The Phoenix Newspaper - May 2015

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Page 4

COMMUNITY NEWS WITH LJ Bishop King and his family were given a wonderful farewell service.

Bishop Ruben King has long standing history with NTCG Handsworth as does Sonia King.

Bishop King has attended the New Testament Church of God (NTCG) in Handsworth since 1979 where he has functioned in various capacities, including Church & Pastor’s Council member (1990 - 2010), Assistant Local Youth Director, Young Men’s Fellowship President, Sunday School Teacher, Van Driver and Prayer Coordinator.

He regularly played the bass guitar in church and was the guitarist for the pioneering UK Gospel group ‘The Majestic Singers’ and other Gospel artistes, touring the UK, Europe and the USA. Bishop King is NTCG’s longest serving National Youth & Christian Education Director, appointed in August 2004. He also served as a member of the NTCG National Men’s Planning Team (early 90s) and on the National Education Board (2008 – 2015).

On 6th March 2011 he was appointed as the Assistant Senior Pastor for NTCG Handsworth, sharing his time equally between the two roles. He was Ordained as a Bishop on 22nd May 2011.

He is an Honorary Chaplain at Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital, a trustee of the Lozells Project. Ruben has been married to Sonia for almost 21 years and they

The Phoenix – May 2015

both are the proud parents of Timon & Crystal.

Beside every good man is a good woman it is said, and NTCG Handsworth has much love for Sonia King. Sonia has attended NTCG Handsworth all her life. Bishop S.U. Thompson dedicSlot ated her as a baby, baptised (aged 9) and officiated her ew Testament Church wedding ceremony. of God Handsworth Sonia taught the has gone through yet Primary Sunday again another change School Class from as it was announced that Bishop 1984 – 1998 and Ruben King moves to Wolverwas a member of hampton Harvest Temple to the George Street succeed Bishop Winston L. WilNursery Managelis who will retire after 50 years ment Committee of ministry. from 1986 – 1989.

Bishop King will become the After qualifying new District Pastor and Overseer as a Nursery Offor NTCG Churches in the Wolficer in 1988 she verhampton District, with his wife worked for So- l Bishop Donald Bolt and the visiting minister conduct the induction Prayer for the King family Sonia King becoming first lady. cial Services for 9 NTCG Handsworth are sorry cased on the God Channel and Bishop Bolt who then handed He spoke fondly to Bishop Wilyears. In Decemto lose such a beloved Assistant Bishop King the keys to the front lis and addressed him as his spirber 1999 Sonia became the Man- UCB Radio.

Bishop and his family so soon Her music continues to touch door of the Harvest Temple and a itual father, he was clear of his ager of George Street Community after losing their lead Pastor of 18 lives weekly through UCB Gospel new bible. honour and respect for Bishop Nursery in Lozells, Birmingham years Bishop Derek Webely, and Sonia Kings induction was by Willis as he referenced him to Aband she will remain as the man- and a selection of North American sadly the loss of the former church First Lady Joycelyn Bolt which raham, and promised to be faithful ager for the George Street nursery. radio programme. leader Bishop SU Thompson unSonia also performed at the visit saw Sonia King been given a lit and happy that Bishop Willis and Sonia King is a gifted singer der who both these ministers nurand song writer, a long time soul of Martin Luther King III to the candle, as a symbol of light for her Sister Willis will still be at the tured their journey to becoming Harvest Temple to support them. stirrer on the Handsworth Com- UK in 1997, at numerous presti- new journey. lead ministers. gious events and regularly sings Bishop King’s commendation Their gifted children Timon and munity Choir.

On Sunday the 1st March 2015 Sonia had already as a part of NTCG Handsworth’s address was given by his former Crystal are a shining example of Assistant Bishop, now Lead Min- the scripture Proverbs 22v6; ‘train been singing and Worship Team and Choir.

God has much in store for a very ister at NTCG Dudley, Reverend up the child in the way they should recording when Hermilyn James who spoke with go.’. she was asked in gifted and talented 1st lady.

The Installation service of the such warmth about a minister who Timon is an excellent young 1985 to record and tour with a popular Kings took place on Sunday 12th she has seen grown and who New drummer who regularly plays at group from Jamaica April 2015 at NTCG Wolver- Testament Church of God is proud church and has played at various called “Channels of hampton. The church was littered to call their own, with his wonder- concerts to some very large audiwith many ministers from across ful family. ences.

Praise.”

The Kings gave their thanks He is a talented up and coming Shortly after that the country and local MP Emma she became one of Reynolds was also present to give with First Lady King being first Music Producer and has produced to address their new church fam- jingles for Mr. Merry’s prothe lead vocalists her support.

How fitting that Bishop King’s ily whilst warmly acknowledging gramme on Birmingham’s New for the Handsworth Mass Choir who Inaugural address was given by the NTCG Handsworth members Style Radio. Timon was baptised received the BBC his former lead Bishop and friend who had come for their special in January 2014.

Crystal enjoys Sunday School, Gospel Choir of the Bishop Derek Webley whose evening.

Bishop King, who gave his singing on the Children’s Choir Year award in 1984; resounding message reminded stated and working with the Hospitality this led to various the congregation that this was speech (without tears) appearances for a passing of the baton and as he and his family owed a lot to Team. Both Timon and Crystal television, radio and we all know, when the baton is NTCG Handsworth as he thanked faithfully support their parents’ passed successfully victory can be them for their support and prayers. ministry.

Greenbelt.

He spoke of the peace he and the The NTCG Handsworth family Sonia’s debut CD achieved.

Bishop King’s induction was family had felt since accepting the and all the family of NTCG and EP released in 1999 entitled “I Feel undertaken by NTCG National decision to take on the lead role at the community wish them well on l Sonia King receiving her induction candle from 1st Lady Bolt as she steps into their new journey.

Good” was show- Bishop for England and Wales the Harvest Temple. her new role as 1st lady for the Wolverhampton District

LJ’s

y

unit m m o C

N

On to Pastures New

Gospel Xplosion is Breaking New Ground

G

ospel Xplosion headed up by Gospel artist Annette B who took her vision of 'spreading the gospel through

music ' on the road to Paris last year which was a huge success and since then things have gone to another level.

