Saturday, august 15, 2015binder1

BRISTOW HELICOPTER CRASH

‘He was looking forward to my brother’s wedding in October’ - Friend pays tribute to co-pilot, Peter Bello, who was also a celebrity photographer

SATURDAY } 10 Saturday, August 15, 2015 Vol. 2 No. 542

doris simeon

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Sanctity of Truth

} /newtelegraph

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

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OONI’S COFFIN NOT AT BURIAL SERVICE

lSouth-West govs, except Mimiko, absent l’Abobaku’ family, royal fathers not in attendance lPalace source: We I can now call don’t bury humans with the king }4, 10-12 Nollywood producers’ bluff }17

ANTI CORRUPTION

Buhari under pressure to consider plea bargain }5

Army to Ransome-Kuti: You must face trial for negligence

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Contents | 15.08.15 CONVERSATION

A Veteran’s Headache As pioneer president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Lari Williams is indeed a showbiz veteran. But there is hardly anything about his present state consistent with his illustrious past

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INSTYLE

Stun With Slits There’s a regal - even if irreverent - air that surrounds you once you slip into a frontslit dress. But you have to know how not to step beyond the borders of decency

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SHOWBIZ

Nostalgic Beats Between the ‘60s and ‘80s, Blackman Akeeb Kareem’s music was a regular staple at the Lagos music scene. He returns after a 35-year absence with a live performance

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SPORT

Relay Time Former world record holder in 100m men and Sydney Olympics gold medallist, Maurice Greene, talks about working as Team Nigeria’s relay coordinator

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DESTINATION

Alluring Istanbul A weeklong business tour to Istanbul results in an exhilarating travelogue from Turkey’s largest city that features a blend of the old and modern

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FEATURES

Living Nightmare Residents of Arepo, in Ogun State, live at the mercy of oil pirates and the threat of an even greater nightmare pipeline explosion

}50 Plus: Street Diary 10 | Faceoff 48

SATURDAY

Comment

Efcc: Whiff of fresh air

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fter what appeared like a slumber, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission appears to be up to its responsibility. Before last month petered out, three former governors were dragged to court to account for their financial stewardship.

Chief Ihedi Ohakim, governor of Imo state between 2007 and 2011, immediate past governors of Adamawa and Jigawa,Adm. Murtala Nyako and Alhaji Sule Lamido, are the first batch of Very Important Personalities to be tried since the emergence of President Muhamadu Buhari.

Nyako is in court with his son, Abdul-Aziz, who is a serving senator under the ruling All Progressives Alliance (APC).Lamido is in custody with his two sons, Aminu and Mustapha, among other aides.The accused are standing trial over allegations that they defrauded government of millions of Naira which went into purchase of property for personal use and servicing their private companies with government contracts.

While Ohakim was granted bail to the sum of 270 million Naira by Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja and the Nyakos also got similar treatment from Justice E. Chukwu with a bail sum of 350 million Naira on their 29 billion fraud charge, the Lamidos were not given that comfort at the Federal High Court Kano presided over by Justice Evelyn Anyadike untit the following week.

The arraignment of these top politicians and their cronies is a welcome development as long as due process is followed. Under the Chief Olusegun Obasanjo administration, the Nuhu Ribadu led EFCC was used to witch hunt perceived political enemies.

While the erstwhile boss had declared on the floor of the Senate that over 30 state governors were due for trial, he ended up with about four or five, all in the bad boo,ks of the Obasanjo regime over sundry political issues.

We are worried that governance in the states was reduced to high sound-

ing loans that ended up in private pockets with little left to cater for the needs of the people. While the politicians fed fat from state resources, workers and development took the back seat. The result is that today most of the states are broke.

And we hope that thorough investigations were carried out before charging the governors to court. A situation where people are accused of coruption without sufficient grounds does not show any sense of responsibility. Trial just for the sake of it or in order to play to the gallery, definitely will not help in the renewed fight against abuse of office.

We also warn that the EFCC must be seen as an agency willing to live up to its name. There must be no sacred cows. If sleaze must be tackled, it should be attacked headlong. There is no place in the law where one corrupt official is treated with kid gloves while another is sent to maximum detention.

Nigerians want to hear that politicians who squandered the peoples goodwill as well as fund meant for development , are punished for their maladministration. It is not enough to charge them to court. If found guilty corrupt officials should be sent to jail.

For a long while, the EFCC was more interested in prosecuting Internet fraudsters and a couple of bankers who stole in scanty millions leaving those who fleeced the people dry to walk the streets free as super humans.

EFCC must also extend their searchlight to the bureaucrats. Politicians, like soldiers , come and go. Those who work with them as Permanent Secretaries, Directors and officers remain to perfect some of these criminal tendencies . When it is time to answer charges, governors and ministers are targeted leaving the civil servants on their desks to perpetuate more damage. This must stop.

As we commend the EFCC, it is our conviction that they will never wake up from the wrong side of the bed to pursue selfish ambitions. We also warn that an accused remains innocent until guilt is established beyond reasonable doubt.

DAILY TELEGRAPH PUBLISHING COMPANY LIMITED Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief

Funke Egbemode

Editor n Yemi Ajayi Editor, Saturday n Laurence Ani Editor, Sunday n Emeka Madunagu

Deputy Editor, Saturday n Waheed Bakare

Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz

Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins

Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam

Ag. Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi

News Editor, Saturday n Ndubuisi Ugah

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed

Sales/Circulation Manager n Oyebanji Abiodun

Head, Graphics n Timothy Akinleye

Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Ile-Ife stands still as Ooni is buried

Adeolu Adeyemo, Adesina Wahab and Cajetan Mmuta OSOGBO/Ado-Ekiti /BENIN

l Osinbajo, Aregbesola, Fayose, Oshiomhole, Gani Adams, others bid him goodbye lWhereabouts of ‘Abobaku’ still unknown

minent Nigerians, including sons and daughters of Ile-Ife in Osun State yesterday paid their last respect to the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade (Olubuse 11), as they converged on the ancient town for the interdenominational service held in honour of the late monarch.

Some of the personalities who witnessed the occasion were Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo; former military governor of the Old Western Region, General Adeyinka Adebayo; General Alani Akinriade, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; former Osun State Deputy governor, Chief Iyiola Omisore; a representative of Ogun State Government, Lanre Banjo; Mr. Dele Momodu; Dr. Dosunmu Awolowo, Kola Awolowo, Admiral Akin Aduwo, and Senator Jide Omoworare among others.

Also, all the late monarch’s children were all seated, while his wives, Oloris Monisola, Ladun, Odunola, Linda were all in the front roll at the venue of the event.

However, the state Governor, rauf Aregbesola, was absent. He was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Moshood Adeoti.

The town witnessed an influx of notable politicians, traditional rulers and members of the diplomatic corps.

The town, which stood still for the monarch witnessed heavy human and vehicular traffic on major roads and streets.

A combined team of regular and mobile policemen, including officers from the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence Corps, State Security Service, plainclothes security men, Air Force and Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) and local vigilante groups from the town and suburbs were all in attendance to control the huge crowd who turned up for the programme.

In his short speech at the occasion, Vice-President Osinbajo described the late monarch as a good custodian of culture and tradition and good representative of the Yorubas.

He said he lived a ful-

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filled life, advocating that his successor must work towards advancing the advancement of the Yoruba the more.

“His lifetime was a totality of total transformation of his domain and humanity and what he had done would continue to be a reference point in Nigeria. People of Osun State, mostly the people of Ile- Ife should not mourn but give glory to God Almighty for a life well spent by the king.”

In his sermon, the Bishop of Ile-Ife Diocese, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Right Reverend Oluranti Odubogun, called on Nigerians to see their sojourn on earth as an opportunity to serve God and humanity.

Ministering at the service also, the Bishop of Ile Ife, the Very Reverend Oluranti Odubogun, said death was inevitable, hence the need for man to always prepare at all times.

Represented by the Dean of the Cathedral, Reverend Olusola Akanbi, the cleric who noted that death had no respect for anybody irrespective of

status and influence, described Oba Sijuwade as a devoted Christian who spent his life to serve God and humanity.

In his sermon entitled: “How are the Mighty falling”, Akanbi said what had a beginning must have an end and maintained that, there is time for everything in life and charged those in attendance to move closer to God through the Lord Jesus Christ who was the only way, the truth and the life to the existence of every creature in life.”

In his own sermon, the Muslim cleric of Ife Central Mosque, Alhaji Busirat Adedeji Balogun, said the late monarch had taken the fame of the Yoruba to the continent.

He charged people to always remember the time they would not be able to raise their hands and legs again in life and advised all to be God's friends at all time and work according to his precepts.

Also, Aregbeaola said: “His lifetime was a life of great service to Nigeria and humanity and as the Permanent Chairman of Osun State Council of

Obas, he ran his administration with exemplary leadership that would continue to be a reference point in the state and Nigeria in general. Sijuwade would continue to be celebrated for his service to humanity, Osun State and Nigeria at large.”

In his appreciation remark, the eldest son, Tokunbo Sijuwade, prayed that God would see them through their journey back to their different destinations.

Speaking also, Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose, said the place of the late Ooni of Ife in the history of the Yoruba race was guaranteed for posterity by his enormous contributions to the upliftment of the Yoruba people in the global stage.

Fayose, in a tribute in Ado-Ekiti yesterday, said: “Oba Okunade Sijuwade though born into royalty did not allow that to get to his head as he carved a niche for himself in the business world. While not forgetting his affluent background, he delved to the business world early in life.

“Worthy of commendation is Oba Sijuwade’s large heart. He elevated a number of chiefs in his domain to Obaship status and did not consider that as making them his rivals.”

His Edo State counterpart, Adams Oshiomhole, in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Peter Okhiria, said: “The transition of the Ooni, the custodian of the rich history and tradition of the Yoruba people, is a colossal loss not only to the people of Ile Ife, but also the people of the State of Osun, the Yoruba race and the entire nation.”

The National Coordinator of OPC and Convener of the Oodua Progressives Union (OPU), Chief Gani Adams, described Sijuwade’s death as a monumental and irreparable loss to the Oduduwa race.

He said: “The enigmatic and wondrous deity of the Yoruba in human form, Oonirisa Olubuse II has completed his mission as assigned to him by the owners of the world. c on t i n u e d on page 1 1

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Anti-graft war: Jonathan’s men may escape prosecution Onwuka Nzeshi and Emmanuel Onani

S ABUJA

ome former state governors, ministers, heads of parastatals and personal aides of former President Goodluck Jonathan may eventually escape prosecution for their alleged looting of the treasury if the current moves by some power brokers to sway the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to change their strategies in the antigraft war succeed.

There are strong indications that the Federal Government may not prosecute suspected looters of public funds, who enter into plea-bargain.

Investigations by Saturday Telegraph revealed that some persons, whom the EFCC as well as the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), have investigated and found to have engaged in financial impropriety, have been returning what they allegedly stole.

According to a highly placed detective, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, “I think some people have been returning stolen funds and you see, what is important to us here, is to return what was stolen from government, back to the treasury.

“The truth is, if that does not happen, some suspects have the capacity to frustrate trial, using what they may have taken, to achieve that. The anti-graft agencies are seriously working to recover stolen funds, and there is no stopping, especially considering Mr. President’s zero tolerance for corruption.”

Official comments could not be got from the spokesmen for the EFCC and ICPC, Messrs Wilson Uwujaren and Folu Olamiti, respectively, as at press time.

In the last two months, the EFCC had arrested, detained and in some cases, arraigned suspects in court while the DSS had merely arrested and interrogated some officials of the past administration with a view to ascertaining the level of their involvement in alleged corrupt practices.

Some of Jonathan’s aides, including the National Security Adviser (NSA), Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd) and his Chief Security Officer, Mr. Gordon Obuah, have been quizzed by the EFCC and the DSS. The next stage would had been to formally arraign these aides in court and if found guilty, send them to jail.

Saturday Telegraph learnt that there had been several moves in the last one week to give these officials, a soft landing through the plea

l Pressure mounts on Buhari to consider plea bargain

bargain option.

President Buhari recently played host to some prominent Nigerians, including his predecessor, Goodluck Jonathan and two former Heads of State, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and General Abdulsalam Abubakar and a retinue of others. The visits came in quick succession following allegations of bias and witch-hunting levelled against the government by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and officials of the previous administration.

It was widely believed

that these figures were at the Presidential Villa to prevail on Buhari to rein in the security agencies to handle the anti-corruption war more discretely to give those found culpable the opportunity to make restitution. It was learnt that these efforts have started yielding positive results as some former aides of Jonathan have reportedly returned some of the missing funds traced to their accounts.

It was gathered that about N1.5 billion has been recovered from one of the former

presidential aides and that the Federal Government had concluded arrangements to create an escrow account for the lodgement of the recovered loot.

A presidency source disclosed to Saturday Telegraph that people were already coming up with concrete evidence on the plundering of the nation’s commonwealth by past public office holders.

“People are coming forward with documents on how the treasury was plundered. Some details of the

sordid transactions in the oil sector have been submitted to President Buhari.

Nigerians will be surprised with the mindless looting of the treasury by those trusted with the nation’s commonwealth. It’s mindboggling,” the source said.

“The permanent secretaries did not just brief the president on the situation on the ground in their respective ministries, but they presented some documents on some transactions that are not in conformity with due process. So, the briefing

some of the permanent secretaries had with the president was revealing. Don’t forget that the permanent secretaries are the chief executives of the ministries,” the source added.

It was also learnt that the setting up of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Corruption was an indication that President Buhari had succumbed to the counsel of some prominent Nigerians for a change of tactics in the fight against corruption.

The seven- man committee is headed by Prof. Itse Sagay, an erudite scholar and anticorruption crusader.

...Musdapher, Odinkalu, NBA scribe differ on adoption of policy Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

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he controversy trailing the concept of plea bargain in the nation’s criminal justice system is not likely to end soon as eminent legal experts disagreed over the use of plea bargain in the renewed fight against corruption

by President Muhammadu Buhari.

While some said plea bargain was strange to the country’s jurisprudence, others said there was nothing bad in it, so long as stolen monies were recovered.

Those who are kicking against it claim that it was unknown to our legal system, while those in support of it insist it has always been with us.

One of the major voices against plea bargain is a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Dahiru Musdapher.

According to him, plea bargain is “dubious. I still stand to state that the concept is not only dubious but was never part of the history of our legal system – at least until it was surreptitiously smuggled into our statutory laws with the creation of the EFCC.” He stressed that a proper understanding of the concept was needed to correct the “misconception that what is being plea bargained is the proceeds of the crime rather than the crime itself with a view to handing out a lesser punishment for the offence committed.”

The ex-CJN added: “The essence of the concept is the recovery of stolen money and therefore not subject to negotiation. What is subject to negotiation should be the prosecution and punishment for embezzlement.

“Even where the stolen money is returned by the offender, he has committed this offence of theft or abuse of office for which he must still be tried and punished.

“I would say that the concept of plea bargain is indeed a threat to our crimi-

nal justice system in Africa and can only turn into a promise with the eradication of corruption and the right application of the concept.”

On his part, Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof.

Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, said a former Inspector General of Police (IG), Tafa Balogun; former Managing Director of Oceanic Bank, Mrs. Cecilia Ibru and former Governor of Edo State, Mr. Lucky Igbinedion, would probably still be in

court or would have had the charges against them quashed if not for plea bargain.

Odinkalu, who said the only way for them to secure conviction was by plea bargain, said: “In summary, we have a criminal justice system that is unable to catch those who violate its rules; unable to ensure accountability even for the most basic crimes; detains those whom it cannot convict often for longer than it can hold them if it were to convict them; and, without

consequences, kills many on whom it can’t even pin any charge of criminal conduct. In one sentence, our criminal justice system has normalised abnormality.”

Corroborating Odinkalu’s position, the national secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Maxi Afam Osigwe, called for the regulation of plea bargain and for the accused person to be made to honestly declare his assets.

He said at a time when Nigeria had to rely on Brit-

ain to secure conviction of the former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, the time, he said, had come for Nigeria to admit that its criminal justice system had failed.

Another senior lawyer and Chairman of Settlement House, Dr. Ken Nwosu, said the power to do plea bargain was inherent in the powers conferred on the Attorney General of the Federation to prosecute cases by Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

L-R: Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and a guest, at the Interdenominational funeral service for the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, in Ile-Ife, Osun State…yesterday.

Army to Ransome-Kuti: You must face trial for negligence of duty Our Correspondent General Court Martial (GCM), trying the former Commander of the disbanded Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in Baga, Borno State, Brigadier-General E. RansomeKuti, has ordered the onestar General to enter his defence to offences relating to loss of service property as well as failure to perform military duty.

The GCM, which is headed by Major General Ekanem, handed down the order on Wednesday, after it dismissed a “no case submission” the former MNJTF

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commander entered to the charge preferred against him.

He was freed on the count of cowardly behaviour.

The GCM, however, discharged and acquitted three other officers, who operated under his command.

The names of the freed officers are: Col. Ajunwa, Lt-Col. Haruna and Lt-Col. Suru.

A highly-placed military source, who spoke with Saturday Telegraph on the condition of anonymity, said Barrister K. Ajunwa (counsel to Ajunwa) and Barrister Shuaibu Isah (counsel to Haruna and

Suu), had urged the court to discharge and acquit their clients, arguing that the proof of evidence before the GCM, did not disclose a prima facie case against the accused officers, to warrant their standing trial.

The GCM upheld Isah and Ajunwa's separate submissions and accordingly, discharged and acquitted them in respect of count one, which bordered on cowardly behaviour, count two, was in respect of loss of service property, while count three bordered on failure to perform military duty.

However, the court mar-

tial overruled RansomeKuti’s no case submission in respect of counts two and three, which border on loss of service property and failure to perform military duties.

He is, therefore, scheduled to enter his defence on September 1.

The Army is trying Ransome-Kuti over the January attack on the MNJTF in Baga, Borno State, by Boko Haram fighters.

Military sources said despite the heavy equipment at the disposal of the MNJTF, Boko Haram fighters were able to overrun its base and the entire Baga town.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

OWERRI Buhari tasks women on home building

N EWS I N BRIEF

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The wife of the President, Hajia Aisha Buhari, has charged Nigerian women to continue to advance the peace and unity of the country, by being true to their role as home builders.

The president’s wife who was represented by the wife of the VicePresident, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo, spoke in Owerri, Imo State, while addressing the women of the state who had gathered for the commencement of this year's August Meeting.

She said the nation’s women must continue to dream big, and work towards achieving their dreams.

Osinbajo urged Nigerian women to rise up to their responsibility as home builders, inculcating the essentials of peace, unity and truth into the society starting from the family unit.

KADUNA Govt clarifies on demolition

Kaduna State Government has warned its agencies against the indiscriminate marking of buildings and neighbourhoods for the purposes of demolition in the ongoing recovery of government land exercise.

In a statement issued by the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Samuel Aruwan, yesterday, the government said the process of recovering government land that had been encroached upon would be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Aruwan warned that local government councils had no role in the land recovery process beyond gathering and forwarding relevant information to the appropriate agencies.

The statement said: “Clear directives on the land recovery exercise have been issued, and that the government has reminded the agencies involved in the exercise to comply strictly with the instructions.”

JOS Gas explosion: C’ttee orders evacuation of empty cylinders treatment plants

The committee set up by the Plateau State Government to investigate the July chlorine gas explosion at the Laminga Water Treatment Plant, Jos, has ordered for an immediate evacuation of empty gas cylinders around water treatment plants in the state.

Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Jimmy Cheto, told journalist in Jos that the directive became necessary due to some findings during an assessment tour to the Pankshin Water Treatment Plant.

“We have ordered that the cylinders be removed to avoid a recurrence of Laminga; we must always be proactive so as to save lives,” he said.

He said the danger of chlorine gas explosion which led to the death of eight persons and injuring 147 others was that empty cylinders should not be dumped for a very long time.

FG threatens to drag Shell to Court over Bonga oil spill Adeola Yusuf

l NOSDRA berates SNEPCO over $3.6bn fine payment

he Federal Government has threatened to drag Shell to Court over the non-payment of $3,600,191,206.00 fine for Bonga oil spill of December 20, 2011.

The government, which said this through one of its agency, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), said it was particularly enraged by lack of attempt by the oil company to provide relief materials for the shoreline fishing communities with respect to the acute and chronic impact of the crude oil on the environment allegedly caused by equipment failure and the admission by the then managing director that 40,000 barrels of crude oil spilled into the Atlantic Ocean.

“NOSDRA has directed SNEPCO to pay the said fine and compensation or face the legal machinery available to the agency to ensure its compliance,” the agency said.

Shell’s spokesperson, Mr. Precious Okolobo, declined to comment on the matter when contacted by Saturday Telegraph.

However, a source at the company denied wrong doing by Shell’s management.

According to him, the company’s efforts to pay the compensation were hampered by an ongoing court case.

NOSDRA, nonetheless, said that its statement should serve as a reminder to Shell Nigeria exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO), notifying the company of the sanction the agency imposed on the oil firm in 2014 for damage done to the natural resources and means of livelihood by the Bonga oil spill of December 20, 2011.

The reminder was contained in a letter signed by the Director-General/Chief Executive of NOSDRA, Mr. Peter Idabor, which directed SNEPCO to pay the sum of $3,600,191,206.00 or its naira equivalent as com-

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pensation and administrative costs for failure to effect clean up on the impacted site within the stipulated period, as provided in the agency's Act and Regulations.

The agency’s statement issued by the Head/Deputy Director, Public Affairs Unit (PAU), NOSDRA, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, said: “Despite the fact that the incident was caused by equipment failure and the admission by the then managing director that 40,000 barrels of crude oil spilled into the Atlantic Ocean, no attempt was made by the oil company to provide relief materials for the shoreline fishing communities with respect to the acute and chronic impact of the crude oil on the environment.”

In 2014, NOSDRA had issued a notification of sanction to the oil company with regards to the Bonga spill incident but it has yet neither paid compensation to the affected shoreline

communities nor provided relief materials to them, as directed by the agency and the House Committee on Environment.

Meanwhile, communities affected by the spill, have described as bizarre, the alleged refusal by the company to pay $3.6 billion compensation to the victims of the crude oil spill, as directed by the NOSDRA. In a statement by His Royal Highness I.B Ojukonsin, the communities said: “SNEPCO’s allegation that some persons took them to court as the only reason why they are refusing to settle the said crude oil spill compensation bill is unacceptable.

"This is because the said shoreline communities and fisher-persons affected by the said crude oil spill are not in court with SNEPCO since they voluntarily agreed not to engage in any litigation with SNEPCO and submitted to Federal Government-led peaceful settlement."

L-R: Plateau State Governor, Simeon Lalong; Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara and Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Almakura, at the reconciliation meeting of Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship crisis at the party's National Secretariat in Abuja…yesterday.

PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

Abia North senatorial poll: No election held, say witnesses Igbeaku Orji UMUAHIA

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wo more witnesses yesterday testified in the consolidated election petition of former governor of Abia State and the Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA) candidate in the Abia North senatorial election, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, against the declaration of Mr. Mao Ohuabunwa as winner of the election, saying there was no election in their areas.

The witnesses, Chinedu Ogbonnaya, an assistant presiding officer, APO 1, from Ania Ward in Ohafia Local Government Area and Kalu Isani, from Ovukwu Ward in Ndi Oji Abam, in Arochukwu Local Government Area, brought the number of witnesses so far to nine.

In his testimony under cross-examination, Ogbonnaya said though he was manning the card reader during the election, he was pressurised not to use it for accreditation, adding that the result sheet he saw was not meant for the ward.

Similarly, Isani told the tribunal that he worked as a supervisor and a collation agent for the PPA, but that there was no election in all the 12 polling units of the ward because PDP supporters chased voters away with dangerous weapons.

He said he and other PPA agents did not sign the result sheets since they were not allowed to come near the venues because of the malpractice and threat to their life.

Tribunal chairman, Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo,

while adjourning the case to August 20 granted the petitioners' prayer to take the remaining witnesses on the adjourned day.

In an interview with journalists, counsel to Kalu, Kelvin Nwufo (SAN), said the witness that was rejected came from Abuja to tender some documents but that the respondents' lawyers said they needed time to go through his deposition so that they would be able to cross examine him effectively.

“Secondly, they said what he was coming to tender was a document already rejected by the court, but I said no, it’s not the same document,” he said.

On the other witness, who Nwufo told the court should be left, he explained that someone from the same ward had testified earlier “and because of lack of time, there is no need, so we can make progress.”

He said they would close the case on the adjourned date for the respondents to open theirs and close the same day even as the forensic expert who analysed the ballot papers would also testify.

Also, counsel to Ohuabunwa, Mike Onyeka, said the petitioner’s counsel wanted to take their last witness who is an INEC employee “and then we raised an objection that the deposition of the witness was only filed yesterday and served on us late yesterday." He said they needed time to respond since the matter had in the opinion of the tribunal become controversial.

Wike, INEC ask tribunal to dismiss Peterside’s petition Tunde Oyesina ABUJA

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ivers State Governor Nyesom Wike of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday asked the state Governorship Elections Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja to dismiss the petition filed by the All Progressive Party (APC) and its candidate in the April 11 governorship poll, Dr. Dakuku Peterside.

Wike and INEC hinged their application on the petitioners’ failure to pay a fee of N100 for the filing for the issuance of pre-hearing notice, Form TF007.

The tribunal, however, fixed Monday for ruling on the application. However, counsel to Peterside and the APC, who are through their petition challenging the declaration of Wike as the winner of the April 11 poll, Chief Akin Olujimi (SAN), asked the Justice Muazu Pindiga-

led tribunal to dismiss the respondents’ application for lacking in merit.

Olujinmi insisted that since the application for the pre-hearing notice was by a letter to the secretary to the tribunal, his clients were not liable to pay for filing fee as such was not specifically provided for in any law.

He said paragraph 2 of the TF007 only made provision for the submission of the form and not filing which would have warranted payment of filing fee.

Olujimi said even if his clients were required to pay the fee, failure to do so could only amount to a mere irregularity which the tribunal could direct them to pay at any time.

He also maintained that his clients, like other parties to the petition, had made a deposit of N500,000 security fund to the tribunal, so the tribunal could easily deduct N100 from the said money if it was a must that the N100 fee must be paid.

15 AUGUST 2015

'Amosun must reverse sack of six civil servants'

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he Ogun State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the April 11 election, Prince Gboyega Isiaka, has condemned the sack of six civil servants over offensive examination question by the Governor Ibikunle Amosun-led administration in the state.

Isiaka, who described the dismissal of the civil servants as "an act of wickedness, and strange to a democratic setting," said the sacked workers must be recalled.

Five officials of the state Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and a secondary school teacher were sacked by the state government during the week over alleged offensive examination question.

The offensive question was included in the English

Language examination conducted by the ministry for United Examination in Public Secondary Schools for the third term 2014/2015 academic session.

But speaking through his spokesperson, Ifekayode Akinbode, the PDP gubernatorial candidate, said the sack was a continuation of Amosun's antiworkers policies.

Isiaka also condemned the spate of demolition of property across the state “for cosmetic projects, turning many into homeless and depriving them of their livelihood.”

He urged the people of the state to be vigilant and watchful of subsequent draconian policies that could further destroy the sterling legacies of the state and impoverished the common man on the street.

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FCT Probe: CNPP berates Abubakar, Kukah

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BENIN CITY Flood: Edo advises residents

Edo State Government yesterday cautioned residents living in low lands, river banks and Sequel to the stance of the Gen. other flood-prone areas to take proactive action Abdulsalam Abubakar (rtd) - led and relocate to safer parts of the state to avoid National Peace Committee on the decision of the President Muhammadu the possibility of being affected by flood to arise from the opening of a dam in Cameroun.

Buhari’s regime to probe the The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of administration of former President Environment and Public Utilities, Mr. Austin Goodluck Jonathan, the Conference Akhuamhenkhun, in a statement issued in of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) Benin City on behalf of the Commissioner, has alleged that the call for caution by Mr. Clem Agba, reiterated an early alert by the committee is a subtle and scary the Federal Government on the impending blackmail to wittingly or unwittingly dampen the raging momentum of war flood from the neighbouring country and its obvious consequences. against corruption.

The statement said: “The Federal Ministry of In a statement issued yesterday Environment has alerted on the opening of a by its National Publicity Secretary, dam in the Republic of Cameroon which may Osita Okechukwu, the group said the impeccable antecedent of the president lead to flooding in parts of the country. This is in addition to the current heavy rainfall being in the fight against corruption would recorded in the year.” ensure that there is no sacred cow.

19.7

The average age of the Colombian team to New Zealand Fifa U-20 World Cup. Source: Goal.com

7

IKEJA Perchstone & Graeys annual business forum holds Sept. 10

This year’s edition of Perchstone & Graeys India-Nigeria Business Forum (INBF) with the theme: “Challenging the Levers of Emerging Economies: Rigs to Chips”, will be held from September 10 to 11.

The Forum, which is the second in the series is organised by Perchstone & Graeys, a leading commercial law firm in Nigeria in collaboration with the Federation of India Chamber of Commerce (FICCI).

At a press conference addressed by a Senior Partners at the firm, Kunle Ajagbe, alongside Tosin Alabi and Ayokunle Ogundipe, respectively, said the event, which would take place in Mumbai, India would focus on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and how it could be harnessed to widen the space of commercial opportunities and deepen the exchange of best practices between Nigeria and India.

N215.6n

The difference by which total value of Nigeria’s imports in 2014 rose over 2013.

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

86

The sex ratio of men to 100 women in the 60+ age group of Denmark in 2012.

Source: Un.org

Aregbesola: Replying JSC will be sub judicial, says Oloyede Adeolu Adeyemo OSOGBO

A

serving judge in the Osun State High Court who petitioned the state Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, over alleged mismanagement of state fund, Justice Folahanmi Oloyede, yesterday submitted her reply to the query issued her by state Judicial Service Commission (JSC).

She said the matter for which she was asked to respond to was already in court.

The judge was issued a query by the state Chief Judge, Adepele Ojo, who is also the state chairman of the JSC over her conduct in the said petition.

The content of the query compelled Oloyede to give her response within seven days to the query, which will elapse on August 17.

Speaking on the query when contacted, coun-

sel to Oloyede, Mr. Lanre Ogunlesi, said: “My client did not react to any of the issues raised because doing so will be sub-judicial.”

The issuance of the query, Saturday Telegraph learnt was in compliance with the directive of the state House of Assembly, asking the commission to query her over what it termed as misconduct of the judge against the governor.

In a separate statement to the matter by a rights’ group, Civil Societies Coalition for the Emancipation of Osun, signed by its chairman, Suleman Alimi, said: “The State Judicial Service Commission (SJSC) cannot feign ignorance of the case filed by Justice Oloyede.

“The Chairman of SJSC is the State Chief Judge, Justice Bola Ojo, who heads the state courts where the action was filed on Monday and the same CJ assigned the case to Justice Yinka Aderibigbe.”

Mass failure: WAEC blames parents, community leaders Dan Atori MINNA

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he West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) has blamed parents and community leaders for the unending examination malpractice experienced during examinations in schools across Nigeria.

The Niger State Branch Comptroller of the council, Mr. Gershon Dandak, in an interview with Saturday Telegraph yesterday said the poor performances of students should be blamed on parents.

He said 80 per cent of examination malpractices during the council’s certificate examination were caused by adults’ involvement.

Dandak, while calling on parents, teachers and the community to see themselves as agents to fight examination malpractices, expressed regret that they had always gone contrary to the council's policy by encouraging malpractice.

“I can tell you that 80 per cent of the examination malpractices recorded are usually caused by adults, that is, parents, teachers and community leaders.

“Contrary to that, 80 per cent of them tend to abandon their social responsibility to interfere with the council's policy during certificate examinations. They deceive their wards by creating what they called 'miracle centres.'

Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha (left) and wife of the Vice-President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo, during a visit to the governor in Owerri…yesterday.

photo: government house, owerri

NSA: We’re ready to crush Boko Haram Ahmed Miringa and Emmanuel Onani

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MAIDUGURI/ABUJA

ollowing the three months ultimatum given to the security chiefs by President Muhammadu Buhari to crush Boko Haram terrorists, the newly sworn-in security chiefs were in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital to strategise on how best to end the Boko Haram insurgency within the stipulated period.

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd), who led the Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonishakin, Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Tukur Buratai, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadiq Abubakar and the Inspector General of Police Mr. Solomon Arase, on a courtesy call on Governor Kashim Shettima, at the Government House, Maiduguri, said they were in the state to re-asses the

l Army Chief solicits DSS' cooperation operational strategy of the troops on the ground.

The NSA said: “Insurgency war in the 21st Century is different from the formal war we are familiar with, so we need the cooperation of the public by giving information to the security agencies with a view to ending the insurgency, as directed by Mr. President.”

He said the calibre of security chiefs carefully selected by President Buhari had no choice than to end this insurgency within the shortest possible time, as according to him, they are men of impeccable character and thoroughbred soldiers.

Monguno, who recalled that in the past people, had mistrusted issue with the military, said with the selection of professional and competent security chief, he was optimistic that the war against insurgency would be won before the

stipulated time.

Responding, Shettima said: “The people of Borno State and North-East cannot ask for more, we have been given more than our fair share, as Gen. Monguno rtd, General Buratai and Air Marshal Sadiq Abubakar, are sons of the North-East, they know the terrain and very soon Boko Haram chapter will be closed once and for all.”

Meanwhile, Buratai has solicited the support and cooperation of the Department of State Services (DSS), whose core mandate is one of intelligence gathering.

A statement signed by Col. Onyema Nwachukwu of the Directorate of Army Public Relations, said Buratai sought the synergy yesterday, when he called on the Director General of the DSS, Alh. Lawal Daura, in his office in Abuja.

It also quoted the COAS, who was decorated with his

new rank on Thursday by President Muhammadu Buhari, as calling for joint operation between the Army and the Secret Service, in acknowledgement of the "strategic importance of the DSS and its special role, particularly in the area of intelligence gathering.”

“The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment and determination to carry out its constitutional roles, soliciting for cooperation and support from the Department of State Security Service (DSS).

“He consequently called for joint operations between the two institutions, assuring that Nigerian Army is ready to collaborate with the DSS at all times. The Army chief also solicited for joint training among the personnel of both institutions to enable them to collaborate and share ideas for successful joint operations,” the statement said.

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15 AUGUST 2015

Bayelsa guber: Tinubu, Sylva in supremacy battle Donald Ojogo

T Abuja

he battle for the Bayelsa State governorship race has finally taken on a new zest as the state plays host to the national leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Satuday (today).

To be led by Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, the leadership of the party is expected to receive scores of leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who are defecting to the party.

Though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed the state governorship election for December 5, it was gathered that most of the defectors are allies and associates of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

And in order not to be ridiculed by the impending political move in his home state, Jonathan was said to have made last ditch efforts to stop the defectors.

Less than six weeks to the commencement of the nomination of its candidate for the governorship election in the state, the national leadership of the APC also appears to be engulfed in a suppressed cold war over who flies the party’s ticket.

l Jonathan panics, makes last-minute calls to save PDP l No room for crowded primary, says Odigie-Oyegun

Mr. Demian Aguiyi-Emeka (2nd right) and former Miss Oluchi Oluwatoyin Akinyemi, with the groom’s parents during their wedding in Lagos…recently

The battle of wits, Saturday Telegraph gathered, is brewing between the APC national leader and former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva.

Sylva is the leader of the APC in the state.

According to our checks, while Tinubu is disposed to

Ekiti PDP expels four SWC members Adesina Wahab Ado-Ekiti

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he Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expelled the state Secretary, Dr. Tope Aluko and three other members of the State Working Committee (SWC) over anti-party activities.

The other affected officers are Tunde Olatunde (ViceChairman, North), Mrs. Busola Oyebode (Women Leader) and Tunji Olanrewaju (Assistant Secretary).

