Saturday 5th October, 2013

Man loses life, motorcycle in pursuit of N50 Page 13

Ombatse Bomb scare denies Alakyo at PDP hqtrs in killings Abuja Page 6

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. . . Putti ng the p e o p l e fi rs t

Zamfara: Customs in shooting spree Vol. 3 No. 59

SATURDAY 5 — SUNDAY 6 SEPTEMBER, 2013

THUL QADAH 29-30, 1434 AH

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• Injure 350 traders • Residents demand probe Agagu: Aircraft flew after 43 days on tarmac, investigation reveals Page

National Conference

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Another jamboree or genuine dialogue? *Conference can’t solve Nigeria’s Pages 2,3,7,8&9 problems —ACF Spokesman *It’s not a bad idea, but ... —Yakasai

10 killed in reprisal attack on Benue community – Pg 10

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Prime Interview National Conference can’t solve Nigeria’s problems —ACF Spokesman

Mr Anthony Sani is the spokesperson of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF). In this interview with our correspondent, Mohammad Ibrahim, Sani also speaks on issues of national interest including the 2015 general election, the ambition of President Goodluck Jonathan, the proposed national conference and the security challenges in the country among others. Excerpts:

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igeria at 53 is still not where it is supposed to be as a nation. What do you think are the reasons why?

There are several reasons why Nigeria is not where people expect it to be. First is the concept of nationhood which has not fully been internalized in many Nigerians. As a result, Nigerians have not come together in unison to unleash their synergistic potential.

That is why there is hype in ethnic nationalism cast in the garb of agitations for true federalism; and that is why instead of republic of ideals propelled by national solidarity that accommodates relative pluralism, there are clamors for republic of cloistered communities with strong historical ties to places that come with insular particularism.

The second reason has been that the discovery of oil with easy money has conferred the status of a Trust Fund State on Nigeria. And because people do not pay tax, they do not hold leaders accountable.

What is more, people do not see the need for making judicious use of their democratic rights and ensure that their votes count so that leaders who emerge will be accountable to the people.

You know when people do not pay tax, the tendency is for them not to bother about what leaders do with their commonwealth.

And the leaders like it that way because of fear of accountability. Also, the nature of the political parties has not helped the matter. Normally, there is a national consensus on problems of a nation, but no similar consensus on solution of the problems.

Political parties are expected to represent different approaches to solving the problems among which voters choose their preference during elections.

But the political parties are mere clones of one another.

As a result the choice has been reduced from which political party can deliver on the promise of democracy to which

party has the resources to win elections. And finally, there have been collapse in national ideals, moral values and in social contract among groups and among individuals as well as fall in our sense of what is right and what is evil.

Corruption is one reason why Nigeria is not moving forward but recently, president Jonathan said corruption is not Nigerian number one problem. Do you agree?

I do not share this view because corruption has distorted our values and sense of judgment to a level that it has stolen the empowerment, the opportunity and future of Nigerians.

It is corruption that has killed our education to a level that our wards believe they can buy knowledge without learning. Knowledge cannot be obtained through purchase of certificates without learning. t is corruption that has killed our health and public institutions; killed desires to work hard. But this is an odd thing to say when we consider Gresham’s law which says money with low utility (corrupt money) chases away money of high utility (money from production).

The net effect is that corruption has become the bane of our socioeconomic development. Nothing could be worst. And that is why ACF has suggested capital punishment for corrupt practices.

President Jonathan also denied signing any pact with the state governors on one term agreement. Who then should

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Mr Anthony Sani Nigerians believe among them?

That is why we have advocated the need to have leaders Nigerians can trust.

Else, campaign promises, government policies and programs would be meaningless.

We tend to forget the fact

that Mr President and the governors are the embodiment of national ideals and moral values, whose words should be believed and respected. It is unfortunate that we have such situations in the polity.

When we were told that President Jonathan would do

We must note that military regimes being credited to the North never consulted the North before their coup because military is a constituency in its own right comprising officers across the nation. And that was why northerners were also toppled. Also, note that by 2015, the South will have ruled for 14 out of the 16 years under this democratic dispensation. So, anybody talking of power returning to the North has not gotten the arithmetic right.

only one term in addition to part of late President Yar’Adua’s tenure, it was not that he made the decision to hand over to a northerner. We were told he made that agreement with PDP Governors, and not with northern governors.