This next level was a vision

of Annette B's having seen the MOBO Awards, which took place annually, Music of Black Origin which owes a lot to its gospel roots has a Gospel music place within the categories however the window is limited.

Annette conducted her own research into the Gospel Awards sector and the findings were that there have been some phenomenal award ceremonies spread sporadically over the years however there is a lack of longevity within the Gospel Awards sector for one reason or another.

Enter the 1st annual Gospel Xplosion and Music Media

Awards for 2015. The GXMMA Awards' was birthed on Easter Saturday 4th April, at the prestigious Holiday Inn Bloomsbury Hotel in London, hosted by Anthony Jordon of Ben TV and myself, and it was a resounding success.

Special guests included Ministers from a wide range of churches across the UK and abroad a special warm welcome was extended to Bishop Dennis who had been the head Bishop at Small Heath Church of God of Prophecy for over 30 years, before returning to Jamaica.

Winners and nominees felt a sense of appreciation and encouragement, especially as the awards were the 'People’s Choice', as the vote lines opened and the community were invited to vote for their choice.

The response was phenomenal, there were over 3000 votes in 2

weeks from the UK, USA, Africa and the Caribbean. The International Best On Air Personality went to DJ Robert Samuels from the Cayman Islands.

Song of the year went to Peter Spence for 'Drinking from my saucer', while overjoyed to win Sound System of the Year was Shekinar Ministries Album of the Year winner and a vibrant performer on the night was Isabella Melodies who brought the African Rhythms of Nigeria to the event.

It was a spectacular event and it was great to see the Awards spread across all regions. I was of course pleased with the awards that came home to Birmingham Annette B was nominated in 6 categories however as the founder of the event thanked all who nominated her but felt it was fair to stand down from these nominations.

However to her total surprise the Gospel Xplosion team felt it right that Annette received an award for her initiative and her contribution to the Gospel and the honour of awarding her this fell to her Bishop, Bishop Mike Wilson

By God's grace the GXMMA Awards will be an annual event, we want to move the Awards Night around the UK and we have already secured the date for next year, Easter Saturday 26 March 2016, in the West Midlands.

The GXMMA Team would like to send a special thank you to the official sponsor Bishop Llewelyn Graham Nehemiah UCHA. Catch Annette B on Ben TV on Sky182 for her review of the awards. We wish them well as the Gospel Xplosion takes the music to the street of Barbados next month.

Page 6

NEWS

The Phoenix – May 2015

Advertorial

EMMA Trust Ad Campaign for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

T

he EMMA Trust is proud to announce a new campaign. Racial hate now has a new home: where it used to exist on the streets, in the pubs and on the football terraces, hate has now moved online.

On Twitter, in the YouTube comments and on Facebook a flood of racial hatred is delivered every day to the inboxes and accounts of victims.

Racists now hide behind anonymous user names and accounts, and they are rarely punished or singled out by the police or social networks themselves.

The copy for the campaign reads “Hate can’t hide, online." and will be seen in press adverts, banners, TV and football stadia, supported

by UK media who don’t follow the usual lip-service.

The EMMA Trust Anti-racism Ad campaign coincides with UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

This day was formed by the

United Nations General Assembly in 1966, the year England won the World Cup. The UN reacted to 69 people killed in South Africa, Sharpeville, in 1960 in a peaceful demonstration protesting against the racists' Apartheid regime.

Our EMMA campaign aims to stem the tide of racial hate online.

Using a very simple but powerful

ent racism online on anti-racists Day. Ironically, as our British National Sport, the 2015 Premier League has become the second highest earning league in the world, with £5.136 billion TV deal, compared to its humble 1992 beginnings of £191 million. The fact that racism is still prolific in

message: that you can be punished for online hate, we show a prisoner trapped behind the bars of a #hashtag. This iconic, arresting visual can also be shared or used as a profile picture to show your support, or forwarded to online racists to deter them. This ground breaking creativity was produced

by Oglivy & Mather supporting EMMA Trust to highlight persist-

today’s football culture, in and out of stadiums is a shameful reality to admit, when taking on board the Global fan base from every creed, culture, religion and race.

This hate culture, is being incubated online, society ends up witnessing the end result, with high profile incidents reported in the media. The real question is, are these just news reports to gossip

about or are we genuinely appalled by this racism.

It’s why this campaign is a pro-active initiative to take the fight to “hate preachers”.

Bobby Syed, EMMA Founder said, “We all need to eradicate this Social Cancer once and for all, regardless of our race, or class. Ironically, when we started EMMA in 1997, we had faced all forms of racism, towards an organization promoting Social Cohesion defining Multiculturalism that lead to the London 2012 Multicultural Olympic Games. Regardless, we always took on racism head on, although we are totally a-political and a-religious, because racism is one thing we never compromised on.”

The first EMMA was at Dorchester Hotel to celebrate professional excellence, and known as the Cultural Oscar’s, this was the first ever Creative Industry showcase to be held in 1998.

With the aim of promoting Social Cohesion on the BBC & ITV, to define proper Multiculturalism from the socalled tolerance to genuine acceptance, this required us to promote better cultural understanding.

EMMA’s success was promoting London as the “Cultural Capital of the World” since our consistent campaign,

which has inevitably increased tourism to London/UK, taking on board the theme of the London Multicultural Olympic Games, regardless of the £11 billion cost.

EMMA has helped many Ethnic Minorities, to build a successful media career, even though the doors are closed today. The ongoing Ghettoising of communities, has created an 'us and them' syndrome, leading to segregation.

The need for a truly Humanitarian Awards ceremony was born in 1997, to recognize Multicul-

tural creative excellence within the Creative Industry.

The need was as true then as it is now. There are many examples of a closed shop media industry, with recent criticism transpiring, from the Oscars to the Brits, without naming others in the process.

If creativity reflects culture and culture reflects communities, then race relations issues in the USA are crucial before another generation is lost.

Sadly, society doesn’t appreciate our Metropolitan and above all Cosmopolitan lifestyle, as its not reflected by the creative industry.

EMMA doesn’t receive public funding, but is grateful for the recognition, by the likes of Nelson Mandela, to promote a better society for the next generation that will ultimately inherit this world from us.