The expulsion of the officers followed the adoption by the State Executive Committee (SEC) of the recommendations by the Disciplinary Committee set up by the party to probe the allegations leveled against them.

In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti yesterday by

the state Chairman, Chief Idowu Faleye and the outgoing Organising Secretary, Alhaji Lateef Agbaje, the SEC affirmed its support and recognition of Faleye as the state chairman as confirmed by the National Working Committee of the party.

It also lauded Governor Ayo Fayose for his leadership qualities and his efforts at moving the party forward both at state and national levels.

While the SEC appreciated the role of the NWC in the matter, it also commended the role played by the elders and other stakeholders in the party.

But in a swift reaction, Aluko, who spoke for the other affected officers, described the action as illegal and against the constitution of the PDP.

Kachikwu pledges to make refineries profitable Johnchuks Onuanyim Abuja

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he Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Dr. Ibe Kachikwu has promised to make refineries a profit making centres, as he urged the staff to act as change agents.

The GMD disclosed his vision during the maiden interactive session with

the top management of the Corporation at the NNPC Towers Abuja.

In a statement from the Group General Manager, Gropu Public Affairs Division, Ohi Alegbe, the GMD urged the management to provide leadership by example to the workforce while adding that sectionalism, tribalism and any form of non-transparent transactions must be completely stamped out of the NNPC.

having former managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Timi Alaibe, as the APC’s standard bearer for the poll, Sylva thinks otherwise as he prefers the immediate past senator who represented Bayelsa West, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.

Both Alaibe and Lokpobiri are among those defecting to the APC today.

On other hand, the former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, is also gunning for one Mr. Preye Aganaba. Aganaba flew the APC’s flag in the last National Assembly election as senatorial candidate for Bayelsa Central.

According to a source in the APC, the state chapter of the party was already confused as to which direction to go as there are conflicting reports that the national leadership of the party was planning to adopt a particular candidate.

But APC national chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has given an assurance that although the party would discourage crowded primary, due process would be followed in the nomination.

“Our plan is to take over that state so that people of Bayelsa can be part of the change; we will go for the

N6.13m

The IGR realised from road taxes in Bayelsa State in 2011.

Source: Fifa.com

12

The number of pending asylum seekers of Haiti at the beginning of 2010.

Source: Blatantworld.com

£68,000 The daily salary of Thiago Silva of PSG. Source: Paywizard.co.uk

best to lead the party, we will discourage crowded primary but every bit of due process and democratic processes will be followed in nominating our candidate for the party,” he said.

While according to a state party official: “It is almost clear that our leader, Sylva, might not run for the governorship of the state in the December election; we are waiting for him to say yes or no because there are certain things that need to be put into consideration on his part.

“If he is not running, there is the likelihood that he goes for someone from the same senatorial district with the governor and from all indications, the lot might fall on Senator Heineken Lokpobiri and most of the PDP leaders who are defecting tomorrow (today) might want to defer to Sylva.

“But the man has a big challenge in the sense that the national leader, the Jagaban (as Tinubu is fondly called) is pushing for Alaibe and you know what that means in our party. For now, there are arguments and counter arguments as to why one is better than the other, but we are watching events as they unfold,” he said.

Nomination processes are expected to be completed by all the contending parties between September 3 and 30.

Saturday Telegraph learnt that former president Olusegun Obasanjo is also mounting pressure on the leadership of the APC to field Alaibe for the governorship election just as Tinubu’s argument for the former NDDC boss is that he is a ready antidote the party needs to stem further violence in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.

However, Sylva’s decision to back Lokpobiri in the event that he (Sylva) would

I left N103.9bn debt not N222.3bn, says Jang Musa Pam Jos

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ormer governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah Jang, yesterday described the report of the transition committee set up

by Governor Simon Lalong in which he was alleged to have left a debt of N222.3 billion as untrue, insisting that what he left as debt and liabilities was N103.9 billion.

Describing the debt figure presented by the Transition Committee as "mischievously manufac-

tured", the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, Mr. Olivia Dazyem, in a statement said the comprehensive breakdown of the debt was well documented in the handover notes, urging the committee to go back and study it properly.

He said the committee’s report was “a clear distortion and manipulation of facts, aimed at personal vendetta, witch-hunt and smearing the good name and achievements of the out-gone PDP government

led by Dr. Jonah David Jang.” Dazyem said.

He added: “A quick look at the compositions of the committees reveals that they were deliberately selected and made up of persons that have grudges with the immediate past administration.”

Dazyem dismissed the "baseless allegation" by the committee of lopsidedness and selective distribution of facilities and services, in which it claimed that 80 per cent of such projects were located in a particular section of one senatorial district.

not run might not be unconnected with the entrenched political rivalry between him and Alaibe.

Alaibe had made two attempts to govern the state in the past and in each case, Sylva was in contention, including the last election, which eventually led to the disqualification of both by the PDP allegedly at the instance of Jonathan who wanted the incumbent, Henry Seriake Dickson.

Sylva enjoys the support of the leadership of the APC in the state even as he has total control of the entire party structures across the eight local government areas.

It was gathered that some of the pro-Lokpobiri leaders were said to have taken the stand because Alaibe delayed his defection as previously planned for May. They were said to have mounted pressure on him to defect to the APC to provide leadership shortly after Jonathan's loss in the March presidential election but he was complacent.

Yesterday, Jonathan was said to have personally called Alaibe, pleading with him not to defect to the APC. He was said to have made similar calls to other bigwigs in the state that are part of the defection drama.

Jonathan was reported to have described the APC "as a pierce in the heart of the Ijaw nation".

“For the first time in four years, Jonathan just thought it wise to call principal (Alaibe); he has forgotten how he deceived and dumped the man and now because he knows he is about being ridiculed he is calling, saying the APC is a pierce in the heart of the Ijaw nation; it is too late and there is no going back on the decision. ‘‘Whether the APC or PDP, anyone who becomes governor is an Ijaw man, there is no sentiment. For what we care, it can be anybody but not Dickson in December,’’ an ally of the former presidential adviser on Niger Delta said.

Alaibe confirmed the telephone conversation but declined further comments. “Yes and what about it? It was a private call please,” he said.

Among the PDP bigwigs set to dump the party today include the ex-former Acting Governors - Nestor Binabo and Werinipre Seibarugu, Senator John Brambaifa, Senator Clever Ikisipo and Ambassador Emmanuel Otiotio.

Also listed are the former House of Representatives member, Dr. Stella Dorgu, former NDDC board chairman, Prof. Tarila Tebepah, Rear Admiral FBI Porbeni (rtd.), the former Reps members – Christopher Enai, Warman Ogoriba, Bonus Indiamaowei, Nelson Belief, Nadu Karibo, former Secretary to the State Government, Chief Gideon Ekeowe and former Deputy Speaker, Fini Angaye.

15 AUGUST 2015

NIMASA: Stakeholders urge thorough cleansing Paul Ogbuokiri

T

he controversy trailing the position of Director General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) seems not over yet as stakeholders in the industry have said the Federal Government is yet to effect the desired change in the headship of the Nigeria’s apex maritime regulatory agency.

This call is coming on the heels of the debate generated as a result of the replacement of the acting director general, Mr. Callistus Nwabueze Obi, by Mallam Baba Haruna Jauro, three days after Obi was announced by the Federal Government.

In a telephone interview with Saturday Telegraph, a former President of Nigerian Association of Indigenous Ship Owners (NISA), Chief Isaac Jolapomo, said: “We cannot make any comment now on the purported change of guard in NIMASA because there is no change of guard yet; when government changes the guard in NIMASA, we shall comment.”

But the League of Maritime Editors, in a recent statement in Lagos, frowned at the appointment of Jauro as the acting director-general of the agency.

Their view was premised on the argument that Jauro, who was the executive director in charge of finance and administration under Patrick Akpobolokemi, could not conceivably

have been ignorant of the alleged financial misdeeds the sacked director-general is being accused of by the Federal Government.

The statement by the President, League of Maritime Editors, Mr. Ovie Edomi, said if government intends to end corruption in the Maritime House, it must ensure that the person that will be appointed director general should have the requisite professional qualification and must be a technocrat sufficiently grounded in the vision and objectives of the regulator.

The Director General, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Ify Anazonwu-Akerele, had in her reaction to the sack of Akpbolokemi, urged the Federal Government to appoint a technocrat to succeed Akpobolokemi.

“Government should not appoint a politician but a technocrat that will put things in place. When government appoints a technocrat that is knowledgeable about the industry we will all see a difference,” she said.

The three Executive Directors - Obi, Jauro (acting director general) and Captain Bala Agaba were appointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Three days after his appointment by the federal government as the acting DG of NIMASA, Obi was replaced on the directive of the Head of Service, Danladi Kifasi, reportedly on the strength of a petition by Jauro that he was Obi's senior.

FG designates UNTH, five other hospitals as cancer centres Obinna Odoh ABUJA

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he Federal Government has designated the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu and five other federal tertiary hospitals as oncology centres of excellence.

The other hospitals are Usmanu Danfodio University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto; University Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri; University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan; University of Benin Teaching Hospi-

change of name

JIDEANI

I formerly known and addressed as MISS JOY JIDEANI, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JOY EDOCHIE. All former document bearing my former names remain valid general public to please take note.

AKHIGBE

I formerly known and addressed as EVELYN SALAMI AKHIGBE now wish to be known and addressed as EVELYN SALAMI. All former documents remain valid, the general public should please take note.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

tal (UBTH) Benin - City and Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) Zaria.

In a statement signed by the Director Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health, Ayotunde Adesugba, and made available to newsmen in Abuja, the government said that the policy was being undertaken in collaboration with the Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria and ROCHE Products Limited.

According to him, the policy has been designed in such a way that the hospitals which were chosen from each of the six geopolitical zones of the country will be upgraded in line with the Public Private Partnership.

Adesugba quoted the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Linus Awute, as saying the PPP remained the best legacy of the Federal Ministry of Health and an important strategy for addressing the challenge of non-communicable diseases and cancer care in particular.

IKEJA Ishaku inaugurates 400KW Hydro Power Plant

NEWS IN BRIEF

ST

Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku, yesterday inaugurated the 400kw Tunga Dam Small Hydro power plant to provide electricity to Kakara Highland Tea Factory and the surrounding villages on the famous Mambilla Plateau.

Saturday Telegraph gathered that the project is jointly executed by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), United Nations High Commission for Refugee (UNHCR) and the state government.

Speaking at the occasion, Ishaku said: “I am so delighted that the first project I am inaugurating as a governor is very key to my rescue mission in the state. I hereby pledge total commitment of the state government for partnership with the concern arms of the UN for another plant to supply electricity to more communities in the state.”

N59.19m

The total capital importation value of the Construction sector in 2012.

Source: National Bureau of Statistics

9

BARUTEN MAKURDI Kwara lawmakers summon MORE Lager Beer LG boss over revenue re-launched

Members of Kwara State House of Assembly yesterday summoned the Chairman of Baruten Local Government Area, Alhaji Mohammed Bio Umar, over the management of the council’s revenue.

The lawmakers said after adopting a motion moved by Umar Gunnu (APC, llesha-Gwanara Constituency), they needed the council boss to explain the deplorable conditions of border communities in his area when compared with others.

The motion was seconded by the assembly’s Leader, Hassan Oyeleke, and was supported by all the 10 members who contributed during a debate on the motion.

26.17

The average age of football players in Germany in the 2009-2010 season.

Source: Football-observatory.com

Consolidated Breweries Plc yesterday re-launched MORE Lager Beer in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, to reflect the world class standard of Nigerian Breweries Plc. NB Plc Corporate Affairs Adviser, Mr. Kufre Ekanen, said the upgrading of the beer had made it unique and comparable to any international beer of repute.

Ekanen said the upgrade of the beer had not only showcase the company's commitment to support the development aspirations of the state, but also led to the enhancement of the brewery's infrastructure and production process, a development he said, was evident in the improved quality of the beer that offers teeming consumers a new taste of experience.

97,000

The estimated number of Americans above 65 years with Alzheimer’s in Washington in 2014.

Source: Alz.org

L-R: Chairman, Affordable Building Concepts Limited, Ireland, Mr. Redmond Cullinane; Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ireland and Iceland, Bolere Ketebu and Cross River State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, during the inspection of some affordable homes at Monaghan…yesterday

Alegbe: No ethnic agenda in NNPC appointments, retirements Ndubuisi Ugah

T

with agency reports

he Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) yesterday decried attempts by a section of the media to politicise the recent appointments and retirements in the corporation by imputing ethnic coloration to it.

Consequently, the corporation explained that the new appointments were in line with international best practice devoid of primordial sentiments.

A statement issued by NNPC’s Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Mr. Ohi Alegbe, in Abuja said all the actions so far taken by the corporation, were in line with the extant rules on federal character and done with the approval of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The statement, accord-

l DPR blames product scarcity in Benue on depots l 38 ships to arrive Lagos ports with petroleum products, food items ing to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said all retirements between now and 2016 would be carried out with no regard to ethnicity or state of origin.

“The recent appointments, promotions and retirements are all part of the ongoing restructuring aimed at repositioning the corporation into a lean, efficient, profit-driven organisation,” the statement said.

The statement, therefore, called on Nigerians to discountenance any report aimed at denigrating the ongoing re-organisation in the corporation.

In another development, the Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR) has blamed the scarcity of petroleum products in Benue State on the refusal of depots in the state to sell products at N77.7

per litre to marketers.

The DPR Head, Downstream Operation in the state, Mr. Bima Abdulrahman, made the disclosure in an interview with the NAN in Makurdi.

Abdulrahman told NAN that officials of the NNPC’s depots still sold the product at prices above N97 per litre.

He said the officials operate two accounts, one account for marketers who insist on the recommended depot price of N77.7 per litre and another for those willing to pay above N87 per litre.

Abdulrahman accused the depots of sabotaging the efforts of the government in providing petroleum products to the masses at the regulated pump price of N87 per litre.

He explained that “no marketer will buy the prod-

uct at a price above N97 and sell below that”, stressing that if nothing was done immediately to address the situation, it may get worse over the weeks.

Meanwhile, 28 ships are expected to arrive Lagos ports with petroleum products, food items and other goods between August 14 and September 3.

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) said yesterday in Lagos in its daily publication – “Shipping Position’’ that the ships would arrive with containers, general cargo, frozen fish, bulk malt, buck wheat, bulk sugar, kerosene, diesel, base oil and petrol.

The document explained that 17 other ships have arrived the ports with petrol diesel, rice, frozen fish and general cargo, waiting to discharge.

SATURDAY

Voices Would you want to work at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) p.54

Street Diary SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2015

The myth surrounding the Ooni of Ife, late Okunade Sijuwade, when he was alive continued even when he died. ADEOLU ADEYEMO examines why his death was kept as a secret for three weeks.

I

le-Ife Ooye, the cradle of the Yoruba is a name that was deliberately coined by the founding fathers of the Yoruba nation. It was neither a coincidental nor a careless coinage. From Ile-ife, empires and kingdoms were founded. Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba, sent out his sons to found and rule over these empires and kingdoms. Since then, Ile-Ife has been regarded by the Yoruba as the cradle of their race, the land of the gods and the Ooni of Ife is referred to as God's representative on earth -Arole Oduduwa, Oluaye, Iku Alase, Orisa-Keji -and regarded with awe and reverence.

The ancient town and its inhabitants were in a state of confusion in the past three weeks when rumour went round that the monarch had passed on at a United Kingdom hospital only for the rumour to be dispelled by the Ife royal traditional chiefs.

There had been anxiety over the health of the monarch since 2013 when he was taken out of the country for medical attention for over a month.

Findings later showed that although the monarch who was flown to the UK in an air ambulance had passed on but the denial of his death to preserve the belief that tradition and culture must be followed before announcing an Ooni’s death.

At a press conference held at the palace two weeks ago, the traditional chiefs who spoke through High Chief Joseph Ijaodola, Lowa Adimula of Ifeland insisted that "the monarch is hale and hearty."

To give credence to their position, they assured journalists that the late Oba would be present at his son’s wedding to the daughter of a Lagos-based socialite, Mrs. Remi Olowu in Lagos on August 2.

Although the wedding was held, the absence of the monarch heightened tension that he had passed on.

In his own submission, Secretary, Royal Traditional Council of Ife and the Ladin of Ife, High Chief Adetoye Odewole, said, “Ooni is hale and hearty and even spoke to the chiefs on the phone few hours earlier".

“Those behind the death story are enemies of Ife. As I speak with you, chiefs have not heard anything like that. This is not the first time such rumour will be carried about our father."

“They did it in 1984, also in 2004 and now, these people are coming up with another rumour. Oba Sijuade remains in sound state of health.”

However, hundreds of Ife indigenes stormed palace that week on a daily basis as early as 6a.m to ascertain what happened to their traditional ruler.

Apparently to convince or bamboozle members of the public that the monarch was alive, the council of chiefs moved to Osogbo, Osun State capital, where they held a closed door meeting with the Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, over the controversy that surrounded the rumoured death of the Ooni.

The meeting which also attracted the presence of notable Ife indigenes was held

10

The rumour, denial and myth of Ooni’s demise

•Palace Source: we don't bury humans with Oba •Ruling houses screen aspirants

Late Sijuwade

at the Government House, Osogbo, saw both parties keep mute after their deliberations.

All efforts to extract information from them proved abortive as they declined comments.

However, earlier before their meeting there was a mild protest from Lowa of Ife, the next in rank to the monarch, Oba Joseph Ijaodola, who said it was saddening that Ooni was “often a target of negative publicity with the press declaring him dead several times in the past”.

Oba Ijaodola said: "We were all shocked when we heard the rumour. If at all such an incident had occurred, the traditional council would be the first to know and equally break the news to the entire public.

“Sixteen of us are his chiefs and when he was travelling out, he didn't look like he was going to die and should that have happened to him, we would have been informed even before anyone would hear

about it. We pray that Ooni Sijuade will live long in good health”.

He stated that "We were in the governor's residence to update him about happenings around Oba Sijuade and regretted that Ooni was often a target of negative publicity."

In his response, Governor Rauf Aregbesola gave kudos to the chiefs for holding forth while the Ooni was away.

However, the cabinet members who understood the rules of the tradition in the land secretly declared a seven-day traditional festival called "Oro" in which, inhabitants and residents of the town who are girls and women must be indoors latest by 7p.m. of each day before the expiration of the festival.

Informed sources who preferred anonymity revealed that, violators of the order would face the consequence and charged the people in the ancient town to comply in their own interest.

It was gathered that, traditionalists would use the period of the festival to appease the gods and perform necessary rituals that would make the town to be more peaceful and at the same time avert looming danger in its environs.

Though the denial continued, sources insisted that whenever the "Oro festival" is announced unexpectedly, it means the king of the land or any member of his cabinet might have died. But if the rumour is true, we (himself and other chiefs at the grove) should be the ones to announce it.

We are the owners of our culture, Obaship in Ife kingdom is sacred and should be handled as such,” the Chief Priest who is also the kingmaker for the stool of Ooni of Ife, Oba Olajide Farotimi Faloba, said.

Despite the incessant denials, process of final rite for the Ooni was further intensified when kingmakers in the town reportedly converged on the palace for a crucial meeting that lasted some hours this week.

Street Diary

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

20 years after hospital recorded such feat, woman gives birth to quadruplet

Ife stands still as Sijuwade is buried CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Okegwo Kenechukwu

A ONITSHA

ugust 12 will forever be remembered by the Urama family of Mkpute Uno, Enugu-Ezike in Igboeze North Local Government of Enugu State, as a day of thanksgiving to Almighty God for His blessings.

It was a day Mrs. MaryAnn Urama gave birth to quadruplet at Holy Rosary Catholic Hospital, Onitsha, after 20 years of such delivery at the missionary hospital. While on her admission bed, she thanked God and solicited for assistance from government, non-governmental organisation and Nigerians to raise the children.

Urama, who hails from Igboeze North in Enugu State but resides at 3, Obi lane Onitsha in Anambra State, said she had had two children; a boy and girl before giving birth to quadruplet bringing the number of her children to six children in three pregnancies within five years of marriage.

She told Saturday Telegraph: “I thanked God for the gift of four children at once but I don't hope to get pregnant anymore or to continue to give birth to more children after giving birth to six children in three pregnancies within a space of five years of my marriage,” Urama prayed to God. She said at the initial time she didn’t know that she was going to deliver quadruplet until the time she went for ultrasound scan and was told that she had four babies in her womb. ‘‘Although there was a bit difference in carrying the pregnancy of the quadruplet

The quadruplet. Inset: Mr. and Mrs. Chukwuemeka Urama at Holy Rosary Catholic Hospital, Onitsha.

compared to the first and second pregnancies, I resorted to prayers believing God that with God all things are possible.

“I am begging and calling on Anambra and Enugu state governments to come to our aid because we cannot carry this load alone, I am a housewife and my husband is a trader. I need help to bring these children up. I also call on corporate bodies, non-governmental organisations and wellmeaning Nigerians to assist us to train these children, it is not easy to train a child let alone four children at once plus two children we already have. It will be difficult for us to carry, especially now that I have no job. So, please we need help,

PHOTO: OKEGWO KENECHUKWU

Governor Willie Obiano, come to my rescue,” she pleaded.

Her husband, Mr. Chukwuemeka Urama, who is a trader at Onitsha main market, expressed joy for the gift of the babies but lamented that he could not carry the burden alone especially at the present economic situation and called on government and other people to come to his aid.

He said when the wife came back from antenatal and told him that she had four children in her womb his heart jumped but “I told myself that there was nothing more than God and we continued praying for safe delivery until today she finally put to bed safely without any complication.”

When asked if he would

11

continue with childbirth, he said: “No, I will not because to train the ones we already have would be a difficult task. As I am speaking with you now if government did not come to our aid it will not be easy for us to train the children.

I am appealing to governor Obiano and governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of my state of origin to come to our aid in order to raise these children”.

The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Holy Rosary Hospital Onitsha, Dr. Christopher Odikpo Obi, said the delivery of the quadruplet was successful, saying it was the second quadruplet delivered in the hospital after 20 years, the first one was delivered.

“Ooni Olubuse has gone to eternally dine and wine with his ancestors and to give the feedback to those who sent him to tender their stead.

The biggest elephant has transited to the vault.

The Iroko tree has disappeared from the forest, not to be seen or heard again, except in dreams, trance and revelation of the corpus!

“It is sad, but not tragic that he returned home at 85. Ooni Olubuse was able, not only to sustain the royal majestic and reverence left behind by his predecessors, but also added colour, panache and cultivated tremendous respect to the stool of Ooni of Ife, the cradle of the world.”

Also, Ifaloba Ifagbenro from the traditional circle, describes the late Ooni as a good representative of tradition and culture.

Meanwhile, the interdenominational service held in honour of Sijuwade in front of the Ife palace yesterday was not witnessed by traditional royal fathers in the state while many chiefs from the royal circle where “Abobaku”, the person to “die with the king” is being appointed reportedly absent from the event for fear of revisiting the age long tradition of the town on their household.

Only noticed royal fathers at the event were those made kings by the deceased in his domain.

Reason for the absence of the royal fathers could not be ascertained as at the time of filing in this report but this might not be unconnected with the Yoruba tradition that, they do not attend burial ceremony.

Saturday Telegraph investigations revealed that though, it has been cancelled in the tradition of the town, many people in the affected family said to have made themselves unavailable in the name of caution and wisdom.

In the tradition before it was abolished, whenever, a king dies, ''Abobaku'' must die with him but due to tradition, Oba Sijuwade reportedly put an end to it to the extent that the title of Abobaku has been cancelled and replaced with another name.

Sources stated that, though, the position is still in existence and the families occupying it are still being given the titles, the title has changed to convince them that truly, ''Abobaku'' is no more in existence in the town.

However, there is likely to be a final meeting to soften the passage of the monarch to his transition by the Isoro Fraternity Group overnight.

Sources at the palace said some traditional lamp would be lit with fire while the group would be in possession with the corpse of the monarch for the final farewell.

The rumour, denial and myth of Ooni’s demise Informed sources disclosed that the reason for the meeting was in line with the sacrificial exercises and rituals being carried out in the town since the remains of the monarch had arrived.

Two weeks ago, town criers and bell ringers were going round the town to announce to the people of the town that, there was no cause for alarm and that people of the town should continue with their normal businesses.

Investigation conducted round the palace however revealed that, some unidentified chiefs were seen during one of their meetings with bundles of white cloths being transferred from one vehicle to another.

However, a source in the town insisted that, the corpse had arrived the town as at that time and that was why many crucial meetings were being held in all the nook and cranny of the place since two weeks ago.

The source who preferred anonymity stated that, very soon after the official announcement of the monarch’s passage, all markets and entrance gates of the palace would be shut while curfew would be declared by traditionalists.

These developments however created fear in the minds of residents of the town over the alleged age- long tradition that seven people would be used for sacrifice before the monarch could be finally laid to rest.

“This forced them to declare compulsory curfew while the aged ones had warned younger ones not to keep late before coming back to their different homes until the monarch is finally announced to have joined his ancestors.

"Anybody could be the target of the gods on the issue and it is even no respecter of tribal mark carriers,” an indigene, Omikunle Iyiade, pointed out.

Investigations also revealed that pre-ritual sacrifices had commenced at that time by traditional priests, herbalists and others to consult deities and gods of the land on the type of cleansings to do for the monarch.

Immediately the monarch's death was announced officially, there were open ritual performances as it was done day and night.

Meanwhile, a 74-year-old man who preferred anonymity told our correspondent that he was surprised that many people were awaiting the arrival of Ooni's corpse.

The old man said, if at all the corpse would arrive the town, nobody including family members and close associates would be able to see him again except the “Isoro priest” and his members who belong to the same fraternity with the monarch.

He said "Isoro" is the custodian of all other traditional priests in the land and that the arrival of the monarch's corpse could not be announced to the members of the public for it is even dangerous for them to see it saying, it could only be seen by his fraternity assembly men.

Also, cows and many rams were reportedly slaughtered by traditional worshippers and their blood was used to appease gods and soften the ground three days before the corpse arrived.

According to sources, the animals were slaughtered to give spiritual fortification and illumination to those in charge of each deity who received the remains of the monarch when it arrived. It was learnt that this was to avert their sudden death as the monarch was the highest-ranking deity among others.

“The traditional worshippers took the step to avert a repeat of what happened on

July 3, 1980, when the predecessor of Oba Okunade Sijuade, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, joined his ancestors.

"After Oba Aderemi joined his ancestors then, some of those traditionalists that wanted to perform his final rite died untimely as they were bathed with chicken- pox disease due to the spiritual power of the monarch before his exit from the surface of the earth”, a source said.

Meanwhile, there are four ruling houses in Ife: Osikola, Ogoru, Giesi and Lafogido.

However, it was learnt that the successor would be narrowed down to two houses: Giesi and Ademiluyi.

The reason, according to sources was that, it was Osikola's ruling house that produced late Oba Adesoji Aderemi while his successor, late Sijuade, was from the Ogoru.

It was gathered that the two other ruling houses have started in-house screening among the aspirants who have shown interest in the royal stool.

Sijuade was born on January 1, 1930 and ascended the throne of his forefathers on December 6, 1980.

12

News

OON I’S FINAL RITES

An interdenominational service was yesterday held as part of final funeral rites for the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, in Ile-Ife, Osun State. Below are personalities at the event.

First son of the late monarch, Tokunbo Sijuwade (left) and another guest

The late Ooni’s wives (Oloris)

Senator Iyiola Omisore (right) and a guest Guests at the event

Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, at the event One of the wives of the monarch

Christian clerics at the event

Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi and Publisher of Ovation, Dele Moomodu

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2015

SATURDAY

WeekendDelight 13

Instyle

C o n v e r s at i o n

Painful but practical solution to damaged hair p.15

LARI

WILLIAMS

TV & Radio Matters of the heart at the Clinic p.22

Love & Living ‘We found love after he seized my car keys’ p.35

Hospitality

I’m likely to be thrown out of National Theatre soon

As pioneer president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lari Williams is indeed a showbiz veteran. But there is hardly anything about his present state of affairs consistent with his illustrious past. Apart from the fact he is at the verge of becoming homeless, his sight is increasingly becoming impaired. The arts veteran recounts his pathetic tale in an interview with OLUSHOLA RICKETTS.

Radisson Blu Mama Yako: Feeding Freetown’s hunger for luxury p.41

How did you lose your apartment?

I have lectured in three universities, the theatre arts department.

I lectured in University of Lagos, Lagos State University and University of Calabar. I write a column on the arts in Vanguard, which I have been doing for 28 years. While I was in Calabar my landlord informed me that he was retiring from active service and he wanted to sell his property. He was very nice to me and even offered to sell it to me, but I didn’t have such money. A school bought the place and before I got back they had taken over the premises. A friend of mine had to help me move my things out. All I had left was my office, so I moved into the place.

It must be traumatizing converting your workplace into a home?

It is not comfortable honestly and you know the nature of our job is about getting good contracts. Until I get a contract that can pay for another flat, I am still here. Unfortunately, we have been getting threats from the Ministry of Arts and Culture. They want to sell off the place; they’ve come here on several occasions to inspect the property. So, I am likely to be thrown out of National Theatre any moment. We had to let the government know that we are tenants, so if we must move we need adequate notice. That knowledge itself is very unsettling because they could come anytime and push one out. It feels bad for a man who once enjoyed a four-bedroom apartment with a large sitting room.

One expects you to be living large or reasonably well considering your accomplishments in showbiz…

I just told you it has not always been so. I have not been lucky to run into lots of money. As the first president of Actors Guild of Nigeria too, I have not been called upon to be a member of the board of trustees. I studied acting at Stanford University, England, and I teach acting, I wrote to AGN that they should not admit people into the profession without adequate training. I suggested that we should give them orientation and train them as they come in for at least three months, but I didn’t get any response. I also wrote a letter before the elections that I wanted to go around on a lecture tour to discuss professionalism in acting and I didn’t get any answer.

I even went there to see the president and she said I would hear from them. That was all. Of course, acting itself is once in a while.

So, things have been like that. It is not as lucrative as it looks from the outside. But I cannot blame anybody.

Williams

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

They could come anytime and push one out. It feels bad for a man who once enjoyed a four-bedroom apartment with a large sitting room

At what point did you start having challenges with your sight?

I honestly don’t know what gave rise to the sight problem, but I had an accident long time ago in 1984 or so. A vehicle hit me along Ilupeju road, Lagos. The case was in court at Ikeja, but the lawyer in charge passed on and the case died too. I later went to England and treated the eye. Things became CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

14

CONVERSATION

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

‘Government should not sell the National Theatre’

...with (l-r) Alex Osho, Korede Bello and Rekaado Banks

Williams with Shan George at the Top Naija Music Award held in Lagos, last year.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

normal, but when I got to Calabar to teach I noticed I was having issue with the eye. It is not getting better; I have been through hospitals here. I had a cataract operation in Calabar. The condition was much better than it is now.

I noticed now that when it is 7.00pm I find it hard to see; what they call night blindness I think.

You once said you expected Nigerian Television Authority to be particularly helpful. Have you contacted them?

I haven’t done that and I don’t know how to do that. I know I hold a record of appearance in soaps on NTA. I featured in about 14 of them, including The Village Headmaster, Mirror in The Sun, Ripples and a host of others. I am sure they might have heard of my predicament, but I haven’t approached them formally.

What is your immediate family doing to help?

Well, if they could they would have helped out. One of my children is still doing his compulsory National Youth Service Corps programme. Let’s just put it that they’ve not been able to help.

I think I’ve put in so much into the arts that if I were a civil servant I should be receiving retirement benefit. I have often written that the artists should be getting some benefits; we should restructure the system. If they insist that arts has become a jamboree, free for all kinds of people, I expect the government to put some measures in place.

There is no profession that people just walk in and become a member. We should have some little decorum and tidy things up. I have done enough to earn national honours, but all came with empty handshakes. As a matter of fact, the night I got an award for the

pioneers of arts from Pat Utomi at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, I was stranded. I received the award directly from the minister, but he just walked out and dashed to his car. It was Zulu Okafor that later give me and the two ladies I went with a ride.

Do you still run your arts school?

I am trying to run it because occasionally that is where I get some students to come in and pay something. I don’t have many students because recently my sight has been a problem and the same office is where I have to teach them. I need a place to accommodate more students because it is not even easy to bring people here and say I am running a school. The school is registered as Lari Williams Play House and I have trained many people, both in schools and privately. It has not been easy really; I have never had a grant from the government. When former President Goodluck Jonathan gave the arts sector grant I was the first person to write an open letter to the President, thanking him for the generosity. I immediately suggested that the money should be used to build a hall of fame. I have been talking about hall of fame for years, so I used the opportunity to say we should have one to preserve the memories of our heroes. I am talking generally, not for arts alone. We have not been doing well for artists. How many ministers have thought of exporting our stage play, sculptures among others to different countries? Look at the state of the National Theatre. Someone who call himself a general manager is locking up the place at 4pm for security purposes. Have we forgotten that National Theatre is meant to be an open place for plays? I was invited home from England for Festac

‘77 and the reason I didn’t go back was that I said I should join the team of pioneers to bring up this industry. Most people who started with me had passed on unsung and we keep telling ourselves that entertainment industry is going to bloom. We would not go anywhere until we get a minister who understands the arts. The minister should know that the base of entertainment industry is the theatre.

I would take example from America’s Broadway for plays and it was from that level Hollywood itself took off. It grew to such an enormous extent that they thought movie was too much.

Every hall was always booked and they extended it to Off Broadway to give room for newer plays to come in. Off Broadway grew so much that they introduced Off-Off Broadway.

Do you know it makes more money than even the films because it is full house every day? Actors were complaining at a point that they were working seven days and producers began to invite double cast to keep plays going. You can imagine how much the people pay? This is to tell you about the popularity of stage plays over there. We keep our National Theatre here idle. I wrote a play and I have been waiting for two years to get a chance to put the play on. They tell me I must pay N500, 000 per night.

Where do I get that? The hall can only contain 700 people, so how much do they expect me to charge people in an area like this (Iganmu, Lagos)? And you still have to cater for the set, actors, publicity, among others.

What could be done to bring National Theatre alive?

Why do they want to sell it? We haven’t developed the theatre they want to sell the National Theatre. They said it is not making money, but it is meant to be a source for establishing theatre tradition. If you want to make money from theatre, you need to set up the tradition of theatre first. They should look for a way to beef up security for people to freely go see plays.

Until theatre tradition is established we cannot start taking about emulating the likes of Broadway, Off Broadway and Off-Off Broadway. We have not established anything and we keep saying theatre is not selling. We started wrongly when we put historian as the first general manager of the National Theatre. Eventually, they brought in professors from universities, but does that tell us anything? The best person that handled the theatre well was a soldier called Tunde Akogun.

He ran theatre the way it should be

run. He had an open theatre where companies, including Lari Williams Play House, brought plays. He called the programme Open Theatre and my company was the first to put on a play, Home To Ajegunle. I just came back and I wrote my experience of Ajegunle; it was a documentary drama. I put on not less than 10 plays at the National Theatre, but today I have not been able to put on one.

Could you recall your days in England?

I would say I did very well. I went to England to study journalism in the London School of Journalism, but I later veered into drama to cut the long story short. I was the only black man in Stanford Acting School for 14 years.

I enjoyed my stay there and I learnt a lot. I later went to another theatre school in England and I learnt directing and technical theatre. As I was finishing there I set up a repertory theatre company which I called the Calabash Artists. One of the biggest things I did at a time was to put on my very first play called Kolanut Junction. It was my first full length movie and I employed people like Olu Jacobs, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, Taiwo Jegede, Rosemary da Costa and a host of other Nigerians who were in England.

How was your love for acting stoked?

