Sunday, october 2, 2016 vol 3 no 956 by Newtelegraphonline

Ikenna

Chinedu

‘Kidnappers killed my brother after N1.2m ransom’}50

Independence Anniversary: Nigerians react

•Rising unemployment, time bomb -Obasanjo •Blaming past leaders evidence of mental laziness - Nwosu •Keep hope alive -Okonkwo •‘Revamp economy through diversification’ }5

SUNDAY Sunday, OCTOBER 2, 2016 Vol. 3 No. 956

Genny Uzoma

Sanctity of Truth

/newtelegraph

@newtelegraph1 www.newtelegraphonline.com

N150

NIGERIA @ 56

Buhari: Nobody can challenge federal might }3

I dumped Telecoms for acting }41

NEWS abolish office of First Lady -Peter Obi }7

...blames Jonathan, militants for Nigeria’s woes “A new insurgency has reared its head in the shape of blowing up gas and oil pipelines by groups of Niger Delta militants. This administration will not allow these mindless groups to hold the country to ransom...”

How SIm, helicopter, sniffer dogs RESCUED EmefIele’s wife

Turkey deports Nigerian students over coup }50 lI’ll not be intimidated -CBN Gov

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Contents | 02.10.16 BODY & SOUL

Humble beginning General Overseer of Illumination Assembly, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, rose from poverty to become one of Nigeria's popular clerics

}17

POLITICS

Like APC, like PDP For upholding a flawed governorship primary in Ondo State, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress is now on the precipice, going the way of the Peoples Democratic Party

}21

BUSINESS

Poor naira The Nigerian naira took a deeper dive last week at the parallel and interbank markets to become the worst performing currency in Africa in 2016

}43

FAITH

Bishop Okonkwo

SPORT

Dobrev wants CL

Dumping banking for ministry almost cost Bishop Peace Okonkwo her marriage

}53 Ifeanyi Ubah FC coach, Mitko Dobrev, wants his players to defeat MFM FC of Lagos in today’s NPFL match day 38 so as to pick the ticket for the CAF Champions League

}55

Magazine

Flying Antelopes set to fly After 32 years of inactivity, Rangers Football Club, popularly known as ‘Flying Antelopes may fly again if the club wins today’s NPF game

}8&9

SUNDAY

Editorial

Ondo's failed roads

he deplorable condition and persistent nightmare the people of Akokoland in Ondo State and other commuters plying the OwoIkare Akoko Road, as well as IkareOkeagbe-Omuo Ekiti Road are passing through have reached an uncomplimentary dimension. Indeed, the continued neglect of the less than 100-kilometer federal road is indicative of a failed system, instigated by the deliberate and insensitivity of the Federal Government and the Ondo State Government, under Governor Olusegun Mimiko, to unleashed agony on the people. The action and inaction of the federal and state government to abandon the road for this long has not only raised concern about their insensibility to the plight of the people, but has also demonstrated their penchant hatred for the entire Akokoland and its people. It is, however, disgusting for government either at federal, state or local government level, which prides itself to be sensitive to the needs of people to have neglected and closed its eyes permanently on such an important road, given its economic and commercial benefits to the people and nation in general. The road, which was last constructed and asphalted in the late 90s by the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), which General Muhammadu Buhari superintended under the regime of the late General Sani Abacha, is the only major road linking the South-West to the Northern part of the country, apart from the Ibadan-Oyo-Ilorin Road. In actual fact, Owo-Ikare Road has in the last few years served as the only connecting route for motorists and other commuters from Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ondo states to Abuja, and for such road to remain in a total deplorable state leaves much to be desired. Of course, in a society such as ours, where the cost of air transportation is high and rail is epileptic and grossly inadequate, any responsible government should take the challenge of fixing its roads as one of its priorities without recourse to any political consideration, as it is playing itself out presently. But, like many other failed roads in the country, the Owo-Ikare Akoko Road is now a death trap and den for armed robbers and kidnappers. Given the terrible state of the road

due to the level of dilapidation, commuters now ply the road with high trepidation, agony and frustration as they are being attacked at will and subjected to various inhuman treatment by hoodlums and robbers who prey on them. More worrisome is the harrowing experience of the local traders and farmers, who are being robbed of their wares and farm produce at will by hoodlums, who now prowl the road, especially on market days. The situation is equally precarious as travelling on the road after 7 pm or before 6 am is perhaps fretful and threatening; even when in daylight robbers lurk at some terribly bad portions on the road to rob commuters of their valuables. It was on the same road that the Regent of Akungba-Akoko, Princess Oluwatoyin Omosowon, was kidnapped along with Asala Oyewunmi and Dele Obote, her driver and an official of the Adekunle Ajasin University on June 2, 2015 while returning from Akure. They were said to be held by their abductors for more than one week under dehumanizing conditions before they were freed after paying some ransom. Ordinarily, the road, which would have taken less than 30 minutes for commuters or motorists from Ikare to Owo, now takes more than one and half hours with the commuters holding their heart in their mouth apparently for fear of being robbed or attacked. More than one year after the President Buhari administration came into power, it is sad that the government has neither done anything no matter how insignificant nor has any plan to reconstruct or carry out palliative repairs on the road. Provision of good road is one of inalienable rights the government owes to its people, and which to serious government at all levels should be sacrosanct. However, the failure of government to provide the people with good roads across the length and breadth of the country is tantamount to lack of seriousness of the state and federal government. The need to fix Owo-Ikare and IkareOkeagbe-Akoko road should be a matter of urgent consideration, at least to save the people from the harrowing experience of robbery attacks, kidnapping and damage to vehicles road users go through daily.

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

Funke Egbemode

Managing Editor, Business & Strategy n Yemi Ajayi

Managing Editor, Publication & Operations n Emeka Obasi

Managing Editor, South n Emeka Madunagu Managing Editor, North & Abuja n Laurence Ani (Leave of Absence)

Editor n Ayodele Ojo Editor, Sunday n Juliet Bumah Editor, Saturday n Waheed Bakare Deputy Editor n Tunde Sulaiman

Bureau Chief, Abuja n Onwuka Nzeshi Bureau Chief, Brussels n Leo Cendrowicz Bureau Chief, Washington DC n Marshall Comins Editorial Coordinator, Europe n Sam Amsterdam Asst. Editor, News & Politics n Biyi Adegoroye

Business Development Manager n Taiwo Ahmed Sales/Circulation Manager n Oyebanji Abiodun Head, Arts & Creative n Ugochukwu Nnakwe Head, Admin. n Robinson Ezeh

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

NEWS

Anule Emmanuel and Chukwu David ABUJA

resident Muhammadu Buhari has lamented the damage being perpetuated by the Niger-Delta Militants on the nations oil and gas infrastructure, warning that no group can unlawfully challenge the authority of the Federal Government succesfully. In a goodwill message to mark the country’s 56th Independence Anniversary yesterday, President Buhari vowed that his administration will not fold its arms and allow groups such as the militants in the Niger Delta to hold the country to ransom. He said that the continued damage done by ‘Niger Delta thugs’ on pipelines sometimes reduces Nigeria’s oil production to below one million barrels per day, against the normal two point two million barrels per day. He attributed the steady decline in the value of the naira to these disruptions in the economy, but assured that his administration will ensure that it brings stability to the local currency and the economy. He however said that the government is sympathetic to the plight of the people of Niger-Delta and has initiated peaceful process to resolve the situation. “No group can unlawfully challenge the authority of the Federal Government and succeed. What sense is there to damage a gas pipeline as a result of which many towns in the country, including their own town or village, is put in darkness as a result? What logic is there in blowing up an export pipeline and as a result, income to your state and local governments and consequently their ability to provide services to your own people is reduced? “Our administration is fully sympathetic to the plight of the good people of the Niger Delta and we are in touch with the state governments and leaderships of the region. It is known that the clean-up of the Ogoniland has started. Infrastructural projects financed by the Federal Government and post amnesty programme financing will continue,” the President said. Buhari also blamed the immediate past administration for the current economic challenges the country is facing, saying the previous administration failed to save for the rainy day during the periods of prosperity. He said that despite these challenges, Nigeria is making steady progress in the area of national security which commendations must be extended to the armed forces. But in a swift reaction, a chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party ( PDP)

Nigeria @ 56: Buhari nobody can challenge federal might and former Minister of Health, Prof. ABC Nwosu described the penchant of the present administration to pass the buck as an act of intellectual laziness. Nwosu, who was also a Political Adviser to former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, said it was wrong for President Buhari and his team to always blame the PDP for their woes, insisting that a lot of positive transformation took place during the last 16 years of democratic rule which the present government could build upon. “I think that the problem is intellectual laziness. They should get over this campaign mode and fixation on PDP and get on with the job for which they were elected. The job is doable. They should better believe it, this job is doable. They can get out of recession but they cannot get out of recession if they spend all their energies and creativity in playing the blame game,” Nwosu said. In the broadcast, President Buhari expressed confidence that with the efforts being made by his team, the country will soon get out of the recession. “I believe that this recession will not last. Temporary problems should not blind or divert us from the corrective course this government has charted for our nation. We have identified the country’s salient problems and we are working hard at lasting solutions,” he added. According to Buhari, the way out of the economic recession was to diversify the economy through improvement in agriculture and financing road infrastructure projects. The Federal Government, he said, would introduce the Water Resources Bill encompassing the National Water Resources Policy and National Irrigation and Drainage Policy to improve management of water and irrigation development through the revival of all the 12 River Basin Authorities in the country. He also disclosed that the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing has received N197.5 billion (one hundred and ninety seven point five billion naira) towards the reconstruction, expansion and rehabilitation of twelve major highways in the country. In addition, the Federal Government plans to repair the four refineries so that Nigeria could produce most of its petroleum requirements locally, pending the coming on stream of new refineries. This measure, according to him, will save Nigeria about

President Muhammadu Buhari inspecting the Guard of Honour mounted by Guards Brigade, Nigeria Army, at the 56th Independence Anniversary at the Presidential Villa, Abuja… yesterday PHOTO; TIMOTHY IKUOMENISAN

ten billion USD, which it had been spending yearly on importation of fuel. President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki, yesterday, promised that the Senate would support any proposal from the Executive to increase the fund slated for the amnesty programme in the 2016 Appropriation Act. Saraki who was speak-

ing to journalists at the Presidential Villa after the Change of Guards ceremony to mark the nation’s 56th Independence Anniversary, said any plan by the executive arm to calm the frayed nerves in the Niger Delta and increase oil production so as to earn more money for the country to get out of the current economic recession would enjoy the

support of the National Assembly. “Any positive move to restore peace in the restive Niger Delta region as well as increase the nation’s ability to earn more money at this point will enjoy the support of the Senate. We need to earn more foreign exchange and inject more money into the system through the funding of development

projects to reflate our economy and put more people to work”, Saraki said. The Senate had in its recommendations also asked President Buhari to appoint a Special Adviser that would lead the government engagement team in dialogue with the aggrieved Niger Delta Militants to ensure the protection of Nigeria’s oil and gas assets.

How SIM, helicopter, sniffer dogs, searched for Emefiele’s wife Dominic Adewole, ASABA

ollowing her speedy rescue, Margaret, the wife of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who regained her freedom from kidnappers early Saturday morning, had reportedly been kept in an undisclosed location in Asaba, the Delta State capital. She was rescued by security operatives at about 12.30am Saturday within the bush of an agrarian town - Ugoneki, in Edo State. Investigations revealed that operatives from Zone 5 Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force, Benin City, Edo State, led the rescue mission. While speculation was rife that she was kept in a secluded place at the Government House, Asaba, the state capital, until she recovers from the shock, a close family source in Agbor, her husband’s home town, told Sunday Telegraph that, it was a ploy to divert attention about her whereabouts from the general public.

The source said she has since been flown to Abuja where she reunited with her husband, maintaining that, “It was for safe-keeping, having spent two nights in the kidnappers’ den.” “It is a sensitive matter because it involved a high profile person (CBN Governor). The intelligence gathering of the security operatives that rescue, her does not permit them to speak on such a case without due recourse to appropriate authority,” the source further said. Meanwhile, the top hierarchy of the police at the Command Headquarters in Asaba, were still in the dark about the kidnap and rescue saga. As at 4p.m yesterday in Asaba, the state capital, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Zanna M. Ibrahim, said the command was still unaware about the kidnap and her subsequent rescue, even as Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said he has no knowledge about the presence of the rescued victim at Government House, Asaba.

Mrs. Emefiele was kidnapped on Thursday afternoon around Ugoneki community along the Benin-Asaba-Onitsha Expressway while on her way to Agbor from the Benin Airport where she landed from Abuja. However, an impeccable source within the hierarchy of the Department of State Service (DSS), Delta State Command, confirmed the rescue operation, saying “I was not part of the team that rescued her, but our men participated in the operation. I was outside the state for another assignment. “I came back today and I am yet to get to the office as we speak because I was assigned for another duty here in Asaba. Until I get to the office to find out what actually happened, I will not be able to give you details.” The DSS source, however, revealed that after the victim was rescued unhurt, she was taken to the Zone 5 headquarters in Benin City where she was reunited with family members. Meanwhile, Emefiele has expressed gratitude to God,

President Muhammadu Buhari and security agencies for the rescue of his wife, Margaret, from the hands of kidnappers; and vowed that despite his recent ordeal he will continue to serve the nation diligently and with all his heart without any fear of intimidation. Reacting to the safe rescue of his wife, the CBN governor praised security agencies for their gallantry in bringing his wife back home within 24 hours in compliance with the directive of President Buhari. In a statement released in Abuja on Saturday morning by the Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mr Isaac Okorafor, Emefiele also expressed his gratitude to the Delta and Edo State governments, friends and well-wishers who, through their actions, prayers and goodwill, helped to bring this harrowing experience to a joyful end. The kidnappers had demanded an N1.5billion ransom before they would release her. However, the fate of the kidnappers is unknown.

PHOTO news

Nigeria @56

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike inspecting the Guard of Honour at the 56th Independence anniversary, in Pot Harcourt… yesterday PHOTO:NAN

A cross section of Boys Scout marching in commemoration of Nigeria’s Independence anniversary celebration in Lagos…yesterday. PHOTO:GODWIN IREKHE

Niger State Gov, Alh (Dr) Abubakar Sani Bello [middle] presenting a trophy to the representative of Hilltop Model School, Minna while the Commissioner for Education, Mrs Fatima Madugu looks on

Governor of Ebonyi State, Mr. David Umahi (in eye glasses); his wife, Rachel; Deputy Governor, Kelechi Igwe (2nd left); first military adminitrator of Ebonyi State, Walter Feghabo (left); wife of the first civilian governor of the state, Eunice Egwu and Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Francis Nwifuru, cutting a cake to mark Nigeria’s 56th and Ebonyi’s 20th anniversaries at the Abakaliki Township Stadium on Saturday.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

L-R: Human rights lawyer, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN); the Catholic Arch Bishop of Sokoto, Most Rev. Mattew Hassan Kukah with the former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi after presenting their papers at Platform, an Annual event to mark the occasion organised by Covenant Christian Centre in Lagos, yesterday.

Ogun State Gov, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun inspecting the Guard of Honour at the celebration held at M.K.O Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.... yesterday

Edo State Gov, Adams Oshiomhole inspecting the parade mounted by men of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Police at the ceremony at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin…yesterday.

Imo State Gov, Rochas Okorocha inspecting the Guard of Honour at the Heroes Square, Owerri … yesterday

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Nigeria @ 56

NEWS

Rising unemployment, time bomb - Obasanjo Kunle Olayeni, Abeokuta and Chijioke Iremeka

he former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has identified the rising unemployment in Nigeria as a time bomb waiting to explode. The former President, who spoke yesterday, at a lecture organised by the Youth Fellowship of Owu Baptist Church, Abeokuta, to mark the country’s Independence Day, said unemployment is a major problem in the country and will consume all, if nothing is done. Chief Obasanjo noted that the high rate of un-

employment in the country was responsible for youth restiveness across Nigeria, warning that the situation should be tackled with all sense of seriousness it deserves before it get out of hand. “Unemployment is a major problem in the country today and if we don’t take care, it will consume all of us. In fact, the rising unemployment is a time bomb,” he said. Obasanjo recalled how he got five job offers immediately he completed his secondary school education at Baptist Boys High School, Abeokuta, saying he received offers from the United Africa Company (UAC) and Moore Planta-

tion, Ibadan, among others. He noted that the situation is different today in the country, where six Ph.D. holders were among applicants, seeking jobs with Aliko Dangote’s company as truck drivers. He said, “The major issues threatening the peace of Nigeria now is the high level of unemployment and that is why we need to go into agriculture. The country cannot develop if it pays no attention to agriculture. “That is why we have to take it as a key of our development else the many educated Nigerians, who have no job, are like time bomb, sooner than later, it

Keep hope alive -Okonkwo, others Esther Bakare

s the country celebrates its 56th year of gaining independence from British colonial rule, Nigerians have said that the economic challenges facing the country can be surmounted if the Federal Government focuses its energies on it, calling on citizens not to lose hope on the nation. Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo in his Independence Day message to Nigerians said “As we celebrate our 56th independence anniversary as a nation, I wish to call on every Nigerian not to lose hope in-spite of the daunting socio-economic challenges facing us as a nation. I urge every Nigerian to pray fervently and put their trust solely in God as we go through the present economic recession”. He said irrespective of the challenges currently facing the nation, he firmly believes that prayers can change situations and circumstances; no matter how complex they may look. He added that the problem however with Nigerians, is that rather than deal with issues as they come, they politicize them. “I call on our leaders to bury their differences and tackle national issues with the urgency it deserves rather than politicize them. I still believe we can tackle our internal issues decisively just like we did during the Ebola scourge. No one would have believed that we could put that deadly scourge under control in just 93 days, but we did it anyhow. If we could deal with Ebola as a nation, then we can also deal with all the other issues confronting us”. According to Prof Olukayode Amund, Director

Distance Learning Institute of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the country has course to celebrate its unity in diversity but most importantly what the Federal Government should be thinking about now is how to revamp the economy through diversification. He also spoke on the sale of national assets proposed by the Federal Government, saying the action is justified if government is planning to sell those assets that are rotting away and yet consuming money without generating any fund for the country. “Assets such as the Federal Secretariat at Ikoyi can be sold because they are just rotting away, also the Refinaries and Ajaokuta Steel Complex which has gulped a lot of money since 1979 and has not produced a single steel yet government is still spending on it because we have people who claim they are staff and getting allocation from government, should be sold. So also is the NNPC’s moribund refineries that are still consuming money”, he said. Founding President of African Foundation for Peace and Love Initiatives (AFFPLI), a non governmental organisation, Dr. Titus Oyeyemi said what governments at all levels should consider is how to bridge the gap between the poor masses and politicians who enrich themselves at the expense of others. “The government is talking about selling national assets, if we sell to have money for consumption when the money finish what are we going to fall back on? Government should not think of selling our national assets to be able to pay people’s salaries, this will only lead to destruction”, he said. National coordinator of the organisation, Mrs.

Eniola Ogundipe said Nigeria is in a situation of apathy which if not urgently addressed can lead to hatred and back to slavery, saying for any country to develop, it has to work it out by itself but Nigeria has been going back to its slave master. “We claim we have independence since 1960 and we have anything to show for it because we are still going back to our slave masters who have nothing to offer us. We have to work out our development by ourselves. That is why I will suggest that instead of any jamboree on Oct 1st Independence Day, we should all go back to the drawing board and chart a way forward for the nation”, she said. Author of the book “Heaven’s Economy: The Last Hope for Global Economic Reforms” and many other inspirational books, Mr. Nelson Oru said what Nigerians should celebrate is the faithfulness of God that has kept them alive despite the economic hardship. He said the current administration has not achieved anything but a worse economic situation that has been turned into comatose making the masses to suffer in abject poverty. “What are we celebrating? Is it all our industries that are dead or job cuts that has increased unemployment rate in the country or our foreign investors that are pulling out of the economy on daily basis? To me we have nothing to celebrate than God’s faithfulness in our lives because this present government has failed us”, he said. On the sale of national assets, he said it will only lead to collapse of the economy and take the country far backward because of vested interest.

will explode.” As one of the major measures to move Nigeria forward, he declared that, “We must all accept responsibility, we must stop passing the bulk.” Obasanjo noted that development of the country

must not be by Nigerians alone but should also include foreign investors and all friends of Nigeria. He identified peace and security, education, food, sanitation, shelter as well as transportation as some of the items of development.

The former President explained that he warned about imminent recession in the country two years ago when he saw how “recklessly” the immediate past administration was managing the nation’s resources.

Buhari, Saraki, Sambo others celebrate Nigeria’s Independence in Aso Rock Anule Emmanuel Abuja

resident Muhammadu Buhari yesterday hosted former leaders and members of the diplomatic community at the Presidential Villa at an event to mark Nigeria’s 56th Independence Day celebration. The event witnessed the official change of guard by officers and men of the Brigade of Guard responsible for providing security to the President and his family, the Vice President and his family and Abuja as the seat of power. Past leaders, who witnessed the ceremony, were the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Mahmud Mahammed, former Vice President Chief Alex Ekwueme, former military Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Vice President Namadi Sambo and former Chief of General Staff Supreme Military Headquarters Lieutenant General Oladipo Diya among others.

This is the second time President Buhari is hosting dignitaries at the villa for the celebration of independence since he assumed office on May 29, 2015. The ceremony, which lasted for about two hours at the fore-court of the presidential office Abuja, started around 10 a.m. The forecourt ceremony has since replaced the full military parade, drills and entertainment which used to hold at the Eagle Square. Since October 1, 2010 when the anniversary celebration was rocked by a bomb explosion at the Eagle Square, Abuja, the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan moved the independence ceremony in the villa. Saturday’s ceremony started with the arrival of President Buhari who appeared in civilian attire. He took time to inspect the quarter guards mounted by personnel of the Army before walking to the Villa forecourt to receive the national salute which was followed by rendition of

the National Anthem. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Senate President Bukola Saraki also the office military salute before the arrival of the President. There was also 21-gun salute for the special event. The event witnessed the inspection of new Guard/ Quarter guard, silent drills, posting of sentries and colour parade, weapons and uniforms inspections to ensure conformity with military standards. Shortly after the ceremony, Buhari signed the anniversary register, released pigeons from cage as a sign of peace and proceeded with some top dignitaries to cut the anniversary cake. The nation’s service chiefs and other top government functionaries attended the ceremony. This year’s Independence Anniversary celebration began with an interdenominational church service held at the Ecumenical Centre and later a public lecture at the National Mosque, both in Abuja.

Time for great expectation -Osinbajo Anule Emmanuel Abuja

ice President Yemi Osinbajo has said that the celebration of this year’s Independence Anniversary was a time for great hope and expectation. The Vice President stated this yesterday at the event to mark Nigeria’s 56th independence which held at the fore-court of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Speaking to State House Correspondents shortly after the ceremony which featured the change of guards by the military and cutting of the anniversary cake, the Vice President explained that in the next few years, the nation would need to demonstrate its real capacity. “I think it is a time for a lot of hope and expectation. I think that in the next few years, we will demonstrate the real capacity of our country in everywhere. We will prevail,” Osinbajo noted. Senate President Bukola Saraki in a separate interview explained that the

country has achieved a lot in the last 56 years of existence. “We have been able to achieve a lot for the country. I am sure in present times, people will wonder what we are celebrating. As a country, we have stayed united. We have taken up a lot of challenges and we have come out better,” he said. The Senate President said he also believes that Nigeria has the capacity and experience to achieve as a nation. “I believe we have the capacity and the experience to do it this time around. People just have to believe in the country and we will get there.” On whether things were getting worse, Senator Saraki said: “I don’t think it is insurmountable. I believe that we can do it. Like I said earlier, we have stayed united, we have stayed focused, determined and hardworking. It is not something that we cannot achieve. The potentials are there.” According to Navy Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe former Chief of General Staff,

Supreme military headquarters, if Nigeria follows the path of righteousness the future remained bright. “There are many way of sharing or understanding what the future could be. If we follow the path of righteousness and correct all the nagging problems, the future will be rosy. “But if we continue allowing all the problems all over the place, disrupting the society with the worst of crimes and so on, the future will be bleak. But I chose to believe that we can make the future much better that what it is now,” he noted. On his part, former Chief of General Staff under late General Sani Abacha, General Oladipo Diya (rtd) told reporters that the country was moving ahead in progress. “Nigeria is moving ahead. As we go ahead, we encounter all problems. We fix the problems, we pray to God that the strength of Nigeria should be sustained. We should remain united and happy.

Nigeria @56

news

Niger gov chides public servants, police Dan Atori MINNA

overnor of Niger State, Abubakar Sani Bello, has lambasted civil servants, judges, the police and medical personnel in the state for their attitude towards service to humanity, adding that they don’t have conscience. The governor said this on Saturday while making his speech to mark Nigeria’s 56th Independence Day celebration at the Minna International Trade Fair ground. Governor Bello said: “There are two challenges that have been giving me sleepless nights. We all have been shouting the ‘Change’ slogan, but I am disappointed because the change is not yet with us. “Whether you are a Doctor, policeman, politician, judge, the day the Nigerian Police and the judiciary will uphold the law is the day things will change for the better. “We must move away from the way we have been doing

business; we must pity those that don’t have, and those who can’t help themselves. Everyone has a role to play, especially at the General Hospitals, if you see the way some patients are treated by nurses and doctors, it is inhuman, to the extent that the sickness on the patients may degenerate the more.” He called for a change of attitude especially in the civil service where Directors and Permanent Secretaries employ their own children and people knowing that they won’t work. Without directly accusing any local government directly, he wondered how a local council can say that it has 5,000 workers. “How possible is it? Where are the officers and the chairs to accommodate them?” He further enjoined all to join hands to restore a national sense of civic responsibility; “we must revive those bonds that bind us together rather than focus on those trivial issues that tend to divide us; we must continue to be our brother’s keeper.”

Ambode: Let’s renew our belief in Nigerian project Muritala Ayinla

s Nigerians marked the 56th Independence Day, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State yesterday urged Nigerians to renew their belief in the country inspite of the challenges confronting the country, saying this is not the time to despair. Speaking at the colourful ceremony held at the Police College, Ikeja, Governor Ambode said Nigerians have every reason to give thanks and praises to the Almighty God who, in His infinite mercy, has kept the nation united in spite of obvious challenges. Ambode, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Id-

iat Adebule at the colourful march parade by the police, para-military agencies and the pupils of public schools as well as various voluntary organisations in the state, said that the nation’s hope is not lost. The governor said that with resilience, resourcefulness and determination to succeed in all spheres of human endeavour, Nigerians would surely overcome the economic recession. Expressing optimism in the nation’s strength, Governor Ambode appealed to Nigerians not to lose hope in the nation, saying that this is the time to work together for the rescue of the nation’s economy from the stronghold of economic recession.

CAN drums support for FG T he Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has appealed to Nigerians to support the Federal Government in its effort to make the country great again. The Secretary of Kaduna State chapter of the association, Rev. Sunday Ibrahim, who made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna, urged Nigerians to give leaders of the country time to fix the nation’s socioeconomic and political problems. “Yes, it is disturbing that the country is 56 and people are still suffering, but it is only a matter of time and

things would turn around for good. As followers, we should stop lamenting and contribute our quota towards building the nation. Let’s be positive in our thought and actions and continue to pray for our dear country. “I am confident that the storm will soon be over and Nigeria shall be great again. Let us give our leaders more time and I am sure they will fix the country,” he said. He, however, called on the leaders to stop complaining about past administration flaws and channel all resources, intellect and time to fix the nation.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Nigeria more divided under Buhari –PDP chieftain Onyekachi Eze ABUJA

chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Deji Adeyanju, has said Nigerians are more divided under the All Progressives Congress (APC)led Federal Government than ever before. Adeyanju, a former director, PDP online media said many Nigerians expected President Muhammadu Buhari to quickly heal a nation sharply divided by the election season when he was sworn in on May 29 last year but regretted that his statements and conduct have further divided the

nation. “It is common knowledge that Nigeria is at its most fractured state, along ethnic and religious lines, perhaps since the Civil War. President Buhari has by his words, actions and inactions constantly stoked the fires of sectarian tensions creating an atmosphere of distrust and strife,” he said. Adeyanju, in a statement on Saturday, said Buhari’s administration has failed Nigerians in so many ways, noting that millions of Nigerians simply do not feel the nation’s 56th Independence Day is worth celebrating. He decried the adminis-

tration’s human rights record, stating that despite an international outcry, the government has failed to bring to justice, those responsible for the murder of over 1, 000 members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, otherwise known as Shi’ite, in December last year. “Their leader has been detained since December 2015 along with his wife without charge despite both of them suffering severe injuries during the attack. “The military has gone on to summarily execute 100s of members of IPOB without recourse to the rule of law. “Opponents of the ruling

party, including journalists and online bloggers/social commentators, have been arrested and detained for varying periods without charge or in violation of valid court orders,” Adeyanju added. He said the freedom Nigerians enjoyed under the 16 years of PDP administration is threatened by the Buhari administration. “At 56, Nigerians now live in fear of expression,” he regretted. According to Adeyanju, the incoherent policies of the Buhari administration have led the nation to its worst economic crises in 29 years.

Change agenda will restore Nigeria, says Ahmed Biodun Oyeleye Ilorin

wara State governor, Alhaji Abdulfattah Ahmed, has assured Nigerians that commitment to the change agenda of the present administration will bring back the lost glory of the nation. Ahmed made the call in his goodwill message to celebrate the 56th independence anniversary at the Metropolitan Square, Ilorin, the state capital. The governor while acknowledging that this is not the best of times for Nigerians,

however, assured that the Buhari leadership is desirous and committed to the change mantra. He said the administration is equally irrevocably committed to the enthronement of a secured nation built on equity, justice and fair play in all ramifications. According to him, the focus is multidimensional in a number of ways; as emphasis is on change from corruption ridden society to zero tolerance for corruption, diversification of the economy through promotion of non-oil sector development, as against the dependence on oil.

“Others are enablement of the nation’s security institutions to enhance national security that could pave the way for multiple investments with backward integration effects on employment generation, poverty reduction and wealth creation.” He urged the citizenry to cultivate and sustain the habit of being their brothers’ keepers, avoid ethnic jingoism, religious bigotry, sectional and political conflicts that could not only tear the country apart, but also retard the nation’s pace of growth, development and progress.

“On our part, we shall endeavor to deliver as promised in areas of empowerment, poverty reduction, employment and wealth creation. Furthermore, we shall pursue with zeal, vigour and commitment the programmes of economic diversification through accelerated development of critical infrastructures, qualitative education, solid minerals, agriculture and indigenous industrial development shall continue to receive the desired attention of this present administration on sustainable level,” he said.

Ugwuanyi: We‘ve a lot to celebrate despite challenges A s Nigeria celebrates her 56th Independence Anniversary, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has hailed the sacrifice of the founding fathers of the nation, noting that their contributions laid the foundation for the peace, unity and progress of the nation. Governor Ugwuanyi’s message was contained in a broadcast to the people of Enugu State to commemorate this year’s celebration. He said: “Notwithstanding the current economic

challenges facing us as a nation, we have sufficient cause to celebrate,” noting that his administration was committed to delivering on its promises and advancing the frontiers of development in all sectors of the state’s economy remains unwavering. He thanked President Muhammadu Buhari, members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their contributions towards the development and security of the country.

The governor also appreciated the people of the state for the mandate they gave him and the goodwill, solidarity and support they have continued to accord his administration, promising not to disappoint them. Meanwhile, the Traditional Ruler of Ogui Nike, Enugu North Local Government Area of Enugu State, HRH Igwe Tony Ojukwu, has fired back at the unrelenting critics of President Muhammad Buhari’s administration, say-

ing they should give him time to exhaust his well thought out plans toward reversing the dwindling economic outlook in the country. Igwe Ojukwu, a veteran journalist, regretted that most of President Buhari’s ardent critics are those, who understood the depbth of socio-economic and security challenges facing the nation at this period of time, and who should have shown more understanding than others.

‘Buhari administration worst since 1960 on human rights’ Paul Ogbuokiri

hieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Nigeria’s one time Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode yesterday said that the last one year and four months of Buhari’s government have been the worst since independence in terms of the violation of human rights, civil liberties and court orders by the government. This is contained in his Independence Day message titled; ‘Nigeria at 56 and the Worship of Baal.’

He said: “The rigging of elections, the persecution of opposition figures, the demonisation of dissenters, the destruction of the economy, the pauperisation of our people, the introduction of famine, the humiliation of Nigerians coupled with violence, impunity, aggression, intolerance and tyranny: that is all President Muhammadu Buhari and his government have served our people since he was sworn in on May 29, 2015.” He added that Nigerians have witnessed unprece-

dented mass murder, butchery, carnage and barbarity by well-armed and highly favored Fulani herdsmen and ethnic militias coupled with genocide and unprecedented extra-judicial killings by the country’s military personnel and state security forces. “We have witnessed the resurrection of Abubakar Shekau and the mutation of Boko Haram into two powerful new factions. We have seen them re-take towns and communities that they lost years ago and hoist their dirty black flag in parts of the north-east.”

He lamented that the naira has witnessed rapid depreciation, even as the industrial, agricultural and manufacturing sector have been totally decimated and virtually all our roads, airports, power generating facilities and infra-structures in state of decay. According to him, the government is corrupt, weak, paranoid, incompetent, cowardly, fearful of criticism, terrified of a strong opposition, unable to cope with dissent, insensitive, delusional, wicked, sociopathic and psycopathic.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

News Biyi Adegoroye and Biwom Iklaki

ormer Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, on Saturday said, state governments can check profligacy by abolishing office of the First Lady which causes confusion and gulps about N72billion yearly, reduce security votes and streamline procurement in order to reduce their entire budget by N1trillion. Obi said that in view of the current recession and by way of necessity, governors of the 36 states of the federation must reduce their current budget which totaled about N4.1trillion by over 25 per cent if they cut down on the number of

Abolish office of First Lady, check govs’ profligacy, says Obi

…as Kukah laments Nigerians are hemorrhaging bullet proof cars, the size of their convoy and cut down on travelling expenses. Addressing the theme: “Cutting the Cost of Governance,” at the 2016 edition of ‘The Platform’, organised by the Covenant Christian Centre in Lagos, which has the title “The Economic Value of Nigeria and how Nigeria can be made to Work”, Obi said the problem with the country was the inability of her leaders to cut the cost

of governance by deploying the resources of the state responsibly. Obi revealed that all the governors spend over N450billion on security votes and loose procurement pattern, thereby promoting massive wastage and stifling growth and development. His disclosure came just as the Catholic Arch-Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Father Martin Hassan Kukah, la-

mented that Nigeria is not only hemorrhaging, but its progress is crippled by centripetal forces which must be checked by the electorate through the ballot boxes. Kukah, who said the Muhammadu Buhari government is currently struggling, decried the hue and cry over proposed sales of Nigeria’s assets, stating that while the citizenry remained the greatest assets the nation possesses, the nation itself

L-R: Chairman Century Group, Mr. Ken Atete; Founder/CEO AFRIFF, Ms. Chioma Ude and a notable businessman, Mr. Gbenga Obadina during an interactive session with the visiting Chairman of Institut Choiseul, Mr. Pascal Lorot at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, recently

Ondo APC crises: Oke, supporters defect to AD he rank of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was heavily depleted in Ondo State yesterday as one of the governorship aspirants of the party; Chief Olusola Oke dumped the party for the Alliance for Democracy (AD). Oke, who was the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2012 governorship election led several leaders and members of APC to AD in a move that marked the climax of the crisis rocking the APC over the governorship primaries of the

APC that produced Chief Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, as the candidate of the party for the November 26 governorship election in the state. The choice of AD, according to his supporters, was because the party was the offshoot of the progressive politics in the present day political experience in the country. It was the AD that transformed to Action Congress (AC) and later Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), one of the progenitors of APC. Speaking to his supporters drawn from the 18 local government areas of the state, in his house in

CHANGE OF NAME

Babatope Okeowo Akure

KUDIRAT

I formerly known and addressed as Akerele Omolola Kudirat, now wish to be known and addressed as Aminu Omolola Kudirat. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

KOREDE

I formerly known and addressed as Ayotunde Kolade Fajobi, now wish to be known and addressed as Korede Ezekiel Olagoke. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

Akure, the state capital, Oke said he decided to ‘step aside’ from APC because of injustice that characterised the September 3 primary election. Oke, who was to contest on the platform of Action Alliance (AA) eventually berthed in AD in a move that shocked many political watchers in the State. He expressed regret that the candidate picked by the APC for the November 26 governorship is well known to the leadership of People’s Democratic Party(PDP) as he has been defeated in previous election and would not be difficult to defeat in November. Oke, who came third in the primaries election said the primaries that produced Akeredolu was characterized by malpractices as confirmed by the Appeal Committee that looked into the dispute over the election and confirmed by majority members of the National

Working Committee (NWC) of the APC. He expressed regret that the National Chairman of APC, Chief John OdigieOyegun was the cog in the wheel of progress in APC as he manipulated the decision of majority of the NWC in order to favour his preferred candidate. Oke commended the National Leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubarkar for standing by the truth and condemning the decision of Oyegun to override the resolution of the majority of the NWC members. His words “I was the first person to raise the alarm over the giant fraud in that primary. I was later vindicated by the Appeal Committee who ruled that the primaries be cancelled and that a new primaries be conducted where a popular candidate would emerge.

has been privatized long ago, since it is held in the jugular by a few leaders. Obi said he was impeached for prudent management of state funds, by patronising local manufacturers and contractors, especially in the rehabilitation of the bombed Anambra Government House and procurement which enabled him to purchased 1000 vehicles from Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing Company. Lamenting that the nation is threading a dangerous financial path, Obi said: “This year, our expected revenue is N7.2trillion from both the states and the Federal governments. The expected expenditure is N11.4trillion, giving us a deficit of about N4.3trillion. These are debts that have already been incurred a year ago by the same government. They will tell you today that Nigeria’s debt to GDP is under 20 per cent and it is small. “The former government provided for debt servicing 38 per cent of their budget of the revenue. Because the revenue they are getting is not enough, half of the year, they used 51 per cent to service the debt and they are borrowing more. You will hear things like “we are going to spend our way out of recession”. “There is nothing wrong in borrowing, just like we are talking about selling assets, but the question is what are you borrowing

for? The only way to come out of recession is to spend for growth either from savings or from borrowing. Since we don’t have savings, you have heard how our savings were squandered (whether it’s excess crude by the governors) everybody was right. The money is gone, but now, in order to spend, we need to borrow. Are you borrowing for consumption or production? The fear is that we are borrowing for consumption because we cannot see what we used the past borrowing for or what you sold for and that is the crises we face. It is the critical thing everybody has to watch,” he said. Obi who said nothing was wrong with borrowing, however cautioned against borrowing to finance consumption. “When you don’t have savings/reserve and borrow to finance consumption you are heading to disaster.” He used Japan and Greece as examples, saying “While Japan is the world’s biggest debtor to GDP in percentage, Japan has the highest net assets of any country in the world, also Japan’s 90 per cent debt are held by individuals and corporation in Japan. Debt to GDP = 246/250 per cent compared to Greece 187 per cent, other countries has) but it has over $1.3tr in foreign US treasury bills, while others borrow or build debt without any external reserve.

Fire guts three NNPC tankers, others in Warri Ola James Warri

ragedy struck Friday night as tanker conveying petroleum product caught fire at Niger Cat Fuel Depot at Ekpan near Warri in Delta State. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) tanker carrying 33, 000 litres of Kerosene burst into flames while transferring product to another tanker. Sunday Telegraph gathered

that the timely intervention of fire fighters from Delta State Government saved what could have been a disaster in the neighbourhood. Though no life was lost in the inferno, yet there was array of tension in the thickly populated area. The Niger Cat Depot was not also affected by the fire outbreak. However, three vehicles belonging to Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and two other privately owned burnt in the inferno.

Envoy calls for low-key celebration

igeria`s Consul General in South Africa, Amb. Uche Ajulu-Okeke, on Saturday urged Nigerian residents in that country to engage in low key celebration of the nation`s 56th independence anniversary. Ajulu-Okeke told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on phone from Johannesburg, South Africa, that the mood of the nation demanded that

Nigerians should engage in sober reflection while marking the anniversary. “I urge Nigerians in South Africa to realise that the economic situation in the country today is not what it was yesterday. “They should pray for the country to get better while using the occasion to reflect on their loved ones and the condition back home,” she said.