This is doubly important, taking on board the growing cold war and the fear that many young Muslims fly off to Syria. This reality is compounded by the growing rise of Far Right parties. They seem to use minority issues as an excuse, like individual acts of terrorism to create fear.

We felt this rise in 2010, hence our anti Far Right Ad campaign to encourage the UK voters to turn away from hate politicians, with Saatchi & Saatchi brilliant Advertising work.

The EMMA Ads were recognized as some of the best creativity in the world during 2010, alongside our TV Ads. EMMA enjoyed a great relationship with Saatchi team by winning many Ad Awards.

To Advertise - Tel : 0121 231 3235 or email advertising@thephoenixnewspaper.com

Page 8

SPECIAL FEATURE

The Phoenix – May 2015

Don’t hit the road, Jack

l Jack Dromey with his wife, Harriet Harman

l Jack Dromey after the saving of the Jaguar plant

Continued from Front Page In recent months, Jack Dromey has managed to get the investment and go ahead for Greenwood Academy in Castle Vale, mirroring the opening of North Birmingham Academy shortly after his election in 2010, which Jack described as “a wonderful school, with wonderful facilities.

Incredibly diverse, reflecting the changing nature of Erdington. Erdington historically was white working class, and it is increasingly now a ‘league of nations’.”

“With people like myself, from an Irish background, the proud African community, the West Indian community, the Kashmiri and Eastern Europeans communities, I love living in such

I

an Callum, Jaguar's Director of Design, has won the Designer of the Year Award after taking the number one position in The Drum's second annual Designerati - a list celebrating the top 100 most influential individuals in UK design.

The expert panel of judges decided Ian is this year's most influential UK designer finishing top ahead of Maggie Hodgetts, Head of Graphic Design at Waitrose and Christopher Bailey, Chief Creative Officer at Burberry in second and third place respectively.

Stephen Lepitak, editor of The Drum, said: "Ian Callum is a visionary of British design.

From his roots at Ford in the 1970s, to his craftsmanship on Aston Martin, his influence on car design is legendary.

"His beautifully simple designs, including the 2013 Jaguar F-TYPE and the new XF, unveiled last month, have ushered in a new era for Jaguar, breathing life into the classic

a dynamic, vibrant and diverse city.”

Jack was anointed as Chief of Kingstanding, then more recently the Chief of Birmingham by the African community.

“I work with them very closely, with the wonderful Olu and BUACK, and the celebrations of the African presence in Erdington and the wonderful young people in our schools,” beamed Jack.

“I’m proud to say the edition of The Phoenix Newspaper with myself and Olu has pride of place on a display table in my office in the House of Commons.”

Erdington is the only constituency that has ever taken a Young Peoples Parliament to Parliament, and under Jack, they have done it twice.

“We brought 100 young people to Parliament, from schools, sixth forms, colleges, training agencies, apprentices, youth services and even young homeless

from YMCA and St Basils.”

“My landmark moment was in October 2010 when we secured the future of the Jaguar Land Rover sites for a generation” said Jack, smiling broadly, “it is my greatest success story.”

This involved the safeguarding of over 7000 jobs in the West Midlands following Indian owners Tata ruling out scaling down its UK production in favour of expansion after record high sales.

“The mood on the street is shifting strongly to Labour, because there is a strong sense that we’re a party who stands up for Erdington, England and Great Britain, as opposed to one who stands up for the rich and powerful.”

“Are we perfect? No. Do we always get it right? No we don’t.

Will we make a major difference in peoples lives? Yes we will.”

Ian Callum Tops the Drum’s Prestigious Designerati List brand.

"Ian's dedication to innovation, his eye for detail and his strong vision for what Jaguar cars should look like truly represent the best of design in the UK." Ian Callum, Jaguar's Director of Design, said: "It is an honour to reach the number one position in the Designerati list.

For an automotive designer to

claim this award is very special indeed - especially considering the depth and array of talented UK designers across the disciplines of architecture, fashion and graphic design.

"Being ranked number one and winning The Drum's Designer of the Year Award is testament to the fantastic team at Jaguar I'm privileged to work with every day."

The Phoenix – May 2015

Page 13

VAISAKHI CELEBRATIONS

Vaisakhi - A speech by Bhai Sahib Dr. Mohinder Singh OBE Chair of the British Sikh Consultative Forum and Nishkam Group of Organisations

Birmingham Vaisakhi celebrated with massive Nagar Kirtans

M

assive crowds lined the streets of Handsworth as Vaisakhi, the holiest day in the Sikh calender, was celebrated with two Nagar Kirtans (street parades) along the Soho Road thoroughfare.

Commemorating 1699, when on the first day of Vaisakhi, the 10th Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj created the order of the Khalsa, it proved a day of force as men, women, boys and girls, right across the generations, linked arms in a show of unity and worship.

On what started off as a mild day, with a sharp breeze running through, Sikh worshippers gathered at the Gurdwara Ramgarhia Sikh Temple in Hockley, before calling at other temples including The Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha (GNNSJ) Gurudwara and Nishkam Centre - where more people joined the parade - before reaching Handsworth Park.

At the same time a second parade left Smethwick, arriving in the park systematically.

As the two processions got underway, the sun made its own welcome appearance, with the support and sponsorship from the likes of telecommunications giant, Lebara Mobile, Western Union, the money transfer veterans, FA Cup finalists Aston Villa, Birmingham City Council, South & City College Birmingham, and many more, Vaisakhi 2015 was even bigger and better than ever before.

Led by tomorrow's gener-

ation, Sikh school boys and girls were at the head of what was a serene, orderly, yet vociferous procession, along the streets of Handsworth.

And in doing so, an endless line of people, young and old, men and women, were constantly on guard, giving out food, drinks and their time to passers by, keeping all cool and refreshed throughout the now warm and sunny day.

With benevolence being the order of the Sikh ethos, nonfood shop owners got in on the act, bringing out hordes of samosas, pakoras, packets of biscuits and crisps, together with water, cans of pop, juices and jugs of tea, to be part of the celebrations.

In the park, which was growing in numbers by the minute, the theme of goodwill continued as people were willingly supporting the many stalls which offered a wide variety of products to remember the day.