With this revelation by the President, do you think power will still return to the North come 2015?

The North’s aspiration for the president in 2015 should not depend on President Jonathan’s decision to contest or not. This is because people and not government make and unmake governments. do not like to hear people say power should return to the North, because that presupposes power is birth right

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

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Interview

National Confab not bad, but ....

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hat is your view on the escalating i n s e c u r i t y situation in the northern part of the country?

Well, I think you are referring to insurgency in connection with Boko Haram. You know its history, this is something that has been going on even before late Umaru Yar’adua became the president of this country that is during Obasanjo’s era. And we have had some security challenges before then, like the Niger/Delta restiveness, kidnapping, armed robbery and so on. As time goes on such things come to past. In a country like Nigeria you cannot rule out the possibility of such problems.

But what is required is determination and good will; declaration of state of emergency was good. In fact when it was declared at the initial stage the insurgency was on the downward trend. Again we have started seeing sporadic attacks, I think persistence on the part of the government would lead to success and there is no way you can get yourself out of this problem except by deploying energy and resources for you to be able to overcome it. It is equally happening in other countries like Iraq, Pakistan Afghanistan, Somalia and many others. They are things that happen as a result dissatisfaction, poverty, unemployment and others. And once the nation is able to address these problems you will see reduction in large scale of such criminal activities. For instance, you cannot expect somebody like Aliko Dangote or Femi Otedola to participate in terrorism because they are busy doing something. I think the programmes which this government is embarking upon of providing sufficient power for industries in the country is on the right direction in my opinion, if we continue with that and we are able to generate sufficient power, investors will begin to set up industries. Those industries will begin to pick those unemployed people, and give them jobs and gradually the number of unemployed persons will be reduced to the barest minimum.

We have seen the case of the former President of Brazil Muller, who was able to create thirty million jobs in a period of ten years and average of three million jobs per year. I think if we can direct our effort towards achieving this, as time goes on we will be able to overcome the insecurity.

Do you subscribe to the notion that the crisis is politically motivated?

No, I think those people thinking like that are simplistic people, who don’t see things in their proper perspectives, you see it doesn’t have any link to politics. If you are talking about Boko Haram it started during Obasanjo and it got to its peak when security agents killed the leader of the group during late Yar’adua, I don’t think it has any political undertone. Is just the problem of poverty, unemployment and if we focus on these issues and mount sufficient determination to overcome it sooner or later we will be on top of the situation.

Do you think the present government is doing enough in tackling those things you mentioned?

Well, you know the problems of Nigeria have accumulated over the years, I remember in 1994/1995 when we were in the constitutional

Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, elder statesman, Special Adviser to former President Shehu Shgari in the second republic, speaks with Edwin Olofu on the proposed national conference, insecurity, PDP crisis, 2015 and other sundry national issues. What is your view on the escalating insecurity situation in the northern part of the country?

In this light, do you support power to return to the north in 2015?

I do. What I want is for the PDP to reinstate zoning and rotation two terms for each President. Because the crisis started from the PDP, the party agreed that Obasanjo should do terms which he did even though he tried to do third term but he failed. Now, if Yar’adua did not die all these problems wouldn’t have risen but God in his infinite mercy took the life of Yar’adua and the issue of transition from Yar’adua to his Vice was what brought about crises.

If PDP will go back to its original policy and adopt zoning and rotation of X power at the centre and follow it religiously we will solve our problem.

In other words, you are saying that President Jonathan has served his two terms and should not contest in 2015?

He has not served his two terms, I don’t care if he does two terms or one provided from Jonathan the count will start. After Jonathan the north should do eight years after which it will be the turn of the South and we continue like that.

Alhaji Tanko Yakasai conference a staff of NEPA then told us that at the level we were going we will soon run into trouble with the power sector. You will agree with me that the issue of power generation and distribution is not like fuel that when the refineries are not working, you begin to import. You need a long term plan and commit enormous resources. And we listened to him and reported to those in authority.

But the fact remains that Nigeria has neglected this for so long that is why we have to now deploy more resources in order to overcome the problem. But we cannot overcome it overnight it requires patience.

There is this issue raised by the new PDP even though you are not a card carrying member of the PDP, that President Jonathan should not seek re-election in 2015, that power should return to the north. What is your take on this?

