PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016. WEEKEND EDITION.

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Electoral materials for the Rivers re-run election being arranged for onward distribution at the INEC Headquarters in Port Harcourt on Friday.

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‘How government 705 Days after supports pipeline vandals’ >>PG 13

Will the abducted Chibok schoolgirls ever be rescued?

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Oil hits 2016 high, heads towards $43 per barrel

Remains of Minister Ocholi, wife, son buried amid tears

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Interview

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Nigeria not ripe for naira devaluation – Dr Ekechukwu Dr Chijioke Ekechukwu, an economist and ex-banker, is the managing director of Bristol Investments Limited, Abuja. He spoke to Ahmed Abubakar on the pros and cons of naira devaluation in this interview.

W

hat are the likely benefits of naira devaluation?

Everything being equal, devaluation is employed when a country’s economy is dwindling, or undergoing a downturn. It has benefits accruing to it. Nigeria is running a deficit budget, which implies that the country is going to borrow funds to finance its budget. If you are running a deficit budget and you devalue your currency, it automatically fills a funding gap that would have been caused by the deficit. If for instance you sell your oil and you receive dollars, in the process of devaluation, you will have more naira. It is a major advantage of devaluing the currency.

The second benefit arises from the fact that you are trying to build the real sector of your economy. When the currency is devalued, a whole lot of real sector players will come into play. Instead of looking outside for things you want to import, there will be many middle and large-scale manufacturers emanating from every sector of the economy. People, who used to import a lot, will no longer import. During devaluation, the local capacity of the real sector will start picking up gradually. In the long run, there will be growth in the local capacity. Devaluation is meant to grow the real sector.

This is because many people are going to grow the solid areas that were hitherto not exploited. When a currency is devalued, a lot of agricultural products will emerge because people will no longer import the raw materials that were emanating from agricultural products.

Items that were produced through agriculture will be produced locally because the cost of importation is rising, and manufacturing those agricultural products will start taking place locally. In real economic terms, when you devalue, it is expected that there will be enough employment because more and more people will aspire to be entrepreneurs. But this is obviously not in the short run. There will also be a direct investment into the country because with little foreign currencies, there will be a lot of money to invest. Little foreign currency can buy a lot in a devalued economy.

When these things happen, in the long run, the economy will grow.

Because there will be a lot of manu-

facturing taking place and less of imports, the balance of payment of the country will get better. When the balance of payment increases to the extent that you are now beginning to export more products and receive foreign currencies than you are importing, the balance of payment will improve. It is a sign that the economy is growing.

What could be the reasons for those against this notion?

I earlier said all things being equal. I also said under normal conditions. Unfortunately we do not have the normal conditions.

All the benefits I have mentioned are those of economic devaluation.

The same people advocating for devaluation did not let Nigerians know the demerits therein. One of the demerits is that the burden will be passed over to the ultimate consumers. From the first day, inflation will creep in. The demerits are enormous. Various manufacturers today may have borrowed money from foreign creditors. If such was borrowed when the rate of naira was N150 per dollar for instance, and you are paying your debt at N300 per dollar, it means even if you have done well with the money you borrowed, you are going to incur losses of over 200 percent. Therefore, borrowers of foreign loans are at a heavy disadvantage during devaluation; government inclusive. The real sector of the economy can only grow when there is a local capacity being built in electricity. When there is no electricity or so much is being paid for it, how will the real sector grow? Under normal economic situations, these things are supposed to be provided. The interest rates of banks should be single digits for local manufacturers to even start manufacturing. As far as Nigeria’s electricity remains at its comatose

“

stage, as well as high-interest rates of banks, manufacturing sector cannot take advantages of a devalued economy. There are essential goods and services that we cannot produce in this country. And because we have those essential commodities that we must import, such as drugs, machinery, vehicle spareparts, the benefits we would have gotten in devaluation will be lost during importation. We also know that during devaluation, professionals go outside the country because it will pay them more to earn their salaries in foreign currencies, and return to change them. Hence the country will lose her human capacity.

Having juxtaposed the pros and cons of devaluation, what is your candid advice to the government?

I already said that when an economy is going down, a major solution is to devalue. I also mentioned that the benefits of devaluation will be wiped out by what we do not have. We would have optimized the benefits of devaluation if today manufacturing companies coming to exist will have enough supply of power and raw materials produced locally. But because we do not have these, it will be difficult for the benefits to be harnessed.

We have also not grown Nigeria’s agricultural base. Many of the raw materials are still being imported.

Until these areas are addressed, devaluation should not take place.

We also have an economy where the interest rate of borrowing from banks is high: between 27 and 30 percent per annum. Until the rates are reduced to a single digit, Nigeria is not ripe for devaluation yet. However you could see that we already have artificial devaluation. What we experience today is an unofficial devaluation where

We would have optimized the benefits of devaluation if today manufacturing companies coming to exist will have enough supply of power and raw materials produced locally. But because we do not have these, it will be difficult for the benefits to be harnessed.

Dr Ekechukwu even without reducing the value of our currency, the value is already reduced through demand and supply. I expect that the Central Bank of Nigeria provide enough currencies for this artificial devaluation to be eliminated from the system.

The parallel market rate determines that. We are not the only country suffering the reduction in the price of oil. Our current situation is because we are one country that imports petroleum products in foreign currencies. We are not the only country that imports petroleum products. The government should do everything within its powers to ensure that we start refining petroleum products locally. We have the crude, and when we refine it here, we will save this country a lot. We also have to grow our local capacities by making sure that our electricity is in place as well as growing the agricultural sector.

Why does naira depreciation fluctuate?

The cause is not something that Nigeria has control over, so we have to live with it. We can only forestall the effects of this decline through identifying the items being imported into the country that form 80 percent of our importation. We then have to find the alternatives to these items. I have mentioned the petroleum products.

We should also identify products that we ought not to import, such as rice. We need to form commis-

sions that will grow other areas. It is surprising to note that even as the United Arab Emirate is a heavy oil producer, about 80 percent of their revenues come from tourism.

This can be duplicated in Nigeria.

We should also identify the nation’s mineral reserves, and deploy the technology to harness a few of them. If we don’t have this plan, it becomes difficult to even say that we are going to grow our economy in the near future.

There are speculations that the FG is planning to ban foreign exchange for Nigerian students abroad. Is it another way of salvaging the economy?

Much as I agree that we spend a lot in paying for foreign school fees, I do not think that is where the problem is. It is going to create problems for students that out there already. If the FG bans the use of foreign currencies to pay their fees, how would they expect the students to pay their school fees? Hence the CBN should find a way to ensure an alternative. What will stop the parents is when they see what they are going to pay in the exchange rates. They will discipline themselves. Government should deregulate that area. Let the value of demand and supply be the regulating factor. A lot of students hitherto abroad are back to the country already.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 3

FEATURE

World Water Day: Hopes and opportunities

By Attari Hope

W

orld Water Day is an international observance and an opportunity to learn more about water related issues, be inspired to tell others and take action to make a difference.

World Water Day dates back to the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development where an international observance for water was recommended. The United Nations General Assembly responded by designating 22 March 1993 as the first World Water Day. It has been held annually since then. Each year, UN-Water the entity that coordinates the UN’s work on water and sanitation sets a theme for World Water Day corresponding to a current or future challenge. The engagement campaign is coordinated by one or several of the UNWater members with a related mandate.

To mark the World Water Day, nations are invited to devote the day as appropriate in the national context, to concretize activities such as the promotion of public awareness through the production and dissemination of documentaries, organization of conferences, round tables seminars and exposition related to the conservation and development of water resources.

Each year, World Water Day highlights specific aspect of freshwater.

Themes for the World Water Day vary depending or corresponding to the current or future challenges. The event of the particular year of celebration is geared towards creating awareness on the importance of water in relation to the challenge.

For instance, the theme of 2014 World Water Day:”WATER and ENERGY” focused on water and energy nexus as a key to a rapid socioeconomic development of a nation. This exemplified that no nation can develop without water and energy. The theme was to raise awareness of the interlinkage between water and energy and also to inform decision makers in the energy and water sectors that integrated approaches and solutions to the water and energy issues can achieve greater economic and social impact in the lives of Nigerians.

The 2015 World Water Day had the theme, “WATER AND SUSTAINABLE Development”.

It provided an important opportunity to consolidate upon the previous Word Water Days that highlighted the role of water in the sustainable development agenda.

It is pertinent to note that “water” is at core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival itself. It is central to the production and preservation of a

host of benefits and services for people.

This year’s theme: “WATER AND JOBS” focuses on the fact that, Water means jobs. Water is the essential building block of life. But it is more than just essential to quench thirst or protect health; water is vital for creating jobs and supporting economic, social, and human development.

Today, half of the world’s workers 1.5 billion, people work in water-related sectors. Moreover, nearly all jobs, regardless of the sector, depend directly on water. Yet, despite the indelible link between jobs and water, millions of people whose livelihoods depend on water are often not recognized or protected by basic labour rights.

So, this year’s World Water Day theme focuses on the central role that water plays in creating and supporting good quality jobs. It also shows how enough quantity and quality of water can change workers’ lives and livelihoods and even transform societies and economies.

Water is a pre-requisite to the development of some key sectors such as; agriculture, industry, energy, cities, ecosystem et al. The Federal Government of Nigeria is doing its best through the Ministry of Water Resources in meeting the yearnings of the teeming population of the country. We are hoping that in the coming years the sector especially the River Basin would be well positioned to support the present government drive for food security and the ongoing works in our dams would be completed to support power generation.

The Federal Ministry of Water

Resources is not resting on its oars but it is leveraging on the theme of the 2016 World Water Day to work assiduously with relevant stakeholders in supporting the agricultural agenda of this administration to providing jobs and food security. Recently, the Hon. Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman H. Adamu, stated that the current change agenda is anchored on agricultural development. That it is pertinent to examine the roles and status of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities in meeting up to the demands of the new agricultural agenda for the country.

According to him, “extensive and all year round irrigated agriculture is imperative, considering the drastic decline in earnings from petroleum production.”

This has come at no better time than now that Nigeria is working hard at diversifying its economy.

The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has come up with a new agricultural agenda to improve the lives of Nigerians by providing jobs in the agriculture sector. Recently, the President declared. “We must produce what we eat”. He was telling Nigerians that Nigeria did not have unlimited resources to continue the importation of food items that could be produced locally. He noted that the importation of food contributed to the depletion of the country’s foreign reserves and deprived citizens of job opportunities.

It is on this note that the Federal Ministry of Water Resources joins the rest of the world in celebrating the world water day acknowledging the

hopes and opportunities that abound in the water sector through, agriculture, power, health, environment, youth empowerment etc. With the able leadership of the indefatigable Minister, Engr. Suleiman Adamu, it is the hope of Nigerians that the water sector would contribute its quota in the creation of jobs, hopes and opportunities to our teeming youths to transform our economy and transform lives.

Hope is of the Public Relations Unit, FMWR in commemoration of the 2016 World Water Day

“

Moreover, nearly all jobs, regardless of the sector, depend directly on water. Yet, despite the indelible link between jobs and water, millions of people whose livelihoods depend on water are often not recognized or protected by basic labour rights.

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Special Report

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

IGR: How far have states gone?

By Osby Isibor

I

t is no longer news that Nigeria’s oil is depleting. The reduction in global oil prices and volume demands have made diversification of the Nigerian economy from over-dependence on oil a mandatory policy issue. Oil revenue depletion has essentially made both the federal and state governments to turn down on other viable sources of funds.

From available statistics, most state governments generate not more than 15% of their revenue and depend on Federal Allocation for further sustenance.

Unfortunately, this is no longer sustainable. The latest IGR report is an indication that the fiscal crisis facing many states across Nigeria is not unconnected to dwindling allocations from the federal government as a result of falling oil price.

Some economic analysts have also argued that the reason why some state governors are unable to pay salaries was as a result of misappropriation of public funds.

Figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on the internally generated revenue capacity of the 36 states only confirm that most states cannot survive without the monthly statutory allocations, which is largely funded from crude oil sales and taxes like VAT. Investigation revealed that 35 states in Nigeria can’t pay salaries without federal funds. The fact that only one of the 36 states can afford to pay workers’ salaries with internally generated revenues, underscores the level of dependence of the federating units on the central government.

From the report, it was also revealed that the remaining 35 states generate only a fraction of funds they require to settle their wage bills annually. This means that without federal funds, these states cannot even afford salaries payment, talk more of executing projects.

Information on states’ wage bills and comparisons with data on their internally generated revenues (IGR), published by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that only Lagos State can pay salaries of its workers by solely relying on revenues generated internally.

It also revealed that none of the 19 Northern states has this much financial muscle to sustain itself. They all depend on federally-allocated subventions, mainly made up of funds generated from sales of crude oil that is extracted down south.

Other components of the federal allocation, shared between the three tiers of government on monthly basis, include taxes collected by the Nigerian Customs Service and the Federal Inland Revenue Service.

The data published by the statistics bureau showed that in 2010 and 2011, only seven states had IGR in two-digit billions. Lagos is the only one with a

President Muhammadu Buhari three-digit figure, while the remaining states had single digits.

In 2012, the situation improved slightly with 12 states recording doubledigit figures in billions while Lagos remained the only with three-digit figures.

The implication of the low revenue generation by the states is that most of them can barely sustain themselves without recourse to monthly federal subventions.

Most states have had to take shortterm bank loans to settle wages whenever there were delays in the monthly disbursements by the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC).

According to a revenue advocate, Mr. Dauda Garuba, in an interview with a newspaper in Abuja, state governments

are simply too lazy to generate revenues internally because of the oil money they receive from Abuja every month. Garuba, who is the coordinator of the Revenue Watch Institute, said, “because of the oil revenue they collect monthly, state governors are no longer serious in making money for their states.”

He described the situation whereby states depend heavily on federal subventions as unfortunate because each state has the potential to sustain itself.

“It is unfortunate that the governors, particularly in the North abandoned agriculture. Every state has the potential to be self-sufficient only if the chief executive knows what he is doing,” he said.

Also, an economic policy analyst, Odilim Enwegbara had called for legisla-

tion that would stop state governments from using federal government allocations for state upkeep.

He advocated for a law that will mandate state governments to use federal allocation on capital expenditure such as construction of roads, bridges among others, while Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), should be strictly used for state upkeep such as payment of salaries among others.

“There should be a law that bars states from using federal allocation for state up keeps, each state should be able to generate enough funds to cater for its needs. In cases where a state does not have adequate IGR, Federal Government allocation can serve as succour,” he said.

Before last year’s hand over, the former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala accused governors of misplaced priorities, insisting that Nigerians should question why they could not pay salaries.

In their defence, the governors said they had used their allocation on projects that should have been carried out by the Federal Government in their various states, asking the federal government for a refund.

Conversely, the federal government itself had set a bad example by remaining over-reliant on oil revenues to fund its operations, neglecting taxes for many years. While improvement in tax collection mechanism, including an incentivebased scheme for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has boosted government’s non-oil receipts, most states depend heavily on the statutory revenue allocation from the Federation Account for financial survival.

Many of them could only pay workers’ salaries and fund overheads, after which they have little or nothing left to invest in social infrastructure. Even the so called rich states like Rivers, Delta and Akwa Ibom rely mainly on their 13 percent oil derivation revenues from the same Federation Account to lay claim to such rich status.

The apparent show of negligence and lack of enterprise by most state governments in terms of being creative in internal revenue generation to boost earnings profiles as against their perpetual dependence on monthly allocation from the Federation Account, is one of the reasons why governors are still insisting that excess crude revenues should be shared instead of being saved for the rainy day.

Most states, in dire financial stress, have had to embark on illegalities, such as replicating taxes already within the purview of the FG or local governments, to shore up their finances. In some states, government cannot even collect taxes for fear of political backlash, since basic services are lacking and citizens do not see the point in paying such taxes.

Contd on Page 5

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 5

Special Report IGR: How far have states gone?

Lagos state for instance, under the former governor, Babatunde Fashola, was able to raise IGR by the carrot and stick approach, including educating citizens on the need to pay such statutory tariffs, showing what taxpayers funds are used for and tightening the screws on defaulters, even though the general rate of avoidance and default remained high.

With funds realised from internally generated sources, his administration was able to provide social amenities for Lagosians and embarked on infrastructural development of the state.

Lagos State did not receive its Federal Allocation for a period of about five years or more and it was forced to become selfsufficient as a state. It is hoped that the pressure to diversify and focus less on the centre will force states to explore alternatives to improving their revenue base.

Economic analysts say the Lagos approach can be borrowed by other states, since it is clear that oil revenues are subject to market-driven fluctuations and no state can lay claim to self-sufficiency or deliver the required social good for citizens without an effective tax system. It is IGR that can make a state viable and self-sustaining.

They also believe that states can free up more funds for development and other critical needs if they curtail lavish spending on luxuries, including retinues of needless aides and foreign trips, as well as block all sources of leakages that characterised government’s fiscal operations at all levels.

Interestingly, there are indications that state governments are now intensifying their revenue generating ability, perhaps to reduce over reliance on the federal allocation or an attempt to fall in line with the new thinking of President Muhammadu Buhari, that states must be prudent and evolve ways of self-sustainability in running the affairs of their states.

The good news is that more states are now embracing IGR mechanism in addressing their financial trauma.

For instance, the Kwara State governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed is strengthening taxation to boost IGR in the state. At the

onset of Governor Ahmed’s second term in office, he stressed the importance of improving the process of tax collection and administration as a major step towards meeting the challenges of dwindling federal allocations and improving internally generated revenue.

Ahmed also made cogent the need to drastically reduce the cost of governance and block the various financial leakages in the system in order to ensure that the bulk of the state’s revenue is adequately discharged into improving the wellbeing of the citizenry While strongly believing that the incoming process of tax administration has taken into cognizance the dwindling income per capita of the state’s citizens, the onus is on the people to abide by the intention of government to sign into law and the implementation of the new tax collection and administration system in the state.

In a related development, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State had inaugurated a 10-man committee to boost internally generated revenue (IGR) capacity of the state.

The governor said at the inauguration in Kano that the committee should explore available options to generate revenue internally. He said the measure was taken to reduce the state’s dependence on the monthly allocation from the federation account.

“We must generate revenue locally and provide the enabling environment for economic activities to thrive in the state,’’ he said.

Ganduje said the committee would develop new ways of generating revenue in line with constitutional provision. He urged the committee to develop “workable innovations and implementable strategies’’ to raise revenue internally into the state coffer.

And in Enugu state, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, is said to partner the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for improved IGR in the state. The governor who made this known while receiving a delegation of the FRSC, led by its Corps Marshal and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Corps Marshal Boboye Oyeyemi, assured the management of FRSC of the readiness of his administration to partner with the commission to boost the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state.

Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State

Contd from Page 4

Governor Abdul’aziz Yari, Chairman NGF He noted that the commission’s request for the state government to provide more work stations for its official engagements was a welcome development that will increase the revenue generation of the state.

Niger State governor, Alhaji Abubarkar Sani Bello, has also promised that his administration will aggressively pursue policies that will boost the revenue base of the state.

Bello said the state cannot continue to rely on allocation from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and other sources to meet 80 per cent of its income.

The above examples from these states should serve as a template for states who are yet to key into the IGR mechanism.

But how far can the governors go in using IGR to build viability and sustainability of their various states? If the right parameters are set out all states in the federation can generate enough revenue without depending on the statutory allocations from the central government.

The state governors, through the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), had last

year, approached the federal government for a fiscal bailout as some of the states can no longer pay salaries of their workers. But till date, the so called bailout hasn’t solved the financial crunch the states are facing. Worse still, it generated a lot of controversies in some states where some governors were alleged to have diverted it to other purposes.

It would be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari while inaugurating the new National Economic Council at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa had said that governments of states owing salaries should liquidate all unpaid entitlements by looking inwards, which makes the issue of accelerated internally generated revenue generation sacrosanct.

Buhari also advised the governors to cultivate the culture of prudent management of resources as well as embark on projects that would meet the immediate needs of the people.

But how many state have governments have heeded that counsel and to what extent has that improved on their monthly receipts?

Kwara State governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed

Governor Ifeanyi Enugu State

Ugwuanyi

of

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19-20, 2016

News

CCT: 80 lawyers appear for Saraki as trial resume

A

Vice Chancellor UNIZIK, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku; Pro- Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Retired Avm Larry Koinyan; Gwom Gwom of Jos, HRH. Da Jacob Buba and Chancellor of the institution who is the representative of the President Muhammadu Buhari, Prof. Anthony Anwuka, during the Convocation Procession at the UNIZIK, yesterday in Awka

Army kills 35 armed bandits, recovers 6000 stolen livestock

From Mohammad Kaduna

Ibrahim,

T

he General Commandant of 1 Mechanized Nigerian Army, Major General Adeniyi Oyebade, yesterday said army has killed about 35 armed bandits and cattle rustlers across states in North West Zone of the country.

Major General Oyebade added that about 6, 009 livestock were recovered during the operations in the areas.

According to him, the army also succeeded in arresting about 39 armed bandits and cattle rustlers

from the zone.

Addressing newsmen in the state, the GOC said large sum of weapons have been recovered during the joint military and other security agencies operations in the zone.

“We carried out these operations across these states: Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Zamfara and Niger states within the past 2 months specifically based on intelligence reports.

“Operations in Kaduna State axis was concentrated around DamariBirnin Gwari Kwalakwange forest areas. 8 bandits/ Rustlers camps were destroyed, bandits killed and livestock recovered which have

been handed over to the relevant authority.

“Weapons recovered include 2 AK 47 rifles, 4 dane guns, 1 short Barrel locally made gun, machetes, bow and arrows and the sum of 45, 000 naira cash. We also lost a soldier, 3 sustained injuries.

“In Zamfara state the operations focused on identified bandits, cattle rustling in 5 Local government areas of the state which are Gusau, Tsafe, Zurmi, Birnin Magaji and Maradun.

Bandits were killed, arrests, 19 bandits, cattle rustlers camp were destroyed.

“Operations also took place in

Katsina and Kano States following intelligence reports on increased level of cattle rustling and banditry.

In Kano operations were carried in Falgore and Zainabi forest were 11 camps were destroyed. In Katsina operations were conducted in Rugu and Gamji forest among other places with considerable success,” he said.

He added that the army is also monitoring religious groups within the area of responsibility and keeping tab on their activities.

He further assured that the army will comply to role of engagement and adhere to human rights in discharging their duties.

Remains of Minister Ocholi, wife, son, buried amid tears, praise

T

he remains of James Ocholi, the Minister of state for Labour and Employment, who died in a car accident, were on Friday, laid to rest amidst weeping, wailing and eulogies from family members, friends, colleagues and associates.

Mr. Ocholi was buried alongside his wife, Blessing, and son, Joshua, in their family home in Abocho, Biraidu District, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The three family members died in an auto crash on March 6, on the Kaduna-Abuja highway.

Speaking at the funeral service, the vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, described the three deceased family members as “saints called home by the

creator”.

He urged Nigerians to imbibe the scriptural injunction that in all circumstances, thanks should be given to God. Mr. Osinbajo said Mr. Ocholi, Blessing and Joshua played their parts in the vineyard of the Lord in diverse manners but all towards the common goal of advancing the kingdom of God. He stressed the need to be grateful to God for giving them the grace.

He said although some apostles died a tragic and painful death, “still the scripture says precious in the sight of God is the death of a saint because their death is victory for heaven”.

“Three saints went home on the 6th of March,” he said.

In his speech titled “The Veil is Lifted”, Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, described life as “reality show from which none gets out alive”.

He said mankind had accepted the fact that everyone must die but lamented the horrible circumstances of the Ocholis’ death.

“My dear people, without doubt, this is one harvest of deaths too many for Kogi State.

“After barely any respite from a similar sorrow in the recent past, Kogi mourns again,” he said in reference to the demise of Abubakar Audu on November 22, 2015.

Mr. Bello recalled that the late Mr. Ocholi cooperated with him when he was elected governor, adding that they

shared a common vision of greatness and unity for the state.

Bishop John Ibenu of Chapel of Freedom International, Lokoja, who represented Archbishop Sam Amaga of Foundation Faith Church, led other officiating ministers in the funeral service.

He urged Christians to be prepared for the imminent end.

In his homily titled “The Invitation You Could not Resist,” Mr. Ibenu urged the people to make their ways right with God before the invitation, which could neither be deferred nor resisted.

Some members of the Federal Executive Council, lawyers, judges, friends and family members attended the burial.

fter some delays owing to the late arrival of the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal, Danladi Umar, the corruption trial of Nigeria’s Senate President, Bukola Saraki, started yesterday in Abuja.

The lead counsel to the Senate President, Kanu Agabi is leading 79 lawyers, while the lead prosecution counsel; Rotimi Jacobs leads a 9-member government team of lawyers..

Mr. Saraki and several Nigerian Senators arrived the court room as early 9:55 AM. He was then put in the dock as soon as the tribunal chair arrived.

Saraki’s bid to thwart the trial failed after the Supreme Court ruled that the tribunal had powers and was properly constituted to hear the case against Mr. Saraki, a former governor of Kwara State.

Last Friday, the tribunal adjourned the case by a week.

The tribunal took the decision after Mr. Saraki’s new lawyer, Kanu Agabi, asked the judges to rule first on the senate president’s objection to the powers of the tribunal to try him.

Mr. Saraki arrived the tribunal at 9: 54 am on Friday.

His counsel, Mr. Agabi, said there were 80 lawyers on his team, saying his client would surely emerge winner in the event of a voting contest.

“We are 80 of us on this side, my lord,” he said. “At some point let the matter be put to vote.”

The prosecution lawyer, Rotimi Jacobs, said the defence team had served him with a notice of a motion requesting that the charge be quashed.

He said based on the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the new application was not ripe for hearing.

Mr. Jacobs said the sections clearly state that such objection shall not be raised.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 7

Cover

“We needed streetlights not ‘last minute’ traffic lights”

By Osby Isibor, Isioma Nwabasha and Doyin Ojosipe

S

ince the creation of Abuja as the capital city of Nigeria, the Federal Government through the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has made concerted efforts to develop the city in the areas of infrastructure and service delivery. Successive administrations over the years have at one time or another, executed projects and implemented policies toward the transformation of the city, thereby making life more meaningful for residents.

However, in the course of implementing these policies by government, some of these projects are either executed in a haphazard manner or outrightly abandoned, and nobody cares what happens next. There are reports of millions of verifiable abandoned projects dotting virtually all the 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

Since 2009 when infrastructural development peaked in Abuja, the city has witnessed continued award and reaward of contracts in public infrastruc-

ture development and an extinction of existing ones.

A few weeks before the exit of the immediate-past administration of the country, Abuja witnessed the sudden germination and maturing of traffic lights planted by the FCT administration. The development had got many thinking, of reasons why the FCT Minister had waited till the last minute before putting the lights in place. For many

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Nigerians, it was no doubt a welcome idea as it was going to make things a lot easier but as diverse as the races and colours so are the many opinions of different Nigerians.

The installation of solar- powered traffic lights at several intersections in the Federal Capital city is one of such projects undertaken by the FCT administration. The traffic lights were installed in the Federal Capital City (FCC), Gwar-

A few weeks before the exit of the immediate-past administration of the country, Abuja witnessed the sudden germination and maturing of traffic lights planted by the FCT administration.

inpa District, Kubwa, Utako District and other areas of the town.

Since the commencement of the project in April 2015, controversies and mixed reactions continued to trail the exercise. Many viewed the action of the authorities of Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to provide infrastructural facilities in the FCT at the twilight of the administration’s tenure, as a last minute bid to cover up its tracks.

Before that time, most traffic lights in Abuja were not functional and this was worsened by the epileptic and unreliable power supply. Most times, they were only stable in highbrow areas of the city. In most satellite towns, there were no traffic lights, and where they existed, they were mere decorations on the highways. And in most areas, the poles were either vandalized by hoodlums or pulled down by careless motorists.

This was the concern of Abuja residents who expected government to have taken prompt action in addressing these issues. So, when the former FCT Contd on Page 8

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

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“We needed streetlights not ‘last minute’ traffic lights” Contd from Page 7 Administration commenced installation of new traffic lights within the city at its twilight, it was seen as a welcome development. But to some residents, the action came rather too late.

The residents described the project as ill-timed and opined that the FCT administration commenced the installation of the traffic lights as part of efforts to hurriedly complete some abandoned projects in the nation’s capital before the May 29 handover date. They were of the view that the administration was embarking on last minute projects’ completion to mop up funds before the exchange of guards.

Though the FCT authority had given an official statement that the project was a donation by the Chinese government, economy watchers said the administration was using the project to retire funds and balance its accounts.

According to the former Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, the installation of the new traffic lights was a collaborative project with the Chinese government and the project was to gulp N861 million.

Addressing State House correspondents then, Bala said the contract was packaged in 2012 by the National Planning Commission as a collaborative project between Nigeria and China.

The minister explained that while China funded the contract with N780 million, Nigeria provided N81m as counterpart fund.

He described the allegation that the project was aimed at siphoning funds as a campaign of calumny and mischief against his administration.

“Of course, China is bearing the whole cost of the project at the cost of N780m and as usual, with this collaborative project; they nominated the contractor, which is doing the project from China. The only thing we’ve done is to make sure that we provide the counterpart funding for the project totaling about N81m that we’ve provided as a territory and the supervision.