The procession was led through the tree-lined pathways, to the centrally situated large tent for praise and worship, as a huge line people made it their duty to give worship and thanksgiving for what proved to be yet another successful Vaisakhi in Birmingham.

The Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham describe the event as “an event which principally promotes social cohesion and human love." A great example to other cultural celebrations in the city.

A

time for joyous celebrations, reflections and resolutions; during Vaisakhi, gratitude, sacrifice and a time to exercise compassion and love for all is excesised.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji-the first Gurusought to exalt and liberate mortals from cruelty, suffering, unfounded superstition, meaningless ritual, pettiness and hatred of others; accomplishing this by touching souls with an abundance of love and humility.

Within the 239 year journey of the mortal Sikh Ten Gurus, on the March 30, 1699, a unique model of a good human being was created – the Khalsa, with a distinct identity of the 5 Kakaars and the Turban.

It was the first day of Vaisakh, coinciding with a time of blossom and rejuvenation of nature. It set free the human spirit, giving it a rebirth through spiritual re-kindling.

A Khalsa Sikh was deemed to possess utter humility, compassion, steadfastness, selflessness, altruism, truth, commitment, contentment and love.

Dream for a better world

To dream of a better world is one of the greatest challenges of our time.

Inclusion of moral, ethical and spiritual values in all things said and do is important.

Human societal flourishing is dependent on values and virtues – love, generosity, integrity, honesty, co-operation and friendship, coupled with caring, healing and transforming the world.

Values need to be adopted by all 7.2 billion human stakeholders for a better world, today and tomorrow, valuing passion for caring and kindness, volunteering, simplicity, humility, trust, openness and transparency, harmony with nature, non-violent conflict resolution, teamwork and collaboration, challenge and excellence, health and well-being and dignity of work.

Education

Every child is precious and need good nourishment for the body, mind and spirit; “We are not engaged, surely, in producing good performers in the market place or able technocrats.

Our task is the training of good human beings, purposeful and wise, themselves with the vision of what it is to be human and the kind of society that makes that possible,” Cardinal Basil Hume said.

The 1998 Education Reform Act has led us, in Birmingham, to contribute

significantly to the 2007 Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education based on the broad principles of self-help, parental engagement, and community participation, under-pinned by 7 core values of humility, service, compassion, forgiveness, discipline, love and creativity.

We Sikhs are indebted to be able to open free schools and academies. It took some 10 years to establish 3 Sikh schools in and around London for a Sikh population of over 500,000.

In the last 4 years, however, over 10 Sikh schools up and down the country have been established, with 4 more due to open this September.

We in Birmingham are passionate about values and virtues. We are also working on two significant projects – a Museum of World’s Religions and an international Charter for Forgiveness and Reconciliation.

A Sikh prayer to share with you: Jagat Jalanda Rakh Leh, Aapnee kirpaa dhaar Jit duare oobaray, titai leh oobaar Sat gur sukh vekhalia, sachaa shabad beechaar Nanak avar n soojhaee, har bin bakhshanhaar The whole world is suffering, engulfed in the flames of many destructive forces. We plead to You God through Your mercy, please protect and save us.

No matter which door or sanctuary or place of worship we come from, take us into Your fold and refuge.

Pray, shelter and protect us. (GGSJ, ang. 853 by Guru Nanak Dev Ji the first Guru 1469-1533).

Peace, trust and respect

Peace, trust and mutual respect are critically important in society. Humanity needs to be reconciled and religion has a crucial role to play in building communities of peace and trust. Elements of a culture of peace should ensure dignity of all and promote responsible stewardship towards the natural environment.

The need for just and fair national and global financial systems is a pre-condition for more justice and fairness in all countries. In order to end poverty and financial crisis we must practice responsible lending and borrowing, coupled with a debt workout mechanism.

May the divine traits and characteristics of the first Sikh Vaisakhi, 316 years ago, resonate within human minds today in the 21st century, individually and collectively for the universal good of all humanity.

The Phoenix – May 2015

Page 27

The Phoenix – May 2015

AZUZA STREET

GOSPEL FEST 2015 Kirk Franklin & Support

9

time Grammy-Award winning Gospel icon Kirk Franklin set headline Gospel Fest 2015 with his Explosive & Dynamic Gospel Ministry in Birmingham, UK for the first time in 15 years.

Kirk Franklin is a gospel music icon and is also the host and executive producer of the gospel talent show "Sunday Best," the highest-rated gospel program in BET network history now heading into its fourth season.

To date, the musical trendsetter has garnered nine

Page 29

GRAMMY® Awards; an American Music Award; 39 Stellar Awards (gospel); 16 Dove Awards (CCM); eight NAACP Image Awards; two BET Music Awards, a Soul Train Award and numerous others.

Special guest artists are MOBO Award Winners - Lurine Cato and Rachel Kerr, Gospel Reggae GXMMA Award Winner - Peter Spence and Birmingham-based Christian Youth Band Listen.

“Kirk Franklin has accomplished and achieved what only a handful of artist across any genre have attained. There is no doubt that from all appearances, Gospel Fest Birmingham UK is about to witness Kirk Franklin at his very best!” say promoters ‘Gospel in the City’.

Tickets for Gospel Fest 2015 are now on sale from http://www.theticketsellers.co.uk and www.ticketmaster.co.uk, and outlets across the Midlands including CLC Bookshops.

Page 30

AZUZA STREET

War Part 1

by Roland Joseph Tetteh

G

REETINGS FROM GHANA TO THE B E L O V E D PEOPLE OF GREAT BRITAIN. My name is Roland Joseph Tetteh. I am your brother in the Lord.

I was born in October 3, 1966 in Ghana. I now work as a logistics manager at William Pitt construction in Accra Ghana.

I love the lord and the lord loves us all, every month I will be bringing to you God’s News from various different perspective.

"The days of peace and slumberous calm are fled."

-John Keats “It's Tommy this an' Tommy that an' "Chuck'im out, the brute," But it's "Savior of'is country," when

the guns begin to shoot.”

-Rudyard Kipling War is a state of armed conflict between states and non-state actors or coalitions of such organizations.

Or conflict carried on by force of arms, as between nations or between parties within a nation.

It is generally characterized by extreme collective aggression, destruction, and usually high mortality.