I don’t think the crisis is all about power shift because I have been following it on the pages of the newspapers. But I think they know better the main problem but the issue of power shift is only an element put in, to attract sympathy, there are more fundamental issues and they know best what they are. I don’t think it is the issue of power shift that is the problem, because some of these people who are now fighting their party were formerly supporters of President Jonathan.

They supported his candidature and voted for him when they could make a difference but they didn’t do it.

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Do you support power shift?

Yes or course, I have been a supporter of power shift all along, I was a member of NPN that introduced rotation and zoning into Nigerian politics. I was one of those who really nurtured this idea I sold it to a wide number of NPN stalwarts and it was adopted by the party. Again, I was a member of the constitutional conference 1994/1995, we made a case for zoning and rotation to be entrenched in the constitution of Nigeria and it was because of that, the six zonal arrangement were conceived to provide opportunity for different categories of Nigerians to able to produce the president of Nigeria. To the extent that the then government of the day under late General Sani Abacha agreed to and created six positions that will be distributed among the six geo-political zones of the country, and agreed that rotation and zoning will continue to be practiced in Nigeria for the period of thirty years, and the presidential term of office will be peged at thirty years. And five years times six will make thirty years I was a member of that conference. And I still believe that from my experience right from 1959 election to date all the major crises in Nigeria have to do with the issue of power at the Centre. Until we address the problem of power shift, how every Nigerian will be given a sense of belonging in terms of power at the centre we will continue to have problem. But when we address that problem successfully, I can tell you that there will be peace in Nigeria.

There is an opportunity for Nigerians to come together and discuss issues like zoning and rotation now, after the President set up a committee that will work out the modalities for a national dialogue or conference, what is your take on this?

I welcome the idea; I’m the chairman of Nigerian National summit group which advocated dialogue and national conference.

What we are not in support of are two things, one is sovereign national conference because it is never done in a democracy, and secondly you cannot have a conference in Nigeria with representation based on ethnic nationalities. I don’t think that will work because we have over 300 different ethnic nationalities in Nigeria that alone will produce 300 people if you agree to give every ethnic nationality one representation. And you have trade unions, student unions many other organizations which you need to give representation at the conference that is what makes it difficult.

Some people in some quarters are of the view that the national dialogue has an ulterior motive, do you share this?

Well, we have over one hundred and sixty million Nigerians today there is no way you can make all Nigerians think alike even identical twins don’t think alike so there is no problem if some people entertain doubt or fear. But I think

I don’t care if he does two terms or one, provided from Jonathan, the count will start. After Jonathan the north should do eight years after which it will be the turn of the South and we continue like that.

if there is good will and sincerity of purpose and commitment in the future of this country I think all these doubting Thomases are bound to fail Nigeria will emerge stronger.

And for those who are entertaining the idea of destroying or breaking up the country, are yet to provide an alternative. If you destroy Nigeria what are you going to have in place of it in any case Ibadan will remain here it is so also Kano, Enugu and the rest of the places you cannot take one place to another place the people sooner or later will have to interact with one another. Nobody can restrict people from interacting with one another those who don’t want Nigeria to remain a single entity are yet to produce their own alternative plan.

Some are saying the national dialogue is a diversionary tactics, do you agree with them?

I cannot stop Nigerians from thinking the way they do, but I don’t share their views, I don’t see why the President should waste his time because he has quite a lot to do if he wants to divert people attention he can plan to be commissioning projects every day for the rest of his tenure if he so wish to divert the attention of people. On a serious note I don’t think the purpose is to divert attention but because people have been agitating for that, which is why he feels that it is good to allow them vomit everything they have.

And it is left for Nigerians to accept what they want and reject what they don’t want to and that will put an end to all these unnecessary agitations.

What are the issues to be discussed during the national conference?

They are there on the agenda They said whatever is going to be discussed should not be in conflict with the laws of Nigeria. Anything that will not be in conflict with the laws can be discussed and if majority of the participants accept it so be it.

For instance if you are going to the national conference from the northern part of the country, what are the issues you are going to table before it?

I’m a Nigerian; I worked for Nigeria all these years the first time I went to prison for Nigeria is in 1953 that is sixty years now and I went to prison to defend the unity of Nigeria. All my thinking is for Nigeria not where I come from that is not important.

But the Bayelsa state government has set up a committee to articulate the position of the people of the state.