The Sunday Magazine

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Funny things about Flying

Stories by Emeka Obasi

nugu Rangers made other teams quake in the 1970s, not city rivals P and T Vasco Da Gama. The Flying Antelopes found it so difficult to pocket the team founded by Augustine Otiji and Jonathan Ogufere. Rangers found a way to diminish Vasco. At the end of every season, they would raid their rivals. That was how players like Stanley Okoronkwo, Okey Emordi, Charles [Wagner] Adimora, Ignatius Ilechukwu, Patrick Ekeji, Ibezim Ofoedu and Ndubuisi Ajomiwe crossed carpet. There were those who refused to dine with Rangers: Obed Ariri, John Nwadioha, David Adiele, Christian Nwokocha, O.J. Chukwu, goalkeeper Ahamefula Umelo, Charles Okorie [Old Ghana], Nnamdi Egbukichi, Kelvin Onwana. The Flying Antelopes also raided other teams outside Enugu. Okoronkwo was originally from Aba, just like James Ogidinma Ibeabuchi. The leading Aba sides then were Giant Killers, Aba Textile Mills, Avengers and Superstars. After Eziama High School Aba, tutored by Dominic [Alhaji] Nwobodo, the second man to captain Rangers mesmerized the Academials, Aba became a more lucrative hunting ground. Sunny Ikwuagwu [Hador], Mike Emenalo, Godwin Nosike, Chibuzor [Mkpurumkpu] Ehilegbu, Justus Ewendu among many others were poached. Pioneer Rangers included Cyri Okosieme, Godwin Achebe, Chukwuma [It’s a goal] Igweonu, Mathias [Wonder Boy] Obianika, Luke [Jazz man Bucana] Okpala, Ernest Ufele, Peter Emeka Okeke [General Garson], Nwabueze [Bulldozer, Oli ewu na aji] Nwankwo, Teddy Anikputa [Aji obi], Dom Nwobodo, Godwin Adimachukwu [404], Charles [Mortimor] Okoroigwe, Shedrack Ajaero, John [Wheeler] Nwosu and Keneth [Youngest] Abana. The squad became Rangers International following a 1-0 away victory over Secteur Six of Niger Republic in 1971. The club motto is: THROUGH DIFFICULTIES TO THE HEIGHTS. Jerry Enyeazu founded the team in May 1970 (barely four months after the Civil War ended), so named after Biafra Rangers, a guerilla group which penetrated enemy lines. For playing a match against Vipers of Benin on May 27, 1970, Enyeazu was given a yellow card by General Yakubu Gowon. May 27, of course, is Biafra’s day of Independence. Gowon still went ahead to appoint him First Director of the National Sports Commission

Achebe

Alioune Keita (Njo Lea) beats Chukwu to score for Hafia in 1975

[NSC] IN 1976, Imo State Governor, Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu, wrote a personal letter to Enyeazu, begging him to leave his big job in Lagos to come and help the new state. The Igbo blood in Enyeazu was strong, he left Lagos, moved to Owerri, which was then a glorified village, and started work. Enyeazu’s plan was to set up one team. But there were so many players trooping to the new state. Out of many, he founded two teams: Spartans of Owerri and Enyimba of Aba. The first Captain of Spartans was Harrison [Mecha Okpukpu] Mecha, a former Rangers and Green Eagles Left Back. Rangers’ first coach was Godwin Anyanwu, not Daniel Amobi Anyiam. There were also Paulinus Nzerem and Isaac Nnado.

Obianika

Christian Chukwu was captain after Achebe, Nwobodo and Dominic Ezeani. He remains the first to win the Challenge Cup and league with the team as player and later coach. Chukwu will not forget the 1977 Winners Cup match with AS Police of Senegal in a hurry. Rangers won 2-1 in Dakar and got the beating of their lives. 'Chairman' was stripped and all the players had to leave the stadium in a Black Maria to board a flight sent by Head –of –State, Olusegun Obasanjo. Chukwu, as Eagles coach in 1992, under Clemens Westerhof, was part of the team that was attacked in Pointe Noire, by Congolese fans after Rashidi Yekini scored the lone goal in a World Cup qualifier. “ Nothing compared to Dakar, no way,” he said. Adokiye Amiesimaka [Chief Justice] became the first non Igbo to play

Atuegbu

Uno Enu (Upstairs)

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Magazine

Antelopes

for the Flying Antelopes when he joined in 1980. Over a decade later, armed robbers stormed his house in Port Harcourt. When they saw his photographs, the mood changed. “You played for Rangers?” One of them inquired. That was how the operation ended. One name the Coal City Boys will not forget in a hurry is Andrew Hooper of Fisheries, Sierra Leone. Rangers lost 1-0 at away and 1-0 at home in the first round of the 1983 Sekou Toure Cup. He scored both goals. Nwobodo Not many remember that Kelechi [Caterpillar] Emeteole played one match for Rangers on his way to Spartans. That was in the 1976 Second Round of the Sekou Toure Cup in Enugu against Express of Uganda. It ended goalless. John Egbuonu, a Vet .Doctor was also in that team. It will be hard to forget the duo of Okey Isima and Arthur Ebunam. They left for Standard of Jos during the days of Jim Nwobodo as Anambra State governor. When both teams met, Rangers lost home and away. The team also lost two great playersNwachukwu Onyekwelu and Ogidi Ibeabuchi, in the month of February to traffic accident, albeit, different years. Igariga died in Anambra, Ogidi died along Emeka Onyedika

egendary Rangers and Eagles keeper, Emmanuel Oguejiofor Okala, was one player that put opponents in a deep blue funk. 'Tallest' as he was called, guarded his post like an armoured vehicle would a Presidential Palace. Cameroonians found him so difficult to beat that they claimed he was one of them, not a Nigerian. They could have been right if name was what one needed to claim nationality. Cameroonians also bear Okala. At the Algiers ’92 Nations Cup, one of their goalies was William Andem Basssey. Okala was more than a Lion anytime he played in Yaounde. The Central Africans hosted the Nations Cup in 1972. They built the magnificent Stade Omnisport and invited the Eagles to a friendly to open the edifice. The Eagles defeated their hosts 1-0. Okala made sure the visitors ran away with that lone goal victory. That was a bad sign. At the competition proper, the Indomitable Lions lost in the semi- final to Congo. When Okala visited again, Cameroun was filled with fear. Rangers were in the final of the Africa Winners Cup in 1977. Shooting Stars had won the cup the previous year after dethroning Tonnerre Kalara. The Flying Antelopes romped into the final after silencing the 1976 champions. In Yaounde, Canon Sportif were afraid of only one Rangers player: Okala. At that time, their goalkeeper, Thomas Nkono, was also in splendid form. Captain Theophile Abega was so sure they could contain the Rangers forward line of Aloy Atuegbu, Emma Merenini, Sam Onyeaka and Chimezie Ngadi. He trusted team mates Jean Manga Onguene and Paul Akono to harass the opponents defence. How to beat Okala became a puzzle. Rangers had won the Lagos first leg 4-1. The return leg was not easy for the hosts. On the first day, the Flying Antelopes had gone ahead 1-0 before the referee called off the game due to a heavy downpour. When the replay came up, Canon Kpakun, saw more than canon shot when Nwachukwu Onyekwelu [Igariga], fired a ballistic missile into Nkono’s net,far away from the centre circle. That made the job of halting Rangers more difficult because they had to beat Okala five times. Canon only got one goal to end it at 1-1. Rangers won the Cup 5-1

Ezeani

Ilodigwe

the Benin–Asaba Highway in 1986 after graduating from the University of Benin. In 1975, Rangers lost Chukwuma [Newman] Onyeaghala on the Benin-Lagos Road.A fan known as Jeleen also died. John Azinge, John Uwanaka and Chike Ikebuaku were injured. Funny nicknames: Godwin Gbanimacho (Mature), Nnamdi Anyafor[Policeman], Mike Ochiagha [Ochi War], Nnamdi Nwokocha [Camel], Sylvanus Okpala [Quicksilver, Hafia], Amaechi Igweobi [Darkness], Okwuchukwu [Stone] Anigbogu, Okwuchukwu Obiora [Agari Mojo], Kingsley Onye (Ala Owerre) Benedict Ugwu [Surugede]. Names to keep: Godwin Ogbueze, Keneth Ilodigwe [Kendo], Alex Nwosu, Sam Onyeaka, Damian Odoh, Ikechukwu Ezidinma, Forster Ikeagu, Patrick Iluno, Chimezie Ngadi [Watch me], Nestor Ufondu, Emeka Onyedika[Owusu], Ifeanyi Onyedika, Aloy Atuegbu, Sam Igwenagu, Luis Igwilo, Okey Ozo, Christian Isiadinso, Emeka Akabueze, Keneth Boardman, Jude Agada, Ben and Francis Okaro, Ikechukwun Ofoje, Christian Ogbodo, Ifeanyi Onyejiaka, Innocent Obi Ekuro, Felix Chukwuma Of course, there is no forgetting the One man supporters club; Uno Enu (Upstairs) and Camp Commandant, Segun Martins, the Yoruba man who died and was buried in Enugu

Day Okala buried Cameroon

aggregate. Many Cameroonians claimed the Eagles number one was indeed one of their own and wanted him to return. Nigerians wondered how an Onitsha Ado man could be a citizen of Cameroun. Cameroon saw Okala once again. That was a year later: 1978. Rangers and Canon met in the semi finals of the Sekou Toure Cup [today’s CAF Champion’s League]. The Coal City Boys, had to abandon the

Okala

national league, due to tight schedule, no thanks to the NFA, to concentrate on this duel. The first leg in Lagos ended scoreless. The second leg in Yaounde was the same story. The difference was that heavy rain did not allow for free flow of football. And the referee failed to call off proceedings. The players were virtually swimming. Canon won 6-5 penalties and went ahead to lift the

trophy for the second time after defeating defending champions, Hafia of Guinea. There is so much to say about Okala. In his days, he was voted the Best Keeper in Africa. In 1978, there was an award of Best Footballer which was conferred on him. Fifteen years after Hafia beat Rangers in 1975 to win the Sekou Toure Cup, Petit Sory who scored one of the goals was in Bauchi as coach of the Guinean Junior team. On arrival, Sory’s first question was, “Where is Emma Okala? He was a great goalkeeper. But I beat him in Lagos. That was a huge achievement for me because we all dreaded Okala.” Okala never really had it going for him in Egypt. In the first semi finals of the 1975 Sekou Toure Cup against Mehalla, he was replaced by Francis Azuokwu after conceding three goals. Ernest Ufele scored as Rangers lost 1-3. They eliminated the Egyptians after winning 3-0 in Enugu with Mathias Obianika scoring in the first minute. In 1982, Al Ahly hammered Rangers 4-0 in Cairo in the semis after losing 1-0 in Nigeria. That was Okala’s last international game. It was also in the same competition that the Rangers keeper was given a red card. It happened in Angola against Primeiro de Agosto, in the first round. The result was 1-1. The Flying Antelopes won 3-0 subsequently. Okala holds another record. In 1977, 24 hours after winning ECOWAS Games gold with the Eagles, he manned the posts for Rangers in the goalless draw with visiting AS Police of Senegal in the African Winners Cup. Not many remember that he played table tennis for East Central State. Another goalie, Joe Erico, was also good in athletics, just like female footballer Nkiru Okosieme, daughter of Rangers pioneer goalie, Cyril ‘Flying Cat’ Okosieme. On the low side, Emma Okala won Nations Cup gold in 1980. He never played in the grand finale. Younger brother, Patrick Chuka, did in 1984 but did not win gold, no thanks to the Indomitable Lions led by Abega.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Women empowerment: Buhari releases N1.6bn Deborah Ocheni Abuja

he Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme, known as GEEP, is one of the Federal Government’s social investment programmes targeted at providing micro finance to young men and women from all states of the federation on very liberal conditions. The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Sen. Aisha Alhassan, confirmed that President Muhammadu Buhari has released the N1.6billion for women empowerment to the Bank of Industry. She said:“Recall that during the Democracy Day celebration on May 29th, Mr. Presi-

dent, in his speech, made a proclamation of the sum of N1.6bn for women empowerment. I’m pleased to tell you that the said amount has already been released to the Bank of Industry for disbursement to beneficiaries in eight pilot states.” The minister added that this is the first time in Nigeria this is happening“it is instructive to announce that for the first time in Nigeria, loan of this magnitude will be given to Nigerians with no collateral and interest. This is because the government recognizes the difficulty involved in securing business loans from commercial banks. She added that added that repayment schedules are much easier and less stringent than those of conventional banking loans.

Recession: Nigeria will emerge stronger –Dogara Philip Nyam

S Abuja

peaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has expressed the belief that Nigeria would overcome the current economic recession and come out of it stronger. Dogara, who made this known while speaking at the celebration of the 20th anniversary of Gombe State in Gombe on Saturday, added that while other countries went through similar situations and came out of it stronger, Nigeria would also overcome it. “For Nigerians I want to urge us to continue to perse-

vere. We are not unmindful of the economic challenges of the time. Though we are talking of recession it could have been depression. Other nations have undergone recession; through depression but they all came out of it. “I assure you that Nigeria’s case cannot be different. With the support of all Nigerians we will overcome it.I promise that as leaders, we will all rededicate our efforts to ensure that we deliver on time. “No matter how dark the night is, it will never prevent the day from breaking. In fact, when it is darkest that is when it is obvious that the dawn will appear . The dawn will appear and the

sun will rise again and I assure you that sooner than later we will be there and better things are ahead of us.” The Speaker also commended Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo for his landmark achievements in the state which he said earned him re-election, and enjoined the governor to sustain the tempo and appealed to the people of the state to support him to realise his developmental goals. In a remark, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, lauded the vision of the founding fathers of Gombe State. He also commended the past and present leaders

of the state for the efforts in transforming the state from its rural nature to urban status. According to him, the developmental efforts recorded in the state had justified the creation of the state and urged them to continue in that regard. The former Vice President commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his efforts in tackling the insecurity challenges in the North East. Governor Dankwambo also commended the founding fathers of the state who struggled to ensure the creation of the state as well as his predecessors who contributed to the development of the state.

Irish govt donates €1m for IDPs’ agric project Caleb Onwe Abuja

rish Government has donated the sum of €1million through the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, to empower Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North East of the country, who are willing to return home and revive their agricultural activities. It would be recalled that following a sustained military bombardment of the camps of Boko Haram insurgents and the reported recovery of some territories in the region initially overrun by the terrorists by the military, the villages and towns have been declared safe for the IDPs to return to. Making the donation in Abuja, the Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Sean Hoy said the Irish government was touched by the level of

humanitarian crises that have reduced the North East to a shadow of itself with its attendant hardship on the people. Hoy noted that his country was not only empathising with the people, but also demonstrating a strong commitment towards sustaining the amicable diplomatic ties that exist between Nigeria and Ireland. According to him, Ireland has made several immense contributions towards mitigating the emergency situation in that region and will continue to support the efforts towards the process of normalisation. He said: “The Irish government would want to support the rehabilitation of the people, encourage them to return to their farms, especially the youths who need to be gainfully engaged, so as to avoid being more vulnerable to radicalisation.”

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar being welcomed by Gombe State Governor, Dr. Ibrahim Dankwanbo for the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the creation of Gombe State… yesterday

Choiseul partners AFRIFF, plans session with filmmakers’

n recognition of the importance of film production to Nigerian economy, Founder/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), Ms. Chioma Ude, has joined African leaders, who have been listed among economic influencers at an interactive session with the Chairman of Institut Choiseul, Dr. Pascal Lorot, who was on a three-day visit to Lagos. The visit was quite timely, as AFRIFF, the biggest convergence of African filmmakers in Nigeria, prepares its 6th edition, scheduled to hold in Lagos from November 13 to 20, 2016. While interacting with entrepreneurs at the Eko Hotel and Suites on Thursday, Dr. Lorot disclosed

that his visit was a prelude to the unveiling of 100 African CEOs on November 19, at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, harping on the enormous business acumen that exists among Nigerians outside of government’s support. The 100 Africans are selected and ranked by Institut Choiseul as people, who will play a major role in the Africa’s economic development in the near future. The unveiling ceremony will be wrapped into one of the industry sessions of AFRIFF 2016, where filmmakers will have first-hand opportunity of networking and pitching their projects at the session, which is anchored on the economic viability of Nollywood and African cinema in general.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Seek pharmacists’ counsel on drug use, PSN tells consumers

Media charged to support quality change

Chidiebere Ejike Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has advised patients and other drug users to seek pharmacists’ counsel at community, hospital, industrial or academic levels before using any drug. President of PSN, Dr. Ahmed Yakasai, who made the call during the celebration of 2016 World Pharmacists Day, urged Nigerians to embrace the services of pharmacists even as he encouraged them to practice and maintain proper hygiene at all times. “Your pharmacist is an invaluable source of information on all medicines. It is your right to tap this huge reserve and potential,” he said. According to Yakasai, proper distribution and efficient management of drugs are prerequisite to the improvement and growth of primary healthcare in the country and in other developing countries. He noted that effective medicine and medical training can only be practiced where there is efficient drug management, saying inadequacies in the provision of primary healthcare are attributable to shortcomings within the drug distribution chain. He said, “This is an axiom that applies with equal validity to both developed and developing countries. Indeed, effective medicine can be practiced only where there is efficient drug management.” He said only when the pharmacist has been accepted as a vital member of the healthcare team can the necessary supporting services be organised with the professionalism that they demand.

The Nigerian media have been charged to support the process of ensuring positive change in service delivery performance by public institutions, particularly in the education and health sectors. This charge was made at a workshop in Abuja organised by the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) by the acting Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Prof. Victor Adeyeye. He urged the media to promote quality service delivery in primary education and basic health services in their reportage as that would draw attention of policy makers to set benchmark on service delivery performance in Nigeria and in Africa at large. Adeyeye drew his charge from the report of research study, which was conducted by the World Bank in partnership with AERC and the African Development Bank Group (ADB). According to the findings, low productivity of workers rather than the availability of personnel or geographical structures are the factors responsible for poor service delivery in Nigeria’s education and health sectors. The survey, therefore, called for increased spending by the various levels of government to ensure improved services to address the identified issues.

Why I differed with Elechi- Egwu

Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI The first Civilian Governor of Ebonyi State and Chairman Senate Committee on Commerce and Industry, Dr. Sam Egwu has dismissed insinuation in some quarters of the state that he has parted ways with his successor, Martin Elechi. He, however, admitted that he differed with Elechi during the last General Elections in the state. Egwu, a former Minister of Education parted ways with Elechi before the General Elections when Elechi insisted that his in-law, Chief Chris Nwankwo must go for second tenure as a senator, representing Ebonyi North in the National Assembly in 2011, a position Egwu declared interest to contested, which pitched him against Egwu. Egwu, father of the state, who anointed Elechi as Governor outsmarted Elechi and took the Ebonyi North senatorial PDP ticket and won the senatorial election. Since then, the relationship between the two former governors went sour. But Egwu said he has no personal problem with Elechi except that he differed with him on the last General Elections. Speaking to journalists in Abakaliki, he said, “My relationship with Elechi has always been cordial even when he was a governor. I only differed with him at this last general election. ‘’We communicate, we talk. On phone, we talk, we meet at airports; we meet in social events. We also have one-on-one discussion, so there is no problem between us.”

OPINION 11

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

My UN outing, by President Buhari

s you are aware, my delegate and I arrived in New York on Saturday, 17th, September and successfully concluded scheduled activities during the High-Level Segment of the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly yesterday, 23rd September. This is my second visit to the United Nations Headquarters since I took office as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in May, 2015. While in New York, I participated in a series of meetings and side-events. I had bilateral meetings with some world leaders and attended major events including the “Welcoming Reception” hosted by the Secretary-General and Mrs. Ban Soon-taek, and the Secretary-General’s Official Luncheon on Tuesday, 20th September. Of special note was my address to the world leaders at the General Debate on Tuesday 20th which was the principal assignment of the visit. In that speech, I sent a clear and direct message to world leaders on a number of important issues notably: I highlighted the need for the international community to work together to liberate humanity from poverty, save our planet from the devastation of climate change and rid the world of terrorism for a more peaceful and prosperous future; Turning to our problems at home, I mentioned that the plight of Internally Displaced persons (IDPs) arising from Boko Haram terrorism is of particular concern to us. For this reason, we have taken concrete steps to address their humanitarian needs and to ensure that necessary conditions are established to enable the voluntary return of the displaced persons to their homes in safety and dignity; I acknowledged that Nigeria as a developing country has been adversely affected by the global economic downturn. However, we are undeterred and have embarked on a wide range of reforms in our efforts to diversify our economy and shift emphasis to mining, agriculture, industrialization, infrastructure development and the creation of the enabling environment for Foreign Direct Investment; To that effect, I noted that our strategic objective is to stimulate the economy, restore growth and accelerate recovery by taking measures to reduce the cost of governance and increase expenditure on infrastructure and ensure environmental best practices; I emphasiszed that fighting corruption remains of prime importance to our administration and that our efforts in fighting corruption are yielding positive results including significant stolen assets recoveries; In this connection, I noted that speedy and unconditional return of stolen public assets should be the focus of the anticorruption conference to be hosted by the US and UK in Washington next year; On the subject of Climate Change, I told my audience that we are determined to implement the strategies in our Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs), which will foster low carbon economy and sustainable growth in building a climate resilient society; Again on the subject of the environment, I informed world leaders that in furtherance of our commitment to environmental sustainability, Nigeria had launched the clean-up of Ogoni land in the Niger Delta, based on the 2011 Environmental Assessment of the area by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP); I acknowledged the importance of youth in national development and underlined our commitment to harness the potential

of the increasing youth bulge and that we must take advantage of the numbers and creative energy of young people who are in the majority. Further to this, I called for the establishment of a specialized UN agency for youth development at the international level, to achieve this strategic objective; On the Isreali-Palestinian issue, I reiterated Nigeria’s position in support of the Two-State solution with Palestinian rights to statehood in conformity with numerous Security Council Resolutions; and Finally, I called on Member-states of the United Nations to redouble their efforts for the reform of the organization. I reiterated Nigeria’s call for the reform of the UN Security council to reflect equitable and fair representation and greater transparency, legitimacy and inclusiveness in its decision making. I stressed that Africa should be adequately represented in the reformed Council in the permanent member category and added that Nigeria stands ready to serve Africa and the world on a reformed Council to advance international peace and security. Other meetings and events where I participated and addressed world leaders at different fora included the following: •High-Level Plenary on addressing Large Movements of Refugees and Migrants on Monday 19th; •African Union Peace and Security Council Meeting on Monday 19th which dealt with the situation in the South Sudan; •Meeting hosted by Mrs Theresa May, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on the threat of Modern Slavery (Trafficking in People) on Monday 19th; •SDG Moment: to mark the 1st Anniversary of the adoption of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, on Tuesday 20th; •The US-Africa Business Forum on Wednesday 21st, during which there was a spotlight on Nigeria which afforded me

an opportunity to speak on “Nigeria’s Economic Reforms for Growth.” I tried to attract American investors to Nigeria; My participation at a High Level meeting to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, on Thursday 22nd reflects the administration’s commitment to ensure that every Nigerian is afforded opportunity to develop his/her abilities and be enabled to contribute to the development of our country, Nigeria. In continuation of our drive to diversify the economy, create a safe and peaceful environment for development to thrive in Nigeria, I met with the following notable World Leaders: • HE Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary-General; • HE Mr. Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa; • HE Mr. Macky Sall, President of Senegal; • HE Alassane Ouattara, President of Côte d’Ivoire; • HE M. François Holland, President of France; • HE Mr. Barack Obama, President of the United States of America; • HE Mr. Johann Schneider-Ammann, President of the Swiss Confederation; • HE Mr. David Granger, President of the Republic of Guyana; • HE Mr. Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, President of Burkina Faso; In all those meetings I advanced Nigeria’s case and called for international cooperation. The US-Africa Business Forum organized on the margins of the General Assembly was timely. I addressed the meeting, which had in attendance a significant group of important CEOs. Discussions focused on how they can collaborate with us to diversify our economy, which will in turn drive development, job creation and general

business development in Nigeria. In continuation of my effort to attract Diaspora skills back home, I also met with a group of Nigerian Professionals living in US who have distinguished themselves in their various fields of specialization ranging from health, aeronautical engineering, customs, law enforcement, economics, business, law, education to politics. I extended an invitation to them to join us in our effort to develop our country. They in turn expressed genuine desire to contribute positively to the growth and development of our country. Another issue that is very important to me and our country as well as our region is the importance of drawing international attention to the adverse effects of climate change in Nigeria and in our region. As you will recall, last year 12th December, 2015, I joined other world leaders to conclude what is now called the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. On Thursday 22 September, I signed that Agreement at the United Nations Headquarters. Soon after the signing ceremony, we had an important meeting to discuss the issue of Environmental Sustainability. In Nigeria, this is a serious issue and my administration is making very genuine efforts to address the negative effects of climate change in order to build a clean and sustainable environment for our people and the future generation. The “Ogoniland Clean Up” which I launched and the effort to recharge the shrinking Lake Chad were subject of discussion at the meeting. Yesterday, as part of my last major activity in this 71st Session, I participated in an event which the Secretary-General of the United Nations organized on the “Humanitarian Crisis in the Lake Chad Basin – A Turning Point.” President Idriss Déby of Chad and President Mahamadou Issoufou of Niger also participated in the event. As countries of the Lake Chad Basin area, we examined strategies to increase regional and international attention as well as mobilize support in response to The Lake Chad Basin crisis. No single country and surely not the four most affected countries, can muster the tremendous financial resources required to turn around the very dire situation of the Lake Chad Region. The millions of people whose daily livelihood have been placed in jeopardy are depending on us to find succor for them. I am happy to note at the sessions, some countries notably the United Kingdom and USA pledge additional support in the tune of US $391 million humanitarian aid for the Lake Chad region. All in all, it was a very successful and useful session, and I would like to thank the relevant US authorities who by their efficient coordination of security and administrative arrangements during our stay in New York contributed to its success. The men and women of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs demonstrated that we still have capable officers in our Foreign and Civil Service. Thank you for your tireless efforts in projecting a positive image of our country, even in difficult times. To you in the media, who went through elaborate security checks and clearance procedures to follow my activities and hectic schedule in order to keep all our people at home well informed of my meetings and engagements here in New York, you also deserve my appreciation. Our next interaction will be in Abuja. Thank you one and all.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sunday Mail

thesundayletters@gmail. com and sundayletters@ newtelegraphonline.com

MAIL BAG

* Letters to the Editor

The Sunday Telegraph

Let peace reign in Ogbaland

Prince Folowu

Fear, loathing and foreign investors Dear Editor, I find the public appeal via a letter written to President, Muhammadu Buhari, carried in The Guardian on Sunday, of September

Meandering down the river

4, 2016, on page 38, rather unsettling. The reason for my unease is that in the middle of an unprecedented balance of payments crisis, the Buhari administration is working very hard to take the necessary counter- cylical measures to contain the crisis and ameliorate its effects on the long suffering Nigerian people. The crisis was induced by many years of maladministration and a thoroughly irresponsible attitude to the administration of the nation’s public finances. Luckily for the nation, we have in Muhammadu Buhari a patriot who is incorruptible and heaven-sent to clear the mess. This, he is now doing. It does not, however, help the president’s valiant efforts, if a perception is sent abroad that the nation is unfair on foreign investors. For what the country needs today are long-term foreign investors, who actually invest in projects with long term gestation periods and through that process, create sustainable jobs for Nigerians, rather than ‘hot money’ and fly-by-night portfolio investors. This is why the case of Zhongfu International Investments FZE (“ZIIN”) should be taken seriously. It is obvious that when they came into the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone in Ogun State as an investor, the zone was devoid of basic infrastructure for industry. But since then, as their petition to the president has shown, they have acted as turn-around artists. Since they entered into a joint venture agreement with the Ogun State govern-

Dear Editor,

ment in return for 60% equity contribution, they have invested over $60million and the zone has created over four thousand jobs. The perception that the operators are now being intimidated to force them to accept the termination of their contract, bodes ill for our economy. A country that is perceived as not respecting the sanctity of contracts cannot be perceived as a safe destination for much needed foreign investments. Fred Utamaro Benin, Edo State.

Buhari, Nigerians and hypocrisy Dear Editor, There is a popularly saying that Nemo dat quod non habet meaning: “You cannot give what you do not have.” Most Nigerians are hypocrites. The most intriguing nuance about their hypothesis of hypocrisy is that, the hapless and vulnerable people are susceptible and at the mercy of these political vultures and opportunists. They are masters at deception. Without equivocation, the deceitful ingenuity of some in the art of deception is alarming! To the worshipper of the Muse, you can’t but help your thoughtfulness and psychological mindedness; your mind is imbued with grace and goodwill, you’re always in the clime of making other people improve in their deficiencies. Most of them don’t necessarily come to social media for grandstanding but to engage in a potent discourse and intellectual conversation. The grandstanders want attention, when they don’t get

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08037613380 Normal message fees apply

Buhari is fundamentally belligerent

Dear Editor, For some years, we have experienced disorderliness, killing and breakdown of law and order in parts of Rivers State. We have seen all manners of killings between factions rising up against each other and they have destroyed peace in Ogbaland. I can remember vividly that it all started from one individual trying to protect his selfish interest. Ogbaland consists of over 17 villages. Things are now falling apart and the centre can no longer hold. Sixty per cent of the indigenes have had to flee and the remaining have nowhere to go. Several banks and businesses in Omoku to be precise have folded up due to the violence and killings. These individuals who are protecting their own selfish interests are destroying the future of the youth in the land. Why would they buy arms for the youth, promise them protection, send them out of their businesses and fathers` houses and decide to camp them in the bush? They lured them into this act promising them jobs which they cannot provide. The men perpetrating this evil are not only wasting the youths, but shedding innocent blood, polluting the land and making it uninhabitable for others to the extent that people are seeing corpses on the streets and in homes daily. It has degenerated to the extent that the law enforcement agencies cannot curtail them. This is not the land that I use to know. Before, I could walk tall and beat my chest anywhere in this nation to introduce myself as an Ogba indigene. Today the reverse is the case. I am using this medium to pray that God should have mercy on us and heal our land and that government should look into the real situation on ground and find a lasting solution to this oil—rich community. I am pleading with every faction involved to let peace return to Ogbaland.

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it, they morph to vituperation and foul language to express their premeditated opinions. At times, one gets frustrated by the opportunistic tendency of these people but it is imperative to note that, when you stand on the right side of history and believe in the courage of your conviction, you’re unwavering in your beliefs and creeds. The world around looks beautiful with your beautiful mind. Why? Because you bear no grudge, but you have refused to allow the other man to die in the face of tyranny. When you behave normal in an abnormal society, you’re seen as being abnormal. But when you exhibit abnormal behaviours, you are canonised and glorified, even, if you have raped a nation blue. Nigeria is a nation full of so many contradictions. It is academic dishonesty to adopt other people’s works of art without reference to the original owner. Muhammadu Buhari’s administration is also culpable for this plain embarrassment. It is untenable to even use plagiarism app, when the lifters of this touted plagiarised speech of President Buhari fully knew they lifted these passage; even, without reference to the original owner. Those involved in this act of irresponsibility should be sacked with immediate effect. We have cautiously admonished this administration that, it has some incompetent handlers. Buhari’s adversaries are now jumping on his gaffes and shortcomings to undermine and derail his government. Certainly Buhari’s intention to revamp a comatose nation is thoroughly under attack, by some people, with self-induced problems. Yahaya Balogun,

PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Improving healthcare delivery system in Nigeria Dear Editor, Nigeria needs a better health care delivery system. The Federal Government should embark on the building of more specialist hospitals, primary health care centres and teaching hospitals. The state governments should concentrate on building more general hospitals, maternity centres and also specialist hospitals. It is a known fact that we have many towns in Nigeria where there are no available state or federal health institutions. The consequences may be very devastating. Private clinics and hospitals available in these areas may exploit the inhabitants by charging unaffordable and exorbitant prices. Both state and federal governments should endeavour to employ more qualified medical personnel such as doctors. nurses, pharmacists and laboratory scientists. In a place where shortage of manpower exists, the output is usually low but on the other hand where management ability is high the output is usually high. Both state and federal governments should grant incentives to their medical personnel. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists and other paramedical staff should be placed on a salary different from the normal civil service salary structure. This is to serve as a morale booster and creating incentives for the medical staff. Since 1988, there has been mass exodus of medical staff to the oil-rich kingdom of Saudi Arabia to look for greener pastures. Odior Iyama, Benin City, Edo State

What President Muhammadu Buhari said in Kenya the other day that he was making moves to dialogue with Boko Haram in order to release the Chibok girls means that he understands that only dialogue can free the girls. Yet, he is as impulsively belligerent as his predecessor, Goodluck Jonathan. Sadly, Nigerians and the international community are not asking crucial questions about why Nigerian rulers have been dodging dialogue. Jonathan and Buhari should be queried on how many of the girls have been killed in the intensified war against Boko Haram. Where then are the girls? How many of the girls have survived the onslaught by Jonathan, Buhari and America and her allies? Since the advent of Arabic and Western imperialisms, Africa has suffered in the hands of internal and external aggressors/exploiters. After the slave trade by Arabs and Westerners, most of Africa, with the exception of Ethiopia, became colonised politically and religion-wise. During colonisation by the Europeans, seeds of African destruction were sown and blossomed: Western education, Christianity and Islam. Fulani Muslims started their destruction of Nigeria in 1804, with the jihad wars initiated by Shehu Usumanu Danfodio. Christianity and Islam divided Nigerians along innumerable denominations. Henceforth, the loyalty of most Nigerians shifted from family, ethnicity, and nationality to their diverse Christo-Islamic denominations. Christian and Muslim clerics are still struggling for the allegiance of Nigerians, deceiving people with falsified stories, such as saying that Jesus has redeemed humanity and carriedaway sins; traditional Africans don’t know God but only idols; African divinities are demonic agents, etc. are still pumped into the brains of African pupils since more than a century. Hence many contemporary Africans are still castigating our ancestors/ancestress as nothing but idolaters, even in federal and state universities. Pius Abioje,University of Ilorin, Kwara State YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO BE HEARD! SEND YOUR LETTERS AND PHOTOGRAPHS TO THESUNDAYLETTERS@ GMAIL.COM. LETTERS SHOULD NOT BE MORE THAN 200 WORDS AND MUST HAVE THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE SENDER

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

news

Role of the church in nation building – Pastor (Dr.) E.O. Abina

he church is a body of called out believers, a single indivisible entity known as the body of Christ, although a physical building is called a church, but the building is just where people worship, the church is not a denomination, a denomination is used just for administrative, doctrinal and logistic purposes. The church is anyone who has come into the saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and has accepted him as Lord and Saviour. Accepting him as Lord means that Jesus directs the affairs of our lives and we follow and obey his instructions as his true disciples and behave in a Christlike manner, this was why the early disciples were called Christians. Their behavior and conduct was like that of Jesus Christ. For example, If one use to steal before he becomes a Christian, he no longer steals when he becomes a Christian because Christ has saved him from the power of sin and stealing. A Christian must have a former lifestyle (B.C.) that is before Christ. And a Christian lifestyle (A.D- the year of our Lord), when he has accepted Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17 “ Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new”. For one to be a Christian, Jesus must be both Lord and Saviour over the life of that individual. The saved people are the church of Jesus Christ, being an ordinary church goer does not make you a Christian. The people who are genuinely saved and who are disciples of Christ are the church. The founding fathers of this nation, fought for independence their goal was not money but nation building, their desire was to see a Nigeria where all would be free and proud to identify with. A Nigeria that is blessed with equal opportunity for all. This noble dream is fast becoming a mirage. Over the years Nigeria has systematically destroyed structures and systems which would have made the country a great country. At the base of every country, is their value system which is interwoven into the moral fabric of the country, no country ever becomes great if its citizens are not patriotic, no nation can ever prosper if the citizens put self-interest, or ethnic interest ahead of the national interest. No nation can become developed, if its laws are weak and selective and unenforceable. No nation can be prosperous, if economic assets are being vandalized unabated. There was a time in this nation when missionaries and Christian organisations were told to hands off the running of schools, the consequence of this was that the nation successfully raised a generation who had education knowledge but were lacking in the fear of God. Today we have a section of youths who will rather be on the internet defrauding people instead of adding value to the economy. When a nation, rewards corrupt individuals with appointments and national honours instead of awarding them prolonged jail terms, such a nation is destroying the moral fabric of the nation and indirectly telling the people that corruption pays. We as Christians must rebuild the value system of the society, let us instruct our children, establish more schools, write more books which will be used in the school curriculum, write articles, novels, plays and good music and movies, which are instructive. More importantly let us lead by example, everyone of us can influence someone, let us influence people positively. We must identify with our nation, we are citizens of two kingdoms, the kingdom of heaven and our nation Nigeria. We must also identify with our nation, today there is a disconnection between the citizens of Nigeria and the nation of Nigeria. People feel alienated from their country and do not have a sense of belonging. This disconnection was not there when Nigeria became independent but are the by-product of many years of misrule, injustice and de-

privation. The story of Nehemiah who wanted to rebuild the broken walls of Jerusalem in the Bible serves as a good example. He first identified with the nation of Israel, their sins and misdeeds and repented. We can point accusing fingers at what is wrong with our nation but that will never cause change. Until we take a conscious action, then we begin to see a new beginning. When we identify with our nation we will fulfil our duties and responsibilities towards the nation, we must ensure that we are patriotic, faithful, pay our taxes, obey laws of the country and so on. In our church, we have five covenants, covenants of service, responsibility, commitment, faithfulness and defence. When you apply these covenants to the nation, you become an excellent citizen of the country because whatever makes you a Christian makes you a good citizen. Secondly, the church is God’s hope in any nation. Jesus described us as the light of the world: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 To appreciate light, we can consider first darkness, when a nation is in a state of darkness, development becomes slow or almost impossible, there will be a lot of stumbling, summersaults, as there is no direction, survival and not significance becomes the order of the day, consequently, it becomes easy for evil to thrive as the cloak of darkness provides a cover for them to operate undetected. Darkness is chaos, light is order, because when light comes truth is revealed, insight is gained, direction and guidance becomes clear, development becomes possible, speed can be easily attained as one can clearly see where the dangers are. The first role of the church is to function as light. It is often said that the light that shines farthest shines brightest at its base, we must first manifest Christlike lifestyle in all our relationships in the family, workplace, church and so on. In our workplace we must put in the best of our efforts. We must be committed to doing things right regardless of how many people are doing it the wrong way. Churches everywhere must return to teaching the people the ways of Christ, a lifestyle which is not permissive but worthy of emulation. A social change can be triggered when Christians everywhere are living right. Christians at every level of authority must lead with the fear of God in their hearts

and seek the greater good of the nation Light proffers solution, Egypt would have been wiped out by a terrible famine but for the revelational intervention of Joseph, who used his gifts and talents to rescue the nation. Lets use our gifts and talents to rescue the nation. The church must be at the forefront of innovation, revelation and instruction. While others grope in the dark, the church must show the way. We are solution providers and world changers, not problem creators. We are the light of the world, not the light of the church, we must not hide our light under the bushel. But strategically position it for all to see. Thirdly, let us love one another regardless of race, tribe or religion. Jesus came to reconcile man to God and man to man. We are agents of peace and we are enjoined to be peacemakers, we must be instruments of peace and bring the peace of Jesus to bear on our nation and this begins in our homes, workplace, relationships and everywhere we go. Let us reach out with a heart of compassion to the less privileged, let us lend a helping hand to the homeless, the hopeless, the internally displaced persons and so on. We also have a duty to love our nation. If we love our nation, we would seek the good of our nation. Fourthly, let us pray for Nigeria, the blood of many innocent people has been shed and is still being shed in the nation today, there is no regard for the sanctity of life. We must pray for wisdom for our leaders to lead us right, we must pray for righteousness to cover our nation, we must pray for the three arms of the government – the executive, legislature and judiciary. For the security and prosperity of our nation, we must pray. While we pray, we must repent and live right and act right. We must preach the gospel, teach the gospel and live the gospel. Lastly let us read, Psalms 122:6-9 NIV Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Nigeria): “May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.” For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you.” For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your prosperity. Lastly let us remember that the coming of Jesus is at hand, his kingdom is unending, Mat 24:42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. I pray that from the ashes of the dark times that will face as a nation, Nigeria will emerge as stronger, more prosperous nation, which is a delight to all and a beauty to behold. God bless the Church, God bless Nigeria. Happy independence celebration!

Senate to support upward review of Amnesty Programme’s fund

enate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki Saturday, said the Senate will support any proposal from the executive to increase the fund slated for the amnesty programme in the 2016 Appropriation Act. Saraki who was speaking to journalists at the Presidential Villa after the Change of Guards ceremony to mark the nation’s 56th Independence Anniversary said any plan by the executive to calm the frayed nerves in the Niger Delta and increase oil production so as to earn more money for the country to get out of the current economic recession will enjoy the support of the National Assembly. He reiterated the position of the Senate in its 20 pointsolution to the economic recession billed to be presented to President Muhammadu Buhari that government

should engage in constructive dialogue with the militants who are making oil production difficult. “Any positive move to restore peace in the restive Niger Delta region as well as increase the nation’s ability to earn more money at this point will enjoy the support of the Senate. We need to earn more foreign exchange and inject more money into the system through the funding of development projects to reflate our economy and put more people to work”, Saraki said. The Senate had in its recommendations also asked the President Buhari to appoint a Special Adviser that would lead the government engagement team in dialogue with the aggrieved Niger Delta Militants to ensure the protection of Nigeria’s oil and gas assets.