I didn’t decide to go into acting. I was studying journalism and we were told in the class that we should do all English courses to be able to speak and understand the language properly, especially those of us who came from colonies. I was sent to study English at a college and they gave us passages to learn and speak the lines. They kept saying I would be a good actor and I was excited about that. Since we had an acting class in the same school, I went there and I got more interested along the way.

Did you venture into other things at some time?

I have never veered off the arts.

I did music because I attended CMS Grammar School, Bariga, Lagos, and we were taught basic rudiments of music. I still keep that on; I play drums and a bit of keyboard. I was invited for Festac as musical poet and actor representing London zone.

Were there things you wished you did better?

Nothing in particular; all I have done I enjoyed. The unfortunate thing is that I have not had the financial backing that would have moved me to greater heights.

15 AUGUST 2015

Stun with a front-slit dress T

Deborah Makoji here's a regal - even if irreverent - air that surrounds you as soon as you slip into a front-slit dress. This regal gown is synonymous with luxury and it comes in endless sea of fabric and textures like light chiffon, modern neoprene, floral print and many others.

Front-slit dresses are elegant and stunning, it gives looks that are both trendy and eyecatching at any special occasion.

You will definitely be a trendsetter and captivate everyone's attention as you show of your own chic style and fashion forward sense in this stunning elegant but not less sexy front slit dress.

These dresses sweep the floor, some just touch the floor while others pool around in a sophisticated way. The hems of some long front slit dresses seamlessly turn into chic sweep trains that turn heads.

Tips

Many of these dresses have eye-catching accents ranging from shimmering sequins to glimmering stones. Always keep your make up simple in other to create an enticing and graceful appearance.

Deep front slit from thigh to hem appears

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

in virtually endless array of colours, styles, design and materials that can be overwhelming. It is better to opt for bright colours for night events, complete your look with a high heel sandal or pump.

You should go for an up-to-there side slit when going on a date; it will wow your date and the rest of the crowd.

Make sure to keep in mind the size when purchasing your front-slit dresses so that you don't end up buying something that is too loose or too tight. It needs to be a perfect fit as that is the only way you can complement your beautiful body.

You can choose slinky long gowns with subtle keyholes or cutaways to keep people guessing.

Nothing looks more dazzling than to dress in a beautiful long front slit dress that flows like the wind behind you in an elegant and gorgeous manner for home-coming dance or wedding. But try and give a wide berth to white.

There are so many designs to choose from when it comes to the upper part of a dress. It is the top that gives the dress a unique look as most bottoms may be the same design, pick a design that will flatter your body.

Daniella Okeke

15

fashion etiquette Ties that speak

N

othing accentuates good dressing like a carefully selected tie. Knotting a tie to perfection makes all the difference in the way a man looks.

A simple touch such as a dimple in a tie can add some depth to a man’s outfit, while another’s sloppy knot could make one an object of ridicule.

So, it's best you know the type of tie you want to make statement with.

In matching a tie to a dress shirt and suit, consider factors such as the tie's pattern, colour and proportion.

Proportion plays a role in matching a necktie; it varies from the standard which is 3.5 inch width, a skinny tie less than 3 inches wide or excessively wide tie more than 3.75 inches.

Avoid wearing a short sleeve shirt with a tie. It is largely seen as a casual outfit. If you want to retain the professional and confident look, stick to long-sleeve shirts when wearing ties.

Always take note of the length; a man’s tie should always end at the centre of his belt buckle as having a tie that’s too short or too long can make a man seem careless.

Never forget the necktie dimple, it’s the telltale sign of a professional who knows how to knot a tie. Avoid this blunder and keep looking your best!

Shun Cartoon clothing unless you work for Disney, wearing them on your tie during the week make you look like you’re stuck in fantasy land.

Avoid mixing too many patterns or prints together.

If you are wearing a tie as part of your casual outfit, go for a slimmer tie instead of the wider ones. Keep the wider ones for the office. You’ll look much trendier this way.

Your tie should never go beneath your belt

Gbemi Olateru-Olagbeg

Mercy Aigbe

Ufuoma Kwakere Avoid cartoon tie

16

Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Accessories to live for

Genevieve Nnaji

Wear matching earrings F

Deborah Makoji rom business attire to fun casual looks, finishing off an outfit means adding in one or more pieces of jewelleries to add a glint to your look. Jewelleries add sparkle to a plain outfit to create an interesting look by giving it a colour contrast.

Both men and women alike enjoy pairing creative jewellery with everything from blue jeans to formal attire, whether the look is understated and casual for a day of errands or elegant enough for a formal dinner, add a piece of jewellery as the finishing touch.

It is always more effective to wear one good or striking piece of jewellery, remember not to overdo it. For instance, do not wear earrings, a necklace, a watch, a few rings and bracelets at the same time.

You'll look like a Christmas tree and give off a hint of vulgarity. Fashion jewellery for women is designed to make a statement, so keep it simple as less is more.

Sometimes wearing dangling earrings can be distracting with your hair tied back in a pony tail, especially if it swings back to and forth as you speak.

When worn well, it can look very chic emphasizing the ears and neckline. The issue is, how well are you wearing it?

Tips

• Do not over-bedeck yourself when wearing ordinary, country, or casual clothes; both costume jewellery and real jewellery can be lovely, but should not be worn together.

• Dangling earrings are only for evening and casual wear, small clip or stud ones are best for everyday use. Any earring that clangs, bangs, or jangles should be avoided on formal occasions • Instead of buying four or five cheap pieces throughout the year, buy one good piece that will stand the taste of time.

• Dramatic necklaces require modest earrings and

vice versa, avoid wearing more than one large earring.

• When you’re fully dressed, look in the mirror, turn away, turn back again and remove the first thing that catches your eye.

• Make sure there is no competition. One piece should stand out above the rest, with the others acting as quieter supportive players.

• Is your necklace a work of art? Wear the matching earrings or just put in little sparkly posts.

• Face shape, age and hairstyle have an influence on what to wear, always consider these when choosing the stones and metals that can work best for you.

For most offices, wearing anything other than simple studs is considered inappropriate. Pick accessories for your outfit; don’t pick an outfit based on your accessories. Earrings, either stud or dangling, is an accessory that every fashionable woman should live for.

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde

SATURDAY

Blackman Akeeb

New Afrika Shrine

My biggest mistake was recording with an indigenous company p.18

The girls, the hemps and the truth

p.20

ShowBiz SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2015

17

DORIS SIMEON

Starring in Yoruba films doesn't mean I'm not A-list At PEFTI Film Institute, you studied production management, but you don't seem to have done anything along that line aside acting?

I’ve actually used the skill in producing three movies and I’m on the fourth one which I’m finishing soon. I produced and managed my first movie titled Onitemi, the second one was Omo Iya Kan and Asiri was the third one that was released in 2009.

So which is the one you’re currently working on?

The title is The Victim. That would be the fourth film I’ve produced. I’m still on location at the moment and I’m rounding off shortly.

Since you quit the scene after your role in Papa Ajasco, you’ve not featured in any Wale Adenuga movie. Is there an explanation for that?

They still call me for jobs but sometimes it could be that I was on location at the moment they called or I wasn’t in the country.

But I just finished one of the Super Story series with them about a week ago.

In a recent interview, he insists that he pays actors who passed through him standard fee anytime he invites them for another job. Does he treat your case differently?

He’s a professional to the core; Wale Adenuga pays you the standard fee if you work with him on any project. He gives you the script first, asks you to go through it and then you return to discuss fee.

You’ve won a couple of awards from your roles in Oloju Ede, Eti Keta, and The Ghetto Dreams, a biopic on the life and times of late rapper, Dagrin; how were you able to transit into the character of his girlfriend who you never met or knew?

Doris Simeon has been in the news since 2013 for her tempestuous marriage to Daniel Ademinokan. The actress in this interview with LANRE ODUKOYA would rather not entertain questions related to her estranged husband and the fruit of that liaison, David. However, she speaks about her career, family and formative years.

I’m a professional actor first of all and that tells you that I can put myself into any character because it’s a make-believe world, people must view it as real. And before we shot the movie, we had a few meetings with the family, friends and neighbours and they all talked about the girlfriend he had, what she looked like, her characters and the things she did to earn Dagrin’s love.

You started acting after late Yomi Ogunmola introduced you to acting. Did he give you your first role?

He did after the Papa Ajasco project. It was after the location experience that I was given a lead role in a Yoruba movie.

Recently, a pharmaceutical company, GlaxoSmithkline renewed an endorsement deal with you. How many years would you be the brand ambassador and how much is the contract worth?

It’s actually a two-year contract in millions of naira, but I cannot disclose the exact worth of the deal.

Did Ogunmola produce or direct the movie?

He directed it. He wasn’t the producer.

You opened a beauty store months back.

Is that what you do apart from acting?

I know a lot of people don’t know that I make hair, they think I just opened the store because others are doing it. I make hair, I was trained by a hairdresser who is my mom and it’s like a family trade. I’ve also had it in mind that when I grow up, I was going to venture into hair styling. It’s all about looking good.

Do you also sell human hair which has become a fad today?

Yes, I sell all sorts of the natural human hair at the shop located at Ogba, Lagos. The name of the salon is David Beauty Centre.

Which movie was that?

It was at first titled Abanikedun but later changed to Three Million Naira.

Did you have any major quarrel with him before he passed on?

None at all, we had no misunderstanding. The only argument we must have had was perhaps that I heard he was in some locations and he didn’t carry me along on the job. You know I was a green horn then and I needed movie roles which he could facilitate for me.

What exactly was the first thing you ever loved to do aside acting?

To be candid, music is my first love. I used to sing in the choir. A while ago, one of my old mates in the choir crossed paths with me and was asking if I threw away my musical talent. He asked if I ever tried to be a chorister in any other church that I’ve attended and I said no. Maybe because I just love entertainment generally, I felt if music didn’t work for me, I would go into broadcasting.

Your colleagues, Dayo Amusa, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Stella Damasus and Genevieve Nnaji have all tried their hands on music; why haven't you given it a shot?

Maybe because my brother also sings, he has his own group and they do some reality shows and they’ve been performing around. And it may also be because I realized that all of the actresses who had ventured into it didn’t last.

Is it true that Nollywood producers still pay much higher than their Yoruba counterpart?

The fee for Yoruba and Nollywood movies are now almost at the same level. Nollywood used to pay better, but I don’t think they do that anymore. That’s why you find Uche Jombo, Desmond Elliot and the rest going to produce their movies too. Especially if you watch Africa Magic, that’s where you’d find their secrets. They use the upcoming actors too because they cannot afford the A-list actors unlike before. I say it a lot that the scripts that come to me more are from Yoruba movie producers, Nollywood scripts come as well but they don’t want to pay as much. The Nollywood guys believe you’re a cross-over artist and so you’re not like their A-list. If you cannot collect their fee, they move on to engage the up and coming acts in their circuit. And I call their bluff because I’m not looking for fame anymore; I’m looking for money now.

Are there things you wished you had done differently?

I wish I had started making money earlier. At 25, the world would have tagged me as the youngest and the richest.

You’re an Edo lady but you speak Yoruba fluently. How come?

It’s because I was born and bred in Lagos. I’ve lived all my life here. I had my upbringing around Ojota area of Lagos.

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SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

BLACKMAN AKEEB KAREEM

My biggest mistake was recording with an indigenous company 69-year-old Blackman Akeeb Kareem recently resurfaced after 35 years in the Diaspora. Between the '60s and '80s, Blackman’s music was a major fixture at live music circuits. In this interview, the UK-based singer tells OLUSHOLA RICKETTS why he had to relocate.

You were doing well for yourself at a time, but suddenly no one heard from you again. What actually went wrong?

What made me leave the country is the same thing that is still happening to you and I. In this nation, we don’t recognise people who are doing well.

Be it journalism, music or engineering, if you do not know somebody somewhere, they will not listen to you.

When it comes to employment, they would rather employ the person who is connected. They will put the person there and a qualified person would be roaming about without a job. I had a painful encounter with a certain Nigerian records company. When I started my music career in the 1960s, I started recording with the defunct EMI run by Europeans. At that time, every time the company sold our records in any part of the world, we received cheques or statements confirming the sales and details of where they were sold.

The same thing happened when I left EMI for Decca. Things changed when a Nigerian busi-

nessman who owned a recording company approached me and asked why we were still recording our works with European companies. So, I joined and recorded one of my best albums titled Amebo. It did not only become an instant hit in Nigeria, it was also well received in other parts of Africa. That happens to be the biggest mistake of my musical career.

The album was the first that I recorded with an indigenous records company in Nigeria. But unfortunately, I didn’t get a dime for my labour and creativity.

I didn’t get any message or letters from the company, even when my record sold like hot cake in the market. It sold so well that, at a point, people started calling me "Amebo man", instead of Blackman.

When I went to the records company to find out why they had delayed my payment, I got the shock of my life. They told me that Amebo did not sell. After that experience, I learnt a lesson that if you want to progress, you have to look elsewhere.

Even if you go to Cotonou, it is still better for you b e cause they

In this nation, we don’t recognise people who are doing well

are more honest and trustworthy. There, business is business and people take you for what you are. That was why I left the country for Europe. However, home is still home whether you are in America or Britain. But let them fix this country. It is even worse now as you can see.

Where have you been all this while?

An opportunity came during the 1984 Olympics when I went to watch Lionel Ritchie’s performance. He is one artist I love so much. From there, I got an invitation for my band to come and play in Paris also in 1984. I have only sat in a hotel, I hadn’t even started performing when fans began to scream with wild jubilation. Also, I got a recording company that recorded me the same year.

The record went straight to the top 10 in France. Of course, all of us know that music is an international language, most times it does not have language barrier.

Whether you sing in Igbo or Hausa, once the melody is good, you are accepted.

Thereafter, I called my wife and said to her, “My dear, if it takes you long to come and meet me in this country called France, I would marry another woman.”

I made up my mind I would not come back to Nigeria to play music again.

When the record went straight to the top 10, I sent a ticket to her immediately because money was no longer a problem.

So for 25 years, I did not come home.

Then in 1986, I crossed over to Britain.

In Britain, they accept you for who you are. In whatever you do, so long as you do it well, they will promote you and make you achieve your best.

What informed the decision to come home?

I was here to honour an invitation by Segun Akinlolu, aka Beautiful Nubia, to perform at his Ikeja, Lagos, hangout with other old generation musicians and to also attend the 80th birthday ceremony of my mother-inlaw. In Nigeria, when you are talking about the musicians who are still doing African music, he is one. I respect him. I met Beautiful Nubia in Canada and he mentioned his show to me. So when we met, we performed together in Canada last year and it was indeed fun. I have not performed in Nigeria for 35 years and so it was quite momentous for me. It was joyous to see the sort of crowd who still loved to

Blackman

see me on stage. This was why I had to sing some of the old tunes to bring people back into the groove.

How many albums do you have?

I have not done many albums; I have only done 16. What you have done is more than mine because you write everyday as a journalist.

You are now an evangelist…

It is a long story. It was in February 1997. After being a Muslim for 51 years, I was made to pray with a pastor friend. I said what prayer when I am here for business? I said I didn't want to pray. After a while, I closed my eyes and joined him in prayer. At a point, I began to laugh; I couldn’t stop, yet I did not open my eyes. Suddenly, without opening my eyes, I saw some doves in their beautiful colours. I heard a voice in the midst of those doves speaking to me the way I am speaking to you now.

It said, “My son, you will leave what you are doing. You don’t sing in hotels again, you don’t sing to praise human beings again. I will give you peace of mind; I will give you joy and happiness beyond human comprehension". It was the Lord’s voice speaking to me. He did not promise me money, because I don’t know where some preachers get the notion that He must be God of riches, and my God is not a poor God. When you come to Jesus, all your problems will be solved. So the voice told me that I should work in ministries. But then the ministry I knew was the ministry of agriculture, ministry of finance, ministry of aviation and so on. I didn’t know there was ministry for God. When I got home that day, I told my wife what happened. I didn’t know that she had been praying behind me to become a Christian and for Jesus to touch me.

From that day on I have been having this full ministry. I am known now as Michael Akeeb Kareem. I operate Akeeb Kareem Media Ministries in London, where I preach through music about courage in the powers of the Almighty Jesus. Courage is the weapon to face the trials and problems and fears of failure, witches, wizards and haunting dreams.

How was it like fighting in the civil war?

That was in 1967 at the outbreak of the Nigeria-Biafra war. I fought as a volunteer. May be today somebody somewhere is collecting my retirement money or whatever that I am entitled to. I started singing since the 1960s, but when the war came I joined to keep Nigeria one. After that, I came back and in 1974, I released my first album. I started singing with King Kenny Stones. Then Orlando Julius came from Ibadan and met us here in Lagos. I met people like Chris Ajilo, all of us played in Lagos when music was music.

Didn’t you face any difficulty playing music in Europe?

My music was well received, especially by the whites and I was fortunate to work in an environment that was more enabling and conducive than what I left behind back home.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

My mix with Dagrin remains one of Nigeria’s best ‘collabo’ –DJ Neptune

Showbiz

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Imohiosen Patrick, popularly known as DJ Neptune speaks with DEBORAH MAKOJI about the radio show he intends to launch this year and other issues in the industry.

What is DJ Neptune into presently?

Basically, I am doing a lot of things at the same time; I am working on an album which will drop hopefully before the end of this year. I am also working on an online radio show which is 90 per cent done.

What inspired you to go into the industry?

I have always had the mentality of becoming an entertainer/musician when I was much younger but my dad discouraged me from taking music as a career but, along the line, I lost my dad then I became free to choose career for myself. I got into DJ after I saw DJ playing live at a party.

The feel I got from that party in 1999 is the reason behind who I am now.

If your dad were alive, do you think you would have become a DJ? He wanted me to be an engineer but, along the line I would have still found myself doing what I am doing now because if it is not music it’s nothing else. My dad’s wish cannot stop me from doing what I want to do. I will like to use this opportunity to advice other guys out there to pursue their desire, try and nurture the talent because at the end of the day, you never can tell which will bring food to your table.

What inspires your various creations?

The things around me.

How is the journey so far?

I started DJ professionally in 2001; I was trained by DJ Douglas who is based in UK. Then in 2004, I had the opportunity to go on radio, that is Raypower FM where I free-lanced for a year before I was became a member of staff in 2005 and I got my breakthrough from there.

Are you still with Raypower FM? No, I left there in 2010.

Why did you leave the station?

Nothing happened, I felt the name was getting bigger and I needed to venture into other things and radio was taking much of my time.

What are you doing now?

Right now I am working on a radio show and it will be out soon so, look out for that. I did not leave radio for any negative reason because radio is part of the platform that made me who I am today.

What are we to expect from the radio show?

It is going to be a radio show that will give you the experience of being in the club while in the comfort of home. It is going to be energised.

Who are your sponsors?

I am speaking to one or two sponsors right now but I don’t want to disclose that now.

DJ Neptune

Will the show dwell on music alone?

It’s going to be music and entertainment. It will as well inform you of the latest songs within and outside the country and we will have parties as well.

DJ Neptune

If not DJ what?

If not DJ I don’t think there will be anything else.

Do you think government has done enough for the industry?

Entertainment wise, I don’t think so.

Maybe things will get better with this present administration otherwise, they have done nothing much. During the campaign, lots of politician associated with entertainers and I think they will realise the need to care for entertainers now.

Any challenge so far?

I had my low moment at the early stage. Then after shows I will go home with nothing but because of the love I have for the job, I did not give up.

Like they say, no one knows tomorrow, I faced a lot of challenges when I started but here I am now.

Does your background influence who you are now?

Yes because my dad will always sit me down and make me understand that whatever is worth doing is worth doing well. He taught me that I can always fight for what is mine without depending on anyone. I was brought up with the mentally that I have a dad that is nowhere around me and that has really helped me.

Who do you look up to in the industry?

A lot of people, like DJ Jimmy Jatt, he is a family man that has been in the industry for over 25 years now and he is still strong and hungry for DJ. I am hungry for DJ as I was when I started in 1991.

People celebrate me that I have made it but I don’t feel so, am still hungry for DJ and I want to be known worldwide.

Take us through your love life I am married, my wife is an understandable woman and I spend a lot of time with my family when I am not working. Sometimes we go on vacation to keep the vibe going. So, it is not all about work.

How did you meet your wife?

I met my wife in America while on official trip, the rest is history.

What do we expect from you soon?

People should look out for more from me this year. I started DJ Neptune Live in America and it’s a tour I would like to take it round the whole world. I started in Loss Angeles then to Washington DC and many other countries.

How do you handle female fans excess?

I love them back for loving me but there is still that little pillar there.

Any crazy experience with female fans?

That was back then before I got married.

What will you never be caught wearing?

Skinny jeans.

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15 AUGUST 2015

NEW AFRIKA SHRINE

T

Lanre Odukoya he original Afrika shrine was built

by Olufela Anikulapo-Kuti in the '70s and it endured until shortly after his death in 1997 when it was forcibly closed by the Nigerian authorities.

It was much more than just a music venue.

It was a refuge of sort for the underprivileged even as it acted as a focal point for dissent and thus became a hindrance to the authority of the ruling elite.

Fela used the stage to launch eloquently savage diatribes against the corruption and mismanagement that was rife in Nigeria and was a hero to millions for the acid, noncompromising social commentary in his lyrics. In the '70s and '80s, people flocked to the shrine to hear Fela’s latest protest against the country’s leaders and enjoyed the powerful music and performance from him and his band. His home was known as the Kalakuta Republic, while he nicknamed himself the Black President.

Following Fela’s death in August 1997 and the forced closure of his beloved shrine, his first two children, Yeni and Femi resolved to re-build an even bigger shrine. They used their share of income from the global sale of Fela’s albums and donations from those who loved the legend to see the project, now known as “New Afrika Shrine” to fruition.

Today, however, there are salacious tales about the revered shrine. The alarmists are screaming with claims that “Afrika Shrine now has strippers.” This has prompted many, including this reporter, to verify the claims and to see what the New Afrika Shrine may have added to its menu. At last, it turned out to be a mere cocktail of lies.

Though, there are net cages, planted right and left the bottom of the stage where the Positive Force Band dancers, who intermittently accompany Femi’s renditions, do their well-rehearsed performances.

A dancer in the netted cage

The hemp, alcohol and the girls in a cage An average of 10 to 15 girls share the stage when Femi is playing while three lead dancers take the centre stage with the "prince of Afrobeat". Other dancers entertaining on both wings of the stage take turn to go into the cage meant for “strippers” in other climes- but none of the girls go in unclad.

The dancers are trained by Yeni a.k.a.

YK Power, who was the lead dancer of Egypt 80, Fela’s band years back. The manager of the shrine reports to her and our check reveals that the shrine records half a million naira from sales on an average day.

Femi is neither a Muslim nor a Christian but an atheist more or less. Yet, he prays always in his private sanctuary located inside the new shrine whenever he returns from trips abroad. This was the practice of his father and has, in a way, become a ritual of sorts for Femi before he retires to his palatial home.

The ever-busy Adeleye Street, Ikeja, Lagos, where the imposing edifice is sited has also become a tourist haven for both locals and foreigners alike. Taxis dot the façade.

Men and women swarm the street with assorted wares- cigarettes, minty candies, fashion accessories, VCDs and CDs among

other things you may need to enjoy your stay on a visit to the historic site. Everything Pan-Nigerian and Pan-African seems handy here: alcoholic beverages, hemps, cigarettes of all brands and sizes, local and foreign cuisines, art works and so on.

As you take your seat upon entry, uninvited ladies greet you and mumble: “opa eyin wa o, agbo jedi naa wa”; a Yoruba expression which loosely translates thus, “do you care for herbal concoction that cure pile and spinal cord pain?” Then the bar tender appears and you make your order. And you are sure to catch enchanting glimpse of Homo sapiens of different shades and takes.

There is nothing at the shrine to arouse fear- perhaps fear of Fela’s spirit lingers, but one of the writings on the wall takes this out of equation- “the secret of life is to have no fear.” The atmosphere smells the expected and you seat where you want to be classed.

There are gallery corners for Very Important Personalities (VIPs), who would not like to be noticed. The vast open bar, however, could accommodates all and sundry.

From Monday to Sunday, the New Afrika Shrine never sleeps. Mondays are only the days when there are no shows

Femi Kuti.

Inset: New Afrika Shrine

yet, the bar opens for service. Every Tuesday at the shrine is for Hip Hop night, youths ‘turn-up’ with their friends and lovers. By Wednesday, guest artists visit to perform at the club while Femi plays free on Thursday nights (rehearsals) and does a paid show on Sundays.

Patrons pay a paltry N500 to watch the Positive Force Band play. The T.G.I.F. show as with other clubs holds at the shrine. Fela's last son and the most approximate reincarnation, Seun, plays last Saturday of every month. You will be amazed the kinds of patrons who storm the shrine mostly in the evenings. Old ardent fans of Fela - respected diplomats, captains of industries, legal luminaries, top flight professionals and some elites of note saunter in to unwind.

The girls around the shrine, aside the dancers, do not live there. They just fraternise with their gangs at every given opportunity to recreate. It is a tryst for some lovers and men to hook up with some girls who are there to have some fun.

There are no rooms for ‘quickie’ at the shrine. Unlike what it is projected to look like. “The shrine isn’t a brothel.

It’s merely a fun spot with the aura of latitude as one propagated by the late activist and iconic founder. The sale of drinks, foods and hemps don’t cost a fortune here. The prices of the alcoholic beverages don’t differ from what obtains in other public bars- don’t let the size of your purse or peddled half-truths scare you,” one patron, who declined to give his name, told Saturday Telegraph.

It may well interest you to know that hemps, in and around the shrine, have grades. The regular sells for N50 per wrap while the concoction, popularly known as ‘Skonk’, sells for N100 and above. Skonk is mixed with all sorts and it’s not a substance for the lily-livered to puff. The facility has uniformed men it calls ‘Shrine Police’. Some of them are on full-time employment while others are contracted on ad hoc arrangement.

The Shrine Police are the ones who help to maintain order in case of any violent outbreak. The men handover suspects, in case of any arrest, to the Nigerian Police for further actions. The ad hoc Shrine Police are hired when there are special projects like FELABRATION. It was gathered that over 200 ad hoc Shrine Police were on ground during the last FELABRATION to guard the place against possible chaos.

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LANRE ODUKOYA

SHOWBIZ TODAY

08059296445 lanre.odukoya@newtelegraphonline.com

Majek Fashek recuperates in rehab home

T

he rain maker, Majek Fashek, was recently checked into a rehabilitation home in Abuja by popular Warri billionaire who also doubles as the CEO of 911 Entertainment, Chief Ayiri Emami.

And this is authoritative. But the report had elicited some doubts owing to a claim once made that Tayo Faniran who came second at the Big Brother Africa 2014 got a whopping $100000 from the ex-militant. There is controversy in relation to if that

Charly Boy and Majek Fashek

promised had been kept.

It is understood that the socialite flew specialists into the country in a bid to put Majek in a proper shape following tales of wandering across different streets of Lagos.

In a recent development, Majek has been pictured alongside friends and other well-wishers at the rehab home where he is currently receiving treatment. In the said photographs, he has added on some weight and looked healthier than he was before

Yvonne Nelson’s new boyfriend is a Nigerian

G

hanaian actress, Yvonne Nelson, seems to have found a replacement for her erstwhile Ghanaian actor boyfriend, John Dumelo.

Last Thursday, Nelson shared a photo of herself with Nigerian actor, Deyemi Okanlawon. The two posed on the same spot were Yvonne, a few months ago, had posed for a funny picture with her ex. Dumelo and Nelson were photographed while dressed in each other’s clothes.

Alas, the couple who tagged on like fin to fishes was expected to walk down the aisle together, but they have since broken up and they beat the media to it. From all indication, Nelson did not mourn her last romance for long and this is evident in the caption on her recent picture with Nigerian actor, Okanlawon.

The caption on the photo she had with Deyemi reads: “…….. so my boyfriend @deyemitheactor in #iftomorrownevercomes passed biiiiiiii to say Hiiiiiiiii”.

Okanlawon starred in one of Nelson's film titled, If Tomorrow Never Comes.

Nelson

Akpororo

Akpororo proposes to fiancee twice a month

L

ast Sunday, August 9, Airtel ambassador and comedian, Akpororo, got engaged to his girlfriend, Josephine Abraham, during their church service. And interestingly, a few days later, the love-struck humour merchant decided to pull another stunt to wow his fiancée.

Akpororo organized a novelty engagement match to propose to her again and he invited HIP TV to cover the show exclusively.

At the moment, the couple is already making plans to kick off the marriage ceremony the industry will be witnessing before the year runs out.

After autocrash, Osita Iheme shows off new hotel D

iminutive Nollywood actor, Osita Iheme, is not as extravagant as many in his industry who have made some millions like him.

The actor unknown to many had invested his fortune in transport business until recently when one of his cars had an accident, and he’s currently making plans to replace the damaged car with a new one.

Not relenting in his efforts, the actor has revealed that he is currently making plans to join the league of hotel owners in the country as the palatial fortress is in progress.

He shared the picture of the site and men at work to complete some parts of the first floor of the hospitality apartment.

According to him, "Work is going on."

he was checked in.

On August 12, Charly Boy was one of those who visited him and expressed the hope he gets back his groove and return to stardom again. “I have been talking with him and I believe that this will be the final push for him to get to that state where everyone will see the vibrant Majek again,” he noted.

The reggae exponent recently admitted his addiction to alcohol and drug in a press briefing held in Abuja few days back.

Spotlighting Africans in the UK – The Labi Odebunmi story L

abi Odebunmi, a young British-Nigerian director is set to premiere in Nigeria a breezy documentary that will educate Nigerians back home about the rise and dominance of Nigerian culture in the United kingdom.

Premiering on Soundcity, an urban lifestyle channel, at 3pm this Saturday, the special documentary will debut with a focus on Moelogo, a British-Nigerian music star.

The documentary will cover Moelogo's moment in June 2014 at the Island Records' headquarters in London when he signed a recording deal. It will also include an interview segment with emphasis on his background, his incursion into music, his day-to-day itinerary with the production crew, his video shoot and personal experience on the rise of African culture in terms of music in the UK. According to him, the documentary will expose some of the cultural realities about Nigerians abroad through the personalities he will feature on the programme.

"I want to give average Nigerians who may not have the opportunity to fly to London to have the feel of the society and appreciate the cultural realities been imbibe by most Nigerians in the Diaspora," Labi explained.

He noted that while a lot of Nigerians at home are looking at UK and America for inspiration, many of their peers abroad are having a reawakening and looking at home for cultural education and copy the cultural values.

"We have got to that stage in the UK where white folks including those at West End now dance to Nigerian music at their clubs and even play our afrobeats songs on their radio stations. The other day, Wizkid's Ojuelegba was played on the influential Capital FM and everybody could feel the vibe. This is because of the Nigerian culture which gives originality to the genre of music they play," he added.

The young up and coming filmmaker disclosed that he has listed a number of African achievers that will also be featured very soon on the programme to tell their stories.

Labi is the son of ace broadcaster and owner of popular Obalende Suya London, Tokunbo Odebunmi. A first class graduate of film and television from the University of Hartfordshire, he has been creating visuals in film, music video and other production.

Labi

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'Classic tunes helped me to be ahead of others' Oluseyi Anuoluwa Dipeolu’s imposing presence at club tours where he mans the wheels-of-steel makes music buffs ask for more. He has done a number of club tours within the country with the most notable being the Star Club Hop series.

The entertainer otherwise known as DJ Soniq speaks with LANRE ODUKOYA about his fledgling career.

What was your earliest influence into disk jockeying?

I’m certain that’s my uncle who was a DJ, he’s Lanre Dipeolu who isn’t quite popular. I got some of his old instruments and I was learning with them.

Was he a radio or mobile DJ? He was a mobile DJ, my dad used to go with him to shows once in a while and I can say he was more or less his assistant. My father too was a music lover and they played together many years back. As time went by, my uncle left disck-jockeying and some of the instruments ended up with my dad because he was into music then too. He used to be a music composer and instructor. He had some of his recording collection.

Koker

‘Having 13 artistes in Chocolate City is not a problem’ Olayiwola Tokunbo known as Koker in showbiz is one of the recent addition to MI’s Chocolate City. He tells OLUSHOLA RICKETTS about his growth.

How long have you been doing music?

The first time I recorded in the studio was in JSS 3 and that was like nine years ago. I went to Global Light Comprehensive College in Egbeda, Lagos. But when I got admission into the University of Lagos, department of creative arts, I took music to another level. I started going for shows on campus and making more songs.

When did you join Chocolate City?

My first contact with the label was when I recorded a song with Pryse Pryse, “Eleto.”

That was three years ago, though I was not signed to the label at that time. We did a video and I became part of the family. Later, some certain people played my songs for the management and they liked them. I started getting phone calls that the label was keeping close tab on me, but it was not official yet. I did a chorus on the chairman’s album, a song titled “Rich.” I was technically signed this year.

How do you describe life with the label?

It’s been good, exciting and challenging. Of course, I expect the best and I try to be positive.

I just dropped a song in the Choc Boi Nations’ album titled Do Something. The song is doing well on the streets right now and we recently dropped the video. Having a label means you have a structure; it means there is flesh to the bone. I see it as an added advantage to my music and it is a good development. We don’t bit more than we can chew and we know what we are doing. Having 13 artistes on the label doesn’t mean we don’t know how to handle them. There is space for everyone.

So your dad got the old ‘turn table’ from your uncle and not the ultramodern gadgets, how did you find that useful?

Well, I found that era interesting because my dad played instruments and I wanted to learn too, but maybe it was the amount of time and skills to reach a certain level that I didn’t really have. I played a bit of guitar and keyboard but I never got the mastery of those instruments. Then I realised that sometimes you don’t necessarily have to create music, you may have to share music and influence and get music from other people.

In modern times, who are those that

have influence your career choice?

Well, more recently, when we have great hip hop guys, rappers like Notorious B.I.G. for example, Busta Rhymes and Tupac influenced me with their music. They were the ones whose music inspired me to want to go out and share music. Yes, there are others in classical music, like Afro juju, Fuji and juju music but the western music interested me more.

How the did you transit from the use of turn table to the wheels-ofsteel?

The technology is advancing very rapidly and I update my skills, particularly because I work in a technology industry doing my 9am-5pms.

So, as this technology evolves, I’m usually at the forefront of adoption, from the turntable to the tape players to digital music files as we now have the MP3 and so on and so forth. Over that transitional period, I believe I was always at the forefront of adoption. I wanted to explore that world and see how I serve people music and they’ll also enjoy it.

What is your relationship with other top DJs? I make sure I constantly work with a lot of the highly rated DJs. For instance, I’m currently working with DJ Xclusive, one of the most respected professionals in Nigeria and I’m essentially his right hand man. I had influences from DJ Jimmy Jatt, DJ Otega and a host of others way back then.

How did you combine music with academics?

I studied creative arts so it was still part of my field. I was always missing rehearsals to produce music and I cannot deny that it didn’t affect me, but I was still able to come out with a good degree. I just tried to strike a balance basically. I have always known I wanted to play music.

How did you develop interest for music?

I have uncles that played live music. I grew up listening to Ebenezer Obey and the likes because my father was and is still a fan of music. My mother gave me an instance when she went to a store with me and suddenly I disappeared. There was a DJ playing around there and I started dancing to the music.

What kind of music do you do?

I am versatile; I do pop, juju and I can do Fuji. I just do me. I believe in selling my culture and infusing my indigenous sound in whatever I do.

What makes you different?

All I can say is my sound that covers everything. Featuring on MI’s album did a lot for me.

The album was big such that people started knowing there was someone called Koker.

What happens if music fails?

Like I said I am a graduate of UNILAG. I believe that answers your question. I have my certificate, though music cannot fail me. But if it fails I have my certificate to fall back to. I decide to go into music and I would embrace anything that comes out of it.

