SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014. Edition

Jonathan raises CONFAB report implementation panel >>PAGE 6 >>PAG

Nigeria and the debacle of FIFA suspension

144Days Since over 200 Chibok schoolgirls were abducted

>>PAGE 4

weekend.peoplesdailyng.com

. . . Pu ttin g th e people first Vol. 4 No. 7

SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

THUL-QADAH 12-13 1435 AH

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Why I withdrew my aspiration >>PAGE 6

– Nuhu Ribadu

2015: Election without voter cards L-R: Ahmed Rufai, Muhammadu Sani, Yau Saidu, Anas Isah, Adamu Yusuf and Aminu Sadiq Ogwuche, suspects in connection with the bombing of Nyanya Motor Park, paraded by DSS, yesterday in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

Why APC won’t hold >>PAGE 2 DSS exonerates elective convention – Buhari Gen. Ihejirika

>>PAGE >>PA >> PAG GE 10

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 2

Interview

Why APC won’t hold elective convention – Buhari

I

f you become the President today, how will you tackle the myriad of problems of Nigeria and then restore confidence in governance?

First, I have to secure the country, because unless you secure the country, nothing can be done properly. So, first it is security and then how to manage the country, that is by resuscitating the economy, the infrastructure, getting the factories reopened, getting employment and goods and services.

It is much easier to damage than to rebuild, but everybody agrees that Nigeria is an incredibly resourceful country, both materially and human wise.

It is a question of the elite getting their acts together and making sure the country is organized in such a way that it can be secured and managed well. It is not easy because a number of the institutions have being compromised. What do you do with the Nigerian Police in terms of their efficiency? The military itself? The judiciary?

The recent happening in our country, especially the abduction of more than 200 girls from their school is unbelievable. For those of us who experienced the civil war, we can’t reconcile how a group like Boko Haram would come and collect from one school more than 200 children and after three months, the Federal Government cannot do anything.

So for those of us coming from the 1960s to now, it is unthinkable for any group to emerge in Nigeria to hold everyone to ransom. I mean the so-called Boko Haram. I said this about six months ago. I said no religion advocates hurting the innocent. So the religious toga that Boko Haram is wearing can be exposed. You can’t wrap yourself with explosives and go and kill people in markets, churches, mosques, and motor parks, and also go and slaughter children in their sleep. It’s simply terrorism.

This is my clear understanding of it and it is the duty of the Federal Government to stop it.

Unfortunately, so far, the Federal Government has failed.

You were recently attacked in Kaduna, and then there was an investigation.

Has there been any progress concerning that incident?

You are asking me of progress.

Have you forgotten that over 200 girls are missing for over three months now and nothing has happened? Ok. I know I’m a former Head of State and I decided to be in politics of opposition. Imagine your daughter being among the missing girls. So to come and talk to me about a near-death situation while over 200 children are still missing is insensitive. I do not expect anything to come out of the investigation into the attack

General Muhammadu Buhari, former head of State, and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain recently opened up on several issues not the least his persistence in the race to govern democratic Nigeria. The nononsense soldier turned politician explains the question of leadership and just how to salvage Nigeria from its present malaise. This interview earlier done by Hausa Service of the BBC was translated by Premiumtimes. Here are excerpts… on me honestly.

You did say that Nigeria has the expertise to deal with the insurgency. Do you have an advice?

The problem is, as I have said in a few places, I have been in this struggle in Nigeria since 1966 when a certain group decided to wipe out our military and political leadership which led to countercoups, which led to civil war, and which led to all sorts of unsettling instability in the society. I have been in it all and to boot, I too have been detained for more than three years. I tried to develop the capacity to bounce back and to appeal to people, especially the elite to be serious, to participate in politics so that credible people can be representatives and leaders in the country.

That’s why I am in it. The National Assembly voted a year ago (or is it 18 months ago?) on the death of NEPA (may its soul rest in peace) after billions of dollars had been spent. What do we have now in terms of electricity? Nothing. In pension funds, in petroleum industry, it’s the same situation…and no single person is being prosecuted. What will you think of this government?

The question is if we see a Buhari presidency today, will these things be pursued vigorously?

Well, people have to be accountable, but there is a limit to what one can do if one finds himself as the president of this great country today. Earlier on, I talked about institutions being compromised so with who are you going to work? Whoever finds himself as the leader of this country next year, I hope he will not be overwhelmed by the problems and just sit back to watch the decay instead of doing something practical.

Are you going to contest the next election or not?

Well I have to say that I am a loyal party member. Yes I have my own rights and so on, but being part of the merger, and the merger is not a political accident.

I participated in the presidential elections of 2003, 2007 and 2011 so for me to participate in the

General Muhammadu Buhari merger process is not an accident.

I realised that my experience in partisan politics from April 2002 to now is the only way I think of in confronting this amorphous ruling party, the PDP. I think the way forward for our country is for the opposition parties that have representations in the state legislatures and in the centre to come together and face the PDP. Unless that is done, we cannot stop the bad system. I have said it often that I am a converted democrat since 1991 when the

Soviet Union, an empire of the 20th century, collapsed without a shot fired. People panicked, left nuclear sites, missile sites and now there are 18 or 19 republics.

That was when I came to the conclusion that the democratic system of government is the best form of governance.

The picture looks very gloomy. I remember what an elder statesman, Ali Monguno, said “where did we go wrong?” So I ask you General, where did we go

wrong?

I am sure you did not miss Obama’s statement in Ghana during his first visit to Africa. I think he came to tell us, especially developing African economies, that what we need to fix our countries are strong institutions, not strong individuals. But if Obama were in Nigeria, he would have arrived at a different conclusion. But we Nigerians know that it is strong individuals that destroyed strong institutions and so, we again need to look for strong personalities to renew these institutions.

When the British came, they found some of us in this part of the country with advanced social set up. They found in the north the emirate council system that only required accountability. There was taxation system — cattle and personal — but it was normally put in the pockets of the Emirs.

The office of the treasurer was just a name. The British came and instituted accountability, a reform that helped the system already in place.

In like manner, going forward, we need to reform this country.

So the elite must make sure they participate in electioneering, even if they are not card-carrying members of any party.

They must make sure that in their constituencies they participate, even if they don’t want to go and contest election. They must make sure that credible, responsible Nigerians in their constituencies are the ones who become lawmakers, chairmen of local governments, senators, governors and so on. This is the duty of the elite because of what has happened to us between 1999 till now. When I tried to introduce Buba Marwa to his constituency, I said it. Let him go to the local government and know what are the condition of their schools, health care system and security there then and what the situation is now?

When you talked about Obama what you are saying is that we need strong personalities to build strong institutions but now in the merger you have individuals who are described as strange bed fellows. How confident are you that from now till 2015, people will remain committed to the change we need?

Well, I assume that we have agreed on the reason why we needed to merge. That no single opposition party could defeat the ruling party, so we had to bury our differences to come together.

What we did was deliberate and according to the Electoral Act 2010 that when you want to have a party, you have to apply and satisfy certain criteria. We set up a series of committees one of which Contd on Page 15

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 3

Feature

Marrying off 5-year-olds: Ethiopia’s culture, modernity battle

Growing number of women, often child brides, are now taking control of their reproductive lives

M

ekdes Murgeta does not remember her actual wedding, but her family told her it happened when she was five. Pointing at her own fiveyear-old daughter she confirms she was her age.

Murgeta lives in Mosebo, a rural village in the Amhara region in central Ethiopia. There, as in the rest of Ethiopia, it is illegal to be married before the age of 18.

According to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Amhara has some of the highest rates of child marriage in the world.

Estimates in 2009 show at least 50 percent of women marrying before they reach 18. Murgeta thinks she is around 28 now, but is unsure. Keeping track of your age is not common here.She is six months pregnant with her second kid. “I want to adequately serve them, adequately feed them. If I have many children, I can’t do that,” she explains.

Murgeta is part of a growing number of Ethiopian women, many of them child brides, who are taking control of their reproductive lives.

On the 19th of every month, she has an appointment with the village health extension worker. It was the health extension worker that gave her the injection that kept her from getting pregnant for five years. They taught her about spacing her pregnancies. “They teach me everything,” she says.

In 2003, Ethiopia launched its health extension worker programme, a large-scale project aimed to teach basic illness prevention methods across the country. Before that, health

extension workers did not exist.

Now, there are 38,000 of them around the country. One of their main goals is keeping women healthy.

‘Political priorities’ “The country made maternal health one of the top political priorities,” says Addis Woldemariam with the Ministry of Health. Every week, he says, Ethiopia’s regional presidents are charged with auditing the cause of each maternal death in their

“

region.

The effects have proved dramatically benefical in tackling women’s health issues. Save the Children reports that since 2000, Ethiopia has reduced the risk of maternal mortality by two-thirds, the most of any African country.

But Woldemariam admits a persisting tragic problem. “The women still dying are very young,” he says, adding: “There is still some practice of early marriage.”

Child marriage remains a major health concern. One of the primary causes of death for girls aged 15-19 is pregnancy.

Girls, who bear children before the age of 18, are five times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes compared to older mothers. There is often pressure to consummate new marriages as soon as possible, to prove the bride’s fertility. Murgeta says her parents pressured her to have as many babies as possible, but she sided with the health worker instead.

Women, who are married young, also tend to have older husbands.

Murgeta is not sure how old her husband is but she says he is much older.

In Amhara, the age difference between husband and bride can be 15 years or more. Older husbands are more likely to be sexually experienced and married couples are less likely to use condoms.

When one family gets a goat for not marrying their daughter at a young age, other families want to mirror their success.

That leaves their wives 50 percent more likely to contract HIV, according to a 2004 study by the Population Council.

The health extension worker that Murgeta sees is just a fiveminute walk from her house. She is lucky, as that is not the case for everyone. Child brides tend to live in the poorest, most remote areas of Ethiopia. Poor roads and limited means of transport could mean that some people are several hours, even days, away from any health facility.

Some villagers may not know the laws prohibiting child marriage. Some believe that once the marriage ceremony ends, they are no longer breaking the law. Even if the law is enforced, divorced women in Amhara are often stigmatised, prompting them to remain married out of fear.

Successful work Annabelle Rokar is the country director for the Population Council in Ethiopia.

Her organisation has done some of the most successful work ending child marriage. “We don’t want to reach 500 girls or 600 girls. We have to reach millions of girls at risk of child marriage,” she says.

Rokar explains how they have used the goat project to solve the problem. It is actually quite simple. Families who marry their daughters early are typically poor and sometimes early marriage is a way to transfer the burden of one more mouth to feed. Giving a family a goat can provide extra income.

Peer pressure also goes into effect. When one family gets a goat for not marrying their daughter at

a young age, other families want to mirror their success. The goat project worked reasonably well at delaying marriage for a few years, according to the Population Council’s study. But for the Ethiopian government, one goat per family was too expensive.

So CARE and the International Centre for Research on Women took a different approach. Rather than try to prevent child marriage, they would work with the brides already married. They provided health care and economic education, even a social network for the girls.

Jeff Edmeades was the researcher on the project. When he first arrived in Amhara, he was unsure he would find any child brides. He was told by one government official that the law banning child marriage was so effective, child brides no longer exist.

He soon learned that was not the case. He now estimates there are tens of thousands of child brides in Amhara alone.

He understands the spirit of the law banning child marriage, but he worries it may be adversely affecting the girls themselves. “It’s harder to do research. Effectively, they become more hidden in communities than they were,” he says. It became his job to draw them out.

With help, he taught the girls how to pool their money and invest in small businesses. They also learned about reproductive health. The lessons helped, but Edmeades said putting the girls in an environment where they could listen to each other and be heard was one of the most exciting aspects of the project.

In the beginning, the girls were quiet. They would hardly talk. “And by the end of the project,” he said, “these girls were just very active, very vocal, very comfortable talking about a whole range of topics.”

IRCW documented 70 child marriages prevented in the year the project took place. But as successful as that project was, it had to end. Many girls, like Ashkalash Thomas, were left behind.

Filling out the paperwork at an abortion clinic in Addis Ababa, the capital, she wrote her name and her age, 15.

She came from a village in Woliata, south of Ethiopia. The only health care worker she knew was hours away. Thomas’ parents told her she would be married a year ago. She never learned the groom’s name. She did the only thing she thought she could: She ran away.

She found a job in a factory and some friends to live with. She even met a boy. He told her he loved her. Three days later, she was pregnant and he was gone.

She has not told her parents.

“They can kill me,” she said.

Instead, she came to get an abortion. She said she felt better and says she was not ready to have a child. She walked out of the building but stopped at the street.

Thomas lingered seeming not to know where to go or who to turn to next.

Source: Al Jazeera

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Special Report

. . . Nigeria and the debacle of FIFA suspension

By Patrick Andrew

T

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is synonymous with controversies and conflicts. In fact, in the estimation of many the NFF smells trouble, and indeed is conflict epitomized. In some quarters the football federation’s not being embroiled in one form of conflict or another would seem abnormal.

Even so, some can rightly predict the likely period when the controversies will snowball into belligerence: usually after the World Cup and shortly before an elective congress meant to usher in a new executive committee of the football federation.

This period usually leads to the emergence of surfeits of stakeholders’ groups, all claiming to fight for the soul of the game, with each laying claim to being the only legitimate group that should be reckoned with, and therefore should be entrusted with the responsibility of leading the football federation. Ironically, they don’t wait to be so entrusted with the task, they would assume the task using all sorts of illegitimate means yet holding firmly to the NFF statutes as its anchor. Well, the statutes (in the Nigerian context) is a piece of paper and, therefore, subject to the whims and caprice of the so-called stakeholders. Whatever the stake!

Trust Nigerians or the so-called stakeholders, they usually found their ways to FIFA, calling its attention to the federal government’s interference in matters of football administration: This is a taboo because FIFA abhours external interference or influences in its affairs. The world football governing body brooks no legal instrument other than its own, not even that which makes a nation a sovereign entity.

With claims and counter claims come the mass turn out of FIFA suspension threats and in some cases outright ban of Nigeria for violating its statutes. Nigeria has been subjected to that fate one too many. Between 2004 and 2014, a 10-year period FIFA’s suspension and outright ban have hung on Nigeria about half a dozen times. Repeated threats of suspension is no longer strange.

The scenario has been repeated many times over as to assume a banality. A quick recap shows that it was the case shortly prior to the 2006 World Cup in Germany, one global soccer fiesta that former NFF Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, annoyed millions of soccer devotees when he said “(World Cup) qualification is not

“

our birthright”. That hurts the sensitivity of many Nigerians, football being not just a prime passion but a religion of some sort. He was in soup, yet determined to battle his way through. Sanctimonious and punctilious as ever in use of words and some legal details, Galadima thought verbal brilliance and sympathy from the senior echelons of the media would be the magic wand. That proved futile.

Then, he turned to FIFA, whose finer statutory details seem winsome. Banking on the NFF’s affiliation with the soccer governing body, Galadima sought its sledge hammer on the authority for interference.

He barked, but it was a bull doggish, largely lame and invalid.

The conflict threw up Jerome Chamberlain, an aide to FIFA president who became infamous for constantly writing threat letters to Nigeria allegedly for government interference. The letters were one too many and soon lost its essence.

It appears government wanted Galadima out but he termed it interference albeit he never objected when the same government made him chairman of the NFF board.

Roll forward the hand of the clock to 2010. Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi was the next on the block. He too had ridden on the back of government to dethrone Galadima and expectedly enjoyed the comfort of being the chosen son of the powerful government forces. But then the table turned. He was on the back of the tiger but it seems he was oblivious of the consequences of being ferried here and there by the rapacious cannibalistic tiger.

And so when the moment to be shown the exit arrived, he too seethed, became livid with rage and would not budge. But not when you are dealing with the powers that be. He was eventually kicked off the saddle, alas ingloriously defrocked as it were.

Galadima was not impeached, Sani Lulu was. Lulu’s impeachment was the second of such in the life of the Nigeria Football Federation. Kojo Williams, whose youthful exuberance had been his undoing (or was it arrogance?) had had the infamous record of being the first to be so dismissed from the helms of affairs.

Sani lulu’s impeachment was later commuted to pardon, whatever that means.

But Lulu fought to retain his seat, he pulled strings, went to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) at The Hague. He adduced his financial prudence, wrote to the same element that had been responsible for his exit. He thought his good performance

Chris Giwa

Aminu Maigari

would adjudicate for him. It never did.

Performance was never the yardstick for installation of any candidate nor would ever be, at least for now.

Being NFF president is always a gift, not necessarily the job for the best, but an offer, in the Nigerian context, to “come and eat”. And while it lasts one is expected to amass as much, accountability not being in the bargain. Grapevine has it that Lulu had pulled strings. He had some consanguinity with Ahmodu Ali. Yes, he of the Ali Must Go saga, was on the commanding end of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

However, Ali was no Chief Adisa Meredith Akinloye, that flamboyant NPN chairman whose words were law even to President Alhaji Shehu Shagari.

Lulu’s inglorious exit was plotted in Johnesburg, South Africa. Newly appointed Sports Minister, Alhaji Ibrahim Bio needed to clear the Augean stable. He had had enough of Lulu and his gang, especially as respect their penchant for banning whoever had dissenting voice. Lulu banned more footballing people in two years than

the military junta did of politicians in 30 years of brute force. And so in Durban, Bio met some aggrieved NFF members, former bosses of the FA and then drew up a plan to pull the carpet off the foot of the Kogi-born surveyor.

Soon after the infamous World Cup finals in which the Super Eagles seemed cursed, one of the banned persons (a medical doctor), whose reprieved came just before the World Cup finals, led the charge to impeach Lulu and his gang. No, it was not borne out self effort; he was goaded on by the state. Ubiquitous as ever, the state found ready accomplice in some board members and handed the whip to lash at Lulu. Amanze Uchegbulam, Taiwo Ogunjobi got the jackboot along with Lulu.

Bolaji Ojo-Oba, secretary general equally faced the music.

That “coup” ushered in Alhaji Aminu Maigari. He was nominated in absentia and so mounted the rostrum, as it were, on the wings of benevolence. Though he was supposedly in favour of the impeachment of Lulu, Maigari simply retained Lulu’s structure, not having a definable structure of his own. That may have proved to be his biggest error. You don’t drive a vision that you don’t have, the pyrrhic accomplishments therefrom notwithstanding.

And for the third consecutive times in half a dozen years, another government candidate (they used to call it government nominee under Decree 101) assumed authority. Maigari settled down and expectedly basked in the pleasure of being the favoured one. It never lasted. Now’s the payback time or rather the one night stand is over.

Time for new lovers. Aren’t there many “women” of easy virtue ready to be courted and bedded?

The plot itself was hatched in Brazil.

Now back to the Giwa debacle. It appears what FIFA wants is a shift in date to allow for proper election to be conducted in a free and fair manner acceptable to all. The Giwa group wants the Maigari group to go to appeal.

PAGE 5

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Special Report . . . FIFA ban hovers over Nigeria Colleagues on the board were angry. Their grouse was being isolated from the affairs of the football federation. They alleged the board was run by three musketeers: Maigari, Chris Green and Musa Amadu, president, chairman technical and secretary general.

Monies released for the 2014 World Cup campaigns by the federal government – a sum of N850m- were neither made known to board members nor was any meeting called ahead of the World Cup fiesta. So the bulk of the members were left in the dark.

Further, even while in Brazil, they were discriminated against.

The musketeers stayed in a luxury hotel but dumped their colleagues in a motel along with hangers-on who were brought by Maigari just to feather his nest.

Another grouse was the sudden realization that the federation receives “a princely sum of N150m monthly” from the national Sports Commission (NSC) outside of the overhead which the finance ministry pays directly to the staff through the IPPIS. Till they met in Brazil, members were never in the know of any sponsorship fees.

That of course, was worrisome considering that many corporate organizations had sought to take advantage of the Super Eagles’ qualification for the mundial to identify financially with the team.

The sums were in millions but only known to the musketeers.

Shocked by the realization, they felt cheated and opted for revenge. They met, decided to offer themselves as weapons against them.

Providence smiled on them.

While in Brazil, a Jos Federal High Court delivered a fatal decision against the leadership and management of the NFF board.

The proprietress of Nembe FC it was that took the FA to court.

FIFA struck by handing down ultimatum for the federal government to stop forthwith interference in the administration of the game. Government had interfered in the estimation of FIFA by acting to ensure there was no vacuum in the federation by appointing the senior official in the Glasshouse as directed by the court to assumed responsibility.

Nigeria was given a deadline to rescind its acts. In other words, FIFA demanded the subversion of the decision of the court or better still that it be vacated. Eventually, the decision was vacated paving way for the management and leadership to return. But the state couldn’t be cowed.

The antagonists (pardon the expression) latched on the development, albeit adroitly.

Then the tiger stepped in. It was time to prey on its subject.

Some aggrieved members were consorted and the details of what line of action to take cleanly outlined. So most of the 13 members decided it was high time Maigari should be brought to his knees. An emergency meeting offered the avenue and

impeachable offences were listed.

He read them and barely objected to any instead pleaded for pardon and vowed to make amends, if pardoned.

“But can a leopard change its colours. We knew Maigari was not to be trusted so we maintained our position. We were convinced that he would never honour any promises and besides we felt it was high time we moved the game forward by instituting a more proactive leader. Maigari was not and does not possess the credentials needed. We have seen enough of him to pre-judge his character. So we stuck to our guns and impeached him. Nine of us voted in favour of his removal by impeachment. Nobody’s signature was forged as some later alleged,” a member said stressing that the offences were documented for all to see.

Following the impeachment, a 3-man committee was set to convey same to FIFA. They went to Brazil, met Sepp Blatter who gave their action the required blessings, provided the impeachment was done by the board members. It was. No breach of both FIFA and NFF statutes.

Though some elements discountenanced the impeachment by claiming that they were not part of the process and as such the board did not form the required quorum to effect such drastic change in the leadership. The impeachment had the finest elements and could stand the test of FIFA scrutiny.

However, Maiagri acted smart. He pulled strings. Met his in-law, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, the chairman of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and pleaded for assistance. He disclosed the impeachment might hurt his political ambition at the level of CAF. Maigari craves a seat on CAF executive committee and may neither be qualified nor enjoy the backing of the federal government if he were impeached and therefore could be denied access to the corridor of power of power if he were impeached. Of course, being NFF president offer more than mere leverage. Like Lulu like Maigari.

Peoples Daily Weekend learnt Mu’azu reached out to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Anyim

“

Anyim Pius Anyim, SGF Pius Anyim, who, having been briefed, initiated a meeting with relevant stakeholders with a view to securing a soft landing for Maigari.

Chief Anyim met with some members of the board including Chief Mike Umeh, who was the then acting NFF president, Chief Effiong Johnson, the chairman of chairmen among others and Maigari and his group. We learnt Anyim had pleaded on behalf of Maigari, begged the board’s representatives for a soft landing.

He reminded them that they all have political future and should not be seen to have scuttled a fellow’s ambition.

Stressing the essence of forgiveness Anyim noted that no matter how well one cleans up after using the toilet, some particle of excreta will be left in one’s enus meaning that one cannot completely be free from foibles. The SGF went personal with Johnson who had insisted that Maigari can’t be trusted to keep a gentleman’s agreement and directed that the impeachment be commuted to resignation.

Maigari handed in his resignation dated August 12- a soft landing that will enable him to complete his tenure on August 26 when the elective congress was to be held.

A week later, Maigari backed

In other climes, corporate executives, business moguls and very serious minded individuals run the game.

They are not persons looking for daily bread or for some charade relevance.

by a retinue of government security operatives stormed the Glasshouse Gestapo style and occupied the office. He operated concurrently with Umeh who was in the same room but operated from different wing. Two days later, the secretary’s office and the finance and administration department were gutted by fire.

All vital documents were lost.

While people were still lamenting the disaster, he held an emergency congress with his supporters and insisted that an elective congress earlier scheduled for August 26 must be held. That was part of the agreement with the SGF. What wasn’t was dissolution of the electoral committee. Anyim had urged them to, in the spirit of reconciliation, ensure that sale of forms was stopped but that those who were hitherto denied access to the form initially should be accommodated. All those purportedly disqualified were equally to be re-admitted to contest. Another decision was for the board to extend the date for the congress by one week.

The Maigari’s presided over emergency meeting observed the agreement reached before the SGF in the breached.

Instead of preparing to leave the stage, he sought to stay put. He bought form for the election while at the same time encouraging Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi, Amanze Uchegbulam, Shehu Dikko to contest. Further, according to sources, he allegedly attempted to compromise the delegates in exchange for an extension of tenure between three to six months.

The tenure elongation will see him through February 2015 when the CAF elective congress will be held. That was in breach of the agreement according to members of the stakeholders.

The development alerted the state, which reacted by insisting that the initial date of August 26 be sustained for the purpose of officially extending the election date by one week as agreed with the SGF. However, Maigari came up with a release altering the venue

of the congress to Calabar, Cross River state. Thereafter the NSC stepped in and directed that the August 26 congress remain sacrosanct and be held in Abuja and nowhere else.

Come August 26, the state, worried by the activities Maigari, opted to pick him and Chris Green up for further questioning while the congress continues in Chida Hotel. This apparently did not go down well with some delegates, especially the states FA chairmen.

They, along with some secretaries, went to the office of the Directorate for State Security (DSS) intent on having their leader, Maigari, released.

However, some secretaries returned to Chida while the chairmen opted to hold their Congress at Bentley or rather on the road.

Back at Chida attendance was taken by Musa Amadu, the NFF scribe and at some point the numbers of the certified delegates registered were 29 more the 23 two third majority needed to form a quorum. Originally, the August 26 congress as directed by the general congress in Warri, Delta state in May had been meant to be elective and so delegates at Chida after considering the only item on the agenda- fixing a new date for election but first dissolving the board decided to play smart. Some delegate moved a motion to effect the directive of the Warri congress: namely to elect a new board for the NFF. It was seconded and they chose to dissolve into elective congress.

Aspirants subsequently presented their manifestoes.

But as was the case in Kano in 2004, some sensing defeat chose to walk out after soliciting for votes from other delegates.

Meanwhile, the chairmen held their congress outside of Chida scheduling new date for the elective congress in calabar. In Chida Chris Giwa emerged as the new NFF president of course with the backing of the tiger. Like they say the rest is history.

The Maigari-led NFF board is not new to electoral conflict and legal tussle. It discarded all court rulings and refused to vacate office. He didn’t even honour the litigants with an appeal.

Then came the crises which arose from the league board.

It had constituted an interim management team to midwife the the league and usher in an elected league management board.

Victor Baribote, the former chairman had been impeached allegedly at the instigation of the leadership of the NFF. The interim board metamorphosed into a League Management Committee, sold shares to Maigari, Bio and its leadership. The NFF expectedly backed the LMC. Little wonder, the Giwa-led board in one of its first major act opted to dissolve the LMC and constitute a new body to run the league until a new league board is put in place democratically. Their aversion for the LMC has nothing to do with performance because it has brought a measure of stability to the league, ensure confidence and generally return fans to the stance if still considerably few in number. Secondly, the LMC has Contd on Page 53

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

News

Jonathan raises CONFAB report implementation panel

By Muhammed Usman, Abuja President Goodluck Jonathan has constituted a sevenmember committee to develop appropriate strategies for the implementation of the report of the just-concluded National Conference.

A statement by Oise Johnson, spokesperson to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said the committee would also “advise Government on all matters necessary for the effective implementation of the Report”.

A statement signed by Oise D. Johnson, Assistant Director (Press) in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation said AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adokie, is the Chairman of the committee, while Minister of Transport, Senator Idris A. Umar; Minister of State for Finance, Ambassador Bashir Yuguda and Minister of Aviation, Mr. Osita Chidoka are to serve as members.

Other members are the Minister of State FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide; Minister of Works, Architect Mike Onolememen and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, is to serve as Member/Secretary.

The three terms of reference of the committee are to study the Report of the 2014 National Conference; to articulate the recommendations therein and develop appropriate strategies for their implementation and to advise government on all matters necessary for the effective implementation of the report.

The Committee is encouraged to take off immediately.

Ogun pilgrim dies at seminar From James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta 61 year-old woman identified as Oladokun Silifat Ajinni on Thursday slumped and died during the final seminar organized to sensitize the intending pilgrims on issues concerning the 2014 Hajj exercise.

The programme which was held at Secretariat Mosque, OkeIlewo, Abeokuta; the Ogun State capital was the last in the series of programmes outlined to prepare the pilgrims for the intending pilgrimage from the state.

Peoples Daily gathered that the woman had earlier been advised to consult her physician as she was said to have been diagonised of high blood pressure during the earlier medical screening exercise in August.

When the woman later appeared for the immunisation exercise during the seminar, it was gathered that the medical team again conducted screening on her again and observed that she has not take to the medical advice earlier given as she was said to be on no medication.

A

Why I withdrew from governorship race – Ribadu

By Lawal Sabo

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he former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has said that his confidence in the PDP made him to withdraw from the Adamawa gubernatorial race.

Speaking to Peoples Daily Weekend through his media aide, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz on why he withdrew from Adamawa gubernatorial race, Ribadu said, “It was a collective thing in the interest of the party and the state that those from the Adamawa Central should allow others complete this tenure.

“We are confident that the PDP will redeem its pledge to allow Adamawa Central to produce its gubernatorial candidate in 2015,” Abdulaziz said, adding that the development would afford his principal the opportunity to coast to victory in the secondary election.

He however denied the allegation that from the start, Ribadu’s defection from the APC and aspiration to govern Adamawa State was pre-arranged by the PDP to reduce the influence of the opposition in the state.

According to him, “that is a baseless allegation because this was someone who remained with the opposition to the last, and had to move later in the interest of his people.”

But a source at the Thursday meeting told Peoples Daily Weekend that there was no agreement that a particular zone of the state would be given the exclusive right to present the PDP candidate in 2015.

“There was no agreement that Adamawa Central will have the exclusive right in 2015, what was only said was that since they have never produced a governor for the state, they should be given priority, and that can be in any way,” the source

said.

Malam Nuhu Ribadu has alongside seven other PDP aspirants withdrawn from the contest during a meeting convened by the Senate President David Mark alongside the PDP National Working Committee.

Peoples Daily Weekend gathered that the meeting that held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, started around 9pm and lasted for about four hours, when the number of the aspirants was reduced from 14 to six.

The eight aspirants that withdrew from the race were Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Auwal Tukur, Abubakar Girei, Andrawus Sawa, Aliyu Kama, James Barka, Markus Gundiri and Aliyu Idi Hong.

But those who stood their ground to go for the next Saturday’s primary election were the acting governor Umaru Fintiri, Ahmed Gulak, Jerry Kundisi, Umar Ardo, Modibbo Umar and

Buba Marwa.

It was further gathered that part of the agreements reached were that all those who agreed to withdraw now will have the chance to aspire for the PDP ticket in 2015 while those who did not, have automatically forfeited that right; and that Adamawa Central will be given priority in 2015.

Speaking after the meeting, Adamawa State PDP chairman, Mr Joel Madaki, said “14 aspirants contesting for the position for the position earlier, has now reduced to six aspirants due to this meeting. It is a very welcome idea.

Nobody was forced to step down.

Those who stepped down did so voluntarily in order to wait to contest for the position in 2015.″ Meanwhile, a source in the Presidency confided in Peoples Daily Weekend that Ribadu may be appointed adviser on anti-corruption to President Jonathan

L-R: Member, house of representatives, Mr Saheed Akinade-Fijabi; Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal; Gov. Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State and his wife, Florence, at the inauguration of skill acquisition centre, yesterday in Ibadan

I’ll never endanger Ombatse killings: Culprits to be persecuted soon-Al-makura Nigeria – Ihejirika

By Lawrence Olaoye

By Joy Baba

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he immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen (rtd) Azubuike Ihejirika has said that he will never contribute to overheating the system no matter the situation or any form of pressure.

Ihejirika stated this at a gathering of members of the National Defence Academy(NDA) 18th Regular Course (his course mates) at the National Defence College, Abuja.

Ihejirika said the insurgents are no longer fighting war in the traditional place of air, land and sea but clearly in the 4th dimension of warfare- the media.

He also said the terrorist are not sleeping and would want to achieve what they could not through bombing alone, urging Nigerians and the media not to toy with national security.

The army general further called on Nigerians to remain united, focused and resolved to do their best saying “ we are yet to come to terms with the motive of the terrorist and their desire to bring the nation down, we must not help them, we must not play in to their hands”.

N

asarawa state governor, Alhaji Tanko Al-makura yesterday disclosed that those found culpable in the killings of security agents in the state in the clash between the Ombatse group and security agents in the state last year May would soon be arraigned for prosecution.

Al-makura, who paid a visit to President Goodluck Jonathan to update him on the security situation in his state, told State House Correspondents that the White Paper of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry has been released and the administrative section is being executed.

Asked to give update on the Ombatse killing, Al-makura said "Government has already gone a step further, by setting up a judicial commission of inquiry and the white paper is already out. Government has started implementing some aspects of the white paper, especially the administrative aspect that is within the responsibility of the government. I'm very much aware that police are intensifying their investigations to bring offenders to book. It is

the result of that investigation that facilitate proper prosecution of criminals to be brought to book. So you hear from us vey soon as the investigations are concluded.

Meanwhile the administrative implementation of the white paper is on going."

Responding to question on the fresh impeachment plots against him by members of the state Assembly, the Nasarawa governor said "That is within the realm of speculation, I don't want to respond to speculation, once we get to the bridge, we will cross it."

On the purpose to his visit to the President, Almakura said "As you all know the President is the leader of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as a governor I have to come to update him with the situation in my state. You are aware that we have faced some certain security challenges in my state, but by Gods grace we are on top of the situation. My purpose of visiting Mr. president is to give him update on what is happening in the state and I can assure you that things are calming down now, we are on top of the situation now."

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

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News

Why soldiers evacuate families from Borno barracks Shettima says troops will defeat insurgents From Mustapha Isah Kwaru, Maiduguri

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ollowing the seemingly growing fears of imminent daring attack by the Boko Haram insurgents on various military formations in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital, soldiers attached to the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maiduguri have started massive evacuation of their wives, children and other relations from the Maimalari Barracks as well as the 21 Armoured Brigade, popularly known as Giwa Barracks.

Our correspondent reported that troops deployed to Borno state for the counter-insurgency operations were part of the 7 Divi-

sion and were camped at the two barracks.

Giwa Barrack was attacked by the insurgents early this year, who equally carted away several sophisticated weapons belonging to the military, after freeing hundreds of their colleagues being detained for terror-related offences.

A reliable source told newsmen yesterday that the evacuation of the soldiers' families which gradually begun a week ago, however became intense this week.

The source added that the exercise had commenced gradually to avert public attention in order to avoid unnessary 'panic'.

However, after the reported capture of the Bama, the second biggest town in the state by the in-

surgents, tension was heightened that military barracks in Maiduguri would be the next target.

This, according to the source prompted the soldiers to expedite movement of their families out the barracks in order to stem civilian casualties in the event of the confrontation between security forces and militants.

It was also gathered that those being taking out are families of soldiers that have been in Maiduguri for long.

"There are soldiers whose primary posting is Borno State and are therefore here with their families for many years. They are basically the ones taking their families out of the barracks”, the source added.

A military personnel who declined identification also confirmed the development, saying the precarious security situation in some locations not far from Maiduguri was responsible for the evacuation of the family members.

"We are trying to take precautionary measures ahead of eventualities. The barracks are safe but some of us feel like taking away our families to safer locations," he said.

There was no official confirmation of the development from military authorities.

Meanwhile, Governor Kashim Shettima yesterday expressed optimism that the federal troop would emerge victorious in the

ongoing counter-insurgency operations.

Governor Shettima made the declaration in a televised broadcast to the people of the state over the current security challenges, saying military were capable of defeating the insurgents, no matter how it will take.

"In the past, our armed forces have proven their mettle even in global warfare where they were in foreign terrain in the Second World War, in the Congo, in Liberia, in Sierra Leon, in the Sudan and elsewhere.

Our armed forces have also, during the Civil War, successfully saved our country from dismemberment ", Shettima said.

Funeral prayer for the late Hajia -Maryam Yunusa, the wife of Emir of Ningi, Alhaji Yunusa Danyaya yesterday in Ningi LGA Bauchi State

Insecurity: Jonathan wants more dialogue than conflict

By Stanley Onyekwere

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onferences and dialogues, as opposed to confrontation and conflict should now take the centre stage in Nigeria’s quest towards the sustenance of peace, peaceful co-existence and development, President Goodluck Jonathan, has said.

According to him, increasing number of youth groups are engaged in community development activities, and making concerted efforts aimed at promoting peace and peaceful co-existence, good governance, unity and overall development of the country.

He made this point yesterday, when he declared open the 4th Unity Conference with theme: “Religious Approach in Curbing Youth Restiveness, Immorality and Corruption in Nigeria”, organized by Community and Youth Development National Network, in collaboration with Youth For Peace and Good Leadership Initiative, in Abuja.

Jonathan noted that the gathering of the youths is a manifestation of a deep religious tolerance and understanding that permeated the minds of Nigerians.

Represented by the Vice President, Dr. Namadi Sambo, the

president described the theme of the conference as apt, considering the role religion plays in shaping the environment and the peoples’ value system.

