles as it belongs to all us Nigerians.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Sport / Stars of Yesteryears

Thompson Usiyan: Going to A Before the emergence of the mercurial Rashidi Yekini, he was arguably the best striker Nigeria ever had. Thompson Usiyan left the shores of Nigeria in 1976 to play professional football in America a move he said was beneficial to his life. He shares with DAPO SOTUMINU in this exclusive interview, his regrets at not playing at the Montreal 76 Olympics and many more

Which was the first club you played for in Nigeria?

The very first club I played for in Nigeria was Eselemo Diamonds FC Football Club of Warri in 1975. After that I moved to Asabatex FC in 1976 and I was there until 1977 when I left the country for the United States to further my education. I joined the Warri club immediately I left secondary school in 1975. Those are the two clubs I played for in Nigeria before I left the country.

I chose to remain in North America and received scholarship offers to attend Clemson University, Howard University and Appalachian State University. I eventually chose Appalachian where I set an NCAA record of 109 career goals.

So how long did you play club football in Nigeria?

I played club football only for three years in Nigeria, I was lucky as I played a lot of football in the country at that time. Before joining the Green Eagles, I played in the National Academicals where I was drafted from my secondary school at Husey College, Warri. From here I played for the Junior Eagles as the Flying Eagles was called at that time. When I was called to the Green Eagles I scored a goal in my debut game in a friendly match against Kenya in 1976.

Despite playing for just three years in the national teams, you were categorised as the best

striker Nigeria ever had. How did you do this?

During that period, football was very prominent in Nigeria and we had a lot of football festivals from 1973 to 1975 that was the peak of the country’s football. We also had the Africa Nations Cup qualifiers, the World Cup and the Olympic Games qualifiers, so it was football all the way. In these three years I played a lot of football. I feel good that after over 37 years of playing my last soccer for the national team, I am still re m e m b e re d as a football legend in Nigeria.

People still talk about my mesmerising

and intelligent style of play together with the likes of Adokiye Aimesiamaka.

You played for Nigeria at the Ethiopia 76 African Nations Cup. Do you have fond memories from this competition?

I was still very young just coming out from secondary school; I didn’t understand the impact of playing in such an important continental championship. It was at Ethiopia 76 that I got to know that there are lots of African footballers who play really good especially those from Morocco, Egypt, Guinea and Zaire.

I gained a whole lot of experience and respect from lot of players I met in Ethiopia.

Was that the only Nations Cup you played for Nigeria?

This was the only Nations Cup competition I played for Nigeria, but I played lot of matches. The most memorable was the African qualifiers for the Olympics which we played against Morocco home and away. The home game was played at the National Stadium in Suru Lere Lagos. We beat them 3-1 in Lagos and we went to Tangent in Morocco for the second leg which we lost 2-0, but we qualified on goal’s differential after playing over 90 minutes.

This victory gave us the ticket to represent Africa in the 1976 Olympic soccer event in Montreal, Canada.

What was the striking thing at the Olympics in Montreal?

The striking thing that happened at the 1976 Olympic Games was the marching order given the Nigerian contingent to withdraw from the Olympics at the opening ceremony. The protest was against the Apartheid government in South Africa. We waited for another instruction to ask us to go back, but that never came. We all left the country disappointed and were taken from Canada to Europe where the government had arranged for us to play in some international friendly games. At this point it dawned on me that to make it to the next edition of the Olympic soccer event; it would take me another four years. After this incident, I made up my mind to take a trip to the United States to further my education.

Were you so disappointed?

Usiyan

I wasn‘t so disappointed but was only angry that we were not allowed to play football in the Olympics after we tried very hard to book a ticket. I was just coming out of the high school in Nigeria and I did not understand the real thing about not playing in the Olympics and neither did I even know what the Apartheid regime which prevented us meant. My international

thompson usiyan’s profile

Date of Birth: 1956-04-27 Place of birth: Effurun, Warri Delta State Height: 1.85m Clubs: Eselemo Diamonds of Warri 1975-76, Asabatex FC 1976-77, 1977-80 Appalachian State Mountaineers, 1981-82 Montréal Manic, 1984 Oklahoma City Stampede, 1984 -87 Minnesota Strikers, 1987 -88 Los Angeles Lazers, 1989 Maryland Bays, 1989 -91 St. Louis Storm, 1991 Hamilton Steelers, 91/92 San Diego Sockers Indoor, 92/93 St. Louis Ambush, 1995 San Jose Grizzlies.

National Team: Nigeria Academicals 1975, Junior Eagles 1976, Green Eagles 1976 to 81.

Tournaments: Ethiopia 76 Nations Cup, Montreal Olympics 76, Nations Cup qualifiers, World Cup qualifiers 1977.

Honours: Set NCAA record of 109 career goals, Set records for most career points (225), Southern Conference Player of the Year in 1977, 78, and 80, won the 1992 MISL championship, MISL’s sixteenth leading scorer in 1984–85, Championship Series Most Valuable Player. awareness was very limited then, but I thank God that I realised that at least we had a part to play in the dismantling of the obnoxious Apartheid regime in South Africa. After this my views on politics and sports changed.

When did you play your last game for Nigeria?

I left for America actually in 1977 after we played some World Cup qualifiers games against Tunisia, in Tunis and everything was set for us to qualify for the Argentina 78 World Cup in the second leg game in Lagos. I left for America before this match in Lagos, which made my game against Tunisia in Tunis my last before my departure to America. Unfortunately we lost the game in Lagos 1-0 from an own goal scored by Godwin Odiye which slipped past Emmanuel Okala due to poor communication and we were eliminated from playing in the World Cup. My last game for Nigeria was in 1982 where we lost 2-0 against Thompson Usiyan middle Sani Muhammed left and Kunle Awesu right on the way to the 1976 Nations Cup in Ethiopia

33

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

America was my best option

Usiyan coming out of the tunnel at the National stadium, Lagos in 1977

Algeria in FIFA World Cup qualifying match on October 10, 1981 in Lagos That was the match that ended Godwin Odiye’s career in the national team and it was a very sad one as the committed defender was blacklisted by Nigerians.

Yes, that mistake was made by Odiye, but funny enough such mistakes kept occurring in football and I don’t think Odiye should have been treated that way as he gave all his life to service to fatherland. Unfortunately in football, people only remember the bad things you do. Odiye shouldn’t be blamed for that defensive error.

Do you feel bad not playing in the World Cup in your career?

I don’t feel bad at all not playing in the World Cup. I am not the only soccer star in the world that didn’t play in the World Cup. A world class player like Ibrahimovic of Sweden has never played in the World Cup and even in Africa the former World Footballer of the Year, George Opong Weah, of Liberia did not play in the World Cup, same as Ghana’s Abedi Pele and Tony Yeboah. Sometimes the World Cup is a big platform for players and countries, while the government has a lot to do with the countries qualification.

You combined effectively with Adokiye Aimesi-

amaka those days in the Eagles. And uptil today when Nigerians talk about Adokiye’s prowess in international football, your name is also called.

How did you guys do this?

It is all about skills that combined effectively with great talents because Adokiye was very skilful with the ball, while I was more like a midfielder who at the same time played the striking role. I was very good holding the ball from the midfield, dribbling and taking accurate shots. But I was forced to play in the centre forward by the Green Eagles Technical Adviser, Father Tiko, initially I said no, but he insisted, saying that, I had the brilliant ball control, nose for goals, excellent dribbling skills and good in the air. The hunger for goals and not wanting to lose made me one of Nigeria’s greatest top strikers.

In your days in the national team you had a foreign coach, but today we have a Nigerian coach for the Super Eagles.

I have nothing against foreign coaches; they were always there to know the players and the culture. Father Tiko was always there knowing the players one-on-one and the other ones that came after him were equally good, but the last foreign coach we had at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South, Lars Lagerback, was brought in at the wrong time, more so when an indigenous coach, Amodu Shaiubu, had qualified the country for the World Cup. You cannot bring a foreign coach six months or three months to the World Cup that is not proper. He doesn’t speak the language, he doesn’t know the names of the players, this does not speak well of any serious football playing country. No matter how good you are as a foreign coach, you can’t do well at the World Cup taking over just about four months to the competition.

I like the current Eagles chief coach Stephen Keshi, he started well with the players and ensured the team qualified for the 2014 World Cup. He is the best now and he should be allowed to work unhindered given all necessary supports. We should all wait until the end of the World Cup before criticising him. He should be given a free hand in Brazil because he earned the World Cup ticket. Don’t forget that he led the team to victory at the 2013 African Nations Cup in South Africa when nobody thought he was going to win.

Usiyan playing club football in America

country. I saw my predecessors who were neglected and their health wasn’t good, they are suffering and no one is looking after them.

That was why I made up my mind not to end my football career in Nigeria where it is possible to become a liability not planned for by the authority. I told myself that I would rather use football to achieve my goals which was to get a degree and be able to fend for myself and my family. And that was really happened.

In America did you play in the major club football league?

Yes, I did played top flight football in America. After my college days I was drafted to play in the North America Soccer League for three years. After that, I played indoor football side by side with some great players like Franz Beckenbauer, Alberto from Brazil, I missed playing against Pele, because he just left the country. I hold the NCAA Division I career scoring record and played in the North American Soccer League, the Major Indoor Soccer League, the American Soccer League and Continental Indoor Soccer League.

I retired permanently at the end of the 1995 season.

Would you say your movement to America was beneficial?

Initially it was not easy coming from the na-

tional team of Nigeria to stay in a dormitory in an American school, but I knew it was going to be temporary so I was focused and was steadfast with my studies. I spent four years in college before I started playing professionally and earning money, and things started looking up for me. In all, I think I made the right choice. Because, looking back at some of my colleagues who also went to school, people like Adokiye Aimesiaka who is now Judge and Segun Odegbami a Civil Engineer, things went well for them, while those who didn’t further their education are today suffering in abject poverty. Even at the moment at the Nigeria Football Federation, there are no retirement benefits for national team players.

Here in America what I have been doing over the past years is trying to raise medical bills for sick ex-international players back home in Nigeria.

When I went back home some years ago and I visited the Nigeria Football Federation secretariat in Abuja, they didn’t even recognise me, and there was no record that I have played for the country before. When this happened that was when I knew that I made the right decision going to school in America. After finishing my degree, I spent some time as an accountant and after my retirement, I became a full time tax consultant.

Do you have any regrets playing soccer for Nigeria?

No regrets whatsoever, as I didn’t expect anything from the Nigeria Football Association as retirement benefits and neither did I expect to make money for playing for the

Thompson Usiyan with wife

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

MAY 18, 2014

E-mail: ifeanyiandrewibeh@gmail.com Tel: 08085973490

WITH IFEANYI IBEH

Odoh dedicates Cameroon win to late buddies, set for CMCL Championship

Countdown to FIFA World Cup

Star to bring Global Football N Mundial to Nigerians

•Unveils Okocha, Kanu as ShineOnNigeria Ambassadors

L-R: Moses Praiz, Edem Vindah, Walter Drenth, Kufre Ekanem, NBL official and Collin Udoh

S

tar lager beer, Nigeria’s favourite beer, has launched a series of activations geared towards deepening its association with Nigeria’s favourite sport - football.

To begin with, the beer brand has partnered DSTV to beam all the football matches of the upcoming FIFA Football Mundial in June, to TV audiences. This is to ensure that Nigerians can view the competition from the comfort of their homes.

This was revealed at a media parley convened to formally announce Star Football, another trailblazing innovation through which the beer brand will connect with football.

Walter Drenth, Marketing Director, Nigeria Breweries Plc. said: “We decided to partner DSTV so as to give Star beer consumers and football lovers the opportunity of watching live football matches as well as indepth analysis of games. We do not want them to miss a moment of the exciting and exhilarating games.”

Star beer, manufactured by Nigerian Breweries Plc, has also unveiled ex - internationals, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha and Kanu Nwankwo as ambassadors for its football activation.

Star has also chosen to align with the millions of fans who are passionate about the game of football and fervently cheer their teams to victory. The brand has adopted ShineOnNigeria as the official tagline to propel Nigeria to victory in competitive football games.

Both Okocha and Kanu, joined

by Nigeria’s football loving fans, will amplify the ShineOnNigeria call to attain the status of the Mexican wave and other global celebratory recitations.

According to Walter Drenth, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc., Star’s decision to recruit Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha and Nwankwo Papillo Kanu was borne out of the reason to celebrate their achievements in the game of football.

He said: “As a proudly Nigerian brand which seeks to promote the positive attributes of Nigeria’s heroes for others to emulate, Star is proud to announce the involvement of Nigerian superstar ex-footballers, Kanu Nwankwo and Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, two illustrious Nigerian ex-international footballers as the brand Ambassadors to help in recognizing and rewarding the fans. You would agree with me that Okocha and Kanu have not only made Nigeria proud through football but have become role models for Nigerians who seek to emulate their victories on-the-pitch.”

On why Star lager opted to align with football fans, he remarked: “We believe that the greatness and victory associated with the game of football is not only about the 11 players in a team but about the millions of fans united by passion and pride cheering their teams to victory. This is the spark that ignites winning moments. Star recognizes this and has chosen to celebrate the passion and pride of the fans.”

According to the Marketing

HOLE IN ONE

Director, Star recognises that football has become an important part of Nigeria’s identity and a source of national pride.

“We applaud the affinity which the average Nigerian has with football.

Indeed it is often said that during football matches; Nigerians put aside all divisive sentiments and cheer our country’s representatives to victory. As the true Nigerian brand and a true national icon that constantly seeks to engage with consumers, we have identified the football platform as an avenue to deepen our bond with Nigerians. Star Football therefore is the brand’s platform to further strengthen the connection between Nigeria’s favourite beer, Star Lager, and the Nigerian people, more specifically the football lovers” he added.

Mr. Drenth described Star’s expansion of its football sponsorship activities as a new vista in the annals of Nigerian Breweries Plc. He explained that the brand’s incursion into football will be beneficial to the consumers of Star lager beer and also promote the sports.

“I have no doubt that Star Football will be beneficial to the Nigerians, especially football lovers, in the long run. Not forgetting the influence of the ever-growing online community, Social media will continue to play a pivotal role in what we do at Star. Fans would also have the opportunity of joining the conversation with #ShineOnNigeria and stay updated on all Star Football projects” he stated.

igeria’s rave of the moment, Andrew Oche Odoh, has dedicated his victory at last weekend’s Cameroon Open to the memories of late Nigerian golfers, Ali Abdullahi and Christian Godfrey.

Abdullahi was the maiden winner of the Cameroon Open back in May 2010, beating both Godfrey and Oche to the tournament’s top prize.

Three days after their Cameroonian conquest, though, on May 19, Abdullahi and Godfrey died on their way to a tournament in Minna, the Niger State capital, in an auto crash along the MinnaPaiko-Suleja Road.

Since then, Odoh has been on a personal quest to secure victory at the Cameroon Open in honour of his late buddies and, after a long wait, was finally able to secure a much-elusive win when he powered to an impressive 294, six over par, score at the Likomba Golf Club, Tiko situated on the outskirts of the Cameroonian city of Douala.

For his efforts, Odoh carted home a trophy and 10,000 euro top prize money, and in the process became the third Nigerian to win the tournament behind 2010 winner Abdullahi and Gboyega Oyebanji, the 2011 winner.

“It feels good to finally win it, and I want to dedicate the victory to our brothers, my friends, who died after the 2010 tournament,” said Odoh, in an interview with New Telegraph.

“Abdulllahi won the tournament that year, and Godfrey and I were tied. We all started the battle together and I just want to dedicate everything to them and the loved ones they left behind.”

Odoh, went into the Cameroon Open on the back of victory at the penultimate weekend’s An-

Udoh

nol Pro-Am Championship in Lagos, and he told New Telegraph that winning at the tournament, which took place at the Dolphin Golf Club, went a long way in boosting his chances heading into the Cameroon Open.

“Winning at Dolphin gave me more confidence to compete in Cameroon,” he continued. “It wasn’t just about winning in Dolphin but the manner in which I did it.

“My shots were almost perfect and it gave me a lot of confidence.”

Having won two tournaments in as many weeks, can Odoh make it three in a row at this week’s CMCL Open Golf Championship in Abuja?

The tournament, taking place at the IBB International Golf Club, is in its 16th year and will have the best players on the Nigerian PGA Tour in attendance.

Odoh is the tournament’s defending champion but on a course that is known to punish wayward shots, it takes more than being in great shape to come out on top at IBB. But having relocated to IBB since returning from Cameroon, Odoh is confident of his chances.

“Every time I’m on a golf course I see myself having a chance of winning. I am always positive, and I am in good form,” he said.

“If I can get everything right over the tournament, I think all will be well.”

Asked about the weather in Abuja, Odoh replied passionately, noting: “It has rained only once since I got back and the course is looking great.

“I have never seen the course looking this good. It is in incredible condition and anyone who doesn’t play well here (this week) can only have himself to blame.”

ICT World Computers in human behaviour p.41

Market and Malls Bad roads, multiple taxes hurt Ariaria traders p.39

NTWEEKEND ONLINE AT

www.newtelegraphonline.com/politics

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

MAY 18, 2014

35

Business AZUBIKE NNADOZIE, ASSISTANT Editor, SUNDAY

azubike.nnadozie@newtelegraphonline.com

ON SUNDAY

10,000 Drivers’ licences ready for collection—Opeifa

L

Paul Ogbuokiri agos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, has called on applicants for Drivers’ Licence in the state to come forward and collect them, saying over 10,000 permanent Drivers’ licences are ready for collection.

He spoke on Friday at the state

headquarters Alausa at a press briefing to mark three years of the second term of Governor Babatunde Fashola in office.

He said the delay in processing the licences was not due to inefficiency but the consequence of the attempt of the state government to do three years job in one year.

The commissioner also said that the state government would before the end of the third quarter

of 2014 present to the people of the state a one stop shop for the processing and issuance of the licences, vehicle numbers plate and other particulars to the public.

He assured applicants who had yet to collect their licences that the covering note issued to them will continue to be respected auntil they collect their permanent cards.

He warned those still driving with the old one that they are committing an offence as it has expired.

Opeifa said that all commercial drivers in the state must possess a valid license, Lagos State Drivers’ Institute Certification and a drivers’ badge, saying the badge must also be affixed to whichever vehicle the driver is operating at the given time.

“A data base of operators and owners of passenger-vehicle exists live on www.Lagroute.org,” he said.

He said in the government’s effort to improve and encourage the use of public transportation in the state, it has made appreciable progress in commercial vehicle licensing, commuter routing system, corporate outlook for transport operators and commercial passenger vehicle insurance scheme.

According to him, the state government has developed a data base for the Lagos public transport system, adding that all passenger vehicles in line with regulation 41 of the road traffic law must have an operators license before operation.

Opeifa said the state government had realised that it cannot do away with the yellow buses, but insisted that drivers and conductors of such commercial passenger vehicles must have a minimum of Third Party Insurance and a Passenger Safety Insurance presented to cover death, injury and permanent disability.

He said in line with government CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Inside

L–R: 1st Vice President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Otunba (Mrs.) ‘Debola Osibogun; Executive Director, Business Development, The Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri; and President/Chairman, CIBN, Dr. Segun Aina on a courtesy visit and Bell Ringing Ceremony at the Exchange today.

Sidel to install new bottling line at Coca-Cola plant Azubike Nnadozie

B

uilding on its track record of providing optimal services to its customers, Sidel, a global provider of liquid packaging solutions, has announced that it has been awarded a major project in Ikeja, Lagos by the Nigerian Bottling Company, a member of the Coca-Cola HBC, one of the world’s largest bottlers of products for the Coca-Cola Company.

According to sources close to Sidel, the new bottling line will be dedicated to the extra production of carbonated cola at the Ikeja plant which is responsible for the production of all formats of the Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Light, Fanta, Sprite, Schweppes, Cappy, Five Alive and Eva brands. The new

bottling line will be producing PET bottles in 500ml format at a capacity of 42,000 bottles per hour, and in 1,500ml format at a capacity of 22,000 bottles per hour.

The installation of Sidel equipment is scheduled to start in May 2014, with the first saleable products to be coming off the new bottling line in early July 2014.

Speaking on the new development, Engineering Director at Coca Cola HBC, Costin Barbu, said, “The quality and safety of our beverages are our highest priority, which is why packaging is so vital. At the same time as protecting the liquid, we want our bottles to stay attractive across the supply chain and on the supermarket shelf, and offer a good consumer experience thereafter,” “We therefore work with part-

ners like Sidel to drive innovation and identify new ways to improve packaging that creates value for us and our consumers.”

Coca Cola HBC operates in Nigeria through its affiliate, the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), one of the biggest companies in the nonalcoholic drinks industry and the sole franchise bottler for the CocaCola Company in the country. NBC operates 13 plants throughout Nigeria, serving as many as 160 million people. Its plant in Ikeja, Lagos, has been running since 1978.

Coca-Cola has been present in Nigeria for years, over which it built strong distribution network and developed aggressive marketing techniques which positioned the company to lead shares in carbonated and bottled water.

According to Regional Commercial Director in Africa for Sidel, Olivier Fraisse, rising disposable income and population growth will continue to underpin the positive development of the entire market, while new launches, marketing activities and improvements in distribution will bolster demand in individual categories, adding, “Nigeria is one of our biggest markets in the Middle East and Africa Zone, and we are very delighted to be selected as a solution supplier for this strategic project in Ikeja plant.”

The outlook for the soft drinks market is very encouraging in Nigeria, and looks set to continue to grow, with all major categories showing the potential for robust growth in both total volume and current value sales.

Nebo

Senate urges DISCOS, GENCOS to fight vandals

pg 36

Boyi

‘Peugeot eager to retain Nigerian market’ pg 38

36

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Business / News

Senate urges DISCOS, GENCOS to fight vandals

T

Kenneth Tyohemba he Senate Committee on Privatisation has enjoined new owners of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria successor companies to take advantage of existing laws to fight vandals of electric installations and those who obstruct electricity personnel from performing their legitimate duties.

In response to a request by the Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), Mr. Jon Abbas, for the National Assembly to quickly enact a law to enable the prosecution of electricity installations’ vandals and allied offenders, the committee members led by its Chairman, Senator Olugbenga Obadara, who were on oversight visit to privatised enterprises in Rivers State last week, urged the PHCN SCs, in the interim, to take the measure.

Obadara said the power companies could do that by collaborating with the judiciary in

the states to constitute mobile courts to handle all cases relating to electric power infractions.

