Saturday and Sunday, March 22nd, 2014 Weekend Edition

Interview

Confab usurpation of NASS powers, by Senator Marafa>>Pages 2,15

David Mark escapes death as gunmen attack convoy >>Page 6

weekend.peoplesdailyng.com

. . . Pu ttin g th e people first Vol. 3 No. 83

SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 22-23, 2014

JIMADAL- ULA 21-22 1435 AH

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What Confab portends for the North —Delegates P. 4,5

Troops recover weapons from burnt church >>Page 6

Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, inspecting a guard, during a parade in his honour, at Infantry Corps, yesterday in Jaji, Kaduna, Photo: NAN

Cover

Jobs: How Immigration tragedy exposed govt fairytales >>Pages 7,8,9

Plateau communities clash over land, one killed, scores wounded

>>Page 6

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Interview

Confab usurpation of NASS powers —Senator Marafa Senator Marafa Kabir Garba, who represents Zamfara Central Senatorial District, says the composition of the delegates to the National Conference is a manifest marginalization of the North as well as the Islamic faith. The Vice Chairman Senate Committee on Petroleum Upstream further says that the Confab is a usurpation of the powers of the National Assembly and that its resolutions, and the referendum, which the President suggested its outcome should be subjected to, will not only be unrealistic but null and void. He gives insight into what true subsidy should be among many other issues when he spoke with Assistant Editor, Patrick Andrew. Excerpts…

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he President has suggested that the outcome of the National Conference be subjected to a referendum.

However, there is no provision for referendum in the existing constitution, do you share the view that the resolutions of the Confab be subjected to a referendum?

Let me begin by stating that I don’t even believe in the National Conference.

I think it is unnecessary, it is a waste of resources, and it is not aimed at achieving anything. Like I had said previously, Mr President has a right to assemble people of whatever background to advise him on issues that he feels he wants to introduce into the body polity of the entity called Nigeria, by way of introducing a bill to the national assembly.

But to say that you are going to assemble men and women to dialogue on national issues to me is a usurpation of the powers of the National Assembly. The members of the National Assembly are there and they are being paid to do that job. I don’t see any reason why anybody would want to usurp their functions by taking that kind of decision.

Secondly, we were told maybe we should give them benefit of the doubt and wait and see what they are going to come up with. But speaking on the conference, it is neither ethnically balanced nor geo-politically balanced. It is not even religiously balanced in terms of representation. I mean, I don’t see how it is going to solve problems since it is actually creating more of such problems.

This is because one of the major things we were told then was that the national conference was going to address core issues to give a sense of belonging to every component part of the country.

But from the way it is being constituted now, if you look at the composition, it is not balance. A lot of people are being maginalised. So, how do you address a problem that you are creating again?

So I don’t believe the huge sum of money allocated for that programme is necessary. It should have been used for something else like employment generation programmes to address the unemployment problems that we are facing in the country. I don’t know what they are coming out with and I don’t know what the conveners are hinging the whole thing-conference- on, because you have to hoist it on something. Are you hoisting it on the constitution or what?

Because, there is no constitutional frame work for it.

Lastly, we are told that it is going to be subjected to a referendum. I don’t know what it is intended. Just like the national conference, the referendum itself from nowhere you just hear about it being part of the constitution. When did the

Senator Marafa Kabir Garba national conference become necessary?

When did people sit down and demand for the conference? Whose idea is it?

And what is it intended to achieve? There are lots of gaps about the whole thing, especially as regards what it intends to achieve.

May be the referendum itself will come from the backdoor because there is no constitutional amendment without which it will be impossible to talk about referendum in the constitution. Well, we live to see how it is going to be done and see whether they are going to disband the National Assembly and more importantly see if Nigerians will accept it.

But the conveners say

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representation is based on the various geo-political divides and that each divide was given equal representation. Could you please explain what you meant by not ‘ethnically balanced’?

Cuts in…. Look at the list of delegates and see for yourself. It is not religiously balanced, it is not politically balanced.

Look at the various divides or if you take the North and South geo-political divides and then count the number of people representing each divide you will easily see what I am talking about. No, it is far from being balanced and fair representation and composition. It is absolutely not balanced.

Yes, may be at the beginning, we may start with high cost of petroleum products but with time market forces will determine how much the products will cost. It may end up cheaper than what it presently is.

But Distinguish Senator, you know that we have plenty of ethnic groups, are you suggesting that each individual ethnic group must be represented at the Conference before balance and fairness is achieved?

That is what I am saying because that is what they told us they were going to do and when we asked them, ‘how are you going to balance the representation because what you are saying is to give fair representation? Now, if you want to give people something like a sense of belonging and equal right that will be very good but you have to determine how you will arrive at this fairness in representation such that even if an ethnic group is 1 or 2 million in population, and another is 10 million in population, you have to work out a formula so that each and every respective ethnic group will be adequately represented.

But if you have say something like they say we are 255 ethnic groups and then you say each group should produce one representative. That is not fair, for instance, because the ethnic groups are only equal as per Nigerian project but are not equal in population.

Take the example of the National Assembly, the senate for instance, each state has three representatives because the emphasis is on equality of state because the members are members of the senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. So, all states are equal. But in the House of Representatives that differential is clearly manifested there in terms of population. So you cannot say for instance Zamfara should have equal representation with Lagos because they are more in number than we are.

If you say we should have equal representation with Lagos, then you are not being fair. So also in the National Conference: Are you going compose the membership on equal basis? Is every tribe in Nigeria equal in population? Is every ethnic group represented in that conference? Then, who takes care of those tribes that are not represented at the conference? Are they being annexed to other tribes? If they are we should be told that, for instance, that Hausa, Fulani, Kanuri, Nupe, Gwari, Adara, Igala and Tivs are going to be represented by one ethnic group among them. If so, then we can sit down and decide whether we will agree or not. Then we can call those involved and ask can we trust ourselves enough to produce one representative? If they agree, fine!

But when you say everybody is going to be represented but suddenly you lumped like 10 ethnic groups and say you have one representative. Is it with their consent? If not, whose consent? In this

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

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Human Angle

Woman bathed with hot water: Four months after, justice still a mirage From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

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ollowing the incident that occurred between Binta Usman and her co-wife, Hauwa Babangida who bathed Binta with hot water at Anguwan Kwanu quarters in Barikin Ladi local government area of Plateau state, the victim, has sued Hauwa, her husband and three others whom she alleged to have conspired with Hauwa to destroy her life.

It would be recalled that Binta fell victim to the tragic incident on October 26, 2013 when her cowife Hauwa Babangida visited the house she was residing in to see a nursing woman who is a friend to her.

The victim, who is currently receiving treatment from the burns sustained during the incident, accused the presiding judge of Kasuwan Nama Upper Area Court, one Mustafa Saleh Hassan, of an unnecessary delay in delivering judgment in the case.

Checks by our correspondent revealed that since the first day the matter was filed at the Jos Upper Area court, about four months ago, the judge has allegedly never for once allowed it to be heard. Besides, the case had been adjourned from one date to another and because of that, the family of the victim has developed the notion that there was something hidden which did not allow the progress of the hearing.

Ibrahim Usman, a member of the family of the victim alleged that,’ this case has been filed for over four months and yet there has been no hearing even for once.

The court would always fix a date and when we come, we would hear something different entirely. The worst part it is that no concrete reason would be given as an excuse for adjourning the case.

We are not happy with the process and we believe that there has been a motive behind the frequent adjournment of the suit.’

Usman further explained that even if eventually the judgment did not reflect true justice, they were ever ready to appeal the case to the next court where they believed that justice would be done.

However, since the occurrence of the incident, Binta has been at her parents’ house in Anguwan Rogo area in Jos north local government area of the state. Our correspondent learnt from the victim that since the occurence of the incident, her co-wife had never for once visited her to see the condition of the burns.

When asked why did the co-wife refused to visit her, Binta said, ‘I am very sure Hauwa has not been regretting what she did to me and

if I die today, she would be happy because already she has developed a serious hatred for me.

‘She feels she is above the law and that is why she shows no concern or even fear over the crime she committed. I will never forgive her. Let Binta know that she is wrong. Let justice takes its course. If eventually the court rules in her favour, we will meet in the hereafter where Allah would judge the case fairly, ‘she lamented.

Binta also complained that her husband, Jibril, has since stopped visiting her to see for himself her current situation, adding that he has even stopped calling her on phone, let alone care for her medical expenses. She further alleged that her co-wife had been the one who influenced Jibril to stop visiting her on the grounds that she [Binta] had sued them.

She said, ‘my husband has since stopped calling me on phone. I learnt that my co-wife was the one who warned him not to visit me because I sued them and he listened to her.”

When asked for the second time to comment on the incident, the accused, Hauwa said her lawyer had warned her not to talk with the media. When the lawyer was asked on why he refused Hauwa to comment, he said he would not also speak to the media.

After four months of fixing dates and adjourning , last month, the presiding judge fixed February 28, for the court to visit the victim

at her parent’s house but the defendants including her husband refused to report to the court and the judge blamed the family of the victim and their lawyer for not reminding the defendants to be present at the court knowing well that they [defenders] were present when the date was fixed.

This according to the family of the victim signaled that they had been a hidden agenda. ccording to checks, for the case to proceed in the court, the lawyer of the complainant, Aminu Aliyu, must provide the first document of the suit at Barikin Ladi when Hauwa was prosecuted by the Barikin Ladi Police Divisional Headquarter, which the lawyer [Aliyu] explained that it was not his responsibility

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but rather that of the court.

Aliyu further expressed dissatisfaction from the way the case was being treated. He said, ‘since the case was filed, no reasonable step has been taken on the matter. The presiding judge has been going up and down right from the prelim stage of the case.

‘It is not our duty to go to Barikin Ladi and look for the first filed document of the case. But to fasten up the case, I will travel to Barikin Ladi and look for it and would not give room for further excuses by the court. It is after that, we will see which step the court will take. This is a criminal case and we would fight it to the letter, ‘the lawyer added.

The lawyer also complained

Checks by our correspondent revealed that since the first day the matter was filed at the Jos Upper Area court, about four months ago, the judge has allegedly never for once allowed it to be heard. Besides, the case had been adjourned from one date to another and because of that, the family of the victim has developed the notion that there was something hidden which did not allow the progress of the hearing.

that even when the defendants refused to report to the court, none of them was punished or charged for the offence. This according to the lawyer has cast a doubt concerning the fairness of the judgment in the mind of the general public.

However, on whether she still wants to stay with her husband, the victim said she would not divorce her husband in spite of the current misunderstanding between them. She explained that marriage is like a live human being and once the end comes, nothing would prevent the marriage from breaking. he said, ‘I still want to stay with him even though he is among those I sued. But if he decides not to stay with me any longer, there is no problem.

All I know is that whatever Allah destines on the marriage is what would happen. So I leave everything to Allah’.

Similarly, the husband said whatever the case may be; he was not divorcing his wife and prayed that the victim will withdraw the case and settle the problem amicably. He said, ‘despite that she has already sued me, I still love her and she is still my wife. I will not divorce her because of the suit.

All I want from her is to withdraw the suit and settle our grievances at home. ‘ Meanwhile, the case has been adjourned till 7th April 2013 for further hearing.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

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Special Report

What Confab portends for the North

By Patrick Andrew

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he North used to be monolithic: dreaded by other regions for its oneness of spirit, political, socio-economic singleness of purpose and focus, despite the diversity in tribes, religions and ethnicity.

To all down the Niger River, everyone of Northern extraction was a Hausa man or woman. It was strange to imagine that a kanuri man was different from the Nupe man. Same applied to an Igala speaking persons, Tiv man, Angas, Igbiras, Beroms, Jukums, Gbagis, Bacharams, Nupes, Idomas, Muraghis. There were no distinctions to a Southerner.

It was not deliberate in most cases.

Majority of those one came in contact with had expressive competence in the Hausa language and were often united by religion and cultural, which were to some reasonable extent, inseparable in their every spheres of life. And the Northerner was dreaded for his uniqueness in language and culture.

The assumption was that in spite of the spacious landmark; the people of Northern extractions spoke one language and were united by a common culture. True, some thought there must be differences in language but only dialectic: which hardly put asunder the united endeavours and resolves of the Northerner.

On the political front, the North was feared. Why, they always spoke in one tongue and were seen as the grandmasters of Nigerian politics. This view was not pedestrian pastime, no, even well educated persons in the south in their comportment and comments left everyone within their localities in doubt about the political invincibility of the Hausa/Fulani man.

Then things went awry. It appears things fell apart, the Falcons no longer hear the Falconer and the centre could no longer hold. The monolithic North became pliable, vulnerable to the lures of distrust, political gerrymandry, vagary hitherto associated with then southerners.

No one can say when exactly this loss of character and identity actually began.

But none is in doubt about the differences and divergences in political affinities and bereavement oneness of voice. Perhaps, it became all too obvious when Bashir Tofa failed to clinch the presidency when he carried the banner of the National Republican Convention (NRC). Late MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) two political outfits created by the military junta of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.

Then, come the Olusegun Obasanjo era. The North, and not the South West, in collaboration with the South South and South East overwhelmingly gave Obasanjo the mandate to lead Nigeria. The South West, his primary constituency, distrusted him then and still does. But the North, which seems to be in indissoluble marriage with Obasanjo to the chagrin of other suitors, has sustained that romance to ire of other suitors or more pointedly to their peril.

In the democratic setting, despite the existence of the 19 Northern Governors Forum (NGF), the North, as a region, has

Alh. Ibrahim Coomassie lost its dread before those who could hardly hold the candle light for her in the political arena. There are indeed cacophonies of voices evidently by the want of unity in purpose, focus and even political character. These obvious frailties have been exploited by those that hitherto fear what the ‘Kaduna Mafia’ would come up with at topical national debate.

The North’s soft underbelly has been severally exposed and ravaged by the political hawks in the South who have taken the advantage of its vulnerability to turn the screw at every opportune time to score what previously would have undreamt off victory. his division has not gone unnoticed.

There have been efforts to retrace steps, call in the falcons, redraw the roadmap and rekindle the sagging spirit and faith in unity in diversity. But these have largely been palliative, and therefore feeble.

Suddenly, there is a lifeline, which at first was spurned with Aristocratic disdain but which would seem to be the epodermic injection needed to breathe life into the region: Sixth National Conference.

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Alh. Ibrahim Mantu Last October, the Northern State Governors’ Forum (NSGF) through its Chairman and Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, said after the preconferences organised to sensitize the forum on the need to canvass a common front and sent its best 11 to compete for the trophy.

“At our last meeting in Kaduna, we took some positions as northern governors and as states. We have some paramount issues that we want to stand on and we will present them during the National Conference.

“We also resolved to send in our best delegates to the conference with lots of experience to discuss without fear or favour at the conference and the state delegates will be briefed from time to time during the conference, which would start next month.

“We have to send our most intelligent and brilliant delegates. Two men and one woman who will not be afraid to defend the state and the North,” he said.

Last Thursday, the Arewa Consultative Forum organised a one-day retreat for the Northern delegates to the conference. There,

The assumption was that in despite of the spacious landmark; the people of Northern extractions spoke one language and were united by a common culture. True, some thought there must be differences in language but only dialectic: which hardly put asunder the united endeavours and resolves of the Northerner.

papers were presented, some of its best brains assessed, analysed positions and came up with resolutions meant to be presented and canvassed for in the interest of the region.

Interestingly, many leaders of thought, traditional rulers, and elder statesmen and young radicals who are all delegates attended the retreat. The retreat itself was designed to assist with and facilitate the emergence and subsequent adoption of common principles, stands, resolutions on issues affecting the region in particular and the nation as a whole. he issues discussed included among others the region’s position on federalism, revenue sharing formula, good governance, insecurity, power rotation, state police, constitution amendment, and exploration, according a delegate who declined to speak in details.

That the delegates kept mute after the retreat in itself represents some progress not forgetting the considerable presence of key delegates, with clout in all spheres of life, the gusto, prevalence of the air of seriousness and comportment demanded by occasion.

As a positive outcome, a 13-man think tank to be known as Northern Delegates Forum (NDF) was set up to articulate the position of the North and to spearhead discussion on all issues as well as collate researched papers and drive the course of unity of voice at the conference.

A former Inspector-General of Police and chairman of ACF, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie and former Minister of Information Prof.

Jerry Gana are co-chairmen of the NDF. Coomasie later said Nothern delegates are “rubbing minds to go and struggle for northern Nigeria. We have brought in people who are experts their fields to come and talk to us about these issues in the conference”, he stated.

Also, former Deputy Senate President,

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

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Special Report

What Confab portends for the North Contd from Page 4 Ibrahim Mantu, said the gathering was to sensitize delegates from the northern states to take a position on issues confronting the North and which will promote the unity of the nation.

“I think there is a need for us to understand exactly what we are here for and ensure the promotion of those things for which the government has set objectives for us in this conference. There is a reason for this and we must understand what our issues are. We must discuss them intelligently and understand the advantages of these objectives towards building Nigeria towards and promoting peace and stability in our nation.” en. (retd) John Shagaya, whose paper at the retreat was, “Implications of the National Conference for Northern Nigeria”, told Journalists that the retreat is for the cross-pollination of ideas.

“We are here to share our experiences and history. Our position will help the leadership of the conference and assist in canvassing objectively issues that will be good for Nigeria. We will discuss issues like the security challenges in the country and of course, devolution of power and corruption in high places that is going on unchecked.”

A chieftain of All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Buba Galadima, one of the delegates representing Yobe state, said the summit was convened by delegates from the Northern part of Nigeria to deliberate on likely issues to come up in the plenary sessions of the confab.

The former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change said, “We are also articulating on whatever positions were going discuss, not only on the issues people will bring forward but also what we will be canvassing when we reconvene on Monday.

“Security is so dear to us because all sections of the North are under attack and people are being killed in hundreds. This is an issue any serious government will give priority. We believe that we have

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Alhaji Sani Toro to put forward the issues before the conference how we are also being marginalized by other parts of the country.”

One thing is obvious from the above comments that singleness of purpose is the focus of delegates from the region as they strategised to bargain and if need be exact some influence. Why some items would have to be put to vote and numerical advantage should come handy.

One of the northern delegates, AVM Muktar Mohammed, told the Peoples Daily Weekend on phone that they were optimistic that a lot of good things will come out of the conference because many of the delegates had participated in similar conferences in the past and are familiar with the trend.

“I don’t think there is problem discussing the future of Nigeria.

We will all go there with an open mind, and we advise all those that have double mind to drop them.

One of the major issues that will be canvassed by the north is the issue of insecurity of lives and property.

The conference, going by the agitations and realignment of interests, may just be the tonic needed to restore health to the sick region and then a clean bill of health and vivacious life may just be the gain of the once cogent and monolith North.The more politicians stop using Boko Haram as pawn in the chess game, the better. If the much tougher Taliban have people to talk with, then Boko Haram has ears. In this way, the country can plough the security cash to water, employment, roads, electricity and the like… if corruption doesn’t gulp it.

Mrs. Fati Eunice Ibrahim “Innocent people are being killed daily in the north. We will seek to know what brought about that and how it could be addressed.

Other contentious areas that we will demand justice include the inequitable distribution of the nation’s resources and how to share it.

“We also stand by the position that that the population census should be used as criteria for revenue sharing. We also will draw attention to the existence of bodies like the Ministry of Niger Delta, existence of 13% derivation to the oil producing areas and other empowerment programme for the people of the South South and the absence of such in other regions.

“We believe that the Federal Government should evolve policies on education, health and agriculture in the overall interest of peace and stability in the country,” he concluded.

According to Mrs Fati Eunice Ibrahim, a politician and former publicity secretary of the Arewa Consultative Forum, who was initially skeptical about the conference because of lack of implementation of previous conferences.

“We are one Nigeria despite where we come from. And I believe something good will comes out of the conference, and whoever has a hidden agenda will be exposed at the end of the day,” she said stressing that every region like the North has problems that should be addressed, and since unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable, everyone will concentrate on issues that will strengthen us a people not ethnic nationalities. lso, a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ahmed Sani Toro, said the conference is an opportunity for the North to put heads together

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to speak with one voice on matters of the economy, revenue sharing formula and other socio economic problems bedeviling the country.

And so despite the criticism from different interest groups, regions and professionals bodies over marginalization, the National Conference that begins formally on Monday, the 24th of March, will create the necessary avenue for delegates from different parts of the country to come together to forge a common interest.

Particularly for the North, the conference, going by the agitations and realignment of interests, may just be the tonic needed to restore health to the sick region and then a clean bill of health and vivacious life may just be the gain of the once cogent and monolith North. As was before the North may be unanimous in speech, speak with an open mind and one voice, despite the diversity in culture, faith and languages.

ACF’s Communique after the retreat 1 We recognise that the people of the North are diverse and religious. We consider these rich deversity as a blessing.

2 We recall the geographic, historical, cultural and political ties and bonds which have defined our character and continued to bind us as citizens of Nigeria from the North living within a federation.

3 We reaffirm our resolve to rekindle that spirit of togetherness, inclusivity and unity of purpose.

4 In furtherance of the above objectives and to facilitate their attainment during the currency of the confab and beyond, participants at the retreat have resolved to: As a united delegation engaged in the pursuit of common aspirations.

Establish an umbrella platform to be called Northern Elders Forum (NDF) under which all delegates will work in collaboration and for the common good of the North and the nation.

At subsequent meeting to appoint other officials of the NDF who reflect our diversity, be inclusive and in particular be gender sensitive and bring the youths on board. All officials must be delegates.

The NDF in collaboration with the appointed members of the Think Tank will harmonise position papers, working documents and research work already adopted or carried out by the various stakeholders who have come together to form the NDF. This will assist in adopting a common agenda for the North presentation at the confab.

The NDF calls upon delegates from each of the states in the North and the FCT to constitute themselves into state forums and designate leaderships.

The NDF will reach out to other groups with common aspirations with views to solidifying the Northern stand.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

News

Army recovers weapons from burnt church

By Joy Baba

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he Nigerian Army yesterday announced the recovery of weapons hidden in a church burnt earlier by terrorists in Kalabalge Local Government Area of Borno State.

The weapons, including antiaircraft guns, rocket propelled guns as well as general purpose and other brands of machine guns, were found allegedly following the arrest of a middle-aged terrorist, the military said. Several rounds of ammunition were also recovered.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Infor-

mation, Major-General Chris Olukolade, the arrested suspect claimed to be a Cameroonian and an arms courier for the Boko Haram.

Mr. Olukolade, said the suspect led troops on the cordon and search operation.

He said the terrorist also disclosed to the military that the weapons were stockpiled to be used in a pending attack on some communities around the Nigeria- Cameroon border.

The military spokesperson also noted that all the weapons have been evacuated while the military continues to patrol the area.

Olukolade said a particular cave

in the area is undergoing a thorough search for terrorists who are believed to have taken refuge there.

He said the Chief of Army Staff, Kenneth Minimah, personally checked on deployment and disposition of troops in various locations in Yobe, Borno and Adamawa States; the three states under emergency rule.

He said Minimah and the Chief of Air Staff, Adeshola Amosu, also visited wounded troops receiving treatment in the Military Hospital in Maiduguri.

The service chiefs, he said, were assured by the Commander of the Hospital, a Brigadier General, that

most of the wounded soldiers were in stable condition while those who have recovered have shown desire to re-join their units and colleagues in the operation.

The spokesperson said the Army Chief directed that the hospital should inform him of any requirement either for referral or further treatment anywhere else.

The military chiefs, Olukolade said, are also carrying out a comprehensive air surveillance of the entire mission area in addition to the direct inspection of some key locations where operations are being conducted.

Baby factory: Enugu police arrests four suspects

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he Police in Enugu State have arrested four persons over their alleged involvement in buying and selling of babies to desperate couples.

The spokesman of the police in the state, Mr. Ebere Amaraizu told DailyPost that “three ladies, who gave their names as one Ezechi Esther Ijeoma (the leader of the syndicate, from Akabo village in Ikeduru Imo State but lives at Aforoghe Ezeagu Enugu), Okafor Beatrice of Awha Imezi in Ezeagu Enugu State and Odenigbo Theresa of Oyofo Ezeagu, were nabbed by the operatives of Ezeagu Division of the Nigeria Police Enugu State over their involvement in the trafficking and selling of a five year old success Godwin.

“The baby was stolen by Ijeoma from yet to be identified owner at Egbeda Lagos State on March13, 2014 in connivance with a yet to be identified member of the syndicate.

“The baby was scheduled to be sold at the rate of five hundred thousand naira to a prospective buyer yet to be nabbed”.

He added that on a similar development, “Okechukwu Michael, who was stolen from Ichieahamba village Umuikea in Abia State on March 5,2014 was recovered from one Okafor Beatrice”.

He stated that “the price tag for Okechukwu Michael was pegged at six hundred thousand naira.

“A full scale investigation has commenced into the incident, as the suspects are already helping the operatives in their investigations, just as the two recovered boys are hale and hearty”.

Director General, Media, Kaduna state, Alhaji Ahmed Maiyaki, coordinator Kaduna Rural Access and Mobility Project, Engr. Musa Tete and the National Coordinator, Rural Access and Mobility Project, Engr. Ubandoma Ularamu at a workshop organized for journalists by KADRAMP in Kaduna recently.

Mark escapes death, as gunmen attack convoy in Orlu

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi with agency report

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enate President, David Mark, yesterday escaped death as gunmen attacked his convoy in Orlu Senatorial District of Imo State, on his way to the burial ceremony of late business mogul, Sir John Richard Anyaehie, in Nkwerre Community of Imo state.

According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President, Paul Mumeh, who confirmed the attack, he said no life was lost and no casualty was recorded.

Speaking at the burial ceremony of the deceased, Mark lamented that the attack was not what should be expected in a senatorial district like Orlu and in a moment when a great philan-

thropist like Anyaehie was being buried.

He described late Anyaehie as a truthful man and good adviser, from whom he benefited as a young military Major in Port Harcourt, saying his first encounter with him was the greatest in his life.

While advising Nigerians to always prepare for their death by being humble and godly like the late Anyaehie, the Senate President said that his life united people of Nkwerre, Orlu Senatorial Zone and Imo State at large.

In his speech also, Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State described the late Anyaehie as one of the few but truthful and godly billionaires ever produced in Igboland, describing his life as a lesson to all men.

Okorocha said death must come when it would and that what remained most important in life was the things people must be remembered for.

In his sermon, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Orlu, Rt. Rev. Beneth Okoro, warned Christians not to die in sin, saying it could be very dangerous after death.

He advised politicians equipping youths to terrorise the society to endeavour to withdraw the weapons, saying it is only the good deeds one does on earth that would speak for him on his last day.

The Bishop cautioned against primitive acquisition of wealth, saying however that being wealthy is no sin but being proud and using same to oppress people was sinful before God.

Plateau communities clash over land …One killed, scores wounded From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

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o fewer than one person was killed and many injured in a communal clash between members of Pai and Shiwer communities of Pankshin and Kanke Local Government Areas of Plateau state.

Peoples Daily Weekend learnt that the clash between the two communities occured as a result of land ownership tussle.

The spokesman of Shiwer community in Kanke, Mr Austine Gozuk narrated that, “at about 2.45PM, some armed youths from Pai community invaded our community and started shooting and

setting houses ablaze. Many people were injured.

Gozuk called on both the Kanke LGC, the state government and other security agencies to intervene on the matter to avoid further conflict.

It would be recalled that there was an attack in October,2013 last year on the same village where many people were injured.

Sanusi’s suspension: Court fixes March 31 to hear suit From Matthew Irinoye, Lagos

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ustice Ibrahim Buba of a Lagos Federal High Court, yesterday fixed March 31, to hear the suit filed by the suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi against his removal from office.

The former Central Bank Governor, was suspended by the federal government on February 19, 2014, on allegation of financial recklessness.

Mallam Lamido has approached the court seeking its order to restrict the security agencies from arresting and prosecuting him.

When the matter came up yesterday, counsel representing the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation, Dr. Fabian Ajogwu, SAN, leading David Ajuwo and A. M. Musa, for Inspector-General of Police and State Security Service respectively, prayed the court to dismiss the Central Bank chief’s suit.

The AGF’s in its preliminary objection prayed the court for an order to strike out Lamido’s suit on the ground that the High Court do not have jurisdiction to entertain the matter, as it is a matter within the exclusive jurisdiction of the national industrial court.

It was also stated that, the reliefs sought by Mallam Lamido are constitutionally un-grantable as the IGP and SSS cannot be restricted from carrying out their constitutional and statutory duties.

Counsel to Mallam Lamido, did not opposed the applications. He told the court that he was served two days ago and needed time to respond.

However, The Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, supported its preliminary objection with a seven paragraphs affidavit deposed to by Mr. Ayokunle Odekunle.

Odekunle contended that a letter dated February 26, 2013, the suspended Central Bank Governor, sent to the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria, the audited account of the CBN for year ended December 31, 2012,; and that the President later sent the said audited account to Financial Report Council of Nigeria, FRCN, for examination and advice.

The lawyer also noted that, in view of the findings of the FRCN, it urged the President to exercise the power conferred on him by the CBN’s Act 2007, and cause the suspended CBN Governor to cease from holding the office in CBN; and also to direct FRCN to carry out full investigation of the activities of the CBN. He further vouched that having taken special notice of the report of the FRCN and other investigating bodies, that indicted Mallam Lamido’s tenure as the Governor of CBN, has been characterized by various acts if financial recklessness and misconduct which are inconsistent with the administration’s vision of CBN propelled by core values of focused economic management, prudence, transparency and financial discipline.

Odekunle, maintained that the suspension of Mallam Lamido was done in the interest of Nigerian economy, probity, transparency and accountability and to allow unfettered investigation into the affairs of the CBN. He also contended that the Federal High Court does not have the jurisdiction to entertain the suit as it is the matter within the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court; and that the interest of the applicant (Mallam Lamido) will not be prejudiced if the suit is struck out.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

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Jobs: How Immigration tragedy exposed government’s fairytales Statistics have been rolled out by government on the rate of unemployment generation amidst underhand deals and nepotism in federal government recruitments under democratic rule.

In this analysis, News Editor Abubakar Ibrahim looks at how the untruth was finally busted with the tragedy involving applicants to the Nigeria Immigration Service THE horrifying bribe-foremployment scandal rocking many federal ministries, agencies and departments since democracy returned in 1999 is a huge replica of official corruption which has always been denied with the Federal Character Commission seemingly toothless to correct.

It was at a significantly low level in Nigeria post-independence with politicians of the First and Second Republics as well as military administrations, influencing recruitments into the armed forces and the civil service. Some of the engagements were though nepotistic in nature but appropriate in due process of application, screening, examinations and the like. However, one needs additional guarantee from a legislator, traditional ruler or other elected officials to attest to the good behaviour or reliability of an applicant.

Most government employers do so for security reasons but this has been hugely abused by ethnic, religious or regional yardsticks today symptomatic of the worsening unemployment –which stands at 23.9 per cent (and 50 per cent for youths)– and poor regulation of the civil service by the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation and the Presidency.

Before the unfortunate recruitment blunder that claimed the lives of about 18 innocent Nigerians seeking entry into the Nigeria Immigration Service, vulnerable and helpless job seekers are being asked to buy scratch cards and to pay hundreds of thousands of naira for non-existent jobs.

Many MDAs, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Independent National Electoral Commission, Nigeria Immigration Service, military organisations and the Nigeria Customs Service, have been engaging in this illegal act of requesting job seekers to buy scratch cards before they can gain online access to fill their application forms.

These organisations are believed to have followed the footsteps of the Nigeria Police Force, which started the odious policy during the tenure of a former Inspector-General of Police, Mike Okiro.

Another sorry aspect that has demotivated brilliant and qualified

Nigerians is the common rumours that employments have always been already concluded with interested power peddlers from all the geopolitical zones getting the choice slots before advertisements are sent to the public to fight for the “crumbs”.

As it were, most of the Immigration jobs that hundreds of thousands turned out to get on Saturday have already been allocated to well-connected politicians, including state governors, ministers and federal lawmakers, sources in Abuja said.

Only 240 of the 4,556 slots at the Nigerian Immigration Service remained for the 522,652 “ordinary” applicants who trooped to the test centres and caused a stampede in which at least 18 of them died.

The Immigration Service had said a total of 522,652 applicants turned up at the venues spread around the country, battling for 4,556 jobs.

“They shared all the positions among governors, senators and others. What remained for those ordinary job seekers was 240,” a source briefed about the recruitment process, which is being handled by the Board of Immigration, Customs and Prisons said.

Another source from a top anticorruption agency said the money collected from all the applicants amounted to about N7 billion.

“Look, each applicant paid N1,000. From the record 7 million applied, so they generated about N7 billion,” he added.

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President Goodluck Jonathan

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ut spokesman for the Immigration Service, Mr. Chukwuemeka Obuah feigned ignorance of the slot sharing, because, according to him, the recruitment process was not even handled by the service itself.

“I don’t know about that, I don’t know about the issue of slots. The issue of this recruitment exercise was undertaken by the board, the Nigerian Immigration Service did not operate the board,” Obuah said.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives Interior Committee chairman Rep Umar Bature (PDP, Sokoto) admitted that National Assembly members were entitled to any allocation of job slots.

“People can say whatever they want to say. The National Assembly members are members of the public.

So if they are given slots, I think they are entitled to it. But that is the issue that we would look at when we meet with the Senate committee. But I think we should not be looking at

In the past, qualified Nigerians only require authentication from a traditional ruler, local government chairman or secretary to get government jobs. These patriotic leaders then, were required to attest to the good character and citizenship of an applicant.

the scapegoat,” he said.

Bature also defended the Immigration Service, saying all agencies routinely collect application form fees from job seekers.

‘Heads must roll’ Ironically, angry senators and members of the House of Representatives, in speeches made on the floors of the two chambers, asked President Goodluck Jonathan to sack the Interior Minister and the Controller General of Immigration Comrade Abba Moro and Mr David Parradang because they bear responsibility for the deaths when over 500,000 applicants trooped into recruitment test centres around the country on Saturday, leaving 18 dead in Abuja, Minna, Port Harcourt and Benin.

Many eminent Nigerians are also calling for their heads over the incident though President Goodluck Jonathan queried them on Monday but there is no firm indication that they would lose their jobs. This is predicated on the solid relationship of the Senate President David Mark and the Minister. Reports also fingered Mark’s wife in the consultancy job for the recruitment exercise.

Though Mark’s wife has swiftly denied any connection to it, the reputation of Mark as the lifewire of the Jonathan regime in the National Assembly makes the removal of the Minister improbable. Perhaps, some other officials could be sacrificed.

However, the groundswell of pressure is mounting.

In the Senate during the week, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the chairman of the Senate Interior Committee, tabled a motion, along with 10 others, demanding for an

investigation of the incident.