DJ Soniq

SATURDAY

The Arts SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2015

23

Dreams and ideas on canvas

Lagos-based painter, photographer and graphics designer, Abass Kelani is a celebrated Lagos-based painter, photographer and a graphic designer, talks about the pains and joy of being an artist and a full time studio practitioner. He also shares his experience on his solo exhibition, "Asiko”. UGWU NNAEMEKA writes

W

ith neoexpressionist and superimposed technique of painting, Kelani has blurred the thin line between a two-dimensional painting and a painting with depth. But like many of his colleagues and contemporaries, it was really difficult especially after school to get to where he is now in the visual art scene. He recalls that he had to struggle to take care of his needs and buy materials, and gradually when he started putting works in shows, things began to improve.

“I would say now it is nice because you have time for yourself you have all the time to create, think. If you are working as a studio artist especially in Lagos where most of your time is spent on traffic, it is always very difficult,” he says, noting that he is however finding it interesting given the fact there is ample time to think about his ideas.

“What I do now is mostly idea generated pieces, idea generated works. You can’t just go to the studio and start painting; you have to do lots of research. Sometimes I do interview people before I can do my work. So, as a studio artist I am finding it interesting because of the time and my family,” Kelani enthuses.

But there are challenges too. One of these, he notes, has to do with idea generation. "In as much as I like the freedom and the time, the first challenge is that at times when you run out of ideas and you don’t have anything to do, you can see yourself wasting time. You have to find a way to put time on what you want to do, like collecting materials. If you don’t plan very well you will waste a lot of time.

You have to plan accordingly; you have to search the internet, search for materials, get your mediums ready, probably you want to work on paper

Asiko 2 (Family Album Series). Inset: Kelani

or canvas.

I get photographic materials sometimes; I use photograph as references. You just have to plan. Now the second challenge is finance.

You don’t sell all the time; at times, you might not sell for three months or four months. You should be able to plan especially if you're a family man. If you sell once in three months you should be able to manage and know what goes for materials, family, how much to save.

Sometimes you can also sell for three, four, five months at a go.”

On his inspiration, especially, as a mixed media artist, Kelani explains: “For the man and the machine I used traditional piece like the oil and the acrylic mediums and canvas I also included photography to my work.

I also used tabloids and the information from the newspaper that has to do with the work. It was challenging because I tried something I’ve never tried before, that is, using sound from a printing machine. What I did was record a generation of printing machines.

I did this because the exhibition was the relationship between man and machine. This is so because my father was a printer and my mother an artist, so all my life was based on my experience as of that time.”

According to him, most of his works are inspired by his experience especially from his family. “Those are the things that inspire my works now; and majorly it is centred around my environment and culture.”

On his experience with his solo exhibition titled Asiko, the widely exhibited artist notes: “Asiko opened me to a lot of things, and that’s one thing about exhibition, you don’t just show works for people to see and gain from it as an art-

ist you should be able to pick from the experience from what you’ve shown to people, you have to learn from it.

“What I enjoyed from Asiko was the research; I did a lot of research, I asked a lot of questions. My next exhibition would continue in that trend. I’ll like to do more research. Most people from my last exhibition didn’t actually know anything. I was surprised when a 60-year-old man told me he was seeing some of the images in my work for the very first time. That actually encouraged me especially to do more research for my work. In my work I had to merge three mediums and there are histories behind. The painting has a lot of history, same with the printing and photography so you can imagine.

I decided to read and ask more questions on the history of photography history of printing and painting and I found out at some point photography really challenged painters especially when daguerreotype first came out people believed that was the end of painting. Then people had to pose to be painted, families had to pose to be painted, when photography came out it could bring out exactly the same image so painters were scared that it was the end. So artist started forming other styles of painting like expressionism, realism, using big brush strokes, using small brush strokes so that it doesn’t look like a photograph. So these are the things I’ll do again in my coming exhibition, using machines, changing its purpose to create my work.”

For the award-winning artist, the visual art is actually moving very fast compared to what it was years ago.

“Then, it was difficult to exhibit; we didn’t usually have enough space to exhibit our works because it was very limited and expensive. But now we have enough space, but they are still expensive and there are a lot of artist that are ready to work. We are delving into a lot of subjects with our works in Nigeria. Formerly, paintings were mostly landscape, portrait, mother and child and all, but now our ideas are becoming more conceptual, we can now show our works anywhere and we see people saying that we are seeing something, we are talking with our art, we are contributing to discourse.

When you see Nigerian art in international exhibition you start to see that we’ve moved away and we are moving to somewhere very interesting, though we still have a lot to do. We need people that can give artists grants in Nigeria so that we won’t rely only on selling. If you don’t have people that can provide grants you have to do only what collectors want you to do.”

Investigations SATURDAY TELEGRAPH 15 AUGUST, 2015

24

Ex-governors

AWAY FROM THE PUBLIC EYE They once held sway in their respective states as governors. Today, however, they are engaged like most other people in other activities away from politics. In this report, ISIOMA MADIKE concludes this twopart series of what these former political heavyweights have ventured into since leaving office

G

overnors in Nigeria are very powerful. This makes the masses expect much more when their tenures expire.

Specifically, the people want to see them set up business concerns in order to engage the youth, whose cause they often claim to champion after their term. That often does not happen.

This sense of patriotism and personal example for public concern, many believe, has always been lacking among the country’s former public office holders. Since democracy returned in 1999, many of these governors, while in the saddle, had pontificated on the issue of youth employment and concern for the unemployment situation.

Incidentally, they always fail to show tangible evidence of personal involvement by way of setting up businesses or engaging in pursuits that would benefit the common people after leaving office to back up their public stance while in office.

In spite of their stupendous wealth however, many of them would continue to hug politics as if there is no life outside of it. Although, some could be different, yet, their ventures are usually masked in privacy.

Cross River State A few can be said to be an exception though. Donald Duke, for instance,

Isioma madike

Editor, INVESTIGATIONS isioma.madike@newtelegraphonline.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

Ohakim

Yero

Duke

Udenwa

was governor between 1999 and 2003.

Today, however, he has ventured into private concern with the establishment of the Children Specialist Hospital located in the heart of the state capital.

The hospital at a point was dogged by controversy, culminating in the takeover by the last administration of Senator Liyel Imoke.

Imoke had claimed that it was built with public fund and so cannot be appropriated for personal use. The knotty issues were later resolved.

Duke, according to investigations, also owns a company in Lagos with which he undertakes landscaping for some state governments. Currently, the company is said to be involved in the reshaping of Edo State.

It was also engaged at some point during the Godswill Akpabio’s administration in Akwa Ibom State.

Duke owns a company in Lagos with which he undertakes landscaping for some state governments

Specifically, Duke and his company were hired to evacuate refuse in Akwa Ibom to replicate the clean and green environment, which he pioneered in his own state of Cross River.

Aside this, the former governor is said to have interest in some business concerns in South Africa. But very little is known about this with regard to details.

Imoke, who, unlike Duke, was governor for two terms between 2003 and 2015, had, immediately after handing over power to the incumbent governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, relocated to his Itighidi country home from where he reportedly went to the United States for some rest.

Though, his former aides are keeping sealed lips on his activities, as they believe the man is now living a private life and should not be dragged into the public square again, at least for now.

The former governor had however, given an inkling into what he intended to do when he was leaving office.

Saturday Telegraph had, authorita-

SATURDAY 15 AUGUST2015

SATURDAY

FREE

Sport Splash 25

Interview

Obikwelu was my biggest Nigerian rival –Greene p.27

Global

Etihad rumbles as City, Chelsea clash p.28

News

Osayomi eyes return to the tracks p.30

Features

Kalu: Eyes beyond iroko tree p.31

Lawal to Oliseh

Nigeria's Gbolahan Salami jostling with an unidentified South African player during an AFCON 2015 qualifier

Make home-based nucleus of Eagles

A

Vincent Eboigbe

The Team

Vincent EboigbelAssistant Editor Ajibade Olusesan l Correspondent

Charles Ogundiya l Correspondent

© Daily Telegraph Publishing

former Nigeria international, Garba Lawal, has urged Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, to make home-based players the foundation of his new team since overseas-based ones are not regulars in their various clubs.

Oliseh last week released a list of 23 players to prosecute the 2017 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania next month, but the thinking in many football circles is that those players will just be mere training materials that will be discarded once the foreign-based pros hit the camp.

But Lawal, who was Oliseh’s teammate in the Olympics football gold medal-winning side in Atlanta 1996 as well as the Super Eagles team to France 1998, told our corre-

spondent that many of those playing overseas were not only run-of-the-mill, they were also not featuring regularly for their various clubs, a situation which makes it even more imperative to look inwards.

“I hope Oliseh would build his team around the home-based players, it makes sense given that most of our players outside are not fantastic and are equally not featuring on a regular basis for their clubs. I have to also add that most of these clubs are not even the top sides,” Lawal said.

“This scenario makes it necessary to build the team around the home-based players. I have no problem with Sunny depending entirely on overseas-based players if they are playing steadily for their clubs but they are not and that should be of concern to any coach. So there is really no basis for continu-

ing to make these players the fulcrum of the Eagles.''

The former Roda JC of Holland midfielder and current general manager of Kaduna United however said Oliseh would be judged by what he could achieve with the Super Eagles and not how highly rated the coaching badge that he possesses.

Lawal said: “Oliseh’s appointment is good to the extent of the results that come with it. Whether he has the highest coaching certificates would not matter. It is the achievements that would count. Even if you hire a (Giovanni) Trapattoni and there are no positive results, there will be a problem.

If the results are good, then Oliseh would have no issues but if they are not, it would not be good for him even if he were Mario Zagallo.''

26

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 august 2015

Nigerian League Rendezvous Sanni wants three points against Wikki Idris Idris

H

ead coach of Kwara United, Tunde Sanni, is expecting a tough game against Wikki Tourist at the Ilorin Township Stadium on Sunday.

Speaking with League Rendezvous on the telephone, the coach said the game would not be an easy one, arguing they have what it takes to win.

“We will be going for the three points at stake,” Sanni said. “Though every team is well prepared now, we hope we won't disappoint.”

The Harmony Warriors held the Bauchibased club to a 1-1 draw at home in one of the Nigeria Professional Football League first round encounters.

The two teams clash again this weekend with Kwara United coming from the back of a 2-0 away loss to El-kanemi Warriors.

Wikki were forced to a barren draw by visiting Nasarawa United at the weekend, making it five games without a victory for the Bauchi side which at the early stage of the season was competing for the top spot with the likes of Sunshine Stars and Enyimba of Aba. NPFL LEAGUE TABLE Team

P

W

D

L

GF

GA

GD

PTS

1 Enyimba

22

11

8

3

31

20

11

41

2 Sunshine

22

12

4

6

32

19

13

40

3 Warri Wolves

22

11

4

7

34

21

13

37

4. Wikki

22

9

8

5

25

21

4

35

5 Giwa FC

22

9

8

5

26

24

2

35

6 Kano Pillars

22

10

4

8

28

24

4

34

7 Abia Warriors

22

10

4

8

27

25

2

34

8 Heartland FC

22

10

3

9

32

25

7

33

9 Shooting

22

9

5

8

23

18

5

32

10 Rangers

22

9

5

8

24

23

1

32

11 Nasarawa

22

8

6

8

23

25

-2

30

12 El-Kanemi

22

9

3

10

22

32

-10

30

13 IfeanyiUbah

22

8

5

9

22

21

1

29

14 Kwara Utd

22

7

5

10

21

27

-6

26

15 Akwa Utd

22

7

5

10

16

22

-6

26

9

16 Lobi Stars

22

5

17 Sharks FC

22

4

8

22

27

-5

24

8

18

25

-7

22

18 Dolphins

22

4

9

9

21

26

-5

21

19 Bayelsa Utd

22

4

8

10

14

26

-12

20

20 Taraba FC

22

4

7

11

19

29

-10

19

Shooting, Pillarscontinue to climb up the table

I

Stories: Charles Ogundiya t has been an upward swing for Shooting Stars of Ibadan since the appointment of Gbenga Ogunbote as the head coach of the team, just as defending champions, Kano Pillars’ stock also continues to rise since the beginning of the second half of the league.

Shooting Stars were bottom of the Nigeria Professional Football League table when Ogunbote took over, but he has since masterminded the rise of the team to the ninth position.

“When I joined 3SC I had a mandate to rescue the club from relegation,” Ogunbote said.

“For now the mandate stands but if we can get a continental ticket, then I will gladly accept it.”

After an indifferent first half of the season, Kano Pillars are yet to lose a game since the beginning of the second round.

The Mohammed Baba-Ganaru led side has now garnered seven points from a possible nine in their last three matches.

Speaking to Ssturday Telegraph on the telephone, the media officer of Kano Pillars, Idris Malikawa, said other teams in the

T

Atete

Giwa face Sunshine Stars' backlash

G

iwa FC will be up against a wounded Sunshine Stars when the two sides confront each other on Sunday in a week 23 Nigeria Professional Football League match at the Akure Township Stadium.

Sunshine Stars relinquished their top position after drawing 0-0 away to Ifeanyi Ubah FC last weekend but will hope to bounce back with a victory at home to Giwa FC. “We are not contesting with anyone but ourselves,” the Technical Adviser of the team, Henry Abiodun, told League Rendezvous on the telephone.

“I cannot say the draw against Ifeanyi Ubah was a bad result because picking a point away from home alone was an added advantage for us.

Nigerian top flight should watch out for the resurgent Pillars.

“We are not ready to relinquish the title we have won for the past three seasons,” Malikawa said.

“There is now a new spirit in the team with the return of Baba-Ganaru; people should expect more from this team.”

Kano Pillars are on sixth position with 34 points from 22 games, seven points behind leaders, Enyimba of Aba. The game between the two sides on Sunday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, will headline this weekend's games as the league enters Week 23.

Focus should be on final games, says Atete he proprietor of Nigeria National League side J. Atete FC, Julius Atete, has called on the management of the NNL to pay close attention to the remaining games of the season.

Speaking with League Rendezvous in Lagos during the week, the businessman said the latest development in the league necessitated his plea for the games to be monitored.

“The gap between my club and Enyimba is just one point and if we can continue picking points here and there, we will surely achieve our goal of winning the league at the end of the season.”

On whether the Akure Gunners will be missing the services of some of their top players invited to the Super Eagles camp, Abiodun said his team had a large number of quality players to prosecute league games in the absence of the first team stars.

He said: "It is always mixed feelings when call ups are made, you want to look at your position on the log and for a team challenging for the league title we want all our best players available for every game.

“On the other hand, it is also a pride for the club when your

best players are called up for national team assignments; we don't have any reason to deprive players great opportunity.

“Overall, it will be an opportunity to give other players in the team a chance, those that have been working hard to get more playing time. I think it is a challenge to the players that have been working hard in training to pick starting shirts and prove their quality."

Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, extended invitations to striker Prince Aggrey, first choice goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa, defender Stephen Eze as well as NPFL and Sunshine top scorer, Tunde Adeniji, to the camp of the Eagles for preparation ahead of next months AFCON qualifier against Abiodun Tanzania.

Shooting Stars' Cletus Itodo (right) vying for the ball with Heartland's Kingsley Ajaero

“The win-at-home syndrome if not stopped will kill our league,” he said.

“I keep saying it that the NNL officials should monitor the remaining three matches but they have not been doing that.

“Despite all their promises, we are still seeing home teams intimidating match officials to get victories while playing at home.

MATCHDAY 23 Lobi Stars vs FC Taraba Bayelsa United vs Enyimba Nasarawa Utd vs Heartland Akwa Utd vs Sharks

Rangers vs IfeanyiUbah Sunshine vs Giwa FC Warri Wolves vs Dolphins Abia Warriors vs El-Kanemi Kwara Utd vs Wikki Kano Pillars vs Shooting

TOP SCORERS 12 GOALS Tunde Adeniji (Sunshine Stars) 11 GOALS Bright Ejike (Heartland) 9 GOALS Gbolahan Salami (Warri Wolves) Chisom Chikatara (Abia Warriors) 8 GOALS Shuaibu Ibrahim (Giwa), Ndifreke Effiong (Abia Warriors) Esosa Igbinoba (Nasarawa United) Ibrahim Mustapha (El-Kanemi) 7 GOALS Ocheme Edoh (Giwa FC) 6 GOALS Christian Obiozor (Enyimba) Godwin Obaje (Wikki)

15 august 2015

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Obikwelu was my biggest Nigerian rival - Greene

27

Former world record holder in 100m men, Sydney 2000 Olympics gold medalist and a three-time World Champion, Maurice Greene, took time out during the National Trials in Warri recently to talk to CHARLES OGUNDIYA about his reasons for taking up appointment as Team Nigeria’s relay coordinator. Excerpts… outside, we only see the athletes coming to compete not minding their current state of mind and this is very key to an athlete’s performance. We should not judge the athletes with what happens during the trials, I believe when we get to the All Africa Games we are going to perform well. Believe me we are going to bring back a lot of medals in athletics.

You are relay coordinator for Team Nigeria. What were your expectations when you arrived and how far have you gone with the team?

I saw a lot of potential in Nigerian athletes, they can achieve great things if the right thing is done and that is what we are trying to put together to create a change where the athletes can train in a proper environment. Nigeria is like a company that produces a great number of good athletes, they need direction and that is what I am here for, to see how I can help. The Athletic Federation of Nigeria brought me in to mentor a lot of them and just help put everything together so that they can start producing the medals like they should. They haven’t been doing it in the past few years, and things need to change. So it’s my job to try and change things, to make sure that the world sees the exact talent that Nigeria really has, and that is what we have been doing.

You only mentioned All Africa Games; is it that you are not expecting much at the World Championships?

I don’t want to limit myself to anything, we have to see what we can do for some of the remaining athletes that are yet to qualify within the few days we have to qualify so that they can achieve the standard. Then we see how we can compete at the World Championships.

We did very well at the World Relays in the Bahamas and that should be a pointer to what to expect at the World Championships especially in the relays.

We are taking the victory and the experience at the World Relays to Beijing to show the world that Nigeria is back as a force in the relays.

You have been helping to convince some athletes of Nigerian origin competing for countries like the USA and Britain to switch allegiance to Nigeria, can you tell us more about this?

We have been trying our best to identify some of these athletes that are from Nigeria but are competing in the colours of other countries. We try to convince them on the benefits of competing for their fatherland, it is now left for them to make their decision. Although not all, but some decided to switch allegiance to Nigeria.

Nigerian athletes, especially the men have been doing badly in the sprints in recent time unlike in the past when we had the likes of Olusoji Fasuba, Deji Aliu and the rest. How do we regain the lost glory?

We just have to put them in the right programme, take them through the right training, once the right steps are taken, everything will start falling into place and a lot of things will change. It is not about what we need to do, but about how we have been doing them. We have been doing a lot to take our sprinters to the next level, and with little more polishing, we will start getting results.

Can you tell us more about Maurice Greene?

Well my life has been an open book for everyone to see and scrutinize. I had the opportunity of competing at the highest level during my active years and I was also opportune to win medals.

You are the relay coordinator, what have you achieved with the relay teams?

The most important thing is that we keep practising to see how we can be very good at it. Relay is all about being comfortable with one another; once we get the athletes

ships in Seville in the 200m. Although I won and he came third, I can tell you it was a great rivalry. He kind of startled me in the semi-final because he ran that race so easily. He ran 19.84 seconds, and I was like ‘uh-oh’, I am really going to have to do something in the final. So I kind of changed my game plan a little bit by putting more pressure on him in the race.

What is your assessment of the recently concluded National Trials in Warri?

We should stop looking at competitions in terms of time returned by athletes, we should be looking at competition as what it is. Sometimes you don’t know what has been happening to the athletes

to work together and understand each other, then the issue of making headway will follow naturally. The improvement is coming, it is there for all to see, we just have to work more on exchange of baton because this is where a lot of athletes lose so much time in the relay; so we have to work better on that.

The women are doing well at the moment, but the men are not; what are you doing in this regard?

We have been trying to get the men into the thick of things like the women; they have to be together first like the women - something which has been difficult. The women have been together for a very long period and if you noticed, we mostly replaced one or two of them. But for the men, we have not really had a full complement of the athletes together for a long period so that they can get used to one another like the women. We have to do more with the men and we are doing that so they can get to the level we want.

Since you have been in Nigeria, what can you say about the country as a whole?

Nigeria is a very good place to be, rich in culture, a very strong culture I have to admit.

What strikes you most about the people?

I will say the determination to succeed. A very strong nation, despite going through a lot of difficulties, they always come out stronger -which cannot be said for most countries of the world.

How do you relax as an athlete?

I always love to be with my family, that is important to me.

How have you been able to juggle your work and family?

I had always achieved that, it has been part of me. My wife understands what I do, understands that this is what I love to do, continued on page 30

Who can you say was your greatest challenger from Nigeria while competing?

At a time it was Francis Obikwelu. He was probably my biggest rival, especially during the 1999 World Champion-

Greene

Augsburg v Hertha 2:30pm

Ligue 1

SATURDAY Southampton v Everton 12:45 Sunderland v Norwich 3pm Swansea v Newcastle 3pm Tottenham v Stoke 3pm Watford v West Brom 3pm West Ham v Leicester 3pm Sunday Crystal Palace v Arsenal 1:30pm Man City v Chelsea 4pm

S

underland head coach Dick Advocaat is expecting his players to bounce back strongly against Norwich City after they began their Premier League campaign with a disappointing 4-2 reverse at Leicester City.

Advocaat watched on as Sunderland fell 3-0 behind inside the opening 25 minutes at the King

to show the kind of fighting spirit that kept them in the top flight at the end of 2014-15.

"We did not expect that, you can lose but not the way we lost," Advocaat told Sunderland's official website.

"We have to realise that we are a team who has to fight and that was the strength of our team

Advocaat advocates passionate Sunderland response

Advocaat

PSG v Ajaccio 8pm

Lorient v Bastia 4pm

Reims v Marseille 1pm

Sunday

Troyes v Nice 7pm

Rennes v Montpellier7pm

Guingamp v Lyon 7pm

Caen v Toulouse 7pm

Angers v Nantes 7pm

Etienne v Bordeaux 4pm

EPL

Stuttgart v Köln 4:30pm

2:30pm

Darmstadt v Hannover 2:30pm

Sunday

Wolfsburg v Frankfurt 2:30pm

Levkerkusen v Hoffenheim

Bremen v Schalke 2:30pm

D'mund v Gladbach 5:30pm

SATURDAY

Mainz v Ingolstadt 2:30pm

BUNDESLIGA

FIXTURES

www.newtelegraphonline.com

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

rsene Wenger will know it’s imperative his team bounce back after their opening-day defeat to West Ham United, but getting the best of an impressive Crystal Palace team is

A

without their first-choice goalkeeper for what is a vital fixture.

Regardless of who is between the sticks, Chelsea will need to raise their game to ensure they get a result at City. They were lethargic against a vibrant Swansea team on Saturday; while Garry Monk’s side didn’t take their chances, there’s no denying that Manchester City, and the quality they possess, will make them pay.

Especially against a City team that clicked into gear immediately at the Hawthorns on

going to be very difficult for the Gunners.

Arsenal looked poor in their 2-0 loss at home to the Hammers, with Slaven Bilic’s team showing more endeavour, energy and ingenuity. The same mistakes that

Arsenal chase redemption to Palace

fter dropping two points to Swansea City on the opening day of the season, Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea team will be desperate to get their first win secured, but there are few tougher venues to get a victory than Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.

The Blues twice surrendered a lead against the Welsh outfit, with uncharacteristic lapses in defence costing them on a couple of occasions. A moment of rashness from Thibaut Courtois also means the champions will be

A

clash Kick off time: 4pm

est Ham United and Leicester City are both coming off opening victories, but the latter likely understand why ensuing hype is latched to the former.

After winning at the Emirates Stadium, the Hammers return to

W

West Ham, Leicester seek consolidation

Monday. Indeed, they swatted aside Tony Pulis' West Brom side with real panache. It was an early indicator that they're ready to wrestle the title back that Chelsea prised from their grasp last season.

In what’ll be their first home game of the season, expect Manuel Pellegrini’s side to be champing at the bit ahead of this one. The likes of Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and David Silva have enough ability to cause the Blues plenty of issues, but expect a pragmatic Chelsea team to emerge with a hard-earned point.

City, Chelsea

Etihad rumbles as

Global Football Special F

illarreal defender Pablo Iniguez has confirmed that Gerard Moreno is set to join Espanyol in a reported co-ownership deal.

Mundo Deportivo claims Los Periquitos will pay €1.5m for half of the Catalan native’s economic rights, thereby ending their pursuit of a new attacker following the departures of Lucas Vazquez, Sergio Garcia and Christian Stuani earlier in the summer.

“It seems Gerard will bid us farewell,” the young stopper was quoted as saying by AS. “Gerard’s departure to Espanyol was something that had been talked about some time ago.

“We all knew that [Espanyol]

V

Gerard set to join Espanyol

Feghouli

enerbahce have released a statement in which they deny being in talks over signing Algerian winger Sofiane Feghouli from Valencia.

Turkish media reported that the Istanbul-based club was closing in on a move for the North African, as well as a loan deal for Manchester United’s Adnan Januzaj, but Fenerbahce refute these claims.

“Reports in the Fotomaç and Takvim newspapers linking Fenerbahçe with Januzaj and Feghouli are false. We are not planning to sign either player,” a club statement reads.

The Hurriyet also reported that the ‘Yellow-Canaries’ are keen on signing the Algerian international.

Fenerbahce deny Feghouli link

TRANSFERS

28 Sport SATURDAY N 15 AUG

last season. We need the passion and the aggression and all of that was not there.

"They [the players] can see they can still do it and that's what we need.

On Saturday we have to show that we want to win.

S

V

icente del Bosque has slammed the Spanish government for agreeing to extend the upcoming La Liga season to May 22.

Spain’s Higher Sports Council (CSD) recently approved the League’s plans to reschedule a number of fixtures, notably pushing back the final round by a week, but the coach believes such changes will affect the national team’s prepa-

Shaqiri

rations for Euro 2016, which commences little over a fortnight later.

“I don’t want to get too far into this issue, but I must say that the government hasn’t been very smart [in sanctioning the fixture changes] because it’s very important that we have an extra week [of preparation] if we qualify for the European Championship,” he told Cadena COPE.

Del Bosque unhappy with late finish

TOKE City boss Mark Hughes has revealed that Xherdan Shaqiri is 'flying fit' and ready to go as the club's record signing pushes to make his debut at Tottenham on Saturday.

The £12 million man met with his team-mates for the first time today, but has already undergone a series of fitness tests since joining the club on Tuesday.

"He's flying," Hughes said.

"We do tests pre-season and we get them running and doing co-ordination drills just to get an indication of where they are in terms of the rest of the group. He had that done and he passed those with flying colours.

"He missed three days with the transfer going on, but he's keen to do some work.

"We got him doing some work with the ball and he'll be with the group."

Stoke unleash Shaqiri on Tottenham

Power Stadium, before second-half goals for Jermain Defoe and Steven Fletcher softened the blow of defeat somewhat.

Nevertheless, the Dutchman was less than impressed with the display and has called on his squad

Kouyate

T

Usain Bolt's coach is convinced the Jamaican phenomenon can once again put aside injury concerns and mediocre form to maintain his grip on the major sprint titles at this month's world championships.

The 28-year-old returns to the Bird's Nest stadium where he first stunned the world at the 2008 Olympics for the Aug 22 to 30 championships, bidding to retain his 100 and 200 meters titles.

Usain Bolt

hough the start of Bayern's campaign appears easy to predict, that of those seen as their strongest rivals is anything but, especially given two – Dortmund and Gladbach - begin their season against each other.

On the surface, Tuchel has changed little from the Dortmund squad that capitulated so spectacularly under Jurgen Klopp - Mats Hummels, Ilkay Gundogan and Marco Reus remain the team's key figures.

Glimpses of the high-octane style that earned Tuchel plaudits at Mainz came through in a 5-0 UEFA Europa League win against Wolfsberger, but Gladbach are an established force under Lucien Favre.

Germany striker Max Kruse's departure for Wolfs-

burg is offset by the arrivals of midfield goalscoring threats in Lars Stindl and the permanent capture of Thorgan Hazard, while Josip Drmic - signed after a dismal season at Bayer Leverkusen - will hope to recapture his 2013-14 best, which returned 17 goals in a relegated Nuremberg side.

Though boosted by Kruse, Wolfsburg are expected to lose creative powerhouse Kevin De Bruyne before the transfer window closes, their season plans subsequently remaining up in the air before hosting Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday.

A tweaked Leverkusen outfit host Hoffenheim on Saturday, while Franco Di Santo makes an immediate return to Werder Bremen when Schalke head to the Weserstadion.

Reus

No Clubs P Pts 1 Man City 1 3 2 Leicester 1 3 3 C'Palace 1 3 4 West Ham 1 3 5 Aston Villa 1 3 6 Liverpool 1 3 7 Man Utd 1 3 8 Chelsea 1 1 9 Everton 1 1 10 Newcastle 1 1 11 Soton 1 1 12 Swansea 1 1 13 Watford 1 1 14 B'mouth 1 0 15 Stoke 1 0 16 Tottenham 1 0 17 Sunderland 1 0 18 Norwich 1 0 19 Arsenal 1 0 20 West Brom 1 0

TABLE

Premier league

Upton Park Saturday with heightened expectations as both clubs try to open a Premier League season with consecutive wins for the first time since 1997.

West Ham's 2-0 win over Arsenal Sunday was the shock of opening weekend in manager Slaven Bilic's club debut, despite allowing a division-high 22 shots, while 16-year-old Reece Oxford became the club's youngest player to take the field in Premier League play.

"I learned a lot from it because Arsenal probably have the strongest midfield in the Premier League," Oxford told the club's official website. "Playing against the best will make you the best, and (Mark Noble) and (Cheikhou Kouyate) helped me a lot in the game."

Kouyate scored in the 43rd minute before Mauro Zarate added to the lead in the 57th, and Kouyate also scored in the last meeting with Leicester.

V

Daniel Ricciardo says he had to change his mental approach to this season after heading into it believing he had a shot at the Formula 1 title.

Three wins and three other podium finishes last season with Red Bull propelled Ricciardo into a position where he had an outside shot at the championship heading into the final seven races.

Daniel Ricciardo

Suso

illarreal are interested in bringing in AC Milan attacking midfielder Suso.

The Spaniard moved to Milan in January but only made five appearances for the Rossoneri, three of them coming of the bench.

According to Spanish paper Marca, after finding difficulty acquiring Real Madrid’s Denis Cheryshev, the La Liga side has turned their attentions to signing the 21-year-old However, due to an injury to M’Baye Niang, ruling him out for the first three months of the season, the Diavolo may have to block any move for Suso due the need for cover in the attacking positions.

The Spanish Under-21 international started his career at Cadiz but moved to Liverpool as a youth product in 2010.

He eventually went on to make 14 league appearances.

Villarreal move for AC Milan’s Suso

Gerard

were an option for him. It’s a shame as we’ve played with him for a long time and I can say that he’s one of my best friends in football.

“I’m sad that he’s leaving, but I’ll wish him well after we play [Espanyol] in the second round of fixtures.”

As Rafael Nadal targets his fourth title of the year, his part time coach, Francisco Roig, believes the Spaniard has showed he is ready to return to winning ways.

“He can play his best tennis again. He lacks regularity and needs to improve some aspects of his game [such as] movement and foot speed but he"s able to do it,” Roig said.

Rafael Nadal

SPORT BRIEFLY

Dortmund, Gladbach in exciting Bundesliga opener

Arsenal's Olivier Giroud

knocked Arsenal’s title tilt off course last season were worryingly prevalent in this one and Petr Cech endured a nightmare debut between the sticks.

Palace will likely expose Arsenal’s soft centre further, it is feared. Not only has Alan Pardew made some strong summer purchases, the most impressive of which being Yohan Cabaye, Selhurst Park is one of the most difficult venues to play football in the country. It means the Gunners are going to have to be up for a bit of a battle.

It’s going to be an extremely tough game for Arsenal. The atmosphere will test their mental strength and enrich the levels of the Palace players, who already have momentum behind them.

Expect the hosts to continue their strong start with a narrow win and plunge the Gunners into an early season crisis.

NEW TELEGRAPH GUST 2015

Sport

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30

Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Osayomi eyes return to the tracks

N

Charles Ogundiya igeria's sprinter, Damola Osayomi, has said she will be back on the tracks soon after staying away due to birth of her son.

The United States-based Nigerian sprinter, was spotted in Warri during the All Nigerian Trials where she revealed her plans for the coming sea-

Kogi United will beat the drop - Osho

K

ogi United head coach, Fatai Osho, has expressed optimism that his side will sail through the storm of relegation in the Nigeria National League.

Kogi United are seventh on the Group A1 table with 12 points with three games to end the abridged league.

The Lokoja-based side fell 1-0 to Yobe Desert Stars in their Week 11 encounter played in Damaturu on Wednesday.

Mohammed Choky's controversial 54th minute goal was the decider of the pulsating match at the August 27 Stadium.

Kogi United created numerous scoring opportunities, but Destiny Ashani, Amodu Imran, Chindo Babangida and Nelson Ukwa were wasteful in front of goal.

The victory put Yobe - who have an outstanding match against Plateau United - at a better advantage than the Wada Boys among clubs in the lower rung of the ladder.

Osho, who decried his strikers' attitude in front of goal however believe there was much to fight for in the league, adding that Kogi United will give it all to escape relegation.

Quoted by the club's spokesperson, Wale Mustapha, the former Remo Stars and Supreme Court handler said; "It’s unfortunate, the result was unacceptable, we created scoring chances, glaring ones, but we were not too clinical in front of goal, and that cost us so much. They got their own chance, even though it wasn't too clear, but made it count."

son to Saturday Telegraph.

“Actually I was supposed to compete this year, but I had to call it off because I don’t just want to return just for its sake,” Osayomi said.

“I will surely resume next season and I can tell you, I will be returning with a bang because I never stopped my training.

“You have to put all your efforts in coming back which is what I have been doing. I have intensified my training since I gave birth to my baby; I have to come back strong.”

When asked about the performance of current athletes compared to the past when the rivalry between her and Blessing Okagbare was very strong, she said the athletes should not be blamed.

According to her so many factors may have contributed to their inability to perform at the level expected of them. She however said Nigerians should not give up on the athletes going for the World Championships in Beijing, China.

The former African Champion who also won medals at several international competitions including the Olympic Games for Nigeria said: “Although I am not satisfied with the performance of Nigerian athletes in recent years, I don’t want to blame the athletes entirely.

“These athletes are lacking one thing or the other which may not be known to the public.

“I just want them to reveal their problems to the federation and see how they can help them achieve their goals. Athletics now is all about money; they need money to support their training. Sometimes it is not only about money, but encouragement from people around them.”

Wawrinka wants action against Kyrgios for comments

F

I’m just lucky to score goals, says Messi

L

ionel Messi is arguably the greatest footballer in the history of planet Earth, and he scored two wonderful free kicks in Barcelona's 5-4 UEFA Super Cup win over Sevilla on Tuesday.

But despite the fact that he's an alien put on Earth to embarrass humans at the game they invented and love more than any other, he refus-

es to acknowledge how good he is.

"I've just been lucky enough to score those," said Messi, who really needs to stop being so humble.

By the way, those goals mean he's equal with Cristiano Ronaldo for goals in all European competitions now.

Messi's played 19 fewer games.