The president said the role of the Nigerian youth cannot be overemphasized; as the youth are the engine room of development, and constitute a great asset for the country.

He however commended the youths for their foresight, in convening such a conference that will dwell on topical issues, aimed at fostering unity and understanding as well as instilling rich moral values in the Nigerian society.

“They (youths) must also be commended for their untiring efforts at ensuring lasting peace and harmony among our citizens. This explains why youth development is a key policy of our administration.

“We must unite against terror, which is our common enemy.

These insurgents must be condemned by all, as they represent no religious ideology. They are out cause disaffection and disharmony among religious adherents.

“The noble Qur’an and the holy Bible serves as moral and spiritual guidance to mankind; we are enjoined to live in accordance

with their noble teachings of tolerance, patience and love.

“None of these two religious preach violence; we must therefore continue to work collectively to defeat all diverse tendencies that attempt to undermine our sovereignty and collective resolve as a nation.

“We must continue to live in peace with one another, as no meaningful development can be achieved in an atmosphere devoid of peace, religious understanding and tolerance must continue to dominate our collective and cooperative co-existence,” he stressed.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Cover

2015: Election without voter cards

By Patrick Andrew

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arely six months to the 2015 general elections, one of the basic means of exercising one’s franchise- the voter card- is far from being in the hands of the electorates.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as part of the its preparations for the 2015 general elections, had commenced the issuance of the permanent voter’s card in the third week of August, the exercise turned out to no less Herculean as conducting the entire electoral processes.

INEC had scheduled the exercise in phases each expected to last for three days with some flexibility to address untoward forced majeure. And so it scheduled the first batch to kick start on August 20th through August 25th. It had announced rather confidently that, “The distribution of permanent voter’s card will take place in August 22 through August 24. After that the continuous voter registration will commence immediately on August 27 to August 31,” Kayode Idowu the spokesman of the commission said.

The exercise expectedly was to allow prospective and eligible voters to register and be qualified to exercise their civic right.

It was also meant to allow eligible registrants who were unable to vote in 2011 the opportunity to do so in the coming polls.

“Those who have matured into voting age of 18 during the last registration exercise and those whose names are not in the electronic register will also be opportuned to register.”

Further, the registration would also provide the commission with the opportunity to ascertain authentic voters as well as the cards of those who double-registered.

The latter would be eliminated and not be printed. INEC made it clear that defaulters would have their names de-registered from the system. He said those who deliberately double registered and those who the commission directed to register the second time would be allowed to re-register.

The first phase involved the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and 11 states namely Yobe, Bauchi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kwara, Anambra, Ebonyi, Ondo, Oyo Delta and Cross River.

Coming on the heels of INEC’s successes in the conduct of the Ekiti and Osun gubernatorial elections, many were enthusiastic that INEC would extend its magic wand to the voter registration and collection of the permanent voter card.

Granted! There were hitches in the issuance of the permanent voter card prior to the two Governorship elections. Many had thought that it would be business as usual but INEC made it abundantly clear that un-

“

Prof. Jega, INEC chair less a prospective voter was in possession of the voter card he or she would be barred from exercising his or her civic right.

No excuse was tolerated by stern-looking INEC officials who ensured that only the privileged voters with the necessary legal right to participate in the process of mandating candidates of their choice to the lead the state, actually did so. The lesson sunk in. Electorates across the states determined not to be left out in subsequent exercises looked forward to when the collection of the PVC will be conducted.

That came to be the lot of the 11 states and the FCT and prospective electorates were rightly enthusiastic. But they went crestfallen when the exercise proved to be an ordeal. There were both technical and man-made hitches. And there were complaints galore across the states.

No, the issues raised cut across the parties and therefore not entirely partisan or purely done to disparaged the ruling party –PDP- which rightly has always been on the receiving end for all INEC’s shortfalls.

Even the complaints were from both the high and the low.

Take for instance , Ondo state governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko who expressed disappointment over the exercise stressing that it was characterised by inadequate capturing machines, archaic and slow working machines and inadequate registra-

INEC acknowledged the fact that the exercise was trailed by complaints of inadequate working tools for the officials, and insisted that those who were complaining were mainly those who had already registered but wanted to be involved in double registration.

tion units, among others.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) guber candidate in the 2011 election in the state, Chief Olusola Oke, also lambasted the INEC for shoddy work noting that the exercising was anything but smooth and reassuring.

In one of the wards, 375 people had indicated interest in the registration, but the registration apparatus only accommodated 50 people in one day and there were similar complaints from other towns in the state like Owo, Ikare, Ondo, Ifon, among others.

Both called for the extension of the period for the exercise to accommodate those who were frustrated by failing machine and the inadequacies of INEC staff and other support elements who could not manipulate the machine to achieve speedy registration and issuance of the cards.

The distribution of permanent voters and registration of fresh electorates ended in Sokoto with similar complaints from many eligible voters.

Many lamented that they did not see their names and photographs on display, while others complained of inadequate attestation forms for those without their temporary cards. The development compelled many to insist that INEC should give more days to enable all eligible voters to get their cards.

They say INEC officials were overwhelmed by the massive turnout of electorates who wanted to collect the PVC as well as those that have come of age. Many could not undergo the process of registration for some technical reasons as well.

It seems that INEC did not envisage the massive turnout. In Sokoto in particular, ‘intensive sensitization campaign’ from the political parties and by the state government worked the magic.

The situation was the same in Bauchi where there was some pockets of protests over INEC’s failure to speedy up the issuance of the PVC and later registration of qualified voters.

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State equally expressed serious concern over the various anomalies and irregularities that characterised the voters’ registration exercise and the collection of Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) in the state.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Page 9

Cover The governor personally took the complaint to the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Alhaji Nasiru Ayilara, at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Ibadan.

“The purpose of this visit is to express our concern to INEC regarding the ongoing PVC collection as well as new voters’ registration exercise. We found that in many of the areas, particularly in Ibadan axis, that the machines they brought are inadequate to meet the requirements of the voters. We have expressed this concern to INEC and we have been assured that necessary steps would be taken to correct these anomalies.”

In the FCT, many were frustrated as they were unable to collect their PVC. The process of identifying people was tedious.

Those who came to verify their names had to wait for hours. They were called alphabetically meaning that if one’s surname started with latter A and you came while the caller was on letter F you would have to wait until he gets to letter Z and then start afresh.

Piqued by the entire process, many left their queues while others had to succumb to weather and other elements that forced them to abandon the exercise. The Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN), a non-governmental organisation, has called on INEC to quickly find solution to the low turnout for the exercise to ensure that every eligible voter participates in the 2015 general election and other elections thereafter.

In a statement issued in Abuja by its Director of Operations, Ben-Chuks Nwosu, TAN bemoaned the situation and stressed the need for the INEC to quickly find lasting solution, suggesting that holders of the temporary cards can still be allowed to obtain the permanent ones during continuous registration of fresh eligible voters.

"TAN has observed with dismay the low turn-out that characterised the distribution of permanent voter’s cards (PVCs) in some states and the FCT, and consequently wishes to call on INEC to, as a matter of urgency, find a solution and ensure that the permanent cards get to the electorate so that they can use them for the purpose they are meant for,” TAN said in the statement.

INEC acknowledged the fact that the exercise was trailed by complaints of inadequate working tools for the officials, and insisted that those who were complaining were mainly those who had already registered but wanted to be involved in double registration.

Defending its stand, INEC, in a statement issued in Abuja, said that much stressing, it is eager to “ensure that all legitimate persons who are yet to register as voters have the opportunity to do so.” But INEC was quick to add that, “it is logistically impossible to extend this phase of the CVR beyond its scheduled deadline of August 25, 2014.”

It, however, assured that in order to give fair chance to legitimate registrants,

“

Residents of Gwagwa in the Federal Capital waiting to register for INEC voter cards the commission will, on a date to be shortly announced, set up registration points at its local council area offices where people who are yet to register can go to do so.

INEC also confirmed the low turn-out of holders of temporary voter’s card at polling units to collect the permanent card in Abuja and other parts of the country, pointing out that only about 13 per cent of registered voters with temporary cards came out to collect the permanent ones in the entire Abuja.

The assurance did nothing to kill the demand for extension of the collection and registration of the card. Voters in Calabar have continued called on the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC) to make official statement respecting the extension.

A voter, one Inemesit Ukpong said he made several efforts to no avail to get registered at a registration point at Ekpo Abasi but was unsuccessful because of the crowd.

“I was here on Wednesday and waited for more than three hours. I came again on Thursday and met the same situation and as you can see today, the situation is worse.

I think there should be no time limit; people should be allowed to do their registration whenever they have the time,” he told our correspondent on the final day of the exercise.

Other NGOs and socio-political groups have joined in the call for an extension or an alternative means of obtaining the PVC stressing the registration for newly qualified would-be voters should be done in

much the same ways as is done by NIMC for the issuance of the National Identity card.

That people were eager to participate in the exercise is attested by the large number that turned out. In Sokoto for instance, a total of 1.4 million permanent voters’ cards were earmarked for distribution in the state with over 400 ad-hoc staff recruited.

INEC confirmed that it has distributed 1,586,448 voter cards in Bauchi State representing 84 per cent of 1,877,124 cards meant for the state, during the exercise.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Mr Samuel Usman, attributed the success of the exercise to the massive awareness campaign carried out by INEC, the media and all major stakeholders in the state.

“Our collaboration with stakeholders in educating and mobilizing the electorate to come out and collect their cards yielded fruits, resulting in massive turn out of people. So far, 84 per cent of the total cards received from INEC headquarter in Abuja for distribution in Bauchi state, were successfully distributed within the stipulated period, “he said.

The commissioner said that only 290,676 cards were yet to be distributed, adding that the remaining cards would be taken to various INEC offices in the 20 Local Government Areas of the state for collection by owners.

The states involved in the second phase of the programme were Yobe, Bauchi (North East), Jigawa, Sokoto (North West),

Many lamented that they did not see their names and photographs on display, while others complained of inadequate attestation forms for those without their temporary cards. The development compelled many to insist that INEC should give more days to enable all eligible voters get their cards.

FCT, Kwara (North Central), Anambra, Ebonyi (South East), Ondo, Oyo (South West) and Delta, Cross River (South South).

With the completion of Phase 2 of the programme, new dates will be announced later for Phase 3 involving Adamawa, Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, Imo, Lagos, Ogun, Edo and Rivers states.

It was obvious people had responded to the Commission’s strong appeals that anyone who has previously registered and already has his / her records in the biometric Register of Voters should avoid re-presenting himself / herself at any other place for registration: (i) If a previously registered person has relocated from where he / she registered, he / she should simply apply for transfer of the registration data to the new location, as provided for by the electoral law. (ii) If anyone found his / her name on the register displayed ahead of the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), but was unable to collect his / her PVC during the distribution period, such a person should go to respective LGA office of INEC where the card will be awaiting collection by now.

INEC had urged all stakeholders in the electoral process to commit themselves to playing at all times by the rules in the collective quest to enthrone free, fair and credible elections.

But it seems rather than the people it was INEC that did not do its home work properly and would have to do so if the 2015 general elections will not throw up voters without voter card especially should the commission insist on not allowing the electorates to use the temporary voter card for the exercise.

Considering that INEC committed N2.6 billion into the printing of 40 million cards, one would have expected that equal attention would have been paid to adequate handling of the machine by way of staff training and sundry rehearsals taking into view the amount of time needed to process a card for collection as well as registration and the likely number of persons per day.

The commission is yet to make public what number of the 40 million cards has been collected. This is important because no fewer than 80 of the 170 million Nigerians or more are likely to vote come February 2015.

But will the majority of these be able to vote?

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News Ebola: Cameroonians, Nigerians stranded at Calabar beach as borders remain shut From Lekan Bakare, Calabar

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here are strong indications that the Government of the Republic of Cameroun which closed its borders against Nigeria to guard against possible spread of the dreaded Ebola virus has no intention of opening it soon.

A highly dependable immigration source told Peoples Daily that traders and travelers from Nigeria may have been tactically barred from entering Cameroun as a result of the outbreak of the virus in Nigeria and some of the passengers include Cameroonians who have crossed the border to buy and sell goods as usual.

There had been rumours among traders since last week but indications to this became rife yesterday when ships carrying passengers and goods heading for the nieghbouring country from Calabar were again turned back by a team of Cameroonian security operatives including the immigration officials and gendarmes. This has left hundreds of citizens of both countries stranded.

The source said though no official statement to the effect, but virtually every ship that took off from the inland waterways beach and other notable takeoff points within the marina axis, has not been allowed beyond Nigerian territorial waters since the authorities in Cameroun shut its vast border against Nigeria.

He added that when officials of the Inland Waterways and the Maritime Authority sought to know why there have not been a lift on the ban, their Cameroonian counterparts told them the order was from above.

When Peoples Daily visited Nigeria Inland Waterways, hundreds of passengers and traders were seen milling around the premises obviously stranded as they said they do not know what becomes of their goods.

A Cameroun based businessman, Austin Agha said that when they were first told that they cannot travel to Cameroun he thought it was a joke but was shocked when the Cameroun bound ships were turned back.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

FG changes schools reopening date to Sept 22

By Maryam Garba Hassan

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he Federal Government has reviewed the resumption date of schools to September22, 2014.

This is coming few days after it postponed reopening date for schools to October13, 2014, as part of preventive measures against the spread of the dreaded Ebola Virus Disease.

Minister of Education Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, gave the new date yesterday in Abuja at the end of an emergency meeting he had with all the state Commissioners of education across the country

and other stakeholders.

Shekarau said the review of the resumption date came as a result of the progress recorded on the virus which he said has been put under control.

“The new development recorded in the country on the issue of Ebola Virus which is now under control made us decide to have our children and students back in schools earlier than the resumption date approved by the federal government on the 26th of August 2014.

“In line with the preventive measures put in schools across the nation, we all agreed to reo-

pen our schools and begin normal school activities on Monday the 22 of September, 2014’, he said.

He said the stakeholders have also decided that training of minimum of two teachers per school on how to handle any suspected case as earlier agreed on in the first meeting held last month should continue and be intensified and concluded before the new resumption date.

The minister instructed state ministries of education and proprietors of both primary and secondary schools to revisit and review schools health programmes with the view to enhancing hygiene in schools.

He called on schools yet to assess the basic requirement needed in their schools in terms of two temperature thermometer to be provided for each school, to do so with immediate effect.

He reiterated the need for each school to put in place a rapid response team to address any suspected case of Ebola if even if it is a rumour until it was verified.

He said part of the decision taken by the stakeholders at the meeting to further prevent the spread of the virus among the students and staff includes the continual and sustained sensitization of staff and students on general hygiene.

L-R: Chairman, Gani Fawehinmi memorial organisation, Comrade Ayodele Akele; Chairman of the occasion, Mr Femi Falana; Guest Lecturer, Prof. Akin Oyebode; President, campaign for democracy, Dr Joe okei-Odumakin and Mr Mohammed Fawehinmi, at the annual Gani Fawehinmi memorial lecture,yesterday in Lagos.

Boko Haram sponsorship: DSS exonerate Ihejirika, Sheriff to be questioned

By Joy Baba

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he Department of State Services, (DSS) has said that the immediate Chief of army staff, Lt Gen (rtd) Azubuike Ihejirika has no form of association with the dreaded Islamic sect Boko Haram saying that the service has invited Ali Modu Sherrif, former governor of Borno state for questioning.

The Deputy Director, Public Relations of the service, Ms Mari-

lyn Ogar stated this yesterday in Abuja while parading Aminu Sadiq Ogwuche and some other sect members behind the bombing of a motor park in Nyanya.

Ogar described as uncharitable to link Ihejirika, who laid down his life in pursuing this same sect to be a sponsor adding that the military under him (Ihejirka) together with the DSS succeeded in bringing activities of the sect to a hold thereby pushing them to Sambisa forest.

She further said Sherif had been invited on two occasion concerning Boko haram activities noting that the service has sent out another invitation to him after the Australian negotiator, Dr Stephen David allege that him and Ihejirika as sponsors of Boko haram.

Ogar also said none of the boys in their custody has any form of blood relationship with anyone from CBN. Ogwuche, the suspected co

mastermind of the April 14th, 2014 Nyanya bomb blast while fielding question from journalist denied being a member of the sect adding that he was only friends with Rufai Abubakar Tsiga, another co mastermind of the dastard act.

He said he was earlier arrested for his involvement with a jihadist group in the United kingdom saying that he also gave money to Tsigha to give to the widows of members of the out lawed sect.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

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Kano GSM market chairman under pressure From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

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n what appears to be a leadership tussle between the incumbent chairman and members of the popular Farm Centre GSM Market in Kano State, the former is under pressure to step down by the later as his tenure has allegedly expired.

Our reporter gathered that the state’s government had sent a circular to the market’s association in 2011, which ordered for election of new executive members within three months, but the chairman

Zamfara FRSC worries over potholes abandoned

by FERMA

had allegedly shunned the directive and remained in power in the last three years.

The chairman was also accused of banning park and pay business conducted by individuals to earn a living and allegedly sacked them from the market, among other irregularities.

Speaking on the development, a trader in the market, Ahmad Abubakar Abba, decried the situation and called for government’s intervention to resolve the lingering conflict. “ We call on the Kano State governor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to intervene in this matter for a lasting solution. This man, Danfulani, has caused a very big trouble in this market. We have a copy of the circular from the government, which ordered him to conduct election within the period of three months, but up till now he has been in power for three years.

When we talked to him about the election, he said the governor or-

dered him to stay in power for as long as when the governor’s tenure ends. We know it is a lie because the governor would never tell him that. This market is very important to the state, the government should try and resolve this tussle.” He said Another member, who doesn’t want his name in print, alleged that the chairman has confiscated some traders’ commodities over minor offences and banned the guys engaged in the pay-per-park business from conducting the business. “ He suddenly came up with a directive that the park and pay business should now become under the market’s association.

That no individual from outside should come to do the business here. After some intervention and the problem was due to be resolved, to our dismay, we just heard that 20 out of the 30 guys doing the business have been dismissed, and the remaining 10 are

underway. We want the government to intervene. The chairman has also connived with the DPO of the market’s outpost to detain whoever speak about the issue.”

He lamented.

When contacted, the chairman of the GSM market, Umar Isyaku Danfulani, debunked all allegations against him and said “ I am a supporter of democracy and I want every issue to be democratically resolved in this market. I want use this opportunity to tell everybody in this market that the election is on the way, we will soon conduct it. But I call them to be law abiding. Let me tell you that all the allegations labelled against me are nothing but mere lies.” He said.

On the issue of parking, the embattled chairman said they have directed that parking should be moved to near Marhaba Cinema’s fence for security reason, adding that the area does not belong to anybody but the government.

From Ibrahim Sidi Muh'd, Gusau

T

he new Sector Commander of the Federal Road Service Corps (FRSC) in Zamfara state, Mr. Amos Yakubu Thliza, has assured collaboration with the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to expedite work on potholes along the Gusau- Sokoto highway that runs from Gusau, the state capital to Sokoto state.

Mr. Thliza who was on familiarization visit yesterday to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) state secretariat, made the pledge while responding to an observation raised by the state Council Chairman, Comrade Ibrahim Muhammad Kanoma, that the abandoned potholes scraped by FERMA are sometimes responsible for number of road accidents within the axis.

Kanoma urged the commission to do everything possible to save lives that were endangered by negligence.

The Sector Commander said the visit was organised in order to bring working journalists in the state close to the commission so as to share useful information that would assist in curtailing the high rate of road mishaps in the state.

He further disclosed that, his commission would deploy more personnel across major roads in the state capital to minimise violation of traffic rules which he believed, contribute to the high rate of accidents.

Earlier, the state NUJ Chairman, Comrade Ibrahim Muhammad Kanoma assured FRSC of cooperation from the members of the NUJ, saying the Union's doors were always open to the commission towards achieving the desired goals in the state.

L-R: Past and present presidents of National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) jointly present the certificate of the Grand Commander of Nigeria Students to President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House, Abuja, yesterday

Niger PDP hopeful of victory in Sept 6 senatorial by-election From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

T

he Niger state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP has reiterated its determination to ensure victory for the party in the upcoming September 6 supplementary by-election for the Niger East senatorial election declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as inconclusive.

The state Publicity Secretary Alhaji Hassan Mohammed Saba gave the assurance in an interview with our reporter in Minna, that it was necessitated by the electoral laws adding that "we are confident that the people of Niger East senatorial District will vote for our party PDP because of the dividence of

democracy on their lives since the inception of Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu's led government, "We can not be intimidated, blackmail or deter by the utterances and insinuations of the APC" he added.

On accusation by the opposition APC that the PDP rigged in the last saturday election said that was the cry of a drawning man adding that the government in power was leaving to it responsibility by providing security for lives, properties and protecting the rights of the citizenry.

"Peace is a necessary factor for development and PDP led government will continued to sustain the peaceful coexistance of Niger state and provide dividence of democracy to the people of the state who gave their massive support to

the party through their votes."

Saba accused the APC in the state for not having the interest of the people at heart thereby inciting the citizens who were long known for peace in Nigeria, "we in PDP will not fold our hand to allowed such unchecked because they don't care but were just clamoring for power".

He reassured that the electorate would decide on September 6 by electing the best candidate of their choice who would represent the people of zone B in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

The publicity scribe noted that the PDP was not taking advantage of being in power but were mandated to be there and that only the electorate had the power to decide who they wanted at any given time.

News Zungeru hydropower dam project: Compensation in progress From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

P

ayment of compensation on farm lands to the affected communities and its environs following the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Dam project is in progress as the re settlement of those communities will soon commence.

This was contained in a press statement issued in Minna yesterday by the Community Relation Committee (CRC) Chairman of the project, Alhaji Isah Jibrin Garkuwa Nupe saying that with this development, work on the project site is now in progress.

The Chairman urged the beneficiaries to make good use of their money wisely and that what was paid to them now is for crops and economic trees while that of structures will soon be addressed. He urged them to be patient as all their entitlements were assured.

Alhaji Jibrin appealed to the communities for their understanding and cooperation adding that the authorities have noted with seriousness, cases of omission of names, underpayment, and the delay experienced in the banks over the compensation exercise, and assured them that the issues would be looked into with a view to making needed amendments.

He reiterated the need for the communities to continue to be law-abiding, patient and peaceful, promising that his committee would not let them down.

The Chairman commended President Goodluck Jonathan particularly for his total commitment in the transformation of power sector for the nation.

He also applauded the efforts of the Minister for Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo, in ensuring resettlements to the new site of those to be displaced, was receiving a greater attention.

Alhaji Jibrin urged those yet to be paid to exercise a little more patient while expressing appreciation to the Niger State governor, Muazu Babangida Aliyu for consistent support to the project.

The statement commended the fatherly and peace-making role of Emirs of Minna, Kagara and Kontagora who contributed to the peaceful atmosphere that led to the successful exercise in the area.

PAGE 12

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

Photosplash

Human and vehicular traffic at the grand reception organised by Ibibios for the former Akwa Ibom governor, Chief Victor Attah, yesterday in Uyo

Vice President Namadi Sambo (R) being received by the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, at the 4th Unity Conference organised by the Nupe youths, yesterday in Abuja

Cross River State commissioner of Education, Prof. Offiong Offiong, Minister of Education, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. Macjohn Nwabiala, at the forum of Commissioners of Education, yesterday in Abuja. Photo: Justin Imo-owo

Members of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) during a mobilisation rally forChief Victor Umeh in Nnewi in Anambra state

Secretary-General, Markus Gundiri Campaign Organisation, Dr Sulaiman Girei; chairman, advisory committee, Mr Caleb Takwasa, and Director General of the campaign team,Alhaji Al-Ameen Ahmed, during Adamawa central zone stakeholders meeting, in Girei local Government area, yesterday.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

PAGE 13

News

Dakingari urges Kebbi South Volunteers constituents to unite for governorship to tackle traffic G gridlock on Lagos roads From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

overnor Usman Dakingari has urged the people of Kebbi South senatorial district to choose a credible candidate in order to achieve their aspiration of governing the state in 2015.

He gave this assurance at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi when he received delegates from Yauri and Zuru Emirates, adding that if the elites present an honest and trustworthy candi-

date, he is ready to support them. ‘’ I don’t have any candidate and I will not support anybody because nobody knows where the governor would come from and who would succeed me. I am happy that the two emirates are working for the unity and progress of the state,’’ he exp lained.

Dakingari urged them to show maturity in order to win the heart of the electorate. ‘’In Zuru they have about eight aspirants, while Yauri has only one, so they should

go back home and settle. I salute the courage of the two emirates, I want them to agree and present a credible person before me. If you people reach an agreement then the governorship would go to one side, while the senatorial seat would also go to the other side,’’ he added.

Leader of the delegation, Prof.

Madi Adamu Nagaski, said that they were at the Government House to inform the governor of their decision to present a candi-

date that will succeed him.

“We are the only emirates that have not been given the mandate to govern this state. Aliero from Gwandu emirate ruled for eight years, while the present governor is also from Gwandu emirate. So we are soliciting for your support during the 2015 general election,’’ he said.

He assured the governor that they have agreed to present one candidate including Arugungu emirate.

Emir of Ningi loses wife

From Matthew Aramunde.

Lagos

A

From Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

T

he Emir of Ningi, Alhaji Yunusa Danyaya, lost his 48-year old wife, Hajiya Ya Maryam Yunusa, on Thursday night in Ningi.

A statement signed by the Secretary of the Ningi Emirate Council, Alhaji Suleiman Shehu Bura, revealed that Maryam died after a brief illness.

The statement described Hajiya Ya Maryam as the emir’s pillar of support, and a devout Muslim. It commended her commitment to the welfare needs of the less privileged in her community.

The deceased left behind four children and has been buried according to Islamic rites in Ningi.

L-R, Vice president Manufactural Association of Nigeria Alhaji Ali S. Madugu, MD/CEO Bank of Industry Mr. Rasheed Olaoluwa and Vice president Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture Engr. Jani Ibrahim during the presentation of paper to the participants of Senior Executive Course N0. 36. of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, at the Institute auditorium, Kuru, Jos

MDG,UNICEF donate N200m drugs to Arewa LG From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

M

illennium Development Goal [MDGs] in collaboration with the United Nation [UNICEF] has yesterday donated drugs, buses and five motorcycles worth N200m to Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi state.

Addressing newsmen in

Birnin Kebbi, the chairman of the council Eng. Ahmed Tanko said that the donation was made based on his achievements on the Health sector and also as a result of the counterpart funding paid by the Federal, state and local government.

Tanko who further express happiness over the gesture, pointing out that the materials would

be distributed across the 11 unit of rural health clinic center under the local government area.

The council boss therefore, explained that in order to promote and reduce the cases of maternal mortality child birth, his administration was able to construct 11 additional health clinic center which worth N100m and also the materials such as drugs hospital

equipments in the area.

Also speaking, the Secretary to the state government [SSG] Alhaji Nura Kangiwa express satisfaction over the achievements recorded in the area assured the people of the area that more are coming from the government side.

He then warn all the beneficiaries and health personnel not to

Cleric advocates better life for physically challenged From Seyi Ojelade, Ibadan

T

he Founder and the General Overseer, Hour of Mercy Prayer Ministry, Prophet Moses Muyideen Kasalli, has called on parents and the society at large not to discriminate against physically challenged individuals.

Kasali, who is physically challenged, stated this when he hosted the physically challenged from the Rehabilitation Centre, Temidire, Moniya, Ibadan.

Kasali said there is the need for parents and the society to change their perception about the physically challenged and accord

them due recognition and respect wherever they may find themselves.

To the physically challenged, he urged them not to see their disability as a hindrance to attain greatness in life; rather, they should see ability in their disability. He urged them to stay away from street begging, develop their inbuilt talents, so as to become responsible personalities in the society.

He specifically referred to Barrister Ayodele Adekanbi who is blind, but was appointed as Special Adviser on people with disabilities by the immediate past Governor of Oyo State, Otunba

Adebayo Alao Akala. He said the same Adekanbi was nominated by Governor Abiola Ajimobi to represent the state and the physically challenged at the just concluded National Conference in Abuja where his opinion on some national issues was well recognized and respected.

Kasali, however, called on government and spirited men and women in the society to come to the aid of the less privileged, especially the physically challenged at the rehabilitation centre by donating materials such as wheel chairs, crutches, food items and others.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Boluwatife

said she was called by God about 20 years ago to fight the course of the physically challenged and since then, she has not looked back.

She used the forum to call on well to do individuals in the society, philanthropic organizations and government to come to the aid of the less privileged by donating to the centre items such as food, cash, clothing and a costal bus to facilitate easy transportation.

The visitation featured ministration and drama presentation including the donation of materials and money by the wife of the General Overseer, Lady Bunmi Kasali.

new group of traffic control volunteers, Special Traffic Mayors, have indicated interest to tackle the hydra-headed traffic logjam within Lagos metropolis.

The Chairman of the volunteers, Abel Badejo, said this will compliment the efforts of the police, Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA), FRSC and other traffic regulatory agencies.

Badejo noted that they were motivated by the desire of Governor Fashola to ameliorate the sufferings of Lagosians who on a daily basis go through the hellish traffic snarls with the attendant loss of man hour to establish the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) to come together to compliment the efforts of the government’s agencies.

He revealed that the association comprises of people from all walks of life who have resolved to selflessly and without any fee contribute to nation building. .

Badejo, however, maintained that the group will only be seen on Lagos roads on Tuesdays and Fridays.

The former council boss noted that for effective and extensive coverage of the roads in the metropolis, the state has been segregated into three area commands and the areas have been code named “Area Charlie” which comprises Pen Cinema, Agege, Iju, Abule -Egba, Oko-Oba and Alagbado.

Others are Area Gulf which comprises Iyana-Ipaja, Ejigbo, Gowon Estate, Dopemu, Idimu, Igando, Ikotun, while Area Mike is made up of Shogunle, PWD, Ikeja, Oregun, Ojota among others “Sometimes we should not leave everything to government. At regular intervals let us compliment government’s efforts in our own little way,” Badejo noted.

The chairman said the effort is not a one-run-off thing as every Tuesdays and Fridays, members of the group would meet at various bus-stops in Lagos to participate in the controlling of traffic.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 14

Crime Cycle

Stanley Onyekwere pmlcrimecycle@gmail.com 08138559513

3 persons in trouble over wine theft, others

T

hree persons, John Akor, Jache Akor and Aondoaseer Iorchir, all residents of Makurdi, appeared in a Makurdi Magistrates’ court charged with alleged criminal conspiracy, house-breaking and theft.

According to the Prosecuting Police Officer, Mr Terzungwe Kajo, told the court that one Nathaniel Otobo reported the matter to the ‘E’ Division police station.

He said that Otobo complained that the accused persons conspired, broke into his house and made away with one bottle of wine and many other items.

He listed the items to include Star-times decoder, valued at N9,000.00, one musical speaker, valued at N8,000.00 and a DSTV decoder ,valued at N17,000, respectively.

Court denies bricklayer bail

A

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High court has refused bail to a bricklayer, Olando Ibrahim, 25, for alleged rape.

Ibrahim was arraigned on a twocourt charge bordering on conspiracy and rape.

Justice Slyvanus Oriji, who refused the bail application filed

by Counsel to the accused, Ms Joy Ekwueme, said that there would be accelerated hearing of the case.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Oriji adjourned the matter till September 26, and ordered the remand of the accused in Kuje Prison.

Prosecutor Adams Osu had told the court Ibrahim and one Aminu, now at large committed the offence at Katampe Road Mpape, FCT Abuja.

Osu said the accused persons had carnal knowledge with two adults of same address without their consent and collected their handbags.

He said that the offence contravened Sections 97 and 283 of the Penal code, which if convicted attract 14 years imprisonment.

The prosecutor further told the court that the accused persons also collected the ladies handset.

Mohammed Bello Adoke, AGF.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the suspects, he further alleged, stole the sum of N36,000.

The prosecutor said that the offences contravened sections 97, 246 and 287 of the Penal code law, respectively.

When the case came up for mention, the accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges against them, and asked for bail.

The prosecution, on its part, said that investigation into the matter was on-going, and prayed the court for another date for mention.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Lillian Terseer-Tsumba, granted bail to the accused person in the sum of N50, 000 each and a surety each in like sum.

Tsumba adjourned the matter until a later date.

Clerk bolts with employer’s N631, 950

Sulaiman Abba Ispector General of Police, Nigeria

Man bags 3 months A imprisonment for stealing

A

n Upper Area Court in Kado, Abuja, has sentenced a 20-year-old scavenger, Abdulmumuni Adams, to three months in prison for stealing generator components worth over N350, 000.

Adams of Jabi Garage, Abuja, was charged with joint act and theft.

The presiding judge, Mr. Abubakar Sadiq, sentenced Adams after he pleaded guilty to the charges.

Sadiq did not give the convict an option of fine, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

He said the punishment would serve as deterrent to those who might want to engage in similar act.

Earlier, the prosecutor, Sgt. Simon Ibrahim, told the court that Mr Friday Ozembe of Jaji Street, Kubwa, Abuja, lodged a report against Adams at the Utako police station on July 14.

Ibrahim said the accused person

and two others, now at large, trespassed into the complainant’s workshop and stole generator alternator and radiator valued at N350, 000.

He said during police investigation, the accused confessed that he committed the crime.

The prosecutor said the offence contravened the provision of sections 79 and 288 of the Penal code, respectively.

CRIME NUGGET 11 Facts About Gangs: 1. A gang is a group of people who claim a territory and use it to make money through illegal activities (i.e. drug trafficking).

2. Gangs can be organized based upon race, ethnicity, territory, or money-making activities, and are generally made up of members ages 8 to 22.

3. Members of gangs wear specific articles of clothing to be recognized as part of the group such as bandanas, hats, scarves of certain colors, or gang-related tattoos or symbols.

4. Gangs are one of the leading factors for growth of violent crimes both on and off school property.

5. When joining a gang, often

times there is an initiation that needs to be passed. This initiation is usually a violent crime that could include theft, murder, gangrape, or drive-by shootings.

6. Gang members are more likely to be arrested or involved with drugs and alcohol than nongang members.

7. 86 percent of U.S. cities with a population of 100,000 or more report gang activity.

8. According to the FBI there are 33,000 violent street, motorcycle, and prison gangs active in the U.S., with more than 1.4 million members (a 40 percent increase from 2009).

9. In recent years, gangs are participating in more non-

traditional crimes such as prostitution, alien smuggling, and human trafficking, as well as white-collar crimes like counterfeiting, identity theft, and mortgage fraud. These new, nontraditional crimes create higher profitability and lower visibility.

10. California, New Mexico, Nevada, Illinois, and Idaho have the highest concentration of gang members, with more than 6,000 per state.

11. Neighborhood-based gangs pose the highest rate of significant threat for violent crimes in the U.S, versus national-level street gangs, prison gangs, and outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Source: www.dosomething.org

salesclerk, Chisom Nwanya, has appeared before an Apapa Senior Magistrates’ court, in Lagos state, for alleged theft of her employer’s N631, 950.

Nwanya, 19, who resides in Amuwo-Odofin area of Lagos, is facing a two-count charge of stealing and forgery.

The prosecutor, Insp. Rita Momoh, said the accused committed the offences between January and March at a shop in Amuwo-Odofin.

According to her, the complainant and Nwanya’s employer, one Mr Kelechukwu Okpala, the salesclerk sold some goods in the shop and failed to pay in the money.

“The missing money was discovered following an audit of the accounts and the goods in his shop.

“On further probing, the accused was found to have also forged the teller of a new generation bank to conceal payment of N631, 950 to her employer’s account,’’ Momoh said.

She said the offences contravened Sections 285 (7) and 363 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the accused may be punished with a sevenyear imprisonment if convicted.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Senior Magistrate, Mr P. A. Ojo, admitted the accused to a bail of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

He said the sureties should show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government as part of the bail conditions.

Further hearing has been fixed for a later date.

PAGE 15

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Interview

Why APC won’t hold elective convention – Buhari

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Contd from Page 2

f you become the President today, how will you tackle the myriad of problems of Nigeria and then restore confidence in governance?

First, I have to secure the country, because unless you secure the country, nothing can be done properly. So, first it is security and then how to manage the country, that is by resuscitating the economy, the infrastructure, getting the factories reopened, getting employment and goods and services.

It is much easier to damage than to rebuild, but everybody agrees that Nigeria is an incredibly resourceful country, both materially and human wise.

It is a question of the elite getting their acts together and making sure the country is organized in such a way that it can be secured and managed well. It is not easy because a number of the institutions have being compromised. What do you do with the Nigerian Police in terms of their efficiency? The military itself? The judiciary?

The recent happening in our country, especially the abduction of more than 200 girls from their school is unbelievable. For those of us who experienced the civil war, we can’t reconcile how a group like Boko Haram would come and collect from one school more than 200 children and after three months, the Federal Government cannot do anything.

So for those of us coming from the 1960s to now, it is unthinkable for any group to emerge in Nigeria to hold everyone to ransom. I mean the so-called Boko Haram. I said this about six months ago. I said no religion advocates hurting the innocent. So the religious toga that Boko Haram is wearing can be exposed. You can’t wrap yourself with explosives and go and kill people in markets, churches, mosques, and motor parks, and also go and slaughter children in their sleep. It’s simply terrorism.