In the 20-point solution the Senate stated: “This team should include Senators from the zone, and should oversee and advice on all the interventions and negotiations that are necessary to bring peace and stability to the Region”. It tasked the Federal Government to ensure that all cases of unwholesome practices in the export of crude oil are vigorously pursued and dealt with decisively. It further mandates the Federal Government to ensure that all cases involving unaccounted oil exports are pursued with vigour and culprits brought to book. According to the Ad-hoc committee set up by the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly to harmonize the two-day debate by members on the economic crisis, it urged the Federal Govern-

ment to among other things, “engage in meaningful and inclusive dialogue with the aggrieved Niger Deltans to avoid an escalation of the conflict in the region, ensure protection of the Nigeria oil pipelines and the resultant increase in oil production, sales, and economic boost”. The report of the ad-hoc committee stated that the engagement of the militants in dialogue is necessary because of the falling oil revenue from an average of about $110 in 2014 to $30 in January, 2016 and $46 today. Accordingly, the report said, “this fall in revenue was further exacerbated by the vandalization of the nation’s oil asset in the Niger Delta region that nearly halved the nation’s oil production and export from 2.1 million barrels per day to just about 1 million barrels per day.

Science

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

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IYDF Celebrates World Youth Day

International Youth Development Foundation (IYDF), a Non-Profit Organisation in Lagos, aimed at developing the potentials of Nigerian youths, on Friday, celebrated the United Nations’ International Youth Day. The event held at the Lagos State University Ojo, (LASU), titled: “Youths’ role in eradicating poverty and achieving sustainable consumption and production”, witnessed distinguished personalities from different works of life. Science writer, Stanley Chibuihem Amalaha, captures the event in pictures

Miss Chukwuara Victory of Clapat College Ajangbadi, Lagos receiving an award from OzzyBosco

L-R: IYDF President Dr. Okey Orji; OzzyBosco and Dr. Jim Randall

OzzyBosco presenting an award to Dr. Bola Oyefolu of LASU Chief Elizabeth Mojekwu (Mummy B) with Chief Ralph, and other guests at the event

L-R: President Youth Orientaion for Development, Emmanuel Ejiogu and Dr. Bola Oyefolu of LASU ‘Double P’ Musicians entertaining youths at the event

OzzyBosco presenting an award to Emmanuel Ejiogu

Distinguished personaities at the event

Group photograph showing some youths at the event

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

SUNDAY

Body Soul S U N D AY, O C T O B E R 2 , 2 0 1 6

I’m going hubby-shopping (8) 20 Trendy ethnic bridal fashion 18,39 I want to share Nigerian cuisine with the world –Nma Okpara 42

I began ministry with 50 kobo – Bishop Isaac Idahosa

Body&Soul

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Here Beyond

Give Culottes a spin

StyleSta ker

Funmi Holder Successful Belle

Vanessa Okwara

hey’re neither trousers nor shorts, they’re called Culottes! Culottes may seem like a stretch to those of us who live in our skinny jeans but these wide-legged cropped semi shorts are surprisingly easy to pull off, and they’re super flattering too; especially when paired with something tight on top. The gaucho-style cropped trousers, originally made as breeches for men in the early nineteenth century is back in vogue and celebrities both here and abroad are rocking this trend. Needless to say, you can rock them day to night and everything in-between. Culottes are a staple piece for any wardrobe and defenders say they’re flattering because they nip in at the stomach area and add curves to even the most boyish figures. Well-styled stars like Gigi Hadid opt for a longer calf-length style, while Kendall Jenner shows that you can pair them with trainers as well as heels. Culottes are also major players on the runways; proving that this is a trend with staying power and a pair of Culottes will be well worth your investment.

Eunice Stephen

e are stalking the style of one our own popular Nigerian actresses, Funmi Holder. She came into limelight when she featured in ‘After the Promise’ where she played a lead character. She is also one of the major casts in the popular M-Net series ‘Tinsel’. The Microbiology graduate who has continued to wow both her colleagues in the industry and viewers with her role interpretation prowess turned producer recently, when she successful produced a movie ‘Grudges’ set to be premiered later this month.

She is not only successful in her make-believe role interpretation but also in the fashion world.The taste of the characters she plays in her movies match the taste and quality of her style, which is classic but still in vogue. The stylish star sure does know how to brighten the faces of those who behold her in any event with her stylish gowns. Holder is a gown lover and knows what suits her body type. Though she is shy and may not want to attract attention of anyone to herself, her smoky eyes, accessories or perfectly fitted gown would sure do. She also looks stylish whether on low cut or any hair do.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

Body&Soul You recently celebrated your 27 years in ministry, which started in Niger State and the celebration also took place there, why not in Lagos? Yes please! The celebration took place in Niger State and that’s because to whom much is given, much is required. Niger State government really invested in our family. Most of us were born and bred in Niger State. My parents settled in the north before the war. From primary to tertiary, the government really ensured that we were educated through scholarships, and again, my first fruit in ministry. After several years of being an evangelist, the lord gave us the commission to start the ministry. So it is right for us to go back and give our quota. For these 27 years, do you have any regrets? Not at all, no regrets whatsoever. God has been faithful. Whom God calls, he equips, but there have been lots of hurdles and challenges that sometimes, you would think quitting would have been the best option, but you just have to keep hanging on and then discover that God has not left you alone. He is still in the business of helping you to get to the next level. So when you pass through challenges, it makes you better, if you are able to harness them well. While growing up, did you ever imagine God will bring you this far? No, not at all, I will be a joker to say I did. Though, I was one of those who prayed and wished to be used by God. My name is Idahosa, meaning hearing from God, so I was always among pastors; those who serve and know God better than I do. I was rubbing off from them. At a tender age, I was already in the choir; I was interpreting for guest ministers who came to our ministries when I was under a pastor. Then I prayed and wished God to use me to an extent I never imagined. Today, it is always amazing to find out that God is using us in this capacity; it humbles me. I’ve been around most nations of the world affecting souls and turning people back to God. I have seen God use me to perform miracles from my low estate, from my very low beginnings. My ministry began with just 50kobo. The first place I lived was an abandoned property, no windows and no doors. It was a kind of swampy place; my co-dwellers then were the snakes and frogs. I was bathing in people’s farm land; I bathe and excrete once a day and the next time will be at night. It was really tough, but glory be to God. At what point did you make your first one million naira and how did you feel then? One million naira is big. It was seven thousand naira; it was a tithe, a check in 1991 or there about. It was huge; the brother came in early in the morning to pay his 10%. Having seen the check, I was shocked and warned him to stop deceiving me; after all, we were not in the month of April. As early as possible, I was at the bank and like a dream and a joke, I cashed the money. As soon as I got the money, suspicious spirits entered into me. I began to suspect everybody as a thief, including the taxi man, my brother, it was not funny. Believe me, poverty is expensive to maintain. And then I went straight to my house. Before then, I thought the taxi man was monitoring me. Unknown to him, I was carrying such amount of money. I hid the money inside my cap and I was nodding my head from time to time to ensure the money is still there. It was a funny scenario, I even excused some of the boys staying with me, and I told them I want to be in the spirit. So you see, poverty can make you lie. I then split the money in case these boys stole any of it, they’d at least leave some part for me and these were boys who had never stolen from me; so you see what poverty can make one do. And finally, that night, God told me, ‘it is not your money, go and save it, I want you to buy me a land in a

I began ministry with 50 kobo –Bishop Idahosa One of Nigeria’s influential and classy clerics, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, is the General Overseer, God First Ministry, known as Illumination Assembly. From his multimillion naira Lagos mansion, the Edo State born proud father of two shares with ABIOLA ALABA PETERS, his humble beginning and burning issues confronting the nation at 56 few months.’ Kindly let us into your marriage? My wife is a beautiful woman, Rev. Mrs. Christy Idahosa. We got married in 1992 and are blessed with two children, Christabel and Apostle Idahosa. What was the first thing you said to your wife when you first met her? The truth is this, take it from me, I never said anything to her. In fact, I didn’t even know how and that’s because our upbringing didn’t permit us to socialise. I knew I loved her but I didn’t know how to communicate it to her. Honestly, I don’t know how we got married. I never told her I wanted to marry her but actions speak louder than voice. I never toasted her, you can find out from her when you see her, but she knew I was ready for marriage and we went ahead and got married. What do you cherish about your wife? She is teachable

and respectful, she always wants to learn and she loves God. Have you ever experienced any form of controversies, blackmail or attempt on your life? Yes, several times. Can you highlight these scenarios and how you handled them? Well, that’s not important. The challenges we encounter don’t define us, so handling them is a grace from God. So sir, what you are trying to say is that you have experienced blackmail and an attempt on your life? Yes, I have experienced all that and even more. The good thing is that, God always sees me through them and I always learn from them. Before we continue

with personal questions, let’s quickly divert to national issues. There was a report where you were quoted, asking Nigerians to give President Muhammadu Buhari more time, do you still stand on that and why? Time given to mushroom to cook is different from the time you give to beans to get cooked. If you want viable things to be done, then time is of great essence. I said that earlier on in his administration. I was one of those who believed we should give him a chance to be able to interpret his manifesto or the manifesto of his party. I still believe it depends on the kind of structure he wants to raise that determines the foundation. One year is not long enough to lay a viable foundation. Nigerians are very patient and pliable, and I will just say this, that, in the multitude of counsel, there is safety. The President should pay heed to those who are in touch with the masses so as to be able to formulate policies that will encourage economic growth, human capacity building and tackling of our resources. Nigeria is celebrating 56 years, where do you see us going as a nation? First, we must give all the glory to God for bringing us this far. Although, our leaders have failed us one way or the other, yet, we must return all the glory to Him. As for where I see Nigeria going, I am not a prophet of doom, I see God enlarging our spiritual territory. I see God turning our desert into a garden. I see God turning Nigeria to that expected dream of ours; I see a country where Dollar will no longer humiliate the Naira. I see the glory of God upon individuals. I see us encounter the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Back to your person sir, what is your daily routine when it comes to things you eat? As you can see, I consume more of fruits. I am over 51 years and I’m still this way. I was going to ask you, at over 51 years, what is your secret? The number one secret is peace of mind and a good home. A good home will produce a good church. If your home is not good, you can hardly have a good church, good thinking or good products, I don’t allow anything to trouble me, I don’t hold grudges, I sleep like a baby, I watch what I eat, a little bit of physical exercise and I make myself happy by making others happy. Three things Bishop Isaac Idahosa will never be caught doing? I will never be caught regretting or sitting down on my past mistakes. I will never be caught unforgiving, I will never be caught on the same spot I used to be. What do you have to say to the Illumination Assembly family, especially those who have come very far with the ministry? The best is yet to come, I am trusting God to take us to the time when everyone would have become a strong believer of Christ and then be able to duplicate their kind; duplicate Christ in themselves and other people.

Body&Soul

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2

Trendy ethnic bridal fashion Biwom Iklaki

igerian fashion as it was has grown and added a lot of indigenous flavour enough to compete with what is obtainable in the international scene. So also has the traditional bridal fashion. Young ladies are not to be left behind in bearing the traditional fashion torch against their apparels on their wedding day as they seek to

outdo each other in go fabulous they look. This independence edition takes a quick shot of brides from some of the major regions in Nigeria and the indigenous flavour they bring to the Nigerian fashion fabric. Happy Independence Nigeria!

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current obsession

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

Wine & Dine

Preserving the vines from root 1 Ibukunoluwa Kayode

e all love to drink wine from the reds, whites, rose to champagne but we seldom know how the wine grapevines are preserved. Grapevines are perennial plants that produce grapes on year-old shoots. Its growing season stretches from month to months. A grapevine will not produce grapes until it is at least three years old. Grapevines mature for a period of 50 to more years, at which point they are considered to be “old vines.” As long as the environment provides the plant’s basic needs, the vine will continue to survive. In fact, there are vines over 400 years old.

Healthy oatmeal cookies

Without human intervention, grapevines will naturally grow into a bushytree-like mess of leaves and branches. Meticulous pruning and training help the vines stay nice and organised; and focus their energy on growing impeccable grapes. One of the hardest and most important activities in the vineyard is the winter pruning. This determines which year-old shoot will be conserved for next year and ultimately how much fruit the vine will bear in the next vintage. In spring, a crucial moment takes place: buds begin to grow. The buds are extremely delicate and it’s not uncommon for spring hailstorms to destroy the buds, which will reduce the year’s crop, sometimes by 100%.

Biwom Iklaki

have a sweet tooth and while it could wreak havoc on many a weight loss diet, there are ways to put it in check. For instance, a few days ago, I made a healthy carrot cake. This one had no butter in it, just a bit of coconut oil; you could also use olive oil. If you are afraid of it not being moist enough, I had that covered, I used yogurt instead. This oatmeal cookie is another cheat tip of mine. You could try it too. Ingredients 1 cup quick oats 3/4 cup whole wheat flour, spooned and levelled 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 large egg 1/2 cup honey Preparation Preheat oven. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Get 2 bowls; one for dry and one for wet ingredients. Whisk together the oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in the dry bowl. Melt the butter in the other bowl. Let cool and whisk in the vanilla, then the egg. Whisk in the honey. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and use a wooden spoon to stir until it has just come together (don’t overdo it). You could add some nuts at this point. Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes, or freeze for about 15 minutes. Use your hands to shape the dough into roughly 15 cookies. Place on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 12-13 minutes or until they start to brown at the edges. Let cool on the pan for a few minutes before removing to a cooling rack.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

julietbumah@gmail.com

I’m going hubby-shopping (8) Juliet Bumah

he church ushers fawn over her. She’s a new member. They have her sit at the end of a row, beside a well-dressed man. From her vantage position, she can observe the energetic, well-dressed pastor... The pastor thunders, “Turn to the person beside you and say, ‘Welcome to my life. The Lord will do a new thing in my life today!” It is sermon time. There’s no one on Kathryn’s right, she turns to her left. The words stick in her throat. The guy beside her looks so familiar. She is sure she’s seen him before. Her mind races to and fro. He is probably one of her numerous clients. Oh no, not in a church! She wonders if he remembers her. The man looks at her inquiringly. “Turn to the person beside you and say, ‘I love you,” the pastor screams into the microphone again. Kathryn turns to the guy and mutters the words. Her mind is not at rest. She is so sure she’s seen the man before. “Hello beauty. Happy to meet you again,” the man says in a low voice. Kathryn cringes. “Are you not making a mistake? Can’t remember having met you,” she says below her breath but loud enough for him to hear. “Ah, don’t tell me that a beauty like you has a short memory,” he says, a smile in his voice. Let me help you out... Kathryn’s heart sinks. “Not here Lord! I came to worship you here Lord. Please forgive my sins dear Lord. Don’t allow this man to stop me from coming to church, Lord,” Kathryn prays in her heart. He continues, “I admired you so much on Saturday night at the club. Before I could muster the courage to come talk to you, your friend came and I left...” Joy flowed like a river in Kathryn’s heart. Her face lit up. Then it dawns on her! “Thank you Lord,” she screams in her heart. He’s the man she got stuck on at the club before Dave came in. The man she secretly named Amobi. “Oh, I remember now. You worship here? Happy to see you again,” she tells him. They have both forgotten they are in church. “I don’t worship here, dear. A friend is having his child’s dedication here today. That’s why I’m here,” he says, adding, “I’m really happy to see you. I thought so much about you...” One of the ushers comes to stand by the aisle, very close to them. “Turn to the person beside you and say, ‘I love you with the love of the Lord,” the pastor thunders, breaking into their conversation. “I love you with the love of the Lord,” they chorus, smiling into each other’s eyes. Kathryn glances at his fingers again, still no ring. She smiles. ***** Dave wakes up with a pounding head. He had taken too much alcohol. His mind races to Kathryn. “Why is she a whore? Why would such a beautiful and nice lady be a whore? Why did I get to meet her? Why me? I shouldn’t have gone to the club that night...” The questions dance in his brain and his head pounds harder. Time is 8.43am. He drags himself to the loo and back, takes a bottle of chilled water from the fridge and gulps it. “Gawd, I love that woman!” Then, he remembers the circumstances under which she left the previous night and his heart misses a beat.

“I must go see her.” He drags himself to the bathroom, showers and changes into a jeans and T-shirt. He wishes he could go with one of his brothers, but this is a journey he must embark on alone. He picks a car key from the drawer, smiling as he remembers all that transpired there the night before. He could still perceive her sweet smelling perfume faintly. He circumvents the area of the rug where she had given him the greatest joy a woman could give a man, picks another bottle of cold water and shuffles out of the room. The drive to Kathryn’s house is short and uneventful. Before he realises, he is at her gate. Access into the street is easy. One of the security men at the gate recognises him. However, not so in Kathryn’s house. A new man mans the gate. He calls Kathryn through the intercom and it is not answered. “Oga, auntie no dey house,” he tells Dave and his heart lurches. “When did she go out? Did she return in the night or morning?” Dave asks, worry in his voice. “No sir. Na my second you go ask. I resume duty this morning,” the gate man replies. “Where’s your second? I want talk to him,” Dave says. “Oga, my second don go home,” he says. Dave is desperate now. “Can I have your second’s phone number?” “No sir. I no know him number,” the gateman says, adding, “Him go come back tomorrow morning.” “Thanks,” Dave tells him. “Did my Kathy go home with that man that picked her last night? Hope she’s okay. Why did

I let her out of my house in the dead of night? Oh God, keep her safe for me.” He turns to the gateman and says, “I’ll wait for her.” The man nods and goes back in, locking the gate carefully. Dave parks his car beside the gate, winds down the windows, kills the engine and makes himself comfortable. He is feeling sick and hungry now. The time is 10.20am. **** After church service, Kathryn and Ben, that’s Amobi’s real name, stroll out to the car park together. “So, what do you do for a living?” Ben asks. “I’m into business. I deal in luxury goods,” Kathryn says effortlessly. “Ah that’s good. That makes you a very expensive woman,” he says, laughing. “Not really...what about you? Where do you work?” Kathryn asks. “I work for myself. I’m into shipping and fishing business. I own some trawlers. I also do some other things,” he replies. Kathryn is impressed. She is very much in love with Dave but Ben is not a bad idea. “Er...er...why is your wife not in church with you?” Oh, the question is finally out. “Wife? You gave me a wife? I’m not married. I’m single, still searching for a wife,” he says. Then he looks her all over and asks, “Are you free? I mean, are you single?” “I haven’t met him yet. Looking forward to meeting him,” she says jocularly. “We’ve got to know each other better. What do you say? Can we have dinner? I have to be at my friend’s house for the child naming party this afternoon. I’m free afterwards. You

can chose where you want,” he says. “It’s ok. Let’s talk on the phone later. Where does your friend live?” Kathryn asks. “Oh cool. He lives around here. Let me have your phone numbers,” he replies. They exchange phone numbers. “Where’s your car,” he asks. “I didn’t come with a car. I live around here,” Kathryn tells him. “Then I’ll take you home if you don’t mind. Where’s home? Will be a pleasure to drive you,” he says. The ‘car’ is an SUV, a black, gleaming Range Rover Autograph. Hmmmmmmmmm. Ben turns on the ignition and the engine purrs to life. Kathryn’s house is less than 10 minutes drive from the church. ***** Dave dozes and wakes up. A vehicle appears at the beginning of the street. He observes it with more than cursory interest. Dave is an auto freak. He likes good vehicles and the one that is approaching is a good one. He watches it and nearly has a fit when he makes out the occupants. Kathryn in a stranger’s vehicle! He is sure it isn’t the car that picked her the previous night. The SUV stops a few meters from him. Kathryn alights and waves him on. She looks so beautiful in a red dress and nude flat shoes. She clutches a nude purse and a Bible. As she turns towards her gate, the gateman comes out and says something to her, pointing Dave’s way. The door of the car opens and an angry, sick Dave alights! She freezes. Kathryn watches as Dave strides towards her. In his eyes are anger and...yes, jealousy. She knows what a man in that state could do. It’s not as if she’s afraid. She has experience in handling men, but she doesn’t want any scene in the open. It’s bad enough that the gateman is watching, it will be worse if her neighbours are forced to watch a ‘live’ film. She musters the courage and says, “Sweetheart, let’s go inside,” turns and walks into her compound. Her cool voice is like a calming water down Dave’s patched throat. He relaxes. Suddenly, he feels the pang of hunger. But it is not hunger for food, it is for that which only Kathryn can satisfy. He reduces his pace and walks behind her, her sashaying derrière reminding him of the joy it has given him. She opens her door and they walk in. As she turns the lock, Dave turns her towards him so fast that her mind misses some beats. He draws her into his arms roughly, his lips seeking hers. Kathryn yields, surprised. “You want to break my heart,” he says coarsely against her neck. “Who is that man that brought you home?” he asks. “How dare you ask me that! You drove me out of your house in the dead of night because prostitutes should be stoned to death while the men who paid for our services should get medals. If no man patronizes us, will we continue in business? You chased me out in the night, did you care that I could have been killed? You couldn’t bear to have a prostitute wake up beside you in the morning. Yet, men like you take us home and pay for our services. During the day, you pretend we are anathema to you. You are all conceited...you all,” Kathryn says angrily. ********* How did they sort out this situation? Keep a date with me on Sunday. •Send your observations to: julietbumah@ gmail.com

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

APC is bedeviled by serious crises - Frank p.24

It’s shocking to contemplate selling NLNG, says Olanipekun p.25

The Sunday Interview

FG's blame game evidence of intellectual laziness -ABC Nwosu

Politics The All Progressives Congress’ National Working Committee’s decision overturning the outcome of investigations into its governorship primaries in Ondo State has since pitched the party leadership against itself. BIYI ADEGOROYE and BABATOPE OKEOWO report that the disaffection may jeopardise the party’s chances in future elections

p22,23&31

Biyi Adegoroye Assistant Editor biyi.fire@yahoo.com © Daily Telegraph Publishing Company Limited

APC tows PDP's path

hat began as a gang up against Dr. Segun Abraham, the preferred candidate of the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State, has now snowballed to a bitter fight following the party’s National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun's failure to overturn the emergence of Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), as the candidate of the party. The three-man investigative panel had ruled that the primary was flawed and called for a rerun. In tandem with petitions received from some of the aspirants, the primary was characterised by massive fraud, importation of fake delegates which altogether skewed the outcome in favour of Akeredolu. But that was at variance the position of the NWC, led by Odiegie-Oyegun which overruled the decision. Since then, things have fallen apart in the party as some party leaders like Asiwaju Tinubu called for the resignation of Odigie-Oyegun, who they referred to as a 'fraud', for lack of support for internal democracy, warning that the action has dangerous implication for the party in the state and the country. Specifically, Tinubu, in a reaction titled “Oyegun’s Ondo Fraud: The Violation of Democracy in the APC,” practically took the party chairman to the cleaners, saying that by that singular action, he “has done the irredeemable. His coup is an insult to party and to patriot, to reason and to the reform agenda of this government. To remain silent would be to admit the defeat of the reform and progressive change many have laboured to bring forth. While the forces resistant to change and reform are strong, Tinubu dare not submit to them. Tinubu encourages all party members not to submit to them. If we acquiesce in this wrong, the one greater than this shall cascade upon us. In his words: “Oyegun’s transgressions are a warning. He is but the mercenary of forces that seek to return the nation to the old ways. If they get away with this infraction, no telling what or whom, they will

Tinubu

undermine tomorrow. Much is at stake. On the chopping block lies the future of the political party in which the majority of voters had placed their confidence. “To rescue the party, Oyegun must go. He has shown that he and democratic fair play cannot exist in the same party at the same time. If Tinubu is to choose between John Oyegun and progress toward a better Nigeria, the choice has already been made. “For those who care about the party, who care about Nigeria and its chance for a better tomorrow, now is the time to stand against this brewing evil before it grows to encompass all we have built and all we hold dear.” To him, it was now obvious that there was a regressive element in the party that cared nothing for the progressive ideas upon which the APC was founded, but was currently bent on guiding the APC into the ditch. He said this regressive element “joined the APC because it was the best ride available at the time. Now they want to guide the party into the ditch. They want to turn the party into a soulless entity incapable of doing good, just like they are. When such a person tastes power, they shed all good restraint. They come to abuse the trust given them as if they are the owners of that trust and not its mere custodians. These people did little to build the party but now will do much to wreck it”. Tinubu claimed that “the APC, a party born of the quest for democratic good governance, is under critical threat by those who managed to be in the party but never of it. From the party’s inception, the principles of democratic fairness and justice

Oyegun

were to guide APC internal deliberations. “Party founders realised that only by intramural fair dealing could the party remain faithful to the progressive ideals that we presented to the Nigerian electorate as our governing creed. If the party could not justly govern itself, it would find it difficult to establish and maintain just government throughout the nation. “In essence, the party was the embodiment of a democratic promise made between its members as well as a democratic vow made to the public. Evidently, some errant members believe promises and vows are mere words to be easily spoken and more easily broken. “Oyegun has breached these good pledges in a most overt and brazen display. In doing so, Oyegun has dealt a heavy blow to the very party he professes to lead. It is an awful parent who suffocates his own child. “The party was supposed to buttress APC members elected to government at all levels. Because of Oyegun’s conduct of our affairs, the party is rapidly becoming an albatross to those it was meant to help. “Oyegun’s comportment regarding the Ondo State primaries will become the textbook definition of political treachery and malfeasance of the basest order. In early September, the state primary was held. A purported winner was named. Having faith in the ways of the party, Tinubu publicly accepted what he assumed to be a verdict honestly derived. As a democrat, one must face the possibility of defeat and accept such as outcome with as much grace as one would embrace victory. “One of the few bright spots during the

conduct of the primaries was Jigawa Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar. He chaired the primary convention with decorum and impartiality. He was unaware that a tampered list had been slipped into the process. “Indeed, within hours of the announcement, news began to filter in that gravely disturbed me. Credible allegations of fraud troubled the waters. The delegate list had been materially altered by someone in a strategic position to so do. The names of over 150 valid delegates were excised to make room for an equal number of impostors. This was not a clerical error. “The alteration was willfully executed that the primaries would be directed toward a chosen end that bore nothing in common with the will of most state party members. A cunning few had tried to deceive the many into believing they were outnumbered. “A conspiracy to steal the Ondo primary had been uncovered. Fortunately, the grand deception afoot had been unable to cover its tracks fast enough. Truth began to cry for justice. “Several candidates filed petitions contesting the result. The party established an investigative board to review the evidence. In a two to one decision, the panel found the delegate roster had suffered tampering. The panel recommended that a new primary should be held using the valid delegate list. This recommendation was tabled before the National Working Committee (NWC). “After many hours of deliberations CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sunday Interview

FG's blame game evidence of Prof. ABC Nwosu was Special Adviser on Political Affairs to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later became the Minister of Health in the same administration. During the 2014 National Conference, he served as a member of the Committee on Devolution of Power and was very resourceful as he often provided the buffer between the radical agitations of the South and the vehement opposition of the North particularly on the issues of ownership of mineral resources, derivation principle and resource control. In this interview with ONWUKA NZESHI and ONYEKACHI EZE, he delves deeper into the raging controversies over restructuring and how it could address a lot of socio- economic and political maladies impeding Nigeria's progress

Your party, Peoples Democratic Party, has been facing leadership crisis for some time now, there were talks of some party leaders trying to register a new party. Have you heard about this move and what is your reaction to it? I have heard of the move, and my attitude is that it is the fundamental freedom and right of a citizen or citizens to go in any direction they please. But I am in the PDP and I will remain in PDP until it is clear to me that the PDP has ceased to be a vehicle to bring about credible governance in Nigeria. I have heard of those who are making the moves, but you never know, they can make the moves, go in and come back. There were similar things done and the APC finally emerged. You heard somersault, you heard going forward, you heard going back in the parties that formed APC until finally APC emerged. So as far as I know in the PDP, I have heard of those who want to form a new party. I don't know, it is when situations are unraveled that decisions can be taken. Recently, there have been moves by the two factions of the party to come together to resolve their differences. But there were conditions given before by Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff on how to resolve the crisis. Do you agree with those conditions? I'm aware of the reconciliation moves. I am happy for the reconciliation moves even though my stand on this matter is quite clear. It is the stand taken by former ministers that the process of having a chairman of the party should be transparent. But I am happy for the moves. In talking about conditions, the moves came after the conditions had been given. I think the new moves supersede those conditions. I don't think you can give conditions any more to people when you have gotten into a meeting, especially when this meeting is quite clear on setting up reconciliation (committee) and all that; you can't have the conditions apply any more. There will be a new set of parameters to resolve the matter. But are you aware of any demands in the recent negotiations? I am aware of the meetings between His Excellency, Senator (Ahmed) Makarfi and His Excellency Ali Modu Sheriff. I am aware that the two met face-to-face; I am aware that it was brokered by some people. So when you agree to meet it means that you are dropping all the baggage you were carrying, both of you are dropping it because there is a need to give life again back to the party, and to make sure that the party provides credible opposition. PDP governors have been accused of hijacking the party and imposing candidates on the party. How do you see the position of governors in the current crisis in your party? Having given my view on reconciliation, you will please bear with me. I don't want to go any further on the crisis. But since when has PDP governors not been accused? In 2010, I was suspended from the party. The reason was because I belong to PDP Reform Forum that accused the Governors' Forum headed by (former) Governor Bu-

Prof. Nwosu

kola Saraki of hijacking the party. It was Governor Saraki and other state governors that gave us the PDP Chairman we had then in the person of Chief Vincent Ogbulafor. So it is not a new thing. Later, PDP said "okay, don't suspend them anymore. Let there be peace." Since then we have had Governor Okwesilieze Nwodo as Chairman; since then we had Haliru Bello as Acting Chairman; and since then we had Bamanga Tukur and then we had Adamu Mu'azu. You can see the various influences that brought all these chairmen. My position is that we should keep to the principles of internal democracy which PDP affirmed at its formation. The more you say on this matter, the more you encroach on the job of reconciliation committee. So I wish the reconciliation committee very well. Your party's image has been battered so much in the last one year and many people are saying that the party might not have the strength to weather the storm in 2019. From your vantage position as one of the elders of the party, do you think that PDP will be able to face the APC in the 2019 general elections? I have always maintained that a political party is made up of people. It is people who make up a party; it is not a party that makes people. If you have credible people in a party, it becomes a credible party. Situations are likely to change because before now, PDP had a monopoly of governance.

So any time you felt any inconvenience, you blamed it on PDP. Right now, PDP is out of governance, and APC is in governance, and it has been in governance for more than 16 months. So, you can take your own decision. PDP will then go back and look at what it did, and Nigerians will be able to evaluate. So I don't think whether PDP can challenge for power or not challenge for power in 2019 has become the issue. The issue now is that APC shall govern; PDP shall be in opposition, strengthen itself, rebuild its structures and be in a position to provide an alternative should Nigerians say so. The ultimate choice is left to Nigerians. Some of your party members have been arrested for corruption, and some people are saying that the image of PDP has been badly dented, and that you need to change the partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name and rebrand it. Do you support such ideas? The victor, sometimes, and many times, almost invariably tries to write history. But the truth will always prevail. The PDP for example, set up the two institutions the present government is using to fight corruption: nothing has been added or subtracted from the law that the PDP made for the ICPC and the EFCC. So, if PDP was such a corrupt party, why did it set up these two institutions, and used them even to jail some of its own members? It is our law that nobody should be presumed guilty unless he has been found guilty. In other words,

every Nigerian is presumed innocent until those accusations have been determined and proven to be right. The important thing for me is for PDP to keep its eyes on the ball and not lose track of the principles and vision of its founding fathers. What exactly were those principles for which your party was founded? I can tell you four. PDP was founded on an all inclusive polity because we're convinced that you can only have good governance if you have good politics. If the majority ethnic groups, the minority ethnic groups, the professions are all included and buy into governance, progress is faster, development is easier to achieve. You can have patriotism. So that was why PDP insisted on it before formation in 1998. It insisted that the next President in 1999 must come from the South and it was the North that prevailed on the sole candidate coming from the North to stop it. The second one was because the PDP believes that you must give the citizen something in return for that his loyalty to the nation. For that patriotism you're demanding you must give him something; it is not only the citizen that must give you. Therefore, the PDP coined the phrase, "democracy dividends," and that was why one major democracy dividend PDP embarked upon was the deregulation of the telecommunications sector to provide the citizenry easy access to communication.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Interview

intellectual laziness -ABC Nwosu The third thing that PDP insisted on was that you have to mainstream women and mainstream the youth, into governance to release their creative energies, and release their enthusiasm, to accelerate development. Again, that was why you found an unprecedented number of women in PDP governments, and you also found young people. It was a struggle, but as a Political Adviser I know one of the things I did was to tell the President: "Look at the average age of your cabinet." For example, in Anambra State, that was why younger people like (Chukwuemeka) Chikelu and Oby Ezekwesili made it to the federal cabinet. In Enugu State, that's why you had people like Frank Nweke (Jnr). So, there was a definite attempt at grooming younger people as leaders. The final one was that PDP believed that everything in Nigeria has to be sorted out by consensus, by agreement. So whenever there was a disagreement or disequilibrium in the polity, you found that it was approached from a dialogue point of view rather than a coercive point of view. A classic case was even when President Obasanjo had left. There was a President Umaru Yar'Adua and there was serious restiveness in the Niger Delta. What did he do? He resolved it peacefully using the Presidential Amnesty Programme and Nigeria again went back to high production of crude oil. So that's why I have also said that the current issue requires a political solution not a coercive solution. Are you referring to the current uprising in the Niger Delta? That's precisely what I have said. I have no problem about beefing up security anywhere there are conflicts because in almost every state, there is no place you don't find a military brigade in Nigeria. You have a brigade in Imo, you have in Anambra; you have them in Onitsha, you have in Obinze, you have in Ohafia. Having the military dispersed in Nigeria is a completely different issue. What is a problem for me is resorting to coerciveness as a means of forcing people into your view rather than discussing with them, finding what the problem is and reaching agreement on how to solve it. You can deploy troops; it helps in guaranteeing general security but it cannot resolve the agitations. You should ask yourself, why do agitations arise? It is because people are dissatisfied and they feel that government can no longer take care of them, and then they resort to self help. The right approach is for government to see them and say, "What is the problem? You don't need self help. Why don't we talk about this?" It is then you can get positive results. But the Federal Government is saying that the current crisis in the Niger Delta is politically motivated because somebody from the region lost an election and the militants have launched a revenge mission. Is that not logical? But there was insurgency in the NorthEast when a southern man was in Aso Rock. Was it being said that it was politically motivated? Is the one in the South-East, IPOB and MASSOB, are they politically motivated? Did it start with this regime? So I think going that direction is missing the point. The direction to go is to say, when a person is disagreeing, he is disagreeing because he is discontented that the polity he belongs to cannot guarantee him all he is looking for now and in future, for his children. So he starts from now to make you realise that so that you can now talk to him. What do you think the Buhari administration should do about groups like MASSOB, IPOB and other agitators who are crying of marginalisation or exclusion? I was at the University of Ibadan in 1965.

We fled the University of Ibadan because of the crisis. I was a commissioned officer in the Biafra Army, and fought actively in the front until the war ended in January 1970. I can understand it. When the president (Muhammadu Buhari) reminded me that he walked for 30 months most of the time. I am likely to say: "Sir, you walked for 30 months with a full belly; I walked for the same period on an empty belly, not even having ammunition, and in tattered uniform. But I bear no bitterness, because, once the war ended in January, and I was guaranteed what it was that made me fight the war, that my security will not be violated. If I stayed in Ibadan or Lagos in 1966, my security could have been violated. So when in 1970 I was assured that my security would not be violated, the only thing I did was instead of going back to the University of Ibadan I went to the University of Nigeria, and I graduated. I have since been minister in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I can't be talking with bitterness of that period. Emeka Ojukwu had no problem when he came back to the country. What people are complaining about is that you have excluded them from the affairs of their own fatherland. I will not be happy if I am excluded from decision making in my fatherland and I will not be happy if I am discriminated against in employment. I will not be happy if I am discriminated against in the kind of bad roads, which we see, and infrastructure development, all simply because I belong to a particular zone or ethnic group. It is these kinds of things that will lead to discontent and agitation. The degree of this exclusion, the degree of this marginalisation is responsible for the degree of discontent and insurgency that you're getting. Address the problem and then the symptom you're seeing will go. That is my attitude to it. How would you rate the APC, as the ruling party in terms of their contributions to the development of democracy in the country? I'm not in the business of assessing governments and administrations because whatever I say now will be taken as a staunch memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PDP view. The people, who voted for an administration and particularly a set of people, are in the best position to assess them. The simple yardstick for the assessment is that: "Am I now better 16 months after than I was 16 months before?" The only thing I can say now is that it is not a PDP view that we are in recession; it is not a PDP view that the dollar has moved well above N400; it is not a PDP view that foreign investors are moving out; it is not a PDP view that you have insurgency and discontentment in the North, in the East and in the Niger Delta. But it is my strong conviction that all these problems are solvable via politics, if you run an all-inclusive politics. If you run good politics, your politics will give birth to good policies, and good policies will lead to development and the happiness of the citizens. Then most of these challenges will go. Are you part of those who believe that political restructuring will do you a lot of good in solving the problems of Nigeria? I am not just part of it, I believe in it body and soul and I pray that God will open the hearts of all those who see restructuring as the way to solve Nigeria's problems. I also pray that God will give them the strength to continue the agitation until restructuring is achieved. I equally pray for all those believers in restructuring who have now backtracked because they are in government, that God will show them that nobody will go anywhere without restructuring. Why do you think restructuring is the way to go? If we have tried a structure and tried an-

So it is intellectual laziness. When I listen to the Minister of Information ( Lai Mohammed) saying some of these things they say, I look at him and I don't know what to say because I don't know whether he believes what he is saying other structure, you can tell which is better. I can tell you that this present political structure did not exist at independence. The structure came with military intervention in our democracy and was solidified after the civil war in 1970. We've tried it in the 70s, tried it in the 80s and tried it in the 90s. It is now 50 years we've tried something and it is not working. We should see the need to change that structure that is not working. But can you share with us your own view of this restructuring because people have various views about restructuring? When you say restructuring, what exactly do you mean? I will tell you what I mean, and I will tell you what I don't agree with on this matter. Restructuring, in the simplest language means change structure. What is the structure of Nigeria now? Federal Government, states as federating units. That was the structure that our founding fathers negotiated - central government, regions as federating units. It was working. It wasn't working without problems but it was working. Now, not only are we saying, federal government and the federating units as states, we then go somewhere and put local governments that belong to states, and transfer them to the Federal Government, enumerate the number and introduce injustice and inequity in it, thereby further complicating the structure. At the last national conference, this was discussed and it was resolved that local governments should remain the responsibility of federating units; that we should just have states as federating units, and then central government. Second thing we must change, and perhaps, the most important thing, that we have an over bloated Federal Government. This year, we budgeted N6.07 trillion. Of this money budgeted, over 70 per cent was recurrent, only N1.03 trillion is for capital projects. Why should we be spending over 70 per cent on recurrent? We should examine it. It is wrong by every standard. It cannot continue. Without changing the structure, you can have one 'body language' or 10 'body languages', the recurrent expenditure will still remain high. The way to change it is to have a change of structure, devolution of power and resources and leaving fewer responsibilities to Federal Government. There is no reason, whatsoever, why Federal Government should be sinking boreholes in Gambru Ngala or in Ogbaru, or in Ekiti when there are state governments. The principle of subsidiarity, which is used, even in the church, is that you give responsibility to government nearest to the area to carry out what it can do. You don't get a bishop getting involved in what a parish priest can do very well. But once you keep everything at the centre, two things

will happen. The struggle for the centre becomes a do-or-die affair and the waste at the centre becomes enormous. If you remember, recently, we had the General Mamman Kontagora report that listed about 8,000 uncompleted projects nationwide. Those projects that gulped trillions of naira are still there. I know that the Federal Prison at Nnewi has been 90 per cent completed for the past 30 years but it has not been activated. These are some of the things that you will eliminate through greater devolution of power. The third issue for me on restructuring is the question of size of the federation and the federating units. The proposal from the South-East which I subscribe to is that when you are devolving large powers, it is like pouring water from an over flowing drum; you don't pour it into a tea cup. You must have large basins that can receive substantial powers, and that is why I subscribe to regions. I don't just subscribe to regions, I subscribe to six regions. If it goes away from six regions, I will not subscribe to it. I am specific on the six regions because the six regions argument is good. You have a balance in the North; you have a balance in the South; you also have a balance between North and South; you have a balance between majority and minority ethnic groups. When you start looking for it, you will get back to 12, then you will get back to 19; you will get back to 21, you will get back to 30 and you will get back to 36. So it is either we agree on six or we don't really get to open the Pandora's Box by changing that number. Does the size matter? Yes. Is size everything in restructuring? No. Devolution of power, to me is everything. Look at the United States.... How many people know the 13 colonies that began the federation? Look at the size of Rhode Island where Brown University is situated. Look at Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire? You also have states like Pennsylvania, Virginia, North and South Carolina and then you have the big states of Texas and California which came later. In America where we see democracy and federalism working, you have big states and you also have small states. So for me size is not everything. In Nigeria, getting the balance between the powers is important. I mean the powers to control and influence the lives of the citizens for good or bad is the central issue. The fourth issue is how are revenues accruing to the federation collected and disbursed? How do we grow the wealth of the nation? So you begin to see that issues of resource control, revenue mobilisation and sharing are also critical in restructuring. I will give an example of one- it is number 39 on the Exclusive Legislative List of the 1999 Constitution. It vests on the Federal Government all powers to deal with issues relating to petroleum, gas, coal, gold and anything that has to do with mines and minerals found anywhere in Nigeria. During the 2014 National Conference, every attempt to move it into the Concurrent Legislative List failed. We adjourned five times on this one issue. We only adjourned more on revenue derivation. In the end, we retained it on the Exclusive List but recommended that states and local governments must be involved in all manners pertaining thereto. If you don't change it in the constitution, changing the name of Ministry of Solid Minerals to Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals Development is going nowhere. Asking the states to participate is going nowhere because states can only participate in matters that they can participate in their development and participate in the sharing. CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

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politics

APC is bedeviled by serious crises - Frank Comrade Timi Frank is the National Deputy Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and self claimed spokesperson of the party. In this interview with JOHNCHUKS ONUANYIM, Frank chronicles the crises in the party

by its report? So, if you set up a panel what do you expect the panel to report back? Do you want the panel to keep quiet and not say anything? So, that is not an excuse. You set up a panel to look into an issue so whatever the panel recommends you have to follow suit. If you knew you were not ready to follow suit you should have not set up the panel, you should have just allow the process to go. Setting up that panel, to make the panel to reconcile and come up with their position that is what has taken us into bigger problem. So, the problem we have now wouldn't have been bigger.