“So, it’s not true, it’s deceptive and it’s misleading for anybody to think that something that we’re getting as a collaborative and multilateral assistance is something we’ve conceptualized as a last-minute bid of a project for us to go away with. This is a project I believe the incoming administration

One of the installed lights should be very happy with,” the former minister stated.

Even though the minister tried to pacify the people and give clarification that the installation and rehabilitation of the traffic lights were not a case of an attempt to complete an abandoned project, many questions were still begging for answers.

For instance, why would the FCTA authorities embark on a project few weeks to the expiration of the administration?

A resident, Mr. Johnson Monyem, who lamented the rate at which the traffic lights were being erected in the affected districts, said the administration was using the project to retire funds and balance its

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accounts. “They just want to rush the project to retire money that was not spent before the new government comes in,” he said.

According to another resident who did not want his name in print, many abandoned projects in the FCT were now being worked on so that the contractors can have their certificate of completion to claim their money from the incoming administration.

“There are many projects within and around the city and contractors want to do the work to a level where they can get their certificates of completion, so that the new government can pay them,” he said.

Anita Usman (a commuter),

said even though the intention of those who installed the traffic lights was to ease movement and reduce unnecessary gridlock, in reality the reverse is the case. “Most of them are even malfunctioning. Last week on my way to the bank, an accident occurred at Maitama due to the conflicting signals from the traffic light. It showed the green colour at the same time on lanes that were not supposed to move at the same time.”

For Josiah Rabo, (civil servant), “the new traffic light is something that should have been done earlier, but I feel the administration has not done enough in putting the lights together because if you look at

For instance, why would the FCTA authorities embark on a project few weeks to the expiration of the administration?

it, they are just within the city, other parts of Abuja are yet to have traffic lights; I think something is wrong, also monitoring the project that cost about 80 million suggests it might be fraud, I have not seen much to require such an amount of money. Government needs to sit up, do the right thing at the right time and we need these traffic lights in other satellite towns too, we need them in Karshi, Kuje, Bwari, these places need them.

“If only, people can be patient, waiting for the traffic light signal should not be problem at all; if people obey the traffic it will ease friction and commuters will be able to move freely.”

Mrs Odera (motorist) said: “I don’t think most of the traffic lights were installed by those with the required expertise even though I am a layman, I don’t see why traffic lights should be installed in an estate (Gwarimpa). Since their installation, the traffic situation in the mornings when people are rushing to work and in the evenings has become hellish. The estate roads are not too wide with many intersections and cars parked at the roadside, these lights have only increased traffic jams.”

Another respondent who identified himself simply as Mr. Sunday, expressed dismay over the inconsistencies of the traffic lights.

He said: “I have been complaining about it; there are some certain confusion with the new traffic lights; sometimes, the yellow and the red lights come on at the same time and we seem to be lost on the message or signal; for me I don’t just understand, what it says; at times some vehicles who are obviously lost just move and this is beginning to cause some accidents, the old ones are just okay; I don’t have any objection on the delay, what matters most is just patience, the government has tried though it didn’t place the light on time, but there have been traffic lights before now, only that it took time to spread; and it has to be gradual, even Rome was not built in a day.

My only problem is that it should be adjusted and done properly; the rush hour work is annoying.

According to Ahmed (Commuter), the installation of traffic lights in most traffic-prone areas in the FCT is commendable even though the timing was suspicious. “But be Contd on Page 9

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“We needed streetlights not ‘last minute’ traffic lights” Contd from Page 8 that as it may, the location of some of these lights smacks of ignorance. Their number in Asokoro is unbelievable. The most unfortunate aspect is that some of them malfunction to the extent that they cause accidents. Recently, a cab I boarded to Central Area almost had a head on collision with another vehicle close to the Garki General Hospital, the traffic light showed the green colour on all the stands at the same time resulting in a maddening rush.

Even though the initiative is laudable, but let the grey areas be addressed.”

For Niyi (Taxi Driver), the traffic lights in almost every junction in the city centre are causing untold hardship to motorists and commuters alike.

“There are places that do not require it because of the low volume of traffic. The city is becoming chaotic during rush hours, it is also time wasting.

There are places that have up to three lights at a stretch coupled with most drivers’ impatience.”

Furthermore, an IT worker, Levi Peters said the action seemed like a round up so payments could be made before the former government finally elapsed.

In his words, “it is a good development, these set of lights are good; those on the pedestrian can cross without fear because the traffic lights have stopped the cars; just that Nigerians are not patient enough, you’ll see some of them still bypassing the traffic lights and it is quite absurd. The timing is also funny because it seems

the contractors were just waiting for the outcome of the elections and now that Jonathan was unable to return, they just wanted to rush up everything so they could get their pay, that’s the scenario I see. This is something that should have been done before now, street lights should not only be built in Abuja, what is happening in the other 36 states, when you travel out you see street lights too everywhere.”

Chidera Okonkwo (motorist), said the installation of the traffic lights was a welcome development. “Abuja is now being seen as a Federal Capital City. Also, it will ease traffic jam. I haven’t seen anyone that is malfunctioning. Why most Nigerians are complaining about it is because they are impatient, they are always in a hurry which always results in accidents.”

For Victor (Corps Member), “they are good but they are not being coded well, the seconds or intervals between the ‘GO’ and the ‘STOP’ are so short, the time frame was set at 30 seconds though some are not even up to that, I think they should have noticed that a particular route does not have much traffic while others could have heavy traffic yet they are being stopped even before a minute and at the end of the day, it generates more traffic jams than normal.

Ugochukwu (Motorist), said the new traffic lights were causing a lot of gridlock, especially during rush hours. Most of them were not properly situated. Where is the wisdom in putting about three traffic

Another traffic light lights on a street? For example, Mississippi Street in Maitama, has about four traffic lights.

The traffic situation there coupled with the many intersections can only be imagined.”

But Mohammed Isa (Driver) said whichever way, it was a relief for drivers and traffic warders.

He said, “the traffic lights are good, the holdup is always much, the policemen are not also resting because of the absence of traffic lights, so it is really a good development, there is no serious problem with the

period of erecting the lights, there have been traffic lights in other places just that it just got to some places though I still think it is just part of the last minute job they should have done earlier. The traffic light is better than the yellow fever man and any time the traffic warder is not there, because he has to close and go home to his family, the traffic jam becomes very annoying, so even if it is at the dying minute, it was done any way, at least it will minimize gridlock and plenty quarrels on the road.”

Taiwo, (Taxi Driver), said, “please help us tell the government to remove some of the traffic lights because instead of easing traffic hold up, they are compounding it. The lights are too much and they are affecting our work; anywhere you go they cause unnecessary gridlock. There are places that do not require them. So let the relevant authorities look into this problem, as it is obvious they

“ One of the older lights

were hurriedly installed without adequate planning. Instead of these unwanted traffic lights let them install street lights all over the city so that drivers can see well at night which will help prevent accidents.”

Mr. Daniel, who is a businessman, said it’s a kind of farewell package from the former government. “If you notice, there were some working traffic lights before this set, just that these new set seem better as they do not include direction for both cars and pedestrians like the old ones which was very confusing and dangerous then; these new ones are just strictly for cars and it’s better that way. Though the time delay is there but I think it is better especially for Abuja drivers; they are very reckless when driving and when they bash other people’s car in the name of trying to beat time, they still want to claim right, so traffic light at every junction is better for Abuja drivers.”

The new traffic lights were causing a lot of gridlock, especially during rush hours.

Most of them were not properly situated. Where is the wisdom in putting about three traffic lights on a street?

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19-20, 2016

News

FG to prioritise operations of police —Osinbajo

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Baskets of tomatoes being offloaded at Mile 12 Market Lagos after the reopening of the market, yesterday in Lagos.

Oil hits 2016 high, heads toward $43 per barrel

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il rose above $42 a barrel on Friday, hitting its highest this year and extending a rally into a fourth week on expectations of a production freeze by major exporters.

Brent crude’s front-month contract LCOc1 was up at $42.44 a barrel while U.S. crude CLc1 gained 84 cents to $41.04 a barrel after rising as high as $41.13.

The benchmark had jumped by 4.5 per cent to close the previous session at $40.20.

Oil prices have surged by more than 50 per cent from 12-year lows reached in December.

The rise is bolstered as the Organisation of

Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, floated the idea of a production freeze, boosting brent from about $27 and U.S. crude from around $26.

Many analysts think there is still steam in the rally.

“We are leaving the period of low demand and starting to move toward the period when demand increases over the summer,” said Olivier Jakob, oil market analyst at Petromatrix at Zug in Switzerland.

He added that the massive oil glut that had helped to hammer prices last year at last appears to be stabilising.

“We’re moving towards looking at an old surplus, rather than a new one being built up,” he said, adding that it is likely that Brent will stabilize around the mid-$40s.

Analysts said dollar weakness was also lifting oil. The dollar index is down 3.2 per cent so far this month.

A weaker dollar makes oil, which is priced in the U.S. currency, more affordable to holders of other currencies.

OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia and non-OPEC producers led by Russia will meet on April 17 in the Qatar capital, Doha in an effort to freeze supply.

Delta Assembly orders re-instatement of dismissed lecturer From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

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elta State House of Assembly on Thursday, reversed the dismissal of Edward Besmart Dighori from the service of the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, directing the Governing Council of the university to obey and comply with the judgment of the Magistrate Court, Isiokolo, delivered in favour of Mr. Digbori.

The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of the recommendations of the report of the public petitions committee on

the alleged unjust dismissal of Chief Besmart Digbori from the service of Delta State University.

The petitioner, Mr. Digbori of the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy of the Delta State University approached the House through the member representing Warri South II Constituency, Hon. Dennis Omovie, alleging that he was unjustly dismissed from the service of the university by the university’s management.

He is seeking a declaration from the Honourable House to reverse his

dismissal after the magistrate court at Abraka delivered a judgment in his favour on the February 19, 2013 by his Worship Mr. Omonemu in the matter by the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command vs Ernest Diamond Besmart Digbori.

The second judgment being that of High Court of Justice, Isiokolo delivered on the 22nd of May, 2014, discharging and acquitting the petition, Dr. Edward Besmart Digbori of all charges brought against him by the police immediately without any further

delay.

Part of the recommendation of the House Committee whose report was presented by its Chairman, Mrs. Orezi Esievo and adopted by the university’s management should reverse the dismissal and reinstate the petitioner, Dr. Edward Besmart Digbori, into the service of the university with effect from 1st January, 2012.

Accordingly, the house presided over by the Speaker, Mr. Monday Igbuya, directed the university’s management to retire Mr. Digbori officially, with affect from

Illegal oil bunkering convicts sentenced to jail

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he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured the conviction of the vessel the M.T. Anuket Emerald and the shipmen on board for illegal dealings in petroleum products. Those arrested include nationals from Russia, Ukraine, the Philippines, and Georgia.

They were previously arraigned at the Federal High Court in Lagos on June 10th, 2015 on four counts of conspiracy and illegal dealings in

petroleum products. The convicts pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to a press release circulated by the EFCC, “during trial the prosecution called seven witnesses while the defense called three.”

It went on to state “the captain alongside two Russians jumped bail after the prosecution had closed its case.”

Justice Buba, who presided over the case, entered the verdict of guilty on all the accused

saying that the “prosecution proved its case beyond all reasonable doubt.”

For the three accused who fled Nigeria, Justice Buba sentenced them to five years in prison without the option of a fine. The eleven other shipmen of the M.T. Anuket were sentenced to two years imprisonment with the option of a N1 million fine each.

The vessel and cargo on board the M.T. Anuket was ordered to be forfeited to the Federal Republic

ice President Yemi Osinbajo has promised that the Federal Government would prioritise the reform, re-orientation and reequipment of the Nigeria Police.

Osinbajo made the promise on Friday in Abuja at the inauguration of operational vehicles for the deployment of policemen to liberated communities in the North-East.

In his speech at the occasion, Osinbajo described the police as ``a critical actor in the criminal justice system of the country.’ ``Consequently, any nation that is desirous of national security, economic development and democratic governance must of necessity be determined to evolve a people friendly and rule of law compliant police force,``he said.

The Vice President noted that it was based on this that Preseident Muhammadu Buhari approved the recruitment of 10,000 personnel and extra budgetary attention extended to the police.

He said that the government had also explored diplomatic channels for capacity building and functional training designed to reposition the police.

He said that with the inauguration of the vehicles, effect had been given to the initiative of government to deploy police to the North-East. ``It is the expectation of the government that with the acquisition of operational assets, the capacity of the police to support the integration process in the north-East will be engendered, ``he said.

Osinbajo added that with the acquisition of the operational vehicles, the challenges of kidnapping and organised crimes which had threatened the nation’s security would be a thing of the past.

He commended policemen who paid the supreme price in the fight against terrorism and other internal engagements.

He urged serving police personnel to remain courageous and professional in the discharge of their duties and promised that the federal government would provide all necessary logistics to stabilise communities in the NorthEast.

Earlier, the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase said that the vehicles would be deployed as part of logistics for security stabilisation in the North-East.

He said that the vehicles would also be deployed to strengthen other internal security operations of the police, including safer highway patrol scheme across the country. ``As of today, over 600 vehicles have been deployed in this internal security architecture,``he said.

The I-G promised that the momentum to reposition the police would be sustained as a legacy to be bequeathed to Nigerians by this administration.

NAN reports that the vehicles inaugurated included 200 Toyota Hilux double cabin vehicles, springbuck armoured personnel carriers and 15 Mercedes Benz troop saloon cars.

Others are nine water tankers, 50 Toyota salon cars, 20 Toyota hilux armoured vans, five Camry salon cars, three ambulances, assorted communication and power generating

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Staff of Yankari petition Abubakar over workers plight From: Ahmed Kaigama, Bauchi

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history guide with the Yankari Resort and Safari in Bauchi, Malam Haruna Mohammed, has called on the state governor, Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar to look into the worker’s plight with a view to ameliorate their sufferings.

According to Malam Haruna, most of the workers under the Yankari resort are being over-worked, starting their duties as early as 6.00am and often closing by 11.00pm without any benefit of over-time payment.

“Workers here start duty sometimes by 6.00am before other government workers start their duties by 8.00am, and as public work closes by 4.00pm, here at Yankari we continue doing the work up to 11.00 o’clock in the night without any benefit for that”, he cried.

He therefore advised the state government to look into this plight with a view to considering them for payment of work over-time or offering them some allowance

to boost their morale.

“We therefore, beg the state government to consider the hardships we are encountering in the course of our duties here at Yankari resort and Safari so as to ameliorate these hardships”, he stated.

Mohammed, who earlier guided some members of the Bauchi correspondents’ chapel of the NUJ on excursion to some parts of the resort as parts of activities marking NUJ week, said Yankari was established in 1956 and commissioned as a games reserve in 1962.

He recalled that Yankari was established by the premier of the defunct Northern region, Sir Ahmadu Bello, who then instructed the minister of agriculture at that time, Alhaji Muhammadu Ngilerima, and the then Wali of Borno, to commission the reserve.

According to guide Haruna Mohammed, Yankari resort and Safari has 2, 244.10 square kilometers with 52 species of animals, 350 species of birds, and various historical sites, among others.

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News

Security expert accuses govt of supporting pipeline vandals, illegal bunkering

…blames devil for Ugborodo crisis

By Matthew Omonigho

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ormer Chairman of Delta Water-Ways Security, Chief Ayirimi Emmami, yesterday accused the government of allegedly aiding and abetting the activities pipeline vandals and illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta region.

Chief Emami who stated this while addressing journalists at a bi-monthly programme tagged: ‘Searchlight on State of the State’, noted that individuals in the criminal acts in the state enjoy the patronage of government.

Emami who recently flagged off his campaign against pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering in the state, noted that pipeline vandalism as a means for agitation by unscrupulous elements within the Niger

Delta, will never address the issues of neglect in the area.

“Pipeline vandalism is not doing us any good in the Niger Delta. We are only killing ourselves and it is not a way of addressing issues of neglect; we should stop”, he pleaded.

The security expert also blamed the crisis that has rocked Ugborodo community in Warri South-West local government area as the handiwork of the devil.

He put the blame on the devil whom he christened as one who is bent on causing trouble on two brothers of Ugborodo community. .

Chief Emami noted that he and other Ugborodo actors in the crisis saw no reasons to kick against the peace moves initiated by elders of Ugborodo, accusing some indi-

viduals of taking advantage of the crisis that has rocked the community in recent times.

According to Chief Emamai, “We saw no reason to say no to the peace moves initiated by Elders of Ugborodo community that feeds the nation. The killings and fighting, people taking advantage of the crisis”.

Chief Emami who also spoke on the suspension of the former Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Hon. Henry Minabowanre Baro, whom he described as his closed friend, denied speculations that it was because of him the former council boss was sacked.

Chief Emami said Hon. Baro was sacked by the Delta State Government for what he is known for, adding that “he was sacked because they cannot buy him or arm-twist him”.

Dogara commends Ugwuanyi over development in state

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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he Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has commended the governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for his receptive attitude towards humanity.

Dogara made the commendation Thursday evening, during a dinner reception, organized in honour of him and some honourable members, who visited the state for the burial ceremony of their colleague’s mother, Hon. Patrick Asadu.

The speaker, who expressed his happi-

ness over the warm reception he said they received from the people of the state, said such a gesture should not be a surprise, considering the leader on board.

Dogara, described the Enugu governor as a man of the people, who is always by the masses.

The speaker, then urged the Enugu governor, to keep the flag flying.

Hundreds of Enugu people stormed Akanu Abiam International airport Thursday, to welcome the Speaker, in support of his stewardship in the 8th House of Representatives.

Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa state inspecting free medical services for victims of Agatu/Fulani communal clash when he visited Udeni Magaji yesterday

Economy: Delta partners entertainment industry on creative talents From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

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elta State Governor has expressed its willingness to partner with the entertainment industry on creative talent building, job opportunities and peace for the development of the country.

Governor Okowa who stated this yesterday when he received members of the Delta State Entertainers in Asaba, said the entertainment industry in Nigeria if well harnessed would create job opportunities for the youths, build talents and encourage peace and wellness in the state.

“For the entertainment industry to grow in the state, we need to partner with it, we will think out ways in which we can partner together, I want to give you my firm promise

that we will work together with you to grow the industry, and get entrepreneurs to work with us on this”, he said, adding “I will sit with you as you progress on the way forward and harness the best of the industry for the growth of our state and country”.

He commended the mentorship programme in the industry and charged them to maintain it asserting “I plead with you to continue to be role models to budding artistes in the industry, so as you grow old, we will get younger artistes to succeed you, remember that the more you help to develop the creative minds and sustain the industry, the more we will create jobs for our people”.

While commending the entertainers from the state for contributing to its develop-

ment, the governor said that the unity and oneness among Deltans “was the strength of our people”.

Earlier in address, Mr. Zeb Ejiro who led the Entertainers commended Governor Okowa for his electoral victories and development strides, informing that they were in the state for the Victory Concert.

He called for the partnership and the enabling environment for the entertainment industry in the state so as to harness the budding talents of the youths, reduce crime and prostitution, create job opportunities and make Delta State the Hub of Entertainment in Africa explaining that the industry could overtake oil as the nation’s economic mainstay if properly harnessed.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 14

Crime Cycle

Mashe Umaru Gwamna pmlcrimecycle@gmail.com 07037750515

Child trafficking: The modern day slavery in Nigeria

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

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mina is a younger girl of 12 years old who hails from Kano state , shared her ordeals , fears and anxiety to the police .

Who looks beautiful , calm , quiet and naive. With many dreams about the future , ever though she too will be among the victim of child trafficking .

But she thanks her stars when the Kano state police command rescued in the hands of their adopters .

Amina story is not different from others stories of many children who their parents have been lured by cheap psychological lies and manipulative emotional 419 of selling their children in to unknown slavery of crystal “green pasture” outside the villages or towns.

However, Peoples Daily Weekend revealed that the trafficking of children for the purpose of domestic service, prostitution and other forms of exploitative labour is a widespread phenomenon in Nigeria for a very long time now.

However , there are classification of age range some are from ages 5- 10, 11- 18 and 18 above these Children are recruited with promises of well-paid jobs in urban centres within the country or abroad, realising

too late that they have been lured into a debt bond.

Violence, coercion and deception are used to take victims away from their families, since most of them are desperate for quick and easy way to get wealth .

Unfortunately , Nigeria is a source, transit and destination country for trafficked women and children, Prostitution, domestic and exploitative labour continues to fuel this modern from of slavery.

Meanwhile, Human trafficking is said to be the third largest illegal trade after drug trafficking and arms trade.

There is yet no reliable estimate of the number of children trafficking internally and externally

by United Nation Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) primarily this is because of the clandestine nature of the phenomenon.

The causes of child trafficking are numerous.

They include poverty, desperation to escape violence, corruption, unemployment, illiteracy and ignorance.

Further more,these children lives under the mercy of those traffickers , in those countries they took their victims to country like Gabon, Togo, Cameroon, Niger, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Benin Republic, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.

POLICE DIARY Security is a collective responsibility. Partner with the Police command to fight and provide security for all. Promote Community Partnership in preventing and controlling social disorder in the society

Police Emergency Numbers in the FCT

08032003913, 08061581936, 07057337653, 0802840883

Lately, children are reported to be trafficked from Nigeria to Dubai.

In reality, those who attempt to sell children into slavery or sexual exploitation do not seek their prey in comfortable suburbs; they look in the poorest shanty towns or the most underprivileged rural areas, where grinding poverty can heighten children’s vulnerability to protection abuses.

A cross section of resident give an insight on how most of these children suffering mental, psychological and emotional trauma and they children passed through.

A resident at Wuse 2 Jonathan Ibrahim said that most of these rich in United Kingdom , the adopted a child in Africa by agencies for black market organ trafficking after using keeping them for a month or when a child reach a certain age for their organ harvest, blood, labour because they are children and strong .

Another painful thing , is that after all inflicting pains on them ,killed or abounded them on the mercy of one .

And most of those agencies have not been

monitored .

Similarly ,Mrs. Omehi David emphasized that parents needs to be conscience of greed and selfishness of wealth . And most of those parents do not equally known the true situation of what is happening to them.

To fight child trafficking, the Government passed the Trafficking in Persons Prohibition and Administration Act and established the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and Other Related matters (NAPTIP) in 2003. Since then, investigation of cases, prosecution of criminals, rescue and rehabilitation of victims have been successfully carried out by the Agency.

Mrs. David reiterated that even of a recent media have been reported such cases and more grace to them.

Another resident , in utako market Miss Beverley Ben, decried the increasing rate of children who are being made vulnerable due to family and socio-economic hardship in the country maintaining that the experience effects the psychology and the

social well being of the victim especially those with poor education and lack of social amenities of life had contributed to the increase of child trafficking. She also observed the need to equip and educate Nigerians in the war against child trafficking in the country.

Adding that “I can recalled that the National Assembly passed a Human Trafficking Law to end the nefarious activities of the merchants, whether it is in trafficking of children or women. “But I have not seen or heard any conviction of perpetrators since the human trafficking bill was signed into law at the federal land,” she added.

If the government and agencies involved in combating child trafficking Put more effort, with their outstanding effort . Soon Nigeria will be curb the menace of child Trafficking , in as much as more enlightenment both in television , radio , newspaper and billboard adverts are involved in different languages in Nigeria , citizens will be enlightened and report any attempt of such evil act to the necessary authority .

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 15

Interview

‘No president fought corruption with Buhari’s seriousness’

W

hat are the cardinal objectives of the Albino Foundation?

We envisioned a society with equal opportunity for persons living with albinism in Nigeria and the world, that vision is succinct and explicit. What that means is that we want equal opportunity across board, i.e equal opportunity with people living with albinism. Someone will be tempted to ask if anybody is denying people living with albinism equal opportunity. Yes, the system denies us that opportunity, individuals deny us that opportunity, and the environment denies us that opportunity. So it takes an individual to make the environment conducive for us, it will take policy makers to make the mainstreaming of albinism into government thematic projects.

It will take individual to appeal to the society and advocate to the society to create a level playing field for persons with albinism, because there is need for quality. However the United Nation system and national government across the globe are preaching equality in all spheres of human lives but unfortunately, the individuals and the underserved they are preaching it to, are not seeing the need for that equality. That is why we exist as a foundation to be able to bridge that knowledge, awareness and understanding gap that flourishes as a result of the aforesaid.

To what extent have you been able to achieve the core objectives of your foundation?

I think I should leave people like you and others to judge us but then, it is important to point out some of the milestone achievement of the foundation. There is only one National Policy on Albinism globally and it is in Nigeria and which of course, was a brain child of Albino Foundation. We had also recorded a number of successes in the educational sector; prominent among them is our membership of National Council on Education. In fact we are one of the few Non-Governmental Organization, (NGO) that are members of the highest policy making body of the ministry of education. We are utilizing our membership to advance the course of albinism in the education sector and

Mr. Jake Epelle is the CEO and Founder of Albino Foundation, in this exclusive interview with Peoples Daily Weekend, he gives insight into the vision and mission of the foundation, the journey so far as well as the visible achievements. He applauded the giant strides of the current administration in the fight against graft while calling for stiffer penalty to those involved in the arms deal saga. He also spoke on other issues

Epelle

“

Someone will be tempted to ask if anybody is denying people living with albinism equal opportunity. Yes, the system denies us that opportunity, individuals deny us that opportunity, and the environment denies us that opportunity.

So it takes an individual to make the environment conducive for us, it will take policy makers to make the mainstreaming of albinism into government thematic projects.

that is paying off as the ministry is already supporting most of our projects, politically and morally. We have also established 42 chapters of the foundation across the federation and we are still expanding. We are currently working with Kebbi state government to establish the Kebbi State chapter.

What is the current status of the National Policy on Albinism in Nigeria?

The important thing is that we have a national policy, even though the implementation process is very slow at the moment, the fact remains that we have a policy on albinism. Gradually we are pushing for its full implementation. You know that it is one thing to do a policy and another thing to implement it. However, we are strategic, patient, pragmatic and proactive in our approach to the implementation. So we will ensure that it is implemented so that the money, time and energy invested in putting the policy together will not be a waste.

What are the obstacles inhibiting the full and smooth implementation of the policy in Nigeria?

The main obstacle is ignorant, majority of the people do not know much about policy on albinism and many do not also know the basic issues the policy is set out to address. So ignorant is a constraint, lack of political will on the part of government is a challenge, financial constraints is a challenge, low level of advocacy on the existence of the policy is a constraint, and getting the albinos to understand what they have so as to drive the process is also a constraint. But challenges are there for you to brass up and become challengers of your challenge, become advocate that will bring solution to the challenges confronting you and that is what we are out to achieve.

Do you have confidence in the 2016 budget proposal presented to the parliament by the president despite the controversy that had trailed its presentation?

Well, I will say that you don’t have to blame the government totally because only God knows the future.

When they were preparing the budget, Contd on Page 17

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 17

Interview

‘No president fought corruption with Buhari’s seriousness’ Contd from Page 15

there was hope that the price of crude oil will not fall below the proposed benchmark but unfortunately, the forecasters were wrong.

Meanwhile you cannot on the basis of that blame them out rightly; this is because the whole business of forecast is dependent on some unforeseen variables and circumstances. However, if they brass up and make the necessary adjustment and maintain the principle of zero budgeting as proposed and ensure its full implementation, as well as manage the deficit, then the administration will be able to navigate the turbulent waters before them and reposition the country for economic prosperity and progress. Those who prepared the budget have done their best and the president as you know is corruption phobic. He means well for the country and we pray that he should assemble a team of administrators who have the same vision and commitment like himself so as to lead the country out of the woods. The challenges notwithstanding, I have a firm believe that the president is going to do well.

If Nigerian factor creeps in the process of fine-tuning and implementation of the budget then we will have problems greater than what we are currently battling to overcome.

Take for instance if those charged with the responsibility of scrutinizing the budget (the parliament) decides to place their personal interest above that of the nation, then we will be inviting difficulty.

Some provisions in the proposed budget are allegedly frivolous, does that not negate the anti corruption posture of the current administration?

It is unfortunate, but again we cannot blame the president for that, because you cannot avoid such scenario where you have crafty and smart individual in the system. But then, when the public begins to point them out, it becomes incumbent on the government to correct such frivolity immediately so as to guide against

pitfalls. Thank God the budget has not scaled through the parliament yet. So this is the time to scrutinize the budget properly and correct all the envisaged or identified errors.

But again I am also been very careful because in Nigeria, we often time sensationalize issues of this nature, may be because of our diversity.

Is it really true that there are frivolous provisions in some of the sub headings in the proposed 2016 budget? In fact you and I had not even seen the budget, so most times we work on speculations. But if they approve the budget with such unreasonable component even when sections of the public had raised objections then the budget will leave a lot to be desired. In terms of how willing he is to cub corruption in the country, I can tell you that he is determined than any president before him to sanitize the nation of graft related offences.

Do you share the view in certain quarters that the change APC promised is poverty and economic retardation as the nation’s economy is on a standstill?

We need to be patient because change is a process and the process of change is often cumbersome when it is taking place in a situation ridden with corruption. I do not think any right thinking person should start judging the president’s performance now. It is too early to pass negative judgment, let us give him time. I think that the only thing that will form the basis for judging him will be when the budget is passed and implemented and it did not affect the lives of common men positively,

“

then we can begin to evaluate his performance objectively.