This is my clear understanding of it and it is the duty of the Federal Government to stop it.

Unfortunately, so far, the Federal Government has failed.

You were recently attacked in Kaduna, and then there was an investigation.

Has there been any progress concerning that incident?

You are asking me of progress.

Have you forgotten that over 200 girls are missing for over three months now and nothing has happened? Ok. I know I’m a former Head of State and I decided to be in politics of opposition. Imagine your daughter being among the missing girls. So to come and talk to me about a near-death situation while over 200 children are still missing is insensitive. I do not expect anything to come out of the investigation into the attack on me honestly.

You did say that Nigeria has the expertise to deal with the insurgency. Do you have an advice?

The problem is, as I have said in a few places, I have been in this struggle in Nigeria since 1966 when a certain group decided to

General Muhammadu Buhari wipe out our military and political leadership which led to countercoups, which led to civil war, and which led to all sorts of unsettling instability in the society. I have been in it all and to boot, I too have been detained for more than three years. I tried to develop the capacity to bounce back and to appeal to people, especially the elite to be serious, to participate in politics so that credible people can be representatives and leaders in the country.

That’s why I am in it. The National Assembly voted a year ago (or is it 18 months ago?) on the death of NEPA (may its soul rest in peace) after billions of dollars had been spent. What do we have now in terms of electricity? Nothing. In pension funds, in petroleum industry, it’s the same situation…and no single person is being prosecuted. What will you think of this government?

The question is if we see a Buhari presidency today, will these things be pursued vigorously?

Well, people have to be accountable, but there is a limit to what one can do if one finds himself as the president of this great country today. Earlier on, I talked about institutions being compromised so with who are you going to work? Whoever finds himself as the leader of

“

this country next year, I hope he will not be overwhelmed by the problems and just sit back to watch the decay instead of doing something practical.

Are you going to contest the next election or not?

Well I have to say that I am a loyal party member. Yes I have my own rights and so on, but being part of the merger, and the merger is not a political accident.

I participated in the presidential elections of 2003, 2007 and 2011 so for me to participate in the merger process is not an accident.

I realised that my experience in partisan politics from April 2002 to now is the only way I think of in confronting this amorphous ruling party, the PDP. I think the way forward for our country is for the opposition parties that have representations in the state legislatures and in the centre to come together and face the PDP. Unless that is done, we cannot stop the bad system. I have said it often that I am a converted democrat since 1991 when the Soviet Union, an empire of the 20th century, collapsed without a shot fired. People panicked, left nuclear sites, missile sites and now there are 18 or 19 republics.

That was when I came to the conclusion that the democratic system of government is the best form of governance.

The picture looks very gloomy. I remember what an elder statesman, Ali Monguno, said “where did we go wrong?” So I ask you General, where did we go wrong?

I am sure you did not miss Obama’s statement in Ghana during his first visit to Africa. I think he came to tell us, especially developing African economies, that what we need to fix our countries are strong institutions, not strong individuals. But if Obama were in Nigeria, he would have arrived at a different conclusion. But we Nigerians know that it is strong individuals that destroyed strong institutions and so, we again need to look for strong personalities to renew these institutions.

When the British came, they found some of us in this part of the country with advanced social set up. They found in the north the emirate council system that only required accountability. There was taxation system — cattle and personal — but it was normally put in the pockets of the Emirs.

The office of the treasurer was just a name. The British came and instituted accountability, a reform that helped the system already in place.

In like manner, going forward, we need to reform this country.

So the elite must make sure they participate in electioneering, even if they are not card-carrying members of any party.

They must make sure that in their constituencies they participate, even if they don’t want to go and contest election. They must make sure that credible, responsible Nigerians in their constituencies are the ones who become lawmakers, chairmen of local governments, senators, governors and so on. This is the duty of the elite because of what has happened to us between 1999 till now. When I tried to introduce Buba Marwa to his constituency, I said it. Let him go to the local government and know what are the condition of their schools, health care system and security there then and what the situation is now?

When you talked about Obama what you are saying is that we need strong personalities to build strong institutions but now in the merger you have individuals who are described as strange bed fellows. How confident are you that from now till 2015, people will remain committed to the change we need?

Well, I assume that we have

We Nigerians know that it is strong individuals that destroyed strong institutions and so, we again need to look for strong personalities to renew these institutions.

agreed on the reason why we needed to merge. That no single opposition party could defeat the ruling party, so we had to bury our differences to come together.

What we did was deliberate and according to the Electoral Act 2010 that when you want to have a party, you have to apply and satisfy certain criteria. We set up a series of committees one of which identified five political parties that should merge — ACN, ANPP, CPC, DPP, and APGA. And we graded ACN first, CPC second, ANPP third, APGA fourth and DPP fifth. But we had to ask DPP and APGA to wait until after the merger because they had court cases and those could have been used to either delay or forestall our registration. Three of us – ACN, CPC and ANPP – decided to merge. We had to convene a convention, dissolve ourselves with the intention of registering a new political party. We did it successfully.

We asked the three leading members of the parties-chairmen, secretaries and treasurers to apply but INEC corrected us, saying we needed 25 to 30 people, so we had to go to all geo-political zones and put in place interim management at the top until the convention where elected members formally took over.

We had to put the structure on ground from local government to states. After all that, the registration became successful. To do that, we needed card-carrying members to complete the process.

So in every INEC-recognized polling unit, we registered at least 100 card-carrying members. Then we moved on with the convention.

Now there is a party and we are looking forward to primaries and then to general elections.

No doubt you have achieved a milestone because this is the first merger in the history of Nigeria. You have organised a convention. How satisfied are you with the results of the convention?

What role do you envisage for yourself in the primaries?

The most important thing is to remove self if one is serious.

That’s what I call stabilisation of the system. As I said, we realised that no single opposition party could do it, so we came together.

You can’t always have it your way. We insisted on having the registration because when we registered under the same party we can come together and discuss our differences. This is what we are doing. Differences exist and will continue to exist, but being in the same party, we have to find a way of getting over our differences.

For example, we had to do what is called harmonization committee and especially when we were joined by five PDP governors with their structures. Naturally, they crushed my poor grassroots supporters. This is the reality on the ground. Forget about me. I convinced our colleagues that the first thing to do is to have the party on the ground; the party needs to be on the ground. Let us go and start from the grassroots.

That’s where we are now. We are trying to kill the delegates system, we are going to do direct

PAGE 16

Why I’m stingy – Gemade

By Chris Alu

T

he senator representing Benue North East Senatorial district, Senator, Barnabas Gemade has accepted that he is not a generous giver neither he is a philanthropist ,but as a Christian who believes in biblical doctrines and injunctions gives when appropriate and anytime he is given neither his lift hand nor his right hand knows what he is given Speaking at his constituency empowerment programme to mark his three years stewardship as a senator along side his 66 birth day celebration at his home town in Kornya Konshisha local government area of Benue state.

The federal lawmaker stated that ,he has being a giver right from time but the only thing is that if he gives the left hand does not know what he does as such politicians brand him a stingy man. I know some people that I have given up to one million naira they are in this state but I won’t mention their names, Gemade stated.

He explained that he has given some people up to two hundred and fifth thousand naira they have collected this money but turn back to call him names. Thank God I am now a politician and I know what human being are and their ways, he said it is only in politics that you will know what no man will teach you, if you are a human being but has not entered into politic you are not complete in life because it is only politicians that knows what no man has writing about and it is only politicians that teachers one a lesson that no teachers will teach you, he stated.

He said that It is only a politician that will be eating with you and at the same time keeps a knife beside you to slaughter you while laughing with you together Senator Gemade said he wished that Governor Suswan who is younger and enerygitic should gun for bigger things and allow him to continues with the Senate at the moment.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

Politics Northern Youth seeks Lamido's expulsion from PDP From Edwin Olofu, Kano

A

group of northern Nigeria youth, under the auspices of Northern Youth Forum, Jigawa State Chapter, has called on the national leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to commence the process of expelling Jigawa State governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido from the party for distancing himself from endorsing president Goodluck Jonathan' second tenure.

This was contained in a state-

ment signed by the director publicity of the group, Sani Talba Auyo, and made available to journalists yesterday in Kano.

The statement said that attention of the group has been drawn to the recent utterances made by the Jigawa State governor against endorsement of the president's second tenure, labeling it as unguarded and blackmail.

It would be recalled that, last week, the northwest PDP endorsed president Jonathan for a second term in office.

But the Jigawa State governor, through his deputy, Alhaji Ahmad Mahmud Gumel, dissociated the governor from the purported endorsement of president Jonathan by the northwest PDP. The statement reads in part:"Our attention has been drawn to the recent unguarded utterances of Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, designed to score cheap publicity. Governor Sule Lamido is well known for his political antics of open disobedience to his political mentors

like late Mallam Aminu Kano and Abubakar Rimi. We, as a group are disturbed." " in Lamido's history of antiparty activities, it is clear that he never had the masses at heart. He never thinks of the north as his constituency, but "personal" political goals as the "North agenda".

Most importantly, we call on the PDP National leadership to bring an end to this cheap blackmail, by expelling governor Lamido from the party. Period."the statement stated.

Chairman, Senate committee on Power, Sen Philip Aduda (R), acknowledging cheers from resident of Bwari Area Council, during his empowerment programme in the Area, yesterday in Abuja.

2015: Southern Kaduna women endorse Senator Nenadi Usman From Muhammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

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s preparation for 2015 elections draws nearer, a group under the aegis of Southern Kaduna Women Volunteers yesterday endorses Senator Esther Nenadi Usman for the Zone 3 senatorial district in the area ahead of 2025 election.

The group said the senator as far as southern Kaduna zone 3 election is concerned she is ever ready to slug it out with any aspirants in that zone.

Senator Nenadi's endorsement came few days after another women group from same zone with the name "Concerned

Southern Kaduna Women" kicked against her endorsement for reelection.

Addressing newsmen in Kaduna, Leader fot the Women group Volunteer, Mrs Grace Auta described those critising Senator Nenadi as mischief makers.

The group said Senator Nenadi has done well to people of Southern Kaduna, particularly those within her constituency which is why they feel she deserved another chance. " She has done well in uplifting her people,especially women and youth. For example she constructed boreholes in each of the 87 wards of the zone. She also attracted the MDG office which

sank in another 6 boreholes at the cost of 10,million naira each. " Senator Nenadi arranged the surgical Operation of 688 patients in her zone for free. She also donated scanning machine to Zongon Kataf General Hospital and not less than 1000 students benefited from her scholarship scheme," she said.

According to her, all the allegation made by the first group that Senator Nenadi endorsed herself, Governor Yero and President Jonathan for 2015 during a stakeholders meeting in the area was a lie. " What the Senator did before that occasion was to make broad consultation within the ranks of

officials of PDP in the zone. The LGs and Ward levels and they all agreed on the two leaders. It was a unanimous decision of all elected and appointed officials of the PDP within the zone but we are now supporting her for the 2015" she said.

Mrs Grace Auta further faulted those who accuse the senator of not showing concerned to her people who were attacked by suspected gunmen,saying she always visited them and donate relief materials each time there was an attacked in the area.

The group advised politicians from the area to play politics with decency and interest of the public in mind.

Gbemi Saraki to empower 1000 Kwara youths with modern skills From Olanrewaju Lawal,Ilorin

A

former senator and first daughter of the late strongman of Kwara state politics, Sen. Gbemisola Rukayat Saraki has expressed her readiness to empower over 1000 Kwara youths with basic technical skills that can make them compete favorably with their counterparts anywhere in the world.

The former gubernatorial candidate of ACPN, in 2011 general election in the state, stated this

in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital, while speaking with a youth mobilization group led by Mallam Abdulrazaq Gambari.

Saraki, who was represented by Mrs. Olayemi Yusuf, said that efforts were already in top gear to ensure the successful take-off of the programme in December this year.

According to Yusuf, the beneficiaries will be drawn from the 193 wards of Kwara state through a transparent, merit-based process that will culminate in the selec-

tion of the first batch of the beneficiaries.

While the rigorous training lasts, beneficiaries will also be entitled to a token monthly to take care of their transportation and feeding.

Yusuf said that the high point of the project is the provision of reasonable start-up capital for the beneficiaries at the end of each round of the exercise.

Yusuf revealed that already finishing touches are being put on the Kwara Central Coordinating Office for the Gbemisola Empow-

erment Scheme (GBEMs) which is located at Ajikobi ward, Ita-merin area of Ilorin West Local Government, “We have decided to take the project right into the heart of the grassroots. This is evident in the location of the office itself. By citing the office in Ajikobi, which incidentally is the ancestral home of the Sarakis, Sen. Gbemisola Saraki is further deepening her pact with the grassroots. She is further bridging the gap between her and the people at the grassroots, which is at the core of her campaigns and public service.”

Responding, the leader of the youth group, Mallam Abdulrazaq Gambari thanked Senator Saraki for always identifying with the youths of Kwara state. He particularly appreciated Saraki for insisting that merit and transparency will form the basis of the selection of the prospective beneficiaries.

He recalled that similar approach ad been adopted during the distribution of multi-million Naira scholarship grants to deserving youths in secondary and tertiary institutions in the state in 2010.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

PAGE 17

Politics

Negotiation, solution to insurgency – Bolori B

orno State is being ravaged by insurgency, as a former chairman of Maiduguri Local Government Council, what do you think the federal government ought to do to curtail this menace?

For me, there is politics in the whole thing, the federal government has been applying military strategies, but the insurgents are gaining ground, especially now that some local governments have fallen into their hands like Gwoza, Ngala, and others. Borno has been under a state of emergency for more than a year now. All this while we were applying only one strategy, so I suggest we should try other options.

In the history of insurgency, military option has never been the only option, you have to try other options, even countries like the United States and Israel that have a strong military and a buoyant economy sometimes engage in negotiation. So I see no reason why we should not negotiate with the Boko Haram sect.

I understand that the president is seeking for $1 billion loan to fight the insurgency. For God’s sake, these are almajiris, where do they get the heavy equipment to fight the federal government?

This is very funny, it doesn't even sound good for anybody to make this kind of statement.

But some Nigerians have opposed the negotiation option you mentioned, saying the insurgents are faceless and that the government cannot negotiate with them.

What is your take on this?

It is not true that the insurgents are faceless, the military officials know them very well, the government knows them and we know them too, so the issue of being faceless does not come in.

That is why I said in the beginning that there is politics in this issue.

Let me refresh your memory, in one of the videos released by the leader of the group, Abubakar Shekau, he said we will keep these Chibok girls as long as you detain our men, so the government knows who and who are their men. The issue of being faceless is political because some people are making money out of the whole thing and we are paying dearly with our lives.

The Israelis are negotiating with Hamas and other terrorist organizations, more sophisticated countries are negotiating with terrorists. The military option like I said is not working, so what is the solution? Anybody who is saying that we cannot negotiate with them should bring another solution or keep quite.

You recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), what informed your decision?

Hon. Muhammad Umar Bolori is a prominent politician in Borno state and a former chairman of Maiduguri Local Government Council. He is among those canvassing for a peaceful end to the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast. In this interview with Umar Muhammad Puma, he bared his mind on the insurgency among other issues.

You know when the CPC and the ACN merged, there were issues that we did not clearly spell out, we were left at the mercy of the governors and they kept bringing in their stooges to take over the party in various states, we were not given any consideration as a merging political party.

That is why we decided to opt out.

We don't have ideological political parties in this country, yes my ideology is progressive but I am not in the progressive party. In the PDP, we have a mixture of the conservative and progressives. So there are no defined principles between the two parties, we are yet to develop those parties.

We have more of fair weather ideology political parties. That is the appropriate words to use. Not politicians of principles.

Recently, a former governor of Borno State, Ali Modu Sherrif, also defected to the ruling PDP, did all of you make up your mind to dump the APC? I don't think Sherrif has officially decamped to the PDP, the declaration he made that I know of is that he has left the APC, but I am not aware if he has joined the PDP. But he was seen at the State House with Mr. President and he even confided in some journalists that he is no longer with the APC? Let me tell one thing about Ali Modu Sherrif, even when he was a governor he related very well with the president and some members of the PDP. Therefore, seeing Sheriff with Mr. President does not make him a member of the PDP. The fact remains that he has left his party, and up till now he has not gone to Maiduguri or Gamboru Ngala where his constituency is, which is under the control of the insurgency, to declare that he has joined the PDP and obtain his membership card.

I don't even think that he can even make it to Gamboru because of the situation there, so the fact remains that he has left the APC, and there are speculations that he is joining the PDP that is the truth of the matter.

As a grassroots politician, how will you assess the administration of Governor Kashim Shettima?

I don't have anything personal against Governor Shettima, as a matter of fact, he is my cousin. I have so many things in common with him. One, he is among the elite in Maiduguri metropolis, we belong to the same local govern-

Hon. Muhammad Umar Bolori ment, same age group, but to me he has failed in governance, this is not what we expected from him.

This is a gentleman that is highly educated, and we thought he will transform Borno, we are now in the fourth year of his administration, and none of his projects has been executed, so to me he has failed.

Shettima assumed office when the state was in crisis, how do you expect him to perform under such circumstances?

There is absolute peace in some local governments, it is not all parts of Borno that the insurgents are making lives difficult for people. The impression people are getting is not totally correct.

There is room for him to at least execute some projects. Some of his commissioners are battling with the EFCC, so something is wrong somewhere.

But he sponsored Borno indigenes to schools within and outside the country to further their education.

If he had improved on our existing schools, there will be no need for them to go to other

schools to study.

But the current situation will not allow him to do that even if he intends to do so.

This is one irony that you may not understand, all private schools in Maiduguri are open, except public schools and the concept is Boko Haram, does this mean that private schools are Halal and public schools Haram? So as long as private schools are in session I see no reason why public schools should remain closed.

That is why I said this issue is politically motivated. Now that the schools have been closed, probably he may get money to run the schools. If private schools can operate successfully in Maiduguri, why should public schools remain closed? So this is not an excuse.

But the ordinary Borno man will say what we need at this critical time is peace and not infrastructure because their can never be development without peace, so if the governor spends so much money to ensure peace, I think the masses will say he has done enough?

What method is he applying

in doing that? That is what I want to know. I have no idea what he is doing to bring peace to Borno State. In fact, the insurgents are still in Borno because of the under-development in the state.

Borno has a huge number of unemployed youths who are vulnerable, they are jobless and this is caused by maladministration.

But this administration inherited all the aforementioned, how can you blame Governor Shettima alone?

Let me give an example, the late President Yar'Adua inherited militancy in the Niger Delta, but he dealt with it. So we expect Shettima to also deal with what he has inherited. In governance there should be continuity, whether you inherited or created it, you are expected to solve that problem.

2015 is past approaching, your party, the PDP has been ruling this country for 15 years and there is nothing to show for it, are we expecting changes beyond 2015?

That the PDP has failed this country is correct. I joined the party with the hope that we could bring in changes from my state to the national level. Some of the people who failed the PDP are no longer members of the party, though many are still there. There is no doubt that the party failed this country woefully. We hope that after 2015, things will change for the better.

Are you in support of the re-election of President Jonathan in 2015?

Jonathan is coming to the end of his administration, as far as the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is concerned there is no room for him to re-contest the election. He has already served his two terms of four years in office. So the issue of whether I support him or not is irrelevant.

As long as the constitution is not amended, Jonathan is not eligible to contest the 2015 presidential election. What we are thinking of now is who the credible candidate that will transform this country is. I always think along that line and not whether Jonathan is contesting or not.

Apart from Jonathan, who do you think will fly the party's flag in 2015?

We have many credible people in the party, people like the governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, who has performed absolutely well in his state, we have others too in the south-south and southwest who have done well in their states.

PAGE 18

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY - SUNDAY , SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

Political News

Front runners and pretenders for Adamawa Govt House

Ag. Gov. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri

Gen. Buba Marwa

Malam Nuhu Ribadu

Dr. Ahmed Modibbo

By Umar Dankano, Yola

opposition CPC, CAN and ANPP to form the All Progressive Congress (APC). Not comfortable with the way and manner the party was being run, Marwa again dumped the APC for PDP, the party he co-founded.

The retired general, who is highly respected as a political strategist, has since commenced consultations as he gears up for his struggle to Adamawa government house.

General Buba Marwa’s inability to remain in one party might affect his ambition but he is a dogged fighter who does not give up fight until it is over.

lobbying for Awwal’s emergence as flag bearer of the PDP as a way to reciprocate the effort Bamanga Tukur made in his nomination and appointment as minister.

He said his experience in the federal civil service and the education sector has groomed him to govern the state.

DR. Ahmed, husband to Aihsatu Ahmed, popularly known as Binani, a serving member of the House of Representatives, is rallying on the political might of his wife to clinch the governorship ticket. But political observers in Adamawa believed that he lacks the charisma and acceptability to lead a state like Adamawa.

ENGINEER MARKUS GUNDIRI: Engineer Gundiri, who until very recently was in APC, will be relying on the massive support he got when he flew the flag of the now defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) against PDP’s Murtala Nyako in 2011.

Engineer Gundiri also have so many factors that may work against him. One of which is that of just joining the party few months before the primary is held.

This may work against him as a former member of the PDP, even as a party elder, his return after a sojourn in an opposition party may have taintted his loyalty as a party stalwart.

B

efore Nuhu Ribadu and seven others opted to withdraw from the race to the Adamawa Government House, the People Democratic Party had 14 aspirants, who are angling to replace impeached former Gov. Murtala Nyako.

The election itself has been scheduled for October 14 while the PDP primary comes up today. Before Ribadu’s sudden withdraw, a development that has baffled political pundits putting into consideration the preponderance of view with which he defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the ruling party. What else must have made him to denounce the APC and shift his loyalty to the PDP- a party that he had severally condemned?

All Progressives Congress (APC) has six (6) while Peoples Party of Nigeria, (PPN) has one aspirant that has declared interest to vie for the Governorship ticket of party enroute the primaries and possibly the real election. Some of the aspirants, among them presently in service have at a point or the other contested for the position.

These included serving and former political office holders: senators, ministers, Deputy Governor, former aspirants, among others.

Our correspondent in Yola, Mallam Umar Dankano looks at the potential aspirants and their chances.

GENERAL MOHAMMED BUBA MARWA (rtd) A one-time Military Administrator of Borno and Lagos states, Marwa was one of the founding fathers of the ruling PDP. He contested the 2007 presidential primaries on the platform of the party.

He lost out in the primaries and after the emergence of late Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’adua as the President, Buba Marwa was compensated with an ambassadorial appointment, where he served in South Africa.

Marwa returned home late 2010 to try his luck again in 2011 general election, but this time around as a governorship aspirant in Adamawa state. He lost out in the primaries and decamped to the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) where he emerged as the party flag bearer. He equally lost out in the election to Governor Murtala Nyako. Buba Marwa the

ALHAJI AWWAL D. TUKUR: Awwal, Eldest son of the immediate past National Chairman ofthe ruling Peoples Democratic Party has not dropped his intention to follow his father’s footsteps of becoming the governor of the state.

Auwal Tukur, a former House of Representative member is believed to be the big stick that broke the proverbial camel’s back in the fight between his father and governor Nyako, even though they are in-laws. The older Tukur wanted his son to succeed Nyako while Nyako also had his candidate in his son, Abdulazzez.

His father’s closeness to President Goodluck Jonathan and as a former PDP leader, he can influence the emergence of his son to govern Adamawa state.

A source told Peoples Daily Weekend that the present Minister of Youths Development Mr. Boni Haruna, is seriously

Dr. UMAR ARDO: Ardo is an erudite politician with great determination who is ready to go the whole hog particularly when he is undermined.

Ardo, an outspoken politician, is believed to be among the favourite candidate for the ticket, but because of his resolve to take on anybody, including the leadership of the party, he is said to be making leaders of the party to have a second thought about him.

Yet, the doctor of political science is a never say die person. He is ready to spend his hard earned resources and deplore his intellect to fight a just course. And the governorship ticket is one such.

DR. MOHAMMED AHMED MODIBBO: Ahmed, the immediate past executive secretary of Universal Basic Education Board, has also being eyeing the number one job in the state on the PDP platform.

Modibbo, who is rumoured to be rich, has vowed to use his finances to ensure for his emergence as the PDP flag bearer.

Political pundits in the state were shocked at the declaration of Modibbo’s intention to contest on Saturday 23rdAugust 2014 at the PDP secretariat where he donated 27.4 million to the party.

Hong, who is seen as a graduate of Professor Jibrill Aminu’s political school “ Dr. of thought, has contributed immensely in building the Peoples Democratic Party, in the state especially when he served as the state secretary of the party between 2007-2008 where he was believed to be a catalyst whose strategies assisted in taking the party to a high level.

DR. ALIYU IDI HONG: A former Minister of the Federal Republic also declared his intentions to vie for the ticket.

Idi Hong is the political son of Professor Jibril Aminu, a well-known politician in the state and the country at large. He may use Jibril Aminu to gather supporters.

Political analysts in the state describe his declaration to vie for the exalted office as one of the best things that happened in the history of Adamawa state considering his pedigree in both public and private lives.

Dr. Hong, who is seen as a graduate of Professor Jibrill Aminu’s political school of thought, has contributed immensely in building the Peoples Democratic Party, in the state especially when he served as the state secretary of the party between 20072008 where he was believed to be a catalyst whose strategies assisted in taking the party to a high level.

During the occasion of submission of his expression of intent and Nomination forms to the party leadership in the state at the party secretariat on Thursday 21. August 2014, a mammoth crown defied the heavy Contd on Page 43

PAGE 19

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Tourism

Olumo Rock: The breathtaking O

lumo rock, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria, West Africa, sits in the ancient city center of Abeokuta – a name which means “Under the rock”. Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the egba people who found refuge at the Olumo rock during inter-tribal wars in the 19th century. The rock provided sanctuary to the people as well as a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance leading to eventual triumph in war. The town of Abeokuta eventually grew as these new settlers spread out from this location.

Abeokuta is just about an hour’s drive from the bustling metropolitan city of Lagos providing convenient access to an array of hotels, restaurants, clubs, casinos and various nightlife activities. Lagos is also home to the closest airport to Abeokuta, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Hotels in Abeokuta within minutes drive from the rock include Gateway Hotel and Olumo Guest House.

Tourists to Africa definitely need to consider putting Olumo rock on their travel plans. New renovations completed early 2006 upgraded the infrastructure of the site to include a new museum, restaurants, water fountain and an

elevator that will provide even the climbing-challenged a wonderful view of the surrounding city. he ancient Itoku market where local artisans and traders enjoy to haggle over price just as much as the customers like to find a bargain ies just outside the Olumo rock premises and is a must-see.

The market is the center of the indigenous Abeokuta industry of tie-and-dye, locally known as adire. Adire crafters, usually women, both old and young show off their designs in sheds alongside the roads. Behind these sheds are buildings where many of these crafters live and work and their parents before them.

In places where the plaster has cracked off the walls, you may see traces of the mud bricks used in the original construction.

The locals are very friendly and if asked, will often give tourists and visitors informal tours of the dyeing processes. Other popular items to watch out for include local beads, bracelets, sculptures and musical instruments like the sekere and talking drum. trip to Olumo rock usually commences with a climb up the man-made stairs carved into the rock. While this sounds easy enough, it leaves many breathless

T

A

tourist destination

The h gateway t to t Ol Olumo rock k ttourist i t complex l and ready to take a break to rest on the benches under the trees growing from the rock and enjoy some clean breeze. The journey continues with climbs on irregularly sized rocks (or ladders which are now thankfully provided) through a narrow corridor that leads to the top of

the rock. All along the way, catch sights of carvings in the rock, cowrie-studded statues and the ancient abode of the priestesses who live in huts on the rock. And yes, it is not uncommon to catch a sight of the very aged women who live there and mutter greetings or blessings as people make their

The Olumo rock standing solid

Panoramic view of Abeokuta town from Olumo rock way through. t is often helpful to enlist the services of a guide who possess vast knowledge of the history of the rock and the culture of the people. This makes for an interesting climb as every twist and turn will reveal a significant story making the trip a

I

Stairway to Olumo rock

truly memorable one. n the way back down the rock, the sight of the Ogun river running like a silver chain amidst a forest of aged red corrugated roofs bordered by thick green forests which melt into the horizon is breathtaking.

O

PAGE 20

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Homes

By Mariam Humbe

Y

ou can achieve a lovely atmosphere in the home by decorating with lace curtains.

This is an example of a Lace Valance and Tier combination used in the simplest way inside the window jambs.

It could just as well be mounted on rods outside of the window jams. In this picture we used a bolder Macrame Ring Lace. This type of look can also be accomplished with Lace Curtain fabric purchased by the yard.

Sheer curtains such as these are can be used where privacy in not important. In addition to this idea you could even bend a metal rod to the shape of the crescent window on top for the Swag Pair and in between Valance so that it would follow the

Another more formal look would be to use a Swag Pair on the sides with a Valance between the Swag sides and a pair of Lace Panels. An Insert Valance is not necessary if you have a narrower window. Two Insert Valancaes can even be used to span a wider window.

By using your imagination the same treatment can be used in a completely different way depending on the configuration of the window.

Panels either permanently tied back or hanging straight. These are fairly sheer lace curtains.

This is a good way to make two windows look like one. As a matter of fact, if these two windows were in a corner with each on a separate wall you could do the same thing making the whole corner wider looking, lighter and brighter.

A three window bay as lace kithcen

curtains could be treated similarly.

You could still, of course, treat each as a separate window and hang two or three separate Lace Curtains.The treatment using a one piece Lace Swag is limited to a fairly narrow window because there is no way to insert a Valance in the middle. It is a very effective treatment either with a short Tier as in this picture or with a full length Panel.

A Festoon Valance along with lace curtain panels are also used on a fairly narrow window but you could create an entirely different look on a wider window by using two Festoons side by side.

A Festoon in this case or a straight Valance can be used over two Lace Panels criss-crossed and tied back to each side for a totally different and beautiful effect called a Pricilla. This treatment involves three rods.

You can really enjoy creating your

very own professional looking decor by stretching your imagination. The above pictures of various window coverings are just a start.

You can probably think of many other attractive ways to arrive at your own personal choices of Lace Curtain treatments. In fact, you could even vary the treatments by purchasing Lace Yardage and sewing your own version of a window treatment.

Houzz.com

curve of the window.

As you can see, by tying back the Panels you gain a view of the outside but lose the privacy. Because the Lace Panels generally wrinkle where they are tied back you should decide which way you prefer and leave the

e n i z a g a M

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

d n e k e e W

s

ment Entertain

Hajiya Amina Mohammed: Achiever par excellence PG 23

What you don’t know about ace actor Ali Nuhu >>PG 34

Fashion

Beauty Tip

od Kannywo

Make fashion statement with the clutch bag

PG 28

d Hollywoo

PAGE 21

d Bollywoo

PAGE 22

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Your Body, Image & U

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Procastination & your body image With Jacqui Iwu bwreforms@gmail.com 08184825606 (sms only)

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will...I will..but you never get to take any actions till it is very late. Does this sound like you?

Most life sorrows,pains, tragedies would not have occured if people who are involved took early precautions by preventing them in the first place. Most people always find excuses not to have taken precautions early but no excuse is good enough when someone clearly knows and understand pretty much what will happen in future if precautions are not taken early.

A young lady of 20 years notices that her weight is getting out of order, she is growing fatter than her age, she has been having ill health signs/symptoms caused by her voracious –unhealthy eating habit but you know what, she keeps quiet. She understands pretty well that her entire body system is sick and she is also unhappy about it but she keeps quiet, keeps delaying getting treatment year after year even when the resources to watch her weight and get medical attention are there. Years later maybe when she gets to her 30s, she must have overblown to a size of a ‘’hippo’’, looking too large for her own comprehension and confusion that she drifts into depression and deep sorrows just by looking at herself in the mirror. At this stage, she starts looking out for a quick fix, a fire bridgade approach to her weight and health problems. The sad point is that, it could be that she must have been diagonised of some deadly ill-health caused by her overweight or she is married and could not get pregnant.

Stressed lady2 For such a woman, anything goes when it comes to solution to her problems. She is no more talking of treating just her weight probem but also the health problems created by her neglecting her weight problem while she was in her 20s. Again, her weight at this stage could be very, very difficult to tackle unless she goes for a surgery. Of course we all know that such surgery is not cheap in this part of the world and there are more tight measures to be taken if one finishes the surgery. Imagine what the life of such a woman could look like. Filled with pains, regrets, fraustrations, bitterness, depression,confusion and ugliness. What if she does not survive the complications of her overweight?

Would she have prevented getting to this sad end? Perfectly yes!! Infact at the onset of her weight problems her body was very, very healthy and in a bet-

“

ter condition to fight obesity and any disease what ever due to her young age then but she decided to delay working on her weight . All she needed that time was to get a bodyimage coach/ expert reform her eating habit and transform her life style activities knowing that she was pretty young and still have lots of years ahead of her. I have counseled most of them and each time i explain to them the dangers of not taking immediate actions, it looks like it’s all about the money they got to pay me.

That is one crappy mindset most people have in this Country. Ok.. you have got to pay for services rendered to you but such people also forget that the expert cares more about their future life and that is the major reason, they are being advised to take immediate actions. Same individuals who also complain of not affording the cost will years later pay more than they are being charged at the on-

set of their problem. Most times, they will have the full money to pay but the cure will elude them.

So who is biting who here? Again due to the accumulation of too much weight over the years, the duration/procedures of her losing the weight will be more than the onset.

Let us look at the area of Skincare. I give credit to whoever invented makeups! To be honest, it would have been an eyesore seeing most women who have skin damages step out without any trace of makeup. A good brand of makeup with good application can do wonders to a damaged skin. The question is, how did such damaged skin come about?

No one was born with, Stretchmarks, Cellulite, Sun burns, Pimples, Acne, Freckles, Black/Blue eye, Eye bags etc.

Majority of women will notice that the soaps, cleanser, creams/ lotion they are using are not good

Like weight gain, skin problems get worse if one persist in using the products causing the problems. It gets to a stage that minor skin rashes that started in the early use of a product aggravates into big pimples,

for their skin, the products are causing burns, itching, spots but they continue using them rather than throw them away. Like weight gain, skin problems get worse if one persist in using the products causing the problems.

It gets to a stage that minor skin rashes that started in the early use of a product aggravates into big pimples, black spots and scaly face,freckles. At ths stage, the face is totally damaged and will need more time, money and products to heal and look fresh again. Such skin damage would have been prevented if the products causing the problems were discontinued when the rashes started.

In Africa, women deliberately scrape off the dark layers of their skin to be fair with harsh skin products and Chemicals. They are warned about the dangers of skin bleaching especially with the kind of hot climate we have but they refused to hear. Sadly enough the increase in the sun harshness is giving such skin bleachers a good run for their money. It is obvious Nigerian women love fair skin so much but they go about having a fair skin the wrong ways.

There are very genuine healthy skin lightening products to use but they are not so cheap like the open market bleaching products most Nigerian women patronize.

Cheap products will lighten some parts of your body within weeks and creates years of skin damage that will cost you much money and time to treat.

Most women at the point of early skin damage will be told what it takes to treat the early signs and prevent future damage but they will complain about the cost of treatment but by the time, you calculate the quantity of cheap/fake products they buy, it will be more than the cost they are complaining about. At the end, rather than getting good results, they damage their skin more getting back to square one..miserably!!

Be warned folks, no act of delay helps. Take actions when you have the opportunity to do so and prevent your problems from getting to a sad end that at times, your money can’t even help. It’s your call!!!

Delay can ruin your entire bodyImage!!

Jacqui IWU is a BodyImage, Life &Career Coach A Stress Management Expert &Conference Speaker Media Relations Personnel BLOG: http://bluntjacqui. blogspot.com FB: http://facebook.com/ beautifulwoman.column

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 23

Womanhood

Hajiya Amina Mohammed: Achiever par excellence

M

rs. Amina Az Zubair Mohammed is the former Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). While working in the presidency, she was charged with the coordination of the achievement of the MDGs in Nigeria through the establishment and implementation of a Virtual Poverty Fund. Her position required her to advice on pertinent issues regarding poverty, macro-economic issues and sustainable development. Hajiya Amina’s position built on her former role as national coordinator for Education for All (EFA) at the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja. In this capacity she coordinated the development of a National Action Plan that included such cross-cutting areas as HIV/AIDS and macroeconomic strategies for poverty reduction as proposed in the World Bank Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. Prior to this, she led a national coalition of 124 civil organizations working on education issues, and participated in the establishment of the Africa Network Campaign on EFA (ANCEFA) to advocate for free, quality education in sub-Saharan Africa. She has variously served as coordinator of the Task Force on Gender and Education for the U.N. Millennium Project.

At the moment, she is a member of the advisory panel of the global development programme of the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation as well as the advisory panel of the rights to education project co-funded

by Action aid International, Amnesty International and the Global Campaign for Education. She also sits on the board of the International Development Research Centre in Canada.

Mrs. Amina Az-Zubair, only very recently, stepped down as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) after serving three Presidents over a period of six years. She is currently teaching at Columbia University as Adjunct Professor on a Master’s Course for Development Practice.