Wawrinka

rench Open champion Stan Wawrinka urged tennis authorities on Thursday to take action against Nick Kyrgios for an ''unacceptable'' comment during a match at the Rogers Cup. A courtside microphone picked up the 20-year-old Kyrgios saying that Australian player Thanasi Kokkinakis had slept with a player who is reportedly Wawrinka's girlfriend. ''There is no need for this kind of behaviour on or off the court and I hope the governing body of this sport does not stand for this,'' the 30-year-old Wawrinka wrote on Twitter.

Wawrinka, ranked fifth in the world, announced in April that he had separated from his wife, with whom he has a daughter.

The Swiss player has since been linked with 19-year-old Donna Vekic of Croatia, who is ranked 127th.

Vekic played mixed doubles with Kokkinakis, also 19 and ranked No. 76, at the 2014 Australian Open as a wild-card entry.

Kyrgios beat Wawrinka on Wednesday when the Swiss retired with a lower-back injury while trailing 4-0 in the third set.

In a post-match interview on court, Kyrgios said Wawrinka had provoked him. ''He was getting a bit lippy at me so, I don't know, it's just in-themoment sort of stuff,'' Kyrgios said. ''I don't really know, I just said it.''

The ATP rule book allows a fine of up to $10,000 for incidents of verbal abuse or unsportsmanlike conduct.

'Obikwelu was my biggest Nigerian rival' continued FROM page 27

so she has been supporting me and this has helped me a lot.

What is your take on the recent doping cases in athletics?

I just want the athletes to be more focused and stay away from drugs; it takes a great decision to do away with dopes.

Messi

Osayomi

Nigerian athletes have been blaming their below par performance on not having enough support (cuts in)...

If you look around the world we

have athletes struggling on their own to achieve greatness, athletes from the US, the UK, Jamaica and other great countries, I think Nigerian athletes can do same.

not good at all. If there are companies coming to help, a lot of things would have been different from what we have today, but we have to deal with what is available now.

It has always been government investing in sports in Nigeria, what is your take on this?

If you look at some of the other great sporting countries, they have sponsors. Multinational companies supporting sports and most importantly athletics, but here in Nigeria, they rely mostly on government for everything, something that is

The greatest moment of your career…

It is hard to mention one because I have so many, but if I have to pick one, I will say the moment I won the Olympics gold medal.

Worst moment I don’t have any because there are reasons for everything.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Sport

Kalu: Eyes beyond iroko tree

31

A

Isabo Akeme mbition is like sea water, the more you drink the more you thirst. Orji Uzor Kalu thinks ahead of his contemporaries, that gift he got from his creator. Love him, hate him.When many take two steps backwards, the man moves more steps ahead.

Orji is derived from the Igbo word for the iroko tree. Kalu therefore is iroko, king of all the trees in the forest. There is no stopping this man with the magic wand from trying new things.

On assumption of office as governor of Abia State in 1999, he told sports loving Aba fans,” I will bring bekee [whiteman] to play soccer with Enyimba”, many did not believe him. How could anyone look towards Enyimba, a team that had never gone beyond the third position in the Premier League? The poor twin brother of Heartland [Spartans/Iwuanyanwu Nationale], the malnourished younger sibling of Enugu Rangers International was comfortable moving from high to low.

In the next couple of years, Enyimba flew out to Italy, precisely in 2001 to play with the almighty Inter Milan in a Charity game to honour Ronaldo. In 2003, Ismaili of Egypt were in Aba twice, USMA Algeria came calling too. Kalu’s words made meaning.

He told the world that Enyimba would win the CAF Champions’ League. Many dismissed him. What Rangers could not

Buhari

The all conquering Enyimba 2003 squad.

FIFA president, Sepp Blatter

Kalu with Enyimba's boss, Felix Anyansi-Agwu

achieve in 1975, even after trouncing German side Borussia Mochengladbach 3-1 in a Lagos friendly, Shooting Stars failed to do twice after coming so close in 1984 and 1996 and Iwuanyanwu Nationale could not achieve in 1988, seemed impossible. Yet, the Aba Elephants won the Cup in 2003, retained it the following year and also won the Africa Super Cup in both years.

CAF president Issa Hayatou saw Kalu as a swashbuckling young man full of energy, when the governor told him that the Aba Township Stadium would be transformed to Enyimba International Stadium to be able to host CAF matches. In a jiffy, it was done. When the CAF boss returned, he was stunned.

Hayatou was in for more surprises. Kalu

...with South Africa's former president, Nelson Mandela

listened as the Camerounian bewailed his country’s inability to book an appointment with the American government through their ambassador in Washington. Pronto, the Abia governor put a call to former President George Bush who did what the Central African country could not work out in donkey years. Late Gabonese President Omar Bongo had taken Hayatou to Kalu. That was how the relationship began.

Today, the Pillar of Sports is aiming high again. He wants to go for the presidency of FIFA. The uninformed are asking questions. Kalu has a handy answer to offer. “If you dream big, your dream comes true. I am not just aiming, I am going to hit it big.

Africa deserves the big job and I am ready for the FIFA presidency,” he said.

The background is rich. At Eziama High School, Aba, he was team manager of one of the best academicals squad in the 1970s.

When he moved to Government College Umuahia, the elite school began to win soccer laurels. As a young businessman, he followed Iwuanyanwu to many away matches and wanted to buy Enyimba in 1992 as a member of the House of Representatives. Kalu was on the Board of the National Sports Commission [NSC] headed by Chief Sebastine Williams in the early 1990s.

Until Kalu came, the best out of Aba were the Giant Killers. They never killed real giants. Their best was a 1-0 loss to Warri in the semis of the 1952 Challenge Cup, after a 2-2 draw in the first game. Subsequent teams like Aba Breweries, Abatex, Super Avengers, Works Dynamos, Super Stars and Lever Brothers did not go beyond the Enugu–Owerri axis.

Great players came out of Aba. Isaac Nnado captained the Eagles in 1963, Francis Obi Okoye was an Eagle too. Much later came Chibuzor Ehilegbu, Sunny Ikwuagwu, Ben Okorogu, Phillip Osondu, Mike Emenalo, Ben Iroha and Okey Uche. Aba did not win anything. Enyimba lay on the grass, suffering.

Kalu came and things began to happen.

What Nigeria could not achieve in 38 years, Enyimba did in 2003 and repeated in 2004.

The Pillar of Sports spent money and attracted sponsors. Telecom giants Globacom pumped in millions just like Nigeria Breweries. It sounded impossible. But it happened.

The Iroko is back. Action, as Enyimba Boys call him, is ready to move to the top.

Nigeria and the continent stand to gain.

Kalu has the experience, is an international businessman and a politician as well. Support from Aso Villa will just be icing on the cake and a plus for the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

•Akeme is Director, Global Soccer Services, Manitoba, Canada.

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Sport

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Lifestyle of Sportsmen

Courtois cheats with Miss Belgium

Checkout Ronaldo’s new look

B

razilian football star Ronaldo was spotted with a fuller figure as he frolicked with his girlfriend during a getaway in Formentera.

The 38-year-old retired footballer has been criticised over his weight as many feel for a football legend, his figure should be of utmost priority.

Lizarazo Vanhoutte

A

Work like you don't need the money, love like you've never been hurt and dance like no one is watching - Randall G Leighton

Super model reveals Benzema’s Arsenal move

V

enezuelan model Jeinny Lizarazo, a big Real Madrid fan, claims that one of her sources tells her Karim Benzema is heading to Arsenal for a medical in a matter of days.

The French international has been linked many times with a move to the Gunners this summer, but this is the first time a stunningly attractive supermodel has become the source of transfer news!

Kanu’s wife shows off well-toned body in yoga pants

W

Amara

ife to legendary footballer, and former captain of the Super Eagles, Kanu Nwankwo, showed off her well toned and curvy body as she appeared to be stretching her body in Yoga pants.

Amara, who already has three kids, manages to keep her body looking great.

Ronaldo

would-be Miss Belgium has plunged Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into an embarrassing kiss-and-tell scandal.

Emily Vanhoutte, a 20-year-old model from the keeper's native Belgium, said she began an affair with the Belgium international just before he travelled to last summer’s World Cup in Brazil.

This was despite 22-year-old Courtois being with his long-term girlfriend, Spanish beauty, Marta Dominguez, 25.

Speaking to the Belgian media, Ms Vanhoutte said she was shocked to later discover that Courtois was already taken.

She said: ‘'I would never do anything to start an affair with a man who cheats on his girlfriend. I did not know he had a girlfriend and led a double life.''

Fabregas and wife share a kiss

Fabregas frolics with wife after Swansea draw

J

ose Mourinho gave his Chelsea squad a couple of days off ahead of their titanic Premier League clash with Manchester City at the weekend.

Cesc Fabregas was in the sea just off Formentera’s coast in Spain – opting for a short trip with friends and family.

He was seen sharing a kiss with wife Daniella and joking around with friends.

Striker Diego Costa was pictured in Ibiza on Monday having played 90 minutes in the 2-2 draw with Swansea on the opening day.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Investigations

33

Udenwa set up a fully functional accountancy business with head office in Abuja and a dozen staff working for him tively gathered that the former governor is at present running the Bridge Leadership Foundation. He is said to have immediately after leaving office, gone into teaching young people the art of leadership. The Bridge Leadership Foundation, Imoke had revealed, was his way of making young people yearn for and actually take part in leadership.

The foundation has, since its inception, been training people who are willing and prepared to take on leadership responsibilities in the future.

Imo State From 1999 till date, Imo State has had only two former governors. They are Achike Udenwa who served from 1999 to 2007 and Ikedi Ohakim who governed Imo from 2007 to 2011.

Much as they are both active players in the politics of Imo State and indeed Nigeria, neither of them is today a full time politician. Beside politics, they are active businessmen and professionals, adding value, as it were, to the society through qualitative service delivery in their chosen area of endeavour.

Ohakim is, at present, the Chief Executive Officer of the Mekahog Group; a company he founded and has been in operation for upwards of 20 years.

After his tenure as a governor, the company expectedly received a boost and through his influence got added visibility and patronage.

Today, Mekahog Group is a multidepartmental company specialising in consultancy, supply of defense and security hardware and delivering specialised engineering solutions. It has

Imoke

Egwu

Elechi

How they're spending their time, resources its head office at Abuja with Ohakim as the arrow head. His eldest son is the executive director while his wife, Chioma, who is a lawyer, is the company secretary.

Udenwa was a trained accountant and was working with Monier Construction Company (MCC) Nigeria Limited before he assumed office as governor of Imo State. At the end of his tenure, the former governor, who is known for his calm demeanor, quickly returned to his accounting profession.

He set up a fully functional accountancy business, which has its head office in Abuja with more than a dozen staff working for him.

Though, not a qualified lawyer,

Udenwa has also established a law office, annexed to his accounting office complex, which is headed by one of his daughters, a lawyer.

Ebonyi Sam Egwu, a one-time Commissioner in the state during the military regime is the first civilian governor of Ebonyi State. He was elected in 1999 and was re-elected in 2003. He later contested for his party’s chairmanship, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and lost.

Egwu also contested the 2007 Presidential election which he lost to the late Umaru Yar’Adua. The late president later appointed him minister of education, a position he held for two years. After that, the former governor went into political oblivion apparently after efforts to get another federal appointment during the Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s administration failed. He equally tried but failed in his bid to go to the senate.

These political miscalculations forced him to establish the now famous Umuebe Farms, located in his country home, Ezzamgbo in Ohaukwu local government area of the state. The farms have, however, been upgraded into a college which has already been accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), which regulates monotechnics in the country.

It now awards diploma certificates and has graduated many students in all fields of agriculture. It currently serves as a research centre for agricultural scholars. Egwu at present represents Ebonyi North Senatorial zone in the

Yero relaxes with members of his family at his Lamido Road residence and has become more humble and religious

Senate.

Martin Elechi is the second and immediate civilian past governor of the state. He became the governor in 2007 and was re-elected in 2011. Since he left office, Elechi, like Egwu has also gone into agriculture with his wife.

Together they own farms which they directly manage.

The farmhouse, identified as JOHEL Shonghai is located at the back of popular Hatchery Company, Nkaliki. The former governor and his wife are into fishery, piggery, poultry, horticulture, production of fruit drinks among others. It is a large agricultural firm, which also train people in different agricultural sector. It was established towards the end of Elechi’s administration.

Kaduna Although, Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero has left office since May 29, the former governor of Kaduna State is still lurking in the wings and watching the Nasir el-Rufai administration very closely. Many of his associates are goading him to run for election in 2019 but Yero seemed not to be keen on that.

Rather, he has stepped up his religious activities.

Right now, the 47-year-old man appears too old to look for another job, too young to retire and too wealthy to return to his old job. Before venturing into politics, Yero was an accountant and worked with Nalado Nigeria Limited owned by Alhaji Namadi Sambo, former vice president and his alleged godfather.

In the meantime, the former governor relaxes with members of his family at his Lamido Road residence, a grand edifice located at Unguwar Rimi Government Reservation Area (GRA). He has also become more humble and religious with associates claiming he is now closer to God and working towards benefiting from eternal splendor.

Reported by Uchenna Inya (Abakaliki), Clement James (Calabar), Steve Uzoechi (Owerri) and Ibraheem Musa (Kaduna) Concluded

TV & Radio with Deborah Makoji

SATURDAY, 15 AUGUST, 2015

34

This weekend TELEVISION

NTA

Saturday 6:00 Spoken word 7:05 Weekend Deal 9:00 Work it Out 10:00 Click Clap 11:00 Foot Print 12:00 Hot Sports 1:00 Ultimate Soccer Experience 2:00 Basketball Show 2:30 Nigerian Idol

C

L-R: Abigail, Biliki, Theresa and Titi

linic Matters, a TV series written by Adekunle Salawu, is aired on Voxafrica TV every Thursday at 7:25 am. The programme focuses on a doctor and his nurses who are always faced with the challenges of attending to their numerous patients with their different ailments and the lifestyle of typical Nigerian nurses.

Those that acted the role of nurses are also a bunch of interesting characters as they interpret their roles adding so many thrills to the series.

Although the characters use element of humour, they present true life situations of singles.

Last week’s episode dwelt on the love story between John and Theresa.

John, a patient, is in love with Nurse Theresa but Theresa has no atom of love for him. Theresa sees him as distraction to her job. To have his way, John decides to use Theresa’s colleague (Nurse Abigail) to woo Theresa.

However, Abigail vehemently refuses to provide John with useful tips that will make him have his way Theresa.

However John is adamant and pleads with Abigail to intercede but she simply replies “come tomorrow for your injections because am not interested in your questions.”

Surprisingly, the story took a different dimension when John uses a different tactics pleading with Abigail to “please give me five minutes of your time, I will pay for it.”

A confused Abigail sarcastically responds to John’s request by saying “Mr. Million dollars man, it seems you have a lot of money to spend right?”

John insists on using her to get through to Theresa and she responds in a low tone: “you know it’s not easy to get a girl now but I will help you talk to her with cash.”

When Theresa walks in, Abigail

Clinic Matters

A comedy series about true life situations makes funny and suspicious moves.

Theresa inquires what is going on and Abigail says, “It’s not like am telling you to marry him oo but just give him attention and try to be his friend. He loves you and it’s not as if he is old oo.”

Theresa yells at her and advises her to administer drugs to a waiting patient.

She reminds her colleague she does not like John and there is no point in making case for him, saying, “thanks for your concern but am not interested.”

The peak of the drama is when Abigail rushes in with a cell phone and insists that Theresa should speak with someone over the phone without disclosing who the person is.

A shocked Theresa soon finds out that the person is actually John.

Although she goes ahead with the telephone conversation, she is disappointed that Abigail tricked her to speak with John.

Biliki, a cleaner at the clinic, is a typical village girl. The ‘wannabe’ in her usual funny way also teases Theresa by making an inference to John’s efforts to woo the nurse. “You no tell us say you don get husband oooo nurse Theresa.” A furious Theresa sends her to her duty post immediately to continue with her cleaning.

When Biliki sees John she greets him with smiles. John seems to understands her mischief and says, “I was here yesterday but you were not around.” He

FACE BEHIND THE VOICE

Talk Back with Star FM’s Moyo Oyatogun

M

oyo Oyatogun christening, wedding and is a broadcaster thanksgiving. whose nine years with Star 101.5 FM has been eventful. She heads the presentation unit of the station. Moyo presents an early morning currents affairs programme (TB) from 7:15am-8:30 am every week days. She prefers being on radio than TV. Although she spends ample time in church, you will also find Moyo in other activities like Oyatogun

Moyo finds joy in her job and family. According to her, she spends leisure time with her family and on no condition will she leave her children at night to attend meeting.

Moyo has carved a niche for herself in the presentation of Talkback as people phone in with the desire to be informed about what is going on in the country.

She is married and has children.

subsequently gives her some money and she is happy.

John goes to the reception and gives some money and a gift to Abigail which she takes upstairs for the ‘lover girl’ Theresa.

Theresa is furious when she presents the items to her and requests for John’s phone number from Abigail.

An elated Abigail thinks that Theresa has accepted John’s proposal and gladly gives her the phone number.

Theresa calls John and asks if he can come back to the hospital. She quickly goes outside to meet him with a disdainful look to show her disapproval of the cash and gift.

Though disappointed, John apologises, telling her that he said the gift and decided to cue it for her.

She angrily tells him that, “first you asked my friends about me and that gave me a wrong impression about you and now you are trying to buy me, I understand the fact that you like me but you can’t just be buying me gifts and giving me cash”. She angrily hands the gift and an envelope containing the money to him.

Unknown to Theresa, John has the support of her other colleagues.

When she comes in, she asks them if it’s right for a man to buy her gifts and give her cash and in unison they all answered “yes.”

Programme summary

Better Family Corner

RadioContinentalSunday

@12:30pm

It is a phone-in programme that features discussion on issues that affects relationship and marriage.

Mukulumuke

Radio Lagos Sunday @ 11:10am It is an entertaining programme whereby, old Yoruba songs are played for the listening pleasure of audiences.

3:00 Sport World 5:00 Discovery 234 6:00 Telecom today 6:30 Mother care 7:00 News at Seven 8:30 Secrets and Scandals 9:00 Weekend file 10:05 Fenz Championship 10:30 Developmental Strides NTA Sunday 6:00 Life Stories 6:30 Weekend Deals 10:00 Tales by Moonlight 10:30 Heritage 11:00 ECOWAS Today 12:00 Super Book 12:30 Pension Matter 2:30 Inside Sports 3:00 DIGI TV 4:00 Station Zones 4:30 Nigerian Idol 6:00 Guest Chef 6:30 ICPC 7:00 News at Seven 7:30 Station/Zones 8:05 Who Wants to be a Millionaire 9:00 News Line 10:30 Ali Baba Excess

galaxy tv

Saturday 5:30 Galaxy top 20 6:30 Disney ani 7:00 Cat’s cradle 8:00 Super fan challenge 8:30 Movie 10:00 Sport edge 10:30 Day star 11:00 Disney family hour 1:00 Ile alayo 1:30 Celebrity zone 2:00 Nigerian television

Fashion show 2:30 Premier league 5:00 Cat’s cradle 6:00 Reel woman 6:30 Circle of interest 7:00 Galaxy news 7:30 Nollywood 11:00 Primetime africa 12:00 Wonderful world of disney SUNDAY 5:30 Sound plus 6:00 Disney ani 7:00 Reel Nollywood 7:30 Cat’s cradle 8:30 Movies 10:00 Campus life 11:00 Abule Iroko 12:00 Laarin osere 2:30 Hour of salvation 3:00 Democracy 4:30 Light house 5:00 Teresa 7:00 Galaxy news 11:00 Wonderful world of Disney

RADIO

Radio Lagos Saturday 5:10 Audra Aro 5:20 Iwure Aaro 5:25 Waasi Idaji 6:15 Nigba Ti Wa 7:15 Asayan Iroyin 9:10 Idan Orita 10:15 Ara Ewe 12:00 World News 1:00 Mooko Mooka 1:30 Lere 2:00 Oyin Momo 2:30 Ogegele

Sunday 6:15 Oro Igbala 6:30 Oro Iyin 7:00 Personal Paid Announcements 7:15 Asayan Iroyin 7:30 Ase Ibi Mimo 10:15 Eba mi Dupe 11:10 Mukulumuke 5:30 Rotimi Akinwole on FM 9:00 Obirin Ologo

Eko FM Saturday 6:30 Journey Home to God 7:00 News Headlines 7:30 Waste Water Management 9:30 Talk your Own 10:10 Total Sports 12:05 Our Circuit 1:15 Family Matter 3:00 Familiar Stranger 4:02 Woman Tori 4:45 Office Palava 6:05 Youth Mag 7:30 Rhythm Africana

Sunday 76:30 Let the Nation Hear 7:00 News Headlines 7:15 Chambers of Revelation 7:30 Paper Review 9:30 Window on the World 10:15 Rhythm Divine 1:02 Green Melodies 2:15 Passing Glance 3:07 Rhunba Jamz 10:02 Something for the Singles

SATURDAY

Dear Love Doctor,

''She wants to dump me because I postponed her introduction'

p.37

Life Experience

'I dated my best friend and it didn’t destroy our relationship'

p.36

L ve&Lv ng SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2015

35

Odd News

Has Queen Nefertiti been found behind King Tut's tomb?

A

Confession In this story, a woman gets drunk at a bar, but things take a turn for the better when a stranger tries to prevent her from driving herself home...

T

Michael Uchebuaku hey say that love comes in a million ways, but when it comes you should embrace it with open arms.

I like to share my story because my story is about how some people go the extra mile out of love for others.

It happened this way: I had just graduated and gained admission to Law School, so I had to celebrate.

I sneaked out of home in my dad’s Toyota Camry car and went to a bar in a hotel not too far away from home to take some alcohol and generally have a good time.

My best friend promised to meet me at the bar, but unfortunately, after I’d waited at the bar for her for about 30 minutes, she called to say that she could no longer make it.

I didn’t want her absence to ruin my celebration, so I decided to still take some drinks and go home later. I think I had had too much to drink later when I found that I was totally tipsy and could hardly get up from my chair.

I was feeling very dizzy. It was just as though my head was spinning, but I struggled to my feet and grabbed my car keys which I had carelessly left on the table.

I had begun to stagger out the door and towards my car in the car park when suddenly one man clad in traditional attire appeared from nowhere and took my car keys out of my hand.

I asked him if he was the latest armed

‘We found love after he seized my car keys' robber in town or Anini’s younger brother.

And I told him that the petrol in my car wasn’t enough to take him to Cotonou if he intended to run away with my car to Benin Republic.

But the man just laughed and said his name is Joseph. He asked me why I wanted to drive when I knew that I was drunk. And I said it’s because my driver traveled to London.

Joseph refused to release my car keys back to me and offered to drive me home himself.

After all attempts to make him return my car keys failed, I described the wrong way home to him in my drunken state.

So Joseph drove me home in my own car after calling my mum with my handset and getting the proper directions to my house from her.

The following morning after I had woken up with a hangover, I thought Joseph seized my car keys because he was an officer with the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and I was scared that he was coming back to arrest me for attempting to drive after getting drunk.

But I was surprised when Joseph came and said that he was self-employed and didn’t work for government.

He simply said that he did what he did out of love for me and because he didn’t want me to waste my life. I was really touched.

From that day on, we were best of friends. My parents totally welcomed him into our family and thanked him for sav-

ing my life.

My mother even joked that since he is ever so thoughtful, I should have him by my side everywhere I go. So for that reason, my younger sister started using the pay-off line of a telecoms firm to address me and Joseph.

Whenever she saw us together or if she saw me getting ready to go out on a date with him, she would say, “Everywhere you go…”

That was how she kept on teasing and reminding me with MTN’s motto (Everywhere you go) that it was good for me to always have Joseph by my side forever and for always.

Therefore, when he proposed, I said yes with my eyes even before my lips moved.

I fell in love with Joseph after he seized my car keys and wouldn’t let me drive myself home in my drunken state, because after having reflected on the whole episode, I realized that I would have probably had an accident and killed myself if I had driven my car in such a state.

I realized that only a man who loved me could have done what he did. I appreciate the fact that he saved my life that day.

Prevention is better than cure. Only God knows what could have happened to me that night if Joseph hadn’t been there as my guardian angel.

I’m not ashamed that I met my husband in a bar, because you can find love anywhere. I’m only ashamed that I got drunk, but God made it turn out for my own good because Joseph went the extra mile out of love for me by seizing my cars keys.

lmost 100 years since its discovery, the tomb of Tutankhamun, the boy-king of ancient Egypt, continues to reveal its secrets.

A researcher claims to have found a 'ghost' doorway hiding beneath the plaster on the wall of the burial chamber, which he believes leads to the tomb of the ruler's supposed mother, Queen Nefertiti.

Famed for her exquisite beauty, the grave of Nefertiti or the 'Lady of the Two Lands' has been lost for centuries since her sudden death in 1340 BC. Previous DNA analysis has suggested King Tutankhamun's mother may have been a mummy known as the Younger Lady, who is also thought to be his father's sister.

However, there are some Egyptologists who claim that it is actually Nefertiti, the chief wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten and mother to six of his children, who is Tutankhamun's mother.

Dr. Nicholas Reeves, an English archaeologist at the University of Arizona, has now provided new evidence to support these claims in a report published by the Amarna Royal Tombs Project.

After analysing highresolution scans of the walls of Tutankhamun's grave complex in the Valley of the Kings, Dr Reeves spotted what appeared to be a secret entrance.

He described how he uncovered the 'ghosts' of two portals that tomb builders blocked up, one of which is believed to be a storage room.

The other, on the north side of Tutankhamun's tomb, contains 'the undisturbed burial of the tomb's original owner - Nefertiti', Dr Reeves argued.

If Dr. Reeves is correct, the hidden tomb could be far more magnificent than anything found in Tutankhamun's burial chamber. c o n t i n u e d o n pag e 3 7

36

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

Love News

L

How do you say 'sore loser' in French? eonardo DiCaprio has won his court case against the perhaps aptly titled magazine Oops! for claiming he fathered a child with Rihanna and told the singer that he did not want the baby.

Gossip Cop reports while the publication expected to lose, its editor claims the 40-year-old actor only sued the magazine as he is racist.

Leo sued the magazine back in June after demanding the magazine retracts the story and pays him the maximum compensation French law allows, namely of 18,000 Euros, or around $US20,000 in damages plus legal fees.

The cover of the May edition featured pictures of Rihanna and Leo saying, 'Rihanna Pregnant With Leonardo's Baby: He Doesn't Want The Baby'.

The French court has ruled in favour of the star finding not only were the claims false the publication of two paparazzi pictures of the Wolf Of Wall Street star breached France's very strict privacy laws.

The star did not get the full compensation he was asking for but was awarded 8,000 Euros - which is just over $USD8,800 - in damages and legal fees.

The magazine must also write in an upcoming issue that Leo won in court, according to the judge’s decision.

The owner of Oops!, Frederic Truskolas-

'He's a pervert with a racial issue!' ...French magazine owner slams Leonardo DiCaprio after star successfully sued publication for claiming he is having a baby with Rihanna ki, told Gossip Cop he expected to lose but claimed the star only sued them because he is a 'pervert' who has a 'racial issue'.

In a bizarre rant, he said: 'DiCaprio almost systematically goes out with Aryantype girls, always blonde hair.

'He could not stand the fact that our magazine was saying he was having a baby with a black girl.'

The owner previously admitted his magazine knew the story about the pregnancy was probably not true.

Speaking of the loss he continued: 'He said: 'We were totally expecting this decision, since in France when any magazine speaks about a celebrity’s private life the magazine is automatically condemned.'

Bradley Cooper is also suing the magazine for breaching his right to privacy.

A representative for Leonardo declined to comment on the case.

Courtesy: Daily Mail.

Love Songs

anessa Mdee

Nobody But Me [Intro: K.O & Vanessa Mdee] It's a blessing Barakaaa Kujenga family ni Talantaaa Sumu kwetu ni Talakaaa Nikupeleke Mpumalanga Swadakta [K.O] Nahisi njozi nipo naye Bongo to Jozi pingu naye Hakuna chozi nikiwa naye Vile tulipatana naye Ni kweli tumeshibana naye Cashtime Tsotsi for life [Verse 1: Vanessa Mdee] Maswali mengi najiuliza everyday Kipi nimefanya kupendwa na yeye Nilimuomba Mungu nimpate kama yeye 'Cos he's amazing, simply amazing [Bridge: Vanessa Mdee] Oooh Lord tena ana bidii ananipenda mimi. I'm his wifey to be, yeah x2 [Chorus: Vanessa Mdee] He don't love nobody, nobody else but me He don't want nobody, nobody else but me He won't touch nobody, nobody else but me Nobody but me, me, me, me x4

Life Experience

'I dated my best friend and it didn’t destroy our relationship' N ick and I met during my junior year of college when his cousin, Dave, invited me to a party they were attending. Was it love at first sight? I can say without a doubt that it was not.

We were both friendly, but that’s just not the way it went. I was actually seeing someone else at the time, so the thought of anything romantic didn’t even cross our minds.

Soon after this, Dave was cast in a scene I was directing for one of my theatre courses. He started inviting me to hang out with him and Nick after rehearsals, since they often cooked dinner and watched movies at Nick’s apartment.

The hang-outs became more frequent, and I was soon finding myself at Nick’s place several times a week. And I wasn’t the only one -- Nick’s place became a sort of hub for our friend group. I can’t count the number of movie nights, parties, dinner parties, and casual hang outs that were held in that apartment.

When I was there spending time with him, it was rarely just the two of us. My boyfriend and I, plus a score of other people were in and out constantly. Poor Nick barely got to enjoy the benefits of living alone because he almost always had people showing up to hang out.

Our friendship began in such a casual way, and developed so organically, that I can’t even pinpoint when he became my best friend. But after spending so much time together, it was suddenly very clear that he was the person that understood me more than almost anyone else.

I knew I could count on him for anything, just as he could count on me. We could talk for hours, or we could sit in comfortable silence

I knew I could count on him for anything, just as he could count on me

and just be. He was one of the few people I could spend endless hours with and not get sick of being around.

I do want to stress that it was always extremely platonic. Like I mentioned before, I was seeing someone else. Actually, that’s a bit of an understatement -- I should actually say that I was in a serious relationship for the first two years that Nick and I knew each other.

And Nick had his own love inter-

ests, he wasn’t pining after me by any means. He was, however, a very present and constant friend to me throughout that time.

Although I cannot pinpoint when he became my best friend, I can pinpoint when I started to realize that I wished he was more. It happened like this: My current boyfriend was visiting a friend out of state and we hadn’t had a chance to talk in several days.

One night that week, I was hanging out at Nick’s place. Nothing unusual about that, but this was one of those semi-rare occurrences when I was the only other person at Nick’s apartment.

I don’t remember what we were talking about, but I do remember that we were having an in-depth conversation.

My phone started buzzing, and I looked down to see that my boyfriend was calling. At that moment, a realization hit me like a ton of bricks: I didn’t want to talk to my boyfriend.

But that was crazy! My boyfriend was the guy I was supposed to be in love with! The guy I should be missing like crazy when he was out of town. But I didn’t answer the phone. I didn’t want to talk to him because I wanted to talk continued on page 38

[Verse 2: K.O] Vicious playboy, when it comes to matters of the heart I was abit disabled Different day though who is this hazel eyed, princess, angel Make me take you and make you a Mrs K.O and if she's faithful whatever that she needs is paid for Give you all of me just say so I mean business case closed From a Casanova to a monogamous Graduated from a misogynist I was a chauvinist Broken promises now you the one I running with Shower you with compliments to boost your confidence

Love Poem

Minerva Dirksz

Giving you the key of my heart I will give you the key of my heart And when you enter Please Irrigate the veins with all your love Maintain it with your fidelity Take care of it with all the tenderness And it will be the opening To our eternal love.

*Send your love poems along with your name and number to ireto007@yahoo.com

Romantic Joke

IN TOO FAR

A young man was showing off his new sports car to his girlfriend. She was thrilled at the speed.

"If I do 200mph, will you take off your clothes?" he asked.

"Yes!" said his adventurous girlfriend.

And as he gets up to 200, she peeled off all her clothes.

Unable to keep his eyes on the road, the car skidded onto some gravel and flipped over.

The naked girl was thrown clear, but he was jammed beneath the steering wheel.

"Go and get help!" he cried.

"But I can't. I'm naked and my clothes are gone!"

"Take my shoe", he said, "and cover yourself."

Holding the shoe over her pubes, the girl ran down the road and found a service station. Still holding the shoe between her legs, she pleaded to the service station proprietor, "Please help me! My boyfriend's stuck!"

The proprietor looked at the shoe and said, "There's nothing I can do...he's in too far."

15 AUGUST 2015

Relationships & Love Advice

'She wants to dump me because I postponed her introduction' Dear Love Doctor, I am a man of 37. I've been dating my girlfriend for three years now and I promised to marry her. I initially fixed her Introduction ceremony for last month. But because of financial constraint, since my business has not been moving well, I had to postpone my girl's introduction to next year. Unfortunately, since then she has been at war with me. She is very angry and upset over my postponement of her introduction and she's now threatening to dump me for another man. What do I do?

From Paul.

Love&Living

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Love Doctor’s Advice: Dear Paul, You don't have to have all the money in the world before you can get married. It appears you're waiting to be comfortable first before you marry.

That is a bad mindset! Do you really love her? If yes, then try and do her introduction soonest according to your financial capacity. Otherwise, you run the risk of losing your girl.

Remember that she loves you even without your being rich and money is not everything.

You can have a modest, affordable wedding anywhere, even in Nigeria. Best wishes!

Blackberry Connection

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Odd News

all men: "Why do some men want to marry virgins, and who will marry those girls they deflowered?"

c o n t i n u e d f r o m pa g e 3 5

He believes it is her tomb due to its position positioned to the right of the entrance shaft, which is far more typical of Egyptian queens rather than kings.

The small size of Tutankhamun's burial chamber, given his standing in the Egyptian history, has baffled experts for years and Dr Reeves' theory could suggest that it was built as an addition to an existing tomb - his mother's.

Tutankhamun's burial chamber is the same size as an antechamber, rather than a tomb fit for an Egyptian King, for example.

Dr Reeve said the richness of the furnishings crammed into Tutankhamun's four small chambers as 'overwhelming'.

The majority of Egyptologists have taken this at face value, he said many of the objects there appear to have been taken from predecessor kings and adapted for the boyking's use.

He proposes that some of the material in the tomb suggest Nefertiti had been the boy's co-regent.

Combined with the scans of the north wall of the tomb, Dr Reeves believes the tomb belonged to Nefertiti and the pharaoh's room was simply an afterthought, describing it as a 'corridor-style tomb-within-a-tomb'.

A HISTORY OF QUEEN NEFERTITI AND WHY HASN'T HER TOMB BEEN FOUND? Neferneferuaten Nefertiti - or Queen Nefertiti - was the wife and 'chief consort' of King Akhenaten, an Eyptian Pharoah during 14th century BC, one of the wealthiest, if not the wealthiest, era in Ancient Egypt.

She and her husband caused a 'religious revolution' in Egypt - worshipping only one God, Aten, the sun disc.

It is debated as to whether she alone ruled Egypt for a short period before the man who is thought to be her son, Tutankhamun (King

Nefertiti and some of her children, it will likely be impossible to definitively identify Nefertiti.

It's unclear why Nefertiti's tomb hasn't been found, but she's not the only royal likely buried in the Valley of Kings who remains missing.

Neither Akhenaten nor Smenkhkare, who ruled after Tut and whom some think is really Nefertiti with a different name, has been discovered.

Despite huge interest in finding her tomb, large swaths of the Valley of the Kings still haven't been explored.

The opening of what is believed to have been Nefertiti's tomb is decorated with religious scenes, perhaps in a ritual to provide protection to the chamber behind it, he said.

'Only one female royal of the late 18th Dynasty is known to have received such honours, and that is Nefertiti', Dr Reeves writes.