However, there is need for the media and public to keep the government accountable and keep them responsive to all their political promises during the campaign. It is also important that we do not aggravate the already tensed situation in the country.

Practically speaking, we need to be patient and wait until we see situation and circumstances that will cause us to panic and raise alarm, let us not blow the whistle when there is nothing to worry about. The economy is at a standstill per se, but not holistically, there are still some hopes, I don’t think that it will crash eventually. Government is trying its best to manage the situation even though some of the management style is questionable; we need to give the benefit of doubt. Secondly, we should understand that every time there is a transition in government, more especially from one party to the other, it is often never an easy transition. I am very optimistic that we will come out of the hard times. I will also use this opportunity to appeal to government to always excuse non performing cabinet members from the cabinet to avoid further retardation in the economy. Some professional and competent hands should be injected into the cabinet to drive the system.

Some militants recently busted oil pipeline, what is the benefit of such restiveness and sabotage and where will it leads us to?

It is unfortunate; I think it is best for the President to tackle it head on. Negotiation should

Epelle

be the first option, call them back and see how best to work with them, instead of trying to fight with them because it is very easy to destroy but very difficult to build. So we cannot afford to do that now because doing that at this point in our national journey is suicidal, unfortunately, some of these ex-militant are flexing muzzles with government which is not good. At the end of the day, they will not be the one to feel the consequences like the common people will.

The president has been accused of non adherence to the rule of law in his fight against graft, what is

It is important that we face the reality about this issue of rule of law, these corrupt individuals who had enriched themselves with the common wealth of this country knows that they can use the legal processes to wriggle their way out of the evils they had committed against the nation and they are trying to do that.

your view on that?

It is important that we face the reality about this issue of rule of law, these corrupt individuals who had enriched themselves with the common wealth of this country knows that they can use the legal processes to wriggle their way out of the evils they had committed against the nation and they are trying to do that. But if for any reason, a court that was misguided by dubious, corny and smart lawyers and their clients makes a decision that will not augur well for the entire country. I am against total freedom for corrupt people in the name of law. If you stole money and return it, does not mean you should not face some level of prosecution, you should be prosecuted so that those who may have intention of doing same tomorrow will refrain from such. The current administration must prosecute all those who had helped themselves with the common wealth of this nation, more especially those involved in the arms deal or Dasukigate as it is popularly known now.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19-20, 2016

Page 18

Politics Dogara pays tribute to Ibori told me Jonathan Rep Asadu’s mother would lose in 2015 —Emami

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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ouse of Representatives Speaker, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has urged Nigerians to offer selfless sacrifices to the wellbeing of their fellow countrymen.

Dogara made the call in Nsukka, Enugu State, during the burial ceremony of Hon. Pat Asadu’s mother, Mrs. Ezinne Mary Asadu.

The speaker, who described mankind, as God’s ambassadors on earth, reminded the gathering, that only acting in line with teachings of Jesus Christ, that the man fulfils the assignment.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media (broadcast), Yakubu Musa Fagge, Dogara said “I will use this opportunity, to call on us, to rededicate ourselves to service. As the question is, when we are gone, what would we be remembered for?” Dogara reminded.

He therefore called on Nigerians in particular and mankind in general, to judge themselves not by the time they lived on earth, but by their good works.

The speaker, who described the late Mrs. Ezinne Asadu as a matriarch, who lived an exemplary life, urged her descendents to celebrate her demise, as she has successfully discharged her God’s assignment.

“When we came in here last night during the wake-keeping, we saw a very jubilant gathering. And that to me speaks louder than what I may have heard about the life and times of mama,” he said.

Dogara therefore called on Hon. Pat Asadu and his siblings, to take advantage of the path set by their late mother, and improve on it.

On his part, Enugu State governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, thanked the Speaker and other dignitaries, for finding time out of their demanding schedules, to pay their last respect to their colleague’s mother.

The deceased’s son, Hon. Patrick Asadu, who is the Chairman House Committee on Ports and Harbours, said perhaps their loss is irreplaceable, but they are touched by the calibre of men gathered with them during the funeral ceremony.

He said, the gesture was a sign

Matthew Omonigbo, Warri

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chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Delta State, Chief Ayirimi Emami has revealed that incarcerated Governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori foretold him of the failure of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015

elections.

Chief Emami who spoke at a bi-monthly programme organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel tagged: ‘Searchlight on State of the State’ said cronies and political allies of the former president sticked and supported his political ambition for “fear of the

unknown.”

He explained that former President Jonathan’s brothers, cronies and political allies stood with him for fear of being killed overnight.

In his words, “Ibori told me Jonathan was not going to win.

Fear of the unknow n, that was why some persons and his brothers stuck to him.”

Chief Emami said his boss, Chief James Ibori whom he said will return to Nigeria between June and July 2016 pointing out that his jail terms will elapse soon.

According to him, “Ibori will come back June/July. There are issues ongoing. His service terms will elapse June/July.”

Acting Managing Director NDDC, Mrs Ibim Semenitari (R), inspecting students during the stem competition for SS1and SS2 girls in Engineering, Maths and Science, yesterday in Port Harcourt

Yobe has two levels of insurgency —Maina Waziri

By Ahmed Abubakar

F

ormer Police Affairs Minister under former President Obasanjo, Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri has disclosed that Yobe state has been ravaged from two tiers of insurgency.

Waziri stated this yesterday while speaking with the press after leading a Yobe PDP delegation that paid a courtesy visit on the National Chairman of the party.

According to him, “we have two insurgencies in Yobe: we have the Boko Haram insurgency, which is

criminal, but we have political insurgency of mis-rule of Governor Ibrahim Gaidam.

“PDP must be on its way back to glory because very few members of the PDP know what it is to lose elections until now that we lost in 24 states.

“I have lost election before and I know the pains. I know the urge.

Now that we have got some compatriots in our party, we will sit up and make sure that there is democracy for Nigerians and there must be a viable political platform.”

He argued that the people may

now be having a rethink against the APC stating that, “if what we are hearing is anything to go by, the people will give us another chance if we put our house in order.”

“If Nigerians are blaming PDP for 16 years of misrule we in PDP of Yobe are blaming ANPP/APC for 16 years of misrule. If there will be any change, we will start the change from Yobe.

“It is the popularity of the party on a journey to redeem itself so that it can reclaim its lost glory.I can assure you that the Chairman

is very knowledgeable of the terrain where these by elections are taking place because his second home is Yobe.”

Earlier, the National Chairman of the PDP Sen. Ali Modu Sheriff commended the return of Senator and House of Representatives member from Yobe despite the bandwagon effect of that election.

He assured that he will be in Yobe to campaign for the return of not only the house of assembly members but also to make sure all aggrieved members of the party are appeased and returned.

Delta Assembly suspends LG boss for misconduct Osakhare Erese, Asaba

T

he Delta State House of Assembly, on Thursday suspended the council boss of Ndokwa East Local Government Area; Mrs. Nkechi Chukwura for three months with immediate effect and in her place empowered the vice chairman of the council to take over as the acting chairman within the period.

The resolution of the House was based on the impeachment notice issued against the council chairman and forwarded to the House by 12 councilors out of 15 members of the legislative arm of the council in line with section 31 of the Delta State Local Government Law, 2013 as amended.

The impeachment notice which was sequel to a motion of matters of urgent public importance was moved by the member representing Ndokwa West Constituency, Mr. Azuka Azaka and seconded by the Minority Leader, Mr. Festus Okoh, representing Ika South Constituency, Mr. Azuka who is the Chairman, House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, said the suspension of the chairman would ensure the maintenance of peace and order in the local government and allow the House Committee of local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to carry out a thorough investigation into the issues.

“Mr. Speaker sequel to the impeachment notice forwarded to this House by 12

councilors out of 15 councilors of Ndokwa East Legislative Arm against Mrs. Nkechi Chukwura, the chairman Ndokwa East Local Government Council, in line with section 31 of the Delta state Local Government Law, 2013 as amended, I moved that this honourable house suspend, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwura, the Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Council for a period of three months with immediate effect, while the vice chairman take over as the acting chairman of the council,” Mr. Azuka moved.

The House presided over by the Speaker Mr. Monday Igbuya passed the resolution of the House as requested for by the motion moved by Mr. Azuka Azaka.

It would be recalled that 12 out of the 15 councilors of the council came to the premises of the Assembly complex on Wednesday to issue the impeachment notice against the embattled council chairman, Mrs. Chukwura.

On receiving the impeachment notice, the chairman, House committee on Local immediately convened an emergency sitting of the committee where both parties, including the chairman of the council was allowed to defend herself.

The councillors in the meeting accused the chairman of gross misappropriation of funds, alleging that they sit on plastic chairs during sitting, while the chairman is renovating her office with N14 million.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 19

Tourism

Savor the scenic beauty of Somorika hills

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soso is a scenic town of streams and rocks in the undulating Somorika hills. The town is located in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, in the north of Edo State, Nigeria. With an average altitude of 1236 feet above sea level, it enjoys a very temperate climate similar to that of Jos, Plateau State. The highest peak is a very large monolith of called the Oruku rock.

The town is made up of four clans: Anni, Egbetua, Okhe and Ikpena. With an approximated population of 47,000 and a combined

population density of 5,111 per 7 km radius, it is one of the largest towns in the Local Government Area. Ososo has a unique dialect of the Ghotuo-Uneme-Yekhee branch of the Edoid linguistic lineage. Ososo shares boundaries with Okene to the north, Okpella to the East, Makeke to the west, Ojah to the South and Ogori to the northwest. It is a boundary town between Edo and Kogi States. ccording to oral tradition, the people of Ososo migrated from “Ogbe” in present day Benin City in the 17th century

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during the era of fierce and violent inter-tribal wars between Benin kingdom and its neighbours and due to general disenchantment with the harsh economic realities of their day. The migration took the people first to Idah in Kogi state.

Not comfortable with the people there they moved on to Ajaokuta, there to Uname - Orugbe by the river niger and finally to Idoani in ososo from where they expanded down from the rocks to the present location. The early settlers were attracted to Ososo because of its rocks, caves, temperate climate,

springs and fertile lands. We cannot rule out our affiliation with Kogi state when you look at our traditional chiefs’ mode of dressing with the long red cap called oji and the name Tokura which is a title in Igala. The expansion of descendant family lineage brought about the present four clans that the town is now made up of. Although there are many common family names in Ososo, a few include Ayedogbon, Buoro, Otaru, Orifa, Okogbe, Ogedengbe, Ogidan, Osheku, Obaitan, Bodunde, Arokamoni (or Arokhamoni), Akpologun, Okpelle, Alabi, Agbaje, Ogboriefor etc. soso town is of granitic nature, with some elevations of volcanic origin containing precious stones of varied descriptions. Located on a plateau of dispersed rocks and undulating hills, the town continues to be a haven for tourists. Because of its rocks and climate, some Europeans established a quarry company north of the town, known as BOK Quarry some years ago. The rocks and hills of varied sizes and shapes occupy the plateau with the natural magical posture of a thousand models posing to nature’s camera. The colonial administrations as early as the 19th century recognized the tourist potential of Ososo and built the then Rest House which a sort after holiday haven for most of the white people working in Nigeria then.The military administrator of Edo State Mohammed Abul-Salam Onuka (1993–1994) made some attempt to develop the tourist potential of Ososo.Some other governments have attempted to raise the status

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of the then rest house to Tourist Centre,but attempts have not yielded the expected results. However, the tourism potentials of Ososo received a boost recently as Nigerian Breweries PLC (makers of Gulder larger beer), relaunch their 2011 Gulder Ultimate Search Season 8, in Egbetua, Ososo.

Ososo Tourist Centre. Ososo town is on the boundary between Edo and Kogi States, is hilly and rocky. It lies about 40 kilometres from Igarra and 200 kilometres from Benin city in Edo State, The rocks and hills present a beautiful scenery. There is a non-catering Rest House on top of a hill at Ososo, which grants a wide view of parts of Kogi State to as far as the river Niger. From the Rest House can be seen some distance away a crater take with colourful fishes.

An amusement park is being developed as part of the resort which has tem- perate weather for long periods in the year. rom the tourist centre, a rest house renovated by the Edo state government, there is a beautiful sight of rocks expanding all the way to Kogi state.

This centre is located atop the rocky area of Ososo in AkokoEdo local government,north of Edo state. It presents a beautiful scenery for nature lovers and rock climbers. The tourist centre is an offshoot of a colonial rest house built in the 1930s.The first phase of a massive renovation programmed was commissioned in 1993 with a VIP lodge four chalets and a main lounge consisting of a kitchen, restaurant and bar.

Enwikipedia.com

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H ome s

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Spiral staircases add beauty, functionality and safety

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piral stairs are a practical, compact and often highly decorative way to get from one floor of your home to another. The clean openness of a spiral staircase is especially great for small spaces, giving it a more open feel thus expanding the space.

Spiral staircases can add value to a home because their uncommon form and expert craftsmanship is required. Although there are “do-it-yourself ” kits, once you start looking at the architecture and materials, you will know that a custom spiral staircase is the only way to go. Today you can get a wide variety of materials to add drama or design elaborate stacked models.

Spiral stairs don’t require lots of space therefore most spiral staircases are ordered by people who can’t fit a regular staircase in their home. Others just like

the look of a spiral staircase. Some spiral staircases look like a piece of art and rightfully so considering the variety of materials they come in.

Spiral stairs are widely used in multi-level apartments and condominiums as well as single-family homes; Spiral staircases are a great, space-saving way to get up and down in an apartment or smaller home.

The stairs are also safe because people tend to be more careful when they use spiral staircases. The small, narrow and limited footsteps on the stairs make people take more care and with handrails on both sides, people can expect the stairs to be very safe.

Whether located inside or outside, spiral staircases are a more decorative choice than straight stairs.

Whether you are going up or down, your focal point will change versus an ordinary straight staircase.

Southernstaircase.com

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

d n e k e We

g a M ent

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Fashion

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Hollywoo

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d Bollywoo

Omoni Oboli denies she copied her movie from a Hollywood movie >>Pg 34

Ben Affleck defends Ricky Gervais’ ‘unfaithful’ Golden Globes joke: It’s part of the deal

PG 34

Peter Okoye of PSquare performs solo in Abuja

PG 36

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 22

Your Body, Image & U

Men and body odour......

Spritz up your personality!

With Jacqui Iwu bwreforms@gmail.com 08184825606 (sms only)

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ou are having a closed door meeting with the airconditon on and you and your team of executives enjoying a good business deal and sipping good hot coffee/ tea/chocolate drinks. Suddenly someone walks in and the whole aroma in the board room turns unbearable? Boommmm! How do you feel? You might even feel like throwing up huh? You might want to excuse yourself in the middle of the meeting and step out for some fresh air and swear never to enter that room till the person that walks in with such bad body ordour leaves? Worse for you if that person happens to be the main guy to seal up

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the business deal so he is not going nowhere till the end of the meeting. Hahhaaaaaa!! So can you imagine the hell you will be passing through all the time he is there? Probably you people will decide to switch off the aircondition. Will that really stop the ordour? Now you will make that individual to sweat more and smell more.Shhhhhoooott!!!

What an unbearable condition ...if you ask me!

Now it is not actually a situation anyone would like to encounter on a daily basis but this happens. If you ever manage to put up with the ordor it means, the meeting will be rushed and vital details might be lost in the process of you people trying to end and leave

Having a smooth running home will be a stepping stone to keep your stress level down because, you will be a total wreck if you cannot manage issues both at home and at work.

the room. This sounds somehow funny but a very ugly situation that can create ill health for some people as well. You cannot put up with bad ordor and keep breathing such ordor and not feel sick. The air we breathe in should be fresh and clean so any polluted air is unhealthy and body ordor is part of polluted air(unless you have not encountered someone with serious body smell then you will disagree with this).

What causes body ordor in men? First and formost we live in a very hot climate that even when in rainy season as we are in presently, the sun shines like we are in dry season. So you encounter hot sun all year round. Secondly, men in this part of the world we live in care less about body grooming and using good skincare products to pamper their body. There is this belief that good body grooming and skincare are for women only and men who take care of their skin and entire body are feminine. Seriously? With all the heavy sweating and sun damage someone still think that he will sweat all day, goes home and dump the unwashed body on bed and sleep? This does not exclude those in airconditon cars, office, houses who claim they do not sweat. You might not sweat like the person that do his runs on

the streets under the sun but you still sweat 24hrs. Your skin pores are open and excretes oils, body fluids that should be washed off at the end of the day or early in the morning.

If you are in the tropics and you neglect your entire body hygiene of taking good bath twice daily with sweet smelling or antibacteria soaps, you are gunning for body ordour. No one is asking you to be creaming your skin like women but just simple bath with good soaps, deodorants daily is ok. Of course as you do this, ensure your boxers, pants, socks, and other underwears are washed daily or changed daily(depending on how many you have). You see a situation where men wear one boxers/pant for almost a week stretch. Haba!!!!!! Kai...how can someone wear one pair of socks, pants for days? Ok let us assume you do not have many to change daily, try wash the ones you have every night and iron them very well.

Now picture a man that does not take night baths with good quality soaps and also wear one pair of socks, pant, boxers for a week without alternating....do you seriously think such a person can avoid body ordor? Again if you see such person, the last thing they will also use are deodorants and perfumes. If you do not enjoy

keeping your body clean and neat, making up with deodorants and perfume will not be in your agenda as well. Period! Moreover, those who also try to cover an unkept body with perfumes hardly succeed. If your body is dirty and you are probably wearing stained and dirty boxers/pants, their ordor will over take the perfume smell no matter how good that perfume is. Worse still, the bad ordor could mix with the perfume and then create another bad ordor of its own....totally a disaster!!

Perfumes and deodorants work best when you have a clean body hygiene and they will now sheild you with their ingredients and aroma.

How about someone walking into your house with only socks after pulling his shoes by the door step? Once he enters your room, the ordor from the socks makes you to drive him away without apology?

A little bit away from personal hygiene, body ordor can also be caused by some food items consumed daily by some men.

Food items like garlic, onions, ginger, groundnuts, milk, eggs, beans and some heavy spiced foods can cause bad ordor. Garlic and onions are very healthy but have a way of seeping right through the skin pores when consumers sweats. Can you imagine what happens to someone who keeps poor body hygiene and eats lots of garlic, onions etc, wears one boxers/pants/socks for a week without washing? Ordor catastrophe!!!!!!

There are also body ordor caused by men with issues of sexually transmitted diseseas/ infections and as you get treatments, regular baths, keeping underwears clean/disinfected are necessary.

Finally, from what i have talked already you can easily figure out how to prevent body ordor but if you are not sure what skin products to use, difficulty in keeping a good oral hygiene or you feel your own issue is beyond all i talked about here, send me an email/text with your problem.

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

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 23

Womanhood

Hadiza Bala Usman:

Her father’s daughter

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he initiator of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign in Abuja draws inspiration from her parents and the potential for a united Nigeria.

She’s the mother of two young boys, a wife to an economic analyst, and they all live together in a delightful home tucked away in one of Maitaima’s quiet, treelined streets near Ministers’ Hill.

She works in her home office surrounded by a massive bookshelf with books organized into categories likes “development” and “autobiographies.” Rachel, the cook, manages the family’s meals. Juma, the nanny, watches the boys and the driver tends to the luxury cars parked out front.

Everything in her life seemed relatively fine, routine and normal, until Boko Haram kidnapped almost 300 female students in Chibok in April.

Hadiza Bala Usman’s comfortable life was jolted.

“I couldn’t sleep,” Hadiza says.

“I couldn’t sit back in my world to say it doesn’t affect me.” That’s when she contacted her older friend, the renowned barrister Mrs. Maryam Uwais, and together, they decided to start a chain of emails to mobilize others, mainly women, to get on the streets to pressurise the government to bring the girls back. She says she was shocked about how nothing had been done, weeks after the abduction and about how Abuja residents seemed to carry on with life as usual.

What began as a collection of emails has evolved into a street campaign taken around the world, empowered with a heavy social media presence – #BringBackOurGirls has been tweeted more than two million times.

Hadiza says she chose red to embody the campaign, describing the colour as a sign for “alarm, danger, a warning.”

“This was just me randomly concerned, gathering other people,” she says.

But a closer look at Hadiza’s life reveals her concern is not as “random” as one may imagine. Hadiza’s concern reflects a larger perspective shared by many who call themselves active citizens, thinkers and activists. Born in Zaria in 1976 and raised on the campus of the supposedly left-winged Ahmadu

Hadiza

Bello University with her three sisters and three brothers, Hadiza is the daughter of the late Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman, who was a passionate and respected lecturer of history at the university. She grew up surrounded by intellectuals and her father was especially inspiring.

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“I grew up listening to my father challenging the government and questioning the status quo,” she remarks.

She remembers when her father was fired when she was about twelve years old. She says the government had become concerned

about his public views. Her father took the case to court and he eventually got his job back.

The Emir of Kano is Hadiza’s grandmother’s brother and the Emir of Katsina is related to her father. Despite his royal lineage, Hadiza’s father regularly confront-

Born in Zaria in 1976 and raised on the campus of the supposedly left-winged Ahmadu Bello University with her three sisters and three brothers, Hadiza is the daughter of the late Dr. Yusuf Bala Usman, who was a passionate and respected lecturer of history at the university.

ed realities that he disagreed with – poverty, corruption and weak leadership.

It’s these sorts of experiences, with an outspoken father and strong-willed mother and her life in Zaria, that defined Hadiza’s scope as a Nigerian. She says what is happening today, with terrorists rampaging uncontrollably in northeastern Nigeria and the government’s failure to return any of the abducted students, “exposes the intellectual deficit of the leadership in this country.”

And the activism runs through the family. Two of her sisters—a pharmacist and the other, an accountant—have joined #BringBackOurGirls. Her mother also marched to the National Assembly, participated in the night vigil and attended two of the sit-ins.

“I would not be doing what I am doing without her,” Hadiza says of her mother, a prudent woman who Hadiza says maintained the family home with grace.

But the activism comes at a price. Hadiza says she is being followed by strange cars throughout the day and her phones – along with some of the other women of #BringBackOurGirls – are tapped.

“There is a lag time in my conversations on the phone and I see my text messages being directed to strange numbers.” But she says she is not intimidated.

Nor is she intimidated by the President’s disapproval of #BringBackOurGirls campaigners telling the government what to do. She disapproves of the President’s recommendation for Nigerians to direct their protests to Boko Haram and not to the government.

“When a thief comes to your house to steal something, you’re telling me I can’t go to the police, but I should go to the thief to get back what was stolen from me?” she asks incredulously.

She’s not alone in her questions. #BringBackOurGirls has gone viral. She believes it’s an ample opportunity for Nigerians to collectively rise for a single cause and with Hadiza and the other campaign organizers, Nigerians have united, irrespective of age, creed and ethnicity.

“Maybe the abduction of the Chibok girls is the beginning of an end,” Hadiza says. “We stand united.”

Page 24

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Kiddies World SIGHTS AND SOUNDS

B E AD C

HIS AND HERS CORNER

The amazing Gurara Waterfalls

Love is sharing

Cartoon

G

eographically located in Niger State on the road between Suleja and Minna, the waterfalls span 200 meters across with a sheer drop of 30 meters.

Gurara river is a large tributary of river Niger and it’s always in full spate during the rain seasons.

Apparently in January the falls are a trickle and visitors can swim in clear pools at the bottom of the falls. Visitors can take a day trip to the gushing Gurara waterfalls – an hour drive out of the city of Abuja.

At Gurara, small streams diverted from the main Gurara River running softly around rocks on top of the cliff, converging from scores tributaries in the narrow rugged pass and dashing out from the

“

cliff with almighty power.

Finally, the water, shining under the sun, as beautiful as fireworks, fall into a pond some 20 meters below before returning to tranquility.

There are two main streams of waterfalls, but in the rainy season, the whole cliff would be covered with a curtain of waterfalls. To get close to the waterfalls, visitors need to make a daring walk.

There is an ongoing plan to turn the waterfall area into a tourism resort and there were already investors showing interest in the project.

Construction of a five-star hotel is also on the agenda.

Apart from the spectacular view of the waterfall, Gurara is also a pretty good place for bird watching.

There is an ongoing plan to turn the waterfall area into a tourism resort and there were already investors showing interest in the project.

Construction of a five-star hotel is also on the agenda.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse with the duck

Tom and Jerry

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 25

B Kiddies World

E A CD

AFRICAN TALES

How the Monkeys saved the Fish

MODEL OF THE WEEK

T

he rainy season that year had been the strongest ever and the river had broken its banks. There were floods everywhere and the animals were all running up into the hills. The floods came so fast that many drowned except the lucky monkeys who used their proverbial agility to climb up into the treetops. They looked down on the surface of the water where the fish were swimming and gracefully jumping out of the water as if they were the only ones enjoying the devastating flood.

One of the monkeys saw the fish and shouted to his companion: “Look down, my friend, look at those poor creatures.

They are going to drown. Do you see how they struggle in the water?” “Yes,” said the other monkey. “What a pity!

Probably they were late in escaping to the hills because they seem to have no legs. How can we save them?” “I think we must do something. Let’s go close to the edge of the flood where the water is not deep enough to cover us, and we can help them to get out.”

So the monkeys did just that.

They started catching the fish, but not without difficulty. One by one, they brought them out of the water and put them carefully on the dry land. After a short time there was a pile of fish lying on the grass motionless. One of the monkeys said, “Do you see? They were tired, but now they are just sleeping and resting. Had it not been for us, my friend, all these poor people without legs would have drowned.”

The other monkey said: “They were trying to escape from us because they could not understand our good intentions. But when they wake up they will be very grateful because we have brought them salvation.”

Josephat, Goddestiny Chikamnso

ACTIVITIES

Using the right colours, shade the image below. Describe your action and show your work to your teacher for correction.

Cheers!

CREATIVITY

How to make rolled paper roses Paper flowers fashioned from old book pages, newspaper or brown Kraft paper are a frugal alternative to store-bought ribbons and bows.

Materials Needed: •old book pages, newspaper, scrapbook paper or Kraft paper •scissors •hot glue gun •glue sticks •pencil Cut Paper Circles Cut a rough circle out of your chosen paper type. Tip: It doesn’t need to be perfectly round.

Cut and Roll the Spiral Shape Draw and cut a spiral shape starting from the edges of the circle. Leave a circle in the center; this is where you will affix the rolled flower.

Start rolling the cut spiral from the edge until you reach the center.

Glue Rolled Paper Release the swirl of rolled paper to reveal your rose, then hot glue the swirl to the center to secure the rose in place.

Page 26

e-Learning

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Stephen Hawking was ‘lazy with bad handwriting’

S

tephen Hawking has told how a teacher opened his eyes to the ‘blueprint of the universe itself mathematics’.

The physicist said Dikran Tahta had helped him build his first computer while he was a student at St Albans School in Hertfordshire.

Describing himself as a lazy pupil with bad handwriting, Professor Hawking said his maths teacher was his inspiration for becoming a professor of mathematics at Cambridge University.

In a video for the Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize, which is due to be awarded at a ceremony in Dubai this weekend, Professor Hawking said: ‘It all starts, with the seed of love.

‘The love of music, the love of history...for me it was the love of science.

‘At St Albans School, there was an inspirational maths teacher, Mr Tahta. He opened my eyes to the blueprint of the universe itself mathematics.

‘I wasn’t the best student at all. My handwriting was bad, and I could be lazy.

Many teachers were boring.

‘Not Mr Tahta. His classes were lively and exciting. Eve-

rything could be debated.

Together we built my first computer, it was made with electro mechanical switches.

‘Thanks to Mr Tahta, I became a professor of mathematics at Cambridge, in a position once held by Isaac Newton.’

He adds: ‘I have spent my life attempting to unlock the mysteries of the universe.

‘When each of us thinks about what we can do in life, chances are, we can do it because of a teacher.

‘Behind every exceptional person, there is an exceptional teacher. Today, we need great teachers more than ever.’

The global teacher prize, which is worth a million dollars (£704,000), recognises an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the profession.

UK maths teacher Colin Hegarty is among the final 10 shortlisted for this year’s award.

Professor Hawking was born on 8 January 8, 1942, in Oxford.

After leaving St Albans, he wanted to study mathematics at Oxford, but ended up studying physics, and specifically cosmology.

He graduated in 1962 with

Stephen Hawking (left) has told how a teacher opened his eyes to the ‘blueprint of the universe itself - mathematics’. The physicist said Dikran Tahta helped him build his first computer while he was a student at St Albans School in Hertfordshire and he is the reason he became a professor of mathematics at Cambridge

honours in natural science and went on to attend Trinity Hall at Cambridge University for a PhD in cosmology.

While studying cosmology at the University of Cambridge, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at the age of 21.

MAILONLINE

In a video for the Varkey Foundation Global Teacher Prize, which is due to be awarded at a ceremony in Dubai this weekend, Professor Hawking (pictured as a child left) said: ‘I wasn’t the best student at all. My handwriting was bad, and I could be lazy. Many teachers were boring [but] not Mr Tahta (right)’

“

Describing himself as a lazy pupil with bad handwriting, Professor Hawking said his maths teacher was his inspiration for becoming a professor of mathematics at Cambridge University.