Mrs Az-Zubair was recently appointed as a pioneer Board Member of Subsidy Re-investment and Empowerment Programme, SURE P, (the government Socio-economic program, set up to manage the proceeds of the oil subsidy that was recently removed from Petroleum products in January 2013).

Her career as a development practitioner

“

Mrs. Amina Az Zubair Mohammed has spanned over 30 years in the public and private sectors as well as civil society.

In 2005 she was charged with the coordination of the Debt Relief Funds to the

The other area that we have to take cognizance of is in governance; that whatever we say, without building strong institutions and capacities to deliver on the rights of the people will not work. Governance is important and we say let’s build institutions

tune of (US $1bn per annum) towards the achievement MDGs in Nigeria. Her mandate included designing a Virtual Poverty Fund (VPF) with innovative approaches to poverty reduction, budget coordination and monitoring as well as providing advice on pertinent issues regarding poverty, public sector reform and sustainable development. She was an integral part of the design team in 2009 for the Amnesty program in the Niger-Delta of Nigeria that covered the re-integration of 21,192 ex-militants.

Mrs. Az-Zubair’s current position is simply a build up on her former role as National Coordinator for Education for All (EFA) at the Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria (2001-2005). In this capacity, she coordinated the development of the National Action Plan for EFA. Mrs. Az-Zubair has also served as coordinator of the Task Force on Gender and Education for the U.N. Millennium Project under the leadership of Prof Jeff Sachs (2002-05).

Hajiya Amina is a success story all the way. An achiever par excellence, her early career which spans well over 20 years from 1981 was in Project Management in the Health and Education sectors where for 11 years, she served as founder and Executive Director of Afri-Projects Consortium, a multi-disciplinary firm of Engineers and Quantity Surveyors (1991-2001). Before this, she spent 10 years in Kaduna with the architectural/engineering firm of Archcon Nigeria in association with Norman and Dawbarn UK (1981-1991) Mrs. Az–Zubair currently serves on numerous International advisory panels and boards including the Global Development Program of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the UN Secretary General’s Global Sustainability Panel, the Hewlett Foundation on Education, African Women’s Millennium Initiative (AWOMI), the Action-Aid International “Right To Education Project”, the Millennium Promise Initiative, The Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China and a Governor of the International Development Research Centre in Canada. Mrs. Az–Zubair also currently chairs the Advisory Board of the UNESCO Global Monitoring Report on Education. Hajiya Amina is an Honorary Advisor to the Borno State governor and Chairperson of the Youth Committee in Gombe State, north-east Nigeria.

Mrs. Az-Zubair is the CEO of the Center for Development Policy Research Solutions, a newly established Think-Tank to address the policy and knowledge gaps within the government, parliament and private sector in development and civil society for robust advocacy materials.

Hajiya Amina received the National Honors Award of OFR in 2006 and was inducted in the Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame in 2007. She is married with four children. Born in 1961, Hajiya Amina Mohammed is the United Nations SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon's Special Adviser on Post-2015 Development Planning. She was appointed to this position on 7 June 2012.

She strongly believes in the need to have in place strong institutions in order to safe guard the rights of the citizens. “The other area that we have to take cognizance of is in governance; that whatever we say, without building strong institutions and capacities to deliver on the rights of the people will not work. Governance is important and we say let’s build institutions”, she said. www.un.org

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 24

With Miriam Humbe

SIGHT AND SOUNDS Lord Lugard Hall, Kaduna

L

ugard Hall was named after Sir, Lord Fredrick Lugard - the first Governor General of Northern Protectorate (1900 - 1908). The building was used as the House of Assembly and House of Chiefs during the First Republic. During the second

HIS AND HERS CORNER

Republic (from 1979 - 1983), the hall still retained its administrative status where it was also used as the House of Legislature. In the current administration, the Lugard Hall is still used as the Kaduna State House of Assembly Chambers.

Playing out on the dry leaves The Lord Lugard Hall houses, Kaduna State House of Assembly

K

aduna State occupies part of the central position of the Northern part of Nigeria. Kaduna, which is the plural of Kada, got its name from the reptile crocodile, which abounded in the River Kaduna in the early days. Kaduna State is historically the home of Queen Amina of Zazzau who was noted for stepping where men dared not. As the ruler of Zauzzau she made conquest and waged battles against her neighbours.

The southern part of the state is home of our ancient civilization known as the Nok culture which dates back to between 90BC500AD. This is an archelogical discovery around Nok town in Jaba local government area of the state and one of the most significant and best known culture in the black African region today.

The capital Kaduna served as the capital of colonial master, Fredrick Luggard when he moved from Zungeru , capital of Northern Nigeria , North central state and now Kaduna. The entire land structure consists of an undulating Plateau with major rivers in the State including river Kaduna, river wonderful in Kafanchan, River Kagom, river Gurara and Galma. The State is mostly populated by the Hausas, Gwari Katab and Bajjuu ethnic

“

communities, with other up to 36 indigenous ethnic groups found in different parts of the State.

About 80 percent of the State population is engaged in peasant farming both food and cash crops.

The crops produced in the State include, Cotton, Groundnut, Tobacco, Maize, Yam, Beans, Guinea corn, Millet, Ginger, Rice, Cassava, Sugarcane, Shea nuts, Cowpea, Mango, Kenaf, Cocoyam, Timber, Palm kennel, Banana, Soya bean, Corn, Onions, Sorghum and Potatoes. Another important aspect of agriculture engaged by the people is the rearing of cattle, Sheep, Goats, Pigs and Poultry Farming.

Since the late 1950s, kaduna has become a major industrial, commercial and financial centre of the Northern States of Nigeria.

It has a branch of the Nigeria Stock Exchange.

Kaduna state is blessed with minerals which include clay, serpentine, asbestos, amethyst, kyannite, gold, graphite and siltimanite graphite, which is found in Sabon Birnin Gwari, in the Birnin Gwari local government. This is an important raw material used in the manufacture of pencils, crucibles, electrodes, generator brushes and other sundry parts.

Kaduna state is blessed with minerals which include clay, serpentine, asbestos, amethyst, kyannite, gold, graphite and siltimanite graphite, which is found in Sabon Birnin Gwari, in the Birnin Gwari local government. This is an important raw material used in the manufacture of pencils, crucibles, electrodes, generator brushes and other sundry parts.

CARTOON

Tom and Jerry with baby cat

Mickey and Minnie Mouse

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 25

With

Miriam Humbe

MODEL OF THE WEEK

AFRICAN TALES

How Tortoise got revenge on the cunning Lizard

Ameerah Bello

Tortoise and the lizard

O

nce upon a time, Tortoise had used up all his salt and he found his meals so tasteless without it that he decided to call on his brother and ask him if he had any to spare. His brother had plenty. “How will you get it back to your home?” he asked Tortoise. “If you will wrap the salt in a piece of bark cloth, and tie it up with string, then I can put the string over my shoulder and drag the parcel along the ground behind me,” said Tortoise. “A splendid idea!” exclaimed his brother, and between them they made a tidy package of the salt.

Then Tortoise set off for his long, slow journey home, with the bundle going bump, bump, and bump, along the ground behind him. Suddenly he was pulled up short and turning round, he saw that a large lizard had jumped on to the parcel of salt and was sitting there, staring at him. “Get off my salt!” exclaimed Tortoise. “How do you expect me to drag it home with you on top of it?”

“It’s not your salt!’ replied the lizard.”I was just walking along the path when I found this bundle lying there, so I took possession of it and now it belongs to me.”

“You know well it is mine, for I am holding the string that ties it”, said Tortoise.

But the lizard still insisted that he had found the parcel lying in the road, and he refused to get off unless Tortoise went with him to the elders, to have their case tried in court. Tortoise had to agree and together they went before the old men at the court.

First Tortoise put his case, explaining that as his arms and legs were so short he always had to carry bundles by dragging them along behind him. Then the lizard put his side of the matter, saying that he had found the bundle lying in the road. ‘”Surely anything that is picked up on the road belongs to the one who picks it up?” cried the lizard.

The old men discussed the matter seriously for some time; but many of them were related to the lizard and thought that they might perhaps get a share of the salt, so eventually they decreed that the bundle should be cut into two, each animal taking half. Tortoise was disappointed, because he knew it really was his salt, but he sighed with resignation and let them divide the parcel.

The lizard immediately seized the half that was covered with the biggest piece of cloth, leaving poor Tortoise with most of his salt escaping from his half of the parcel, and spilling out on to the ground.

In vain did Tortoise try to gather his salt together? His hands were too small and there was too little cloth to wrap round it properly. Finally he departed for home, with only a fraction of his share, wrapped up in leaves and what remained of the bark

cloth, while the elders scraped up all that had been spilled, dirty though it was, and took it back to their wives.

Tortoise’s wife was very disappointed when she saw how little salt he had brought with him, and when he told her the whole story she was most indignant at the way he had been treated. The long, slow journey had tired him, and he had to rest for several days.

But although Tortoise was so slow, he was very cunning and eventually thought up a plan to get even with the lizard.

So, saying good-bye to his wife, he plodded along the road towards the lizard’s home with a gleam in his eye, and after some time he saw the lizard, who was enjoying a solitary meal of flying ants.

Slowly and silently Tortoise came upon him from behind and put his hands on the middle of the lizard’s body. “See what I’ve found!” called Tortoise loudly.

“What are you doing?” asked the perplexed lizard.

“I was just walking along the path when I found something lying there,” explained Tortoise. “So I picked it up and now it belongs to me, just as you picked up my salt the other day.”

When the lizard continued to wriggle and demanded that Tortoise set him free, Tortoise insisted that they go to the court and get the elders to judge.

The old men listened attentively to both sides of the story, and then one said: “If we are to be perfectly fair, we must give the same judgment that we gave concerning the salt.”

“Yes,” said the others, nodding their white heads, “and we had the bag of salt cut in two.

Therefore we must cut the lizard in two, and Tortoise shall have half.”

“That is fair,” replied Tortoise, and before the lizard could escape, he seized a knife from an elder’s belt and sliced him in half, and that was the end of the greedy lizard.

ACTIVITIES Using the right materials, colour the image below. Show your work to your parents or teacher for correction.

Cheers!

CREATIVITY

How to make a paper hand fan

T

oday’s creativity object is a simple hand fan that will let you have some fresh air when it gets hot. This fan is made with simple wooden sticks and decorative paper although some fans can be made with wood or ivory, intricate silk and lace and even hand jewels, mirrors and feathers.

Needed items: k • 12 x 12 inch scrapbook paper • Wooden craft sticks • Sewing pins • Scissors • Ruler • Craft glue/glue gun • Embroidery thread • Hammer and pliers (not pictured) Steps: Mark seven sticks, one inch from the end.

Using a pin and a hammer (like you would do a hammer and a nail), make a hole in the center of the stick at the one inch mark. Repeat for all seven sticks.

Push all of the sticks on to one needle. With your pliers, close the sharp edge of the pin, by making a loop.

Take your paper and make a mark five inches diagonally from a corner. Draw a line connecting the corner to the point.

Draw a line six inches in each direction from your point, closest to the edge. This should make a 160 degree angle.

Cut along the angle.

Start folding! Make ½ inch accordion folds, making sure that the apex of each fold is in the same spot. Fold very crisp folds.

Fold the fan and cut 2 inches off of the bottom (apex).

Count 14 triangles. There should be a pocket for each of the sticks to fit in. If you have more, you should cut them off.

Lay the sticks down into the folds. Don’t glue yet, just make sure that the sticks fit and it makes sense when you open and close the fan.

Glue the sticks down into the folds and let dry for about 10 minutes.

Fold the fan and cut the top so the edge is straight. You’re done!

To add a little tassel: Loop the embroidery thread around three fingers, about 10 times.

Make sure there is a tail where you stared looping.

Take the loop off your fingers. Squeeze the top 1/3 of the loop and wrap around. Cut the end and tie this end to the first loose end that you had.

Thread a piece of thread through the small loop and tie onto the back on the fan (where you bent the pin in step 4).

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 26

Focus

Vision 20:2020: Can Nigeria deliver science and technology?

By Mohammed Usman, with agency report

S

etting a vision that will take a movement or action to the next progressive level which would in turn ensure comfort at individual,group or societal level cannot be over-emphasised.

Recognition of thishas made government of various countries in the world to set a vision, and today some have made it while some are still working towards it.

For instance, China did it, and today the country is among the most talk about today. Of course, they made it because of good commitment, both in the area of finance and human resources.

From the basic, History has shown that the success recorded today by developed countries is as a result of commitment made to science and technology advancement. Nigeria set a vision of becoming one of the most industrialise countries in the year 2020.

The implication of this is that there has to be extensive financial backing for science and technology. One of the government ministries that this enamors task rest on it shoulder is federal ministry of science and technology.

The ministry was existence as a council in 1970, and then became a full-fledged ministry in 1980, adding the ministry’s activities are aided by its Research Institutes, and government parastatals.

The ministry’s institutes and agencies through which it goes about its mandate of science and technology are Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN),The Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology (NISLT),Nigerian Institute For Trypanosomiasis And Onchocerciasis (NITR),National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA),National Centre For Technology Management (NACETEM), National Office For Technology Acquisition And Promotion (NOTAP),Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA),National Space Research & Development Agency (NARSDA),Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Abuja, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBBRI),National Institute of Leather Science and Technology (NILEST), Zaria,National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (NARICT), Zaria,Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Abuja,Project Development Institute (PRODA), Enugu, Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO),National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Abuja.

Speaking during the national conference of school of sciences, in Okene, Kogi State, Dr. Iyala Ajayi, the provost of Federal College of Education Okene, said

Mrs Omobola Johnson, Min. of Science and technology Science today is the most potent tool in the hands of man to unveil the many secret shrouding in our universe.

Also, in his welcome address, during the opening ceremony of a one day workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for Federal Ministry of Science and Technology (FMST) and its Parastatals, organized by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) at the Reiz Continental hotel, Abuja, the Director General of NOTAP Engr.

Umar Buba Bindir said that no nation of the world can be globally competitive without a well articulated and workable science, technology and innovation policy.

During a visit to Nassarawa state Polytechnic, The Minister of science and technology, Abdu Bulama, stated that there is need for collective efforts to take science, technology and innovation to the next level, stating that the new STI Policy signed by the President is anchored on synergy between research institutes and industries for the rapid development of the country.

He added that the products

“

of Science and Technology must be demand-driven; adding that closer collaboration with research institutes and the industries will lead to the commercialization of research and development products.

The Minister went further that the aspiration of President towards achieving Vision 20:2020 through science and technology is apt because of its leading role in the development of every nation. He called on Nigerians to imbibe the culture of science and technology because the world today is governed by it.

In a swift remark, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, Shettima Abdulkadir Saidu solicited for intervention from the Ministry of Science and Technology to ensure that the institution’s concept of incubation becomes a reality.

Bulama stated that there should be a linkage between research institutes and industries, while stressing the need for collaboration between polytechnics, research institutes and the industrial sector.

At the inauguration of the National Space Council, President

Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, said that “we must evolve clear cut initiatives that will not only fast-track our industrialization process, but one that will also see us, within the shortest possible period, able to build our own motor vehicles, our own boats, and our own aircraft; and of course, launch our own satellite manufactured in Nigeria from a launch site in Nigeria on a launch vehicle made in Nigeria” He added that this is a challenge not only to the members of the Council, but to all Nigerians. “We should rededicate ourselves to building a better, technologically advanced, stable and prosperous Nigeria for our children.”

Continuing, he said “I refer in particular to the mandate to develop satellite technology for various applications; operationalise indigenous space systems for providing space services; and the launch of satellites.”

Jonathan said given the critical place of space technology in the areas of national security, communications, industrialisation and sustained socio-economic development, the critical need to properly structure and drive our national space programme cannot be overemphasised, adding that this informs why the Administration has constituted this Council with high calibre membership.

While congratulating the council members, he charged them to work hard to justify the confidence which the nation has invested in them by bringing all their worthy attributes to bear on the discharge of this national assignment.

Further, he assured them of the full support of the Federal Government at all times. These above have shown that Nigeria want advancement in the areas of Agriculture, Transportation, Health, Medicine, Defence, Education, etcetera, in year 2020 and science and technology is a key to it and these rest on the shoulder of Federal ministry of science and technology.

But the efficiency of delivering this enormous task, holding other things constant on minimal basis, needs financial commitment. In this corridor, can the ministry of science and technology meet the

I don’t think that, we are serious; talking about less than one per cent of the 2014 budget for such an important sector, it is very frustrating.

target of Nigeria’s vision 20:2020.

Appearing, in supervisory capacity, before the National Conference Committee on Science, Technology and Development, the minister of science and technology, Mrs Omobola Johnson, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Winifred Eyo-Ita, said that less than one percent of National Budget for Science and Tech is inadequate.

She said the sector should be given topmost priority by government, if the country is to realise its aspiration of becoming one of the most industrialised countries by 2020.

She said “of the budgetary allocation, only N35 billion is allocated to the 17 agencies under the ministry, while N1 billion is for the ministry. “The 2014 budget that has been passed by the National Assembly for Mr President’s assent is N4.9 trillion, but only N36 billion is for science and technology.

Continuing she added “The amount may sound much to a layman, but when you look at it, that is less than one per cent of the national budget. I don’t think that, we are serious; talking about less than one per cent of the 2014 budget for such an important sector, it is very frustrating, ”she said.

The minister who was accompanied by 11 DirectorsGeneral said the Asian Tigers got to where they are due to diligent investment in science, engineering and technology.

“Nothing can be achieved if there is no serious determination of government to improve and streamline the issue of science and technology funds”.

Other members of the committee, who spoke at the interactive session, condemned the neglect of science, engineering and technology in the country.

They also, regretted the inability of the NigComSat-X, the country’s satellite in the orbit to identify the location of the abducted Chibok girls.

Suggesting the way out, the minister called for the establishment of a pool of funds for the sector to enable Nigeria to transform into an industrialised country and realise the Vision 20: 2020, adding there should be dedicated funds, which draws its sources from strategic avenues and this dedicated fund should be managed.

Going further, she said “We want to appeal to the committee that the National Policy on Science, Technology, Innovation, Research and Development should be captured as a constitutional matter.

“It should not just be a policy that has been passed or discussed at the Federal Executive Council; it should be captured in our constitution. “Such that, it is not changed by any subsequent government or at the whims and caprices of some personal issues,” she expressed.

PAGE 27

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Leisure

Compiled By Doyin Ojosipe

Laugh out loud (lol)!

Corpse sharing

T

wo young boys were plucking oranges from a tree belonging to an old man, they heard him coming their way and ran away with the ones they had.

While the boys tried to run into the cemetery, they found that the gate was locked and they decided to jump over the fence.

While jumping, two oranges fell from their bag and they left them.

When they were safely inside the cemetery, they began to share the oranges. The boys started counting: One for you, one for me.

A drunkard passing behind

the cemetery heard their voices and ran as fast as he could to the church to tell the priest that he has heard God and Satan sharing Corpses.

Then the priest came with the drunkard to the entrance of the cemetery to hear for himself. The boys were still busy counting: One for you, one for me.

After they had shared the ones they had, one of the boys asked the other, “What about the two at the gate?”

Immediately the drunkard and the priest heard this, they took to their heels.

The lawyer, the banker and the Rolls-Royce $20.30 in Interest”, efore going said.

B

to Europe on business, a lawyer drove his Rolls-Royce to a downtown NY City bank and went in to ask for an immediate loan of $5,000.

The loan officer, taken aback, requested collateral.

“Well, then, here are the keys to my RollsRoyce”, the lawyer

Akpos has ebola!

The loan officer promptly had the car driven into the bank’s underground parking for safe keeping, and gave him $5,000.

Two weeks later, the lawyer walked through the bank’s doors, and asked to settle up his loan and get his car back.

“That will be $5,000 in principal, and

the loan officer said.

The lawyer wrote out a check and started to walk away.

“Wait sir”, the loan officer said, “While you were gone, I found out you are a millionaire.

Why in the world would you need to borrow $5,000?”

The lawyer smiled. “Where else

A

kpos was abducted by kidnappers and taken to an unknown location.

The kidnappers beat him for a while and asked him, “Which of your family members should we call to pay the ransom.”

A surprised Akpos replied: “I don’t have a family now. All my family members ran away after I was suddenly bugged down with fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat.

This was followed by vomiting, diarrhoea, rash…

Akpos did not even finish speaking before all the kidnappers jumped out of windows and fled

Help the soccer player find the goal!

The Hypocritical Cat

O

nce upon a time, there was a chieftain of a company of mice who had a retinue of five hundred mice. And there was also a cat named Agnija. In his youth he had been wont to kill all the mice in the neighbourhood of his dwelling place.

But afterward, when he had grown old, and no longer had the power of catching mice, he thought, “In former times, when I was young, I was able to catch mice by force. But now that I can do so no more, I must use some trick in order to make a meal off them.” So he began to watch the mice by stealth. By means of such watching he found out that there were five hundred mice in the troop.

At a spot not far distant from the mouse hole, he took to performing fictitious acts of

penance, and the mice, as they ran to and fro, saw him standing there with pious mien. So they cried out to him from a distance, “Uncle, what are you doing?”

The cat replied, “As in my youth I have perpetrated many vicious actions, I am now doing penance in order to make up for them.”

The mice fancied that he had given up his sinful life, and there grew up within them confidence nourished by faith.

Now as they returned into their hole every day after making their rounds, the cat always seized on and devoured the mouse which came last. Seeing that the troop was constantly dwindling, the chief thought, “There must be some cause for the fact that my mice are diminishing in number, and this cat is thriving apace.”

So he began t observe the cat closely. And when he saw that the cat was fat and well covered with hair, he thought, “There is no doubt that this cat has killed the mice. Therefore must I bring the matter to the light of day.”

Now as he kept careful watch from a hiding place, he saw how

the cat ate up the mouse which went last. Then from afar off he pronounced this verse: As the uncle’s body waxes bigger, but my troop on the contrary becomes smaller, and as he who eats roots and berries

will not become fat and well covered with hair, this is not a genuine penance, but one performed only for the sake of gain.

Because the number of the mice diminished, have you, O Agnija, thrived.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 28

TIPS

COMPILED BY MASHEUMARU GWAMNA

I

t is always embarrassing when a lady constantly scratches her scalp. Well, it is not only uncomfortable but a clear indication that something is wrong.

Not a few ladies experience this today and it is a huge challenge.

Apart from the embarrassment associated with the constant scratching of one’s scalp, those going through this find out that it is always characterized by itching and flaking of the scalp.

According to researchers, Dandruff is caused by a fungus called malassezia; a fat-eating fungus, which lives on the scalp of most healthy adults. While it does not cause problems for most people, malassezia can sometimes grow out of control and begin feeding on the oil on your scalp. The result is increased cell turnover and a large number of dead skin cells.

These cells, combined with dirt and oil from your hair and scalp, form flaky white scales lack of oiling the hair usually caused dryness of the scalp, while some and lack of washing of the hair scalp regularly contributes to the situation at hand.

The common symptoms of dandruff include itching and white, oily flakes. There are several conditions, including psoriasis, dry skin, seborrheadermatitis, or contact dermatitis, which present similar symptoms.

Hair dandruff may not be a

between types.

Be sure to follow directions carefully. Should over the counter treatments fail, see your dermatologist. Stronger treatments are available by prescription.

In addition to using the proper shampoo, other steps can be taken to control dandruff, including: eating right, exfoliating the scalp with a facial scrub, managing stress, and reducing the amount of styling products used. Consistently following a dandruff control routine should keep your hair and scalp looking healthy and flake free. * Tea tree oil is an anti-fungal agent and it can treat malassezia furfur, the most common cause of dandruff. Wash the hair with tea tree oil treat it is like your scalp has been reborn.

It is so refreshing and your dry itchy scalp will thank you by not producing or drastically reducing the amount of dandruff

Dandruff infested hair life threatening condition, but the presence of an irritated and flaking scalp can be uncomfortable and bothersome. For this reason, people suffering with dandruff will often take steps to control the situation.

Dandruff isn’t contagious and dandruff control and treatment is fairly easily. There are a number of ways to go about reducing hair dandruff, including some strategies that involve using

Greasy hair with home remedies using vinegar

Dandruff infested curl

products found in shopping mall, market and those that are already found around the house.

Let’s checks the treatment for dandruff which will make us comfortable anywhere we are.

Tips * Shampoo: use the use of anti - dandruff shampoo two or three times a week, alternatively with a good moisturizing shampoo. If the dandruff shampoo loses its effectiveness, switch to another type of shampoo or try alternating

(just remember a small amount of dandruff is normal and is just your body renewing itself) *Hot oil treatments once a week or once a month depending on how dry and itchy your scalp is can really help nourish a dry itchy scalp. * Coconut oil is nourishing, moisturizing oil for a dry itchy scalp and therefore works wonderfully as dandruff treatment. It will help soften and moisturize your parched scalp *Use lime. Squeeze the juice from 1 to 2 limes. Apply it to the dandruff zone. Scratch into the scalp area and leave for about 3 minutes. Then rinse out. Repeat each day over 2 to 3 days; the dandruff should start to retreat. *Limit your use of hair styling products. Hairspray, mousse, and gel may contribute to dandruff in some people.

They may also cause excessive drying of the skin, which can cause flaking - or trigger allergic reactions.

If you notice dandruff soon after you begin to use a new product, chances are the product is to blame.

The exception to this would be using a therapeutic styling gel or spray formulated with tea tree oil.

You can apply readymade remedies like Soothing Scalp Remedy as a powerful dandruff treatment for flaky, dry scalp conditions.

Taking care of the hair scalp is very essential, giving it a luxury this weekend, leaves the hair scalp revitalized, glossy and slickly with a beautiful hairdo without your fingers scalp itching to be scratch.

Dandruff hair cause discomfort

Page 29

Make a fashion statement with the clutch bag C

arrying i a clutch l t h bag b during the day is a great way since there are so to make a fashion statement, s designs to choose from. many bold colors and a piece to an outfit, but a simple They serve as an accent pi design is good for creating creatin a minimalistic style. The prints, and shapes. key is balance between colors, co their own take on the classic All designers have the clutch bag design, some relying on brand allegiance while others create outlandish to sell their clutches wh Since there are many designer and creative variations. Si clutch bags on the market, marke it is a good idea to peruse to get an idea of what through in top designer clutches cl one’s ideal purse is.

With so many different differen styles for every occasion, clutch bags are not just for fo formal affairs. A good rule choosing a clutch bag is to try to to remember when choos example, if one is wearing a busy maintain balance. For exa pattern it is best to carry a clutch in solid colors and a simple outfit, then an clean lines; if one is wearing wear ornate or printed clutch will w create a piece of interest.

Clutch bags are available in retail and boutique shops sites, such as eBay. The and even online from retail ret in mind when choosing most important thing to keep k a clutch bag is to have fun fu while creating a personal expression. embellished totes: Bold clutches, modern backpacks, b statement accessories. Here, we This season is about state and cute bags to arouse present to you all the stylish sty your fashion sense.

COMPILED BY MARIAM HUMBE

Fashion

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

handbag Red-heart design clutch h

Beautiful Turquoise Pearl and Crystal Clutch Bag Diamante Clutch bag

New maroon clutch bag

Uche Jombo

Braided Clutch Purse

PAGE 30

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Pots & Pans

With Miriam Hum,be

Grilled tilapia and banku The tilapia and banku dish is a great Ghanaian meal enjoyed by the affluent especially during special family events and weddings. We serve you this lovely recipe to ensure you have the best of a fun filled weekend.

Savour........

What you need: Three large whole tilapias (About a pound each).

Three large peppers.

This is what is commonly referred to as sweet peppers.

The more colors you have, the better.

You should look for green, yellow and red ones. A good mix is better.

Two large vidalia onions. Use white or Spanish onions if vidalia is not available.

White onions are juicier and have milder taste than the red onions.

One Teaspoonful of ginger or garlic.

Three or four spoonfuls of olive or groundnut (peanut) oil.

Half teaspoonful of cayenne, black, or white pepper.

(How spicy you like your food, determines your choice here).

Preparation:

Serving:

Crush the ginger or garlic and mash to a paste. In a small bowl, mix half of the ginger or garlic, two spoonfuls of oil, one spoonful of vinegar, a ¼ teaspoonful of salt, and two spoonfuls of water.

Lightly brush the tilapia with this mix from (a) and start grilling.

This should not take any more than 10 minutes. Tilapia cooks quickly. Brush periodically with mix. Whatever is left over can be used to sautee the vegetables later.

While the grilling is going on, julienne slice the onions and peppers. Presentation helps a bit here, so try and even out the slicing. Long thin slices of onions and peppers should look about the same.

In a large frying pan over medium heat, put two to three spoonfuls of oil. When it is warm enough, drop the other half of the garlic or ginger paste and stir.

Immediately add the peppers and some marinade mix from (a) and cook for two minutes. Add the onions to the mix and cook another two to three minutes.

You want the mix to remain slightly crisp and firm. Remember this is sautéed, and it should not come out looking like stewed vegetables.

This is enough for six people.

In a large oval serving plate, arrange cross-wise, and dish the sautéed vegetables around the fish.

In between the fish, arrange the fried yams (sweet potatoes).

Fish should be flaky enough to lift right off the bones.

Enjoy with some fresh juice.

To cook grilled Tilapia Lay out sheets of aluminum foil large enough to wrap around each piece of fish, Squirt lemon juice on the fish or brush on olive oil.

Add sliced vegetables such as peppers and onions. Seal the foil loosely around each serving of fish and vegetables by pinching the ends together and cook on heated grill for 10 min.

Banku is an indigenous fermented meal of maize or cassava. It is cooked by four cups of White Maize gridded into powder.

This is mixed with half a cup of water this mixture is fermented for about 3 -4 days.

It’s then kneaded with the hand until very smooth dough is obtained. It is then cut into small dumplings, water is added and it is boiled for an hour in a pot, this banku is served with grilled tilapia.

Make homemade refreshing pineapple juice

P

ineapple juice is a delicious and healthy drink. It contains bromelain, which aids digestion, making it ideal for finishing a meal. Pineapple juice is also filled with vitamin C. When you make juice yourself, you do not have to put in so much sugar. Your juice will be free of preservatives, but most importantly, the juice will be fresh and nutritious.

Ingredients: • A large pineapple, freshly purchased, unblemished • 2 tsp (10 grams) of sugar Steps: Cut the leaf top off from the pineapple, then trim the skin from the sides.

Cut the pineapple into small pieces, discarding the core. Dice to approximately the size of sugar cubes.

Put the small pieces of pineapple into the blender/juicer.

Add 2 teaspoons of sugar.

This step is optional, but a little sweetness helps to offset the slight tartness of the pineapple.

Blend for about 1-3 minutes.

The time spent blending depends on how chunky you want it to be.

Pour the blended pineapple juice in the glass. Stop filling the glass before it overflows. Serve and enjoy.

PAGE 31

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Relationship ‘The One I Love’ a smart relationship crowd-pleaser

F

or a change we present something different from the usual relationship pieces. It’s a film about love or rather falling in love. Here the cast is presented as well as some behind the scene works and the rituals needed to produce and exciting movie. Please enjoy an excursion into the incredible world of two lovers whose relationship was at the brink.

A pleasure to watch but a challenge to discuss without spoiling a good deal of the fun, “The One I Love” marries Mark Duplass’ skill for incisive relationship comedies with a high concept any Hollywood studio would covet.

Boasting spectacular performances from Duplass and Elisabeth Moss as a husband and wife on the brink of separation, this incredibly assured directorial debut of Charlie McDowell essentially turns a relationship story upside down and inside out.

The movie opens with Ethan (Duplass) and Sophie (Moss) seemingly at the end of their rope in couples therapy. The spark they once had is gone; they can’t remember the last time they had sex and; as Sophie shares with their therapist (Ted Danson), happiness has become something they have to re-create from memories of a better past.

But even these early scenes hint at something strange at work, as the therapy sessions alternate between what appear to be two different timelines, complete with different wardrobes and slightly different hairstyles for Ethan and Sophie.

The story really kicks in when the two drive to a nearby vacation home at the urging of their therapist. He swears that struggling couples have had great success rekindling their romance in the secluded locale, and it intially looks like a break from society is exactly what the pair needs. Sophie cooks dinner, they smoke pot and have great conversation.

Sophie later wanders over to the quaint guesthouse, where Ethan meets her and they make love. Returning to the main house, Sophie finds Ethan asleep on the couch with no memory of what happened between them. The surreal twists only increase from there, as Ethan and Sophie face reminders of why they originally fell in love and surprising temptations to split up for good.

Throughout its brisk 90-minute running time, “The One I Love” reinvigorates the romantic-comedy genre with an infusion of sci-fi/fantasy elements and sharp scripting.

It’s no coincidence the film features onscreen references to both “The Twilight Zone” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”

But it is surprising to learn that screenwriter Justin Lader supplied only a 50-page script and suggested dialogue, leaving Duplass and Moss to improvise a large percentage of the lines.

Couple relationship at a brink Thanks to collaborative rehearsals involving McDowell, Lader, producer Mel Eslyn and the actors, their delivery bares none of the telltale signs of performers making it up on the fly (pregnant pauses, fumbling delivery, awkward repetition), and the storytelling is witty, sophisticated and emotionally authentic all the way.

It’s tough to unpack the

“

brilliant work the two stars do here without disclosing plot details better left vague; suffice it to say they both create dazzlingly specific characters with great depth and (important) humanity.

Although audiences may associate Duplass more readily with comedy and Moss with drama — especially given their work on the smallscreen — “The One I Love” breaks down genre

barriers and gives both actors plenty of space to showcase substantial comedic and dramatic chops.

The film also reps a minor triumph of low-budget ingenuity, as McDowell oversees an impressive tech package. Jennifer Lilly’s editing is perhaps most crucial to making the increasingly complex narrative succeed, while the score by Danny Bensi and

It’s tough to unpack the brilliant work the two stars do here without disclosing plot details better left vague; suffice it to say they both create dazzlingly specific characters with great depth and (important) humanity.

Saunder Jurriaans supplies an eerie undercurrent to the action, growing richer as the story unfolds.

Theresa Guleserian’s production design plays a key role in differentiating among the minimal locations (basically the main house, the guesthouse and the therapist’s office), and Bree Daniel’s costuming is similarly sly. Visual-effects supervisor Stefan Scherperel scores with the film’s most surreal imagery and director of photography Doug Emmett does a solid job of giving the film a dreamlike sheen without revealing too much too soon.

The closing-credits song, “Dedicated to the One I Love” by the Mamas and the Papas, ends things on a pitch-perfect note.

Provided by Radius-TWC

PAGE 32

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Fiction

Birth of the last Sultan

O

n their way to their huts from Waheed’s hut Zainab broke the silence to ask Asabe if she had any quarrel with their husband and she shook her head slowly.

“I don’t understand our husband he seems to be worried over something. Did he tell you of anything that is troubling his mind?” Zainab asked her again.

She did not say a word but shook her head again. She felt Zainab was playing pranks on her because she knows how close and dear she is to their husband. She believed that there was no way that Waheed would have taken such a decision without speaking to Zainab about it. When Waheed was still courting her, he had told her about his first wife and the reason he was taking another wife. He also reminded her about this again on her first night in the house. Waheed had pleaded with her to live in peace with her senior wife. A friend spoke to her and insisted that Waheed loved only Zainab and that she was only a baby making factory to both Waheed and his beloved wife.

Asabe was blinded by this advice and had forgotten that Waheed had treated both she and Zainab with equal love and respect as he had promised her. She decided to play along with the trick since Zainab is claiming not to have prior knowledge of Waheed’s plan until today.

“I am surprised myself because he has never mentioned it to me. You are the first wife I thought he should have mentioned it to you,” Asabe replied her.

Zainab still maintained that she was ignorant of the plan.

“Let’s go and ask him together,” She suggested but Asabe refused. “I am sure that he will speak to his first wife,” Asabe said and laughed hysterically to show to Zainab that she was aware of the mockery. Zainab did not read any meaning to the laughter.

Waheed was basking outside his hut that night. He was silently asking God what he needs to do to help Zainab give birth again.

It was one of those full moon nights when darkness will have no effect on the earth. Waheed heard footsteps approaching him.

He knew it would be no one but Zainab. He was expecting her to come out here and meet him that is why he had not gone to bed despite the fact that time had far gone.

“What is the Crown Prince of Dadin Kowa doing here all alone in the middle of the night?” Zainab asked as he was approaching him. Waheed smiled as he heard Zainab’s voice. “I can tell your gait even if it is millions miles away from me,” he said to her as she took her seat beside him.

“I am not in the mood for this hailing and flattering. Please go straight to the point because I know that you are pregnant with many questions,” he said to her as Zainab continued hailing him by his title.

“What happened to our rule?

You did not tell me about this new plan before you finally took the decision. Is anything troubling you my Prince?

Waheed sighed loudly before he started talking. “I know you too well; I already know you have so many questions for me. There is no way that the eyes can see the nose. The eyes also cannot see the back of the head. The eyes also cannot see the ears. But all these body parts are there and are functioning well. All what the eyes can do is to learn to trust these body parts. I just want you to do one thing for me.”