The Senate adopted the motion and asked the Interior Committee to conduct a public hearing and report back in a week on the office of the Head of Service approval for the recruitment of 4,556 personnel of various cadres for the Immigration in 2011.

He said Drexel Technical Global Services, which was assigned by the Immigration authorities to carry out the recruitment exercise, collected N1,000 from each of the 700,772 applicants who filled the recruitment form on line. dding that the N700 million collected in application fees negates the usual practice of not collecting any money from applicants by the Customs, Immigration and Prisons Board (CIPB), the body empowered to conduct recruitment for paramilitary outfits.

“Prior to this tragic exercise, employment into the Nigerian Immigration Service is done in two usual ways. The service has responsibility of employment of junior officers while the recruitment of senior officers is handled by the Customs, Immigration and Prisons Board (CIPB), making the introduction of consultants and charging of N1,000 per applicant a completely new dimension,” he said.

Senator Ayogu Eze said, “This problem has brought out one clear issue that from the Minister of Interior Abba Moro and the Immigration CG down to the consultancy firm assigned to carry out the recruitment exercise, is nothing but failure of

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

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...How Immigration tragedy exposed government’s fairytales Contd from Page 7 national assignment, and they must be held accountable for the failure by whatever way permissible in the laws of the land but must first be shown the way out of their offices.”

But Deputy Senate Leader Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi) said what was needed was a holistic roadmap that will provide urgent solutions to unemployment.

“We must see the last Saturday’s unfortunate tragedies as collective guilt, collective fault. It goes beyond the issue of Minister or Comptroller General of Immigration,” he said.

Senator Olusola Adeyeye (APC, Osun) said: “Politicians in the country across party lines should start preparing to run for cover on account of looming revolution in the land to be carried out by the large army of unemployed youths or graduates in the country as clearly shown with the mammoth crowd of unemployed Nigerians who besieged NIS recruitment centres nationwide.” eputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the session, suggested that in line with section 17(3) of the 1999 Constitution, “if need be, the Senate shall legislate on increased quantity of level of employment in the country.”

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Reps: ‘It’s a huge scam’ The House of Representatives lawmakers also bemoaned the deaths at the Immigration jobs tests on Saturday, describing the recruitment exercise as “nothing but a scam.”

The lawmakers, who took more than two hours debating the tragedy, wondered how the Interior Ministry as well as the Immigration service went on to sell thousands of forms to

Nigerians, even when the vacancies were not close to the number of forms sold.

Rep Ahmed Babba-Kaita (APC, Katsina) said in view of the number of forms sold, which was beyond the required number of applicants, “the whole recruitment exercise has turned out to be nothing but a scam.”

Rep Nkiruka Onyejeocha (PDP, Abia) said, “With this loss of lives of Nigerians who were seeking employment, the minister should resign. If you know your vacancies, why would you sell forms more than that number you require?”

Similar position was shared by Rep Aliyu Sani Madaki (APC, Kano) who also called for the resignation of both the Interior Minister and the Controller General of Immigration.

“Nigeria is a classic example of a failed state, but we keep on pretending as if nothing is wrong. If we do not act now there will be a time they will come against us,” he said.

The House resolved to mandate its committees on Interior, Labour, Public Service Matters and Justice to investigate the matter in a public hearing and bring recommendations.

Rep Sunday Karimi (PDP, Kogi), who brought the motion on the Immigration tragedy, said over one million youths scrambled for 4,500 job placements, which led to the deaths.

“In Calabar, Ogun, Lagos and many other centres, candidates were flogged and abused by security personnel all in a bid to secure white-collar job,” he said.

Individuals and groups are also not left out in the call for the sack and prosecution of the Interior Minister Abba Moro as well as the Controller General of Immigration David Parradang.

A group of 55 senior activists and politicians said the minister and the controller must be held to account for the deaths.

“If the lives of Nigerians mean anything,

Dr. Abba Moro

CG NIS David Paradang

the leadership and management teams in the Ministry of the Interior and the NIS must be held to account for these deaths,” the statement said.

“This tragedy was needless, foreseeable, and avoidable. The failures of the Ministry of the Interior and NIS to adequately manage the process and safeguard the safety and security of the jobseekers, is inexcusable.”

They urged the Attorney-General of the Federation, Inspector-General of Police and Director-General of State Security Service to open a joint criminal investigation into the deaths.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) described the deaths of applicants as a national

disaster.

UC president Bobboi Kaigama, called for immediate investigation into the matter as well as a probe of allegations of money collected from applicants.

The opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) said the jobseekers’ deaths were a direct consequence of “15 years of misrule by the PDP-led Federal Government.”

APC spokesman Alhaji Lai Mohammed said the Interior Minister must bear direct responsibility for the incident and must step down from his position or be sacked.

“Despite huge yearly budgets rolled out since 1999, the PDP-led Federal Government has failed to create jobs for our teeming youth, and the number of those who are jobless has now reached such an alarming rate that a job emergency may have to be declared to avert an impending cataclysm,” the statement said.

The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) also said the tragedy at the recruitment faulted government’s claim of having created 1.6 million jobs in 2013.

CNPP spokesman Osita Okechukwu said the tragedy “is the outcome of Federal Government of Nigeria’s nebulous and inchoate economic policy.”

“Otherwise, if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led Federal Government had in the past 15 years invested our unprecedented oil and gas revenue to critical infrastructures like refineries, modern railways, power supply, there is no way over 4,000,000 youths will pay N1,000 to chase less than 3,000 jobs in a single department of the state across the country.”

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) urged President Goodluck Jonathan to order the arrest and prosecution Interior Minister Moro and the Controller General of Immigration.

URIWA coordinator Emmanuel Onwubiko and the media director Zainab Yusuf also demanded the immediate dismissal of the top officials of the Nigerian Immigration Services and the Federal Ministry of Interior for “negligence which led to the high fatality rate at the illfated recruitment exercise by the NIS.” “The Federal Government must also pay heavy compensation of not less than N10 million to the families of each of the dead because their deaths were occasioned by the total official dereliction of function committed by officials,” they said in a statement.

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An injured female applicant lifted to safety by a security man in Abuja

Fire Brigade response Apparently in reaction to the massive embarrassment as election nears, President Jonathan has quickly reacted with soothing balm. Information Minister Labaran Maku disclosed to State House correspondents

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

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Cover ...How Immigration tragedy exposed government’s fairytales Contd from Page 8 Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting that the president announced automatic employment for three relations of each of the victims, with one beneficiary to be a female.

Jonathan also directed that automatic employment be given to all the applicants who sustained injuries during the exercise and ordered a fresh recruitment exercise into the NIS. The new exercise, whose date he said, would be announced later, shall be conducted by a committee chaired by the chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission.

Maku however refused to speak on why Abba Moro, was excluded from the committee, whether the government would refund the N1,000 paid for registration by each of the applicants and whether the government intended to set up a committee to investigate the circumstances that led to the applicants’ death. e said: “The president also took certain measures which he announced to Federal Executive Council. The first is that the Immigration exercise has been completely cancelled and he has directed that a new exercise be conducted by a special committee under the chairmanship of the chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission to conduct the recruitment exercise to fill the vacancies of the Nigerian Immigration Service. Other members of the committee, as announced by the president, are the Comptroller-General of Nigerian Immigration Service, representatives of the Inspector General of Police, CommandantGeneral of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Comptroller-General of Prisons Service, Director General State Security Service (SSS) and the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).”

Does these stop-gap measures government adopts on pressing national issues show Nigeria drifting towards failure?A sensible government will urgently roll out stern measures to deal with the unfortunate situation that allows MDAs and their agents to exploit job seekers as this farce has become an official policy.

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The injured and dead being taken to the National Hospital, Abuja Why would a government agency ask job seekers to buy application forms, or some unscrupulous officials demanding as high as N500, 000 from a job seeker before being employed, as revealed in a recent testimony by the Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, at a debate on the floor of the Senate? Who has been keeping illegal fees that add up to millions of naira? Is it the Federal Government or officials who collude among themselves to heap further misery on desperate jobless Nigerians? This should be looked into at the highest level to determine who has been fleecing these hapless Nigerians. n the past, qualified Nigerians only require authentication from a traditional ruler, local government chairman or secretary to get government jobs. These patriotic leaders then, were required to attest to the good character and citizenship of an applicant. But partisan politics, greed, nepotism and fraud have overwhelmed the system to the extent that Ministers, senators, governors and the like allot these slots to party faithful and charlatans. At the end, the products of these

I

charades would contribute to policy failures if such policies are antithetical to the objectives of their paymasters. It is worst if a new political dispensation takes over.

It is incumbent on the HoS to launch an investigation into the activities of the concerned MDAs by first querying the heads of these organisations, which are violating the law that governs revenue generation.

Though some agencies of the government like the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria can generate revenue, no MDA in Nigeria is empowered by law to generate revenue through its recruitment drive. But this is what many MDAs are doing. If MDAs do not follow simple rules like ones mandating them to advertise vacancies, it means the future of the country will be up in flames as good governance can no longer rest on a solid civil service.

Measures must be put in place to track the activities of these MDAs, openly exposing the culprits behind the scams, and punishing them to serve as a deterrent to other organisations that might want to perpetrate such illegality.

Question papers being flung at applicants, one of the causes of the stampede

From now, the process of recruitment to MDAs should be made transparent.

Independent and credible employment consultants should superintend the process.

The Federal Civil Service Commission and the Federal Ministry of Labour should wake up to their responsibilities: they should restore sanity to the system by enforcing the rules for recruitment to the federal service. On no account should any MDA ask for money from Nigerian job seekers.

It is a gross dereliction of duty that the Federal Character Commission, which is constitutionally saddled with ensuring equity in the employment of Nigerians to MDAs, has been criminally silent over this scam. This is why a senator, Smart Adeyemi, said during a discussion of the issue at the plenary, “The Federal Character Commission cannot bark and bite. It does not have the power to stop this corruption. What we need is an agency that can bark and bite. We have to ensure that the law is able to punish those who break the law.” hese sham is akin to that perpetrated by the Governor Ikedi Ohakim administration of in Imo State, between 2007 and 2011. In 2010. The former governor asked applicants of Imo origin to apply for 10,000 jobs he was about to create, but with a caveat: each applicant would buy a scratch card of N2, 000 from some designated banks before being allowed to fill the form. At the end of the day, no jobs were forthcoming from the charade. The applicants later filed court suits, seeking redress for what they alleged was a fraudulent scheme.

The foregoing anecdote gives a strong message to job seekers: no matter how desperate they may be, they should stand their ground and refuse to be hoodwinked by scammers, who are out to take advantage of their vulnerability. because such persons would not deliver but keep on asking for more.

Also, it is time for the government to walk its talk on employment generation by creating enabling environment for the private sector to flourish. A proper liberalisation and commercialisation of the key areas of the national economy, especially the power sector, the railways (being hamstrung by the outdated 1955 Railway Act), and the mining sector, will spur private initiatives and significantly reduce the nation’s unbearable unemployment burden.

This will suck the pressure from the government and save the country from the local and international embarrassment as we approach the 2015 polls.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

News

Police uncover baby factory in Ogun

L-R: Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Engineer Andrew Yakubu, Group Executive Director Gas and Power of NNPC, Dr. David Ige and Acting Group General Manager, Public Affairs Division of NNPC, Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, during the dinner organised by NNPC for Energy Correspondents on Thursday in Abuja.

From James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

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he Ogun State Police Command had uncovered a baby-making factory in Akute in Ifo local government area of the state and rescued eight pregnant women, including a 16-year-old girl.

The owner of the factory, Mrs. Angela Chigoeze, and her brotherin-law, Obinna Ndunaga, were also arrested by the police in a raid conducted on Thursday, attributing the discovery to robust community policing and discreet intelligence gathering by men of the state police command.

Three of the pregnant women were teenagers. They included 16-year-old Precious Steven as well as Miracle Eze and Blessing Saviour who are both 17 years old.

Others were Jeremiah Gift, 25; Joy Okoro, 20; Stella Samuel, 19; Agnes Igbo, 22 and Vivian Princewill, 20.

The state Commissioner of Police, Ikemefuna Okoye, who yesterday conducted reporters round a bungalow building in Akute where the suspects were nabbed, disclosed that a baby was often sold at N300,000 each.

Okoye said the young girls were usually offered pittance after delivery and their babies taken from them and sold to unknown people.

He, however, stated that investigation was still ongoing to unravel the sponsors and collaborators of the baby-making syndicate which apparently used the building at No. 9 Sebanjo Crescent, off Fabolude busstop in Akute as operational base.

Narrating how the baby factory was discovered, the Ogun State boss said that men of the Ajuwon Divisional Police Station stormed the scene following a tip-off.

He said, “When we moved in around 7am on Thursday, we couldn’t get anything. So, we left. But later we got information and we came back to the house and continued searching.

We discovered that the pregnant girls were hidden in the wardrobe.

“One of the girls kept in the wardrobe fainted and she was taken to hospital and revived. This is inhumanity to human beings. The coordinator (Angela) of this baby factory sold each baby at N300,000 or even above. She in turn gives pittance to these young girls. If the mother delivers a stillborn, she will not get anything.”

Photo: Mahmud Isa

APC to PDP: Prove our link with Boko Haram insurgency or shut up From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

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he All Progressives Congress (APC) has dared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to urgently make available to the Nigerian public any evidence of the opposition’s alleged involvement in the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency or forever shut up In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, he said that In the absence of any evidence, Nigerians will have no choice but to conclude that the relentless finger-pointing by the PDP/Presidency is a ploy to divert attention from those who are actually behind this insurgency, those who see it as a trump card to 2015 and those who have been benefitting massively from the huge funds being allocated to security.

APC said the latest accusation

by the PDP is being made within the framework of its plan to frame up the opposition and clamp down on its leaders ahead of the 2015 general elections, having realized that it (PDP) cannot possibly win the 2015 elections due to its appalling record of failure. ‘’Otherwise, how can the PDPled federal government claim to have ‘evidence of meetings held outside the shores of the country’ to violently overthrow the government of President Jonathan, and yet refuse to make such evidence public or arrest and try those involved?

Or is it only the riotous spokesman of the ruling party who has the evidence?’’ the party queried.

It also slammed the PDP for suffering from selective amnesia by its warped interpretation of APC’s statement, which pointed out to the ruling party that President Jonathan is not the first minority Nigerian

leader, hence the people should be spared the boring reference to his ethnic origin. ‘’It is a reflection of PDP’s diabolical mind that it only picked out the former minority leaders who are soldiers and left out the name of a former civilian leader.

We mentioned three former leaders who are of minority ethnic stock: Tafawa Balewa (Sayewa), Yakubu Gowon (Angas) and Sani Abacha (Kanuri). ‘’Curiously but not unfathomably, the PDP dropped the name of Balewa and then extrapolated from the fact that we mentioned two former military leaders that we are comparing a democratically-elected President with defunct military dictatorships.

This can only be the product of a contorted mind. Good a thing, Nigerians understand better and will not be fooled by such a sickening

stretch!’’ APC said.

The party reiterated its earlier statement that the only reason this insurgency has persisted is the incompetence, cluelessness, inferiority complex and collusion of the presidency. ‘’First, we heard from no other personality than President Jonathan himself that his cabinet is infested with Boko Haram. Then the PDP started pointing fingers at some imaginary opposition leaders as being behind the insurgency, and now the President has openly admitted his own incompetence by saying his administration has been treating terrorism with kid gloves. ‘’Pray, where in the world can any battle against terrorism be won when the government is treating such with kid gloves? Need we ask why the government has failed woefully to tackle terrorism in Nigeria?’’ it asked.

Kebbi PDM merges with APC From Ahmed Idris, Birnin Kebbi

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ollowing the nationwide mergers by opposition parties across the country, the Peoples Democratic Government [PDM] kebbi state

chapter yesterday merged with the All Progressives Congress [APC] in the state.

Addressing the PDM supporters at the defunct Congress Progressive Change [CPC] office, APC state chairman

Alhaji Abubakari Atiku Gunu said considering the present situation the PDM merger would help the APC to deliver in the state, and assured APC of the readiness to work with them as a team.

‘’APC has received prominent people and with caliber of people now in the party, they have full assurance that they would deliver in the state and at the Federal level, our aim is for change’’ he said.

Recruitment: How Interior Minister sidelined Immigration boss

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igeria’s interior minister, Abba Moro, backed by the supervisory board for Immigration, Civil Defence, Prisons and Fire Service, marshalled a surprisingly secret plot to hire new staff into the Immigration Service, deliberately sidelining immigration authorities from a recruitment process that turned deadly and ended in fatality last Saturday, PREMIUM TIMES

can report today.

About 18 job seekers died and several more were wounded on Saturday in stampedes across Nigerian cities as hundreds of thousands of applicants overran recruitment centres as they struggled to access locked venues.

The more than 520,000 applicants were made to pay N1, 000 each for their registration.

PREMIUM TIMES has now

established a troubling power play at the highest level of decision-making on the recruitment, involving Mr. Parradang on the one hand, and the minister, Mr. Moro, and members of the Civil Defence, Fire, Immigration and Prisons Services board on the other.

Officials interviewed and documents obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, provide a narrative of how the interior ministry single-handedly

pressed on with earlier preparations for the recruitment last year without the knowledge of Mr. Parradang, and how the Immigration comptrollergeneral protested the move, urging the board to suspend the exercise.

In a letter to R. Attahiru, the then secretary of the supervisory board, Mr. Parradang spoke of how embarrassed and surprised he was to learn, from a newspaper, of plans to hire new hands for an organization

he heads.

The newspaper publication Mr. Parradang referred to was a Daily Trust, September 9, 2013 advertisement announcing the ministry’s plan to fill vacancies in the immigration department.

The announcement, asking young Nigerians to apply for the positions, was signed by Mr. Attahiru, as secretary and director of the board.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Bride, 15 passengers killed in Edo road tragedy From Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin

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bride due to get married in April this year was among 16 commuters reported dead in road mishap.

The crash involved a bus belonging to a popular Beninbased Transport company and a bus on Monday afternoon along the Ugbogui-Ore road axis of Lagos Benin –Ore Road.

The Sino truck marked 371 with registration number LSR649XK, belonging to SINGEOBI TRANSPORT LTD and Toyota hiace bus with registration number WWR625XA were involved in the accident.

The 29-year-old deceased identified as Juliet Igbinoba was said to have shared the invitation cards to all and sundry. before the carnage sparking outrage ahead of the wedding ceremony slated for April 19, 2014.

Elder brother of late Juliet, an Accounting graduate of Auchi polytechnic, Osato Igbinoba has accused officials of FRSC of accepting bride from the commercial bus transport company to cover up their track.

He said the move was contrary to the commission’s practice of putting details of the crash on its website and making it available to media houses.

According to him, four days after the accident, the commission has refused to give journalists the true picture of things adding that the move was a plot by the high and mighty to absolve the company from any wrong doing.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), zone RS5 in Benin, on Friday, denied allegation of bribe against the command over alleged cover-up.

Mr Wole Olaniran, the Assistant Corps Marshal in charge of the zone comprising Edo, Delta and Anambra state, made the denial against the backdrop of accusation by relatives of the 16 persons who lost their lives in the March 17 crash.

Osato, a trader in Benin City, said did not rule-out recklessness of the driver of the bus who died in the crash.

He alleged that he was aware that FRSC officials got news of the crash soon after it happened but chose to `kill’ the information.

“Those who were in that bus were brought out from the wreckage by villagers and some of them were taken to a nearby health centre and left writhing in pains for over 18 hours before many met their death”.

Also speaking, FRSC Zonal Commanding officer (ZCO) described the allegation as cheap blackmail, saying that ``there is no truth whatsoever in their allegation.’’

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News

Man, 22, bags 6 months jail for burglary, stealing

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n Ikeja Magistrates’ Court yesterday sentenced a 22-year-old man, Afeez Adeyemi, to six months imprisonment, for burglary and stealing from a boutique.

Adeyemi, who had pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge of burglary and stealing when

arraigned on April 12, 2013, changed his plea to guilty on Tuesday, March 11.

The Magistrate, Mrs Abimbola Oshodi-Makanju, sentenced the convict, without an option of fine.

She stated, “I hereby find you guilty of the charges against you,

after considering the facts of the case.

You are hereby sentenced to three months imprisonment for the first count charge of burglary and three months imprisonment for the second count charge of stealing.”

However, she said that

L-R Minister of Youth Development Mr. BonI Haruna in a handshake with Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo during their meeting on Shelter Belt held at the State House Abuja yesterday.

Photo: Joe Oroye

the sentences would run concurrently.

Earlier, Adeyemi had pleaded for leniency, saying that he was not a thief.

According to him, “I was only passing by and saw the door of the shop opened, I entered but was arrested by the Police.

I did not burgle the shop but only took six pairs of shoes from the shop.”

The Prosecutor, ASP Samson Ekikere, had told the court that the accused conspired with others, now at large, to commit the offence.

Ekikere said that the convict broke into a boutique and stole goods worth N200, 000, property of Mrs Adelakun Oyewale.

“The accused was caught but his accomplices escaped,” he said.

Ekikere said that the offence was committed at 3 a.m. on March 17, 2013 at No. 35, Fagbemi St., Meiran, Lagos.

The prosecutor said that the offence contravened Sections 285 and 305 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The convict had been in prison custody since his arraignment, because he could not meet the bail conditions in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum. (NAN)

‘Unemployment puts Nigeria at risk’- Cleric

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he unemployment rate in the country is a time bomb that will cause more problems than the Boko Haram insurgency if the Federal Government did not act fast in creating cushions or employment for millions of Nigerian youths, the CoExecutive Director of InterFaith Mediation Council, Imam Nurain Ashafa has said.

Imam Ashafa disclosed this to Journalist in Kaduna while reacting to the last Saturday recruitment exercise of the Nigerian Immigration Service which claimed the lives of the about 20 job seekers in the country.

According to him, “Imagine the number of people that died in the Immigration tragedy, this further shows that if the large number of people scouting for the job don’t get the job and end up with bruises and someone calls them to fight, they will fight; we must learn to manage this situation at the table.

“As long as we don’t go on the path of dialogue there can be no solution to the incessant killings in the North-East.

“Government must create a template where the aggrieved people who have taken to arms and who have given up their lives as shield to have a place

they could express themselves.

They need a soft approach, hard tactics has never worked.

“Even in Iraq, Afghanistan, the international government had to sit down; the American government had to sit down with the Talibans after ten years of operation fire for fire.

“We don’t need operation fire for fire. What we need is operation ‘restorative justice’ and not ‘retributive justice’ and to get that, government must create soft landing for the aggrieved persons. So if this issue is not technically handled, it is going to explode and cause more havoc than it is causing today”, the Co-

Executive Director of InterFaith Mediation Council stated.

In a related development, the Lead Consultant of Kaduna Customer Service School (KCSS), Mr. Ogungbuyi Emmanuel has joined in the condemnation of the tragic Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) recruitment exercise, calling for immediate reorientation of Nigerian youths on job creation.

Emmanuel stated this when he led the management team of Kaduna Customer Service School on an advocacy visit to the Kaduna office of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) yesterday.

Prof Gana’s family fixes March 29 for mother’s burial From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

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he families of Prof Jerry Gana, Former Minister of Information has fixed March 29, 2014 for the final burial of their late mother, Mama Felicia Nnakogi Gana

who died on March 13.

This was contained in a statement signed by the eldest son, Prof Jerry Gana for the family and made available to newsmen yesterday.

It said further that Friday, March 28 would be wake-keep service by 5pm at Prof Jerry

Gana’s residence, GRA, Bida in Niger State.

According to the statement, “Mama’s body will leave Bida to her country home, Busu in Lavun local government Area of Niger State for final interment on March 29 by 10am.

It explained further that the funeral service would be held at the St. Mathew’s Anglican Church, Busu on March 29, by 11am.

It however called on friends, sympathizers to assemble at Bida and Busu to bid Mama Farewell her final home.

Photo Splash

PAGE 12

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

The chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Kenneth Minima (r) with the Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Adesola Amosu, fielding questions from members of the press in Maiduguri, Borno state.

President Goodluck Jonathan receiving a souvenir from the President, Nigerian Community in Namibia, Mr Buba Madugu, at a meeting between President Jonathan and Nigerians in Namibia, on Thursday.

L-R: Aformer Director General, National Agency for Science and engineering infrastructure (NASENI), Prof. Olusegun Adewoye; his successor, Mr Mohammed Haruna and chairman of the occasion, Prof. Mohammed Abubakar, at a send off dinner in honour of the former director general, on Thursday night, in Abuja.

Chairman AES Excellence Club, Chief (Mrs.) Onikepo Akande flanked by the President AES, Dr. Ausbeth Ajagu and Maj. Gen. Patrick Ogah (r) while the Guest Speaker, the Director Federal Highways, Engr. Ejike Mgbemena (2l) watched during the Quarterly Business Dinner and Inauguration of the AES Abuja Chapter at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Abuja, on Thursda.

L-R: Imo Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, receiving an award for Education policy on behalf of the Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha from Students leaders led by Christian Ogbu and others while Hon. Comm. for Lands, Hon. Uche Nwosu, looks in admiration recently in Owerri.

Photo Joe Oroye and NAN

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 13

News NDRO cautions APC against politicizing death of NIS job seekers

By Chris Alu

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R-L: President of the Senate, David Mark, Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Senator Hope Uzodimma, during the funeral Service of John Anyaehie at the Cathedral church of SS Peter and John the Divin, yesterday in Nkwerre, Imo State.

NACCIMA to build 5-star hotel, world event centre in Abuja

By Clem Khena-Ogbena

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he Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), an umbrella body of all the chambers of commerce in Nigeria, has indicated plans to build a 5-star hotel and a world class event conference in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Giving the indication yesterday during the opening ceremony of the Nigeria’s Centenary Trade Fair, at the ABUCCIMA International Trade Fair Complex, Kilometre 8, Airport Road, Abuja, the NACCIMA president, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, said the funds for the proposed projects would be sourced from Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative.

The NACCIMA president, who was represented on the occasion by

the President, Coalition of SouthSouth Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (FOSSCCIMA), Prince Billis GillisHarry, also disclosed that the two proposed projects would be sited in the premises of the ABUCCIMA International Trade Fair Complex.

The NACCIMA president added that the concerted efforts of both ABUCCIMA and NACCIMA were required to prevail on the Federal Government of Nigeria to provide the appropriate policy and the enabling environment for the successful commencement of the projects.

According to Abubakar, Nigeria has all the needed potentials that could make it one of the most economically powerful countries in the world.

He said the choice of the theme of this year’s fair-”Celebrating Creative Industrial Excellence in Production

and Innovation through Unity in Diversity”-was very timely and appropriate as the country celebrated 100 years of amalgamation of Southern and Northern Protectorates of Nigeria in 1914. He added that the issue of creative industrial excellence in production and innovation could not be overemphasized in the development process of any nation.

Earlier, ABUCCIMA President, Engr (Dr.) Solomon Nyagba, said there was need to introduce Industrial, Technological and Foreign Trade initiatives, with a view to enhancing competitiveness of locally manufactured products.

He also said there was need for strategic location and distribution of industries as well as manufacturing facilities in the various geo-political zones of the country to promote employment and to further enhance the desired unity in diversity.

N100m NECO fees: Parents protest children’s exclusion in Zaria From Ibrahim Sidi Muhammad with agency report

S

ome parents in Zaria, Kaduna State,on Friday protested the exclusion of their children from the N100million NECO fees paid by the Kaduna State Government for final year secondary school students.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the government had since released the money to the National Examination Council.

The spokesperson of the parents, Alhaji Aliyu YusufNadabo, told newsmen that although the government had released the money, most children in the state had been excluded.

Yusuf-Nadabo,”We are not happy with the way the state

ministry of education is handling this matter. As parents, we have already paid NECO money but there is no effort to refund it to us.

“The State Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Ahmed Ali had announced that the state government had paid our children’s NECO fees but we are yet to get any refund,” he said.

When contacted, the Zonal Director, Zaria Education Office, Alhaji Bashir Aliyu, said the parents had misinterpreted information about the payment.

According to him, the commissioner was misquoted on the matter.

Aliyustated:”Thecommissioner during the distribution of books in Kaduna said that every deserving

final year indigenous student will benefit.

“The information was misconceived because it is meant to purchase NECO cards for final year indigenous students with eight credits including Mathematics and English.

“This is not the first time the state government will be doing it as the previous government had done so.

“Initially, the requirement used to be six credits in mock examination including English and Mathematics but this year’s result is excellent.

“Gov. Muktar Yero of Kaduna State is aware of the present situation, and has promised to look into the issue with a view to proffering solution to it.

he Niger Delta Renaissance Organization has warned the All Progressive Congress (APC) to desist from politicizing the death of persons who died as a result of seeking jobs with the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS. The group said that politicizing such a grave national tragedy by the opposition in order to score cheap political points shows that the APC is insensitive to the tragedy that occurred and does not deserve the support of Nigerians.

In a statement issued by the National Coordinator, Comrade Nwokoma Messiah, also urged the Rivers State Government to desist from inciting the Youths against the federal government on the tragedy, adding that it was a

fiendish plot by the APC to disgrace the PDP-led administration at the Centre in order to make Nigerians and the world think that the government is not doing well.

Nwokoma said the move to incite people against the federal government would be resisted by the people in the state.

The group said if successive administrations had done what the present Federal Government is doing to create job opportunities for Nigerians such tragedy that occurred due to the large number of people that turned up for the recruitment exercise would have been averted. Nwokoma commended the President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and the Interior Minister Comrade Abba Moro for their timely response and the mature way they handled the issue.

Kaduna Health Workers suspend 21-day strike

M

edical and Health Workers Union in Kaduna State has suspended its 21-dayold strike after an agreement with the State Government on Friday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was brokered by the 10-man adhoc committee set up by the state House of Assembly to mediate in the matter.

The committee was headed by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Peter Adamu.

Mr John Akogu, who spoke on behalf of the union, directed all the striking workers to resume work immediately.

Akogu, who chairs union’s `Strike Force Committee’, said it agreed to suspend the strike to allow for continuous negotiation with the government.

``We have reached an understanding with government hence this action is suspended,” he said.

He urged the workers to show more commitment to their work to justify their demand for wage increase.

On his part, the Head of Service, Mr Akila Bungwon appreciated the union leaders for their understanding, emphasising that ``in any disagreement dialogue is the answer”.

Bungwon commended the state Assembly for its intervention and appealed to the health workers to be diligent in their duties.

He pledged that the state government would do everything within its powers to enhance access to medical services to the citizenry.

(NAN)

Recruitment lawsuit void, says lawyer

By Evelyn Okakwu

T

he law suit filed by four applicants who took part in the immigration exercise in Niger State has been described as null and void with no legal effect.

Reacting on the issue during a chat with Peoples Daily, Barrister Samuel Akenpuum, a legal practitioner with Godwin Ogboji and co chambers Abuja said the exercise was mere academics , adding that a case of an abuse of fundamental human rights cannot be determined in a representative capacity.

“You are saying that you want compensation for being unjustly treated in an exercise which has already been cancelled. The court does not work on speculations; it works on facts. If you say that there was an exercise and the government has already cancelled the exercise, then where is it before the court to act upon? If the court is to say anything on the exercise now, it will describe it as a mere academic exercise”

However, a human resource activist, Bukky Shonibare described the demands of the applicants as partly reasonable.

Also speaking to Peoples Daily on the issue, Bukky said it was very reasonable for government to compensate the families of those who lost their loved ones with the sum of N50 million as requested by the applicants.

She called on the government of Nigeria to do its best to ensure transformation of labour laws that will reinstate adequate rights and duties of all parties involved in employment proceedings.

The applicants Charles Ugwonye, Friday Danlami, Chinedu Onwuka and Samson Ojo had asked the court to declare the recruitment exercise as illegal and restrain the NIS from spending the money realized from it.

They also seek a general sum of N1 million for damages to all applicants as well as a sum of N50 million for the families of those who lost their loved ones.

PAGE 14

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Crime Cycle

Stanley Onyekwere pmlcrimecycle@gmail.com 08138559513

Man to spend 27 months in prison for obstructing FRSC officer

A

29-year old man, Lukman Raji, is to spend 27 months imprisonment, for unlawful obstruction and criminal intimidation, after an Omu-Aran Area court in Kwara state sentenced him accordingly.

The convict, a resident of Oke-Esa Compound in OmuAran, had obstructed and threatened to attack a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) official with charm was, however, given an option of fine of N2, 400.

The judge, Mr. Abolade Banigbe, gave the verdict after Raji pleaded guilty to a threecount charge of obstructing a public servant from performing his lawful duty, intimidation and obstructing lawful arrest.

The judge sentenced him to three months imprisonment for the first charge, two years imprisonment for the second but discharged and acquitted him on the third charge and said the sentences would run concurrently.

He explained that the prosecution failed to establish guilt against the convict on the third charge.

The prosecutor, Sgt. Adebola Adeola, had told the court that Raji, on February 27, 2014,

obstructed one Samson Taiwo of Omu-Aran unit of the FRSC from performing his official duty.

Adeola said that through the conduct, Raji prevented the arrest and caused the escape of one Femi, a commercial motorcyclist, who contravened traffic regulation.

He said the offences contravened sections 148, 171 and 397 of the Penal code, respectively.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that while pleading guilty, Raji begged the court for leniency, claiming that he was a school drop-out and had many problems.

In his ruling, Banigbe noted that the convict’s claim of financial problem and dropping out of school was untenable and not an excuse for him to indulge in criminal act.

“Your claim to have dropped out of school due to financial reason is not a ticket for you to indulge in anti-social vices and behaviour.

“I am only lenient with you because you did not waste the time of the court. You should, therefore, change your attitude and have due respect for “I hope your conviction by this court would serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.

A

Chief Executive FRSC, Mr Osita Chidoka

after the accused was arraigned by the police on one count of theft.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Maga, who adjourned the case to March 27, ordered the accused to get legal representation who must file a written bail application.

Earlier, PC Friday Adaji, prayed the court not to admit the accused to bail because he was an ex convict who once

served jail term for theft.

Adaji told the court that Malam Dalhatu Alhassan, also of Tudun Wada, Mararaba, lodged a report against the accused at the `A’ Divisional Police Station on March 18.

The prosecutor said the accused seized the phone from the complainant while he was on the pedestrian bridge in Mararraba.

He said the accused took to

his heels but was stopped by a team of police detectives led

by DSP Liman Nuhu who later arrested him and recovered the cell phone.

Adaji also told the court that the offence contravened section 287 of the Penal Code.

If convicted, he faces five years in prison, an option of fine or both.

After the charges were read to him, he pleaded not guilty.

Bizman in trouble for duping client of N80, 000

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buja, March 21, 2014 (NAN) A businessman, Chinenye Okafor, 32, has appeared in a Grade 1 Area court in Kado, Abuja, charged with defrauding his client of N80,000.