“We advise you to take advantage of existing laws in all the states of the federation to prosecute electricity installations’ vandals and allied offences. You could collaborate with the judiciary in all the states to constitute mobile courts to try these offenders. On our part, both Chambers of the National Assembly will synergise to enact a law on electric power offences in the future,” he said.

While reiterating the committee’s resolve to assist the power companies to overcome their challenges to give Nigerians efficient and uninterrupted power supply, the chairman warned that “we will not hesitate to wield the big stick when we find you wanting.”

Briefing the members earlier, Managing Director of PHEDC, Mr. Jon Abbas, informed them that the new owners had upgraded some sub-stations and re-modelled the company for

efficiency.

He, however, listed inadequate power generation, poor network condition, higher AT & C Loss, vandalism, lack of interest by funding institutions and rampant theft of electricity as some of challenges confronting the distribution company.

At Afam Power Station, the Managing Director, Mr. Leo

Ofurum, said the plant managed by Nigerian engineers was at present generating 65 megawatts as against the installed 75megawatts. He added that the plant generates N100 million monthly.

In his remarks, Obadara commended the Nigerian engineers for their ingenuity and urged them to co-operate with

Poor governance, bane of economic growth – LCCI DG Azubike Nnadozie

T

he slow pace of economic growth in the country has been blamed on poor leadership quality by the drivers of the economy. In an interview with the New Telegraph on Sunday, Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, LCCI, Mr. Muda Yusuf, stated that the challenge is not so much for want of bright ideas, but that of having leaders that can make things happen.

“It’s not a question of lack of ideas, or people not knowing what to do, it is a question of having the will, the political will to do what needs to be done. If you go through the archives of governments and ministries at the federal and state levels, you will find one-thousand-and-one quality reports on how to move the economy forward. But the challenge is to have a leader that can make things happen. Not so much for want of ideas,” he stated.

L-R: Minister of Culture and Tourism, Chief Edem Duke; Chairman, Citilodge Hotel and Conference Centre, Olufemi Talabi; Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Sally Mbanefo; and the Chief Executive Officer, International Style Week Limited, Bassey Essien, at the Tourism Development Workshop in Lagos…Friday.

Host communities charged on pipeline security Azubike Nnadozie

M

inister of State for Power, Mohammed Wakil, has challenged host communities on gas trunk lines to protect the facilities, assuring that government will not renege on its earlier promise to deliver on the proposed 14 to 20MW gas-fired plant meant for the area.

At a recent steering committee meeting on Escravos – Lagos Pipe-line System (ELPS) in Abuja, Wakil said that the ministry would diligently perform its oversight function in making sure that the project enjoys adequate

budgetary provision and political will.

He said, “Government is committed towards ensuring speedy completion of the project,” he assured people living in the host communities that government was prepared to listen to their genuine concerns and enjoined them to protect the Gas infrastructure in their domains as any infraction will affect them, because the gas to fire their own plant will come from the same source.

He reminded the committee of the need to work assiduously, adding that the Federal Government’s Transformation Agenda

the preferred bidder for the plant, Talevares Group, to turn it around.

The committee members also paid a courtesy call on Rivers State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who said the state government had built 545 megawatts plant and another 180 megawatts plant in the state.

for the power sector was underpinned by the availability of gas for power.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Amb. Godknows Igali, said that the Escravos – Lagos Pipe-line was strategically important as it carries gas to most gas fired power plants and the West-Africa Gas pipeline, hence it must be well protected.

Furthermore, he said the project will enhance the availability of gas, as the incidence of sabotage would be reduced, thus captive power, in line with expansion plan of Government would be realized.

The Group Executive, Gas, at NNPC, Dr. David Ige described the proposed project as one of the many intervention programmes of Government, stressing that by making Gas available, there would be increased economic activities for the people, thus guaranteeing social harmony. “We are all united in protecting pipe-lines, adding that the host communities, Delta State Government, Local Governments in the area and indeed the Federal Government will use the project to build solid relationship that would protect the biggest and most important gas supply network in Nigeria,” he said.

He stressed the need to build adequate infrastructure for the economy to thrive on, adding, “You don’t need to be an economist to know the value of infrastructure in economic growth. You need to provide power, you need to provide railways, and you need to provide roads. All these things enhance productivity in an economy.”

According to him, the economy works by providing a space that is conducive and when you provide such an environment, entrepreneurs should be able to express themselves in various ways.

Most of the activities that ensue, he said, engender creation of jobs for the teeming population, because there is no limit to the ingenuity of the average Nigerian citizen.

To him, it is a governance problem that can be solved by putting round pegs in round holes. But a situation where people get into positions because of who they know and not by merit, he said, is bound to breed mediocrity.

Yusuf was of the view that such settings breed corruption which in turn puts the economy in a vicious cycle as it results in the waste of valuable resources. “We need a leadership that could assemble a team that can work and get results, not just creating an avenue to ‘chop’ for party loyalists.”

‘Driver’s licence ready’ C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 3 5

reform roadmap for taxi operation in the state, no individual or corporate citizen shall operate a taxi cab service in the state without a valid taxi cab service operator license obtainable from the state and the taxi cab must be a tradable instrument at the Taxi Exchange to be organised by the state license owners and investors.

He stated that the state government has concluded arrangement with all major intracity transport operators in the state to commence with effect from a date to be announced, a Commercial Passenger Vehicle Insurance Policy for all commercial passenger vehicles in Lagos State.

SundayTransport 37

PAUL OGBUOKIRI, paul_ogbuokiri@newtelegraphonline.com 0802-779-0557, 08037613380

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNRDAY

MAY 18 , 2014

2014 Kia Rio, mixture of comfort and affordability

T

he 2014 Kia Rio might be yet another face in a sea of small cars, but it has a few qualities that lift it above the fray: a clean, point-perfect interior; and an efficient, agreeable powertrain.

On display at the Kia Motors Nigeria stand at the recent Lagos Motor Fair was a star attraction, its distinctive qualities included a peppy engine, roomy cabin and lots of available features make it a worthy competitor in a crowded field.

It also has one of the longest warranties in the class and lowest price range from $413,900 to $18.090.

All 2014 Kia Rio models have a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower. The engine has plenty of power for city and highway driving.

The Rio gets an EPAestimated 27/37 mpg city/highway with either transmission, which is good for the class.

In design padded materials in higher trims is particularly nice. Also, the amount of legroom in the front the seats are pleasingly supportive. There is a decent amount of room in the back too, which is a big compliment for a subcompact car.

Both sedan and hatchback Rio models have a good amount of cargo space for the class. It has a long list of available features. The Rio comes standard with a four-speaker audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary inputs and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Optional features include navigation, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and Kia’s UVO infotainment system.

New Telegraph on Sunday learnt that it ranks fourth out of the 41 affordable small cars in the world. This ranking is based on an analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Kia Rio, as well as reliability

Before You Get Behind the Wheel Keep up with car maintenance -Well-maintained cars are safer cars, so make sure you change your oil on a regular basis and make sure all the parts of your car (engine, tyres, belts, hoses, mirrors, windows, windshield wipers, lights, horn, etc.) are working properly.

Consider installing a car alarm to deter potential thieves.

Plan ahead - Consider the safest route and give yourself enough time to get to your destination so you don’t feel the need to speed.

Check the forecast to find out if severe weather is expected when and where you’re driving, then plan your trip accordingly.

and safety data “Where most subcompacts look like bargain-basement rental cars, the Rio and Rio5 show off a bold and sporty appearance. And they are loaded with standard and available features, offer horsepower and fuel economy near the top of their class, and come with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty at no charge.” -- AutoTrader “Although it romps on the roads with more established subcompacts such as the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Chevy Sonic, the Kia Rio sedan and its five-door friend, the Rio 5, outmaneuver them all with an unbeatable combination of price, features, power, fuel economy and warranty.” -- Kelley Blue Book “I love this Kia Rio SX as a cheap small car for daily driving needs. They come wellequipped, even at this price

($13,90018,090), and the clutch and shifter combination is perfect for easy or medium speed driving.” -- AutoWeek (2013) “The 2013 Kia Rio represents itself well in a class that’s filled with great choices. Where some of the competition shines in a particular area and trails in another, the Rio don’t really

Be prepared for emergencies - All drivers should prepare an emergency road kit and store it in the trunk of their vehicle. Suggested items include a flashlight, road flares, a first aid kit, blanket, water, road atlas and warm clothes for use in the winter season.

When Driving Don’t drive tired - Make sure you’re well rested and alert for your journey.

Avoid driving distracted - Put down the cell phone, food, hairbrush and makeup. Avoid adjusting the radio, heater/air conditioner. Stay focused on the road ahead instead of the scenic view and any accidents that might be on the side of the road.

stand out so much as it does a good job at most things. Good power for the class, a comfortable ride, fine practicality and handsome looks inside and out is some of

Auto Clinic

Follow the driving laws - Buckle up, maintain a safe distance from other cars, stay out of the passing lane if you’re not passing another vehicle, etc.

Never operate a vehicle while impaired - An auto should never be operated if you drink alcohol or take drugs. Once they’re consumed, alcohol or drugs immediately impair your judgment, reaction time slows, and emotions and behaviour become exaggerated. If you operate a motor vehicle while impaired, you jeopardise not only your life, but also the lives of others.

Be patient and considerate to other drivers – It is important to treat other drivers as you would want to be treated. Aggressive driving,

the qualities o f this well-rounded package.” -- Consumer Guide (2013).

following too close and using high beams improperly are all examples of actions that can lead to serious accidents.

When you park your car Keep your doors locked and windows rolled up, and take your keys with you. Don’t make it easy for thieves to steal your car or the items in it.

Remove valuable items from your car or keep them out of plain sight so thieves won’t be tempted to break in and steal them.

Park your car in a well-lit, welltravelled area.

Avoid parking next to large vehicles or any objects (dumpsters, large trees or shrubbery, etc.) that someone could easily hide behind.

If you have a breakdown If you’re in an accident or your car breaks down, safety should be your first concern. Getting out of the car at a busy intersection or on a highway to change a tyre or check damage from a fender bender is probably one of the worst things you can do. The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) recommends the following precautions when your car breaks down: Never get out of the vehicle to make a repair or examine the damage on a busy highway. Get the vehicle to a safe place before getting out. If you’ve been involved in an accident, motion the other driver to pull up to a safe spot ahead.

SOURCE: Grange Insurance

38

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Sunday Transport

Auto Trend: Vehicles, accessories, discounts and more...

Peugeot eager to retake Nigerian market - MD

The automobile company’s boss stated that during its years of operation, the company produced more than 500,000 cars, adding that at its peak, it rolled out up to 90,000 cars in a single year and employed over 4,000 people.

I

Azubike Nnadozie

n the 1970s and early 1980s, Peugeot Automobile Nigeria Limited (PAN) was the flagship of car assemblage in Nigeria. Later, things took a turn for the worse, culminating in the plant being virtually closed down in the early 1990s due to rising cost of imported CKDs, (completely knocked down) parts and rising operational costs, among other challenges.

But in recent years, things appear to be looking up for the Kaduna-based assembly plant as it has rolled out plans to reclaim its former position as Nigeria’s leading automobile provider.

At the just concluded ninth Motor Fair and third Auto Parts exhibitions in Expo, organised by BKG Exhibition Limited in Lagos, PAN Managing Director, Alhaji Ibrahim Boyi, said his company would commence the assembly of cars in Kaduna in June.

“By 2015, we will start full CKD assembly, and this will generate the most local content,” he stated.

Boyi used the forum to introduce the media to the company’s new auto policy, which he said would bring great benefits to Nigeria.

“The objective of the new policy is to encourage local production; local development of skill and manpower; for employment and create local opportunity. So, we are fully in support of the policy and we want to assure everybody, including those who may not like the policy, that it will only do one thing, naturally help improve the Nigerian people. Despite all the opposition and the fears that the policy will generate, we will be able to create more opportunities for our people and all will translate into better and cheaper products,” he added.

As a follow-up on this, he told New Telegraph on Sunday that PAN was in nego-

Automatic car tyre inflator for motorists Chijioke Iremeka

A

utomatic car tyre inflator, a portable 12 Volt tyre inflator with a built-in gauge, is a must-have equipment for every car owner.

Research shows that it has the capability to inflate a standard car tyre in eight minutes with little effort. A powerful 12volt, 100 PSI compressor and an accurate gauge make this inflator an efficient and excellent machine.

The gauge is easy to read and helps in determining the amount of air inside the car tyre (normal tyre pressure is 2835psi). This car tyre inflator easily plugs into the 12 volt accessory outlet to operate.

It is easy to use, and the lightweight portable tyre inflator is a great addition to your car’s accessories. Also, it’s ideal for one to take along when travelling over a long distance. The powerful 12 Volt, 100 PSI compressor plugs into a 12 volt accessory outlet with an accurate and easy-toread gauge while ball and raft inflation adapters are included.

tiations with local auto component manufacturers and ready to work with serious investors in that sector. He added, “So, it is a great opportunity for people that want to ride on the back of this policy.”

He said PAN was already working with the association of auto component manufacturers to create clusters and that the transport minister had been informed.

“We are ready to work with auto component manufacturers that show enough seriousness in our cluster in Kaduna,” he stated.

Boyi

Boyi noted that to effectively carry out the new policy, the company would need to employ more people and expand its distribution and sales network. According to him, PAN would work hard to regain its customer-base that was lost when the company went under, and all of these would Paul Ogbuokiri bring opportunities for more people. hinese auto firm, CC AUTO, is set PAN was incorporated on December 15, to give a boost to the Federal Gov1972 as a joint venture between the Autoernment’s new auto policy as it anmobile Company of France and the Fednounces its plan to commence the assembly eral Government of Nigeria. of its range of automobiles at the Calabar Export Free Processing Zone, Clabar, Cross River State in the second half of next year.

Regional Sales Manager of CC AUTO, Wang Ye Lai, said the company was determined to continuously roll out China automobile manufacturing technology that matches international standards, which would transform automobile manufacturing in Nigeria.

He told New Telegraph on Sunday at the venue of the just concluded ninth Lagos Motor Show that with Nigeria as the market centre in West Africa, “we put forward our high quality automobiles that are produced to suit Nigerian roads. We are here to make life better for Nigerians by producing better automobiles with advanced technology and most of all, outstanding after-sales and maintenance services for customers all over the country.”

CC AUTO FZE was founded in 2009 in the automobile district of China, Changchun.

It entered Nigeria last year and is located in Calabar and Lagos.

The company, which presently imports its fully made trucks from China, manufactures heavy duty equipment and special automobile vehicles ranging from Highway truck, Trailer, Off-road dumper, Excavation dump truck, Cross-country truck, Self loader, Fuel tanker, Pick-up truck, Mini truck, Minibus and series of AUTO. Based on Chinese Changchun auto industry cluster, which is the manufacturer of the first Chinese truck for USA market standard.

Chinese firm to build trucks in Calabar

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GM recalls 140,000 Chevy Malibus

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eneral Motors has said it is recalling 140,067 Chevrolet Malibus from the 2014 model year for a problem with the electronic brake control module that can increase the risk of crashes.

The recall covers models with a 2.5-litre engine and a stop/start system, which is the base powertrain.

The cars are prone to having their brake vacuum assist and hydraulic boost assist disabled, in which case “increased brakepedal effort and stopping distance will be required, increasing the risk of a crash,” GM said in a recall bulletin it sent to Chevy dealers.

“GM has hired a law firm to review how information about defective ignition switches in its cars reached board members,” the Wall Street Journal reports, citing a board member of the company.

“Board members were not apprised of the matter, in which small cars stalled due to faulty switches, and called for a review to ensure vehicle safety issues are brought

to their attention quicker,” the newspaper added. The board appointed New York law firm, Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz to conduct the review.

Meanwhile, the latest recall campaign brings GM’s recall count this year to at least 20, covering about 8.5 million US vehicles, although that figure counts some vehicles more than once because they are being called back to fix multiple potential safety defects.

The spate of recalls comes as GM accelerates its review of potential safety problems in the wake of its recall in February of 2.6 million vehicles to correct faulty ignition switches that the company has linked to 35 crashes and 13 deaths.

GM is the subject of at least four federal investigations and is conducting its own probe into the company’s handling of the defective switch, which was used in small cars from model years 2004 to 2011 before GM finally recalled the cars in February.

Pickups targeted The National Legal and Policy Centre, a

nonprofit advocacy group, posted a letter on its website written to GM CEO Mary Barra, requesting that the company recall some six million pickups and SUVs from the 1999-2003 model years for brake line corrosion.

The group said that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 890 complaints about corrosive brake lines in the vehicles, involving 13 crashes and two injuries. NHTSA has been investigating the problem since March 2011, the agency’s Web site shows.

Barra has vowed to prevent future lapses by ‘redoubling’ GM’s safety focus.

Last month, GM said it had boosted its team of product investigators to 55, up from 20 previously. The investigators analyse reports of crashes, customer complaints, lawsuits and other data relayed to the company that could indicate a safety problem.

That team reports to Jeff Boyer, who was appointed in March to a newly created post of global safety chief. GM also has created a system internally that encourages em-

MARKETS&MALLS Bad roads, multiple taxes hurt Ariaria traders 39

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

MAY 18, 2014

Tel: 08027790557, 08037613380

Ikechukwu Ucheoma Umuahia

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riaria International Market in Aba, Abia State, which is one of the biggest markets in West Africa, commenced commercial activities in 1977 after the popular Ekeoha market was gutted by fire.

But the market which serves as one of the major sources of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the Abia State Government has suffered neglect by the current administration as major roads in the market are now death traps.

To make matters worse, the old roads in the market have no drainage and this leads to flooding anytime it rains. On a visit to the market, New Telegraph on Sunday also discovered that there are no social amenities such as potable water and toilets.

Yet, the state government says that contracts for the construction of roads and drainages in the market have been awarded and are estimated to gulp N25 million.

For the traders in the market and their costumers, the onset of this year’s rainy season is a big challenge, as the traders say they have been left to battle with flood and lack of access roads during and after any downpour.

Some of the traders in the market who spoke with New Telegraph on Sunday said they are giving up hope as there is no way they could

cope with the challenges.

Mr. Ezinwa Ugochukwu, who deals in wedding accessories, noted that his line of business was seasonal as most people prefer having their weddings during the festive period.

He, however, said that as a trader in the market, he is faced with the major challenge of lack of access roads in the market. He lamented that this has made the market a ‘no-go area’ during the rainy season and is causing hardship to the traders.

Another trader in the market, who simply identified himself as Mr. Kelvin and deals in men’s wear, corroborated Ugochukwu’s claim that the roads in the market are in terrible condition.

He pointed out that apart from the poor road network, the traders are faced with the problem of multiple taxation. He claimed that people from different government agencies and parastatals demand different levies from the traders.

Kelvin noted that any trader who refuses to pay would risk having

his or her shop shut.

He, however, noted that they make major sales during matriculation and graduation ceremonies of higher institutions in the state.

A female merchant, who deals in travelling bags, school bags and trunk boxes but did not want her name in print stated that she had been in Ariaria International Market for eight years. She said she had so far enjoyed a boom in sales, lamenting the major challenge facing the traders was the bad road network caused by neglect as well

as multiple taxations which she said have done them more harm.

According to her, the obnoxious taxes are making them to part with huge sums of money which affect their businesses, even as she said they had made several complaints to the appropriate quarters for a change of heart by government.

She also noted that the Commissioner for Works, Mr. Emeka Longman Nwachukwu, once visited the market this year.

When New Telegraph on Sunday attempted to obtain comments from the Chairman, Ariaria International Market Traders Association, Mr. Lucky Akubueze, in his office, some aides said he was not ready to speak with any journalist.

A section of the market..on Friday

Ogbete main market is our pride, says president-general President-General of Ogbete Main Market Traders Association and Enugu State Amalgamated Traders Association, Hon. Temple C. Ude, (Power House), spoke to Leo Sobechi on what makes Ogbete Main Market the centre of attraction for business in Enugu as well as challenges of administering the market.

What have you set out to achieve in your second term?

Thank you for congratulating me on getting elected for a second term. It was not an easy task going to the poll and emerging victorious.

Fortunately, this is a system I know very well.

I’m not going to start learning how to administer issues in Ogbete Main Market. All I need to achieve is to bring Ogbete Main Market to the limelight so that it could be indeed a modern market with dignity. As such, every person doing business or interested in doing business in Ogbete with any trader will have confidence that he is dealing with reputable traders. We try as much as we can to raise Ogbete Main Market to a standard that should be equal to none in the South-East.

A lot of people observe that ever since it was rehabilitated in 1974, the market has been begging for expansion. Has your committee approached the state government to provide a new site that could accommodate the growing number of traders?

Actually, just the fact that this is Ogbete Main

Ude

Market makes a lot of people want to trade here. There are a lot of other markets around Ogbete Main Market such as Artisan Market, New Market, New Haven Market and Kenyatta Market. You will notice that these markets are not up to a kilometre or two from Ogbete.

So, I don’t know why a lot of people want to squeeze themselves into Ogbete. Could it be because of the location? I don’t know but there is no need going to the state government to ask for another location when you know that there are these other markets surrounding Ogbete Main Market; and these markets are not filled up. So it is just that people want to see how they can be fixed into the existing facility. It is

the system. But all the same if you know you cannot get it, you go to another market.

During the Coal City Centenary celebrations, the state government said the urban renewal must continue. It also said environmental protection and sanitation were major challenges. Is your leadership a part of this environmental sanitation programme?

We have a formidable arrangement in terms of the orderly administration of Ogbete Main Market. We have the sanitation department that takes care of sanitary work in the market.

We have the electrification department that takes care of the electricity and lighting systems. We have the works and security departments. We have so many departments and recently we created the revenue generation and monitoring committee. With all this arrangement, the person at the helm of affairs has no reason to worry. We work as a team to achieve the beauty and sanity of the market and whatever specific issue that might arise is usually directed at the department or committee concerned to take care of it. So, everything is in place and like I said we are not learning how to govern Ogbete.

Not long ago in Idumota, Lagos, porters were barred from operating inside the market. Is there a similar plan by your leadership to restrain porters from causing obstruction in Ogbete?