Bayelsa state is only copying Kwankwaso because recently, he appointed a committee to articulate the position of kano state on the PIB issue which I happen to be a member. And I’m sure various governments in Nigeria will do the same thing that is nothing new or wrong with what Bayelsa has done.

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Special Report

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Boko Haram: The changing face of Civilian JTF

By Mustapha Isah Kwaru

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s part of its strategies towards ending the lingering security challenges occasioned by the violent campaigns launched by the Boko Haram insurgents three years ago, the Borno state government last weekend, gave a new lease of life to members of the youth vigilante group popularly known as civilian JTF, who have been hunting for fleeing members of the sect.

Our correspondent reports that since the declaration of emergency rule by President Goodluck Jonathan about five months ago, the youth have been assisting the security agencies in the fight against the militants through offering useful information on the hideouts of the militants or participated practically in series of operations that led to the capture of the gunmen.

Hundreds of them were killed either in the course of hunting the insurgents or in reprisals. There is no doubt that the gallant and courageous youth have contributed a lot to the return of relative peace being enjoyed by residents of Maiduguri and environs.

In fact, the youth had driven away the gunmen from Maiduguri, by sacrificing their lives in confronting the insurgents who are armed with sophisticated weapons, with mere local weapons such as daggers, knives, sticks, machetes, cutlasses and swords among others.

The civilain JTF listening carefully to instruction

It is against this backdrop that the state government selected 800 members of the vigilante group for the first phase of a gigantic pro-

gramme with the dual vision of tackling unemployment through empowering the youth to be selfreliant and imparting moral training towards attitudinal change.

The participants, undergoing the two-week training at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Maiduguri, were provided with training and parade kits under the supervision of military, police and paramilitary operatives. esides vocational and paramilitary training, they will equally undergo series of moral lectures, character counseling and preaching by scholars, experts and clerics.

Under the project, the youth will no longer be referred to as Civilian JTF, but BOYES, the acronym for Borno Youth Empowerment Scheme. The programme was kickstarted with 800 participants drawn from some local government areas, which had been the epicenters of the Book Haram unrest.

The state governor, Alhaji Kashim Shettima who flagged off the orientation programme, applauded the laudable efforts put in place by the youths in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents.

The governor said ‘’ Today we have gathered to start what I will call, the implementation of an all-

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Preparing for parade

inclusive blueprint that is aimed at transforming our youths into becoming more productive by bringing together this first batch of 800 youths drawn from about 10 units within Jere, Metropolitan and 50 each from Biu, Bama, Damboa, Konguga and Kaga local government areas’’ He added: ‘’A society with an uninspired and unhelpful youth population is on the path of failure. Let me start by expressing our very deep appreciation to our youths and our heroes, for their exceptional courage, patriotism, and commitment towards a safer and better state. Like I had said before, I regard our youths’ volunteers as the Miracles of our time due to their self inspired evolution in defense of the larger population of Borno State. The Government and entire people of Borno State and indeed any well meaning Nigerian, will never forget this great sacrifice’’.

“The government and the entire structure of Borno state will ever remain grateful to you for your untiring efforts in surrendering your lives on the streets of Maiduguri and its environs, day and night, in restoring peace and tranquility to our dear states,’’ he added.

Shettima said that the empowerment programme is meant for the youths to discover and rediscover their potentials with necessary skills, adding that his government would continue to use the scare resources at its disposal in the fight against terrorism and other crimes which are detrimental to social-economic development of the state.

He said that already, the government has started the construction and installation of gates in all communities in Maiduguri to make it easier for the vigilante youths to secure their communities against crime and other social vices. hile soliciting more prayers from all and sundry to nip in the problem of Boko Haram insurgents in Borno and other states in the North, Shettima, promised to use the scarce resources at the state government’s disposal in supporting the youths. The governor equally vowed to support security agencies in the fight against terrorism and other crimes that are detrimental to socio- economic development of the state.