Okafor was alleged to have promised to introduce the client to `foreign investors’.

The accused, residing in Anguwan Cement in Kado, Abuja, was arraigned on a twocount charge of joint act and cheating.

T

he Police in Lagos have arraigned a 28-year old commercial driver, Ibrahim Joker, over an allegation of theft, reports News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

The Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Daniel Ighodalo, told the court that Joker is facing a one-count charge of stealing N135, 000 cash before a Tinubu Magistrates’ court.

Ighodalo said the accused, who resides at Ikota First Gate, House 58, committed the offence on March 5, at about 9.30 p.m., at Road 42, House 5, Victoria Garden City, Ajah.

But he told the court that the Nwaigbo discovered in the morning that his friend, the accused, had made away with his N135, 000 cash and jewellery valued at N5, 500.

Ighodalo said that the offence contravened Section 285 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

But Joker, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Olaitan Ajayi, granted him bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Ajayi adjourned the case to April 16, for continuation of hearing.

Trader docked for stealing N300, 000

Court remands ex-convict for stealing cell phone Grade 1 Area court in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, has ordered that an ex-convict, Elijah Samuel, 28, be remanded in prison pending his bail application.

Samuel, who resides in Tudun Wada, Mararraba, Nasarawa State, is accused of stealing an Itel cell phone valued at N10, 000.

The Presiding Judge, Mr Albert Maga, gave the order

Driver bolts with friend’s money, jewellery

The Prosecutor, Sgt. Simon Ibrahim told the court that one Mrs Brenda Akah of Airtel Junction Wuse 2, Abuja, lodged a report against the accused at the Utako Police Station on January 30.

Ibrahim said the accused and two others now at large, deceived the complainant by pretending to have connection connection with some foreign investors.

He said that the accused collected N80, 000 from the

complainant with a promise to ``connect’ him with the investors to facilitate the supply of some goods.

The prosecutor alleged that the accused made the complainant to take an oath, promising not to reveal the `secret’ to anybody until the deal was executed.

The accused, who was not represented by a counsel in the court, pleaded not guilty.

Ibrahim said the offence contravened the provisions of

Sections 79 and 322 of the Penal code, respectively.

If convicted Okafor is liable to seven years in prison or with option of fine or with both.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

In his ruling, the Presiding Judge, Alhaji Mohammed Sadiq, admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N10, 000 with one surety in like sum.

He adjourned the case until April 7 for continuation of hearing.

A

trader, Mohammed Bayero, has appeared before an Apapa Senior Magistrates’ court in Lagos, for allegedly obtaining N300,000 under false pretences.

Bayero, 53, who resides at Ijora-Badia area of Lagos, is facing a two-count charge of stealing and obtaining under false pretences, reports the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) The prosecutor, Sgt. Mathaias Eze, told the court that the accused fraudulently obtained N300,000 from one Gozie Ebigbo, under the pretext of delivering a 1x40 feet container to him.

He said that the accused committed the offences on March 7, at Tin Can Island Port, Apapa, Lagos.

The prosecutor said the offences contravened the provisions of Sections 285 and 312 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011, respectively.

Section 312 prescribes 15 years in prison for a person who obtains money under false pretences, while Section 285 stipulates three years for stealing, if accused is convicted.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Senior Magistrate, Mr M.O. Olubi, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100, 000, with one surety in like sum.

He adjourned the case to April 14, for further hearing.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 15

Interview

‘…Confab: Referendum unrealistic’ Contd from Page 2 case, it is not and, therefore, there is no fair representation.

But Nigerians have been clamouring for all the groups to come together, sit a round table in a conference and discuss their differences, now if you were in the position of the president what would you have done? irst, let me ask you, what are those differences?

And who are the Nigerians that are clamouring to come and sit down and discuss these differences? We have to learn to differentiate between elite and the Nigerian masses. Whose agenda is the conference?

Well, when you reached a level of leadership you should be able to differentiate between black and white and in this case the Nigerian elites and the masses and come up with the modalities so that the Nigerian masses will say yes we are now satisfied. You cannot say that the idea of the conference came from the Nigerian people.

Okay, who are the Nigerian people?

The people in the National Assembly, are they not representing the people? No matter how bad the elections that brought them into the National Assembly may have been, is it not better than nomination to the National Conference? At least, some people voted them into office, they have their consent to function in that capacity. How then, do you compare this with somebody being nominated? In all honesty, can you compare the composition of the House of Representatives and the composition of the delegates to the Conference, now?

In the House of Representatives at least there is no tribe in Nigeria that does not have a voice, one way or the other, no tribe, no religion that will claim that they are sidelined because after all you voted them there. You cannot as a Muslim go to Enugu state

F

“

and win election. No amount of rigging will guarantee you success there. So, whatever you see in the House of Representatives is a semblance of equality because if it is not balance there if you go back to the state you will find that it is balanced somehow. May be if it is a state of Muslims and Christians, the governor may be a Muslim, his deputy may be Christian, the State House of Assembly Speaker may profess another faith. In the senate and House of Representatives each faith will be compensated in representation. In whatever you do you will see that balance.

In the conference where is the balance? My own religion is cheated, some of the ethnic groups are cheated and if one tribe is marginalized how do you compensate them? You cannot.

But sir, the argument is that focus is not ethnicity and religion but project Nigeria?

But what constitutes Nigeria? Is it the trees, rivers and grasses or people? Yes, institutions. But what are these institutions that people hold dear to their hearts and which constitute fundamental beliefs and that make them a people?

So, a man is a political animal, the people are Nigerians so whatever you do must revolve round the people.

Besides, when you talk about a people you have to talk about their culture, religion and tribe and indeed social norms and once these are not taken care of, then there is problem. If we have a gathering now and people come with drums to entertain, the moment they take the stage you can say vividly that these are so and so group of people and the people whose tribe they represent will be happy seeing them. Of course, whoever is not represented in performance that day, the next and subsequently there is the tendency for that person to be unhappy.

Only yesterday, the Minister of Petroleum Resources said that the federal government is mulling removing subsidy, would that be the best option for Nigeria?

I don’t even know what

this subsidy is. I think some persons are taking the Nigerian people for a ride as far as I am concern and I think it is time we sat down and look at things in a realistically and pragmatic manner and talk to ourselves.

We cannot continue deceiving ourselves. This subsidy removal has been on for several years and when they start may be they will tell you they have removed 50 percent and suddenly it jumped back to 100 percent, then 2, 3 years later they will again say they have reduced it by 50 percent or 75 percent. Let us know what is this subsidy all about?

As far as I am concern if you want to remove subsidy you should liberalize the market. Let people who are interested in importing this community import it then government should only regulate. You cannot entrust this thing into the hands of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) alone and yet continue to talk about subsidy because they will keep telling you different things.

Just like what we did in the communication sector, when we started sim card was sold at N20,000 but today how much does it cost today? Free. So also subsidy should be liberalized and government should simply take off its hands from subsidy and allow a free market while they only you regulate. es, may be at the beginning, we may start with high cost of petroleum products but with time market forces will determine how much the products will cost. It may end up cheaper than what it presently is. Only recently we have had brouhaha over kerosene subsidy. For God’s sake is that it should be? Even then, where is the kerosene? Yet, you are being told that several billions of naira is being spent on kerosene subsidy.

When you have our institution languishing in envelope budget: You are looking for N1000 they give you N200. Is that not negative? I don’t know what this subsidy is all about and I think the people that know it should come out

Y

In the conference where is the balance? My own religion is cheated, some of the ethnic groups are cheated and if one tribe is marginalized how do you compensate them? You cannot.

“

Senator Marafa and say precisely what the subsidy is and what for.

The last time Mr. President said he was going to remove subsidy. How much was the price of fuel per litre? About N140 before it was negotiated to N97. Now, if we are talking about subsidy you hear, if we remove subsidy the price per litre would become N200. I think as a nation and as leaders we should inform our people accordingly. Nigerian people need to sit down and reflect. It is not good to allow yourself to be taken over by emotion and sentiment which were exactly what happened during the last subsidy removal brouhaha when Mr. President announced that the subsidy be removed completely.

People came out on the streets to protest. If we had allowed him to remove it there would have been a difference by now or had we sat down with the president and say okay it is good

remove it, but how are you going to implement it? Are removing the subsidy and then may be allow anybody with interest in the business to go into it and import the products? I think that will be okay. So that if I bring my own and after looking at the market I can decide to sell one naira less than the going price and if anybody feels aggrieved and decides to further down the price by five naira because of the issue of survival the price of fuel will gradually stabilize and may be even cheaper than the current price. his is because how much you buy, how much you transport and how much you spent in the other services relevant to it will in the sum total be married into the cost price and with market forces at play the price be come down.

Because of the quantity being consumed even if someone is making one kobo profit you will never be at a loss.

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May be, the referendum itself will come from the backdoor because there is no constitutional amendment without which it will be impossible to talk about referendum in the constitution. Well, we live to see how it is going to be done and see whether they are going to disband the National Assembly and more importantly see if Nigerians will accept it.

PAGE 16

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Politics

2015: APC manifesto and the question of ideological politics

Chief Bisi Akande

By Umar Muhammad Puma

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he All Progressives Congress (APC) had recently unveiled a 31 page manifesto, and vowed to take over the leadership of the country from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015. APC claimed the continued ruling of Nigeria by the PDP would only spell doom for the country.

The manifesto which was unveiled at the party’s National summit in Abuja, presided over by its Interim National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, pledged to address the problems facing the development of the country.

According to the manifesto, the party promises to wage strident war against corruption; as well as to provide employment opportunities for the teeming unemployed youth.

National Leader of the party, Senator Bola Tinubu while speaking at the summit said that, he believed in a strong two political party system for emancipation of the people in the country. To this end, he promised that APC would put in place four refineries in four years if elected to rule the country in 2015 elections.

Former head of state, General Muhammadu Buhari on his part said Nigeria has to be properly manage, our lack of ability to put good leaders to manage the country has been our problem, that is why I joined APC to put a stop to that”, stressing that, “PDP cannot manage success when they have 23 state governors and treasury in their pocket”.

Interim National Chairman of the party, Chief Bisi Akande accused the PDP of running a lawless government, maintaining that attempts by the PDP government to stop the merger of opposition party to form APC could not work because Nigerians are behind the party.

On the issue of corruption, Akande said “it is our considered view that none of our cardinal programmes will succeed if the current level of corruption and looting going on in the land is allowed to continue.

“We shall strengthen and make independent the EFCC, ICPC and other antigraft agencies and repeal the laws which inhibit their independence.

“We shall embark on public sensitisation campaign and civic education against corruption in schools and town halls.

“We Shall encourage civil society organisations, advocacy groups and whistleblowers in the anti-graft vanguard. “we shall stop the corruption of our electoral process by making Independent National and State Electoral Commissions (INEC) truly

Gen. Muhammadu Buhari

Chief Bola Tinubu

independent. And establish special courts for corruption, after due and thorough review of the Penal Code.

“To actualise this, he said the party shall make the appointment of the chairman and top officials of National and State Electoral Commissions public as enunciated in the Uwais Electoral Reform Report.

“On all election matters, the burden of proof shall rest with the Electoral Commissions.”The party also said it would enhance politics and governance with reforms through more accountability and transparent process.

The party said: “APC will prevent abuse of executive, legislative and public offices through greater accountability, transparency and strict enforcement of anti-corruption laws whilst strengthening all anti-corruption agencies.

“Amend the constitution to remove immunity from prosecution for elected officers in criminal cases.

“Ensure full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act so that government held data sets can be requested and used by the media and the public at large and then published on regular basis.” n Federalism, the manifesto added: “APC will initiate action to amend our constitution with a view to devolving powers, duties and responsibilities to states and local governments in order to entrench Federalism and the Federal Spirit.”

On power, APC has pledged to generate and distribute up to 40,000 Megawatts of electricity in four to eight years. The manifesto said: “Power is the centre-point of the development process. All other indices of development anchor on power and energy.

The failure to make power supply efficient has impacted negatively on the economy. It has made the cost of production and business high and has invariably raised the cost of agricultural produce and other finished goods and services thereby thwarting the growth of our economy.

“The crisis in the power sector is one of the major causes of the present collapse of the industrial sector and the inability of small-scale industries to thrive. To kick-start industrial growth in the country, stable and affordable power supply is an absolute necessity.

“The APC Government shall vigorously pursue the expansion of electricity generation and distribution of up to 40,000 megawatts in four to eight years. The party will also work assiduously at making power available from renewable energy sources, such as coal, solar, hydro, wind and biomass for domestic and industrial use, wherever

these prove viable.

“As a matter of pressing priority and urgency, tackle the paralysing lapses with electric power generation, distribution and supply. Resolve all stalemate around the reform of the power sector and develop a transparently agreed power generation and distribution milestones with clear timelines and targets. Liberalise the monopoly of the Federal Government in power generation and supply.

“We shall devolve much of power and energy to the private sector.The gas and thermal stations will particularly be encouraged to increase their supply capacities. Alternative power sources, including hydro, solar, coal and wind energy will be explored and developed.

Regular Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) of existing facilities will be done to ensure steady and uninterrupted utility supply.An aggressive and efficient tariff/ revenue recovery system will be pursued.

“All avenues of waste, corruption and abuse will be checked. Rural electrification will continue to be encouraged.Improve management efficiency of the nation’s distribution system, improve commitment to consumer service and sensitise a national energy conservation and maintenance culture on electricity supply.Regarding national security and defence.

PC said it would decentralise the police and expand its local content to include community policing.The manifesto said: “APC will urgently address capacity building of law enforcement agents in terms of quantity and quality as this is critical in safeguarding the sanctity of lives and property.

“Establish a well-trained, adequately funded, equipped and goals driven Serious Crime Squad to combat terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, militancy, ethno-religious and communal clashes nationwide.

“Begin widespread consultations to amend the constitution to decentralise the police command and expand local content by including community policing.

“Push for more support in the security and economic stability of the sub-region (ECOWAS) and AU as a whole and maintain a strong, close and frank relationship with the international community.

“Take renewed measures to secure our borders, which are currently too porous for effective control of…“Take renewed measures to secure our borders which are currently too porous for effective control of unwarranted movement. Establish a National Coast Guard to protect our coastal waters.”

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Alhaji Atiku Abubakar

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oncerning the economy, APC in its manifesto, said it would make “Nigerian economy one of the fastest growing emerging economies in the world achieving a real GDP growth averaging 10 per cent annually.

“Embark on vocational training, entrepreneurial and skill acquisition scheme for graduates along with the creation of small Business Loan Guarantee Scheme to create at least 1million new jobs every year, for the foreseeable future.

“Create additional middle-class of at least 1 million new home owners in our first year in government and 1 million annually thereafter, by enacting a national mortgage system that will lend at single digit interest rates for purchase of owner occupier houses.”

Commenting on all points the APC intents to achieved when voted into power, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, described the manifesto as a product of a “Janjaweed ideology,” and a road map to anarchy.

National Publicity secretary of the PDP Olisa Metuh, in a statement said “the manifesto lacks character, depth and completely addressed no issue.”

Mr. Metuh said the manifesto ranked security of lives and property low and gave no clue as to its preparedness to tackle terrorism.

He claimed it was a tacit acknowledgment that the APC may be benefiting from the mayhem and knows more than meet the eyes about the spate of terror attacks in the country.

Taking the APC to task on job creation and war on corruption, which the party projected as cardinal on its manifesto, the PDP said the APC had no credible recipe for job creation nor had it shown the strength of character to fight corruption more than the PDP does at the moment.

“The PDP created anti corruption agencies, the ICPC, the EFCC and established the Freedom of Information Act to further give teeth to the war on graft. The PDP led federal government has also shown no preferences in its battle on corruption as senior party leaders as well relations have at one time or another been made to face the law on charges of corruption,” the PDP spokesperson said.

According to the PDP, the APC lack the ability to conduct a properly constituted congress and convention to elect its substantive officers almost a year after formation.

Whatever anyone may think or say on these opinion expressed by the two warring parties, the bottomline is that, Nigerians now have a choice to either agree or disagree with the APC, unlike before when we were left with only one choice.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Senators try to cover up complicity in NIS jobs racketeering

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t is nothing new. The reports have been palpable. All one needs to do is go get a letter from the Senator or House of Representatives member from your area or a minister and the thing is done: employment in any government parastatals.

And it is no secret. That’s part of the dividends of democracy, they say. It’s like compelling everyone to own a party card and it must be the ruling party. Without this in any state of the federation nothing gets to you. Go to Akwa Ibom, Edo, Sokoto, Imo, Ekiti states, the story is the same.

So, it seems rather disappointing when senators took considerable time to deny their complicity in the Nigerian Immigration Service job racketeering. Anyone with have a logical mind could discern that the job vacancies had all be filled by candidates of senators, members of House of Reps, ministers and other big political appointees.

It had happened before. Asked anybody who applied for the FAAN recruitment, NIMC, Ministry of Water

Resources etc. In fact, advertisements are always placed and routine written and oral interviews conducted to fulfill all righteousness. Many have been victims and even the lawmakers themselves know.

So, what’s the point denying the obvious? It’s all part of self deceit common in Nigeria and piloted by the men and women who swore to uphold justice, fairness and equity.

Of course, so long as members of their immediate families get the job, then government is working. Please, in fairness, go check the list of staff of NIS and confirm for yourself how many are close relations of the staff of the agency?

So, no secret that most of the 4,556 job slots in the NIS had been shared to federal lawmakers and governors and that the so-called interview was a charade. If there were no victims last week, who would have given thought to that sham organised in the name of interview? If indeed, the organisers meant well, why lumped all cadres of interviewees together? I mean,

secondary school graduates, OND holders, HND, BSC, NCE holders to write same examination: same question paper and all that. Even the deaf and dumb could hear the blaring cry of evil, deceit and hypocrisy in high places.

It is no figment of any imagination.

“Prior to this tragic exercise, employment into the Nigerian Immigration Service is done in two usual ways. The service has responsibility of employment of junior officers, while the recruitment of senior officers is handled by the Custom Immigration and Prisons Board (CIPB), making the introduction of consultants and charging of N1,000 per applicant, a completely new dimension”, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Service, Aloysius Etok (PDP Akwa- Ibom North West).

The senators looked for an obvious scapegoat in Abba Moro, who may only have helped himself to a few poddings. Who wouldn’t in the present day Nigeria!

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FROM THE GALLERY With Patrick Andrew owoidoho_ng35@yahoo.com

Empty seats in the chamber

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Dr. Abba Moro

Ekweremadu gives senatorial reasons for state police

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Sen. Ekweremadu

he Deputy Senate president, Senate Ike Ekweremadu, was truly himself midweek. The senator took a position during one of the sessions.

He believes the principal purpose of government, both as established by the Constitution and in political science, is for the protection of lives and property of citizens.

This duty of the state is part of the social contract between it and the people who had entrusted these responsibilities to a group of people to drive the processes of social justice, economic welfare being and political stability of the state and people.

“Many years ago, as traditional, people we had our own internal mechanism of dealing with this some of these situations. But with civilization and interaction with other people and the general criminality pervading the whole world we are now infested with this virus of criminality in our country. And that calls for prompt action for us to do what other countries are doing in order to combat this menace.”

According to Ekweremadu, the increasing challenges of the conventional elements in charge of safeguarding the society demand fresh approaches to curb

the growing menace.

“I do believe that a country as big as Nigeria needs to effect its security.

It would be difficult for us to afford effective security if we continue to use the type of policing we are having in Nigeria presently. We run a federal system of government and is completely unacceptable in a federal system for us to have a federal system and for us to also have a centralized Police. Policemen are not magicians,” he asserted.

The senator believes the Nigerian policemen are no magicians. They need help. But no, not the Bakassi Boys, the OPC set up. Don’t even consider the many vigilante groups in the country. Yes, that they have recorded a measure of successes means a system that revolves on the locals could be an alternative security for the respective areas.

“I think the time has come for us to reflect on this and see how we can provide efficient security for our people.

We must be able to provide sufficient police personnel that should be at least be one policeman per hundred metres away.

“And this can only be achieved if we decentralize our police, ensuring

that we have State Police and possibly Local Police that is well coordinated and regulated. We had problem in the past in this area because they were not well regulated and they were not coordinated,” he said almost slamming the gavel.

Though he admitted the present officers and men have contributed their bits, Ekweremadu believes their efforts need boosting by way of training and retraining. This though is no substitute for state and local council police.

“And our Police as it is now need to be more trained and then they will be able to ensure that the laws are enforced no matter who is involved.

So if we do some of these, I am sure that we would be able to recover our country from the doomsday that is being predicted.”

Further, the presiding officer sees hope for a blighted nation. “If we have devoted the whole day as we have done now to dealing with the issue of insecurity in Nigeria, we are living up to the expectation of the ordinary people of Nigeria, for us to show concern for the general insecurity in the country,” he concluded as the gavel finally descend on the hard desk.

Again, Aduda flares up

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o, it’s not a reputation. But occasionally one must be excited and this emotion can be variously expressed. The chairman of Senate Committee on Power, Philip Aduda, had the chance and seized it.

Recalled he had thrown the tantrum when the minister of state for power came to defend the budget.

Then, he and Senator Victor Lar had allowed free rein for emotion and some political sentiments over allocations of projects.

And soon after the bill on human trafficking passed third reading, Aduda again took the chance to let out some steam against the merchants of the evil trade. “No, these evil merchants must pay for their crime. We had taken pains to increase the penalty. You know, if you say the fine should be N250,000 a man or woman who sells a baby for between N150,000 and N300,000 can afford to remove that amount from his back pocket and pay.

“But we felt harsher punitive measures and higher fines should be imposed on these evil merchants. We raised it to N1m and five years in imprisonment. This will serve as a deterrent to them,” he said evidently

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delighted with himself as a kindergarten pupil praised for singing the ABC correctly would have.

May be, Aduda needed further schooling on these men and women of the evil trade. Usually, according to reports and from the examples in the South East where an average of 15 to 20 young girls are housed so-called orphanage homes and sexually abused until they get pregnant and then paid a token after being delivered of the ‘wares’. Note that the owner of this factory may have five to six or more scattered factories in several states and producing at a turnover rate that Cadbury will definitely be humbled.

So, what will N1m actually mean to the evil merchant? Yes, nothing.

Absolutely nothing. In essence, the pain is that of the senators who have wasted their efforts over nothing.

Baby manufacturing, going by the penalty prescribed for offenders, will remain a lucrative business in the country for the merchants. So, Aduda’s glee is truly innocent.

Sen. Aduda

ednesday was as ordinary as every legislative day except for the passage of the third reading of the bill on human trafficking.

But there was something quite obvious: empty seats. It seems the majority of the senior law makers were somehow not really interested in the business of the day. To begin with, most principal officers led by the oga himself, David Mark, were far away in Switzerland hobnobbing with other senior lawmakers across the world.

Yes, deputies did their best to deputised but would have been more comfortable doing their duties in Europe just like their other counterparts. So, Ekweremadu took charge and Abdul Ningi became the leader of Senate.

Well, sure Ayogu Eze and Smart Adeyemi were there so were Bukar Ibrahim, James Manager and Marafa Kabir Garba and they, as usual, provided the flairs and thrills.

Nonetheless, it was obvious something was missing. The usual noise occasioned by numbers.

And so, though senators turned up for duty, some were just there to complete the number, perhaps pairing in case of votes.

So, while an important bill as the human trafficking was on and in full force, not a few senators were perambulating and others invested much time on pleasantries.

The Gallery could not help counting the numbers of senators in the chambers: 48 senators.

And it raises the question.

Did David Mark travel with 61 senators? Hardly! So, where were they other senators, especially since the APC membership registration has ended? Besides, the PDP’s familiarisation tour had long been put on hold, something that offered ample opportunity for excuses to stay away from the business of making laws for Nigeria, full time.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Defence Matters

Terrorism: Walking the talk with new carrot but stick approach

By Joy Baba

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ecently at a conference to unveil Nigeria’s new Soft Approach To Countering Terrorism in Abuja, the National Security Adviser, Mohammed Sambo Dasuki in his paper said there is no one particular path that leads to terrorism, but rather, that there are many, often complicated paths that lead to the much dreaded social malaise.

Since so many complicated paths lead to the scourge, it is expected of government and the security agencies saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties to use different approaches instead of the fire brand approach alone.

The immediate past Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd) established the Civil Military Affairs Department, meant to interface between the military and the civilian populace.

The Department was to ensure that communities where military facilities are located see them (the military) as part of them and not as a force to be scared of but reckoned with.

This Department only made provision for the typical civilian population and didn’t think that those young men recruited as insurgents could also turn away from their radical belief and lead a new clean life.

Most of the roles of the department focused on giving information about terrorists and how to nab them or making it easy for the civil populace to give them information on strange occurrence and not preventive measures.

In his paper, Dasuki said Section 1(A) of the Terrorism Prevention Act 2011 rests the coordinating role in matters relating to terrorism on the Office of the National Security Adviser and further provides the office with the mandate to: ensure the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy, build capacity for the effective discharge of the functions of relevant security, intelligence, law enforcement and military services under the act and do such other acts or things that are necessary for the effective performance of the function of the relevant security and enforcement agencies under the act.

He further said “in pursuance to this mandate we have established a Counter Terrorism Centre (CTC) within office of the NSA which houses the Joint Terrorism Analysis Branch (JTAB) and the Behavioral Analysis and Strategic Communication Unit adding that the establishment of these structures has enabled them to better perform a coordinating role that has ensured intelligence sharing and cooperation amongst agencies”.

This new spirit of cooperation he said has led to the disruption of plethora of terrorist cells and prevented attacks across the country.

The First Stream of the soft approach to counter terrorism according to the NSA is DE radicalization of convicted terrorists, suspects awaiting trial and those who might be released through court orders or such other government decision arising from

NSA Sambo Dasuki the ongoing engagement and dialogue with repentant suspects. he DE radicalization program he said is prison based and the Ministry of Interior along with the prison service will drive the program noting that the initiative will require substantial capacity building of prison staff in areas such as psychology, sports and arts therapy, faith based instructors and vocational training experts that would engage beneficiaries.

“The objective is to engage violent extremist convicts/suspects in theological, ideological, physical and entrepreneurial value change that leads to a change in their behavior. Families, community leaders and NGOs will be given access to participate in the process in a fair and transparent manner to speed up easy assimilation of convicts/suspects back to society” he added.

The Second Stream Dasuki said will

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move from a whole of government to a whole of society approach in our counter terrorism thinking.

“We believe that we can win the war against terror by mobilizing our family, cultural, religious and national values.

Through fear and violence, extremist groups are bent on changing the way we see and relate with each other and the only way to defeat this is to remain united and confront the threat as one nation under God. “The counter radicalization stream seeks to build community engagement and resilience through building trust, creating awareness and resilience. Government is partnering with faith based organizations, community based organizations, NGOs and other stakeholders to deliver counter radicalization programs at community levels” he also said.

The Third Stream and the final stream he said is building our capacity to

This new spirit of cooperation he said has led to the disruption of plethora of terrorist cells and prevented attacks across the country.

communicate our national values better and institutionalizing this capability through strategic communication for the military and law enforcement, and public diplomacy for our civilian institutions.

This he said has become necessary because at the heart of terrorism is a deadly communication plan that furthers the aims of the terrorists.

Terrorism can be stem from the root if family first and foremost takes time to teach their wads the dangers of such activities. asuki said “Unfortunately terrorist groups have over time been clearer in communicating what they stand for than government has.

This is really disturbing as it is expected of government with all its mercenary to give hope and what they stand for more than any group.

Government and people in authority need to stand up here and show the citizen that they care for their well being more than any sect can.

This should not only be in words and writing but also in actions. Basic and social amenities should be provided for everyone and possibly make primary and secondary education free and compulsory.

It is the inability of some families to provide for their wads that these sect members brainwash them at young age that they could get reward if they die as suicide bombers.

If these young sect members are exposed to education early in life, it will be difficult to convince them otherwise.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 19

Tourism

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he Kofar Matar Dye Pits are a very historical place for the people of Kano. Established in 1498, the Kofar Matar pits situated in the city centre, goes as way back as 500yrs plus. It has been constantly in use ever since, and a lot of tourists come from all over the world to see it. Interestingly, they still use the same method they did use in those days.

The Kano indigo-vegetable dyeing pits are one of the most fascinating aspects of the old city. Various designs are folded into the material before dyeing and the fabric is often beaten to achieve the shiny, decent appearance. The techniques employed to obtain this look are unmatched around the world. And, although the methods they use are ancient, these lush works of art on fabric have remained extremely popular and have continued to be in great demand.

There were dyeing pits in Zaria as well as in Kano those days when they were all still at use.

Today, only the famous Kofar Mata pits of Kano have survived – they have also become a much liked tourist attraction. Tourists are delighted to know that the pits they are looking at were actually founded in 1498 and the dying process has not changed in centuries.

The Tuaregs have always been good customers of the Zango fabrics. They are also known as the “Blue Men of the Desert” due to the fact that for them, the indigo fabric is left natural after the dye and not fixed with salt and vinegar so that when it is washed, it dyes their faces and hands blue. Quite beautiful, you’ll say.

On just a single visit, one may not easily appreciate the efforts that are being put in to produce the final work on a fabric from the pits. It is an amazing trip to take to the famous Kano dyeing pit where clothes that originally came in plain white colours are dyed and transformed into patches of colours, patterns and designs. At the entrance of the Kofar Mata Dyeing Pits, hordes of activities are in full swing.

Girls and women also hawk their goods which include some gourds of fresh nono (fresh cow milk) sitting pretty on their heads, others also hawk kola nuts, groundnuts, and other items. The Kano dyeing pit, which was until recent years, open and unguarded is completely cordoned off from public view. Unless you walk into the place, it is not possible to see the ancient structure where young men and women sweat it out in the scorching sun dyeing cloths.

Work in progress

One of the finished products on display

Traders displaying the finished products to buyers

Tourists cashing in on finished products

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Homes

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ive your mealtime space a generous helping of hues paired in a most refreshing way. This may seem like advanced colour selection to some; it can be tricky to integrate multiple bold colours in a space and not have it resemble a game board. The key is to pick colours that harmo-

nize with one another, and to use brighter hues sparingly.

Mix in some light neutrals or lots of natural light, and you’ll have a stunning space for sharing meals with family and friends.

Here are some of the colourful dining spaces along with suggested palettes for you to try in your own dining room.

Cool blues and grays. This elegant dining room shimmers in shades of deep blue and gray.

Generally, a darker hue on the ceiling will visually lower it, but cooler colours also have a tendency to make a wall or ceiling recede. This dark sapphire colour makes the room feel more intimate and evokes the feeling of dining al fresco at night.

A great trick for getting light to bounce throughout a dining room, which adds sparkle, is to give the walls a semi gloss or high-gloss finish. Just be aware that the glossier the paint sheen, the more you will notice the texture — and any flaws — on your walls and ceilings.

Dramatic deep maroon with red. These are intense colours, but because they’re such similar shades of purplish reds, they don’t fight with each other.

Red, white and blue. This is a bold, contrasting color palette, but it works here because the bright hues appear in relatively small amounts.

White and neutral wood tones wash over the rest of the space.

Chartreuse with purple-grays. I have to admit I would never have thought to use chartreuse and purple-gray together, but I really dig this palette. It’s unusual and very eye catching.

Houzz.com

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Entertainment

Fashion

Beauty Tips

Kannywood

Hollywood

Bollywood

I have unbridled passion for entertainment —TemiDollFace PG 36

Womanhood

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Your Body, Image & U

Your digestive detox made easy

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etoxification being a process to cleanse our internal organs and renewing our entire body for a healthy body, comes in different forms. Different people, health/nutritional experts all over the world have different ways of doing their own detox. The fact is, you can also do your own detox at home if desired.

If only people can see their inside. Ahaaahh!! Walahi..you will be careful with what you feed your body. You see people just eat and eat all kind of stuff without caring what they are eating means to their body. Oh..you think your body is a dumping ground? Wait a second, let me tell you what you do not know about your body... (gimme me a break jacqui..I can eat any thing I want and it is none of your business ...)None of my business huh?..Ok... but when you get all your inside all stuffed up with all kinds of garbbage, it turns out to be my business to clear the mess you congested over the years..abi? No Wahala as long as you pay me my cash for doing my job...but how about keeping your inside as tidy as you can without hasseles? Once in a while you seek help but as a human being, you should be able to know what kind of stuff you feed your body because I keep telling people that their body is like a house...keep it well, It will keep you comfy and service you very well. Neglect and treat it poorly, it will fight you back . Seriously, Africans have very poor habit of food consumption and the excuse of being poor is no excuse at all. Take a visit to the villages, you see men and women who are malnourished loading all kinds of fruits, vegetables, crops to sell in nearby towns and hardly eat what they produce. What is wrong with the locals consuming

Avocado

fresh fruits and vegetables all over in their farms?

Coming to the rich ones also, most of them also do not know what healthy diet means. You see rich men and women who depend on fast foods. I said it sometime ago here in this column that most fastfoods are simply ‘junks’. So if your kind of diet is the fastfoods stuff week after week, your system need very good detox.

One thing though about detoxing your system is, you must not go back to your old type of junk eating after a good detox. This will make a total mess of your efforts.

Detox like I said comes in different form but there are food items compulsory for a good detox.

There are certain things you must be aware and ready for, before you embark on any detox regimen. ruits, vegetables, green tea, serious regular water drinking are compulsory if you must get a good detox. There are other food items involve but this will depend on your health and body needs and the style of the expert whom you consult. You must also ensure you map out enough time to do a detox so you can conceterate. A detox is not something you do when on a business tour, vacation or sick. You must chose a period you can afford to attend to your body with all the plans mapped out for you to follow by your therapist or else you will not achieve results. Detox also can weaken your system if you are not used to it. This is because , your usual diet is altered but within few days of your detox, your strenght will pick up gradually as your body gets used to the new diet. This same reaction applies to those undergoing weightloss therapy.

When on a detox, you need not include anything that is not planned for you in your therapy and if you do,

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it means you are turning round for a new plan. Again the danger here is that you could complicate your entire health. Everyone’s health has specific detox plan for it and what works for your mum/dad/friend/ husband/wife might not work for you. The food items could look similar but your body metabolism works different. This explains why you see two sisters/brothers eating same foods, one grows fat and other looks like someone on hunger strike and you wonder why. They are siblings and eat same foods but their body system works differently. So always stick to what your therapist plans for you so you get good and lasting results.