Well, good enough you asked this ques-

tion. This is one of the things we intend to tackle in this present regime. The number of barrow-pushers is increasing every day. If you heard what I said during our meeting on Tuesday, even strangers are coming to push wheel barrows in the market. We are trying to regulate them. Already, we have a union, the barrow pushers union. We will soon call them to a meeting to regulate their operations in the market as well as the number of people that can operate within the market. We shall also involve those who rent wheel barrows to operators so as to curtail the number of such in the market.

The pressure to locate businesses in Ogbete has tended to deface the masterplan as squatters build projections to serve as shelters and stalls. What measures do you have in place to check these protrusions?

You should know that I’m just a caretaker in Ogbete Main Market. The local government owns the market and controls the structures. So we do our part by consulting them to make our opinion known about developments in the market. This obstruction is man-made; we know how to check or reduce it.

What is your message to traders and the general public?

My message is that they should trust in God, have faith in God and have confidence themselves that everything will be well.

40

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Equities set for further rally

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…as market sentiments gauge turns positive

he Nigerian Equities market opened the week on a positive note following the week on week (WoW) marginal loss of 0.06% in the preceding week. NSE All Share Index (NSE-ASI) returned 1.21% for the week as investors’ positive sentiments for stocks seem to have rebounded. In all, 39 counters traded positive in the week although 35 stocks swung below the waters while market breadth pegged at 1.11x.

Consumer Goods Sector Food and Beverage Remains Serene

There are feelers from the market that foreign investors and local fund managers, particularly the PFAs, appear to be reconsidering their apathy for local equities, finding their way back into the market. The volume of transaction in the week declined marginally by 2.54% while value of transactions climbed by 13.59%.

A major catalyst for the market in the coming week will be the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Meeting which is scheduled to hold on Monday and Tuesday next week. General market consensus however is that, the committee will restrain from shifting any major policy variable and as such, market would likely retain its positivity in the coming week. We analyze further in the following sections, specific market sentiments for the respective sectors on the NSE.

Banking Sector: On the Path to Recovery

The banking sector has witnessed a very good week with 12 out of the 15 traded banks returning positive to bring the sector’s return to -8.92%. The NSE brought to light that South African Institutional Investors and local Pension Fund Administrators (PFA’s) have been active in the Equity market which explains the upsurge witnessed in the banking index.

The regulatory headwinds seen in the earlier parts of the year were particularly hard on the banking stocks causing the bulk of the stocks’ prices to fall below their fundamental values. This relative under pricing (current P/E of 7.56x) has made the sector very attractive for investors with a longer term horizon.

“FCMB” gained significantly this week, appreciating by 16.22% with YtD return of 16.35% followed closely by “ETI” which appreciated by 7.69%. Though there was no significant news in the week concerning these companies, we opine that the increased interest in the banking sector would have brought both companies’ good 2014Q1 results to the fore, and may explain their current price appreciations.

“SKYEBANK” suffered the most significant loss in the basket this week (-5.46%), being the highest gainer in the previous week (6.40%). This in our view implies investors participated in profit taking this week on the ticker.

As investors come to terms with a banking industry without the enormous profit growth (as has been played out in prior years) but with better regulations and controls, confidence in the sector is returning and we expect the market to price these tickers appropriately in the near term.

Insurance Sector: Returned Negative Week-toDate

Insurance sector did not benefit from the positive market mood during the week as the sector shed 2.01% WoW, largely dragged by Custodian and Allied Plc that recorded a significant loss of -12.97% WoW on the back of the activities of profit takers after the stock returned a significant 20.58% WoW in the preceding trading week. The effect of the loss from CUSTODYINS was however partially cushioned by the gain from International Wapic Insurance which returned 6.33%.

MANSARD received the favour of investors during the week as the counter closed in the green zone returning a marginal +0.43% (after initial negative reactions that trailed the decline in its Q1:2014 earnings).

Our outlook for the insurance counters in the coming week remains positive as we expect Custodian and Allied Plc to rebound from the week’s sell down while we see sound fundamentals favoring counters like MANSARD, AIICO, NEM and CONTINENTAL REINSURANCE.

Industrial Goods Sector: Bearish Mood Persists

Recent positive sentiments on the Industrial Goods sector waned slightly during the week as the sector shed 0.24% WoW to drag YtD return to 1.15% as

measured by our MERI-IND index. In our opinion, the unimpressive Q1 results and profit taking by investors have contributed to the recent downward trend seen in the sector.

The Cement segment of the sector witnessed mixed investor sentiment in the week following the release of Q1:2014 results. WAPCO continued to benefit from a remarkable first quarter result as it gained 2.27% in the week. CCNN on the other hand, traded flat while DANGCEM and ASHAKACEM lost 0.45% and 1.94% respectively as against -0.88% and 10.51% in the previous week.

Negative sentiments on ASHAKACEM and DANGCEM can be attributed to profit taking by investors. Regardless of the downward trend in the basket, the stocks still remain part of our top picks as we believe they portend value for medium to long term investors.

Activities in the Chemical and Paints sub sector remained calm as investor’s attitude towards the stocks were sustained from the previous week. Positive sentiments on PORTPAINT and BERGER endured as the stocks gained 13.38% and 5.26 % WtD against 5% and 8.57% last week. CAP and PAINTCOM on the other hand continued to drop points as share price declined by 0.77% and 3.85%.

Our outlook on the paint stocks within our coverage stays positive as they are currently trading below their fundamental values.

The food and beverage sector stocks remained calm throughout the week with no major swing in prices as sentiments on major counters swung marginally sideways. While DANGFLOUR, UNIONDICON and NNFM traded flat, 7UP gyrated around the positive territory even as negative sentiments on FLOURMILL (-1.45%) prevailed in the week.

In anticipation of the full year result for NASCON, the stock continued the positive momentum in the week returning 6.83% WoW though our expectation for the company’s full year result is modest.

Brewery Stocks Sentiments Favour NB Sentiments on brewing stocks swung towards Nigerian breweries Plc (NB) in the week following the announcement of the proposed merger with Consolidation breweries Plc (CB) on Monday. The news pushed the market price of NB up 9.40% this week (NGN163 vs.NGN149 week’s open).

Prior to now, both entities operate as subsidiaries of Heineken Global (54% stake each), the third largest beer maker in the world. Post merge, both entities are to exist as NB with a wider product portfolio in both the premium (NB) and discount (CB) segment of the market; hence to control over 70% of beer market share (NB currently control over 60% while CB has 10%).

We see this as a welcomed development given that it would engender cross breeding of the strengths of the two entities and help improve efficiency of the brewing and operational process of NB going forward.

Agric Sector: Negative Mood May Upturn Soon

Negative sentiments persisted in the agricultural sector this week as all major counters traded down. LIVESTOCK, OKOMUOIL & PRESCO lost 9.80%, 3.76% and 0.28% respectively.

Technical Indicators on the stocks suggest that PRESCO and OKOMUOIL are oversold and may rebound. We believe this is more likely going to be the case for Presco given the growth recorded in Q1:2014 (Revenue: 5.14%, PAT: 0.88%).

However, our fair value estimate for the stock is NGN35.18 which is at par with the current price of NGN35.10. Barring any news that will significantly affect trade in OKOMUOIL and LIVESTOCK, we expect the stocks to continue to trade around their current levels.

Oil and Gas: Forte Oil Added to MSCI Frontier Index

Forte oil (FO) was added to the list of companies that make up the MSCI-frontier market index in the week joining the likes of SEPLAT. This recognition further solidifies FO’s continued effort of becoming an industry leader in the Nigerian oil and gas space. The stock gained 4.67% for the week to close at NGN155.95.

Newly listed SEPLAT felt the impact

41

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Market Report of oil theft in the Niger-Delta region as the company was forced to shut down its operation for 36 days. Attributed to leakages at the Trans–Forcados loading terminal, the impact of the shutdown is expected to reflect in the company’s Q1 result. To forestall future occurrence, the company is in the process of completing a 10km pipeline to the NNPC refinery in Warri. Other moves include a crude oil swap with NNPC who is also having issues with its 67km pipeline to the aforementioned refinery. The counter shed 6.20% for the week to close at NGN640.00.

Activities of profit takers halted Mobil’s bullish trend as the counter closed at NGN119.06, down 12.37% from the previous week.

pany to become a toast for investors in the near future (on bagging the WHO prequalification status).

The Negative sentiment on GLAXOSMITH Nigeria may not be unconnected with the news about GSK’s china brib-

ery scandal and its implication on the global brand.

We expect the activities of the speculators to continue on the stocks in the coming week pending when uncertainties and the future of the sector can be

Healthcare Sector: Positive Outlook Hinges on Low Prices

The Negative sentiment we saw the previous week in the healthcare sector took a breather this week as FIDSON and MAYBAKER drove the sector by gaining 8.47% and 7.06% WoW respectively. GLAXOSMITH, the giant player in the sector (accounting for c.82% of the sector capitalization), shed 2.43% resulting in a sectoral WoW loss of 4.20%.

The positive sentiment on FIDSON and MAYBAKER can be attributed to their low prices in the previous weeks following the release of their unattractive FY2013 result and poor corporate action to the market. Despite the current unattractive look, we expect the com-

ICTWorld

ascertained.

Services Sector: Sailing on Speculative Trading

Activities in the Services sector appeared speculative as trading seemed to be driven by short-term gains. Most of the stocks witnessed a reverse of last week’s trading activities, while some investors were cashing their profit on some stocks; others were scrambling for low priced stocks.

IKEJAHOTEL and LEARNAFRICA emerged from the negative zone this week as they gained 8.62% and 1.22% respectively as against last week’s losses of 7.94% and 1.20%. On the other hand, RTBRISCOE and REDSTAREX shed their gains from last week as the stocks depreciated by 9.24% and 2.44% in that order.

Contrary to the general trend in the sector, AIRSERVICE, NAHCO and TRANSCORP sustained their upward move as share prices further appreciated by 8.04%, 3.35% and 0.82% respectively.

AIRSERVICE posted its Q1:2014 results during the week showing Year on Year (YoY) declines in Turnover and PAT of 8% and 74% respectively as operating expense grew by 12% YoY In spite of continued inflow of negative news due to poor earnings releases, we expect positive trading activities in the weeks to come as the spotlight falls on the sector on the back of CAVERTON’s listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

with

Kingsley Roberts kingndcha@yahoo.co.uk

Computers in human behaviour Computer use by older adults: A multi-disciplinary review

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s the populations of most of the world’s developed nations experience an increase in average age, a similar trend is being observed in the population of computer and Internet users.

In many cases, older adults are the fastest growing computer and Internet user group in both personal and workplace contexts.

However, the needs and concerns of older adults as computer users differ from those of younger users as a result of the natural changes associated with the aging process.

Much research has been conducted in a variety of fields in order to understand how these changes experienced by older adults impact their use of computers and the Internet.

This article reviews this existing research and provides a holistic view of the field. Since the study of computer use by older adults is a multi-disciplinary topic by nature, we provide a synthesis of the findings across these many disciplines, and attempt to highlight any gaps that exist.

We use Social Cognitive Theory as a lens to view and organize the literature, as well as illustrate means through which computer use by this user group can be encouraged. Finally, suggestions for

future research are proposed, and implications for research and practice are discussed.

Introduction Most of the world’s developed nations are experiencing an increase in the average age of their population (OECD, 2006). A similar trend has been observed among users of computers and the Internet, both for personal and professional purposes. Older adults now make up the fastest growing consumer segment of Internet users (Hart, Chaparro, & Halcomb, 2008). They are enhancing their independence by accessing online services such as banking, shopping, or healthcare management, and pursuing leisure activities, including recreation and communication (Vuori & Holmlund-Rytkönen, 2005). Further, adults over 50 years of age make up the fastest growing segment of the workforce (Kooij, deLange, Jansen, & Dikkers, 2008), where workers are often using computers on a daily basis to perform their jobs (Nord, McCubbins, & Nord, 2006).

As computers become an increasingly integral part of the lives of older adults, the study of computer use by older adults is becoming an increasingly relevant field of study.

In order to encourage and facilitate computer use by this important group, for both personal and professional benefit, it is necessary to understand how older computer

users differ from their younger counterparts, and what the implications of these differences are for computer use.

The term older adult has been defined in a variety of ways. In the papers reviewed for this article, a wide age range was observed with ‘‘over 40” on the lower end of the scale and ‘‘over 75” on the higher end of the scale. The distinction of ‘‘older” depends partially upon the context under consideration.

In a workplace context, older typically refers to workers over the age of 50 or 55 since this is the age range where a decline in labor market participation rate tends to be observed (Kooij et al., 2008). In a more general context, the mini-

mum age describing older tends to be higher since the upper limit on age is much higher outside of the workplace.

When it comes to using computers, older adults have different needs and concerns compared to younger adults resulting from the natural physical and cognitive changes that come with aging, which tend to become more noticeable at approximately 45 years of age (Hawthorn, 2000).

Each of these changes has important implications for the use of computers by older adults. For example, physical changes associated with aging include declines in vision, hearing, and psychomotor coordination (Hawthorn, 2000).

Thus, computer and web interfaces will be more appropriate for older users if they make use of features like larger fonts, sounds within certain frequency ranges, and layouts that require less precise mouse movement.

Similarly, cognitive changes such as reduced attention span, declines in memory, and changes in spatial abilities create a need for interfaces that have fewer distractions, provide memory cues, and are simple to learn and understand (Hawthorn, 2000).

The changes experienced by older adults and their implications for computer use have been studied by many different researchers in many different contexts. This article reviews the existing research and provides a holistic view of the field. Since the study of computer use by older adults is a multi-disciplinary topic by nature, we provide a synthesis of the findings from across these many disciplines, and attempt to highlight any gaps that exist. This article is organized as follows: In the next section we discuss Social Cognitive Theory and how we have applied it to examine the literature.

Next, we discuss the methodology used for finding articles, followed by our literature analysis. The article closes with some discussion and conclusion of our findings.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Business / Interview

Awka marts where VIPs, expatriates shop Uwakwe Abugu

I

Awka

f there are two places where highly placed public servants, Very Important Personalities and middle class professionals love to shop in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, they are two posh supermarkets located in the highbrow Arroma Junction.

At least, two top officials of Governor Willie Obiano’s administration have been sighted in PEEZ Pharmacy and Supermarket located on No. 1, Secretariat Road, Arroma Junction in the past few weeks. On each occasion, their security detail took up strategic positions while their principals did their shopping.

Expatriates are regularly seen at the other one, Radopin Supermarket Ltd, also located on Secretariat Road, within Arroma Junction area. Radopin appears to be bigger as it showcases far more wares than PEEZ.

However, when asked by New Telegraph on Sunday to state the volume of business that goes on in the mart, Radopin’s manager, Chigozie Nwankwo, played down its economic importance.

He said this is because it is not located inside the densely popu-

lated sections of the state capital.

But the fact that it hosts VIPs could be deciphered from the regular presence of armed security personnel at the gate. They would scan people approaching the supermarket before allowing them to gain entry.

Prominent among the many items sold in the supermarket are shoes, clothes, kitchen and other household wares, electrical and electronic appliances.

At PEEZ, however, in spite of our reporter’s visit on three occasions, the new manager of the

supermarket could not find time to speak with our correspondent.

But at this mart, the best kinds of bread,confectionaries, apples, drinks, classicals and motivational books as well as all manners of high-grade cosmetics and drugs are available.

NSE to partner SMEs for development Kenneth Tyohemba Abuja

T

he Nigerian Society of Engineers has restated its unflinching commitment to partnering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to develop the Nigerian economy.

This is even as the engineering body has inducted 13 of its members as Fellows of the NSE. The inducted members were drawn from both the public and private sectors of the economy.

NSE President, Ademola Olorunfemi, who stated the commitment at the society’s first quarterly dinner for 2014 and induction ceremony in Abuja, said the organisation was working with a number of SMEs towards the realisation of President Goodluck Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda by focusing on turning Nigeria into a manufacturing and exporting nation.

He added that Nigerian engineers have a significant role to play in this endeavor.

According to him, NSE has moved to contribute to the recently launched National Enterprise Development Programme, adding that the society has established partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria.

Other partnerships entered into

by NSE include collaboration with the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria and the Agricultural and Equipment Fabrication Association of Nigeria.

Olorunfemi also expressed delight over the NSE’s hosting right of the World Engineering Conference on Sustainable Infrastructure in Africa (WCSI) slated to hold in Abuja in November and called on members to work hard towards a successful ceremony.

L-R: Executive Director, Heritage Bank, Robert Mbonu; Executive Director, Manilla Banking, Heritage Bank, Mary Akpobome; and Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation, Josephine Washima, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on SMEs and job creation between the bank and the Federal Government in Lagos, recently

LG products enhance food storage -Report Chijioke Iremeka

“G

lobal food and beverages sales are expected to exceed $15 trillion by the end of 2014 but increasing cost and food scarcity, the role of technology in preserving and cooking food has been brought into sharp focus with a slew of new features emerging to meet consumer needs,” says analyst firm, Frost & Sullivan.

Interestingly, food shortage has been linked to unnecessary spoilage and preservation, due to paucity of efficient storage facilities, which has necessitated LG’s innovative technologies, designed to tackle the looming problems to meet consumers’ satisfaction.

According to LG Electronics, food spoilage is the major reason for food scarcity across the world.

It noted that the introduction of innovative products, such as good refrigerators, microwaves and cold rooms among others would help to forestall further loss of food.

A recent study by LG revealed that refrigerators are opened approximately 80 times per day by family members looking for the same items and thereby losing cold energy that comes in form of frost from the fridge.

Sequel to this, “LG has developed door-in-door feature refrigerator, which makes it possible to find needed items without having to open the refrigerator’s main door, which helps to reduce cold

air loss as much as 41 per cent,” said General Manager, Air-conditioning and Energy Solutions, LG Electronics, Mr. Junhwa Jeong.

He said, “By ensuring that the refrigerators compressor is kept at maximum efficiency, the product also helps to cut down on user’s supermarket spending by keeping food fresher for a longer period of time. LG believes that real-time health measurement is a hotbed of debate and innovation among technologists right now.

“Products such as LG’s Lightwave convection ovens charcoal lighting heater showcases how technology helps customers to combine cooking convenience, while ensuring good nutrition and wellbeing are not compromised.

The technology uses more natural heating techniques to ensure fats are reduced and nutrients are locked in.”

Also, the creation of its Internet connectivity gadgets, LG has allowed consumers to re-imagine life-improving products by showcasing some of its key products.

“The new connected devices, which empowers consumers to measure, monitor and improve their health are everywhere with brands ranging from sportswear icons, global technology giants and healthcare specialists all looking to get in on the act,” he added.

According to the General Manager, Marketing, LG Electronics, Rajesh Agnihotri, LG’s Lifeband

Touch is available in international markets starting with the UK from April, features an OLED touchscreen, tracks key workout stats and links up with popular fitness apps like MapMyRun and Runkeeper.

He said, “The wearable also allows users to control their phone’s music player, while altering the wearer to any incoming calls.

Complementing this, LG’s Heart Rate Monitor (HRM) earphones, also announced earlier this year are in-ear fitness buds that are able to track the wearer’s metabolic rate and maximum oxygen consumption and relay it back to an Android

LG glass micro wave

or iOS Smartphone app via Bluetooth allowing users to physically hear how fast their heart is beating.”

He noted that both devices could be used separately or together, saying that the move towards more sophisticated healthcare technology is rooted in the maturing buzz around wearable technology so prominent at CES and MWC. Also, LG in a bid to prevent allergic reactions to airborne dust and pollen particles has developed SteamWasher and Dryer Combo with Allergiene cycle to breakdown and wash out allergens without harming fabrics.

Stripes come in vibrant colours and in different textures and shapes such as horizontal, vertical, diagonal and chevron.

Stripes are not the easiest print to wear no matter what your body type is. The trick to pulling it off is picking a stripe pattern, whether it is vertical or horizontal, that will work for your body type. Stripes

ing to worry about.

There are all sorts of myths about stripes, especially that horizontal stripes make you look wider. The wider the stripe, the bolder the look, so if you can’t wear it with confidence, it’s better you stay away from it.

If you want a long and lean look, long skinny vertical stripes will be a

ple may not be ready to take stripes full on but that does not mean you can’t wear it. Give a simple outfit a boost by accessorising with stripe pieces. It could be a scarf, sunglasses, handbag or shoes. This can also help you feel out the print. You can stick with the classic stripes or make a statement with bold coloured stripe accessories.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

Trendy sandals for men Vanessa Okwara

M

en’s sandals, often referred to as mandals, are extremely lightweight footwear that are most appropriate for the warm season. Men opt for sandals when they feel like dressing down, especially during the weekend.

Sandals are the most qualified option for keeping your feet as cool as possible during the heat. More appropriate than flip-flops, sandals (particularly leather versions) are a refined choice for casual occasions.

Leather sandals are comfortable and allow air to circulate so that the skin can breathe; you simply slip them on and forget that you are wearing them. Not only

that, they are also easily packed and will take up very little room in your suitcase. This makes them a superb option for holidaying or weekends away.

They easily go with your traditional attires, especially when you just want to wear them casually to visit friends and relatives. It is definitely NOT good to spoil your corporate attire such as suits and blazers with sandals no matter how expensive they are.

You can make fashion statements with your sandals only if they are of good quality and fits your feet perfectly.

When shopping for sandals, avoid oversized, chunky, ugly ones.

Choose sandals that make your feet appear smaller

than they are. Depending on your feet as well as ankle dimension, try and go for a much more refined appearance. Make sure your sandals match your outfit and choose at least two different styles and colours.

Most men neglect their feet. They neither apply cream on their feet nor take care of their nails.

Go for a pedicure and make sure you look after your feet; cracked heels and long toe nails are definitely a ‘no no’. Trust me, women look at your feet and judge you by what you wear on them.

It tells a lot about your personal style.

Be inspired by these current collections, ditch your chunky sandals and update your sandals for more trendy ones.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Body&Soul

Romance does not sustain marriage - Seyi and Azeezat Allen Seyi Allen is a renowned artiste manager while his wife Azeezat is a hip hop artiste. They bare their minds to BAYO ADEOYE on the success of their 13 years marriage What contributed to the success of your union?

Azeezat: Let me tell you, it is not our doing but I will say it’s the grace of God. We understand the place of God in the marriage; He is the upholder of marriage. Before I got married, I was actually very scared of marriage. But I got the assurance from God. I knew that if I kept my part of the commitment, He would also keep His part.