“What is it my prince? Zainab asked almost immediately.

“TRUST…!” Waheed echoed before stating clearly that, “I want you and Asabe to trust me because I know what I am doing.”

“Okay my crown prince. That is never going to be a problem because I have learnt to trust and live by your judgment ever since I said yes to you when you first engaged me with this ring,” Zainab said as she stretched forth her fingers for Waheed to see the ring he gave her when he engaged her.

“I am bound to that vow until death do us part,” Zainab added. aheed was very happy that she understood he wanted to keep his plan to himself for the mean time. “Goodnight,” Zainab finally announced and left his place. She went to Asabe’s hut to tell her what their husband had said but discovered that she was asleep. She let her be and promised to reveal her findings from Waheed first thing tomorrow morning after prayers.

When Zainab told Asabe of her findings the next morning, she concluded that both Waheed and Zainab had planned to frustrate her in the house with the new wife.

“I am not stupid and I will not be intimidated with your plans,” she said in her heart.

The new wife came and Asabe tried to lure her to her side so that they could frustrate Zainab.

She felt it would be good for her to speak first to the wife before Zainab. Amina refused to listen because Waheed had personally pleaded with her to help him unite his family. He pleaded with her to treat Zainab with respect as an elder sister and a mother too.

Since Amina was Godfearing, she refused to listen to Asabe when she approached her with her plans frustrate Zainab. When Asabe had exhausted all her tricks in getting Amina to form an ally with her against Zainab, she repented. She knew that it won’t be easy for her to fight two people who were good friends. She went up to Zainab and asked for her forgiveness.

She equally asked for forgiveness from her husband for betraying his words to her. She blamed it upon the devil and that friend of hers who had advised her.

Waheed and Zainab forgave her and they all started living happily ever after then. My father told me that he personally thanked Amina

W

for her help. I didn’t know what to say to him at that time. Presently, I would have a thousand and one words for him because my level of comprehension has greatlyy improved.

The people of Dadin Kowa already knew that Waheed was going to be a great Sultan because of the way he handled issues as the crown prince. He was authoritative when it came to performing his duties but he was also friendly to his people. As the crown prince, some of his father’s duties like; passing judgment over dispute of family lands, properties and inheritance had already been shifted to him. Waheed performed these tasks with great zeal.

My mother was still childless when Waheed became Sultan. It was twenty-eight years after their marriage that Sultan Tahid died and Waheed was crowned Sultan.

Exactly one month after Waheed became Sultan, Zainab fell sick.

She was confused because her monthly flow was supposed to have started because it has been exactly twenty-nine days since she finished her last period. Amina had advised her that the delay in her menstrual flow might have resulted from some irregularities that women normally experience during their cycle and she agreed.

She gave no regards to the earlyy morning sickness.

One night as she was about to go to bed, she started feeling sharp pains in her lower abdomen. After exhausting all the first aid treatment, the pains kept on persistently, she gave out a loud scream and slumped.

Waheed and the other two wives rushed to Zainab’s hut and they found her lying on the ground.

Waheed rushed her to the hospital and the doctor on duty that night admitted her into the female ward. She regained consciousness after thirty minutes.

The doctor insisted that pregnancy test should be carried out on her. She told him that she has just attained menopause. Even Waheed insisted that pregnancy test should not be carried out on her. He felt that Zainab was actually refusing a pregnancy test because the news might break her heart. The doctor wanted to yell at Waheed but immediately recalled that Waheed was the Sultan. Zainab was rooted to the spot when the doctor announced

“

The Sultan with emerald chain to her that she was pregnant.

“Are you sure doctor?”

Zainab asked again to make sure the doctor was not kidding her.

Even Waheed was surprised too.

Zainab was very happy that at last she will be carrying her own child.

The other wives too were very happy for her.

Zainab gave birth to his son nine months later. Waheed’s joy knew no bound when the boy arrived. He was astounded as to why God has decided to bless him with a child from Zainab only when he became Sultan.

“Maybe he is destined to become my successor,” he said in his heart.

Waheed named the boy Ahmad; the first son born to

Okay my crown prince.

That is never going to be a problem because I have learnt to trust and live by your judgment ever since I said yes to you when you first engaged me with this ring

the first parents of Dadin Kowa, Sultan Shaban and Nana Aisha.

“That is the reason I named you Ahmad. You came into my life only when I became Sultan,” my father said to me. “I can still recall the look on his face as he was making this statement to me,” Ahmad said as he opened his eyes. Zuliya was surprised.

She wondered if closing eyes could make one see a loved. She closed her eyes and remembered the look on her mother’s face as she was making her last wish for Zuliya. Her eyes were still closed when Ahmad spoke and she quickly opened them to hear him continue his tale.

“That is all I can remember about the story my father had told me about my birth. I was his favorite son. I used to sit with him in the throne room at all time and he kept on telling me stories upon stories of how the Kingdom grew, how he married my mum and his other wives and so many other tales of Dadin Kowa,” Ahmad said as he wiped the tears in his eyes with the back of his palm.

“I can’t believe that I am sobbing. How did I change all of a sudden,” he said with a faint smile.

Zuliya smiled back at him and responded that, “God will never notify anybody before He arrests him.

Naijastories.com

PAGE 33

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Romance

The pains of losing her

Flashback; ate looked down at the dialyser that had taken over the functionality of Jude’s kidneys. As she raised her head up, she could read the pain that he felt from his gentle sighs.

He’d been knocked down by life, but definitely not out, at least for now. He was her brother in law and somehow, she was holding the key that would determine if he was going to make it through the next three days. He was just too young to say goodbye to time, it was also too early to see him as just a memory. Jude was her younger sister Michelle’s newlywed husband; they’d been the youngest of couples at just less than three months old.

A month ago after series of tests, he was diagnosed of oedema which developed into total kidney breakdown in which case both kidneys could no longer maintain water and electrolyte balance and filter waste products from his blood. He’d had the dialyser take over this role for over two weeks while they’d combed the city for donor whose kidney was a match.

They were ready to pay as much as was needed to see Jude back on his feet again. All search proved abortive. It was at the point of giving up that a match was found; Kate. Maybe this just went to prove the saying that- ‘we tend to go to Sokoto in search of a thing we have right in our sokoto’.‘Please sis, do this for me, for Jude, for our unborn child’ Michelle had pleaded with her during her last visit.

Kate had quite felt the pain in her sister’s plea; she noticed how depressed her sister looked which was bad for a pregnant woman and could result in eclampsia.

Everyone who mattered to her had come around to plead with her. The final decision was down to her to make. Kate had spent the next two days locked up in her room ruminating a decision to take. All she wanted was the best for her only sister. They’d been so close during childhood. Looking through their family photo album, she knew there was only a decision to take. The doctor was explicit when he’d told her how much of a normal life she could live even on just a kidney; he was an example. As she looked at him in the hospital bed wrapped with pipes and wires she wished she’d made her decision earlier.

He opened his eyes gently, his mouth was dry he could hardly work up enough spit to speak, his words came out in dry whispers like bursts of sand blown against a desert stone. All he wanted to say to his ‘savior’ was ‘thank you in advance’. He knew how quite hard a decision she’d had to make.

Like she could read through his mind, she touched him lightly and forced a smile. ‘It would be fine Jude’ she said and watched him nod in affirmation like a child who was compelled to carry out a chore.

Two days later, the surgery was done which was followed with five days of close monitoring after which the duo were discharged

K

after a day of counseling. ‘I will never forget your kindness. I am indebted to you. Even though I may never get to pay you back, I promise never to forget this act throughout my life time. May God send your helper at every time you are in need. Welcome home dear sister’ these were the thankful words of Michelle.

Kate felt happy she could help her sister and could see how happy Michelle was. A slice of tears ran down her cheeks as she hugged Michelle; they were no longer tears of pain but this time tears of joy. The tighter the embrace of her sister the more the tears flowed. She could imagine how close Michelle was to losing the only man she’d loved.

Present… awrence held tightly to Kate’s hand. He could see how much strength she was losing. Her breath was slow and her chest rise was rhythmic. He knew he was losing her and so tightened his grip, he wanted to pump in joules of energy into her.

She needed so much energy to fight the ghost of death.

He’d known her to be strong but she now seemed to be losing the battle, she was looking so vulnerable. He was ready to fight for her if it got to that. She was the sweetest person he’d ever known, a sister, a friend, a mother since he’d lost his mom four months back. She was just two weeks away from being his wife, mother of his unborn children, one he would grow old with. He never knew fate had been somewhere laughing cruelly at them while they’d been sending wedding invites to friends and relatives.

He’d tasted the cruelty of fate first hand when he’d lost both parents in a car crash just four months back. He’d had to force himself to accept them and had needed the care, inspiration and times he’d had with Kate. Looking at the once lively Kate he’d known, he felt the embrace of pain and just couldn’t control the tears that rolled down his cheeks. He needed whatever it demanded to ensure she pulled through. She’d been diagnosed of kidney complications and the doctor had told him she was only surviving on a kidney. He remembered how funny it had seemed when the doctor told him.

But she confirmed what the doctor said, but refused to say whom it

L

“

Has she find Mr. Right? was she gave her other kidney to.

‘To whom did you give your other kidney?’ he remembered asking her. She’d refused to give any answer or even a hint. This was the second of the four days the doctor had given them to either get back her kidney or find a compatible one. He was surprised at how tightly he held her hands.

All he wanted was for her to say a word, he wanted desperately to know where her other kidney was. he search for a donor with compatible kidney had been fruitless. Kate could see the tears in his eyes as he tightened his hold of her. She wished she could change things for his sake. He’d told her things no one ever did, they’d had the best moments together and they’d hoped to build a home. She could see fear in his eyes and pain across his unshaved face. Even in the face of all things, there were some questions she couldn’t answer.

Her other kidney had been a sacrifice to Michelle. Michelle had called the previous night from Las Vegas to ask her if she could be her bestir. Poor Michelle didn’t

T

quite know how much things had changed from the last time they’d spoken, Michelle didn’t seem to know she was only two days away from being a memory. ‘How is junior?’ Kate had inquired. ‘He is doing fine, he owes you his life.

Thank you sis again, I pray life treats you fairly. My regards to Lawrence’ Michelle had replied before the line went dead. Kate had felt so happy she’d had a last chance to hear from her sister.

She’d fought the urge to tell her sister how unfair life seemed to be treating her. She couldn’t imagine how her sis would have felt if she’d told her she had just two days to live. Maybe there were things in life that shouldn’t be, things like she building a home with Lawrence or living the life she’d dreamt of. He could feel her hand getting cold, her eyes diming and her lips moving gently even though he couldn’t hear anything she was saying. He knew she was giving up and loosened his grip a little. e needed a little more time to draft questions he wanted to ask God;

H

Happiness didn’t just mean being joyous, but it meant lending a hand to someone in need. It meant sacrifice.

was there really any God in the first place? Did he really have a heart? Was his own definition of joy all irony? Were the preaching at churches all lies? Kate knew all she had left to do was to pray for the few people she held dear to her. She could feel his grip of her loosen and tried to tighten her own grip of him; but there wasn’t the faintest of strength to do so. She muttered a silent prayer to God. She knew she was seconds away from paradise. She needed as much solace as she could get from heaven, her eyes were diming, her voice fading, she could hear unfamiliar sounds, they were scary and her lips were moving fast. All she wanted to say to Lawrence was that he should stay strong and move on with life without her and to Michelle, she had no regrets giving her kidney to Jude and would still do it over again in the afterlife if need be.

Everyone had their own definition of a fulfilled life; hers was that the only fulfillment in life was to be happy, and happiness to her was best expressed in kindness. Happiness didn’t just mean being joyous, but more so it meant lending a hand to someone in need. It meant sacrifice. She closed her eyes slowly and felt a man in all whites beckon her.

‘Come home, you don’t belong to the world. You own the most beautiful of the crowns here.’ He said holding her arms gently as she suddenly began to shine like he’d passed his glamour to her.

As she walked down the narrow gate she could for once see herself smile. She could see faces of people she’d once known on earth, but one thing was different, they looked more perfect, younger and more beautiful than she could remember.

Naijastories.com

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

No N o lly ll y wo wood od Genevieve not my friend – Omoni Oboli O

moniOboli has opened up on her supposed “beef” with fellow actress, Genevieve Nnaji.

The producer, who just premiered her movie ‘Being Mrs. Elliott’ in Aso Rock, told iCampus Newspaper: “I can’t place my fingers on when the supposed “beef “started but one thing I know is that, there is no problem between Genevieve and I. We did not have any issue or problem whatsoever. We are neither enemies nor friends. We are colleagues, a senior one at that, we greet each other when we see; it is not like we visit each other at home.”

Meanwhile, director LonzoNzekwe in another interview said OmoniOboli is the best actress in Nigeria. Some bloggers lashed on it.

OmoniOboli

Genevieve

Kannywood movie review: Zeenat

Reason why Banky Dropped Skales

Zeenat

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irector: Mu’azzam Idi Yari

Starring: Aisha AliyuTsamiya, Hadiza Mohammed, Adam Zango, TanimuAkawo and Aisha Kano Genre: Drama Year: 2014 Duration: 120 minutes Zeenat, played by Aisha Tsamiya, grew up pampered by her rich father. Her father’s elder brother, AlhajiLawalTanimuAkawu -is jealous that his younger brother is richer than him. Along with his wife, Larai -Aisha Kano – Lawal plots to make life miserable for Zeenat’s father, AlhajiSani.

They criticiseAlhajiSani of been too subjective to his wife and not properly taking care of AlhajiLawal. Eventually, Zeenat’s father and her mother, Amina – Hadiza Mohammed – died.

While Amina die of heart attack,

AlhajiSani could not bear the lost of his wife, he also fell terribly sick and later he died in the hospital, leaving their only daughter, Zeenat in the hands of her uncle.

AlhajiLawal took over his brother’s wealth and turned Zeenat into his house help.

He also married her out to Ali -Adam Zango, who used to be the house’s gateman employed by late AlhajiSani. Unknown to AlhajiLawal, Ali is a prince who ran away from his kingdom after his father died. I can categorically say that this movie has all it takes to be a classic.

The cast was beautifully matched. Kano and Akawu, known for their villainous roles, also gave their best in this movie.

Tsamiya was equally enchanting in the role.

The choice of location is commendable and continuity was well done. I can safely say, at the moment, this is the best movie so far from Kannywood in 2014 .

uperstar singer and CEO of Empire Mates Entertainment, Banky W, has revealed the real reason why he dropped Skales.

Skales (Raoul John NjengNjeng) was signed to EME in 2010, on a 3-year contract, and amidst a number of hit songs such as Mukulu, Take Care Of Me, and Komole, he had not truly risen to the top of mainstream Nigerian music, which made EME refuse to offer him a new contract after his previous one had expired.

Banky W has revealed that he had creative differences, as well as a conviction, that Skales needed a new spark in his career, that was why he was let go.

He told Pulse: “My disclaimer is that people tend to make things a lot more negative than they are.

“I have to say that we are very proud to have discovered Skales and his talent, and to have given him a foundation to begin to express himself as an artiste, and also the platform to release that music to the world.

“Recording deals are based on the number of albums or the number of years. The years have passed, and we haven’t gotten to the point where we could release his first album, but we built a bit of a buzz, but we just haven’t gotten to the album.

He continued. “And then I looked at it. Some of the greatest

artistes you know, had to go through 2 or 3 different labels to really figure out what it is that they wanted to do. 50 Cent was famously on Columbia, then he eventually moved from there and went down to DrDre, and then to Interscope. And Alicia Keys was on 3, 4 different labels, Lady Gaga same thing.

“So sometimes an artiste, just for their own creative purposes, needs a new environment. And I think with Skales, when we found him, we said it’s like finding a young M.I. He’s a rapper, we are going to make this great rapping artiste, and he creatively decided to start changing that direction.

And that’s fine, because we can never force an artiste to do something. We just try to make the best with what the artiste brings.

“But there were those kind of creative differences and I just felt like, ‘You know what, this guy needs a new environment, he needs a new story. We got to the point where we said, if we had just kept him there, he’ll just be like Jay Z and the Rockefellas. There was nothing new to the story, so they kinda just remained there, and we never saw Skales like that.

Skales had gone on to release a new song, ‘Shake Body’, which received massive acceptance from the Nigerian public, with a video to go with it. With an eye on business, Skales opened up his personal recording label, OHK Music which has producer Drey Sticks. Banky believes these good moves would have occurred if Skales wasn’t given the nudge, and released.

“We felt like, if Skales was going to be successful, it had to be a different story, there had to be something new, a new background, just a different story that will give him the freedom to do what he wants to do. Banky added.

Currently, Skales is signed to Baseline Music too, on a N200 million recording deal, which will see him record and release an undisclosed amount of songs.

Banky W feels proud that good things are occurring in his life, and will always be proud of Skales.

“I’m proud of him. I’m really happy for him, and I hope he has a million more big singles, and goes on to have a fantastic career.

And if it does, it justifies why we signed him up in the first place, because we thought he could be a successful artiste. Big ups to Skales.”

Source: Pulse.com

Chidinma, Awilo have the best voices in Africa -Dumelo

L

ooks like ChidinmaEkile and AwiloLongomba have been declared the best voices in Africa, this is according to Ghanaian actor, John Dumelo.

The visibly excited actor who was spotted in London with the duo posted an image of all three celebrities on Instagram with the caption: “With the best voices in Africa!”

Chidinma, Awilo and Iyanya are currently in London and have been spotted at Iyanya’s ongoing concert.

Do you agree with John Dumelo though, are Chidinma and Awilo the best voices in Africa?

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 35

Ho lly l l y wo o d / B o llly lyhood True Blood stars’ dream storylines

T

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eighbours is helping to make a sick teenager’s dream come true - by letting her appear in the show as an

extra.

Bronwen Lloyd, who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis, was flown to Australia to meet the cast of her favourite show as part of the Starlight Children’s Foundation once-in-alifetime wish scheme.

The 18-year-old from Norwich said, “My number one wish is to see the Neighbours set and cast because I really enjoy the show and have always wanted to go there.”

Bronwen and her parents were flown to the Melbourne set of the Channel 5 soap in August where she visited all the Ramsay Street landmarks, including Harold’s Store and The Waterhole, and met all her favourite characters from the show, including Jarrod ‘Toadfish’ Rebecchi (Ryan Moloney), Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) and Mark Brennan (Scott McGregor).

As a special surprise, the Neighbours team had arranged a part as an extra for Bronwen in filming that day and she had

P

lacido Domingo is to be the closing act for this year’s iTunes Festival, rounding off a line-up of artists which includes Kylie Minogue and Pharrell Williams.

The Spanish tenor will perform at the Roundhouse in Camden, north London on September 30 to bring to an end the month of shows which begins tonight (September 1) with Deadmau5.

Other acts to be added to the bill in the last batch of announcements include Imelda May and SBTRKT. Opera star Placido expressed his delight by being added to the line-up saying he was “above all, thrilled for the recognition that this brings to the unique and magnificent world of opera and classical music”.

Other performers at this year’s iTunes Festival include Calvin Harris, The Script, Blondie and Ed Sheeran.

Entry to the shows is free to ballot winners and the performances will also be screened online, with more details at at www.iTunesFestival.com.

T

h pretty he tt contestant t t t from f Bigg Bi Boss B 7, Elli Avram, has revealed that Salman Khan is planning a project with her in mind.

The Greek-Swedish beauty grabbed eyeballs in the last season of the reality TV show for her camaraderie with the superstar who took instant liking for her.

The actress told a leading daily that she is in touch with Salman but refused to divulge any details.

“Yes, I’m in touch with Salman. He has planned something with me...I can’t talk much about it, but there is definitely something.”

Elli Avaram made her Bollywood debut in Mickey Virus opposite Manish Paul, but she is more known for catching the fancy of Salman Khan during her stint in Bigg Boss house. Elli is often seen at Salman’s parties.

lots of fun with the hair, make-up and costume departments getting ready for her screen debut.

Bronwen said: “They made my wish come true. I loved every second of the trip but especially meeting the cast, having my photo taken with them by a professional photographer and being pampered in hair and make-up. It was the best holiday ever.”

Alan Fletcher, who co-starred in Bronwen’s scene, said: “Neighbours has a long history of working with Starlight and while the wish recipients have a ball, I can tell you now, the entire cast and crew get just as much enjoyment out of being involved.”

Stefan Dennis added: “We feel very privileged and also humbled that Bronwen’s wish was to visit the Neighbours set on the other side of the world, now that is dedication.”

To refer a child for a wish or to make a donation, please go online at www.starlight. org.uk.

rue Blood has reached its finale after seven seasons, but some of the show’s stars have revealed the plots they wish had happened.

Joe Manganiello, Deborah Ann Woll and Stephen Moyer are some of the vampire series’ stars who have opened up about what they would have liked for their characters.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Joe, who played werewolf Alcide, said: “[Emma, played by Chloe Noelle] was orphaned because of Alcide. Alcide never wanted to have kids, so it would have been interesting to see him burning off the karma of putting her into a parentless atmosphere.

“It could’ve taught him that being a wolf wasn’t all that bad. It would have been an opportunity to see a warm, paternal side of him in the midst of dealing with monsters in the wolfpack.”

Deborah Ann Woll, who played Jessica, said she’d like to know more about the True Blood world: “ You’ll see these scenes with people in broken-down trailers but with chains and chains of silver. Is that because the value’s gone down, are they stockpiling it?

“Could you go to a vampire to get glamoured to quit smoking? What about the family drama of a human aging and a vampire staying the same? As the actor, I’m sitting there like, ‘hm’.”

Meanwhile, Stephen Moyer said he wanted to see more of his character Bill Compton’s vampire past, especially the problems between him and Eric (Alexander Skarsgard): “I had always wanted for us to see a flashback to that, and so that Alex and I got a chance to do more flashbacks together.”

PAGE 36

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Kannywood

What you don’t know about ace actor Ali Nuhu H andsome kannywood actor, Ali Nuhu has achieved so much in his very youthful age as an actor both in the kannywood and nolywood industry. Born in Maiduguri town, Borno State on the 15th of March 1974, his father, Senator Nuhu Poloma, was then a Customs Officer while his late mother Hajia Fatima Karderam Digema was a caterer. He started his education in Riga Special Primary School, No Man’s Land, Kano from 19791985 and obtained his Junior Secondary School Leaving Certificate in Government Secondary Commercial School Airport Road Kano from 1986-1988. He concluded his Secondary School Education in Science Secondary School Dawakin Tofa, Kano from 1989-1991. He moved on to acquire a Bsc in Geography from the University of Jos from 1992-1997.

He did his Youth Corp in Ibadan, Oyo State in the year 1998 where he participated actively in the Dance and Drama troupe finally representing the State in the NYSC National Dance and Drama Competition after some rigorous training of Bata Dance and the Stage Play titled AYOLE OLOKIKI. CAREER HISTORY In the year 1999 he entered the Hausa Movie Industry where he got a break with a movie titled “ABIN SIRRI NE” after that came other blockbusters like DIJANGALA, DANADAM BUTULU, WASILA, SANGAYA, MUJADALA etc which re established him as a force to reckon with in the Hausa Movie Industry (KANNYWOOD) where he is now a house hold name.

As the most celebrated Hausa Actor ever, ALI NUHU recently ventured into Nollywood with the Amstel Malta sponsored movie SITANDA which became such a huge success and earned him Africa’s most prestigious award, ‘The African Movie Academy Award’ (AMAA). Presently he is one of the most sought after Actors in Nollywood with about 30 unreleased movies to his credit.

ACHIEVEMENTS/ AWARDS Best Actor Fina finan Hausa @ yahoo groups award in the years: • 2002 with the movie YANAYI • 2003 with the movie SUTURA • 2004 with the movie RUHI • Best Actor AREWA FIMS AWARD 2005 with the movie RAZANI

• Best Actor Hausa THE AFROHOLLYWOOD AWARD in London • Best Upcoming Actor AMAA 2007 with the movie SITANDA • Actor of the year Award THE FUTURE AWARD 2008 • STARS in the movie Award 2008 • ZAFAA AWARD coming Up in October this year in London Presently ALI NUHU has 200 Hausa and 35 English movies to his credit and has featured in two widely acclaimed TV Series namely “WETIN DEY” and “FINDING AISHA”.

He has done a series of concerts in countries like NIGER REPUBLIC,GABON, CHAD and some parts of CAMEROUN where he has a large fan following. He has participated in a couple Film festivals like The ZUMA FILM FESTIVAL, ABUJA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL and THE PYONGYANG FIM FESTIVAL in North Korea.

He has widely travelled to NIGER, BENIN REPUBLIC, CAMEROUN, TCHAD, SUDAN, GABON, SAUDI ARABIA, DUBAI, CHINA, NORTH KOREA, ENGLAND and CONGO BRAZZAVILLE. He speaks HAUSA, ENGLISH and HINDI Languages fluently.

Ali is not a man controversy.

He is famous for his prolific acting and numerous awards, but not for scandals, unlike some of his colleagues in the industry. A great actor, brand ambassador and one of the most good looking stars both in Kannywood and in Nollywood.

Hausafilms.com

Nuhu displaying his award

Cast members of Last Flight to Abuja: Ali Nuhu, Uru Eke, Anthony Monjaro on stage at London premiere

The celebrity showed off his wonderful family, which consists of his adorable wife and two children; a boy and a girl.

PAGE 37

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6-7, 2014

N o llly lywood wo o d

Going nude may not be necessay but... Tamara Eteimo

T

he award winning actress and producer, Tamara Eteimo was a guest at the Pulse TV studio where she spoke on her acting career, nudity in Nollywood, losing her brother and her celebrity crush.

The actress became a household name following her win in the 7th edition of the ‘Next Movie Star’ reality show.

The Bayelsa State born actress has featured in movies like Somewhere Down The Line’ A Long Night’ Finding Mercy’, ‘Desperate House Girls’ ‘Cobweb’, ‘Super Story’ : Itohan’, ‘Mrs. Somebody’, ‘Dry’ and others.

A

bout Tamara.

Tamara is an actress, a very young producer, she is business minded. Tamara was a musician.

After my graduation from University of Port Harcourt, I started dancing, from dancing I went to music, and I actually made money from music..

I performed in Crack your Ribs(2009), performed in Rivers State carnival (2009). I performed in quite a couple of shows organized by City People in Port Harcourt.

I love music yes, but a first child will always be a first child.

It’s always been acting and will always be acting.

What role has winning ‘The Next Movie Star’ played in your career?

Before I got into the Next Movie Star, I went to Del York Creative Academy; I studied acting for film and graduated as the best student. That same year, I went into the next movie star house, and by God’s grace, I won.

It was a platform for me, because that was all I needed to get into the industry.

Next Movie Star really paved the way for me; I won’t deny that some directors helped me. The likes of Desmond Eliot, Emem Isong, Uche Jombo, Mr Shola Fajobi, these are people I will forever remain grateful to.

What was it like producing ‘Somewhere Down the Line’?

It was more like taking a bold step, because I was supposed to just act in the movie.

It was really challenging, and

me playing dual characters was like talking three people’s job.

But I learnt how to be a leader, when there are issues on set, you would have to settle it and not take sides.

It was not easy but I am willing to do it over and over again.

You have heard about the term “New and Old Nollywood”, what do you have to say about it?

Nollywood is Nollywood.

Hollywood is Hollywood. I belong to Nollywood, I don’t know if it is old or new.

The important thing is that we are telling stories and selling our cultures. Why do we have to demarcate the industry?

What is your take on nudity in the industry?

As actors, we should be able

Another Nollywood marriage crashes

N

ollywood actor, Ibrahim Chatta’s marriage has reportedly come to an end.

According to Movie Moments, the actor’s wife, Salamatu Muhammed Lafiaji has quit their 16-months old marriage.

Reports also claimed that Salamatu, who is the daughter of Kwara State ex-governor, Muhammed Lafiaji, quit her marriage early this year.

Reports claim that the

marriage has been dissolved by an Ilorin upper court over allegations of battery.

Salamat has been reportedly issued with a certificate of divorce.

The October 1 actor got married to Salamat in April 2013.

According to Salmat, Chatta lacks love, care and right attitude towards the marriage as she was turned into a punching bag by the actor.

Queen Kaffy thrills guests with scintillating flash mob

G

uinness World record holder and renowned choreographer, Kaffy and her team of amazing dancers literally kicked things off as

Verve card unveiled its 3 month campaign, Shop Small Win Big, the biggest shopping experience ever in Nigeria.

to tell stories realistically, but sometimes some of us over do it. Sometimes when it is not necessary, one will just go nude.

If you want to seduce a man, you don’t have to go nude to seduce a man. Most men admire intelligence. When a girl is all dressed up, not nude, and she speaks very well, you trigger the emotions from that man.

Except it has to be told in the story, I don’t think you have to go nude. It must be for a reason.

What character would you be caught dead playing?

(Laughs) I don’t think there is any.

Tell us about your dream character?

I have played a boy, a girlfriend, a doctor; Maybe an assassin or in the army. Something entirely different from what I have done something tough because I love challenges.

What are your memorable moments as an actress?

The first one was the Del York moment, when I was announced as the best student, I didn’t see that coming.

I was really grateful to God. It was more like ‘Your Dreams are Coming True’.

After that, winning the ‘Next Movie Star’, my movie roles and my movie, ‘Somewhere down the Line’.

What has been your worst moment in Life?

The sad news about my brother’s death. He was killed in Cyprus, and he was the person that convinced me into entertainment.

Yes it weighed me down, but it made me stronger. It made me know that I have people looking up to me, so I must be focused.

What has been your most embarrassing moment?

I went for an event and some girl saw me and she was like “Ah.....” ,I didn’t recognize her but I didn’t want to embarrass her so I was also like “Ah....” and we hugged, and the next thing she was like “Sorry, you are not the one”. I was so embarrassed, I couldn’t say anything.

Who are your role models in the industry?

I love Stephanie Linus. I love Rita Dominic, that lady is a fashionista, sometimes I have to flip through her page to see what she is wearing.

Genevieve Nnaji, I can’t imagine anyone who won’t call her name as a role model. She is someone to look up to. The growth in her life is inspiring.

Joke Silva, she is not only a legend, but a mother.

Let me go international, I love Shakira, she is a dancer. Beyonce, she is a diva. Sandra Bullock, but my best is Angelina Jolie.

Who is your celebrity crush?

When I was Young, it was RMD, I always wanted to just act a love scene with him where I have to kiss him. But when I came in to the industry ( laughs) Majid Michel, he is an interpreter, he is amazing…

Sometimes when he acts, I just stare at his lips.

Who is your ideal movie director?

Desmond Eliot is one fantastic director; he works on the characters to really really interpret their roles. He focuses on not only his pictures but also his actors.

My character in ‘Finding Mercy’, the secret was Desmond.

A lot of people say “Tamara, you did well”. It was all Desmond. He stretched and pulled me until he got what he needed.

He is one director I am looking forward to working with, not on his movie but mine.

I love Mrs Pat. Ogiri. She is a female director and she pays attention to details. Lots of people might not know her, but she is really good and strong.

Do you have plans for directing?

Laughs… Let me focus on producing first, I just started. It is a gradual step.

Be passionate; don’t go into this because your friend is into it.

Being passionate means you can take all the bullshit and achieve what you want at the end.

Put God first, be prayerful, don’t be in a hurry, there is always an answer. God will definitely give you an answer.

PAGE 38

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

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LETTERS

NMA’s selfish demands

By Olukayode Philips

N

igerian Medical Association (NMA), executives should be ashamed of themselves and stop giving us a bad image.

Myself and some others never supported their demands. I am also a doctor but I saw the demand to be selfish and not for the progress and interest of Nigerians.

For the first time, I PRAISE AND declared my SUPPORT President Jonathan. The decision he has taken to sack the striking doctors is welcome. Since the resident doctors are tired of working they should be relieved of their jobs.

Their jobs should be given to other people who will bring fresh blood into the system.

I see the NMA’s insistence that the Federal Government must create a new political office called the Surgeon General of the Federation just because there is the Office of the Attorney General of the federation for the legal profession, is rather selfish.

I think they should go and read the responsibilities of Attorney General

of the Federation before making such demand. Besides, there is no place in the world where a government introduces such office just because some think they can compel the government to do so. If there is no such office yet there are many contentions and controversies in the health sector among health workers what then will

happen when this new office is created? At the moment, some doctors see pharmacies, laboratory attendants, nurses as less important and irrelevant. But it is clear none is less important and relevant than the other in work of saving life.

Two, I think the demand was unnecessary, greedy request from selfish doctors

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who have been accused of running down the public hospital just to promote their private clinics. What is more they earn salaries from two places at the same time.

How can people employed to serve the public and paid from public coffers opted to maltreat the same public, hold the people to ransom yet continue to pretend to represent the people?

No, public service doctors are selfish, unpatriotic. Asking for extra N100,000 allowance excluding the many allowances allocated to them clearly showed where their interests in. Imagine demanding that the doctors must skip level 12 as a starting point when we know that in other professions, BSc holders are placed on level 8 as starting point while P.hds are on level as starting block. The NMA want to create the impression that they are more important than other professioinals.

Hmmmmm, I guess somebody should please talk some sense into the NMA National President, Dr. Kayode Obembe and his executive members to come down from their high horse and be truly patriotic.

Philips writes from Abuja

Why Boko Haram is getting bolder and stronger

By Bakane

N

igeria is today an uncertain country with an equally an uncertain future. Only the Almighty Allah holds the key to what may become of her tomorrow. Where yesterday is better than today and tomorrow appears gloomy on the horizon, the future remains predictably uncertain and very worrisome. The worse is that many have never had hope in the country.

Where some insist that their tribal identity comes first before their national identity, and this is being preached by the well informed. You do not need to be told that Nigeria has no patriots but are trib-

alists. When those who influence public opinion are the choir masters of such ethnic doctrine, as a political philosophical belief, then we don’t need to be told who have been systematically working against our national interest.

In a pluralistic society such as ours, such preachments have been making it impossible to accept the concept of consensus. On account of the foundation of this wrong philosophical belief, today in Nigeria, virtually every tribe, if not clan, is a ‘nation,’ so we have the Igbo nation, the Yoruba nation, the Ijaw nation, the Gwari nation and several others.

The attachment to these “nations” is greater than the attachment to the true

Nigerian nation. Indeed, with the high tech propaganda attached to the birth of these ethnic nations, we have been killing ourselves more on their behalf than on behalf of Nigeria. Such therefore has the rising tide of ethnic and clanish nationalism been killing Nigeria and her people. And this is the greater danger we face now and in the years ahead.

The masters of this ethnic gospel are perhaps in position to withstand the vigours of ethnic nationalism. Not so others particularly here in the North. According to a study, there are about 240 ethnic groups in Nigeria, with as many as 400 clans of various colours.

Bakane writes from Abuja

“

When those who influence public opinion are the choir masters of such ethnic doctrine, as a political philosophical belief, then we don’t need to be told who have been systematically working against our national interest.

PAGE 39

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Opinion Nigeria’s war against Boko Haram

By Dr. Ijabla Raymond

I

do not believe that the government fully understands the nature or the gravity of the problem that confronts it. There appears to be greater preoccupation with winning next year’s elections than with fighting Boko Haram. This is unfortunate because more northern Nigerian towns and villages are falling under the control of jihadist terrorists by the day.

In the last two months the world has been preoccupied with events in the Middle East, namely the Israel-Palestinian conflict and the Islamic State in Iraq & Syria (ISIS).

The stories and pictures emanating from these places are absolutely gruesome and the world is right to focus on them. But I do not understand why the genocide and displacement of communities in northern Nigeria by Boko Haram has escaped the attention of the world, even though the situation there is arguably on a similar scale to what we are seeing in the Middle East right now.

In the last week alone, Boko Haram has captured three towns - Gwoza, Limankara and Madagali - in the northeastern states of Borno and Adamawa. In the style of ISIS fighters, the group has captured military bases, seized military hardware, burnt down entire villages, killed the inhabitants in the process, executed soldiers and civilians by beheading them, and caused the displacements of communities.

We all recall the abduction of nearly 250 girls and the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. Since then there have been more reports of abductions, attacks on schools and the murder of innocent students.

I do not mean to trivialise the IsraeliPalestinian conflict but no one needs to be reminded about the degree of global news coverage that followed the abduction and murder of three Israeli teenagers and the conflict that ensued.

Nigeria is a regional power and has taken part in many successful peacekeeping missions in Africa and around the world.

Unfortunately, this giant is now confronted with a type of problem that it seems incapable of solving on its own. Only last week, a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary entitled “Nigeria’s Hidden War” revealed

damning footages of unprofessional behaviour and gross human rights abuses

by Nigerian soldiers in their attempt to contain Boko Haram. Their methods were indistinguishable from those employed by the insurgents and have been rightly condemned by Amnesty International.

Quite why the largest army in Africa with its impressive record of successful international peacekeeping missions cannot defeat a domestic terrorist organisation is everybody’s guess. Why was this organisation even allowed to grow when it could have been nipped in the bud?

The failure of the army to defeat Boko Haram has been attributed to corruption, unprofessionalism, under-resourcefulness, lack of equipment, poor motivation, the deliberate crippling of the military by successive military governments to prevent coups, and the infiltration of the army’s rank and file by BH sympathisers and saboteurs.