He noted that already, his government has started construction

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Boko Haram: The changing face of Civilian JTF Contd from Page 3 and installation of gates in all communities in Maiduguri, so as to make it easier for vigilante youths to secure their communities against crimes and other social evils in the state. ‘’By bringing together this first batch of 800 youths… we do not mean to say that these youths here are misguided miscreants, not at all. No one should have that wrong notion. These are youths who have demonstrated extraordinary love for Borno by giving up sleep at night to man the streets with the support of security agencies, putting their safety on the line, so that we can all be safe along with the larger population of our State. hese youths are our heroes, they are like soldiers that returned from war who should be reintegrated into the society and this is why they are undergoing fresh orientation so that individually or in groups, they will be given value reorientation to strengthen and properly organize that rooted love they have shown for Borno’’, Shettima declared.

According to him, after their orientation and training on different skills, some of the youth will be employed by the government while others will be empowered to be self employed. He said the scheme is for now, targeting local government areas that were worse hit by the insurgency before extending the coverage to other local government areas in the state.

“The training is all encompassing with focus on religious orientation, civil responsibilities, self actualization, enlightenments on dangers of drug abuse, personal education, security consciousness’’, Shettima explained.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the implementation committee of the scheme, who is also the Deputy Governor, Zannah Umar Mustapha said, the 800 youth are taking part in the first phase of the

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project, while the second phase which will soon be launched, would admit another 800 others.

The deputy governor hinted that besides being used as vanguard of peace, the participants would also be trained in different skill acquisition programmes, as according to him, the present administration is committed to the plight of its people, particularly on how best youths will be empowered economically.

“I’m optimistic that government decision to re-orient these agile youth will play a vital role in its desire to bring back the state to its former glory as ‘Home of Peace’. The scheme is also aimed at building solid structures that will permanently bid farewell to poverty and unemployment in our dear state.

“It is expected that at the end of the training, the overall of reducing poverty, wealth creations, change in orientation, curtailing of rural-urban drift and checking crime would be achieved”, the deputy governor declared.

Mustapha further explained that government is ever ready and determined more than ever before to offer genuine and people oriented services to the teeming populace who have reposed a lot of confidence in government ability to serve them and deliver the dividends of democracy. n an interview with our correspondent, a cross section of the beneficiaries commended government for finding them worthy of participating in the scheme. Mallam Yusuf Garba promised that the youths will support the state government in all its policies and programmes.

According to him, the training has not only inculcated knowledge on how they will be self reliant but also impact morally on their lives. Another trainee, Bulama Shettima said he was delighted to be among the youth who will be empowered for self reliance and also play a significant role towards the restoration of peace in the state and the country at large.

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Special Report

Gov. Kashim Shettima receiving guard of honour

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Members of the civilian JTF taking oath of allegiance

The new recruits being addressed

PEOPLES DAILY WEEKEND SATURDAY 5 5-SUNDAY — SUNDAY6,6 OCTOBER, 2013 2013 PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY

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News

Court not Jonathan reversed my demotion —Ribadu From Ayodele Samuel, Lagos

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Some family members at the burial of former governor of Ondo state, Chief Olusegun Agagu

Ombatse denies Alakyo killings From Ali Abare Abubakar, Lafia

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he Ombatse, alleged to have masterminded the May 7 brutal murder of scores of security operatives in Alakyo village of Nasarawa state, have denied any responsibility over the incidence, saying that the group is rather “very surprised” to be associated with the act.

Legal adviser of Ombatse, Zamani Zackary Allumaga, who appeared as a witness before the judicial commission of inquiry investigating the Alakyo killings and other matters related to it yesterday, disclosed that over 229 Eggon youth have been killed in various crises across the state, blaming the “lackadaisical attitude of government” for the festering crisis in the state.

Allumaga maintained that the Ombatse abhors violence and is inseparable from the Eggon nation, which he claimed felt “marginalized, balkanized and in a

position that looks like we may be annihilated”.

He urged the authorities to fish out the perpetrators of the Alakyo massacre for sanction in accordance with the law.

“We in Ombatse, even though we had our initial apprehension, we are grateful to God for directing the governor to set up this commission of inquiry, with fate that if, perhaps the two previous commission of inquiries set up with respect to crises, have not yielded to finding a solution to the aspirations of the Ombatse group, we have fate that this commission will do a good job”, Allumaga noted.

Tracing the genesis of the crisis in Nasarawa state to 1999, when former governor of the state, Abdullahi Adamu was in power, he alleged that Adamu initiated a policy referred to as “deployment”, where civil servants were directed to return and serve in their original local

government areas.