Then again, my husband and I have been friends and business partners before we got married. There were times when we decided not to have a relationship anymore but I realised that even when the relationship was off, we could still make each other laugh. At those times, we still had to take care of business and we got along beautifully. That was what we brought into the marriage and even when we are quarrelling as husband and wife, we are still friends and that helps to ease off the tension.

How did you meet?

Seyi: We met at a music competition where she came to perform. It was a female concert, Girls Nite Out. I was in company of some artistes, I think Sunny Neji, B l a c k k y, Charly Boy and some other people. She also

performed at the event and they liked her performance. They said I should speak to her about artiste management, so as to manage her career.

Then, I was managing Sunny Neji and Blackky and some other artistes.

I went backstage, gave her my card and told her to call me if she was interested. She came to my office and I was not available because there was no mobile phone then. We did not see again until some years later.

He was

your

manager when he approached you…

Azeezat: The first time he approached me, I wondered what kind of person he was. He told me to get in touch with him before the end of that week. When I got home and reviewed everything, I felt it had to be a stepping stone for my career. I went to look for him and he was not there.

I just forgot all about him until we met at a press conference. We spoke and he gave me another appointment and we became colleagues. When he started talking about dating, I never wanted to give him my heart. I was wondering how a man would manage my career and also manage my heart. It is just like managing my whole life.

But I gave in when I realised he was a guy who had a clearer vision about my dreams and career than I did. Then, that was what mattered to me. Of course, we had a friendship going on. I discovered that I was his best friend and could tell him anything.

How long did you date?

Seyi: I proposed to her after we had dated for over a year. She was in the vocal booth and I was teaching her a line. I left the vocal booth and I left a note there.

I then asked her to g o take h e r

reading and by the time she got there, she was not singing again. Instead, she was just beaming with smiles.

Her producer then, Foster Zino, was shouting ‘Azee sing now, why is she smiling?’ I was the only one who knew why she was smiling.

Azeezat: I did not see the note on time because I was angry over the way he asked me to go into the vocal booth. He then said, ‘Azee, will you pick up that thing?’ I picked it up and I screamed because it was absolutely unexpected. It was something I had never thought about.

How would you describe your marriage over the years?

Seyi: Marriage has its challenges.

Things you never dreamt will come your way but it is like any other life.

I don’t think people should see marriage as being restricted to a particular way of life.

Azeezat: Because we did not see marriage as a big deal and we did not have to make any serious changes in our lives. For us, all the things that come with marriage came gradually and that really helped. I did not see myself as the marrying type but my husband made it easy for me. He did not put any pressure on me and I like that.

Do you get jealous of her male admirers?

Seyi: Naturally, I do, but I trust my wife so much that some of these things don’t really bother me anymore. She receives a number of messages from guys. There was a time one guy sent her a text message, saying he just hit millions and they should elope together. But we trust each other to the extent that we pick our calls, she picks mine and I pick hers. Guys would just send text messages and call but when they hear a male voice, some would tell me to give the phone to its owner, while others would go off the line.

Are you romantic?

Seyi: I am not. But I don’t think that is important for marriage.

Romance is not necessary for marriage and my wife is okay with that.

Azeezat: Does rom a n c e sustain bad marriage? He is not and I have accepted him like that. (laughs).

That is his romantic side.

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

Otunba Runsewe’s quiet moves F

ormer Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, might be getting another Federal Government appointment soon.

Runsewe, who had served meritoriously for several years, winning awards and getting commendation at the helm of affairs of the tourism board before he was removed, might have warmed his way back into the hearts and consciousness of those that really count in government circles.

After being under the radar for many months, quietly networking and bidding his time, a source confirmed that he is being considered for another ‘major appointment’ that would be announced soonest.

Christian Obodo opens nite club

F

ormer Super Eagles star, Christian Obodo, has joined the league of Nigerian players who have invested in the nite club business.

The footballer, who plies his trade in Turkey, has just bought a big house in Festac Town, Lagos for this purpose.

According to a source, the building is being reconstructed to suit its new owner’s purpose. Also, some of the equipment that will be installed in the nite club have been brought into the country.

“Obodo is very serious about this business and he is putting every necessary thing in place to make it a success,” the source said.

Joan Okorodudu’s dream

Bayo Adeoye 08032016869

S

tyle icon extraordinaire, Nkiru Anumudu, never ceases to dazzle many with her various upscale designer garbs. The beautiful lady is one of the few Nigerians on the mailing and phone lists of some of the best brands in the world. Whenever the light skinned lady is invited to an event, expect a stunning look as she shows off her dress sense anytime she has the opportunity to do so.

Even her car collection is a reflection of her personality.

N

he richest black woman in the world, Mrs. Folorunsho Alakija, and former first lady of Kwara State, Mrs. Toyin Saraki, were among notable women leaders from across the globe who gathered at the Intercontinental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

They gathered to empower and inspire the next generations of leaders on May 3 during the WIE (Women: Inspiration & Enterprise) conference.

This year’s event was hosted by Dee Poku, the founder of the organisation. Toyin Saraki, a philanthropist and founder-president of the Well-Being Foundation Africa, was the symposium sponsor. She co-hosted the symposium with renowned designer, Folake Folarin-Coker; talk show host & top media personality, Mo Abudu; and media personality, Julie Giuchuru.

The theme of this year’s conference was

bayoolunla@yahoo.com

Style icon, Nkiru Anumudu’s dress sense

igeria Next Super Model is highly rated in the fashion industry in Nigeria. The pageant brought to Nigeria by Joan Okorodudu seven years ago has grown so well and has been rated one of the best in the continent.

The pageant has discovered many super models that are currently doing well across the globe.

Okorodudu, who is driven by an unflinching passion to change the face of modeling across the continent, is staging the 2014 edition of the show. Celeb Lounge gathered that many top brands have already thrown their weight behind this year ’s edition scheduled for next month.

Some past winners of NNSM include Eunice Eyo, Aishetu Bello, Claudia Adelu, Imade Ogbewi, Favour Lucky and Cynthia Abdullahi.

Folorunsho Alakija, Toyin Saraki, others shine at WIE

T

with

‘Bridging the Gap- The Global Leader’. WIE aims to prepare future women leaders take central roles in the shaping of the Africa of the future and to help change the negative perception of Africa by presenting highly successful African women and innovations.

The headliner for this year’s conference was the MD of Famfa Oil & Gas who shared with the participants her very inspirational life experience.

Saraki moderated the Nike Foundation ‘Girl Effect’ panel, which was titled, ‘Our Future: This is the moment to invest in girls’.

In her welcome address, Saraki stated that women and girls “play a great role in today’s global economy; and in order to make an impact in [their] spheres of influence, professions, vocations and passions, all women should be fulfilled, empowered and achievement-driven.”

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Body&Soul

Yenagoa comes alive for AMAA

C

elebrities and stars in the African movie industry, especially Nollywood, will converge on Yenagoa, Bayelsa State on May 24 for the 10th edition of the African Movie Academy Awards, AMAA. The Bayelsa State Tourism Development Agency has concluded the arrangements for the event which will hold at the newly refurbished Dr. Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre.

According to the Director-General of the Bayelsa State Tourism Development Agency, Mrs. Ebizi Ndiomu Brown, to mark a decade of Bayelsa State hosting AMAA, the agency would go the extra mile to ensure that it put together a grand ceremony that would remain a reference point in the entertainment industry in Nigeria.

Ndiomu Brown said, “AMAA this year is going to be unique and special in several ways because we intend to use the occasion of

the event to showcase our rich cultural heritage and to promote the tourism and investment opportunities in the state.”

The DG noted that this year’s event would be bankrolled by the public sector and some public spirited individuals who share Bayelsa State Governor Henry Seriake Dickson’s vision of transforming the state into a tourism haven in Africa.

She said, “It will definitely be a night of glitz, glamour and razzmatazz as the entire city of Yenagoa will come alive as we roll out the drums to celebrate excellence in the African movie world.

“AMAA has provided a veritable platform to train our youths in various departments of movie making in line with the capacity building and empowerment programme of Governor Dickson. This year about 500 youths will, again, be trained as cine-

matographers, producers, camera men, vision mixers, make-up artists, script writers, directors, actors and many more.”

The training aspect of AMAA, Brown explained, will provide Bayelsa youths the opportunity to participate in the production of m o v ies in Nigeria thereby reducing the burden on government as the sole employer of labour in the state.

T h e AMAA a w a rd s c e r e m o n y, which is Africa’s answer to Amer-

Daisy Danjuma’s friends storm Spain

T

he wedding of the first son of Senator Daisy Danjuma, Yuki Omenai, and his beau, Mariam Omobolanle, came to a crescendo on Saturday, May 10 when they had their white wedding in Marbella, Spain, in the presence of family, friends and well- wishers.

Celeb Lounge gathered that Yuki and Mariam, who had their traditional wedding in September last year in Lagos, are already expecting their first child.

Senator Tunde Ogbeha, Terry Waya, Chief Dele Momodu and a host of others attended the wedding.

Caroline Danjuma flaunts baby bump

C

aroline EkanemDanjuma, ex-Nollywood actress and wife of billionaire businessman, Musa Danjuma, recently showed off her baby bump in a picture with her two sons.

The actress who is now into music, is really looking good in this picture.

However, after giving her dotting husband two handsome boys, she is praying for a baby girl.

ica’s Academy Awards, is a widely acclaimed award in the African continent as it brings together movie producers and other practitioners from across the globe to interface and share ideas and celebrate excellence on a regular basis annually.

with

Bayo Adeoye 08032016869

bayoolunla@yahoo.com

About Femi Otedola’s new pad

O

il magnate, Femi Otedola, has joined his billionaire friends and colleagues in Banana Island, Lagos, as he has completed his mansion in the billionaire’s playground.

Celeb Lounge gathered that the Forte Oil chairman erected an architectural masterpiece worth N2 billion.

Already, fittings inside the all-white property are at the finishing stage. Celeb Lounge learnt that the businessman is spending his money on the mansion to make it one of the best around.

The oil magnate is ex-

pected to move into this palatial mansion soon.

Uche Nnaji glows Isiaka Adeleke at ‘Shoesbition’’ is back!

S

enator Isiaka Adeleke was a constant face at social events until his brother, Ademola, started representing him some months ago.

However, people who thought that his recent failed attempt to emerge the PDP candidate for the forthcoming Osun State governorship election would push him deeper into his shell got a surprise recently.

Celeb Lounge gathered that the Ede, Osun State-born ex-senator was among dignitaries at a party which took place at Igbajo, Osun State recently when Canadabased juju music artiste and promoter, Yinka Farinde, buried his father, Pa Abel Ademola Farinde.

We gathered that the jolly former senator was bubbling and full of life as he threw jabs here and there with his friends at the party.

S

tyle entrepreneur, Uche Nnaji, invited friends and customers to the launching of his shoe collection recently. It was a great show as top fashion icons were in attendance.

Nnaji launched the Ouch! brand some years ago and in the few years of its existence, it moved from merchandising of other people’s brands to manufacturing and merchandising of its own fashion items.

The brand has become a growing entity with various outlets in various areas known as Ouchlets!!

When Emefiele went partying

T

he new Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, M. Godwin Emefiele, is definitely enjoying his rest time before assuming his new responsibili-

ties.

Emefiele was spotted recently at the wedding of Mildred, the eldest daughter of the senator representing Delta North in the National Assembly, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to Prof. Uche Igumbor Ehimarion.

The event was a gathering of who is who in Delta State politics.

The traditional and white weddings which took place at Boji Boji, Owa and Asaba, all in Delta State were witnessed by top politicians both from within the state and beyond as well as friends of the lawmaker.

At the event were Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan; his wife, Deaconess Roli; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Peter Onwusanya, and many others.

48

DIY on the GO

Body&Soul

Got noisy heels?

Abimbola Sodeke

N

oisy shoe heels can be embarrassing.

Never for once think you can’t fix it be-

cause you are not a cobbler; try it.

It works best when you have at least two millimetres of plastic remaining on the heel. Use the pliers or a

flat strong object to remove the old tip from the heel.

Get a tip that fits the shape of the heel and insert it into the vacant hole.

Hammer the tip into the

heel (or carefully bang it against a hard surface) to make sure it’s secure. Repeat for the other shoe then rock your stuff without a noise.

What you need Heels

Tool

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Wine & Dine

49

Body&Soul

Wine Basics (III) Gewurztraminer Gewurztraminer is a white wine that is easy on the palate, which makes it enjoyable for the beginner, yet its complexity will envelope your mouth in a silky finish that’s both long and rapturous. As a grape, Gewurztraminer performs best in cooler climates, and although it’s grown in Canada, the U.S., Australia, Italy, Germany, and Israel, you’ll find the best varietals coming from Alsace, France. The wine itself is medium-dry and often accompanied by a bouquet of lychees, but not always. Gewurztraminer is, however, typically full-bodied, sweet, floral with exotic fruity notes, and rich with spices, such as ginger. Breathe deep, as Gewurztraminer is soft on the

nose, but once it hits your mouth indulge yourself and savour all this spectacular wine has to offer.

Pair with: Gewurztraminer is ideal for cutting through a greasy meal, but not any kind of grease; serve it with grilled seafood or shellfish with a mayonnaise sauce, sushi, and fatty fish (salmon or tuna). It is best served at a temperature of 50F to 53.6F. Chardonnay Chardonnay is amongst America’s top-selling white wines, and it’s probably because of the wide selection of Chardonnays available. Its popularity is due in large part to the versatility of the grapes that are used to make it; Chardonnay grapes are fairly

low-maintenance and can adapt to a range of climates. Because of its adaptability, Chardonnay quickly became an easy segue for developing wineries to enter into the growing international wine market. It translated into a huge variety of Chardonnay white wines being produced across the globe, from England to Chile to Australia.

Pair with: The taste of a good Chardonnay wine varies from buttered, oak overtones to refreshing fruit flavors like pear, apple. The fruity flavour allows Chardonnay wines to be paired with poultry, pork and seafood dishes, and anything with a lot of butter or a heavy cream base. Serve Chardonnay chilled slightly.

Merlot Merlot is a rather late bloomer in terms of popularity; it did not appear as a Californian varietal label until the late 1970s, and was not a big seller until the late 1980s. These days, however, its flexibility and ultimate drinkability have made it one of the most popular reds around.

The medium-bodied grape, which originated in the Bordeaux region of France, is used both as a blending grape and for varietal wines. Its softness, combined with the fact that it ripens several weeks earlier than many other grapes, make Merlot an ideal grape to blend with its cousin, the sterner, later-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon. The major difference between the two is that the Merlot grape has a much thinner skin.

With a slightly lower natural acidity than Cabernet Sauvignon, and generally less astringency, Merlot is an easy table wine, but it is sometimes snubbed by wine

connoisseurs as a “women’s wine,” perhaps because it can lack complexity in comparison with varietals like Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Expect to taste fruity notes, such as blueberry, cherry, blackberry and plum, with tones of blackpepper, licorice and even vanilla. Depending on the cask in which it was aged, you may also taste hints of oak, vanilla, and smoke.

Pair with: As it is a medium-bodied wine, Merlot pairs best with earthy, hearty dishes. Lighter dishes, including many types of fish, will clash with the bold flavour of this wine. Try it with medium-weight foods, such as veal, Italian-style sausages, roast lamb, duck with fruit sauce, salmon, tuna, bean dishes, lentils and vegetables, cheese dips, and semi-hard cheeses like an aged Gouda or Cheddar.

Culled from Paul Gregutt’s Wine for beginners

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MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

Denim fashion for kids Biwom Iklaki

D

enim, a staple piece in most adult wardrobes, comes in various forms -skinny, baggies, dungarees, vests, even shirts. The kids are not left out of this fashion favourite as they too spot

this look to suit a variety of purposes. Children denim comes in different styles -pants, dresses, playsuits, shorts, skirts to mention a few.

Parents buy denim for their kids because of its versatility and durability. The nature of play

and falls the kids take and their ‘explorer’ drills demand that their clothing are durable enough to take most of these ‘wear and tear’. Be rest assured, the thickness of the fabric often protects younger kids from serious scrapes and injury.

Adorn vests with shirts or a dress with a fancy tee underneath. A pair of denim shorts can be played up or down with a fancy dress top and Mary Janes, or a fun character top and snickers to play it down.

Interview Why I dumped banking for the pulpit –Pastor Franca Anyanwu p.52

TAI ANYANWU, titus.anyanwu@newtelegraphonline.com 0706 438 0029

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

NTWEEKEND ONLINE AT

MAY 18, 2014

www.newtelegraphonline.com/faith

Sermon Why couples fight p.57

Roving Worshipper Agboli, Omakwu charge women: Live lives of purpose p.53

51

Faith ON SUNDAY

Two churches fight over land in Lagos

A

Tai Anyanwu

war is brewing between two Pentecostal churches in Lagos over the ownership of a piece of land.

Our correspondent learnt that the crisis between the Redeemed Christian Church of God Province 14, Okota, Lagos and Praise Ever Ministries, Ijegun, also in Lagos may head to the courts unless an urgent solution is found.

The Minister in charge of Praise Ever Ministries, Mrs. Evelyn Calistus, told our correspondent that the RCCG parish had been conducting itself in an “oppressive manner” against her church.

Callistus said the problem began when her church rented a piece of land in Fagbile area of Ijegun from one Mr. Tijani Yusuf in 2007.

She recalled that at the time, it was a very thick bush with a lone three-bedroom bungalow which was occupied by other tenants.

Having paid the sum of N162,000 to the owner of the plot for an agreed period of four years, she erected a worship place and began the job of building the church.

Callistus said the church had renewed the rent twice since then, adding that its tenancy would expire around November 2014.

“Around October 2012, Tijani came and said that he needed to raise money urgently for his children and that he wanted to sell the place of worship for N6.5 million.

“He also said he needed the money within two weeks. But I told him that we are a young church and that we could not raise that kind of amount within two weeks,” she added.

At that point, the evangelist said she pleaded with Tijani to give her church a few months before their rent expired to raise the sum.

But contrary to the agreement, the female evangelist said she was taken aback when other events began to unfold.

“About 3pm on the last Sunday of April 2013, I heard some people singing that the God of Adeboye had surprised them. The same evening, one boy who lives across the street and claimed to be the lawyer to RCCG, visited and said to me that RCCG people sent him to tell us that they had bought this place.

“I was surprised but said, ‘Ok, till I see Mr. Tijani himself.’ The lawyer then left,” she recalled.

She explained that two RCCG pastors and the landlord visited the site on the first Sunday of May 2013 and met with her in the presence of her husband.

“I said to Tijani that Tola told me that you have sold this place. He said Madam, ‘Tola convinced me to sell this place to Redeemed Church.’ I said, ‘Ok, we will

Callistus

The land in contention

not fight.

“But we have some money with you.

Please return the money so that we can begin to search for a place to move our church to. I also told the RCCG people that our church was having only N70,000 in our account; and if they could assist us, we would move immediately,” the evangelist stated.

She said she pointed out to the RCCG pastors that even if the landlord refunded their balance immediately, it would still not be enough for her church to relocate.

“At that point, one of the RCCG pastors told me that if God really called me, why didn’t God pay for the land for me? As if that was not enough, the RCCG Area Pastor told me that it took them more than a year to raise the money to buy the land and wondered why I was asking them to help me.

“The area pastor told me that RCCG is not a charity home that distributes money to people from the marine kingdom. I was surprised. I had never met them before and I wondered why they branded me as one from the marine kingdom,” Callistus stated.

Though Tijani had promised to refund their balance towards the end of last year, the embattled evangelist said she did not see the landlord again. T She also alleged that another pastor of the RCCG later argued that the receipt covering the rent for the worship place was fake.

“They asked me to accept that my receipt was fake. I said I cannot accept that.

At that point, Tola said he wanted to give us a quit notice. The other pastor said it was not yet an issue of quit notice, but asked me to tell them when it would be convenient for us to quit.

“I reminded them that Tijani had some money to give us and reiterated that we needed some assistance to enable us to

move. We also started looking for a place. Since then, the RCCG pastors and their members have been threatening to throw us out of the premises when our rent is still running. On Sunday service and weekly activities, they would block our church entrance with their own canopy and harass and prevent our members from entering our church,” she added.

She said she had written to the RCCG General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Umar Manko. through Festus Keyamo Chambers, but that nothing had come out their efforts.

However, a letter from the legal counsel of the RCCG parish, N E Alpheus, Esq. Principal Partner of Jila Law Office, claimed that the insinuation of oppressive tendencies on the part of the RCCG province 14 Headquarters, Okota was far from the truth.

In the letter, which was addressed to Festus Keyamo Chambers, the counsel contended that the position of RCCG on the matter was that the Praise Ever ministry had never been in exclusive possession of the property. It said there were four other tenants who occupied four rooms, adding

that they had had vacated the premises on receipt of a quit notice from the new owners of the property The letter alleged that Callistus colluded with the landlord to deceive the RCCG parish into buying the property in 2013 with the intention that the church would take possession in 2013.

“Our client’s parish that bought the subject property has been ejected from where it was holding service prior to the time it purchased the property. Because your client is now claiming exclusive possession of the premises which she never had before, our client was compelled to rent an adjoining land wherein it has been holding service under a canopy after being misled to purchase the property.

“We are mindful of the fact that our client’s legal unit has suggested a peaceful settlement on due process in ejecting your client hence, we were not in a hurry to join issues. In the same spirit of amicable settlement, two of our client’s very senior Pastors (PastorAbayomi, Regional) and (Pastor Jide Akiode, Provincial) earlier this month, also paid a visit to your client and waived an olive branch which your client ignored,” the letter reads.

New Telegraph on Sunday gathered that a meeting between the two churches has been scheduled for May 23.

However, Callistus said it was another ploy by the RCCG pastors to harass and force her into signing an agreement under duress.

“Baba Adeboye is our father. I want him to intervene in this matter. He knows what it takes to pioneer a church. I want him to pray for me and deliver me since they have branded me as someone from the marine kingdom,” she stressed.

Give us Christian gov in Lagos -PFN

T

he Lagos State chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria has restated its commitment to the emergence of a Christian governor in the next political dispensation in the state while also expressing support for an interfaith conference organised by the state billed to hold at the Golden Tulip Hotel on May 19 and 20.

In a communiqué issued on Friday after an emergency meeting of the body and signed by its chairman, Pastor Alex Bamgbola, the group stated that the call for a Christian governor in Lagos State was borne out of the body’s experience under the leadership of past governors in the state. While noting that the past gover-

nors of the state had been largely Muslims, it observed that, “the Christian community has ardently and unreservedly supported our immediate past and present Governors because of our satisfactory convictions of their commitment to the delivery of the dividends of democracy.”