Most people always get worried each time an expert tells them they are going to change their eating habit. You should not be because a good detox involves good tasting foods and drinks you will enjoy. The only issue here is that, some of the yummy culprit foods you used to enjoy will be disrupted for few weeks so your system can be totally cleaned and renewed. hat are the gains of a good Detox Therapy? The major aim of a detox is for tummy reduction, gradual weighloss, free and regular bowel elimination every morning without laxative/ stimulant. There are people who stay for days/weeks before going to toilet and when they do, it is serious war with painful constipation and anal pains. Detox gives you relief on such digestive issues. You need not drink any stimulant in the mornings for you to visit the toilet. It is unhealthy and it means your digestive system is sick. Going to toilet every morning is nature call and must come naturally if your system is healthy. I just do not understand why someone keep eating and drinking day after day

without eliminating old stuff eaten regularly. This sounds unhealthy and sad and you must not keep quiet about this or be shy in tackling it. Why being shy seeking help when such conditions can embarass you in the public? Time will come, it will create serious health problems for you and it might be too late to cure. hose who have skin problems like pimples, black spots, stretchmarks, freckles benefit so much from this. This is like killing two birds with one stone. Good reason you must not be afraid of a good detox incase you also have skin issues.

I have also seen some of my clients benefit in the areas of some health ailements like their high

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Apple fruit

Gingerroot

With Jacqui Iwu bwreforms@gmail.com 08184825606 (sms only) blood pressure being reduced, diabetes level controlled pretty well, internal heat gone totally etc. They never told me about them before embarking on my Detox therapy. enew your entire life with a good detox and prolong your life!

Jacqui IWU is a Body Image Coach & Conference Speaker A Stress Management Expert Media Relations Personnel BLOG: http://bluntjacqui. blogspot.com FB: Facebook.com/ beautifulwoman.column

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Food & Habit

Spend less, yet eat healthy food all year

By Patrick Andrew

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e all love to eat well.

By that it is often meant eating healthy food.

However, many are afraid that healthy foods are far from the reach of everybody.

Of course, the reason is obvious. Many just can’t afford good food. Like it is commonly said, “good soup na money mekan” in other words quality food can only be obtained with good money.

Most people seem to assume that eating healthy is an expensive choice. This though is not necessarily true. One can eat good food without having to have a very rich wallet.

Others believe spending on food means living a luxurious life.

And so their overall view on food is, if you want to be frugal, then you’ve got to eat junk. This again isn’t true. It is definitely not true at all. There is a personal story that debunks that the above claim.

Some have changed their eating habit and enjoyed good, qualitative food. But that has not resulted to creating a huge hole in their pockets. Some have realized that in the course of changing to a healthy eating habit rather than spend more they ended up spending far less.

Well, you too can do the same and achieve a lot more if only you carefully observe your eating habit and make the necessary

corrections. You can save money on food by eating just the right kind of food.

Yes, you and your family can eat well without necessarily spending more than you used to on food items.

Here are five lessons you learned about how you can be frugal and eat healthy at the same time: We shall experiences

take

some

1. Stop eating canned and frozen food.

Many believe buying already cooked food at some of the exclusive eateries is a status symbol, a sign that one has arrived in the big boys or ladies club. May be! But how far removed this is from the truth.

Often though, when people indulge their fancies by shopping cooked foods at famous eateries, they rarely give thought to health.

Some think it saves time and money and the energy needed to prepare one’s personal meal.

So, neither the money nor healthy are given serious consideration. Well, let’s take for granted that one has a chunk of money to spend and so can afford the luxury of lavish expenses on exotic and expensive foods.

Besides, many have found freezer and canned good sections of the grocery store, a must stop.

Obviously, not a few shoppers consider the health while

People eating garri and vegetable soup

shopping, instead they are focused on getting food that they enjoyed at what they thought are killer prices.

Sadly, though they sooner realized that they spend more and yet don’t seem to have their desired health nor are their family members looking healthier corresponding to the amount of money invested on food. Some husbands grow beer or pot belly and think it is a sign of good health. Far from it.

Changing one’s eating habit is essential and the best way to start

is rejection of canned and frozen foods. There was an experience of one woman whose husband’s sudden growth of pot belly alarmed her and she took steps to correct it. She says, “ So the belly scared me a bit. Once I realized what was happening, I decided to change his eating habit. I made a promise to myself that for a minimum of a month, I wouldn’t allow him to eat canned or frozen foods.

“I hoped that by doing so, I would change his taste for certain foods. After about two weeks, I started noticed that not only did he stopped craving those cheap, frozen foods, but we were also eating a much healthier diet.

“Not only did I start saving money, but he also started losing weight, even though he was eating the same amount or even more than before.”

2. Consider the hidden costs of packaged food.

The above experience helped her to realized that packaged foods often include the costs of preparation. After all, it takes someone time to cook and package that food. There are also added expenses involved in preserving the food longer than it would naturally last. So naturally, these expenses need to be paid by someone. As with expenses on any product or service, the added cost is sent down the line to the end user, which is you and me.

Enjoying a plate of native salad

3. Cut down on snack foods.

In the past, someone related how she often indulged in the

fancy of eating quite a bit of snack foods, including chips and other meat pie and all such junk food.

She said, “the cost of those small meals added up, and they didn’t help my health goals, either. I cut unhealthy snack foods out of my budget and by doing so, saved reasonable sum.”

4. Fight the fast food diet.

Here is an experience that many of us may easily associate with. Up until about six months ago, I was addicted to fast food.

My favorite daily habit was going to McDonald’s during breakfast time and getting sausage burritos, hash browns and a soda. By changing my morning habits from burritos to fruit, I not only feel better throughout the day, but I also save about $70 a month.

5. Consider your health an investment in itself.

By eating a healthier diet, you are also saving money on future health care costs, and that’s a savings that many people forget to take into account. If you continued on the destructive eating habits, you would have had several health problems to look forward to in the future.

The bottom line is that not only is eating healthy good for your well-being, but it can also save you a significant amount of money. In total, you could manage to save considerable amount each month on family groceries just by following these guidelines. I hope this experience inspires you to do the same.

Additional report from eat. com

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 24

World Kiddies

With Miriam

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS

Humbe

ABCDE

HIS AND HERS CORNER

National Museum, Jos Time to learn

CARTOON Tom and Jerry Traditional Nigerian architectural piece at Jos Museum

T

he National Museum, Jos is a Nigerian institution that was commissioned in 1952 and was intended for the supervision of the Nigerian Antiquities Service then under the leadership of Kenneth Murray. During the stages of its construction and stocking it was supervised by the leading government archaeologist, Bernarg Fagg. The museum is Nigeria’s first major center of antiquities and the country’s second museum, after one at Esie, near Ilorin, Kwara State.

The museum was built in 1952 with one large exhibition gallery and two smaller ones. It also had storerooms, a combined library and a lecture room.

The museum was stocked with large collections of paleolithic features and various pottery collected from the Nok village.

Like the initial plan of Murray,

“

the museum was dominated by archaeological materials from nearby centers. However, the museum, also contained woodcarving from various regions of Nigeria including twentieth century sculptural works which were placed in the museum. In its early years, the museum was quickly embraced by the local populace while many foreigners visited the local zoo nearby, the zoo was established

by Bernard Fagg.

Other materials of interest were also included in the general vicinity of the museum including a museum of traditional architecture featuring reproductions of various edifices from Nigerian centers, a museum of mining, and a museum of pottery.

The museum of traditional architecture hosts a replica of the walls of kano and the Zaria mosque.

In its early years, the museum was quickly embraced by the local populace while many foreigners visited the local zoo nearby, the zoo was established by Bernard Fagg.

Super woman

Mickey and Minnie mouse

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 25

Kiddies World

With Miriam

Humbe

ABCDE

MODEL OF THE WEEK

AFRICAN TALES

How the cunning old cat got her meals

Miss Emmanuela Aondo

ACTIVITIES

O

nce there was a young cat. He was fast. He was strong. He always had enough to eat. The cat was the best mouser around. He could catch any mouse he saw. All of the mice were very afraid of him.

Unfortunately for the cat, he grew old. As he aged, he became slower and weaker. He sometimes did not get enough to eat. The mice would see him coming and run away and hide.

When he got older still, they did not even run away. They just stood around and laughed at him. They were no longer

afraid.

One day, the cat decided to use his brain to catch his dinner. The old cat lay down on his back and quit moving. The mice came close by and laughed and laughed. “The old cat is too tired to even try to catch us,” they said. The cat still did not move.

One of the younger mice ran up and touched the cat and ran quickly back to where he started.

The cat still did not move. The mice came closer and closer. “The Cat is dead,” said one mouse. One by one, the mice began to climb on the cat’s body. They ran from the front of it to the back. Then they

ran from the back to the front.

The mice laughed and laughed as they ran back and forth.

One of the mice ran up the cat’s head. “The cat is dead!

Let’s dance on his head!” Just then, the cat opened his eyes. He grabbed the one mouse in his mouth. He grabbed two others with his front paws.

The sly old cat ate well that night. He also ate well many nights after that. His dinner was more foolish mice who came to play when they thought the old cat was dead.

It sometimes is best just to let sleeping cats lie.

CREATIVITY

How to make a paper goal post

I

f you’re one of the many people who would like to make a goal post for playing paper football, then you’ve definitely have the right activities to handle this weekend. Please read on for some suggestions on how to do this and have some fun.

Steps Stick the folded piece of paper (with glue or with tape) to the roll.

Locate a toilet paper roll. If you cannot find one, roll-up a piece of paper into the shape of a toilet paper roll.

Take another piece of blank paper. Fold it in half vertically, then vertically again.

Make two more paper rolls and stick them on

both sides of the other piece of paper vertically.

Stand the paper goal posts up. They’re now ready for your play match.

Tips • Make sure the goal post is even so it doesn’t lean to one side.

• Toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls and cardboard make the goal posts last longer. Make sure you use the same material for the whole post.

Things you’ll need • Paper • Toilet paper roll or rolled-up piece of paper • Tape or glue

Using the right colours, shade the image below.

Describe your action and show your work to your teacher for correction.

Cheers!

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 26

Learning

10 Common English Language errors JAMIE FRATER SEPTEMBER 19, 2007

B

ecause English is such a complex language, it is fraught with traps that we all frequently fall into. With this list I hope to clear up at least a few of the confusing words we use every day. This is a list of some of the more common errors people make with English.

1. Practice / Practise In US English, practice is used as either a verb (doing word), or noun (naming word). Hence, a doctor has a practice, and a person practices the violin. In UK english, practice is a noun, and practise is a verb. A doctor has a practice, but his daughter practises the piano.

2. Bought / Brought Bought relates to buying something. Brought relates to bringing something. For example, I bought a bottle of wine which had been brought over from France. The easy way to remember which is which is that bring start with ‘br’ and brought also does. Buy and bought start with ‘b’ only. This is one of those difficult ones that a spelling checker won’t catch.

3. Your / You’re Your means “belonging to you”. You’re means “you are”. The simplest way to work out the correct one to use is to read out your sentence. For example, if you say “you’re jeans look nice” expand the apostrophe. The expanded sentence would read “you are jeans look nice” – obviously nonsensical.

Remember, in English, the apostrophe often denotes an abbreviation.

4. Its / It’s As in the case above, the apostrophe denotes an abbreviation: it’s = it is. Its means “belongs to it”. The confusion arises here because we also use an apostrophe in English to denote possession – except in this case; if you want to say “the cat’s bag” you say “its bag” not “it’s bag”. “It’s” always means “it is” or “it has”. “It’s a hot day.” “it’s been fun seeing you.”

5. Two / To / Too With a ‘w’ it means the number 2. With one ‘o’ it refers to direction: ‘to France’. With two ‘o’s it means “also” or refers to quantity – for example: “There is

too much money”. A good way to remember this one is that too has two ‘o’s – ie, it has more ‘o’s than ‘to’ – therefore it refers to quantity.

6. Desert / Dessert This is a confusing one because in English an ‘s’ on its own is frequently pronounced like a ‘z’ and two ‘s’s are usually pronounced as a n ‘s’ (for example: prise, prissy). In this case, desert follow the rule – it means a large stretch of sand. However, dessert is pronounced “dez-urt” with the emphasis on the second syllable – ie, something we eat as part of our meal. To make matters worse, when a person leaves the army without permission, it is spelt desert. So, let’s sum up: desert (pronounced dez’-it): dry land desert (pronounced dez-urt’): abandon dessert (pronounced dez-urt’): yum yum! – remember, two ‘s’s because you want second helpings!

Oh – one more thing – another very common mistake is using the word dessert (two ‘s’s) to mean pudding – pudding is a sweet course, often consisting of some kind of cake or icecream. Dessert is fruit or cheese – normally taken after the pudding course.

7. Dryer / Drier If your clothes are wet, put them in a clothes dryer. That will make them drier. A hair dryer also makes hair drier.

10. Literally This one is not only often used in error, it is incredibly annoying when it is used in the wrong way.

Literally means “it really happened” – therefore, unless you live on a parallel universe with different rules of physics, you can not say “he literally flew out the door”. Saying someone “flew out the door” is speaking figuratively – you could say “he figuratively flew out the door” but figuratively is generally implied when you describe something impossible.

Literally can only be used in the case of facts – for example: he literally exploded after swallowing the grenade. If he did, indeed, swallow the grenade and explode – that last sentence is perfectly correct. It would not be correct to say “she annoyed him and he literally exploded” unless she is Wonder Woman and her anger can cause people to blow up.

Bonus: I could care less I have to add this one as a bonus because it is one I especially hate. When you say “I could care less” you are saying “I care a little so I could care less”. Most people when using this horrific sentence mean to say “I couldn’t care less” which means “I care so little I could not care less”.

Bonus 2: Ironic

Isn’t it ironic? Actually, no, most of the time it is not. Irony, in its true form, is when you state something to a person who does not understand what you truly mean, but another person does. Essentially, it makes the hearer the brunt of the joke without their being aware of it. This is called dramatic or tragic irony because it originated on the stage where the audience knew what was happening but the victim on stage did not. The most sustained example of dramatic irony is undoubtedly Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, in which Oedipus searches to find the murderer of the former king of Thebes, only to discover that it is himself, a fact the audience has known all along.

Another form of irony is Socratic irony, in which the person pretends to be ignorant of a subject in order to truly show the ignorance of the person with whom he is arguing.

Unfortunately, poor Alanis Morissette had no clue when she said “it’s a free ride when you’ve already paid” or “it’s like rain on your wedding day”.

This is not irony – it is misfortune or coincidence.

To sum it up, basically Irony is a figure of speech in which what is stated is not what is meant.

Sarcasm can be a type of Irony.

(List verse. Com)

8. Chose / Choose This is actually quite an easy one to remember – in English we generally pronounce ‘oo’ as it is written – such as “moo”. The same rule applies here: choose is pronounced as it is written (with a ‘z’ sound for the ‘s’) – and chose is said like “nose”.

Therefore, if you had to choose to visit Timbuktu, chances are you chose to fly there. Chose is the past tense, choose is the present tense.

9. Lose / Loose This one is confusing. In this case, contrary to normal rules of English, the single ‘s’ in loose is pronounced like an ‘s’ – as in wearing trousers that are too loose. Lose on the other hand, relates to loss – for example: “I hope we don’t lose this game”.

A good way to remember this is that in the word “lose” you have lost the second ‘o’ from loose. If you can’t remember a rule that simple, you are a loser!

Pearls of wisdom to learn from HEALTH *Drink plenty of water. *Eat Breakfast like a king, Lunch like a prince & Dinner like a beggar. *Live with the 3 E’s-Energy, Enthusiasm & Empathy. *Make time to pray. *Play more games. *Read more books than you did in 2013. *Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.

Smile.

PERSONALITY *Don’t over do. Keep your limits.

*No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

*Try to make at least three people smile each day. *What other people think of you is none of your business.

*Don’t take urself so seriously.

No one else does.

*Smile and laugh more.

LIFE

*Don’t waste your precious energy on gossip.

*You don’t have to win every argument,Agree to disagree.

*Do the right thing! *GOD heals everything.

*Dream more while you are awake. *Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need. *Forget issues of the past.

Don’t remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past.

That will ruin your present Happiness.

*Sleep for 7 hours. *Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily And while you walk,

*Make peace with your past so it won’t spoil the present.

*Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don’t hate others.

SOCIETY

*However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

*Call your family often. *Each day give something good to others. *Forgive everyone for everything. *Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.

*No matter how you feel, Get up, Dress up and Show up. The best is yet to come. *When awake in the morning thank GOD for it. *Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 27

Trending eyelashes and you

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

I

t’s the trend and very infectious.

Yes, the quest for outstanding, please-notice-me kind of thing is trending. And ladies love it.

Why, not? It makes one easily noticed. Besides, it’s natural thing for we women to look good and beautiful for ourselves and lovers.

Don’t they admire us when we look beautiful and therefore irresistible? Little wonder, the craze to apply this beauty “lotion” and join the trend. After all, if you can’t beat them you join them especially if the cause is good.

And who says to be lovable and adorable aren’t good?

So, what’s trending is eye lashes. Some natural, others not so natural but are assisted to assume an attractive disposition.

So to keep the flame aglow, many have tried out different kinds of beauty regime from plastic surgery, eyelash transplant and extension and many others.

Relaxing of the eye has become a popular procedure that ladies indulge in often just to have their eyelashes straightened, lengthened ,thick and super luscious longer or short, and therefore spotted by even a casual looker.

False eyelash has come a long way, since the seventies when women wore huge fake gaudy varieties to enhance their beauty.

A growing number of women and ladies are visiting the salon

Eyelashes treatment

for faux lashes. Well, nothing beats it than the rush to indulge in the fancy. The trend, in all ramifications, has come to stay in the fashion world. It is now a regular normal application by women of all classes who want to magnify their look, elegance and glamour. And the beauty of it all is that there is no end to what you can do to enhance your look.

In other words, eyelashes make an important contribution to facial symmetry, presents an image that the outsider quickly sees and rates you. So, the manner you wear your eyelashes tell a lot of stories about you: prestige, dignity, class, economic status, sense of morality and values that you relish.

How to ...

The procedure of eyelash involves sitting while applying to the glue to the eyelids to keep the extension in place with the aid of a sharp object. Before wearing any type of eyelashes, there is a need to understand the concept by asking beautician and eye doctors the advantage and disadvantage of wearing them.

Knowing the ones that fit the shape of the person lash is important, since it comes in length like Human hair and Twiggy lashes, glues like waterproof and budding are used for fixing lashes.

False eyelashes are instrument in really making women’s eye pop.

From full on falsies to individual lashes .There, s no better way to

Beauty Tips Extra

make look more gorgeous and more awake. The only problem is that lashes can be absolutely painful not to mention take-off.

As with fashion, the use of false eyelashes may be used to an extreme. The introduction of types of feathers made of faux gold or silver encrusted with paste jewelry and faded as the fashion trend moved towards a more natural look and continue to retain their importance through trend in our world with different sizes. ut the poor and rich tend to rush for the trend, ladies love luring lashes, one trend which originally was meant to add dramatic flair to the looks of Hollywood actresses. But now, it has managed to make its way into the everyday life.

Mrs. Lydia Michaels owner of Rima Exclusive Salon said both young and old come to her salon to fix lashes. “Lashes are very beautiful things to wear especially if you have flare or crazy about lashes. It changes one’s look and makes the wearer look a lot more beautiful than the person may actually be.

“We also have human lashes, which are expensive and other cheap ones, whether it’s under short, long, or middle is good to wear. Whatever fits you, you can just fix it and it could be something to match the colour of the hair that you are wearing or intends to wear.

In essence, wearing eye lashes is fixing the right kind of hair style or

B

wearing the right hair,” she said.

Estella Fredrick lashes should be worn in moderation taking into consideration the colour, the length and quantity. “I personally I fix occasionally or when I want to look different. I like short brown or black colour. More importantly, patronize a professional; I can never be seen wearing blue or purple colorur lashes they seem odd to me,” she concluded.

In the same view, Miss Jennifer William says eyelashes are good for celebrities that act film or have stage performance .if a person want to use false lashes is not for everyday business or it should last for long period of time but using it for fashion and wearing it for occasions, or if a bride wants to get married .when I wore it for the first time, it was not easy it was so painful, I couldn’t sleep well and the end my naturally lashes fall out.

Mrs. Maria Smah, said for me, “I am just with my natural eyelash that God gave me. Why should I go the extra mile just because I want to enhance my beauty?

Already, I think I am beautiful and wonderful in look. I think the craze

The eye is the first beauty contact

over fashion fashion is misplaced priority,” he said.

For Patu Ahamade, fashion craze is trending because of loss of value and against the wish of ALLAH. “It is ungodly, against ALLAH’s wish for His creatures.

So, it is not good.”

There is danger Eye experts said the improper use of eye lashes extension and surgery could cause “traction alopecia .This is out due to excessive tension placed on the hair shaft. As a result this damage, the hair follicle in the eye can slow down and even cease production of hair,” according to one health expert. yelashes are can be taken of naturally by sleeping over night with Vaseline or olive oil on your lashes to make it grow within three.

In wearing lashes make sure you following the procedure of the fashion trend. We love your eye consult your profession l beautician and eye doctor before wearing your false or fake lashes and relaxing it. Have a great weekend.

E

PAGE 28

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

TIPS

COMP OMPILED MPILED BY ANDREW PATRICK

T

hey call it the miracle juice. And it’s not without provable reasons. Aloe vera is indeed versatile for health and looks. Why? The miracle juice has many uses.

It’s juice, according to beauty experts and health personnel are both for health and beauty and for all and sundry.

It’s juice and gel are powerhouses of antioxidants, antibiotics, work as stimulator of cell growth and have scar and pain inhibitor properties.

They are rich in the following vitamins and minerals Calcium Sodium Iron Potassium Manganese Zinc Folic acid Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E Amino acids Aloe Vera is the species of the succulent plant and has thick fleshy stems with spiny leaves. The fleshy stem contains the Aloe Vera juice which is used for various purposes since the beginning of the first century as an excellent home remedy.

The juice and the gel are used in every medicinal, cosmetic, heath treatment and also in your regular diet.

How to make aloe vera juice: Cut and open a few stems of the plant from the middle part.

Choose the outer stems as they are the most mature of all and

Aloe vera blade.

Aloe vera blended with cucumber, and tulsi juice

Aloe vera blended with honey and used for facial mask

has the highest concentration of antioxidants.

The liquid which oozes out is the fresh aloe gel.

Squeeze out the entire gel from the stem and store in a bowl Put the gel in a blender and add around 1 cup of water.

Blend them to get pure Aloe Vera juice. Use the prepared juice within 3-4 days, otherwise the juice will lose antioxidants.

Aloe clay pack: • In the paste of multani mitti add ½ teaspoon of aloe gel.

• Then add a few drops of rose water and honey and mix well to get a smooth paste.

• Apply on the face and

keep for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Aloe Fruit pack: • Blend a few pieces of your favourite fruits like papaya, banana, apple, orange etc.

• Into this add a

Beautiful face

teaspoon of the aloe gel and mix well.

• You can also add a teaspoon of almond oil or wheat germ oil if you have dry skin.

Leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse with cool water.

For dry skin and sensitive skin: • In 2 teaspoons of aloe gel, add a teaspoon of rose water and almond oil.

• Then add fresh cucumber paste and mix well to form a smooth consistency.

• Apply and keep for 15 minutes and rinse with cool water.

This face mask also acts as an excellent scrub too. It hydrates and smoothes oily skin, removing the dead cells, oil and excess sebum.

• In a mixing bowl, add 2 teaspoons of oatmeal and cucumber paste.

• Into this, add 1 teaspoon of aloe juice and mix well to from a smooth paste.

• Gently scrub the face in circular motions.

• Now lie down for 15-20 minutes and rinse after with warm water.

Aloe Vera juice for skin uses: Aloe Vera is suitable for all skin types including very sensitive skin. You must have seen and used various skin care products which contain the aloe gel. It is the most common remedy for all skin problems.

The anti ageing property of aloe keeps the skin supple and rejuvenated and also lightens blemishes. It moisturises the skin, gets rid of dead cells along with wrinkles and fine lines. It also helps in getting rid of stretch marks.

Men can use aloe Vera gel as an after shave. It reduces the irritation and inflammation of the skin and heals the cuts due to shaving.

Suffering from acne for a long time? Then make aloe Vera your friend as it is the best natural remedy for curing acne and pimples and also its scars. It has antimicrobial properties that help kill the bacteria causing acne and reduces the acne marks by lightening the skin.

So, there it is. You can research more and take full advantage of this miracle juice for health and beautiful skin.

COMPILED BY MIRIAM HUMBE

Fashion

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 29

Looking stunningly studded

H

aving studs on a dress is a great way to embellish a simple dress.

Adorning a studded dress is a great eat and stylish way to dress but not many are bold to try it. The fear usually arises from not wanting too look too busy with all the studs on the dress.

However, a studded dress can be a sleek and nd stylish option for nearly any occasion; a nightt out with friends, or a formal dinner with associates. A studded dress can be sexy or classic. ic.

You’d find yourself having to choose between gold or silver embellishments.

The style of your dress will determine the kind of accessories that will go with it.

For a more formal studded dress, minimall accessories will be required so you don’t spar-kle more than is necessary. Pair your dress with ith a simple pair of shoes in the same colour as the he dress. A gold studded dress for example, should uld be paired with a pair of lovely strappy sandalss for an elegant look.

However, if you are wearing studded dresss during the day, please skip the studded sandal al and consider something more subtle like some me lovely black shoe. For a more casual look, pairr your dress with a pair of gladiator sandals.

PAGE 30

Pots & Pans

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Yaji

Pumpkin seed milk

S

A collection of ingredients for yaji

uya with gizzard, kidney, onions and tomato with one bitter lemon is one of the best things that ever happened to grilled beef or lamb or goat or chicken. Suya has been recommended for those going on a strict protein diet. What makes Suya so unique is the spice used to make it.

Some call it “Suya Pepper.” You could also use this spice for other dishes for a little more flavour.

It is called “yaji” in the Hausa language. Without yaji, suya will lack the distinct flavour that makes

Pumpkin seeds are packed with nutrition, some highlights of which include a significant source of the antioxidant Vitamin E, as well as the essential fatty acid Omega 6, and a good bit of protein. It’s also a great source of folate (folic acid) and especially good for pregnant mothers.

Fresh pumpkin seed milk recipe • 1 container of raw Pumpkin seeds (no need to soak) • 4 litres of clean water • salt • 1 cup raw honey (or other sweetener to taste — sweetener is optional, as you might want the milk for a savory recipe, such as a soup) Method of preparation: Blend ingredients till smooth in

it thick.

Ingredients • 2.5 teaspoons finely grounded roasted peanuts • 1 teaspoon dry pepper or cayenne pepper or chilli pepper flakes (ground) • 1 teaspoon paprika • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

blender.

Place nut milk in a bowl and pour the milk into the bag. Carefully (just so you don’t splash yourself or the counter) squeeze the pulp down towards the bottom of the bag and the milk out the bottom. Slide and push down as you would a tube of toothpaste. When you get to the bottom, really give it some good squeezes to get all the moisture out.

Note: It will be easier the less powerful your blender is. The more powerful it is, the finer the pulp will be that you’ll have to squeeze to get the milk out.

Use it right away, or by the next morning. Keep leftovers in the fridge.

It is normal for separation to occur, but when you stir it up it gets creamy again.

• •

1 teaspoon of salt 1 cube of Maggi

Method Grind roasted peanuts to a fine powder Add grounded pepper (dry pepper), paprika, ground ginger, garlic and onion powder and salt to the bowl of grounded peanuts.

Mix ingredients together and you have your Suya spice called “yaji”.

Pumpkin seed milk The seeds

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Side Talk

PAGE 31

By Jacinta David

This week on side talk various issues, certainly trailed the spotlight. A hand full of upcoming developments from the workers addition saga, in vogue carried with them the weight of maintaining special segments on the stables of Side talk this week.

The recruitment saga and the annoying stand of a leader

A

lot has been said about the unfortunate slaughter of Nigerians by one of the officers squad in the country. Yes slaughter! For even though this people’s lives was not deprived them by a direct attempt at murder, the obvious effects of negligence of human dignity and scrupulous abuse of fundamental principles of life by the actors of the socalled workers addition exercise

makes it necessary to refer to it as such.

And as if to add insult to injury, the reactions of the helm’s man himself over the situation did not in any way better the story.

Side talk found it particularly disappointing that the man whose set of subordinates brought about this unfortunate incident had the effrontery to blame the whole occurrence

to what he described as; “The inpatients of applicants”. He considered it worth noting that his employees’ inability to anticipate the said impatience was more excusable than the obvious act of impatience exhibited by a team of hungry and certainly desperate youths.

This man whose name reminds one of the word ‘borrow’ and the day after today; had the audacity to excuse his

chunk of staff who led a mass of applicants to a venue as large as a stadium but opened only a single entrance for them.

He failed to access the inability of his people to either employ trained Human Resource consultants to carry out such important responsibility, or blame himself for failing to provide the needed training facilities and other equipment that

will ensure a smooth sailing exercise.

Not even the fact that this team of youths have been abused by the mare initials of this whole process made some sense to our dear borro with the initial ‘M’ Side talk watches alongside other Nigerians to see if this great country will learn from this or if it will just be another episode from everyday Nigeria.

Who is witch hunting who?

A

nd now from the stables of politics our dear leaders in the country’s political arena say their largest opponents are after them. This set of political hunters has accused its co-hunters of using the terrorist in the country to destroy their government. The issue brought to the spotlight one of the most controversial letters of or time written by an equally controversial exleader of this country.

That letter as we may recall, blamed the leadership of this country for continued corruption And for other heinous crimes, including encouragement of terrorism.

If this statement from a member of the party is anything to go by, then at side talk, we ask, who is bewitching who?

Yet another gate

O

ur next story is stems from yet another gate reopening in the country’s corruption indices.

After months with the story from the lady ‘O’ in the flying industry about her unwarranted BMW armored cars; her sister from another mother in the ministry of liquid substance of greastest treasure in Nigeria, comes up with yet another scenario.

This time the crime committed is not a purchase, but a hire of private flying machines and its up keep fees. The story has it that the act is estimated to have caused a whooping N10 billion. According to our source the lower chamber of the Nation’s law makers are already looking into the issue, but side talk deems it necessary to know if the this set of politically empowered women will ever stop with these series of nightmares or are we always going to keep waking from one night mare to the another .

Two women gossiping

Mr P’s proposal; a way out or??

T

his next segment on side talk stems from the comments of the number one member of the present order of the Niger. Our dear helms man in his usually good but rather inadequately thought aout manner decides to react to the disturbing situation trailing the country’s latest recruitment exercise.

And what was his manner of reaction?

Mr P decides to give automatic employment to three members of each deceased applicants’ relatives;

what’s more? He also says that those who were injured will secure automatic employment in the sector.

And as a form of response from the people, side talk considers the feasibility of all these proposals. First what is the probability that each family where applicants have died will have three qualified persons to take over the said appointments?

What are the chances that the appointments will indeed be given to them?

And lastly but even

,more importantly on this issue; what is the definitions of our leader’s injury, in the statement that anyone who sustains any form of injury will secure automatic employment. If this statement is anything to go by, then the sector in question should indeed be ready to welcome a handful of Nigerians with various forms of injuries sustained at the exercise.

The whole thing according to one of our source is vague; how will we ascertain that a person has sustained as

much injury to warrant such compensation? Yes for every one that went; there may have been one form of damage or the other, but is that what he means by injury? The word injury is relative so it has to be specific.

And to cap it up, our sources have revealed to us an intended refusal of the sector to give employments to these people making it necessary for us at side talk to wonder whether this is also another futile journey for our dear leaders of today.

Law against inciting comments; the Nigerian side of the story

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n the last story for side talk today, we felt the need to identify with a latest development on the issue of mitigating statements aired in media stations or outlets. The story has it that a renowned

world leader of our time has called on the international legal authority to endure penalties for people whose comments insight division, rather than unity in the world. Side talk reasons that since we have a dying need

of such law in this country; it might not be out of place to talk about the issue. But will a country like ours be able to have provision for such laws? Can we as followers stand and watch while our leaders are taken

away as culprits for inciting comments, even when those comments are true?

Take it or leave it Nigeria’s case as far as this law is concerned; can best be described as controversial and almost unattainable.

PAGE 32

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Fiction

The last letter was written in blue T here was no angel sent to monitor the elections, or the events that followed, it was purely a human affair. This was why the machetes and clubs kept landing on him, dropping on his head without musicality, like a marching band grown weary.

Perhaps if an angel was there to monitor the elections, it would have been a different affair, his life would have lasted a little longer, his life would have ended more ceremoniously, without machetes and clubs and a torrent of voices chanting words he did not understand.

When his mind went bare, threadbare and tired of thinking, when he was finally dying and could take the machetes and clubs no longer, he would think of nothing else but the letter he had written in blue ink to his brother. No one would ever guess that he could do that; that he could think of a letter in the midst of dying pain.

But he did.

He thought of a letter while he was dying.

That day when he wrote the letter, two weeks before the machetes and clubs fell on him without musicality, there was a pile of white crumpled sheets beside his table, on the floor. He had written twelve drafts in all, a dozen drafts for more than a dozen things he wanted to say.

The thing with the things he wanted to say was that they were like mad-running fluid, gliding over his mind like overflowing water. For it was one thing to want to write a letter, it was another to write it, to bring himself to the sudden realization that he had wronged his brother.

But his brother’s mind would glide over the letter, too, like mad-running fluid. He would read it so quickly that it made more than a dozen meanings to him, exactly as his brother had intended. He would read it so quickly so that he could forget the pain his brother had caused; it was like looking at the sea and thinking it was a white wall because it had drowned someone he knew. To think that his brother had written him in blue ink, four years after he disappeared, was too much for him to bear. This was why he read the letter so quickly that he would have to reread it, later, when his mind had stopped

thinking the sea was a white wall, when his anger had grown stale.

He would not know that the letter would become a relic, a permanent keepsake, given to him as a final souvenir from his brother.

How could he have known?

The prelude to the announcement of the election results was a rehash of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” sung by a local musician, a popular copycat of the masters.

And then, immediately, the election results began to arrive.

The change from the music to the results was so rapid, so forced, that the man who was listening got disinterested, and did not listen to the results.

He should have listened, for it was on the premise of the election results that he would be killed.

He did not, but picked his Bible, and walked half a kilometer to the church; he was a priest of an Anglican Church, a house was built for him beside the church. ust as he entered the church he heard his name, “Reverend Obinna.” He turned, but could not determine the person who called him; indeed, he looked at the gate from where the voice had come and saw not just one person, but more.

When the figures were clearer, it was Mr. Chukwuma, a member of the Anglican Church, and his four sons.

“Reverend,” he called again, when they were inches apart.

His sons were still behind.

“Brother Chukwuma,” Obinna said.

“They have started killing people. In Sabon-Gari.”

Obinna could only say, “What?”

“Yes. Immediately after the elections.”