After leaving St Albans, Professor Hawking (pictured) wanted to study mathematics at Oxford, but instead studied physics, and cosmology. He graduated in 1962 with honours in natural science and went on to attend Trinity Hall at Cambridge University for a PhD in cosmology

PAGE 27

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Leisure

Greedy tortoise and the lizard O

nce upon a time there was a famine in the land of the animals. One day, the lizard was passing by a farm when he saw the farmer approach a rock.

The lizard hid and watched as the farmer rolled the rock away to reveal the entrance into a cave. The farmer went inside and came out a few minutes later with a handful of yams and rolled the rock back into its place. The lizard waited for the farmer to leave then he too rolled away the rock and went into the cave. Inside the cave were several stacks of yams. The lizard took out a yam, and rolled the rock back into its place. Every day, the lizard would return to the cave to take a yam and would go home to eat the yam.

One day the lizard was carrying his yam home, he came across the tortoise who asked him where he had gotten his yam. He offered to tell him on the condition that the tortoise told no one. The tortoise promised to keep the secret, so the lizard told the tortoise to meet him the following morning and he would take him to the secret cave. Early the next morning, before the very first cock crow, the lizard and the tortoise went to the secret cave. When they got there, the lizard rolled the rock away to reveal the entrance to the cave.

The tortoise could not believe his eyes for there were more yams in there than even he could eat, because the tortoise was a very greedy fellow.

The lizard picked a yam and

Greedy tortoise started on his way home but the tortoise was not done yet. He was going to carry as many yams as he could and maybe even more. Very soon, the farmer came and found the tortoise who was still busy collecting yams.

By this time, the lizard was

home, had eaten his yam and was taking a nap. The farmer grabbed the tortoise and asked him how he came to be in the cave. The tortoise confessed that the lizard had brought him there, so the farmer took tortoise to the lizard’s house. There they

Let’s see how good you are with the economics words

found lizard lying on his back.

The farmer asked lizard if it was he who brought tortoise to his cave. The lizard was shocked and said it was not possible as he had been feeling unwell and lying on his back all day. The farmer grabbed the tortoise and

threw him against the wall and the tortoise lay on the floor with a broken shell. The tortoise cried out to the insects of the forest who helped him pick up and glue the pieces of his shell together.

And that was how the tortoise ended up with a broken shell.

Laugh out loud (Lol)!

A

kpos was being chased by 2 men for one of his numerous crimes and he ran into a forest.

Seeing a quicker route, he climbed up a tree.

The two men followed him into the forest, got to the tree where Akpos was but they didn’t know where he ran to.

Angrily one of the men said ‘ this boy don escape again.

The other man said ‘don’t worry I know this

boy, he is just a Mumu if you call his name 3 times he will answer.

Then Akpos laughed out loud from the tree and said to the men.

‘Hahahahahaha! If you like call my name from now till next year, I no go answer you oh. U think say na Akpos of before be dis?

The Spirit of Can Do…

I CAPITAL

IMPERFECT

POLICY

DEPRECIATION

INVESTMENT

PPFCURVE

ECONOMICS

ISOCOST

PRICES

ECONOMY

LSE

QUOTA

EXCHANGERATE

MONETARY

SCALE

FISCAL

MONEY

TRADE

have seen better days but I have also seen worse I don’t have everything I want but I do have something I woke up with some aches and pains but I woke up My life may not be perfect but I am blessed I learned that we can do anything but we can’t do everything We all make mistakes, have struggles and even regret things in our past, but you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles and

you are alive with the power to shape your future.

If you think you can’t….you won’t If you think you can…. you will.

When I am tired at practice … I tell myself am not tired and I can push through People will tell you…you can’t do something because they can’t do it themselves If you want something, go get it The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do.

By Chidinma Ubah

Beauty

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 28

TIPS

How to get plump, luscious lips

W

ho doesn’t want luscious lips?

Obviously we pay attention to our lips, but just using lipstick, lip gloss, lip balms isn’t enough to get beautiful lips.

Many women desire lips that are full and luscious, yet few are knowledgeable about the things they can do to get what they want.

However, the lips you want can be yours with little effort or money. Below are tips that may help you get beautiful lips.

Exfoliate daily: Get a good baby brush with very soft bristles and exfoliate your lips gently every day.

Remove those dead cells of the extra peeling layer. Don’t use your regular brush. It is very harsh on the super sensitive skin of your lips. It may injure you too. It is one of the important steps that most women don’t do at all. You can use your regular toothpaste and brush to exfoliate but it will dry your lips.

Moisturize your lips

Don’t forget to moisturize after exfoliating the dead cells.

But if you are not comfortable with this method, you can use a smooth napkin or just a cotton cloth instead of a brush. Just wet the cloth and gently wipe your lips with it daily. Ensure that the cloth isn’t rough on your skin and if you wish you can use toothpaste also. Simply rub the toothpaste with the cloth or the napkin.

Exfoliation not only works to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother lips, it also helps to stimulate blood flow and circulation. This in turn leads to fuller and plumper lips. A simple scrub can be made at home using household ingredients.

Mix sugar and water until it creates a paste. Rub the mixture on the lips and rinse to get lips that are naturally smoother and bigger.

You can also go for homemade scrubs. Just take some sugar, add few drops of lemon or honey and gently scrub your lips with it. Sugar scrub is the best for

Sugar scrub

your lips. Don’t forget to do it regularly.

Moisturize: Choose a good lip balm to moisturize your lips. Don’t let them dry at all. See that it has enough SPF protection so that it can protect you from the harmful sun rays and their side effects, that is, pigmentation. Apply after brushing your teeth and before going to bed. Always carry a lip balm with you. Some lipsticks dry and chap the lips. So it is always advisable to use a good lip balm underneath your lipstick.

You can use coconut oil, olive oil, Vitamin E, coco butter before going to bed. This will supple your lips.

Get rid of pigmentation: Pigmentation is quite common these days. There are many ways to get rid of it, the simplest method is to mix few drops of lemon juice with honey and apply it on the lips. Leave it for a few minutes and wash off.

You can add some sugar to it and use it as a scrub too.

Makeup: Always choose your products wisely. Get lip liner and lipstick of the same shade that lasts long and doesn’t transfer when you eat or drink.

First of all, use a good lip balm with enough SPF in it.

Wait for few minutes to let the lips absorb it properly. Now use a lip liner. Take the foundation on your finger tip and apply to your lips. Then apply a layer of lipstick with a lip brush. A brush can help you apply the lipstick with uniformity. Sprinkle some talcum powder on your lips to make the layer settle. This will help the lipstick stay longer.

Now apply another layer of

lipstick. Swipe more times if required but do not apply a thick layer. A thick layer will easily fade but thin multiple layers last long. Now take the tissue and remove the excess lipstick from your lips by gently dabbing. Now if required, use a good lip gloss whose shade should be almost close to that of your lipstick.

Lip liner helps define the lip area. When aiming for a fuller looking lip, apply the liner a little above your natural lip line and then fill it in with your desired colour. This will give the effect that your lips are larger.

Lip exercises Smiling Believe it or not a simple smile can work wonders for your lips and it is probably the easiest method, requiring the least amount of thought. Watch a funny programme in order to get your laughs in or just smile a few

Luscious lips

times throughout the day when you think of it. This will work to strengthen your lip muscles so they don’t sag and help create fuller lips.

Kissing Kissing is not only exciting, it can create those luscious lips you want. Pucker up for a few seconds and repeat 10 times or just kiss someone you love multiple times a day. Either way, you are working those lip muscles in order to get a larger pout.

Before resorting to drastic steps such as fillers or plastic surgery, try a few of these suggestions mentioned above.

You may not get lips like Angelina Jolie, but you will notice a difference that may just save you the pain and cost of more significant measures.

It isn’t difficult to get luscious lips if you take care of them regularly.

Fashion

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Kela

Page 29

The wrap dress: One work attire to try out

F

ashion is limitless and endless, but many times we lose inspiration and creativity. When this happens, we simply need to see things in a different light. For your work outfits to look both fashionable and professional you need experiment more often. That way you get to find out what suits you the most and what works best for you.

If you don’t have a standard work attire, the best way is to look around and notice what your colleagues have on, this way you can determine how you should dress to work. For work attire the first rule is comfort, always have on comfortable clothings. Below are some work ideas to try out.

Color Block This color block idea is absolutely fantastic, Kela pairs a red wrap knee length dress with a purple blazer, black belt with gold buckle, dark blue hand bag, gold accessories and gold ankle strap heels.

Kela’s Kloset Who says you can only rock an outfit the same way? Here kela rocks the red wrap dress with an orange jacket this time, she accessorizes with a golden brown waist belt, vintage gold accessories, black with brown hand bag and leopard print peep toe heel.

Rad in Rose Red Stylist Rose Lazard schools us on the corporate casual look as she rocks a Zara rose red loose pant with a white flannel shirt, a white and brown suede leather bag and black suede pumps.

Stripe Shea rocks a wrap black and white wrap dress paired with brown sandal heel and a brown fendi bag. This look is minimal and simple.

Kela

Pots & Pans Page 30

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Nigerian style couscous

T

his is a light dish for those who are watching their weights.

This recipe literally takes 10 minutes from start to finish Ingredients 1.5 cups Couscous 1.5 Cups chicken or beef stock 2 table spoons olive oil 2 cups freshly chopped vegetables (Onion, tomatoes, red & green peppers, mushrooms and spring onions) ½ teaspoon red or black pepper ½ teaspoon salt ½ cube magi ½ teaspoon pepper flakes [optional] Preparation Bring chicken stock to a rolling boil, add in couscous and cover tightly. Remove from heat and set aside for 5-6 minutes Add olive oil to a large pan and heat slightly. Add in the chopped vegetables, pepper, salt and magi. Toss and leave to cook for 3 minutes Lightly fluff the cooked couscous with a fork, add into the vegetable mix. Combine Add in the pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust for seasoning.

Your Couscous is ready to serve.

Cucumber Juice C ucumber juice is a very healthy drink with high content of water and contains noteworthy amounts of potassium, silica, vitamin A, vitamin C, foliate, and chlorophyll, among other nutrients. Many people add cucumber juice to their diets to improve the quality of their skin, nails, and hair, and when consumed regularly, the drink can help treat high blood pressure and kidney stones. Cucumber juice can be prepared straight, with nothing but cucumbers or you can blend it with sweeteners and other juices for extra flavor. Enjoy………..

Ingredients 3 medium cucumbers For Sweetened Juice 1. 1 medium cucumber 2. 2 cups (500 ml) water 3. 2 tablespoon (28.3 g) sugar 4. 2 tablespoon (30 ml) honey 5. Salt, to taste Peel, slice, and chop the cucumbers.

Grate your cucumber chunks into fine shreds.

Pour 2 cups (500 milliliters) of water and 2 tablespoons (28 1/3 grams) of sugar into a medium-sized saucepan. Bring the water and sugar to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Once it boils, the sugar should break down into the water, making it a little thicker.

Add the grated cucumber to the boiling sugar water. Turn the heat down to mediumlow or medium and simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

Heating the cucumbers together with the water and sugar combines the flavors more thoroughly than mixing them cold.

Remove the cucumber mixture from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly, at least until it stops bubbling and steaming.

Transfer the cucumber mixture to a blender and add 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of honey. Blend it on a high speed until it resembles a puree with very few noticeable chunks of cucumber remaining. Blending releases more of the juice trapped inside the cucumber.

Spread cheesecloth inside of a large glass bowl. The cheesecloth should be large enough to drape over the sides of the bowl Carefully pour the pureed cucumbers into the cheesecloth.

Once the puree is inside cheesecloth, bring the sides of the cheesecloth together into a tight bundle. Knot the cloth or tie it to secure the ends in place.

Allow the cucumber juice to drain out of the cheesecloth and into the glass bowl. Once the juice stops dripping out on its own, squeeze the cheesecloth pouch to wring out any excess. When squeezing the pouch no longer produces juice, remove the cheesecloth and discard or save as desired.

Add salt, to taste, into the cucumber juice. Stir to combine. Salt takes off the bitter edge that cucumber juice naturally has, but the bitterness may already be less obvious due to the sweeteners.

Serve the cucumber juice in glasses, either chilled or with ice.

PAGE 31

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Relationship

Are you a side chick?

I

f you are a side chick who wants to keep up a relationship with a guy who has a main, then you have to know the rules of the game. You can’t expect the relationship to be more than what it is: a way for both of you to have a good time and not worry about where the relationship is going even though these days a side chick can be ‘wifed’. The moment you start questioning your status or ask for something more, all of the fun will be over.

Nowadays, some men are very smart when it comes to women.

They have girlfriends who think they are the “main chicks” but are actually the side-chicks.

These men know how to patch their holes when needed, but it takes being extra smart and vigilant to catch the culprit before you fall into their trap.

If your man is guilty of some of these things, chill babe you are a side chick.

Valentine’s Day: Some say Valentine’s Day is when you know if you are truly his main girlfriend. There is no way a guy who has two girlfriends would share an equal amount of time with them. He might send the side chick a gift at work if she is lucky, while he is away to avoid questions. When it is getting close to Valentine’s Day that is when he has an official trip.

There is a reason why February 13 and 15 are known as ‘National Side Chick Days’. If he’s not seeing you on Valentine’s Day, you’re probably his other woman.

He never “titles” you: It is your birthday and he puts up your picture but captions it: “Happy birthday, dear”

A man texting his side chick while the ‘Main’ is sleeping

or “Happy birthday Rukky”.

This leaves room for various interpretations without incriminating him. Whenever he wants to introduce you to people, girls in particular, he introduces you with your first name or bestie or something of that sort, just so you don’t spoil his shine with other girls.

He never recognises you on his social networks: Finding someone who isn’t on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, is like finding a needle in a haystack.

When you are the girl on the side, your guy might make excuse as to why you can’t be his friend on Facebook or follow him on Twitter. In fact, he locks everything to ensure you can’t

connect via social networking.

This is probably because social networking sites are some of the easiest ways to get caught.

As much as we know that some people love their privacy but this can also be a sign. He posts pictures about his many travels but when it comes to proclaiming his love for you, he remembers his privacy. If this is you, you might just be number two.

He only picks your calls at a particular time: This happens when you are not around him.

He needs to create ways to be with his main chick so at that point, you become irrelevant.

This usually happens mostly on weekends. The reason why he is never available over the weekend is because they both work during the week and the weekend is their only alone time. If he always gives excuses most weekends, check your boo! Simply put, weekends are reserved for actual girlfriends (or “main chicks” if you’re seriously terrified of commitment). There is nothing wrong with a Wednesday night

“

date or meeting for lunch on a Friday, but if that is the only time he can see you, there is a good chance you’re dealing with a dude in a relationship. You are probably a side chick if you text all the time but never talk on the phone or if he has you saved under a fake name.

Hates surprise visits: Have you tried to surprise your boyfriend at his house and he gets so cross with you. Now that reason might be because you are the side babe. He never wants you coming unannounced without calling first. He gives you the impression that he hates surprises. Have you ever wondered why he never takes you to his house but always to a hotel? He might say something along the lines of “I don’t usually bring girls to my house until I’m ready to introduce them to my mum.” You have both spent an arm and a leg on cheap hotel rooms just for you to spend quality time with him and after all that he still won’t take out back to his house. Girl, wake up.

If that’s where you seem to be meeting up all the time you are

definitely the side chick sweetie.

Shine ya eye!

He always wants to go to your place: For one thing, a side chick might not ever see where her dude lives, but if she does, it wasn’t his idea. Sure, some guys are just a little antisocial, but if he never wants to spend time anywhere other than your place, there’s a good chance that he’s keeping you a secret from someone.

Lastminute.com: When you make plans to see each other and do special things that lovers do he always seems to cancel at the very last minute because something came up! Yeah, his main chick. She probably did a last minute thing herself and told him she was on her way or they were going somewhere, you know girlfriend stuff that you probably do for him only that no one knows about you... awkward. Also, he is the most spontaneous man on earth. He can just call you at any time and tell you that he’s coming to pick you up and then call you five minutes later saying he can’t come. Hmmm.

He only picks your calls at a particular time: This happens when you are not around him. He needs to create ways to be with his main chick so at that point, you become irrelevant. This usually happens mostly on weekends. The reason why he is never available over the weekend is because they both work during the week and the weekend is their only alone time.

PAGE 32

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Fiction

Father and son duel A

dam felt a twinge. He made a lazy turn, took a glance around the room and slowly lifted his frame off the bed.

There was a slight knock on the door as he got to the refrigerator. Adam turned, picked his shirt, and walked towards the door.

Adam turned the knob of the door. “Room service” a young male hotel server said and beamed. Adam wanted to smile too, but his pain wouldn’t let him. “I —” Adam shook his head. The server got the message, did a slight bow and walked on.

Adam stared at him. He had not seen this server before, and he’d failed to check his breast pocket for the name tag.

Grim. Grim.

Adam heard his phone ring. He closed the door and clumped towards the bed to pick his phone.

“Adam” “Hello, Maggie” Margaret sighed.

“Hey, what’s up with the lady?”

“Nothing. I just called to remind you that I still exist.” Margaret started. Not this time, Adam muttered to himself. “Adam,” she called softly.

“Are you sure you’re okay over there?”

“I am. I’m —” “You seem so distant lately,” “Hello! I’m in Abuja.” Adam prayed his tone was convincing enough.

“I wasn’t referring to the fact that we’re in two different cities. Adam —” “I’m fine. You worry too much. I’ll be back later in the day” She heaved a breathe. “When is your flight scheduled?”

Adam had not thought about that, what time? “3:30 pm” he answered. He checked the time. 9:47am.

“Ok” “Did the pastor travel with the key to the church?” Adam asked.

“The Pastor?” Margaret repeated. “Oh,” she chuckled. “Silly you. I’m almost set for church.”

“Ok, off you go” “Ok. Bye” Adam exhaled deeply and adjusted his weight on the bed; it just occurred to him that he had been sitting on its edge. “Bye.” Adam jerked himself off the bed, removed his shirt and walked towards the bathroom. He knew the time he had left was short.

I have to talk to Steve, Adam mused.

Never dreamed that he would be gone from me, if I could steal one final glance, one final step, one final dance with him …

Steve turned on the bed. He jolted up when it registered to him who was calling.

“Hello, dad. Good morning” Steve greeted, though he was uncertain what time it was wherever his father was calling from.

“Morning.” Obviously it was morning over there.

“How’s the honeymoon going?” Steve asked.

He asked because courtesy demanded such, not because he really wanted to know.

“Fine. Gwen is having a great time.”

Gwen; the woman whom father married.

“When are you coming back?”

“No fixed date yet” “Ok” “There’s a file I’d like you to get from the barrister. Today’s Sunday, so you’re sure to get him at home. Jerome is not the outing type.”

“Ok sir. I’ll ask Dotun to get it for —” “Dotun?”

“My personal —” “I know Mr. Majedokunmi. What I don’t ….” he stopped to gain control of his voice. “What I don’t understand, and one I do not like is the level of trust you’ve placed on that boy, that overambitious Yoruba boy. Where are you?

“Lagos” “Oh! Lagos!” he didn’t sound pleased. “Get that file from the barrister yourself, whenever you get back to Abuja” “Ok, sir.” Steve knew ‘whenever you get back to Abuja’ meant only one thing; be fast about it.

Steve heard the distinct sound; one indicating that father had cut the call from his end. He smiled. No time for a nice goodbye, he thought.

Steve tossed his phone on the bed. Its light

faded moments after it touched the bed; enough time for Steve to catch a glimpse at the photo on the screen. He stretched to pick the phone. Even before he touched the phone, he knew whose photo he was about to see.

Steve tapped its screen and the phone came alive. A smiling couple—Adam and his girlfriend, Margaret. Steve had been searching through Adam’s facebook timeline before he drifted off to sleep the previous night.

Steve scrolled down the comments. The fourth comment read: Fine boy, fine girl. Cousin bro, una wedding don dey long overdue oh! Lolzzz.

Oh mon Dieu! Cele ne peut pas être vrai!

Steve exclaimed. He felt his chest; his heart beat seemed irregular.

The comment was made by his personal assistant, Dotun Alex Majedokunmi.

The tile floor felt cold to his naked butt.

Adam jerked himself off the floor and pushed the phones aside on the bed; he spread his weight on the warm cozy bed and slowly dragged the blanket to cover his entire frame. on’t know why you’re so blue, the sun’s going to shine …

The buzz of Steve’s phone made him stir. Adam pushed the blanket down, just passed his neck. He reached for the phone and tapped the silent option that appeared on its screen.

Dotun must be wondering what had taken possession of Steve, Adam thought. Adam waited for Dotun’s call to end before he put the phone on silent mode.

He pulled the blanket to cover his head.

Adam prayed that sleep would come.

Steve put the air conditioner off and walked to the window to pull its blinders. He opened the windows, and inhaled the cool Sunday morning seaside breeze.

The freshness of the air and the natural flow of the waters he beheld calmed his nerves.

Nature, Steve mused as he observed the waves.

Nature, he questioned; his thoughts zeroed on one person: Adam.

Strangely, his stay in the hotel had taken a different turn from what he had in mind before leaving Abuja. In place of all he had had in mind, his holiday had come to revolve around Adam.

He cursed as he thought of Dotun’s possible role in the turn of events.

Steve leaned on the window sash; his thoughts wandered.

Now, Adam had indicated that he was leaving; Steve mused. I guess I’m going to leave too, he concluded.

Steve reached to take his phone from his pocket. He wanted to make reservations for a flight back to Abuja the following day. He searched, but could not find the phone. He turned towards the bed to check if it lay there.

“Ah,” Steve cried as a new sense of awareness hit him hard¬ -he had left his phone in Adam’s room.

Dotun held his phone close to his ears, waiting to hear Steve’s voice or the voice of the one who had answered the call previously. Dotun was sure someone else had answered; the timbre of the voice did not match Steve’s.

Dotun’s attempt at calling Steve ended without any response for the umpteenth time.

Dotun pressed the green button again. This time he had dialed Adam’s number. Dotun disconnected the call seconds after; he had received a call waiting signal.

Dotun raised his head to see a man with an

D

“

orange coloured vest approaching his car. Dotun knew him well: the head of the church traffic control team.

“Any problem with your car, sir?” the man inquired.

“No. I was taking a call” “Ok” Steve opened the door of his car, and made a quick grab at his Bible.

I’ll dial again once service is over. dam placed his phone side by side with Steve’s. He had just finished speaking with Margaret. Adam expected his phone to ring again.

Dotun needs answers. He will dial again, Adam thought. Steve’s phone brightened instead.

Adam smiled as he beheld the photo that appeared beside the name of the caller.

Its been a long time sir, Adam muttered as he stared at the photo.

I need to give Steve his phone.

A

The buzz of Steve’s phone made him stir. Adam pushed the blanket down, just passed his neck. He reached for the phone and tapped the silent option that appeared on its screen.

Steve opened the door after he heard the knock.

“Hey, Richard” “Hey man” “You want to come in?” Steve asked as he opened the door wider.

“No. I just wanted to say thank you for the other night, honouring my invitation.”

“I should be saying thanks. I had fun, my friend did too.” Steve wished he had not mentioned Adam.

“Yes, Adam” Richard said.

Richard looked straight at Steve’s eyes, just like he did before mentioning the bachelor’s party the other night. Richard’s face creased a little.

“It seems you both got something going.”

“We -” “A bromance sure rocks these days.”

“Yes. We -” ichard reached for Steve’s shoulder. “I always wanted one; never got that lucky” he managed to say as his cheek was taking on a light shade of red. “I got to go.”

“Merci pour sarrêter par. Je ne comprends les paroles aimables” “Son mon plaisir” Steve closed the door behind him. He held at its knob a little longer; Richard’s words playing over and again in his thoughts.

There was another knock. Steve quickly pulled at the knob, expecting to see Richard.

“Here’s your phone, your father called” “Oh, Thank you” Steve said as he reached for the phone.

Adam turned to leave.

“Please wait,” Steve called. “We need to talk.”

R

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Romance

He lost her to another man

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ou wished you could say those words, that you’ve been told she wanted to hear but you couldn’t.

Logic says no. Logic does not understand the language of the heart. So you are stuck with throwing mindless and thoughtless tantrums till you lose her.

Four years later, you meet her at the airport on your way back from a journey to the states, she smiles sweetly at you waving her hands at you. She told you that she has been seeing you on television and had read all your books over the years hoping you’d be impressed that she had finally taken a liking for books like you always wanted her to. You felt a tinge of pride; your success had been a major hit. You had expected that she would definitely have heard about it. And you were indeed impressed that she had chosen not to forget you even if she never contacted you.

Then, it suddenly dawned on you, the reason for her wave of hands, as the blinking ring on her engagement finger caught your sight. She’s getting married she announces; You are not moved, you didn’t smile nor congratulate her. Logic that had always been your best friend starts denying you like Peter at the Crucifixion of Christ.

You are still single, she is now engaged; you couldn’t confess your feelings for her back then because you were scared of immediate commitment. You were scared that you were not man enough for her; your bank accounts as at then couldn’t boast of a thousand naira. She had told you that she didn’t mind starving so far she was with you.

You didn’t believe her; you had seen what the lack of money did to your parents.

How it was your mother that had been responsible for most of the things in your house because your father lost his job and broke his spine in an accident that condemned him to the wheelchair the rest of his life. You saw what that had done to him, how hurt his pride had been whenever he had to collect money from your mother to do anything. You had sworn to work as hard as you could possibly work to ensure that your father’s fate never befalls you.

You felt sorry that you couldn’t ask her out back then or call her your own. You felt that she deserved better than you could give; not that you had anything to give her anyway.

Now the same commitment that you had eluded back then is all you are looking for but it is nowhere, four years down the lane; you are a successful writer and speaker of international

“

You are still single, she is now engaged; you couldn’t confess your feelings for her back then because you were scared of immediate commitment. You were scared that you were not man enough for her; your bank accounts as at then couldn’t boast of a thousand naira. She had told you that she didn’t mind starving so far she was with you.

repute. You had slaved yourself over the years to editors and publicists to make a hard living and when success came it had not come with all the perks that you had imagined it would come with, though it had been overwhelming but you couldn’t find anyone who could love you for who you are and you feared that you were still in love with someone who you never expressed your feelings to and whom you are now finding out that she’s engaged.

So you mouthed the words in a mumble that sounded like the gibberish that came readily available to you and didn’t allow them to come out clearly. ‘I loved you back then and I still love you.’ Bisi strained herself to hear you clearly but you did not say those words again. This is not a movie, you thought to yourself, this is life and this is

the sort of thing that happens when you don’t talk when you were supposed to, so sulk it up and move on.

“I could almost guess what you were thinking you know” She says watching your mouth drop as you fear that she may have figured out you’re gibberish. “You’re thinking of what happened between us those years ago and how it was possible for me to move on after you broke my heart.”

Words failed you; you stared after her in disbelief and wandered for a brief moment if you would ever have the chance to tell her how you really felt about her. “It’s not like that Bisi, and I know you know that too” You say, your guilt renewed like a newly fuelled fire.

“It’s never like that with you, everything has got to be complicated and you never talk,

you never truly open up except maybe in your books. I read all of your works and hoped that maybe somewhere inside it there was a hidden message for me, something to hold on to, but I found none!”

“That’s not true Bisi, all or at least most of my works were a message to you. I didn’t want to start something that I couldn’t finish with you. I thought you understood that.”

“Understood?

Sola was right about you. You really are heartless. Did you ever sit down to consider how I felt?”

The mention of the name Sola brought back cruel memories to you. You remember him clearly; he had been the one who gave her the attention that you were not willing to give; the rich boy who roamed campus with his father’s car, who had almost everything given to him

on a silver platter. He had been your arch-rival from the get go and despite your best efforts to stave away the trouble which his rivalry might cause to your friendship with Bisi, he had continued to debase you at every opportunity he got.

She could see the effect of her words on you, so she backed off. “I had feelings for you back then and I think I still do. I just couldn’t do it as at that time. I couldn’t handle a relationship then and I didn’t know how else to break it to you than the way I did.”

“I don’t know what to say to you…I’m sorry” she said as a tear rolled down her ebony cheek. You blink back the tears yourself.

“I’m sorry too, so when’s the big day?” You managed to say, struggling to catch your breath, you felt a lot better after saying those words to her because it had been at the tip of your tongue since you discovered the rings on her finger.

“It’s next Saturday and I’m getting married to Sola.” You stared at her in utter disbelief, you felt really angry, not at her nor at Sola but at yourself.

You managed a smile even though your heart was in sharp contrast with what your face was producing. You felt like a thousand knives were stabbing your heart at the same time but you smiled still and urged her to send you the invite to the wedding.

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Nollywood Mercy Aigbe sets Nollywood record, to pay new PA N100,000

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ith the current rate of unemployment in the country and the various challenges faced especially by the youths, Nollywood actress, Mercy Aigbe, has step in to the rescue.

The actress, considering her tight schedule has decided to hire the service of a Personal Assistant who will be managing some of her affairs at the same time move around with her.

Mercy has gotten herself involved in so many businesses and coupled with her acting, she rarely has the time to attend to other affairs which is what has prompted the need to have an assistant.

She is offering to pay about N100,000 to the lucky applicant who best deserves the job. Though, her price tag has been under attack as some fans have criticized her nothing that such amount of money is too small for the job but the actress has developed thick skin for such attacks.

The lovely actress is anxiously waiting to see who emerges as her new PA which will help reduce some burden off her neck. But with such an amount of money for a PA, it shows how capable the actress is and what a good husband she has as she sets to brake record of being the only actress to pay a PA such an amount of money.