It, however, added that it would continue to believe in the ability of the leaders of the state as long as people of the state do not suffer as a result of their socio-religious leaning.

The statement noted further that the body’s call for a Christian governor is based on the need to put a stop to the continuous marginalisation of Christians in the state and the need for justice and fairplay in the state.

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Interview Interview

Why I dumped banking for the pulpit –Pastor Franca Anyanwu She was a high profile banker and fashion freak. Today, she is a leading female minister in Aba, Abia State. Meet the founder of Divine Heritage Ministries International, Pastor Franca Anyanwu. Tai Anyanwu presents the excerpts

I

an alabaster jar at the feet of Jesus and anointed him. As I was preparing for that ministration, I saw something revolutionary in the woman’s action; then the title, ‘She broke the jar’, jumped out and I grabbed it. She had anointed a living man. In the Jewish culture, it is not done.

You don’t anoint a living person; rather you embalm when a person is dead but she did it to the Lord. It is a deep revelation to embalm a living man; she had an insight that the lord was going to depart in two days’ time. She did that which nobody ever thought about. I started seeing the revolution in the activity of women in the ministry. It was an inspiration of an Easter message. I encourage everyone to read it. It is not a feminine book. It’s a book that promotes inspiration and strength in people, it encourage you to love and care deeply and when you do so you will get more revelation of the person you are loving. I am encouraging everybody to read this book and you will be the best.

Why did you quit your plum banking job? resigned because it was time for me to work fully for God. I came out knowing fully that finance was something I had to look unto God for. I have no regret leaving my job as a bank manager.

It was not an easy thing to do. I had to sit back, thought hard and paused; but that I was being called to a higher calling I had to obeyed and heed the call.

Has there been any challenge since you opted for the pulpit?

The number one challenge anyone would have moving from the banking industry to the pulpit is financial uncertainty. But that has also made me to know God more and to appreciate Him the more. It has also made me to know faith and to appreciate faith. When I was in the bank, my currency was money. But having come to work for God, my currency became faith. Money has a limitation regarding what it can buy. Faith has the potential to buy the impossible; faith is a world of possibilities. You can get anything with faith; my life is more interesting right now because endless possibilities are within my reach, within the broad spectrum of faith.

Do you enjoy the support of your family as a pastor?

I can’t answer that question so directly, because my calling came as a surprise to many people, my family inclusive. People were taken aback that I could just drop the bank and come into full-time ministry. They didn’t know my encounter with God; but now, they have found out that for me, there is no going back. This is my life and destiny. Everybody in my house is a part of what I’m doing. As a matter of fact, I would not go back to banking, even if given a second chance. In the bank you don’t have time for yourself or for any other person. I remember days when I used to go for marketing.

I would shed tears and ask God when he will give the opportunity to serve you like I’m doing now.

So you can

Anyanwu

Mr and Mrs Anyanwu

understand the mindset.

That sounds like discouraging intending bankers from the profession.

No, I’m not! A lot of people jump into the bank like I did after studying English; which has nothing to do with banking. I wanted it, I loved the collar, I loved the suit and I also loved the money. A lot of people can also be attracted to the industry as a result of this, the status and ego that go with it.

But anybody going into banking should tell himself or herself the number of years he or she will spend and get out of the place and do something for themselves. It is a place that cripples people. In the banking sector, one is busy growing other people’s money but nothing is growing for you.

Are you of the opinion that there should be a restructuring in the banking industry?

The banking industry is a money system. Government can’t muscle the banking industry as much as they want.

We had a history where the banking industry was muscling people’s labour. They suffer people and even make turn employees into contract staff but that’s meaningless. You take someone who has gone to school and terminate their employment at will.

Let us be enterprising in our educational system.

It’s not about changing the banking sector, it is about changing the educational

sector. People who graduate are qualified to look for job but not qualified to start up an industry nor qualified to lead.

Today, your church is celebrating its second year anniversary. How has it been?

I came in now that the people are not time-conscious. One has to inculcate that into them. It’s like breaking the arm of an adult, it’s very painful; but if one breaks that of a child it is flexible. Coming into ministry has given me extra muscle and I think that was why God took me to the banking hall to grow my capacity in order to grow people. It’s a spiritual affair, something you do with grace. You ask God for the ability and the enablement every day. You depend on God everyday while you deal with people directly. Among them are the spiritual and the unspiritual, the serious and the unserious. But they are all children of God and you have a responsibility to uphold them. You also manage money. You can’t divorce money from the church because you can’t do church without money. Anybody who says that money is not good for the ministry is a nuisance in the ministry. Above all, we have rebranded many souls in these two years.

There is this belief that women are not supposed to usurp authority in the church. What is your take?

That’s a wonderful question! I encourage women; these are the last days and we are not going to lie about it. The Lord has seen men manage their own kingdoms while pretending to manage God’s kingdom. God is releasing women whom He can trust. He did not call you to come and remain a monument beside any man on the altar. He has called you for action, for souls, for boldness. I encourage women as a matter of fact and that’s part of my calling. God has released me as a pathfinder in this time to lead women on.

Your book, ‘She broke the jar’, is also being launched during this anniversary. What inspired you to write the book?

Three years ago, when we were not yet doing church, we had evening service. That Easter season, God gave me a message in the book of Mark chapter 14 about a woman that broke

Why do you love fashion as much as you do?

Before I came into the ministry, I was fashion crazy. I was a high society woman, a career lady, considering my status. Marriage took me up the social ladder. I have been outside the country, have seen a lot and I dressed well to maintain my status. But when I came into ministry, it became a challenge. I used to wear trouser suits to work and I felt so natural in them; but when I came into ministry people saw me as a pastor who was putting on trouser and suit. They looked at me as if I was committing sin. Initially, that thing got at me.

It was one area I had arguments with the Lord. I said, ‘I don’t think I’m qualified for ministry.’ I had a special encounter one day.

I took some money, went to boutique and bought big gowns and big skirts. I looked at myself inside the dresses and the person I saw wasn’t just me. I manage to waddle in those skirts for sometime. One day, I went to see a couple of friends outside town in those unfitted dresses. When the driver brought me back home, I was yet stepping into my kitchen’s door and the Holy Spirit halted me there and started warning me about my dressing. He said to me, ‘This is not why I called you. Any day you leave this house without taking care of your looks, I will not be happy with you. Get your hair done, look good but don’t dress indecently.’

What’s your reaction to the abduction of Christian girls in Borno State?

I want to say something that may sound unwarranted. I think if you are big enough to be the head of a nation you are also big enough to die for that nation. The government is hiding and pampering evil. You know the people doing this evil and you are not doing anything about it. You rather go behind to pamper them. My take is that if I’m big enough to rule Nigeria, I’m big enough to die for Nigeria. What is at stake? Is it my position? I can resign from the position.

If I came in honesty to lead a nation and my stay is critical, I can leave because it’s not about me. The worst that can happen to a man is death. But that’s not also the worst because if you are living in shame and you are hiding when you should be acting, then that life is worthless. Really, I don’t know how to console a woman whose daughter might be dead or raped by evil men. I’m only putting them in prayers and asking the Holy Spirit to comfort them.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Roving Worshipper

Agboli, Omakwu charge women: Live lives of purpose P

Tai Anyanwu

astor (Mrs.) Blessing Agboli, wife of the General Overseer, Victorious Army Ministries, is a woman who once faced unpleasant life situations. But after she came in contact with her husband, Dr. Chris Agboli, and embraced a new life in Christ, she was lifted above common desires of life and unpleasant circumstance.

Just as her name implies, her passion is to bless souls and impact lives. However, her preoccupation now is to see her women folk awake to deeper realities regarding living and fulfilling their purpose as women.

“I want the women to awake. I want them to abide by the laws of God. I want them to be real. I want them to see the potentials that lie within them. I want them to wake to their purpose; I want them to see how beautiful they are. I want them to know that they can live free. I want them to change the mentally,” she had said.

No wonder the just concluded three-day International Women Conference of the Victorious Army ministries focused on the theme ‘Awake O! Woman Arise.’ Giving her opening speech at the Acme Road headquarters of the church on Thursday, she challenged the participants to prepare to have an encounter with God during the annual meeting.

“In this very service tonight, you will have an experience that will make you share testimonies all the days of your life; an encounter that will make maximise the potentials that God has given to you. You have been coming to church, you have been prying; but this evening is different.

You are coming as a woman. You are coming to say O! God, look at me,” she said.

She however said that for any real change to take place in a person’s life two factors would be determinant. “The only thing that can change your situation is two. One decision, second choice; I have chosen to be different. I have decided word of God must grow in my life and there is nothing that can change it. You need those two thing tonight,” he explained.

The woman of God then told this story to buttress the importance of taking conscious decisions and making a clear choice regarding one’s situation.

“I had come to church on a Sunday service, dedicating two babies. And as I took these two babies close to the altar, a lady who was not even married at the time came to me and said, ‘Mama, e don te wen you de dedicate other people’s children.

When are we going to dedicate your own?’ she recalled.

She explained that she took the babies to the owners and said, “Please have your babies,” and went up to her room, shut the door and sat on the floor for three days to settle the issue with God in prayer.

“I said to God; I am a woman. I don’t want to be called a barren woman. Your word declares that none shall be barren in the land. I don’t want to teach this gospel without evidence,” she said.

In no time, God answered her prayer!

“No matter the situation in your life, this God that I know will deliver you. I want my testimony to affect my generation,” she declared.

Having set the conference on course, the President of Family Christian Centre, Abuja, Dr. Sarah Omakwu, settled down to sensitise the womenfolk on the consciousness required for them to experience

Participant at the Victorious Army Ministries Conference held in Lagos

changes in their lives and to impact their fellow women. speaking on the topic, ‘Awake and Live Maximally,’ she picked relevant verses from Ephesians 5:1-22: “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

“Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth); Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

“And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret; But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light.

“Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.

“Walk in wisdom; See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which Agboli is dissipation; but be filled

with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.” She also referred the congregation to Romans 13:11-14, “Besides this you know the time that the hour has come for you to wake up from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light.

“Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarrelling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”

She also turned them to Psalm 90:12, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

After running through these verses, she explained that the time had come for them to be watchful and conscious of the imperative to live as believers.

“It is time to wake up, sleep time is over. We have to walk with circumspect. It is time to be intelligent, live wisely, live boldly and live the children of light.

“I want you to know that in many things you are doing,

God wants you to wake up, to wake up from any form of sin. The Bible wants you to watch and pray because you don’t know when Jesus is coming. These days, they talk about prosperity,” she added.

The Bible, she continued, enjoins Christians to be watchful, live purposefully, embrace God and shun darkness.

“It says we should find the will of God, we should redeem the time,” she added.

Omakwu explained that to redeem the time, a Christian has to buy back all the time that he or she gave the devil when he or she was in the world.

“There is a man in our church. He used to sleep with anything; he used to drink and he used to party. When he got born-again, day and night he stays in the church. When asked if he had no other thing to do, he said when I was in the world I served the devil with all my life. Now that I’m in the Lord, I want to serve Him with all my life.’

“Now that you are in the Lord, awake and give all to God; because He saved you and redeemed you,” Omakwu enjoined the audience.

The cleric said she was unhappy that despite the proliferation of churches in Nigeria, crime was still a major issue.

She stressed that God wants to work with people and revive the destinies of those who would touch their generation.

Omakwu

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Faith

Overcoming Worry and anxiety

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orry is proportional to our security. When life is going as planned and we feel safe without any apprehension or danger, there is naturally a great reduction in worry and anxiety. Likewise, worry increases when we feel threatened and insecure.

The first step to overcoming worry and anxiety is to cast our cares (burdens of worries) upon our Lord Jesus Christ. To this end therefore, the word of God declares, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you.”-1 Peter 5:7. This simply means that you take all your worries to the Lord in prayer and leave them with Him. Man may never be comp l e t e l y f re e f ro m w o r r y, but the Bible shows us a w a y t h ro u g h w h i c h w e can overcome worry. One of them is by prayer. They s h o u l d n o t b e o rd i n a r y routine prayers. They must be more than requests for favourable answers. These prayers must include thanksgiving and praises a l o n g s i d e w i t h y o u r re quest; hence the word of God declares, “Be careful for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgivi n g l e t y o u r re q u e s t b e made known unto God and the God of peace which passeth all understanding shall keep your heart and mind through Christ Jesus.”- Philippians 4:6-7.

When our Lord Jesus Christ visited the house of Mary and Martha, the Bible recorded that Martha was very busy with detail re g a rd i n g m a k i n g J e s u s

and His disciples comfortable. Mary on the other hand was sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to what He was saying. Martha complained to Jesus that Mary should be helping out with domestic needs at hand, but our Lord Jesus said to Martha, “You are worried and anxious about many things but only one thing is needed; Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken from her.” – Luke 10:41-42.

The rational Holy Ghost question that should come up on the mind of any believer is, “What’s there can be a great terror, especially for those enemies of God and enemies of righteousness.” But this type of terror is limited by the fact that God is not capricious, but acts consistently according to His righteous character and revealed will.

Notwithstanding this fact, those guilty of idolat r y, w i c k e d n e s s , f o r n i c ations, injustice and other forms of evil have every re a s o n t o f e a r t h e c o m ing wrath of the Almighty God, the day of His righteous indignation, being on the great white throne judgment.

Terror is indeed the only reasonable response when confronted by the awesome presence of a being whose knowledge and power has no limits. For instance, during the resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the angelic appearance triggered a great fear and terror on the Roman soldiers guarding the tomb, to the point that they fainted, collapsed and slumped

on the ground for hours.

But when the holy women got to the tomb, the same angel said to them, ‘FEAR NOT.’ The Bible does not portray fear of danger as an emotion over which the believer has no control. But the divine injunction ‘fear not’ is a command not to panic or be immobilised or allow fear to hinder you from obeying God. The antidote to the fear of danger is the conviction that God is able to protect and accomplish His will and that His promises are ‘yea’ and ‘amen.’ Fear therefore is s o m e t h i n g d re a d f u l t h a t makes one emotionally uneasy. But from the scriptural point of view, fear is a spirit. That was why the Bible declares, “God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, of love, of a sound mind.” - 2nd Timothy 1:7. Just as the Holy Spirit empowers, anoints, strengthens and energises the believer, fear weakens, obstructs and paralyses its victims.

F e a r p re v e n t s i t s v i c tims from experiencing the life God intended for them. It limits our potential. Fear hinders you from enjoying a rich relationship with people and with God, and can also hinder you from enjoying a meaningful life.

Fear fills your memory with your past failures and mistakes. Many have been tied to their past, many have been pushed i n t o s i n b e c a u s e o f f e a r, and have also been prevented from embracing their God-ordained future. This is why God has

The Voice of

Dominion by

Bishop David Oyedepo

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Phone: 7747546-8; E-mail: feedback@lfcww.

e shall be continuing with the teaching on the impartation of spiritual gifts for supernatural turnaround. Last week, I discussed three proven spiritual gifts at work in our Church, which include Spirit of Love, Spirit of Revelation and Gift of Healing. These are being discussed to serve as wisdom nuggets for Christians and ministries who seek to flourish in God’s unspeakable gifs.

This week, I shall be continuing this teaching series by discussing the Spirit of Counsel.

The Spirit of Counsel: It is the Spirit of guidance. In Isaiah 50:4, it was prophesied concerning Jesus: The Lord God hath given me

the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned. The Lord God hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back (Isaiah 50:4-5).

Also, in John 5:30 Jesus said: I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.

So, it is the Spirit of counsel that opens us up to divine instructions on any issue of our lives. Hence, when the Lord becomes our guide,

Power of Insight with

Bishop John Ogbansie gbe Tel:08033416327

continued to respect and emphasise the phrase ‘FEAR NOT.’ Through our Lord Jesus Christ you have been set free from such destructive fear that holds you hostage.

To this end, the word of God declares, “For if the son of man shall set you free you shall be free indeed.”

Effects of fear Fear is the rejection of faith.

The Bible says, “God has not given us the spirit of fear.”

-2 Timothy 1 :7. Fear is the proof that Satan has control over your mind. Fear is the evidence that you no trust in God. We are serving a God who never fails. It does not take great faith to believe in someone who never fails. But it requires great faith to believe and trust someone who often fails.

F i v e H e b re w w o rd s w e re translated into the English word called FEAR. In fact, fear was ment ioned in the bible about 600 times; from Genesis to Revelation, from Abraham to John on the Island of Patmos. In order to master our tendency to fear, we need to understand the difference between the emotion of fear and the spirit of fear. God gave man the emotion of fear as a natural preservative instinct. On the other hand, the devil projects this spirit of fear with the aim of exposing his vict i m t o t h e d a n g e r o f a n x iety and injury. Healthy fear keeps you alive.

King David declared, “My flesh trembles for fear of thee and I am afraid of thy judgment.”- Psalm 119:129. Again he said, “Be wise now therefore you kings. Be instructed ye judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling.” Psalm 2:1 and 11. King Solomon also said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”

Proverb 1:7.

The spirit of fear which c o m e s f ro m t h e d e v i l h a s caused many disasters in our world. The greatest crises of many people in the world came, not from the presence of trouble, but from the fear of trouble. Psychiatrists describ e t he spirit of fear as phobia, and they have identified 7 5 d i ff e re n t p h o b i a s t h a t p ro d u c e a b n o r m a l , i rrational and mind-crippling fears. The spirit of fear has the capacity and tendency to break the spirit of its victim. It can also paralyse, disarm and destroy their defence in any life battle or challenge. The spirit of fear has killed many people several times before their d e a t h . N o m a t t e r y o u r re l i g i o n o r p ro f e s s i o n o f f a i t h , if you have the spirit of fear o r l i v e w i t h i t , y o u a re a n unbeliever or practising a t h e i s t . A f o re s a i d , S t . P a u l d e c l a re s , “ F o r G o d h a s n o t g i v e n u s t h e s p i r i t o f f e a r, b u t o f p o w e r, o f l o v e a n d o f s o u n d m i n d . ” - 2 Ti m o thy 1:7.

Impartation of spiritual gifts for supernatural turnaround! (3) we shall not want because His guidance is the gateway to our high places. It is the Spirit of divine guidance, which is the gateway to a life of fulfilment (Psalm 23).

Therefore, when we operate as commanded, we are supernaturally in command because it is supernatural guidance that puts us in command. So, our manifestation as sons of God is determined by how much we are led by the Spirit of the Lord.

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God (Romans8:14).

Why do we need the Spirit of Counsel?

It is our escape from the dangers of life set by the enemy. There is a way which seemeth right unto a man,

but the end thereof are the ways of death(Proverbs 14:12).

Every believer needs the Spirit of Counsel to triumph, and it takes men of understanding to draw out counsel from the heart of man.

Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out (Proverbs 20:5).

Friend, the spiritual gifts for supernatural turnaround are the preserve of the saved. Are you born again? You can become a redeemed soul, by confessing your sins and accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. You can be God’s child now, if you haven’t been, by saying this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a

sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan, to serve the Living God. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You, for saving me! Now, I know I am born again!”

I will conclude 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 at6:00 a.m., 7:35 a.m., 9:10 a.m. and 10.45 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.

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Power of

Let there be light

L

ight literarily means something that makes things visible. There is hope! No matter how dark the world situation seems, God has a plan. No matter how insignificant or useless you feel, God loves you and wants to use you in His plan as the light of the world. No matter how sinful and separated from God you are, his salvation is available.

It does not actually matter how far a tunnel is, light is ahead of you. Keep on trying and you will succeed at last. Genesis: 1 – 3 Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.

There are several ways men are put into darkness, but God Himself made man in His own image and commanded him to be the light of the world.

There are also several lights - the one from the daylight produced by the sun and the one for the night produced by the moon and the stars. Some are caused by lightning during the raining season.

Some are produced by men’s innovation, by candle light, lanterns, wild fire through bush burning, some through electricity generation - hydro, gasoline, coal, wind or gas propelled.

I want you to understand that no matter how enlightened you are without Christ you are still in darkness. I will prove this from His word.

John: 1: 1-5 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2. The same was in the beginning with God. 3. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made.

4. In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

5. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

At the early stage of my life, I did not know Christ as much as I do now. Things were actually okay. I

worked with one of the leading oil and gas companies. I was deep in the world and yet I tried to seek spiritual help from spiritualists who were all agents of the devil.

I wasted my money, time and energy for nothing. But today after giving my light to Christ, my story has changed. My life testimony is enough to let you know that knowing the light which is Jesus Christ you can never be the same again.

John: 8: 12 Jesus is the light of the world 12. Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

In my last write up I asked a question which I promised to expose in my next write-up.

Have you ever imagined why some areas of the world are not affected by natural disasters?

Why are some always affected?

In my subsequent write-ups, I will expose some hidden facts as recorded in the Bible.

Making Africa as a case study, we were colonised by various foreign countries who forced us to almost abandon our tradition and imbibed theirs. Before their arrival we had various traditional institutions; we loved one another.

Anyone found wanting, the entire community would try him or her and get them expelled or excommunicated.

Our marriages, occupations, festivals, various ceremonies were properly guided. Even our mode of dressing denoted the area we came from without questioning.

We had our form of education, medication and trades while our traditional stools were well arranged.

When the invasion came all that we knew was turned upside down. We were forced to speak their languages, dress like them.

Imagine, in our hot weather we put on suits, socks, ties and drink tea.

Under the pretext of bringing light to us, we were robbed of our

peace, we were instigated to fight against one another. They introduce us into slavery, took over our seat of power and forced us into running their type of government.

We were taking orders from the home base of our colonial masters. Those that ruled over us were posted to us at will. The ones that were on top among us were only used as task masters against us.

They forced us to their countries, turned us into human machines, many got lost. They knew they were from Africa with no specific identification. God created us without tribal marks, but various slaves were identified by their tribal marks, which we practised for some time. Only lately has the mentality been fading away.

Though our forefathers were idol worshippers, they believed in their traditional mode of worship. Some have not deviated till today, but gradually i’ts fading away as the gospel is spreading.

Remember what God says in Exodus 20:3-5.

Exodus 20:3-5 3. Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

4. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: 5. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; Human beings were used for sacrifice, animal blood was used in some cases. Various gods were formed out of various images and dedicated areas of worship were given to these gods. Some forests are yet to be developed, all because they are said to be owned by one deity which the people believe in.