The set of techniques used by a group to carry out war is known as warfare. An absence of war is usually called peace.

Warfare is generally believed by scholars to be a universal and ancestral aspect of human nature.

According to the Canadian Army Journal, a former president of the Norwegian Academy of Sciences, aided by historians from England, Egypt, Germany, and India came up with some fascinating figures and discoveries about war: Since 3600 B.C. the world has known only 292 years of peace.

That means that over a period of 5,600 years there have been less than 300 of those years where there was no type of conflict going on in the world.

During this span of history, there have been over 14,500 wars, large and small, in which a staggering 3,640,000,000 people have been killed.

The economic value of the destruction of those wars would pay for a solid gold belt around the world 25,000 miles around, almost 100 miles wide and about 33 feet thick.

The scholarly study of war is sometimes called polemology from the Greek polemos, meaning "war", and -logy, meaning "the study of" War must entail some degree of confrontation using weapons and other military technology and equipment by armed forces employing military tactics and operational art within a broad military strategy subject to military logistics.

Studies of war by military theorists throughout military history have sought to identify the philosophy of war, and to reduce it to a military science.

Modern military science considers several factors before a national defence policy is created to allow a war to commence: the

environment in the area(s) of combat operations, the posture that national forces will adopt on the commencement of a war, and the type of warfare that troops will be engaged in.

Asymmetric warfare is a conflict between two populations of drastically different levels of military capability or size.

Asymmetric conflicts often result in guerrilla tactics being used to overcome the sometimes vast gaps in technology and force size.

Chemical warfare involves the

intentional use of chemicals in combat.

Poison gas as a chemical weapon was principally used during World War I, and resulted in an estimated 1.3 million casualties, including 100,000–260,000 civilians.

Tens of thousands or more civilians and military personnel died from chemical weapon effects such as scarring of the lungs, skin damage, and cerebral damage

in the years after the Great War ended.

Various treaties have sought to ban its further use. Non-lethal chemical weapons, such as tear gas and pepper spray, are widely used, sometimes with deadly effect.

Civil war is a war where the forces in conflict belong to the same nation or political entity and are vying for control of or independence from that nation or political entity.

Conventional warfare is an attempt to reduce the enemy's capability through open battle.

It is a declared war between existing states in which nuclear, biological, or chemical weapons are not used or only see limited deployment in support of conventional military goals and maneuvers.

Globalizing war refers to a form of war which extends beyond the national or regional boundaries of the immediate combatants to have implications for the whole planet.

An obvious example of this form of war is World War II, but others such as the Vietnam War also qualify. Globalizing war thus includes world war- with that category tending to be restricted by convention to the two main ex-

The Phoenix – May 2015

amples.

Transnational war, a cognate concept, refers to wars fought locally, but with implications or hostilities across the boundaries of nation-states.

Nuclear warfare is warfare in which nuclear weapons are the primary, or a major, method of coercing the capitulation of the other side, as opposed to a supporting tactical or strategic role in a conventional conflict.

Unconventional warfare, the opposite of conventional warfare, is an attempt to achieve military victory through acquiescence, capitulation, or clandestine support for one side of an existing conflict.

Most wars have resulted in significant loss of life, along with destruction of infrastructure and resources (which may lead to famine, disease, and death in the civilian population).

During the Thirty Years' War in Europe, the population of the Holy Roman Empire was reduced by 15 to 40 percent. Civilians in war zones may also be subject to war atrocities such as genocide, while survivors may suffer the psychological aftereffects of witnessing the destruction of war.

Most estimates of World War II casualties indicate that around 60 million people died, 40 million of which were civilians.

Part 2 will appear in the June edition of The Phoenix Newspaper, so look out for it!

SATURDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER 2015 EVANGELIST

CLLR. YVONNE

Mosquito

Apeagyei-Collins

REV JACQUELINE

PASTOR DAWN

CLAUDINE

Cynthia Morrison (Founder & Host)

Peart

Davis Lawrence

VENUE: Bethel Convention Centre, Kelvin Way, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 7JW

REV CELIA

Reid MBE

MARCIA

Dixon

TIME: Registration from 9.45am 10.30am - 7.00pm

ANGIE

LeMar (Special Guest)

FEE: £25.00 includes meal,

refreshments, materials

REGISTER ONLINE AT www.passionplaceandpurposeewc.co.uk Email: passionplaceandpurposeewc@gmail.com • Facebook: Passion. Place. & Purpose

Nigerian Leaderrule Profiles May 1960. commonwealth in 1961. to civilian by 1979.

On the

incompetence. Muhammed cancelled the

Dimka assassinated Muhammed

internadeputy, General Olusegun Obasanjo was Nigerian Leader Profiles 1973 census and reverted to the one of tional front, Muhammed put Africa at asked by the Supreme Military Council, 1963 as being more acceptable.

Lieutenant-Colonel Buka Sukar Nigerian Leader Pro He was overthrown and murdered in a His administration recorded some the forefront policy.15, 1966, SMC Dimka’s coup was aborted, the head of militaryforeign coup on January alongto take charge of the government. import achievements, including the of Nigerian earning revenue from agriculture instead eventually directed the expulsion of over overthrown on December 31, 1983 by His administration proposed a return the government had been killed and his He railways pushed for independence Angola with several in other, mainly Northern extensive of single-line netof just depending on oil. Shagari oversaw two million aliens mostly from Ghana, the military led by General Muhammadu politician and military leaders, including works to maid passing through Bauchi to civilian rule by 1979.

On the internadeputy, General earning revenue from agriculture instead eventually directed theOlusegun expulsionObasanjo of over was overthrown on December 31, 19 backingthethe socialistofMPLA the which Murtala face adorns the who construction housingagainst estates all caused aMuhammed’s crack in the relationship Buhari cited corruption, nepotism Biafran War, That boost provinces. to the Nigerian his compatriot in the NPC, Sir Ahmadu tional front, Muhammed put Africa at asked by the Supreme Military Council, of just depending on oil.

Shagari oversaw two million aliens mostly from Ghana, the military led by General Muha UNITA that was supported by the West.

N20 note.