Mr. Chukwuma’s sons had joined them; they seemed like a pyramid when they stood together, their ages were tied to their heights, the oldest was thirteen, the youngest was seven.

Looking at them, the Reverend asked, “What can we do?”

“Let’s stay here. They cannot come here.”

“That is a lie. You know it is a lie.”

When he said this, Obinna walked inside the church. For some reason, he did not fully open the door, but moved it slightly

J

“

The Yoruba woman cam came me a after fter tthe he preacher. Everyone kn knew new her a the Yoruba woman. Fro om the ass the From lon ng g ashes a crross h er c heeks to long gashes across her cheeks the hap phazard w ay sshe he ttied ied her haphazard way head tie and dh er tthick hick IIbadan badan her accent, it was qu uite e asy tto o quite easy know.

so that it could accommodate his body. Mr. Chukwuma and his sons followed this pattern.

By following this pattern, all six of them looked like Israelites marching to captivity in Babylon, marching on a straight line, with manacles tied from hand to foot. None of them could have believed they’d capture the Old Testament in living colour, so perfectly, as though the Bible

“

had worn a shirt, a brightlycoloured shirt.

It seemed fear was soaked in a teabag and given to them.

And they drank it. binna’s brother, when he had read the letter a second time, shook the anger away and decided to surprise his brother with a visit, initiate the path to peace. And again, this could have meant

O

Mr. Chukwuma’s sons had joined them; they seemed like a pyramid when they stood together, their ages were tied to their heights, the oldest was thirteen, the youngest was seven.

something magnificent if an angel had been assigned to monitor the elections, to ensure that there was no inhumanity. But there was no angel, and the forgiving step he took to meet his brother in Jos was like the star that the wise men must have seen.

Walking away.

Fleeting across the sky.

Ungraspable.

Later, he would remember that if he had driven more quickly, more steadfastly, he would have seen his brother as he had known him, complete with all his body parts, without disfiguration and discoloration.

For when he drove for six hours from Abuja to Jos, he played Michael Bolton’s “Lean on Me,” fourteen times, and each time he sang out the words, cars kept speeding past his. His movement was slowed by music. If this had not happened, he might have gotten to his brother earlier, and met him in one piece.

PAGE 33

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Romance

Forgotten love I retired to the bedroom, tired of waiting up for Derin. The room was lavish and very spacious, but it was the bed that did things to my mind and body. Especially as all the sheets were silk and the pillows were filled with what felt like feathers. No wonder the minute I got into it I always fell asleep, except Derin was there with me of course.

“Hey Hun,” I felt his breath on my neck as his lips brushed lightly against my skin. My back stayed turned to him and I stiffened; he should have gotten home sooner.

“Sweetie, I know you’re awake, talk to me,” he said and by now he was kissing the nape of my neck.

I could feel my resolve slowly slip away. Even a day later, as I drove home from work I could still feel the sensations, I closed my eyes for a second, shivering, as my body relived the moment his tongue made contact with me. It was one second too long.

I opened my eyes just in time to see the big red trailer speed towards me and my last thought as my car spun out of control and smashed glasses flew around me was that my blood was too red, then, darkness.

The man was undeniably handsome but having sat in the hospital for two whole days with no food or sleep, he looked unkempt and dishevelled. His stubbles looked like they were a week old and the bags that weighed down his bloodshot eyes were heavy and swollen.

“Doctor, please talk to me, tell me something please” he cried out as he nearly knocked down the doctor who just emerged from the emergency room. Derin had been waiting for some news for two days. Not knowing what was going on was killing him.

“She was very lucky” the doctor said and the relief that flooded over Derin was palpable.

“She has some fractures but nothing that won’t heal with time, some bruises and cuts which we’ve stitched up. She’s suffering from a serious concussion right now so I would rather you don’t go in to see her just yet but if you insist then you can, but be gentle, she can’t handle much excitement right now” “Thank You doctor, thank you” Derin said excitedly and followed closely behind him.

As he walked his hand impulsively slipped into his pocket and he fingered the small box that had been in it for a couple of days. He had ordered some Chinese food and Rita’s favourite red wine and was going to propose to her after dinner.

But she never made it home.

He walked into the room and saw his Rita looking like an Egyptian mummy. Her whole body was covered in bandages.

Her both legs were up in slings and her right arm was encased in a cast. Standing at the door with a knot the size of his fist in his

throat, he listened as she struggled to speak to the nurse.

“You’ll be fine my dear, don’t worry, once your bones are stronger you’ll be back to normal but you need to rest now” the nurse said “Water please” Rita whispered “I’ll get you some. You have a guest, your, your friend is here to see you” the nurse said with a wide smile. Anyone who had seen how worried and on edge the young man had been would easily tell that he loved this woman beyond comprehension.

Derin approached her bed, taking in the sight of her. She was badly injured, her face had small cuts and bruises, her lips were blue and swollen as were her eyes, her left arm was covered in purple wounds and bruises, but still, she had never been more beautiful.

“My love” he said falling beside her and taking hold of her left hand.

Nurse Eze stood at the door to watch the encounter, she just loved seeing young people in love, she watched as bitter sweet tears flowed freely from the young man’s eyes. Pure love. She shifted her gaze to her patient, no doubt she would be in tears too.

But looking at her patient’s face Nurse Eze gasped.

Rita looked at the young man in front of her, glassy eyed, confused yet expressionless. He was a stranger she had never seen before. She looked at Nurse Eze questioningly, “who is this man, what is he doing in my room?”, her eyes asked. In panic she painfully snatched her hand away from his, looking at him with perplexed eyes. The man was even more perplexed. His mouth hung open, confused and hurt.

“Rita, darling, I know you’re upset but please... Please babe, please...I love you” he stuttered, not sure of what to say, not sure what was going on.

Rita stared at him for a moment, her expression painfully blank. Then she looked at the nurse pleadingly. It was then nurse Eze understood, Rita was suffering from something some people suffered from after a trauma. She had amnesia.

Six Weeks Later...

“Doctor, I don’t know what else to do, I’ve brought pictures, journals, her clothes, everything doctor, everything! I don’t know how else I can juggle her memory” Derin said.

He was both exhausted and exasperated. He could feel Rita slipping away from him. To make matters worse, the doctor had insisted he bring Rita’s passport, she had been talking about returning to the US. He didn’t want to, having held on to it for so long, but reluctantly he had to. He was losing her. Even her friends could not convince her that he was the love of her life.

“She keeps bringing up New York. Apparently, as with some

“

“Doctor, please talk to me, tell me something please” he cried out as he nearly knocked down the doctor who just emerged from the emergency room. Derin had been waiting for some news for two days. Not knowing what was going on was killing him.

cases, she remembers everything up until a point in time. Like I’ve told you already, it could be permanent, but then, her memory could return at any time. You never know. But it’s best to let her go, that way things may come back to her easily.” the doctor said. erin left the doctor’s office downtrodden. Rita was to be discharged that day and she insisted on going back to New York where she had grown up. He went back to her room.

He could not afford to lose her.

He felt as though he might run mad if she left. He got to her door and on seeing him, like she had done in the past six weeks, she looked annoyed.

Derin went to her and got on his knees in one last desperate attempt.

“Rita, ife mi, I don’t know what

D

to say that I haven’t already said.

You may have forgotten everything but we can create new memories.

The night of your accident I was going to do this, and I think I still should...... Please Rita, marry me,” he said, going on his knees. There was so much love in this man’s eyes and she could see it.

“I’m so sorry, but I just can’t, even if I wanted to. I simply do not know who you are” she said apologetically. She looked at the beautiful diamond ring but continued, “In any case my tickets are already booked and I’m going back home to NY tonight, maybe I’ll remember one day, but till then, please, leave me alone, please. I need to heal,” she said softly, but firmly, holding Derin’s gaze.

My flight was a little bit delayed but eventually it was an-

nounced. I would have run to the plane had my legs allowed me.

I hadn’t been back to New York since I left two years ago, both my parents were dead now but I had a life there, friends I had allowed Derin to alienate. Staring out of the windows into the dark, I reflected on how difficult the past few weeks had been. I could have lost my life in that accident.

It was as my car rolled in the air that it hit me, life was just too short and too sweet to lose. Not in an accident, and not in a love that could kill you. aking out my phone, I scrolled through the pictures till I got to the one I wanted. I ran my finger over the screen, I had snapped the picture myself while in hospital on the night of our first anniversary.

That was the night Derin first hit me because I complained he was late, and then repeatedly kicked me in the belly till I lost the child I just told him I was carrying for him. His reason, he wasn’t ready, and I was too stubborn to refuse an abortion.

That was just one of several similar incidents. He always cried and apologized, saying he would die whenever I tried to leave. Sinking back into my seat I smiled to myself. That was all behind me now. Feigning amnesia and moving back across the oceans may be a coward’s way out but I’m just glad to be alive.

T

www.thelmathinks.blogspot.com

PAGE 34

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

No N o lly l ly wo wood

N

ollywood Actress Shan George is really going to the way of God, as she has decided to live her life towards the path of God Saying she is Living to Please God The Nollywood Actress/Producer took to her facebook page to pass the below message, hear her...

“The only thing I target to achieve in life is ‘TO MAKE HEAVEN’ The rest na Jara! So if the way I live my life displeases you, don’t worry, I’m living to please God not You.”

MTN Saka loses academic materials and awards to fire

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eports made available to Nigeriafilms.com on Wednesday, indicated that Comic actor and MTN ambassador, Hafiz Oyetoro, popularly known as Saka, has lost valuables worth millions of naira to an inferno that razed his office located at Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education.

According to Saka’s Personal Assistant, the cause of the fire could not be ascertained as his boss valuables were all gone down the drain.

It would be recalled that the comic actor recently had an elaborate 40th day Fidau prayer and burial party for his late father, Alhaji Oyetoro at his home town, Iseyin, few weeks ago.

Frank Nweke Jnr. n a recent conference held in Lagos, stake holders in the various spheres of entertainment and corporate bodies; have charged the Nigerian media with the responsibility of developing the entertainment industry as they are seen as the watchdog of the society.

This position was taken at the maiden edition of Nigeria Entertainment conference held in Lagos, with the theme “Building the Industry of Our Dreams.”

Delivering his speech, the Director General, Nigeria Economic Summit Group, Frank Nweke Junior, said the evolution of multidimensional media spheres had created opportunities to birth dy-

I

Shan George

It would be recalled that the Nollywood actress, had relocated to her state, Cross River. But contrary to reports, she says she has not gone in search of greener or saner pastures.

According to the news making the rounds online, George is said to have relocated because Calabar is more peaceful than Lagos.

She was quoted as saying, “Calabar is heaven on earth. My hilltop Calabar home is as peaceful as a baby’s sigh.”

namic contents for local media channels.

Nweke said the independent producers and television stations should work together at producing the good indigenous content rather than paying exorbitant fees for independent producers.

He lashed out at some media houses that transmit aged Latin American soap operas for broadcast on national television, stating that it had killed the tradition of world class Nigerian drama.

“Nigerian entertainment industry must begin to engage in a different narrative, in order to harness the full potential and possibilities at present.” Nweke said

PAGE 35

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Bollywood/Hollywood Johnny Depp Jetting to China to promote ‘Transcendence’

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ohnny Depp will be jetting over to China later this month to promote upcoming sci-fi thriller ‘Transcendence’. It will be the actor’s first trip to the world’s number-two movie market.

Depp is slated to arrive in Beijing on March 31 for a two-day press blitz. His visit is being arranged by Beijing-based studio DMG, co-producers of Transcendence with Alcon Entertainment and Warner Bros. DMG is also distributing the film in China and handling its local marketing.

Transcendence stars Depp as a terminally ill scientist who downloads his mind into a computer, gaining powers beyond his wildest dreams. The film is said to explore the perhaps not-too-distant moment when computer intelligence surpasses the power of the human mind. It co-stars Rebecca Hall, Morgan Freeman, Kate Mara and Paul Bettany.

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BO fantasy drama ‘Game of Thrones’ reigned supreme at the Royal Television Society Awards evening in central London, winning this year’s international program award.

The HBO show triumphed over French sci-fi thriller The Returned and Storyville – Pussy Riot in the category.

Held annually, the RTS program awards aim to recognize the work of exceptional actors, presenters, writers and production teams, as well as celebrating the programs themselves.

In the best drama series category, ITV-commissioned Broadchurch, starring David Tennant and Olivia Colman, won, while Colman herself picked up the RTS female actor nod for her turn in the show and Run. Colman saw off competition from fellow Broadchurch cast member Jodie Whittaker and Sharon Rooney (My Mad Fat Teenage Diary).

The best male actor was picked up by Idris Elba for his turn in Luther, beating Lennie James for his outing in London drug drama Run and Stephen Dillane for his outing in French-British co-production The Tunnel.

The group is the oldest TV society in the world and is chaired by David Liddiment.

This year’s shindig was hosted by comedian and actor Tim Vine at a ceremony in central London.

The complete winners list is below.

Macall B. Polay

Ivan Reitman out as ‘Ghostbusters’ reboot director

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van Reitman has stepped down from the director’s chair for Sony’s Ghostbusters reboot, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.

Reitman, 67, directed 1984’s original Ghostbusters and its 1989 sequel, but he has agreed to pass the torch to a new person.

The move is the latest twist in the years-long effort to make a followup movie in the supernatural comedy franchise. As THR reported in February, Reitman and writers Lee Eisenberg and Gene Stupnisky were finalizing the latest draft of the script but the death of Harold Ramis — who co-wrote and starred in the first two

Johnny Depp

Don’t sell your self-respect for a pittance —Kamal Haasan

films along with Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray and was set for a small role in the third film — required tweaks to the script.

Reitman will remain on the project as a producer and he and the studio hope production on the new film will begin in early 2015. Murray is not expected to reprise his role.

Sony has been trying to mount a third Ghostbusters movie for numerous years and has had several versions of the script. But the stickler in the process has always been Murray, who hemmed and hawed about participating and had a strained relationship with Ramis.

T Ivan Reitman

he Tamil Nadu state election commission has roped in actorfilmmaker Kamal Haasan to campaign against cash for votes. In a video released by the election commission, Kamal has urged people to not sell their future and self-respect for a pittance.

“Don’t vote by comparing which leader is paying more for voting. Think about in whose hands you are resting your future and then vote for the deserving leader. Don’t sell your future and self-respect for a pittance,” Haasan said in the video.

Haasan “Let’s vote with conscience and promise that under any circumstance we wouldn’t sell our votes,” he added.

Kamal says voting is one of the important duties of every citizen.

“Out of the different duties we are obliged to do for our country, voting is very important. Let’s vote by understanding and realizing the capabilities of the leader contesting in the elections,” Haasan said.

Kamal is currently busy shooting for upcoming Tamil comedy “Uttama Villain”.

PAGE 36

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

E nte n t e rrta t a iin n m e n t In t e rrv v iie ew

After a recent performance at the One Mic Naija event during Social Media Week, Temi DollFace’s star has been at the top of the constellations of Nigerian artists who are not just singers but are bar-raising performers. She commands the stage with a presence and sense of musicianship that’s rare and refreshing. In this interview, she speaks on her unique nature as typified by her music and fashion. She urges her fans to watch out for a new single and its video titled Beep Beep in this interview with Zainab Yusuf Who is Temi DollFace? singer-songwriter, composer, producer, and all-round creative individual on a one-woman mission to resurrect real music.

Your style is quite unique. Where did it come from? Have you ever been focused on any other genre of music?

Thank You! As things are, I don’t focus on any particular genre of music. I consider myself to be a multi-genre artist as I have a wide spectrum of influences that I like to express. I just put them all under the “Drama Soul” umbrella, as my music at it’s core is Soulful with theatrical elements.

Earlier in my journey, I was pushed by management and my label to do more R&B driven music. That didn’t last very long. I love R&B but I have so much more I want to express.

Have you always been interested in music? What would you have done otherwise?

I have felt an irresistible pull towards music for as long as I can remember but my heart has always belonged to fashion as well.

I consider myself to be 50% music and 50% fashion. So without a doubt, I would be working full-time in the fashion industry in some capacity if I wasn’t doing music. Either that or in theatre doing costume and set design.

You’ve been a big hit especially with the debut of your first video “Pata Pata”, and several shows around Lagos. What inspires your creativity?

Everything from living, to art, to something someone just said, a love of words, anything from a bygone era and the tension created when one mixes unlikely styles together.

When I’m creating, I only need that one trigger for an idea, one small fragment, all the rest I can invent myself.

What have the challenges been trying to break into the Music Industry in Nigeria? How do you stay focused?

Chasing your dream, especially one that goes against the grain, like mine, can be hard and isolating anywhere in the world.

My dissatisfaction with the lack of variety in Nigerian music, an unbridled passion for what I do, and constant dreaming, keep me focused. Even though I’m part of the industry, I like to keep a little bit of distance from it so I can maintain an organic creative process.

What are you working on right now?

I’m working on a series of on-going projects including my album, and a few non-musical projects that’ll be revealed in due course.

Meanwhile, my fans should watch out for a new single and a video titled Beep Beep. Beep Beep is a song of self-celebration in which my intricate lyricism is evident. With a danceable pop-hook and witty lyrics, this record also fully captures my primal energy and vocal abilities; something that was not seen in it’s full glory in Pata Pata .

Have you ever considered going into the fashion industry? If so, what area would you like to focus on?

I feel like I already might as well be in fashion because so much of what I do is fashionoriented. I style all my video and photo shoots and am solely responsible for my day-to-day styling. I have already worked in fashion as a retailer and stylist. And definitely plan to revisit that, just in a different way that won’t be

A

to the detriment of my musical aspirations. It’s all about finding the balance.

If you met your younger self, what would you tell her?

I was timid and fearful at 13 and let other people run the show. So I would tell my 13 year old self to “Act as if” and “Don’t be afraid to bite off more than you can chew as you might be surprised by how capable you actually are.”

Also, “Don’t allow criticism to stop you. Trust your gut even if it seems bizarre. You’re closer to the truth than you know.”

How did music start for you?

Music has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. I was in the choir at school, sang at church, and got involved in anything musical from quite early on. However, my first foray into creating it was at the age of 7, when I wrote and composed my first song with the help of a keyboard given to me as a gift by the Pastor (a musician himself) of the church I attended then. I just found my way around it and the rest is history.

How was growing up for you? Any challenges?

I grew up a shy only child in a sheltered environment. Up against my more eloquent and outgoing peers, I felt I could express myself through music and what I wore. As it was pretty lonely, I spent a lot of time in my imagination, entertaining myself by creating music and playing dress-up. These things remain with me now.

What was your Coke Studio experience like? What do you think about the Coke Studio concept? love anything that challenges the norm and diverts ideas, taking them out of their original context and that was what coke studio was about; taking well known African Songs out of their usual context to make them more palatable for the younger generation. I think the expansion of self through experiences like this is important. And I enjoyed every minute.

It was good to be taken out of ones comfort zone and work artists of different genres. Definitely a great way to grow as an artist.

Ever since the success of your mega hit video “Pata-Pata”, we have heard little from you. Tell us, what have you been up to?

My thinking is “anything worth doing, is worth doing well”.For lack of a better cliché, I have been in the lab working on new material and very soon there shall be an unveiling.

So you have any musical influences?

If yes who and why?

I have quite a few which include Fela Kuti, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Billy Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, D’angelo, Missy Elliot, Pharrell Williams, Outkast...

Are there any artistes you would like

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“

TemiDollFace to collaborate with both internationally and locally? would love nothing more than to work with Pharrell Williams, Outkast, Janelle Monae, Frank Ocean, Just A Band. Local artists I would like to collaborate with include Cobhams Asuquo, Femi Kuti, Jesse Jagz, Dammy

I

I love anything that challenges the norm and diverts ideas, taking them out of their original context and that was what coke studio was about; taking well known African Songs out of their usual context to make them more palatable for the younger generation.

Krane, Tuface, Boj What would you say is the major difference between doing music abroad and doing music in Nigeria?

The music industry over here is quite young in comparison, so a lot of things aren’t in place such as a royalty collecting system and we don’t have a very broad musical palette at the moment, which isn’t a bad thing. It just means there is room to introduce more diversity.

What’s your ultimate goal as an artiste? o change the way music is experienced, to shatter pop stereotypes by proving that pop music can be alternative, experimental and exciting. Also, I want to give back what I get out of music. I realise that what I get to do is such a privilege as with music we have the ability to touch other human beings, who are reaching out looking for the same things most of us are.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 37

Entertainment Flakes

With FUNSHO AKINWALE PHONE NO: 08051101191

Juliet Ibrahim’s hubby denies breakup rumour

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ecently, there have been speculations that Ghanaian actress, Juliet Ibrahim, is experiencing some major troubles in her long time marriage to Mr. Kwadwo Safo Junior, son of Ghanaian inventor and leader of Kristo Asafo Mission, Apostle Kwadwo Sarfo.

It could also be observed that the actress has been spending more time in Nigeria than her country Ghana. Even, she was absent during her husband’s birthday party organized in late February 2014 in Ghana and the husband was also absent when Juliet celebrated her birthday in Nigeria, in March 2014.

In a swift response to the speculations, Juliet Ibrahim’s husband Kwadwo Safo, denied them being apart, claiming that their marriage was still intact; just that his wife has been very busy with some engagements and her movies.

According to him, he was surprised on how people got such false information as he never discusses his private life in the public.

“I will say it again that the rumour is not true. She was not at my party because she had a lot to do in Nigeria,” he explained. Juliet already has a son, Jayden, for her husband.

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nyeka Onwenu and the Nigerian Police have no love lost. Only yesterday the singer decried the attitude of the Nigeria Police in handling cases of rape against women.

According to the legendary actress, Nigerian security agents, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, joke with the matter of rape when reported to them.

“I think rape has always been part of our society, and we have not given it prominence because the security agents, like the police, do not take it seriously. It is a crime against womanhood, but it is not given the attention it deserves. That is because we have not really given women their due. Nigeria has not really protected the women,” she told Sun in an interview.

Speaking further, Onyeka said: “We do have domestic violence, rape and others but when it is reported to the police, they will simply say ‘just go and settle it’. They will even blame it on the woman by telling her, ‘eh na you cause am, na the way you dey waka provoke the man”.

Recall that in the last couple of years, Onyeka has been actively involved in politics. Currently, she is the Director General of National Centre for Women Development (NCWD), an office she was appointed to occupy by President Goodluck Jonathan in September 2013.

Onyeka Onwenu

My height doesn’t frustrate me, says Aki

M

any times, pint-size humans are despised by the society, but for popular Nollywood actor, Chinedu Ikedieze popularly known as Aki, who got conferred with the MFR title by President Jonathan in July 2010, his height is a gift from God and he appreciates that very much.

He made it clear in a recent interview with Yes magazine that his national honour did not come with any visible benefits. He explained that he got no monetary value or special benefits to the title as obtained in western countries, but that the joy of getting such is the recognition.

“When I am traveling and I get to the airport, I get special preference and recognition. Apart from that, I don’t get any other thing. I don’t get paid, I don’t get any special benefits as an MFR. As an MFR, I hold the same position with some of those who are Members of the British Empire (MBE) and they have some special benefits in the international community and honourary recognitions but those things are not here” the awardwinning actor said.

When asked if he ever wonders why he was created in the form he is, he answered, “Am I the one that created myself? Why would I ask myself such a question? You can only ask such a question when you are frustrated about life or if you are tired of life.

“But in my own case I am not. When you wake up in the morning and you have something to eat, you have people who can smile at you and you smile back as well, then what else do you need? Then you go to bed, you sleep and you seldom go to the hospital, so which other gift is more important than that?

“As far as I am concerned, that is the greatest gift. There are some people who have all the money, cars, houses and all the things they want, but they are sick. They don’t enjoy the money. So the perfect gift for me is good health”

Aki

Juliet Ibrahim

How Femi Kuti’s Songs inspired me, says Grammy winner, Alicia Keys

A

licia Augello Cook, known professionally as Alicia Keys, is an American R&B singer-songwriter, pianist, musician, record producer, and actress,and is one of the few foreign artistes who have begun to appreciate African music especially Nigerian songs.

Recently, Alicia Keys hipped praises on the song of Afro-beat Legend, Femi Kuti, titled ‘No Place for my Dream,’ stating that the song gives her inspiration.

It would be recalled that the Nigerian music legend was nominated for the 56th Annual Grammy Awards with 3 other artistes.

He lost out to French group Gipsy Kings and South African group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. It was a tie.

Though the son of the late Afro Beat legend Fela Kuti, has been nominated severally for the Grammys but has never won it before, but his music continues to receive accolades from both local and international audience.

Femi Kuti who has grown less optimistic about getting a Grammy Award did not attend the awards show. He was represented by elder sister Yeni Kuti.

In 2003, Kuti picked up his first Grammy Award nomination but lost out to Panamanian salsa singer Rubén Blades. He similarly lost in 2010 when he was nominated in the same category. US banjo player Bela Fleck walked away with the award.

In 2011, Kuti once again lost the award to Malian band Tinariwen for the album Tassili.

Meanwhile, throughout her career, Keys has won numerous awards and has sold over 75 million records worldwide.

Also, she became the first female to have an MTV Unplugged album to debut at number one and the highest since Nirvana in 1994.

Alicia Keys

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 38

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LETTERS Letter from Oodua Foundation to Nigeria WRITE TO US T his is a letter from the heart to the rulers, leaders, peoples and citizens of Nigeria, from OODUA FOUNDATION, a Yoruba think-tank organization with members in all parts of the world. We write this letter to Nigeria, the country of our birth, from the depth of our love and hopes, and from our accumulated knowledge and experiences in the countries in which we reside across the face of the earth.

Our country, Nigeria, can become a major factor in the world. It has the material and human resources for a very significant role in the affairs of our continent and of our world. Most of the countries in which we live in the wide world are not as richly endowed as our own country, and yet most of them have much comfort and beauty to dispense, occupy important positions in the economic and political life of the world, and are respected by other countries and by the general international community.

In contrast, our own country, Nigeria, is little regarded in most parts of the world. In many parts of the world, where many of us have attained prominence and influence as a result of our high education, high qualifications, and qualitative contributions to society, we live in almost constant shame and anxiety from the fact that the news from our own country are almost perpetually of growing decay, growing poverty, unspeakable human suffering, deeprooted and inscrutable corruption, fearful lack of security, horrific blood-letting conflicts, frequent acts of genocide, religious extremism and terrorism, and constant probability of sudden collapse. Quite often, each of us and our children confront situations in which we are painfully compelled to hesitate to say that we are Nigerians.

We write this letter to our country in the belief that we Nigerians can change these trends in our country’s

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.

Email: opinion@peoplesdailyng.com adverts@peoplesdailyng.com pictures@peoplesdailyng.com contact@peoplesdailyng.com life. We write it in the hope that this cry from us from all over the world will move our countrymen, and our country’s rulers and leaders, to stop and consider, and resolve, individually and collectively, to change the direction of our country’s path. We in Oodua Foundation are all products of the Yoruba nation. Our parents have, since the beginning of the making of a Nigerian federation in about 1950, contributed with all sincerity and dedication, and made outstanding inputs into all worthy areas of Nigeria’s development. Among other things, they laid the foundations of the influence that we their descendants now command in the world. We are proud of the contributions that our Yoruba nation continues to make today in the various spheres of Nigeria’s life.

We and the whole world know from the facts of our history that our Yoruba nation, and other Nigerian nationalities, lives in undeserved poverty and confusion in Nigeria today – all because of the relentless intensification of corruption in the political and economic management of Nigeria’s affairs since independence in 1960. We the Yoruba nation, and other nationalities of Nigeria, command the

cultural assets with which we could easily prosper in today’s world, but being part of Nigeria stultifies and represses the triumph of such assets.

We endorse and support, and strongly commit ourselves to, the contributions being made by our Yoruba nation and our Yorubanation’s leaders at home today towards worthwhile changes in Nigeria, and towards a redirection of the trajectory of Nigeria’s history. After very careful consultations, a delegation of our Yoruba leaders is now in Abuja for the National Conference convened by the President of Nigeria. The hope of our Yoruba nation is that the National Conference will produce outcomes that will lead to a new and rational Nigerian federation, reasonably empower every federating unit of the Nigerian federation to thrive in its own way and make its own kind of contribution to the overall prosperity of Nigeria, generate harmony among the peoples of Nigeria, establish open and democratic political traditions in Nigeria, earn stability for Nigeria as a country, and start a new surge of hope for all Nigerians.

Needless to say, Nigeria’s continued existence as one country depends very much on the achievement of these

outcomes. If we Nigerians cannot do Nigeria properly, we might as well let it go. We might as well let other structures emerge that can put substance, joy and hope back into the lives of the 170 millions who now flounder and suffer in Nigeria. We in Oodua Foundation strongly hope that, with this National Conference, we Nigerians will indeed begin to do Nigeria properly.

For this reason, we must express serious shock about the statement credited to the Northern Elders Forum meeting of March 10-11 that: The planned National Conference has no constitutional basis, or any form of Legitimacy or authority to speak for the people of the North or other Nigerians. Its proceedings, conclusions and recommendations are therefore of no consequence and will not be accepted by the people of the North.

In the interest of all the peoples and citizens of Nigeria, we must urge the Northern Elders to reconsider this very damaging statement of theirs.

In the history of the constitutional development of Nigeria, the present National Conference is perfectly in line with all previous Nigerian constitutional conferences, and it is by no means inferior to any in legitimacy. These are no times for irreconcilable stonewalling, or for hard postures designed to intimidate. No Nigerian people can now be intimidated. The way matters stand today, we either all join hands and sort out the colossal mess that Nigeria has become, or we separate.

From all over the world, we wish the National Conference success.

Dr. Dejo Ogunwande Prof. Adeniran Adeboye SECRETARY CHAIRMAN Prof.(Senator) Banji Akintoye PATRON

PAGE 39

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Opinion

So black people do PhD?

By Muhammad Jameel Yusha’u

I

followed with interest a recent story that started from Harvard University called I, too, I am Harvard. It is in response to the stereotyping and the challenges faced by black students or more generally, to use the controversial term ‘people of colour.’

They were indirectly protesting against the treatment they receive from colleagues, friends, tutors etc, for being black or nonwhite. Soon the campaign became viral and students from Oxford and Cambridge also joined the bandwagon to protest against the misrepresentation of blacks, particularly the thinking that you have to belong to a particular race in order to belong to these elite institutions.

But I am afraid, it is not just Harvard or Cambridge or Oxford where being an African or black comes with stereotyping, almost in all aspect of life being an African as an individual, or the continent itself are shrouded in misinformation, ignorance, mystery, stereotyping, and at worst, belittling simply because of how people look.

I was once told by someone, “So black people do PhD?” Sometimes you laugh, other times you explain, and in some occasions you get angry. What is even more interesting is that the media sometimes reinforce such stereotypes.

But one of the things about this stereotyping that you find common is the thinking that Africa is a country, and so a lot of people come to you excited that they will be travelling to Africa. When you ask them where in Africa? They start murmuring and stammering to figure out what you mean.

The first time I experienced this was in March 2004, about ten years ago. I was dressed in white Babbar Riga (a traditional attire common in sub-Saharan Africa). It was a brief visit to London at the time, and I was trying to get a bureau de change in Oxford

Street, when I heard a voice across the road shouting “African brother, African brother.”

The man crossed the road and came towards me. “I like your dress, please how do I get one. Can you give me your address in Africa so that I can send you the money?”

My address in Africa? I asked, confused.

I told him that I am from Nigeria in West Africa. He didn’t have the time to listen to my lecture and so we said goodbye.

Interestingly, he is a fellow black guy, who told me that his ancestors were from Africa, and he has consumed the stereotype that Africa is a country.

Sometime in 2005, I was approached by the kids of one of my friends in Sheffield. A very nice family. The children were so happy to see me, and so was I. “We have been to Africa on holiday,” the young kids told me. “That was great,” I responded and asked: “where in Africa?”

Instead of answering my question, they

“

looked at their elder sister, with their father watching by the side, “which part of Africa have we been to?” after a little silence, she responded, “Gambia.”

But don’t blame the local people for not understanding the African continent.

Sometimes even the educated people, in fact some of whom supposed to educate us, you will be shocked by their perception of Africa. Here is the story I always laugh at when I remember. It was at the BBC World Service when the language services introduced Premier League commentary in local languages. And one of the best commentators, works for the Swahili Service. He has an excellent mastery of football commentary in Swahili. He has become a household name in his region. In fact, you don’t have to understand Swahili to know which team is performing well, and when he says it’s a Goaaaaaaaal. Almost everyone in the African hub will stop his

But one of the things about this stereotyping that you find common is the thinking that Africa is a country, and so a lot of people come to you excited that they will be travelling to Africa. When you ask them where in Africa? They start murmuring and stammering to figure out what you mean.

work or at least smile at the skills of our friend. Then one day, one of the journalists, in fact a senior one, asked whether our colleague could do the commentary for Hausa and other languages. If it were possible I would have been very happy, because that would have saved me from struggling to translate certain football terms in Hausa language. Luckily, we had my friend Aminu Abdulkadir who came up with such excellent terms like ‘bugun lauje” for Conner-kick etc.

But the one that remains fresh in my memory was in the autumn of 2012. I was teaching a course on the impact of propaganda and distortion in the media.

So I had pictures of two locations, Nairobi city in Kenya, and Harlem in New York. As an introduction to the topic, I displayed the picture of Harlem and asked the students to identify the city. Unanimously, all the students said it must be somewhere in Africa, simply because it looks like a deprived area populated by black people.

I then displayed the picture which provides an aerial view of Nairobi and asked them to identify the city. “This must be somewhere in Singapore” one of the students said. “It looks like somewhere in California,” said another. I asked the students why they think Nairobi looks like California, and Harlem is somewhere in Africa. The answer was obvious, that’s how the media represents Africa.

So if I were to advise the black students in Harvard, Oxford and Cambridge, I would have told them to take their peaceful campaign to the doors of the news media, for among other factors, their colleagues think they don’t belong to Harvard, Oxford or Cambridge because of what they see on their television screens.

Yusha’u was sourced from Greenberg Reporters

AGIS overhaul: Panacea for performance

By Mohammed Awwal Ibrahim

E

vidently, from the recent overhaul and complete change of the system infrastructure in Abuja Geographic Information System, the Transformation Agenda of the present government is alive and kicking in the FCT. Senator Bala Mohammed is pivotal in the implementation of this transformation.

The overhaul of AGIS infrastructure by the FCT Minister through the Executive Director of the agency, Mrs Jamila Tangaza, was with the implicit purpose of guaranteeing security, efficiency and innovative workflows and a process to impede gaps in all areas.

Not until this moment, since the inception of AGIS in 2003, there has not been any hardware systems renewal/upgrade which is necessarily done at the expiration of the useful duration of computer systems (mostly between 4-6 years, depending on the kind of equipment).