Initially, our colonial masters brought the Word of God. As we were getting used to that, they brought swords and guns as well

The Seeds of by Greatness Apostle Clement by Ogbonna Bishop Lawrence Osagie apostleofgraceinwo

T

Tel: 08063250667, mail:powerlineministries@mail.com, www.powerlineministriesinc.org

he many great men in the Bible were men on whom God could depend as a result of their faithfulness. To them, faithfulness was a way of life.

Most of us like to appear sporadically; do a job meant for ten people for one or two days and then disappear. God is not interest in sporadic and seasonal bulldozers. Rather, He seeks the consistent and faithful worker.

Daniel was one such faithful man. The Bible says, “then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes because an excellent spirit was in him, and

the king thought to set him over the whole realm,” (Daniel 6:3).

But what do we find today? Few people strive at excellence. Few people pray to be the best on the job. The focus of several people has shifted from excellent performance to fat pay packet with minimum or sometimes shoddy performance.

Here the scripture says an excellent spirit was found in Daniel as a result of which the king thought to set him over the whole realm.

Moved by jealousy, the presidents and the princes sought occasion to find fault with Daniel. But they found none.”But they could find

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Faith

From the Pulpit by

Olasupo E.A. Oladele

Email: eaolasupo@yahoo.com, Tel: 08058161864

as strong drinks to buy our leaders over. Confusion set in and to make it more complex, some of the forerunners of religion in Africa took our lands in hundreds of acres, and gave us peanuts instead.

Let me now remind us of Abraham’s encounter with God in Genesis 15.

Genesis 15: 8-14 8. And he said, Lord God, whereby shall I know that I shall inherit it?

9. And he said unto him, Take me an heifer of three years old, and a she goat of three years old, and a ram of three years old, and a turtledove, and a young pigeon.

10. And he took unto him all these, and divided them in the midst, and laid each piece one against another: but the birds divided he not.

11. And when the fowls came down upon the carcases, Abram drove them away.

12. And when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and, lo, an horror of great darkness fell upon him.

13. And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years; 14. And also that nation, whom they shall serve, will I judge: and afterward shall they come out with great substance.

Looking at the verses above and as an African, especially being born a Nigerian, glory be to God, from the look of things, we are the most blessed country in the world. I don’t care about your opinion. I love my country and I’m proud of it.

Those who introduced God to us, until today, still mine our mineral resources purchased at giveaway prices. The mineral resources are transformed and brought back to us as either semi-finished or finished products, to be purchased with our life savings. Read Lamentations 5:

1-22 Annually, they introduce different types of policies that will make us dependent on them even though we are supposed to be independent.

These polices made them advanced countries with our raw materials and we are referred to as third world countries or under developed countries. Any of us trying to go all out to develop ourselves will be sanctioned or our financial policy will be tampered with, thereby forcing us to call on them for help. They are supposed to give help with no charges but they loan us money with huge interest.

God is watching.

Africa has some great leaders who fought to see an end to our modern slavery. But this at times results in unending wars which may be inter-tribal, inter-religious, intercountry. They will also arrange for peace talks after achieving their aims. Our leaders should only sit up and be focused.

Africa is blessed with human and mineral resources, and I believe that one day, as God said, He will judge our afflicters and bless us with great substance. We shall one day see the light of the day and start ruling our world without interruption.

Our leaders or those aspiring to rule us should accept Christ because when the righteous rule, the people rejoice. I will talk more on the importance of this light in my next write-up.

They’ve taken so much from our land yet we don’t suffer serious natural disasters like we hear and read about them. God’s judgment is near, they should repent and go back to God. Pastor Dr. Olasupo E.A. Oladele Snr. Pastor Christ Kingdom Apostolic Bible Church ( No. 1, Ogale Farm Road Nchia Eleme, Rivers State)

Faithfulness & Diligence (2) none occasion nor fault, for as much as he was FAITHFUL, neither was there any error or fault found in him,” (Daniel 6:4b).

Can the same be said of your faithfulness? Daniel was not just faithful in things pertaining to the king and the state (Babylon).

He was also very faithful in his service and worship of the Almighty God as acknowledged by his enemies. Because of the nature of the times and age that we are living in today, most people are faithful in their business dealings, appointments and on the economic fronts. But on the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God, no way! They say God will understand. The Bible says we should provide for our household. Daniel, as we have seen, was faithful all-round.

“Bodily exercise,” the Bible says “profiteth little; but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is,

and of that which is to come,” (1 Timothy 4:8).

The decree made that no one should offer prayer to other gods except to the king did not deter Daniel in his commitment and faithfulness to God, which finally took him to the Lion’s den. Since he had been faithful to God, it becomes God’s turn to show His faithfulness unto Daniel. God arose on his behalf and shut the mouths of the lions, which became mattresses and pillow for Daniel;Halleluyah! It is your faithfulness to God that will deliver you in the day of trouble and adversity.

The Bible records that “So, Daniel prospered (became great) in the reign of Darius and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian,” (Daniel 6:28). Faithfulness will bring anybody to greatness irrespective of the prevailing circumstances.

Our Lord Jesus Christ also demonstrated absolute faithfulness in

His ministry. Of Him, the Bible says, “…Holy brethren…consider the apostle and high priest of our profession, Christ Jesus, who was FAITHFUL, to Him that appointed Him as also Moses was FAITHFUL in his entire house,” (Hebrew 3:1b&2).

In the face of all contradictions and the shame of the cross, Christ remained faithful to God, and God finally glorified Him because He had been found faithful. Faithfulness in any assignment; big or small, is the key to a life of greatness.

DILIGENCE The twin-force of faithfulness is diligence. To be diligent means to be industrious; showing steady effort; full of initiative, or hardworking in whatever you are doing. “The hand of the diligent maketh rich (great), but he becometh poor that dealeth with slack-hand.” (Proverbs 10:4).

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Faith

‘Let my morning come’ Psalm 30:5 says, “ For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning”.

people eventually provoked God to anger and they all perished in the wilderness. Theydid not get to the Promised Land. Only their children did. God would rather prolong the day, than the night. He will not prolong your darkness Joshua 10:11-13 ‘And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Beth-horon, that the Lord cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died. They were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.

(12) Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. (13) And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.’

A

fter going through the rigour of a busy day, one retires at night to rest and or sleep. It is at this time that a person sometimes thinks about all that he or she went through during the day. There could be regrets. It is possible for there to be pains.

Sometimes, there would be a need for succour, consolation and solution to problems, which are not easily attainable at this time and so, one has to wait. This wait could be very strong. It would incite a desire to see the early hours of a new day, when solution and soothing will come to the pains that went on throughout the night.

From the text above, we can draw out eight lessons: 1. Night of darkness represents weeping. It says: ‘Weeping may endure for a night’ Perhaps, as you are reading this message, the enemy has been making you to cry. l decree and prophesy upon your life, that your period of sorrow is over in the name of Jesus. Amen. The night is a convenient period for the powers of darkness. Darkness is a convenient environment for wickedness and it is a period when weeping and grumbling takes place.

2. The morning represents joy. I decree and prophesy into your life, that if you are reading this message and the enemy has stolen your joy, it shall be restored to you today in the name of Jesus.

3. God Himself has not ordained that any night should endure forever. Whatever your situation might be today, there is no signal from heaven that that will go on forever. The text says: ‘Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.’ It will not be long.

4. After every night, comes a glorious morning.

I pray that your morning of joy will come in the name of Jesus.

5. The enemy does not have the last say on your life. In fact, nobody has the last say on your life. No condition is permanent. There is a God called the Almighty, the Greatest One. His power is the greatest. God is the only one that

Odukoya

has the last say concerning your life. Once God says: ‘Let there be light,’ it is finished; there will surely be light. All that is required is His command; a word from Him will make every stubborn situation to bow.

6. The powers of the night flee before the morning. This means that their activities are limited to the night and once the morning appears, they are exposed. So they prefer to flee.

7. If you have been weeping, stop crying. Stop it because your morning has come. That is what the scripture says, Beloved, get this fact right, crying will not appease the enemy neither will it move the hand of God. In fact, it could worsen the situation because it is a display of unbelief that strengthens the enemy.

8. Discouragement is a destroyer. It sees the obstacle but faith sees the way out. When you are discouraged, you are telling God that He cannot help you. Joshua sent out spies to spy out the Promised Land. They brought back a report that discouraged the Israelites; they saw the people of the land as giants that they could not overcome. They had forgotten that it was God who said they should go and possess the land.

They should have known that since He said they should go, He would be with them because the battle is the Lord’s and He will fight it. These

Joshua was fighting a battle and he was winning. When he saw that the day was advancing and it would soon be evening when evening would be dark, he commanded the sun to stand still and it did. That day continued and darkness was restrained. He did that because he wanted to obtain victory and God sanctioned it. As the day was prolonged on his side, the moon stood still on the other side of the continent.

So, there was a prolonged night there. God allowed Joshua to prolong the day and this shows us that God is ready to sacrifice anything for the sake of His children.

He did it with His only begotten son; and that has redeemed man back to Him. God does not mind destabilising unbelievers to satisfy His children. While the Egyptians were being troubled by the plagues, the Israelites had no problem in Goshen. If the joy of the children needs a longer day, He will grant it, even if it means darkness to unbelievers.

Prayer points 1. My helpers in captivity come out by fire, in the name of Jesus.

2. By fire, by thunder, O God arise and disgrace my confusion in the name of Jesus.

3. Every clock and timetable of poverty working against me, be buried today in the name of Jesus.

4. The enemy will not drag my life to the ground in the name of Jesus.

5. Every ancestral wall, built around my glory crumble in the name of Jesus.

6. My glory under bondage, receive deliverance in the name of Jesus.

7. Every bird of darkness holding vigil against me die in the name of Jesus.

8. O God my father, change my present speed to divine speed in the name of Jesus.

9. Every witchcraft agent of my father’s house die in the name of Jesus.

10. Every witchcraft agent of my mother’s house die in the name of Jesus.

11. Every battle against my destiny from my foundation die, in the name of Jesus.

12. Every architect of affliction from my foundation die in the name of Jesus.

13. Stones of fire, locate the forehead of my foundational Goliath in the name of Jesus.

14. Every foundational strongman causing problem for my life die in the name of Jesus.

15. Every familiar spirit stealing my virtue scatter in the name of Jesus.

16. Every strange power, gathered against my advancement die.

17. Every satanic panel set –up against me scatter unto desolation in the name of Jesus.

18. Every evil decree passed upon my life, release me and die in the name of Jesus.

19. Every embargo of stagnancy upon my progress, disappear in the name of Jesus.

20. My glory, arise and shine in the name of Jesus.

21. O God of Elijah; fight my battles today in the name of Jesus.

22. Earthquake of deliverance shake out the evil covenant and curses in my foundation in the name of Jesus.

23. Foundational strongman release me and die in the name of Jesus.

Group seeks release of Chibok school girls Kayode Olanrewaju

T

he Council of African Apostles, the assembly of eminent church leaders across sub-Saharan African countries, has called for the immediate release of the over 230 school girls of Government Girls’ Secondary, Chibok, Borno State abducted by the Boko Haram sect.

The clerics, who condemned the abduction of the school girls over a month ago, described it as a deplorable act of terrorism affecting innocent lives that have no role whatever in the conflict or grievances that the Islamic militant group might have against the Federal Government.

In a statement jointly signed by the President of the Council of Africa Apostles, Bishop Tudor Bismark of Zimbabwe; Bishop Mike Okonkwo of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Nigeria; and Dr. Mensa Otabil of Ghana, the council, however, stated: “The abduction and other related acts of terror that have been undertaken by Boko Haram in the recent past, should be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

“The report that the girls are being sold off into marriage for US$12 and that oth-

ers have died of snake bite only serve to make the call for their release more urgent, because the students should not have been touched by this conflict in the first instance.”

While insisting that none of the abducted girls has any role in the crisis in the NorthEast, the council noted that “as a body of believers, we uphold and recommit to the principle of diversity, but that diversity cannot lead to divergence that overtakes the sanity of human life.”

It added, “It, therefore, became necessary for the Council of Africa Apostles to join hands with community leaders in Northern Nigeria and other concerned people to strongly call for the immediate release of the more than 230 school girls of Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State in Northern Nigeria.”

The statement made available to New Telegraph on Sunday reads in part, “The Council calls upon the Federal Government of Nigeria to exercise real leadership over this matter and use every means at its disposal to ensure that these girls are reunited with their families within the shortest possible time.

“Beyond the safe return of the girls,

we are also calling on the government to engage the Boko Haram sect and find a peaceful solution that will immediately end this violence that has claimed many innocent lives, which otherwise has no stake in whatever issues that are currently under contestation.

“At this moment, we are also calling for leaders from different faith groups to engage in dialogue, and especially the leadership of the Muslim faith to strongly disassociate themselves from these cowardly acts of terror being carried out in the name of the Islamic religion”.

Meanwhile, the council has called on the global community, including ECOWAS, Africa Union Commission, the United Nations and the Group 8 countries, to intervene by providing necessary support to the Nigerian Government in order to effectively tackle these acts of terrorism ravaging the most populous African country.

The council stressed, “The unnecessary loss of lives (Christian or Muslim) is not only barbaric and deplorable, it cannot be tolerated in the 21st Century. Hence, the madness must surely end. We think the killing of innocent lives is cowardly, as it only serves to worsen and aggravate the

tension and conflict. Of course, this acts belong to the dustbins of history with no role whatsoever in resolving grievances.”

The council noted that the recent attacks have placed a dark cloud over the peaceful co-existence of Christians and Muslims in the country, saying it has deeply wounded the conscience of those who uphold human life. It also lamented that it has led to the deterioration of public trust and tolerance of different opinions.

According to the Council of African Apostles, perpetrators of these heinous crimes should be punished while there should be justice to the affected.

Besides, in the case of immediate release and return of the over 230 school girls, the council said they should be returned to their families unharmed. The clerics urged the United Nations, the African Union, National Governments and other relevant institutions to demonstrate visible leadership in ensuring that justice is upheld by bringing perpetrators to book, while necessary precautions should be taken to restore law and order in the affected regions and the nation as a whole.

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Why couples fight I

t is observed that most couples fight shortly after their wedding. This is not what is expected of your marriage.

So, to avoid it, you should be aware of the causes of certain marital problems and learn how not to fight.

How not to fight: 1. Stop blaming each other for any mistake.

2. Realise the price of your marriage.

3. Choose to be happy.

4. Laugh over a fault.

5. Communication - Discuss your differences.

6. Don’t keep silent when you are hurt.

7. Cool off.

8. Say ‘Am sorry’ when you are reproved.

9. No matter how your offence may be, always tell each other the truth. Any day you lie to each other and are found out, you have murdered love and truth for each other. Take note of this.

10. And stop hiding things from each other for that will create suspicion of character if finally discovered.

11. Learn to obey and respect instructions, for disobedience and rebellion engender bitterness of

heart. The result afterwards will be disastrous.

12. Stop joking with expensive words that cannot build a strong relationship. Avoid using words that have something in common with extra-marital affairs. They engender suspicion, lack of trust and wrong feelings.

13. Don’t deny each other sex and romance as you need such in your marriage. If you do, you will murder love and relaxation.

Constant sex and romance build a healthy marital status.

14. In all, study your Bible and pray always, for that will encourage faith and love for each other.

20 reasons why a husband should not beat his wife and how to handle difficult times in a relationship 1. God hates it.

2. She is the mother of your children.

3. She is the sexual engine.

4. Her acceptance to change her identity.

5. It is unlawful.

6. It brings family disunity.

7. It creates emotional fear, distrust and hatred.

8. She is the bone of your bones and flesh of your flesh.

9. It causes separation and di-

vorce.

10. It causes sexual dissatisfaction and sometimes total denial of sex.

11. It engenders hatred and disrespect from children.

12. It attracts disrespect from neighbours and friends.

13. It disproves your maturity and ability to be a man.

14. It brings closed doors and business setback.

15. It causes premature death.

16. It is against the Christian faith.

17. It is satanic.

18. It makes the woman rude, strong, disobedient, stubborn, nagging and disloyal.

19. It makes the woman begin to look for liberation and financial independence.

20. She is your wife by companionship and covenant – Malachi 3.

How to live in peace with your spouse 1. Understand the meaning of ‘love your neighbour as you love yourself.’

2. Know why you got married to each other and maintain it.

3. Keep what attracted you to each other.

4. See yourself as a blessing to

Faith

Word of FAITH byby Apostle Clement Apostle Clement Ogbonna Ogbonna apostleofgraceinwof2010@gmail com, apostleofgraceinwo clementogbonnaya2007@yahoo.com Tel: 08036774737 .

each other.

5. Let go of some rights (Abraham and Lot).

6. Don’t look down on each other.

7. Build a family altar.

8. Hold meetings together and share your feelings together.

9. Bath and eat together.

10. Discover each other’s temperament.

11. Know the likes and dislikes of each other and manage them carefully.

When things are in turmoil, apply and use silence. Silence is more eloquent than writing, more forceful than words. It has never betrayed anybody. If you doubt your own wisdom, remain silent.

In silence, we conceal our shortcomings, and hear the mistakes of others. Even the unwise have been considered wise in their silence. The heart prompts a man to speak but the head should act as a check-valve. Few men have ever regretted being silent but many have made statements they wished were unspoken. Silence

is the best answer to a fool, even the devil.

But don’t be silent when you are in trouble. be open to God! Quotable quotes for couples 1. Live today as if it were the last day of your life.

2. If you don’t pray as a Christian, then to the devil, you become a prey.

3. Make Sunday your Sunday and other days your week.

4. As you pray, watch.

When there is a problem 5. Don’t talk to yourself. It doesn’t help, rather it engenders murmuring. Don’t talk to other people. It makes it worse, it engenders gossip. But tell it to God. That solves it. And it is prayer.

6. It takes discovery to make recovery. So, be wise and avoid fighting each other – the bone of your own bones and the flesh of your flesh.

You can worship with us at word of faith international church, No 62 ohanku road aba, Ngwa road, Abia State.

Barriers to blessings “Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse.”

Deut 11:26

G

od is not pleased with you remaining on the same spot.

His intention, plan and purpose for you are that you live in the abundance of His provision. But the enemy has his way of keeping you on a spot and barring you from getting what is rightfully yours. It is then good for you to quickly know this so that you can move to where He wants you to be.

What are blessings?

Blessings invoke divine favour upon a person. They confer wellbeing and prosperity upon an individual. Blessings are words charged with supernatural power and authority for good. Therefore, blessings come from God but unfortunately, man is not often allowed to enjoy the fullness

of God’s provision for him in blessings. The tragedy is this, a man is either enjoying the blessing or enduring the curse - curse from his disobedience, curse as a result of his ignorance, curse brought about by his own self-inflicted acts.

(Deut 28:15) Blessing is the force that works positively (in your favour). It is a direct opposite of what some commonly refer to as bad luck. Blessing is a positive energy, originated and generated through verbal pronouncement. It is simply enjoying an open heaven, being a terror to the forces of darkness, (the Bible says, ‘they shall come against you in one way…’). Blessing is the prince locating his horse and riding on it, getting to the top and remaining there, removal of the ceiling that the enemy has placed upon your life.

“And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and said unto his father, Bless me, even me also, O my father. 35And he said,

Thy brother came with subtlety, and hath taken away thy blessing.

36And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?” Gen 27:34-36 The men of old had a very good understanding of the concept of blessing. In the scripture we see that it is possible for blessing to be taken away. Blessing can be transferred and it can also be stolen. It is also good to know that one could be blocked from receiving his/her blessing. In the case of Esau, when he realised that his blessing had been ‘stolen’, he cried bitterly for it, saying, ‘…hast thou not even one blessing left…?’ But it was late, too late, to say the least.

By reason of the fact that blessing is a supernatural phenomenon, more spiritual than physical, it possesses automatic healing power. Hence, a child who is being bombarded with parental blessings will always go far and do well in life. Having seen the inherent power and mystery behind blessings, it,, therefore, becomes disastrous for you to allow anything or anyone to block or rob you of your blessing.

“Take us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.”

Songs 2:15 “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ig-

norant of his devices.” II Corinth 2:11 Now the enemy is so smart that he tactfully works his way around children of God missing their blessings. This he is able to achieve using various subtle means (the scripture refers to them as ‘little foxes that spoil the vine’). Unsuspecting believers who seek repose or live carefree lives are easily lured away from theirs when they fall to the enticing wiles of the enemy.

Here are some of the tacts, strategies and devices which the enemy engages to hinder Christians from getting their blessings. I call them ‘blessing blockers.’

• Disobedience – Disobedience is the pathway to curses while obedience is the pathway to blessings.

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.” Isaiah 1:19-20 The more you obey God, the more He releases His blessings upon you. Consider the scripture above, ‘…if you rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it’.

The price of disobedience seems to be weightier than the reward of obedience. Disobedience in any way and of any nature will drive you further away from receiving blessing from God. God has been speaking to you, have you been obeying? Be it known also that partial obedience is tantamount to disobedience.

• Refusal to reconcile/restitute – Have you wondered why people have always been giving yet they are not blessed and they become troubled and discouraged?

“Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matt 5:23 -24 When you refuse to forgive your neighbour, how dare you expect forgiveness from God? You must forgive and reconcile, else, you can’t be blessed. Go and apologise to whoever you have offended. Maybe you are the shy type, perhaps, a letter/ note could help. Owe no man either by way of debt or bitterness; go right now and settle your debt and stop blocking your blessing.

You are cohabiting with a lady whose bride price you have yet to pay. You have not fulfilled the required marriage rites and you are living as husband and wife. Let me say that you both are fornicators and thieves – you are blocking your blessing.

Go and restitute; return what you have stolen. …to be concluded next week.

I know you have been blessed.

Write and share your testimonies, comments, etc., with me through.

Rev’d Femi Akinola – The Hebrews International, Lekki, Lagos.

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Sermon & Faith

THE Oracles The stage is now set for the rapture (1) of God by

Frank Oboden Olomukoro

“O

frankolomukoro@yahoo.com, 07033621866

ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?” Matthew 16:3. Christendom is awake to the knowledge of Christ coming but still yet unconscious of how to be ready for her sudden catching away. No consideration or attention is given to scriptural prophetic fulfillment of the coming of the Lord. But in all verity, civilisation is grinding to a halt as it is well known; we are at the zero hour or midnight hour. In this discourse, we are going to discern the signs of the times for which the Lord upbraided the Pharisees for their oversight to help us in our preparedness, so that we will not be caught unawares, Luke 21:34-35. Like I earlier said, the rapture will take place and normal Christian activities will continue unabated. The following signs are definite prophecies that have already been fulfilled herald-

ing the coming of Christ.