What is your take on the result of Edo election, given the postponement and agitation before the election? I am not surprised that APC won because it is my party and as a party we expected that we were going to win. We have done a lot of work, a lot of campaign and so forth and the people of Edo State knew very well that their governor, Adams Oshiomhole has performed. There is no way they would ignore the things he has done to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party. So the people trumpeted continuity in Edo State and it is base on the performance of Adams Oshiomhole that was why we were very confident in the election that we would win clearly. During the governorship primaries in Edo State, there were grievances , people felt that the primaries was not that transparent, based on that APC was going to lose Edo. Now this has not come to pass would this also be the same in Ondo election where the party is having problem with its governorship primaries? Well, Edo and Ondo are two different things. In Edo the appeal panel accepted, effected and confirmed the primaries but in the case of Ondo, we have to be very careful; we have to make sure we must reconcile forces for us to win Ondo State because the two cases are different. The case in Ondo, just like what he former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said in his press release to the party that you can make the law and you go ahead to bend the law. If the appeal panel said you should cancel they should have canceled- because it was the chairman and he party that set up the appeal panel to look into what transpired at the primaries. So if the panel he set up made its own recommendation, the National Chairman should have accepted the recommendations. This is why I said we have to be careful because the National Chairman has worsened the case; Oyegun has worsened the case in Ondo State. You set up a panel to look into the primaries and the panel recommended cancellation, and the National Working Committee met and majority of the members still stood by that and told the National Chairman to cancel the primaries, yet the National Chairman went through the back door with his own powers by submitting the name of Rotimi Akeredolu. Don't you think that alone would anger some persons and a lot of party faithful in Ondo State? So, the case between Edo and Ondo states are two different things. But to me, if we lose in Ondo State, Odigie-Oyegun should be held responsible because he took us into the trouble. So, it is a very serious issue and this is why the National Leader of our party and founding father of our party, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who believes that Odigie-Oyegun should have respected the rules of the party by canceling the primaries is saying that the chairman must resigned. You should know that it is a very serious case for one of the national leaders and a founding father of this party to come out publicly to say the National Chairman of our party to resign â&#x20AC;Śthat is a very serious case. Again you can see the position of the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar

Frank

also condemning the process because of the manner and way Odigie-Oyegun handled the issue of Ondo State. So, if today APC loses Ondo State it would not be because we are not popular, it would not be because we are not meant to win, it would be because of the way and manner Odigie-Oyegun handled the processes. So, as a party we would try to see how to reconcile these issues, we would try to see how to put up a structure that would try to win Ondo State but in case we lose, I repeat and insist that Odigie-Oyegun should pay the price. This is my position. Have you seen the opinion of the National Legal Adviser of APC, Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN) on the Ondo primaries and the appeal panel report recommendations and his advice that the party should not temper with the result of the primaries? All I have to say is that whether he advised as the National Legal Adviser of the party or not, this is a party and you should understand me. As a party you have the duty to go with the majority views of the members of the party and that is why we have the NWC as an organ of the party when scenarios like this arise. What we expected was for Odigie-Oyegun to call an emergency National Executive Committee meeting to allow a bigger picture of the party take a decision on whether to cancel or not. The legal adviser is said to have political issue with what was transpiring in Ondo State. So base on his own grounds he gave his advice to favour his own position. But as far as I am concerned, that is not the issue for now, mismanagement has been done and so somebody must take the responsibility of that mismanagement. That mismanagement is done by the national chairman. If the party members did not support your decision why did you take backyard door

to go submit somebody's name? As far as I am concerned Odigie-Oyegun took the backyard door to take that decision without approval, without consulting widely with party leaders. Did he consult before he took that decision? The answer was no, and this is so because he wants to be taking decisions all the time on his own as chairman and that is why he has failed to put up processes where people can go and make their complaints. This is why he has failed to form the organ in the party called the BoT, six months down the line. The last time we had our NEC meeting we made it very clear in that meeting; we said and we agreed that we should put up a process together either we will call it elders council or BoT. That body would be the body that party members can lay their complaints to if the thing is beyond what the NWC or the NEC can handle but again because we don't have the BoT or Elders Council in place; it gives room for Odigie-Oyegun to manage the party the way he wants. It has been six months down the line that we have not called for NEC meeting in this party; we have not called for leadership meeting; we have not called for caucus. There is no organ of this party that has met even when there are critical issues to discuss. Odigie-Oyegun has not been able to keep to date as we agreed to do mini-convention to fill up vacant positions and so forth, nothing has been done. Party primaries are very difficult and sensitive issues. Do you ithink that if that primaries was cancelled as recommended by appeal panel it would also not have widened the crisis in Ondo APC? I don't think so. That would have united the party the more because it was not just one person that recommended the cancellation, it was the panel. Why did he set up a panel if he knew he was not going to abide

With what is happening now, the thinking is that there is no internal democracy in APC. Do you agree with this that there is no difference between APC and PDP? I will agree with you base on some certain things witnessed in this party today. We should have been the party of example but again, it seems that we are failing. If the top cannot do it then the bottom should. The top means the leadership of the party, led by Odigie-Oyegun and that is why some of us consistently are saying that he should go. When I started this struggle of Odigie-Oyegun should go I foresaw problems that he was going to take this party into. Let me tell you something, he was onetime National Chairman of the ANPP. Tell me what was the outcome of all the decision he took as National Chairman of ANPP? He later left ANPP with more crisis than he met ANPP. So the same thing he is doing now here again in APC. I have foreseen the incompetence of his leadership as the chairman of this party long time ago. What I saw early, my leaders could not see that but thank God today people have started speaking out. People like Bola Ahmed Tinubu have started speaking, people like Atiku Abubakar have started speaking and I tell you more leaders of this party would start speaking. So the only option we have is for OdigieOyegun to go. l am appealing to Mr. President to take this opportunity to save our party instead of saving him. If he does not save this party as the President of Nigeria and Odigie-Oyegun continues to be there as the National Chairman, I bet you he will put us into more crisis. The wrangling that is already there would be difficult to reconcile. I tell you the truth. There should be no need for the president to put any machinery to reconcile him and anybody in the party. There is no need. Forget about it, OdigieOyegun can't lead this party anymore, there is no need, we cannot pretend about it. He can't lead this party anymore; we would not accept it. We must rise to make sure that fair play and justice must take place in this party. For example how can we have a chairman that loses his polling unit in an election that is a big blow for our party? That alone if l am PDP l would celebrate even if we did not win the election. That we defeated APC National Chairman in his polling unit is a big achievement. The people say we don't want you anymore and let me tell you if there is one battle I want to fight it is to make sure Odigie-Oyegun leaves as chairman nothing can stop this battle. Is it only Odigie-Oyegun that should go or all the NWC? Odigie-Oyegun should go; he is the problemâ&#x20AC;ŚFirst and foremost, do you know the amount of crises that are rocking our party that Odigie-Oyegun has been denying and saying there is no crisis in the party? We know that APC as party has crisis in so many states. Let me give you some examples. States like Bayelsa, Delta, Ondo and Edo where Oyegun comes from. In Kano, Kaduna, Kogi and others, there are crises. There is crisis everywhere and Oyegun as the National Chairman has not been able to CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Interview

How will you assess Nigeria at 56? At independence, Nigeria was a lot just, peaceful, lovely and stable, but also offered hope of a better tomorrow for the citizenry. From independence to the first military coup of 1966, Nigeria made much progress in every sphere, and Nigeria and Nigerians were proud of their country. As at then, there was a country, a nation and a people, practising true federalism and chanting one honest and inspiring national anthem. But with the military government came full blown unitary system of government which was unleashed on us. The economy has been plundered into troubled waters; majority of our people are now beggars; politics as a profession has gradually become the preferred vocation, as it capitulates the practitioners from obscurity and poverty to power and opulence overnight. Powerful individuals have taken over viable institutions which constitute the very stronghold of any nation. At independence, politicians with clear cut manifestoes, canvassed for votes, but today, there is no ideology attributable to any political party, as what is common to them is political prostitution, whereby they criss-cross from one party to the other, while corruption has eaten so deep into the hob of the nation. The nation’s fight against corruption is not all-together sincere and properly focused. To get out of this mess, we must return to true federalism and politics should be made less attractive; mediocrity should give way to merit in the constitution, and religiosity at all levels of government, to give way for godliness. Consciously and constitutionally, constitutionally, we must vow and be determined to build a nation where no man is oppressed. Those in government at any given time must see themselves not as overlords, but as true servants of the people, who feel honoured to be called upon to serve. This present national anthem has to give way for a chattered and meaningful national anthem. How do you see the proposed sale of core national assets? If some people have so much money that they want to buy the entire commonwealth of Nigeria, why can't they loan us money? How did this thing start? The industrial mogul, Aliko Dangote: A very hard-working young man, whom I respect a great deal, is, however, not an economist. He was the one who mooted the idea, saying’ let us sell our core-assets.’ Later on, the respected Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido re-echoed it. Then there was that chorus. Then there was the doxology by Dr. Bukola Saraki. Then, I kept asking myself: was it accidental? Was it incidental? Was it a script? And then on the pages of newspapers yesterday, the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was saying that you can sell. Yes. But don't sell to cabals. That means the former President knows the cabals that hurt the national interest- the cabals that have been buying what belongs to you and me. Then who are the cabals? They owe us a duty to tell us who bought the national assets which they have been owing us years back. But to me, the ones they want to sell now are not deteriorating. Those ones are not in deterioration; they are not in recession. We are still making profit from them. $2.25b or thereabout is being generated on the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas in Port Harcourt. So, how do you sell that one off? And you want to sell it off for how much? $30bn. Then why don't you also take loans from abroad: from the Paris Club, from the London Club, from all the donor agencies and then use them as collaterals? Why don't you do that either from within or without; either from those who want to buy them now; those who are so eager; those who have so much situated themselves to buy the national assets? Why should Nigeria not take loans from them because they are so rich? If you are so sure that if you want to sell now, they would be willing to buy, then take loans from them. This is because the combination of three, four or five of them would be richer than Nigeria. So, let them give us loans. Then, when you want to sell,

It’s shocking to contemplate selling NLNG, says Olanipekun Chief Wole Olanipekun is ex-President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and a legal guru of repute. Speaking with SOLA ADEYEMO in Ibadan, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria bares his mind on the state of the nation as she celebrates her 56th Independence Anniversary. He is uncomfortable with some aspects of performance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Muhammadu Buhari politics, live by politics; drink the wine of politics, take the air of politics. And everywhere, everything appears collapsing. But I want to plead that those our God has blessed should contribute to the development of this nation. Why? You may say why do I have to donate a building to the Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo as a Pro-Chancellor? I was Pro-Chancellor at the University of Ibadan and God used us to do some things there, spiritually; I don't know whether by spiritual fixation. But I am not from Oyo and I will never forget my roots. But let me say this: Some people may be thinking that this family has so much. No! But we are satisfied in God. We are satisfied with what God has done for us. We are happy with what we have, but we are not unhappy with what we don't have. We are so happy and appreciative to God for what we have. I don't do more than legal practice and that is what I will do till I will pass on. You cannot teach an old man how to use a left hand. I am not interested in any political office and I am not begging for any position, but I insist and I have a right to insist that Nigeria must be governed properly. And I am saying that today, Nigeria is not being governed properly. There is rudderlessness on the part of the government both at the federal, state and local government levels. They are leaving things that they should do undone.

Olanipekun

such sensitive institutions like that situated in sensitive areas of the country; those that are out in vantage and vintage of such locations, you don't sell them without putting pens on paper. Let us be realistic. I am from Ekiti. Assuming now I am from Ikere and in my town, we have many tourist attractions. Assuming you discover gold in the Olosuta Rock or any others, like granite or whatever, and you want to sell, you have to give certain percentage to people from that catchment area. Has the government thought about that? It won't be fair. And you want to dispose of these national assets, then you are saying that people from certain area of the country, including me from the South West, to go to the Niger Delta Area and buy up assets. If you do that, you are not buying peace. Let me put it mildly: you are buying tremor. You are buying a future earthquake. So, people should not treat us as if we don't have common sense at all. But they said if they would sell, there would some modalities of doing that for future benefits. What do you see to that? Yes, I read in the pages of newspapers that if they sell, they would put purchasing clause. What is the meaning of that? To me as a lawyer, I say that is nonsensical. You sell this building for example, and the buyer has given you money. Then in ten years, you say you want to re-purchase. Do you think then there would be no law again? How do you re-purchase? It is just like the Yoruba adage

that says, 'Oruka ti wo owo Baba Oloosa. Lati bo, a disoro'. (a ring has been slipped into herbalist's finger; to remove it will become difficult). So, they should stop treating us as if we don't have common sense at all. And to you my brothers, my friends in the press, we have to keep on asking certain questions. This country needs a lot of debate; robust one; rugged one; one that will benefit all of us. The era of the king is divine and the kind does not do any wrong, has passed. Leaders are subjected to questioning, not to bring them down, but for questioning on what is good for all of us. You and I know what is going on in America now: Clinton and Trump. Did you not enjoy watching them on television? Here, we are making choices for America and we are not making choices for ourselves. And we must engage our leaders and our leaders must engage us. We have to go to our roots. How have we got to this sorry path? When did we lose our morals? When did we lose our integrity? Where did we lose fear of God? When did we lose working? When did we start to separate ourselves from the injunction of God as recorded in the Book of Genesis that men, including women also, that out of the sweat of the browse, you will have your food? Nowadays, everybody wants to be a billionaire every day. We no longer question people about how they make their money. How did you amass your wealth? How did you become a millionaire or billionaire? Most people in Nigeria now want to live on

But why is the Federal Government not listening to your pieces of advice going by your status in the country? In which way have you tried to reach out to the government to advise them? Those who know me, know that at my level, I make interventions when the need arises. When you start talking every day, at times you will see yourself as a nuisance and or like someone who is going gaga. But occasionally, we make interventions, but ideally, let's face it: in a country that wants revival, the leadership of that country will identify those who matter. They will identify people of substance who can give their all, not beggars. I don't want anything from anybody. I don't even want to be a minister. I don't pray to become a governor; I am satisfied with where I am. I have helped a lot of people in my areas and various other areas. So, it is not my duty to be going cap-in-hand to be going to any governors' office or to any corridor of power to say that I want to advise them. A situation where you have legal issues in the country and people like us who have assisted many people to get to seat of power; a situation whereby my friend-governor who has legal problems do not contact me, I don't think it is my duty to go and beg him to contact me. Who loses? The country loses in such a situation. In a situation where we are talking about economic recession, who are the people who are managing our economy? What do they know about economy and economics? It is not everything about the past governments that are bad. For example, has anyone of us gone back to the archives to scrutinise those General Ibrahim Babangida appointed as ministers? I believe leadership must not be intimidated by some people in the country, rather call them, use them and tap their brains, tap their resources. I am not an Igbo man, neither am I from the CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

politics

Unregistered company and the N19bn contract palava

former president of this country once described Nigeria as a wonderland. It is unfortunate that at 56, we still hear bizarre stories about how government business is being run in the country. Every day, ghost workers are uncovered in different departments of government. Dead people are still ‘receiving’ salaries because their names are on government pay roll many years after their death because some unscrupulous elements want to undo the government. Pensions departments are worst hit by these kinds of activities. There are also stories of contract splitting, fictitious contracts and abandoned contracts. But a revelation last week by the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Rail Contracts that an unregistered company was awarded a N19billion contract in 2011 came as rude shock not to a few Nigerians. The question is which company was that? Who awarded the contract? Was the company actually unregistered? Was the contract subjected to the laid down procurement processes? These questions are begging for answers and until the ad hoc committee completes its assignment, these answers will remain elusive. Fillers from the committee led by Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma repCONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

spanning several days, a final vote was held by the NWC. Before hand, NWC members agreed that the decision of the majority would become the stance of the party. Such is the way of democracy. The NWC voted six against five to cancel the fraudulent results and hold an honest primaries. For a moment, it seemed the party would restore its integrity by giving democracy a chance. However, those who sought to scam an entire state would not let the vote of 11 people spoil their enterprise. “After the NWC vote, a noticeably agitated Oyegun proposed the NWC engage in prayer before concluding the meeting. Adhering to his request, NWC members began to pray. Seeing that the others had taken his bait, Oyegun used the prayerful interlude to secretly excuse himself from the meeting. “Oyegun arrogated to himself the right to submit the name of Rotimi Akeredolu to INEC as the candidate of the party. Truth has finally come to light. There exists a regressive element in the party that cares nothing for the progressive ideas upon which this party was founded. They joined the APC because it was the best ride available at the time. Now they want to guide the party into the ditch. They want to turn the party into a soulless entity incapable of doing good, just like they are. When such a person tastes power, they shed all good restraint. They come to abuse the trust given them as if they are the owners of that trust and not its mere custodians. These people did little to build the party but now will do much to wreck it. “Our party was to stand for change. Oyegun and his fellows seem to be on a different wave length. They are the cohort of ‘Unchange.’ The APC wants to guide Nigeria into a better tomorrow. Oyegun and the cohort of ’unchange’ want to pull Nigeria back into the past where rigging and vote stealing were the old and new testaments of politics. They want the people to think that there is no alternative to their reactionary system of skewed politics and imperious government. Thus, they seek to turn the APC into a factory of

resenting Egor/Ikpoba Okha Federal Constituency of Edo State disclosed that the company Eser Nig Ltd was awarded the N19bn contract in April and as at then the company had no records with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). In other words, the company was not registered with the CAC. So, with what document did the company bid for the contract? Did they present forged documents or was it done verbally? But according to the preliminary investigations from the committee, three months after the award of the contract, precisely in June the company now presented its certificate of incorporation. The snag here is that it does not take up to three months to incorporate a company in the country. Therefore, it is not even possible to contemplate that the company had started the process of registration as at the time it got the contract. But is this permissible by the Procurement Act? Sources at the ad hoc committee said:" There was no evidence of tax payments and the company participated in the bidding process in April. As we speak the company has not appeared in any of the committee's investigative hearings since last year. We've sent mails to the address they gave the commit-

From the

Green Chamber ternyam@gmail.com

Philip Nyam

tee and several letters and till date no response". "We don't want to jump to the conclusion that probably it's a ghost company until the committee exhausts all avenues but our patience is fast running out". Committees warning As the committee digs deeper to unravel the mystery behind this contract involving huge sums of money, it is faced with some frustrations as according to it, the banks are not cooperating with them. "It also appears as if the banks are concealing information of how the monies were paid and this

Within the next two weeks the interim report of the ad hoc committee will be submitted but till date the CBN and four commercial banks have deliberately refused to submit details of all the transaction

is not good for democracy". But the committee has also vowed to issue a bench warrant on all the banks that made payments to the various companies that executed the rail contracts. "Within the next two weeks the interim report of the ad hoc committee will be submitted but till date the CBN and four commercial banks have deliberately refused to submit details of all the transaction. "We requested for their statements concerning the companies involved but outside two banks that obliged us last week others declined. As we enter the last quarter of the year we don't really have a choice than to get them arrested. The committee has issued several warnings to the Banks since last March and we can't continue waiting in vain". Four commercial banks have been fingered in this alleged conspiracy and the committee is also threatening to sanction the management of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) too. The Committee sources say Ecobank, First bank, Sterling bank and Skye bank are yet to submit details of money transferred to the companies. It will be recalled that the House constituted the ad hoc committee last November to look into all rail contracts worth over N1trn from 2011 till 2014.

APC tows the path of PDP

Akeredolu

the very political malpractices the people soundly rejected in the past election. To choke the APC in this manner is to kill the chance for progressive reform for the foreseeable future. Much more than the Ondo primary is at stake. Oyegun has revealed his team’s game plan: It is the destruction of progressive politics and governance on behalf of the people.” Implications on Ondo, Anabra elections Tinubu said that Oyegun has robbed APC members in Ondo State of the chance to pick in a fair manner who they believe is the best candidate. “As such, he has broken faith with the party and probably has broken a few laws. The consequences of what he has done are more expansive than a man of his scope can fathom.” Interestingly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has thrown his weight behind Tinubu, asserting that the action taken by Oyegun is not only undemocratic but can spell doom for the party in the elections. Observers believe that the latest outburst was the outcome of deep-seated griev-

ances over time and that Tinubu might jolly well been losing grounds in the party. Asiwaju Tinubu, in collaboration with his political godsons, Governors Rauf Aregbesola and Akinwunmi Ambode of Osun and Lagos states respectively, have opened a new frontier to fight the governorship candidate of the APC, Chief Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, (SAN). Akeredolu, ostensibly backed by three serving ministers; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir David Lawal; Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari, as well as the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, had emerged ahead of the Tinubu's preferred choice, Abraham. They have propped aggrieved governorship aspirants - Olusola Oke, Olusegun Abraham and Senator Ajayi Borrofice - to move into an alternative platform. The new destination of the trio and their supporters is the Action Alliance (AA), it has emerged. As at the time of this report, a meeting between the aggrieved aspirants, their supporters and the APC National Leader was still in progress in Lagos. The meeting, coordinated by Tinubu himself, also had in attendance, other pro-Tinubu members of the state executive committee. It could, however, not be independently confirmed, if the National Vice Chairman (South West) of the party, Chief Pius Akinyelure, was part of the meeting. Akinyelure, an ally of Tinubu, had stormed out of the party’s NWC meeting, when the body ratified Akeredolu as candidate despite amid unresolved controversies. Aside Abraham, who enjoyed Tinubu's support, Oke's main backer prior to the controversial governorship primary was the Osun State governor who had positioned his aide, Bola Ilori, as running mate. Borrofice was without any major backer. The outcome of the Lagos meeting, where such issues as the governorship candidate and his running mate as well as power sharing formula among the three aspi-

rants, was still hazy as at press time. All the same, it was gathered that Oke might be endorsed as candidate of the AA, while Tinubu's man, Abraham, is likely to emerge as his running mate. For Borofice, his 2019 return to the Senate has been reportedly agreed. Prior to this time, the ticket of the AA had been taken by an ally of Oke, Barrister Yinka Orokoto. ''The real politics has just commenced, if they think the national leadership can be rubbished in his base, they are joking. We will let the presidency and the NWC know that all politics is local and those who cannot win their states for the president cannot turn around to be gods now. ''We are not going to dump the party, but we shall present a formidable team to wrest power from the PDP because the man imposed through fraud cannot win for the APC, I can tell you this without any fear,” Orokoto said. These developments made a public commentator in the State, Mr. Abayomi Obabolujo to say APC cannot win the forthcoming election even if the party presents two candidates and running mates to assist Akeredolu in the election. Obabolujo, a publisher, broadcaster, stockbroker and respected public affairs commentator said “let APC present two governorship candidates in this election. Let another one come from the South to assist Akeredolu from the North, let them have two deputy governors. Let another deputy comes from the central to support Agboola Ajayi from the south, APC can never win this election. Besides Ondo State, it is believed that the current political logjam, typical of the disaffection created by flawed PDP governorship primaries in the last general elections, which led to massive defections, APC might suffer the same fate in Anambra governorship election not too far away. The implosion, an APC state chairman said, might have unprecedented effect on the unity and success of the party at all levels .

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

SUNDAY

Potpourri Trend du jour

Weight watchers community

What is 100 calories?

f you are one of those who uses calorie counting to watch their weight or as part of their weight management lifestyle, then you may benefit from this simple tip. Yeah, we all know that the average woman needs about 2000 calories a day to maintain a healthy weight, while their male counterparts would do as well with 2800 calories on similar exercise patterns. If that be the case, every little bite that goes into your mouth needs to be accounted for. If you didn’t know what you were putting into your mouth, well, here is what 100 calories REALLY looks like…

Vintage chunky mules

Money talks

Money mistakes to avoid 1. Don’t over spend Some people are in the habit of spending more than their income. These people are very susceptible to run into debt. Debt is a great debilitator against growing your wealth or saving for that matter. Keep your expenditure within a budget that would allow you save for the rainy day

2. Choosing price over value It is more important to consider the value of a product rather than fixating on the price. In the long run, a N15,000 pair of shoes of high value and good quality will last you many years, as opposed to the N7000 equivalent that is of poor quality which will get bad shortly after. 3. Not adjusting finances after big life changes After big changes in your life, it is very important that you adjust your finances accordingly otherwise; they will affect your income and expenditure negatively. For instance, after getting married, a wise person would sit down and look at their finances and make the necessary adjustments that would ensure that you can still save. 4. Find ways to increase income After making all those important adjustments following a big life change, you know that your expenditure is likely to increase. If you have not made plans to increase your income, now is the time to access as many alternative money making ventures as possible to meet your needs. 5. Never ignore financial statements You see those statements your bank constantly sends you, they are important because they can help you plan. Find time at least monthly to take a good look at your bank statements. You can set a reminder on your phone or calendar to enable you do this.

Stories by: Biwom Iklaki

n many ways fashion keeps yoyo-ing back and forth through time. These sexy and very sturdy vintage mules used to be the belles of the wardrobe balls in the 70s and here they are again taking pride of place. They come in neutral, colour block and jewel tones. they fun ones are even peppered with some stones, beads and precious stones encrusted on them. Many ladies favour them because not only do they have a definite sexy and old money appeal, they are also amazingly comfortable and a relief from the stilettos we often squeeze into. pick a pair so that you can understand exactly what I am talking about.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Sportxtr

David Beckham’s private jet

Kobe Bryant’s chopper

KObe Bryant’s private jet2

Phil Mikelson’s second private jet

Emmanuel Adebayor’s Private jet

Floyd Mayweather Private jet

Phill Mikelson private jet

Neymar’s private jet

Wealthy athletes who ow

t has become a usual tradition to see professional athletes boast in the locker room during game recess and after playing matches in their various sports, about having a garage filled with expensive sports cars and luxury SUVs, but only the wealthiest of the wealthy can truly afford a private jet of their own. This has become a symbol of wealth, and the ownership of a private jet is one of the few items that can create separation among the multi-millionaires. The costs of buying a private jet are astronomical; the maintenance is also very expensive as a jet racks up massive fuel cost, requires costly hangar space and needs frequent maintenance - not to mention the cost of hiring a pilot and flight crew for each and every flight. Even the most extravagant professional athletes know that buying a private jet is one of the quickest ways to burn through what seems like a limitless supply of cash. Despite the high cost of ownership, there are indeed many athletes who still believe they can conveniently afford a private jet and see the conveniences a jet offers as well worth the cost. For the wealthy athletes who owns a private jet, it is believed that this will let them enjoy privacy beyond that offered by even first-class travel. Given the high-profile status of many athletes, privacy alone may make the cost more than worth it. Below we serve you a professional athletes who own expensive, luxurious and undeniably impressive private jets which they use as a means of moving about. Neymar:

The young Brazilian footballer spent a reported $10 million on his private jet, which he has used for a variety of purposes beyond just traveling to and from his football-related responsibilities. After having his Copa America tournament cut short due to a headbutt, Neymar took advantage of a little downtime by taking his private plane to Vegas in the US before heading to Japan for sponsorship commitments. The impetus of his purchase may not have been a matter of practicality, however, as Neymar made headlines when he sent a private plane to pick up Soraya Vucelic, a Serbian model who met Neymar in Ibiza in the summer of 2014. He has bought a second private jet for £6million - while his other one remains seized by police. Neymar’s latest purchase was reportedly carried out by a company called Neymar Sport and Marketing. Neymar had £33million of assets including another plane, a yacht, reportedly a helicopter and several properties in Brazil frozen in February as part of an investigation into alleged tax evasion. David Beckham: As one of the most marketable footballers in the world, it should come as little surprise that Beckham has a private plane at his disposal. Beckham’s Learjet was initially purchased to ease his frequent travel between his overseas playing commitments and his US-based family, but most recently his jet was in the news because he used it to fly players and parents from his young son’s team to a tournament in Germany.

Samuel Eto Fils: It’s not new knowledge that soccer stars are one of the riches sport stars on the planet. An example of one of those socce stars is former Sampdoria and Cameroonian striker, Samue Eto’o Fils. The very gifted striker shared a photo of was spot ted cuddling with his wife, Ira Lou Georgette before catching a flight on their private jet.

Magic Johnson: Former NBA stars, Johnson owns a Gulfstream G-III tha has been at the center of some of his biggest business deals Johnson reportedly sold his five percent stake in the Laker while traveling on the jet, and he also used it to fly Adrian Gonzalez, Josh Beckett and Nick Punto from Boston to Lo Angeles when the Dodgers traded for the triumvirate in Au gust of 2012 (Carl Crawford was also included in the trade, bu was on the DL at the time and not on the flight). Johnson’s cal sign, N32MJ, makes reference to the Hall of Famer’s initial and his jersey number.

Sergio Garcia: Sergio Garcia is one of the best golfers who have never won a major championship before in his career. His career earn ings have nonetheless enabled him to buy a private jet to fly him from tournament to tournament in style and comfort Garcia’s Hawker 850 provides a spacious cabin suitable fo up to eight passengers and can cruise at a top speed of nearly

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

ravaganza

Michael Jordan Private Jet

Cristiano Ronaldo Gulfstream G200 jet

Magic Johnson’s private jet

Michael Schumacher’s private jet

Tiger Woods private jet

Samuel Eto Fils private jet 2

Sergio Garcia Private Jet

wn expensive private jets

st er el tg

at s. rs n os uut ll ls

n ny t. or y

450 knots. A well-traveled golfer, Garcia views his private jet as a practical means of transportation that keeps him well rested for competition. Alex Rodriguez: Though Rodriguez’s private jet is not emblazoned with “King A-Rod”, the New York Yankee baseball star does indeed make frequent use of his Gulfstream, often using it to fly to Las Vegas, Miami, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Key West and numerous other locations. A-Rod’s plane once skidded off a runway while landing in Burbank, California in 2006, but that incident has not shaken the slugger’s faith in traveling via his 22-seat private jet. Tiger Woods: Not many guys can bounce back from a $110 million divorce settlement, and still afford to buy a $53 million private jet. But then again, not many guys are Tiger Woods. Although Tiger hasn’t won on the PGA Tour since 2013 - thanks to his ridiculous endorsement deals - Forbes estimates Tiger will earn $50 million in 2015. In addition to his super exclusive $53 million Gulfstream G550, Woods paid $20 million for a 155-foot yacht in 2004, and $60 million for a mega mansion in Jupiter, Florida. His ego might be hurt, but his wallet is just fine! Michael Schumacher: The career leader in Formula One wins with 91 in total, Schumacher’s net worth approaches $800 million, and he

spent some of those career earnings on a Falcon 200 private jet. The Falcon 200 seats nine passengers and tops out around 460 knots while boasting luxury accommodations that include a full galley. The jet cost Schumacher approximately $22 million, which is somehow more expensive than the $7 million man-made island that was given to the driver as a retirement gift from the crown prince of Dubai. Kobe Bryant Bryant makes the list not because he owns a private jet, but rather because he owns a helicopter that he uses to travel to home games. With three homes in Orange County, his commute could indeed be lengthy if he chose to drive, especially when factoring in the potential for heavy traffic in Los Angeles. Using his exorbitant wealth on a helicopter to avoid what could be hours sitting in traffic actually makes some sense. Of course, most would just move closer to their place of employment rather than buy a helicopter to commute, but what fun would a fourth house or an LA apartment be for one of the highest-paid players in the NBA? Phil Mickelson: As one of the best golfers of his generation, it is no surprise that Mickelson’s career earnings and endorsement deals have allowed him to live a life of luxury that includes a spacious estate in Rancho Santa Fe, California worth over $7 million. Like many other golfers, Mickelson’s demanding PGA Tour schedule led him to buy a Gulfstream jet worth $60 million

that is equipped with a pair of Rolls Royce engines. Up to 14 passengers can enjoy Internet access, TV and media players while traveling on Mickelson’s private jet. Michael Jordan There would be no mistaking Michael Jordan’s jet as belonging to anyone else, as the Gulfstream IV features a Carolina Blue colour scheme that includes the iconic “Jumpman” logo on the tail. The jet’s call sign, N236MJ, features Jordan’s initials, his uniform number and the number of NBA titles he won as a player. The customized jet can reach a speed over 500 knots and is powered by dual Rolls Royce engines. Floyd Mayweather When your self-applied nickname is “Money” and you bill yourself as the head of an entourage known as “The Money Team,” it is not too hard to figure out what motivates you. As one of the wealthiest athletes in professional sports, Floyd Mayweather, is not shy about showing off the spoils of his boxing success, which include two private jets worth an estimated $40 million each. The Gulfstream IV is reserved for his sizable entourage and the Gulfstream V is used by Mayweather as he travels from his homes in Miami and Las Vegas. In at least one instance, Mayweather attempted to convince his pilot to use the private jet to race Ricky Hatton from Michigan to New York. The exchange was overheard on the radio by Hatton’s pilot, who called the fighter over to have a listen.

Luxury

Homes

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Opulent sitting rooms Biwom Iklaki

here are some spaces that are designed specifically to intimidate those who do not belong there. Have you ever been in a room where the furnishing and design was done so well that you were almost afraid to sit? Well, sometimes the need defeats the purpose, which is to relax in a cosy atmosphere. However, this does not mean that you should spare any expenses if you can afford it. By all means, bring out the cavalry and stun your guests

with your state of the art designs which will leave them feeling thoroughly entertained and yet welcome. Otherwise, what is the point of the décor that will inhibit free conversations and interactions? A lot of muted colours or the good old neutral tones can do this kind of magic for you and then you can choose a colour as an accent and stay with it. Blend with gilded finishing and chandeliers to top off the magnificence of the room and watch how this wave of the design wand turns your sitting room into a stately affaire.

Weird

Falling in love, 23 storeys down

s fatal accidents go, many people have lost their lives to falls from different levels of heights. People have died falling from heights like five or even seven storey build-

Co2 shoes

id you study chemistry in secondary school, if you didn’t, at least you came across carbon dioxide (Co2) in your biology lessons? Did you ever hear about shoes that were made from carbon dioxide? Well, we should have learnt that in our computer age generation, almost anything is possible. The most striking thing about these shoes is that when you wear them, you will have no footprints! This shoe that comes without footprints is a prototype of an energy company, NRG to support their four year competition to create things we can use every day from carbon dioxide. Would you use these shoes?

ings. However, such cannot be said of a recent incident in Russia where a 16 year old boy miraculously survived a devastating fall from the balcony of a 23 storey building! Get this; he did it to impress a girl! He was being a teenager and was only lucky to have fallen onto a car in the car park below. He was unconscious when the paramedics arrived to the scene. If you were his parent, what would you do? Really, aren’t there better ways to impress a girl these days? I do hope he took a selfie on his way down, so that he would be totally in line with the modus operandi of his generation…shior!

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sunday Interview

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

We also agreed that there should a Solid Minerals Development Fund outside the Sovereign Wealth Fund. The Solid Minerals Development Fund is to be drawn from the national revenue and we said it should be operated as a venture, capital fund. It means that if you find diamond anywhere in Nigeria, it means that the money will be brought to a common purse, not shared to those states where they are found but they will be used to develop those mines, bring the minerals into the export basket and then get the taxes into the national revenue. This will be added to the oil revenue and every state, including where the solid mineral are will also share from derivation. If you do that whatever you get from coal, gold, by rites or any other solid mineral, will be brought into our common purse and we won't be dependent on oil only. At that time we won't be talking about Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), we would be talking about Minerals and Mines Industry Bill. Nigeria is the largest bitumen producing country in the world outside Canada and we have mapped these things out. I know that at the National Conference we were given documents showing where all the minerals are and their values. So every geo- political zone has something and will bring something into the sharing basket. Once you diversify the sources of revenue, you diversify the contents of the sharing basket and you minimize conflicts. So you can see that restructuring is not regionalization; it is not revenue sharing and resource control but it is a whole basket if things which we have to negotiate and get the details right because once we get it right, we trigger development. Restructuring even goes as far as security. I am happy to hear the Vice President talk of state police which gave us so much trouble at the National Conference. People said we should have the Nigeria Police and no more; that's what the constitution says and people are looking at state police as if it is different from community policing. The same people are quoting America as our model where you have Los Angeles Police Department ( LAPD), Chicago Police Department ( CPD) and New York Police Department ( NYPD) and then the FBI. We are saying restructure our own system; if it is working for America, why can't it work for us? Why do you think that some people are against restructuring in spite of these many positive sides you have painted? It is clear to me that if we are six people in a room and there are 10 pieces of meat

Buhari's blame game evidence of intellectual laziness - ABC Nwosu to share , the ideal thing will be to make it 12 pieces so that it will go round fairly and equitable. But even the 10 pieces can be shared if each of us takes one piece while we share the remaining four based on a specific criteria. We can say let the eldest take or the youngest take because they are growing and require more nutrients. We can also say get the woman among us should take additional piece because she is pregnant. It must be defined. But when you have a situation where I come in there because I am presiding, I take five and I dare you to do your worst. There are some people who are benefitting from this bad structure that we have and they are going to see if they can extend it as long as they live. It cannot be; it is not the law of nature. God is a God of justice; it cannot be. That attitude is only prolonging the sufferings of the people and postponing the evil day. As soon as we die, the problem will be transferred to our children. Today, we have opposition against restructuring because some people are benefitting from the unjust and improper system. You have this beautiful analogy about restructuring but of recent you came under attack from some under attack from some persons f that your views on the subject were anti- Igbo and the position of the Sout- East. How would you react to these attacks? My attackers even did more than you are saying. They said that I have betrayed the Igbo nation again, implying that I had betrayed my people before. They said that if I go to my hometown, Nnewi, I will be lynched. I don't respond to such things. I hold my views. I spoke to the principal person behind the attacks. It wasn't that my views were anti- Igbo, it was that my views were against the views of some of his principals especially my use of the words that some of their views were "nonsense and ignorant". It is not in my nature or character to use abusive words on anybody. So I will not go further except to say that restructuring is a national conversation. The Igbo view on this national conversation is six geo- political zones as regions. It is not saying we should return to the old region; it is not saying Eastern Region. This is wise because you can't coerce somebody into being in the same region with you. It says six geo- political zones which we

'APC is bedeviled by serious crises'

have all accepted, should be used as the regions. The Igbo position also says that there must be drastic devolution of powers, resources and revenue from the centre to the federating units. It is exactly the same thing as I said, but maybe they didn't quite understand me. All I said was that you can't equate restructuring with regionalisation because it is more complex than that. It involves regionalisation, devolution of powers, resource control and revenue sharing formula. Having said that, I let the matter go and I have moved on. I don't want a matter that is a national conversation, a matter that we are almost achieving consensus on to be reduced and diverted into an Igbo controversy. It will be counter- productive. This will be my last take on that attack. I am prepared to answer any name anybody wants to call me. The summary is that until we restructure and begin to bring out those things that are held tightly by Federal Government and making them issues on the Concurrent List, we are not going anywhere. Nigeria is in recession and the ruling party has blamed the economic situation on your party which was in power for 16 years. Do you agree with this allegation? The simple answer is no. The additional answers are no, no and no. Two years ago, the dollar did not exchange at over N200. It did not at all. It hovered around $150 and $160 but it never got to N200 two year ago. The naira run is a major reason why we are having this recessionâ&#x20AC;Ś On the one hand they are blaming PDP and on another, they

'Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shocking to contemplate selling NLNG' CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

resolve any crisis rather he has caused more crisis for the party. So, is this the kind of party we are going to use to go into election in 2019? A party that there is crisis everywhere? The answer is no. To some of us that love, committed and loyal to this party that is why we would not allow this party to die. As a young man I fought for this party, so we would do everything to save this party from the hands of those who don't mean well for the party. This is a personal battle that I would fight. When I started, I was a lone voice but today, leaders have started speaking out concerning the wrongs in the party. Tomorrow, you will see more people speaking. Let me take this opportunity to advise those other leaders that are keeping quite to most things that are happening in our party to start speaking out now. Silence is a crime in an unjust society. Talking about crisis in the party and Odigie-Oyegun has not been able to resolve any of them, are you in anyway surprised that the President is not even looking the way of

the party and the crisis in the party? If you had listened to me earlier, I said I am disturbed about what is going on in this party and I am appealing to the President once more that his silence over issues in the party would not help us. He is the leader of the party and as a party we should be able to have a strong structure to support him. If we are not united how can we support him as a party? We can only support him if we are united but if we are scatter there are nothing we can do and we don't want this party to lose election in years to come. I am making a personal appeal to the President that he should please break his silence to take steps that would favour party members and that bold step is that Mr. President has to know that Odigie-Oyegun cannot drive us to where we want to go as a party. So, Mr. President should please advise him to take a bow and leave and let us go to mini convention and choose a chairman that can unify us again, make us stronger. We cannot leave a chairman that is not politically active even in his own state. That is a disgrace for us as a party.

are blaming Niger Delta militants for the recession. If Niger Delta militants are the problem, you have been told by the international community that it will not take more than two weeks to broker peace with them. Those who are intellectually lazy will tell you PDP caused it; we had a major drop in oil production because of Niger Delta militants; there has been an all time low in the price of crude oil and PDP did not save for the rainy day. These are all excuses. Look at the price of oil over the years, it is on the internet. It was not $110 per barrel when the PDP took over power. When PDP came to power, oil price was about $17per barrel. It was not $110 all through the 16 years. When oil price shot up, PDP tried to set up the Sovereign Wealth Fund, the governors who are shouting now opposed it and went to court. They also went to court over Excess Crude Account ( ECA) and that became a problem. It just took a very strong President like Obasanjo to insist on it and right now they can point at Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority. Is it their creation? The NLNG was powered and driven by the PDP administrations. The dividends which they shared in giving their bailout fund was NLNG proceeds being preserved to power the Brass LNG; now the Brass LNG cannot go on. You said they PDP didn't save but Nigeria had a major debt of about $30 million which they paid off and by so doing we got an $18 million reprieve. So it is intellectual laziness. When I listen to the Minister of Information ( Lai Mohammed) saying some of these things they say, I look at him and I don't know what to say because I don't know whether he believes what he is saying. When PDP came into government and inherited less than $3 billion left by the military. It also got contractor debts. Did you hear President Obasanjo moan and complain about the military regime that preceded him? I think that the problem is intellectual laziness. They should get over this campaign mode and fixation with PDP and get on with the job for which they were elected. The job is doable. They should better believe it, this job is doable. They can get out of recession but they cannot get out of recession if they spend all their energies and creativity in playing the blame game.