Courtesy: Daily Mail.

• Connect with Mike on WhatsApp or BlackBerry Pin: 7ab29e22 or 21978F71 for details on how to send your BlackBerry or Smartphone Connect request.

Love Education

What is Common-law marriage?

C

Tut), rose to ruler.

A bust of her head, attributed to sculptor Thutmose, made her famous for her regal beauty.

Nefertiti was hugely powerful during her husband's reign, and she may even have had equal power to her husband.

It is unknown how Nefertiti died, however, and theories include that she died of a sudden plague in her mid-30s or early-40s in the year 1340 BC. To date, the mummy of Nefertiti, her parents, or her children has not been found or identified.

For a while, the mummy of Akhenaten's mother, Queen Tiye, was thought to be Nefertiti, but teeth and DNA testing proved otherwise.

Another mummy, also found in Amenhotep II's tomb in the Valley of Kings, has been theorised as being Nefertiti, but experts say its impossible to tell for sure.

Egyptologists say that without DNA of

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Has Queen Nefertiti been found behind King Tut's tomb?

37

ommon-law marriage, also known as sui juris marriage, informal marriage, or marriage by habit and repute, is a legal framework in a limited number of jurisdictions where a couple is legally considered married, without that couple having formally registered their relation as a civil or religious marriage. The original concept of a "common-law marriage" is a marriage that is considered valid by both partners, but has not been formally recorded with a state or religious registry, or celebrated in a formal religious service. In effect, the act of the couple representing themselves to others as being married, and organizing their relation as if they were married, acts as the evidence that they are married.

The term common-law marriage has wide informal use, often to denote relations which are not legally recognised as common law marriages. The term common-law marriage is often used colloquially or by the media to refer to cohabiting couples, regardless of any rights that these couples may have, which can create public confusion both in regard to the term and in regard to the rights of unmarried partners.

38

Love&Living

True Story

M

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

'Our friendship was too close for comfort'

y daughter Olivia was due to start school and I attended the parents information session to find out how best to prepare my baby girl for big school.

I walked into a full room of mothers looking me up and down and I immediately knew what they were thinking.

I had my daughter when I was 16 and was now only 21 so I did stick out like a sore thumb in a sea of middle-aged faces.

It was quite a formidable school with an excellent academic reputation and I knew that in an area like this having a baby in your teens was not the norm. I prided myself on having got my life together — since having my baby I'd met a wonderful older man, Steve who took on Olivia as his own, and provided me with life's luxuries including a beautiful house and a nice car.

I'd gone back to college and enjoyed working part-time as a dental nurse, in fact the only thing I didn't have was my own family and friends as they had turned their backs on me when I fell pregnant. Steve's parents had passed and he had no siblings so it was pretty much just the three of us which was lonely and isolated at times.

When Olivia started school I volunteered in the canteen and joined the P&C and found parents beginning to slowly open up to me, it was then I met Joanne.

Joanne was in her early thirties and was just so bubbly and easy going, she seemed to understand what I had been through and included me in working bees and encouraged me to help on class trips.

We became firm friends and conveniently lived close-by so saw each other

a lot, she was my only friend and I was determined to keep her in my life. I suggested we should walk to get fit and walk the girls home from school together every afternoon which she too thought was a great idea. I also started cooking extra at dinner and dropping it around to her house on my way past.

I planned shopping trips and family outings together and was thrilled to have found a soul mate. I often rang Joanne in the evening to have a chat before I went to sleep and it was during one of our regular chats that Joanne dropped a bomb.

Joanne said I was smothering her and she needed more family time but that she would still see me at school. I said I understood but I was deeply hurt and had no idea where this was coming from.

I had thought everything was great.

I started to feel isolated again as Joanne withdrew further, so I began to follow her from school so we could run

Wedding Traditions

I often rang Joanne in the evening to have a chat before I went to sleep and it was during one of our regular chats that Joanne dropped a bomb into each other shopping and changed my volunteer day in the canteen to the same as hers. I even took my daughter and enrolled her at the same dance school as Joanne's child so that we could hang out during lessons, but Joanne wasn't the same around me — the comfortable closeness we had shared had gone.

I

n the Greek tradition, the bride and groom are honored as queen and king for the day, and so during the ceremony they wear crowns made of either gold or orange blossoms that are connected with a ribbon to signify the union.

The best man (Koumbaros) leads the ceremony along with the priest and he is the one who places the crown on the couple’s heads. He also exchanges

the rings between the bride and groom 3 times to remind the couple that in married life, the weaknesses of one are compensated by the strengths of the other and vice versa.

When the ceremony is complete, the bride and groom walk around the altar three times to symbolize the trinity and their first walk as a married couple.

Courtesy: Irish Central.

*Names have been changed for privacy reasons.

Courtesy: nine.com

'I dated my best friend and it didn’t destroy our relationship' continued FROM page 36

Walking around the altar three times: Greece

My hurt turned to irrational thinking and I felt sure some other mother had been jealous and tried to break up our friendship. It rapidly got to the stage where Joanne would see me and walk the other way. I drove to her house to find out why she turned her back on me and saw Sarah who was another mother from our school at her house. I was furious being convinced Sarah had been filling Joanne's head with lies about me as she had always turned up her nose at me. I got out of the car and seeing red slapped Sarah across the face. Sarah had a complete look of shock on her face.

I wanted the driveway to swallow me up when I heard Sarah had gone to Joanne's house to bring her daughter's school bag back after Sarah's daughter had picked it up by mistake. I left in a hurry embarrassed at what I had become. I was using Joanne to fill a void in my life. I arranged to see a therapist and would apologise to Joanne and Sarah on Monday.

Monday came and there was no sign of Joanne. I found out she had taken her daughter out of the school. I was completely distraught at what I had done.

Everyone soon found out due to Sarah's big mouth.

I needed a fresh start so have moved Olivia to a new school two suburbs away and have started to make new friends but have learnt a lot of important lessons, not the least about boundaries.

to Nick, instead.

I drove home that night deep in thought. Nick was such a close friend -- he was my confidant, my comedian, my texting buddy, my cook, my encourager, my advicegiver. He was my best friend. And then, for the first time, maybe he was something even deeper.

When things finally ended with my boyfriend, I can honestly say it was not because I wanted to be with Nick. Yes, I had the beginnings of feelings for him, but I had no way of knowing if he was feeling the same way.

In fact, based on our history, it was safe to assume he felt nothing more than our usual friendship. I knew how stupid it would be to end a relationship based on mere hopes that another one may sprout from its ashes. I had other reasons.

I remember telling my friends that if I was going to be dating someone seriously, I wanted to think that he was the best guy that I knew. I couldn’t say that about my boyfriend. I couldn’t say it because Nick was the best guy that I knew.

So even if my feelings for him never fully developed and even if we were never anything more than friends, I couldn’t stay in the relationship I was in.

So then I found myself (finally) single with just a few months left before graduation. For awhile, Nick’s and my friendship chugged along as usual. There were the hangouts, the movie marathons,

the parties. And then slowly, slowly, we were hanging out a little more. Slowly, I was spending more time with him alone, sans our large friend group. Slowly, I was falling in love with my best friend.

It took a while, but I was finally confident that Nick felt the same way. He gave me all the signs to suggest it -- from spending every free moment with me, to texting me constantly, to planning his schedule around mine.

I finally couldn’t handle the suspense and broached the subject of dating. I was all for it, obviously, but Nick had reservations. It was the age-old fear: We were such close friends, and what if dating destroyed that? What if we gave it a shot and things didn’t work out?

Then, we wouldn’t just be losing a significant other, but we’d be losing a best friend as well.

After many discussions, we decided to go for it. It was a risk, but we were both ready to see where a romantic relationship could take us.

Guess what? It was the best choice we could have possibly made. It seems ironic now that we almost didn’t get to be together because of friendship, when in fact that friendship is what I believe made us perfect for each other.

Our dating life flowed just as organically as our friendship had because the usual phases of dating didn’t really apply to us.

There was no awkward first date.

There was no blissfully ignorant honeymoon stage followed by a hard slap of reality as we realized

who we were really dealing with.

I knew Nick before I ever even held his hand. I knew his quirks, his pet-peeves, his habits, his good and his bad. I knew him deeply and I loved him because of it. The foundation we had built by being best friends for so long made our relationship strong, healthy, and wonderful.

Fast forward several years later and Nick is still my best friend.

Only now, he’s my husband, too.

It’s surreal and terrifying to me that I could have lived a life in which he was not mine. I don’t like to dwell on the thought that fear could have robbed us from each other.

Friendships are important -- and best friends are not something to be taken lightly. Finding someone that understands you on such a deep level is rare, and those relationships should be treasured, nurtured and protected. But being captive to fear will only ever lead to missing out on all the amazing things that life has to offer.

We spend so much of our lives avoiding things because we are afraid -- afraid of failing, afraid of getting hurt, afraid of making mistakes. And, sure, things don’t always work out like we hope.

Sometimes we will fail. Sometimes we will get our hearts broken…but not always. Don’t let fear stop you from living your life and taking chances. Maybe, just maybe, the thing you are afraid to try will be the most beautiful part of your story.

Courtesy: go.co

SATURDAY

Travel &Tourism SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2015

Travel Personality Nkereuwem Onung: We need to get organise to prioritise tourism p.40

Hospitality

Radisson Blu Mama Yoko Hotel: Feeding Freetown's hunger for luxury p.41

Destination

Istanbul: An alluring blend of the old and modern p.42

CHEF'S CORNER ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA presents a special recipe of goat meat in veggie and sauce couscous recipe to spice your weekend as it is often considered a healthier alternative to beef.

Goat meat served with veggie sauce and couscous

Ingredients: • Six long carrots • Eight balls of fresh tomatoes • One large ball of onion • A handful of ground crayfish • Four fresh peppers • Four chili peppers • 500g of Couscous • Half a kilo of Goat meat • Groundnut oil • Spinach (green leaf) • Two cucumbers (for dressing) • Seasoning of your choice • Salt to taste • Two tablespoonfuls (scoop) of butter Preparation: Boil one third litre of water, add salt and a tablespoonful of oil. Remove from heat and add 500 grams of couscous. Allow to stand until all the water is absorbed. Then simmer couscous on low heat while you stir with two separate grains. Add few knobs of butter and bring down from heat when water is

completely dried. Wash your goat meat and put in a clean pot. Add your sliced onion, salt, curry powder, seasoning of your choice, bay leaf and a little water to enable your meat cook to your desired taste. When meat is cooked, bring down from heat and set aside.

Wash your spinach, slice and

set aside; Wash your tomatoes, pepper, onion, carrots and nicely slice into small fine pieces. Place your dry pot on the cooker, add your groundnut oil and allow to heat. Add your sliced pepper, carrot, tomatoes, onions and stir.

Allow to cook to on low heat.

Add your goat meat, a pinch of salt, curry powder, ground cray-

TRAVEL BEATS

Aero rewarded for excellent safety culture

ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA Editor, TRAVEL&TOURISM iroandy@ymail.com

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

39

For its excellent safety culture over the years, Aero Contractors has won the Exceptional Safety Culture Award.

This accolade has earned it a gift of an ambulance from both the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) and Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

The award, which highlights the airline’s high safety and security standards in the Nigerian market, came on the heels of an audit by a team of consultants from NECA/NSITF on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies, procedures and culture.

The acting managing director of Aero, Capt. Russell Leefoon, said; "Aero won the Exceptional Safety Culture Award for 2014 after a thorough audit from a respected and professional team of Safety Consultants from NECA/NSITF on the airline's Occupational Health and Safety policies, procedures and culture.

“We are delighted that our hard work to ensure highest safety standards are being recognized by reputable organizations like NECA and NSITF. “Aero is in business to ensure that the travel experience for travellers in Nigeria and other regions in Africa is of global standards. We are here for the long haul to raise the bar in aviation service standards in the country,” he added.

L-R: Stanley Ododo, Aero HSE Officer; Matthew Ubanyi, Ag. Head of Human Resources and Admin; Director-General of NECA, O. A Oshinowo (middle); Capt Gerald Nmoka; and Victor Daudu Aero HSE Executive during the presentation of the ambulance to Aero recently in Lagos.

fish and seasoning.

Stir gently and allow to simmer then add your sliced spinach and stir for all ingredients and vegetable to mix together.

Bring down from heat and your couscous is ready to be served with the sauce. You can gently slice your washed cucumber and use as a dressing for your meal.

Calabar Hospitality House organises training programme Calabar Hospitality House has concluded plans to host an eight-week entrepreneurship and skills acquisition training programme. The participants would be granted access to micro financing at the end of the training.

Areas of focus include how to develop a bankable business plan, start and grow your business while the array of skills acquisition cover areas such as shoe making, handbag making with Ankara, hair dressing, barbing, cocktail and culinary art, website designing,, video editing and photography as well as graphics design. Others are event and hotel management, fashion designing, soap and detergent making.

The training session commences on August 24 with morning and afternoon sessions at the institute's Ekong Eta Street base.

Starwood Hotels launches richest branded SPG promo Starwood Hotels has launched the richest branded SPG promotion ever campaign providing an all access pass for members of the Starwood Preferred Guest to earn and redeem free weekend nights at any participating Sheraton hotel or resort globally.

This new promotion is one of many initiatives underway to boost Starwood’s largest, most global brand as part of Sheraton 2020, all embracing plan designed to entrench Sheraton as a premier global hotel brand of choice, everywhere.

On offer through September 30, the promotion eliminates restrictions on hotel category, allowing members to redeem their free weekend nights at any participating Sheraton property in the world.

“Sheraton Free Weekends is a bold way to capture the attention of Starwood’s most loyal guests, drive business to our Sheraton hotels around the world and encourage our members to discover exciting new destinations within our vast global portfolio of hotels and resorts,” said the Global Brand Leader, Sheraton Hotels and

Resorts and Tribute Portfolio, Dave Marr.

Starwood’s interim CEO, Adam Aron, said, “one of the key missions with our new Sheraton 2020 plan is to turn heads and captivate guests. This is the first of many new initiatives and programs for Sheraton that will signal a new momentum within this storied brand.”

With nearly 80 years of heritage and boasting an extraordinary global footprint in 75 countries, Sheraton has more than 435 hotels offering a wide variety of escapes in enticing destinations, including flagship hotels in many city centers worldwide.

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Travel & Tourism

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

TRAVEL PERSONALITY

Nkereuwem Onung: We need to get organised to prioritise tourism Yes, Lagos is keeping their state clean, they are trying to promote tourism, and they are laying emphasis on different areas. So are other states, just like Cross River State which has also done that in the past. So most states are also identifying their strength and they are emphasising on it.

Nkereuwem Onung is the chairman of Remlords Tours and the president of Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP). At an interactive session with the Nigerian travel media he spoke on the partnership with the South African Tourism (SAT), NATOP’s push for tourism and the Nigerian travel and tourism industry, among others.

ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA who was there brings excerpts from the talk session.

We need to strengthen our tourism institutions For us (NATOP), the tourism institutions at the federal government level need to be strengthened for us to be able to say this is what we have. When this kind of collaboration is taking place, people will need to push it because there are some areas in which you need political will. Government will need to empower the institutions.

South African Tourism (SAT) is an arm of the government and we are doing this as an association because our members are drivers of tourism and we believed that we should really, really be positioned to do business with them.

T

What is this programme all about? his is collaboration between South Africa and Nigeria, their arm of tourism is engaging with us because they have not had a lot from our governmental institutions. So, we decided to take it upon ourselves as an association which also has the duty of promoting tourism to collaborate with them.

We have been privileged to engage them over time and we have also had few familiarisation trips out of Lagos to South Africa. We have a lot to learn from South Africa tourism and that doesn’t mean that we don’t have tourism here, we do. But I think it is about the priority of government and we also need to make our government to realise that there is also much in tourism that we can look forward to.

We talk about oil and oil is exhaustible but tourism is something that will last forever and South Africa is doing that much in tourism. They have discovered that Nigeria is their biggest market in Africa and that is why despite their challenges as a country they still attempt to strategically market their tourism by diminishing whatever is their areas of weakness and market their areas of strength.

It is on that note that we also think that as Nigerians we should let them also understand that we may not be as organised and focused as they are but we also have a lot to show them and most of them have been coming to Nigeria. And that is why we have to take them on a city tour.

We have to take them to the Mainland first because most of them stay on Victoria Island when they visit and just go back and I am sure that they may have been amazed today by the tour of Lagos that we have given them. That is to show that we have a lot and that all we need to do is just to get organised as a country and begin to prioritise tourism and we can make a whole lot out of it.

Most of them have never left the island in their years of coming to Lagos and they are very excited and it is something to be cherished and we are looking at doing more with them in terms of collaboration.

Appoint stakeholders who are knowledgeable to drive tourism The first thing to do in terms of appointing people to offices is try to appoint stakeholders , people who are knowledgeable in the industry, people who can also move the industry forward. Then number two strengthen the institutions and once these two things are done then there are going to be a lot of inputs.

We have seen SA Tourism and they are doing their best despite their own problems. Sometimes we talk about insurgence but Nigeria is a safe country.

We are tour guides and we know where to take you to.

So what we are saying is that as far as we, tour operators, are concerned, our country is safe for tourism and there are tour operators who know where to take tourists to. For me, two things; strengthen the institutions and appoint people who are knowledgeable about the industry and then allow the content to be provided by the practitioners and I think that in no time you would have a change.

Onung

Tourism is a ready source of revenue That is our approach to it and our country needs to begin to look at another source of revenue, which tourism is very readily available and that is why we need to tell the government of the day that it is time to also appoint people who are stakeholders who understand what tourism is all about when they want to appoint people into the tourism ministry and parastatals.

We need to begin to brand our tourism facilities I am sure that you saw the branding that took place during the workshop and that is something that we also need as a country. In our country we need to begin by talking about branding the facilities and which we also believe that as an association it can be done if we have the necessary agencies of government supporting it.

Tourism goes beyond the hospitality sector From what we have done today we have seen that beyond hospitality and hotels that we also have a lot of other

That is to show that we have a lot and that all we need to do is just to get organise as a country and begin to prioritise tourism and we can make a whole lot out of it facilities and attractions. We have just returned from Nike Art Gallery and we are currently at Terra Kulture and you can see what it is like, which means that in Nigeria we have so much to show to the people.

And I think for Lagos State government they should have a priority and every state will need to identify what they have and what they are able to do. But we are talking about national tourism. We know that tourism is a national government issue and it is not about any state.

We need to create values by enabling the drivers of tourism to operate effectively For us as NATOP, the first thing is creating value. There are certain infrastructures to be in place for NATOP to operate. Number one – tour guides, these are not things that you can just do on your own. So there have to be drivers of tourism and those things are engineered by the political will of the government.

South Africa took the World Cup to their country and I am sure you know what it has done to them. They are taking polo to their country and they are taking other events to their country. It is the drivers of tourism that will make tourism work and those things are done by the national government and they are things that must happen and apart from that there has to been leadership, people who are knowledgeable to drive it.

They just came back from Accra, Ghana, the SA TOURISM team, the entire government, the tourism board; they were with us, the private sector. And for me that is what it takes. That has been our issue in the past and if we can correct those things, I think that tourism is going to take firm root.

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

HOSPITALITY

L

ocated in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone with its majestic natural flavours, and less than 25 minutes from the Lungi International Airport, the hotel is one of the properties which defines the beauty of the city and its hospitality landscape.

It is the pride of the country and it is on record as the country’s only five star rated property enjoying all the accolades that come with it. According to its director of sales and marketing, Daniel Sekoni, who recently was in Accra, Ghana, where he exhibited the high flying hotel during the Accra Weizo event, the hotel is a luxury facility, exhibiting all the splendour and majestic feel of a high end hotel.

He further revealed that the hotel is devoted to promoting business and lifestyle with upscale leisure while excellent, professionalised and customised services delivery are at the core of its operation while boosting a naturally pleasant environment, blending well with its array of sophisticated facilities.

Rooms The perfect picture fit hotel with captivating scenery features about 57 Standard rooms, 50 Superior rooms, 49 Business class rooms, six Executive suites, nine Deluxe suites and one Presidential suite. All are tastefully furnished for the comfort of the guests.

Some of the standard amenities that you find across the different categories of rooms include free high-speed, wireless Internet, coffee and tea provisions, flat screen TV, comfy bed and excellent room service.

The star attraction here is the President suite offering a living room, extra beds and a private terrace, where one can be treated to a delicious room service meal. The lounge area also offers one a good view of the unfolding picturesque natural scenery.

Dining/wining You are guaranteed a treat of a life time with the wide and rich selection from the menu and drink list of the hotel ranging from local to intercontinental. The restaurant and bar atmosphere and make up are great, offering a serenading environment for you to relax and bask in the goodness of nature with its inviting appeal of The Deck with a teak – floor terrace, a 5000-square metre outdoor facility for dining.

The lounge bar with all its creative and ennobling features also comes into reckoning as a good hideaway to savour some of the best beverages, cocktails, wines and champagnes as well as local brew.

Sunday brunch is said to be a special affair at the hotel as the chef and his team treat guests to the best of global culinary experiences.

Radisson Blu Mama Yoko Hotel

Travel & Tourism

Feeding Freetown's hunger for luxury Raddison Blu Mama Yoko Hotel is Freetown’s first and only branded hotel and so, you should expect it to have all the trappings that come with a five-star rated hotel, writes ANDREW IRO OKUNGBOWA

and two tennis courts.

Conference As a business hotel, it has a good mix of conference and meeting facilities, these include five choice meeting rooms (Goderich, Lakkah, Tokeh, Lumley and Aberdeen), all fitted with modern conference amenities and well lit with internet service, Nespresso coffee machine, paper board, screen for projectorbeamer, wall-mounted, flatscreen TV and personal staff to attend to all your enquiries and needs while beverages are among the features on offer.

Other facilities/services In many respects, the hotel parades other facilities and services. These include 24-hour laundry, room service and on-site parking, concierge, 24-hour room service, bank with currency exchange, business centre, security and shop with duty-free art, souvenirs, and newspapers and magazines as well as a travel agency.

Wellness/leisure The hotel also places high premium on wellness as it offers dedicated facilities and services in this wise. Its private beach is a conducive spot to unwind and relax with nature at its best as the notion of sand, sun and sea in a very romantic manner come to play here.

Some of the special features include fitness centre, golf course, which is about two kilometres away from the hotel, outdoor swimming pool with a terrace area, private beach with a bar

NEW TELEGRAPH PARTNER HOTELS B E N E F I TS There are lots of benefits to derive as one of our partner hotels. For enquiries and details on how to join the programme, please contact Andrew Iro Okungbowa: 08023152195 (sms only), e-mail: iroandy@ymail.com

41

ABA

FESTAC, LAGOS

LAGOS

REE DANIELS HOTEL AND SUITES

Panda Hotel Suites & Lounge

42 Travel & Tourism

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

DESTINATION

PROFILE

Besides being Turkey’s largest city, it is regarded as the country’s commercial, cultural, entertainment, leisure, sport and historical enclave as well as the heart beat of the country. You would be amazed by the rich mix of the old and modern as well as the fact that the city clearly shows itself as a beautiful mix between Europe and Asia. This is further accentuated by its geographical features and historical antecedents, as it straddles the Bosphorus Strait between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Its commercial and historical centre lies on the European side with about a third of its population living on the Asia side of Eurasia.

It has also a rich religious history with Christianity featuring during the Roman and Byzantine era while the Ottoman Caliphate also held sway at a time in its history. In 2010 it was named European capital of culture and recorded 11.6 million visitors in 2012.

It is also the fifth most popular tourist city in the world with its historic feature as one of the most outstanding and most visited attraction and was named by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as World Heritage Site.

The city, regarded as the capital of Istanbul Province, is administered by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality which oversees the 39 districts of the city-province.

Marmara Sea leading to Princes' Islands

Istanbul: An alluring blend of the old and modern order as they share both historical and geographical links.

From the ship you would see beautiful mosques, palaces, new luxury villas, very old Ottoman houses and the Rumeli Fortress. We cruised across the Bosphorus Bridge, one of the star attractions in the city and then headed for the Camlica Hill viewpoint, which is laid over Istanbul where you can also see the Princes’ Islands and the Marmara Sea. We thereafter spent a quiet night at the hotel (Leisure at the hotel) to catch some rest and prepare for the next day’s event, which turned out to be quite eventful, revealing and insightful for us.

Managing Director of Cotonou-based God’s Own Travel Agency, MRS. OLANNMA OJUKWU, recounts an exhilarating experience in Istanbul, after leading a group of business people and tourists on a week tour of Turkey's largest city.

Day One Arrive in Istanbul and half-day tour Bosphorus Cruise he team was in high spirits and enjoyed the flight to Instanbul, Turkey. For some of the group members it was a first trip to the country and excitement was high as people looked forward to having a swell time in the city. It was an exploratory trip to the country for both business (there was an engagement with the Turkey Chamber of Commerce) and leisure. The flight was a delightsome one as the passengers onboard were treated to the onboard luxury and entertainment packages of the airline as the crew members displayed passion and professionalism in attending to every need.

On arrival, the sheer appeal of the Ataturk Airport banished whatever jet lag the flight had caused. Immigration and custom checks were smooth with officials treating every passenger with the expected decorum and courtesies.

Thereafter, we were met by representatives of the chamber and after a brief exchange of pleasantries and introduction, we transferred to the hotel where we freshened up, met with the tour guide for briefing and light refreshment and later departed for one of the local restaurants in the city for lunch.

T

After launch we went for the first major event for the day, which was the Bosphorus Cruise, coasting through the strait that divides Europe from Asia and leading to the Black Sea. While on this cruise you would then understand why Turkey has over the years shown a strong determination to be part of the European Union (EU), which seem in

Grand Bazaar

Day Two Full day classics of Istanbul tour One could rightly tag the day's tour as an encounter with Turkey's past and modern as we were exposed to some of the sites and attractions which highlight the history and culture of the people and the country itself. For many of us, it was revealing experience to see the extent to which the people have gone to preserve their history with an amazing number of relics proudly displayed for the world to feast on.

We started off with the tour of Sultan Ahmet Square, then headed for heart of the Old City from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled.

Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Divine Wisdom, one of the greatest marvels of architecture, constructed as a basilica in the 6th Century by Emperor Justinian.

Then the Blue Mosque facing Hagia Sophia, famous for its blue İznik tiles and uniquely laid out with six minarets, built in the name of Sultan Ahmet. Hippodrome is a major sports centre and attraction for both the city’s residents and visitors. It regularly hosts sports events such as chariot races and athletics, which enjoy huge following and interest. The centre is also famed as the political arena of the old city as it plays host to political activities by leading political groups and politicians.

Serpentine Column, Obelisk of Theodosius and German Fountain of Wilhelm II are some of the intrinsically created monuments within the Hippodrome complex. Topkapı Palace is the residence of Ottoman Sultans with rich artistic display of imperial wealth, majesty and aplomb of the royalty of the monarchies. And of course, also on display are vast array of the trove of the rulers, which include the sacred Islamic relics of Prophet Mohammed, kitchen, Chinese porcelain, weapons and calligraphic section among others.

In some of the sections, the guide is forbidden from relating the tales of the artifacts to the tourists. Thereafter, we explored the Underground Cistern before returning to the hotel to freshen while dinner was served on cruise Bosphorus.

Day Three Full day Istanbul city walls and golden horn Today’s highlight included the tour

15 AUGUST 2015

of Kariye Museum (Chora Church) with picture of what old Istanbul once looked its 14th century mosaics and frescoes like. Churches are some of the fascinatexhibiting a lot of biblical sceneries and ing features of the island. Lunch was then a drive through the Tekfur Palace, served at one of the fish restaurants and which was built during the 13th Cen- it was a delightsome culinary experitury. It is the only Byzantine Palace still ence of the day after which we further standing today. We also toured the explored the island, strolling Ecumenical Patriarchate of along the promenade VISA and just generally Constantinople which has For Nigerians and others been in service since the digging deep into wishing to visit Istanbul or Turkey a 6th Century. the entrails of visa is required, either a business or tourist After lunch we the old town of visa depending on the purpose of visit while drove through Buyukada. student and transit visas are also issued.

Eyup Imperial Application or enquiries in respect of visas are to be Day six Mosque. It is one directed at the Turkish embassy based in Abuja.

Istanbul of the most reThe general requirements for visa include the following: vered holy places It was a Completed application form, passport size photos, valid free day at in Istanbul and national passport, up-to-date bank account statement, leisure with the burial place confirmation letter from your travel insurance for Turkey members of of Eyub el-Ensaindicating the coverage, reference letter from your ri, who was the employer or education establishment, proof of reputed standard group travel/hotel reservation in Turkey/ bearer of the Prophet airline ticket reservation for Turkey Mohammed. We then and visa application fees. rode a cable car to Pierre Loti Hill where we took in the beautiful view of the Golden Horn scenery and savoured tea or coffee in the famous Pierre Loti Café.

We spent the rest of the day shopping by visiting some of the shops and flea markets in the city and later returned to the hotel for dinner and leisure at hotel.

Archaeological Museum

the team allowed to explore on their own as people went their different ways with some exploring the city further and others shopping and engaging on private deals.

Day Four Half day Dolmabahce Palace tour The Egyptian spice market, which is located at the foot of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus were some of the sites we started with on this half-day exploration of yet the city again. The market was built in the 17th Century A.D. and is still a thriving place with spices and souvenirs of all types. The next spot visited was the beautiful and attractively laid Iznik tile-covered Rustempasa Mosque, which was built by Architect Sinan in 1560 for the grand vizier of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent. Then we continue to the “Selamlik” chambers of the incredible 19th Century Dolmabahce Palace, which drapes with colours and expansive opulence with an artistic touch.

We retired for lunch and then continued on the shopping trail before returning to the hotel for dinner and leisure.

Day five Full day Princes’ Islands tour We departed the hotel in the early hours of the morning after breakfast on board a ferry for the precious Princes’ Islands, which is one of the must-see islands. We cruised past four other islands with their charming old Ottoman houses before finally arriving at Buyukada, the largest of the islands. We embarked on a tour of the island by Phaeton (horse and cart) cruising through elegant old wooden mansions and beautiful natural sceneries.

Vehicles are not allowed into the Island and its pristine nature and relics are well preserved as it gives a revealing

Travel & Tourism 43

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

Hagia Sophia

Galata Tower

l-R: Mrs. Olanma Ojukwu with two members of the team during meal hour

Day seven Istanbul Finally, it was time to bid farewell to the city of Istanbul as the team transferred to Atatürk Airport to catch our flight back home. The flight was enjoyable as well. In all, it was one week of fruitful exploration and discoveries. The various business and tourism opportunities available were just as rewarding.

Members of the team were all enthralled and expressed satisfaction over the trip with the promise to make a repeat visit.

ATTRACTIONS The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world and has been operating since 1461; Mahmutpasha Bazaar is an open-air market extending between the Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Bazaar, which has been Istanbul's major spice market since 1660; Galleria Ataköy ushered in the age of modern shopping malls in Turkey when it opened in 1987; Akmerkez was awarded the titles of "Europe's best" and "World's best" shopping mall by the International Council of Shopping Centres in 1995 and 1996; Istanbul Cevahir has been one of the continent's largest since opening in 2005; while Kanyon won the Cityscape Architectural

Review Award in the Commercial Built category in 2006; İstinye Park in İstinye and Zorlu Centres near Levent are among the newest malls which include the stores of the world's top fashion brands; Abdi İpekçi Street in Nişantaşı and Bağdat Avenue on the Anatolian side of the are high-end shopping districts.

Turkish culinary is another attraction in the city particularly seafood hence the large presence of fish restaurants across the city’s landscape. The Princes' Islands is not just popular for their seafood restaurants only but for their historic summer mansions, tranquil and car-free streets, making it a most popular vacation destination among

residents and foreign tourists.

It is for the presence of its rich cultural features that Istanbul is noted globally as a cultural and entertainment centre. The endless list of attractions include: The Istanbul Archaeology Museums, founded by Osman Hamdi Bey in 1891, form Turkey's oldest modern museum; Pera Museum in Beyoğlu; İstanbul Modern; Sakıp Sabancı Museum and SantralIstanbul; Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum.

Its rich film screen industry include: International Istanbul Film Festival and the Istanbul International Jazz Festival; Istanbul International Music Festival since 1994; Istanbul Biennial.

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Instyle

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

MY STYLE

Flattering and non-conformist Nollywood actress, Ani Amatosero, delights in creating a variety of styles with different pieces from her wardrobe.

ANGELA DAVIES writes.

How would you define your style?

I would say that the best way to describe my style is versatile. I don’t like conforming to a specific style. I love mixing and matching to create different outfits with some of the same pieces. So, at the end, my style is sporty, rebellious, chic and flattering.

What determines the kind of outfits you wear?

It is determined by my mood and the occasion I'm attending.

Which outfits take up the most space in your wardrobe?

You will see lots of jeans and tops.

What fashion rule do you live by?

Simple, comfortable but flattering.

Is there any outfit you’re unlikely to be caught wearing?

I cannot be caught with any kind of outfit that will reveal my breasts.

Is there any fashion item you cannot do without?

I cannot do without my dark shades.

I am a very shy person so I always cover my face with that.

What is your ready-to-go outfit?

It is jeans and top any day.

If you were a fashion item, what would you be?

A sunshade

Beauty Ebeye

What kind of jewelery appeals to you?

I love bold rings.

Most expensive fashion item ever bought I really don’t know.

What kinds of shoes appeal most to you?

I love shoes that I can comfortably run with especially flats. Flats could be lovely sandals or fancy slippers.

But really anything comfortable works for me.

Best designer I don’t do designer names so I don’t have a particular brand. I go for anything that suits my body type, it can be a nameless brand as long as it looks good on me.

Signature perfume I love Bvlgari Aqva.

How do you love your hair?

I am on low cut so all you see me wear are wigs. I cannot remember the last time I got my hair fixed.

How do you love your makeup?

I love my makeup subtle. I am not a fan of loud makeup especially the wild eye shadows.

Best colour I love pink any day any time.

Facts Eyeliner became popular after its discovery in King Tutankhamun’s tomb in the 1920s.

It became more socially acceptable for women to wear shorts during World War II, which introduced fabric rationing and forced women to take on more masculine jobs.

The earliest known shoes are sandals that date back to approximately 7,000 B.C. However, humans began wearing shoes as early as 40,000 years ago.

A person’s social rank and profession in the Medieval Ages was represented by the color of their clothing.

The nobility wore red, peasants wore brown and gray, and merchants, bankers, and gentry wore green.

Painful but beautiful solution to damaged hair

T

he wrong hair colour or damaged and dry hair can prematurely age you. So if your hair is starting to look unkempt, what should you do to fix it? It is advisable you consider a haircut and skip using products with protein.

If your hair is severely damaged or bleached, it is recommended that you get a haircut and take one to two inches off. After chopping off an inch or two, do a conditioning treatment once a week.

Caution should be taken when you are replenishing your strands of hair, specifically when it comes to protein found in a variety of homemade masks and treatments.

Many believe saturating your cuticle hair with protein will help it grow stronger, but it's actually causing more harm than good. It is worse than bleach because it will eat up the hair.

Once you've snipped a few inches and used a mask the right way, you need to be patient because transformations don't happen overnight.

It might sound brutal to chop some length and keep your colour low-key for half a year, but ultimately it will help the strength of your hair.

Damaged hair

Healthy hair

SATURDAY, 15 AUGUST, 2015

SATURDAY

Politics INTERVIEW

Face0ff

Ekiti PDP crisis: A house divided against itself p.46

Politics

The politics of UNEP report implementation in Ogoniland p.48

Politics

Gen Agwai's movement without motion in Kaduna p.49

© Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

45

Fight against corruption is not selective, says Emeh Mr. Emeh Glory Emeh, former Commissioner for Transport in Rivers State under former Governor Peter Odili, reviews some contemporary national issues, including President Buhari’s fight against corruption. EMMANUEL MASHA reports from Port Harcourt.