6,000 YEARS COMPLETE God made the earth in six days. Man is to dwell on this fallen earth for six days or 6,000 years. On the seventh day, God rested, typing the 1,000 year millennia reign. Genesis 2:2.

From Adam to Noah, 2,000 years was complete with the destruction of the earth by the flood. From Noah to Christ, 2,000 years was accomplished

by Christ’s death and resurrection while from Christ to the Rapture or catching away, is another 2,000 years, which at 2014 we have exceeded. We are living on borrowed time which is at God’s discretion. “Only he who now letteth will let until he be taken out of the way” 2 Thess. 2:7. You can see that we are at the dead end of man’s sojourn on earth, if you have discernment of the times.

THE LAST GENERATION The generation that shall witness the restoration of Israel becoming an independent nation after their destruction and

WORD OF LIFE by

Bishop Moses Kat tey

F

Tel: 08087707486, Email: moseskattey@yahoo.co.uk

orgiveness is the only winning weapon you have that all your enemies don’t. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. (Rom. 12:21).

Forgiveness is more powerful than unforgiveness, because good is more powerful than evil. Unforgiveness and vengeance are evil. ‘For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. (James 2:13) The Living Bible puts it this way: Mercy ‘will win out over judgment.’ Mercy exults victoriously over judgment, according to the Amplified Bible.

You see that the weapon of forgiveness (mercy) exults and is more powerful that the weapon of forgiveness (judgment) in all ramifications, and in all cases. Even ‘God’s mercy toward you will win out

his judgment against you.’

(James 2:13 Living Bible).

Vengeance, unforgiveness or judgment is no match for forgiveness and mercy. Forgiveness knocks out vengeance.

Fortunately for us, our enemies do not have this weapon of forgiveness; otherwise, they would not continue to be our enemies. They only pretend to forgive. They refuse to reverse their decision taken in the time of crisis.

I had an experience many years ago, in the 1990s. I was greatly hurt and wounded so I decided to fight back. In my spirit I felt like using an axe to destroy the enemy, but I felt like using a gun. Inside me a feeling arose that he would die instantly without enough torment.

I was desperate to use an appropriate weapon that would match his wickedness. In that state I asked God, “What would I use to deal with him

disperse in 70AD is the last generation that will witness the rapture and the AntiChrist reign. Israel became a nation in 1948. Mark 13:28 – 31. “Now learn a parable of the fig tree (the nation of Israel) when her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near. So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done”. This is a Bible prophesy significant to the coming of the Lord that is fulfilled.

Israel is God’s timepiece to the nations. We are in the last chapter of God’s great book.

The entire programme of God is being summed up at this minute. Never in the history of the world has there been a time as exciting as the one we are living in now. Political intrigues, scientific inventions through increase in knowledge, violence, natural disasters, moral bankruptcy etc. How wonderful to recognise this and be among those who are busily preparing for the appearance of our Lord and Saviour.

Material Wealth in the Church 2 Peter 2:15, “They have left

the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor who loved the wages of wickedness.” Another profound sign to watch before Christ comes is the overwhelming Spirit of Laodicea, which is the Spirit of Material Acquisition over Holy Living. The prophecy of John in Revelation 3:15 – 17, paints a vivid picture of the spiritual condition of the season shortly before the r a p t u re t a k e s place. The Church will be spiritually lukewarm but stupendously rich, materially lacking nothing. That is the way of Balaam. “So then because thou art lukewarm and neither cold or hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Because thou (the church) sayest, I am r i c h a n d i n c re a s e d w i t h goods and have need of nothing; and knowest not t h a t t h o u a r t w re t c h e d , and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” The indictment by the Lord of the backsliding condition of the church is damming.

So much wealth but spiritually bankrupt.

We a l t h , p ro s p e r i t y a n d the accumulation of luxuries by Pastors, Preachers, General Overseers and all church leaders has found

a home in modern Christianity. It is a sign prior to Christ’s coming and it is currently fulfilling, setting the stage for the rapture. In today’s evangelical world, the focus has shifted from holiness to finances. Financial empowerment is the focal point by motivational speakers turned p a s t o r s . Va r i o u s p ro j e c t s of many internationally famous preachers are costing billions to build and maintain. One can hardly attend a meeting or turn on a religious broadcast without being accosted repeatedly for enormous sums of money to pay for relig i o u s re s o r t s , h o s p i t a l s , b ro a d c a s t s , c o l l e g e s a n d universities, which child re n o f c h u rc h m e m b e r s cannot afford and will not be privileged to be admitted to. This is even while a d h e re n t s a re c o m p e l l e d to support such real estate empires and worldwide organisational systems.

Truth must be preached to give men and women who a re a l l i n s p i r i t u a l d a r kness a new lease of life.

We must awake from our spiritual slumber.

Frank Oboden Olomukoro Christian Ministry of Reconciliation

Forgiveness is my weapon in order to satisfy my desire?”

A word rushed into my mind: Use the weapon of forgiveness.

I felt very bad. How could forgiveness appease my anger? The voice still said, “Use forgiveness. It will.” Well, I tried it. I said, “I apply the weapon of forgiveness on you, my great enemy.” I forgave him from my heart.

What happened next?

I won the battle. How? I had never felt such peace as I felt in my life.

It was the peace of God that passes all understanding.

I felt inner joy. I had inner victory.

I felt very satisfied and appeased.

In fact, I won. I really won the battle. Believe me, since then I stuffed all my pockets, portfolio and any available space on me with the weapon of forgiveness. My joy and happiness are that none of my enemies has this weapon of forgiveness, being the only winning weapon that all enemies don’t have.

I always win and have peace and great joy except I refuse to apply it.

I forgive also because I want lasting victory. Victory and forgiveness go together

like husband and wife, like food, salt and pepper; like sugar and milk so are victory and forgiveness.

Without forgiveness, there is no true victory.

No forgiveness, no victory.

For me, if I must win, I must forgive. See David who merely handed over vengeance to his son, Solomon. He refuse to take vengeance so he instructed his son Solomon to kill Joab (1 Kings 2:5,6). David asked Solomon to kill Shimei who cursed him when he was on the run from Saul (1 Kings 2:8,9).

Victory was associated with mercy and forgiveness. David knew and showed mercy.

Solomon executed judgment and vengeance. You cannot truly win except you forgive and show mercy. Leave vengeance to the Lord.

FORGIVENESS NEVER FAILS The weapon of total forgiveness never fails because love never fails. Indeed, forgiveness is like a wing to love. As wings are to birds, so is forgiveness to love.

‘Charity never faileth’ (1 Cor. 13:8) There can’t be love without forgiveness. Love that

does not fail cannot exist without forgiveness. It ever wins, that is the weapon of forgiveness.

You now have sufficient reasons why you should forgive. I once asked a congregation what would somebody do to you that would make you find it extremely difficult to forgive him/her? A girl raised up her hand to answer. She said, “I will not forgive who ever kills my mother.” We all laughed.

You, what do you think somebody can do to you that you cannot forgive him/her?

For your own good, the answer should be NOTHING. For the sake of obeying God’s word, for the sake of winning the battle, and for the sake of moving forward and upwards please do forgive and have peace.

There is an extent of joy and peace you cannot experience until you forgive completely your so-called arch enemy.

You Can Worship With Us At Commonwealth Covenant Church Intl. Inc. (Aka Christ Fellowship Deliverance Church) Alode Nchia Eleme, Rivers State.

P.O. Box 555 Nchia Eleme, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

ADVERTISE YOUR CHURCH EVENTS, SPECIAL PROGRAMMES, CONVENTIONS AND OTHER CHURCH ACTIVITIES ON THESE PAGES. CONTACT: TAI ON 07064380029

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY MAY 18, 2014

Business Extra

My expectations from new CBN Governor - Utomi

Professor of Political Economy and a director at the Centre for Applied Economics, Lagos Business School, Prof. Pat Utomi, spoke to CHIJIOKE IREMEKA on the controversial kerosene subsidy and expectations from the new Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Recently, the Minister of Petroleum Resources said the government’s refusal to remove subsidy on kerosene was to save the masses from hardship. Why haven’t the masses been able to get kerosene for N50, rather than over N120 per litre? ou see, Nigeria deserves more honest elites in public service than it has. I said this because I was once speaking with a group of people in petroleum marketing. I accused them of hypocrisy because any remotely intelligent person, who understands petroleum marketing in the world, knows that the margin in petroleum products is so thin; and having a petrol station does not help you make much money.

That’s why Mobil has mini-marts and Total has Bonjour as well as others to augment the business because the margin comes from using the real estate optimally. More importantly, until you can sweat the real estate, you don’t make loud margins.

But in Nigeria, the moment you are called a petroleum manager, people believe that you are made. This is because the whole exercise in the country is a fraud. They (people in petroleum marketing) were looking at me stunned. They admitted that I was speaking the truth.

In other words, ignorance allows people to get away with certain things in the country because they believe nobody knows what they know. I know the industry worldwide, so nobody will tell me crap. They are all extorting from a system that has been deliberately made inefficient.

One of them then said, “Yes, you are right but what do you expect us to do? Each time we get kerosene, we deliver lots of money as bribe in advance and the people who take these bribes from us go on air to say they do not know why kerosene is expensive.

But they are collecti n g tens and hundreds of millions of naira as bribe from us.”

So, it’s hypocritical when the Ministry of Petrol e u m Resources and NNPC say they do not know why the prices of petrol and kerosene are high. I hope everybody is going to stand before God on judgment day because if God exists, He must surely have His way.

All that is crap, they know what is going on and they are all in the same fraud.

NNPC, Government, Ministry of Petroleum are all involved in this huge fraud against the Nigerian people. You can’t get kerosene at the price that they claim to be selling it because they pay huge amounts as bribes to these agencies and that is the subsidy they claim they are giving out.

Those who get the kerosene, after paying this huge

Y

price, will have to play their own tricks with the price to recoup their money to survive.

They can’t sell at the so-called N50, so they move it across the border to sell in illegal markets at higher prices. That’s the truth.

So, people, who are making the statements know it’s hypocritical. They know that is the truth and it’s hypocritical for them to say that.

During the fuel subsidy scam, government surcharged a number of companies.

Have you heard of any of the companies that paid the fine?

You should know better. You are an investigative journalist. Nigeria is a country currently crippled by the collapse of a culture, by a level of corruption that is cancerous. Those who are really at the heart of this corruption don’t even realise what they are doing. You know, when cancer goes out of control it becomes incurable. That’s the way corruption has spread into the system.

This is why the World Bank can list a country like Nigeria, with all its resources, as one of the places where poverty has eaten into the heart of essence of the humanity.

Nigeria is one of the poorest countries in the world because we have elites that do not have a conscience, they manage to grab power. Something is terribly wrong with all of us that we have not had a terrible revolution in this country.”

What are they doing with all the private jets they are buying just to pose that they have private jets? Some have two, others three or more. They pauperised their fatherland so that they could have private jets to fly around.

This is part of the things that led to lynching – the public execution of people that happened in Romania. That’s what this generation of leaders really deserves, if we are that barbaric. Thank God we are not as barbaric as those people.

Don’t get me on with these types of questions because it can make me emotional and I will say what I shouldn’t say.

Well, I don’t think t h e s e people are wicked but they are ignorant about the magnitude of damage they are doing to the country.

It’s a disease for them, leading without imbibing a productive culture.

The non-remittance of oil funds by NNPC is another issue bordering on transparency and accountability in the country. What is the true position of things here?

I don’t know what is going on there. I don’t have propriety information about it but there have been cases of transparency.

There is also the issue of civil society playing a serious role on the matter of accusations and counter-accusations there. However, we need a forensic investigation on that, including international auditors to unravel what has happened.

Between 2011 and 2012, the Federal Government signed N8.1trn MoU with various local and international investors to build 10 refineries, but nothing has been heard of them. What is your take on the proposed sale of the four refineries in Nigeria?

First of all, the business of oil refineries in Nigeria started as a private sector concern.

Shell BP had a refinery in Port Harcourt and supplied petrol to the entire country without any hassles. I was actually a child of that regime. My father was then working for British Petroleum early in the 60s and 70s and we lived all the way in northern Nigeria.

And there was a tank farm in Gusau and my father fed the whole region from there.

Nobody ever complained of petroleum shortage then. If there is an issue of learning from experience, it shows that perhaps, if the private sector is to run the refineries, it may be better.

Obviously, one of the major challenges with the refineries in Nigeria is the collapse of public sector ethics, the tragedy of the commons that what belongs to all, belongs to none. Logically, you can say that private sector-run refineries will be more efficient.

However, it’s sad that we are retiring to a mood that nothing government does can be done well. May be there has to be a mix of both public and private-held institutions t o in-

crease social welfare. I also believe that there are certain functions that ultimately shouldn’t be left to private initiatives and we have to be careful getting into the mindset that only private sector run-things can work.

For me, I think there is no alternative to private sector-run refineries. But the big question people can ask is the value of the current refineries to the country’s treasury.

This is an issue that requires technical expertise to speak fairly on because a number of things have gone into the values of those assets due to corruption and misappropriation.

But how would one really know the correct value of these facilities? It’s going to involve a lot of technical work and then, we can arrive at a fair valuation. But the way this system is structured, I’m not sure anything could go into it.

Also, I think is awkward to privatise and still be building new ones. May be it’s more logical that we shouldn’t build new ones, when we are trying to dispose of the old.

The Senate had attempted a review of the CBN Act to reduce the powers of the CBN governor, even as the apex bank clamours for autonomy. With the confimation of Godwin Emefiele as the new CBN Governor, what changes do you expect to see in the new CBN? CBN should increasingly make efforts to institutionalise right processes instead of becoming another vestige of the strong man.

CBN should be a knowledge centre, where there should be institutional memory of the character of the Nigerian economy, focusing on its core functions.

One of the core functions of CBN is to contain inflation due to the financial policies just made. Every economy has people who react to movement in different ways. CBN has to work on the loss of confidence in consumers, prudence and investment confidence, deep institutional memories of how things happen and make choices that spur bank responses from movement in the consumer pricing index.

It’s important that the initial and qualitative analysis of CBN is world class. It’s also important that we have decision makers, who are motivated more by professional skills and CBN banking skills than by legal or other agenda.

We have had a history of strongmen in the CBN instead of strong institutions.

These are my views. I still think of then Joseph Sanusi, who almost got to the golden age of the CBN, a strong leader but who wasn’t looking for any publicity.

I wished he had one additional attribute that would have made him perfect.

He was not much a banker as a professional economist. There is the tendencieys for operational bankers and professional bankers to be consumed by the issues of managing banks rather than looking at the raw economy in terms of strength and things that stimulate economic activities on one hand.

Those who are not professional bankers are economy managers. But the temperament of Sanusi is definitely the temperament of a professional banker.

If we return to that CBN leadership that concentrates on institutional building, we would do much better.

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Abuja Beats Johnchuks Onuanayim

F

ederal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA last week made good its promise of demolishing structures on the Nyanya - Keffi road.

The demolition threat came as a result of two bomb blasts recently in motor parks in Nyanya, where many people died and others injured with properties worth millions of naira lost.

While the first blast that claimed more than 70 lives occurred on April 14, the second that claimed more than 18 lives occurred on May 1 at a distance of 60 meters from each other.

The Minister of FCTA, Senator Bala Mohammed, who had visited the scene after the second blast in company with the State Minister, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, Executive Secretary of the Transport Secretariat of the FCTA and other government functionaries had promised to demolish structures along the road.

On Tuesday last week, the FCTA commenced what it considered the clean-up of Nyanya road axis.

The exercise, done in conjunction with the police, military and other law enforcement agencies, saw the removal of structures within Kugbo and Nyanya areas.

The agencies involved in the clean-up were the Abuja Metropolitan Management Company, AMMC, Department of Development Control, Abuja Environmental Protection Board, AEPB), and the Parks and Recreation Department of FCTA. According to Reuben Okoya, the Coordinator of AMMC, the exercise was partly informed by the recent bomb explosion in the area.

He said, “We have been engaged in exercises like this in the past; the difference is that we are being more diligent now because of the recent security challenges in this axis.

“After the recent bomb explosions, the minister came here and ordered that the entire Nyanya corridor should be cleaned up.

“You will agree with me that an open area can be more easily policed than an area which is clustered with slums and shanties.’’

Mr. Okoya said that the exercise would be sustained and gave an assurance that the legal occupants in the area would not be affected.

“These activities will last for three days and will take us from AYA roundabout to Mararaba, and by the time we finish, the entire corridor would have been cleaned up.

“We are not displacing any legal occupant, but anybody who illegally occupies an area should not talk about compensation,’’ he said.

Also speaking, Yahaya Yusuf, the Director of the Department of Development Control, said that the clean-up was a major responsibility of the agencies involved in the exercise.

But for the residents of Nyanya, demolition would not solve the problem of security threat in the area or any other place in Nigeria.

The residents were of the opinion that government should plan properly for the informer sector and suburb areas and not move their bulldozers to such area for demolition anytime there is a security challenge.

A resident at Nyanya axis, Martha Ter-

FCTA:Nyanya, bomb blast and demolition

doo, said the minister by his pronouncement, was yet to understand what the problem was.

She said, “I find it laughable that the minister said houses close to the motor park and road corridor would be demolished. Were the houses the reason why the place was bombed and in any case, are there any houses close to the bus park?”

At the Minister ’s visit to the bomb

scene the Village head of Nyanya, Alhaji Angola Kaduna Shuaibu had urged the administration to expedite the demolition process but advised that those to be affected should be adequately compensated.

He noted that while there are people who may be living in that part of the Nyanya village illegally, there are those who are legitimate occupants and residents in the area and should be cap-

tured in the compensation programme.

However, the FCTA has not made any comment as regards the advice of the village head as they moved in to effect demolition.

The FCTA seems to be having support from motorist on the Nyanya axis as most of them agree that those structures cause obstruction and could be responsible for the high rate of insurgency and crime in that area.

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Abuja Beats

Chibok Girls: Abuja holds vigil Ummal-Fadal Babagirei

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ne month after the Government Girls Secondary School were abducted in the community of Chibok, Borno State, residents of the Federal Capital Territory under the auspices of Women for Peace and Justice #BringBackOurGirls on Wednesday held a night vigil to pray for God’s intervention for the search and rescue of the girls numbering more than 200.

The vigil, which was not meant for a particular religious denomination had in attendance dignitaries, like former Ministers of the Federal Capital Territory and Education, Nasir El-rufa’i and Oby Ezekweisili respectively, former House of Representatives Member, Hon. Dino Melaye, members of #BringBackOurGirls group, parents of the kidnapped girls and lots of other sympathizers. The venue of the vigil was Thisday Dome.

The ‘let us pray for our girls’ vigil was one of the activities organized so far by the Women for Justice and Peace group demanding for the release of the girls since their abduction on April 14.

The girls whose abduction has stirred controversies and blame game by government functionaries were said to have been abducted in the night by Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima.

Given the delay of the federal and state governments to secure the release of the girls, international community has taken keen interest, with the #BringBackOur-

Jude Opara

A

Gilrs championing the local campaign for their rescue.

Other programs carried out by the group included among others, the protest to the Aso Villa, National Assembly, Borno State Governor’s Lodge and several meetings with the security agencies.

Also, they hold what they call village square meetings to brainstorm and sensitize the nation and international community on the need to intensify efforts to

release the abducted girls.

Amidst the gathering are people of different religious and ethnic background gathered just for a cause; find and bring back our girls alive.

The protesters have vowed to put pressure on the government until their aim is achieved and they will continue to meet everyday till the girls are back.

The vigil which began at about 9 pm to 12 midnight recorded a great turn out.

sult to the point that the texture of their hair changes and begins to stand alone, which is a strong sign of liver malfunctioning. Also the addiction leads to discoloration of their skin.

Most times, they leave the consumption centres with oozing smell, having gulped several litres of their favourite drinks.

Liam, an addict said, “instead of paying N200 to drink a bottle of beer, that same amount will give me over 4 litres of Burukutu or Pito.”.

Under the influence of these drinks, many commit crimes of various degrees. Many people have therefore been calling for a strict legislation to be put in place regarding the production and consumption of these local brewed concoctions. To Micheal Agbo, the government should discourage the consumption of these liquour partly because it weakens the alertness of the consumers in securing their communities as well divulge security secrets. Besides, the consumers normally constitute social nuisance and take regrettable actions.

However, to the drinkers of this local drinks it create a major platform for the people to interact, socialize and relax, thereby creating

a common cultural bond Usman Danladi said that government should not ban the sale, production and consumption of these drinks. He reminded the government that Burukutu and Pito are the “only liquour that is somewhat affordable to the poor and banning it is the height of wickedness and denial of their fundamental human rights.” He further argued that Burukutu and Pito are medicinal because of its base material. According to him, the drinks are used in treatment of ailments such as sore throat, acute headache, migraine, acute fever among others.”

Mrs. Kaneng, a brewer and seller said “it is from these drinks that I pay my children’s school fees and feed my family.

A housewife and street-sweeper, Ruth, supports the government’s effort at banning the drinks. According to her, her husband is a chronic consumer of these drinks; “he comes home drunk, beats me, rapes me and snores through the night.”

However, given the raw materials which are used in its production, these drinks can be nutritious if produced under hygienic conditions.

Kenneth Tyohemba

already commissioned consultants to thoroughly examine the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) base in the twelve RBDAs, and exploit dormant IGR potentials to shore up revenue basis.

“This retreat will offer the opportunities to listen to experts on issues in our drive to strengthen the operations of RBDAs and make them self-reliant”, she stated.

She enumerated the challenges of the ministry to include shortage of fund, inadequate personnel and equipment among others saying “the management needs to be very prudent in managing what is available by embracing full commercialization”.

Speaking further, she said the ministry through RBDAs will strengthen its corporate social responsibility to the host communities of RBDAs, adding that RBDAs will change their strategies and focus on rural development through water supply, irrigation agriculture and sanitation.

Burukutu: Amazing world of local brew

Kenneth Tyohemba

B

urukutu is a popular alcoholic drink among indigenes of the middle belt region of Nigeria. It is a local brew made from fermented sorghum or guinea corn and other protein enriched grains.