Niger Delta, but when you are talking about economic revival and restructure and you are not calling someone like Pat Utomi. (At least I have not mentioned a Yoruba name so that somebody won't say I am tribalistic). But wherever you have a nation that is held captive, you have to use those you have. Obasanjo was talking about cabals, who are the cabals? Let him mention names. He is our former president, so there should be no cabals. I have noticed some things that successive governments and Head of States have been held captive by powerful individuals and those powerful individuals don't have the interest of Nigeria at heart. They are narrow-minded and full of selfcenteredness. That is what they pursue all the time. And where are we now? A sorry path. With your global experience, do you know some nations that have experienced this type of recession without selling their assets? Did Ethiopia, that was ravaged by drought, the fastest growing economy in Africa to-

day, sell off her assets? Ethiopian Airlines is one of the few airlines in the world that are making profit. Ethiopia has about two to four multinationals that they are using to revive the economy. You want to partner with China; well China has a national company that is used to catch businesses everywhere in the world. But sadly, Nigeria remains the only country that does not have its flag flying in the air. Above it all let us start with this principle: 'do as I do and not do as I say'. And in that wise also, we need to plead with Mr. President. He needs to engage with Nigerians more. I don't want to be hearing what the President says through the aides every time. I want to hear the President myself. And my children and grand children want to hear what the President is telling them. That was how people like us grew up. I listened to and heard the likes of Obafemi Awolowo speak; I heard Samuel Akintola and others, not the tales from Femi Adesina my dear brother or Shehu Garba. The President must engage and feel the pulse of the people, and again, there is too much distance and too much gap between the government and the governed. They need to be told that fact.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Features Assemblies of God Church’s crisis: Fable, fiction and facts p.33

Interview Sell government properties, not assets p.50

News

God is angry with the wicked (2) p.35

FAITH

Sale of assets: Consider options – Martins, Muoka others

Tai Anyanwu

he Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins, has lent his weighty voice to the deluge of calls asking President Muhammadu Buhari not dabble into selling off the nation’s critical assets in his desperate search for solution to Nigeria’s ailing economy. Following recent calls on the Federal Government to sell government’s assets as a way of helping the nation climb out of recession by business mogul, Aliko Dangote and some other advocates, media reports have quoted the Presidency and state governors as tilting towards backing the suggestion. However, a number of eminent Nigerians, including some notable men of God, are vehemently opposed to towing such a path. In a statement issued in Lagos during week, Archbishop Martins reiterated that selling off the nation’s assets to private concerns at this period in time would be counter-product. He added that selling Nigeria’s assets in the name of revamping a comatose economy is a wrong decision that is tantamount to mortgaging the future of the entire country for a short period of palliative. The Archbishop also wondered why the hurry to sell the nation’s assets at this period in time rather than explore more realistic and far-reaching measures that would take the nation out of the woods without compromising the future of the masses. Martins insisted that there is no guarantee that outright sales of government assets would impact positively on the nation, especially considering the chequered history of privatization exercises carried out in past years. His words: “We have seen from time past that selling off our national assets has not yielded much dividend. Indeed, on the contrary, it has been mission in futility. Take the case of PHCN for instance, we are all witnesses to the fact that supply of electricity has not improved despite the fact that it has long been sold to private individuals. “We also know what has become of NITEL, NIPOST and a grand national monument that was once the Nigerian Airways. Even then, why should government toy with the idea of selling off a profit making organisations like the NLNG? Something is not right somewhere.” While calling on President Buhari to urgently consider a drastic reduction of the salaries and allowances of public office holders and politicians as a first step towards conserving funds, Archbishop

Adewale Martins

Tai Anyanwu Head, religous Desk titus.anyanwu@newtelegraph © Daily Telegraph Publishing

Christian, Muslim children plan to end Syrian war

uslim and Christian children in Aleppo, Syria, will join together next month in prayer to end the ongoing conflict that is taking more and more lives.

ChristianToday.com reports that over the weekend the short-lived ceasefire was broken and bombing attacks resumed. More than 90 people died on Friday and more than 100 died on Saturday. Thousands of people are still trapped in the city with dwindling supplies. The Muslim and Christian children will unite to beg world leaders to put an end to the conflict. They will also pray for their country. “But above all, they will pray,” said Archbishop Marayati, head of the Armenian Catholic church in Aleppo. “They will pray for all of their peers. And we trust in the fact that children’s prayer is more powerful than ours.” Distressing photos and videos emerged over the weekend of children buried beneath rubble and others being dug out of it. The Battle of Aleppo has been going on since 2012 as part of the larger conflict of the Syrian Civil War. “New blood will be shed if the powers behind the two warring parties do not decide to really put an end to this dirty war,” said Marayati.

Pope Francis worried about Korean nuclear test

ope Francis is troubled by the international tensions arising from recent North Korean nuclear tests. The director of the Holy See Press Office, made this known in a statement released during the week.

Muoka

Martins also wants the President to broaden the composition of his economic team to incorporate more highly tested technocrats capable of offering sound advice that would help lift the country out of the woods. Also speaking in the same vein, Pas-

tor BisiAdewale advised the Federal Government and Nigerians in general to change our values and cut down on crazy thirst for unwise spending. “We should change our values. I hate it CO N T I NUED ON PAGE 34

His words: “Responding to a question about the delicate situation on the Korean peninsula, I can confirm the concern of the Holy Father and the Holy See about the continuing tensions in the area on account of the nuclear tests carried out by North Korea.” This concern, he added, “was reiterated today by Msgr. Antoine Camilleri, the Holy See’s Undersecretary for Relations with States” during a meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency held in Vienna. North Korea had on September 9, carried out its fifth nuclear test with an underground explosion, which was celebrated by their leader Kim Jong Un, who ignored the protests of the international community. In March, the United Nations Security Council issued Resolution 2270, which included tough sanctions against North Korea after their fourth nuclear test, which they claimed to have carried out on January 6 this year. Now, after the fifth test, the Security Council is preparing a new resolution to force Kim Jong Un to abandon the development of nuclear weapons.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

faith

Assemblies of God Church’s crisis: Fable, fiction and facts

Boniface Eze

s the saying goes, in a war situation the first casualty is the truth. It is indeed very difficult, almost near impossible to separate the grain from the chaff when propaganda, half-truths and outright lies are woven and thrown up into the air during crisis period. The above scenario represents the situation in the Assemblies of God (AG) Nigeria, one of the highly respected and one of the foremost indigenous churches in the country. It would be re-called that the church had in a protracted leadership crisis split into two groups, with one led by Rev. Prof. Paul Emeka and by Rev. Dr. Chidi Okoroafor. In the past few weeks, the public space has been awash with different slants of the same media reports purporting that the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN) had taken over the prosecution of Rev. Prof. Paul Emeka, the embattled General Superintendent (GS) of the church, for an alleged forgery case. That was not true. The reports purported said that Rev Emeka had been dragged to an Upper Area Court, Abuja, (more of an Islamic court usually presided over by an Islamic cleric or a lawyer) for forging professorial certificate. For those familiar with the crisis in the AG (Nigeria), the latest tale apparently being spewed and sponsored by an interested party in the crisis, is only but a chapter in the bizarre trajectory of the power tussle. It is a clever attempt at distracting the unsuspecting public and cast a slur on the integrity and personality of Rev. Prof. Paul Emeka. It is masterminded by a dangerous gang, all in an elaborate web of conspiracy to push Rev. Emeka aside in a bid to hijack power in the house of God. Was there any attempt to usurp the course of justice through the back door by involving the office of the AGF? Yes. Have they succeeded? No. Granted the AGF has the constitutional power to take over or stop any criminal prosecution in any court, but such is under specific conditions. In the instant case, however, such conditions don’t exist. Truth is, ever since the AG Nigeria crisis started in 2014, the traducers have been changing their wild allegations every other month. The original “sin” of Rev. Emeka was that he was high-handed, took the church to court, committed some (nebulous) constitutional breaches and sacked senior personnel of Evangel University, owned by the church. But some months later when their baseless allegations were deflated, they moved on to the next level. That was when allegations of fraud, selling of the church’s property in London for over N200 million was popped up. Again, that allegation was proved to be a figment of their imagination. Not done, and in their unbridled desire to remove Rev. Emeka from office by any means, and hijack the property of the church for their personal gain; the macabre dancers brought yet another laughable allegation. This time around, that Rev. Emeka forged his professorial certificate! In any event, that is false allegation and it was never included in his original “sin”. It was an after-thought by those frustrated on all fronts in their Gestapostyle and ungodly ambition to hijack power. For the records, professorial, doctorate, or master’s degree certificates were never

Emeka

a pre-qualification to become the General Superintendent of the AG Nigeria! The church’s constitution lists the most important qualification as Bible school training and long service in the vineyard of the Lord. Nevertheless, the desperados have a mission and time is running out! Unfortunately for them, only a court of competent jurisdiction can declare a certificate “fake”, not the accusers. The opponents of Rev. Emeka, (who are in the habit of scouting around the length and breadth of the country for friendly courts), had gone to a Gudu Upper Area Court, in the Federal Capital Territory [FCT], Abuja, to file an action against Rev. Emeka, alleging certificate forgery. However, sensing mischief in their action, Rev. Emeka approached an FCT High Court under Hon Justice K. N. Ogbonnaya, who granted his motion EX PARTE in Suit number FCT/HC/ BW/M/81/16, seeking for an Order of Certiorari to move the matter from Upper Area Court to the High Court for the purposes of the proceedings being quashed. While Rev. Emeka is the Applicant/ Defendant, the Incorporated Trustees of Assemblies of God, Nigeria are the Respondents/Complainants in the case. Aside from ordering the transfer of the case, Justice K. N. Ognonnaya ruled; “THAT an Order is also granted staying further proceedings in the case with Suit No. CR/108/15 at Upper Area Court Gudu Abuja Federal Capital Territory pending the final determination of the Motion on Notice for an Order of Certiorari. “That copies of this Order should be served on all the Respondents and the Court”. What happened next? On the day that the Upper Area Court was supposed to hands off the matter based on the order of the FCT High Court, one Mrs. Charles Okorie, claiming to be from the office of the AGF showed up. And in a curious manner, she made an oral application to take over the case. A case that a higher court had already entered a ruling! Expectedly, Mrs. Okorie’s move was

Okoroafor

resisted by counsel to the defendant (Rev Emeka), J.U. Ajii, who drew the attention of the Upper Area Court to an order of the High Court of the FCT, staying proceedings at the Upper Area Court. He argued that it would be against judicial precedents and disobedience to the hierarchy of the courts for the trial court to take further steps on the matter by granting the request of the AGF. Ajii further moved the court to refuse the application, as the appropriate court to hear the said application was the FCT High Court presided over by Justice K.N. Ogbonnaya. The lawyer expressed shock over the presence of the prosecutor purportedly sent by the Attorney-General of the Federation. The matter was, however, adjourned to September 19, 2016 by Alhaji Umar Kagarko, the presiding judge. On the two successive adjournments, the “officer” from AGF’s office never showed up again. Aside from the order of the High Court to transfer the matter from Upper Area Court to the High Court, another factor that precipitated the smart move by the traducers to attempt to hijack the matter through the AGF’s office was because the certificate of the incorporated board of trustees with which the Respondents filed their suit in the Upper Area Court had been withdrawn by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and asked to be returned to status quo, which is the incorporated trustees of which Rev. Emeka is the Chairman. And since, Rev. Emeka as Chairman cannot sue himself, their case at the Upper Area Court has suffered a setback! It will be recalled that on Thursday March 4, 2014, a handful of persons under the aegis of “Ambassadors of the Kingdom” (some retired pastors and GSs, but not statutory body) and a number of Executive Council (EC) members met and announced illegal suspension and dismissal of Rev. Prof. Paul Emeka, as General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Nigeria. An Acting GS in the person of Rev. Chidi Okorafor was announced by the same group.

But an Enugu High Court and the Supreme Court at various times nullified the illegal removal of Rev. Paul Emeka declaring that he was never removed. And at the expiration of Rev. Emeka’s first tenure in November 2014 (He became GS in November 2010 on four-year tenure), he was re-elected for a second tenure and other vacancies created by the exit of Rev. Okoroafor’s group were filled. The resort to courts and media assault against Rev. Emeka ensued as a result of frustration. But it is pertinent to purse and ask at what cost are all these humongous amount of money being wasted on courts and fake publications against Rev. Emeka? For the records again, on the issue of alleged forgery and purported takeover of prosecution by AGF, there are more than 15 publications and advertorials! This is indeed at a great cost. The question is what do they want to achieve? It is simple - they simply want to put the AGF and the IGP under pressure through emotional blackmail, into taking certain actions against common sense and legal precepts. They failed in such gambits in the past. The cost implication of the media wastage is simply mind burgling. Where do they get the money they are spending on legal and media works? Yet they cannot pay pensions to retired ministers. At the last count, it was estimated that the accumulated pension fund of retired ministers (which is the 10 per cent of their salaries when in active service), called “Assemblies of God Ministers Benefit Scheme” amounted to N3.3 billion in the last 16 years. Yet the retired ministers are owed their pensions! ... hence desperate attempt to win the “battle” at all cost in order to cover their tracks and avert consequences that will follow the scam of the century. This is also why they have rejected all peace moves and recommendations by Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and other well-meaning bodies and individuals. Boniface Eze lives in Enugu

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

News

Ancient Ten Commandments carving found

ou won’t believe where ancient Ten Commandments carving was found. A boulder inscribed with a Hebrew translation of the Ten Commandments was reportedly found in the last place people may expect: America. It is said to be the oldest known Ten Commandments written in Hebrew. The controversial carving is located west of Los Lunas, New Mexico, at the bottom of what is called the “Hidden Mountain.” The 80-ton boulder, which is still being called a “mystery stone,” a “Phoenician Inscription Rock,” or “Mystery Rock,” contains the text of the Ten Commandments written in ancient PaleoHebrew. “This form of Hebrew writing was used for approximately one thousand years and fell into disuse around 500 B.C.,” explained Roni Segal, an academic adviser with eTeacher, an online language academy. According to Breaking Israel News, the boulder is so large it may have been in its present-day location since the time of King Solomon. “The more square-like Hebrew script used today came into common use after King Solomon’s reign,” Segal con-

tinued. “Since the writing on this stone is in Paleo-Hebrew script, archaeologists surmise that this stone dates back to Biblical times.” Harvard scholar Robert Pfeiffer, an expert in Semitic languages, confirmed the Paleo-Hebrew script’s authenticity and translated the writings as the Ten Commandments, which include, “I am the Lord, thy God, who brought you out of the land” and “Thou shalt have no other gods.” Some, like Kenneth Feder, professor of archaeology at Central Connecticut State University, are saying that the stone is fake. “The stone is almost certainly a fake” because it makes use of some modern Hebrew punctuation and contains numerous stylistic and grammatical errors, he said. Late professor and archaeologist Frank Hibben, who had a reputation for fabricating archaeological data, was the first to bring up the stone in 1933. He said that he was first shown the Decalogue by a guide who claims to have found it in the 1880s. Due to the stone’s enormous weight and years of not correctly deciphering the inscriptions, its authenticity has never been proved by a laboratory.

Sale of assets: Consider options – Martins, Muoka, Adewale advise CON TINUED FR O M PAGE 32

when still I see our Ministers go in expensive cars in time of recession. This is wrong. It should start from Aso Rock, we should sale some of those planes. They said they want to sell national assets. No; they should sell government properties, not our assets, not National Theatre, NNPC and not every big thing they want to sell. “The N5 billion they use to eat in Aso Rock every year; they should cut it to NI billion per year. If we cut all these and put all these things in place then we will discover that Nigeria is not in recession at all,” Adewale said. “Then every husband should sit down with his wife and plan their finances. We don’t need to be sending our children to private schools if the public school is alright. In UK and USA, nobody sends their children to private schools. That is

where we waste money, we send our children to Ghana. That is why dollar is rising? We send them to UK, we send then to USA and to Canada. It is uncalled for, if UI is okay, UNILAG, UNILORIN, UNN are okay would they need to send their children abroad? But we need to put all these things the way they should be first,” Adewale added. As for the General Overseer of Lord’s Chosen Church, Nigerians should stop leaving the solutions to the myriad of economic, political and social problems that had hitherto bedevilled the country and endangering the coexistence of the citizens to fallible humans. “Until we acknowledge the fallibility of man and rely solely on the infallibility solution of the Sovereign God, we will continue to wallow in vain efforts,” he stressed.

Winners emerge in TREM’s scripture quiz challenge

Chidiebere Ejike

embers of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Ipaja, Lagos, were last Sunday impressed by the good knowledge of the Bible displayed by children who participated in its 2016 edition of the Scripture Masters Bible Quiz Competition. The competition, which was won by Ayandiji Adekunle, had Ihejieto Pre-

cious and Ahonye Jessica as first and second runners-up respectively. The other finalists were Chidi Seth, Mba Chukwuemeka and Okegbe Ijeoma. While Adekunle was rewarded with the sum of N150, 000, Ihejieto and Ahonye, were rewarded with N100, 000 and N50, 000 respectively. In an interview with Sunday Telegraph, Adekunle said he never expected to win the competition, saying it was not easy preparing for the contest.

He said: “I must say that it was really tough preparing for this competition since the first stage. The difficulty was such that I never expected I would emerge the winner. All I can say is that it is by the grace of God that I won the competition.” He added that his victory could be attributed to the huge support, prayers and encouragement he got from his family, friends and colleagues. The quiz competition which is the first Bible

Quiz Reality TV Show in Nigeria was organized by the Young Men Christian Fellowship of TREM in collaboration with God’s Army Bible College. In his opening remarks, the Team Master, Femi Ogunbiyi, noted that the competition is aimed at promoting the study of the scriptures among Christians especially the youths. He appreciated the General Overseer of TREM, Bishop Mike Okonkwo for the unflinching support he gave to them.

L-R: Assistant General Secretary, Finance, Bible Society of Nigeria, Pastor Kola Sokunbi; Senior Pastor of Shepherd’s Flock International Church, Reverend Tony Akinyemi and Assistant General Secretary, Publishing, Bible Society of Nigeria, Pastor Victor Oluwadamilare during Reverend Akinyemi’s visit to Bible Society of Nigeria in Apapa, Lagos, recently

Show no favouritism, unite Nigerians –Cleric counsels Buhari

he Minister in charge of God’s Goodwill of Grace Ministries, Lagos, Apostle Solomon Paul, has advised the government of the day to avoid any action that will portray President Muhammadu Buihari as a leader that is sympathetic to a particular section of Nigeria. The clerics rather charged the President to rather strive to unite the citizens to save the nation’s economy, keep the noble objective of the nation’s founding fathers in focus and ensure that Nigerians do not die of hunger. Apostle Paul gave the counsel while fielding questions from our correspondent. According to the cleric unless the President shows himself as dispassionate and unbiased leader the nation’s economy may not lift up from the current economic recession with it full potentials. He also advised Nigerians to take prayers seriously saying: “The Lord told me except the leader we have today - the President -is ready to bring his children together without bias that is only when the

economy will be meaningful. “People are complaining even though God is faithful, the people are complaining and God said specifically President Buhari is segregating his children. He should stop treating his children (God’s children under his leadership) with bias. He shouldn’t be biased.” He maintained that God knows about the present state of the economy and that it is imperative for the

leaders to comply with divine instructions. He also called on Nigerians to continue on their knees with prayer to God. On the state of the Church in Nigeria today, the cleric said Christians should not be ignorant of the devices of the devil. Apostle Solomon Paul added that leaders should be knowledgeable and know their calling: “The leaders of the Church

should go back to do what they are called to do as leaders. For instance you have a leader who is not well informed, you cannot give what you don’t have. Some people are given the grace to heal the sick, they refuse to study, the Bible says study to show yourself approved… what you don’t know you don’t know and you don’t guess. The Holy Spirit will use what you have in you,” he said.

RCCG Pastor charges youths to contribute to nation building

he National Youth Pastor of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Belemina Obunge, on Friday urged Nigerian youths to strive and contribute their quota toward nation building. Obunge made the plea while addressing newsmen on the upcoming National Youth Convention. He urged the youths to look inwards and use their various skills to move the nation out of its current challenges. The cleric said that in spite of the current economic challenges confronting the country, youths

could still make positive impact that would reflect on the country’s fortunes. According to him, youths are called to live a life of impact and without them there would not be a future for the country. “Nigerian youths should search within and see what they can do in a time like this; they should ask themselves what gift they have that they can make manifest. “Nigerian youths should manifest the skills they have, start small and be the solution in their little corner,’’ he said. He said that every youth has a good potentials and what it takes to make the country

better. “They should not compare themselves with others but look inwards and manifest the gift in them. “They should look for mentors that will encourage them to be better,’’ Obunge said. Obunge said the convention was important and significant to the nation and the church, adding that the church was committed to youths making exploits and breaking barriers. “ The church has deemed it necessary to provide platforms like the Redeemed Initiative for Skills & Empowerment (RISE) and Nigeria Shift for the youth.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Insight

Rev. Femi Akinola www.thehebrewsng.com

01-790 3163; 0808 584 5864

The mystery of altar & sacrifice

any lives and destinies have been made desolate because they lack this understanding and weren’t sensitive enough to embrace the truth about the altar dimension in winning the battles of the spirit. Many Christians prefer prayer to sacrifice because they don’t understand that this is the fastest means of getting something in the spiritual realm. THERE MUST BE AN EXCHANGE. Before Elijah called down fire, he sacrificed to God; this is the law of the battle seed. Many believers are aggressive in the school of prayer, going from one Prayer Mountain and meeting to another in their quest for solution to lives’ challenges. Have you ever taken time to examine the level of result and impact between a praying church and a giving church? When Elijah was faced with the prophets of Baal, he engaged the mystery of that altar and sacrifice. “And he used the stones to rebuild the altar in the name of the Lord. Then he dug a trench around the altar large enough to hold about three gallons. He piled wood on the altar, cut the bull into pieces, and laid the pieces on the wood.” I Kings18:32-33 (NLT). Another example is the heathen king who was faced in a battle with the trio of Israel, Judah &Edom in IIKings3. “And when the king of Moab saw that the battle was too sore for him, he took with him seven hundred men that drew swords... Then he took his eldest son that should have reigned in his stead, and offered him for a burnt offering upon the wall. And there was great indignation against Israel: and they departed from him, and returned to their own land.” IIKings3:26-27 The Moabites engaged in a battle with the Israelites, meanwhile, God had through His servant Elisha promised to deliver the Moabites into their hands (verse18). This was actually the case but for that the king of Moab understood this mystery of sacrifice and used it. This underscores the power of sacrifice. It does not matter who is using it. In other words, if your tormentors get hold of this mystery and use it against you who is a child of God, they will have a field day at your expense. The Bible says that after the king of Moab offered his son (a painful sacrifice indeed), there was great indignation

&bitterness against Israel. We were told that the allies of Israel left Israel alone. There are battles in life that must be approached with the altar dimension. There is an altar you must service, your fathers serviced a particular altar but what have you sacrificed on the altar of your God. Life is spiritual and the answer to its puzzles lies in spiritual depth. “Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.”(KJV) Sacrifice is an avenue of making covenant with God and, of course, this goes with a price. Most Christians aspire for greatness but aren’t enthusiastic about the price for greatness. Salvation is personal, likewise sacrificial giving but the view of many Christians is that teachings like this have no correlation with their expected end. God is particularly interested in people who enter into covenant with Him by sacrifice. These people are considered as faithful in His sight. “Gather my faithful people to me, those who made a covenant with me by offering a sacrifice.” Ps 50:5 (GNT) There are people who pray in their travails, yet approach the altar with empty hands and they get nothing because they de-emphasize the place of sacrifice concerning their expectations. When your prayers are backed up with sacrifice, God dispatches angels to fight on your behalf because some battles in life require more than prayers. Secrets relating to sacrificial giving is one of those sacred truths God gave His children to cheaply annul the effects of wickedness. Every ordinance instituted by God has its place and significance. To disregard it would result into unending pains and torments. “…but money answereth all things.” Eccl 10:19b Whenever you approach your altar, let this truth about sacrifice initiate an act of giving because your money is a potent weapon in challenging every accuser and enforcer of evil in your life. You can pray these prayers: • Lord, as I service your altar, you shall deliver me from the altars of my father’s house and every enemy. • Anybody that approaches any wicked altar because of me, let them die before the altar. • As I service the altar of God with my offering, tithe and sacrifice, today marks my entering into the club of millionaires.

nybody who is into sin should know that God is angry with him every day. No matter how the person tries to have peace in his life, peace will continue to elude him. Even his money or position cannot give him the peace which God has taken away from him. He may decide to do many things in order to have peace, and even if there is a ray of peace, he will find himself crying, because God is not pleased with him. Many sinners, who claim to be rich and parade themselves as people without problem, die of hypertension, kidney complication, diabetes and stroke. Some of them spend their entire life earning trying to get solution but yet die miserable in the sickness. The Bible says, “There is no peace, saith the LORD, unto the wicked” -Isa 48:22. In all of God’s glorious promises to His Children, there is none for the wicked; their bitter portion is destruction. If you are living in sin and still claims you are a Christian, yet you are lamenting that you don’t know what is happening to you, just know that your refusal to repent is the cause of your problem. God is not happy with you; there will be no peace for you. If you want blessing from God, you must firstly establish good relationship with Him and be always be conscious of righteousness. It is not good that every day you will repent but after a short time return to sin even in spite of hearing God’s warning against sinners- that they should not continue in sin. You should know that many people that have refused to repent have died and you are not better than them. That they died is not the issue, but

faith

God is angry with the wicked (2) that they went to hell and will never come out is. You may be committing sin and thinking nobody sees you. God is seeing you and you cannot escape His wrath except you repent. 2Chr 15:1- 2 and 5-6 say, “And the Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded: And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you…. And in those times there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in, but great vexations were upon all the inhabitants of the countries. And nation was destroyed of nation, and city of city: for God did vex them with all adversity.” The Lord encourages those who seek him, with special manifestations of His presence and favour; whereas He warns those who forsake Him that He will forsake them, and leave them to the ruin which they deserve. Whenever God turns away from a person’s life, crisis will begin in that person’s life. It happened to King Asa. At the beginning of his reign, the kingdom of Judah enjoyed the favour and presence of God. There was peace for a long time in the whole kingdom because he pleased and obeyed the Lord. He triumphed over his enemies that fought battles against him. But a time came when King Asa derailed from seeking the Lord and Israel lived in the gross neglect

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08095139000, 08068465580 (SMS only) of God’s law, then crises started. The Scripture says there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in. Trouble was everywhere. Same in our world of today, since leaders and nations have refused to seek the Lord, thus there is crises everywhere. Every time they are talking about peace but the more they talk about peace, the more the crises degenerate, because God is angry with this generation. Individuals, families and nations that refuse to repent and amend their ways are prone to crises. Beloved, repentance is the first step to overcome crises. If you can repent now and give your life to Jesus it shall be well with you, for the merciful God is waiting to address your problem in Jesus name. 2Chr 16: 7- 9 “And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said unto him, Because thou hast relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on the LORD thy God, therefore is the host of the king of Syria escaped out of thine hand. Were not the Ethiopians and the Lubims a huge host, with very many chariots and horsemen? Yet, because thou didst rely on the LORD, he delivered them into thine hand. For the eyes of the LORD run

to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.” A faithful reproof was given to King Asa by Prophet Hanani, for making league with the King of Syria. The Prophet rebuked Asa for relying on the king of Syria and not on the Lord His God for solution to his problem. God is not pleased when He is distrusted and when an arm of flesh or element He created is relied upon than His power and goodness. By putting our confidence in God we give honour to Him, and when this is not done He frowns at it. It is a foolish thing to lean on a broken reed, when we have the Rock of ages. King Asa was told that he had done foolishly by not trusting God who had made him to triumph over other threatening enemies. Beloved, since we were born, God has been our sustainer and sufficiency till date, delivering us from many troubles and if there is any problem now we have no reason to doubt His ability to save us. It is wickedness and sin to depend on God only when we are in difficulty and have no alternatives.

How the Holy Ghost empowers for exploits

rom scriptures, we discover that every child of God is redeemed for exploits. Concerning exploits, Jesus said: Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house (Matthew 5:13-15). “Exploits” here connotes an extraordinary or out-of-thisworld order of accomplishments. It also means commanding results in a fashion that the world has never seen before. That is why Jesus said that we are the light of the world. In other words, we are redeemed to be pacesetters, pathfinders and trailblazers for the world to follow. He also said that we are the salt of the earth;

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7747546-8 (SMS only) that means we are designed to preserve humanity from decadence and to give taste to the tasteless world. In addition, Jesus said that we are cities set on hills which cannot be hidden. That helps us to recognise that every child of God is ordained for global relevance, influence and exploits. We also understand from scriptures that redemption guarantees our access to greater potentials than all the Old Testament saints. As it is written: Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he (Matthew

11:11; see also Genesis 12:3; 2 Chronicles 9:23; Matthew 12:42). This means that every redeemed child of God has the potential to command the attention of his generation. However, it is important to recognise that these potentials cannot be realised without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. For instance, after the angel of the Lord showed Prophet Zechariah the vision of a golden destiny, he (the angel) said: …Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts (Zechariah 4:6). Thus, our golden destinies are not deliverable by human efforts and exertion of one’s might, but by the

Holy Spirit. We see this practically illustrated in scriptures when fearful Peter and the other disciples erupted like an earthquake and spoke with boldness after the Holy Ghost came upon them (Zechariah 4:1-6; John 20:19; Acts 2:1-14, 4:13, 20, 5:15-16; James 2:26). That means without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit it is impossible to command exploits on earth. Moreover, it is important to recognise that until we become born again, we cannot have access to the Holy Spirit or any of His gifts. Are you born again? If you haven’t accepted Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord, you can do so as you say this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Deliver me from sin and satan to serve the Living God. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now I know I am born again!”

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

faith

This time around

ne day, an elderly man met me and told me that he was sending me, a bishop, to his first son who had married for about 20 years without a baby to divorce and marry another wife. I felt insulted and challenged him that by that time the following year, the son’s wife will have a baby. The man listened carefully, and went away to start his motor-cycle, but came back to tell me that he seemed not hear or understand what I said. I repeated “By this time next year that very woman will give birth to a baby”. He laughed, and went back where his bike pack wait and came back to understand the meaning of what I said. I told him that his son would not marry another wife and that the one with him would bear children. He left; shaking his head. I had up to three different times within 10 years called his family meetings and made the son and daughter-in-law to beg him to allow them have children, but each time he refused and he threatened more. This particular one he came to send a Bishop

Word of Life Archbishop. Moses Kattey moseskatteyabp@yahoo.co.uk

0808 770 7486

Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potshed strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, what makest thou? to his son to divorce was another thing in the sight of man and God. The woman took in and gave birth to a baby boy the following year as was prophesied. The baby was named after him. The family has two boys and one girl now. The wife approached me sometimes ago to ask God to stop the child-bearing and I told her that only when the husband would tell me. For thus saith the Lord that created the heaven; God Himself that formed the earth and made it; He hath established it, He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited: I am the Lord; and there is none else. (Isaiah 45:18)

Indeed God has no rival. Hear what he said through Isaiah the prophet about Satan or man. Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potshed strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, what makest thou? Or thy work, He hath no hands. Woe unto him that saith unto his father, what begethest thou? Or to the woman, what has thou brought forth? (Isaiah 45:9, 10) Imagine how The Message translation puts it. Does clay talk back to the potter: “what are you doing? What clumsy fingers! Would a sperm say to a father, who gave you permission to use me to make a baby? Or a fetus to a mother, why have you cooped me up in this belly?” Thus God, The Holy of Israel, Israel’s maker, says Do you question who or what I’m

making? Are you telling me what I can or cannot do/ I made earth, and created man and women to live on it…. (Isaiah 45:9-12~) Satan definitely is not a rival to God. Satan is a creature and will not and cannot query God, nor impede His works and purposes. It is man that Satan can consider as his rival. Why? As Saul was rejected by God and David was preferred and chosen, so God rejected Satan and preferred and chosed us. This prompted Saul to pursue and sought to kill David, whom God preferred, as Satan seeks to destroy us being chosen and preferred by God. Saul came to his destruction in his pursuance of David, so Satan shall fail in his endeavour to destroy us, and end up being destroyed. And the Lord said unto Samuel, How long with thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill thy horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Benjamite, for I have provided him a king among his sons. (1 Samuel 16:1)

Marriage & Family Intimacy

Bishop Charles Ighele holyspiritmissioninc@yahoo.com

07066579379/09098845521 Husbands on the other hand should make up for their wives’ lack of wisdom. Some women can exhibit some high level of absurdity with their mouths; by the way they talk to people or respond to people join your spouse to pour more fuel into the fire of trouble. When one spouse is erring, the other should be wise and pull out the erring spouse from the pit of destruction. When you know your spouse’s weakness, it will help you to guide him/ her aright in a situation where the weakness is trying to cause problems. It is not a time to throw that weakness back at his/her face and use it to abuse the spouse. It is rather a time to think of ways to help and save any embarrassing situation from taking place in your home. As a much wiser person, you would then call his/her attention to what happened if need be. Abigail did not inform her husband

of what she did to appease the anger of David. She solved the problem wisely behind his back. Probably she knew that her husband would stop her from meeting David to make peace on her husband’s behalf. Many Godly women have found themselves in the same position as Abigail. In order words; they are married to husbands who are bad tempered and often act foolishly. My advice to such women is to continue to pray, fast and endeavor to study the Word of God with such husbands. Avoid nagging or threatening him. Let your wisdom cover up for his lack of wisdom. A woman regularly but secretly sent foodstuff and other presents to her husband’s parents and family. Her in-laws then told her “thank you Iyawo (wife), we know our son has no hand in the goodwill you are showing us.” Her husband never cared whether his godly parents died of hunger. The wife decided to secretly send food to

Bishop John Ogbansiegbe 0803 341 6327 (SMS Only)

Every challenge is an opportunity to excel

he challenge before you is an opportunity for you to accomplish great things. If only you can see these challenges this way this way, your enthusiasm will be inflamed, and your fighting spirit becomes electrified, and your determination and resolution to confront and conquer become screwed to a breaking point. Consequentially, your focus shall become sharpened. Also your confessions become positive and your attitude becomes affirmative. Examine yourself now; are you ready for your victory? Or are you still filled with fear and doubt? Readiness first takes place in the mind. 50% of your battle is won the moment you get ready in the mind. Half of your victory is achieved the moment you make up your mind to fight. Mahatma Ghandi, an Indian political leader once wrote to his the husband’s parents on enemies.” You can chain behalf of the family. That me; you can torture me; is how to cover up for a you can even destroy this spouse who in not wise body, but you will never enough. imprison my mind;” that Husbands on the other was the first step to his hand should make up victory at last. for their wives’ lack of wisdom. Some women It is time to confront your can exhibit some high problem eye ball to eye level of absurdity with ball and the good news their mouths; by the way I have for you is that, they talk to people or the eyes of your enemies respond to people. Such will first blink. In other women do not care what words, fear will begin comes out of their mouth to fear you and you will and so do not care about become more dangerous the consequences of their than danger alleluyah! It actions. A husband, who is is time to confront and faced with such instance, conquer. It time to declare should wisely know how war against your probto help by correcting lems and oppositions. It her in love, make peace is time to say enough is people offended the with enough to the assaults of and repair things just as the enemy. It is time to Abigail did. Blessed are launch an attack against the peacemakers, Matt. every Goliath harassing 5:9. Shouting back at her will not bring about any your life. What shall we change but might worsen say then to these things? the situation. Pull her out If God be for us , who of that pit lovingly and can be against –Roman make her see where she 8:31. When two opposing is dragging the family to camps meet, the result with her attitude. is confrontation and Every human being the stronger force must responds to love no matter conquer and claim the where they are operating victory. You have what from. Love is the powerit takes to win this battle make can ful tool that and become victorious. you win your spouse no This was why the word matter the ditch he/she of God declared: “Nay is wallowing in. Never in all these things (in ll resolve to leave your spouse the way he/she is. these attacks, in all these oppositions, in all these Let your wisdom make darkness, afflictions and up for every folly. Prov. diseases, in all these ob2:6 “For the LORD giveth wisdom…” Ask God for stacles, in all these disapwisdom in your marriage. pointments, oppressions,

Are you married to a foolish spouse?

abal was a wealthy man and had a very intelligent wife called Abigail. But Nabal was foolish and very ill-tempered, 1 Samuel 25:25. When David heard in the desert that Nabal was shearing his sheep, which was generally accompanied with festivities, he sent his men to him to solicit a present from the service of protection he gave to him and his flock. But Nabal refused the petition in a very harsh manner. David was greatly enraged at the reply of Nabal and sought to take vengeance on him but Abigail, his intelligent wife, quickly took some food stuff to appease David of his wrath. This action taken by Abigail calmed the annoyance of David and thwarted the impending destruction he wanted to carry out on Nabal. The woman knew that what her husband did to David was not good at all. This shows that certain actions taken by our spouses might not be acceptable or might spell doom for the family. On sensing or knowing about such plan or intention, it is better we step in with great wisdom and save our families from any looming calamity or danger; which would befall the family if not well handled. Never

Mystery of Anxiety

deprivations, persecutions and victimisations, in all marginaisations , savagery, servitude, and all kinds of man’s inhumanity to man) we are more than conquerors,” – Roman 8:37. In the account of David’s conquer over Goliath, the Philistines’ as recorded in 1Samuel chapter 17, it was manifested that David was confrontational in attitude, fearless and positively confessed his victory before Goliath. The Bible records that Goliath the Philistine man of war threatened David saying: “Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands. And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came, and drew nigh to meet David, that David hastened, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled.”