Some Nollywood Omoni Oboli denies producers are thieves she copied her movie —Blessing Effiom from a Hollywood movie

Mercy Johnson begs P-Square to unite

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e would want you to know the genesis of what happened to Omoni Oboli before her talk on crab mentality. Her soon-to-be-released movie, ‘WIVES ON STRIKE,’ which is about a group of women who decide to deprive their men of sex for the sake of a cause, was said to have been copied (or stolen) from the movie, ‘Chiraq’, which was produced and directed by the internationally acclaimed ace filmmaker, Spike Lee. The Actress is not talking this talk lightly.

She wrote; “For those who do not know what the Crab Mentality is, let me first describe it using the Wikipedia: Crab mentality, sometimes referred to as the ‘crab in the bucket’, is a way of thinking best described by the phrase, “if I can’t have it, neither can you.” The metaphor refers to a bucket or pot of crabs. Individually, the crabs could easily escape from the pot, instead they grab at each other in a useless “king of the hill” competition which prevents any from escaping and ensure their collective demise.

N

ollywood actress cum producer, Blessing Effiom Egbe, ha come out blowing hot after she discovered how some Nollywood producers go about repeating same title of movie, script and ideas.

The actress stated that some producers because they are paid, they just hump on set and steal other people’s work while asking if they are now short of ideas.

She questioned popular cable channel, Africa Magic, on why they don’t screen content they buy before airing it to their viewers.

In her words, “I’m sitting here watching Africa magic 151 and all I see is DISCLOSURE Season 2 story. This is a shame and I am Sad for this industry. Actors, Producers, directors! Don’t jump on set because you are paid to work.

People steal & copy stories! In the end, you will look stupid “Are we running out of ideas in Nollywood? Can two or more film makers sell same story to Africa Magic? Don’t you watch films you buy? Goodness!! Same names, same lines, same story. These film makers tomorrow will parade themselves as film makers. Who are we to then cry about piracy? And script writers who sell same script to two or more people. Your reward is coming. You are worse than a pirate & will reap what u sow!”

N

ollywood actress, Mercy Johnson, is in emotional state over the news of the split between the P-Square brothers.

The actress made her heart felt desire for the brothers to unite known after she listened to the brief song done by Paul Okoye titled ‘Call Heaven.’

She shared a picture of a mother and child with the wordings “without my children my house will be clean, my wallet will be full but my heart will be empty” while calling on the brothers to allow peace to reign.

In her words, “All we ask Lord is peace at the end. In tears as I listen, am calling heaven as I pray DON’T SPLIT P-SQUARE.”

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

PAGE 35

Hollywood

Ben Affleck defends Ricky Neve Campbell got ‘tired’ Shailene Woodley of ‘Hollywood rat race’ prefers books to films Gervais’ ‘unfaithful’ Golden

S

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eve Campbell pulled back from the “Hollywood rat race” after feeling she had become typecast.

The 42-year-old actress starred as lead character Sidney Prescott in the highest-grossing slasher film series ‘Scream’, but she got disillusioned with the deluge of horror films that were then offered to her so decided to take a step back from the movie business.

Speaking to the Metro newspaper, she said: “I just got tired of the Hollywood rat race and moved to England for seven years.

This business is fickle “It’s not based on how good your work is but how big your last movie was. I got offered horror films but I didn’t want to do any more of those.

“Eventually, my US agent called and said ‘Do you care at all about your American profile?’ That’s when we decided to move back to LA for a year.”

After becoming a mother in 2012, Neve stayed relevant by taking smaller roles in shoes such as ‘Greys Anatomy’ and ‘Mad Men’ and she can currently be seen in Netflix series ‘House of Cards’.

Talking about her role as Leann Harvey in political drama, Never admits she enjoys being “being an older women” and playing a “grown-up” character after years as a scream queen.

Never - who has three-year-old son Caspian with her partner JJ Feild - said: “I play Leann Harvey, who’s a Texan. She’s intelligent, successful, driven. I don’t have any fear of ageing. I like being an older women. I like being a strong women. Which is why I like doing House of Cards. I actually get to play a grownup.”

hailene Woodley doesn’t watch movies.

The ‘Divergent’ actress may have carved out a successful career by starring in a number of successful movies but she has admitted she prefers to snuggle up with a book after a long day on set rather than get engrossed in a movie.

She explained: “I don’t really watch any other things. I don’t know how people find time to watch movies. I would love to watch more. At the end of the day it’s either watch movies or read a book and generally the novel wins.”

But, if the 24-year-old star does find the time to slip on a film, she prefers to watch her movies because she can critique her performance in order to improve for her next role.

She said: “I don’t know if it’s enjoyable but it’s something I’m grateful for. It’s a way of critiquing what I do, so I know better for the next round how I can adjust and grow my strengths.”

Shailene shot to fame after she starred in ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ as cancer patient Hazel Grace Lancaster in 2014 and, despite her down to earth attitude to life, she has admitted she was concerned fame would go to head and ruin her life.

Speaking to the Metro newspaper, she said: “I think at first I was worried about my anonymity. Then I realised my life hadn’t changed and as long as I could stay true to that I don’t think any external force could really affect me.”

Globes joke: It’s part of the deal

B

en Affleck has defended Ricky Gervais after he made a joke at his expense at this year’s Golden Globes.

Gervais, 54, branded the actor, 43, “unfaithful” as he played host at the annual awards bash.

On introducing Affleck’s best friend Matt Damon, he quipped: “He’s also the only person who Ben Affleck hasn’t been unfaithful to. Please welcome Matt Damon.”

Addressing the quip about his alleged infidelity, Affleck told New York Times: “It’s the way Ricky Gervais perceives me, I suppose. Whatever. I’ve had jokes made at my expense before.

It’s part of the deal.”

Affleck’s ex-wife Jennifer Garner also laughed off the comment, which was criticised by some viewers.

“I laughed,” she told Vanity Fair. “People have pain — they do regrettable things, they feel shame, and shame equals pain.

“No one needs to hate him for me. I don’t hate him. Certainly we don’t have to beat the guy up.”

Gervais was criticised for a string of jokes and was accused of being transphobic following a Caitlyn Jenner gag. Deadpool actor T J Miller also lashed out at the comedian for the way he mocked the Hollywood set.

But fans of Gervais were unperturbed and have called for the David Brent star to host the Oscars.

The Jump faces legal action and ‘£500,000 payout’ to compensate seven injured celebrities T

he Jump made its name as one of television’s most dangerous shows leaving more than half of its contestants injured and forced to pull out of their part in the Channel 4 series, and now it could be facing payouts of approximately £500,000.

Stars including Beth Tweddle, Linford Christie, Rebecca Adlington, Mark-Francis Vandelli, Sarah Harding and Heather Mills were badly injured during the third series, and now the show might have to cough up thousands to each individual if they decide to pursue the matter.

The Sun reports that compensation specialist Quittance has calculated what each celebrity should be owed if they were to take action. The firm claims that Beth Tweddle could demand the most following a serious neck injury where she had to be airlifted for surgery. The professional gymnast could reportedly claim up to £100,000 in compensation.

Holby City star Tina Hobley, who broke her arm in two places and dislocated her elbow, could be due £40,000. The actress is already reportedly “considering legal action” against the dangerous winter sports programme, with the 44-year-old claiming the accident was not her fault after she swerved to avoid a production crew member and crashed.

Hobley told the Daily Star: “Someone told me to jump and it wasn’t safe to jump. So it wasn’t an accident that was my fault. What happened was

painful.” Doctors have since told the actress that she will have to undergo two operations to repair the damage.

Other contestants who could be owed a payout include Linford Christie, Rebecca Adlington, MarkFrancis Vandelli, Sarah Harding and Heather Mills.

Christie could reportedly receive £20,000 after suffering a hamstring injury, while Adlington could get around £13,000 after dislocating her shoulder.

Made In Chelsea’s Vandelli might be owed £18,000 after fracturing his ankle, while Harding ruptured a leg ligament so might be given up to £8,000.

Quittance has also worked out that Sir Paul McCartney’s ex-wife could expect £12,000 after injuring her knee and thumb – and the firm also added that injuries from previous series could equate to £200,000 since Ola Jordan and Sally Bercow amongst others were hurt during filming.

A Channel 4 spokesperson said: “All contestants were fully covered for medical expenses both in Austria and the UK,” reports The Sun. The first series of The Jump was won by X Factor winner Joe McElderry in February 2014. In March 2014, Channel 4’s chief creative officer, Jay Hunt, was keen to renew the show, which includes bobsleighing, speed skating and ski cross, despite the numerous injuries occurred. The second series was won by Towie star Joey Essex in 2015 and the third has just been won by rugby ace Ben Cohen.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 36

Celebrity Gists Davido to perform alongside Gotti, Musgraves, others at FADER Fort x

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ward winning singer, Davido, is on an international level.

The pop star is set to perform at a threeday concert for FADER Fort, organised by Converse. He will perform alongside a host of other international music stars including Yo Gotti, Kace Musgraves, Rae Sremmund, Section Boyz, Sheer Mag, Metro Boomin and more.

It is definitely a big deal for the star as he will take the stage for 25 minutes.

Peter Okoye of Ciara, Russell Wilson PSquare performs are engaged solo in Abuja G

T

he Okoye brothers (Peter and Paul) are adding more fuel to the rumours that they may never perform together under the PSquare brand if Peter’s recent performance in Abuja is anything to go by.

Peter took to the stage performing under the moniker, ‘Mr P’ and apparently, he is also set to perform solo again on April 7 in Dubai.

Earlier in the month, Peter released his first solo single called, “Look Into My Eyes”.

This comes after his brother, Paul shared an image of their late mum on Instagram with the caption: ‘I wish you were around, now I understand what this life is without having a mother’.

I’m not engaged to Meek Mill yet, Nicki Minaj insists

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apper Nicki Minaj doesn’t hear the sound of wedding bells ringing.

Last year, the “Truffle Butter” rapper sparked engagement rumours by wearing two different (but equally dazzling) diamond rings on that finger. Her boyfriend singer Meek Mill denied popping the question, telling Fader last year, “It ain’t really time to get married yet. We are still learning each other, feeling each other out.”

In NYLON’s April issue, Minaj insists that they are not engaged—at least not yet. “He said my third ring would be my engagement ring.

But sometimes he calls me his fiancée and I am always trying to stop him, like, ‘Nope! I ain’t got

that third ring yet. We are just taking it one step at a time and you know, if that happens, if I get married, then I will have a child and that’ll be fun, because I can’t wait to hold my baby.”

Minaj, 33, is confident that Meek Mill, 28, is the one. “When he and I were just friends, he would always say, ‘You remind me of my mother and I like that because you are like a dude. So, I always got the sense that me being tough and bossy was a turn-on for him. And it is important for me to keep my voice. Being in a relationship shouldn’t mean that you lose your voice. It should mean that you have met a secure-enough man to allow you, in a sense, to remain a queen.”

rammy award winning singer, Ciara and Seattle Seahawks quarterback, Russell Wilson are engaged.

Wilson broke the news on his Instagram page, where he shared a video of his new fiancée wearing a huge, gorgeous diamond ring. “She said yes! Yeah!” he says in the video. “Making this thing happen. My baby.”

“Yay! I’m so excited,” Ciara adds. “God is so good.”

In addition to their emotional video, Wilson penned a heartfelt caption. “She said Yes!!! Since Day 1 I knew you were the one,” he wrote. “No Greater feeling... #TrueLove @Ciara” The “1, 2 Step” songstress also tweeted the exciting announcement.

“God Is Good! Grateful For You @DangRussWilson. You Are Heaven Sent. I’m Looking Forward To Spending Forever With You.” This happy couple has been gushing about each other from day one.

Shortly before Valentine’s Day Ciara told E! News that she wasn’t pressuring him for a ring, but she definitely wouldn’t turn one down.

Russell and Ciara began dating in April 2015.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Entertainment Actress Ibinabo Fiberesima to serve 5-year jail term

Davido’s “Baddest” album may not be released this year M

usic star, David “Davido” Adeleke, revealed that his sophomore album, ‘Baddest’, which has been highly anticipated, may not be released this year.

According to him, Sony Music BMG, which he recently signed a deal with, requires more time to ensure that the album carries global appeal, as well as stage a successful global distribution of the project.

Davido stated that “I am not sure yet (and) it might not even be this year”.

He had earlier talked about the expenses that had gone into the album, as well as the possible international features.

A

ctress Ibinabo Fiberesima has been slammed with a five-year jail term by the Court of Appeal in Lagos. Justice Jamilu Yammama Tukur delivered the decision, saying the appeal was shallow and lacked merit.

Ibinabo was alleged to have collided with the car of a staff of the Lagos State hospital, Giwa Suraj, as a result of reckless driving on the Lekki-Epe Expressway in February, 2006.

The Nollywood actress had already been fined N100,000 by a magistrate court, a decision that was overruled by the High Court. Justice Oluwayemi of the trial court replaced the fine with a five-year jail term, saying the magistrate exercised ‘judicial recklessness’ by giving the option of a fine.

She appealed the case, but according to reports, her appeal was dismissed; thus setting her on the path to a five-year jail term.

African China releases ‘Love Mata’

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eteran musician, African China, is showing no sign of slowing down.

The Maurizio Ghiotti directed video for his latest single, ‘Love Mata’ was shot in Europe and features an interesting scene where African China teaches some European kids how to dance Shoki.

Page 37

Rising star, Attah set to become Ghana’s Tourism Ministry ambassador

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ith his feature film debut in Beast of No Nation, 14-year old Ghanaian actor, Abraham Attah, has been on the rise in the international movie industry.

Just recently, he bagged a Netflix scholarship, the Marcello Mastroianni Best Young Actor Award at the 72nd Venice International Film Festival, the Ghana Movie Awards Best Actor in a Leading Role, among others.

He is also expected to feature in Shane Caruth’s third film, The Modern Ocean.

A few days ago, Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Elizabeth Ofosu Agyare, hinted that the ‘Beast of no Nation’ actor will be made Ghana’s Tourism Ambassador. She made the statement at the media launch of the 2016 Okwahu Paragliding Festival.

“We are proud of Abraham Attah at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and we think that all of us should pamper him and do our best to make sure all he has achieved takes him far.”

She added that her ministry will also host him and some of his friends and family at the festival where she will hold discussions with him on a package that will see him become Ghana’s Tourism Ambassador.

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

OUR MISSION “To be the market place of ideas and the leading player in the industry by putting the people first, upholding the truth, maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards while delivering value to our stakeholders”

OUR PEOPLE

OUR VISION

Chairman Malam Wada Maida, Oon, Fnge Director/Editor-in-Chief Rufa’i Ibrahim Editor, Daily Hameed M. Bello

Chief Operating Officer Ali M. Ali

Deputy Manager, Production Aminu Jibril Mohammed

Acting Editor, Weekend Lawal Sabo Ibrahim

Manager, administration Hassan Hammanyaji

Acting Head, Lagos Bureau Ayodele Samuel

“To be a reputable, profitable, innovative and technologically reliant media company offering world class services and products”

ISSUES

‘Unfaithful’ men in Buhari’s govt

By Alabi Williams

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resident Muhammadu Buhari is reported to have complained that some people in his government are not ‘100 percent loyal’.

This was part of the news items distilled by the home-based media from his recent interview with Al Jazeera, during his visit to Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

It is not exactly clear, which category of persons in his government the president was referring to, whether he meant civil servants, who worked specifically on the troubled 2016 budget or the general bureaucracy that he inherited from the previous administration. It is not also clear if he meant to add members of his political party, All Progressives Congress (APC), the same persons who helped him procure the office of president that had eluded him for decades.

As it is with reported speech, a little dissonance here and there could tamper with the original meaning, but that did not stop the local media from reproducing parts of the Al Jazeera interview, in order to update Nigerians on what their president had again said of them in the foreign media. It has become a trend now that PMB chooses the occasion of his foreign travels to make far-reaching statements more than he does at home.

Maybe the local media have not shown 100 percent loyalty to earn the confidence for firsthand disclosure. Maybe the foreign appeal Buhari garnered on the way to 2015 have held him hostage and he thinks he must explain every headache at home to them, whereas, a Jacob Zuma will not come here to lament and bore you about South Africa’s many domestic issues. But that is by the way.

What is far more important here is to attempt an understanding of why PMB and those working with him cannot achieve 100 per cent mutual loyalty; or a substantial cohesion to get the work done fast and for the people to begin to enjoy the promises of democracy, which are legion. The situation now is too critical for the President and his party to carry on as if the campaigns are not yet over, still looking for places to hang the blame.

When the president announced on May 29, 2015 that he would be for all and for no one, many heaved a sigh of relief,

WRITE TO US

Peoples Daily Weekend welcomes your letters, opinion articles, text messages and ‘pictures of yesteryears.’ All written contributions should be concise. Word limits: Letters - 150 words, Articles - 750 words. Please include your name and a valid location. Letters to the Editor should be addressed to: The Editor, Peoples Daily, 1st Floor Peace Plaza, 35 Ajose Adeogun Street, Utako, Abuja. contacts@peoplesdailyng.com adverts@peoplesdailyng.com admin@peoplesdailyng.com news@peoplesdailyng.com that an inclusive government was born, one where no one would be vanquished, but all citizens would work together to lift the country from the morass she had been ditched. The President gave the impression that past sins had been forgiven and a new slate had opened for all citizens to surrender their loyalties, 100 per cent.

But citizens, some, were amazed when he began to manifest signs of sectionalism, picking and choosing persons in his ‘kitchen’ cabinet, in a manner that could narrow his sphere of concerns and the accruing loyalty.

He even said he was more comfortable working with old allies, majority of whom he sourced from the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and later, the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

Buhari did not receive national appeal in that first instance of appointments. And that could cost a government some degree of loyalty.

Even if that were not the intention, at the end of the day, majority of those who got on board the larger Buhari cabinet were still traced to the concentric circle of old political allies. Beginning with an SGF (Secretary to Government of the Federation) Babachir David Lawal, who is gifted with the art of headhunting for allies, the immediate Buhari political family within the APC has gained some momentum on the road to 2019. That could upset the forecast as the party journeys into the future, and could tamper with the loyalty Buhari is complaining about.

Already, there are scenarios in the

party that could make 100 percent loyalty difficult for some APC members to surrender to government going forward.

Some are asking for compensation for the one they had already surrendered. The National Assembly controlled by the party lacks cohesion and loyalty here is 50/50.

Some stakeholders in states like Kano are already losing temper for investing so much and getting little. Those who didn’t invest much, like those in Southeast are whining. Market women are also complaining.

To achieve absolute loyalty, the kind Buhari hankers after, in a democratic setting like Nigeria might be difficult, except he tries countries like Equatorial Guinea, where president Francisco Macias Nguema rules by the whip. The party does not belong to him; it belongs to a number of stakeholders who have to be carried along in a consensual manner. The President needs to play politics; use the stick a little and carrot generously to get this complex system going. We need to pass this curve and start coasting home with achievements.

As for civil servants, those alleged to have introduced the strange word ‘padding’ to the 2016 budget, the President must know that they belong to no one and to everybody. When this government came on board and it took so long to get loyal and honest men to enlist in the cabinet, it was civil servants who assisted the President in managing the transition from May 29 to somewhere around November 2015.

They (permanent secretaries) worked so

hard and conscientiously that Buhari himself testified to their goodness. He wished he could continue with them, instead of having to appoint politicians who are, by the way, noisemakers into his government.

After that good recommendation, the president was to send 21 of them home on retirement and appointed new ones who, we were told, will even do better than the previous ones. But now, we have issues with budget padding and it is the same civil servants who are taking the blame. How come? How dare they add to budget 2016 without the knowledge of the ministers? Was it ever possible that ministers will not have a faint idea of what the package for their ministries were before the budget is unveiled? But they (ministers) all denied knowledge of what transpired and the President believed them. I am surprised people are not asking too many questions; or don’t they know that ministers (politicians) and civil servants have been in this business for a long time, and that, perhaps, the only one who should be surprised is the President, who claims to be oblivious of the tricks politicians employ to finance their parties.

It is strange too that nobody has wondered from whence come this thoroughness in the National Assembly that led to the discovery of the padded budget. If this is real, then we must applaud our lawmakers, but let it not be that some persons who have withdrawn their 100 per cent loyalty are the ones spilling the beans?

I demand that for the sake of budget 2017, there should be an independent investigation of what really happened to budget 2016. It is not enough to sack the entire civil service; we need to get to the bottom of it and learn some lessons.

The civil servants are alleging that some ‘experts’ in zero budgeting were brought in to work on the budget; and that the errors may have occurred at their end. I urge the president to unravel this blight on our collective integrity. He should also know that civil servants belong to Any Government In Power (AGIP) and they can be extremely loyal if you manage them. But it is really strange that in all his years in government our president has not heard of ‘budget padding’.

Culled from Abuisidiqu.com

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 39

Opinion

Ese Oruru, Yinusa Dahiru and the tragedy of a divided nation

By Ogundana Michael Rotimi

W

e may not have been together if not for the 1914 amalgamation. But since the artificial wedding took place over a century ago, it is quite surprising how and why we remain divided in the face of various integration plans and programmes to keep us united.

Few weeks ago when the Ese Oruru saga broke out, it again showed to the world how divided a nation amalgamated over a hundred years ago is. The saga, proved once again that we have only been struggling to live in harmony with one another and always looking for the slightest opportunity to go against each other.

Worse as our division is, we are not only divided along regional or ethnical line, but we are so divided along numerous lines and that calls for concern for a nation dreaming of development and prosperity. One wonders how we have managed to stay together as a nation in the midst of these divisions all these years.

The Ese Oruru saga was a crime committed by one man, but instead of the culprits to be condemned and cautioned, the criticism and blame came on his region, religion and people.

A fallacy that was borne out of bigotry and hate.

While a few people directly condemned the criminal act committed by one Mr. Yinusa Dahiru, who allegedly abducted Ese, forcefully converted her to Islam, possibly hypnotised and assaulted her sexually, a huge number

of people took advantage of Yinusa’s action and descended mercilessly on his region and religion. Hence, the northern region came under attack alongside the Islamic religion.

It is my belief that no religion supports violence. People are violent but hide under the guise of one form of religion, region or the others to justify their criminality. But a nation divided along these lines will not consider it that way. It will rather take advantage of the act and attack the whole region or religion involved.

A country that is so desirous of making any form of progress in this tough and competiveness world cannot stay divided and expect any form of progress. The point is; a divided nation will continue to grasp for development and prosperity in the face of abundant opportunities.

We cannot as a nation hope to

“

achieve the founding dreams and aspirations of our founding fathers while we stay divided. Not possible! If we must achieve greatness, we can only achieve it together.

Change comes with numerous responsibility- one of which is to be united. No divided nation has attained that which they wished and dreamed of.

Either child marriage, abduction, baby factories, rituals, vandalism and the likes, a crime is a crime, we must condemn it outrightly without tagging any region or religion.

There is no justification for doing the wrong thing and perpetrating evil.

Evil is evil. It has no other name but evil. People choose to do evil and sort for justification for it. Those who do evil should be seen as evil and not their religion or region.

Men will always want to justify is criminality, but it does not make evil

Change comes with numerous responsibility- one of which is to be united.

No divided nation has attained that which they wished and dreamed of. Either child marriage, abduction, baby factories, rituals, vandalism and the likes, a crime is a crime, we must condemn it outrightly without tagging any region or religion.

less evil. Don`t conform to that! If evil is perpetrated by someone in the North/ South/Middle-Belt by Christian/ Muslim/Pagan, condemn it. Evil has no religion or region.

You can not condemn the whole north or a particular religion because of Ese saga and other related crimes.

Likewise can you not condemn the whole south or a particular religion for baby factories, vandalism, and other related evils.

When you condemn a crime, do not do it with an intention to sway a religion/region- that also is evil. Just condemn it outrightly!

If one from or not from your religion or region derives pleasure in crime, condemn it. Not his/her religion or region. If we unanimously condemn evil irrespective of who is involved and not tag it, in no time far from now, we would have a saner society. But if those in the North/South/Middle-Belt, Christian/ Muslim/Pagan keep defending the evil perpetrated by one of their own, we would continue to live in a society where evil works and reigns. At the end, when evil reigns, the people suffer!

Division will take us nowhere. Saner countries in the world find a common ground that keeps them united in spite of their differences. Nigeria can do the same.

Divided we are vulnerable but united we are unstoppable.

Rotimi posted this piece on Abusidiqu.com

President Buhari, work and pray

By Festus Ogun

W

hile in primary school, I remember vividly how our headmaster always reminded us of the need to work or read hard and pray harder. Similarly, throughout my years in secondary school, the song of ‘Work and Pray’ was sung to our hearing, virtually, everyday by the proprietor of the school. This clearly shows the importance of hard work and prayer.

Since the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari, he has travelled and will still do more to over 24 countries.

He can be described as the Gulliver of our dear nation. Though, there are reasons why he decided to embark on several journeys, but the one that is of interest to the country is: to make a better Nigeria and it is the intention of Nigerians that his several walks out of the country is to fulfil this mission.

Frankly speaking, there is nothing wrong in Buhari visiting other countries.

But, how are the trips really affecting Nigeria? How do we get the desired change? These are the questions bothering the minds of Nigerians. After

several travels by our president, the economy still remains unfriendly. The country is still in serious hardship. What then is the significance?

Though, Buhari needs to travel for advice, ‘exposure’, experiences, and for many other things, but, the point is that he needs to work too. Travels cannot, solely, solve the problem of Nigeria; the president needs to work very hard to take us to the promised land.

Recently, the president was in Saudi Arabia to, among others, pray for Nigeria.

This is a good move. But, the question is: does Nigeria need any other thing from God? God has tried his best by endowing

us free of charge with more than enough human and natural resources. What else do we need from him?

Seriously, Nigeria is too endowed to be in this mess. Neither God nor devil is our problem. We are our problem. Where all the resources have been milked by some unscrupulous persons why do we need God’s prayer again? To return the loots or what? Where have we placed this God while we were doing the looting?

Didn’t ‘we’ even criticise the erstwhile administration while he was busy running after God? Look, prayer is not the main thing at this point maybe later. We need to change

“ President Buhari should

not rely or depend solely on prayers for Nigeria, he needs to hustle, work (walk, if he likes) and pray.

ourselves and stop the habit of destruction and embezzlement. After this is done, then, we can pray to God to guide us. To Buhari, the prayer may not work out well if there is no serious work. Prayer alone cannot do the job of rebuilding Nigeria.

Infact, using the whole month in Jerusalem or Mecca will not help the country in any way. Buhari just needs to work very hard first. He needs to tackle the pressing issues in our nation. Even, God worked very hard too before he rested on the Sabbath day.

After working, he may then pray for God to crown his efforts with success.

Even biblically, prayer or faith without work is a pure waste of time. But, the combination of the two will make things augur well. So, President Buhari should not rely or depend solely on prayers for Nigeria, he needs to hustle, work (walk, if he likes) and pray. At least, God won’t come down from his place of abode to reconstruct the country we destroyed by ourselves. And remember, praying in sin or amidst political sinners, may delay the effect of the prayer. Baba, please work and pray.

Culled from Omojuwa.com

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

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Comment

Strategies for rehabilitating IDPs in Nigeria

By Olawale Rotimi

I

nternally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria suffer disproportionately from different problems such as malnutrition, sickness, insecurity in the camps, lack of access to education, idles among others. The vulnerability of displaced persons is a major reason why sustainable strategies for rehabilitation must be considered and implemented at the shortest delay possible.

The number of displaced persons in Nigeria increased speedily in 2014 and 2015 following increased severe attacks from the dreaded terror group, Boko Haram. From the Displacement Tracking Matrix in a report published in February 2015, over a million displaced persons consisting of 149, 357 households were identified in six states of North East and North Central (Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe states).

Another 5910 households were identified in Plateau, Nasarawa, Abuja, Kano and Kaduna states.

National Emergency Management Agency’s statistics (NEMA) and International Organization for

Migration also identified closely related number of internally displaced persons. It is clear that the figures may not be accurate considering the fact that some IDPs camps are not recognized by the government agency. Despite this uncertainty in figure, it is not obscure that displaced persons in Nigeria today are numbered in millions. 53 percent of them are said to be women, while 47 percent are men. 56 percent of the total IDPs population are children which more than half are up to five years old, 2.26 percent are breastfeeding mothers, 1.2 percent are pregnant women, 1.61 percent are identified as unaccompanied and separated children. 92 percent were displaced by the insurgency in the north-east.

Assessing the damages done to the economy and social composition in northern Nigeria

by Boko Haram over the years, the issue of Internally Displaced Persons is a great challenge to Nigeria. Efforts are made from various ends to recover and rehabilitate them but due to lack of a comprehensive roadmap/master plan of rehabilitation, there is no formidable combined effort. At this

point, it is important to note that rehabilitating internally Displaced Persons go far beyond donating items to them randomly, it requires a deliberate research based plan which address the experiential challenges of the displaced persons and sustainable solutions, this will offer a strong platform for government and international actors to play. Lack of a research based master plan has weakened humanitarian interventions for displaced persons in Nigeria. T Strategies for rehabilitation must come to play, tantamount to such which is been embarked upon by the Women and Child Watch Initiative in order to completely integrate the displaced persons into the society. These strategies for rehabilitation will give clarity to the roles available to the Federal and state governments, public and private donors, national and local leaders, and international actors to address and respond to the growing number of challenges confronting displaced persons in Nigeria. If not explored, the vulnerability of the IDPs may instigate intolerant attitudes, radicalism, and theft among other social vices that could bring unrest. A highlight of

innovations that could broaden and strengthen government and international actor in the face of expanding challenges will be assessed briefly for the purpose of this article.