President Mohammeau Buhari has spent 100 days in office; appraise the fight against corruption which drove his campaign strategy during the last elections?

Without mincing words, Buhari is already winning the war against corruption. As you know; corruption is not a war you fight with guns or sophisticated warfare. It is a war you must fight with some degree of intelligence.

The intelligence, in this case, is based on the amount of information that you have at your disposal. So far; one can say that the war is being won with steady progression. This is based also on the premise that when you have useful information on a subject matter, the job is almost half done.

The information that is, so far, available to government, on looted funds and misappropriation, is enough to say that the war is half won. What is left is for these information to be collated along the line of the thought of the President in fulfillment of his promise to Nigerians that he would rid the country of corruption. He promised to rearrange the country, re-orientate the people and prepare their minds to realize that this is a time for change. Change means that we must begin with attitudinal transformation.

But one good thing is that President Buhari has set the frame work for that change. There is, no doubt, that when you are set out to do a program like this, there must be obstacles.

Those things are just natural. We have noticed that those who challenged the approach to the recovery of looted funds are those who may have skeletons in their cupboard. These are the people who believe that if Buhari continues the way he is going in the recovery of those stolen funds, it will eventually expose their evil deeds. Those are the only people who are afraid of the wind of change that is blowing across the country now. I don’t believe in the 100 days syndrome. The President has four years and another four according to our constitution, if he so desires to continue, so why should anybody pin him down to 100 days as a yard stick to measure his achievement! I don’t believe in that. We should wait for him to make at least two years, then we can begin to assess him based on his performance for that period. Be that as it may, I am confident that he will make a great impact in his first 100 days.

Some Nigerians allege that Buhari may be witch-hunting by adopting selective fight against corruption. React to this?

It is absolutely wrong for any-

body to say that. The President said that he was not going to go beyond the past administration in his fight against corruption.

The reason is that the time we are now and the time before the past administration can never be the same in terms of technological advancement. There is no way you can have all the needed documents of the previous governments before the immediate past. I think that this must have informed the President to restrict himself to the past administration. Matters relating to fraud and corruption in Nigeria in the past six years are still very fresh. It was not Buhari that brought the issue of non-remittance of about US20Billion that is allegedly missing.

But he was able to hear about that like every other Nigerian. He may not have had any other information prior to this time.

Nigerians are familiar with the character of the president given the progress that was recorded when he came the first time as Head of State; we still have the memory of the type of person that he is. He is passionate about what he wants to do and I can say he is patriotic. He is doing exactly what he promised to do. Some of those who have been invited to answer questions on what happened with the funds entrusted to them are those who were appointed into a particular offices. They must therefore explain how they appropriated the funds allocated to them. These people are the PDP members and why is it so? That is simply because PDP was in power in the past government and there is no way anybody will n o w g o

and invite somebody in another political party to answer for what he was not part of just to balance the equation. It is not just PDP members that are being probed.

It does not make any sense to me. In the last 16 years when PDP held sway in Nigeria, the only non-PDP person given appointment in Nigeria was Senator Ben Obi who was appointed Presidential adviser on Inter-Party Affairs. He did not even stay long when he decamped to PDP. The truth of the matter is that the President is not engaging in any selective investigation.

Emeh

FaceOff

46

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH 15 AUGUST 2015

Ekiti PDP crisis: Dissident group is working for APC -Adebayo The Ekiti State Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Jackson Adebayo, in this interview with ADESINA WAHAB, talks about the crisis that has been rocking the party there.

What is the genesis of the crisis?

Those fomenting trouble in the party are driven by greed. Greed to corner things for themselves at the expense of others. That vice was coupled with lack of consideration for others. Let me explain.

When we won the governorship election last year, before Governor Ayodele Fayose was inaugurated, we all saw the hell the state was put through by the defeated All Progressives Congress, which wanted to get victory through the back door.

With God on our side, the governor assumed office, inheriting a huge debt profile that can throw anybody off balance. It was in the midst all this that the 19 APC legislators started their own war. The state had no rest and how could the governor have rest then? The situation persisted and it was not until June 5 this year that we could really say our party is now in power. If in the midst of a situation in which innocent persons such as Omolafe Aderiye were killed, curfew imposed, some gangsters masquerading as lawmakers making frantic efforts to invade the state among others and some party members are now saying they have not been given appointments, let share some money, is that not the height of lack of consideration for others?

Any evidence that APC is sponsoring the other group?

Yoruba people will say 'aje ke lana, omo ku loni, tani ko mope aje ana lo pa omo je' (the witch cried yesterday, the baby died today, who doesn't know it is yesterday's witch that killed the baby). Look at the sequence and timing of their actions. They rose up at the point that it seemed the APC would get rid of our government because of APC's victory at the centre.

Also, look at the statement by Femi Bamisile, who left our party two days to the governorship election last year for the APC. He is close to those people and he came out to reveal that the dissident group would soon join him in the APC. Moreover, there are lots of facts to prove our claim, besides that we know their moves.

The crisis came when your party did well in all elections conducted in the state since last year. Is your party unable to manage success?

Like I said earlier, the source of the crisis is the greed and betrayal of trust on the part of the dissidents in the party. We won the June 2014 governorship poll hands down.

We defeated the incumbent governor and his party in all the 16 local governments. Afterwards, our party won subsequent elections handsomely too. So, it is not a matter of not being able to manage success, it is a matter of some people conniving with the enemy to try and pull the house down. Anyway, that scheme has failed woefully. Those that are alleging that the governor did not want to give them positions, how many governors who won re-election in the APC have constituted their cabinets? Lagos State that is the richest, how many people has Ambode

In this interview with ADESINA WAHAB, the Secretary of the Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Tope Aluko, examines the issues that led to the crisis in the party and the way forward.

Trace the genesis of the crisis in your party?

We can trace it to the thinking by some people that the party is their private property; that they can just use or do things anyhow. That led to the imposition of some people as leaders of the party even when they were yet to be registered as members of the party.

Those of us who believe that things must be done in accordance with laid down rules and regulations and due process cannot just sit and fold our arms for things to deteriorate before rising to the occasion.

Chief Makanjuola Ogundipe was duly voted in as the state chairman during our congress in March 2012 and when he was elevated to the position of National Vice Chairman, South-West, his position should have been duly filled in accordance with the constitution of our party too.

Adebayo

appointed into offices? Some people want the administration pulled down, but God did and will not allow that.

The Olatunde group said the Disciplinary Committee set up to try them is a waste of time. What is your take on that?

The committee was set up in accordance with the provisions of the constitution of our party. The PDP will never again condone indiscipline. We will never allow people to stay in the dark and be throwing stones at the light. Events after the last general elections showed that we lost the presidential poll and some states because of activities of people who betrayed the party. People who benefited from the party and still worked against its interest. The party has decided to wield the big stick against any erring member. The disciplinary committee is legal and its recommendations binding.

What is the position of the national leadership of the party on the matter?

The National Working Committee few days ago came out to say that it only recognises Idowu Faleye as Ekiti PDP state chairman. That has definitely put paid to the claim

by Olatunde. Also, the national leadership of our party is not opposed to maintaining discipline and punishing anybody that errs.

We are also not opposed to the intervention of the NWC in the matter.

What is the way out of this problem?

Members of the other group should stop their subversive activities. Repent and become loyal PDP members and if they don't want to, leave the party or be shown the way out.

We are rebuilding the PDP nationwide and in Ekiti we are consolidating the party and there will not be room for any act of indiscipline. It is either they are for the PDP and stay and if they are against, let them go.

The crisis came at a time your party did well in all elections conducted in the state since last year. Is it that you don't know how to manage success?

It is not that we don't know how to manage success, but that we are all running after the success and we have forgotten the platform and the foundation of the success, which is the PDP. The truth, however, is that a river that forgets its source will soon dry up.

Those who think they have climbed up using the party and they feel they can just abandon it to die are mistaken.

Your group led by Tunde Olatunde has been accused of being sponsored by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

What is your reaction to that?

We are not being sponsored or working for the All Progressives Congress. All we want is for our party, the Peoples Democratic Party, to move forward, be functional and strengthened. Why should the APC sponsor us? To do what? There is not likely to be any election in the state until 2018.

As elected members of the State Working Committee who assumed office in March 2012, our tenure will expire next March. And before then, an interim executive will be put in place maybe later this year or early next year, so what can anybody sponsor us for?

But another group has set up a Disciplinary Committee to try you and others. What is your take on that?

I am saying it categorically and I can repeat it anywhere that whoever says that they are suspending us or taking any disciplinary action against us, is not conversant with the constitution of the PDP. If you want to suspend an ordinary member, it is done at the ward level. If you want to suspend a member of the executive, it is done at the executive level.

If not for the respect we have for the

We are not being sponsored by APC, Aluko insists National Working Committee of the party, we would have set up our own disciplinary committee. The NWC said all actions should stop and they are calling us for a meeting soon.

The NWC have their own challenges now. When you are setting up a disciplinary committee headed by a government appointee, they don't know anything. Their action is illegal, null and void and of no effect.

What is the position of the national leadership of the party on the matter?

The position of the NWC is calling for a truce meeting to clarify all issues. All sides will go before them with their facts and leaders. We need to move the party forward in readiness for the coming congress.

Idowu Faleye was never elected into any office in the party during our congress in 2012. It was Makanjuola Ogundipe that was elected as the state chairman of our party before he moved up as a zonal national vice chairman of our party.

Faleye is a mere appointee and the NWC may not know that. All necessary facts will be presented to them.

The landlord of the building you are using as state secretariat has given you quit notice. Will the party relocate to another place?

The matter has been on for about a year now. The quit notice lapsed about four months ago. Nobody in Ekiti PDP can claim ignorant of the development. We have made moves to pay, but we don't know why value has not changed hands. We keep on appealing to the landlord to be tolerant the more.

We will resolve the matter.

What is the way out of this problem?

The way out is that anybody that loves the PDP must ensure that we have a virile, dynamic and responsive party that can withstand the challenges of the future. That is what I stand for.

Aluko

Perspectives

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

47

Okorocha, Gabonese president and Messi

A

s an ardent follower of good football, I am aware that there is an array of abundant soccer stars in different parts of the globe. But when you talk about good football in its totality, two names - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo - will stand out from the rest of the pack.

For the past seven years, the two super stars have had a stranglehold on the world best footballer award with Messi winning the coveted Ballon d’Or a record four times in quick succession (2009-2012) and Ronaldo three times. Besides, it is almost as sure as death that 2015 will also be Messi’s year. Although I prefer Ronaldo to Messi, my preference is driven purely by sentiment. Whenever there is a keen competition between the two soccer icons, even if my head picks Ronaldo, my heart always tells me it is Messi.

With his dashing runs and body movements, Messi is like a recurring nightmare to the backline of any team. And because of his skill and immense contribution to the round leather game, calling him the face of football is stating the obvious. His outstanding football career may have made him the obvious choice of Gabonese president Ali Bongo on July 18, to lay the foundation of 22,000-seat Port-Gentil Stadium, which will host the African Cup of Nations matches in 2017.

The Gabonese President claimed that: “When I was in Barcelona a few years ago, I met Messi who had told me that he would come to visit me in Libreville. It is a promise he made. He is a man of honour who just kept his word. The calendar worked out well and it has corresponded with the laying of the first stone.”

Contrary to Bongo’s claim, there were reports that the president, whose political profile is tainted with corruption and human rights abuses, was economical with the truth. The diminutive Barcelona icon

F

Waheed Bakare on Saturday 08124877036 (sms only) waheedbakare2003@yahoo.com vestige of colonialism. If the dictator who came to power by succeeding his father did not see the inappropriateness in his action he should have at least accorded to his office respect if he cared less about his own personality.

Bongo may even have plans to list Messi’s visit as one of his achievements when next he is seeking re-election. After all, he made it possible for the Gabonese to see the face of the soccer idol they had admired on television for years.

And who says a typical African leader cannot list such visit as an achievement? I remember some years back when some of our governors listed prompt payment of workers’ salaries as one of their achievements in office as if paying workers as and when due is not a norm.

It is irksome that most African leaders place a high premium on anything foreign.

It is for the same reason that the Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick, the supposed face of Nigerian football, will see nothing wrong in flaunting his all-season Arsenal tickets rather than telling us how many of our national league matches he will watch. Even if he has been doing that for years before becoming the NFF boss, a matured person would talk less about it now that he is the NFF president. But because of Nigerians’ penchant for status symbol, he sees nothing wrong in professing his undying love

reportedly collected £2.4 million from the president before setting his feet on the soil of Gabon.

While in the Central African country, Messi also opened a new Bongo family restaurant and showed full support for the regime.

With low population density, abundant petroleum, and foreign private investment, Gabon is one of the most prosperous countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Just like Nigeria, Gabon’s economy largely depends on oil. Expectedly, it is also having its own share of decrease in revenue due to the fall in price of oil in international market. Besides, there are suggestions that by 2025, Gabon's oil may dry up and the country needs to think fast on how to diversify its economy. Again, just like Nigeria, public expenditures have not been commensurate with the earnings from oil over the years in Gabon. But this is the least of the worries of Bongo who was so elated by the presence of Messi that he would not even allow any of the drivers in the presidential pool drive the Argetine football star around the streets of Libreville.

The president chauffeured Messi round the streets as if that was his job. However, this is not to begrudge the success of the Argentine soccer wizard.

Except perhaps for Bongo’s supporters, family members and his hangers-on, the majority of Gabonese considered this act as

for the club, which coincidentally I also support with great élan. Our inclination for anything foreign sometimes shows a lack of common sense that beggars belief and this explains why most African leaders will quickly run abroad to get cure for a mere headache.

I also have problem with the billboards of Governor Rochas Okorocha and his 'golden' handshake with US President Barack Obama, a feat which now makes him a true Igbo leader according to the initiators of that infamous act.

That handshake has gone beyond the elbow. And according to an Igbo proverb which I first came across in ‘The Arrow of God’, a novel by the master story teller and African foremost novelist, late Prof.

Chinua Achebe, when a handshake has gone beyond the elbow, it has turned to something else. The Owelle and his supporters have turned a mere friendly gesture into another thing and it is irreverent to do so. It is another version of belief in the supremacy of the white man or anything foreign. The erection of those billboards is akin to the driving of Messi around the city by president Bongo.

Although at the initial stage, the governor’s aides laboriously defended the uncharitable act, turning around to dissociate the government from it is an afterthought. Let’s call a spade a spade, the governor goofed by assuming that a mere handshake with Obama is enough to position him as lgbo leader. If that handshake brings something good to the table for the people of lmo State, l will not hesitate to tell the governor ‘ndewo’, ‘daalu’ for visiting ‘obodo oyinbo’ and for bringing something positive home. Those Okorocha billboards and those erected by some clowns in Benin thanking the Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole for ‘bringing Shoprite’ to the state should be removed if the governors did not truly approve them.

Obasanjo, statemanship and Nollywood

ormer President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo is certainly not a statesman in the mould of Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew, South Africa’s Nelson Mandela or India’s Mahatma Gandhi. He had similar historical and political challenges as this venerable trio did but failed to morph into a true statesman - beyond his puzzling, frequent self-proclamations to that arcane status. He could have become a legitimate heir to these men who seized their milieux by the scruff of the neck and altered them for good.

But perhaps the flip side to Obasanjo’s fixation with being a statesman is in its Nollywood value, a scenario that nicely accommodates the ex-general’s gruff humour. Nollywood-isation of Nigeria’s political space is probably a useful project in the sense of providing comic relief in a genuinely stressful socio-economic milieu. But against the backdrop of serious governance deficits and crying atrophy of vision this specie of contrived distraction and braggadocio is one bird that can’t fly.

Last week, Obasanjo said he remains a ‘party-less Nigerian’ and will continue to be a statesman. This quirky homily, not the first, was at his Abeokuta Hilltop residence when a delegation from Kogi State, led by the state governor, retired Captain Idris Wada paid him a courtesy call.

Obasanjo who was chairman, Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, told his guests that despite not playing active partisan politics anymore, he would continue to work with any Nigerian with capabilities of good intention and leadership traits. The former president first proclaimed his status as statesman in Febru-

The Nation-State With Louis Achi

achilouis35@gmail.com ary when he renounced his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It could be recalled that his first serious task as a ‘new statesman’ was to publicly tear his PDP membership card.

It is difficult not to suppress a yawn of boredom when one tracks back in history and attempts to situate such claims under analysis with real standards that speak to statesmanship. Valid statesmanship is not earned by self-proclamation but through enduring merit. Here’s why.

‘Statesmanship’ is not a job description despite how much we wish it were. But using the term implies recognition that someone has the character and understanding to exercise certain virtues in political or state affairs. Aristotle’s “Ethics”, within the context of this discourse should aid proceedings. According to Aristotle, greatness of soul means judging rightly that you are capable of doing great things and worthy of the greatest responsibilities, which can only be the case if you have complete virtue.

Practical wisdom requires having the virtues that enable you to desire the right end in every kind of decision and choice, in addition to the understanding of how best to attain those ends not only for yourself

but for a community for which you exercise responsibilities.

Greatness of soul and practical wisdom commonly seen as key virtues of statesmen, appear to have taken flight from the ranks of Nigeria’s fractured political intelligentsia.

Obasanjo’s successive claims to statesmanship add little real value to the disheartening scenario.

Statesmanship, an asset indispensable to visionary nation building could be said to have been resident in Nigeria in some byegone era. It is conceivable some political historians could stick out their heads and affirm that indeed some aspects of the formation of the Nigerian state benefited from statesmen and statesmanship.

This legitimate, if debatable position would readily cite the contemporaneous quartet of Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, Tafawa Balewa, Obafemi Awolowo and a handful others as icons and statesmen – of that era.

Indeed, they may have their point. For much of his life Obasanjo was favoured by providence. For a folk who does not even know when he was born, his rise to the apogee of political power in Nigeria (twice) speaks of some special favour from

the cosmic. Unfortunately, the management of providential favours by humans appears to be an art in its infancy.

Although many of our current politicians are short on statesmanship, history nevertheless shows that the greatest statesmen arise in the moments of most evident crisis. Fabius Maximus defended Rome from Hannibal, and made himself a model for men like Cato. Phocion judiciously steered a much declined Athens through the troubling times of the growing power of Philip of Macedon. Then there is Britain’s Churchill.

In America such figures as Washington, Adams, Madison and Lincoln fit the bill.

Crises rallied the state around the necessary men. Obasanjo clearly would need to introspect on Hubert Humphrey’s counsel to aspiring statesmen. “The essence of statesmanship is not a rigid adherence to the past, but a prudent and probing concern for the future.”

The suspicion subsists that Obasanjo’s failure to control late President Yar’Adua and later his successor President Goodluck Jonathan (perceived to be even more malleable) led to his ‘surrender’ couched as renunciation of his party and proclamation of statesmanship. This is worth deep reflection.

Currently, he has keyed into President Muhammadu Buhari. How will Obasanjo react when Buhari the maverick draws the lines?

Deploying many parameters of measuring statesmanship, Obasanjo ought to be in contention as heir to Mandela on the continent. Perhaps he needs to do some fundamental course correction to genuinely position himself for this high honour. The choice is his.

48 Politics

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

The politics of UNEP report Stakeholders argue that the structures set-up by the President lack local input, reports EMMANUEL MASHA from Port Harcourt.

T

o fully appreciate the level of environmental degradation in Ogoniland, and the economic depravation of the people, whose main sources of livelihood have been destroyed by decades of oil exploration, then one has to be in Ogoniland to see things firsthand. Since 1952 when oil exploration commenced in Ogoniland, there has been almost nothing to show for it, other than slow death inspired by long years of consuming poisonous water.

The unemployment rate in this area is extra-high, due to lack of economic opportunities, with youths resorting, futily, to farming and fishing but such activities are usually futile because of massive water pollution. In desperation, others resort to motorcycling (okada), as the last means of livelihood.

In a nutshell, oil exploration in Ogoniland, as in other oil producing areas in the Niger Delta, is all about greed, neglect and insensitivity to the well-being of the people who occupy those areas. That is why some indegenes bear grudges that are at their expense and their environment while a few well-connected individuals and oil companies hiding under cover provided by the government, have deliberately made life a living-hell for them.

When President Muhammadu Buhari recently gave the nod for the implementation of the UNEP report in Ogoniland, it was warmly welcomed, considering that the report is more than three years.

But ordering its implementation and ensuring compliance with the core of the UNEP report recommendations are two different things. That is why some individuals and groups in Ogoniland have given misgivings about the implementation.

As observers had suspected , the deep divisions within Ogoniland and other areas in the Niger Delta where oil operations wrought havoc might inspire equally deep suspicions. Interest from other Niger Delta areas stems from the fact that the clean-up in Ogoniland would act a model for future clean-ups. That was why then UNEP representative in Nigeria, Mike Cowing had a tough time accessing some of the impacted areas in Ogoniland.

While some folks genuinely wanted him to execute the project in line with international best practices and tracked his progress every step of the way, even succeeding in making him to adjusted his programme for better result, others may have only been interested in how the money set aside for the exercise would be spent, insisting on a share of it.

The period was 2009-2010 when there were two factional leaders of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) – one led by Ledum Mitee, and the other by Goodluck Diigbo. Both men had made it very clear that they were driven by the interest of the Ogoni people, and their environment, but not agreeing on who should speak on behalf of the people, created factions and followers.

It was also the period when the Federal Government struck a deal with Niger Delta militants on amnesty. Yet it was unwise and unsafe for the experts that were brought in for the exercise to access the impacted areas without serious security arrangement.

Like other regions in the Niger Delta, kidnapping for ransom was rife. And

Environmental pollution in Ogoniland

despite the amnesty programme, which eased the security challenges in the region, some freelancers who made a fortune in kidnapping were reluctant to hands off.

Briefing former governor, Chief Rotimi Amaechi and other stakeholders in Government House, Port Harcourt, Cowing, complained bitterly that he didn’t know the faction of MOSOP and other groups to listen to on the project, falling short of saying that such zero-unanimity was hindering him from doing his job.

But against great odds, Cowing and his team exppressed determination to do his job. He eventually succeeded in his assignment, paving the way for the document that is today known as the UNEP Report. It is necessary to point out that based on the pressure mounted on Cowing, he ran the exercise from Ogoniland instead of the earlier choice of Port Harcourt, and included some Ogoni in the exercise. This created jobs for some Ogoni youths, and in a way, boosted the credibility of the exercise.

Reactions With Buhari’s approval for a clean-up of Ogoniland coming a few days after MOSOP demanded compensation from the Federal Government and the implementation of the UNEP Report, the panOgoni group did not waste time in commending the President. It was timely in that MOSOP was preparing to mark the third anniversary of the UNEP Report.

MOSOP president, Legborsi Pyagbara, in a letter to conveying the appreciation of the Ogoni people, urged Buhari to ensure the active participation and representation of the Ogoni in national issues, declaring that the Ogoni were politically-marginalised by the Nigeria state. He also condemned the hanging of the Ogoni Nine, noting that they “were unjustly murdered by the Nigeria State despite appeals from majority of Nigerians and members of the International Community against their killings.”

Pyagbara also called for the creation of Bori State for the Ogoni, and their neighbours, adding that beyond the UNEP report implementation; there was need for Buhari to look into the Ogoni Bill of Rights, which clearly states “the need to guarantee their right to the protection of the Ogoni environment and ecology from further degradation.

“This had been the banner under which the environmental justice campaign of the

The recommendations are secret, and reliance on nonexperts is not only misguided, but, unacceptable Ogoni People had been waged to stop further degradation of the Ogoni environment arising from unscrupulous oil exploitation.”

He said: “Your Excellency, the Ogoni people and all her neighbours will remain eternally grateful to you if you can create the necessary ambience and environment for Bori for Bori State to be created during the life of your administration.

“In the Ogoni Bill of Rights, the Ogoni People made a request for the adequate and direct representation of the Ogoni People as of rights in all Nigeria national institutions. This was made against the backdrop of the high index of the immoral under-representation and political marginalisation of the Ogoni people by the Nigeria state.

Whilst the Ogoni struggle contributed to the birth of the current democratic dispensation, Ogoni got nothing in return in terms of representation. It was based on this realization that MOSOP had, in March 2013, embarked on a campaign for political justice for the Ogoni people. “… it is an indisputable fact, that there cannot be effective participation in the democratic process without a corresponding adequate representation at levels of management and governance.

“The continual denial of the Ogoni people’s representation at the national level particularly in terms of national appointments smacks of discrimination, neglect, and is not congruent with the practice of genuine and inclusive democracy.”

But another group, the Ogoni Central Indigenous Authority faulted Buhari on the clean-up, because it “violates the technical demands on Ogoniland.” The group’s president, Dr. Goodluck Diigbo, faulted Buhari’s silence on the Environmental Restoration Fund for Ogoniland and a Centre of Excellence for Environ-

mental Restoration. He also said that the $1billion was “grossly inadequate for take-off” Diigbo observed: “The recommendations are secret, and reliance on nonexperts is not only misguided, but, unacceptable. Since Buhari was part of the regime that hanged Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni activists, for demanding for the Environmental Impact Assessment Study, the now President Buhari, should have treaded with caution in trying to override the disputed UNEP Report.

“Buhari may have a good intention, but, his expressed intentions might deepen old wounds. For instance, Buhari avoided specific mention of recommendations by UNEP...

“The Nigerian government agencies concerned lack qualified technical experts and resources.” “So, I started to doubt if the Executive Director of UNEP could truly be part of what Buhari intends.

“Instead to dictate to us, we appeal to Buhari to facilitate dialogue to lead to a genuine joint review by stakeholders, involving Shell, Chevron, NNPC, Ogoni Central Indigenous Authority, as well as competent technical experts to be appointed by the Ogoni people. We will not be part of the behind the scene fast-track unilateral actions.”

UNEP Report as a unifier In a state with a history of divisive politics, where politicians across divides don’t see eye to eye, it was surprising that the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) sank their differences and took a common position on the claen-up. Ogoniland was one of the epicenters of the last general elections in the state, where some party faithful attacked rival supporters, and defaced posters of candidates.

Since the end of the election, which claimed several lives, no day passes without party supporters whether in official or unofficial capacity attacking the governorship candidates of the two parties – Governor Nyesom Wike and Dr. Dakuku Peterside of the PDP and APC respectively.

Reacting to Buahri order, the APC governorship candidate praised the President’s courage in fast-tracking the long expected UNEP, and described it as a move that would ameliorate other challenges facing Ogoniland.

Peterside said: “Once again, Mr. Presi-

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implementation in Ogoniland dent has demonstrated that he is a man of honour. During his campaign stops in Rivers State shortly before the election, he promised our people that his government would look into the UNEP Report and the challenges facing the people of Niger Delta. Less than three months into his administration, the President has already taken a giant step in this regard.

He is indeed a man of his words.

“Our people in the region know that this is a president we can trust because of his antecedent and track record. By this action,. Mr. President has rekindled hope and brought a major relief to our long-suffering people.

“We know that it can only be better. I therefore urge the entire people of Niger Delta region to rally round this president as he works tirelessly to return Nigeria on the path of honour and greatness. Our region is on his mind, therefore we must do everything possible to support this administration.

The PDP said: “The PDP commends President Buhari for not discontinuing a process started by previous administrations, which led to the commissioning of UNEP activities in Ogoni as well as setting up of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project (HYPREP), particularly by the Jonathan’s administration, all of which were being gazetted.”

Interestingly, it was during the period that Wike tasked oil companies to carry out more developmental projects in their host communities, and to pay serious attention to their corporate social responsibilities and ensure a conducive environment for them to carry out their operations.

Wike gave the charge when the Country Chairman and Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), Mr. Osagie Okunbor and other management staff, visited him in Government House, Port Harcourt.

The Real Bone of Contention The criticism that has trailed Buhari’s order on the UNEP Report implementation in Ogoniland, is the absence of Ogoni in the body saddled with the responsibility of the clean-up, which is the Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project (HYPREP). The governing council of HYPREP, according to the recommendation of former President Goodluck Jonathan, is supposed to have a Rivers person in it. The former President had also recommended that $50 million should be made available as the initial take-off sum, instead of the $10 million that some observers say is contained in Buhari’s programme.

One of the groups that has argued that: “Environmental hazards don't know PDP or APC. Its impact is on all humans, irrespective of age, descent or party affiliations. The

cleanup of Ogoniland concerns all Nigerians who reside and do business in Ogoniland and its environs.

“This development of altering the recommendations of the Jonathan's administration as regards the cleanup of Ogoniland, by President Buhari, as seen in the composition of the Board of Trustees of HYPREP, is very frightening. And we are afraid that President Buhari may not release all the monies, and compensation as contained in the Jonathan's recommendations for the cleanup, in line with the UNEP report.”

This is also the position of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, which also wants Buhari to change the name of HYPREP to Hydrocarbons Cleanup Project (HYCUP) “if anything meaningful is to be done in Ogoniland.”

The group’s director, Nnimo Bassey, noted that: "There are rough edges that still require smoothening for a smooth take off of the clean up project.

“A significant aspect is thenon-inclusion of at least one representative of civil society in the structures set up by the President. The role and deep stakes of civil society in the struggle for the clean up of Ogoniland and the Niger Delta cannot be overlooked. Their inclusion is essential for oversight reason…”

According to the summary of the UNEP Report, funds should not be an obstacle to its implementation, and that an “initial capital

I am not aware of any attempt to relocate them. But I think is communication gap

Buhari

injection of USD 1 billion contributed by the oil industry and the government” should be made available. It also made it clear that the programme should last for about 25 to 30 years in order to achieve the desired result.

The UNEP project team had surveyed 122 kms of pipeline rights of way and examined more than 5,000 medical records apart from staging 264 formal community meetings in Ogoniland, which was attended by more than 23,000 people.

The report also notes that: “A campaign in Ogoniland to end illegal oil-related activities should be jointly conducted by the government, oil companies and local authorities.

It should include an awareness component highlighting the disproportionate environmental footprint of artisanal refining (borne by all sections of the community) and spell out training, employment and livelihood incentives that will encourage people away from participating in this illegal activity.”

It also recommends that “the Government of Nigeria establishes an Ogon i l a n d Environmental Restoration Authority to oversee implementation of this study’s recommendations. With a fixed initial lifespan of 10 years, the Authority will have a separate budget which will accrue from an Ogoniland Environmental Restoration Fund and its staff will largely be seconded from relevant national and state institutions.”

What this simply means is that if the recommendations are dutifully-implemented, the clean-up would create series of employment opportunities in Ogoniland, while it lasts and ensure that the people for once enjoy the benefits of their God-given wealth.

These are the fears of Ogoni stakeholders, some who have described the clean-up as another plot by the Federal Government to deny them their rights.

Gen Agwai's movement without motion in Kaduna

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n Yobe, Borno and Adamawa states, the insurgency has a face and an ideology. Severally, Boko Haram chieftains, foot soldiers and closet members have expressed desire to Islamise Nigeria. In Katsina, Zamfara and parts of Kaduna state, cattle rustlers attack and kill with impunity. In Benue, Nasarawa and most middle belt states, the killings centre on farmers/herdsmen clashes and settler/indigene contentions. Largely, the agitation for resource control, before the amnesty programme, animated the Niger Delta militancy.

However, the killings in southern Kaduna, a largely Christian enclave, lack reason or rhyme as the insurgents are variously called ‘’gun men’’ or ‘’Fulani herdsmen,’’ for reasons of convenience. Significantly, the killings defy easy categorisation as sometimes, the attackers steal cattle or other livestock. Most times, they just kill, maim and burn everything or everyone in sight without taking a dime. Sometimes, the killings take ethno-religious coloration, especially between the aborigines and Hausa-Fulani settlers. Similarly, they also take a traditional garb as in chieftaincy and land disputes.

In summary, the southern Kaduna insurgency is at once pure criminality, cattle rustling and the struggle for power and influence. Combined, these forces have been stalking the area, making southern Kaduna a killing field. The killings, almost monthly, are being reported on a regular basis in the last four years.

Several administrations have attempted to solve the problem but such efforts were half-hearted and jerky or unco-ordinated.

Last week, the General Martin Luther Agwai Committee that was set up by Governor Nasir El Rufai to investigate the causes of recurrent attacks in southern Kaduna submitted its report. After a month of interfacing with stakeholders and victims, the committee’s recommendations were a rehash of what is already in public domain as IBRAHEEM MUSA reports.

At best, committees were set up, memoranda were presented but their reports have been gathering dust. However, Governor Nasir El Rufai promised a break from the past and on July 15, 2015, he inaugurated the Peace and Reconciliation Committee. Specifically, retired General Martin Luther Agwai, former Chief of Defence Staff, chaired the committee and for one month, members toured every nook and cranny of southern Kaduna. Respected, apolitical and being son-of-the soil, Agwai was a square peg in a square hole as both the assignment and terrain are familiar turfs. In Dafur, where he is a Special UN Envoy, the challenges of southern Sudan are akin to those of his native southern Kaduna.

Broadly, the terms of reference of the Agwai Committee, as El Rufai spelt out , include identifying socio-political and economic factors that promote the conflicts in southern Kaduna. Secondly, it was mandated to find solutions that engender reconciliation amongst and between communities in the area. Furthermore, the committee was asked to advise government, according to its findings, on how

Agwai

to end the incessant attacks in zone three senatorial district, better known as southern Kaduna.

The committee, after swearing in, had relocated to Kafanchan town where it began a series of interactions with stakeholders across board. In torrents, oral submissions, written memoranda and other

documentary evidences were presented from all and sundry. Similarly, the committee had visited Birnin Gwari, another crises prone town, in the course of its assignment although it is not located in southern Kaduna. Likewise, it was in Chikun, Kajuru and Igabi local governments and like Birnin Gwari, no one received the committee members when they arrived. Similarly, there was no explanation for shunning the Agwai committee in the three area councils.

By August 5, the Agwai committee had submitted its report but its findings were a rehash of what is already in public domain. ‘’Presently, our people are interested, willing and ready to live in peace,’’ the committee had noted. The people, according to Agwai, welcomed the committee during its assignment and ‘’they are willing to cooperate with government in any initiative that is designed to bring peace and harmony.’’ In summary, the committee listed six factors, from the immediate to the remote, as the causes of southern Kaduna crises. First, it identified the post presidential election crisis of 2011 as the main trigger. In addition, the committee listed pastoralism, land matters and boundary issues as well as drug abuse and unemployment. Similarly, it noted that religion and culture, including the indigene/ settler dichotomy as contributory factors.

Since the 1970s, southern Kaduna had witnessed several crises but the 2011 post election violence, according to the report, ‘’was so pervasive that even towns and villages which have successfully resisted provocations over the years were affected.’’

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AREPO

A community sitting on a powder keg A

repo community is now feared by Nigerians since it has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Pipeline vandalism started a long time ago there, but attention wasn’t placed on the area until lately. Few months ago, a pregnant woman was shot dead during a combat between pipeline vandals and members of the Oodua Peoples’ Congress (OPC) and just a few weeks ago, two journalists on legitimate duty in the area were kidnapped by suspected vandals.

The journalists were in the area following a pipeline explosion which killed many people.

For a first time visitor to the area, the community, looks like a safe haven peopled mostly by the elite. This was the impression our correspondent had when he visited the place on Tuesday. During the visit, people were going about their day-to-day activities with ease, children were playing on the streets and commercial motorcycle (okada) riders were doing their usual business. The jolly atmosphere makes one wonder if it was the same vicinity that had recorded perennial pipeline explosions. However, it appears that the residents have developed a stick skin to the recurring disaster.

Our correspondent who went

A police post destroyed by oil vandals in Arepo.