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

Body&Soul

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Olori Wuraola living it up

Toyin Saraki decorated G

oing by the fact that her husband, the former governor of Kwara state, who presently presides over the affairs of the upper chambers of the National Assembly, the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, has been engulfed by a number of career threatening court cases. It is only natural that such disturbing events would rub off on the woman as a responsible wife, especially as end to the cases are not in sight. However, Celeb Lounge can reveal there are still reasons for the slim built woman to ease off and be happy even in these trying times particularly as her penchant for humanitarian services may have brought fulfillment for her after all. It is public knowledge Toyin Saraki has been contributing her quota to having a better society by working to improve lives of women, girls and newborns in Nigeria through her organisation, Wellbeing Africa. Her effort was recently recognised in New York, USA, where she was decorated with Citizen Engagement Award. The beautiful woman was elated that her struggle of about 12 years was recognised on an international platform.

oming from a royal family in Edo state, she had in abundance all it requires to be prepared for a great future, and all these opportunities she never allowed slip her by as she took the advantage in order to be a better person. A critical look at her life will also reveal she’s a rare being who is naturally blessed and born to be celebrated. Her beautiful looks are never in doubt as this singles her out as a gold fish. It sure did not come as a surprise to discerning minds when one of the highest rating traditional rulers, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife, passed over thousands of ladies who jostled for his attention to settle for pretty and elegant Wura to become his Olori. Perhaps, Oba Adeyeye never knew how fortunate he was to have made his choice of life partner in Olori Wuraola, but each passing day has made it clear to all and sundry that the flamboyant monarch could not have made a better choice as the beautiful Olori has been living up to complimenting her husband. Beautiful Olori Wuraola has no doubt been able to endear herself to a great number of people even beyond the shores of our country simply because she did not see her status as a tool of oppression or to make an impression on social scene but a to live up to expectations as a role model and impact lives positively. While her husband is championing the cause of impacting lives, especially as it has to do with the youth, the Olori on the other hand, is doing a job that could only fetch her commendation as the welfare of women and children have been her priority. For her humanitarian activities, Olori Wuraola was recently honoured by the Senate of Maryland in faraway United States of America during a program, Emerging Women’s Forum. The honour bestowed on her was hinged on her selfless services to the wellbeing of women and children in Nigeria. It is on record that Her Majesty, Olori Wuraola, through her foundation, Queen of Ile Ife Foundation, has ceaselessly identified with and put smiles on the faces of children and women irrespective of their tribe and creed. Part of her humanitarian gestures are providing writing materials for school pupils, empowering the women financially and visits as well as donating to the camps of internally displaced people in the Northern part of the country.

Duro Meseko smiles after all A

Great Times for Aig-Imoukhuede

f there is one man who has been in extremely great mood in the last few days, it’s certainly no other than the former man at the helm of affairs at one of the new generation banking organisations, Access; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede. Going by what has informed his smiles, lovers of good things, family and friends could not but join him as he basked in the euphoria as the dude days ago hit the milestone golden jubilee age, 50. Although, the dude did not go by the strength of his purse to roll out drums and distribute Aso ebi, but certainly the special day did not go without being made special in its real sense. Perhaps to toe the path of example as a financial expert that prudence is the way in this critical time, drums were not rolled out. However, a modest and classy gig was said to have been organised by the birthday boy in his London home where only the high and mighty were exclusively admitted to felicitate with him.

Fatimah Abacha celebrates

t is without a doubt that the memories of former military head of state, late General Sanni Abacha, has remained with us even in death but what he’s remembered for remains an individual thing of diverse perspectives. It has turned out that little of the members of the Abacha dynasty has been seen, just as little or nothing is really coming from their corner since the demise of their patriarch. One of them who sure has managed to remain in public light and sometimes brings events of the family to the fore is Gumsu Fatimah. Her seemingly rosy marriage to Cameroonian billionaire, Bayero Fadil, has also made her a source of attraction. After her seventh year marriage anniversary which was celebrated some months back, the beautiful lady days ago had course to celebrate when she added another year. Although, she did not roll out drums, she indeed had fun at a private party with her husband present as well as other family members and close friends. Gumsu clocked 43.

nyone who has been in tune with happenings as they have to do with the political landscape of Kogi state after the last governorship election in the state where leading candidate passed on prior to conclusion of the poll, bringing about a legal tussle regarding who became the governor, will have no issue discerning what the state of mind of afore mentioned personality would be. Influential and amiable politician who is former member of the House of Representatives, Honorable Duro Meseko, was the campaign director of Audu/ Faleke governorship ticket. After tense legal battle that has eventually seen the Supreme Court upheld Bello Yahaha’s position as the governor, it’s only natural to expect Meseko to have shared in the pain as a major force in James Faleke’s camp. The man may after all have another reason to be happy, thereby not losing on all fronts. He was made proud by his son who just graduated from the University of Jos.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul but I left him in total ignorance, and I feel really terrible because I still love him; but without good sex, there’s really no relationship. With my experience, I know there are different help sources and techniques, but nothing can replace a good penis; that’s my opinion of course. I expect your comments. I’m getting married to my best friend’s ex-boyfriend

This guy I’m about getting married to in three months’ time use to be my best friend’s ex-boyfriend. I’ve known him for almost five years now. He dated my best friend for over two years and they parted ways. My best friend started dating someone else she met at work last year. My best friend’s ex and I bumped into each other on our way to work early this year and got reconnected. Since our work place is not far from each other, we started going out for lunch together. Before we knew it, our relationship got serious and he has proposed to me. I’ve fallen in love with him but the problem I’ve now is that my best friend is opposing the relationship and is threatening to severe our childhood friendship if I get married to her ex. We have come a long way since our childhood days and I’ll hate to see us part ways like this. I’m truly confused and don’t know how to resolve this dilemma. I don’t know if I should breakup with him to save my longtime bond with my childhood friend.

Chidinma, Lagos Does the size matter?

I’m simply shocked and I have nobody to share this with, that’s why I address this to you. I am an independent woman, middle age, educated and good looking. I’ve had few relationships with men which fizzled out because of complete incompatibility. Finally I met the man of my dreams – handsome, intelligent, tender and kind and we fell in love with each other. I was about to faint when I saw him for the first time without clothes, I’ m serious. I could not believe, a man this tall, with wide shoulders, has penis the size of my thumb, and his balls together are like that of a child’s! He was very tender and lustful, but I felt nothing, just a tickle. I’ve realised that ‘the size doesn’t matter’ is just a myth, and somebody with a small penis cannot satisfy me simple! I ran out in panic, I didn’t turn back, and he didn’t understand why. I saved him the humiliation,

Iniobong, Calabar Fairy tales do come true

Looking back at my humble beginning often brings tears to my eyes but I guess God was using it to prepare me for a great destiny. My parents died early and I was forced to go and live

with my Uncle in Enugu as their maid. His wife maltreated me and they refused to send me to the university even after I made good grades in my WAEC. I met Obinna in the same compound where my uncle lives and we started a relationship. When my aunt found out, she chased me back to the village and I lost contact with him. After two years, I was shocked to see Obinna trace me to my village and propose marriage to me. As I’m writing this now, I’m on my way to the airport to visit him in China. True love does exist and I’m glad I found mine. Chichi, Enugu

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Changing world, changing roles and changing realities T his has been an interesting period in my life and I have had to re-register in the school of life to be able to assimilate some of the education that I am currently receiving. However, my position has also revealed some social flaws that I actually thought no longer exist and that will be the subject of discussion this week. I have been blessed with a new addition to my family and my children are over the moon. Me finding myself in this position is another thing, considering I considered myself retired from the baby making process. Unfortunately, my wife’s body is with me on this and so, her body has been protesting the fact that we are subjecting it to the stress of childbirth all over again. As we live far from home and still expecting some physical help, I have had to assume so many roles traditionally reserved for women. I have given the baby his most memorable baths and no mishap yet. I have mixed his formula and fed him. I have stood by his side and I love every moment of it. Well, it would appear that the paternalistic mentality of Africans still abhors this kind of support from the man to the woman or at least, while it can be expressed in the privacy of the family house, it should not be expressed in public. I had an ‘African Aunty’ come visiting and since there was no time to make a quick meal, I decided to take the aunty to a fast food restaurant. My wife was still hospitalised and so, I had the baby and my older kids. My normally chatty ‘aunty’ was quiet all through the jour-

ney. She kept casting a glance at the baby and me. Her first words in the car were: “Are you sure you are okay with the baby away from the mother?” I took it to be a question of genuine concern and answered in the affirmative. I further informed her that the baby, in actual fact, was discharged 48 hours after birth and has been with me since. “Ha. That is not a man’s work now. This oyinbo sef.” I controlled my emotions. If it had come from an half educated dim witted that is just priviledged to travel, I wouldn’t complain. But, this visiting ‘aunty’ is educated and by all means exposed. She really cannot be holding on to some archaic gender roles in this era. If her questions defied logic, what happened in the restaurant beat all imagination.

My baby’s diaper was full and he was uncomfortable. I excused myself to go change him and my ‘aunty’ asked, “Where are you going to change him?” “The men’s toilet,” came my reply. Who puts a changing facility in the men’s toilet? If I had uttered any statement, it would have been rude because at this time, I was getting irritated. I simply invited her to come with me. I asked my son to go check that there was no one in the toilet, and then sneaked ‘aunty’ in. I pointed to a baby changing board hanging on the wall. I let her out and after I was finished, I noticed her mouth was still hanging. So, I pushed my advantage and gave her a lecture on the changing roles of the genders in the modern world.

Why should the baby care be the sole responsibility of women? Rather than Nigerian men helping their wives, they prefer to get an house help to provide the care and the result? Kidnapping and other unmentionables from the househelp

I am surprised that a simple thing like baby changing facility in a male toilet will be surprising to someone visiting from Nigeria. It reveals the fact that our society wants to embrace everything from the western world, but not necessarily those cultural practice that benefits the members of the society. In Nigeria, a woman can now work to support the family, a woman can be a big player in the corporate world and a woman can be all that she can be, except get help from the husband in the area where they should cooperate the most? I don’t get it. The woman did not impregnate herself, did she? So, why should the baby care be the sole responsibility of women? Rather than Nigerian men helping their wives, they prefer to get an house help to provide the care and the result? Kidnapping and other unmentionables from the househelp. I am a proud African man, and readers of this column will attest to that. I also know that African culture provide avenues of support for the nursing woman without killing her, but as we embrace a changing world with the woman now breaking and shattering the glass ceiling, then I think it is also time men share in the burden of providing care for the baby. I know areas like breastfeeding and the actual birth is biologically impossible, but things like diaper change, preparing baby food and feeding the baby, burping the baby if exclusive breast feeding is the preferred feeding method, sharing in the bath time and general assistance to the woman will go a long way. Men, it is a changing world. Embrace it.

2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

z ne

Achieve clear glowing skin Vanessa Okwara Clear, glowing skin is a dream for everyone. No one likes pimples, dark spots, baggy eyes or dark circles. Having clear, glowing skin could seem like an impossible task especially if you have tried all the over-the-counter medications you have been able to get your hands on. There are different skin types and different problems associated with them. Every skin type has a problem. But, where there is a will there is a way. The change needs to come from within. If you can make it a daily routine and take care of your skin every day, you can be sure to reap the fruit of your hard work. Your skin will look flawless and shiny, even as you age. practice these tips and achieve glowing skin that will be the even of your peers. Nutritious, fibre rich diet: You are what you eat! Everything healthy starts from your diet. Digestive problems result in skin impurities; so diet is really essential for healthy skin. Taking in the right amount of micronutrients and vitamins is great for clear skin. Food for glowing skin should be carefully selected. Natural protein foods like fish, nuts and white meat, grains like brown rice, vegetables like broccoli, tomato are very healthy and good for the skin. Drink plenty of

water Cut out sugary drinks from your diet, replacing with water and drink 6-8 glasses of water per day. When your urine is yellow, it is a sign you need to drink more water. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pop pimples on your face It is advisable not to pick those annoying pimples. In fact, try not to touch your face with your hand as bacteria on your hand can be transferred to your face causing, even more, breakout. Exfoliate Periodic exfoliation using natural ingredients like Bengal gram flour, oats, orange peel or lentil powder can remove dead cells, dust, impurities and black heads from the skin and make it smooth and flawless. Sleep well and smart You need 7-8 hours of quality rest every night. While sleeping, keep your hair away from your face so the oils on your hair wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to your face. Also, change your pillowcase frequently; your pillowcase is a storehouse of oils and germs from your hair and face. Maintain a healthy exercise routine Stress causes pimples and exercise reduces the amount of stress your body generates; so add a little exercise to your daily routine.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

dude

Rich cultural mix

OF THE WEEK

Vanessa Okwara

igeria is a vast country with over 250 ethnic groups and very rich in culture. Each of these groups has peculiar culture that make them unique. Most times, this diversity is reflected in the mode of dressing. As our ethnicity differ, so does the fashion trend. Each tribe has a particular way of dressing that readily identify them. Take for instance, the Ishekiri’s, Ibibio’s and the Hausa’s all have different attires that make them stand out in any gathering. In most events, Nigerians love to celebrate our cultural diversity by appearing on the red carpet, proudly wearing the rich cultural attire of a particular ethnic group. Over time, there has been infusion of these modes of dressing among the people irrespective of the tribe they come from. You’ll readily see an Igbo man wearing the ‘Agbada’ of the Yoruba’s or the Yoruba man putting on the ‘Resource control’ style of dressing of men from the South South region. This trend of mixing different fashion styles among tribes has tremendously helped to bind us together as a nation. As we celebrate the 56th Independence as a nation, it’s important we continue to celebrate our strength in diversity. So go ahead and rock one of these attires this Independence Day holiday and have fun showcasing our rich cultural heritage.

Jidenna Classic man

Eunice Stephen

idenna Theodore Mobission popularly called Jidenna is a Nigerian-American artist and record producer. Jidenna grew up partially in Enugu State, where his father was a professor of Computer Science at Enugu State University. In 1995, the family moved to Boston, Massachusetts. In February 2015, Jidenna released his first official single, called ‘Classic Man’. The song has been played in heavy rotation throughout the United States. His song ‘Classic Man’ was nominated for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration at the 58th Grammy Awards. In June of the same year, Jidenna performed the song with Monáe at the BET Awards. Jidenna also received an award for best new artist at the 2015 Soul Train Music Awards in November. Jidenna was in Nigeria

last month for an exclusive launch of his debut album, ‘Long Live the Chief’ with live performance at Hard Rock Café in Lagos and got lots of rave from his Nigerian fans. He is inspired by Nigerian music even after many years in America. The Imo State born singer is an avid lover of fashion. He describes his looks as “heavily inspired by the Harlem Renaissance with hints of traditional West African design and a marriage of Europe and African Aesthetics.” He is a man who has a unique taste for fashion and his own distinctive definition of what fashion should be. He changed the Nigerian fashion scene during his visit with his unique combination of both western and African fabrics. Jidenna has made his own mark not just with his songs but also with his fashion taste.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

RazzleDazzle

Body&Soul Abiola Alaba Peters

with

08062622328 abiolaalabapeters@rockmail.com

D’banj, Ali Baba, others to honour TEE A

n 1996, when Babatunde Adewale or Tee-A as he’s popularly called started, it was rare to find young undergraduates cracking ribs for a living. There was Ali Baba, the Ambrose Alli University graduate who moved to Lagos to do stand-up comedy full time. Then there had been John Chukwu and Bisi Olatilo and their contemporaries who worked as broadcasters and masters of ceremonies, with a bit of stand up as part of their acts. There was however no stand-up comedy industry and definitely no local role models, apart from Ali Baba who was himself just navigating the space. You couldn’t really look your parents in the face and say you want to make people laugh for a living. But that’s what Tee A did as a budding undergraduate of Linguistics in the University of Lagos. Using a campus club, Theatre 51, as a local hub, weekly magazine, Encomium as a networking platform, and Ali Baba’s brain and contacts as an enterprise, he spent his years in UNILAG writing comedy skits, mastering performance, building a fan base and actually making money. Working under the tutelage of Ali Baba, Tee A learnt something fast: comedy business is seri-

ous business. He defined his own fashion style, carved his own niche as a corporate and events MC, built his own products, starting with ‘Live ‘N Naked’, and the now global ‘Tymeout With Tee A’ brand. In July 2000, he hosted the first solo concert by a Nigeri- an comedian, ‘Tee-A Live N’ Naked’ at The Muson Centre, Lagos. He also produced and hosted his own TV shows, promoted concerts in England. He has seen other stand-up comedians rise under his own tutelage. He has consistently hosted at least 100 events every year. Just like his mentor Ali Baba, he’s working on his first ever book, which he has appropriately titled, ‘The Life of an Mc’. The book will tell the story of his life, as well as the story of modern stand-up comedy and masters of ceremonies in Nigeria. For now, he’s hosting friends, partners, clients and family members to a dinner concert at Intercontinental Hotel in Lagos, with performances from pop giant, D’Banj, gifted singer, Wande Coal, and tribute performances from industry greats like Ali Baba, Basketmouth, Basorge Tariah Jnr. and many other colleagues.

Why I dumped telecoms career for acting –Genny Uzoma Edwin Usoboh

ollywood actress, Genny Uzoma, has revealed real reasons she dumped her promising job at a telecoms firm for acting. The actress, who became a popular face after she emerged Best Of Nollywood Female Revelation of the Year, hinted that she felt unfulfilled and decided to go after what her heart truly desires - acting. In her words, “I felt unfulfilled and unhappy especially during the end days at my white collar job but it wasn’t all in vain, I would say. I acquired some great skills in marketing and sales; also in customer service, both at the call center and the office floor. I was actually really good at the job and emerged best customer service agent of the month for my team severally; I have the certificates to prove it. So I would say I have something to fall back on.” Speaking on her fast growth in the industry, Genny said she didn’t get her parent’s approval when she decided to kick off a career in the world of movies at the age of 18. She said: “Well, I joined the Actors Guild of Nigeria, the Enugu Chapter at the age of 18 whilst in the university. I saw acting as beautiful and fascinating and I wanted to join in. I remember I had to borrow money to register as I couldn’t tell my parents about it then and the guild wouldn’t let me audition without being a member. I was excited about it; I couldn’t believe I was sharing the screen with my idols and role models; people I looked up to even if it was little roles I got then. We used to call it executive ‘wakapass’. My parents didn’t approve of my acting when I started, they didn’t want me to spiral out of control but they’ve come around now, and mum keeps asking me of the movies I’ve done that she can watch.” Genny is one of the popular faces on the Iroko TV produced series, ‘Husbands of Lagos’, which also stars Bobby Obodo, Bolanle Ninalowo, Kenneth Okolie, and Desmond Elliot amongst others.

2Face Idibia humiliated in Rwanda

wanda event organisers and music promoters left Nigerian legend 2Baba Idibia disgraced after they made him perform to an empty hall filled with empty seats at a poorly organised, flopped concert in Kigali. Less than 50 people showed up for Nigerian 2face Idibia’s concert at Kigali Serena Hotel. The ‘African Queen’ star came on stage at about 11:30p.m, which was after several hours of dialogue between his management and the organisers of the show. He immediately apologised to the few who made it to the show, promising to deliver ‘unique’ performances. “Hello Kigali. I know you’re very few but we don’t want to talk about whatever happened. I am going to do a unique show for you that managed to come”, he said. The RnB and Afrobeat superstar had been brought in by Belinda Umurerwa, under her events company, Kigali Entertainment Promoters, but what happened on that day left behind many lessons for show organisers. According to Rwandans, the show which would have been a success failed due to the organiser’s inability to adequately promote the show. Efforts to speak with 2Baba or his management proved abortive as at press time.

Adokiye soars with ‘Jombolo’ Kenneth Okonkwo bags honourary doctorate degree

alented Nollywood actor, Kenneth Okonkwo, has been conferred with a honourary doctorate degree by the Institute of Chartered Economists of Nigeria. The veteran actor made this known via a social media post. According to him, “It is God that makes the increase. He has increased me to Dr. Kenneth Okonkwo”, a caption in one of the photos reads. ‘RazzleDazzle’ contacted the actor who recently welcomed a child after many years of marriage. In his words, Kenneth gave all gratitude to God, “My dear brother, what can I say, than to return all glory to the author; He is my all, I’m grateful to God almighty for bringing me this far in my career and other areas of my life. He loves me more than I love myself and these are as a result of his undying, unconditional and endless love. So my dear, join me in praising God” he joyfully expressed. Kenneth Okonkwo graduated with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in Enugu State and later graduated with a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos. He later went on to study Theology at a Bible School. He started acting in 1991, featuring in movies like ‘Living in Bondage’.

Edwin Usoboh

pwardly mobile female singer, Adokiye, has continued to soar with ‘Jombolo’, her new single featuring Oritsefemi. Adokiye stated that ‘Jombolo’, which literally means ‘live and love’, is a song that can relax the frayed nerves of Nigerians; particularly as the country currently faces diverse socio-economic challenges. The Afrobeat sound, produced by KukBeatz has been enjoying reasonable reviews, and has found its way into many popular on-air music charts. According to Adokiye, “Jombolo is not just a song; it is unique because it will definitely make your playlist. I took my time to cook it, and thank God the acceptance has been awesome. Oritsefemi equally puts icing on the cake.” Adokiye is currently signed to O3 Media Inc., a management outfit that inevitably gives her a chance to push her brand beyond boundaries.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

I want to share Nigerian cuisine with the world –Nma Okpara Nma Okpara is a food and travel writer and the lady behind the popular food blog, ‘Nigerianlazychef’. Her food blog has earned her many accolades across Africa and the world. Today, she’s one of CNN’s top five food bloggers to follow in Africa. The mother of two shares with VANESSA OKWARA the vision behind her food blog and her deep desire to bring Nigerian food to world acceptability Brief background and education My name is Nma Okpara. I am a content provider, food and travel writer. I started food blogging sometime in 2014, but I gave up on it. Last year, my sister and friend literally pushed me into it again and I came back as ‘Nigerianlazychef’. I have grown from the shy writer I used to be. Now, I write about food, life and love. I feel it all goes together; that way I can tell my story. I’m a self-taught chef. I’m currently working on getting my degree in biological sciences. I grew up in Delta State where my mother went to school and retired also as a chef. I’m a mother of two children and I’m a confirmed Lazy chef. What was growing up like? Growing up was exciting. I’m the youngest of seven children and my siblings are all quite older than I. I was everyone’s hand bag and the one who stayed with my parents all the time. As the youngest child, I also ran everyone’s errands. But when daddy was home, you dare not send me anywhere. He would ask you if your legs were broken. So in a way, I enjoyed my childhood. You are the face behind the food blog, ‘Nigerianlazychef’. What inspired you to start a blog on food as the main subject? Like I said earlier, I grew up around food. My mother ran a little restaurant; which she shut down so she could go to a culinary school. I grew up watching and sometimes helping my mother cook for parties and bake wedding cakes. One time, I went to school with her and watched her do her practical. I loved the whole setting, but funny enough, I was never interested in food or being a chef, I wanted to mind my business and go to Medical School. But life throws you up and down and things begin to fall into place and you begin to see life in a different light. So, here we are! What is the idea behind naming your blog, ‘Nigerianlazychef’? Well, I love easy recipes that are full of flavour. I don’t like to stand for too long or cook for too long. Besides, spending the whole day in the kitchen does not guarantee a great recipe, so being a ‘lazy Chef’ who cooks Nigerian food, I adapted to the name and it just suits me. Would you be regarded as a food person? I’m a foodie to my bones. I simply love food. Have you always enjoyed cooking and where did you learn how to cook? I had never enjoyed cooking until an event took place in my life. I found that cooking gave me some peace. I learnt to cook some things from my parents and some, I had to teach myself. I just pretty much kept practising and still do. Why the emphasis on Nigerian food? Well, Nigerian food is not quite popular; especially when you visit other countries. I want to share our bold flavours, I want to share with the world that Nigerian food is not our enemy, but can give healing to our soul. I want the world to accept our food the same way they accept Chinese or Indian cuisines. I also want the world to know and experience the love that comes from the Nigerian kitchen. Well, I do talk about other things on my blog. I talk about love, my children and life. Everything just comes back to food because food kind of ties it all together for me. You’ve been featured on CNN several times; tell us a bit about it and how it made you feel?

I had just started blogging. At that time, I was not too confident in myself or my work. I struggled greatly with my photography too. One day, I made some rice pudding and took some pictures. I submitted the pictures to a food photography group for critiquing and everyone pretty much had something to say. I mean, in general they loved it, but they wanted me to change some things about the photo. I was too mentally exhausted to deal with it, so I decided to let the recipe go live like that on the blog with the pictures and made a note to myself to reshoot it when I got the energy or a better camera with the settings I needed. Well, I posted the photo on Instagram and people loved it, so I moved on with my life. I decided not to let the one photo make me feel bad. Weeks later, I got a message from a sister blog with the link about being one of CNN’s top five bloggers to follow in Africa. In fact, it was that same photo which I didn’t like that CNN used. And they said it was their favourite dessert photo for the year. I was ecstatic, I cried for joy, I rolled on the floor and my confidence has pretty much grown since that day. Which other places or sites have you featured in? I have also been featured on Ventures Africa, FeedFeed, Cookilicious. com, African Independent magazine and some other Nigerian websites. Are you married or in a relationship? Tell us the kind of qualities you like in your man? Well, it’s private for now. One day, I’ll say it out loud for the world to share with me. Describe your fashion style and what is your favourite accessory? I’m a little of everything, but far from classic. I’m a little Afrocentric, a little hobo chic and a little black and white in between. My favourite accessories are earrings and bracelets. How do see your achievements so far? I’m grateful for where we are today and hoping for greater things in future. I have been featured on CNN about four times, but my favourite so far is being number one of five African food bloggers to follow. I have been featured on Ventures Africa, Nigerian bulletin, CosmoNigeria and the African Independent Magazine. In the USA, I was featured on one of the largest online food communities; the FeedFeed about twice. I’m grateful for these things as they open doors for more blessings. I currently provide content and write for motherlandsfinest.com. I really want to write more and be a content provider; to tell the story of African/ Nigerian cuisine. To show that our food is not the bad guy here. It’s full of flavour, nutrition and that there’s just something about African food that is just so heartwarming and comforting; it’s like feeding your soul. Where do you see your blog going in five years’ time? I want my blog to become a household brand and not just for recipes, but for food, travel information, food stories and to blog for everything food. And I pray that God wills it.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Interview

News Nigeria loses N6.33trn to naira devaluation p.44

Forex trading offers more opportunities in times of volatitlty – Otunuga p.45

Auto beat Hyundai Elantra named among 10 best user-friendly cars p.47

Business

Paul Ogbuokiri Head, Business

paulogbuokiri@newtelegraph

Ambode, BoI, others bag CICAN Award

L-R: Manager, Operations, iSON Call Center, Olabanji Ogunsanya; Center Head, Shobhit Saxena; Chief Marketing Officer, Opemipo Alebiosu, and Administrative Executive, Francis Akinwumi, during a facility tour of the company in Abeokuta, Ogun State …on Friday

Naira is Africa’s worst performing currency in 2016 Paul Ogbuokiri

he poor run of the naira at the foreign exchange market continued this week as the currency which depreciated by 3.5 per cent on Monday, continued the poor run on Tuesday depreciation to 445 a dollar on parallel market even as it retained its unenviable position as the worst performing currency in Africa in 2016. The currency took a dive last week at both parallel and official markets, becoming the worst performing currency in Africa in 2016. The naira on Monday suffered a severe defeat against the dollar in all the major segments of the market. At the interbank segment of the market, the naira lost 53 kobo to close at N308.32, from N307.79 posted on Friday. Economic analysts have argued that the fall in naira is linked to the shortage of dollar supply and the fall in external reserves. “There is shortage of dollar supply. Diaspora remittances have dropped. This is why you can see the rate dropping at the parallel market,” said Mr. Johnson Chukwu, Chief Executive Officer, Cowry Asset Management Limited. Trading at the Bureau De Change (BDC) showed that the naira lost 5 points to exchange at N445 against the dollar, while it traded for N565 and N480 against the Pound Sterling and the Euro respectively. The naira also closed at N445, N559 and N484 to the dollar, Pound Sterling and the Euro at the parallel market to become the third worst performing currency in the

world for 2016. Nigeria’s naira, according to Bloomberg data, came ahead of only two currencies in the world – Venezulan bolivar and Suriname dollar. In 2016, the naira has lost 30 per cent of its value on the official market, following the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to allow for a floating foreign exchange regime on June 20. The naira is now this year’s poorest-performing currency in Africa. Internationally, only the currencies of Venezuela and tiny Suriname have fared worse. The top three performing currencies of 2016 are all universal currencies; silver, gold and platinum, which have gained 45.93 per cent, 25.11 per cent and 22.79 per cent respectively. These currencies are followed by the Brazilian real, the Russian rubble and the Japanese yen. The best performers in Africa are South African rand, Zambian kwacha, Somali shilling and Botswana Pula, which have gained 8.88 per cent, 8.69 per cent, 5.54 per cent and 4.95 per cent respectively. At the base of the African currencies are the naira, Mozambique new metical, Sierra Leone leone, and the Angolan kwanza. The CBN remains “reasonably optimistic” that the naira would eventually settle at 250 to the dollar at the interbank market. The local currency has been on the downward swing following a plunge in crude oil prices and a consequent decline in Nigeria’s foreign reserves. How the naira stand vs the currencies of 24 African countries on Tuesday.

South Africa

Rand 1

= 13 Naira

Angola

1 kwanza

= 2 Naira

Botswana

1 Pula

= 18 Naira

Cape Verde

1 Escudo

= 2 Naira

Algeria

1 Dinar

= 2 Naira

Egypt

1 Pound

= 25 Naira

Eritrea

1 Nakata

= 13 Naira

Ethiopia

1 Birr

= 9 Naira

Ghana:

1 Cedi

= 50 Naira

Gambia

1 Dalasi

= 5 Naira

Kenya:

1 shilling

= 3 Naira

Liberia

1 Dinar

= 4 Naira

Lesotho

1 Loti

= 14 Naira

Libya

1 Dinar

= 146 Naira

Morrocco

1 Dirham

= 146 Naira

Madagascar

1 Ariary

= 4 Naira

Mauritius

1 Rupee

= 6 Naira

Malawi

1 kwacha

= 11 Naira

Mozambique

1 Metical

= 4 Naira

Namibia

1 Dollar

= 12 Naira

Seychelles

1 Rupee

= 12 Naira

Sudan

1 pound

= 32 Naira

Swaziland

1 Lilangeri

= 13 Naira

Tunisia

1 Dinar

= 100 Naira

Zambia

1 kwacha

= 18 Naira

agos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, Bank of Industry (BoI) and Orlean Invest Africa, will join one other prominent Nigerian and corporate bodies that would be honoured at the sixth edition of the yearly Crystal Nite of Excellence of the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN), which will hold on Thursday, October 13, 2016 in Lagos. The event, which has the theme: “Diversifying the Nigerian Economy through the Industrial Sector” has the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr Okechukwu Enelamah as special guest of honour, while the president of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr Frank Udemba Jabos will chair the occasion. Other eminent Nigerians expected to deliver papers at the event are: Chairman of Nimeth, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa; Acting MD of Bank of Industry (BOI), Waheed Olagunju; DG of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Muda Yusuf and the Chairman Cosmetics &Toiletries group of MAN, Ikpong Umoh. A statement by the Organising Committee Chairman, Johnmark Okoko, said: “Al_Hikmah University, Hon. Kehinde Odeneye of the House of Representatives, Hon. Olulade Oluomo of the Lagos House of Assembly and Lonadek Limited among others will also be honoured at the event.” The statement listed some of the past awardees to include, the Olofa of Ofaland, Dangote Group, Phoenix Group, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) among others institutions and individuals across the country.

Gas shortages: Dangote turns to coal to power cement

angote Cement has turned to locallymined coal to power its plants in a bid to end disruptions caused by gas shortages and lower its production costs. “All our cement plants have been converted to coal,” Aliko Dangote, the company’s majority owner and chairman, told a business conference on Thursday, saying they would use 12,000 metric tonnes of coal each day. Dangote’s move is unusual in an era when power generation is shifting away from coal. Coal used to generate U.S. power fell in April to its lowest monthly level since 1978, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said in a June report. Natural gas, meanwhile, surpassed coal as the United States’ top fuel source for the third straight month, the EIA said. However, gas shortages have plagued Nigeria with militants in the oil heartland of the Niger Delta regularly disrupting Nigeria’s oil and gas production. Dangote, Africa’s biggest cement producer, has an annual production capacity of 43.6 million tonnes and targets output of between 74 million and 77 million tonnes by the end of 2019 and 100 million tonnes of capacity by 2020. The company has invested more than $5 billion to expand outside Nigeria in the past few years. Dangote said Nigeria has become a cement exporter generating $1.25 billion of sales as against annual imports of $2.5 billion which the country would have spent before the sector was liberalised in 2002.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business

African economic growth dips to two-decade low: World Bank

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Olayiwole Onasanya; Special Adviser on Food Security to the Lagos State Governor, Hon. Ganiu Okanlawon Sanni and Chief Executive Officer, CITC Global Consulting, Mr. Tayo Oresanya, during a press conference to herald the forth coming Lagos Food Security Summit in Lagos…on Friday PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Nigeria loses N6.33trn to naira devaluation

Paul Ogbuokiri

igeria will spend an equivalent of its 2016 budget to service debts as the national currency, the naira, continues to lose value against the United States dollar (492/dollar on Thursday). Devaluation has put the real value of the country’s debt stock at around N18.9 trillion, when considered at the official rate of N307.79 per dollar, according to figures from the Debt Management Office (DMO). The additional naira stock (per dollar) that would be needed to service existing debt will cause the country to lose about N6.33 trillion, a near-equivalent of the 2016 budget, when compared to N12.6 trillion at N197 per dollar as at December 31, 2015. It is also a disincentive for future external borrowing despite a positive debt-to-GDP ratio. “Hiding under the mantra of low debt-to-Gross Domestic Product is deceitful,” a public sector financial analyst, who asked not to be named, said in Lagos at the weekend. “The economy is in recession and cannot churn out those activities anymore. “If we compare our debt service bill without revenue earnings ratio, it is not sustainable and that is where foreign investors will be looking at to price our international bonds,” the public sector analyst said. “With more than 21 per cent of the entire budget dedicated to debt service and more than 33 per cent of the total budget being in deficit, the budget performance is now made worse with near-non-activities called recession. The reality is daunting,” the source said. The additional N6.33 trillion required to pay off Nigeria’s external debt represents 20.58 per cent, a one-fifth of its

estimated $296 billion, or N91 trillion GDP. The national debt stock consists of external obligations for both federal and state governments estimated at $11.3 billion (about N3.5 trillion); domestic obligations of $37.5 billion (about N11.5 trillion) and $12.7 billion (about N3.9 trillion) for federal and states respectively. The devaluation was necessitated by the plummeted foreign exchange earnings, which created huge unmet demand due to the shortage of dollar and naturally erased the value of the local currency through speculation. The debt report released by the DMO came two weeks behind schedule and put the debt stock by June 30, 2016 at $61.45 billion. The report stressed that the figure was higher in naira value than the $71.66 billion posted on March 31, 2016. The amount, also at current official rate of N307.93 per dollar is higher than the estimated $65.43 billion debt worth N12.6 trillion as at December 31, 2015, at N197/$. With a planned N1.8 trillion borrowing to fund the N2.2 trillion deficit in 2016 budget, from a mix of dollar-

denominated and local debts, the country’s obligations and associated service bill will rise to new record high soon. Already, the 2016 budget had a debt service provisioning in excess of N1.4 trillion, representing more than onefifth of the entire budget plan. The combined forces of devaluation and inflation, also took toll on the nation’s economic activities between December 2014 and 2015, eroding naira value, as well as pushing the sovereign debt stock to 12.12 trillion. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had in November 2014, tactically devalued the naira and barely three months later, it devalued the local unit further to 199/$. Besides the concern for eroded value of the currency, which requires more naira to offset the debt stock when denominated in dollar terms, a conservative estimate of about N920 billion was lost to the then exchange rate, occasioned by devaluation, even at lower debt stock of $63.5 billion (June 2015), compared to $67.7 billion in December 2014. The national debt stock as at then showed that the federal and states external

obligations as at December 31, 2014, stood at 11.2 trillion ($67.7 billion), but moved to 12.06 trillion ($63.5 billion) three months later and 12.12 trillion ($63.8 billion) as at June 30, 2015. Given the eroding value, Nigeria lost about 920 billion to devaluation, with respect to the debt stock, representing 8.2 per cent loss over the actual value in six months. Also within the period under review, the inflationary trend has been on persistent upward movement. Although still in single digits, it moved from eight per cent to 9.4 per cent, trend, defying all liquidity tightening measures of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Still, the estimation of 920 billion loss appears to be conservative, given the fact that the domestic debts of sub-national governments (states) were denominated in dollar at the 2013 exchange rate of 155.7/$, which is not attainable now. For example, if the states’ domestic debt profiles were denominated in current dollar exchange rate at 307.79, the total estimate would push losses far beyond N1 trillion mark.

Traders said the Central Bank had sold around N1.2 trillion ($3.73 billion) in open market operations (OMO) treasury bills at 14 auctions in one month in its bid to reduce liquidity in the banking system and curb pressure on the forex market. “Market liquidity is very thin,” one dealer said. Traders said many banks have been resorting to the Central Bank’s standing lending facility to cover their positions. Nigeria’s naira fell to an alltime low of 490 to the dollar

on the parallel market early on Friday before recovering to 475 amid a dollar shortage in Africa’s largest economy. The naira closed flat at 305.25 to the dollar on the official market, the same level it has held for the last two weeks thanks to support from the Central Bank. “We expect the interbank lending rate to remain at the present level next week as the Central Bank is expected to continue its liquidity management strategy to curb pressure on the forex market,” one dealer said.

Interbank rate flat at 15.25%

igeria’s interbank lending rates were flat at around 15.25 per cent for overnight lending on Friday, even as market liquidity dropped significantly because of persistent treasury bill sales by the Central Bank. Traders said market liquidity should be below N100 billion due to consistent cash withdrawal by the Central Bank via treasury bill sales, although data on commercial lenders’ cash balance with the Central Bank was not available on Friday.

conomic growth in sub-Saharan Africa is likely to slip to 1.6 per cent this year, its lowest level in two decades, due to continuing woes in the continent’s largest economies South Africa and Nigeria, a World Bank report said on Thursday. Africa has been one of the world’s fastest growing region’s over the past decade, but a commodities slump has hit its oil and mineral exporters hard, bringing growth down to 3 per cent in 2015. However, other countries, including Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Tanzania, have continued to record GDP growth above 6 per cent, according to “Africa’s Pulse”, the Bank’s twiceyearly analysis of economic trends. The report, which was unveiled in Abidjan, the capital of Cote d’Ivoire also singled out Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal as top performers. “Our analysis shows that the more resilient growth performers tend to have stronger macroeconomic policy frameworks, better business regulatory environment, more diverse structure of exports, and more effective institutions,” said Albert Zeufack, World Bank chief economist for Africa. Established and improved performers made up around a quarter of sub-Saharan Africa’s countries, are home to 42 per cent of its people, but account for just 21 per cent of economic output. Meanwhile, 40 per cent of African economies are struggling. They contain 36 per cent of the continent’s population but contribute 62 per cent of economic activity. Nigeria and South Africa alone account for half of output. Despite a recent timid recovery in commodities, price are expected to remain below their 2011-14 peak levels, the report said As a result growth is projected to pick up slightly to 2.9 per cent next year, the report said, and Africa’s economies are expected to expand by 3.6 per cent in 2018. However, government spending on Africa’s agricultural sectors is still lagging behind developing regions, despite making up a third of GDP and two-thirds of employment. “Improving the productivity of smallholder farms is central to lifting rural incomes and reducing poverty in subSaharan Africa,” said Punam Chuhan-Pole, lead economist for World Bank Africa, who wrote the report.