Engaging local NGOs/ Researchers: It is imperative for government and international actors to engage local NGOs and researchers who are committed to rehabilitation of displaced persons in Nigeria. The aim of engaging them is to gather thematic challenges confronting the displaced persons and the solutions to such challenges. In relation to Women and Child Watch Initiative is doing as an NGO, questionnaires that address different areas such as gender based violence in the camps, emotional trauma, health challenges, child right in the camps among others should be developed in order to produce a research based result on IDPs rehabilitation.

Awareness and Advocacy: More awareness should be incessantly raised to draw attention of private and international donors to the plight of displaced persons in Nigeria. Such awareness must be researched based. This will

motivate donors to contribute immensely to the rehabilitation process of IDPs in Nigeria. This will strengthen humanitarian response to internally displaced persons.

The pressing areas that interventions should cover include: Security: In September 2015, the deadly terrorist group, Boko Haram, in a suicide mission, attacked members of IDPs Camps in Madagali and Yola, killing 12 persons. In one of the attacks, bombs were reported to have been detonated inside a tent at the IDP camp. This among others are security threats faced by members of IDP camps in Nigeria. Yet to recover from psychological trauma from the loss of families, friends and properties, displaced persons are faced with security challenges coupled with a responsibility to protect themselves in their various camps. The inadequacy of security at the IDP camps opens them to attacks from terrorists and armed robbers.

Rotimi posted this article on Omojuwa.com

Social media bill and NASS spectacle

By Halima Oji

A

s the All Progressives Congress (APC) continues to anchor on the tenets of democracy; socio-economic rights, stamp out corruption and invest public funds in the development of critical sectors and infrastructure while demanding that Nigerians fall back to the moral ways of old and be responsible for their actions and inactions, the tide has risen to unmask those selfish characters in the National Assembly.

Politicians have been known for one unchanging attribute, interest – very selfish interest. And with Nigerians a personal interest that has nothing to do with one’s community or nation at large.

Many at times you wonder why our politicians are such parasitic lynch.

Nigeria’s democracy may be young but are our politicians just growing teeth or plain ignorant of the time and changes required for the country’s prosperity.

The legislature as the second tier of government remains an integral part of this nation but a very disappointing one for the past 16 years I dare say. And it is with a heavy heart that I say this eighth National Assembly with its hundreds gallivanting as senators and honourable members is even a bigger sham. No apology as I refuse to even consider that the Social

Media Bill is an issue for discuss in the 21st century.

Seeing the charade in this arm of government, one can’t help but curse the “Sak” movement that brought the unimaginable into this monastery of sort. Seriously I miss the vigour the National Assembly was once known for. To say the least, I miss the presence of Farouk Lawan in the political scene.

Though the popular Integrity Group in the House of Representatives may have died a natural death with the seventh assembly following the unsavoury episode with its commander, the country is in dire need of some replica with teeth and claws ready to play the intense game of politics this level of government entails

“

to get Nigerians the deserved good standard of living. Since the inauguration of the present Legislature, the National Assembly has been home to Nigeria’s famous Drama Series – The election of its Leaders, sharing of lucrative committees to favoured friends, the infused theatrical Ministerial screening, Budget Presentation by the President and motor-park “hailing” of the Speaker of the House of Representative, to the subsequent missing/not missing budget comic show, the tedious budget review and anticipated passage, the unnecessary Social Media Bill and the endless unwarranted comments during plenary and etc………..

Hope we are still alive when

A vibrant, active and engaging legislative like the fourth and fifth assemblies, however, not without blemishes still reminds us of intense deliberations and a strike force that pushed for some level of development in Nigeria despite dealing with the cocky President Olusegun Obasanjo.

NASS finally gets to doing real work – strategic negotiation and maneuvering for the socio economic development of Nigeria (trade by batter).

A vibrant, active and engaging legislative like the fourth and fifth assemblies, however, not without blemishes still reminds us of intense deliberations and a strike force that pushed for some level of development in Nigeria despite dealing with the cocky President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The APC majority in the National Assembly; seem to have no in-depth knowledge of this administration’s agenda except for the “Changi” mantra to effectively tackle the executive and bring the right issues to the front burner nor do they have a better interest than the already established selfish personal interest. Good thing there wouldn’t be all that money for spree and show….. The lack of knowledge is very evident. And a glaring lack of radical(s) to keep the national assembly on its toes.

Nigeria’s political integration is a priority for all as counting days to the next election isn’t doing us any good. We must urgently change our concepts, policies and laws in order to adapt to present realities.

Ignoring this fact and hoping the right politicians as against the mediocre miraculously make it to office can’t be achieved without a

holistic overhaul of party politics.

The legislative arm of government is beyond the enactment of tons of meaningless laws that doesn’t translate to development and a bribe gang on oversight functions.

Interest – the selfish one must reflect Nigeria’s economic growth beginning with development in our communities, local government areas, and federal constituency and senatorial zones. It wouldn’t kill our politicians to have a national agenda; vision. Lobbying proper may not be a popular concept in this part of the world except for the bribe taking part but it’s a necessary tool if any success is to be achieved in this country. We need to stop accepting this epic failure and misrepresentation at the upper and lower chambers.

Though, politicians have been advised to watch the popular Kevin Stancy’s television series House of Cards and I very much doubt that they have, so I will suggest that the clerk organizes a viewing for the various committees since they run a full-time legislature but do the work of a part-time one.

Change and adapting to the quick dynamic reality is inevitable.

History is not concerned with visions that are not implemented.

Culled from Abusidiqu.com

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 41

Online Comments State of the nation: Osinbajo, Saraki, Atiku, Tinubu, others in closed door meeting SirOscie. says: Party leaders discussing the way forward is always a welcome development, one that all organs of the party and Nigerians stand to benefit from considering the fact that the APC is now the party in power.

Army on high alert to combat N/Delta militants Tony says: It is preposterous to think that hungrylooking and inept Nigerian soldiers can stand the highly equipped Niger Delta militants, many of whom are experts in guerilla warfare.

Murtala Made Us Crazy S. A. Maigari says: There’s always a new way of telling an old story. Well done, Oga Yawe.

JIBWIS unveils satellite radio, television stations in Abuja Yusuf Abdullai Kwoffie says: We need and want to donate to manara programmes and also register our masjid so kindly help us.

The emerging political debate in Jigawa Shehu Bello says: Leaders like Sule Lamido are visionaries, committed, honest, dedicated, transparent, faithful; hardworking and unbiased and they are in very short supply. So, he deserves to be appreciated and respected. Suspending his son makes us believe that he is being witch-hunted by this clueless administration of Gov. Badaru. It is unfortunate. Lamido will continue to excel.

Abubakar Aliyu says: This is incredible!!! Why will the governor behave this way? Why will he suspend district heads? He should take things easy and gently. He should be wary of all these kind of things because what goes around comes around. Sule Lamido deserves respect, gratitude, commendation and appreciation. Not humiliation and witch-hunt. May God guide us aright.

Muhammad Bello says:

The late Murtala

Mr. Adam, Governor Muhammad has nothing to envy in Sule talk less of those district heads who want to live under the expense of their community and the Jigawa people in general. Infact even if you are ignorant of what Badaru’s government is all about you can’t compare him with Lamido.

Isa Dan-Sidi Kafin-Hausa says: Administrators are cheap and easy to find and cheap to keep. Leaders like Sule Lamido are visionaries, committed, honest, dedicated, transparent, faithful; hardworking and unbiased and they are in very short supply. And ones with vision are pure gold. Lamido is more than gold. Sir, keep on, sky is the limit. Baba we are with you come rain come sun. May Allah reward you. Sai Lamido. .

Isa Dan-Sidi Kafin-Hausa says: This action of suspending Lamido’s son is illogical and politically motivated. I pity governors with this kind of attitude.

Badaru you are governor and we are all yours but don’t intimidate Lamido’s family and his supporters. We pray for Jigawa’s peace and unity. Oh God help us.

Adamu Muhd Usman KafinHausa says: Lamido and his administration accommodated insults and abuses from the people without having to reprimand anyone and in its bid to entrench democratic values, his government ensured the freedom of speech. PDP was not afraid of the APC, but was enjoying its activities.

He observed that it was his deliberate policy of promoting freedom of association that made it possible for those in the opposition to merge and challenge the ruling party.

Lamido believes that strong opposition is good for our democracy. APC should be very grateful to Sule Lamido and his administration. He added that the administration has promoted the right to vote and be voted for and strengthened the sanctity and integrity of democracy by ensuring that votes count.

Lamido pointed out that despite all negative comments against him and his government, there had not been any political prisoner or suspend anybody because he is facing trial in the state also the administration of Lamido had been able to stabilise the state assembly by not interfering with their operations. This, he explained, is his own way of decentralizing power by strengthening institutions rather than making himself or anybody serving under his government a dictator.

Atiku’s philanthropy not inspired by political consideration

Atiku Abubakar

VP Osinbajo

Saraki

– Associate

For example from late 2007 to 2015 Jigawa State accomplished the construction of over 1,200 housing units in the state capital, Malam Aminu Kano Triangle square, state high court complex, Second phase of state secretariat, chief judge, grand kadi, deputy governor, speaker, deputy speaker residences, five Emirs lodges, Dutse ultramodern market, NYSC permanent orientation camp and sport complex, New legislative quarters, illuminated Dual Carrige road traversing the nook and cranny of the state capital.

The state University at Kafin-Hausa, the beautiful airport etc.

SirOscie. says: I believe Atiku means well for Nigerians and will keep giving back to the people even after 2019.

Between Gov. Badaru, Lamido and Jigawa health sector (II) Abubakar Aliyu says: The purpose of human life is to serve, show compassion and the will to help others. It is very rare, thrilling and fascinating to get a leader with this kind of initiative and attributes of pity, love, care, concern, compassion, commitment, dedication, devotion and empathy etc to his people like Sule Lamido. He who cares the situation and bears the challenges and interests of humanity, that man is blessed Thank you Lamido.

Mansur Ahmed Jahun. says: I really pity my beloved state, Jigawa.

Things are going in a reverse gear. From inception of this present administration we are lacking and lagging behind in all works of life and missing good things.

Because of ignoring or not continuing with Sule Lamido’s policies and the application of some unpopular and outdated policies in the state especially the neglect of health sector in the state. Sule Lamido’s uncommon commitment, efficiency, selfless service, love of his people, intensity and approbation of fashionable developmental issues mark him out as a purposeful leader. Thank you Baba, we are with you come rain come sun.

Auwal Muhd says: One good thing about life is the rotation of time. It is popularly said: “A fool does not know the value of his left hand until he loses it”. I really sympathize with the good people of Jigawa for a great lose. Lamido is the one who has Jigawa and its people at heart. A meaningful developer and a great achiever. The best that has ever ruled the state. Without fear of contradiction, his name has been written in gold, shining and glowing. Jigawa people are today victims of circumstances (change). If at all there will be meaningful development, honour must be given to whom it is due..

Umar Danjani says: Sule Lamido touched all spheres of human life ranging from education, health, transportation, rural and infrastructural development to agriculture, economic empowerment, housing and water supply.

Isa Dan-Sidi Kafin-Hausa says: Dr Sule Lamido, a great Leader that contributed immensely to the development of Jigawa State. He left lasting structures, especially free education, free health delivery, youth empowerment, massive road contraction etc.

Emmanual Abraham says: Malam Adamu, I really appreciate your consistent comments and stand on Jigawa and Nigerian politics in general. One thing with politics is that you can win election with propaganda but you can’t run government with it. APC has deceived gullible people on electioneering campaigns now they find it impossible to take people to a Promising Land. . Keep on brother, don’t relent in your effort please. Lamido has proven to be a leader par excellence. He changed Jigawa to a modern locality and a place to be and live. The present governor should borrow a leaf and stop political vendetta. May God help us.

NFF threatens to demote Oliseh over CHAN comments

Onyekachi, M says: “The truth be said, Oliseh is yet to show signs that he is capable of taking the Eagles to the expected heights. We might ask him to work under a technical adviser or resign if he cannot but we can’t risk leaving him to experiment with our dear Super Eagles.”

NFF executives are unversed otherwise they would have known that Oliseh is inexperienced to coach a team like the Super Eagles in the first instance. How could you sack an experienced coach Keshi and replaced him with an inexperienced coach Oliseh? Does that make any sense?

Look! The Super Eagles won’t qualify for the Nations Cup if Oliseh remains the coach. Many of our high-profiled foreign-based players won’t honor Oliseh’s invitation (or even if they do, they won’t play well) simply because Oliseh lacks the pedigree to lead the Super Eagles.

Biographies

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 43

Chris Hani (1942 – 1993)

C

hris Hani was the leader of the South African Communist Party and chief of staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). He was a fierce opponent of the apartheid government.

He was assassinated on 10 April 1993.

Early life Thembisile Hani was born on 28 June 1942 in the small town of Cofimvaba, in a rural Xhosa village called Kusabalele, in the then Transkei. He was the fifth of six children. He attended Lovedale school in 1957, to finish his last two years. He twice finished two school grades in a single year. When Hani was 12 years old, after hearing his father explanations about apartheid and the African National Congress, he wished to join the ANC but was still too young to be accepted. In Lovedale school, Hani joined the ANC Youth League when he was 15 years old, even though political activities were not allowed at black schools under apartheid.

He influenced other students to join the ANC. In 1959, at the University of Fort Hare in Alice, Eastern Cape, Hani studied English, Latin and modern and classical literature.

He did not participate in any sport, saying “I would rather fight apartheid than play sport”.

Hani, in an interview on the Wankie campaign, mentioned that he was a Rhodes University graduate.

Political and military career At age 15 he joined the ANC Youth League. As a student he was active in protests against the Bantu Education Act. Following his graduation, he joined Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the armed wing of the ANC. Following his arrest under the Suppression of Communism Act, he went into exile in Lesotho in 1963. Because of Hani’s involvement with Umkhonto we Sizwe he was forced into hiding by the South African government during which time he changed his first name to Chris. He received military training in the Soviet Union and served in campaigns in the Zimbabwean War of Liberation, also called the Rhodesian Bush War. They were joint operations between Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) and the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army in the late 1960s. The Luthuli Detachment operation consolidated Hani’s reputation as a soldier in the black army that took the field against apartheid and its allies. His role as a fighter from the earliest days of MK’s exile (following the arrest of Nelson Mandela and the other internal MK leaders at Rivonia) was an important part in the fierce loyalty Hani enjoyed in some quarters later as MK’s commander. In 1969 he produced and signed, with six others, the ‘Hani Memorandum’

which was strongly critical of the leadership of Joe Modise.

In Lesotho he organised guerrilla operations of the MK in South Africa. By 1982, Hani had become prominent enough that he was the target of assassination attempts, and he eventually moved to the ANC’s headquarters in Lusaka, Zambia. As head of Umkhonto we Sizwe, he was responsible for the suppression of a mutiny by dissident anti-Communist ANC members in detention camps, but denied any role in abuses including torture and murder.

Having spent time as a clandestine organiser in South Africa in the mid-1970s, he permanently returned to South Africa following the unbanning of the ANC in 1990, and took over from Joe Slovo as head of the South African Communist Party on the 8 December 1991.

He supported the suspension of the ANC’s armed struggle in favour of negotiations.

Assassination Chris Hani was assassinated on 10 April 1993 outside his home in Dawn Park, a racially mixed suburb of Boksburg. He was accosted by a Polish farright anti-communist immigrant named Janusz Waluś, who shot him in the head and back as he stepped out of his car. Waluś fled the scene, but was arrested soon afterwards after Hani’s neighbour, a white Afrikaner woman, called the police. Clive Derby-Lewis, a senior South African Conservative Party M.P. and Shadow Minister for Economic Affairs at the time, who had lent Waluś his pistol, was also arrested for complicity in Hani’s murder.

The Conservative Party of South Africa (Konserwatiewe Party van Suid-Afrika) had broken away from the ruling National Party out of opposition to the reforms of P.W. Botha. After the elections of 1989, it was the second-strongest party in the House of Assembly, after the NP, and opposed F. W. de Klerk’s dismantling of apartheid.

Historically, the assassination is seen as a turning point. Serious tensions followed the assassination, with fears that the country would erupt in violence. Nelson Mandela addressed the nation appealing for calm, in a speech regarded as ‘presidential’ even though he was not yet president of the country.

Tonight I am reaching out to every single South African, black and white, from the very depths of my being. A white man, full of prejudice and hate, came to our country and committed a deed so foul that our whole nation now teeters on the brink of disaster.

A white woman, of Afrikaner origin, risked her life so that we may know, and bring to justice, this assassin. The cold-blooded murder of Chris Hani has sent shock waves throughout the country and the world. ... Now is the time for all South Africans to stand together against those

Hani who, from any quarter, wish to destroy what Chris Hani gave his life for – the freedom of all of us.

While riots did follow the assassination, the two sides of the negotiation process were galvanised into action, and they soon agreed that democratic elections should take place on 27 April 1994, just over a year after Hani’s assassination.

Assassins’ conviction and amnesty hearing Both Janusz Waluś and Clive Derby-Lewis were sentenced to death for the murder. Clive Derby-Lewis’s wife Gaye DerbyLewis, also a senior Conservative Party figure, was acquitted.

The two men’s sentences were commuted to life imprisonment when the death penalty was abolished as a result of a Constitutional Court ruling in 1995.

Hani’s killers appeared before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, claiming political motivation for their crimes and applying for amnesty on the basis that they had acted on the orders of the Conservative Party.

The Hani family was represented by anti-apartheid lawyer George Bizos. Their applications were denied when the TRC ruled that they were not acting on orders.

After several failed attempts to get medical parole, in May 2015 Derby-Lewis was granted medical parole after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. On 10 March 2016, the North Gauteng High Court of South Africa ordered that Waluś be released on parole and given bail conditions.

Conspiracy theories surrounding assassination Hani’s assassination has attracted numerous conspiracy theories about outside involvement. The final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, however, said that it “was unable to find evidence that the two murderers convicted of the killing of Chris Hani took orders from international groups, security forces or from higher up in the right-wing echelons.”

Influence

Hani was a charismatic leader, with significant support among the radical anti-apartheid youth. At the time of his death, he was the most popular ANC leader after Nelson Mandela, and was sometimes perceived as a rival to the more moderate party leadership. Following the legalisation of the ANC, Hani’s support for the negotiation process with the apartheid government was critical in keeping the militants in line.

Honours In 1993, French philosopher Jacques Derrida dedicated Spectres de Marx (1993) to Hani.

In 1997, Baragwanath Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the world, was renamed the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in his memory.

In September 2004, Hani was voted 20th in the controversial Top 100 Greatest South Africans poll.

Days after his assassination, the rock group Dave Matthews Band (whose lead singer and guitarist, Dave Matthews, is from South Africa) began playing on what would become #36. The first version contained lyrics about Hani’s shooting. Later versions, Hani was on Matthews’ mind, and the repeated line “Hani, Hani, come and dance with me” became the chorus of the song. Later, Matthews believed the song to be too cheery for the subject matter, so he changed it to “Honey.” A live favorite for years, the music evolved into the basic foundation of the 2001 single, “Everyday”.

The introduction to the song in this latter form, a popular hit in 2001, starts with the crowd singing the “Honey” line, and the crowd and band occasionally use the reprise as an outro to the song as well.

A short opera Hani by composer Bongani NdodanaBreen with libretto by film producer Mfundi Vundla was commissioned by Cape Town Opera and University of Cape Town premiering at the Baxter Theatre 21 November 2010.

A township on the outskirts of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal, is named “Haniville” in his honour.

One of the District Municipalities in the Eastern Cape was named the Chris Hani District Municipality. This district includes Queenstown, Cofimvaba and Lady Frere.

An all-male residence at Rhodes University in Grahamstown (Eastern Cape, South Africa) is named after Hani. The residence was opened in 2008 and accommodates 73 students.

The University of the Western Cape also named a residence after him.

In 2009, after extension of Cape Town’s Central Line, the new terminus serving eastern areas of Khayelitsha was christened Chris Hani.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page

Archives Ancient humans had to compete with lions for food and hide in the woods to eat, soil samples reveal

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or the first time, the habitat of early human ancestors has been pieced together.

A freshwater source likely to have been used by the species for hunting has been found to have bones from hundreds of animals including lions, leopards and hyenas.

And, analysis of soil samples from this source has revealed life was ‘very stressful’ for our ancestors.

Professor Gail Ashley and her colleagues in Rutgers University, New Jersey, reconstructed a site that our ancestors, who looked like a cross between apes and modern humans, used as a place to hunt and eat.

Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania was discovered as a site of thousands of animal bones and stone tool in 1959.

Professor Ashley and her colleagues worked over the last decade to excavate soil samples from the site and studied them using carbon isotope analysis to work out the landscape.

The found the landscape had a freshwater spring, wetlands, woodland and grasslands.

‘We were surprised,’ Professor Ashley told MailOnline.

‘I had recognized that a spring was present from the carbonate deposits, but I did not know there was a huge, lush wetland associated with it.’

But ‘it was a very stressful life because they were in continual competition with carnivores for their food,’ she said.

The researchers found thousands of bones from animals including giraffes, elephants and wildebeests, swift runners in the antelope family.

Our ancestors may have killed the animals for their meat or scavenged leftover meat.

Competing carnivores included lions, leopards and hyenas, which also posed a threat to hominin safety.

Food also may have included wetland ferns for protein and crustaceans, snails and slugs.

‘We were able to map out what the plants were on the landscape with respect to where the humans and their stone tools were found,’ continued Professor Ashley.

‘That’s never been done before.’

The bones on the site had been so well preserved because of a layer of volcanic ash that had covered the site.

The findings revealed that the shady woodland had palm and acacia trees.

And based on the high concentration of bones found, the

Professor Gail Ashley and her colleagues at Rutgers University, New Jersey, reconstructed a site that our ancestors illustrated), which looked like a cross between apes and modern humans, used as a place to hunt and eat, like the artist’s rendition of an early human habitat in East Africa 1.8 million years ago

primates probably obtained carcasses elsewhere and ate the meat in the woods for safety.

‘We were also surprised to see that the dense concentration of bones and stone tools were found in a dense woodland, not at the spring,’ Professor Ashley told MailOnline.

‘I think the reason for the bones not being at the spring is safety’ Ashley said, ‘springs attract all kinds of animals, including carnivores, and it is not safe for humans to stay there long.

‘We did not expect grassland to be so close to the groundwater source. It appears the site is an oasis of sorts.’

Two separate species of early humans were found.

‘Mapping was done by analysing the soils in one geological bed, and in that bed there were bones of two different hominin species,’ added Professor Ashley.

The two species of hominins, or early humans, were Paranthropus boisei - robust and pretty small-brained - and Homo habilis, a lighter-boned species.

Homo habilis had a bigger

brain and was more in sync with our human evolutionary tree, according to the researchers.

The species lived between roughly 2.8 and 1.5 million years ago, while Paranthropus boisei lived from about 2.3 until about 1.2 million years ago.

Both species were about 4.5 to 5.5 feet (1.37 to 1.52 metres) tall, and they lived until the age of about 30 to 40.

The ancestors used the site for a long time, perhaps tens or hundreds of years, Professor Ashley concluded.

‘We don’t think they were living there,’ she said.

‘We think they were taking advantage of the freshwater source that was nearby.’

Paleoanthropologists ‘have started to have some ideas about whether hominins were actively hunting animals for meat sources or whether they were perhaps scavenging leftover meat sources that had been killed by say a lion or a hyena,’ she said.

‘The subject of eating meat is an important question defining current research on hominins,’

she said.

‘We know that the increase in the size of the brain, just the evolution of humans, is probably tied to more protein.’

Separate research published yesterday showed that we owe a large part of our evolution and subsequent intelligence to the fact we started eating meat almost 2 million years ago.

Instead of chewing through tough raw vegetables, our ancestors began to pound meat with tools, and this change in diet led to a huge change in the way we

“

look.

It caused our faces, teeth and jaws to shrink while our brains and bodies got larger, according to the study.

I am currently studying modern springs in the rift valley to better understand where they occur and why,’ Professor Ashley told MailOnline. ‘I am also working with a team of other scientists to see the prevalence of these systems elsewhere in the rift valley.’

MAILONLINE

Separate research published yesterday showed that we owe a large part of our evolution and subsequent intelligence to the fact we started eating meat almost 2 million years ago.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 45

Digest

How retirement can give your energy levels a boost

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rits have the most energy at the age of 31, a study has revealed.

A poll of 2,000 adults found that our energy levels peak in our early 30s as we juggle the demands of busy working and family lives.

After spending our 20s enjoying late nights, junk food and very little exercise, settling down into a career and starting a family during our 30s means we are full of drive with little time to laze around.

But as they approach the end of their working life, Brits can expect to have another surge of energy around the age of 55 as they get reinvigorated by the thought of retiring.

It emerged that more than eight in 10 admit they have the most energy when they have lots to do or are constantly busy.

A spokesman for vitamin firm Healthspan, who commissioned the research, said: ‘Everyone would assume that it’s our 20s when we are at our most energetic.

‘But in reality, while you may have age on your side, busy social lives, late nights and a pretty poor diet can mean the opposite is true.

‘In your 30s, you have more on your plate with juggling work and your family lives, but this can actually boost your energy with many people saying the more they have to do,

the more energy they have to keep going.’

Psychotherapist Sally Brown added: ‘Lifestyle does impact on your energy levels but what came through from this study is that energy is strongly affected by state of mind, and that overall attitude to life and feeling happy are our biggest energy source.

‘It could explain why we feel like we have the most energy in our 30s, even though we’re also dealing with the biggest drains on our energy from work and bringing up children.

‘The study also highlighted a link between stress and energy levels as we experience an energy surge in our 50s, when we are free from the stress of looking after a young family and nurturing a fledgling career.’

The study found 31 is the age Brits are at their most energetic, with half putting this down to it being the time in their lives when they did the most exercise.

Forty-one per cent put their high energy levels in their early 30s down to being at their happiest, and looking after themselves better, while others believe it was thanks to having young children to run around after.

One in ten 30-somethings even describe their energy levels as excellent, compared to just one in 20 over-50s and

over-60s who said the same.

It also found those in their 30s get the most exercise - an average of three times a week despite juggling family and work.

And just 12 per cent say they never exercise compared to almost one in five of those who are in their 40s and one in four of over-60s.

Busy 30-somethings also spend the most time working - an average of more than six hours a day - and are tucked up in bed by 10.26pm, earlier than any other age group.

Researchers also revealed that 82 per cent of people find their energy levels start dropping the moment they have little or nothing to do.

Over three-quarters of those surveyed have moments when they feel the need to boost their energy levels slightly and especially at this time of year as things rev up even more.

It also emerged that despite our busy and hectic lives helping to keep our energy levels high, our job is also the biggest drain on them, followed by worries or anxiety and the drain of day-to-day chores and our children.

Plus, one of the biggest energy drains is not a physical illness but mental illness such as depression.

Rob Hobson, Healthspan’s Head of Nutrition, said: ‘Research revealed people are

Our energy levels peak in our early 30s as we juggle the demands of busy working and family lives aware of using food, diet and lifestyle to boost their energy.

‘Having a quick cup of tea or coffee is the most popular way to get a quick boost, followed by having a power nap, drinking some water, going for a walk and eating some chocolate.

‘I would agree that taking a little time-out during the day,

“

Busy 30-somethings also spend the most time working - an average of more than six hours a day - and are tucked up in bed by 10.26pm, earlier than any other age group

keeping well hydrated and getting outdoors are great ways to re-energise yourself although I could suggest a number of other healthy snacks to maintain energy levels and avoid mid-morning and afternoon slumps.’

MAILONLINE

Forty-one per cent put their high energy levels in their early 30s down to being at their happiest, and looking after themselves better, while others believe it was thanks to having young children to run around after.

Page 46

International

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

‘Europe or die’ For West Africans, the route to Europe has changed, but the dream The Canary route

I

t’s hard to believe that this picturesque fishing village in Senegal is connected with the refugee crisis unfolding across Europe. But just 10 years ago, the village of Kayar was one of the main departure points for West Africans attempting the dangerous journey to Spain’s Canary Islands.

On its soft white beach, hundreds of young men would gather to pile into brightly painted wooden fishing boats. They were prepared to risk their lives for the chance of a better future.

“Europe or die, we told each other. Everyone here wanted to get away, everyone,” says Mor Mbengue, a fisherman who was 23 years old when he left in the middle of the night in August 2006.

With 74 others, he climbed aboard an old boat filled with cans of petrol and food for the 1,500km journey to the Canary Islands: the gateway to Europe.

Mor and his friends were born fishermen. They grew up playing in the waves and knew well how to handle the rough sea. But some of the other passengers had no experience with the water.

“Some were convinced they could walk on water,” he says.

“We had to tie them up to prevent them from jumping overboard.”

In 2006, the number of West Africans trying to reach Europe peaked. More than 30,000 left from Senegal and neighbouring countries like Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, the Ivory Coast and Ghana that year.