The age long drink, also known as BKT, serves as a source of alcohol for those who lack the financial means to patronise refined brew like beer and other foreign or imported drinks. Burukutu and Pito which are brewed from Sorghum are indeed a way of life.

Both drinks are highly intoxicating given the fermentation processes in their production. While Pito is usually filtered off from the top, Burukutu is usually the part that settles down and which contains dregs. Pito is believed to be purer and sweeter than Burukutu since it is not allowed to settle down.

Luka, an addict of the local brew said Pito tastes like Heineken beer, that is why he goes for it anyday. Gyang Paul, a keke operator prefers to describe Pito as feminine, while Burukutu is masculine.

It is always fun when you visit consumption places, as consumers are seen singing local tunes, playing local xylophone along with corresponding local dance steps. In most consumption places, these drinks are served with special delicacy, including, suya, fish, dog meat, pig meat or spiced vegetable.

At BKT market, located at One Man Village, a suburb of FCT along Keffi-Abuja road, sites of burukutu joints dot the entire settlement, while hundreds of women eke a livelihood from cooking the local brew.

Though the process of brewing is strenuous, yet women constitute the bulk of the brewers. These women consume the drinks too. In fact the younger women seem to consume the drinks more than the men.

These drinks seem to have won the heart of many residents than other local drinks such as the dangerous “goskolo, ogogoro”, and other local gins.” The number of consumption centres has doubled and has continued to rise. The addiction to these drinks is better seen than imagined, as many young people wake up and start their day at Burukutu and Pito consumption centres.

They drink to the point that they do not have appetite for food anymore and this re-

A trip to Monkey Village in Abuja

Ministry to review RBDAs

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he Federal Ministry of Water Resources is to embark on the full commercialization of the River Basins Development Authorities (RBDAs) in order to make them self-reliance in their funding operations.

Minister of FMWR, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe, stated this Monday in Abuja while declaring opened the retreat organized by the ministry for the Boards and Management of the RBDAs. Ochekpe revealed that the partial commercialization exercise of the RBDAs previously embarked upon by the ministry was unsuccessful, adding that the policy is to be revisited by the National Council on Privatization following the release of the white paper on the Orosanya panel on the review of FG’s Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

She further stated that the Ministry has

ll over the world, business people do employ all manners of strategies to ensure they record bumper turn over from their investment.

Some of the innovations they bring include advertising their goods and services using the multimedia, giving out incentives like discounts as well as choosing business names that are catchy and outstanding.

One of such unfamiliar names was discovered in the Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Welcome to the ever popular Monkey Village located by the popular Tipper Garage in one of the satellite towns that make up Abuja.

Before your mind starts racing with all manners of thoughts, let me kill that curiosity by letting you know that contrary to the name, Monkey Village is not inhabited by monkeys or their immediate cousins, baboons but by human beings.

The next question now will be about what they do at the supposed ‘village of monkeys?’ Again, for your information; it is only the type of businesses they do in other places that goes on in our most cherished Monkey Village.

Well the compound of Monkey Village is very serene with beautiful mango trees that provide shade especially during the hot afternoon on one side and a long hall that has a traditional grass roof which is common in the Northern Nigeria. When it rains, the attention of the numerous people that visit the village on a daily basis will now turn to the building which also has television sets located at various spots for the entertainment of the guests.

Yes Monkey Village is a relaxation centre which is operated by a middle aged Tiv woman.

New Telegraph was told by the owner who however refused to disclose her name that the rather strange name of the place was derived about 20 years ago because then monkeys used to stay in the area and local hunters used to go there for gaming.

She also cleared the air on whether monkey is served there as a delicacy as the name suggests saying there are no more monkeys there and that even as other bush meats are served there, monkeys have never been considered.

“We don’t serve monkeys here again because there is even no one to catch.

May be when my father was operating this place such may have happened but in my time there is nothing like that and no customer has been here for monkeys.

What we sell is fish, chicken, bush meat and isi ewu (goat head), we don’t serve even dogs here because I am sure that may be the next thing you will ask me”.

Another remarkable aspect of the place is the existence of some girls who though serve at the place as waitresses but there are very strong indications that they are also there as the easy sisters who would be ready to offer other services for money.

A regular customer at Monkey Village told New Telegraph that most of the men that throng the place in the mornings only to resurface in the night to bargain for some other things that he believed he could get from the particular girl in question.

Monkey Village is a place where some fun seeking men do go to unwind after the day’s hard job over bottles of beer and anything to chew. Also business meetings are scheduled there. It is for the rich and the poor alike as explained by the sitting arrangements under the tree with friends and loved ones.

62

Abuja Beats What informed your venturing into commercial driving?

I have been looking forward to a day I will do a thing like this. I have been so determined to do this even when my husband was alive. We discussed it that when we gather money and buy a car that I was going to use it for commercial purposes to help augment the family income.

Did you buy this your car before or after your husband’s demise and how?

I got this car after my husband’s death.

It is a man he worked with that gave me the money as a support to the family. My husband was an inspector in Nigerian Police by name Yakubu Onde and worked with Hon Mutu a House of Representatives member. His Oga, Hon Mutu sponsored the burial bill and gave us the money that I used in the purchase of this car as his support to the family.

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

I love my job -Female taxi driver Mrs. Patricia Onde a widow with four children reveals in this Interview with OBINNA ODOH that she had always dreamt of becoming a commercial driver and now feels accomplished and excited doing it as a female gender

Why didn’t you think of any other business that is female friendly instead of taxi driving?

I didn’t need to because I knew what I wanted as l prefer driving to any other business. When I got the money I saw it as a dream come through because I prefer commercial driving and enjoys doing it.

Do you have any other business other than this?

No. But I’m a fashion designer and also computer literate and don’t consider them worth doing. I feel fulfilled in what I’m doing.

Are you registered with NURTW and how long have you been into this work?

I’m registered and have my papers and receipt here with me. I started this work in October last year.

How do you feel doing this work popularly done by men?

I feel excited, sometimes when feel I demoralised by stress or family problem in the house I do take solace in this work. Once I come out and start picking passengers on the way I get revived and happy again. This work gives me hope.

How do you combine this work with your family responsibilities?

First, I put my house in order before coming out for this business. For instance, I have a little child still in nursery school now and I do take her to school every morning and pick her up in the afternoon when they close. I do this work only during the day and retire home in the evening time to continue my home chores and look after my children.

Have you at any time experienced any form of stigmatisation, for instance, stopping to pick a passenger and the person shuns you or refuses to board?

Yes, severally.

How did you feel in such circumstances?

I felt normal because in business sometimes you gain and some other times you lose. I do go the extra mile in convincing some of my passengers before they will enter but some other persons no matter the amount of preaching will never board. Some refuse to enter because they are afraid of the unknown while others refused because they are not certain of a woman doing commercial driving.

How about your children, how do they feel seeing their mother as a taxi driver?

They feel very happy because that is where their school fees are got from.

Whenever I want to leave the house for work they pray for me for safety and success. For instance my first son who is 12 years old now before I leave my house every morning will pass a de-

cree that “God will prosper and bless you mummy, when coming back buy me water melon” and I will say yes to his request.

How do you cope with intimidations coming from task force members and touts?

Tolerance and patience are the key things that have been sustaining me.

There are times men abuse me and call me all kinds of names but I will keep quiet and take them as a challenge associated with road work. Like three days ago an army officer at a checkpoint insulted me and said, “Will you leave this place now! Do you think it’s your father’s house?” When I came out of the car to tell him that the crime and trouble done by men on the high ways is more than the one done by women he saw that I was a woman he gave me pass and said “carry your wahala and go” .

Sometimes I meet VIO, Road Safety and get arrested by them but God always on my side they will release me. Another man stoned me last week because I blew a horn for him to leave the road so that I can pass. He intentionally remained

on the road for a long time probably because he may be wealthy or an important person but I kept calm until he left the road and I started moving. So on and on but all these don’t upset me again and can never deter me in this work. Agbero and task force threats/ intimidation do not move me anymore but help me to build confidence. Sometimes they harass me publicly but I’m already use to it. It takes boldness and courage to used the road especially Abuja highway on a regular bases. So they have helped me a lot in this work.

Initially it was not so but there threats have helped me to cope with the challenges of highway.

What are the challenges facing you in this work?

Finance is the most pressing challenge.

The increase in family responsibility has made whatever I’m earning to be inadequate. Also tears and wears arising from my car and the repairs could not allow me to meet up with other family needs.

What is your advice to widows and women those whose husbands are low

income earners?

I urge my fellow widows and women in general to come out of the cave of illusion and face the reality of life. For me what men can do women also can do and to support the family women should try to contribute in putting food on the table in our homes. Bible calls us a help meet and as such we should work hard and contribute to family upkeep to augment what our husband is bringing.

What do you want government, churches, mosques and NGOs to do for widows and women in general?

I heard that there are women empowerments programmes organized by government but have not benefited from such. I plead with government and all the concerned agencies to look at the plight of widows in Nigeria and come to our aid. When a woman is empowered it is the entire family that will benefit. The work I’m doing today is benefiting my family. The problem I’m facing is that my car is getting old and I spend much on the repair. I plead with government to help me change my car for a better one so as to help me in this business.

63

MAY 18, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Sport / News

Taye Taiwo disappointed at World Cup exclusion

S

Arsenal players celebrate FA Cup victory after a nine-year wait

Gunners end trophy drought, win 2014 English FA Cup

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fter nine years, Arsenal’s trophy drought is over. It took a two-goal comeback and the majority of extra time to pull it off, but Aaron Ramsey eventually scored the game-winning goal to become a Gunners hero and guide his side to a 3-2 victory.

Arsenal were slow out of the gate and were absolutely wrecked on set pieces twice in the opening minutes. The Gunners had no answer for the for the power of Hull’s three central defenders, with all of them getting involved in early action, though the game’s opening goal had more to do with a great design than anyone’s size or tenacity.

RESULTS

Africa Cup of Nations Qualification Malawi 2 - 0 Chad Namibia 1 - 0 Congo ST and Principe 0 - 0 Benin Spain - Liga BBVA Real Madrid 3 - 1 Espanyol Barcelona 1 - 1 A. Madrid Malaga 1 - 0 Levante Turkey - Super Lig Rizespor 3 - 1 Elazigspor Bursaspor 3 - 1 Gaziantepspor Besiktas 1 - 1 Genclerbirligi Galatasaray 2 - 1 Erciyesspor Sweden - Superettan Husqvarna FF 0 - 0 Assyriska IFK Varnamo 1 - 0 Sundsvall Sirius 0 - 1 Jonkoping S. Degerfors 2 - 2 Ostersund Finland - Veikkausliiga FC Inter 0 - 0 VPS FC Lahti 1 - 0 RoPS FF Jaro 2 - 0 Turku PS KuPS 2 - 0 Honka Seinaejoen 3 - 0 Mariehamn

James Chester scored the opener by turning in a volley by Tom Huddlestone, just four minutes into the match. Hull intentionally played a deep corner to Huddlestone outside of the box and all of the Arsenal defenders followed. That left Chester completely unmarked 10 yards from goal, and he was able to re-direct an attempt from Huddlestone that was half-shot, half-pass into the back of the net.

Another four minutes after that, Hull struck again. Stephen Quinn set up the chance with a cross to the center of the box, which Alex Bruce won in the air to force a save out of Lukasz Fabianski. He had no help clearing the rebound, however, and Curtis Davies was in the perfect spot to smash it in to put Hull up 2-0.

The Tigers very nearly went up by a third goal to nil in the 13th minute, but Kieran Gibbs made an excellent play to head an attempt

by Bruce -- again off a set piece -- off

the line when it looked destined to find the net at the top corner.

Arsenal looked incredibly rattled and were constantly getting outmuscled in midfield, but took advantage of the first opportunity they were granted by Hull. Santi Cazorla was able to draw a foul on Bruce 25 yards from goal in the 16th minute and made the most of it, curling the ensuing free kick over the wall and past Allan McGregor, who took a step in the wrong direction before Cazorla hit the ball, giving him no chance to make the save.

The final half-hour of the first half was intense, with both sides generating some half-chances in a fast-paced section of the match, but there were no massive scoring opportunities to come out of the rest of the half, and Hull took a 2-1 lead into the locker room at halftime.

Penalty shouts would be the biggest story of the second half, with Arsenal creating three of them -- and

Atletico Madrid crowned champions of La Liga

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tletico Madrid have been crowned champions of La Liga following a dramatic draw in the final fixture against Barcelona at Camp Nou on Saturday.

Barcelona needed a win to claim the title, while a draw was enough for Atletico as Diego Simeone’s side went into the game with a three-point lead over Gerardo Martino’s men.

Atletico were hit with a double blow early on as first Diego Costa and then Arda Turan limped off with injuries, but the Rojiblancos continued to compete in an evenly disputed first half.

But almost out of nothing, Alexis Sanchez blasted Barca into the lead with a fierce angled drive after 33 minutes.

Atletico started the second half with a bang, however, and after

David Villa had hit the post, Diego Godin headed home from a corner to make it 1-1 after 49 minutes.

Lionel Messi had the ball in the net later in the half, but the Argentine’s strike was correctly ruled out for offside and Atletico held on to claim La Liga by a three-point margin - their first title since 1996.

Atletico players throw up manager Diego Simeone after winning the La Liga title on Satruday

getting none. They should have been granted a spot kick in the 58th minute when Tom Huddlestone shoved Olivier Giroud in the box, and on two other occasions when Cazorla was brought on. Each time, Lee Probert saw nothing.

An injury necessitated a slight tactical adjustment from Hull in the 67th minute, though they didn’t move away from three at the back.

Paul McShane replaced Alex Bruce, with James Chester moving inside to take Bruce’s place and McShane taking over Chester’s old right central defense spot.

The Gunners got their equalizer five minutes after that, on a somewhat lucky and poorly defended corner, though he showed great fight to apply the finish. A lofted ball

by Cazorla ping-ponged around in the box before falling to Koscielny on the edge of the six-yard box, and he beat McGregor to the ball, poking it over the line to level the match.

No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

La Liga Table TEAM A. Madrid Barcelona Real Madrid Athletic Bilbao Sevilla Real Sociedad Villarreal Celta Vigo Levante Valencia Malaga Rayo Vallecano Espanyol Elche Almeria Getafe Granada Osasuna Valladolid Real Betis

P PTS 38 90 38 87 38 87 37 69 37 60 37 59 37 56 37 49 38 48 37 46 38 45 37 43 38 42 37 40 37 39 37 39 37 38 37 36 37 36 37 25

uper Eagles defender, Taye Taiwo, has expressed his disappointment not making the provisional list of 30 players named by the Eagles chief coach, Stephen Keshi for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Keshi announced his provisional list without the Turkeybased full-back as well as strikers Obafemi Martins and Ike Uche, who have not been a part of the team since he resumed duty as Nigeria handler.

Taiwo, who has over 50 caps for the national team, said that he expected an explanation about his omission for the highly-anticipated football showpiece.

“Yes, I am surprised because I don’t have any problem with the coach and I have been playing well in my club. If there was any problem, at least they could have told me ‘okay Taye, this is the problem,’ he said.

He added: “I don’t really know. But even in Europe when they bring a new coach, there are lots of changes sometimes. Sometimes the new coach doesn’t have you in his plans.

Everywhere, even in Europe, the coach has his own players that he wants. If the coach doesn’t believe in you, no matter how you train, you can’t do anything about it.

“I am really disappointed because I am a Nigerian player.

But I can’t say I want to stop playing for the national team.

Life is all about understanding.”

He noted that: “Maybe this period our coach doesn’t want me. But that is not a problem for me. There are people who have played there before who are not there anymore. If they call me, I will come,” Taiwo stated.

Rome Masters: Djokovic survives Raonic to reach final

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ovak Djokovic reached the Rome Masters final for the fifth time in his career after coming through a tough semi-final with Milos Raonic 6-7 (5-7) 7-6 (7-4) 6-3.

Djokovic, who has won the tournament twice, in 2008 and 2011, needed exactly three hours to rack up his second win against Montenegrin-born Raonic in as many encounters.

In a highly tactical clash, bigserving Raonic clubbed 16 aces with some flying past the second seed at more than 140 mph.

“I can’t recall the last time when I was feeling so helpless in the return games,” Djokovic said. “It was brutal.”

The 26-year-old looked to have the first set sewn up when he won the first three points in the day’s first tiebreak, only for Raonic to fire back with an incredible sixpoint streak on his way to sealing an opening set in which he flung down eight aces.

SPORT Gunners end trophy drought, win 2014 English }63 FA Cup

Sanctity of Truth w ww. n ew te l e g r ap h on l i n e . c om

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth. – Buddha

VOL. 1 NO. 89

SUNDAY, MAY 18, 2014

N150

FAITH Why I dumped banking for the pulpit –Pastor Franca Anyanwu

} 52

Hostage to the jurist…A tribute to Justice Oputa

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hose who lived in Port Harcourt before the Civil War and witnessed the eventual exodus of Ndigbo from the city in 1968 will read this story with keen interest, self-assured of the truth.

Then in the Garden City, everything was fast developing. The legal system and practice were equally growing and very fast too. Young and brilliant Igbo lawyers were returning to the city from overseas, attracted by PH’s economic buoyance and vibrant social activities.

As a school pupil at St. Mary’s Catholic School, Port- Harcourt, who dreamt of becoming a lawyer, I had developed a certain penchant for going to the Magistrate Court, which was located at Factory Road near the railway terminal. The courts closed then at 3pm, so I had to run fast in order to get a good listening to court proceedings, which were very interesting and sometimes entertaining.

My interest in court proceedings was so intense that during holidays, even as an “indigent” pupil who would always use the holiday period to look for a job in order to make some money to pay the next school fees, I preferred menial jobs around the motor park which was not too far from the court premises. In this way, I could gravitate to the court to watch, listen and observe the unfolding drama between the bench and the bar and sometimes between the accused and the defence.

It was during one of those adventurous visits to the courts that I came to know a young and popular lawyer by name Barrister Chukwudifu Oputa, a handsome fairly sized man whose face radiated innocence and his body, gentility. After every court session, people would surround him if only to have a chat with him because he was charming lawyer with a lot of wits.

Indeed, he was highly sought-after because of his brilliance at the bar and the number of cases he was winning.

Apart from him, there were other impressive lawyers such as Richard Aguta, K.K. Ogba, Sam Mbakwe and a few others. These and many others were mainly Igbo Lawyers. By 1961, another very handsome and personable lawyer J.I.J. Otuka had joined the group and, before long, had begun to make an impression. The most towering and popular lawyer of Rivers extraction was Graham Douglas, a wellbuilt individual with a large trunk of body from head to toe. He too was equally handsome and Personable.

In the late 60’s, I ventured to the United Kingdom to realize my vision of becoming a lawyer. But, owing to circumstances beyond my control, things just didn’t work out that way for me---as they say, man proposes but God disposes! Returning home before the civil war, things were no longer at ease as the war fever had adversely

Rhythm of Wits Chuks Osuji

The late Oputa

affected a everybody and everything.

Many Port Harcourt residents left the city in May 1968 to delight of the Rivers person.

For several years throughout the war and after, I did not meet Justice Oputa again until sometime in 1980s when I had long come back from USA. Through a combination of circumstances, I had the privilege of paying him a visit. And that’s how I became a ‘voluntary hostage!’

By then, Oputa had become the Chief Justice of Imo State, who handled the famous NPP Vs NPN or better still, Chief Sam Mbakwe and Amalaha Vs NPN and the then FEDECO. The issue was that Amalaha, the victorious Deputy Governor to Mbakwe had been found not to have resigned his appointment before contesting the election as the Deputy Governor. The issue was that since the ticket was faulty by the entry of Dr. Amalaha,

MAMA LASISI

could that not mean that the governor’s success was equally damaged?

No, the eminent justice declared; he did not see it that way. In the landmark judgment, Justice Oputa ruled that the case was that of natural and social justice and not legal justice per se.

In fact, sitting with him in conversation was just like a philosopher student sitting with a philosopher guru.

Thank God that by then, fresh from the university, I had also read a lot of books on several philosophers, including Socrates, Dante, Locke, David Easton and others and could respond to his line of argument and reasoning intelligently.

He was, to be sure, a creative converser. Every topic be brought up or which I did, he did not handle it from any other perspective except from the perspective of law. Even to answer yes to any question or inquiry, he would be so careful not to say yes but to say “that may be correct” or possibly, thereby tasking me all through to arrive at the answer by myself.

Throughout our interaction, he was more interested in discussing ideas, events, courses and sequences. We discussed the civil war, our own mistakes, shortcomings and other general issues of public interest. But we never discussed family because I just didn’t know how to raise the issue of family with a man about 30 years my senior.

We were already more than one and half hours into our conversation before he remembered that he had not offered me ‘kola’, as is traditional in Igbo society. We both laughed. I did not mind it all, because his knowledge, wisdom and experiences that I was

practically drinking from in the course encounter were more than enough kola.

Two hours into our discussion, I begged to leave. But I met a shocker when he told me, rather very frankly and very friendly, “you are not going to go soon because as a Judge, except members of my immediate family, I like every other Judge, I hardly have visitors because people are afraid to visit a judge for fear of being labeled a conveyer of bribe money. So, Dr Osuji, whenever I get a visitor, I virtually hold the person voluntary hostage. After all, as a Judge, I have the right to hold you hostage but not as accused but as a friendly visitor.” I honestly laughed and laughed. He did not laugh over it because apparently, he was used to it.

However, my relief came when a Judge colleague of his came knocking at the gate. He personally went to open the gate himself.

For years, I maintained a distant contact with him. But I did invite him to every ceremony where his wisdom and wealth of experience could be expended to the younger generation. But before I left him, he gave me a copy of his book, “Twin Pillars of Justice,” a book, which I read over and over again because each time I read it, I learnt a new thing.

Although one of his children Charles (Charly Boy) is a very popular person in the world of entertainment, his father Justice Oputa was popular among those who had dined with jurists, philosophers, kings and queens. He was a highly talented person, calm and careful and a man of enormous wisdom and wits. Which lawyer would not like to aspire to the height of Justice Oputa, whose land mark rulings dominate legal reference books, just like those of the legendary Lord Denning of England?

Adieu philosopher lawyer, icon of legal profession and genius.

•From today, Dr. Chuks Osuji, former MAMSER Director in Imo State will write this column every other week

By Aliu Eroje

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