Nigeria’s 2023 sugar selfsufficiency realizable, says NSDC

s Nigeria battles to navigate out of her current economic recession, the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) has assured that the 2023 targets the country sets for itself for the country to become self-sufficient in sugar production is realizable. Nigeria is currently sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest sugar importer. Refiners Dangote Sugar Refinery Ltd., BUA Refinery Ltd. and Golden Sugar Co., which rely on raw-sugar imports from Brazil, joined a government programme in 2013 seeking to meet annual demand of about 1.5 million metric tons within a decade. While output has reached just 14,000 tons so far this year, the target should still be met by 2023, NSDC stressed. Progress has been slow because it takes a minimum of three years to get an average sugar refinery up and running, said Samuel Kwabe, acting Executive Secretary of the Council. Efforts to build plantations and cane-crushing mills have been hurt by a shortage of foreign exchange due to lower prices and output of oil, Nigeria’s main export, making it harder to import plant components, he said. Fighting by Boko Haram Islamist militants in north-eastern, Nigeria’s major cane-growing area has also made some territories less attractive to investors. “The scarcity of foreign exchange and the insurgency in parts of the country have all affected the programme,” Kwabe, whose agency is helping oversee the self-sufficiency plan, said in an interview with Bloomberg in Abuja. Dangote Sugar has 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) of sugar cane under cultivation and bought another 33,000 hectares to be cultivated in the coming months, said Abdullahi Sule, the firm’s managing director. Brazilian specialists are helping Dangote, producer of all of Nigeria’s sugar this year, to expand capacity and while there have been setbacks; it plans to boost sugar output to 700,000 tons by 2021. Getting access to dollars has been a challenge “since all components for setting up a sugar factory have foreignexchange needs,” Sule said in an interview in Lagos recently. Sugar imports cost Nigeria at least $500 million a year, according to the council. Meanwhile, a Lagos based agricultural consultant on sugar farming, Tubonimi Lawson, says Nigerian sugar self-sufficiency is achievable, though it might take longer than the authorities plan. “At the current pace of expansion, it would seem that the three companies in the forefront of the sugar programme will reach at least 80 per cent of the target by 2023,” he said.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

BUSINESS INTERVIEW

Forex trading offers more opportunities in times of volatitlty – Otunuga Mr. Lukman Otunuga is a Research Analyst at Forex Time (FXTM), a global online foreign exchange broker, specialising in foreign exchange (forex) trading, stocks, commodities and spot metals. In this interview, he speaks on foreign exchange trading and the global economy. CHRIS UGWU brings the excerpts; How popular is forex trading in Nigeria? Forex trading has become increasing popular in Nigeria, in times of volatility, it offers more opportunities, and that’s where FXTM comes in because as a broker we try to educate Nigerian traders on technicalities and fundamentals of the foreign exchange market because education will give them the necessary skills to play in the market. The challenges however the unsteady nature of the market, and because the market is so volatile, we try to educate people in terms of foreign exchange. What is your take on negative perception by most Nigerians who see forex trading as a scam? FXTM as broker is regulated, the reason why some people think foreign exchange trading may be ponzi scheme or something strange is because they jump into the forex market looking for get rich quick, that’s not what forex trading is all about, it is about understanding the global economy. You have to understand what is happening in the global economy, you have to understand currencies, you have to understand technicalities, analysis and when you put that together, perception will change. Many people will jump into trading without correct knowledge, off course when you do that, you are more likely to lose because you don’t know what you are doing. What do you think are the potentials for forex trading in Nigeria? The potential for forex trading in Nigeria is very high especially now that the economy is said to be on technical recession, many people are looking for second source of income and one of the way forward is to trade on forex. That’s why we hold seminars for local traders to educate them of foreign exchange market so that they can start trading to leverage on the potentials. About 45 per cent of our traders are from Nigeria, so this can show you how potential it is to an emerging economy like Nigeria. How far have you been able to penetrate Nigerians in terms of education? Education is the key, many people jump into the forex without having the correct knowledge of what it is, they do not know the mechanics and that’s quiet dangerous, that’s why education is very important. In line with the company’s commitment to deliver world class education to its local traders, global forex broker FXTM recently completed a series of educational events in Nigeria, having hosted more than 650 attendees across the events. The educational events were led by FXTM’s Head of Education, Professor Andreas Thalassinos, who hosted a seminar on ‘The Ultimate Trading Formula’ and a 3-day afternoon trading workshop in Abuja. Those who attended received a wealth of information on how to trade the markets, advice on tools and techniques for technical analysis, and tips for trading. The courses were designed to cater to traders of different experience levels, with beginners, intermediate and advanced traders all being accommodated. Similar courses to those held in

Abuja are planned to take place in Lagos in early November. What is your overview of the international and local financial markets and their impacts on the lives of individuals, countries and the world at large? The global markets have been flung onto a chaotic rollercoaster ride in 2016 as the ongoing concerns over slowing global growth, depressed oil prices and persistent Brexit uncertainties have weighed heavily on investor sentiment. Stock markets started the year pressured, but have been surging higher on hopes of potential stimulus measures while risk aversion continues to keep Gold buoyed. Expectations continue to heighten over the Federal Reserve raising US rates in 2016 which has bolstered the Dollar consequently sending shockwaves across the globe. The wild movements in the financial markets have had an impact on individuals, businesses and even central banks. With the global landscape negatively warped by uncertainty and anxiety, risk aversion could encourage investors to flock to safe-haven safety. Do you think the economic policies of the current administration would strengthen the Naira in the long run and increase the country’s foreign reserves? The current policies that have been implemented by the Buhari administration are aimed at diversification the economy with the aim to steer it away from being heavily oil export dependent. Efforts at revitalizing the agricultural sector, fixing the infrastructure and even expanding taxation could have a positive impact on the Nigerian economy in the future. Once the nation succeeds in its tough mission to diversify, it automatically becomes self-reliant consequently boosting the Gross Domestic Capital. With economic growth potentially stabilizing post diversification, the country’s foreign reserves should increase while the improved investor risk appetite towards Nigeria should naturally cause the Naira to appreciate on the free floating currency exchange. Otunuga

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business News

Promasidor Nigeria plans N8bn expansion

Tobiloba Adenakan romasidor Nigeria Limited, makers of Cowbell, Onga, Toptea and Loya Milk, has concluded arrangements with IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, to inject a $25 million loan (over N8 billion) into its production with a view to increasing efficiency and to produce more products for the benefit of Nigerian populace. Olivier Thiry, Manag-

ing Director, Promasidor Nigeria Limited (PNL), explained that the capital injection would be used to support purchases of new machinery that will enable PNL to increase efficiency, expand production and develop new products, leading to greater availability of nutritious food products in Nigeria at competitive prices. His words: “This is a very competitive market for food products. We expect that this investment will help us optimise production costs,

FG promises support for May & Baker, others Appolonia Adeyemi

he Minister of State for Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire has stated the determination of the Federal Government to stimulate growth in local pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria. He disclosed this when he visited the May & Baker PharmaCentre in Ota Ogun State as part of his facility assessment tour of selected local pharmaceutical companies. The Minister said the issue of boosting local production is at the fore front of the agenda of the government. He said President Muhammadu Buhari has made it clear that he intends to grow the economy by improving local manufacturing. Ehanire said the Federal Government will assist companies like May & Baker that are pioneering efforts in local manufacturing in Nigeria by encouraging purchase of their products by both public and private individuals as well as creating enabling environment for their operations. He said not only is government interested in supporting local pharmaceutical manufacturers, it also intends to assist them develop vaccine technology and capacity for the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) in Nigeria He said both the Indian and Cuban governments have shown interest to collaborate with Nigeria in these areas. While the Cubans are offering a helping hand with local vaccine production, he said the Indian government has offered to bring bulk API manufacturing into Nigeria. Earlier, the Managing Director, May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Mr. Nnamdi Okafor had called on the government to take steps to stimulate the local pharmaceutical industry. The steps which he listed to include special funds for the pharmaceutical industry, easier access to foreign exchange for raw materials, and patronage of locally manufactured products, among oth-

ers would give philip to local manufacturing of medicines in Nigeria. He said Nigerian pharmaceutical industries are suffering from poor patronage both by government and individuals who find imported and sometimes inferior products cheaper to buy. This he said has led to over 60 per cent idle capacity among local pharmaceutical plants. Okafor said that the May & Baker PharmaCentre has capacity to produce 4.5 billion tablets and 37.5 million bottles of liquid preparations annually but because of these and other challenges of the economy, the factory is currently running at 50 per cent of capacity. The May & Baker PharmaCentre, which was commissioned by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2011, was built to World Health Organisation (WHO) standards. The facility was certified by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for the manufacture of medicines in 2012 and in 2014 it received the current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) certification of the WHO. According to Okafor, the company has since 2015 submitted dossiers to the WHO for the pre-qualification of its first product. May & Baker Nigeria Plc is not only the first pharmaceutical company to be established in Nigeria, it is the first to delve into key areas of disease treatment such as anti-malaria and anti-retroviral medicines. It is also the first to distribute vaccines in Nigeria and is currently pioneering effort in local vaccine production through a joint venture company with the Federal government. Also speaking at the occasion, Mr. Okey Akpa, Chairman, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, (PMG-MAN) commended the Minister for visiting the pharma industries to appreciate their challenges first hand. This he said would help the government articulate policies and programmes that would enhance the operations of the companies

enabling us to reach and nourish more consumers with our affordable range of quality products. We will also target our portfolio extension by gradual integration of more locally sourced raw materials from producers in Nigeria and widening our network of distributors.” According to him, the investment became necessary in view of the numerous business opportunities in the Nigerian market. Meanwhile, Mary-Jean Moyo, IFC Head of Manufacturing, Agribusiness and

Services for sub-Saharan Africa said: “Agribusiness is Nigeria’s largest employer. Increasing investment in food-processing companies like PNL will help diversify Nigeria’s economy and improve nutrition by expanding the supply of affordable food.” IFC said it invests in agribusiness to enhance productivity with the goals of greater food security, higher rural incomes, and improving environmental and social sustainability. Today, it added, the average African farm performs

at just 40 percent of potentials. The organisation said by 2030, Africa’s agriculture and agribusiness market is expected to triple in value to reach $1 trillion. Africa needs more than $10 billion in new investment annually to achieve this aspired expansion of output. In the fiscal year ended in June 2016, IFC’s overall, long-term investments in sub-Saharan Africa totalled nearly $3.7 billion, including more than $1.8 billion mobilized from other investors. IFC clients provided 240,000 jobs, supported nearly 1.2

million farmers, and treated nearly 960,000 patients. PNL is a subsidiary of Promasidor Holdings limited (the Company), a leading Pan-African consumer goods company operating in 25 countries across the continent. The Company was founded in 1979 in the Democratic Republic of Congo by Mr. Robert Rose, who pioneered formulations and packaging of dairy products which extended shelf life and made them more accessible and affordable for millions of low-income consumers.

Chairman of Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyema (3rd from left) with the President of Overseas Investment Union of China (OIUC), Ms. Pansy Liu, during the visit by the Union to Air Peace’s Corporate Headquarters in Lagos...recently

Chinese investors endorse Air Peace flight operations, seek partnership Paul Ogbuokiri

hinese investors have commended the quality of Air Peace’s flight operations, proposing a partnership with the airline to ease business trips on the Enugu-Guangzhou-Enugu routes. The Federal Government recently designated the airline to operate direct flights into Guangzhou, China. It also secured government’s approval to operate flights to Atlanta, Dubai, Johannesburg and Mumbai, among other international routes. Meanwhile, the Chairman of Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyema has urged Chinese investors to take advantage of the huge business opportunities in Nigeria by deepening their investments in the country. Speaking when she led a 20-member delegation to the corporate headquarters of Air Peace in Lagos at the weekend, President of the Overseas Investment Union of China (OIUC), Ms. Pansy Liu said the airline’s partnership is vital in achieving seamless business trips between Nigeria and China.

She endorsed the quality of Air Peace’s flight operations, affirming that it is the fastest growing airline in Nigeria. Liu pledged to mobilise Chinese investors and aviation regulators to ensure the quick launch of Air Peace’s Enugu-Guangzhou-Enugu routes. Responding to the partnership proposal, Onyema said Air Peace, which recently launched its Lagos-Benin-Lagos and Abuja-Benin-Abuja routes, planned to deploy a Boeing 777 aircraft on the Enugu-

Guangzhou-Enugu route. He assured the Chinese investors, who were on a week-long business tour of Nigeria, that the airline chose a B777 aircraft in order to make the trade trips from Nigeria seamless, safe and comfortable. Air Peace, Onyema said, had retained the services of some of the best facilities in the world for the maintenance of its aircraft because of the premium it placed on the safety and satisfaction of its passengers. The airline, he added, had some of the most qualified

and experienced pilots in its employ. “We take issues of safety seriously. It will interest you to know that we have BCT Aviation of UK here in Nigeria to maintain our aircraft 24 hours of the week because of the premium we place on safety. We have the best pilots in this country. Most of our pilots have flown for the big airlines of the world,” Onyema said. He urged Chinese investors to deepen their interests in Nigeria, saying the country has a boundless space for profitable business.

Axion Energy Argentina SA, Pampa Energia SA, and Shell, operator of the Forcados export terminal, together bought about 1 million barrels of the grade for delivery to refineries they run in Argentina between Nov. 20 and Nov. 25, according to a Bloomberg report. The 200,000 Forcados Terminal will raise Nigeria’s rising output to 1.98 million barrels a day from the cur-

rent levels of 1.78 million barrels per day. Nigeria’s oil industry has been so devastated by militant attacks this year that the country said it got an exemption when OPEC on Wednesday reached an accord to restrain crude supplies in an effort to curb a global glut. Oil shipments,

Forcados crude returns, raises Nigeria’s output to 1.98mpbd Eunice Stephen

he global oil market gave the clearest sign on Friday that Nigeria’s Forcados crude is about to flow again for the first time in eight months, after Royal Dutch Shell Plc was among companies said to have purchased the grade halted by militant attacks in February.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

Auto beat

Hyundai Elantra named among 10 best user-friendly cars

Upgraded Kia Cerato with surprises

ith more than 3 million units sold globally over three generations since 2004, Kia Motors this week introduces an upgraded version of its highly successful Cerato range. With a strikingly refreshed exterior design, a tangibly upgraded interior as well as a spattering of innovative new features, the enhanced Kia Cerato range is poised to continue the success of its predecessors. Manufactured at Kia’s Hwasung facility in Korea and launched in South Africa in May 2013, the current, third-generation Kia Cerato quickly established itself as a high-quality offering in the C-segment, as evidenced by the high ratings the model has received from its owners. With an average Reevoo score of 8.8 out of a possible 10, the Cerato scores almost full marks from current owners and drivers for its comfort, value for money, practicality, features and specification. Kia Motors South Africa remains the only manufacturer to make use of the independent Reevoo customer satisfaction survey, and to publish owners’ opinions – positive and negative – on its website. Styling Originally created at Kia’s USA Design Centre in Irvine, California, the updated Cerato benefits from a new, more modern look, that emphasizes the dynamic muscularity of the car while retaining its low, coupe-like roofline, sleek silhouette and cab-forward styling. For sedan and hatchback models, the front of the car gets updated black or gloss black trim for Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille, as well as newly-designed headlamps, a new front bumper and fog-lamps, as well as a reprofiled hood. Sedan models also receive a new rear bumper and tail-light design, complemented by new, sportier alloy wheel designs. All models now feature electric folding side mirrors. The Cerato sedan’s dimensions are unchanged (4560 mm long with 2700 mm wheelbase, 1780 mm wide, and 1445 mm high), offering buyers ample interior space, high levels of practicality, and the same sporty appearance. The Cerato is available in a choice of 10 exterior colours, including Clear White, Snow White Pearl, Silky Silver, Aurora Black Pearl, Metal Stream, Planet Blue, Temptation Red, Racing Red, Rich Espresso and Gravity Blue, the latter two being new additions to the line-up.

Hyundai Elantra

he all new Hyundai Elantra was named to the inaugural Wards 10 Best User Experiences (UX) list. The Elantra is recognized as a value leader in this year ’s competition for its user-friendliness and sophistication.

“We are honoured the Elantra is

included in the Wards 10 Best User Experiences list among the likes of luxury models,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, corporate and product planning, Hyundai Motor America. “The Elantra was designed with advanced technology and premium convenience to bring our customers

NAJA 2016: Corolla, Peugeot 301, Almera compete for COTY award

Paul Ogbuokiri s the Nigerian Auto Journalists Association (NAJA), announces that preparations are in already in top gear for the 2016 edition of its NAJA Auto Awards on November 24, it has declared that the list of finalists in different categories for the award is ready. According to a press statement by the Organising Committee, this year’s event, which takes place at the EKO Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, it has pencilled down about 25 award categories drawn from the automotive sector and ancillary sectors including some industry personalities. The statement, signed by a member of the Organising Committee, Mr. Mike Ochoma, said that the highpoint of this year’s award will be the in the Car-Of-The-Year (COTY) category where Toyota Corolla, Peugeot 301 and Nissan Almera were selected, saying as part of parameters for winning under this category, there will be a test-drive of the selected brands/models as was the criteria applied during the last award, the organising committee said. Other categories of awards are Luxury Car Of The Year, Road Safety Personality of The Year, Heavy Duty Truck of The Year, Auto

Kia Cerato

Plant Of The Year, CEO Of The Year, Auto Personality Of The Year and CSR Company Of The Year, Other categories include Mini Bus Of The Year, Pick-up Of The Year, Most Safety Conscious Transport Company Of The Year, Traffic Management Agency Of The Year, Showroom Of The Year, Large SUV Of The Year, Armouring Auto Company Of The Year and Auto Industry Promoter Of The Year amongst others. In the four wheels categories, the selected brands and models will be judged on affordability, cabin styling, lay-out and ergonomics. Assessment will also be carried out on nominees engineering integrity and build quality, exterior design, overall excellence, ride quality, steering and handling, technology, transmission and above all, value for money. According to the organising committee, this year’s award is very historic especially coming at a time when the federal government is intensifying effort at developing the nation’s near prostrate automotive assembly plants. The award the statement further said is NAJA’s contribution to automakers as well as component parts makers’ renewed efforts at putting Nigeria on the global industry map as one of the most strategic and highly-sortafter promising markets in Africa.

an exceptional user-friendly driving experience at a great price.” The 2016 Wards 10 Best UX competition was created as a spin-off of 10 best interiors. Wards 10 Best UX drills deeply into the user-friendliness of vehicle systems designed to minimize distraction and frustration, prevent accidents and improve safety. Points are awarded based on a vehicle’s performance in the areas of connectivity, intuitive controls, displays, materials, infotainment and driver-assistance systems. Are there any “surprise and delight” elements to the user experience? Finally, there is no price cap, but a vehicle’s overall value is considered as well. Wards Auto editors evaluated 29 all-new or significantly redesigned light vehicles available in the U.S. Only 10 vehicles were honoured for delivering outstanding user experiences. The all-new Elantra truly advances ahead of the compact car class with innovative technology that enhances driver confidence and convenience, without the premium price.

FRSC charges motorists to obey speed limiter rule

he Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) in Bayelsa State has vowed to deal with commercial drivers who fail to comply with the speed limiter which came into full force on October 1, 2016. The state’s Sector Commander of FRSC, Mr Wobin Gora, said this in Yenagoa, on Thursday in a news conference, saying their was no change in the October 1 for enforcement of the speed limiter rule. He advised commercial drivers in the state to obey the directive and install the speed limit device in their vehicles, or face the music, insisting that the command was committed to strict enforcement of the directive. He said any commercial driver who fails to comply with the directive would be prosecuted. “The campaign for installation of the speed limiting device has been going on for quite some time. “My advice to the commercial drivers is to install the device in their vehicles as anybody who failed to do so is doing that at his own risk,” he warned. Gora explained that installing the device would not only reduce crashes resulting from excessive speed but would go a long way to reduce fuel consumption by vehicles. “When speed is reduced, it saves cost of fuel consumption; it saves the cost of repairing the vehicle and reduce fatality to the barest minimal,” he said. It will be recalled that the Bayelsa Chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) had urged the FRSC to extend the enforcement date of the device, citing the current harsh economy in the country. The state NURTW also noted that transportation business was no longer thriving as a result of the downturn in the economy. The union also stated that extending the deadline would enable its members to save money to purchase the device.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Business

Forcados crude returns, raises Nigeria’s output to 1.98mpbd

Stanley Ihedigbo

takeholders in the agriculture sector have lashed out on the Institute for Humanitarian & Environmental Law (ISHERL) and Stop Impunity Group over their allegation that the Director General of the National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), Dr. Ojo Philip Olusegun, abused his office and was not duly appointed. Sunday Telegraph learnt that the groups, in a petition, alleged that the appointment of Dr Olusegun was irregular and requested for his removal. National Coordinator of the Centre for Public Opinion Monitoring & Research, Mrs. Gift Agwu, in her statement, said the appointment of the Director General followed due process. She said: “If the Minister recommended the appointment and the President has approved, any Government official can convey the approval or the letter of appointment. There is nowhere that is it prescribed that the announcement or letter conveying the appointment should be made by the Secretary to Government of the Federation. Since the petitioners are not contesting the approval of Mr. President, then there should not be any issue whether it was announced unless the fake petitioners were so jobless as to stay permanently watching the news every day and every hour for many days thereafter.” On the accusation that the appointments of the Directors General have been from a section of the country, Agwu said: “There is no truth in this assertion as our investigation reveals to the contrary. The leadership of the Seed Council has come from a diverse section of the country since its formation, from Dr. A Joshua from Ogun State 19791990, Alhaji Ibrahim Usman from Nassarawa 1990-1995, Dr. T. Okolo from Anambra 1996-2008, Chief O J Shobowale from Ogun State 2008-2011, Mrs. Grace Nwafor from Anambra 2011, Rev. A Olatokun from Oyo 2011-2014 and presently Dr. P. Ojo is from Ekiti since 2014”. Also speaking on the allegation, National President of Seed Entre-

CONTINUED F R OM PAGE 48

L-R: Director of Service Delivery, Partnership for Transforming Health Systems 2 (PATHS2), Dr Amina Aminu; Divisional Vice President, ABT Associates USA, Dr Dina Slimperi; Medical Officer in charge of Ogudu Primary Health Centre, Dr. Bamidele Ajala; Asstistant Director, HCPRS, Ministry of Health, Lagos, Dr Abosede Wellington and Portfolio Manager, PATHS2, Mr Steve Cooper, during PATHS2 end of program facility tour of the Ogudu PHC in Lagos…on Friday

‘NASC DG, is not corrupt, duly appointed’ preneurs Association of Nigeria (SEEDAN), Mr. Richard Olafare, said such allegations should not distract the Director General and called for caution. The Executive Director of Agriculture Development Watch, Mr. Abia Abia, also described it as a distraction. It will be recall recently, at the National Workshop on Seed Action Plan and Alliance for Seed Industry in West Africa, the Coordinator of West Africa Seed Programme, Mr. Ernest Assah Asiedu, said: “In 2015, West Africa supplied a total of 314,500 tons of seeds (rice, maize, sorghum, millet, cowpea and groundnuts), which was planted on 21 per cent of land allocated to these crops. Out of the 114,000 tons of rice supplied Nigeria supplied 90,000 tons (79 per cent) and out of the 108 tons of maize supplied in the region, Nigeria supplied 75,000 (69 per cent).

He noted that: “In 2015, Nigeria was among the nine countries that supported Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea with foundation and certified seeds in the Post Ebola Agricultural Rehabilitation Programmes. Nigeria also supported the Gambia with certified rice seeds. I must say that this support has contributed significantly in transforming the agricultural sectors in these countries, which is deeply appreciated by the respective governments. “In terms of the implementation of the ECOWAS Seed Regulation, Nigeria is among the countries that have shown significant advancements and has achieved 92 per cent implementation. Nigeria has a strong quality control and certification system under the National Agricultural Seed Council and plant breeding programmes in churning out quality seeds of new and productive genetic materials.”

Of vision, talent and purpose

Success Nuggets Victor Okwudiri

08037674300 (SMS only)

n the course of the previous week, I received a message of commendation and inquiry from someone. I chose to respond to the inquiry on this platform, so others can benefit from it. Here we go.

QUESTION I commend your effort. Please l need your advise. Please how can one know his vision in life? I am 38 years old and l have still not discovered my talent or vision after so much effort to know them. Please help. - K. Ike (Akwa Ibom State) MY RESPONSE Thank you for your commendation. To God alone be all the glory. Now to your question. Your vision in life is not an INFORMATION that is given to you by someone, but an ASPIRATION that you set for yourself. It is not a ‘BUDGET’ someone else has made for you, but a TARGET you have set for yourself. Until you embrace this truth, you may wait a lifetime to discover your vision. Similarly, your talent is not something you need dissipate so much energy to discover. It is that thing that you do with excellence, yet with

unusual ease. It is that thing that you are skillful in doing. See the following instances: 1. Jay-jay Okocha - Football 2. Tiger Woods - Golf 3. Serena Williams - Tennis 4. Mohammed Ali - Boxing 5. Tuface Idibia - Singing With the above examples, you can see that you do not need to wait forever to discover your talent. Please note that your talent must not fall within any of the above-listed fields of endeavour. It could be something ‘seemingly insignificant’ like file management in the office, administration, human relations management, etc. I used the phrase ‘seemingly insignificant’ because, indeed, no field of endeavour or talent is insignificant. The following keys may help you discover yourself better and find a bearing for your life: 1. Your passion. Your passion will deliver your portion to you, both in life and in eternity. Your passion is a pointer to your portion. 2. Your irritation Your IRRITATION can be a source of destiny DIRECTION. Mandela was irritated by racist oppression. That was a pointer to the fact that he was a freedom fighter. Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, was irritated by oppression of the common man. He was a human rights activist. So I ask you, “What is it that irritates

you so badly?” Hear this: failure to identify your irritation can be your life’s limitation. 3. Your burden Sometimes, God simply tells people what He wants them to do by placing a burden for that in their hearts. There was a passionate preacher called Apostle Paul. Because preaching was his calling, he had so much burden for it that he declared “Woe unto me if I preach not the gospel!” (1Corinthians 9:16) (Paraphrased). 5. Your talents I have given examples of talented men and their talents. With that example, take a second look at yourself. I believe that if you do that, you will discover your talent. Your talent could be a pointer to the destiny path God has ordained for you. Just imagine Jay-jay Okocha as a singer. I believe it may make a ridiculous picture in your mind. Imagine Tuface Idibia as a footballer. I’m sure you are laughing right now. This, however, is without prejudice to the fact that someone can be multitalented. Yes, it is possible for one to be a jack of many trades and master of them all. We will continue with this next week. Meanwhile, I’d like to know how you feel about today’s discourse. Happy Independence, Nigeria. You will succeed. Please follow me on Twitter @VictorOkwudiri

the nation’s biggest export, fell to 1.38 million barrels a day in August from as high as 2.1 million in January. While the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said on Thursday that Forcados should restart within two weeks, officials have made several pledges for supplies to resume that didn’t materialize in practice. The original restart was anticipated in May. That then got pushed back to June, then September. Meanwhile, no tankers have loaded from the terminal so far, according to Bloomberg ship-tracking data. Eight cargoes are scheduled to load in October with a further six planned for November, according to loading programmes obtained by Bloomberg. Force majeure, a measure that gives Shell the right not to meet contractual obligations, remains in effect for Forcados. Militant group, Niger Delta Avengers claimed in February to have attacked the Forcados pipeline, according to the organisation’s website. Shell said that an external force caused the halt, stopping short of calling it an attack. Forcados is one of Nigeria’s largest crude grades with an average output of about 200,000 barrels a day last year. Its return has helped boost the country’s planned exports next month to about 1.98 million barrels a day, the most since January. While the resumption offers some hope, the revival of Nigerian supplies still depends on a fragile-looking security situation not deteriorating. That remains unlikely, Manji Cheto, senior vice president for West Africa at Teneo Intelligence, said told Bloomberg.

OPEC to cut output by 750,000bpd

he Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has agreed to cut production by 750,000 barrels a day, Bloomberg News reported Wednesday, citing a delegation member. The surprise news triggered an immediate spike of more than 5 per cent in crude prices, as markets had expected the Algiers meeting to end without agreement. In London benchmark Brent North Sea crude for November delivery rose $2.72 to $48.69, while in New York a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) was up $2.38 to $47.05. OPEC members, whose countries produce 40 per cent of the world’s crude oil, agreed to cut their output to 32.5 million barrels per day, Bloomberg said citing a delegation source who requested anonymity. An informal OPEC meeting opened in Algiers earlier Wednesday to discuss a possible freeze in output by the cartel, with the aim of raising prices which have fallen by more than half since mid-2014.

FG to raise N129.6bn in treasury bills next week

igeria plans to raise 129.67 billion in short-dated treasury bills at an auction on Wednesday, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said on Friday. The bank said it would raise N28 billion in three-month paper, N33.49 billion in six-month bills and N68.18 billion in oneyear bills. Payment for the purchases will be made on Thursday, the bank said in a public notice. Nigeria issues treasury bills to raise cash to fund the budget deficit, manage banking system liquidity and curb rising inflation.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

Mixed reactions subsists …as OPEC decides on output freeze

he Nigerian Equities market closed the week in a positive position, after appreciating in three (3) out of five (5) trading days of the week. Consequently, the NSEASI advanced by 1.71% WoW, to settle the YtD return at -1.07%. However, volume traded and value of transactions for the week declined by 70.28% and 44.64% accordingly. There were thirty-six (36) gainers as against thirty-two (32) decliners for the week, indicating a market breadth of 1.13x. LAWUNION led the gainer’s chart after appreciating by 32.73% to close at NGN0.73. UAC-PROP, LEARNAFRCA, FLOURMILL and CONTINSURE also followed with respective week-on-week gains of 16.18%, 13.79%, 9.38% and 9.38% respectively. Leading the loser’s category was CAVERTON, with a 27.62% price decline to NGN0.76, trailed by ASHAKACEM, CONOIL, BETAGLAS and PRESCO which declined by 18.45% 15.06%, 13.90% and 11.11% in that order. During the week, VITAFOAM PLC released its Q3:2016 performance scorecard, which showed a 20.59% YoY decline in revenue. Similarly, Cost of Sale and OPEX declined YoY by 21.19% and 13.19% respectively. However, finance cost advanced by 31.40% to NGN72.8mn to drive loss-before-tax and loss-after-tax southward by 109.42% and 147.42% YoY accordingly. The week resumed with profit taking activities on counters that rallied in the previous week. However, OPEC members’ decision on output freeze swayed market sentiment to the positive direction during the last trading days of the week. We anticipate this seesaw movement to persist in the absence of any market-moving information in the coming week. This report reviews events in the current week, with emphasis on different segments of the financial market, while presenting our expectations for the coming week. Fixed Income: Naira closes at NGN475/ USD at the Parallel market Save for Monday, OBB and OVN rates trended downward throughout the week to close at 14.33% (+0.83% WoW) and 15.17% (-0.08% WoW) respectively. Thus, the average money market rate at the close of the week settled at 14.75%. The Central Bank of Nigeria has scheduled a Treasury bills auction worth NGN129.68bn for Wednesday, October 5, 2016. Instruments worth NGN28.00bn (91-day), NGN33.49 (182-day) and NGN68.18bn (364-day) will mature and an equal sum will be issued across same tenors. The Treasury bonds space was pervaded with mixed activities during the week, with yields rising and falling intermittently to peg the average yield at 16.23% (+0.41% WoW) at the close of today’s trading. At the Interbank FX market, the Naira closed at NGN311.62/USD after gaining 0.47% in the week, representing a year-todate return of -36.04%. After recording a new low (NGN490/USD) in the course of the week, the Naira closed at NGN475/ USD in the parallel market at end of trading activities today. Agric Sector: Investors take profit on PRESCO Sell sentiment permeated Agricultural sector this week, as the MERI-AGRI index contracted by 6.21% WoW to settle the YtD return at 23.00%. Two counters emerged as the sector losers, while other counters traded flat for the week. PRESCO was the largest decliner, after paring by 11.11% to settle at NGN40.00.

LIVESTOCK followed closely, having declined by 5.49% to close at NGN0.86. We attribute the sector’s performance to persistent profit taking activities on PRESCO during the week. In coming week, we do not expect significant activities, considering the dearth of news inflow to drive momentous price changes

SUGAR (-1.22%) were the top laggards for the week. During the week, while bargain hunting activities were sustained, we observed some investors took profit on a couple of stocks that rallied in previous weeks. In the coming week, we expect profit taking to prevail amid varied sentiments.

Banking Sector: Heavyweights Drag Performance The banking sector closed down for the week, as MERI-BANK index pared by 2.71% WoW, to settle the YtD return at +9.37%. There were eight (8) gainers and five (5) decliners, pegging the sector’s breadth at 1.60x. WEMABANK led the advancers, after appreciating by 7.46% to close at NGN0.72. The ticker was closely followed by SKYEBANK, FBNH, and FCMB which recorded respective price gains of 3.17%, 1.94%, and 1.90%. On the flip side, the decliners list was populated by GUARANTY (-4.34%), ZENITHBANK (-2.50%), UBA (-2.33%), and FIDELITYBK (-1.12%). In our opinion, the depressed mood in the sector was primarily due to profit taking activities on sector heavyweights. While we anticipate mixed investors’ sentiments in the coming week, we expect the sector to record a moderate WoW gain, hinged on bargain hunting activities.

Healthcare Sector: PHARMADEKO advances by 9.36% to close at NGN1.87 The MERI-HLTH index witnessed a decline of 0.48%, pegging the YtD return at -41.96%. The sector breadth for the week remained at equilibrium (1.00x) reflecting two (2) gaining and declining stocks apiece. PHARMADEKO and MAYBAKER emerged as the outperformers for the week recording gains of 9.36% and 2.08% respectively. Contrarily, NEIMETH and GLAXOSMITH recorded share price depreciations of 4.26% and 0.51% in that order. As expected, Healthcare stocks continued their seesaw trend this week, as certain stocks which recorded price appreciation earlier in the week witnessed some shedding towards the tail end of the week, and vice versa. Barring any significant news inflow, we expect this trend to be sustained till Q3:2016 results start streaming in.

Consumer Goods Sector: FLOURMILL returns 9.38% WoW The sector closed the trading week on a positive note, as the Meri-CMG index gained 2.35% WoW to peg the YtD return at 0.93%. There were ten (10) gainers against six (6) decliners, indicating a sector breadth of 1.67x. FLOURMILL (+9.38%) led the gainer’s chart, closing at NGN21.92, followed by DANGFLOUR (+9.12%), GUINNESS (+5.37%), CADBURY (+4.70%) and NB (+4.52%) while 7UP (-7.33%), NNFM (-4.91%), VITAFOAM (-4.33%) and DANG-

Industrial Goods: WAPCO sheds 2.14% to close at NGN54.80 Industrial goods sector recorded positive outing this week, albeit marginal, as the MERI-IND index advanced by 0.15% WoW to peg the YtD return at 2.87%. There were three (3) gainers versus two (2) decliners, thus settling the sector breadth at (1.5x). CUTIX emerged as the top gainer for the fourth consecutive week, after advancing by 19.41% WoW to close at NGN2.13. The counter was followed by CAP and DANGCEM with WoW gains of 0.76% and 0.53% accordingly. Conversely, ASHAKACEM topped the loser’s chart for the week, having shed 18.45% to settle at NGN16.27.

WAPCO (-2.14%) trailed the counter to close at NGN54.80 The sector’s performance was driven by a mix of bargain hunting and profit taking on the sector’s large cap stocks. Considering the macroeconomic shift towards fostering inclusive growth in Nigeria through increased capital expenditures, we expect investors to consistently take positions on the sector counters as events unfold. Insurance Sector: Market Favours LAWUNION The Insurance sector as measured by the NSEINS10, closed the week in the positive region, advancing by 0.93% WoW to peg the YtD return at 9.14%. The sector breadth closed at 0.67x reflecting two (2) advancers against three (3) decliners. LAWUNION rounded off the week as the top gainer, after the counter appreciated by 32.73% WoW to close at NGN0.73. The counter was trailed by CONTINSURE (9.38%). On the flip side, MANSARD emerged as the sector ’s worst performer, having pared by 2.44% WoW to close at NGN2.00. The counter was trailed by AIICO and NEM which lost 1.61% and 1.20% respectively. All other stocks traded flat. We expect the sector’s performance in the coming week to be dictated by the general market mood, in the absence of any market moving news flow. Although, we see some possibilities of bargain hunting on some of the sector’s stocks in the coming week. Oil & Gas Sector: OPEC decides on output freeze The sector extended the gaining streak following the positive sentiments that pervaded sector counters on the last two trading days of the week. The sector index gained in two (2) out of five (5) trading days of the week to settle the week on week (WoW) return at 1.38%. There were three (3) gainers as against three (3) decliners in the week, indicating a sector breadth of 1.00x. MOBIL championed the gainer’s chart after appreciating by 6.78% WoW to close at NGN191.72. Trailed by SEPLAT (+6.29%) and FO (1.71%) to close at NGN326.50 and NGN165.90 accordingly. Contrarily, CONOIL (-15.06%), OANDO (-8.16%) and ETERNA (-1.58%) featured on the laggards list. Following OPEC member’s decision to cut output by c.750, 000bpd in the recently concluded International Energy Summit, Brent crude settled at USD49.15pb as at Friday 30th September 2016. The sector resumed the week on a negative note, on the back of profit taking on most counters that rallied in previous weeks. However the late news on OPEC’s proposed output freeze, swayed market directions to the positive wing on the last trading days of the week. We expect investors to continue to react to this news even in the coming week. Services Sector: LEARNAFRICA Tops Gainers Chart The services sector continued its positive trend this week, as MERI-SER index advanced by 0.93% WoW, to bring the YtD return to –4.95%. Four (4) stocks declined against two (2) advancers, indicating a sector breadth of 0.5x. LEARNAFRICA and NAHCO emerged as the gainers for the week, after appreciating by 13.79% and 4.22% respectively. CAVERTON, REDSTAREX, IKEJAHOTEL and TRANSEXPR were the losers for the week, declining by 27.62%, 2.50%, 2.15% and 1.96% correspondingly. Barring any news inflow to steer the market mood, we do not expect the sector’s performance in the coming week to be significantly different from the current week.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY October 2, 2016

News extra

Kidnappers kill undergraduate after collecting N1.2m ransom

Juliana Francis

broken hearted Mr. Peter Osuji has revealed how two men abducted his younger brother, Ikenna Samuel Osuji and killed him even after the family ran from pillar to post to raise and pay N1.2million ransom. The deceased, Ikenna, 27, a 100-level student of Civil Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State, was said to have been killed by his abductors, while attempting to escape. Peter said that his late brother, although an undergraduate, had a Nissan Primera car, which he used in transportation business. According to Peter, Ikenna used money made from his transportation business, to sponsor himself in the university. It was this Primera that led to his abduction. One of the suspected kidnappers of Ikenna, Chinedu Azuazu, 30, said that when

he and his partner, Joshua, noticed that Ikenna was always bringing rich looking people in his car to their community to buy lands, they thought he was from a rich family. They decided to abduct him. After kidnapping him, they called Peter and demanded for N5million ransom. The kidnappers promised to release Ikenna immediately Peter paid the ransom. After much pleading, they asked Peter to bring what he had. He brought N1.2m and dropped it at a designated venue. After days of waiting for the kidnappers to call him, to come and pick Ikenna, all to no avail, Peter became worried. He would later learn that his Ikenna had been killed. Chinedu was arrested by operatives attached to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris’s Special Intelligence Response Team (IRT) on September 12.

Today, Chinedu said he has become a born again Christian. He stressed that he had even begged God for forgiveness. He has also asked the family of Ikenna for forgiveness. He said: “I want you to know that I have repented before my arrest. In July 2016, I went to a pastor and confessed what I did. He prayed and told me never to go back to my old ways. He said if I go back, I would die. I obeyed. Ever since then, I have lived a decent life. Even when I met Ikenna’s brother, I asked for his forgiveness. He didn’t say anything. I don’t know if he could find a place in his heart to forgive me.” The police said: “Chinedu Azuazu of No.22 Obor Road, Omouku, was arrested in connection with the kidnap and murder of Ikenna, an undergraduate. The suspect has confessed to the crime. He stated that while the hostage was in their custody, he tried to es-

cape and was hit with a stick on his neck, which resulted to his death. After they realised he was dead, they took his corpse all the way from Alakahia village and dumped it at Umunkwa Igbodo Etche Community. “The chief of the community, Mr. Hyacinth Akwukwauegbu, confirmed that a corpse was dumped in his farm. Hyacinth said that elders in the community hurriedly buried the corpse, without informing the police. Chinedu also stated that after the death of Ikenna, they still went ahead to demand money from his family. They collected ransom from the deceased’s brother, Peter. They took the deceased’s car to Imo State and sold it for N180, 000.” Chinedu, married with one child, a secondary school leaver, described himself as a welder. Chinedu, a security guard, said he went into kidnapping because his salary couldn’t meet his family needs.

Turkey deports Nigerian students over coup

eports out of Turkey are indicating that the government there has commenced a large scale deportation of Nigerian students in the country. According to a Nigerian student, Rukkaya Usman, who was recently deported from the country, the Turkish government did not give any reason for the action. According to online news portal, TheCable, a Usman, a final year student of political science and international relations at the University of Melikseh, said on Saturday that she arrived in Turkey last Monday morning, but was detained at the airport for about 10 hours after which she was put onto another aircraft and sent back to Nigeria. “As I got to the airport, at the immigration; they (immigration) collected my passport and resident permit. They started to ask me questions like: ‘what are you

Umahi pardons 46 convicts, raises salaries Uchenna Inya ABAKALIKI

L-R: Assistant Knowledge Manager African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), Mr Obadia Miroro; Acting Director General, Nigeria Social and Economic Research Institute (NISER), Prof. Victor Adeyeye; Service Delivery Indicators, Field Coordinator The World Bank, Dr. (Mrs.) Opeyemi Fadeyibi; Manager Collaborative Research, AERC, Wilson Wasike and Social and Governance Policy Research Department at NISER, Dr. Adebayo Ajala, at the media workshop on Service Delivery Indicators in Abuja... recently

Lagos PSPs groan over debts Tai Anyanwu

here are indications that hard times await refuse disposal companies, under the public private participation in waste management (PSPs) in Lagos State, if nothing is done to recover millions of naira owed by Lagos residents. Investigation revealed that most of the PSPs, franchised to assist the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) in waste collection and evacuations, are unable to service bank loans they secured to buy equipment for their operations. An accountant in one of the PSPs, Abdulahi Babatunde, disclosed that some opera-

tors are heavily indebted to financial institutions which granted them facilities because many tenements have not paid the refuse collectors’ fees in the past three years. “As we talk, even LAWMA, has not paid my company four months fee accruing from refuse services we carried out on LAWMA’s behalf, in corporate or commercial entities which is exclusively reserved,” Babatunde said. According to Babatunde, who did not disclose his company’s name for obvious reasons, Lagos State Government also stopped to enforce payment during the 2015 election campaigns, because it needed peoples’ votes.