At least 6,000 of them died, either from drowning or starving to death on the long boat journey.

“Their engine might have stopped working at some point, leaving them floating on open water endlessly, lost and never found again,” says Mor. On the Canary Islands, Europeans watched as the rickety fishing boats came ashore; their passengers dehydrated, hungry and burned from days under the harsh sun. They were confused but euphoric at having made it.

Alarmed, Spain called for help from the European Union (EU). In July 2006, its border agency, Frontex, began boat and aircraft patrols of the seas.

Those caught were either turned back towards the West African coast or repatriated by plane.

Frontex refers to the mission as the “birth of sea operations”.

By 2008, the Canary route to Europe had been completely sealed off.

Now, 10 years after it reached its peak, many West Africans still dream of Europe. And some still attempt to make it. But now, they must take a different

route: heading north towards Libya or Algeria, via Bamako in Mali, Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso and Agadèz in northern Niger before crossing the Mediterranean Sea to Italy. They often begin their journey independently, travelling on public transport, but the farther north they go, the more dependent upon smugglers they become.

“It was only when the European border agency Frontex and the Spanish civil guard sealed off the Canary route that the Sahara route came into prominence,” explains Jo-Lind Roberts, the head of the International Organization of Migration office in Senegal. “The route has changed, but the flow of migration did not.”

In 2015, 6,000 Senegalese newcomers were registered in Italy, making them one of the five most represented nationalities among those arriving in the country - a high number for a country that has not known war since its independence in 1960.

“Obviously, it’s very different from leaving a conflict or war zone. But here in Senegal and other Western African countries, I believe it’s a combination of high unemployment and this

“

image of Europe as some kind of paradise where you will be able to find a job really quickly,” says Roberts.

The sea is empty “One, two, three! Power!

Strength!” A group of men pull a heavy boat out of the water onto the sand. The fishing nets on board are almost empty.

Twenty-three-year-old twins Ousseynou and Assane Mbaye watch their fellow fishermen from a distance. Their boat lies untouched and half-buried in the sand, next to hundreds of other fishing boats lined up along the beach of Kayar.

“You work very hard for very little,” says Ousseynou, a matchstick serving as a toothpick between his teeth. “You get up very early in the morning, and you’re just never sure if you will catch any fish.”

“The sea is empty,” adds his brother Assane. “We have to look elsewhere for jobs.”

The Senegalese exodus in 2006 has often been associated with the crisis in the Senegalese fishing industry. For years, the fish stock has been declining because of overfishing and illegal fishing by foreign trawlers.

According to a 2006 United Nations report, overfishing has led to 80 percent unemployment in the fisheries sector.

Some of those who didn’t make the crossing were able to put their wooden boats to a use other than fishing – becoming captains in the lucrative smuggling business.

Aly Tandian, a sociologist leading a migration research group at Gaston Berger University in Saint Louis, Senegal, says not much has changed since 2006, apart from routes people travel. “Young people still feel forced to leave to provide for their families, and they are willing to take a lot of risks doing so.”

“Senegal has a long historical tradition of migration,” says Tandian. “If you can’t find a job close to home, you look elsewhere.”

A recent study commissioned by the European Commission reveals that nearly three-quarters of Senegalese youths say they want to leave Senegal within five years.

Unlike other emerging African countries, Senegal has struggled for years with disappointing growth figures. Accord-

On the Canary Islands, Europeans watched as the rickety fishing boats came ashore; their passengers dehydrated, hungry and burned from days under the harsh sun. They were confused but euphoric at having made it.

ing to the World Bank, “over the last decade, growth in Senegal averaged only 3.3 percent since 2006”.

‘Don’t go to Europe’ The boat Mor sailed to the Canary Islands on was called Seydina Limamou Laye, named after a Senegalese Muslim religious leader who was supposed to protect them from the dangers of the sea.

After more than a week, their boat finally reached an island.

Mor remembers how blue the Mediterranean Sea looked on the day they came ashore in Europe.

All 75 on board had survived.

They were ecstatic.

But their happiness didn’t last for long: After being picked up by the Spanish authorities in Las Palmas, the capital of the island of Gran Canaria, the majority of passengers were put on a plane and sent back to Senegal.

One thousand villagers from Kayar - one out of every 20 residents - tried their luck in the Canary exodus in 2006. Some didn’t survive the journey. Half were sent back. Others were lucky and found a way to stay in Europe.

Now, Mor tries to convince the younger fishermen in his village not to go to Europe.

“Risking your life through the desert to Libya, [then] on a boat to Italy, only to get sent back again? Don’t do it,” he says.

But the young fishermen of Kayar don’t want to listen.

“The new generation did not experience the Canary Island exodus like we did,” says Mor. “All they know is that they want to leave to find work elsewhere.”

Source: Aljazeera

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 47

Business

Improving power supply via electricity management services

By Gregory kolam

S

Mmadua-

takeholders in power sector note that the Federal Government established the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) for the purpose of contributing to efforts aimed at improving power supply across the country.

They observe that the agency can boost power supply by providing data, information and library services for stakeholders’ investors, researchers and academia, among others, through the Electricity Information Management System.

They also expect that the agency will ensure that electrical materials, equipment and instruments used in the electricity supply industry are of the right quality, standards and specifications, according to its mandate.

Stressing the importance of the agency at a recent forum in Abuja, the Minister of Power Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, said that NEMSA would guarantee efficient production and delivery of power supply as expected by the stakeholders.

According to him, apart from ensuring efficient power supply, the operations of the agency will provide safety for lives and public electric installations across the country.

To guarantee the high expectations of Nigerians on power supply, Prof. Barth Nnaji, the former Minister of Power, therefore advised the agency to live up to the expectations by being sensitive to its responsibilities.

Assuring the public of improved power supply, Mr Peter Ewezor, the Managing Director of NEMSA, said: ``No electric meters or instruments will be deployed in the sector unless they have been tested statutorily and certified fit for use. ``And no electrical contractor or technician will be

allowed to carry out electrical installation works along the value chain and other allied industry without certification from the agency.’’

He insisted that testing and certification of electrical installations were fundamental to achieving improved power supply in Nigeria.

He observed that the agency had engineers, technologists, technicians with specialised technical skills and other auxiliary services to guarantee reliable and quality power supply to Nigerians.

Ewezor, nonetheless, explained that the agency needed the collaboration of all stakeholders to realise the objectives of the agency.

He said that NEMSA was already collaborating with relevant bodies in the economy to ensure the safety of consumers in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry. ``The agency is cooperating with other agencies such as Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), among others, to eliminate any substandard electrical products,’’ he said.

His statement notwithstanding, Mr Reuben Okeke, the Managing Director, National Power Training Institute of Nigeria, urged the agency to be firm on getting rid of substandard electrical products.

Beside this, Mr Christian Akamnonu, former Chief Executive Officer, Ikeja Distribution Company, advised the agency to ensure the removal of obstruction to power sup-

“

Minister of power, works and housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola

ply lines such as vegetation and unapproved structures, among others, that could cause electrical accidents.

He said the agency should also look into the typical use of substandard wiring cables and switches that gave rise to several accidents in homes, most of which were not reported.

Similarly, to guarantee improved power supply, Mr Kola Balogun, head of an electric meter-producing company, called for a review of the Independent Electricity Distribution Network Act. In addition to this, Mr Kunle Olubiyo, President, Network for Energy Reform, said that NEMSA had a key role in enforcing standards which would assist the sec-

tor to provide stable and sustainable power supply.

He said that the Nigerian economy required reliable electricity for sustainable growth.

However, Mr Friday Ndubuisi, a stakeholder in energy sector, suggested that there should be a synergy in the roles and responsibilities of various institutions within the power sector.

He said inter-agency collaborations among relevant organisations such as Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, SON, Federal Fire Service, CPC and Ministry of Power, would boost other efforts aimed at improving power supply.

For sustainability, Mr Victor Obi electricity consumer

Stressing the importance of the agency at a recent forum in Abuja, the Minister of Power Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, said that NEMSA would guarantee efficient production and delivery of power supply as expected by the stakeholders.

said the government should enforce local contents input in the manufacturing of electrical equipment.

He said the stakeholders should also sensitise the public to the benefits of energy efficiency as a way of generating employment.

Sharing similar sentiments, Mr Musa Adamu, a vulcaniser, solicited effective policy on energy consumption to moderate consumers’ pattern of electricity usage.

He advised the appropriate authority to discourage the use of incandescent lamps and mercury vapour flood lights.

He also advised that NEMSA safety manual should be circulated across the country to educate electricity consumers, field engineers and technicians nationwide on how to reduce accidents and electrocution.

As part of awareness campaign, Mr Tunde Olawale, a civil servant, urged NEMSA to provide dedicated telephone numbers to call in case of emergency situations.

According to him, the customers have the right to be protected from avoidable exposure to risks and accidents.

(NANFeatures)

PAGE 48

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Business FG plans multimodal transport system to boost regional trade

T

he Minister of Transport, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Ameachi, has informed that one of the key policy thrust of the federal government was to evolve a multimodal, integrated and sustainable transport system focusing more on rail and inland waterways transportation in order to boost quality connectivity within the system.

Amaechi, speaking through the Minister of State for Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, said the move was necessary to boost trade and movement of goods in international trade transactions.

He made the revelation while speaking at the opening of the subregional workshop on transport cost and regional connectivity of African countries, in Abuja, noting that it was necessary to adopt a holistic approach towards addressing the challenges of transport costs and poor connectivity facing economies in Africa.

Declaring the workshop open, Ameachi explained that in Nigeria, an enabling environment for Public Private Partnership (PPP) was being created by creating new policies, legislation and institutional framework that would aid the anticipated improvement of the sector.

He pointed out that the move must take into consideration issues like cost effectiveness, efficiency of seaports, transit corridors and efficiency of multi-modal transport systems.

He said, “It is my belief that the time has come for us in the subregion and indeed the whole Africa to rise up and take our share of the global market by developing a global reach in our trade and enterprises.

This requires connectivity nationally, sub-regionally and internationally.”

Also speaking, the executive secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Hassan Bello, noted that in view of the rapid changes in global trade, the region urgently needs effective connectivity to enhance trade, investment, tourism and development.

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Dayo Mobereola; Permanent Secretary Ministry of Transportation, Mr Sewedo Whenu and Lagos state Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers, Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede, during a stakeholders’ meeting on the proposed development of Tafawa Balewa square bus station, yesterday in Lagos

Kwara IPMAN suspends selling of fuel, cites DPR high-handedness

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embers of the Kwara State chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association in Nigeria (IPMAN) have stopped selling petroleum products throughout the state, over what they call high-handedness of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR).

The IPMAN members said the DPR had refused to allow them sell above official price.

Briefing journalists after an emergency meeting at the zonal headquarter of IPMAN in Ilorin in Friday, the state Chairman of IPMAN, Olarewaju Okanlawon, said the “suspension of sales of the fuel will persist until the DPR’s boss in the state is removed”.

The western zone headquarter of IPMAN in Ilorin was filled with members across the state, as they gathered to deliberate on the step to take in addressing the refusal of the DPR’s boss in the state to allow them sell above official price of 86.50 Naira.

After the meeting, the state chairman of IP-

MAN told reporters that the members agreed not to sell fuel to the public since every effort made to let the DPR realise that they buy at higher price from private depots in Lagos fell on deaf ears.

He accused the DPR’s boss of not being a good manager.

“The current fuel scarcity does not require rigidity being exhibited by the operations controller in the state.”

Also in an interview, the western zone chairman of IPMAN, Debo Ahmed, supported the suspension of service, also insisting that since the IPMAN had the largest petrol stations in Nigeria, they ought to be supplied the highest quantity of fuel instead of the present 10 per cent being supplied.

At the state office of DPR, efforts to see the Operations Controller could not be successful, as no one was ready to comment in his absence.

However, at an earlier interview, the DPR

Operations Controller, Phillips Salvation, noted that all propaganda and smear image campaign against him by IPMAN would not make him abdicate his responsibility of enforcing the law.

He said that his decision was part of efforts to wipe out corrupt practices.

For the past three days, residents in Kwara State have been experiencing lack of petrol in fuel service stations, as they all lock their gates refusing to sell to the motorists.

Most of the major roads noted for traffic jam are now free, as few vehicles now ply the roads due to non-availability of petrol.

The motorists wondered how the IPMAN and other bodies could undermine them, as they now patronise black markets in higher prices.

As both the DPR and IPMAN flex muscles in the state especially as it affects what price to sell fuel to the public, it is hoped that the issue would soon be resolved in order to reduce the suffering of the populace.

Interbank rate rises on bonds settlement

Oil price rises, exceeds Nigeria’s benchmark by $4

By Mohammed Usman with agency report

orld oil prices rose for a third straight day today with traders brushing aside news of a rocket attack by jihadists on a gas plant in OPEC energy producer Algeria, the AFP reported.

The development sees the price of Brent crude, against which Nigeria’s oil is priced, rise to $42.29 dollars, $4.29 higher than the country’s proposed benchmark of $38 for the 2016 budget.

According to the AFP, with confidence growing that the world’s biggest crude producers will hammer out a deal to curb output, investors piled back into the commodity after they toyed with 13-year lows last month.

Qatar’s energy minister, Mohammed al-Sada, confirmed this week that exporters from within and outside the OPEC cartel will meet April 17 in Doha, stoking hopes of an agreement to ease a global supply glut.

Around 1215 GMT on Friday, United States benchmark West Texas Intermediate for delivery in April was up 72 cents at $40.92 a barrel.

Brent North Sea crude for May delivery won 75 cents to $42.29 a barrel compared with Thursday’s

O

vernight interbank lending rate inched up marginally weekon-week to an average 6 percent on Friday, up from 5.5 percent last week, as the naira cash level dropped after payment for bonds and treasury bills purchases.

Nigeria raised 125 billion naira worth of bonds with maturities ranging between 5 and 20 years this week, with settlement due on Friday, while 166.58 billion of treasury bills were issued at the primary market on Wednesday.

Traders said the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN) offered 50 billion naira in the

open market operations (OMO) bills on Friday, but had yet to release results.

Liquidity levels dropped further on Friday as commercial lenders scrambled for funds to settle bond purchases and bids for shortdated treasury bills on offer at the open market operations (OMO) window.

Traders said although about 172 billion naira in retired matured treasury bills was repaid on Thursday, cash outflows to settle bonds on Friday will further drain liquidity.

Cost of funds among commercial lenders rose to around 7 percent on overnight placement on Wednesday, but eased to around 5.7 percent on

Thursday after the matured treasury bills were repaid.

The total commercial lenders’ credit balance with the CBN stood at 217 billion naira by Wednesday from 242 billion naira last Thursday.

“We expect the interbank rate to rise slightly by the middle of next week when banks are expected to make provision for foreign exchange purchase at the CBN intervention by Tuesday, but could ease toward the weekend after budgetary allocation disbursal,” one dealer said.

The interbank rate reflects the level of naira cash liquidity in the banking system.

W

close.

WTI had advanced 4.5 per cent Thursday, closing above $40 for the first time since the start of December.

Buying in recent days has been fuelled also by the Federal Reserve, which on Wednesday halved its forecast for US interest rate hikes this year.

The outlook, citing a global slowdown and market turmoil, sent the dollar plunging, which in turn makes oil cheaper for holders of rival currencies.

“The expectation that the leading OPEC oil producing countries and Russia will agree on binding production caps on 17 April is lending prices additional buoyancy,” said Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch.

Elsewhere Friday, jihadists launched a rocket attack on an Algerian gas plant jointly operated by foreign companies, three years after a deadly hostage crisis at another facility in the Sahara desert.

There were no reports of casualties in Friday’s attack, companies and workers at the site said.

Algeria is one of the world’s largest exporters of natural gas, with revenue from fossil fuels accounting for 95 per cent of its exports.

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 49

Oddities

Human Barbie spends over £350,000 on plastic surgery

N

annette Hammond, motherof-five, has splurged over £350,000 on plastic surgery to transform into a real-life Barbie.

Nannette has had three boob jobs, a breast lift, lip fillers, Botox, veneers, semi-permanent make-up, hair dye, nail extensions and daily visits to her at-home tanning salon.

To top off her look, she even has the pink Barbie car to match.

Outrageous Nannette, 42, loves to show off her plastic look by uploading racy snaps of herself on Instagram that are all taken by her kids.

The full-time mum lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her husband, Dave, 47, who owns a haulage business and their children, Giovanni, 15, Sophia, 12, Alex, 10, and Antonio, five, plus Nannette’s stepdaughter, Hannah, 16.

Nannette, whose children all go to private school, said: “People always ask me who takes my photos and I tell them it is either my husband or my kids. I know other mums talk and gossip about me behind my back but I really don’t care. Parents can think what they want and say what they want about my appearance but it doesn’t bother me. I have taught my children to rise above it.

“My husband and children are just so proud of me and what I have achieved through surgery. They think I look great, my life is better

than Barbie’s now.”

Nannette, who is naturally a brunette, was obsessed with Barbie dolls from an early age. She had over 50 of them, along with a Barbie house, car and van.

“I loved playing with those Barbies. Growing up, I felt shy and self-conscious about my looks and wanted to be just like the dolls. I imagined they’d always be happy and I felt drab in comparison. I didn’t like my hair colour and as a teen, I really wanted bigger breasts.

I always knew I wanted a boob job as soon as I could. I started going on sunbeds when I was 16 to get Barbie’s honey colouring.”

When she was 21, Nannette began her transformation, having a £2,250 boob job taking her from a B-cup to a C. She also began dying her hair and went on to have a second boob job when she was 24, going up to a DD, costing £7,000.

Nannette became so obsessed with plastic surgery that she started working as a nurse for a cosmetic surgeon. From the age of 27, she started getting regular Botox and collagen filler injections on her lips.

Nannette, who met husband in her late twenties, said “I would see other people getting these treatments and thought they looked great so I wanted them too. I still have them every few months when I feel I need them, at a cost of around £1,000 a time. I just love plastic

surgery. The needle feels like a massage and once it goes in, I don’t want to leave. It is very relaxing.”

Since her early 30s, she has spent around £1,275 on extensions and having her hair coloured. She also splurges £350-a-month on eyelash extensions all paid for by her husband.

Nannette also works hard to maintain her size 4 figure.

The tiny mum is 5ft 3 inches tall, weighs just 6.5 stone and has a 18inch waist.

She exercises for an hour per day. Typically, she has a protein shake for breakfast, then lunch and supper will be salad, or chicken or fish with vegetables.

Due to her dramatic figure and tiny waist, she can spend over £200 a month on getting her Barbie style clothes customised by a seamstress.

Nannette’s husband also treated her to three customized Barbie cars including a pink Porsche at a cost of £175,000.

She has also three huge walk-in wardrobes in their family home and calls them her “Barbie playroom”.

David says he is happy to fund his wife’s plastic surgery addiction: “I like Nannette’s look and I am always happy to support her. She is a wonderful mother and a great wife. She takes care of all the family and puts everyone else first. So we make the most of every moment together.’’

Toddler eats paint, carpet, washing powder, stones

A

toddler is literally eating her family out of house and home because of a rare condition that makes her crave everything from carpets to paint.

Three-year-old Maddie Moore has consumed washing powder, cooking oil, clumps of carpet, stones, plaster, wood, plastic, sand, duct tape, bugs, paint, pens, Play-Doh and toilet

roll.

The youngster suffers from Pica, a rare impulsive disorder meaning she has cravings to eat non-food substances.

Even the children’s centre she goes to has taken the unusual step of making her edible toys to keep her safe.

Her mother, Catherine Mullins, has to keep a constant eye on Maddie to make sure she

doesn’t choke or eat something that could damage her insides.

Catherine, 26, said: “She is certainly unique.

Most professionals who meet her say they have never met a child quite like Maddie. If she could, she would eat everything. I am always worried about what she will try to eat next.

Everything goes to her mouth.

“Sometimes, I have to put my fingers in her mouth and hook the food out to stop her choking.

You literally can’t take your eyes off her for a minute so our house never shuts down.”

She noticed Maddie started putting strange objects in her mouth just before she turned one, when she began crawling.

Maddie’s behaviour prompted tests and assessments at her twoyear health check and she was diagnosed with Pica in September last year.

She also suffers from autism, developmental delay and sensory process disorder, which causes her to bounce, spin and climb at any opportunity.

At night she has to be zipped into a specialist bed to stop her from harming herself while her parents and four-year-old sister, Lilly, sleep.

Catherine is kept so busy supervising her daughter she has lost three stone.

Pica is an eating disorder common in people with learning disabilities and during pregnancy.

It can be potentially lifethreatening with risks ranging from vomiting, constipation and infections to blockages in the gut and intestines, choking and poisoning.

In some cases surgery may be needed to remove objects from an individual’s gut or to repair tissue injuries.

Maddie has never had to go to the hospital but is often at the doctors for digestive illnesses.

As she gets older, her interest in normal food has worsened and she only eats foods of a particular colour and texture like potato waffles, fish fingers and chicken burgers.

Catherine said: “It started with her picking up and eating small items of fluff and paper, any bits she could find from the floor. Then her cravings became more and more intense. We can’t have anything on the walls like displays or paintings because she will eat them.

“Lilly can’t do any drawing or crafts because Maddie will eat the pencils and paints. I literally have to hide anything dangerous.

We have child locks but she is very clever and susses them out.

Recently, she ate a whole pack of

chalks when I wasn’t looking, but her favourites are Play-Doh, sand and dirt.”

Maddie goes to a special educational needs group run by Barnardo’s and staff make her edible playdough with condensed milk.

Charlotte Turton, a Barnardo’s project worker at the centre, said: “We have always made our own playdough with salt, flour and water, but Maddie was eating a lot of it and it has too much salt in it to be edible so it wasn’t really good for her.

“I found a different recipe made with just condensed milk and cornflour and I make that every week instead so we don’t have to worry about how much she eats. I flavour it with different things so she gets different smells and flavours which is good for sensory play. We have made it with peppermint, almond, coffee and even curry.”

Catherine hasn’t been able to go back to work as a childminder as she and her hubby, Sonny Moore, 29, have to care for Maddie round the clock.

The family live in a small twobedroom flat in Bournemouth, Dorset, but have appealed to the council for a bigger home so Lilly and Maddie can have their own room.

Page 50

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Healthy Living

Effective ways to relief stress

E

veryone experiences stress, but too many of us are content living with it, we push it aside, bottle it up and eventually, fall victim to its ugly consequences. Not all stress is bad. It can keep us striving to reach new goals and make our lives worthwhile and exciting.

But when your emotions and health are compromised, it is time to hit the brakes and plot out a new course.

Follow these step-bystep directions to get rid of unnecessary sources of anxiety and develop a healthier relationship with those you can’t avoid.

Set your timeline On your stress-relief journey, you will first learn to identify areas of your life that need extra attention. Your sources of stress may be clear to you already or they may take a few weeks to surface, while you observe your daily patterns. You need to set goals and learn the strategies needed to reach them.

Print out your stress-relief road map and think about how long you would like to spend on each step, whether it is a few days or a few weeks. Use this timeline to keep youself on track, but don’t be afraid to slow down, back up, or skip ahead if you find that different strategies work better at different times Think about your health Ask yourself: What healthrelated effects of stress have

you already noticed in your life? If you haven’t considered (or you have chosen to ignore) the harmful effects that stress can have on your mind and body, then you are overlooking a major threat to your wellbeing.

Taking a long, hard look at the potential consequences of unrelenting, unaddressed anxiety can help us realize that we need to make a change, before it is too late.

Start a journal The most efficient way to rein in specific stress triggers is to start a journal. Commit to writing down, at least once a day for at least 10 minutes, everything that evoked a negative or stressful reaction, the place and time of day, the source of the stress and your reaction. You can do this either throughout the day or before bedtime. (If nighttime stress journaling affects your sleep, do it earlier.)

Also take a few minutes to write down the positive points in your day: When did you feel the most relaxed, the most joyous and the most fulfilled?

Keep these thoughts with you as you put your journal away.

Define your biggest stressors We can’t tell you what your individual sources of stress are, but we can guess that at least some of them fall into a larger category of universal problems: money, relationships, worklife balance, health (yours and

your loved ones) and timemanagement issues. Sound familiar? Our list of common stress triggers may provide some insight into your own situation.

Pick your worry profile Worrying does little to make our lives better. At best, it is counterproductive; at worst, it inhibits our thoughts, drains our energy and even makes us sick. Think of it as a negative thought loop. Since it never closes on a satisfying answer, worry only begets more worrying.

The driving factor behind worry is fear, but fear of what?

That depends on your worry profile. We asked experts to identify six types of worriers and to show us how each can get a handle on their handwringing.

Learn to be imperfect Can’t sleep when there are clothes to be folded. Can’t enjoy a good book when you have bills to pay? Does the thought of making a mistake give you heart palpitations? While the right dose of perfection can boost your satisfaction, too much can be paralysing.

There is a difference, after all, between holding yourself to a high standard and holding yourself to an unattainable one.

Reflect and push onward Now is the time to stop and re-examine what you have learned so far: Have

you identified your stress triggers? The things you tend to worry about? The areas in your life where you are trying a bit too hard to be perfect?

Have you spent at least a few days journaling about your recent ups and downs and have you recognized the

patterns and problems that need fixing?

Once you have come to terms with your most pressing stress issues, start setting the goals you will need to wave them goodbye.

Culled from Whole living

Relieving stress

How bad is it to hold your pee?

Y

ou might have heard about bedtime procrastination, but what about bathroom procrastination? You know, when you put off peeing until your legs are crossed and you can barely hobble to the porcelain throne. Whether it is because you are going through work emails at your desk or you would rather avoid the horrors of a public restroom, sometimes

Running to the loo

peeing just lands at the bottom of your to-do list. But can that actually be dangerous?

How long is it okay to hold it?

Your body’s physical capacity to keep in urine is based on a few things: “Most of the time women can hold urine for three to six hours, but this will vary.

It really depends on the amount of urine that someone makes,

which is determined by hydration status and fluid intake and also functional bladder capacity, which is a combination of the actual size of the bladder and bladder sensitivity. But ultimately, there is not a ton of research on the subject. The truth of the matter is normal urination in women across the lifespan is not as well understood as it should be,” Benjamin Brucker, MD, Assistant Professor of Urology at NYU Langone Medical Center, said.

Should you pee at every pang?

As you know, that “I gotta go” sensation ranges from small pangs to a feeling that almost hurts. “You don’t want to give in to every slight sensation to urinate, but you also don’t want to hold it in to the point where it is painful. Ultimately, you want to have healthy voiding habits,” says Brucker. That translates into finding a middle ground that doesn’t have you running

to the bathroom every time you take a sip of water, but also doesn’t result in you bent over with cramp-like sensations.

What is the worst-case scenario?

“There aren’t any specific complications you can get from holding in your urine, although it may expose you to the risk of developing urinary tract infections, which can be treated with antibiotics,” says Brucker. Having a UTI can also make you feel like you have to go more often than normal, as can conditions like overactive bladder and painful bladder syndrome. If all of a sudden you feel the need to pee way more than usual, head to a doctor to get checked. Kegels and medication can improve an overactive bladder, while physical therapy and medication can help treat painful bladder syndrome.

Can you train your body to pee less?

You know it is important to

stay hydrated, but guzzling water can have the annoying side effect of needing to pee every few minutes. So it is possible to get your body used to holding out? “Some people’s bladders are quite sensitive and they will have the sensation to void even with the smallest amount of urine in the bladder. It is okay to try to distract yourself and not give in to every slight urge,” says Brucker. This could potentially stretch your bladder a bit in a healthy way, though you shouldn’t expect any major changes.

The bottom line is that you probably aren’t going to do any real damage to yourself by holding it in, but just for comfort’s sake, you should hit the bathroom when it starts to feel annoying. After all, there aren’t many other things that can bring on that same sense of relief.

Culled from Prevention

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Becoming a fruitful Christian (I) “

H

e also spoke this parable: ‘A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it.

And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down’” (Luke 13:6-9, NKJV).

What you’ve just read is one of the parables that Jesus spoke during his earthly ministry. The problem with the fig tree in Luke 13:6-9 is the same problem with the fig tree in Matt 21:18-19: “Now in the morning, as He returned to the city, He was hungry. And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, ‘Let no fruit grow on you ever again.’ Immediately the fig tree withered away” (NKJV) .They were unfruitful.

In the case of the vineyard in Isa 5:1-7, it bore fruits but they were bad fruits. “Now let me sing to my Wellbeloved A song of my Beloved regarding His vineyard: My Well-beloved has a vineyard On a very fruitful hill. He dug it up and cleared out its stones, and planted it with the choicest vine. He built a tower in its midst, and also made a winepress in it; so He expected it to bring forth good grapes, But it brought forth wild grapes” (Isa 5:1-2, NKJV).

A bad fruit is not much different from no fruit. A bad fruit is just like the water of Marah which the children of Israel found after going for three days without water; it was bitter. “So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea; then they went out into the Wilderness of Shur. And they went three days in the wilderness and found no water. Now when they came to Marah, they could

not drink the waters of Marah, for they were bitter. Therefore the name of it was called Marah” (Ex 15:22-23, NKJV).

Though they were thirsty, they couldn’t drink that water until it was healed.