The international wing of the over the country that were named after between the two countries. and incompetence as the reasons for his hammed be-It was in his that the country’s Bello. His body was discovered by the economy. the forefront of of housing Nigerianestates foreign policy.whichSMC to take charge ofrelationship the government. the construction all caused a crack in the Buhari who cited corruption, nep him. ousting.

Lagos is also named after him budget reached surpassed 65 milroadside in a bush near Lagos six days airport •After MURTALA MUHAMMED fe-the annual Supreme forthat independence Angola between the two countries. and incompetence as the reasons overHethepushed country were named in after his first term of office,Shagari after hewon was ousted from office. Balewa lion Pounds. as The MPLA eventually the war and among many other monuments uncil with the him.backing the socialist MPLA against the ousting.

Murtala Muhammed’s face adorns the

d . In me a

Of The Nigerian Leaders erianProfiles Leaders And Their Achievemements vemements WHO IS BENJAMIN NNAMDI AZIKWE?

B

A O

Shagari's reignwas wasburied characterised re-election 1983 heroagainst of theAwolowo BiafraninWar, in BauchibyJanuary won 15, 1966. an international economic crisis and he after a courtMurtala battle. HeMuhammed was, however,be-

his note. first term office,Shagari UNITA that was supported by the West. After N20 The of international wing of the

ENJAMIN Nnamdi Azikiwe However, he was acquitted on appeal.

Shagari's reign was characterised by won re-election against Awolowo 1983 Lagos airport is also namedinafter him came head of the Supreme was born on November 16th, He returned to Nigeria in 1937 and an international economic crisis and he after a court battle.

He was, however, The MPLA eventually won the war and among many other monuments 1904 in Zurugeru. Niger founded the West Africa Pilot which he Military Council with the State, Nigeria. He studied at used as a platform to foster Nigerian Nappeal. hopethe Waseli Training Institution Calationalism.

Hethe founded the Zik Group of dn However, agreement continue to basanjo was of thetocountry civilian rule,Buhari first wasof public places. bar, Azikwe went to thestate United States uhammadu Newspapers, publishing several newspawith Nigeria as a confederate was ch he and becamewhere he attended such Howard on theUniversity, continent where a military born December17, pers in some cities 1942 in the country. on never followed through by Gowon's an NaWashington government D.C and graduated from Daura emirates,Katsina deputy, Tunde Idiagbon, aff, Supreme willingly handed over power Buhari and his uhammadu Buhari was d of federal government Instead,Pennsylvania he carved Obasanjo was of the country to civilian rule, the first ofpublic places. oup Lincoln University, in State.He After is a successful enter- aboutluseegun tall,fair journalismbrought a stern face to governborn December17, 1942 ers and he was to civilians. up the country into 12 states in order to ewspaand became such on the continent where a military 1930.

Dr. Azikiwe joined politics, skinned with wideprise. rimmed glasses, anceco-and wereborn noted1937 for never smiling in Daura emirates,Katsina Buhari and his deputy, Tunde Idiagbon, uweakenMuthe Eastern Region. Following founding the National Council of Nigeria Murtala Chief of Staff, Supreme government willingly handed over power Muhammadu Buhari became Nigeria's public.

State.He is tall,fair brought about a stern face to governHe obtained a Master’s Degree in 1933 this, Ojukwu declared an independent and the Cameroons (NCNC) alongside •Headquarters BENJAMIN NNAMDIand AZIKWE he was to civilians.

Obasanjo also oversaw a time of plenty new military of state in Decemthe prestigious teacher at Lincoln headHerbert Macaulay in 1944. skinned with wide rimmed glasses, ance and were noted for never smiling in Republic on May 30, 1967. ter- Biafran from Dr. Azikiwe and his civilian colsecond-in-command to Murtala Muberin 1983 after rose overthrowing civilThe regime cut down on public spendas toworld oil prices to a verythehigh before returning Africa November, Muhammadu Buhari became Nigeria's public. coleagues were corruption, removed from power in hammed.

1934. ian government of Shehu Shagari. also of oversaw time of plenty He became the Secretary General of ing as a way of curbing der upreme Military to this by sending new Obasanjo military head state ina Decemthe military coup of January 15, 1966.

Nigeria Gowon responded level. the National Council in 1946 and was inadvertently led to the cancellawhich as1983 world oiloverthrowing prices rose to the a very high The regime cut down on public spendout the army to quash the rebellious state ber after civilDuring the 1967-1970 war of secession, of the governgside In his return to Africa, he becamewas the detained elected to the Legislative ofof many otherwise important pro• YAKUBU GOWON BENJAMIN NNAMDI AZIKWE Shagari and kept under Council tion He was asked by the Supreme Military level. and it• erupted in a 30-month war that he initially acted as a spokesman for ian government of Shehu Shagari. ing as a way of curbing corruption, editor of the Africa Morning Post, a daily leader of the Opposition to the governnf a hero ofthe the His time would behemarked by an at-corhouse arrest till was cleared of all jects like the Lagos metro railthe line that Republic ofof Biafra and an adviser saw toDr. loss of over ahis million civilian Council to the take charge governoverthrown by ainband of Azikiwe civilian newspaper inand Accra, Ghana.

As coleditor, Gowon ment was of Obafemi Awolowo the Westwhich inadvertently led to the cancellaruption charges against him.the Buhari and have eased transportation probat industrialisation by setting to its leader,Chukwuemeka Odumegwu e at lives.leagues Eventually, Biafra surrendered on in junior in Julyof ofAssembly.

1975.would The • OLUSEGUN OBASANJO he promoted atempt Pro-African Nationalment.

Obasanjo had been a hero of the ern officers Region’s House His time would be marked by an atwere removed from power Shagari was detained and kept under tion of many otherwise important prol of Ojukwu. his colleagues claimed that theAfter civilian in the ever-growing capital city. an January ist 13,Agenda 1970 after fled the denouncing colonialism, soldiersMills. led by Colonel Josephlems Garba upOjukwu of the Ajaokuta Steel the

SWE? OLUSEGUN AKUBU GOWON ?OBASANJO? WHO IS MUHAMMADU BUHARI?

M

WHO IS MUHAMMADU BUHARI? WHO IS OLUSEGUN OBASANJO?