Based on this, most of the work servers, work stations and peripherals have surpassed their beneficial durations ensuing in reduced, unreliable and inefficient operations with negative consequences on AGIS’ overall performance.

The Executive Director AGIS, sought for and got approval from the FCT Minister to carry out the systems upgrade in the areas of upgrading and replacing of obsolete computer servers, workstations and peripherals, upgrading and repair of internet and WAN connectivity infrastructure, establishment of co-located disaster recovery site, installation of

security surveillance infrastructure, integration of newly-acquired data storage infrastructure, upgrading of GIS/spatial data infrastructure and upgrading of online portal infrastructure.

In addition, Mrs Tangaza has expressed the need for the protection of sensitive data, when she said that “in order to protect the sensitive data in AGIS computerized repositories from possible loss, damage or corruption as a result of unforeseen incidents related to fire outbreaks, terrorism, theft and wilful sabotage, AGIS system upgrade includes adequate disaster recovery plans involving offsite co-location of AGIS servers and storage systems, the system upgrade also provides an opportunity for AGIS IT unit to upgrade and tighten the effective domain access and system security policies in order to guard against future security breaches.”

The Executive Director, AGIS also elucidated that the implementation of the new system infrastructure was done almost entirely by the AGIS in-house IT team with some little support from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) partners. This in itself is an epoch achievement given the highly sophisticated and state of art architecture of AGIS new systems which is based on the very latest technology available in the world.

Thus, the utilization of in-house resources by the AGIS management was able to save significant amount of cost for the FCT Administration which hitherto would have potentially quadrupled the amount spent for the project. In addition to cost saving, Tangaza was also able to build sufficient in-house capacity to ensure the operations of the new system as well as knowledge transfer to the end users of the

system.

The major internet connection of 512kbs via fibre provided by Galaxy Backbone Limited was grossly inadequate even for critical security updates, which could only be done during offpeak periods as a result of congestion.

E-collections were done using a V-Sat connection that was later upgraded to 1.5mbps, as it stands now the primary connection to the internet with a bandwidth of up to 13mbs means that speed of data processing is ten times faster than what it used to be.

The issue of low memory and other critical resources on the old un-upgradable client desktops and servers had made operations slower and processing time longer, it took three days to print C of O’s, in the past but with the overhaul it only takes thirty minutes.

The connection between AGIS and other stakeholder SDAs although claimed to exist, had never been active, collaboration and secure data exchange was impossible; it could only be done through public network.

Now secure data sharing between AGIS and these stakeholder SDAs is possible. The immediate benefits will be closer collaboration, faster service delivery and information sharing.

Essential tools for GIS operations were dated 2006, recent technologies could not be utilized, existing satellite image is for 2009.

All development/changes made after them never reflected and data processing tools only used older formats. The way it is now is that installation of a major tool used for all GIS (Geographic Information System) operations, including geospatial data management, integration, migration, digitization etc. we

expect a more efficient monitoring of FCT boundaries. Initial equipment only covered FCC while the present one covers the entire FCT and part of the contiguous states. This is also useful, not only for land administration, but also for research, management of utilities and health facilities to mention a few.

Not too long the entire AGIS fire reaction and defence system was ineffective, the water reticulation was absent, the alarm system had less coverage and it was operated electrically which means that in case of a fire outbreak, it will seize to operate. Presently, the fire system is one of the best in the city, as all the hydrants and hose reels which previously ran out of water have now been fully restored and serviced.

Also the smoke detectors have been completely reactivated.

By the benefit of this new system infrastructure, AGIS has been able to guarantee the security of valuable land related data stored in their databases by deploying a disaster recovery site at the ultramodern facilities of Galaxy Backbone Plc., which enables AGIS to automatically recover from disaster whether natural or manmade.

Basically, the eventual beneficiaries of all of these efforts are the highly esteemed customers who will undoubtedly experience and enjoy faster, more effective and qualitative service in all aspects of their dealings with AGIS. From all indications the new AGIS infrastructure is a win-win situation for all.

Ibrahim wrote in from Durumi District Abuja, and can be reached on awalumoha@gmail.com

PAGE 40

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Comments The value of the Nigerian entertainment industry

By Roberts Orya

“

N

ollywood is getting set to take over the world.

I recognize the role of entertainment in the Nigerian economy and this government will support an industry that makes Nigerians happy. I have given them direct order to make sure entertainers have $200 million worth of loan to work with.

Make more movies, write and produce more hit songs, provide jobs and give hope to our people.”

- President Goodluck Jonathan It bears similarity with Hollywood. A number of Nollywood actors and actresses are destined to superstardom before they attain the middle age. It is not about instant fame and fortune. But by sheer productivity and masterful performances, actors and actresses become veterans before they attain the golden age. Musicians even tend to operate across generations. The reason for these is the entertainment industry does so well in harnessing the power of youth.

A lot is feared about the demographic structure of Nigeria, for now and for the future. By current estimates, the Nigerian population has over 100 million people under the age of 45. Will this army of young people find gainful employment today? If they don’t, how are they to vent their energy? From, say the year 2054, when the potential demographic dividend of today will yield to something of an inverted pyramid population structure, what percentage of private and public resources would be required to support the pension system and care for the aged?

First, let’s take a close look at the last question. Most artistes across the genres of entertain-

H

ment are early starters. They start to contribute to the GDP at relatively young age. Their careers prop a broad range of economic activities that define the entertainment industry value chain.

Because artistes remain economically active in their old age, and some of their past works gain even greater value much later, they hardly pose any burden on government or society. Instead, they keep both together happily.

Furthermore, outside of policymaking and regulating the industry, entertainment is a sphere of activities for the private sector. It is not a place where huge pension liabilities will accrue to the government. Therefore, the growth of the entertainment industry does not pose corresponding additional burden on fiscal management.

Indeed, the entertainment industry has been growing in leaps and bounds in the last decade. Nollywood has risen to number two position (behind India’s Bollywood) in the global film markets, in terms of volume of production. In revenue, Nollywood is third, behind Hollywood and Bollywood. Nollywood produces about 50 movies per week. Current estimates put its annual revenue at an impressive $590 million. Africa Renewal, a publication of the United Nations, reported in its May 2013 edition, that the African film industry (in which Nollywood is by far the dominant), would contribute significantly to the expected 5.2% GDP growth projection for the continent last year. Euromonitor International and Reed Exhibitions, the organisers of the World Travel Market, a global event for the travel industry, were cited by Africa Renewal saying that the Nigerian film industry will continue to drive domestic and regional tourism.

The entertainment sector is job-rich. It is now reputed to be the second highest employer of labour in Nigeria after agriculture. Characteristically employing pools of young people with diverse skill sets, the Nigerian film industry alone currently employs more than one million people.

In the earlier part of its history, Nollywood struggled to attract the interest of funders. It basically relied on angel investors and personal finance of a few people within the industry to maintain production. Then, its distribution infrastructure was hijacked by pirates and other agents of unauthorised distributorship.

Today however, the industry is raising a new breed of savvy entrepreneurs whose exploits have internationalised the movie industry. One of them is 33-year old Jason Njoku of Iroko Partners, who was recently listed by Forbes as one of “top 10 young African millionaires to watch.” His firm with offices in Lagos, London and New York, distributes Nollywood and Ghanaian films and music. Seen as Africa’s version of Netflix, Iroko Partners attracted further $8 million in funding last December to boost its on-demand video platform and drive it toward profitability in 2015.

With the rising funding profile, several Nigerian actors and actresses have starred in international films. Some of the Nigerian films have been shot in exotic locations outside the country. One of the exponents, Genevieve Nnaji has been a guest on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Omotola JaladeEkeinde is currently a Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations. In the music sphere, Femi Kuti has received two nominations for Grammy Award, while 2Face Idibia and D’banj are winners of MTV Music Awards.

Around Africa, Europe and America, Nollywood actors and Nigerian musicians are showcases of the abundance of raw talents in Nigeria, and how we are a people that is up and doing. Africa Magic channel on DSTV (Digital Satellite Television) is about the magic of the Nigerian creative zest and industry capacity; no pun intended.

Less than a decade ago, it was almost unthinkable that a local Nigerian musician would collaborate with international stars. Today, such collaborations are commonplace. U.S. mega stars Kanye West and Snoop Lion have worked with D’Banj and Don Jazzy, while Senegalese-American star Akon has signed Tuface Idibia, P-Square and Wizkid as the African representatives of his record label, Konvict Musik. Apart from signing a lucrative deal with SONY Music Entertainment, D’Banj’s was recently unveiled at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa as the Ambassador for ONE Campaign, an advocacy that calls African governments to commit at least 10 per cent of national budgets on agriculture investment.

Nigeria’s Kings of Comedy, Ali Baba, Basketmouth, Julius Agwu, AY, among others are also celebrated across Africa and beyond. Basketmouth and Julius Agwu have individually organized sold-out shows at the O2 Arena, United Kingdom. Apart from having sold-out performances at home and abroad, video and audio recordings of comedy shows have also become huge sources of revenue for these comedians.

Nollywood bubbles with the energy of youth. The predominant genre of the Nigerian music ruling our airwaves is youthful. That means perfect symmetry with the huge Nigerian youth population. The population universe of

170 million people provides a big market for retail of entertainment products. At the same time, businesses tapping the huge Nigerian consumer market, especially the mobile network operators (MNOs) and food & beverage, are propelling Nigerian entertainers to new levels of financial success with incomes from endorsements, Caller Ring Back Tones (CRBT), etc. In effect, Nigerian youthshave the right motivations for success in the examples of the stars that grace our television sets and rule our airwaves.

When cinemas arrived in Nigeria, much of the movies that moviegoers were treated to came from Hollywood, Chinese and Indian films. However, over the last decade, Nollywood films have become staples of Nigerian cinemas. This experience has further deepened the cinema culture in Nigeria as Nollywood film producers and directors, with considerable investments in both equipment and training, have significantly improved the quality of Nigerian films.

The Nigerian entertainment industry has invalidated the excuse of poverty as a reason for the youth to operate in the underworld of crime. Many music stars and comedians have emerged from poor neighbourhoods, including Mushin and Ajegunle, twosuburbs in Lagos. We therefore hope that the demographic dividend that is associated with the Nigerian population structure will be realised. The threat of a large youth population, which will turn against the larger society because of lack of the right motivation and opportunities, therefore diminishes.

Roberts Orya is the Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Export-Import Bank

Open letter to Governor Idris Wada

is Excellency is aware of the peaceful nature of Igala people, both at home and outside the state.

His Excellency is also aware that the Igala people always come together and speak with one voice any time they want to take a stand about the political development in the state.

This unity of purpose was demonstrated in 1999 governorship election in the state, when Late Dr. Stephen Achema, after winning the PDP ticket to contest the election was denied the mandate. Thereafter, he called on his Igala brothers to vote Alhaji Abubakar Audu of the then APP. Abubakar Audu won the election and became the first Civilian Governor of Kogi State.

The Igala Unity Forum Ankpa Branch wants to intimate the governor that this unity of purpose will soon disappear from Igala land, if the activities of some politicians from Kogi East are not checked.

It is noteworthy that politicians from Kogi East have not fought themselves dirty, as was done in

other states of the country, whereby political office seekers terminate the lives of others through violence or assassination of political opponents. This is happening because of the give and take nature of Igala people.

The political scenario now building in Kogi East is no longer accommodating as some few people want to take everything that belongs to that area politically.

At this point, mention must be made of Hajia Halima Alfa, who wants to hijack what belongs to the people of Ankpa Local Government Area for her selfish ends.

His Excellency will recall that in series of meetings held with some Kogi East Elders, it was agreed that the position of Senator in Kogi East in 2015 should go to Ankpa Local Government Area, which has been starved of federal representation from the fourth republic, till date.

However, it might interest His Excellency to know that Hajia Halima Alfa who is not from Ankpa Local Government Area is fighting tooth and nail to hijack the Senator-

ship position which has been zoned to that area by Kogi East leaders of thought in the PDP and approved

by His Excellency as the leader of the party in the state.

For your information, Hajia Halima Alfa first started her political career with the APP and served in the administration of Abubakar Audu as Commissioner for Commerce and Industry representing Idah Local Government Area which is her home local government.

Currently, Hajia Halima Alfa is a member of BOT of the PDP, a Director of Sure-P at the federal level, Chairman Governing Council of College of Education Technical Kabba and also a member of Arewa Consultative Council, amongst others.

All these positions were gotten through her usual characteristics and not by democratic process yet nobody challenged her but for her to try to hijack what belongs to Ankpa people would be vehemently resisted, because Ankpa has capable hands to represent her and the nation.

We are compelled to write this letter to His Excellency because Halima Alfa has boasted that she would get the Senatorial ticket from Abuja, whether our people like it or not.

Our consolation however, is that the new PDP National Chairman is a man of integrity and has promised that the party would not impose anybody on the people, in the 2015 general election. We are happy that he is the Chairman of our party, not sole administrator of the party.

We also know the caliber of the person of our governor and we are confident he will remain on the side of the majority of the people, being a man of God. The PDP elders of Kogi East should call Halima Alfa to order before she destroys the political stronghold of the party in the state.

It is on record that the greediness and selfishness of Halima Alfa, robbed Barrister Kabiru Usman of becoming the PDP National Legal Adviser at the last PDP Convention because she boasted that since the

position was not given to her, she must ensure that the position elude Kogi State. And true to her boasting, the position was moved from Kogi to Plateau State.

In the fight for the Senatorial seat of Kogi East in 2015, Halima Alfa has again vowed that she will use whatever means available to her to ensure that no other person from Ankpa Local Government Area gets the position other than herself. Politics is a game of number, Not a game of who one knows.

Time has come for His Excellency and political well wishers in Kogi East to tell Halima Alfa that enough is enough. She should stop heating the polity, unnecessarily.

God bless Ankpa LGA, God bless Kogi State, God bless Nigeria.

JIBRIN HUSSENI Chairman, Kogi Unity Forum IBRAHIM ADAMA Secretary

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 41

Online comments Breaking News!

Soldiers battle Boko Haram in Borno Maiduguri says:

Abduljabbar

Thanks be to Allah for making our troops victorious on this so called Boko Haram and insha Allah we the youths of Maiduguri will continue to protect our old and the young and will never be afraid of facing anyone. We are ready to die to protect the innocent lives of our people.

Military check causes heavy traffic in Mpape Abayomi says:

Abdulsalam

The best of all.

FG, ASUP talks deadlocked, strike continues Ahmed Tijjani Khaleepa says: FG and ASUP please release poly students.

Boko Haram: 2 killed in Argungu Ahmed Tijjani Khaleepa says: Allah ya karemu kakare mutuncin mu, Allah kabamu lafia da zama lafia da gamawa lafia alfarman sayyadina Rasulullahi.

Borno: Jonathan threatens to pull

Malam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

out troops Obodumu Otukpo says: The president of the Federal Rebublic. of Nigeria should ignore the nonsense the Gov of Bornu State keep vomitting concerning the Boko Haram. Firstly The Governor has never in his life been enlisted into Boys’ Scout not even mentioning any of the Armed forces.

Secondly, he has no knowledge of weaponry and neither has he any smallest idea of the weapons both Boko Haram and the Nigerian Army are using in this conflict, he comes to Maiduguri just once in a while.

After all how are we sure this Boko Hara were not thugs used by the Gov. to torment his political opponents.

His expected 100% control of the state can make him to make irrational statements. I advise the Govt of Nigeria and all the security agencies to countinue in the fight and not to lose focus.

The prayers of Nigerians and the souls murdered children will very soon give Nigeria a victory and all those behind this murderous act will be brought out.

President Goodluck Jonathan

Justice Kutigi

outside the campus while A.B.U security curtail the premises of the campus. There was unnecessary panic in the campus and is most unfortunate.

guide-for-fifa-u-17-womensworld-cup/

U-17 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica. Also here is complete guide for the broadcasting schedule: http://www.purevpn. com/blog/a-complete-online-

of ministerial nominees to National Assembly there was no stamped eor death recorded unfortunately which are all old cargoes why then should the same

government of the day decide to take the youths who are leaders of tomorrow to the slaughter ground? Also going through the list of the application how many ministers, governors, house members, children’s are there?

People in government should know that everybody will surely give account in the hereafter

Recruitment: NANS wants Flamingoes are Moro, battle ready for Parradang U-17 World Cup, sacked Confab: Sanusi responds says Coach Suleman Aliyu says: Aside N7bn, to FRC Alan says: May almighty Allah ac- delegates allegations The National U-17 Women cept their souls and grant them team (Flamingoes players and paradise ameen. But Nigeria demand Abdulkadir says: their coaches have assured Ni- youth should wake up from gerians of riding on the crest of their slumber and take the bull allowances for That useless fool called Olise the Golden Eaglets golden feat by horn because when the govMetu is a liar, tell him and his in UAE by winning the FIFA ernment of the day sent the list aides paymaster to treat the affairs of this country fairly and stop politicizing everything. God bless Nigeria!

Panic in ABU as soldiers raise alarm Boko Haram Alamjrsays: The VC of A.B.U should not have allowed soldiers into the campus. Let the soldiers stay

Dr. Abba Moro (r) and CG NIS, Paradang

Baban Boy says: The delegate must dance the music of their appointees.

PAGE 42

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Interview

Military impunity dangerous for democracy, Unongo warns Paul Unongo was former Minister of Steel Development during the Second Republic and had participated in all the constitutional conferences except one. In his capacity as the Vice Chairman of the Northern Elders Forum, he spoke to journalists on some pressing national concerns. Patrick Andrew was there and brings us excerpts….

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ately, there have spates of violence across the country: Boko Haram insurgency, killing in Katsina and Benue, and the purported resignation of the Minister of Defence. Could you please react on these sad happenings?

Just like you heard, I heard and consequently, the Northern Elders Forum that the Minister of Defence, Gen Aliyu Mohammed Gusau, resigned or sent in sent in his resignation through his Permanent Secretary to the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and we also heard that this purported resignation was occasioned by a very strange behavioural activities of the heads of security and Armed Forces of Nigeria as relate to the function of a civilian head of department of government versus the military heads of the Armed Forces.

We heard that when Gen. Gusau went to take over he had indicated that he would like to see all the heads of the Armed Forces or security forces and I understand they didn’t turn up and that he had to wait. And that the deputy or minister of state, who is a junior minister who was overseeing defence tried to get the heads of the Armed Forces that the real substantive cabinet minister was taking over the oversight business of the defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and wanted to see his heads of the Armed Forces. And it is reported that they refused to meet with him.

Not only did they refused to meet with him, it was rumoured that on the final occasion he waited and waited and waited for a very very long time and after some time the Joint Chief of Staff- that is that the man who is the head of all the Armed Forces – an Air Force Vice Marshal, he came and when he came the minister and indicated that he had waited for them and they have refused to come, I think he was alleged to have explained to the minister that he was the only person he was going to see and the other people will not see him and he would sit with him and that that was enough.

And to this the minister of state is alleged to have expressed consternation that these heads of the Armed Forces and Security Forces would flout the directives

of the minister’s oversight and I hear from the grapevine that the youngman, who is the Joint Chief of Staff, got angry and blew out against the minister of state and told the minister of state off ‘that he was feed up with this bloody civilian’.

And at that point in time we were told that the substantive Defence Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria –Gen. Gusau felt offended and stood up and supposedly left his Permanent Secretary with his letter of resignation that he should forward it to Mr. president that he would not take insubordination from the disciplined Forces, particularly the heads that were supposed to oversee the defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Now, you noticed I said this is what we heard and if this is what we heard, it is unfortunate and I hope the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would take note of the grave implications inherent in the drama of heads of the Armed Forces refusing to carry out the instructions of civilian cabinet ministers appointed to oversee their various departments.

One of the strongest nations, I think people believe that America is the most powerful nation on earth, whatever it is, the generals of the United State none of them would dare to refuse the constitutional role that is supposed to be played by the President of USA and the cabinet minister charged with the looking after the defence would and answer the defence minister in the manner he was alleged to have, refusing to as these ones had: that they would not meet with the cabinet minister. I wonder

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Dr. Paul Unongo who is going to annunciate the policy of the government of the day- the civilian government. I think there is confusion in Nigeria today.

The confusion in Nigeria need not be because the constitution spells out properly. Within the constitution, the role of the military tier is subordinated to the civilian set up, to the rulership and the administrative directive of the civilian members of government led by the presidency and the National Assembly. r. President invites cabinet ministers to help him run the department and the military department is part of it and the Armed Forces is part of government department. The heads of departments, by the constitution, is supposed to be looked after by a director under the ministry of defence, unless they have changed the constitution and, are under the director who then coordinates the Armed Forces. For them to behave as

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We had advised the government on how to tackle the growing menace of the insurgence because it is a very serious issue. We know that there are political Boko Haram, the criminal Boko Haram, the religious Boko Haram and the economic Boko Haram and several others some of which the president admitted were in his government, and which many fear may be, and rightly so, is the creation of the state.

if they are in a military administration that the boss called them in for a discussion, perhaps, to tell them the policy of government and they refused.

And in this case, a person supremely experienced, more qualified, this a man that had been a general for over 20 years in the Nigerian Armed Forces, someone nicked named the “Chief Spy” of the Nigerian federation, this man that all government tapped from his experience, knowledge.

So, if he resigned I supported him.

If I were him, I would have resigned too. If he didn’t resign, then what happened? Nigerians need to know what happened. I hear Mr. President prevailed upon him, he sent a lot of senior officers that are his friends, and they went and pleaded with him to withdraw his letter of resignation. It is a tragedy the level we have reduced ourselves to in this country. By this incredible impunity in governance taking Nigerians for granted, believing that Nigerians know nothing, this is the greatest tragedy in Nigeria.

This man must have been made angry and he resigned or threatened to resign. These people don’t like us to know the truth. I think this a serious issue that the NASS should find out because this will be an attack on our democratic system. Are we heading backward into military administration?

If Nigeria want democracy they should stop cheating themselves.

This is a very serious thing within a democratic setup. I Know something similar happened in the USA and they fired the general immediately. If you disagree with the head that is supposed to oversee your function then you have

no business being there.

Or if you questioned your president’s authority, by constitution the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria , is allowed to choose anybody he feels is competent to man any department. And when he chooses them, the constitution gives power to them, the president gives credibility to them. They are acting on behalf of the president who is the Commander inChief of the Armed Forces.

When you disobey, show disrespect and say you will see me alone and talk to me, ‘this bloody civilian’ you can’t be in the Armed Forces of Nigeria because you have a president who is a civilian.

It will come down to as it happens in Russia, USA, ‘sorry, General show him the way out’.

I want to warn as a Nigerian.

This type of thing in Nigeria should never be allowed. It should never be tolerated. We are feed up with military administration. I want the people in the Armed Forces to know that the way the government of Nigeria runs I don’t blame them for behaving that like they do because there is so much impunity and insensitivity. Activities of some governors and people at the level of government, they behave like military men, they issue out injunctions on others. They do all kinds of funny things, act arbitrarily.

Let me warned the Army Forces of Nigeria, a lot of us Nigerians will not tolerate military music in this country; an announcement of a saviour saving us from the political problems of politicians. We prefer a democratic setup under politicians than a benevolent military dictatorship under the military. We have had enough of military rule and when a military person acts as if they ought to be a cut short that military people take he should be flushed out of the system. If I were the president, I would have sacked not my minister but all the heads that refused to come when my minister invited them. And if I were the one appointed as minister of defence I will insist that the president do so and if he refuses I will insist on resigning.

What will be your response to the increasing acts of the insurgent group: Boko Haram?

At the level of leadership, we are concerned, the NEF is worried and we asked, who is playing with the intelligence of Nigerians in is this very serious issue. Is somebody organizing this stabilization us, so that the Northerner should kill themselves?

We had advised the government on how to tackle the growing menace of the insurgence because it is a very serious issue. We know that there are political Boko Haram, the criminal Boko Haram, the religious Boko Haram and the economic Boko Haram and several others some of which the president admitted were in his government, and which many fear may be, and rightly so, is the creation of the state.

PAGE 43

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

News Extra

Children with Down syndrome not witches or wizards

By Kekong Susan Eneh

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he joy of every couple is complete in their children. Perhaps, that’s why Buchi Emecheta said, “If you don’t have them the longing for them will kill you, if you have them the worrying over them will kill you.”

Just as all fingers are not equal, some children are also different and special in their own way. But in Nigeria, stereotype and lack of awareness has been a major cause of neglect of children with special needs. Some have been labeled witches or are seen as demons sent to unleash terror on the family.

Consequently, some children have been subjected to all manners of inhumane treatment. It was in this light that 21st of March (yesterday) is usually marked as World’s Down’s syndrome dayfor the celebration of the children with special needs and the creation of awareness of the Down syndrome.

Historically, ‘Down Syndrome’ is caused by extra genetic material from chromosome 21. Chromosomes are the structures in cells that contain the genes.

Each person normally has 23 pairs of chromosomes or 46 in all. An individual inherits one chromosome per pair from the mother’s egg and one from the father’s sperm. When an egg and sperm join together, they normally form a fertilized egg with 46 chromosomes.

Sometimes, something goes wrong before fertilization. A developing egg or sperm cell may divide incorrectly, sometimes causing an egg or sperm cell to have an extra chromosome number 21. When this cell joins with a normal egg or sperm cell, the resulting embryo has 47 chromosomes, instead of 46. Down syndrome is called trisomy 21 because affected individuals have three number 21 chromosomes instead of two. This type of error in cell division causes about 95 percent of the cases of Down syndrome.

Occasionally, before fertilization, a part of chromosome 21 breaks off during cell division and becomes attached to another chromosome in the egg or sperm cell. The resulting embryo may have what is called translocation Down syndrome.

Affected individuals have two normal copies of chromosome 21, plus extra chromosome 21 material attached to another chromosome. This type of error in cell division causes about 3 to 4 percent of the cases of Down syndrome. In some cases, a parent may have a rearrangement of chromosome 21, called a balanced translocation, which does not affect his or her health.

About 1 to 2 percent of individuals with Down syndrome have a form called mosaicism. In this form, the error in cell division occurs after fertilization. Affected individuals have some cells with an extra

Children suffering from Down Syndrome chromosome 21 and others with the normal number.

A child with Down syndrome may have: Eyes that slant upward, Small ears that may fold over a little at the top, a small mouth, making the tongue appear large, a small nose with a flattened nasal bridge, a short neck, small hands and feet, low muscle tone, short stature in childhood and adulthood. Most children with Down syndrome have some, but not all, of these features. eanna Smith, a parent with a Down syndrome child said, “There’s much beauty in Down syndrome; often times my daughter’s beauty takes my breath away. Sparkling almond-shaped eyes that are same colour with her daddy’s.

“A captivating smile that often leads to laughter so infectious that the hardest of hearts will melt in response, small hands that are quick to seek mischief and then sign for forgiveness, a cute gap between her toes that is perfect for wearing sandals.

Allow your stereotypical reality to crumble and truly get to know the person hidden under the label.”

Another parent Debbie Joblin says “having a down’s child give s people the opportunity to be a better person by being kind, caring, and tolerant”.

What health problems might a person with Down syndrome have?

The outlook for individuals with Down syndrome is brighter than it once was. Most of the health problems associated with Down Syndrome can be treated, and life expectancy is now about 60 years.

Individuals with Down Syndrome are

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What they usually have A short neck Low muscle tone Eyes that slant upward Eyes that slant upward Small ears that may fold over a little at the top A small mouth, making the tongue appear large A small nose with a flattened nasal bridge Short stature in childhood and adulthood

more likely than unaffected individuals to have one or more of the following health conditions: •Heart defects: Almost half of babies with Down syndrome have heart defects.

Some defects are minor and may be treated with medications, while others require surgery. All babies with Down syndrome should be examined by a pediatric cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart diseases of children. They also should have an echocardiogram, a special ultrasound of the heart, in the first 2 months of life so that heart defects can be detected and treated, if needed.

•Intestinal defects: About 12 percent of babies with Down syndrome are born with intestinal malformations that require surgery.

•Vision problems: More than 60 percent of children with Down syndrome have vision problems, including crossed eyes (esotropia), near- or far-sightedness and cataracts. Glasses, surgery or other treatments usually can improve vision. A child with Down syndrome should be examined by a pediatric ophthalmologist (eye doctor) within the first 6 months of life and have regular vision exams.

•Hearing loss: About 75 percent of children with Down syndrome have some hearing loss. Hearing loss may be due to fluid in the middle ear (which may be temporary) and/or defects involving the middle or inner ear.

Babies with Down syndrome should be screened for hearing loss at birth and again during the first months of life. They also should have regular hearing exams so any problems can be treated before they hinder development of language and other skills.

•Infections: Children with Down syndrome tend to have many colds and ear infections, as well as bronchitis and pneumonia. Children with Down syndrome should receive all the standard childhood immunizations, which help prevent some of these infections.

•Thyroid problems: About 1 percent of babies with Down syndrome are born

with congenital hypothyroidism, a thyroid hormone deficiency that can affect growth and brain development. Congenital hypothyroidism can be detected with routine newborn screening tests and treated with oral doses of thyroid hormone. Children with Down syndrome also are at increased risk of acquiring thyroid problems; they should be tested yearly.

•Leukemia: Fewer than 1 in 100 children with Down syndrome develop leukemia (a blood cancer). Affected children often can be successfully treated with chemotherapy.

•Memory loss: Individuals with Down syndrome are more likely than unaffected individuals to develop Alzheimer’s disease, which is characterized by progressive memory loss, personality changes and other problems.

Adults with Down syndrome tend to develop Alzheimer’s disease at an earlier age than unaffected individuals. Studies suggest that about 25 percent of adults with Down syndrome over age 35 have symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: Eyes that slant upward Small ears that may fold over a little at the top A small mouth, making the tongue appear large Although it is medically proven that there is no cure for Down syndrome.

However, some studies suggest that

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women who have certain versions of some genes that affect how their bodies metabolize (process) the B vitamin folic acid may be at increased risk for having a baby with Down syndrome. If confirmed, this finding may provide yet another reason why all women who might become pregnant should take a daily multivitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid. Taking folic acid can help reduce the risk oes the risk of Down syndrome increase with the mother’s age?

Yes. The risk of Down syndrome increases with the mother’s age. At age 25, the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome is 1 in 1,250. At age 30, the risk is 1 in 1,000. At age 35, the risk is 1 in 400. At age 40, the risk is 1 in 100. At age 45, the risk is 1 in 30.

Even though the risk is greater as the mother’s age increases, about 80 percent of babies with Down syndrome are born to women under age 35. This is because younger women have more babies than older women.

Down syndrome is neither a communicable disease nor a demonic spirit. Children with this disorder can go to school as normal children and should be allowed to mingle freely with their peers. They also have equal rights as all human beings.

Therefore, Love, affection, patience and tolerance are necessary for raising these children.

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Babies with Down syndrome should be screened for hearing loss at birth and again during the first months of life. They also should have regular hearing exams so any problems can be treated before they hinder development of language and other skills.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Archive

Beijing city, second largest in China after Shanghai

B

eijing, also known as Peking, city and capital of China, encircled by Hebei Province, located in the northern part of the country, on the northern edge of the Huabei Pingyuan (North China Plain), approximately 110 km (70 mi) northwest of the Bo Hai gulf. Beijing, the second largest city in China after Shanghai, is the cultural, political, and intellectual center of the country, as well as a major industrial and commercial metropolis. Initially settled more than 2,000 years ago, it has been the capital of China for most of the last 700 years. The climate is seasonal, with hot summers and cold winters.

Temperatures can climb higher than 38°C (higher than 100°F) in July and drop lower than -15°C (lower than 5°F) in January.

Beijing and its metropolitan area Beijing is an independently administered municipal district of about 16,810 sq km (6,490 sq mi). It comprises ten urban districts

and eight predominantly rural counties. The urban districts include four dense city districts and six suburban districts. The suburbs are growing rapidly as new institutional, industrial, and residential buildings are constructed, converting agricultural land to urban uses. The eight rural counties continue to provide basic grain, vegetables, fruits, building materials, and water supplies to the city. However, significant industrial growth has also occurred in these areas, namely in the outlying towns of Shijingshan, Tongxian, Fengtai, and Fangshan.

The city proper consists of two older sections in the center of the city and new outlying residential, industrial, and institutional areas built mainly after 1949.

The old section includes a square inner city on the north constructed between 1409 and 1420, and a rectangular outer city to the south built between 1521 and 1566. Once encircled

Chaoyang Park, Beijing: The Chaoyang district in eastern Beijing is a modern commercial and residential area. The district contains Chaoyang Park, a popular recreational area offering amusement rides and outdoor music festivals.

Liu Liqun/Corbis

Summer Palace, Beijing, China: The Summer Palace, part of which is seen in the foreground, served as the summer residence of China’s imperial family.

Constructed as a single building in the 1100s, the palace expanded over the centuries into a larger complex of buildings, pavilions, paths, and gardens. Located in Beijing, the palace overlooks Kunming Lake.

Altar of Heaven: The Altar of Heaven is part of the Temple of Heaven, or Tian Tan, built during the Ming dynasty in Beijing, China. It is located in the outer city section of Beijing in Tian Tan Park.

The 15th-century structure, with its red walls and gold detailing, is typical of the architecture of the Ming dynasty. Public Relations/Japan Airlines

Peking Opera: Peking Opera, in Beijing, China, combines music, acrobatic dance, and spectacular costumes to tell stories from Chinese history and folklore. Using abstract, symbolic gestures rich in dramatic meaning, actors represent personages from the heroic, divine, and animal worlds, often in martial exploits. The traditional features of the masklike makeup and elaborate costumes immediately identify the characters to a knowing audience.

Marc Garanger/Corbis

by a wall about 24 km (15 mi) long and about 15 m (50 ft) high, the inner city has at its core the Forbidden City. Between 1421 and 1912, this was the walled palace and inner compound of China’s imperial family and was so named because ordinary citizens were not allowed inside. It was the most sacred space in traditional, imperial China. The complex, now housing the Palace Museum (founded in 1925), was opened to the public in 1949.

Beyond the Forbidden City was the Imperial City, which contained government offices, temples, gardens, palaces, and parks. Outside the Imperial City were upper-class homes, markets, and more temples. The adjacent outer city, once encircled by a wall about 23 km (14 mi) long, shared the northern part of its wall with the inner city. The outer city contained important temple areas and residential space for the commoners.

In accordance with traditional Chinese

town planning, Beijing was designed along a north-south central axis; this line represented the imperial authority and it ran through many key government offices, buildings, imperial residences, and main gates. After the Communist revolution in 1949, most walls of the old city were demolished and replaced with thoroughfares. However, several of the old gates have been preserved. During the 1950s Tiananmen (the Gate of Heavenly Peace, also known as Tian’an Men), located along the city’s north-south axis south of the Forbidden City, was rebuilt and its square to the south was enlarged to hold crowds for parades. Major installations were added in and around Tiananmen Square, including the Great Hall of the People, built in 1959, where the national legislature meets. Several blocks east of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square is Wangfujing Avenue, the city’s most famous shopping district.