The residents of Arepo, Ogun State, are living at the mercy of oil pirates and have no idea of what is coming next. OLUSHOLA RICKETTS reports that inhabitants are not willing to abandon their homes despite the nightmare and tension round the community discovered that the residents are sitting on a keg of gun powder particularly those living close to the pipelines. Apart from the danger of explosion, there are also health concerns. Despite the willingness of the residents to lend their voices, however, no one was willing to reveal his or her details neither do anyone wants his or her picture to be in public. To the average Arepo resident, the fear of pipeline vandals is the beginning of wisdom. The vandals are believed to have formed a cartel and they operate with sophisticated weapons whenever they invade the area to vandalise the pipelines.

A resident who lives at the Beachland Estate, very close to the spot the vandals operate, says the residents live in perpetual fear.

“When you know that this is a highly inflammable product and they are moving it all about, you feel insecure.

Also, whenever the security agents challenge them, they come out from the creek and in the attempt to fight them back they spray bullets. At that moment every one runs for his or her life; that was how we lost a pregnant woman some months ago. In recent times, the only resident we know that died directly as a result of the vandals’ activities is the pregnant woman. But we know of residents who developed hypertension and died along the way.

We only got to hear the cause of their

It is natural to feel uncomfortable living in an area where people move fuel like any other item

death after they had passed on,” he explains.

He however says despite the risk involved in living in a volatile area, the residents are not willing to abandon their homes particularly those who own the buildings they live in.

He says: “Most people here are landlords, so leaving your property and going to be a tenant somewhere is not what anyone likes. The conclusion is that where you don’t have vandals you may have armed robbers and anything can happen and it is not as if we face unrest all the time.

At least you’ve come all the way and you could see for yourself that things are going on smoothly. If you move to another place how are you so sure that the place will also be safe? We didn’t know about this development when we came newly. The movement of petrol around the vicinity is the major concern for residents and everyone knows the implication of moving around such product.”

Nevertheless, the man who is a union member mentions that he has heard of two persons who relocated due to the situation in the area.

“A resident relocated when one of the cars they were using to transport petrol caught fire and it was very close to his house. The person felt he cannot continue to live like that. The second incident was that it endangered the health of the family. The children de-

veloped respiratory problem so they had to move out of the area,” he adds.

A commercial motorcycle rider, who craved anonymity, tells our correspondent that one of the vandals worked with the inspectorate division of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). According to him, the money he is making in a week was his one-month salary in the NNPC. “So he said it makes no sense to him to continue with the NNPC when he could make his salary in a week.”

The young man says they’ve had several incidents of explosion, but since it didn’t affect them directly it wasn’t an issue.

He recalls that when the residents observed that strange faces and trucks frequent in the area, they became suspicious of the vehicular and human movements in the area.

“It was later we started getting information that they were involved in vandalism. But since they didn’t disturb us we go our separate ways.

But when the incident of the lady who died and others came up, we really got apprehensive. The explosion doesn’t sound like that of Boko Haram. We could just wake up in the morning and see fire in the air; that is how we know they’ve done it again. The recent explosion made headline because it was close to the time the woman was killed and a fight between the vandals

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and the OPC,” the okada rider emphasises.

Narrating his experience during the last explosion, a resident tells our correspondent that he was in the house late at night when it happened.

“From my house to where the activities take place is like a kilometre. Though after the explosion, there was this fireball everywhere. We can rest assure that it would not get to our house except if someone deliberately douse it with petrol and set it on fire.

Again, those explosions always happen on the water because the petrol will naturally spill out and mix with the water.”

At the peak of the illegal act sometime this year, the resident who claimed he is a civil servant says he notices that there was a long queue of cars towards the spot where the explosion occurred.

He adds, “Although most cars come from outside Arepo, I am not implying that people who live here do not patronise them.

But I try as much as not to go near them because it is actually dangerous. You know people use such a thing as an opportunity, so it is possible that some residents buy from them too. The fuel they normally sell for N5, 000 they get it like half of the price.

“Without pipeline vandalism, the place is peaceful. In the last three years, we have not experienced any robbery incident. The last experience was four years ago when some people came in and this may be because our place is close to the express. They drove in, harassed people and left.”

He also notes that vandals have no particular time for operation, but since they operate in secrecy they prefer towards the evening “You know this environment is known for that kind of business so they don’t do it in the open and that explains why the majority of the residents cannot identify them. I don’t know about others, but I don’t know their identities. When you begin to delve into that you could possibly be attacked.

As residents, we are not policemen or security agents so we cannot stop them. These people are usually armed and we don’t have anything to protect ourselves with. We don’t harass anybody; we all go about our businesses uninterrupted. Though I have noticed that since the last explosion, I have not seen people moving fuel up and down.

“What we preach to residents during the community meeting is that if they know any of them they should talk to them. It has also become a serious task for them because they know that we have two estates where journalists reside in the area. The last time they came out to attack the OPC members, some people captured it.

“It was shown on Channels Television; you know you journalists have a way of getting information. So, we tell people to tell them that we are not disturbing them in anyway and they should try as much as

Road leading to where oil vandals operate

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It is affecting our personality because outsiders have concluded that anyone who stays here must be into pipeline vandalism possible not to disturb us. We are feeling the heat, we are not benefiting anything and we don’t want to benefit,” he laments.

A woman who runs a school in Arepo disagrees that young people of the area are into the illegal act. Admitting that they don’t know the vandals one-on-one, she says the vandals mostly speak Ijaw language despite not having Ijaws in the area.

“If I tell you that I know them I am just lying. When you hear people shooting you will lie flat on the ground. When they speak, they don’t speak any other language except Ijaw. I have been living in this community for about 10 years. It was never like this before, though we always perceived fuel here and there, the movement was not much like this.”

According to her, it is only when there is fuel scarcity that they sleep with their two eyes closed. She says it is normal for vandalism to drop since there would be no product.

“Activities always reduce when there is scarcity of fuel because they won’t have oil to steal. I want to believe that since there is no fuel there is nothing to vandalise,” he says.

Recalling the memory of the late pregnant woman, another resident of Beachland Estate who also did not want her name to be mentioned says she did not know the deceased before she died despite living in the same estate.

She adds: “I understand she and her husband move in around December last year. I didn’t know her husband because this is an estate where people wake up very early in the morning to their various places of work and they would not return till evening. Even the ones who are working around here often mind their business. When the lady died we protested and carried placards.

“I am not sure if we wrote formally to the government, but I know that some community leaders granted interviews to the media houses, highlighting some of these issues and the risk we are facing.”

A teacher in one of the schools in the area is more worried about her children. According to her, she doesn’t feel comfortable allowing her children to leave the house.

“Since I haven’t had any health related

The recent explosion area

A view of an explosion from a distance

issue with my children I believe it has no huge effect on us yet. But I don’t feel secure when they want to go out alone which I would have loved them to experience. That is how bad it is. I don’t feel comfortable living them alone at home too, especially when there is tension.

What would they do if anything happens and I am not at home?”

The teacher says there is no restriction to movement in the area, using a neighbour’s encounter as an example.

Her words: “I remember a neighbour once told me that he met them while he was returning home very late at night and they identified him as a landlord. They don’t come out to attack us or have any business with us, but it is natural to feel uncomfortable living in an area where people move fuel like any other item. They don’t usually carry arms too unless there are issues, which we hardly know about because we go on with our businesses.

The moment we start hearing gunshot we know there is a problem. I have seen them once and if they were out to arm residents they would have come after me. They dress like militants.”

For her, she is ready to live with the situation for the rest of her life while also highlighting that security is very important in any community. She says she and her husband didn’t know about these activities before they came to buy property in Arepo.

“A lot of people outside now know Arepo for vandalism and they poke fun at us that we do bunkering which I don’t feel comfortable with. We didn’t take it as a serious thing until it dawned on us that it seems people feel this is what we do for livelihood as well. Somehow it is affecting our personality because outsiders have concluded that anyone who stays here must be into pipeline vandalism.

Also, there is no way one hears that militants operate in a place or there is always pipeline explosion and such person will still move into that area. If I had known earlier I would have discouraged my husband from coming here.

“When we came, this place was peaceful, but it has become really unattractive and it would tell on further development. We don’t have any bank in the community; a bank actually told us that they cannot come because of it is close to the lagoon. I don’t see banks coming into this area,” the teacher says.

She also stresses that some residents feel the heat more than others. But generally, she says it seems to be getting to everybody in the community.

“The last time there was fuel scarcity people were calling me to know if we had fuel. I had to tell one of them that they do bunkering in Arepo, but I don’t do it. It was when the OPC took over the place that the heat was even bigger. Most times, residents don’t have good information of what is happening. Unemployment is not an excuse to become a criminal, as everyone is striving one way or the other to make end meets. Criminal is a criminal regardless of the situation. You can imagine the numbers of people who had died in all the explosions. Asides from being a criminal act, it is suicidal,” she further explains.

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Babies: Imprisoned for mothers’ sins

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There appears to be a dramatic rise in the numbers of women in Nigerian prisons. But, not many of them were expecting to go behind bars pregnant. With pregnancy, they were imprisoned and, as IGBEAKU ORJI, finds out in this report, their babies born behind bars are also subjected to abuse for sins they are innocent of

heir fates hang in the balance. But theirs are not the only ones hanging; their babies’ too. They are meant to grow up behind bars with their mothers, and would only be sent home when they become too old for such environment.

They are part of the small, but growing number of inmates in Nigeria’s prisons.

Though, they live in separate wings apart from the general population, it is still a prison.

“It is punishment. Of course you see the warm, unsure baby care, but you don't see the waking up early, getting all the chores done,” one of the inmate mothers, who refused her name in print, told Saturday Telegraph. “The babies too don't have their freedom, and they don't get to make all the choices they would outside.”

They are kept on unsafe conditions, mistreated by prison staff, with rampant trafficking, according to reports. This may be why, many believe, a prison is not the best place to bring up a baby. Apart from this unfriendly condition, babies born behind bars miss having contact with normal daily life, including toys. If they are kept away from all that and then let them out when their mothers end their sentences, according to psychologists, new experiences would hit them like an explosion.

What makes it more pathetic is that studies have shown that mothers in custody are more likely to have health problems, mental and physical, than those in the general population. This, medical experts say, is associated with the brutal realities of serving jail terms, giving birth and raising children in prisons.

Just recently, a rights activist and Coordinator/Founder, Child’s Right Advancement and Protection Initiatives (CRAPI), Mrs. Ozioma Patsy Onyenweaku, raised the alarm over the plight of babies, who for no fault of theirs, become inmates of prisons by virtue of being born by convicted mothers.

She regretted that this aspect of the Nigerian legal system has not come to the front burner yet, in spite of existing laws against unlawful incarceration.

Onyenweaku painted a touching picture of the babies, who she feared, would grow up to pay the society back in its own coin for the neglect. She expressed concern over the development and urged relevant authorities to fashion out a workable system of care for the babies.

“Today, without the capacity of committing any crime, and without charge, babies are becoming the greatest number of ‘inmates’ of the female prisons. This is because pregnant women and nursing mothers are becoming the fastest growing segment of the female prisons,” she lamented.

According to her, some of the female prisoners have their babies as young as two weeks old clutched to their chest when they were arrested and incarcerated while others were allowed to carry their full pregnancy term in prison. “They gave birth and nursed their babies in prison,” Onyenweaku said, adding, “it is a cradled injustice to punish babies for an offence they did not commit or are capable of committing.”

At present, they are 15 such babies in Umuahia Prison. There are many more in other prisons across the country. The youngest baby, according to Onyenweaku, is 10 days old while the oldest is two years and three months old.

“The 15 babies are being nursed there with no provision made for their feeding and their welfare because it is not contemplated or envisioned that babies could be born and

Some prison inmatewith thier children. Inset: Umuahia Prisons.

Kalu

nursed in prison. These babies and their mothers are left at the mercy of the irregular visitors with donations to the prisons. No facilities, no toys and no playground for them. The babies are left to contend with the dull and tight faces of their mothers, who are depressed over their lot in life.”

She is afraid of the repercussions. “The state of their mothers’ physical, mental and emotional health would affect the babies and raising them in such environment is a risk to their sound mental, emotional and physical survival.”

But, would the nation permit the crucial period of a child’s life and development to be spent and wasted in prison? It was discovered that most of the babies are malnourished such that a five month old, looks two. And because they are seriously deprived, they are likely going to be dwarfed or stunted in growth.

Also, the chairperson, International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Abia State branch, Mrs. Chidinma Alozie, is unhappy about the pathetic situation of babies and their mothers in Umuahia Prisons.

“When FIDA visited the prisons last year, we noticed some mothers have given birth to babies while there in the prison. We tried talking to them about putting the babies up for adoption in the homes so that when they finish their matters then they can go back and take the babies.

“But, we realised that most of the prison-

Onyenweaku

Babies are part of the small, but growing number of inmates in Nigeria’s prisons ers were reluctant on letting go the babies and some of them were still breastfeeding the babies. It was difficult to let go the babies when they were still breast feeding,” Alozie said.

She disclosed that FIDA was touched because of the condition of the babies to establish a rescue center for them but for financial challenges. “We realised the enormous task because since the project would be funded from the member’s individual financial donations and contributions.

“FIDA has a rescue center but because of the difficult economic situation, it’s difficult to maintain that rescue centre for mothers and children, who need assistance, especially in emergency. And since we run it from our pockets, it’s not easy, especially when you have to put a lot of things in place. Most times we take them to the social welfare of the ministry of women affairs and the police to assist us.”

When contacted, the comptroller of Prisons, Abia State, Ukwuori Kalu, declined comment. She feared that she could be misquoted like a section of the press did some time ago when she granted them

PHOTOS: WWW.EVENTLORDS.COM

audience. Kalu’s stance, however, was not enough to dissuade the permanent secretary, Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr. Nnenna Chikezie, who was touched by the revelation.

She told Saturday Telegraph that her ministry was doing something about the issue.

“We are building children center/home for such babies and women in distress at the women development center Umuahia. Actually, the government is building a home to make sure that the babies are separated.

There is a children home the government is building right now in Umuahia and in a few months’ time, the children’s home will be completed and then we can keep the babies there,” Chikezie assured.

The permanent secretary said that the homes will be equipped with the features needed for the upkeep of the babies/children including medicare and nursery for one to five years and even beyond. She explained that plans would be worked out between the ministry and the prison authorities for the natural breast milk of the mothers.

Chikezie also revealed that the state government has taken measures against illegal homes and child trafficking and sales of babies including the demolition of such homes, arrest and prosecution of their proprietresses. “The state government has also revoked the licenses of some social homes to stem the tide of commercial baby sales and trafficking in babies in the state,” she said.

Yet, Chijioke Okorie, acting Director of Citizens Rights, Abia State Ministry of Justice, is claiming ignorance of such cases in the state’s prisons. The ministry, according to him, is neither aware of the development nor has any measure to protect the rights of the babies/children in prisons. To him, enforcement of the rights of the babies seem strange though, he believes they are not supposed to be left in the prison with their mothers irrespective of the circumstances of their birth.

“There should be an arrangement for the relatives of their mothers to take care of them until they serve out their terms.

It is the duty of the chief law officer of the state to advice on what measures government should take regarding the babies. It is also not proper to set such mothers free because they have babies in prison. That will be injurious to society. There should be a welfare facility for those children from the state,” Okorie affirmed.

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'He was looking forward to my brother’s wedding in October' - Co-pilot's friend

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Olushola Ricketts t is so sad, I remember dropping you at the airport and you telling me to hurry and come back to Lagos... I am still in so much shock; it is so hard to accept. May you be at rest!”

This was the Instagram post of a friend and fellow pilot with Bristow Helicopter Limited, Winston Tamara Braie, when the death of Peter Bello, co-pilot of the ill-fated Bristow helicopter, reached him.

Bello, along with the pilot, Joseph Wyatt, were among the six persons who lost their lives when a helicopter crashed into the Lagos lagoon, around Oworoshoki, a suburban community.

Immediately the news broke on Thursday, a good friend of Bello, Peter Osazemen Ozzy, took to his Instagram wall.

He recounted, “I could say a lot about you, but I am still coming to terms that you just left without saying goodbye. I was with you on Friday evening, taking pictures on how horrible your drink tasted. You were full of life. You came to visit me on Monday and got me lunch, we laughed and cracked jokes for hours like we always did, talking about how excited you were that you would be shooting my brother’s wedding in October. We both looked forward to it. Then you had to leave and said, 'see you on Thursday' as you were going to be off today. It is Thursday Peter Bello and you are no more. Just like that?

It feels like a bad dream I need to wake up from. I was chatting to you before you had to fly that helicopter and I waited patiently for you to land so you could respond as you always did. We mourn today, but God definitely knows best. RIP Dear friend. You were

Distraught... Osazemen

more than a friend. This is too much to bear Peter, unimaginable.”

The loss was indeed too hard for Osazemen to bear, as he didn’t wait too long to share other memories he had of Bello. He continued yesterday, “It feels like only yesterday when you flew to Cotonou or ‘Cot-nou’ like you always called it and sent a picture to me. I laughed and asked what sort of pose this was and you responded ‘is your own posing missing?’ You were always smiling and I always asked why. You respond as usual ‘Peter, is your own missing?’ I would always frown when you called me ‘Petrozzy’ in one deep Igbo accent or how you always complained that Nigerians pronounce your last name as ‘Baello’ instead of ‘Bell-o.’ I will intentionally do that to irk you. I remember when I spoke in pidgin to you to irk you, you would always go mute and then say ‘Peter , what language is that? You no dey try with this your pidgin.’ We would laugh and I will respond ‘I am trying.’

"Peter I can go on and on about how much of a great guy you were, but just know that you left everyone in great pain. We can’t even phantom what’s happening, but God knows best and we can’t question his ways.

I never imagined I would be writing about you like this. You live on forever in our lives through the memories that we have of you.

We cherish them so much now. Sleep well in The Lord my brother, my friend. My prayers and thoughts are with your family you left behind. God bless them for bringing you to this world to put smiles on the faces of everyone you came in contact with. God will give them strength to bear this irreparable loss. I am grateful to God that I was privileged to have met you in the short time you had in this cruel world.”

Stella who works in a mall claimed she secretly had a crush for the late Bello. She explained on Instagram, “I cried when I saw this news this morning. He was someone I was having crush on. Each time he comes to the mall I secretly admire him while attending to him. I still can’t believe that you are gone and never will I see you again. I wish God can just breathe life into you right now.

I wish this was just a dream. I saw you last week, you were so full of life and you went to see a movie at the cinemas and you even came to my office to snap passport. If only I knew that would be my last time of seeing you I wouldn’t have let you go…This world is just a market place.”

The deceased, Bello, had departed an oil rig in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the hope of landing in Lagos around 3:35am as the flight schedule revealed. But, sadly,

Onyenweaku

Bello .. ( Inset ) in the cockpit

the aircraft ended in the lagoon about five minutes before touchdown. The body of the deceased was recovered on Thursday, alongside that of Wyatt, after several hours of search.

In a statement released on Thursday, Duncan Moore, Bristow’s regional director in Africa, said Bello joined the company’s flight school in 2014. The statement added that Wyatt, a US citizen, joined Bristow in 2006 and has spent his entire career out of Africa, flying with the company. Bristow expressed sadness over the development, saying that it has established a dedicated hotline for family members of those on board.

“We are saddened by this tragic accident.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends and loved ones of all those on board. Bristow has mobilised the full resources of its response team and is working closely with authorities on the investigation.

“Medical treatment is being provided to those who are injured and trained coordinators have been assigned to the families of the crew members and passengers to support them with their every need and ensure that they receive the most current information and assistance,” the statement read.

Meanwhile, effort to reach the six occupants who were rescued has been unsuccessful.

At about 10.00am to 2pm yesterday at the Saint Nicholas Hospital, Lagos Island, the hospital to which the patients had been moved, no friends or family members were sighted. When such mishap occurs, it is common for well-wishers and family members

to swarm the hospital. But it was not the case yesterday.

A receptionist simply told our correspondent when asked to comment on their status: “you can speak to our boss over there (pointing to a lady who appears to be in her 30s)." She was friendly, but quite resolute, insisting there was no way they could allow him speak with the patients. She continued, “I would let you speak with the matron once she comes backs, she is not around."

After like an hour wait, the chief matron, Olushola Fashola, arrived. She explained that the patients were doing fine, but they cannot be allowed to speak with the media.

She assured that she would get to the chief medical director, Oladipo Bamgboye, to give the media update, a move that later didn’t happen. We didn't get to see the director and she didn't come back to give a feedback.

A source later informed our correspondent that most of the survivors are not based in Lagos, which explained why their family members were not at the hospital. “The patients are not much as to attract a crowd. If the casualties figure had been much higher with a teeming number of family members desperate to see their injured relatives, the hospital would have been forced to speak out,” the middle-aged man who refused to disclose his identity said.

But a security officer at the hospital said the patients were admitted in the hospital's intensive care unit, adding that 4.00pm was the time family members and loved ones were expected to visit.

AIB: Bristow chopper black boxes recovered Wole shadare

T

he Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) yesterday disclosed that the flight recorders, popularly known as black boxes, to the Sikosky 76 helicopter that crashed into the lagoon in Oworonshoki area of Lagos on Wednesday have been recovered.

The Sikosky 76 helicopter marked 5NBGD and operated by Bristow Helicopters was believed to have departed SEDCO oil platform offshore and crashed shortly before landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos.

Spokesman for AIB, Mr. Tunji Oketunbi, said the search party led by Julius Berger with the assistance of a hired diver located the recorders, which are expected to assist the investigators in unraveling the cause of the accident in which four passengers and two crew members were fatally injured and receiving treatments at the hospital while six dead were recorded.

The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) contains data generated from different parts of the aircraft, including the engines and the avionics while the Cockpit Voice Recorder will unveil conversations within the cockpit and between the pilots and the

Control Tower.

Oketunbi stated that the biggest part of the wreckage of the ill - fated aircraft was recovered on Thursday but without the black boxes.

According to AIB, investigation has extended to retrieving documents and other materials from Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the airline operator.

Other information would be released to the public as they unfold, according to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annexe 13.

The Chopper's Black boxes

SATURDAY

Voices SATURDAY 15 AUGUST 2015

54

Would you want to work at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)?

I believe every man has his own destiny

The financial gains are appealing

I believe every man has his own destiny. I may be among the lucky ones that would not be sacked if I am employed.

Not everybody were sacked.

– James George, businessman

I will be dedicated to my work I will like to work there because I am willing to work. May be those people that were sacked were working because of the money involved not because they liked the job. So I think those people love money not the job.

– Atomon Jolly, businessman

Everybody has different capabilities

I will still go because everybody has different capabilities. So, my going there doesn’t mean it has to be the same way others have. I might receive the unexpected, I might be employed for a very long time and some might and be unlucky, going back home like the others.

– Ebube Mbah, student

I will if the

opportunity is there

If the opportunity to work in NNPC is there I will. If the agreement was that when they employ you today they sack you tomorrow then I will not work there because I will not like to waste my time there.

– Gideon Brown, student

There should be nothing to be scared of

I will because I don't see why I should be scared if my hands are clean except otherwise, which is the reason why most people fall victim.

– Mrs. Franca Emmanuel, civil servant

The sack is due to corruption

I can give it a trial but will make sure I have a second choice should in case I fall victim. But looking at the monetary aspect, I think it's worth giving a trial.

– Makusota Afolashade,

If I have the opportunity I will want to work with them. Their workers are being sacked because they are trying to eradicate corruption.

–Tobi Ogbo, engineer

businesswoman

I want the best in life

I believe that the monthly

pay is very good

I would like to work there because of the package. I believe the monthly pay of NNPC is good. But I will feel bad if they end up sacking a lot of the workers when I am still working with them.

– Alogbe Moses, security officer

I will do it perfectly well if engaged If I am given a job in NNPC I will definitely work there. The mass sack was due to the fact that they needed fresh minds and young people.

That people were sacked doesn’t mean it is the end of the world so if they engage me I will do it perfectly.

– Oke Onwumere, journalist

I will be on the lookout

I will because half bread they say is better than none. But all the same I will have alternative in case of the unexpected.

– Loveth Abel, civil servant

I won’t because of insecurity I won’t because of the insecurity in the company.

If they are sacking their workers what is the assurance that I wouldn’t be sacked as well?

– Lucas Ojukoko, car dealer

compiled by

COMPILED BY JOHN EDU, CHINYERE ONAH, PEACE MORRISON, AMAKA UMEH AND NGOZI OGBOLU

I would want to work there because everybody wants to go higher in life. Despite the fact that there is a mass sack of worker I don’t think it will affect me, even it will it will be later not now.

– Prince Ezebuiro, accountant

I won’t let go of the opportunity

If I am giving the opportunity I would want to work there. The fact that they are sacking other workers doesn’t mean I would be sacked.

– Kazeem Akinpelu, civil engineer

I will love to work there I will love to work there. I don’t know the reason why they were sacked so it is left for me to go there and prove myself. As long as it is not my company anything can happen.

– Rachel Gold, businesswoman

I can accept a job in NNPC regardless The sack of workers was brought about by the need for restructuring, so it can be said the person hasn’t done well or isn’t qualified. In other words, if anyone is retained or recruited, then he/she is qualified and believed to have something better to offer. So I can accept a job in NNPC notwithstanding.

– Sylvia Adex, pharmacist

Sport Extra 55

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

15 AUGUST 2015

The world is waiting for Kalu –Fashanu

E

Adekunle Salami

x-international footballer, John Fashanu, on Friday said the world is already waiting for former Abia State governor, Dr. Orji Kalu, to start his campaign for the FIFA presidency.

Fashanu stressed that Kalu was yet to give his nod but many followers of the game across the globe are waiting for him to do so.

He said: “Many stakeholders of the game are excited that somebody like Dr. Kalu is interested. They are anxiously waiting for him to go round and state his vision for football.

“We are all aware of the problems in FIFA over the years and we believe Kalu has all it takes to move the game forward.”

Fashanu stressed that many other Nigerians are also involved in the “Kalu for FIFA Presidency project” but they are just waiting to hear from Kalu himself.

“Dr. Amos Adamu is former member of CAF and FIFA, he is one of many others who believe in the project,” the former player added.

Kalu is billed to meet the NFF and the Presidency in the coming week while the FIFA election takes place in Kalu February 2016.

Aiyegbusi raises stakes at NCC Tennis League

A Dikko... LMC Chairman

LMC sanctions Wikki, Dolphins' coach

T

he League Management Company has sanctioned Wikki Tourists FC of Bauchi and Coach Stanley Eguma of Dolphins for breaching the rules of the Nigeria Professional Football League.

In a statement on Friday by Harry Iwuala, LMC's special projects manager, the company said the decisions were reached on Thursday following a review of reports of Match Day 22.

It stated that Eguma was found guilty of ``unfair criticisms’’ against the match referee and officials of Abia Warriors FC during a match.

The statement also noted that the coach failed to conduct himself in a professional manner despite previous sanctions and warnings.

It stated that LMC ordered Eguma to pay a fine of N200, 000 in addition to a suspended two-match ban if he breaches the rules again in the ongoing 2014/15 league season.

Wikki Tourists were sanctioned for the unruly conduct of their fans during and after the Match Day 22 fixture against Nasarawa United. The fans allegedly threw some objects onto the field of play.

The club was also sanctioned for harassing Nasarawa players and stoning their vehicle. ``A fine of N500,000.00 and N100,000.00 will be paid as damages to Nasarawa United FC. ``Also, you will play your next home match Match Day 24 against Abia Warriors FC on Aug. 19, 2015 behind closed doors. (i.e. in the absence of fans),” Iwuala said.

Also in the statement, Salihu Abubakar, LMC’s Chief Operating Officer, said the LMC was determined to enforce all aspects of the reforms initiated to build a league that would meet global standards.

anu Aiyegbusi ranked No. 3 in Nigeria has raised the stakes for the Ogun team by beating Ronke Akingbade in straight sets at the All Africa Games trials in Abuja which ended Thursday.

Team Ogun was banking on Ronke, the 2013 CBN women singles champion, who has been exhibiting a rich vein of form to help them upset Team Kalotari in Port Harcourt.

That result will make the rematch interesting in a team tennis scenario.

However, emerging overall winner of the White Group of the NCC Tennis League will be uppermost in the minds of the captains of Team Kalotari and Team Ogun when they clash in the final group round robin match in Port Harcourt this weekend no matter the margin of victory.

"We are fully ready for Team

Ogun who won their first two matches against the CBN Futures and Team FCT convincingly but we are playing at home and we have good depth and experience on our side," said Sunday Maku, captain of the Kalotari squad.

Abel Ubiebi, Team Ogun's captain, said: "We know it's a very crucial tie and leading the group means playing the second placed team from the Blue Group and that is something to fight for.

"We are expecting Joseph Imeh who went to train at an academy in the USA and with Monday Igbinovia and Ronke in fine form we should give Kalotari a lot of trouble."

The tie taking place at the Port Harcourt Club will start at 9:30am on Saturday August 15 with two mens singles, a ladies singles and mens doubles games

Sport Slaming Adekunle Salami adekunles@yahoo.com 08050498539 (sms only)

Okwaraji and I

O

n August 12 every year, I remember Nigeria’s fallen football hero, Samuel Okwaraji. I have a very strong attachment to this memory due to some personal reasons. Two days before his death, on August 10, 1989, I met Okwaraji shortly after the Super Eagles training at the National Stadium in Lagos. I was on industrial attachment with Punch Newspapers and the Sports Editor gave me the ‘huge task’ of getting an interview with the football star to know his readiness for his first match before the Lagos crowd. Honestly, I was nervous. I entered the pitch and threw a question at Okwaraji while still somewhat far off. With his dreadlocks, he welcomed me with a smile and went further to place his right hand on my shoulders. This gave me confidence to relax. After about 10 minutes, the interview was over and I told him of my intention to also speak with Stephen Keshi. Okwaraji held my hand and took me to Keshi for the interview. I was so happy afterwards as I ran back to the office excited about the quality of personalities I spoke with and that I had a friend in the team. That was my first interview as a journalist. How will I ever forget that experience? Most of the players were not approachable and my diminutive nature then was a big disadvantage as footballers or athletes could easily snub me. Players based in Nigeria were not too friendly but Okwaraji who came in from Italy was full of humility. It was sad that just two days after, the superstar died on the pitch while playing for the country against Angola. I shed tears because he was the only friend I had in the team. Okwaraji brought a new lease of life into the team with his patriotic zeal. For example, he told the then NFA that he needed no ticket money to play for his country. Wednesday marked 26 years after his demise and till date I am yet to see anything concrete done so far to immortalise this fallen hero. During the week, NFF boss, Amaju Pinnick, spoke with Okwaraji’s mother, to reassure her that the dead player and the family were not forgotten. I disagree with Pinnick. I wonder what has been done for the woman or the family in the past five years? I am also not sure there was communication with the family by the past boards of the federation. Mrs. Jane Okwaraji and the family at various times had cried out that they had been neglected. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives raised the issue by calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to immortalise Okwaraji. This is long overdue and I pray all those in authorities will match action with words.

Continue to rest in peace dear friend, Sam Okwaraji.

Our ladies deserve better

F

Dr. Eva Carneiro (left) and Jose Mourinho

Mourinho defends decision on team doctors

C

helsea manager Jose Mourinho has stood by his criticism of the club's medical staff.

Dr. Eva Carneiro and physio Jon Fearn were criticised by Mourinho after they left his side with nine men against Swansea by treating Eden Hazard.

Carneiro and Fearn will not be on the bench for Sunday's match at Manchester City, but Mourinho has not ruled out

their return.

He met with his medical staff on Thursday and says they have a "good relationship".

Carneiro is understood to be represented by law firm Mishcon de Reya.

Carneiro and Fearn tended to Hazard after he was tripped in the final minutes of Saturday's 2-2 draw with the Welsh club, meaning the Belgium forward had to leave the pitch.

IFA’s outgoing President, Sepp Blatter, believes the future of football is feminine. Gone are the days when people will easily say football is not for women. Since FIFA stages the World Cup at various levels for women, it is unfair that the Nigeria Football Federation is not taking our women teams especially the Super Falcons seriously.

Before the last World Cup, I wrote on the poor preparation of the team before the finals in Canada. We all saw the talents exhibited by the ladies at the event but poor planning affected them. Nigeria’s ouster in the Rio Olympic Games women football event was also a result of neglect.

The sacking of coach Edwin Okon was expected but it was a shock that his assistant was asked to continue rather than getting another coach to strengthen the team. After the sacking of Stephen Keshi, Sunday Oliseh was engaged within one week. Again, seven key players at the World Cup were not present for the qualifiers for the Rio Games and this affected the rhythm of the team against Equatorial Guinea. The NFF should have striven harder to get most of the top players for the crucial encounter. After the match, the team had to travel to Nigeria by road. It was a show of shame because such treatment cannot be meted on the Super Eagles.

The preparation of the U-17 and U-20 women’s teams for their respective global events next year has been poor as well. Christopher Danjuma, an interim coach, is still expected to lead the Super Falcons to the All Africa Games.

Imagine that! Our ladies deserve better. If they get attention, they will achieve better than their male counterparts.

DESTINATION

Istanbul: Alluring blend of old and modern

P.42

Sanctity of Truth

SATURDAY N150

Perspectives

Okorocha, Gabonese president and Messi

p.52

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2015

Toure’s form, trouble for Chelsea Aguero, Sterling also a threat to Terry, others

Y

Ajibade Olusesan

aya Toure is back! The Ivorian showed the world his imperial self last Monday as he was magnificent in Manchester City’s 3-0 win against hosts West Brom and the whole of England are now on alert.

He scored twice in the match even though the first goal has now been credited to David Silva, whose backheel diverted the Ivorian’s shot into the net. But the second was classic Toure, a seemingly effortless curling strike which flew into the top corner of the net. He rekindled memories of the blockbusting performances that helped Manchester City win two Premier League titles in three seasons. What a way to begin the season!

The four-time African Player of the Year harboured resentment against the management of his club prior to the start of last season when he alleged that despite his contributions to the recent successes at the Etihad Stadium, his birthday could easily be ignored. He wanted to force his way out of England but he reluctantly stayed. City never quite enjoyed him.

Toure, no doubt had become City’s main engine; the general. When he clicks, every

part of the team comes alive. He drives the team from defence to attack and it was apparent throughout last term that something was amiss in the squad, thus they lost the EPL title and finished second, eight points behind Chelsea.

The midfielder had argued that he was never off form but there were overwhelming evidences of his dip in form last term compared to the previous one. Toure scored 10 goals, so paltry by his own standard. He scored twice that figure one season earlier and had nine assists under his belt to help his team with the title but could only manage one assist last term.

Now that he is back, City opponents tomorrow, Chelsea, could be in big trouble.

The Ivorian is not going to be the only one that can cause the downfall of Jose Mourinho’s men but his great passing ability and the strength to dictate the rhythm of the game will bring out the best in Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling.

The two strikers could make life difficult for Chelsea’s defenders especially as they get supply from Toure and David Silva.

Toure has never scored against Chelsea and may not do that again this weekend but he can allow Aguero and Sterling the run-ins. He is fired up for the game and of course for the title.

“The Premier League is very tough.

There's a very long way to go. We have 37 more games, we want to be fully aware of all that's coming. Sunday is going to be tough again after that we have Everton. I think it is a strong start. We are fully focused this year,” Toure said.

XXXX Printed and Published by Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Ltd: Head Office: No. 1A, Ajumobi Street, Off ACME Road, Agidingbi, Ikeja-Lagos. Tel: +234 1-2219496, 2219498. Abuja Office: Orji Kalu House, Plot 322,

by Banex Junction, Mabushi, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Advert Hotline: 01-8541248, Email: info@newtelegraphonline.com Website: www.newtelegraphonline.com ISSN 2354-4317 Editor: Laurence ani.