M

Biafran Civil War.

the military coup of January 15, 1966.

tempt at industrialisation house arrest till he was clearedbyofthe all setting cor- jects like the LagosOBASANJO metro rail line that • OLUSEGUN

was country the • MUHAMMADU BUHARI regime had "hopelessly corrupt." restrictions on the African’s rightbecome to claimed In 1952, to the Eastern with his 1967-1970 family. was also responsible for the repression that he hemoved was overthrown because the war of secession, upofofcharges the Ajaokuta Mills. After es capture war, Nigeria worked atRegion increasing acruption against Steel him. Buhari and thewould have eased transportation probAfter the war, he served as Chancellor of in the During express their opinions and racial diswhere he was elected Chief Nigeria increasingly became a police he did not plan to return the country to theofactivists responsiblecapital for the repression of press freedom and publicthat criticism of the ac- lems was political like in the musician, Fela he initially acted as atospokesman forfor Lagos University from 1972 to 1976.

He led federal forces the capture war, Nigeria worked at increasing his colleagues claimed the civilian in thealso ever-growing city. ived surrenvern- the crimination. cess education all its citizens and Minister.

In 1954 he became the Premier He set out to clean up rule the nation's state under with the setting up ofParty, government.

Gowon thus announced the now popucivilian and that body his government had Buhari political activists like the musician, Fela He joined the Nigeria the People’s the Republic of Biafra and an adviser • MUHAMMADU BUHARI of the Eastern Region.

On November 16, Anikulapo-Kuti. of Owerri and then received surrenregime had become "hopelessly corrupt." cess to education for all its citizens and nWestbehalf of the"no set thebecome Universal Primary polity byup creating the War Against Indisthe National NPP Security Organisation that lar refrain victor,Obasanjo no vanquished" in really corrupt.

They appointed in 1978, making unsuccessful bids Anikulapo-Kuti. to itsHe leader,Chukwuemeka Odumegwu also criticized Africa elite of colo1960, he became the Governorder General Nigeria increasingly became a police of the rebel forces on behalf of the Obasanjo set up the Universal Primary ake order to nial reunite thewho country.

He setproject about cipline (WAI) all brigade that went round monitored dissenters Brigadier Murtala Muhammed as to thethe and press freedom and public criticis for detained the presidency in 1979under and 1983.

Education over the country. society favoured the existing and subsequently the first Nigeria Ojukwu.

HeEducation set out to project clean upalltheover nation's body state under Buhari with the setting up of federal government. the country. in the process ofAfter reconciliation, reconstruccountry trying restore sanity in When the decrees that were limit newto head ofPrivy state.

On October 1,enacted 1979, to Obasanjo handed government. order. publishing the an article on May Queen’s Council.

Nigeria On October 1, Organisation 1979, Obasanjo the National Security that handed non tion and15, He left politics after the military couppolity by creating the War Against Indisrehabilitation money 1936 by one with I.T.A.the Wallace Johnson, became a Republic in 1963, he was power back to the elected President After the war, he served as Chancellor powerand back to the dissenters elected President December with 31, 1983 died on May ith thethat policies He also founded nationaltheshipping cipline brigade the thatnational went round ef detained under accrued from crude oil.

Dr. Azikiwe was prosecuted on charges the appointed first President of Nigeria, Obasanjo on continued theand policies He(WAI) also founded shipping monitored of Lagos University from guilty 1972 and to 1976.

11, 1996 at the University of Nigeria the country trying to restore sanity in Shehu Shehuthat Shagari. of sedition.

He was found sen- Nigerian while Abubakar Tafawa the Shagari. eremier were enacted to limit saw the return lines, improved electricity supplyLeader and Balewa Profiles ofwas Muhammed and oversaw the return lines, improved electricity supply and the decrees

ber 16, eneral to the geria as geria, was the

He tenced joinedtothe People’s Party, six Nigeria months imprisonment.

Prime Minister.

NPP in 1978, making unsuccessful bids for the presidency in 1979 and 1983.

WHO IS MURTALA MUHAMMED? WHO ALIYU SHAGARI? administration to IS returnALH.SHEHU the country to WHO IS ALH.SHEHU ALIYU SHAGARI? WHO IS ALHAJI SIR ABUBAKAR WHO IS IBRAHIM BADAMASI BABANGI 19 He came into office promising reforms civil rule by 1990 was never fulfilled as

S

vocal

the stern Muhammadu Buhari.

Babangida's pledge at inception of his

S

overthrow of Yakubu Gowon in 1976.

declared independence from Portugal. It

He left politics after the military coup He came into office with a promise of increased the visibility and respect of Ni- 1925. hehu wasreason born Shagari promised his National Party of Babangida's pledge at inception TAFAWA BALEWA? he kept shifting the Shagari date for one and a return to civilian rule for a date in Party the stern Muhammadu Buhari. on December 31, 1983 and diedShagari on May was born 1925. hehu Shagari promised National of sweeping away his corruption. geria in international circles. Muhammed With a trademark high peaked Nigeria NPN Government on agriculture, 1990. He appointed of the former or other. the military lexicon . He soon administration to return the coun lhaji Abubakar Tafawa leader formany Northern national Hethe introduced 11, 1996 at the University of Nigeria With a trademark high peaked Nigeria NPN Government oninterests. agriculture, hula cap on babanriga and a He came education, housing and industry.

Balewa was born in Decemwas one of the educated Nigeria under critics of the Buhari government into poHe began with cleansing the civil became a hero of who hailed his pristine into office promising reformsThe civil rule by 1990 was never fulfi Teaching Hospital, Enugu, after a prohula cap on babanriga a was sitions education, housing and industry.

The ber and 1912. He a Nigerian the British rule who could play that role. service of over 10,000 personnel on acsmall grey goatee thatwhat he claimed teacher from Village inhe kept shifting the date for one in his government, something that Byattitude 1993, tohecorruption organised has beard, come Shehu and aformer return to civilian ruleShagari for a date in tracted illness. politician and statesman, count oldagent age, health, inefficiency andto be to fight .Morning of February 13, 1976, small grey goatee beard, Shehu Shagari became the new face of a demformerhim teacher from Village in Sokoto State became leader of the Secdescribed as the freest and fairest portrayed asofan ofShagari change. or the other.

1990.