A bad fruit is like having no fruit at all. So one can say that the fig trees in Luke 13 and Matt 21 and the vineyard in Isa 5 are not much different. Of what use is a tree that does not bear fruits? And of what use is a tree that bears fruits that cannot be eaten because it is bad. What God is looking for are good fruits. He is not looking for a barren tree just as He is not looking for a bad fruit. And it is significant that the same judgment befell the barren fig tree and the vineyard with bad fruits. The judgment was death.

The tree determines the fruit. “Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit” (Matt 7:17-18, NKJV). That is why the Bible says any tree that does not bear good fruits will be cut down and burnt. “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them” (Matt 7:1920, NKJV). Matt 3:10-11 says a similar thing. “And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (NKJV).

Hear what Luke 3:9 also says: “And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees.

Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (NKJV).

Did you see that it is the responsibility of the tree to bear fruits, and for the tree to bear good fruits the tree itself must be good? Did you see that trees that bear bad fruits are cut down and thrown into fire? Of what use is their continuous existence without bearing good fruits? “And now, please let Me

tell you what I will do to My vineyard: I will take away its hedge, and it shall be burned; And break down its wall, and it shall be trampled down. I will lay it waste; It shall not be pruned or dug, But there shall come up briers and thorns. I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain on it” (Isa 5:5-7, NKJV).

The fig trees and the vineyard are just metaphors for children of God, Christians. Isa 5:7 underscores this truth very clearly. “For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are His pleasant plant. He looked for justice, but behold, oppression; For righteousness, but behold, a cry for help” (NKJV). So Jesus, in his parable, was not just talking about physical fig tree neither was Prophet Isaiah speaking about literal vineyard.

They both were talking about God’s people.

God expects His children not to be like the barren tree or like the bad tree that bears bad fruits. What does fruitfulness mean with regard to Christians? Fruitfulness means living a godly life, living a life that manifests the attributes for God, His character. The fig tree in Matt 21:18-19 looked good but when Jesus got to it, it had only leaves and no fruit. And the Bible says by their fruits you shall know them (Matt 7:16, 20). God does not want His children to just look good but to bear good fruits. To look good without bearing fruits is like that fig tree that had leaves but no fruit.

What people eat and Jesus expected on the fig tree were fruits. That was why he cursed the fig tree. Christians who look good without having the character or attributes of God are like the fig tree having leaves but no fruit. That is there is no godliness in such Christians.

Micah lamented the dearth of godly people in his days. “What misery is mine! I feel like the fruit picker after the harvest who can find nothing to

Page 51

From the Pulpit green pastures

By Pastor T. O. Banso

cedarministryintl@yahoo.com GSM: 08033113523 eat. Not a cluster of grapes or a single fig can be found to satisfy my hunger.

The godly people have all disappeared; not one fair-minded person is left on the earth. They are all murderers, even setting traps for their own brothers.

They go about their evil deeds with both hands. How skilled they are at using them! Officials and judges alike demand bribes. The people with money and influence pay them off, and together they scheme to twist justice. Even the best of them is like a brier; the straightest is more crooked than a hedge of thorns.

But your judgment day is coming swiftly now. Your time of punishment is here” (Micah 7:1-4, NLT). Such godless people will not escape the punishment of God despite the fact that they claim to be children of God. Fruitfulness means uprightness.

That is the life God wants you and me to live after giving our lives to Jesus.

God is looking for fruit in your life not just church membership! “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones” (Matt 3:89, NKJV). Luke 3:8 says the same thing.

Paul was also concerned about the fruitfulness of the Colossians so much that it was part of his prayer for them.

“For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the

knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Col 1:9-10, NKJV). Did you see that? – “Being fruitful in every good work.”

I believe God has blessed you today.

I’ll conclude this message next week. Be fruitful!

TAKE ACTION! If you’re not born again, 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 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.” I believe you’ve said this prayer from your heart. Congratulations! You will need to join a Bible believing, Bible teaching church in your area where you will be taught how to live your new life in Christ Jesus. I pray that you flourish like the palm tree and grow like the cedar of Lebanon. May you grow into Christ in all things and become all God wants you to be. I’ll be glad to hear from you. May the Lord be with you.

The believer’s life of godliness without worldliness Text – 1 John 2:15-17

T

he use of the word love. John is the apostle of love, and yet he said love not. And also in the epistle, he shows us that God is love, and yet he said love not. God does love the world that He gave His only Begotten Son, and yet He said love not the world. God loves the inhabited world, and the inhabitants in the world, He love them, that is why He sent us to preach the gospel to them. But, the iniquity of the world, He says we should not love.

The people of the world, God so love them, that is why Jesus came to this physical world, but the prince of the world, the policies, the pollutions, perversions in the world, and the preoccupation of the world, He does not love them. So this is referring to the system of this world that is under the control of the prince of this world.

The world of politics, entertainment, fashions, traditions and the things of the world. The lusts of the flesh, of the eyes, and the pride of life. John was taking us back to the beginning, at the garden of Eden, when Eve saw, the lust of the flesh and of the eyes, and the pride of life, to be like God, this is what caused the fall of man, so we need to avoid all these.

The same thing that Satan used for Jesus in His temptations, the lust of the flesh, of the eyes when he showed Christ all the glory of the earth, and then the pride of life, to fall down to demonstrate to the people His power.

This is the world, the Lord is talking about here, love not the world.

The world is passing away with its fashions and system. But we need to hold on to the things that will last and stable.

He talks about 3 things here; 1. The Lust of the flesh – passions, desires 2. The Lust of the eyes – the greed, possessions and covetousness 3. The Pride of Life – to raise higher, position.

Devil uses the passion, possessions and position to lure men in life.

3 parts Point 1 – God’s Precept and Command against Worldliness 1 John 2:15; John 15:18-19; 17:14; Romans 12:1-2 There is no denominational standard on this. Not just for Deeper Life or any other church. But for the little children, young men and fathers in the Lord, for every believers, love not the world.

The prince of this world makes the people of this world to hate the salvation of Christ and the believers as well. He uses his power to fulfil his purpose, to discourage us from following Christ. He uses the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eyes and the pride of life. Satan motivates unbelievers to hate us as Christians.

If you are not of the world, you belong to the kingdom of heaven.

You cannot ride 2 horses going to different directions at the same time, you cannot follow Christ and the world of darkness at the same time.

If you love the Lord, you will not love the world.

The system of the world is organised, influenced and under the control of Satan. So be not conformed to this world.

To understand 1 John 2:15, there is the need to understand the 1. Definition of the world – Galatians 1:4; Ephesians 2:2-5

By Pastor W.F Kumuyi This refer to the evil world. We love the sinners but we don’t love their sins. We love the believers, our neighbours in the world.

The world has its curriculum, systems, entertainment, and we are not to love this world. There is a spirit, a motivation behind the influences of the world.

2. Defilement by the world – 2 Peter 2:20-22; Isaiah 24:5; 2 Peter 1:3,4 The world will defile you. The things we hear, see, come across our mouth and ears are defiling. Even without active participation, the world has a defiling effect. And if you go into their music, merriment, and things they do, these will defile you.

There are pollutions of the world.

And you don’t want to be defiled, but to remain pure and righteous for the coming of the Lord. There is corruption, defilement and sin in the world, and you don’t want to be defiled, but to keep yourself from all these corruptions and defilements of the world.

3. Damnation of the world

– Psalms 9:8,17; Isaiah 13:11; James 4:4 God doesn’t want you to perish with the world, that is why He says love not the world.

They forget God because they listen to Satan, to the influence and instruction of the prince of this world.

Don’t be part of their fraud, their iniquity and corruption because God will judge them. If you join them, then you will be part of the judgement that will come upon the world.

The world is the the system of the world as defined by Satan, and the purpose of Satan is to damn the soul, and uses all this worldliness to deaden, defile and to damn the souls.

Hence we are commanded not to love the world for our own happiness and eternal joy.

Point 2 – Gradual Process of Corruption by the World 1 John 2:16 The devil goes through a gradual process to take someone out of the grace of God, but he will not catch us in Jesus Name.

This is for your preservation, happiness and eternal joy.

1. The lust of the flesh – 2 Peter 2:10,14 When the Lord created us, He created us to have some desires that are good, like hunger, thirst, marital affections, attraction between a man and a woman, but the devil will want you to fulfil or satisfy that desire in a wrong way.

2. The lust of the eyes – Psalms 119:37 Like in the case of Sodom, that with the lust of the eyes, he saw the place well watered, and built his tent towards Sodom, and even lived in Sodom, but when the fire came, he lost every thing including his wife.

We need to pray that God will turn away our eyes from beholding vanity.

As you go through the world, you will see the shows, hear the music of the world, see the nakedness of the women, men in the world, dressings to expose sensitive parts of their bodies, we need to pray that God will save us from all these.

3. The Pride of Life – Psalms 10:4; Daniel 4:27-31 The people who sew all those clothes don’t have God in their minds and thoughts, so you cannot fit in.

This is the pride of the life.

Nebuchadnezzar in his case had a chance to repent, others may not have this chance.

This world is a corrupting world, and the world corrupts peoples’ minds by a gradual process. It begins with the introduction of innocent things, and then some insignificant things, apparently seeming insignificant things will come, and then some doubtful things will come along influencing their minds until they slide into the inexcusable.

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

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Egypt are beatable, says Balogun Pg 53

Siasia to lead Eagles to Nations Cup final Pg 53

Barcelona face big test against Villarreal Pg 53

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Sports

Egypt are beatable, says Balogun

L

eon Balogun is positive his side can brush aside Egypt in both legs of March’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Samson Siasia’s men face Group G leaders Pharaohs in Kaduna on March 25, with the return leg holding at the Borg elArab Stadium, Alexandria.

According to the FSV Mainz defender, the Super Eagles would be targeting six points off Hector

Cuper’s sides toward making qualification for Gabon 2017 look easy.

“We would be targeting to win both matches,” Balogun told the NFF website.

“If we get the six points, which would ease our path to the Africa Cup finals. Winning will be the principle driving us in both matches.

“Egypt is a big football playing

Page 53

LMC announces new dates for team in Africa

nation, but Nigeria is also very, very big. There is no complex going into both matches and we have the men to give us victory in Kaduna and away in Egypt.”

Balogun, who made his international appearance for Nigeria against Mexico in 2014 would be hoping to guard the Super Eagles’ rear jealously when the seven-time African kings come calling.

Nasarawa United

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ixtures involving the three Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs with continental engagements have been reschedule to accommodate the return leg of the second round of the two Confederation of African Football (CAF) Club competitions which takes place this weekend.

The fixtures didn’t follow the two weeks return leg format and are holding just a week after the first legs played last weekend.

Salihu Abubakar, the League Management Company (LMC) Chief Operating Officer announced the adjustments in a communication to the clubs and explained that it has further adjusted the already rescheduled midweek fixtures already billed for Wednesday, 16th March.

According to Abubakar, “these changes would not affect the end of season dates because we have made the adjustments utilising dates that were in the first place deliberately kept free as a fall back for unforeseen situations such as these. Most

Eagles

of the fixtures will hold during the midseason break and thus will not alter our calendar as such”.

Nasarawa United, Enyimba International were to have played outstanding fixtures from week 2 on Wednesday, March 16 but both teams are billed to travel out late Tuesday for their continental dates, hence the matches are now to hold on March 30. It therefore means that the Match Day 2 fixtures: Enyimba vs Shooting Stars, FC IfeanyiUbah vs Shooting Stars and Wikki Tourists vs Warri Wolves will hold on March 30.

However, the week 8 fixtures involving the clubs and which were to hold midweek of Wednesday, March 23 has been shifted by one day to March 24 to allow the clubs travel time after their return from continental engagements. These fixtures are: Nasarawa United vs Ikorodu United, Akwa United vs Warri Wolves and Enyimba vs Plateau United. The adjustment confirmed that the midseason break will hold from May 23 to June 4.

Siasia to lead Eagles to Nations Cup final

S

uper Eagles interim head coach, Samson Siasia, has been finally given the mandate to lead the team to Gabon for the Nations Cup finals.

This followed a truce brokered between the Nigeria Football Federation President Amaju Pinnick and the President of Nigerian Football Coaches Association, Mr. Bitrus Bewarang.

The CAF instructor said the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President had agreed that Siasia would lead the team to Gabon next year if he secures the ticket.

It was recalled that President of the Association, Bitrus Bewarang charged at the NFF boss, Pinnick, as not being fair to Nigerian coaches who have contributed immensely to the development of game in country. He wrote in the wake of the verbal war that “the attention of the Nigeria Football Coaches Association has been drawn to a statement credited to the NFF President Amaju Pinnick that enough is enough for Nigerian coaches in the Super Eagles. We want to say as an Association that that statement from the NFF President was the most unfortunate in the

present dispensation.

This statement is coming at time when the present administration is struggling to conserve the little foreign currencies that is available, that is when the NFF leadership is thinking of embarking on a jamboree of employing a foreign coach who may not be competent as those that are based here at home. Moreover, it has become very evident that the NFF finds it very difficult to fulfil all their contractual agreements with indigenous coaches whenever they are engaged, a situation they would not be the same when

they employ a foreigner.

Bewarang later disclosed that both of them have buried their hatchets and agree that the assignment would be given to Siasia if he earns the ticket.

“We are now asking for the cooperation of all Nigerians, coaches and stakeholders.

What that meant is to beat Egypt and qualify,” he said.

“The first statement from the NFF President we think was out of anger and we think all these has been resolved, said Bewarang.

Page 54

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Sports

Barcelona face big test against Villarreal

B

arcelona can extend their La Liga winning streak to 13 matches at fourth-placed Villarreal on Sunday in one of the few big tests remaining for Luis Enrique’s champions elect.

Atletico Madrid, who are second, travel to second from bottom Sporting Gijon on Saturday while Real Madrid hope to keep their slim title hopes alive on Sunday by defeating fifth-placed Sevilla at the Bernabeu.

Barca, eight points clear at the top with nine matches left, could find their 38-game unbeaten sequence in all competitions seriously challenged by high-flying Villarreal.

“Our competitiveness and hunger gives us confidence for the road ahead,” said defender Javier Mascherano.

“To go where we want we have to be motivated for every game.”

Barca beat Arsenal 3-1 at the Nou Camp on Wednesday to reach the Champions League quarterfinals 5-1 on aggregate.

Atletico needed penalties to see

off PSV Eindhoven in their midweek Champions League tie and coach Diego Simeone may opt to rotate his squad for the trip to Gijon.

Simeone is without Diego Godin who has a muscle tear in his right thigh.

The injury will keep the centre back out for at least three weeks and threatens to weaken an Atletico defence that is the strongest in La Liga, letting in 12 goals all season.

Stefan Savic is doubtful for the Madrid club while Tiago remains a long-term injury absentee and Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco is suspended.

Karim Benzema could feature against Sevilla, with Real confirming the France striker came back to training on Wednesday after being out since February 27 with a hamstring injury.

The 28-year-old has scored 19 goals in 20 La Liga games this season and his return is a boost for Real who are without suspended defenders Sergio Ramos and Pepe.

Real are four points behind Atletico and 12 adrift of Barcelona.

MSN

Kluivert backs Benitez Bilic confirms West Ham to keep Newcastle up interest in Nordtveit

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ewcastle United have “great players” and are likely to survive relegation following the arrival of Rafael Benitez as manager, according to their former striker Patrick Kluivert.

Benitez, sacked by Real Madrid in January, took over from Steve McClaren last Friday and lost his first match in charge 1-0 at Premier League leaders Leicester City on Monday.

Newcastle sit 19th in the table with only nine matches left to save their top-flight status a crucial derby against Sunderland next up at St James’ Park on Sunday.

Kluivert, who played for the club between 2004 and 2005, feels Benitez will do enough to keep them out of the bottom three.

Kluivert - currently in charge of CONCACAF nation Curacao and previously Louis van Gaal’s assistant with Netherlands also reiterated his aim to coach one of his other former clubs, Barcelona, in the years ahead.

S

Patrick Kluivert

laven Bilic has confirmed his interest in taking Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Havard Nordtveit to West Ham, but says several clubs are in the race for his signature.

Gladbach confirmed earlier this week that Norway international Nordtveit would not be renewing his contract with the Bundesliga club in order to pursue a move to the Premier League.

West Ham have been tipped as the front-runners for his signature with Liverpool and former club Arsenal, for whom he did not make a competitive appearance, also said to be interested.

And Hammers manager Bilic says he is keeping a close eye on developments.

West Ham have won three straight Premier League matches and lost just one of their past seven - form that has left them just two points adrift of the Champions League places in fifth.

They next travel to Stamford Bridge to face a Chelsea side whose hopes of silverware this season ended after they were knocked out of the Champions League and FA Cup by Paris Saint-Germain and Everton.

But Bilic warned of a Chelsea backlash, adding: “They went out a couple of competitions last week.

Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Havard Nordtveit

Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Page 55

Sports FIFA bans South African official ovder match-fixing

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IFA’s ethics watchdog on Monday banned a former South African football chief, Leslie Sedibe, for five years after an inquiry into match-fixing surrounding the national team.

Sedibe, who was South African Football Association chief executive for one year including through the 2010 World Cup hosted by the country was also fined 20,000 Swiss francs (18,200 euros/$20,000).

Two former referees officials, Steve Goddard and Adeel Carelse, were also

banned for two years by FIFA’s ethics committee adjudicator chamber.

All were found guilty of breaches of conduct and disclosure. But FIFA did not give details of the case. It said only that the three cases were linked to “international friendly matches played in South Africa in 2010” before the World Cup. Another former SAFA referees chief, Lindile Kika, was banned for six years in October 2015 for his role in the matchfixing inquiry. Kika was one of five senior SAFA officials, including the former

Giggs asserts fourth place possible

R

yan Giggs is optimistic about Manchester United’s chances of beating derby rivals Manchester City to the final Champions League spot by ending the Premier League season in fourth place.

United, who are sixth in the table, travel to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday looking to close the gap on their neighbours, who are four points and two places ahead of them.

“It’s not a big gap,” Giggs told the Times. “Especially when you look at the league this season, teams are going to drop points.

“It’s been a freak season. It’s a very tough league where nothing is guaranteed and crazy things have happened.

“We have a lot of players back so if you win games the momentum starts and the confidence builds.”

Both Manchester teams are some way behind league leaders Leicester City, who sit five points clear of a chasing pack led by Tottenham Hotspur.

The former midfielder and current assistant to manager Louis van Gaal wants United back among the European elite next season, after watching them get pushed into the Europa League this term after they finished third in the group stage.

“It hurts that we are not in it, of course,” he said. “We had a year out of the Champions League and we missed it. We do miss it (now).

“You watch it on TV and you wish you were involved. It’s the elite competition.”

United host Liverpool in the second leg of their Europa League Round of 16 tie on Thursday, having lost the first leg at Anfield 2-0.

“We are still in the Europa League, the FA Cup and trying to get into the top four. Those are the main objectives,” Giggs said.

president Kirsten Nematandani, put on ‘special leave’ in December 2012 following a FIFA report into match-fixing.

They were reinstated in January 2013 but not cleared of any wrongdoing. All have since left SAFA. A 2012 FIFA investigation looked into South Africa’s friendly matches before the 2012 World Cup against Thailand, Bulgaria, Colombia and Guatemala. It produced a 500-page report that documented the activities of convicted Singapore-based match-fixer Wilson Perumal and his Football 4U organisation.

Meanwhile, football activist and Nigerian sports journalist, Olajide Fashikun in a reaction demanded why the same Ethics Committee did not conclude a similar investigation into the allegations against Nigeria.

He promised “by next week, I shall initiate a personal petition to demand explanation on a similar allegation that was proferred against some Nigerians including one of the current chiefs in the football house. This matter will certainly not die. Wait till next week.”

Danladi confident of Nasarawa United progression in Algeria

Nasarawa United

C Ryan Giggs

hairman of Nasarawa United, Isaac Danladi has exuded confidence that the Solid Miners won’t be intimidated by CS Constantine in today’s Caf Confederation Cup first round return.

Though the Solid Miner have a slim advantage, Danladi believes the Lafia side have been well motivated

ahead of the tie and that the players are aware of the responsibility expected of them and won’t disappoint in Algeria.

He said that they decided to leave for the venue of the encounter on Tuesday so that they can familiarize themselves to the area and that they are going to draw their inspiration from their away feat in Senegal against

Generation Foot in the preliminary round.

“We have done the needful from our side to ensure that we qualify for the next round,” Danladi said.

“We will also need the support of Nigerians in their prayers to ensure that we win the battle in Algeria on all fronts.

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Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 20, 2016

Saturday Column Contd from Back Page

Today, the behaviour of the so-called Wailers is a partial manifestation of this academically misplaced tradition that I strongly condemned in vain at that crucial point in time.

The tweeting senator who saw all the ills of the preceding government and made no commonsense to challenge the fundamental spread of decay has now suddenly rediscovered and redefined the word “common sense”. In all his tweets and rants, he cleverly forgets to make commonsense on Dasukigate or Badehgate. He makes no common sense of the financial recklessness of the red chamber. Femi Fani-Kayode has long gone silent under the yoke of a corruption cover-up that went awfully wrong and no tweeting senator saw a commonsense factor to tweet about.

Then it dawned on me that the folks are trapped in a state of mind from which they have failed to free themselves. They are yet to grow past the problem of the North-South dichotomy that has plagued Nigeria for several decades past. To them, Buhari is always a Northerner before being Nigerian and they themselves remain Southerners before being Nigerians.

It’s “Us” versus “Them”! It does not matter to them that even President Muhammadu Buhari, who in the past, was a personification of sectionalism with reckless pro-Northern utterances, has now grown past that stage and continued on the footpath of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, embracing the Federal Character mandated by the constitution for the good of the country. No. In their perception, a Southerner who embraces the anti-corruption project of the president (which, in their view, is nothing but hypocrisy because Buhari is also a thief) is nothing else but a traitor and a sellout.

The fight against corruption has suddenly become a misplaced priority of governance as long as the thieves may end up being predominantly Southerners. Never mind though that the hated government has, so far, focused far more disproportionately on its Northern kindred.

This is the point in time in which we recognise the pitiable state of mind that the critics have long degenerated into.

The second group of critics for which I show a limited understanding of seeks to wear the cloak of objectivity by being seen to be criticising the administration having staked a lot of energy backing the same regime. I am sometimes irked by this group for the simplicity to which it reduces itself to be loved and adored as everybody’s darling.

For want of subjects to criticise, its members hop aboard the bandwagon of trivialities and irrelevance. With

Attacks on Buhari: How pathetic they’ve become! a vast and radiant array of positive mental and rational energy, they unwittingly obscure their hardearned reputation needlessly flipflopping in the murky stream of dirty water lilies. They suddenly find favour in unleashing attacks on a president’s honesty that promises foreign partners the resolve to rein in the rampant culture of crime and dishonesty, for which a section of Nigerians is known all over the world.

They dance upon the carnival wagon showcasing budgetary irregularities to be seen as fair and square. Then they fail to make amends when news unfolds of the criminal syndicate underlying the embarrassing plot.

They suddenly begin to hinge on the president’s distinctive slow pace in prosecuting his signature policy of War Against Corruption. They occasionally stray into the Wailers’ terrain, illogically asking if this was the Change they sought with their votes, only to provide the relevant answer when they start defending the president again.

This is a group that basically means no harm to the national interest, but seems to crave the notion of advancing their personal image with a simplistic approach to popular appeal.

The last group, with which I sympathise and empathise, is the group that is simply reacting authentically to the persistence of pain against all expectations. My grudge with this group, however, is bedded in its involuntary supply of needless ammunition to the camp of the grumbling wailers. This is the group that heaved the most sigh of relief when power supply suddenly surged upon the assumption of the presidency by Muhammadu Buhari.

It enjoyed every bit of the moment, in which our comatose refineries swung into action and did outlandish magic.

We called it all the body-language impact. Deep within though, we all knew, it was a transient knee-jerk

“

President Buhari

reaction. After all, the fear of the unknown was leaving a livid track on the comportment of those who had axes to grind. With revenues dwindling, however, and culprits compelled to spit out the “yam” that they have eaten, the fear of who may be the next person in line, now seems to drive the panic reaction of overnight saboteurs.

Yet, I must not fail to pay tribute to all these men and women in this last category of involuntary critics, who live in Nigeria and bear the brunt of hardship that daily life demands and still remain level-headed enough to separate the wheat from the wasteful chaff. I doff my hat for all courageous men and women who go through hours and days of power failure, weeks and months of fuel shortage, unpredictable days of armed robbery, and the uncertain days of kidnapping. I adore their resilience and doggedness for making ends meet in extremely challenging

conditions. Yet, they keep their cool and know where to lay the blame and help to craft a blueprint.

The missing link of added patience that is required in the face of mounting pressure signals the weight of the burden that they bear. Yet, it will all get worse before it becomes better.

Little wonder then that the group of the Wailers, in its isolation and desperation, seeks to capitalise on the pains of the vulnerable third group in the hope that it will bring it relief.

But the nagging and wailing of the third group is as transient as the pains that it endures. It simply requires a heightened dose of reality check.

By the way, if I were a tweeting senator, I’d imagine myself saying right away, “My name is Frisky Larr, I’m just trying to do some reality check”.

Frisky Larr is a German-based Radio/Television Journalist and author of Africa’s

They are yet to grow past the problem of the North-South dichotomy that has plagued Nigeria for several decades past. To them, Buhari is always a Northerner before being Nigerian and they themselves remain Southerners before being Nigerians. It’s “Us” versus “Them”!

BIG PUNCH Henceforth, government will deal decisively with perpetrators and sponsors of violence, irrespective of their status in the society. Violence in any form will no longer be tolerated before, during or after elections Peoples Daily WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 19-20, 2016

Saturday Column By

I

Frisky Larr

t’s been quite amusing since the inception of the Buhari administration barely one year ago, observing self-styled critics of the new government, who are driven by diverse motivations. I have identified them in three different categories. The first group comprises those who have set out to criticise the government from the very beginning, no matter what the regime does. This group has now become popularly christened as “The Wailing Wailers” very much in disrespect of “Bob Marley and The Wailers” of the classical Reggae fame! The second group includes those who believe that they are being objective by being seen as criticising the government after throwing their full weight behind Buhari’s watershed election in a juicy grand style. The third and final group comprises those who are genuinely angry that things are not proceeding the way they had hoped would uplift the common man in a very short time.

I have issues with all three groups with varying degrees of understanding. I tend to show the least understanding of the position and attitude of the first group, which set out from the very beginning, to attack and disparage the government at all costs no matter what it does. It is the group that exemplifies the “ideal” form of despicable attacks and criticisms like it should never be practiced in a healthy democratic culture.

Confronted with the levity of their actions and illogicality of their utterances, their most commonly advanced argument is “What does it now feel like getting back a taste of what you dished out to Jonathan?”

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This extremely infantile and pubescent approach to important matters of state and the destiny of a nation can hardly be qualified by any discerning mind, with any flattering or polite adjective for the sake of decency.

The actors are aware of the sense of immaturity that their actions reflect but they are very well driven by the impact of group dynamics.

What an individual would never do, left to himself, he will now do very easily with a sense of justification and righteousness, feeling not alone in the company of likeminds. Educated minds that would ordinarily weigh the pros and cons in words and deeds simply metamorphose into cyber touts and rabblerousers, spewing hate and mischief for the simple sake of angering the state because they feel secure in the comfort of a mob. Their most popular stock in trade, so far, has been the habit of jumping on every issue perceived as negative in relation to the government of Muhammadu Buhari and ripping all facts apart and out of context if need be, as long as it serves the purpose of boosting a negative perception of the government in public view.

They celebrate, in ecstatic fascination, the shortage of cash in the state’s treasury

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—President Muhammadu Buhari

Attacks on Buhari: How pathetic they’ve become!

President Buhari

as incompetence in the management of financial and economic affairs, knowing too well what the impact of dwindling prices can be when it affects the mainstay of the economy. They celebrate the padding of a budget as incompetence and hypocrisy, conveniently ignoring the criminal dimension to the despicable act perpetrated by remnants of decadence and the preparatory environment under which the habit thrived. They celebrate the emergence of buyers’ queues at filling stations as an opportunity that can never

be missed to cut a pound of flesh, willfully negating the reality that the folks also suffered same in the reign of their hero. They suddenly find the mega-phones to announce the random criminal killings perpetrated

by Northern cattle rearers as the new crime-in-town introduced by the hated Northern President. The truth that they know so well, however, is that the problems have existed in varying degrees in several governments. They know so well too, that it is one thing to point out the urgent need for

They tweet half-truths and sponsor ads for political ambitions and clearly overlook the consequences of the political tradition they are breeding for future generations within and outside the senate.

a solution and another thing, entirely, to label a problem as the poster-problem of a hated regime.

Then they are led by people who should have known better with an intimidating background of academic experience and financial resources, lending credence to pettiness and idiosyncrasies. They tweet half-truths and sponsor ads for political ambitions and clearly overlook the consequences of the political tradition they are breeding for future generations within and outside the senate.

The tweeting senator with a not-so-covert presidential ambition simply ends up spearheading a movement of half-truths and willful manipulation with recklessness and reminds me of the foul seeds of journalistic analyses that were sown by the likes of Reuben Abati, Okey Ndibe and Simon Kolawole at the peak of their activism against Olusegun Obasanjo.

Contd on Page 16

DAN GAYE NASS indicts police –News

But this IG ‘recognises’ Speaker.

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