But there is a more important reason - poor understanding of BH’s mission or a denial of it.

Jihadist terrorism is arguably the biggest threat to world peace in the 21st century. There is only one correct way to view Boko Haram, and that is, as jihadist terrorists. It is a serious error of judgement to presume that Boko Haram is a political tool put in place to humiliate a Christian president or to topple his government or to re-establish northern hegemony or that it is even a political party of some description.

I suspect this is the advice that President Jonathan has received, and this may explain his apparent indecisiveness in dealing with Boko Haram. Lest we forget, Boko Haram started its violent campaigns during the presidency of Yar’Adua who was a Muslim from northern Nigeria. If Boko Haram wants to re-establish northern hegemony, then attempting to assassinate respected Northern leaders such as the Emir of Kano and the Shehu of Borno would seem like a stupid, counterintuitive and counterproductive thing to do.

Boko Haram is an islamo-fascist organisation whose only objective is to create an Islamic caliphate in Nigeria. It does not respect Nigeria’s internal borders, and like other islamo-fascist groups such as ISIS, the ultimate goal is the establishment

of a worldwide caliphate.

Shekau has repeatedly told us that his targets are Christians. The Quran refers to Christians and Jews as “people of the BOOK. It is the way of life of these people (of the book) that Boko Haram refers to as “haram” or forbidden. There are no Jews in Nigeria and this jihad is directed against Christians, Non-islamic education, democracy, civic institutions such as the police, military, judiciary are synonymous with Western civilisation and by implication Christianity. This is why Boko Haram wants to destroy these institutions and replace them with Sharia.

Shekau has also repeatedly said that any Muslim who does not subscribe to the ideology of Boko Haram or its version of Islam is a legitimate target for attack. This includes Muslims who participate in any process that is considered un-Islamic or non-compliant with Sharia e.g. politicians, democrats, policemen, military personnel, school students or university students.

This is why Boko Haram sought to kill those respected emirs. It is why Shekau referred to the late but respected Muslim

“

President Jonathan and his advisers must change their tactic - we are a country at war against jihadist terrorists. It is regrettable that our president did not make a public statement on the Chibok abductions until he was forced to do so (many weeks after the abductions) by international pressure from the #BringBackOurGirls campaign.

politicians, Sir Balewa and Mallam Aminu Kano, as infidels. He even called the king and princes of Saudi Arabia infidels.

Otherwise, the death of any Muslim during Boko Haram campaigns is unintended and is purely collateral damage. This is an accurate assessment of the mindset of Boko Haram and is not designed to stir up hatred between Christians and Muslims.

All peace-loving Nigerians, whether they be Christians or Muslims, must rise and fight this ideology.

There needs to be urgent action to address the problem of Almajiri destitution and to regulate what the Almajiris are being taught in Koranic schools. We can no longer afford to let fundamentalist preachers (whether native or invited from foreign countries) to continue running wild without some form of censorship.

President Jonathan and his advisers must change their tactic - we are a country at war against jihadist terrorists. It is regrettable that our president did not make a public statement on the Chibok abductions until he was forced to do so (many weeks after the abductions) by international pressure from the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. Until now, the president has yet to visit these troubled spots. It was Malala Yusuf who finally managed to convince him fairly recently to meet the family of the abducted girls. The president must be advised that this is not a war by a group of enemies to topple his government and he must, from now on, fight this war with all the will, power and resources at his disposal.

As experience has shown in Rwanda, Bosnia, Somalia and with ISIS fighters in Iraq, situations like ours can degenerate very rapidly, but lives can be saved if the international community acts decisively and timely. Nigeria needs urgent help with training, intelligence gathering and reconnaissance. We need to put the focus back on Nigeria. With a population of nearly 170 million people, nobody should want to see a refugee crisis situation develop in Nigeria!

Raymond, a medical doctor of Nigerian heritage writes from the UK. He can be reached via Ijabla.

Raymond@facebook.com

The real threat to Islamic State is not the West

By Sunny Hundal

“I

was like any other regular Canadian.

I watched hockey, I went to the cottage in the summertime, I loved to fish, I wanted to go hunting… I was a regular person,” said Abu Muslim in the last video he recorded before his death.

And then came his pitch: “Everyone can contribute something to the Islamic State, as it is obligatory on us ... If you have knowledge on how to build roads and houses, you can be of use here.”

Andre Poulin, as he was named at birth, was confirmed dead in January of this year and one of the first known Canadians fighting for the Islamic State group in Syria.

The recruitment video, released in July as the Islamic State gathered strength, took many experts by surprise for how “slick” it was. But more than that, it played on the paranoia of governments around the world that their citizens could be heading in the same direction.

The establishment of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria poses a far greater threat to Muslims than it does to the west. Western government may worry sleeper cells at home or radicalised Muslims travelling back from Iraq, but it is Muslims in the Middle East and elsewhere who have most to worry about from the Islamic State. Even the brutal and horrifying decapitation of the journalist James Foley doesn’t change anything - the number of Iraqis executed by

Islamic State fighters is far, far more.

Inside Story - Islamic State ‘beheading’: A challenge to US? In many ways it is perhaps the worst development in recent Muslim history since 9/11. There are two reasons for this: First, it is likely to cause even greater unrest in countries where Muslims aren’t a majority, and second, the Islamic State group could tear apart the Middle East and cause further unrest for generations.

In a very short time the Islamic State has become the most compelling and attractive organisation for Muslim fighters around the world, more so than al-Qaeda ever was.

India, which has the world’s second-largest Muslim population, is especially in shock after Islamic State sympathisers have turned up from Kashmir in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south.

There is not one recorded instance of an Indian Muslim having fought for al-Qaeda, but already four are suspected of having joined the group. Now Indians worry that more will follow.

The impact of this phenomenon on community relations - in Canada, India, the US, and Europe - could be devastating.

Once again, suspicions will easily be raised

by Islamophobes about Islamic State sympathisers in the west and whether they pose a threat. One pollster has found support for the group to be as high as 16 percent in France. The news media will undoubtedly report on American or

European Muslims joining the group or calling for violence in videos, further raising tensions and besmirching the Muslim faith.

Secondly and more importantly, the Islamic State has sparked political and theological instability across the Middle East, and if they continue expanding, could plunge the region into even greater chaos.

The group has prompted bomb blasts and fighting in Lebanon, and in Jordan and Kuwait the governments are worried that sleeper cells may attack at any moment.

But it is Saudi Arabia that is on high alert, worried that the Islamic State group will come after them with force. In a recent interview, a senior Islamic State defector said their next stop would be Saudi Arabia, which includes Mecca and Medina. Its rulers are now in full panic, sending money to the Lebanese army, funding UN counterterrorism efforts, and even getting senior Muftis to condemn the group. And there is a reason for this panic.

The Islamic State is a direct descendant of al-Qaeda, but there is one key difference: Its leaders believe fighting “apostates” is more important than fighting non-Muslims for now. They want to unite the Middle East under their banner before truly turning their sights on the US and Europe. Their caliphate, say its fighters, will never be truly powerful unless apostates and “fake” Muslims are first weeded out - and their definition of “apostate” expands to include anyone who stands against them.

Al-Qaeda has always seen this as a bad strategy, as it risks alienating Muslims worldwide. But the astonishing growth of the Islamic State, despite their enthusiasm for killing Shia Muslims and other socalled “apostates” - such as the Yazidis has turned that thinking on its head.

In fact the Islamic State declaration has split the jihadi world, with many angry at the upstarts for being so daring while others enthusiastically pledging support. AlQaeda itself has been criticised by affiliates in Syria for not condemning Islamic State, most likely because its worried such a move would lose it support.

In the eyes of many jihadis, the Islamic State has established the most successful and feared caliphate in recent history.

That in itself has spurred many to join it.

The immediate goal of the Islamic State is to forcefully take over other Arab states and bring their subjects under their own banner. The murder of Americans such as James Foley is meant to shock the world, to bring attention and attract more support.

But make no mistake: The real threat from the Islamic State is to other Muslims in the Middle East. Sooner or later people across the Middle East will have to face up to this threat.

Hundal is the author of the recently released e-book, India Dishonoured: Behind a Nation’s War on Women.

PAGE 40

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Opinion

A pack of crayons for Jonathan

By Jaafar Jaafar

S

ince the government of Nigeria employed the services of international public relations firm, Levick, to bring back its lost image, there is a general outcry among Nigerians as to why the firm would be given the sum of $1.2 million for the PR sinecure.

Not just the enormity of the amount Nigerians keep haggling about but the logic behind FG’s decision. What is the rationale behind dismissing calls from local activists long before the situation went out of hand?

Why should the FG raise doubt over the issue in the first place? Why or how will the opposition party kidnap the girls in order to make the president unpopular? Why shouldn’t the FG take action until the global catcall?

In the past few months, the traditional media and the new media focused their attention on Nigeria over the Chibok girls, who were abducted three months ago while sitting for secondary school certificate examinations. Chibok kidnaping obviously stirred up the hornet’s nest, letting the world to see the many shortcomings of the Jonathan presidency.

Nigeria’s problems are worsening by the day. The attacks have become a daily recurrence — competing in the realm of certainty with sunset. Under emergency rule and Jonathan’s inept government, the terrorists are gaining grounds, kidnapping hundreds, getting more arms, capturing more towns and declaring an Islamic state.

Much as I do not believe the pedestrian theory that Jonathan’s government is behind Boko Haram terrorism, I also do not

believe the vague notion that the opposition party is sponsoring the terrorists. I can only blame the president for lack of commitment, much as I will accuse the opposition of wanting to exploit his failures in this regard for political gains.

President Jonathan’s inability to show commitment to fight against terrorism made him suffer a huge image crisis, blighting almost beyond recognition his local and international outlook. I suppose redeeming an image so tarred is perhaps the most difficult PR drudgery Levick has ever attempted. What lies will Levick tell the world about 480 defecting Nigerian troops?

The underlying factors that led to their action clearly indicate failure of Janathan’s government either to provide them the required motivation or firepower. It will surely motivate our troops at the battle line and increase Jonathan’s image rating if he spares some hours off his frequent Europe junkets to visit and motivate them. Perhaps if this proactive measure was taken, there wouldn’t be any crossover, mutiny or desertion.

Levick must also made the president understand that blame game doesn’t solve a problem. It rather lowers the estimation of the Jonathan administration in the eyes of Nigerians and international community.

The more he blames without taking action, the more he is seen as a weakling. Rather than blame the opposition or Northern elders of sabotage, the president should expose the ‘perceived saboteurs’ and bring them to book.

Shortly after Malala Yousafzai’s plea and the president’s consent to see the Chibok girls’ parents, Jonathan’s publicists

blamed the opposition for stopping the Chibok community from seeing the president.

The opposition queried back: Who stopped the president from seeing the distraught parents and community leaders for three months? You see the response blame game elicits?

Levick should also caution the president against the use of religion to gain political capital from a section of the country. Jonathan should ask his party and it’s spokesmen to refrain from accusing the opposition party of religious bias.

As a PR strategy, if I were President Jonathan, I will have a number of people from a religion different from mine to be my image handlers. An average Muslim in the North sees Jonathan’s government as having ethnic and religious bias. Nigeria’s dichotomy and division is no longer the issue of the South versus the North. The chasm created by religious differences is now the in-thing, and has become a mine where votes can be ploughed out easily.

Despite some implied actions and inactions denoting use of religious card, the ruling PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Oliseh Metuh, first fired the salvo in January, saying the APC exco was brim with Muslims. Rising in defense, APC’s all-time spokesman Lai Mohammed says his party’s 35-man exco was evenly divided between Christians and Muslims. Why all this? In the first instance, invoking religion into political war is defeatist.

Already, a division has been created.

What is now needed is the remedy. The rattling lot of Labaran Maku, Reuben Abati, Doyin Okupe, Reno Omokri, Mike Omiri, Frank Mba (now Emmanuel Ojukwu),

Chris Olukolade, Marilyn Ogar, who are directly or indirectly the spin masters of Jonathan administration, should not be all Christians. I say this not because I am a Muslim but as the ideal way to shore up the president’s image rating in the North.

It’ll be a good PR gimmick at this moment.

I have a screenshot of a tweet from the President’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Mr Reno Omokri, in which he said the North is parasitic. No action was taken by the president over this insult. The same person also once sent an article with his infamous nom de plume, Wendell Simlin, linking the present emir of Kano to Boko Haram. The presidency didn’t take action. As a way to disassociate itself from Omokri’s action, the president should have relieved him of his appointment immediately. Levick should tell Mr President that refusal to do so signifies approval of the presidency.

A few days ago, Mike Omeri blamed Borno State government for missing Chibok girls. Forget the fact Borno State is under state of emergency, protection of lives and property of the people is the primary responsibility of the Commander in Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Only recently, the spokesperson of Department of State Service (DSS) Marilyn Ogar also went partisan, saying when APC wins election, Boko Haram doesn’t detonate bombs. Statements like these do harm mainly on the president’s image.

By and large, Jonathan is the architect of his own image problems. Levick can help him redraw the image, using the locally made crayons highlighted above.

Jaafar send this piece from Kano

Alhaji Adamu Ahmed Mu’azu- A man of history

By George Udoh

A

mong makers of history, in Nigeria, Alhaji Adamu Ahmed Mu’azu, the current National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, must stand high. He is the first democratically elected governor ever to head the PDP. Founded almost 16 years ago, things appear to be looking up for the party and Mu’azu, assumed office in January, 19, 2014 as the Chairman of PDP. Eight months since he was saddled with the headship of the party, Alhaji Mu’azu has made significant achievements that has led to the transformation of the party.

Mu’azu’s achievements as a bridge-builder may not be unconnected to his posture as a moderate who has discarded the toga of hardliner and clothed himself with the garment of social pragmatism. This has manifested in his desire and commitment to take the PDP to the desired heights The leadership style of Alh Mu’azu is motivational coupled with his accommodating personality and humility .He is a man who is ready to listen and act on matters concerning the party and its members. He is always ready to attend to the needs of whoever comes his way and he makes himself accessible to all members of the party.

Mu’azu’s indelible marks as Governor of Bauchi state cover a wide range of sectors that include infrastructure and economic development , poverty alleviation ,health education, and , women’s and youth empowerment,, sport among others Tourism is one of the key sector where Bauchi State has relative advantage over other states in Nigeria, and in the West African sub-region, for that matter. At inception, the Mu’azu administration initiated policies and programs aimed at harnessing some of the state’s rich

endowments.

Today ,eight months in office as PDP chairman, Mu’azu has once more brought to bear his visionary leadership on the party .Having looked back and diagnosed accurately , where the rains started drenching the party under its great umbrella ,Mu’azu paved a smooth road ,launching PDP skywards and returning it to the totem pole of contemporary world history.

In his unrelenting pursuit of this, the party under Mu’azu watch has erected significant milestones on this new road to the future. These milestones which are the cardinal bases of PDP’S present and projected successes are legion but suffice me to itemize the following feats recorded by this man of history .Those gifted with hindsight of reckoning would recall that PDP witnessed a major crack with the formation of Baraje-led PDP which almost left the party in tatters.

Since Alhaji Ahmed Mu’azu mounted the saddle as the Chairman of the party,, he has been the change factor around which the fortunes of the ruling party have so far revolved. Ahead of discharging his task, upon assumption of office, Muazu moved to reconciling aggrieved members of the party by doing the largely unthinkable in certain cases. For instance apologized publicly to the five governors, lawmakers and other stakeholders who dumped the party for the All Progressives Congress, APC, saying the party was sorry over what happened.

The governors were those of Jigawa, Kano, Niger, Rivers and Sokoto states.

Mu’azu also pleaded with the G5 governors to return to PDP in the spirit of patriotism, against the backdrop that the party had helped them get to where they are stressing that the doors were open for

the former party members in the PDP. He spoke when he received Governor Sule Lamido of Jigawa State, who was at the National Secretariat on a solidarity visit. Muazu noted that his leadership would continue to strengthen and deepen the nation’s democracy, adding that plans had been concluded to set up a very high powered reconciliation committee that would comprise major stakeholders and leaders to reach out to everyone especially those who defected. Muazu specifically pleaded with Governor Lamido to help reach out to his colleagues who left the party to create an enabling environment as the leadership planned to meet and beg them to come back.

As keeping faith with the essence of leadership responsibility, the Adamu Mu’azu- led PDP succeeded in bring back some aggrieved decampee party members .Furthermore the party under Mu’azu’s watch succeeded in halting APC momentum and stopping their almost successful takeover of NASS. In addition recorded another giant feat at bringing hitherto members of the opposition party to PDP like former Governor Ibrahim Shekaru of Kano State and General Buba Marwa (rtd) Mu’azu has also proven his mettle as a leader that stands for fair play.

Muazu, whom his associates love to call The Game Changer, continues to live true to the goal of positively changing the image, fortunes and character of the PDP. For instance, unlike in the past years of acrimony on all fronts, Mu’azu, so full of energy, has been able to pilot the affairs of PDP away from controversies that could adversely affect its image. When at the end of Anambra governorship poll, PDP lost to APGA, he caused the party to congratulate not only the APGA candidate, Chief Obiano,

but the party too under his leadership we are seeing a party that is purposeful and accountable. His ingenuous and innovative programmes and matchless achievements are now being celebrated with pomp and pageantry.

The laudable stability and reconciliation in the party have also restored the confidence of members in the party.

Undeniably, Mu’azu has brought succour to PDP with the strong bond of camaraderie that now exists between the party and the President Goodluck Jonathan as well as among its leadership and members. This should serve as a strong statement to the opposition that they are up for an uphill task as they try to wrest power from PDP come 2015.

More importantly, recently, the ruling party underscored this point when Ekiti electorate returned the so-called underdog, Ayodele Fayose as its Governor-elect.

Instructively, when most PDP leaders felt that Fayose would not deliver at the poll, the Game Changer put his bet on him, ensure he got the party’s flag.

Today, PDP has reclaimed Ekiti state, making a massive in-road into the South West geo-political zone ahead of the 2015 general elections, with all these developments, this man of history has taken a quantum leap by returning the party to the glorious path of its founding fathers, and recreating the winning streak for which the party is noted.

This may of history is not resting on his oars as he seriously re-strategizing ahead of 2015 general elections to re-capture more states for the ruling party, PDP in spite of the outcome of the just concluded governorship election of Osun State.

Udoh, a political commentator wrote in from Abuja.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 41

Online Comments ‘Russian troops deployed’ in Ukraine – Poroshenko Karlpinn says: Karlpinn says: My, my…. these bad Russians, and that evil Putin who dares to stand up to us!

What is so difficult to understand about the Russians not letting their countrymen in Ukraine be annihilated?

When their eastern regions rebelled against the overthrow of a democratically elected president they saw as representing their interests and against the outlawing of their language, Kiev sent in the military to bomb them into submission.

Deadly military force was used to settle an internal political problem, while the west applauded. For comparison’s sake, it would have been the same if the government of Canada decides to occupy Quebec and wage war on their citizens if they vote for separation (which they almost did three times).

The other aspect of this is astounding hypocrisy. The west are openly sponsoring Al Qaeda rebels in Syria and now launching direct military attacks inside Iraq and Syria against ISIS. What do you call that, humanitarian intervention? Never mind the 100 other wars that the west is engaging in and the despotic regimes they are propping up around the world. They are better than North Korea, but that is not exactly a lofty ideal.

Kano Assembly endorses Kwankwaso for Presidency Zakariyau says: God bless Nigeria, our beloved country Agric ministry moves to boost daily milk production by 2, 000 litres.

Moses Ola-Olu Famuyiwa says: How will they achieve this noble task without adequate power supply?

Kwara PDP, APC differ on elders meeting disruption Joe Gabi says: When the legislature starts to dabble into matters such as urging a governor to vie for the presidency, it tells of the quality and integrity of the members. Will anybody be wrong to call them bunch- of- clowns and errand boys?

Sincerely, do they believe Kano people want the apostle of kwankwansiya to waste their resources on a wild goose chase?

Between Ribadu, Aluko and el-Rufai Musa Sulaiman says: Professor, you failed to state the biggest defection which is that of Obasanjo himself from being the godfather of Jonathan to his arch enemy, from supporter to opposition, and from PDP to being the godfather of APC (which Obasanjo admitted in an interview).

I generally agree with what you implied that we have no leaders but politicians.

Aluko, Ribadu and el-Rufai have simply transformed for reasons that are not convincing except for self interest which is the most plausible reason anyway.

Late Prof. Dora Akunyili

Mathias Hassan says: You said: “……Ribadu this week hailed Jonathan as “a great achiever”. This would have been quite laughable if things were not so dire, so tragic for most of our people under the administration of Jonathan.”

How do you know this? Do you expect me to believe you just because it is coming from you? Give us the statistics to show that things are ‘dire and tragic with most Nigerians today compared to the Abacha and Obasanjo era’.

As a professor you of all people should know that Nigeria is being positively transformed under Jonathan compared to the wasted years of the Obasanjo and Abacha era.

My candid opinion is that anybody who cannot acknowledge what Jonathan, within the period he has been in power, has done and has improved the lives of Nigerians is not sincere. Jonathan obviously has the potentials to do more compared to previous administrations. Such misgiving coming from opposition politicians is quite understandable, but from a professor, it is very sad and disappointing.

NMA strike: Zamfara doctors shun hospitals Yin $ Yang says: The federal government was supposed to take the bull (NMA/NARD) by the horn but they decided to hold it by the tail so the bull is actively destroying the crops (healthcare).

We need people that understand the system and who are sincerely interested in working for Nigeria, whoever advised the president on the suspension of the residency training does not love Nigerians.

Niger east byeelection: APC crisis deepens, chieftains to defect to PDP Cbarlesbank C says: Without being partisan, I agree that the APC and their controlled states have the machinery to impoverish the citizens/ residents.

They are anti-people. Their states are

Nasiru El Rufai

Nuhu Ribadu

neck deep in corruption. Their leaders are experts in peddling propaganda. APC cries more than the bereaved just to curry favour from the non-discerning electorate.

Unfortunately, wise idiots in the PDP cannot read the handwriting on the wall.

Members of the APC are political harlots seeking relevance.

the propaganda attached to the birth of these ethnic nations, we have been killing ourselves.

Therefore, there has been the rising tide of ethnic and clannish nationalism which have been killing Nigeria and her people.

This is the danger we are facing now.

PEACE IN NORTH NOW!

Adamawa: Jonathan meets PDP governors, officials

The masters of this ethnic gospel are perhaps in a position to withstand the vigours of ethnic nationalism.

According to a study, there are about 240 ethnic groups in Nigeria, with as many as 400 clans. Of the 240, the north has a share of 100.

However, in a statement to western leaders of thought in August 1966, Chief Awolowo identified what he called the major component parts of Nigeria and 10 minor components of which 32 were in the north and nine in the east. Whatever the number, or what he meant by component, the point is that the greater number of Nigerian tribes and components are in the north.

Innocent Maduka Okoro says: The president should order the immediate reinstatement of Onyebuchi, the former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, whose impeachment was sponsored

by Governor Sullivan Chime.

Onyebuchi was impeached because he is nursing the ambition of representing Enugu East in the Senate in 2015 and will be running against Chime’s candidate, Ify Nwobodo.

President Goodluck should ensure that Chime never gets the PDP ticket to contest the senatorial election in 2015 because the electorate don’t trust him.

Boko Haram getting bolder and stronger-APC tells Jonathan Bakane says: Today, Nigeria is an uncertain country with an uncertain future. Only the Almighty Allah holds the key to what may become of her tomorrow. The future remains predictably uncertain and very worrisome.

Worse is that many have never had hope in the country. Some Nigerians insist that their tribal identity comes first before their national identity and this is being preached by the well informed. You do not need to be told that Nigeria has no patriots but tribalists.

When those who influence public opinion are the choir masters of such ethnic doctrine, as a political philosophical belief, then we don’t need to be told who have been systematically working against our national interest.

So we have the Igbo nation, the Yoruba nation, the Ijaw nation, the Gwari nation and several others. The attachment to these “nations” is greater than the attachment to the true Nigerian nation. Indeed, with

Moses Ola-Olu Famuyiwa says: We cannot have such a leader in this generation, those that are making attempts to solve our problems are being called names, as they did during Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s time.

Fintiri not qualified to contest – Gulak Engr Ben says: When a man carries two things on his hands to climb a tree, he will not only fall off but those things will slip off his palms.

Besides, he will end up achieving nothing.

Fintiri is a greedy politician, he believed impeaching Nyako will make him the governor. His days are numbered.

Akunyili: A leading light has gone out Google says: Truly, what we do while we are alive bears eloquent testimony to our person long after we have been dead. The many testimonies for the dead Akunyili are evidence of this. She was indeed a great woman.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 42

Interview

Confab cannot create states, says ex-Deputy Gov. Chief Sule Iyaji was the Deputy Governor of the old Benue state (before Kogi state was created) and a delegate to the just concluded sixth National Conference. He took time off to speak on few recommendations including state creation and the essence of the conference noting that the Confab lacks the legal authority to create states. He believes the president is not barred by the constitution to do anything that would promote the corporate unity of Nigeria including engineering a referendum, where necessary. He spoke with Assistant Editor, Patrick Andrew and sundry other matters. Here are excerpts….

W

hat were the most remarkable recommendations of the 2014 conference?

Well, many were pessimistic that the conference was not going to be a success. No matter how laudable an idea is pessimists will object but I am happy to say that such pessimism has been proved wrong. The conference was a great success as you could see the 494 delegates became closer, were more patriotic and had greater determination to form one strong country.

So by and large, I will say it was a grand success.

On the most outstanding achievements of the conference, I will say one: All delegates expressed the desire for the oneness of the country which is very important and critical. There was no tendency towards disuniting this country, no tendency towards reshaping in a way that there will be a long term drift towards separation. What we noticed was a lot of commitment towards forming a viable union.

The recommendations that I consider very important was the indivisibility of the entity called Nigeria. Secondly, all recommendations, if you examine them closely, are focused on bringing about a more harmonious, more workable structure for this country and for ensuring structural developments for this country. There were areas where the recommendations tend to be legislative which means that’s for implementation go through an arm of government that has the power which is the National Assembly. I do believe that the President will do this either through a referendum or through handling the document to the NASS for deliberation, it is my hope that all persons that shall be involved will be patriotic enough to pursue what is good and progressive for Nigeria.

Sir, but referendum has no constitutional provision and besides many are afraid that the members of the NASS may be opposed to the recommendations considering the conference as usurpation of their functions?

Yes, if you go through the constitution, there is no specific provision for a referendum. But if you look at the functions of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he is at liberty to do anything that will promote the corporate existence of this country, promote the unity of this country.

So if he deems it appropriate to call for a referendum, there is no specific provision in the constitution that bars him from doing so. It is only the recommendations of the conference that has to do with changing the constitution that he cannot pursue because he leads one arms of the government.

Hence, aside from the strict matters of constitution amendment which rests with the NASS, others are recommendations which border on executive implementation, not requiring making a new law. In such areas, the president is at liberty to, in consultation with his cabinet and the Council of State, to go ahead and implement these recommendations.

Towards the end of the life of the sixth National Conference, there

Chief Sule Iyaji , former Deputy Governor were some agitations especially with the emergence of a new draft constitution, some thought that it was indirect introduction of a third term agenda. Could you shade light on this agitation and the suspicion therein?

Third term agenda simply borders on speculation. It was clearly speculative.

There was no inkling towards third term.

As a delegate, I did not see any inkling towards a third term agenda in the whole thing. Some were suspicious though and the example which they implied was that there had been in our judicial system a declaration that if somebody had held an office during a particular dispensation, he can count what he is enjoying now as the first since it is outside of what he enjoyed during an earlier dispensation.

This analysis was drawn from the case of Prince Abubakar Audu, the former Executive Governor of Kogi state. He had operated as governor from 1991 to 1993 but that administration ended and then came

“

another administration from 1999 to 2003 and he wanted to contest again in 2003 but some people said that will amount to a third term counting from the 1991-1993, 1999 to 2003 and likely from 2003 to 2007, it would have meant his enjoying three tenures.

Those who were championing that say we were preparing ground for the president and some governors to enjoy third term. I call it speculative because the situation is not exactly the same in that Abubakar did his first tenure under a military regime but you can’t add that to a civilian democratic dispensation, they did not tarry.

I want to say that anybody who is vying for a position in 2015 it is either a first tenure or a second tenure. At no point in our history shall we regard the period from 1999 to 2003, then to 2007 and from then to 2011 and down to 2015 as separate situations since these are being conducted by a civilian administration. It means then that you cannot liken them to the situation that people are speculating.

The conference was meant to strengthen bond but it seems there were disconnect because of dominant regional positions during debates?

It is true that some sections of the country prior to the convocation of the conference had sectional agendas. That is expected because people in any union and at such forum do have leanings. This is expected because they would want to draw up programme that would be of benefit to them. But the important thing is this when the aggregate of Nigerians gathered to discuss issues it is the consensus of the generality of the people that would form the major decision. For instance, some people may have decided to canvass for the excision of two or three states out of Nigeria to form a new country, but when they are swallowed by the conference and they discovered that their voice can only constitute seven percent that idea will die automatic death. So in essence, anybody was free to conceive of how he wanted Nigeria to be restructured but the issue is when all meet to consider options proffered will that stand the test of time?

Yes, before the conference people had various ideas and agenda but on the floor of the conference sectional interests never carried the day, even anybody that wanted to tow a line that will dismember the country

Each time an election year approaches people are used to postulating that it is going to be hell, it is going to controversial, it is going to be war. But experience has shown that it will come and it will go and it will be peaceful. I belong to the group that believes that 2015 will come, elections will be held, winners will emerged and Nigeria will continue.

was cut down within seconds because that was not our objective. So the unity we came up with in the conference reflected the desire of Nigerians to stay together as one body. Some wanted regionalism, others wanted confederation or this and that but it never sailed through. Any pocket of people can come with wishful thinking but the question is this, when tabled on a platform like the conference can they carry the day?

Some have said that the conference did not benefit them in any way in areas like state creation, the Igalas for example, what is your reaction to this?

Firstly, delegates from that part of Nigeria first operated as Kogi state delegates and of course it was only natural that we had a briefing from the state and in fact, we had some chat with the Executive Governor, Captain Idris Wada. Kogi state definitely had a stand on national issues and pointed out what could be the highlight of what we should strive for but there was no directive to divide Kogi state rather we had a mandate to unite the state.

Secondly, before you can succeed in such a venture as state creation, you needed absolute unity. If you were talking about a state you would have settled what should constitute a state, would have known the capital of the state, and also the desire on the reasonable percentage of the people concern to have a state. So since these were not in place attaining it would have been difficult. Similarly, there was this condition that a community from a state that desired to form would-be should such a portion become a state the remaining portion can it constitute a state? Would it be viable? It is important because there is the need for reciprocal viability.

The issue of agitation for state creation will continue to be there in the polity.

During the civilian administration, we don’t have record of civilian government creating state, all the states were created by the military. Will this administration creates states, well that will be left for history. I want to say that the creation of state cannot be done by a batch of unelected forum- the National Conference, it cannot be done. You will have to resort to the more precise procedure for the creation of state, you have to resort to it implying that you go to the National Assembly. The National Conference couldn’t have finalized on state creation. Whatever recommendations the conference had made are subject to procedures laid down in the constitution.

Don’t forget please.

2015 is fast approaching, what is your word to politicians?

2015 is designated as an election year in this country. Each time an election year approaches people are used to postulating that it is going to be hell, it is going to be controversial, it is going to be war. But experience has shown that it will come and it will go and it will be peaceful. I belong to the group that believes that 2015 will come, elections will be held, winners will emerged and Nigeria will continue. However, one would caution that we are hoping that distractions like the Boko Haram should abate.

Politicians need to be more patriotic in carrying out their electioneering campaigns and they should learn to accept both defeat and victory as the case may be. I do believe that we will surmount the intricacies and associated problems of elections in 2015.

We have the capacity to do that and we will do it.

PAGE 43

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY - SUNDAY , SEPTEMBER 6-7, 2014

Political News

... many jostle to replace Nyako Contd from Page 18 On that day, the vehicular traffic of his supporters from the Yola International Airport was indeed unprecedented as people from walks of life were on hand to welcome their gubernatorial hopeful and by 3:00 pm when his plane landed the train moved to the Peoples Democratic Party secretariat along Galadima Aminu way in style.

BARRISTER AHMED ALIYU GULAK: Ahmed Gulak, who, until recently was one of the most powerful Abuja-based politicians from Adamawa state, had set up machinery to achieve his governorship aspiration, and has even look beyond the party primaries, until he was unceremoniously sent packing from the presidency. The celebration of his exit by youths across the state may have sent a big message to him.

With the difference, between him and the presidency, it is obvious that the once powerful politician may have ended. But Ahmed as a person was quick to say that he was relieved of his position to enable him focus on his governorship ambition.

Gulak said Adamawa has been left behind and needs a man like him to salvage the state from total collapse because of the neglect of the past administration.

BARRISTER JERRY KUNDISI: Barrister Jerry Kundisi, a serving member of the state House of Assembly, who will be banking on his vast experience in the state House of Assembly to pick the ticket but keen watchers of Adamawa politics say the man popularly known as “Uncle Senior Bachelor” has no justification to contest for the exalted office. That appellation conveys some light heartedness with which he is regarded.

MALLAM NUHU RIBADU: The former chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC was formerly in All Progressives Congress until recently when he decamped to PDP and has declared his intention to contest for the Dougirei Government House .

Although his departure was not without protest from old members of the party because to them their party constitution has spelt out that newcomers can only contest if given waiver by the NWC of the party.

But political watchers in the state believe that Ribadu’s body language connotes that he may likely be an anointed candidate

Dr. Idi Hong

backed by the national leadership of the party and the presidency.

RT. HON. AHMADU UMARU FINTIRI: the Acting governor Adamawa state has also joined the guber race which many people described as taking the right step in the right direction because some people see him as God sent.

Fintiri, until his emergence as acting governor was the Speaker House Assembly and played major role in removing former governor Nyako and his deputy, Barrister Ngillari, from office for alleged gross misconduct.

He told the party leadership while submitting his intent expression/ nomination forms that the people pressurised him contesty in order to correct the anomalies in governance. “We are in a competitive world presently and the pace must be set so that posterity would accord them good judgement.”

Fintiri’s modest achievements in office for the little period like payment of outstanding salary arrears to civil servants, rehabilitation of street lights and repairs on road networks in the metropolitan endears him to the people of the state.

GEN. ALIYU KAMA: is also part of the struggle for the governorship seat in Adamawa State. Even though political analysts see him as a stakeholder in the political arena but observed that he is unpopular because he does not feature in political activities in the state.

However on the other divide, All Progressives Party (APC) has the following aspirants: SENATOR JIBRILLA MUHAMMADU BINDOW: Bindow is believed to be a major contender in the race because of his achievements in his Senatorial District where his popularity and acceptability knows no bound.

Senator Bindow as a young, vibrant and enterprising politician, said at his declaration that the elders have governed for a very long time in the state, that it is only fair for the youth to be tested in governance.

Political pundits are of the opinion that Senator Bindow is a candidates to beat.

SENATOR AHMAD HASSAN BARATA: Is a serving member of the national assembly and is also a grassroots politician and the people believe his vast experience as a legislature will give him an

Engr. Markus Gundiri

edge over the rest of the aspirants.

HON. IBRAHIM MIJINYAWA YAYAJI: Is the immediate past party chairman of Peoples Democratic Movement, PDM and former Executive Chairman of Yola North Local Government Area in Adamawa State, declared his interest to aspire for the Governorship of Adamawa state under the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC).

While declaring his aspiration at the state party secretariat in Yola Adamawa State capital, Mijinyawa said he was motivated to join the race by the public who appreciates of his selfless service as a former councilor and local government chairman of Yola North metropolis.

He said he has what it takes and would bring his experience to bear in transforming the state stressing that his pedigree as a former council boss will serve as an agent of change.

“I will not disappoint you. You voted me a councilor 24 years ago and I delivered.

You voted me Local Government chairman of Yola North metropolis 11 years ago and I delivered, if by the grace of God you vote me in as Governor of Adamawa state I will not disappoint you”, Mijinyawa said.

MR. YAKUBU TSALLA: Tsalla is former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s associate and a defendable confident especially in his business world.

A gubernatorial hopeful in the forth coming by-election in Adamawa State Tsalla, under the platform of All Progressives Congress, has vowed that if given the mandate he will ensure party supremacy and vibrancy so that the party can grow from strength to strength.

“When elected I will ensure party supremacy in any decision including appointments to be taken by my administration.

“There will be no more appointments or awarding of contracts without consultation with the party leadership. Politicians must carry the party along”, Tsalla said.

Tsalla said at the APC secretariat in Yola while submitting his intent expression and nomination forms to the leadership of the party that Adamawa has been neglected for many years and it was time for good hands to salvage the state.

ALHAJI DAHIRU BOBBO: Is also another close ally to Atiku and has contested in the previous governorship elections in the state and many described him as a humble and dedicated man who can use his wealth of experience as a retired civil servant and educationist to govern Adamawa if given the mandate.