He appointed many of the former and the only Chief Minister and Prime incompetence.

The son of the district head of Lere, Muhammed cancelled thehe Dimka assassinated Muhammed election in the history on of Nigeria so 1, far1979. criticsond ocratic Nigeria October Republic. of the Buhari government into poShagari became the new face of Nigeria a demSokoto1973 State became leader of Minister before attained and reverted to the onethe of inSecwascensus a calm person patient, eloquent On the economic front, Babangida His administration Heannulled assumedit.office on the back of an sitions in his government, something that By 1993, he organised what has 1963 as being more acceptable.

Lieutenant-Colonel Buka Sukar independence and of an independent speech.

He started his education at thebut also ocratic Nigeria on October 1, 1979. ond Republic. created the Structural Adjustment a military organised by term portrayed Dimka’s coup wascoup aborted, the headlong of Nigeria, respectively.

Quranic School in BauchiProhe studied survived election where he defeated He continued work on the Ajaokuta and him as an agent of change. to be described as the freest and He assumed office on the back of an His administration proposed returnhismid-level the government had beenMiddle killed and hisof the gramme SAP, oversaw the deregulaofficers of the Belt at that the Katsina Colleges and aearned election in the history of Nigeria politician, Obafemi Awolowo Delta Steel Mills as well as a green revoto civilian rule by 1979.

On the internadeputy, General Olusegun Obasanjo was • ALHAJI SIR ABUBAKAR TAFAWA BALEWA He trained a teacher became vocal teaching election where he defeated longas term He continued work on the Ajaokuta and tion of many sectors of the economy as extraction Aprilof1990.

• aALH.SHEHU ALIYUCertificate.

SHAGARI economic front,toBabangida leader for Northern national interests. He Unitybyin Party Nigeria,UPN and others. On the lution that sought return the countrybut to also annulled it. His administ tional front, Muhammed put Africa at asked the Supreme Military Council, well as devaluation of the currency.

Obafemi Delta Steel Mills as well as a green revowas one of thepolitician, educated Nigeria under Awolowo of the created the Structural Adjustment Prosurvived a military coup organise the forefront of Nigerian foreign policy.

SMC to take charge of the government.

But after • ibraHiM baDaMaSi babaNGiDa MUHAMMED He pushed for independence Angola the British ruleUnity who could play role.• MURTALA Party ofthat Nigeria,UPN and others. mid-level officers of the Middle gramme SAP, that oversaw the deregulalution that sought to return inthe country to annulling Nigeria's best elec18 He created manythe public-spirited tions Murtala in 1993, Babangidaface agreed tothe "step backing socialist MPLA against the Muhammed’s adorns hero of the Biafran War, tion of many sectors of the economy as extraction in April 1990. brahim Badamasi Babangida handed over to the Ernest organisations likethat thewas Peoples Bank, UNITA supported by the West. aside" N20and note.

The international wing of the beThe son of the district headwas of Lere, well as devaluation of the currency. bornhe on AugustMurtala 17,1941MuhammedDirectorate Lagos airport is also named after him for Food, Roads and Rural Shonekan-led Interim National Governcame head of the Supreme was a calm person patient, eloquent in But after annulling Nigeria's be • ibraHiM baDaMaSi babaNGiDa in Wshishi,Niger State.

Gen. The eventually wonLife the war andment among many otheranniversary monuments Military Council with the Infrastructure asMPLA well as the Better on the eighth of his speech. He started his education at the He created many public-spirited tions in 1993, Babangida agreed Ibrahim Babangida knew how to for Rural Women, set up by his wife,Late regime. brahim Badamasi Babangida Quranic School in Bauchi he studied organisations like the Peoples Bank, aside" and handed over to the Er capture and win the favour of a popuMaryam. was born on August 17,1941 at the Katsina Collegeslation and earned his WHO IS OLUSEGUN OBASANJO? that was under the iron grip of Directorate for Food, Roads and Rural Shonekan-led Interim National G in Wshishi,Niger State. Gen. teaching Certificate.

Infrastructure as well as the Better Life ment on the eighth anniversary o luseegun Obasanjo was of the country to civilian rule, the first of Ibrahim Babangida knew how to for Rural Women, set up by his wife,Late regime. born 1937 and became such on the continent where a military Chief of Staff, Supreme government willingly handed over powercapture and win the favour of a popuMaryam.

Headquarters and he was to civilians. lation that was under the iron grip of

HAJI SIR ABUBAKAR WA BALEWA?

wa DecemGARI igerian man, Prime d ndent

Teaching Hospital, Enugu, BADAMASI after a proWHO IS IBRAHIM BABANGIDA? tracted illness.

A

I A

20

O

second-in-command to Murtala Muhammed.

He was asked by the Supreme Military Council to take charge of the government. Obasanjo had been a hero of the Biafran Civil War.

I

21

Obasanjo also oversaw a time of plenty as world oil prices rose to a very high level.

He led the federal forces in the capture of Owerri and then received the surrender of the rebel forces on behalf of the federal government.

His time would be marked by an attempt at industrialisation by the setting up of the Ajaokuta Steel Mills. After the war, Nigeria worked at increasing access to education for all its citizens and Obasanjo set up the Universal Primary Education project all over the country.

Obasanjo continued with the policies of Muhammed and oversaw the return

He also founded the national shipping lines, improved electricity supply and

• OLUSEGUN OBASANJO was also responsible for the repression of political activists like the musician, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.

On October 1, 1979, Obasanjo handed power back to the elected President Shehu Shagari.

WHO IS ALH.SHEHU ALIYU SHAGARI?

S • ALH.SHEHU ALIYU SHAGARI

20

hehu Shagari was born 1925.

With a trademark high peaked hula cap on babanriga and a small grey goatee beard, Shehu Shagari became the new face of a democratic Nigeria on October 1, 1979.

He assumed office on the back of an election where he defeated long term politician, Obafemi Awolowo of the Unity Party of Nigeria,UPN and others.

Shagari promised his National Party of Nigeria NPN Government on agriculture, education, housing and industry. The former teacher from Shagari Village in Sokoto State became leader of the Second Republic.

He continued work on the Ajaokuta and Delta Steel Mills as well as a green revolution that sought to return the country to