“Till date the state government has not done anything to enforce debt recovery plan for the PSPs; my Managing Director and some other operators have gone through a hard time because they are unable to repay their bank loans. He explained that the administration Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his successor, Babatunde Fashola, had encouraged the PSPs to take loans to buy equipment because they gave priority attention to the state government’s public private participation in waste management. “The state government also paid the PSPs 60 percent for every refuse they helped LAWMA to evacuate in commercials areas

(called bridging fee). But for the past four months LAWMA has not been paying the bridging fee as it used to,” our source added. However, a top LAWMA officer said that efforts are being made to pay outstanding indebtedness to the PSPs. The source added that more PSPs are needed to handle wastes disposal in other places that are not presently covered by the existing operators. The refuse collectors have also invested over N6 billion into the business and created about 25, 000 direct and indirect employment and enhanced increased business activities with various financial institutions.

studying?’ ‘What’s your father’s name?’ They took my passport. This was on September 26. I asked what was happening. But they said they didn’t know, that it was a new law, that they were sending me back to my country,” she narrated. “They said if I had any questions I should go to my embassy and ask. I was put in a room. There were about seven other people. We were locked up in the room; there were cameras. We were not allowed to talk to anyone. I was told that my next flight was at 6pm. I asked for my passport, but they said I would get it when I get to my country. “They took me to the plane, and they watched me as I boarded the aircraft.” The move might not be unconnected by attempts by the Turkish government to deport all Nigerian students at univ ersities linked to Fethullah Gulen’s Hizmet movement.

bonyi State Governor, Chief Dave Umahi, yesterday, commuted to life imprisonment, 14 convicts in Abakaliki, Afikpo and Enugu federal prisons, who were sentenced to death. He also granted unconditional pardon of 32 other convicts in the three federal prisons and ordered the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Augustine Nwankwegu to ensure that they do not misbehave and any pose threat to the state. Umahi announced the amnesty at the Abakaliki Township Stadium to the convicts, during this year’s independence anniversary and 20 years celebration of the creation of Ebonyi State. He used the occasion to an-

nounce the increment of salaries of the state workers by five per cent with effect from this month. The Governor also recalled about 80 workers of the state College of Education Ikwo and 37 EBSEPA staff who were disengaged by the state government. He paid glowing tribute to Late General Sanni Abacha for the creation of Ebonyi State. He also paid tribute to the first Military Administrator of the state, Navy Commander Walter Feghabor, another former Military Administrator of the state, Late Simeon Oduoye, first Civilian Governor of the state, Senator Sam Egwu and immediate past Governor of the state, Chief Martin Elechi for the solid foundation they laid for the state.

Go for goals, Ekweremadu tells Rangers

he Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has charged the Rangers International Football Club of Enugu to shun any form of complacency and go for the jugular of the El Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri on the last day of their Nigeria Premier League (NPL) title campaign this season. He stated this in his goodwill message to the Flying Antelopes of Enugu ahead of their season’s decider at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, on Sunday. Senator Ekweremadu said while the odds, no doubt, favoured Rangers, the team must go all out to achieve an emphatic victory and win

the league on a high note. He said: “I want to commend Rangers International for coming this far, ready to break what appears like a 32-year jinx despite the challenges. I urge the team to go all out to not only win the league title, but also to do so on a resounding note by drubbing the El Kanemi Warriors”. The Deputy President of the Senate assured the team of not only his total support and those of the government and good people of Enugu State, but also the people of the entire South East and SouthSouth regions, recalling that Rangers had always lifted the spirit of the people at the most challenging times.

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

NEWS XTRA

Nigeria @ 56: NGO harps on peaceful co-existence Esther Bakare

s Nigeria continues to celebrate its 56th year of its independence, a non-governmental organisation, Africa Foundation for Peace and Love Initiatives (AFPLI), has lamented that the nation has lost huge resources to fighting insurgencies and curtailing militancy. The Initiative regretted that as the nation was about heaving a sigh of relief from the dreaded sect, Boko Haram which has claimed thousands of lives and destroyed many properties while many are rendered refugees in their father land, another group, the Niger-Delta Avengers are currently bombing oil pipelines in the SouthSouth. It bemoaned the prevalence of internal security issues which threaten the peace and waste of human lives and property, and also affected economic development as no war torn nation can witness any form of development. However, AFPLI, established to promote peace at the grassroots has continually organised events to mark the International Day of Peace with quiz competition for pupils on the concept of peace, debate on various topics on who is responsible for the teaching of peace to children and how to ensure

peaceful coexistence in their environment. According to the founding president of the organisation, Dr Titus Oyeyemi, the NGO has been celebrating the International Day of Peace for the past 10 years as approved by the United Nations Department of Communication adding that the theme of this year’s celebration which is “Sustainable Development Goals: Building Blocks for Peace” is apt because of the current recession the country is facing. “The current economic situation can lead to violence because a hungry man is an angry man. Peace building is like building a house, there are two types of peace, the negative and the positive peace. The positive is when one is able to transform conflict to peace and this starts from our homes, then the community, the authority and the law enforcement agencies”, he said. Oyeyemi urged governments at all levels to use the Independence Day celebration to bridge the gap between the poor masses and politicians who enrich themselves at the expense of others. He said the first way to fight corruption is ensuring a hunger free society which will reduce the pains that citizens are currently going through.

BLGC ups revenue generation Alhassan Yusuf Bauchi

he Bauchi Local Government has inaugurated two committees saddled with responsibilities of reviewing revenue generation and land allocation in the state. The Caretaker Chairman of the council, Alhaji Adamu Abubakar Galambi announced this after the inauguration of two Committees over the weekend. Alhaji Adamu furthered that the Committees will ensure that local govern-

ment revenue and lands allocation are improved and maintained for proper development. However, the Chairman, Committee on Revenue, Alhaji Yusuf Bala Bello and the Chairman, Committee on Lands Allocation Review, Malam Adamu Dauda Jika thanked the Caretaker Chairman to have found them suitable for the jobs. They pledged to do their best to deliver on the assignment given to them and urged the Chairman to support them when the need arises.

Group celebrates ‘World Peace Day’ in Bauchi Alhassan Yusuf Bauchi

he Mediator Peace Group in Bauchi State has joined the rest of the world to celebrate the ‘World Peace Day,’ describing it as significant, not only to the country but to the world at large. The event, which took place at Harmony High School in Yalwa was well attended by dignitaries and

representatives of people from various walks of life. The participants held that peace is essential for global development. According to the President of the Organisation, Mr. Anayo Daniel, 2016 International Day for Peace brought together pupils and students of various institutions to mark the day and remind humanity of the need for peaceful coexistence.

L-R: The Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mrs Dayo Keshi; Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Ayo Adesugba addressing the press in Abuja on Thursday on the forthcoming 2016 NAFEST, to be held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Unpaid Stipends: Ex-militants vows to block East West Road

Paul Ogbuokiri

otorists and commuters on the East West Road, who have been groaning over the poor state of the road, are in for more serious trouble this week, as the Ex-Militants from Delta State and other parts of the region have threatened to block the road again, if their four months arrears, which the Amnesty Office is owing them, is not paid before Tuesday. Though they refused to state the exact day they will embark on the protest, they said, in an email message to Sunday Telegraph at the weekend, that they are embarking on the action to register their dispeasure with the Federal Government over the seeming inVanessa Okwara

he Governor of Lagos State, Akinwumi Ambode and Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Senator Aisha Jummai Alhassan, have affirmed their unflinching support to the economic empowerment of women both in Lagos and across the country. They made this known at the 2016 edition of the Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF), which held at the Civic Centre Victoria Island, Lagos, tagged: ‘Accelerating Women’s Economic Empowerment in Africa’s Best Interest.’ The Lagos State Governor, who was represented by Hon. Lola Akande, the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, said Lagos State Government is delighted

sensitivity of the Amnesty Office to the plight of the ex-agitators. They, however, urged road users who would be affected by their action to bear with them as they have exhausted all other avenues to prevail on the Amnesty Office to pay them their stipends. “If we are not paid before Tuesday, October 4, 2016, we will have no other option than to embark on the protest, just as other exmilitants in Bayelsa State did on Tuesday, September 26 2016,” they said. They further said that Delta State and other states in the region have resolved to follow the example of the Bayelsa State ex-militants to persuade the Amnesty Office to release the unpaid four months stipends as a last resort.

They added that their patience has run out as the Federal Government does not seem to be serious with the Amnesty Programme and the welfare of the exmilitants. Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph on the development at the weekend, former militant leader, General Emma Shobor, said it is wrong for the government to leave the boys’ stipends unpaid for four months. He warned that it would be difficult to keep the boys in check, when government has not trained and empowered most of them to be productive members of the society. General Shobor, who was the leader of the defunct Niger Delta Actualization Force, but now a promoter of a Non-Governmental

Organisation (NGO), Niger Delta Initiative for Actualization of Peace and Development, said it is surprising that government, which is talking of peace in the region, can be so careless with such a little issue as payment of monthly stipends to the former militants who voluntarily embraced the government’s amnesty initiative. He implored the Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Niger Delta and Coordinator, Amnesty Programme, Gen. Paul Boroh (rtd), to commence payment of the four months arrears of stipend so that the youths will not be tempted to take to vices that can impact negatively on the effort of the Federal Government to achieve total peace in the region.

Ambode, Alhassan affirm support for women empowerment to partner with AWIEF to collectively take positive strides to develop solutions to the current global economic downturn through gender equality and inclusiveness. Governor Ambode reaffirmed the state’s commitment to women empowerment by listing some initiatives being implemented through the state's Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. According to him, they include skills acquisition in various vocations and supply of machines as well as equipment to ease the process of establishing small scale business. He said, “In addition to the employment trust fund to which women entrepre-

neurs have equal access to finance viable business ideas, the Dangote Foundation is collaborating with the state through the Dangote Micro Grants Scheme for women in Lagos state”. Equally speaking at the event, Senator Aisha Jummai Alhassan stated that in recognition of the enormous contribution of women to the informal sector of the Nigerian economy, the Federal Government has, in recent times, through her Ministry carried out various forms of intervention programmes geared towards supporting women and women entrepreneurs in Nigeria. She furthered that the current administration, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari re-

cently launched N1.6Billion Special Intervention Fund called the National Women Empowerment Fund (NAWEF). The Fund targets at supporting grassroots women operating informal businesses by providing startup and scale-up credit for them. The NAWEF programme is being kick-started with eight pilot states, and is target at 10,000 women beneficiaries per state, who will receive between N10, 000-N100, 000 each. An estimated N200million is to be disbursed per state via active and functional women cooperatives, local trade associations and other community-based groups. The loans are interest free.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016, SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

114 Roads: Yet another promise kept by Ambode

Niyi Anibaba uring the 2015 electioneering campaign, one of the promises made by the then governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, which was visibly embedded in the party’s manifesto, was his plan to embark on massive road construction across the state.

Explaining how he intended to embark on such projects, the governor said that two roads would be constructed in each local government every year. Much as it drew cheers from party supporters, many had also wondered if it was just a mere campaign gimmick from a candidate in desperate need of votes. But it didn’t take too long after his swearing-in that residents began to see that they were not being taken for a ride. The governor indeed wasted no time in matching words with actions. After few weeks on the saddle, Ambode initiated a monthly meeting with the then Executive Secretaries and continued same when the Sole Administrators, who were sworn-in in June this year to take leadership of all the 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDA). During one of the meetings, the governor intimated the council chiefs of his intention to commence the reconstruction of two roads in each of the 57 councils between January and June 2016. To motivate them to work, the governor urged the Executive Secretaries to go back to their communities and liaise with them on the two roads which would be rehabilitated. While charging the then council bosses to judiciously ensure that the projects were of international standard and that only the best contractors were engaged to ensure that the prescribed standard was met on all the roads, Ambode said the decision to embark on road rehabilitation was in line with the reforms at the local government level. Hence, the execution of the project was left solely in the care of the local governments, with the state Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs and Ministry of Works and Infrastructure playing supervisory roles. The project, the first in the history of the state, drew commendations from various stakeholders, including some die hard critics of the governor. Not only were the council bosses mandated to select inner roads, they were also given instructions to begin with roads that were in terrible condition, with the governor charging them to ensure that the project was delivered within the stipulated time. Therefore, the period of September 17 to 24, 2016, according to observers, is seen as a significant milestone in the state and the administration of Governor Ambode. Several communities across the 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDA) were agog with activities. For most of these communities, it was a historic moment they had long being waiting for. The newly constructed 114 inner city roads, two from each of the 57 councils, were set for official inauguration. In his usual characteristic style depicting his government of inclusion, Governor Ambode mandated several representatives, ranging from members of the State Executive Council, federal and state lawmakers, traditional rulers, political leaders, religious leaders, to inaugurate the roads. Speaking during the inauguration of Jimoh Street, one of the roads at Ikorodu in Ikorodu North LCDA, Governor Ambode, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Idiat Adebule, urged contractors handling the 114 road projects in the state to speed up work or be sanctioned. But he also had kind words for DC-Engineering Ltd., the contractor who worked on Jimoh Street for being the first to complete the road within the stipulated six months.

Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG), Mr. Tunji Bello (m), who represented Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, commissioning one of the newly built roads in Lagos

One of the newly renovated roads

According to the governor: “We have chosen to inaugurate the road here to appreciate the diligence and seriousness of the contractor for being the first to complete the project within the stipulated six months. I congratulate the contractor for this exemplary feat while I urge others to emulate the good example or face sanctions. “At a time the national economy is facing challenges, our administration injected N19 billion to the economy of our state, stimulated employment and engaged the business sector. As we hand over these roads to the communities, I urge residents to guard jealously the infrastructure provided by the government,’’ the governor added. In Epe, the Governor, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Wasiu Anifowoshe, and a party chieftain, Alhaji Shakiru Seriki, commissioned a 610-meter road in Ajijolaiya Street, Papa Epe and another 620-meter road in Adegoke Atowa Street, Epe. In Lagos Island, two roads - Agarawu and Sanusi Olusi Street were commissioned by Governor Ambode, who was represented by House of Representatives member, Lagos Island Federal Constituency, Mr. Yakub Balogun and Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Wasiu Eshinlokun with the Oba of Lagos, HRM Rilwan Akiolu also in attendance. In Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area, Governor Ambode also commissioned Molade and Temidire roads. Represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Toyin Suarau at the commissioning of Temidire Street, the governor said the 114 roads provided jobs directly to 5,000 construction professionals and artisans and indirectly to over 50, 000 dependents. Also at the commissioning of Molade Street road, being the second road project in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, the Ojora of Ojora Land, Oba Abdul-Fatai Oluy-

inka Aremu Aromire, who represented the governor said road projects are vital to the development of any community; adding that motorable roads make business strive and engender development. In Ojokoro LCDA, the governor, who was represented by Mr. Rotimi Agunsoye, representing Kosofe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, commissioned Bioyin and Ademola Abiola streets. One of the residents in Yaba LCDA, Alhaja Ramotalai Balogun whose street, Erejuwa was one of the roads commissioned, said the governor has won the hearts of residents of the area with the gestures. “I can’t recollect the number of times we have appealed to the state government on the terrible condition of this road especially when it rains. Today, I am happy that I am alive to witness its transformation. Governor Ambode has not only won my hearts but that of many appreciative residents here. I enjoin him to keep up the good works,” she said. At the commissioning of Seriki Kemberi Road and Alhaji Rasak Street in Iba LCDA, Ambode warned residents to resist the temptation to convert any of the 114 newly constructed local government roads to venue for commercial purposes or parking lot for abandoned vehicles. Likewise, at the commissioning of Ojediran Shopitan and Taiwo Molajo streets both in Ikorodu West LCDA, Governor Akinwumi Ambode said illegal breaking of roads, usage as automobile workshop, as well as refuse dump, must stop henceforth on the new roads. At the handover of Borno Way, EbuteMeta in Lagos Mainland LGA, the Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, (SSG) Mr. Tunji Bello, cautioned against arbitrary cutting of roads and vandalism. He said the government will not take vandalism of public infrastructure lightly, tasking community leaders in the areas where

the new roads were built to take custody of the roads. Sole Administrator of Igando/Ikotun LCDA, Mr. Samuel Ajayi at inauguration of Osunba Street and Balogun Olanrewaju Road, revealed that Governor Ambode had directed the 57 councils to submit 288 additional roads (four from each council) for construction consideration from 2017. Ajayi confirmed the receipt of a directive from Governor Ambode to submit four new roads for construction, a development he described as unprecedented in the history of Lagos. Ambode, at the commissioning of Federal Low Cost Bypass in Ikorodu North LCDA, assured that at least 456 inner city roads would have been commissioned before the end of his administration in 2019. Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Community Affairs, Alhaji Tajudeen Quadri, the governor said that another set of 114 roads were being identified and would be delivered next year. Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, who represented Governor Ambode, alongside House of Representatives member, Taofeek Adaranijo at the commissioning of Ogundele and Fashola streets at Orile-Agege LCDA, pleaded for more support for the present administration and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to be able to enjoy more dividends of democracy. When questions were raised about the choice of local contractors to carry out the projects, Governor Ambode was quick to justify the decision. According to him, indigenous contractors were engaged for the project not only to boost employment but also encourage the local construction industry to grow. Governor Ambode, who spoke in OshodiIsolo at the inauguration of Kalejaiye Street, through the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr Ganiyu Johnson assured residents that any mistake committed by the indigenous contractors in the course of the project would be addressed, adding that the construction of the inner roads was in response to the yearning of the people. He said: “We have to encourage our indigenous contractors because whether we like it or not, that is one of the ways to generate employment and when we engage them, there will be money in circulation. “We are challenging them to do their best and as government we don’t want to shy away from mistakes. If they (indigenous contractors) make mistakes, we also try to correct and encourage them. We are learning, it is a learning process and with time, I believe they will get there.”

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH SUNDAY OCTOBER 2, 2016

‘God’s Generals’ Jewels’

Dumping banking for ministry almost led to our break up –Bishop Peace Okonkwo Bishop Peace Okonkwo, wife of the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo, talks about her personal life, their ministry which has over 200 branches across the globe, marital issues and more in this interview with ESTHER BAKARE Who is Bishop Peace Okonkwo? Bishop Peace is a pastor, a wife and a mother from Anambra State. It’s as simple as that. How did the journey with Bishop Mike Okonkwo start? That was a long time ago, over 30 years. We were at the same church then as young people. That time, there was nothing like marriage between us. We were just youngsters attending the same church. But later on in life, when he decided to get married and he was looking for a wife, he said he still remembered a lady he knew back then in the church. Apparently, I knew the mum and dad then in the church. So he mentioned it to one of them and that time, he was still in that church but I had left for UK for further studies and then I came back and we got married. What was the first thing that struck you about him then in the church? The church was a Pentecostal church at that time, because after the Civil war, everybody was looking for God. The church was not really based on the word of God but just vision and all that. We were in the same youth fellowship. At that time, I thought he was putting up an air because of his family background. He came from a very comfortable family. So, I used to look at him lke ‘Who is this one that is trying to show himself’, because at that time, he was driving his father’s car. So we didn’t get to talk much back then before I travelled abroad. But then, his elder sister, who is now a Reverend, also liked me a lot and I liked her too because she is a good woman. I can’t remember all the details of what transpired between us then. But one thing I know about Bishop is that he is a very shy person. He’s only bold on the pulpit, he doesn’t talk much. Only when he’s on the pulpit, the Holy Spirit takes over but if I could remember very well, I think it was his elder sister, Rev Ilo, who approached me and said, ‘My brother likes you very much’ and one thing led to the other and we got married. What were both of you doing back then? Bishop was a banker while I just returned from the UK, after reading Secretarial Studies and I also worked as a secretary to a Managing Director in a company here in Lagos. What was your reaction when Bishop Mike told you he was quitting banking for the ministry? It was a battle. He didn’t tell me directly. It was his mum he told who later informed me, although they did not quite understand what he meant by answering God’s call. I had to explain it to them. The parents asked why he couldn’t go to seminary and graduate and then proceed to Anglican Church, instead of the Pentecostal. But Bishop was ready to go ahead because he is someone that once he is committed to something, no one can change his mind. He was determined to even leave the marriage for his call at that time. I knew I just had to allow him if I was still interested in the marriage. So I said, okay, let him go

ahead.

grand children too.

What were some of the initial challenges in the ministry? The ministry had been on before I got married to him but we actually started TREM together and at that time, it wasn’t easy. We had a handful of members then, quite few, and so there was no department in the church that I didn’t work. I served as an usher, I sang in the choir and because I’m a professional secretary, at a point, I became Bishop’s receptionist. I touched all the departments because we didn’t have people then to work for God and I thank God for that experience because today as a Pastor in charge of this church, there is no department I can’t talk about. At times, when people are passing through experiences, they don’t know what God is preparing them for.

In what ways, as the wife of the Bishop, have you been impacting in your husband’s ministry? I have a lot of activities for women, like the International Women Prayer, which holds once in a month. I started going to different states in Nigeria, after which the work grew and we are now in America, London, Italy, South Africa, among other countries. Having sat behind the counseling desk for over 20 years, I realised that each time a woman comes, the first thing they do is to break into tears. That’s why I usually have rolls of tissue paper on my table. This is because of the burden in her heart, which she can’t share with anybody. So at a time, God said why don’t I gather them together so that they can pray unto Him and He will answer their prayers. Apart from that, I went for a seminar and I found out that women die of cervical cancer. So I went to God on how to help the women. I thank God I have good women in the church who formed a group and started going from village to village, giving rural women medical attention free of charge. I also do widows’ empowerment -train them on different vocations and establish them. Also I built a home in Ketu-Mile 12 for stranded ladies who are

Any discouragement from close relations or friends? Of course, there were even from his own family! There was a time one of his brothers called me and asked why I wanted to go ahead with the marriage and the ministry with all my experience and exposure, that he hoped we would not get confused. Along the line, things became tough to the point that we had no food to eat. There was one particular day we didn’t have food in the house. Bishop said go and put water on the fire and I did, when the water started boiling, I informed him and he said I should pour more water but as God would have it, before that one started boiling, someone came and brought all manner of foodstuffs. It wasn’t easy but we thank God. The Bible says many are the afflictions of the righteous but God deliver him out of all. There was a time we were losing people, particularly a time we lost about three brothers in quick succession. It was so challenging, but we just put our hope in God. There was a time I also lost my only child and I didn’t have another one for a long time, but I just kept trusting God, knowing that He is a God of restoration and by His grace, today, I have a daughter who is well educated and happily married and I believe I will soon have

brought from Lagos and later get pregnant and thrown out on the streets. I came about this after reading the story of a lady who died in the rest room because she didn’t have anywhere to go. I went to God and He told me to acquire a land, put up a building there to house them. The building can house 90 ladies at a time and today, we have churned out over 3,000 of such ladies through the empowerment programme. They decide what to do with their babies. I don’t have any business with that because God didn’t send me to the babies but to the ladies. Some of them decide to give their babies to their mothers or relatives to take care of and later come back to acquire skills because I usually tell them it’s not the end of life for them. I also founded the Word of Power Group of Schools because I realised that quality education was lacking. That school has grown into the secondary arm and I’ve handed it over to the church because I have a lot I’m already handling. With your years of experience as a counselor, a wife and a pastor dealing with women, what do you think is the cause of failure in marriages leading to divorce? It is lack of patience, couples need to work out their marriages together. Also, nowadays, women carry a lot of burden and are stressed up. What they need is to pray more. Divorce is not the best for the children of God. As I am now, I teach our women how to cook because that’s one of the things that can cause divorce. What are your hobbies? I love sports, especially football, and I am a Chelsea fan. I also love Tennis. I play little of Table tennis just to exercise my body. What would Bishop Peace want to be remembered for? The people I have impacted, the lives I’ve touched, those tears I have been able to wipe away and replace with smiles, the people that have lost hope and through this ministry regained their hope and have become somebody in life.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016 SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

Body&Soul

Life lesson M

ary was a young girl. She used to get annoyed with everything. She had a negative attitude towards life. Once, when she felt that life was unbearable, she asked her father what to do. She told him that if she was able to manage and solve one problem, another one followed quickly. Her father consoled her and took her to the kitchen. He asked Mary to take a potato, an egg and two spoons of tea leaves. Mary was surprised, and asked her father, “Do you want me to cook?” “No,” her father said. He then took three vessels and poured one cup of water in each vessel. The vessels were placed on the stove. Once the water started to boil, he dropped the potato in a vessel, egg in the second one and the tea leaves in the third one. “Why are you doing all these things?” Mary asked, really annoyed with her father. “Just wait fifteen minutes,” said her father. The impatient daughter managed to wait for around 15 minutes. Father removed the potato from the pot and placed in a plate. He did the same with the eggs. He filtered the tea decoction using a cup. Now, he placed the two plates, one with the potato and the other with the egg, and the cup of tea in front of Mary.

Colour by number He asked Mary, “What do you see?” “Potato, egg and a cup of tea,” said Mary. “No, you are wrong,” said her father. “Look at it closely and answer me.” Mary replied the same. “Now touch it and answer me.” The potato was cooked and was soft, the egg was boiled hard, and the tea carried a nice aroma. Mary couldn’t find the correct answer. Her father said, “The potato was so hard and strong before it was boiled; now it has turned soft and smooth. Also, the egg was delicate but after boiling it became hard. Sip the tea. It is delicious!” Mary asked, “What does it mean father? I don’t understand!” “Each object responded differently to water. Each object was put under the same kind of circumstances, faced similar adversities, but reacted differently. The potato, when put in boiling water, became very weak. The soft egg became very hard when we put it in boiling water. And the tea leaves are unique. It changed the water itself, giving it a unique flavour and aroma! It gave something new.” Mary understood that we can create something new and unique even when we experience adversities. So, what are you? A potato, an egg, or a tea leaf?

Gags What goes up and down but does not move? Ans: Stairs

What did one wall say to the other wall? Ans: I’ll meet you at the corner.

Where should a 500 pound alien go? Ans: On a diet

What did the paper say to the pencil? Ans: Write on!

What did one toilet say to the other? Ans: You look a bit flushed.

What do you call a boy named Lee that no one talks to? Ans: Lonely

Why did the picture go to jail? Ans: Because it was framed.

What gets wetter the more it dries? Ans: A towel.

Celebration Word puzzle

Happy birthday Catherine Eseoise Osobase! This little ‘lady’ loves colour red, Sophia the 1st, and eating pounded yam and groundout soup. God bless your new age!

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

Sport Past winners of the Nigeria league

Rangers line up before a match

Rangers set for first league title in 32 years Dapo Sotuminu

he dream of Rangers International Football Club of Enugu popularly known as the ‘Flying Antelope’ winning their eighth Nigerian League title could come to fruition today should the coach Imama Amakapabo-tutored team secure just a point against today’s opponent, El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri when the final league matches are played in designated venues across the country. Rangers defeated Ikorodu United at the MKO Abiola Sta-

dium, Abeokuta last weekend to get one hand on the league title, while a draw in today’s game at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium christened ‘The Cathedral’ would give them a firm grip on the title they last won in 1984. Rangers’ closest rival in the chase for the 2016 league season title, Rivers United is away to Akwa United at the Nest of Champions in Uyo. After the Port Harcourt team played a goalless draw at home last week against Abia Warriors, they will need to score five unreplied goals against Akwa United to

over-take Rangers, that is if the ‘Flying Antelope’ should lose today’s match against the coach Ladan Bosso-tutored El-Kanemi Warriors. Rivers’ United chase for the title has been tagged as an impossible mission. The Enugu Rangers won their first league title in 1970. They won again in 1974, 75, 77 and 1981. The team won their last two titles in 1982 and 1984. While Rangers was having a drought, another eastern team, Enyimba International FC of Aba won the league title seven times. Shooting Stars have won the league title six times.

Ifeanyi Ubah’s Dobrev prefers Champions League ticket

espite securing a ticket to play in the CAF Confederation Cup competition next season following the team’s qualification for the final of the FA Cup, the Technical Adviser of FC Ifeanyi Ubah, Mitko Dobrev, has called on his players to do everything possible to beat MFM Football Club of Lagos in the NPFL match day 38 fixture at the Agege Stadium, Lagos. A win would give Ifeanyi Ubah a slot to play in the CAF Champions after they must have emerged second with 59 points. That is if Rivers United

failed to beat Akwa United at home. Dobrev who was speaking from the team’s camp in Lagos also said that getting a continental ticket for next season will be a perfect gift for the club proprietor and president, Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah. “I would love us to pick up the Champions League ticket. It’s the most prestigious competition in Africa. I have had the honour of playing in that tournament with Hearts of Oak, Heartland and Enyimba and I would love to have that feeling again. Moreover the expose my

Solution to Cross Word Puzzle

players will get from this tournament is another reason why I prefer the Champions League.” FC Ifeanyi Ubah are third on the table, needing a win to pick up a continental ticket. “Get a continental ticket will be a very big thing for our club. As you know our project is just two years old so if we are able to get the ticket it will be a very big present to our President, Dr Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah who has invested heavily in this club and also been there for us,” he added.

CAF sets three-term limit on presidency

he Confederation of African Football president will be limited to three terms in office from next year’s election in March 2017. Junior Binyam, CAF’s media spokesman, confirmed to BBC Sport that the new ruling was approved at Thursday’s Extraordinary General Assembly. It is a major change for the governing body, whose incumbent president Issa Hayatou has been in power for 28 years. The limit will also apply to the members of CAF’s Executive Committee. In February, football’s world governing body FIFA limited its presidency to three terms in office as it aimed to recover from a corruption crisis.

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Rangers International

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New Nigeria Bank

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Julius Berger

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Ugwuanyi splashes cash, land on Lucy Ejike

he Enugu state Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, at the weekend borrowed a leaf from the Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha, as he honoured Enugu-born Paralympic gold-medalist at the recently concluded Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, Mrs. Lucy Ejike. The sports-loving governor who will today be receiving the Nigerian Premier League champion’s trophy won by Rangers International Football Club of Enugu at the Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium, stated that, Lucy Ejike in her usual manner over the years made Enugu state proud and deserves the recognition of the state government. The governor rewarded the three-time Paralympic gold medalist with the sum of One million naira and a plot of land in Enugu. The gold medalist, Mrs. Ejike thanked the governor for the kind gesture and prayed God to continue to bless him abundantly.

Jordan 2016: Brazil spoils Flamingoes’ Independence celebrations

igeria’s Flamingoes kick-started on a losing note to the South American opponents, Brazil their title campaign at the ongoing FIFAU17 Women World Cup in Jordan. Striker, Micaelly magical flip into an open net from a poor clearance by the Nigerian goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie proved adequate to hand the Brazilians 1-0 win in the Group C opener at the King Abdullah II International Stadium in Amman on Saturday. The Nigerians did not establish themselves in the encounter with fewer chances to leverage on in the keenly contested clash. However, midway in the first half Nigerian forwards, Folashade Ijamilusi and Itu failed to deal with a cross that rolled lazily on the goal mouth of the South Americans, reports supersport.com. The biggest miss of the half came from the captain, Rashidat Ajibade whose feeble strike was perfectly dealt with by the Luizao’s side’s goal tender, Kemelli. NPFL Fixtures Week 38 Plateau vs Heartland Rangers vs

El Kanemi

Wolves

Ikdu Utd

Kano Pillars

Wikki

Sunshine

Kano Pillars

Abia

3SC

Akwa

Rivers Utd

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Enyimba

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Enugu Rangers

MFM FC vs

IfeanyiUbah

Kano

Tornadoes

business Naira is Africa's worst performing currency in 2016 }43

Sanctity of Truth

SUNDAY

NIGERIA’S MOST AUTHORITATIVE NEWSPAPER IN POLITICS AND BUSINESS

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2016

N150

FAITH Dumping banking for ministry almost led to our breakup -Bishop Peace Okonkwo }53

Corruption, corruption! Bad governance is worst form of corruption (part 1)

INTRODUCTION n Act-V, Scene-IV of William Shakespeare’s play, Richard III. King Richard III yells out loudly this famous phrase, “A horse, a horse! My kingdom for a horse”! In the middle of a battle, his horse was killed, while the king wandered to find it in the battlefield for hours, killing everything coming his way with fatalistic rage. In this play, Shakespeare shows that inconsequential things, like a horse, could become more important than a whole kingdom. The sense in this line is ironic, as King Richard III wanted something insignificant to complete an important task. The king here meant that if he did not find his horse, he would lose his kingdom. This play graphically captures the present wild goose chase of the PMB administration’s so called anti-graft war to the detriment of every other aspect of the nation. Right under our very nose, Nigeria is crumbling like a pack of cards, in a manner that is unquantifiable, unqualified and inexorable. Many Nigerians seem to be numbed and dumbfounded at this incongruity. How come the most prosperous country in Africa, number one, as rebased by World Bank and IMF, with over $500b, in 2015, has suddenly been brought to her kneels in 16 months? It is often said that nothing in this life is new, and that whatever that is happening here today has happened somewhere before. Says Ecclesiastes 1:9,”what has been done will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun”. This is why many Nigerians are now clamouring for a paradigm shift of consciousness in how to think outside the box and vote meaningfully during elections. To have leaders who are ill-equipped intellectually lead millions as a nation, in our present digital age, is very dangerous. This has been our quagmire as a people: our inability to elect credible leaders, devoid of primordial parochial interest. Lord Chesterfield (1694 - 1773), British statesman and writer, once said: “The perfect knowledge of history is extremely necessary; because, as it informs us of what was done by other people, in former ages, it instructs us what to do in the like cases. Besides, as it is the common subject of conversation, it is a shame to be ignorant of it.” Many challenges we are facing in Nigeria today already have solutions provided for us by the history of other nations far ahead of us, but who had experienced such challenges in the past. The problem is that our leaders lack capacity for research and a deep sense of world history, thus the ceaseless turpitude of misgovernance. A government that voluntarily promised us change, is suddenly changing the narrative – that “change begins with me”. No sir, you voluntarily promised us change. We believed you. You cannot now rewrite history. We are suddenly being made to believe that it is a crime for a Nigerian to send his children abroad to study, a culture we have enjoyed for over 300 years. Government is suddenly telling us it is treason to ride good cars, live in beautiful houses, or wear imported clothes. Most of our nationalists of the 40s, 50s and 60s even schooled abroad. Indeed, Sapara Williams, the first Nigerian lawyer, was called to the English Bar (Middle Temple Inn), London, on 1st November, 1879. Herbert Macaulay studied

The

Nigerian Project

MIKE OZEKHOME san, ofr mike.ozekhome@yahoo.com 08094777755 (sms only) Civil Engineering in Plymouth, England from 1891 to 1894. Tafawa Balewa, former Prime Minister schooled in the University of London Institute of Education in 1944. Zik of Africa school in Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, and the University of Pennsylvania, in 1932 and 1934, respectively. Obafemi Awolowo (degrees in Commerce and Law from the University of London and called to the English Inner Temple Bar on November 19, 1946). Ahmadu Bello (Local Government Administration, England, in 1948). Odumegwu Ojukwu, was sent by his father, Sir Louis Ojukwu, in 1946, to United Kingdom at the age of 13, to study at Epsom College and Lincoln College, Oxford University, England. Yakubu Gowon, (Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, United Kingdom (1955 – 1956) and Ph.D, political science, University of Warwick, England, in 1983). Olusegun Obasanjo, (MONS Officers Cadet School, Aldershot, England, in 1958 – 1959 and at Wellington, India, in 1960s. Major Nzeogwu Chukwuma, (Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, England). So, who is trying to convince us that it amounts to unnecessary foreign taste for Nigerians to send their children to schools abroad, when our same leaders’ children are all in ivy league schools abroad? Who is fooling who? It is now suddenly a crime to have plenty money in your account, or keep a domiciliary account. The naira is on a free fall (N120 naira to one Ghanaian cedi) and almost N500 to one US Dollar! Because investors and other Nigerians panicked and withdrew their money from bank vaults in one fell swoop after they were given a temporary reprieve from an earlier ban. Voodoo economics! Government’s fiscal and monetary flip-flop has destroyed our naira. We are being told to embrace poverty and abject penury as virtues, to queue up for essential commodities (“Essenso”) as we did under General Buhari in 1984 – 1985. A leader should lead by example, not by precepts. A leader commands respect, not enforce it. A leader says do as I do, not as I say. A leader leads from the front, not from the rear. Nigerians are being made sacrificial lambs for government indolence, cluelessness, ineptitude and directionlessness. We are worse off today than we were 16 months ago. The government has dragged us by the neck from prosperity to asphyxiating recession. Infrastructure has decayed abysmally, with virtually every national institution in tatters. The World Bank has just authoritatively pronounced Nigeria as a leading light in the unenviable league of the poorest nations on earth. Transparency International has even adjudged Nigeria as one of the most corrupt nations on the face

of mother earth. All these inspite of government’s much celebrated and trumpeted anti-corruption war. Elections are either inconclusive or brazenly rigged in a most atrocious, ignoble and hideous manner. Smiles have since turned to frowns, laughter to lamentations, plenty to want, joy to melancholy and hope to disillusionment. All these within 16 months! Nigeria appears to be on auto pilot. God, please, come to our aid. You have always proven to be a Nigerian! At 56, Nigeria is still practicing psuedo "feeding bottle" democracy, where popular dissent, criticism and plurality of ideas are treated as treason, with incredible paranoia on the part of government. Deification, canonization, bootlicking and cult- worshipping of those at the helm of affairs have become the order of the day. Ethno-religious crisis, mutual suspicion, historical revisionism, political banditry and social crimes and economic anaemia have heightened, with mass unemployment and inflation on a geometrically spirally ascension. Hunger, despair, disillusionment, hopelessness, haplessness, pauperization, witch-hunting, sensational media trials pains, pangs, blood,

anguish and gnashing of teeth have enveloped our people. NOW THIS There is fear and gnashing of teeth in the land. Freedom, liberties, human rights, rule of law are decimated, nay murdered. A bag of rice has risen geometrically from N7,000.00 in 2015, to N23,000.00 now, fuel from N86.00 to N145.00 per litre, cement from N1,200.00 to N2,500.00, and still counting. Stealing, even of pots of soup, garri, beans, rice, etc., has become rampant. The new talk by government to sell the remaining commanding heights of our assets and national economy is cheap. They want to sell Nigeria to themselves. They have sold our yesterday, mortgaged our today for peanuts, and now want to auction our children’s future. Nigerians must rise up and say no to this “Alawada keri keri”histrionics, theatricality and buffoonery. AND THIS SOME HISTORICAL LESSONS We will now delve into the history of a few economically successful nations who, yesterday, were in such precarious situation as we find ourselves in today. A leader does not lament. A leader leads. Let us see how other great leaders did it. RUSSIA - GLASNOST AND PERESTROIKA Glasnost and Perestroika (Russian words for “restructuring” and “openness”), were key elements of the campaign initiated by Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, to reform and revitalize the Soviet system. LAST LINE Hope Nigerians are eagerly awaiting part 2 of this Sunday Sermon from the Nigerian Project by Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, OFR, FCIArb. • Follow me on twitter @ MikeozekhomeSAN

Cross Word Puzzle

with Olulana Kayode 08023183727 Instructions on how to play the game •With reference to the ‘clues across’ and ‘clues down’ below, you shall try to provide answers to the clues, by writing the answer in the puzzle box provided on the left side. •The number in parenthesis indicates the total number of letters making up the solution or answer you will provide. •Keep on answering all the questions until all the spaces in the puzzle box are completely filled up. Good luck!

Clues Across 1 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 16 17 18 22 23 24 25 26

Citizen of Slovenia, (7). Collapsible lightweight bed, (3). Near-earth object, abbr. (3). Nigerian insurance company, (3). Something done, (3). Plant of holly genus, (4). Jeweled spheres of king, (4). Peace Corps, abbr. (2). Tool for cutting, (2). Short pointed metal pin, (4). Predictor of future, (4). Narrow groove, (3). Kilometer per hour, (3). Before now, (3). Liquor from sugar cane, (3). Piece of land, (7).

Clues Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 13 14 15 19 20 21

Dam in Niger state, (7). LGA in Ondo state, (6). Test of knowledge, (4). Seduce, (6). Most important part, (4). Vietnamese New Year festival, (3). Opulent Estate in Ikoyi Lagos, (7). Brightly-coloured tropical bird, (6). LGA in Katsina state, (6). Dutch cheese, (4). Mass of gas in space, (4). Ex Plateau state Governor, (3). Turn to page 55 for solution

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