DR. SIMON BAWA: Dr. Bawa is a sole aspirant under the platform of the PDP. Bawa has observed that the major political parties (PDP and APC) have polluted the political atmosphere in the state by using money to bribe the electorates.

Political analysts in the state said Bawa is a young politician who is still growing.

He has expressed boldness by showing interest to govern the state but some were quick to describe him as a new comer into politics and should wait and learn how it is played.

As the situation is with all the above gladiators showing their interests in occupying the exalted seat of the Dougirei government House Yola, only time can tell.

modest achievements “ Fintiri’s in office for the little period like payment of outstanding

salary arrears to civil servants, rehabilitation of street lights and repairs on road networks in the metropolitan endears him to the people of the state.

Sen. Hassan Barata

Sen. Jibrilla Bindaw

PAGE 44

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Archive

Libya:

Gaddafi’s Last Testament

By Muammar Gaddafi, April 17, 2011.

In the name of Allah, the beneficent, the merciful…

F

or 40 years, or was it longer, I can’t remember, I did all I could to give people houses, hospitals, schools, and when they were hungry, I gave them food. I even made Benghazi into farmland from the desert.

I stood up to attacks from that cowboy Ronald Reagan, when he killed my adopted orphaned daughter, he was trying to kill me, instead he killed that poor innocent child. Then I helped my brothers and sisters from Africa with money for the African Union.

I did all I could to help people Understand the concept of real democracy, where people’s committees ran our country. But that was never enough, as some told me, even people who had 10 room homes, new suits and furniture, were never satisfied, as selfish as they were they wanted more.

They told Americans and other visitors, that they needed “democracy” and “freedom” never realizing it was a cut throat system where “the biggest dog eats the rest”, but they were enchanted with those words, never realizing that in America, there was no free medicine, no free hospitals, no free housing, no free education and no free food, except when people had to beg or go to long lines to get soup.

No matter what I did, it was never enough for some, but for others, they knew I was the son of Gamal Abdel Nasser, the only true Arab and Muslim leader we’ve had since Salahal-Deen, when he claimed the Suez Canal for his people, as I claimed

Late Col. Muammar Gaddafi Libya, for my people, it was his footsteps I tried to follow, to keep my people free from colonial domination

– from thieves who would steal from us.

Now, I am under attack by the

biggest force in military history, my little African son, Obama wants to kill me, to take away the freedom of our country, to take away our free housing, our free medicine, our free education, our free food, and replace it with American style thievery called “capitalism”, but all of us in the Third World know what that means, it means corporations run the countries, run the world, and the people suffer.

So, there is no alternative for me, I must make my stand, and if Allah wishes, I shall die by following His path, the path that has made our country rich with farmland, with food and health, and even allowed us to help our African and Arab brothers and sisters.

I do not wish to die, but if it comes to that, to save this land, my people, all the thousands who are all my children, then so be it.

Let this testament be my voice to the world, that I stood up to crusader attacks of NATO, stood up to cruelty, stoop up to betrayal, stood up to the West and its colonialist ambitions, and that I stood with my African brothers, my true Arab and Muslim brothers, as a beacon of light.

When others were building castles, I lived in a modest house, and in a tent. I never forgot my youth in Sirte, I did not spend our national treasury foolishly, and like Salah-alDeen, our great Muslim leader, who rescued Jerusalem for Islam, I took little for myself…

In the West, some have called me “mad”, “crazy”, but they know the truth yet continue to lie, they know that our land is independent and free, not in the colonial grip, that my vision, my path, is, and has been clear and for my people and that I will fight to my last breath to keep us free, may Allah almighty help us to remain faithful and free – Mu’ammar Qaddafi.

Facts about Libya under Muammar Gaddafi • There was no electricity bills in Libya; electricity is free … for all its citizens.

• There was no interest on loans, banks in Libya are state-owned and loans given to all its citizens at 0% interest by law.

“ Malik Obama with the President

• If a Libyan is unable to find employment after graduation, the state would pay the average salary of the profession as if he or she is employed until employment is found.

• Should Libyans want to take up a farming career, they receive farm land, a house, equipment, seed and livestock to kick start their farms – this was all for free.

• Gaddafi carried out the world’s largest irrigation project, known as the Great Man-Made River project, to make water readily available throughout the desert country.

• A home was considered a human right in Libya. (In Qaddafi’s Green Book it states: “The house is a basic need of both the individual and the family, therefore it should not be owned by others.”)

• All newlyweds in Libya would receive 60,000 Dinar (US$ 50,000 ) by the government to buy their first apartment so to help start a family.

• A portion of Libyan oil sales is or was credited directly to the bank accounts of all Libyan citizens.

• A mother who gives birth to a child would receive US $5,000.

• When a Libyan buys a car, the government would subsidize 50% of the price.

• The price of petrol in Libya was $0.14 per liter.

• For $ 0.15, a Libyan local could purchase 40 loaves of bread.

• Education and medical treatments was all free in Libya.

Libya can boast one of the finest health care systems in the Arab and African World. All people have access to doctors, hospitals, clinics and medicines, completely free of charge.

• If Libyans cannot find the education or medical facilities they need in Libya, the government would fund them to go abroad for it – not only free but they get US $2,300/ month accommodation and car allowance.

• 25% of Libyans have a university degree. Before Gaddafi only 25% of Libyans were literate. Today the figure is 87%.

• Libya had no external debt and its reserves amount to $150 billion – though much of this is now frozen globally. newsrescue.com/

I never forgot my youth in Sirte, I did not spend our national treasury foolishly, and like Salahal-Deen, our great Muslim leader, who rescued Jerusalem for Islam, I took little for myself…

PAGE 45

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Digest What do you eat every day? doctors, nutritionists, and personal trainers weigh in

By K. Aleisha Fetters

T

here’s a reason online grocery stores come with a “favorites” list: Because no matter how much our taste buds love variety, we’re creatures of habit. Just take a look into your fridge. It probably packs the same foods it did last week and the week before that.

So we polled the experts—from nutritionists and personal trainers to physicians—on the foods they eat as often as possible. You might want to consider adding them to your healthy-eating routine.

“The food I find myself most frequently eating is Quest Protein Bars. It’s like the only constant in my life. With clients and meetings and everything else going on, I pack several in my backpack, so when I know I need to eat I just have one of those to hold me over.

They have 20 grams of protein, are high in fiber, have no added sugars, and they taste amazing.

My favorite flavor is Cinnamon Roll.”

Mike Donavanik, C.S.C.S., C.P.T., a Beverly Hills-based personal trainer: My favorite all-around food is grass-fed beef. Leaner cuts such as strip, top round, and flank have less saturated fat and cholesterol, but grass-fed beef is lower in fat anyway and has high amounts of omega 3s, conjugated linoleic acid, and carnitine. Grass-fed beef is delicious and very satisfying,

Dan Wake, a traditional Hausa delicacy triggering satiety hormones in the gut. No wonder our early ancestors thrived on grass fed beef!”

Sue Decotiis, M.D., a medical weight-loss physician in NYC: “I think almond butter is the perfect food, providing essential fats, fiber, and protein. Plus, it goes with all the other food groups—at least for me. I put it on bananas, celery, whole-grain bread, and even in

my yogurt. My only problem is that it’s hard to stay with the twotablespoons serving size!”

Jim White, R.D., a health and fitness-certified specialist and owner of Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios: “It’s cliche but I try to get a salad in every day at lunch, mostly because dinners are either social activities or grab-and-go items in-between clients. If I get a big salad at lunch, at least I know

I got a few servings of vegetables in! My favorite dressing: curry hummus! Take regular hummus and thin it with a bit of water or lemon juice. Add a pinch of curry powder and whisk together.

Not only is this low fat, but the added curry spice packs in extra antioxidants!”

Alexandra Caspero, R.D., owner of weightmanagement and sportsnutrition service Delicious-

Knowledge.com: “I have somehow been able to fit in either almond butter or peanut butter every day… whether that’s on toast or off of a small spoon. I also usually eat a plate of arugula with olive oil at least once a day! I just love it! I top it with chickpeas or gorgonzola cheese depending on my mood.”

Jaime Mass, R.D.N., L.D.N., owner of Jaime Mass Nutritionals LLC: “Granted I’m mostly Italian, but all my friends all love this too when I make it for them. I go nuts over this flatbread sweet pepper pepperoni pizza I make that’s crazy healthy and delicious at the same time.

It is relatively low in calories, saturated fat, carbohydrates and glycemic load.

At the same time, it’s high in protein so it makes me feel fuller, helps build muscle and helps preserve lean mass if I’m trying to lose weight. And, yes, it is possible to eat delicious pepperoni pizza every day and lose weight!”

Christopher Ochner, Ph.D., obesity researcher at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai: “Although not necessarily a food, I can always be seen sipping tea. Black and green teas offer me a caffeine fix in the morning, while herbal teas throughout the day help keep my hydrated. Plus, they are quite tasty!” yahoo.com

The truth about the food additive MSG F

By Keith Mulvihill

or years, consumers in the United States have shunned the food additive monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is used as a flavor enhancer in a wide variety of foods around the world. Most consumers know that it may turn up in Chinese food, but the additive may also be found in products including canned vegetables and processed meats. This week, the American Chemical Society (ACS) attempted to change minds with a video that claims to debunk the longstanding notion that MSG is unhealthy.

“Few ingredients come with as much baggage as monosodium glutamate,” writes the ACS in a press release. “More commonly known as MSG, the compound has had a bad reputation for nearly 50 years. In this week’s video, we debunk MSG myths and explain why the scientific consensus is that this flavor enhancer, known for its savory umami flavor, is perfectly safe for the vast majority of people.”

So what do the experts have to say? The Food and Drug Administration “considers the addition of MSG to foods to be ‘generally recognized as safe’ (GRAS). Although many people identify themselves as sensitive to MSG, in studies with such individuals given MSG or a placebo, scientists have not

been able to consistently trigger reactions,” according to the agency’s website. The FDA also offers a fact sheet on the additive, in which the agency helpfully points out that “glutamate or glutamic acid have nothing to do with gluten.”

A 2008 study published in the journal Obesity, however, came to the conclusion that MSG may increase the likelihood of being overweight. The study evaluated 752 men and women living in villages located in northern and southern China, where the use of MSG in cooking is common. The researchers found that those that used the most MSG in cooking were also more likely to be overweight. However, it should be noted that the researchers were able to establish an association between MSG and being overweight, a clear cause and effect was not established. “MSG is not toxic,” the lead author Dr. Ka He told the New York Times at the time. “But now the question is: Is it healthy?

This study is a warning that we should be cautious,” added Dr. "MSG isn’t a concern for most people, but some people are sensitive to large amounts of MSG, and careful studies exist that back this up,” said Lisa Lefferts, a senior scientist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, in an interview with Yahoo Health. > Lefferts said that researchers

lack studies that show that smaller, or low doses, of MSG cause problems. “But that doesn’t mean the people who claim to be sensitive to low doses are crazy or are lying,” she added.

When Katherine Zeratsky, a nutritionist at the Mayo Clinic took on the subject in a blog post

on the organization’s website, she noted that there have been anecdotes about adverse health reactions including headache, flushing, sweating, fluttering heartbeats (heart palpitations), and nausea, among others.

“However, researchers have found no definitive evidence of

a link between MSG and these symptoms,” wrote Zeratsky. “Researchers acknowledge, though, that a small percentage of people may have short-term reactions to MSG.” Zeratsky notes that “symptoms are usually mild and don’t require treatment,” but adds, “The only way to prevent a reaction is to avoid foods containing MSG.” The good news for anyone who is concerned about MSG is that it is fairly easy to avoid. The FDA requires that foods containing MSG must list the ingredient on the packaging as monosodium glutamate. But, be warned: The agency also points out that “MSG occurs naturally in ingredients such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed yeast, yeast extract, soy extracts, and protein isolate, as well as in tomatoes and cheeses.” > In those cases, while the FDA requires “that these products be listed on the ingredient panel, the agency does not require the label to also specify that they naturally contain MSG,” it notes in its fact sheet. However, foods with any ingredient that naturally contains MSG cannot make the claim of “No MSG” or “No added MSG” on the packaging. Also, per FDA regulations, MSG can’t be included under the mysterious “spices and flavoring” category either. yahoo.com

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6-7, 2014

PAGE 46

International Prophet Muhammad’s prediction of Endtimes chaos in Iraq, Syria, Palestine, Egypt

S

everal predictions of the prophet of Islam, Mohammed (p) detail the ongoing catastrophic events in Syria (Part of Sham) and Iraq.

“There will be such troubles and calamities that nobody will have a place to shelter from them.

These calamities will travel around Sham (countries in the middle east including Syria, Jordan, Palestine etc) and settle over Iraq. They will bind the Arabian peninsula… As they attempt to eliminate these calamities in one place they will arise in another.”

(Kenzul Ummal, Book of Some Thoughts on Doomsday, Vol. 5, p.

38-39).

not end until angels calls out from the sky “The Mahdi is your leader. The Mahdi is your caliph.

(Mustafa Resit Filizi, Treatise on the Coming of the Mahdi, p. 63) The Coming of Messiah ‘Isa/ Jesus (as) Allah will send ‘Isa (as) son of Maryam to Earth. He will descend with two angels wearing two beautiful garments in his palms to the white minaret in the east of Sham. (Tirmidhi, Fitan, p. 59) Later, Prophet ‘Isa (as) will descend to the white minaret in the east of Damascus (Sham). The imam will withdraw, and Prophet ‘Isa (as) will go to the fore and lead the people in prayer. (Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi, The Conquests of Mecca, 366. Vol. 3, p. 327).

The Appearance of the Mahdi An army bearing black standards will appear from the east, … when you see them, swear loyalty at once, even if you have to crawl over snow!” he said.

“Because that is the Mahdi, the caliph of Allah.” (Ibn Majah; The Book of Strife, 4084)

This Hadith (narrations and recordings of the Prophet) points to the type of recalcitrant chaos that has been erupting in these states and settling over Iraq and Syria.

Another from the same book goes: “Doomsday will not take place until Iraq is attacked. And innocent people will seek places to shelter in Sham. Sham will be reconstructed and Iraq will be reconstructed.”

Another describes “foreign intervention” taking over Iraq, Sham and Egypt. It refers to their “currencies being denied.”

Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Iraq is denied it dirhams and qafiz; Syria would withhold its mudd and dinar and Egypt would withhold its irdab and dinar and you would recoil to that position from where you started and you would recoil to that position from where you started and you would recoil to that position from where you started, the bones and the flesh of Abu Huraira would bear testimony to it. (Sahih Muslim Book 041, Hadith Number 6923.)

The people of Iraq will be divided into three groups. One part will join the looters. One part will leave their families behind and flee. One part will fight and be killed. Prepare yourselves for doomsday when you see this.

(Fera Idu Fevaidi’l Fiqr Fi’l Imam al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar) Will it End? How and When?

And we can sit tight because the predictions ultimately declare that the chaos in the Middle East will not end till the second coming of Jesus the Messiah and the Mahdi As the strife calms down in one place in Sham (countries in the middle east including Syria, Jordan, Palestine etc), it will rise up in another. The strife will

The Swearing of Allegiance to the Mahdi The caliphate will then come to the Mahdi, the most auspicious person on Earth, as he sits at home. (Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, AlBurhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir al-Zaman p. 26) Allegiance will be sworn to him between the Pillar and the Stone… (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl al-Mukhtasar fi Alamat al-Mahdi al-Muntazar, p. 42) The Mahdi will sit between the Pillar and the Stone and will accept oaths of allegiance by stretching out his hand. (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl alMukhtasar fi Alamat al-Mahdi alMuntazar, p. 39-40) The Migration of the Mahdi He will migrate to Jerusalem.

After this emigration Medina will be destroyed and be the home of wild people. (Portents of Doomsday, Barzanji, p. 162) They will wage war against the army of the Sufyan, but the Sufyan will be victorious. The Hashimite will flee. Shuaib bin Salih will hide and come to Jerusalem, and when the Mahdi reaches Sham he will prepare a house for him in

Division of Iraq Into Three Jerusalem. (Nuaym bin Hammad, Book of Strife, p. 57) According to Nuaym, reported from Selman b. Isa: “The Mahdi will remain 14

years in Jerusalem… (Yusuf elMakdisi, Fera Idu Fevaidi’l Fikr Fi’l Imam El-Mahdi El-Muntazar) The Mahdi Will Unearth the Ark of the Covenant; Jews eagerly seek this Ark Jewish artistic representation of the Ark of covenant He will unearth the Ark of the Covenant in the Antioch cave. He will unearth the true Torah from the mountain in Sham, and at this he will debate with the Jews and many Jews will become Muslims.

(Treatise on the Coming of the Mahdi, p. 124-125) The Mahdi will bring forth the Ark of the Covenant from the Lake of Tiberius. (Iqd al-Durar fi Akbar al-Imam al-Muntadhar,

by Shaikh Jamaluddin Yusuf alDamishqi, p. 51-) The reason why he is known as the Mahdi is that he shows the path of a secret thing. He will unearth the Ark of the Covenant from a place known as Antioch.

(Suyuti, al-Hawi li’l Fatawa, II, 82) The Mahdi Will Join Forces With Christian Leaders and Create an Islamic Union That individual’s (the Mahdi’s) third duty will be to join forces with Christian spiritual leaders and serve Islam by building a caliphate of Islam, an Islamic Union. (To unite Islamic society and make an alliance with the Christian world) (Book of Hidden

Things, p. 9, Bediuzzaman Said Nursi) The Appearance of the Mahdi with Sacred Relics The Mahdi will appear in the evening time with the banner, shirt, sword, signs, light and pleasant speech of our Prophet (saas). (Ali b. Sultan Muhammed el- Kari el-Hanefi, ‘Risaletül Meşreb elverdi fi mezhebül Mahdi’) He will produce the treasures of Jerusalem, the Ark of the Covenant, the table of the People of Israel and the tablets, the jacket of Prophet Adem (as), the staff of the Prophet Sulayman (as) and the milk-white gloves sent by Allah to the People of Israel.” (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl alMukhtasar fi Alamat al-Mahdi alMuntazar, p. 33) The Mahdi’s spiritual capture of Istanbul Allah will capture Constantinople (Istanbul) by the hand of His beloved friends … He will lift sickness and sorrow from

them. (Portents of Doomsday, p.

181) Countries will pass under his command.

Allah will favor him with the capture of

to catch him. He finally catches and destroys him at the Gate of the city of Lut (Palestine).(Ibn Majah, Strife, p. 33) Ebu Hureyre relates: The

Constantinople. (Al-Muttaqi alHindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat alMahdi Akhir al-Zaman, p. 56) It is reported from Ibni Amr that; Our Prophet (saas) said: O People! There are six things without which doomsday will not come … (the sixth is) the capture of the city.

- Which city? He was asked Constantinople, he replied. (*) This is the capture of Constantinople by the Mahdi.

(Portents of Doomsday, 204, Ramuz-el Ehadis, 296) Dajjal According to Abu Huraira, the Prophet (saas) said: … The Dajjal will appear when they come to the land of Sham (Jerusalem). (Muslim, Strife, p.

34) The Prayer to Be Performed by Prophet ‘Isa (as) and the Mahdi The call is read for the morning prayer. At that point ‘Isa (as) son of Maryam will descend.

The Mahdi will suggest he serve as imam. But he will point to the Mahdi.” (Muslim, Strife, p. 34) In İmam Ebu Amr Osman b.

Said El-Makarri’s “The Sunna:” according to a report by Jabir b.

Abdullah, the Prophet (saas) said: A group from my community will always wage war for the truth.

Finally ‘Isa (as) son of Maryam will appear in Jerusalem at dawn.

They will say to him: “O Prophet of Allah! Come to the fore and lead us in prayer.” He will reply: “This is such a community that some are appointed over others.”(AlUqayli, An-Najmu’s-saqib fi Bayan Anna’l Mahdi min Awladi Ali b. Abu Talib Ale’t-Tamam ve’l Qamal) The Prophet ‘Isa/Jesus the Messiah (as) Will Destroy the Dajjal …The Prophet ‘Isa (as) wishes

Prophet (saas) of Allah said: “… When the enemy of Allah (the Dajjal) sees Prophet ‘Isa (as) he will dissolve like salt dissolves in water. If let to himself he will dissolve until he is destroyed.

However, Allah will kill him with his mighty hand, so that he will show them the blood on his spear.

(Muslim, Strife, p. 34) As it is clear from the above hadiths, different sources are in agreement on the same region.

In all the hadith sources and the works of Islamic scholars, the common location indicated in the End Times is the Middle East.

Jewish and Christian sources also confirm this.

There are a great many regions that can all be considered important from various points of view; however, there is only this particular region emphasized in all these sources. That fact is that the Middle East region, which contains cities so frequently referred to in the hadiths concerning the End Times, is a holy one in which the holy prophets of Allah have lived throughout the course of history. This region has witnessed the birth of the three monotheistic religions and, it is the location of constructed sites sacred to those three religions.

It would seem, in the light of the hadiths of our Prophet (saas), that a region which has played such an important role on the stage of history will continue to maintain its importance in the End Times, when such momentous events will take place. One of the duties befalling us, witnesses to the End Times that have already begun, must be to impart these joyous tidings to all Muslims and to all humanity. newsrescue.com

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 48

Business Bob Diamond’s Business group seeks delay in take Africa bank buys stake in off of Nigeria’s automotive policy Nigeria’s UBN Atlas Mara, the African investment vehicle of former Barclays boss Bob Diamond, has lifted its stake in Union Bank of Nigeria to almost 30 percent with a $270 million investment that is its biggest deal to date.

It marks the third significant acquisition by Atlas Mara, set up last year by Diamond and Africa-based entrepreneur Ashish Thakkar with a goal to become Africa’s leading bank.

It raised $300 million last month to add to its acquisition war chest.

Atlas Mara said yesterday it was buying a 20.9 percent stake in UBN from Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (Amcon), taking its holding to 29.9 percent.

Reuters reported on Thursday Atlas Mara was in talks to buy the stake.

UBN has 340 branches across Nigeria and had about $6.3 billion of assets, $3.1 billion in deposits and $1.3 billion in equity at the end of June. Atlas Mara said it purchased the stake at about book value.

UBN was established as Colonial Bank in 1917, and from 1925 until the 1970s was owned by Barclays, the British bank that Diamond led before being ousted under a cloud two years ago. UBN’s market capitalisation is about $850 million.

“This is a very significant acquisition ... we will have a significant stake in a key Nigerian bank and we will also have established strategic market positions in three of Africa’s leading economic communities: the Southern Africa Development Community, the East Africa Community and Economic Community of West African States,” Diamond said in a statement.

Previous deals have given Atlas Mara a platform in several countries including Botswana, Mozambique and Tanzania.

It said in a prospectus published last month it was considering buying a minority stake in a bank in Nigeria, which is sub-Saharan Africa’s largest economy and one of its most attractive and fastgrowing markets for banking.

The prospectus said it could look to reach agreement with other investors “to provide a path to taking control” of its target bank.

UBN is majority owned

by Union Global Partners Ltd (UGPL), a consortium of investors including hedge fund Corsair Capital, African Capital Alliance and the Netherlands Development Finance Co., which stepped in to support it after a 2009 state bailout.

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leading member of Nigeria’s business group, the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), wants the government to delay the take off of the new Automotive Policy until March, 2015, according to local media reports.

The local Vanguard newspaper yesterday quoted the NACCIMA President, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, as saying that the delay would become necessary to enable stakeholders resolve the lingering controversies generated by the policy.

“It is also to reach a consensus on how to effectively implement the policy for the benefit of the sector’s investors and the economy at large, he said.

“Having reviewed the lingering controversies between government and auto industry stakeholders on the implementation take-off date of the new auto policy in Nigeria, the chamber wishes to add its voice by expressing some concerns on the short moratorium period given on the effective take-off date of the policy,” the chamber President said.

The implementation of the new automotive policy was to begin in the third quarter of 2014.

Last year, the Nigerian government introduced a new comprehensive auto policy, aimed at encouraging local production, discouraging import and encouraging backward integration.

But since the announcement, the policy has generated a lot of controversies and mixed

L-R: Dean of Students Affairs, Delta State University (DELSU), Prof Temi Akporhonor; 100-Level Industrial Chemistry student and winner of the brand new Hyundai i10, Prince McCarthy; Deputy Vice-Chancellor, DELSU, Prof. Chukwuemeka Aloamaka; and Analyst, Youth Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Michael Nwoseh at the Etisalat Cliqfest event in DELSU, recently inAbraka, Delta State increase in import duty on fully reactions from stakeholders in the inflation, among others.

“To ensure that the good built vehicles to 70% (35% duty automobile industry.

NACCIMA believes that if intention of government on 35% levy) from 22% (20% duty the policy is implemented at the this policy initiative becomes 2% levy), will place the cost of time the government wants it, it a reality if well harnessed and vehicles beyond the reach of will not only affect its members implemented and probity brought about 90% of Nigerians, increase to operate optimally but also to bear in the overall interest of all the cost of transportation by at negatively affect sustainable stakeholders, the citizens and the least 50%, increase inflation level, transformation of the economy as economy, we counsel that there is create huge gap between demand it would lead to fall in demand of need for the Federal Government and local supply capacity of to put its house in order before automobiles due to infrastructure imported used vehicles.

According to Abubakar, “This commencing full implementation challenges.

According to him, “Today, will invariably affect negatively of the policy.”

The chamber maintained supply stands at a pathetic the transportation sector; erode the welfare of the citizens by that if the policy implementation 45,000 units while demand reducing their purchasing power; begins before March 2015, it is stands at 800,000 units annually, activities from breed unnecessary monopoly due capable of further encouraging smuggling of cargoes to neighboring countries will boom, to privilege/insider information diversion especially from the Cotonou about the government neighboring countries.

NACCIMA said that the Port, with imported vehicles still policy; result in increase in unemployment, low income, implementation of the sharp dominating the market place.”

21 automakers to set up assembly plants in Nigeria

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total of 21 automobile dealerships in Nigeria have made commitments with some foreign technical partners to set up assembly operations in the country since the announcement of the new automotive policy last year.

This move, industry watchers say, will boost local automobile assembly and discourage influx of grey and parallel imports into the country.

The progress report made available to BusinessDay by the National Automotive Council (NAC) on the implementation of the new policy revealed that 21 companies have so far signed commitments with technical partners to set up assembly operations with product lines as follows: cars and Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) 5, pick-up trucks 4, mini-buses 6, buses 4, and trucks 8.

As at the time of filing this report, the current status of implementation indicates that all of the parties have obtained land or factories for assembly operations.

Also, while all the companies

except two have completed their feasibility studies, two of them have started building their factories. There are very strong indications that three will start assembly operations before the end of the year, while six have started already.

According to NAC, the existing assembly plants, such as Peugeot Automobiles of Nigeria (PAN), Innoson Vehicle Manufacturers and VON Nigeria, have new leases of life. While PAN resumed assembly of Peugeot cars last July, VON is assembling Nissan and Hyundai vehicles, and reliable sources say Innoson will start assembling cars this month.

On the other hand, Dana Motors has signed technical partnership agreements with Kia and Renault. The company is converting a warehouse in Isolo, Lagos, to serve as a semi-knocked-down (SKD) assembly plant. Assembly is expected to kick off this month.

Haulage transport businesses will receive a boost under Transit Support Services Limited, with the assembly of road tractors, lor-

ries and dump trucks, trailer bodies and tankers. Transit Support Services, a company owned by ABC Transport, recently signed an agreement with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Another company that has entered into discussions and feasibility studies to convert a former textile industry in Isolo to an SKD assembly plant is the Kewalram Chanrai Group.

Also, Coscharis Motors recently acquired several acres of land at Lekki, Lagos, for the building of Joylong brand of cars and mini-buses, with feasibility studies ongoing.

In terms of local content development and assembly plants, existing manufacturers under the aegis of the Automobile Local Content Manufacturers of Nigeria (ALCMAN) are being supported to serve assemblers.

Whereas capacity for certain low-tech components like seats, windscreens and chemicals already exists, a quality and technical audit of local component manufacturers has commenced. The

audit will provide the information needed to coordinate quality control systems to ensure that they meet the standards required by the assembly plants.

BusinessDay reliably gathered that NAC will be organising a business-to-business meeting between South African and Japanese automotive component manufacturers in October and November 2014, respectively. Other matchmaking opportunities with component manufacturers in India, Pakistan and Morocco are also being explored.

As more assembly plants move to CKD operations, opportunities for local content incorporation also increase proportionately.

Once local capacity is ascertained for the manufacture of components, such components will be removed from the SKD/CKD kits.

Jobs to be created will be proportional to the extent of assembly operations and local content incorporation. from 11 percent last week.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Business SCANDALOUS: Government brands National ID card with MasterCard’s logo

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he new Nigerian National Identity Cards launched Thursday by President Goodluck Jonathan, with branded logo of the American firm, MasterCard, have sparked outrage across the country amid fears of serious security and economic breach, with many Nigerians calling for an immediate stoppage of the deal.

According to Premiumtimes, Nigerians expressed shock and fury at how the Nigerian Government, through the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, would surrender a symbol of national sovereignty and pride to a foreign commercial organisation by not only sharing the biometrics of 170 million Nigerian to the firm but by also allowing the firm to boldly engrave its insignia on the IDs. Jonacard Many Nigerians raised the alarm over the implications of the agreement in an age that has seen intense data surveillance by the National Security Agency of the United States of America, Mastercard’s home country.

One commentator said allowing MasterCard’s emblem on the Nigerian National ID Card could only compare to the trans-Atlantic slave trade abolished in the nineteenth century.

Nigerian stocks up as investors buy into banks

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igerian stocks ended in the black yesterday led by banking shares after news that two foreign investors had bought significant stakes in Ecobank and Union Bank, helping reverse earlier losses recorded this week.

London-listed Atlas Mara, the African investment vehicle of former Barclays boss Bob Diamond, on Friday increased its stake in Union Bank to almost 30 percent with a $270 million investment, boosting sentiment on the Nigerian bourse.

Sub-Saharan Africa’s secondbiggest index opened down at a 9-week low on Friday, level last seen on June 20, after shedding almost 1 percent this week before the news.

Late on Thursday, Qatar

National Bank (QNB) bought a 12.5 percent stake in Ecobank for about $200 million, its latest purchase in a drive to be the biggest bank in the Middle East and Africa by 2017.

“We have seen half a billion dollars into Nigerian banks from both deals in 24 hours , that adds to positive sentiment s... even as we approach elections next year,” Mid-tier Nigerian lender Union Bank and Africa’s Ecobank each gained 5 percent on Friday, to help lift the broader index up 0.35 percent.

Uncertainty over forthcoming elections and growing security risks hit demand for equities this year, dampening a stock market rally as local fund managers poured cash into government bonds.

With the main index down almost 1 percent this year, after it rallied 47 percent last year, to emerge as one of the best performing African equity markets in 2013.

But election risks has not deterred established frontier market investors attracted to Africa’s biggest economy by the size of its consumer base and valuations, analysts say.

The index of Nigeria’s top ten lenders climbed 1.55 percent on Friday, outperforming broader consumer stocks, which shed 0.54 percent.

Also, Nigeria’s interbank lending rates eased to 10.5 percent on Friday, down 25 basis points from a week earlier, after the central bank paid off matured treasury bills and refunded an

excess it owed to banks from a cash reserve debit, dealers said.

The central bank paid out 186 billion naira ($1.15 billion) to buy maturing Open Market Operation bills on Thursday, while it credited banks with 70 billion naira more than it owed them to enforce a cash reserve limit.

“The market is very liquid,” one dealer said.

Lenders have been unable to access their cash balance with the regulator for more than two months due to a system glitch.

The open buy-back rate eased to 10.5 percent, from 10.75 percent last week, 1.5 basis points below central bank’s benchmark interest rate of 12 percent.

Overnight placements fell to 10.5 percent, down 50 basis point from 11 percent last week.

Mr G. Emefiele , CBN Governor

CBN commences monitoring of BDCs as forex abuses persist

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he Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has increased its surveilance of Bureau de Change (BDC) operators following reported cases of fereign exchange abuses, BusinessDay reports.

The development followed activities of the the BDCs which failed the recapitalisation test of the CBN, but which are still operating.

The CBN said it is committed to bringing sanity into the forex market and the only option left for it now is to increase its surveillance.

But BusinessDay gathered last night, that the apex bank would deploy the approach of utilising the recapitalised BDCs as agents of international money transfer, to ensure gradual elimination of the unrecapitalised ones.

“The CBN is careful not to cause

panic in the market by outright withdrawal of the operating licenses of those BDCs that failed to meet the requirement, but involving the recapitalised ones would gradually estinguish the illegal ones from operation,” said a source close to CBN. Ibrahim Mu’azu, CBN’s director, corporate communications, told BusinessDay that the supervision exercise is a routine one, adding that it is one of the measures the bank will take to curtail the activities of illegal BDC operators.

“It is a process but the result of the report will help us reach a conclusion”, he said.

Analysts said last night that the absence of a functional operating code of conduct for the newly recapitalised BDC operators may be

responsible for current abuses, as the recapitalised ones are still patronising the 1,058 BDCs that failed to be recapitalised.

Some analysts said yesterday that the options left for the CBN were either to come out with a policy that prevents banks and BDCs from selling forex to the unrecapitalised ones, or introduce retail transactions that require forex market operators to give a breakdown of the demand and uses for the forex on item basis.

But the CBN insists that it will soon come up with a position on the activities of these foreign exchange operators.

“The CBN will come up with a position. It is a normal process of management, planning, review and execution”, Mu’azu said.

He further noted that the CBN

has stopped selling dollars to the unrecapitalised BDCs, adding that the apex bank has not announced any increase in the amount of dollar supply to BDCs as was being speculated by some operators.

However, Andrew Elueni, chief executive officer of Prime Link BDC noted that activities in the BDC segment of the foreign exchange market are beginning to stabilise, but added that some unrecapitalised BDCs were still operating.

He was concerned that these illegal operators patronising banks may have negative impact on banks in terms of rendition of returns.

Elueni admitted that operators are expecting the CBN to increase the amount of dollars supply to recapitalised BDCs to about N50,000 from the current N15,000 so as to

further strengthen and stabilise the market.

Consequently, the local currency on Thursday appreciated by N1.00k or 0.6 percent to N167.00k/$ from N168/$ on Monday at the BDC. Also at the inter-bank market, the naira gained N0.30k against the dollar as it closed at N162.10/$ compared to N162.40 previous day.

Meanwhile, the CBN on Wednesday offered a total of $300 million but sold a total of $298.9 million to 22 deposit money banks in the country at the official foreign exchange rate of N155.73/$ at its biweekly Retail Dutch Auction System (RDA).

There are three sources of dollar access by BDCs which include the Apex bank, deposit money banks and individuals.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Healthy Living

FCT not prepared for Ebola virus says Nurses Chairman Ali

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he Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (FCT chapter), Comrade Muhammad N. Ali says health workers, and nurses in particular, may down tools over government nonchalant approach to their safety in the fight against the dreaded ebola virus disease.

Ali alleged that basic protective gears are not provided for nurses to use thereby endangering their lives. He spoke with Assistant Editor Patrick Andrew on their fears.

How prepared are the FCT hospitals with regards to the current ebola virus disease?

Well, virtually nothing. As I am speaking with you now even the Kuye Hospital earmarked as one of the Isolation Centres is not yet ready. As at yesterday (Thursday) when I sought to confirm the readiness of the facility, I was told that only 19 gowns have been supplied and the situation is very embarrassing because it seems the government is just playing politics with the whole thing. Right now, our members are afraid because we can’t touch any seriously ill person in the hospital because we can’t protect ourselves.

Firstly, persons to handle ebola cases ought to have been trained. Secondly, all who are to work in the facility must reside within the same environment in the next 21 days. The government is to be responsible for their upkeep and accommodation so that they don’t come in contact with others except those in the centre, but that has not been done.

It is only at the Maitama Hospital where they have provided hand sanitizers and portable water at the entrance to the hospital as well as infraray thermometer for taking one’s temperature. This is the only hospital with a semblance of facilities for ebola in Abuja.

Do you mean Abuja is not prepared for Ebola, in case there is an outbreak?

Well, neither the federal Government nor the FCT administration is prepared for ebola outbreak in Abuja. This explains why people are avoiding the hospitals in Abuja even after the doctors have called off their strike. Even patients are refusing to allow nurses to take their blood pressure because they want to limit contact with nurses who are usually the primary contact with all seriously ill persons. You know the instrument used in taking the pressure is only one and patients don’t want to share whatever will bring about contact with others.

Of course, ebola is contracted through skin contact, sharing of body fluid etc. We, nurses, are the first point of contact because there is no way a nurse will run away from touching a patient because before any other health worker touches a patient a nurse must take the patient’s TPR. A nurse must first know your temperature, post-blood pressure before any

other diagnose. In-fray-ray ought to have been provided for use at all the entrances to hospitals but that has not been provided even at the Isolation centre.

Could it be that the strike action by the NMA may have been responsible for nonprovision of these items?

Not exactly, because even before the NMA called off the strike, the Federal Government had made provision for N1.9 billion to buy those equipment, the expectation had been that these would have been provided before now if they were really serious about preparing for and being ready to contain ebola should there be an outbreak in Abuja.