Rush Hour, Beijing: Cars and buses crowd the street during rush hour in Beijing. The city is northern China’s main center of government, industry, education, and culture. It attracts migrants from all parts of China and the resulting population growth has strained Beijing’s resources.

Tiananmen Square Protest: During the spring of 1989 prodemocracy student activists staged a series of demonstrations in Tiananmen Square in Beijing. As a symbol of their protest, demonstrators erected a 10-m (33-ft) statue called Goddess of Democracy, modeled after the Statue of Liberty in the United States. Hundreds of protestors died on June 3 and 4, 1989, when the Chinese government ordered the military to crack down on the protest.

Hall of Protective Harmony, Beijing: The Bao He Dian (Hall of Protective Harmony) is in the Forbidden City in China’s capital, Beijing. Emperors once held lavish banquets in this hall, and candidates for the highest level of imperial government service took their examinations here. Today, the Forbidden City is open to tourists as the Palace Museum. Christopher Liu/ChinaStock Photo Library

Great Speeches

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 45

“Freedom is under attack”,

by George W. Bush (I) President Bush’s address to Congress and the American people On September 11, 2001, the United States suffered the most devastating terrorist attack in its history. Hijackers seized four commercial jets and crashed two of them into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing the collapse and destruction of both towers. A third jet crashed into a section of the Pentagon near Washington, D.C., and the final jet crashed into a field southeast of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. More than 3,000 people were reported dead or missing. On September 20, President George W. Bush addressed a joint session of Congress to discuss the tragedy and the U.S. response to it. He spoke of the country coming together and the need for patience in the face of a long battle against terrorism.

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r. Speaker, Mr. President Pro Tempore, members of Congress, and fellow Americans: In the normal course of events, Presidents come to this chamber to report on the state of the Union. Tonight, no such report is needed. It has already been delivered by the American people.

We have seen it in the courage of passengers, who rushed terrorists to save others on the ground—passengers like an exceptional man named Todd Beamer.

And would you please help me to welcome his wife, Lisa Beamer, here tonight.

We have seen the state of our Union in the endurance of rescuers, working past exhaustion. We have seen the unfurling of flags, the lighting of candles, the giving of blood, the saying of prayers—in English, Hebrew, and Arabic. We have seen the decency of a loving and giving people who have made the grief of strangers their own.

My fellow citizens, for the last nine days, the entire world has seen for itself the state of our Union—and it is strong.

Tonight we are a country awakened to danger and called to defend freedom.

Our grief has turned to anger, and anger to resolution. Whether we bring our enemies to justice, or bring justice to our enemies, justice will be done.

I thank the Congress for its leadership at such an important time. All of America was touched on the evening of the tragedy to see Republicans and Democrats joined together on the steps of this Capitol, singing “God Bless America.”

And you did more than sing; you acted, by delivering $40 billion to rebuild our communities and meet the needs of our military.

Speaker Hastert, Minority Leader Gephardt, Majority Leader Daschle and Senator Lott, I thank you for your friendship, for your leadership and for your service to our country.

And on behalf of the American people, I thank the world for its outpouring of support. America will never forget the sounds of our National Anthem playing at Buckingham Palace, on the streets of Paris, and at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate.

We will not forget South Korean children gathering to pray outside our embassy in Seoul, or the prayers of sympathy offered at a mosque in Cairo. We will not forget moments of silence and days of mourning in Australia and Africa and Latin America.

Nor will we forget the citizens of 80 other nations who died with our own: dozens of Pakistanis; more than 130 Israelis; more than 250 citizens of India; men and women from El Salvador, Iran, Mexico and Japan; and hundreds of British citizens. America has no truer friend than Great Britain. Once again, we

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are joined together in a great cause—so honored the British Prime Minister has crossed an ocean to show his unity of purpose with America. Thank you for coming, friend.

On September the 11th, enemies of freedom committed an act of war against our country. Americans have known wars—but for the past 136 years, they have been wars on foreign soil, except for one Sunday in 1941. Americans have known the casualties of war—but not at the center of a great city on a peaceful morning. Americans have known surprise attacks—but never before on thousands of civilians. All of this was brought upon us in a single day—and night fell on a different world, a world where freedom itself is under attack.

Americans have many questions tonight. Americans are asking: Who attacked our country? The evidence we have gathered all points to a collection of loosely affiliated terrorist organizations known as al Qaeda. They are the same murderers indicted for bombing American embassies in Tanzania and Kenya, and responsible for bombing the USS Cole.

Al Qaeda is to terror what the mafia is to crime. But its goal is not making money; its goal is remaking the world— and imposing its radical beliefs on people everywhere. he terrorists practice a fringe form of Islamic extremism that has been rejected by Muslim scholars and the vast majority of Muslim clerics—a fringe movement that perverts the peaceful teachings of Islam. The terrorists’ directive commands them to kill Christians and Jews, to kill all Americans, and make no distinction among military and civilians, including women and children.

This group and its leader—a person named Osama bin Laden—are linked to many other organizations in different countries, including the Egyptian Islamic Jihad and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. There are thousands of these terrorists in more than 60 countries. They are recruited from their own nations and neighborhoods and brought to camps in places like Afghanistan, where they are trained in the tactics of terror. They are sent back to their homes or sent to hide in countries around the world to plot evil and destruction.

The leadership of al Qaeda has great influence in Afghanistan and supports the Taliban regime in controlling most of that country. In Afghanistan, we see al Qaeda’s vision for the world.

Afghanistan’s people have been brutalized—many are starving and many have fled. Women are not allowed to attend school. You can be jailed for owning a television. Religion can be practiced only as their leaders dictate. A man can be

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George W. Bush jailed in Afghanistan if his beard is not long enough.

The United States respects the people of Afghanistan—after all, we are currently its largest source of humanitarian aid—but we condemn the Taliban regime. It is not only repressing its own people, it is threatening people everywhere by sponsoring and sheltering and supplying terrorists. By aiding and abetting murder, the Taliban regime is committing murder.

And tonight, the United States of America makes the following demands on the Taliban: Deliver to United States authorities all the leaders of al Qaeda who hide in your land. Release all foreign nationals, including American citizens, you have unjustly imprisoned.

Protect foreign journalists, diplomats and aid workers in your country. Close immediately and permanently every terrorist training camp in Afghanistan, and hand over every terrorist, and every person in their support structure, to appropriate authorities. Give the United States full access to terrorist training camps, so we can make sure they are no longer operating.

These demands are not open to negotiation or discussion. The Taliban must act, and act immediately. They will hand over the terrorists, or they will share in their fate.

I also want to speak tonight directly to Muslims throughout the world. We respect your faith. It’s practiced freely by many millions of Americans, and by millions more in countries that America counts as friends. Its teachings are good and peaceful, and those who commit evil in the name of Allah blaspheme the name of Allah. The terrorists are traitors to their own faith, trying, in effect, to hijack Islam itself. The enemy of America is not our many Muslim friends; it is not

I also want to speak tonight directly to Muslims throughout the world. We respect your faith. It’s practiced freely by many millions of Americans, and by millions more in countries that America counts as friends. Its teachings are good and peaceful, and those who commit evil in the name of Allah blaspheme the name of Allah.

our many Arab friends. Our enemy is a radical network of terrorists, and every government that supports them.

Our war on terror begins with al Qaeda, but it does not end there. It will not end until every terrorist group of global reach has been found, stopped and defeated.

Americans are asking, why do they hate us? They hate what we see right here in this chamber—a democratically elected government. Their leaders are self-appointed. They hate our freedoms—our freedom of religion, our freedom of speech, our freedom to vote and assemble and disagree with each other.

They want to overthrow existing governments in many Muslim countries, such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. They want to drive Israel out of the Middle East. They want to drive Christians and Jews out of vast regions of Asia and Africa.

These terrorists kill not merely to end lives, but to disrupt and end a way of life. With every atrocity, they hope that America grows fearful, retreating from the world and forsaking our friends.

They stand against us, because we stand in their way. e are not deceived by their pretenses to piety. We have seen their kind before. They are the heirs of all the murderous ideologies of the 20th century. By sacrificing human life to serve their radical visions—by abandoning every value except the will to power—they follow in the path of fascism, and Nazism, and totalitarianism. And they will follow that path all the way, to where it ends: in history’s unmarked grave of discarded lies.

Americans are asking: How will we fight and win this war? We will direct every resource at our command—every means of diplomacy, every tool of intelligence, every instrument of law enforcement, every financial influence, and every necessary weapon of war—to the disruption and to the defeat of the global terror network.

This war will not be like the war against Iraq a decade ago, with a decisive liberation of territory and a swift conclusion. It will not look like the air war above Kosovo two years ago, where no ground troops were used and not a single American was lost in combat.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 46

International

Missing Malaysia plane: 10 theories examined 1. Landed in the Andaman Islands he plane was apparently at one stage heading in the direction of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the most easterly part of Indian territory, which lies between Indonesia and the coast of Thailand and Burma. It has been reported that military radar there might not even have been operating, as the threat level is generally perceived to be low.

The editor of the islands’ Andaman Chronicle newspaper dismisses the notion that the aircraft could be there. There are four airstrips but planes landing would be spotted, he told CNN. He also believed monitoring by the Indian military would prevent an airliner being able to land there unnoticed.

But this is an isolated spot. There are more than 570 islands, only 36 of which are inhabited. If the plane had been stolen, this might be the best place to land it secretly, says Steve Buzdygan, a former BA 777 pilot. It would be difficult, but not impossible, to land on the beach, he says. At least 5,000ft (1500m) or so would make a long enough strip to land on.

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2. Flew to Kazakhstan The Central Asian republic is at the far end of the northern search corridor, so the plane could hypothetically have landed there.

Light aircraft pilot Sylvia Wrigley, author of Why Planes Crash, says landing in a desert might be possible and certainly more likely than landing on a beach somewhere.

“To pull this off, you are looking at landing in an incredibly isolated area,” says Wrigley. The failure so far to release a cargo manifest has created wild rumours about a valuable load that could be a motive for hijacking. There has also been speculation that some of those on board were billionaires.

But the plane would have been detected, the Kazakh Civil Aviation Committee said in a detailed statement sent to Reuters.

And there’s an even more obvious problem. The plane would have had to cross the airspace of countries like India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, which are all usually in a high state of military preparedness. But it’s just possible that there are weak links in the radar systems of some of the countries en route to Central Asia, Wrigley speculates. “A lot of air traffic control gear is old. They might be used to getting false positives from flocks of birds and, therefore, it would be easy to discount it.”

3. It flew south The final satellite “ping” suggests the plane was still operational for at least five or six hours after leaving Malaysian radar range. For Norman Shanks, former head of group security at airports group BAA, and professor of aviation security at Coventry University, the search should therefore start from the extremes of the corridors and work up, rather than the other way around. He thinks the southern corridor is more likely

A Malaysia airlines aircraft during lift-off for a plane that has so far avoided detection by radar.

The southern arc leads to the huge open spaces of the Indian Ocean, and then to Australia’s empty northern hinterland. Without knowing the motive, it is hard to speculate where the plane’s final destination was intended to be. But the plane may just have carried on until it ran out of fuel and then glided and crashed into the sea somewhere north of Australia.

4. Taklamakan Desert, north-west China There has been speculation on forums that the plane could have been commandeered by China’s Uighur Muslim separatists. Out of the plane’s 239 passengers, 153 were Chinese citizens. One possible destination in this theory would be China’s Taklamakan Desert. The region - described by Encyclopaedia Britannica as a “great desert of Central Asia and one of the largest sandy deserts in the world” - has no shortage of space far from prying eyes. The BBC’s Jonah Fisher tweeted on 15 March: “Being briefed

by Malaysia officials they believe most likely location for MH370 is on land somewhere near Chinese/ Kyrgyz border.”

But again, this theory rests on an extraordinary run through the radar systems of several countries.

5. It was flown towards LangkawiIsland because of a fire or other malfunction The loss of transponders and communications could be explained by a fire, aviation blogger Chris Goodfellow has suggested. The left turn that the plane made, deviating from the route to Beijing, could have been a bid to reach safety, he argues. “This pilot did all the right things. He was confronted by some major event onboard that made him make that immediate turn back to the closest safe airport.” He aimed

to avoid crashing into a city or high ridges, Goodfellow argues. “Actually he was taking a direct route to Palau Langkawi, a 13,000ft (4,000m) strip with an approach over water at night with no obstacles. He did not turn back to Kuala Lumpur because he knew he had 8,000ft ridges to cross.

He knew the terrain was friendlier towards Langkawi and also a shorter distance.” In this theory it would be assumed that the airliner did not make it to Langkawi and crashed into the sea.

6. The plane is in Pakistan edia tycoon Rupert Murdoch has tweeted: “World seems transfixed by 777 disappearance. Maybe no crash but stolen, effectively hidden, perhaps in northern Pakistan, like Bin Laden.” But Pakistan has strenuously denied that this would be possible. The country’s assistant to the prime minister on aviation, ShujaatAzeem, has been reported as saying: “Pakistan’s civil aviation radars never spotted this jet, so how it could be hidden somewhere in Pakistan?” Like the Kazakhstan theory, this all seems far-fetched, not least because the junction between Indian and Pakistani air space is one of the most watched sectors in the world by military radar. And despite the remoteness and lawlessness of northern Pakistan, the region is watched closely by satellites and drones. It seems scarcely believable to think an airliner could get there unspotted.

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7. The plane hid in the shadow of another airliner Aviation blogger Keith Ledgerwood believes the missing plane hid in the radar shadow of Singapore Airlines flight 68. The Singaporean airliner was in the same vicinity as the Malaysian plane, he argues. “It became apparent as I inspected SIA68’s flight path history that MH370 had

manoeuvred itself directly behind SIA68 at approximately 18:00UTC and over the next 15 minutes had been following SIA68.” He believes that the Singaporean airliner would have disguised the missing plane from radar controllers on the ground.

“It is my belief that MH370 likely flew in the shadow of SIA68 through India and Afghanistan airspace. As MH370 was flying ‘dark’ without a transponder, SIA68 would have had no knowledge that MH370 was anywhere around, and as it entered Indian airspace, it would have shown up as one single blip on the radar with only the transponder information of SIA68 lighting up ATC and military radar screens.”

The Singapore Airlines plane flew on to Spain. The Malaysian jet could have branched off. “There are several locations along the flight path of SIA68 where it could have easily broken contact and flown and landed in Xinjiang, Kyrgyzstan, or Turkmenistan,” Ledgerwood argues.

8. There was a struggle One of the hardest things to account for so far with an innocent explanation is the way the plane was flown erratically. It went far above its “ceiling”, flying at 45,000ft (13,716m) before later flying very low. Big fluctuations in altitude suggest there might have been a struggle, says Buzdygan.

Post-9/11, cockpit doors have been strengthened against the possibility of hijack but there are still scenarios where access could be gained.

Pilots talk to each other “over a beer” about how they’d deal with hijackers, he says. Buzdygan would have had no qualms about flying aggressively to try to resist a hijack.

“I’d try to disorientate and confuse the hijackers by throwing them around,” he says.

9.

The passengers were deliberately killed by decompression Another theory circulating is that the plane was taken up to 45,000ft to kill the passengers quickly, former RAF navigator Sean Maffett says. The supposed motive for this might have been primarily to stop the passengers using mobile phones, once the plane descended to a much lower altitude.

At 45,000ft, the Boeing 777 is way above its normal operating height.

And it is possible to depressurise the cabin, notes Maffett. Oxygen masks would automatically deploy. They would run out after 12-15 minutes.

The passengers - as with carbon monoxide poisoning - would slip into unconsciousness and die, he argues. But whoever was in control of the plane would also perish in this scenario, unless they had access to some other form of oxygen supply.

10. The plane will take off again to be used in a terrorist attack ne of the more outlandish theories is that the plane has been stolen by terrorists to commit a 9/11 style atrocity. It has been landed safely, hidden or camouflaged, will be refuelled and fitted with a new transponder before taking off to attack a city. It would be very hard to land a plane, hide it and then take off again, Maffett suggested. But it can’t be ruled out.

“We are now at stage where very, very difficult things have to be considered as all sensible options seem to have dropped off,” he says. It is not clear even whether a plane could be refitted with a new transponder and given a totally new identity in this way, he says. Others would say that while it is just about feasible the plane could be landed in secret, it is unlikely it would be in a fit state to take off again.

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Source: BBC

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

International How Mandela’s death re-united Cuba and America in S/ Africa – Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister

During the week, the Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla was in Nigeria to hold high level bilateral talks with Nigerian officials. He took time off his tight schedule to talk to Emmanuel Yawe, our Editorial Board member on topical global issues.

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hen Obama became US president, there were a lot of expectations that America’s relations with Cuba will change. What’s happening between Cuba and America right now?

Obama’s becoming president of the US led to a rise in expectations not only In Cuba and the Caribbean but also in Latin America and Africa. There has been no change with respect to Cuba. The political embargo and blockade is vigorously enforced. The tightening of the blockade in the last five years is the main feature of the period. Fines worth millions have been applied against Asian and European banks.

For example the Cuban consulate in New York has been lacking financial services for some months now.

There is also a continued attempt to bring about unconstitutional change in Cuba. And also interfere in the domestic affairs of Cuba. There is however a better bilateral ambience, with less rhetoric, no bilateral tension and there has been dialogue on technical issues in several areas.

We have offered the US to set up bilateral dialogue with a broad agenda to discuss all pending issues.

The world saw the handshake between Presidents Obama and Raul Castro at Nelson Mandela’s funeral. Did it go beyond that?

I accompanied President Raul Castro to Johannesburg on that occasion. Mandela is a very powerful symbol. His funeral made it possible for the two presidents to meet at the same event. The press asked President Raul Castro what is the meaning of this handshake and he gave a very honest answer. He said, “because we are a civilised people.

It is only natural.” In fact we think there should be civilised relations between Cuba and the US despite our differences. Mandela was a big friend of Cuba. I will never forget

the speech he made in 1991 in Cuba or the visit that Commander Fidel Castro Ruz paid to Johannesburg and Pretoria. Although there has been an attempt to portray Mandela as if he was not a revolutionary, as if Mandela had never been on the list of international terrorists issued by the US State Department. Do you that Mandela was on that list until 2008? With the same lack of rationale with which Cuba has been included in the list of states that sponsor terrorism. The main pretext for including Cuba in that list is the alleged relationship between Cuba and Colombia’s FARC guerrillas.

To see how [paradoxical that is, it is President Santos of Columbia that introduced Cuba’s issue to the Cartagena Summit of the Americas.

The entire regional leaders urged the US to stop excluding Cuba from that regional forum and they also called for the lifting of the blockade. Cuba is one of the permanent venues and also one of the guarantors in the peace talks between the Colombian government and FARC. A few weeks ago the Latin American and Caribbean Summit was held in Havana. That’s equivalent to African Union [AU] but it took 50 years after you and 200 years after our independence to have an organisation of our own. It is oriented against any country. This group was formed in Venezuela during the presidency of Hugo Chavez and was co-chaired for an entire year by Chavez and the president of Chile who was right wing. Which shows there was enough room for strong left to right regional consensus. It works for our independence, sovereignty over our natural resources, to be treated with respect as equal partners and not as backyards for the US or Europe.

Cuba’s relations with Venezuela were very warm under Hugo Chavez. Are they still warm?

Chavez is no longer here but his legacy lives on. He was one of the

Mr Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla most outstanding leaders of Latin America and the Caribbean. Chavez did not die in Cuba. He stayed in Cuba during the last months of his illness but he returned home to die with his people. His leadership and the civic and military unity that he established are very important. The relationship between Cuba and Venezuela is excellent and Chavez’s successors have been very faithful to his legacy.

The freely and democratically elected President Nicholas Maduro calls himself one of Chavez’s children. He is both a Bolivarian revolutionary and a follower of Chavez’s ideas. We share a common view and we have economic, cultural and academic relations. Our economic relations are a model of complimentarity, how to have mutually beneficial relations between two South nations. We have tens of thousands of Cuban technicians in Venezuela, especially in the area of health. We provide primary health care free of charge. We pay a solidarity price for Venezuelan oil. Our relations cannot be better.

How about Cuba’s relations with Africa? We cannot forget the tremendous military assistance you rendered to Africa in the fight for decolonisation and against Apartheid. Has this warm relationship been sustained since then? e have a profoundly cultural relationship with Africa. We have African blood in our veins, all of us. Our national poet says all Cubans are either from Carrabelle or from Congo. This is a fact. We have a relationship with Africa that has lasted for centuries. Our people struggled from independence for Cuba. They were no longer Spanish because they had been born in Cuba.

When they decided to go for the war of independence against Spain, they freed their own slaves. They fought for Cuba’s independence and the abolition of slavery. Many of the soldiers and even generals that fought in Cuba’s war on independence were Africans or descendants of Africans.

The African struggle to end colonialism was an essential

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experience for all Cubans.

It features prominently in our music and our art. We say we are we are a Latin American as well as an African nation. Then we had the struggle against apartheid which united us even more closely to Africa. To my generation of Cubans who were not old enough to be guerrillas in the revolutionary war, the African struggle was our cultural and revolutionary experience. 300,000 Cubans went to Africa voluntarily in a population under 10 million at the time. South Africa built a mausoleum in memory of those killed under the apartheid regime and they added more than 2,000 Cuban casualties in Angola. But the most important thing is they all went there voluntarily. There is not one family in Cuba that did not live through that experience which is a source of great national pride. There is a hardly a municipality in Cuba that did not have a deadly casualty from that war in Africa. I used to be a Lieutenant during the Angolan war.

I was in the southern sector between Angola and Namibia, with MPLA and SWAPO comrades.

Our challenge is to turn these common experiences into common bonds to face our challenges in multilateral fora. Cuba benefits from the unanimous support we receive from Latin American nations for the lifting of the blockade against Cuba. Today we have close relations with tens of African countries but it could have been more if not because of economic difficulties and geographical distances. We have performed 2 million eye surgeries free of charge in sub Saharan Africa.

We have taught about 5 million persons how to read and write free of charge in Latin America and the Caribbean’s. In the case of Nigeria we have a long mutual cooperation but there is great potential. Part of the purpose of my visit is to find a way to develop that potential. We also have a common experience in triangular relations between Nigeria, Cuba and other countries.

Why is cooperation between Nigeria and Cuba small?

I mean in terms of figures it is small. There is geographical

distance, and we have also faced economic problems and financial difficulties. We have now picked up cooperation particularly with Cuban technicians working in Nigeria and also Nigerian students studying in Cuba.

So what are the areas in which cooperation could be expanded? oth countries have comparative advantages and we must make use of them. We have experience in terms of medical health, schools of medicine, manufacture of pharmaceutical products, including scientific research. We have been working on production of a vaccine against malaria. We faced financial restrictions in our attempts to make clinical trials in some African countries but we persist in our effort to make a vaccine against malaria.

We do not have malaria in our region but this will be a major contribution to the African and Asian nations.

We are also working to produce a vaccine against cholera. For example in Haiti we intervened. [Bolivar and Pointaine...]. They said Haiti is failed country; there is interference in their affairs, in 2011-2012 they had a terrible cholera epidemic. By that time we had a medical brigade working in all communities there for 12 years. We put up 52 hospitals to fight cholera and we vaccinated 7% of the population. Cholera was imported into Haiti from Asia by accident.

We mostly want to help Haiti with cholera vaccine. Cuba is also producing therapeutic vaccines against cancer which is enjoying international recognition. There have been European and one American licenses to produce and use of them, there are state of the art products also, to treat ulcers and prevent amputations in 80% of patients. We also have doctors’ availability. We have 11,000 doctors and we also have significance in Venezuela and Middle East and Africa and Europe as well.

Economic relations between Cuba and Nigeria could be bigger; you have experience in oil production and we are looking form oil in our sea shelf.

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PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Interview

Politicians must subject themselves to public scrutiny- Hon Danlami Kawule

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ou are Coordinator of the National C h a i r m a n Ahmadu Muazu Awareness Forum in the North east. Before his emergence as the National Chairman, many party members defected to the opposition APC. What is your view on that?

It is rather unfortunate that some party members defected to the opposition and you know in politics is not good for someone to lose even a single person, but you should also know that PDP is also receiving defectors from the opposition. But all the same PDP remains the party with national outlook to defeat any opposition in the North East region and the country at large.

How strong is PDP in the North East Region?

I still maintain PDP remains the party to beat in north – east and come 2015 elections, the states that are not PDP will be taken over by PDP. Why I say so is that our forum has visited all the states in the zone, the kind of support we have been receiving is very encouraging, and all that people are saying is that they believe Mu’azu as the National Chairman PDP will capture the whole zone.

And very soon, by 29 0f march 2014 we will receive more defectors from the APC across all the North East Region.

What challenges are your party, the PDP likely to face come 2015?

To answer your question, the answer is ‘none’. I say that because with Mu’azu as the national chairman, PDP will overcome any challenge.

Whatever assignment you give Mu’azu, he does it with all seriousness and he always delivers. Therefore, 2015 election will not be different especially with Ahmadu Muazu at the helm of affairs of the party. He will use all his wisdom, doggedness and commitment for the party to ensure success in the 2015 general election.

How do you look at the preparation towards 2015 general elections?

I like to say that so far the political atmosphere

Hon. Danlami Ahmed Kawule is the member representing Zungur/Galambi in Bauchi Local Government, majority whip of Bauchi State House of Assembly and Chairman, committee on special duties as well as the NorthEast Zonal Coordinator of Ahmad Adamu Mu’azu Awareness Forum. In this interview with Ahmed Kaigama, he speaks on why many politicians will defect to PDP from North East and also believes that PDP under the leadership of Ahmadu Mu’azu can deliver PDP in 2015 excerpts: in the country is alright as there is understanding of our past experience of elections. Both the political parties and politicians are now cautions in their activities in order not to give room for violence.

Everybody believes that no meaningful development can be achieved in an atmosphere of chaos and you know that INEC has released the guidelines for the 2015 elections. I will like to use this opportunity to appeal to our politicians to abide by the guidelines and Electoral Act. Usually our politicians don’t accept defeat. Why is this so?

Our democracy is now growing, but I am optimistic that in the near future whoever wins election will see it as a challenge to serve his people and the loser will congratulate the winner in the spirit of sportsmanship, as in any contest there is always a loser and a winner.

The problem in Nigeria is that there is no cooperation among major stakeholders in elections, politicians blame themselves, the electoral umpire blame politicians and vice-versa, and all these do not augur well for the system. We should all look at the elections as a collective responsibility to move our country forward. If you look at elections in advanced

“

Hon. Danlami Ahmed Kawule

democracies, you will find out that the election campaigns are always based on issues not personalities.

They always look at their country first before any personal interest, even in some African countries like Ghana you can see that they always have healthy transition from one government to another.

The way I know the National Chairman, he has the capacity to lead PDP to victory in 2015 general elections insha Allah and PDP has made a wise decision by choosing Ahmad Mu’azu as its National Chairman

But it is argued that Nigerian democracy is issue based?

I don’t agree with you, to a certain level because politics in Nigeria is played either based on ethnicity or religious bases which I believe is not the best for the country. I want to wake up one day and see Nigerian politicians subjecting themselves to public scrutiny.

How do we assess Bauchi state PDP with Mu’azu as the National Chairman?

Already PDP in Bauchi State has no challenge as Mu’azu as a governor has already laid a solid foundation and our present Governor Yuguda is doing his very best. That is why with series of defections from PDP to APC in Bauchi State; only one house of Reps Member defected to APC. That goes to show you that PDP remains one

united family in Bauchi State.

Let’s now talk about the Ahmadu Mu’azu Awareness Forum of which you are the North East Zonal Coordinator. What are your activities?

The forum came into being immediately when Ahmad Mu’azu emerged as the National Chairman of PDP. Those of us who happened to come from the same zone with Mu’azu convened a meeting and discussed on how to mobilize support for the chairman. We discussed at length, and at the end of the day, we all agreed to form a forum to be known as Ahmadu Mu’azu Awareness Forum.

You still did not tell me about your activites?

The activities of Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu awareness forum are to first of all, create awareness to the general public about the type of person Mu’azu is, his vision and mission.

You know myself, I happen to come from Bauchi State where the National Chairman was the governor between 1999 – 2007.

As a governor, Mu’azu excellently transformed Bauchi State, and I can remember he was described as a desert magician.

Can Mu’azu lead PDP to victory in 2015 General Election?

The way I know the National Chairman, he has the capacity to lead PDP to victory in 2015 general elections insha Allah and PDP has made a wise decision by choosing Ahmad Mu’azu as its National Chairman. If you can remember, before he emerged as the Chairman, the party moved from one crisis to another but immediately he took over, almost all the crises are over, the party is now stable and thank God for Mu’azu’s leadership quality.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 49

Fitness Tips

Top 5 drinks that help you lose weight

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f you have decided to lose the extra pounds, then you surely know that the only way to do that is by combining workouts with a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet. However, there are some types of drinks that will speed up the fat burning and help you lose weight quicker than you normally would, and here you will find 5 of the most efficient ones: 1. Detox Juices Detox juices are certainly your most trustworthy allies in your battle against the extra pounds – you can easily make them in your kitchen, either entirely out of fruits or vegetables or by combining these two. Citrus fruits are known to have a powerful detox capability, therefore if you are looking for foods to help you purge all the toxins that have gathered inside you over the months then you must certainly include them in your detox juice. Highfiber root foods such as ginger, carrots or apples are also highly recommended for these juices, as they are known to also support the correct functioning of your digestive tract, not to mention the wealth of antioxidants that they deliver to your body.

As you may know already, antioxidants are essential as they protect your body from the negative effects of the free radicals that can wreak havoc on your health if you allow them two. One eight ounce glass of detox juice per week will certainly keep all

Fruit juice

these problems far away from you!

These juices have a double benefit – while they help your body get rid of the toxins, chemicals and all the dangerous substances that have accumulated inside your intestines, they also help you lose weight in the fastest and most natural way. One thing is for sure, though: all those who want to shed pounds yet stay healthy at the same time must go through at least one or two detox sessions throughout the course of a year.

2. Vegetable Juices Vegetable juices, on the other hand, can also benefit your weight loss efforts in the long run and it is a known fact that the most suitable type of veggies for weight loss are the cruciferous ones. No matter if you juice them alone or you use them in conjunction with other fruits, these veggies (cabbage, kale, broccoli or cauliflower) will be your most efficient fat fighting weapon, and there is no better way to keep all the toxins away. Another notable benefit of the vegetable juices is that in addition to helping your body fight free radicals and keeping you healthy, they will also balance the hormone levels in your body and prevent the hormone disruptors from interfering with the normal hormone levels.

Cruciferous veggies are very rich in natural phytonutrients that are perfect for reducing the overall amount of body fat, for reducing inflammation and controlling the blood sugar levels, for balancing

Detox juice the hormone levels, boosting your metabolism as well as providing a thorough general detoxification.

3. Green Tea reen tea has been used for hundreds of years due to its numerous benefits, and weight loss is just one of them – although green tea alone will only help you lose a few pounds, it will certainly serve as a great addition to your diet in the long haul. No matter if you do not have the time or you do not like to workout on a regular basis, drinking one cup of tea per day will deliver all the antioxidants you need and it will also help you burn fat at a faster pace, by boosting the metabolism.

These teas are perfect for burning more calories as well as for increasing your overall energy levels and for suppressing your appetite. As a matter of fact, this is exactly the main mechanism of action of these teas as they help you shed the extra pounds by suppressing your appetite, thus decreasing the amount of food you would normally consume on a daily basis. Green tea is very popular amongst the Japanese

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Vegetable juice

people, and it is said to also help you reduce stress and relax better.

4. Fruit Juice – Cranberry And Pear Fruit juices are delicious, easy to prepare and very rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals – besides this, there are literally hundreds of different fruits you can choose from and pear and cranberries are only two of the most delicious, most efficient and most sought-after ones given the fact that they contain high amounts of vitamin C. Not only will the cranberry and pear juice help you lose weight by boosting your metabolism (your body’s natural fat burning machine), but it will also increase your overall energy levels and deliver your body all the essential vitamins and proteins that it so much needs. At the same time, it is a known fact that the cranberry juice is essential for preventing various infection of the bladder, such as the infection with the E-coli bacteria. Pears, on the other hand, add magnesium, potassium as well as phosphorus to your fruit juice and they are essential for a healthy lifestyle,

not to mention that they are very rich in Vitamin C and Calcium, the latter being particularly important for keeping your bones healthy and strong.

5. Black Coffee ast, but not least, it is a known fact that if consumed with moderation, black coffee can have a plethora of health benefits – not only does it contain antioxidants that fight off free radicals and lower the risk for certain types of cancer, but it can also reduce the risk for diabetes as well as heart disease. At the same time, caffeine is perfect for boosting your metabolism and for increasing the number of calories you have burned. Be careful, though, because if you want to lose weight by relying on black coffee you will have to consume it without any milk or sugar, as any sweetener can increase its calorie count!

To conclude, these are the top 5 most efficient drinks that you should embed in your diet if you want to lose weight quickly and naturally, without resorting to any pills or supplements that may have side

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PAGE 50

Sports

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Champions League: Real Madrid, Dortmund clash in Q/finals

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eal Madrid were given a chance to avenge last season’s Champions League semifinal defeat by Borussia Dortmund when the teams were drawn against each other on Friday in the quarterfinals of this year’s tournament.

Dortmund, who won the first leg 4-1 on the way to a 4-3 aggregate victory, will visit the Bernabeu for the first leg on April 1/2 with the return a week later.

Titleholders Bayern Munich were paired with Manchester United, a meeting that will inevitably spark memories of their 1999 final when United scored two goals at the death to win 2-1.

Bayern will be at home in the second leg as the teams meet for the first time since the 2010 quarterfinal which the Bavarians won.

Paris St Germain face Chelsea and the remaining tie is an allSpanish affair between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, the teams’ first-ever meeting in European competition.

Poland forward Robert Lewandowski, who scored all four goals in Dortmund’s 4-1 win over Real last season, will be suspended for the first match against the nine-time champions.

Bayern, who are on course for a Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup treble for the second season in a row, promised

they would not be taking United likely despite their domestic problems.

“We should not be blinded by their current position in the league because they have outstanding players,” said Bayern captain Philipp Lahm whose side have won three out of nine meetings.

“We have to perform according to what we can and if we do that we have good chances of reaching the semifinals.”

Barcelona sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta said in an interview with Spanish television broadcaster Canal Plus: “Considering the teams that were in the draw I don’t know if we would swap for anyone else as they would all be very tough ties.