The nurses are not happy because they are being exposed to unnecessary risk because it is obvious the federal government is not really serious about fighting Ebola in Abuja. The government is not prepared for ebola in Abuja, it seems they are only playing politics with ebola, and we are afraid for our lives and that of others, who might be at risk.

But the Minister of Health has consistently spoken about efforts being made to combat the dreaded ebola virus and at the moment he said there has been a drastic reduction in the number of cases?

That may be true. But what is the statistics?

The minister said out of 13 cases only one person is still having serious case.

That surely is government side. They don’t have statistics for several others. For instance, you know ebola is an executive virus, now if they are talking about checking those coming through the airport and making provisions to quarantine those with reasonable high temperature for observation.

What about the others who enter the country through the sea and others that use land transport? Is there any screening centre apart from the Kuye centre earmarked for screening of travelers? Is it equipped and functioning?

How are they sure that there are no ebola cases? Though the minister had said September 6 is the likely date the virus will be eliminated in Nigeria, but he was sharply contrasted and corrected subsequently by the president who denied that it is not all over yet. So whom do we believe

“

Comrade Muhammad N. Ali between the two?

My suggestion is let them use the N1. 9bn set aside to contain ebola to purchase the needed equipment. The health workers are waiting for this to limit their risk in contact with ebola virus patients. These materials should be purchased centrally and then distributed to hospitals across Abuja and other cities as well.

If they don’t chances are that contractors can buy fake products which will not serve the purpose.

Nurses are not happy that the government has paid lip service in the fight against ebola virus as evident by the failure to purchase the needed equipment. Nurses are not protected. Note that among those that have died for having contact with the primary ebola carrier- Patrick Sawyernurses are the most in number.

Even if they say they give nurses life assurance what about our families who by virtue of being tertiary contact could be at risk as well?

Of course, some of us don’t remove their uniform until we got home and by the time we are at home our children would run to say daddy or mummy or auntie oh yo yo and we can’t stop them.

They could contract what they are not supposed to contract all because we are not adequately

No, it is either the government is insincere or they are out rightly deceitful. You can’t site a facility of highly contagious virus in such places neither can you seriously quarantine people in such a densely populated area and hope to achieve success in terms of controlling the spread of the virus.

protected.

Now, the Kuye Hospital they are setting aside as Isolation Centre is it one section or the entire hospital?

It is only one section. They earmarked a particular section, just a temporal ward. They have made that section a no-go-area.

Talking about isolation centre, there have been protects across the states by residents who don’t want the centre sited in their areas for fear of the contagious nature of the virus?

The people are correct. You can’t site a virus control centre in the midst of residential area.

It is called an isolation centre and truly should be isolated. That shows that there is no seriousness by the government on this. What they did was only the usual fire brigade reaction, lack of real seriousness and that is why nurses are protesting because we are not protected. The facility in question is sited within a residential area and a densely populated area like Kuye at that. No, it is either the government is insincere or they are out rightly deceitful. You can’t site a facility for highly contagious virus in such place neither can you seriously quarantine people in such a densely populated area and hope to achieve success in terms of controlling the spread of the virus.

The ideal medical practice is site such facility outside residential area because you need to quarantine people and you don’t quarantine people within a residential area.

But as professionals have you offered professional advice in this regard or specifically that such facility should not be sited within residential areas?

When government wants to do whatever they hardly consult

anybody. As a I am speaking with you now there is a committee on ebola comprising all medical unions and others, but we are not involved. I have never been invited for any meeting. Now, if you are not called for meetings how do you make contribution?

If they work with our people at the higher level they will either take or reject the advice but they don’t even include you in their meetings. If we had been involved in the entire process whatever suggestion and advice that we think would be useful, we would follow through. What we really want is for them to provide the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which they have promised our members. Let us see them and confirm whether they are genuine or not.

Also, people are supposed to be trained on the use of these facilities on how to handle those already infected or potential carriers of the virus. Because any seriously ill person is a suspected ebola virus disease case until proven otherwise. Whoever has temperature above 40 degrees is a suspect and needs be isolated. But where is the equipment to confirm whether it is ebola case or not?

What is the next line of action for nurses?

We have resolved not to attend to anybody who is seriously ill.

The reason is simple, if you attend to that person you are taking fatal risk, you are a risk to your immediate family, you face death.

Ordinarily now, if one goes to the hospital and says he is feverish nobody will want to attend to you. Why would they want me a nurse to attend to patient when I don’t have the basic equipment to protect me against the virus?

We don’t even have in-fray ray thermometer in any general hospital in Abuja. Even the gloves that we are using is still the same ordinary ones we had been using in the past before the outbreak of the virus and even at that nurses in government hospitals even have to buy the gloves on their own just to protect themselves.

Is your contemplating letting the government know in your own peculiar way that you cannot continue under this situation?

Yes, we have already alerted the government through a paid advertorial and we are awaiting their response. And if they don’t respond we shall resort to yet another step. Now though we are still appealing to our members to be calm. But we have instructed them to avoid serious cases because these are no-go-areas.

Even in emergency situation, we won’t attend to anybody because you could contract it through blood and if you don’t have necessary protective gears then it is as good signing one’s death warrant. If we are going to embark on strike as a last resort it will be because the government has refused to provide the basic necessities for our protection.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

FROM THE PULPIT Appreciating the Mercy of God (I)

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bout this time Jesus was informed that Pilate had murdered some people from Galilee as they were sacrificing at the Temple in Jerusalem. ‘Do you think those Galileans were worse sinners than other people from Galilee?’ he asked. ‘Is that why they suffered? Not at all! And you will also perish unless you turn from your evil ways and turn to God. And what about the eighteen men who died when the Tower of Siloam fell on them? Were they the worst sinners in Jerusalem?

No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will also perish.” (Luke 13:1-5 NLT) A lot of people don’t sit back and reflect on their lives.

And because of that they don’t appreciate the mercy of God. In the Scripture above, Jesus told his listeners that the Galileans Pilate murdered were not worse sinners than other people from Galilee. He added that the eighteen men who died when the Tower of Siloam fell on them were neither the worst sinners in Jerusalem. That means there were worse sinners than these two categories of people yet their lives were spared. It would therefore be wrong for these ones who escaped death to attribute it to their righteousness, smartness etc.

You also are not better than those who have died, those some terrible things have happened to, those who’re in the hospital, those who’re bereaved etc. It’s God’s mercy that you’ve obtained.

It’s not that you’re holier than them, more prayerful, more hard working or a better Christian – it’s the mercy of God upon you.

To attribute your peace, progress, success, protection etc. to any good in you is to engage in selfrighteousness, and you must repent if this.

Lam 3:22 says it is by the

mercy of the Lord that we’re not consumed. It’s the mercy of God that saves us from sin and it’s the mercy of God that keeps us, not our righteousness. You need to appreciate the mercy of God towards you that has made the difference in your life. Without the mercy of God, all your efforts, labour, sacrifices etc. would have been in vain.

Eph 2:4 says God is rich in mercy. In the Bible, we see how God had mercy on Epaphroditus that he didn’t die when he was sick – Paul rightly acknowledged this.

(Phil 2:27). Paul didn’t attribute Epaphroditus’ recovery from sickness to his labour in prayer.

The fact that we spend hours in prayers is not as important as the fact that there’s a God who answers prayer. Suppose God doesn’t answer prayers, our labour in prayer will amount to mere physical exercise. So Paul was right when he acknowledged the mercy of God in healing Epaphroditus.

The same Paul acknowledged the mercy of God in saving him when he was blaspheming His name in ignorance. (1Tim 1:13) Paul couldn’t have saved himself – it was the mercy of God that did.

After all, there were sinners who, naturally speaking, were not as terrible as him who probably died in their sins without obtaining salvation. They never had the type of supernatural encounter he had which led to his salvation. It was God’s mercy Paul received.

In 1Tim 1:15-16, Paul, speaking further on the mercy he obtained, said, “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.” (NKJV) God determines the beneficiaries

2.

THE MARKS OF TRUE FOLLOWERS Matthew 16:24; Luke 9:23; John 8:12;12:24-26; Hebrews 12:14.

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, LET HIM DENY HIMSELF....” Self and the Saviour are opposed to each other. Self with the flesh make unholy demands for cigarette, alcohol, hard drugs, sinful pleasures/ dresses and other things that Christ disapproves of. True followers of Christ do not give to self the things their Master hates and rejects; they will not accept worldly dressing God forbids (Deuteronomy 22:5). People who claim to follow the Master but live careless and indulgent lives are not true followers of His. God does not have a separate Bible and lower standard for any indulgent group of people. “And he said to them ALL, If any man will come after me, let him ... TAKE UP HIS CROSS DAILY, and follow

me.” Opposition, contradiction and persecution with which unbelievers intend to crush our determination to follow the Lord bring pressure, burden and pain to us. This is the cross Christ instructs us to bear as a mark of true discipleship.

True disciples of Christ do not also walk in darkness. They do not participate in idolatrous feasts, worship and cult activities because they are done in darkness. They continually yield to the Saviour for transformation. Professing believers who retain sinful characteristics, who are ruled by self, who are uncontrolled by the Spirit and untransformed by the Word are not true followers of Christ. True disciples continue to serve and follow Him; they have undisturbed peace and transparent holiness that make them God’s living epistles. Christ is the Prince of peace; all His disciples do “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”

3.

THE MINISTRY OF TRUE

of his mercy. He dispenses his mercy at His discretion. God says in Exo 33:19, “I will show kindness to anyone I choose, and I will show mercy to anyone I choose.”

(NLT) Rom 9:15 also repeats this declaration by God. God withdrew his mercy from Saul but His mercy did not depart from David and Solomon. See God’s mercy with David: “But My faithfulness and My mercy shall be with him, and in My name his horn shall be exalted.” (Ps 89:24 NKJV) This same mercy was extended to his son, Solomon.

Talking about Solomon, God said, “If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men. But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you.” (2 Sam 7:14-15 NKJV) This is repeated in 1Chro 17:13.

God also said He would have mercy on Jacob (Israel). (Isa 14:1) But said He would not have mercy on her when He decided to punish her sin and allow her to be carried to exile. (Isa 27:11) Ps 102:13 says God shall arise and have mercy on Zion for the time to favor her, yes, the set time, has come.

It is bad if God doesn’t show mercy towards one but it’s worse if He shows His mercy towards one and then withdraws it as He did to Saul. (2 Sam 7:15)1Peter 2:10 says Christians, who were formerly sinners, were once “not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained.”

(NKJV) This is better than the reverse – to have obtained mercy in the past but not to enjoy mercy now. God says, “Then I will sow her for Myself in the earth, and I will have mercy on her who had not obtained mercy; then I will say to those who were not My people, ‘You are My people!’ And they shall say, ‘You are my God!’” (Hos 2:23 NKJV)

GREEN PASTURES

BY PASTOR T. O. BANSO cedarministryintl@yahoo.com GSM: 08033113523 Nothing can be compared to the mercy of God, and nothing can be worse than the withdrawal of God’s mercy. Over and over again, we read in the Book of Psalm the cry for the mercy of God. (Ps 4:1, Ps 9:13, Ps 25:16, Ps 27:7, Ps 30:10, Ps 31:9, Ps 51:1, Ps 86:16, Ps 123:2-3) The mercy of God doesn’t act in vain. No wonder that man whose son was demon possessed and the disciples couldn’t cast the demon out cried to Jesus, “Lord have mercy on my son.” (Luke 17:15) Jesus rebuked the demon and it left him; the boy was well immediately.

The cry of the Canaanite woman was the same. “And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, ‘Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David!

My daughter is severely demonpossessed.’” (Matt 15:22 NKJV) Because the woman exhibited such a great faith, Jesus granted her desire and her daughter was healed that very hour.

No wonder the blind cried to Jesus, “Son of David, have mercy on us/me” (Matt 9:27, 20:30, 31, Mark 10:47, 48, Luke 18:38, 39) In all the cases Jesus granted their requests; the mercy of God prevailed.

You should appreciate the mercy of God. Thank God for His mercy and ask for His mercy.

The mercy of God will make all the difference. Heb 4:16 says we should come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help when we

Following Christ till the end cont’d.

BY PASTOR W.F KUMUYI FOLLOWERS Acts 6:4; 20:24; 2 Timothy 4:2-5; Colossians 4:17.

Followers of Christ have a “ministry of the Word”. This involves ministering the word of salvation to sinners and preparing believers for heaven.

We must be dogged, persevering and uncompromising to fulfil this ministry of the word in whichever area we are engaged in the Lord’s service. In spite of temptations, trials and challenges that may come, we are commanded not only to “Preach the word; be instant

in season, out of season” but also to “watch thou in all things, endure afflictions...” Followers of Christ do not become careless and frivolous but keep their gaze on Christ their Master. We must follow the Master, possess the marks of true followers and get involved in serving the Lord to receive full rewards in heaven.

SERVING GOD WITH PURE MOTIVES Matthew 6:22,23 Our Lord introduces an important parable in the sermon on the Mount. This parable is

need it.

Ezra says God extended His mercy to him before the king – Artaxerxes king of Persia – and his counselors and the king’s mighty princes. (Ezra 7:28) That’s what happens when God shows His mercy to one. One enjoys people’s favour and kindness. I pray that God will extend His mercy to you.

In Ezra 9:9, Ezra again talked about the mercy of God. He said God extended his mercy to Israel in the sight of the king of Persia “to revive us, to repair the house of our God, to rebuild its ruins, and to give us a wall in Judah and Jerusalem” (NKJV) May the Lord show you mercy.

May He extend His mercy to you and your family, your ministry, your business etc. in Jesus’ name.

I’m going to stop here today and continue this message next week. Appreciate the mercy of God. Don’t take His mercy for granted. I pray that God will show you mercy this season of your life.

TAKE ACTION! If you’ll like to give your life to Jesus, kindly say this prayer now: “0 Lord God, I come unto you today. I know I am a sinner and I cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God who died on the cross to save me and resurrected the third day. I repent of and confess my sins. I confess Jesus as my Lord and Saviour and surrender my life to him today. I invite Jesus into my heart today.

By this prayer, I know I am saved.

Thank you Jesus for saving me and making me a child of God”

put between two indispensable messages from Christ. First, “lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” The second, “No man can serve two masters. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” The two messages are clear. On one hand, fix your heart on heaven; have eternity in view; set your affections on things in heaven, not on things on earth.

On the other hand, love God supremely and serve Him without any distraction; let Him be the only Lord and Master of your life and do all things with God’s glory as your goal. Let nothing compete with seeking His glory in anything and everything you do.

The parable in verses 22 and 23 further explains these messages.

The illustration of the eye in relation to the body is used. There are two kinds of eyes - a single eye, meaning a sound, healthy eye and an evil eye, meaning a diseased, dim, darkened eye.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6-7, 2014

S P OR T

Eagles in Training

Page 54

Page 55

Ibrahimovic is Sweden top scorer

Page 55

Courtois close to new Chelsea deal

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Special Report Contd from Page 5

By Patrick Andrew

T

he Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is synonymous with controversies and conflicts. In fact, in the estimation of many the NFF smells trouble, and indeed is conflict epitomized. In some quarters the football federation’s not being embroiled in one form of conflict or another would seem abnormal.

Even so, some can rightly predict the likely period when the controversies will snowball into belligerence: usually after the World Cup and shortly before an elective congress meant to usher in a new executive committee of the football federation.

This period usually leads to the emergence of surfeits of stakeholders’ groups, all claiming to fight for the soul of the game, with each laying claim to being the only legitimate group that should be reckoned with, and therefore should be entrusted with the responsibility of leading the football federation. Ironically, they don’t wait to be so entrusted with the task, they would assume the task using all sorts of illegitimate means yet holding firmly to the NFF statutes as its anchor. Well, the statutes (in the Nigerian context) is a piece of paper and, therefore, subject to the whims and caprice of the socalled stakeholders. Whatever the stake!

Trust Nigerians or the socalled stakeholders, they usually found their ways to FIFA, calling its attention to the federal government’s interference in matters of football administration: This is a taboo because FIFA abhours external interference or influences in its affairs. The world football governing body brooks no legal instrument other than its own, not even that which makes a nation a sovereign entity.

With claims and counter claims come the mass turn out of FIFA suspension threats and in some cases outright ban of Nigeria for violating its statutes.

Nigeria has been subjected to that fate one too many. Between 2004 and 2014, a 10-year period FIFA’s suspension and outright ban have hung on Nigeria about half a dozen times. Repeated threats of suspension is no longer strange.

The scenario has been repeated many times over as to assume a banality. A quick recap shows that it was the case shortly prior to the 2006 World Cup in Germany, one global soccer fiesta that former NFF Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, annoyed millions of soccer devotees when he said “(World Cup) qualification is not our birthright”. That hurts the sensitivity of many Nigerians, football being not just a prime passion but a religion of some sort.

He was in soup, yet determined to battle his way through.

Sanctimonious and punctilious as ever in use of words and some legal details, Galadima thought verbal brilliance and sympathy from the senior echelons of the media would be the magic wand.

That proved futile.

Then, he turned to FIFA, whose finer statutory details seem winsome. Banking on the

. . . Nigeria and the debacle of FIFA suspension

R-L: Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Sport, Godfrey Ali Gaiya, controversial President, Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Mr. Chris Giwa and NFF Board Member, Mr. Felix Obuah, at the public hearing on the NFF Leadership crisis, at the National Assembly, on Thursday, in Abuja.

Photo: Mahmud Isa NFF’s affiliation with the soccer governing body, Galadima sought its sledge hammer on the authority for interference. He barked, but it was a bull doggish, largely lame and invalid.

The conflict threw up Jerome Chamberlain, an aide to FIFA president who became infamous for constantly writing threat letters to Nigeria allegedly for government interference. The letters were one too many and soon lost its essence. It appears government wanted Galadima out but he termed it interference albeit he never objected when the same government made him chairman of the NFF board.

Roll forward the hand of the clock to 2010. Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi was the next on the block. He too had ridden on the back of government to dethrone Galadima and expectedly enjoyed the comfort of being the chosen son of the powerful government forces. But then the table turned.

He was on the back of the tiger but it seems he was oblivious of the consequences of being ferried here and there by the rapacious cannibalistic tiger.

And so when the moment to be shown the exit arrived, he too seethed, became livid with rage and would not budge. But not when you are dealing with the powers that be. He was eventually kicked off the saddle, alas ingloriously defrocked as it were.

Galadima was not impeached, Sani Lulu was.

Lulu’s impeachment was the second of such in the life of the Nigeria Football Federation.

Kojo Williams, whose youthful exuberance had been his undoing (or was it arrogance?) had had the

infamous record of being the first to be so dismissed from the helms of affairs.

Sani lulu’s impeachment was later commuted to pardon, whatever that means. But Lulu fought to retain his seat, he pulled strings, went to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) at The Hague. He adduced his financial prudence, wrote to the same element that had been responsible for his exit. He thought his good performance would adjudicate for him. It never did. Performance was never the yardstick for installation of any candidate nor would ever be, at least for now.

Being NFF president is always a gift, not necessarily the job for the best, but an offer, in the Nigerian context, to “come and eat”. And while it lasts one is expected to amass as much, accountability not being in the bargain. Grapevine has it that Lulu had pulled strings. He had some consanguinity with Ahmodu Ali. Yes, he of the Ali Must Go saga, was on the commanding end of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, Ali was no Chief Adisa Meredith Akinloye, that flamboyant NPN chairman whose words were law even to President Alhaji Shehu Shagari.

Lulu’s inglorious exit was plotted in Johnesburg, South Africa. Newly appointed Sports Minister, Alhaji Ibrahim Bio needed to clear the Augean stable.

He had had enough of Lulu and his gang, especially as respect their penchant for banning whoever had dissenting voice. Lulu banned more footballing people in two years than the military junta did of politicians in 30 years of brute

force. And so in Durban, Bio met some aggrieved NFF members, former bosses of the FA and then drew up a plan to pull the carpet off the foot of the Kogi-born surveyor.

Soon after the infamous World Cup finals in which the Super Eagles seemed cursed, one of the banned persons (a medical doctor), whose reprieved came just before the World Cup finals, led the charge to impeach Lulu and his gang. No, it was not borne out self effort; he was goaded on by the state. Ubiquitous as ever, the state found ready accomplice in some board members and handed the whip to lash at Lulu. Amanze Uchegbulam, Taiwo Ogunjobi got the jackboot along with Lulu.

Bolaji Ojo-Oba, secretary general equally faced the music.

That “coup” ushered in Alhaji Aminu Maigari. He was nominated in absentia and so mounted the rostrum, as it were, on the wings of benevolence. Though he was supposedly in favour of the impeachment of Lulu, Maigari simply retained Lulu’s structure, not having a definable structure of his own. That may have proved to be his biggest error. You don’t drive a vision that you don’t have, the pyrrhic accomplishments therefrom notwithstanding.

And for the third consecutive times in half a dozen years, another government candidate (they used to call it government nominee under Decree 101) assumed authority.

Maigari settled down and expectedly basked in the pleasure of being the favoured one. It never lasted.

Now’s the payback time or rather the one night stand is over.

Time for new lovers. Aren’t

there many “women” of easy virtue ready to be courted and bedded?

The plot itself was hatched in Brazil. Colleagues on the board were angry. Their grouse was being isolated from the affairs of the football federation. They alleged the board was run by three musketeers: Maigari, Chris Green and Musa Amadu, president, chairman technical and secretary general.

Monies released for the 2014 World Cup campaigns by the federal government – a sum of N850m- were neither made known to board members nor was any meeting called ahead of the World Cup fiesta. So the bulk of the members were left in the dark.

Further, even while in Brazil, they were discriminated against.

The musketeers stayed in a luxury hotel but dumped their colleagues in a motel along with hangers-on who were brought by Maigari just to feather his nest.

Another grouse was the sudden realization that the federation receives “a princely sum of N150m monthly” from the national Sports Commission (NSC) outside of the overhead which the finance ministry pays directly to the staff through the IPPIS. Till they met in Brazil, members were never in the know of any sponsorship fees.

That of course, was worrisome considering that many corporate organizations had sought to take advantage of the Super Eagles’ qualification for the mundial to identify financially with the team.

The sums were in millions but only known to the musketeers.

Shocked by the realization,

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

PAGE 53

Sports

Maroc 2015: Eagles begin title defence Eagles in training

Danagogo TTamuno Tam a am mu un un no o D ana a na ag gog o og g go o

By Taofeek Lawal

F

or the Super Eagles of Nigeria, the journey to the title defence in Morocco for next year Africa Cup of Nations begin this afternoon at the U.J Esuene Stadium in Calabar against the Red Devils of Congo Brazzaville. The Congolese came into the picture following the punishment meted to Rwanda by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for fielding an ineligible player when the two countries met earlier in the draw by qualifiers. The game coming at a time when the European leagues just resumed should be a big boost for the Nigerian players to take the Congolese to the cleaners. One thing is sure; the Eagles would come handy for the Red Devils in today’s game. But underrating the Congolese could be at their peril because the Claude Le Roy’s tutored team are in Nigeria to upset the applecart.

Le Roy understands African football like the palm of his hands and knows the terrain having coached countries such as Senegal, Ghana and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The French born tactician was in charge when the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon won the 1988 Nations Cup at Nigeria’s expense through a controversial penalty. With another ‘golden’ opportunity this time around, Le Roy whose team are also not a push over in the continent would

Aminu Ami A Am Amin miinu Maigari m Ma M aig gar ar ari

Mike Umeh Mik M ike U meh m eh e h

want to claw to the advantage at hand and frustrate the playing pattern of the Nigerian team. The Congolese team can boast of physical presence of their players who have ways of frustrating and intimidating their opposition to get the desired results. It is the chance for the Congolese to return to the African continent again having qualified for the competition fourteen years ago when Nigeria co-hosted with Ghana. The Eagles will be helping their careers by approaching the game with high sense of discipline and tactical approach as the Congolese have nothing to lose. Nigerians expect their team to take the game to the Congolese corridor and dictate the pace right from the blast of the whistle till the end.

The Calabar crowd will be looking forward to early goals which will in no way destabilized the game plan of the Central Africans. Former Super Eagles midfielder, Mutiu Adepoju during the week had called on the Eagles to go for an early goal to silence the Congolese and destabilise their game plan. The “Headmaster” as Mutiu is fondly stated that Nigeria is always the team to beat and called on the Coach Stephen Keshi lads to make maximum use of their home advantage. “There has always been a very strong opposition from any team that wants to play against Nigeria and I don’t expect to see anything different from the Congolese. The Congolese are

motivated to do well here because they know there is nothing to lose against the Super Eagles. They will be coming in full force to cause an upset in Calabar,” he said.

“We are playing at home and I think that is a big plus for us. To be able to peg them down, the players and the technical crew must do the right things from the blast of the whistle till the end of the game without losing concentration, he continued. Aside from these, the Super Eagles must try as much as possible to get early goals as this will demoralize the Congolese team.

The Eagles will do well to curtail the antics of the Congolese by focusing on players like Ferebory Dore, Fabrice Ondama and Jusly Boukama-Kaya who are the men upfront. The Nigerian backline will need to up their game to forestall any upset that may affect their participation in next year African Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Nigerian and Monaco defender, Elderson Echiejile has stated that the Eagles will not underrate their opponents in today’s game.

“We will hope for a winning start at home against Congo. This is not to say that we will underrate Congo because there are no longer small teams in the game and so we will respect all the teams, but we also want to win for the country,” he said. Nigerians would like to take Echiejile for his words.

Congo will fall at Calabar – Musa believes

S

ome Super Eagles players have boasted that Congo, their opponent in today’s Cup of African Nations qualifier will be beaten silly at Calabar.

Some of the players told Peoples daily Sports on phone that they are determined to ensure that they do not only qualify for Afcon but will go ahead and have a successful defence of the trophy they won in South Africa last year.

First to speak was Ahmed Musa who scored two goals against Argentina at the World Cup in Brazil, boasting that the Congolese cannot be an impediment in their resolve to go and defend the trophy in Morocco next year.

“We would go at them from the blast of the whistle and make sure that they leave Calabar with bagful of goals. We are focused and I don’t see the Congo team surviving the Super Eagles fire power” he said Musa however frowned at the ongoing crisis in the NFF saying that it does not augur well for Nigeria’s image abroad even as he called on the authorities to settle the crisis.

The former Kano Pillars star assured that the crisis will not in any way affect their game today stressing that they have all it takes to win without underrating the visitors.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY,SEPTEMBER, 6-7, 2014

PAGE 55

Sports League: Ibrahimovic

is Sweden top scorer

P

SG forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic has become Sweden’s all-time record goal scorer. The 32-year-old netted a brace in Sweden’s friendly against Estonia to reach 50 international goals, overtaking Sven Rydell, who scored the last of his 49 goals against Finland in 1932. After breaking the record, Ibrahimovic took of his shirt to reveal a message for the fans. It read: ‘Ni gjorde det mojligt,’ or: ‘You made it all possible.’After

making his international debut in 2001, Ibrahimovic scored his first goal for Sweden in his competitive debut a 3-0 victory over Azerbaijan in a World Cup qualifier.

Since then Sweden’s enigmatic captain has gone on to score some of the most memorable goals in recent international history. At the 2004 European Championships the then-Ajax forward scored arguably the goal of the tournament.

An acrobatic effort the likes of which would become his trademark, found the net against Italy and helped engineer Ibrahimovic a move to Juventus.

But his most memorable international goal came in 2012. Having already put three past a lacklustre England side, Ibrahimovic scored a spectacular 35-yard bicycle kick to embarrass Joe Hart and earn himself the 2013 FIFA Puskas Award for the best goal of the year.

Zlatan

Scholes: Van Persie, Rooney, Falcao can’t play together

M

anchester United legend Paul Scholes cannot see how Louis van Gaal will be able to play Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao in the same team. Scholes believes that Falcao, who signed a late loan deal from Monaco on deadline day, is an exceptional player but insists his former club will only be able to field two of their big-name strikers. Writing in his column Scholes said: ‘When I watched Falcao play for Porto, Atletico Madrid and Monaco I saw a striker with excellent movement and a goalscoring record that is simply out of this world. ‘Falcao creates competition in United’s forward line.

There is no way that Van Gaal can play Rooney, Van Persie and Falcao together. It will have to be two from three and which two it is hard to say as yet.’ Scholes believes the club’s astonishing summer spending spree, which has seen Luke Shaw, Ander Herrera,

Marco Rojo, Angel di Maria and Daley Blind arrive at Old Trafford for a combined fee of around £150 million, has given Van Gaal a squad capable of finishing in the top four. ‘Credit has to go to [executive vice-chairman] Ed Woodward, who has left Van Gaal a squad that should be capable of finishing in the top four,” he said.

‘I don’t think the league title is realistic but Champions League football is the aim. Now it is over to Van Gaal to shape the team.

Despite being excited by the new arrivals, Scholes admits he was disappointed to see academy graduate Danny Welbeck leave in a £16m move to Arsenal - even if he is unlikely to score 20 goals in a season.

‘It shows how highly regarded Danny is that a club as big as Arsenal signed him. He will be a good signing for Arsene Wenger,’ he said. ‘Danny will never be a 20-25 goals-a-season man but he could get Arsenal 10 to 15.’

Courtois

Courtois close to new Chelsea deal

By Taofeek Lawal

T

hibaut Courtois has revealed he is close to signing a new contract with Chelsea after ousting Petr Cech as Jose Mourinho’s first-choice goalkeeper. After three seasons on loan at Atletico Madrid, the 22-year-old Belgium goalkeeper has returned to Stamford Bridge and taken the place Cech has occupied for a decade. Courtois has two years remaining on the contract he signed when moving from Genk in July 2011, with an extension close. “It’s not yet signed,” Courtois told Sky Sports. “I am here with the national team so it is difficult, but when I am back at Chelsea I will probably sign the new contract.”

Courtois started the first three Barclays Premier League games of the season ahead of Cech. It is a situation reminiscent of when Cech was installed as number one ahead of the established Carlo Cudicini after his signing from Rennes in June 2004. Mourinho’s decision led to suggestions Cech would leave, but the Czech Republic goalkeeper remains after Monday’s closure of the summer transfer window despite reported interest from Paris

St Germain and Real Madrid.

Courtois added: “We don’t talk about the situation, but of course I know he has played 10 years at Chelsea and that now I am playing and for him it’s not the nicest

situation. But that is the decision of the board and the trainer. “He is working hard in training to be ready when I cannot play or I am maybe not playing well. We work well together.

Euro2016 qualifiers

Spain, Macedonia: Costa out with injury

C

helsea striker Diego Costa has withdrawn from the Spain squad for their European Championship qualifier with Macedonia with a hamstring injury.

September 7 Georgia Vs Republic of Ireland Germany Vs Scotland Gibraltar Vs Poland Hungary Vs Northern Ireland Faroe Islands Vs Finland Greece Vs Romania Denmark Vs Armenia Portugal Vs Albania 8th September Luxembourg Vs Belarus Spain Vs Macedonia Ukraine Vs Slovakia Estonia Vs Slovenia San Marino Vs Lithuania Switzerland Vs England Russia Vs Liechtenstein Austria Vs Sweden Montenegro Vs Moldova

The 25-year-old has been hampered by similar problems for the last four months and had to limp out of Spain’s friendly defeat to France on Thursday after feeling the injury. Munir El Haddadi, the highly-rated Barcelona prospect, will replace Costa for Monday’s game in Valencia.

The injury will be of particular concern to Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, who has seen his summer signing score four goals in his first three games for the Blues. His participation in last week’s 6-3 win at Everton had been in question because of his hamstring, but he played and scored twice. Costa’s first problems with his hamstrings came towards the end of his time with Atletico Madrid. A brief statement from the Spanish Football Federation said: ‘Diego Costa is not available for selection because of an injury to the hamstring muscle in his left thigh.

BIG PUNCH I know the standard of the Air Force, I commanded many years ago. The military has the capability; they need the political will to do something. It is a sad thing that insurgents can hold us to ransom because I know what we did in Liberia.

— Chairman, International Emergency Management and Engineering Society, Nigeria/West Africa Chapter, Retired AVM Muhammad Audu-Bida (rtd)

SATURDAY — SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER, 6 - 7, 2014

Jonathan and the 2015 presidential stake SATURDAY COLUMN T he race for Aso Rock Villa is expected to peak on February 14, 2015, with the presidential election in which a winner will emerge, preparatory to a new four-year term, with effect from May 29, 2015. The incumbent president, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, is poised to exercise his constitutional right to a second term in office in spite of political shenanigans by forces that are opposed to him.

Even though he has not formally declared that he would run in the presidential race, his body language, nuanced and veiled remarks, which perceptive minds easily discern, point to his readiness to take a shot at the nation’s topmost job for another term. This has been the expectation — reasonable as it is — of many Nigerians who are rallying behind him and his party, the Peoples Democratic Party.

For some privileged Nigerian politicians who are close to Jonathan and enjoy his mutual respect, he will seek re-election.

One of them, Chief Tony Anenih, who is Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PDP, was categorical on the issue in his extempore address to Southsouth leaders in Calabar during the recent tour of the zone by the National Chairman of the Party, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu.

Anenih delivered his message in a way that left no one in doubt at all about its real intendment: he told the gathering that he is a father who knows what his son wants; that his (political) son (Jonathan) will contest the 2015 presidential election. He then urged Mu’azu to take the message back home to the northern part of the country. Gbam! The Oracle of Uromi, Nigeria’s political Nostradamus, has spoken.

Truth is, Anenih is not loquacious and his declaration in Calabar, at a time Party leaders were dancing round the issue by merely calling on the President to contest, was one of his rare interventions that have, over the years, seen him provide answers to political jigsaw puzzles. He rarely comments publicly on political issues. He would rather respond to them silently and build bridges of understanding, by reaching out to groups and individuals to achieve desired results.

But when he chooses to speak up, as he did in Calabar,

he cannot be ignored. Like a crystal ball watcher, he had once declared that there was no vacancy in Aso Rock, meaning that then incumbent President Olusegun Obasanjo would be re-elected. He walked his talk by collaborating with other members of the PDP apparatchik to realize victory for Obasanjo and the Party.

The issue today in the unfolding 2015 presidential politics is Jonathan, on whom Anenih has greatly raised the stake: that he will contest (and, I daresay, WIN!) and why not?

Here is an incumbent President whose performance in office has given him a huge head start over any likely challenger in the PDP for the party ticket. Therefore, with an amazing record of achievements to flaunt, the argument that is being strongly canvassed in some circles in the Party is that the President should be given the right of first refusal, something akin or tantamount to an automatic ticket.

For me, that is not a bad idea.

It will, however, be appropriate if individuals who desire the Party’s presidential ticket are allowed to contest for it in the primary in order to strengthen internal party democracy. I can place a bet that whatever scenario plays out, Jonathan will be incredibly comfortable. This is because he enjoys the confidence and support of the Party, which he leads. He is thus the man to beat in the Party. He is also the man to beat in the presidential election.

Jonathan said that much in his last media chat when he declared, in an answer to a question on when he would formally declare his intention to seek re-election, that he remains

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By Sufuyan Ojeifo

President Goodluck Jonathan

the defending champion and he is therefore not under pressure to announce whether or not he would participate in the 2015

presidential race. I completely agree with him. Implicit in that rationalization is that he would contest.

I can place a bet that whatever scenario plays out, Jonathan will be incredibly comfortable. This is because he enjoys the confidence and support of the Party, which he leads. He is thus the man to beat in the Party. He is also the man to beat in the presidential election.

The pressure is actually on the opposition parties, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC).

They should be worried that they have not been able to produce their candidates. Not only have they not been able to produce their candidates, they have also not been able to package and sell them, as a number of groups have done for Jonathan by running television jingles dwelling on the achievements of his government.

Besides, the time-table released by the electoral body has circumscribed the opposition parties. The same time-table has egregiously given Jonathan and the PDP a clear edge. By the time the opposition parties accept the Jonathan challenge to come up with their candidates, it will be some four months to the election.

The opposition will certainly struggle to sell their candidates in four months against the run of an incumbent PDP president whose achievements since stepping in the saddle, particularly from 2011 till date, are remarkable.

And when electioneering begins full blown, it is a fact that while Jonathan will be reeling out his catalogue of achievements to Nigerians, others will be inundating the people with campaign promises.

It is not difficult to know which narrative will appeal to Nigerians more. Already, as groups and individuals intensify calls on the President to announce his intention to seek re-election, the leitmotif of their advocacy has been the avalanche of achievements of his government in all sectors of the national economy. This is sweet song to the ears of Nigerians, not the salad of mendacity and propaganda that the opposition has been feeding the Nigerian people on daily basis.

Significantly, the zonal rallies and advocacies by a number of groups have provided veritable platforms by PDP leaders, members, friends and followers of the President to sing and dance about his landmark achievements; and to urge Nigerians to pressure him to seek re-election. Nigerians are doing their reality checks to match claims of performance with tangible “democracy dividends”, and I believe, they must be ready to, in their large numbers, reinvest their mandate once more in Jonathan for another four-year term.

Mr Ojeifo, magazine publisher, sent this piece from Abuja.

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