Atletico director Clemente Villaverde told Spanish television broadcaster Canal Plus that his team would make life uncomfortable for the Catalans.

“We will try to make the most of our weapons against a rival that obviously has incredible potential,” he said.

“We are a team whose characteristics are intensity, with everyone working hard together, and that’s what makes us an uncomfortable opponent for anyone. I don’t think Barcelona will be an exception.”

Bayern Munich are up against Man United. Bayern beat United on away goals in the 2009-10 quarter-finals, ending the English

Full draw: Barcelona Real Madrid Paris St-Germain Man United

v v v v

Atletico Madrid Borussia Dortmund Chelsea Bayern Munich

Messi

Ronaldo

Rooney

club’s hopes of reaching a third successive final.

Premier League leaders Chelsea will travel to the French capital to play PSG in their first leg.

The Ligue 1 champions, with Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic as their spearhead, are eight points clear of nearest rivals Monaco as they aim to retain their domestic title.

Chelsea are unbeaten in their two previous Champions League meetings with PSG, which came in Blues boss Jose Mourinho’s first season at Stamford Bridge.

2014 NSF: CRS won’t be desperate to win, says Imoke

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overnor Liyel Imoke of Cross River yesterday said the state would not be hosting the 2014 National Sports Festival (NSF) with plans to win the event at all cost.

Imoke said this in Calabar when he officially unveiled the logo for the 19th NSF tagged ``Centenary Games, Calabar 2014’’, which will be held in Calabar from Nov. 27 to Dec. 7. ``We are not hosting to win, but we are hosting to give you the best games ever,’’ the governor said stressing that there was the need for transparency during the games.

Imoke said the state, in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), the owners of the event, was ready to upgrade the games to meet international standards.

In his speech, Mr Efiok Cobham, the Chairman of the festival’s Local Organising Committee (LOC), said the festival was coming home as Calabar was the first capital of Nigeria.

He said the state’s promise of organising the best festival ever in Nigeria was not a fluke, adding that the state was well prepared for the event.

Cobham, who is also Deputy Governor of Cross River, further said the unveiling of the logo, mascot, website and festival songs was a testimony that the state was on course.

Former 100 metres champion, Mercy Nku, unveiled the mascot for the games, nicknamed Bamaba, representing the name of one of the surviving gorillas in the state’s Boki Local Government Area.

Also speaking at the occasion, the Chairman of the festival’s Main Organising Committee (MOC), Mr Gbenga Elegbeleye, described the event as a landmark in the preparation for the games.

He also said the MOC had earlier undertaken the tour of facilities for the games, saying it was satisfied with what was on ground. ``So with the level of preparations so far, we can say that Cross River is ready to go. On our part, we are ready to support Cross River to make the festival a huge success,’’ Elegbeleye, who is also the Director-General of the NSC, said.

At the occasion, the festival’s theme song, called ``Standing Tall’’, was performed by Sunny Neji, a popular musician from the state.

FIFA profit rises to $1.4 billion

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IFA has increased its cash pile to $1.432 billion after making a profit again last year, justifying the sum as a safety net should a World Cup have to be cancelled.

Income from television rights and marketing deals ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil helped to drive up revenues to $1.386 billion, world soccer’s governing body said yesterrday ,reporting a surplus of $72 million last year.

Many Brazilians are angry at the amount of money their country is spending on hosting the World Cup, saying they would rather have “Fifa standard” schools and hospitals and there are fears of protests around the tournament in June-July.

FIFA executive committee members are also facing renewed scrutiny over the awarding of the next two World Cups to Russia and Qatar.

The controversies have not

deterred sponsors who want to be associated with the world’s biggest sporting event. Credit card company Visa and sportswear group Adidas have both recently signed new deals with FIFA. Julio Grondona, chairman of FIFA’s Finance Committee, welcomed the renewals, calling them “an early sign that we can expect our finances to stay healthy for the years to come.”

The winners of the World Cup will receive $35 million, part of a $576 million payout to participating countries and the clubs whose players appear at the tournament.

FIFA is not alone in building up a cash cushion to help protect against disruption to a major event. The International Olympic Committee has generated a reserve of $932 million.

FIFA says it is highly dependent on staging the World Cup every four years for its funding and notes that is almost impossible to insure against cancellation.

PAGE 51

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Sports Okoh tips Flamingoes to lift women’s U-17 World Cup in Costa Rica Stories By Albert Akota

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he Super Falcons Head Hoach, Edwin Okon has said that the country’s representatives to the 2014 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup taking place in Costa Rica will go places if they maintain their unrelenting attitude throughout the duration of the competition.

The Flamingoes kept the Chinese U17 team at bay to record maximum points in their first Group C tie early Thursday to win 2-1 against Columbia.

Okon, who disclosed he stayed awake to watch the match, said the Flamingoes impressed and that if they could sustain the momentum, it would be hard for any nation to beat them in Costa Rica.

He said the Bala Nkiyu led team have shown that they could go all the way judging by the way they played the first game while charging them that he would not expect anything less by the time the Flamingoes step out against Colombia and Mexico in their final two games of the first round.

“The Flamingoes are good to go from what they displayed in the first match. I am tipping them to go all the way. They showed they were for the big occasion with the way they held on to their lead for like 25 minutes. It showed they have character. They need to maintain the momentum and strive to get even better in their subsequent matches,” Okon said.

Nigeria’s ladies shot into the lead in the 21st minute after good work from the team through Rasheedat Ajibade as they went into halftime a goal up.

Flamingoes They doubled the advantage in the 63rd minute through Uchenna Kanu.

The Flamingoes were still in ecstasy over their second strike when the Chinese struck a minute later through Fan Yuqiu to ensure the tie would finish on a nervy note.

The Nigerians have a date with Co-

lombia in the early hours of Thursday where a win would guarantee them a quarter final ticket for a third time on the trot.

Africa is yet to progress beyond the semi final stage while Nigeria’s best thus far has been as quarter finalists.

They have always qualified for

the last eight since 2010 but have not found the wherewithal to cross beyond that stage.

Ghana’s Black Maidens have the best effort produced by Africans when they grabbed a bronze medal in the last edition in Azerbaijan at the expense of Germany.

Today’s clash: Rangers FC vows to beat Kano Pillars

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Ejike Uzoenyi

he Rangers International FC of Enugu has vowed to secure victory against Kano Pillars FC in today’s Globacom Premier League match at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

The club’s Director of Media and Publicity, Foster Chime, said in a statement in Enugu that victory against Pillars would erase the earlier 2-1 defeat to Enyimba FC of Aba on March 16.

Chime said the Rangers players were working tirelessly to avert further defeats throughout the league.

“The Captain of Rangers, Cyril Oriaku, and other players like Ejike Uzoenyi, Ugonna Uzochukwu and the goalkeeper, Emmanuel Daniel, have all agreed to work together to secure an outstanding

victory against Kano Pillars today.

“For now there is no injury scarce in the team and we record 100 per cent attendance in their training which has become very competitive.

“We are working effortlessly to make sure that what happened against Enyimba does not repeat itself until the last match in the league,’’ he said.

Chime said that Rangers fans within and outside the state had been mobilised to support the team against Pillars who denied them the league victory two seasons ago.

The statement also quotes Fidelis Chime, a chieftain of Rangers, as promising the players an undisclosed cash reward for victory against the Pillars in the match.

PAGE 52

Sports

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Arsenal chase point against Chelsea to keep EPL title

A

rsenal visit Chelsea chasing an agonising end to a four year win-less run against The Blues.

Leaders Chelsea head into their home game at Stamford Bridge on 66 points, four ahead of third placed Arsenal.

And Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has said that it was important to pick up a win against The Gunners to erase any doubts following last weekends shock 1-0 loss away to Aston Villa.

“It’s a big test, a big game considering we lost our last Premier League game at Villa,” Lampard said.

“Have Arsenal surprised me this season?

Yes and no. To be fair, they are always in the top four and Champions League every year.

I know they have been slightly off the pace in certain years, but I think they have improved and I have a lot of respect for Arsenal.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal have to get over the psychological hurdle of enduring a five match win-less run against Chelsea against whom they trace their last win back to October, 29, 2011 when they beat Chelsea 5-3 at Stamford Bridge.

Since then, Arsenal have picked up two draws and three defeats and the two sides last meeting on December 23 ended scoreless at The Emirates.

And on the injury front, Chelsea has an almost clean bill of health but Arsenal will be without Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil for the big London derby.

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CAF Champions League Ahly Benghazi v Sewe Sport v Horoya v ES Setif (Algeria) v AC Leopards v Nkana (Zambia) v Sunday AS Vita (DRC) v

CAF Confederations Cup ES Sahel v AS Kigali v Medeama v How Mine v CS Constantinois v Ismaily v Wadi Delga v Warri Wolves v Barclays Premier League Chelsea v Cardiff City v Everton v Hull City v Manchester City v Newcastle United v Norwich City v West Ham United v Sunday Tottenham Hotspur v Aston Villa v

Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta (left) and Chelsea’s Eden Hazard (right) battle for the ball

Real Madrid, Barcelona set for crucial ‘Clasico’

eal Madrid and Barcelona will be targeting maximum points when they meet in a crucial La Liga encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu tomorrow.

The Whites are the form team going into this game as they are currently occupying top spot with 70 points from 28 matches and are unbeaten in the league since October last year.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men earned a hardfought 1-0 win over Malaga in their last league outing and winger Gareth Bale says they have to be at their best on Sunday in

Weekend Fixtures

order to maintain or increase their fourpoint lead over Barcelona.

“I think confidence is obviously a massive thing. The team is playing well and everything is coming together nicely for the whole team,” said Bale.

“We just need to keep performing very well, keep working hard and hopefully the rewards are there at the end.

“Barcelona is a direct rival and we are going to try and put in a good performance and take the three points.

“They have very good players, but we

Barcelona’s Carles Puyol argues with the referee

are focused on our game and on our team because we also have very good players.”

The Catalans have not been as consistent in La Liga by their own standards but are still in the title race in third place with 66 points.

Gerardo Martino’s side will take a lot of confidence to the Spanish capital on Sunday having thrashed Osasuna 7-0 in their last league outing.

However, fullback Jordi Alba admits that his side will face a tough challenge as Real have been in top form this season.

“On the counter-attack, they’re very difficult to stop,” said Alba. “We have to get back well when defending and in attack, play the way we know. I don’t think we need to change the way we play.

“Real Madrid have also shown they like having the ball this season. They’re not only a team that plays on the counter. They don’t need much to score a goal against you.

“I’m certain it’s going to be a very difficult game. There are no favourites in a Clásico.

“Our only intention is to win. We know that this is a very important game. If we lose, then we’ll be a lot of points behind, but you never know.”

The first meeting between the two sides at the Camp Nou ended 2-1 in favour of Barcelona with Neymar Junior and Alexis Sanchez finding the back of the net before Jese Rodriguez scored a late consolation.

Al Ahly TP Mazembe CS Sfaxien Coton Sport Al-Hilal Zamalek Kaizer Chiefs

SuperSport Difaa Hassani Zesco United Bayelsa United ASEC Mimosas Atletico Petroleos Djoliba AC C.A Bizertin Arsenal Liverpool Swansea City West B/ Albion Fulham Crystal Palace Sunderland Manchester United Southampton Stoke City

German Bundesliga FSV Mainz 05 v FC Schalke 04 v Hannover 96 v VfB Stuttgart v VfL Wolfsburg v Borussia M/gladbach v

FC Bayern München Eintracht B/weig Borussia Dortmund Hamburger SV FC Augsburg Hertha BSC

Sunday FC Nürnberg Bayer 04 Leverkusen

Eintracht 1899 Hoffenheim

v v

Glo Nigeria Premier League Crown FC v FC Taraba v Rangers v Sunday Akwa United v Lobi Stars v Italian Serie A Torino Chievo Sunday Parma Bologna Internazionale Sampdoria Udinese Napoli Catania Lazio Spanish La Liga Granada CF Espanyol Real Valladolid Athletic Club Sunday Osasuna Real Betis Valencia CF Real Madrid

Dolphins El-Kanemi Warriors Kano Pillars Kaduna United Gombe United

v v

Livorno Roma

v v v v v v v v

Genoa Cagliari Atalanta Verona Sassuolo Fiorentina Juventus Milan Olimpico

v v v v

Elche Estadio Levante Rayo Vallecano Getafe

v v v v

Sevilla A/de Madrid Villarreal Barcelona

Sunday FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup Canada v Ghana Korea DPR v Germany Zambia v Costa Rica Venezuela v Italy

Hammer set to end Manchester United joy M anchester United returns to Premier League action today with an away clash against West Ham. The Red Devils will be desperate to claim three points in London in order to boost their hopes of playing European football next season.

Breaking into the top four and securing Champions League football seems unlikely, though under-fire manager David Moyes insists that his side will continue to fight for that ambition.

“We’ll fight to the end and wait and see how we get on.

It will be tough, but we’ll see what we can do,” said Moyes

in the wake of a crushing 3-0 loss to Liverpool.

With cross-town rivals Manchester City set to visit Old Trafford next Tuesday, United don’t just need three points against the Hammers, but a good performance in order to boost their confidence.

Yet Sam Allardyce’s West Ham will not be easy opponents. They may have lost to Stoke City and Everton in their last two league outings, but four successive wins preceded it, a run which earned ‘Big Sam’ the manager of the month award for February and lifted the club away from the dreaded relegation

zone.

Man United produced one of their more convincing performances of what has been a torrid season when the teams last clashed, a 3-1 win at Old Trafford back in December thanks to goals from Danny Welbeck, Adnan Januzaj and Ashley Young.

The Red Devils will be without captain Nemanja Vidic due to suspension after his red card against Liverpool, while other doubtful players will be assessed in the wake of the Champions League match against Olympiacos on Wednesday night.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 53

Weekend Digest

Uneasy friendship between monkey and cat

By Daily Mail Reporter

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lexing it’s spine and leaning forward, this domestic kitty enjoys a comforting back massage from a young crab-eating macaque clinging onto its back.

The small monkey moves its hands up and down, adjusting its position - seemingly adopting the stance of a skilled masseuse.

The display of friendship was caught on camera by Hendy Mp, 25, at his friend’s home in Indonesia.

He said: ‘The two are very close and always play together.

‘When I was there, the cat made the first move, walking towards the monkey.

‘In typical monkey behaviour, they just started playing together.’

This cheeky conduct is captured clearly in one of the images.

With their eyes fixed on each other, the young monkey dares to show his tongue as if sticking it out in jest.

Looking incredibly easy in each other’s company, the two show that friendship knows no bounds when it comes to differences in appearances - and species.

Hendy said: ‘I like the image where they turn their heads to look at each other.

‘It tells us a lot about friendship - these two are very close and enjoying playing together, despite being different.’ (Dailymail)

The feline world can be tough sometimes - which is why it’s always handy to have a limber legged friend to unwind with

Flexing it’s spine and leaning forward, this domestic kitty enjoys a comforting back massage from a young crab-eating macaque clinging onto its back

Looking incredibly easy in each other’s company, the two show that friendship knows no bounds when it comes to differences in appearances - and species

The display of friendship was caught on camera by Hendy Mp, 25, at his friend’s home in Indonesia

He said: ‘The two are very close and always play together. When I was there, the cat made the first move, walking towards the monkey’

PAGE 54

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

Healthy Living

Guide to choosing a toothbrush

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he process of choosing a toothbrush type and using it effectively in the correct manner is just as important as getting the right toothpaste for use in cleaning the teeth.

There are a large variety of Available toothbrushes being peddled and hawked on roadsides, supermarket shelves, chemists and pharmacies, provision shops, etc.

The dentist is in the best position to guide the consumer individual in choosing the right and most appropriate toothbrush for use.

There are basically two modalities of toothbrush available, the manual type in which the individual powers the use physically. Then the electronic and or battery operated types in which case the bristles of the toothbrush are driver by a motor to rotate vibrate and several oscillations per second. The most widely available toothbrush is the manual type.

The design most encountered is that with a handle and a head made up of bristles, usually made of synthetic or natural materials, it is noteworthy that natural hair bristles are no longer recommended. The handle is preferably rigid and with varying degree of flexibility. The flexibility allows for a degree of manoeuvrability.

Toothbrushes also come in various designs and colour.

Children toothbrush naturally are smaller than adult ones, they are usually very colourful, designed with characters to encourage kids to brush as a routine.

These characters whether cartoon or otherwise interest the kid’s example Ben 10, Superman, Avengers etc.

Electric and battery operated or even sonic vibrating toothbrushes are generally more expensive than the manual toothbrushes, they also come in various designs and colour.

Dentists generally recommend electric toothbrushes for the reason that they are generally more efficient easy to use especially for those with reduced manual dexterity. The bristles in the manual toothbrushes get easily frayed that is move apart.

The efficiency of the electric toothbrushes or the battery operated ones is due to toothbrush being the vibrating and rotating and sonic motion, the downside is the same motion can be abrasive to the tooth surface and make it uncomfortable for people with sensitive teeth and sensitive gums.

Most electric toothbrush are rechargeable using shaving points or electric mains , whilst this may make it convenient for use and reducing the chances of electrocution during use, the epileptic nature of the power supply locally from the PHCN the Power Holding Corporation of Nigeria. The need for power makes it a disadvantage. Hopefully as promised the PHCN WILL GIVE STEADY POWER SUPPLY WITH ITS PRIVATISATION!!!!!.

Children should use softer toothbrushes with softer bristles and smaller handles, as often children brush the teeth with more

vigour and zeal, softer toothbrushes are less likely to cause damage to the teeth. The size of a child’s brush should be proportional to that of an adult hence the smaller size of the head and the handle.

The recommendation from dentist on when to change toothbrushes is generally as soon as the bristles are frayed it is generally assumed a good toothbrush will have given value by the end of the third month. rayed bristles are ineffective in removing the plaque which is the main purpose of brushing the tooth , toothbrush is effective in removing plaque when it is stiff and not frayed.

F

With

Dr. Samuel Omodele Awosolu 08108155239 (SMS only) samawosolu@yahoo.co.uk (Text only)

People with reduced manual dexterity like those with arthritis and developmental anomalies can have toothbrush adapted for their use, changing the grip making it more useful for purpose, those with dentures, that is artificial teeth need special toothbrushes to take care of their dentures, those with implants and some restorative dental work need to have brushes for inter-dental removal of plaque between the abutments, implants etc.

The standards organisation of

Nigeria will also useful in regulating importers of toothbrushes, manufacturers of toothbrushes .These products should undergo relevant testing and compulsorily certified. he texture of adult toothbrush should be that with a medium consistency in which case the handle is not too long and ideally be certified by the standards organisation of Nigeria in concert with the Nigerian Dental Association.

See you next week.

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From readers Dear Doctor, Many thanks for your article, please can you give me the solution to this problem I have. I perceive some odour from my mouth which gives great concern. At the corner of my mouth I have some decayed teeth and some are broken.

Please I need your help.

Dear reader, Thanks for your letter. Let me first say that you have not given me a name and location. I could only advise that you get to a dentist as soon as you can, If you had given a location I could refer you to a registered dental personnel or better still

direct you to many of the several dental centres where you could obtain health nearest to you. Halitosis has a lot of causes, your dentist will be able to determine the cause on a visit to him , the decayed teeth may need urgent attention in which case should there be pain I may be refilled with amalgam or glass ionomer cement or even composite, whatever is best as determined by the dentist. I will encourage readers writing in to include their names and location and possibly e mail addresses where possible. If the decay is quite bad the tooth may have to be extracted.

Thanks for your letter.

Good day Dr, I have a son; He is eight years old now. He hit one of his upper front teeth to hit the ground, the injured teeth looks as if it will fall off, however it has not fallen off.

Recently another tooth has appeared on the same spot on top of the one that is shaking. His teeth are not well set now. What should I do?

Fisayo, Ibadan.

Dear Fisayo, From the description you have put in your letter, your son is having retained deciduous teeth, incisors, the front teeth in this case. There are two sets of teeth in an individual’s life, the first set is called deciduous teeth in the sense that it will last for a period of time before it gets exfoliated and replaced. The teeth that will replace them, the second set of dentition is called permanent dentition, they stay with the individual for the rest of their lives. The teeth are replaced at various stages and ages usually all between the ages of six years and up till twenty one years of age.

For some reason or the other the deciduous teeth

may sometimes not fall off at the expected time, the adult or permanent teeth will then erupt into the mouth at a position in front or behind or sideways , literarily displaced. The deciduous teeth or milk teeth as they are sometimes called could become infected and in the process this infection may affect the adult one in which case, it will be removed by the dentist to avoid any infection. It could also lead to other permanent teeth erupting in positions that are not right, hence the teeth are mal-aligned a condition called MALOCCLUSION. You need to visit the nearest dentist at your location, where you will receive attention; most likely the mobile deciduous teeth will be removed to give way to the adult teeth, as the adult permanent incisors should have erupted around the age of eight years.

There is a dental department at the university college hospital, Ibadan, there are state hospitals, general hospitals with dental sections, and there are a number of private dental centres too. Most dental centres accept the national health insurance scheme or other insurance if you have cover for you and your family.

I hope I have been of some help.

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY 22,- SUNDAY 23, MARCH, 2014

PAGE 55

FROM THE PULPIT

What are you practising? (I) “P

ractice what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and model your way of living on it and the God of peace (of untroubled, undisturbed well-beings) will be with you .” (Phil 4:9 TheAmplified Bible) A dictionary defines practice (verb) as (1) perform (an activity) or exercise (a skill) repeatedly or regularly in order to improve or maintain one’s proficiency (2) carry out or perform (a particular activity, method, or custom) habitually or regularly.

The two definitions are similar.

Practice is about doing something repeatedly or regularly such that it becomes a habit. It may be with intent to improve or maintain one’s proficiency or not.

In the Scripture above, Paul the apostle told the Philippians to practice – perform habitually or regularly – what they had learnt and received and heard from him and seen in him. He asked them to model their lives on it and the God of peacewould be with them.

The New Century Version presents the verse thus: “Do what you learned and received from me, what I told you, and what you saw me do. And God who gives peace will be with you.”

Paul presented himself to the Philippians as their model of a Christian; he had taught them certain things but in theory and in practice. He therefore expected nothing in their lifestyle different from what he had modeled to them. They should practise what they had learnt and received and heard from him and seen in him. That is what every mentor expects from his mentee or a teacher from his student.

Who is your mentor? Who is your model? Who is your teacher? What are

you learning, hearing or seeing? Are you learning anything from the Bible at all?

Are you hearing and seeing clearly what God is saying to you from those He put before you to teach you? Are their lives a model to you of who a Christian should be? Or are they telling you, “Do what I say don’t do what I do”? What are you practising? – The truth of the Bible or the popular lies in the society? You become what you practice.

Everybody is practising something D.L. Moody says, “The Bible was not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives.” In what ways have your life been changed by what you’ve learnt from the Word of God? Has your prayer life, your fellowship with God, your relationship with others, your attitude to the things of this world been changed by practising what you’ve learnt from the Bible? Or are you just increasing your knowledge, taking down notes in church without applying the Word to your life? Then you must be practising something else because there is no vacuum. Everybody is practicing something – it may be something wrong or something right. A habit, good or bad, is a product of practice.

The major purpose of becoming a Christian and attending church services is not to accumulate Bible knowledge but to get your life transformed and prepare you for the Kingdom of heaven on earth. That’s the primary goal of every Bible study class, every sermon, every ministration; every other benefit is secondary. Rom 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.

Then you will know what God wants

you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.”(NLT) The problem with Christianity in most societies today is that many believers don’t practise what the Bible teaches. So our Christianity looks different from that of the Bible; we seem to practice ‘another Christianity’. Sad to say, this problem has been around for a while. It is reported that E. Stanley Jones, a missionary, asked Indian statesman, Mahatma Ghandi, “Mr Gandhi though you quote the words of Christ often, why is that you appear to adamantly reject becoming his follower?’’ Ghandireplied: “Oh I don’t reject Christ. I love Christ.

It’s just that so many of you Christians are so unlike Christ.” What a comment!

But he was done yet. Ghandi added, “If Christians would really live according to the teachings of Christ as found in the Bible, all of India would be Christian today.’’ That’s a sad indictment of you and me, and indeed all Christians not in India alone but all over the world. Are you like Christ? Am I? What are you practising? David prayed in Ps 141:4: “Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with men who work iniquity; and do not let me eat of their delicacies.”

(NKJV) Some people are practising wicked works. Are you practising wickedness or what God speaks to you from His Word in your personal study, what you learn in church from God’s servants? Or have you developed itching ears? “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.” (2 Tim

GREEN PASTURES

BY PASTOR T. O. BANSO cedarministryintl@yahoo.com GSM: 08033113523 4:3-4 NKJV) Did you see that? It’s like people today leaving sound doctrines to patronize those who preach permissive doctrines or those who just entertain them. And as long as people learn and hear from the wrong teachers, they will be practising what is wrong.

Whose example are you following?

But why was Paul so confident to tell the Philippians to practice what they had learnt, received and heard from him and seen in him and even to model their way of living on it? Was he not taking too much upon himself? Was he not undermining Jesus? No. Paul was sure of his walk with God. He said in 1Cor 11:1“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (NCV) The Amplified Bible says, “Pattern yourselves after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah)”So you see that Paul wasn’t undermining Jesus rather Jesus was his own model.

Whose example are you following?

Who are you patterning your life after?

Will you spend your eternity with God if you keep following such people, if you keep practising what they’re teaching you and you’re hearing from them and seeing in them? Paul declared, “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.” (Gal 1:8-9 NKJV) Please permit me to stop here today.

I’ll bring you the concluding part of

this message next week. What are you practising? I believe God has spoken to you already. Obey the voice of God. TAKE ACTION! If you are not born again, you need to give your life to Jesus. I urge you to take the following steps:*Admit you’re a sinner and you can’t save yourself and repent of your sins. *Confess Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. *Renounce your past way of life – your relationship with the devil and his works. *Invite Jesus into your life. *As a mark of seriousness to mature in the faith, start to attend a Bible-believing, Bible -teaching church.

There you will be taught how to grow in the Kingdom of God. 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 have 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 becoming all God wants you to be.

Divine intervention after disciples’ intercession (I) 2.

SUPERNATURAL PRESERVATION OF THE PREACHER THROUGH PRAYER Acts 12:5-17; Ephesians 6:18-20; Hebrews 13:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Isaiah 26:3,4; Philippians 4:6,7; Acts 5:17-20; 16:25,26; Psalm 34:7; 2 Corinthians 1:8-10; Matthew 18:19,20; 1 John 5:14,15.

“

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rayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.” Confronted with the sudden arrest and imprisonment of the Apostle Peter, the Church immediately gathered to pray unto God. They had no other source or hope of release. They had no contact among the Jews or supporters in the court of Herod to appeal on his behalf. The Church had no representative or defender in the religious arena or in the political circles. “We know that every where it is spoken against” (Acts 28:22). “By whom shall Jacob arise? for he is small” (Amos 7:2,5). By whom shall Peter or the Church escape death and destruction? God is “the Governor among the nations” (Psalm 22:28).

In seasons of persecution and danger, in periods of injustice and oppression when circumstances seem hopeless, we can seek release and refuge in God. Peter, at the mercy of merciless Herod, in the grip of Herod’s iron hands, in the custody of sixteen armed soldiers, in the prison secured by iron gates, appeared to be in a hopeless situation. But with a powerful God in heaven and a praying Church on earth, no situation is hopeless. “The same night” before his imminent death “Peter was sleeping”. This is a remarkable evidence of unwavering faith in God, undisturbed peace of mind and absolute confidence in the words of Christ. Christ had promised that Peter would minister and live till old age (John 21:17-19) and he believed the Lord implicitly, without any shadow of doubt. “And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and raised him up. And his chains fell off from his hands.”

By an unprecedented manifestation of divine power, without the use of any natural means, Peter was miraculously delivered, brought through iron doors and gates, released and set free from danger and death. In response to the

BY PASTOR W.F KUMUYI prayer of the Church, honouring the faith of Peter, fulfilling the words of Christ, affirming the irreversible will of God, the Lord sent His angel to deliver His servant from Herod’s prison and the expectation of the Jews.

3.

SINNERS’ PUNISHMENT AND THE PREVALENCE OF PREACHING Acts 12:18-25; 2 Peter 2:9; Isaiah 13:6-11; 26:20,21; Matthew 25:41,46; Hebrews 10:29-31; Acts 6:7; 11:21-24; 9:18-20; 20:24-28; Colossians 4:17; Matthew 16:18.

The guards who were entrusted with Peter’s custody could not

explain how he had escaped.

His escape was a miracle to the Church, a mystery to the four quarternions of soldiers, a mistake to Herod. Herod punished the keepers who could not give account of his escape “and commanded that they should be put to death”. After Peter’s escape, disappointed that he could not gain more popularity with the Jews through the planned execution, Herod “went down from Judea to Caesarea and there abode”. Abiding in Caesarea, Herod became displeased with some of those under his domain.

Fearing the effects of his anger and displeasure they made moves

to be at peace with him. “And upon a set day” the people were gathered together and he “made an oration unto them”. His speec h and manner of delivery with the splendour of his royal apparel drew a blasphemous applause and flattery from the crowd, “The people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.”

“He gave not God the glory” and sudden, divine judgment came on him immediately. His cup of iniquity was full, he sinned beyond the day of grace, he went too far on the dark road to hell and reached a point of no return; “the angel of the Lord smote him, and he was eaten of worms.” His empty pride plunged him into eternal punishment, divine wrath and fiery indignation. Flattery drove him to the eternal lake of fire. “But the word of God grew and multiplied.” The persecutor taken away from the seat of power, the servants and children of God continued preaching the Word to every creature everywhere. The miracle of Peter’s deliverance and the suddenness of the persecutor’s destruction increased the zeal, the faith, the faithfulness, the dedication, the courage, the sacrifice and the fruitfulness of the Apostles, the disciples, the whole Church.

BIG PUNCH If government is bankrolling this waste in the face of ever dwindling public resources, it amounts to a misplacement of priorities, impudence and breach of public trust.

—Reps on Diezani’s alleged squandering of N10bn on private jet

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND, SATURDAY — SUNDAY, MARCH 22-23, 2014

Competence not a function of age Excerpts from a speech delivered by General Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) during the 50th anniversary lecture at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, Ibadan on March, 20, 2014.

heap on him albeit posthumously. from stark poverty to reasonable I congratulate the University level of income and employment. of Ibadan for still remembering A miracle, if ever there was one. and honouring one of Nigeria’s Consider also the impact of true sons. another young man, John F. The topic chosen for today’s Kennedy. In 1961 he galvanized lecture: “Youth and the Future of and kick-started American Nigerian Politics” is particularly technological achievement by ay I suggest, with your interesting in view of the recurring inspiring oratory which led to agreement, Ladies and public debate, favourite among landing a man on the moon and Gentlemen that we Nigerian men of letters of the satellite communications which observe a minute’s silence in merits of young leaders vis-à-vis has transformed the whole world. honour of our fellow countrymen old ones.

Your excellencies, ladies and women who died in last weeks I suppose this debate will go and gentlemen, these cursory multiple tragedies as a results of; on and on and the protagonists recollections from history teach -Terrorist Violence will likely not accept the other us, I submit one thing. Ability, -Communal violence side of the argument. A brief look competence and skill in politics -Stampedes in stadia in search world-wide in the 20th and 21st does not reside in one particular of jobs centuries at the success of leaders age group. The ideal is to have a -Road accidents. tells us that we should not hold mixture of experienced people May their souls rest in peace. any hard and fast views. who will bring their wisdom to bear May God bless this country with China and Japan post 1945 and young men and women with peace and prosperity. had a history of very old people energy and vigor to cooperatively I am immensely grateful managing the affairs of these two run an administration. to the university of Ibadan great oriental economies. Mao A happy mixture of young management through the Vice- Zedong and Chou En-Lai in their and old would be the ideal, but I Chancellor and the Registrar mid-to late seventies laid the am anxiously waiting to hear the for inviting me to this great foundation for their successor, submission of our Guest Lecturer, occasion.

Deng Xiao Ping to bring one billion today, Dr Shettima Mustapha.

I feel honoured to be asked people out of poverty into selfto chair this lecture. Firstly, since sufficiency in food supply and an Closing remarks my school days I have held Dr economy second only to the United The purpose of an occasion Azikiwe in the highest regard and States. such as this one is for participants the greatest esteem.

For several decades after to learn something new. I have To the people of my generation World War ll, Japanese politics learnt a lot today. and the generation before us Dr restricted the position of prime I would like to close with a Azikiwe needs no introduction. minister to those between 75 and particular short comment by He was the most out-spoken 80 years old! Considering the General Muhammadu Buhari reminding us about the greatness and internationally recognized Japanese economic miracle it of our first generation leaders. Dr Nigerian nationalist. Ziks’ great wasn’t such a bad idea. what poor use we made of our of Singapore.

Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awulowo oratory enthralled us all.

German post-war recovery resources.

Today Singapore is a beacon and Alhaji Ahmadu Bello each Second, as we all know he and prosperity was led and Looking at the other side of efficiency, growth discipline devoted more than 40% of their was the first Nigerian Governor- guided by two old people: Konrad of the argument consider the and prosperity. Or the case of regional budgets to education. We General and President of the Adenauer who became W. remarkable achievement of Lee General Suharto of Indonesia are today what we are and where Federation. Zik was a true German Chancellor at the age of Kuan Yew a young man in his 30s whose administration lifted one we are because of their wisdom Nigerian, a nationalist and 73 and his Economics minister, G. when he assumed the premiership hundred million of his people and foresight. an internationalist. His vision Erhard. extended beyond Nigeria or Another 70+ General Charles West Africa: he dreamt, like his de Gaulle led French resurgence Ghanaian contemporary Dr after the war. In Britain three Nkrumah, of a Continental Union, old men Churchill, MacMillan similar to what Europe is trying to and R.A. Butler managed Britain do now. Zik felt, quite rightly, that recovery through 1950s and 1960s. only a united Africa marshalling In Saudi Arabia the last three its human and natural resources kings ascended the throne in could be a force in the 20th their 70s and 80s and see what century. transformation Saudi Arabians Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, former have enjoyed in the last 40 years. president, former Owelle of If you think that this achievement Onisha therefore deserves all the is solely due to oil resources take honour and accolades we can a look at Nigeria and consider ADVERT: 0803 311 7458 Published by Peoples Media Limited, 35, Ajose Adeogun Street, 1st Floor Peace Park Plaza, Utako, Abuja.

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GUEST COLUMNIST Muhammadu Buhari

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These cursory recollections from history teach us, I submit, one thing. Ability, competence and skill in politics does not reside in one particular age group.

The ideal is to have a mixture of experienced people who will bring their wisdom to bear and young men and women with energy and vigour to cooperatively run an administration.