This, Allumaga described as draconian policy, which was recently vacated by the Supreme Court.The legal practitioner, equally blamed Governor Almakura for towing the same line when he declared that the Eggon are not indigenes of Assakio.

Allumaga, while stating his evidence however, confirmed that he took active part in the November 2012 confrontation involving the Ombatse and security operatives, allegedly numbering about 20, who he claimed “invaded our prayer ground in Aloghani, shooting sporadically at anyone on sight”, with members of the group, including Allumaga, trekking eight kilometers to block the road in Nasarawa Eggon so as to demand explanation from Governor Almakura.

“The security men had to run when they realized all that they could do, shoot at us, was not being effective”, he narrated.

Agagu buried as doctors battle to save only son From Ayodele Samuel, Ann Aloh and Obiomah Mary, Lagos

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octors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, are battling to save the life of Feyi Agagu, the son of the late governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Agagu and other survivors who were involved in a plane crash on Thursday morning while taking the corpse of the late former governor.

Five of the lucky seven survivors are receiving treatment in LASUTH, one is at the Airforce medical centre while the other is in

Gbagada General Hospital. Medical sources said are doing ‘fairly’ good.

While Feyi was sighted being moved from the surgical emergency ward in LASUTH to the more comfortable Bola Ahmed Tinubu ward, the hospital management had tough time controlling family members, friends and sympathisers who stormed the premises.

A doctor who spoke with our correspondent said Feyi has a better chance of survival.

The doctor who spoke on condition of anonymity said that the late Agagu’s son would receive better medical attention at the new

ward which boasts of more medical personnel and state-of-the-art equipment.

“There are more staff there, more modern equipment and they will be able to monitor him every minute. He has a better chance of survival there.”

The doctor said Feyi was not unconscious and could recognise family members and friends who were in the hospital today.

“But he was weak, did not speak and seemed to be under pains. He tried painfully to make a sign to his relatives but his hand came down almost immediately.”

ormer chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and 2011 Presidential candidate of the defunt Action Congress of Nigeria ACN, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu disclosed that the decision by the Police Service Commission (PSC) to demote, and later dismiss him from the police was nullified by a court, causing the reversal of the action taken by the government.

Ribadu who spoke at a public lecture to mark the official opening of a new Law office building of Tayo Oyetibo & co: Solicitors and Barristers in Lagos on Thursday said he challenged his demotion at the Federal High Court in Abuja, dissuading claims that he was pardoned by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Ribadu was reflecting on his sojourn in the EFCC and how he regained his rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police.

“I’m here today not just to honour my brother Barrister Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, but to sincerely express a depth of gratitude for his selfless contributions to my personal and public service career. My relationship with this remarkable lawyer is one for which I must forever remain grateful.

“He has stood with me, believed in my causes while I was at EFCC and dedicated his time and resources

to representing us pro bono. Among Barrister Oyetibo’s many historic victories was in my case with the Nigerian Police Force in which he challenged my dismissal in court and had the decision reversed and my ranks restored. This is a huge favour which I may never be able to repay, except with these tokens of gratitude.

“I want to seize this opportunity to thank the brilliant lawyers and brothers who stood for us and provided us with their free legal service at the EFCC, especially at the time we were under tremendous pressures in our struggles to carry out assignments considered impossible by detractors,” he said.

Speaking on the theme, ‘The Social Contract: Which way Nigeria’,he faulted those who believe that the problems faced by the nation today resulted from its tribal, religious and social diversity, arguing however that such ought to be the real strength upon which the nation can draw.

He added that the nations that have faced more critical crisis across the world are those with common language and religion.

The former EFCC boss cited the cases of Rwanda and Somalia, one a Christian country with a single language, but with only two tribes and the other a mostly Muslim country with a common language yet both experienced crisis of unimaginable proportion.

Bomb scare at PDP Secretariat

By Lawrence Olaoye

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he Wadata House headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was yesterday thrown into confusion over alleged threats by an undisclosed group.

Top party officials scampered out of office while some directors hurriedly discharged their staff for the weekend.

The move to get out of the secretariat saw many driving their cars out just as middle and junior level officials were seen in small circles discussing the matter.

Some principal officers who reportedly left the secretariat on the basis of the security reports include the National Auditor, the departmental directors among others.

Checks by curious newsmen revealed that a report was relayed to the party secretariat Thursday night disclosing a credible threat to attack the secretariat beginning from yesterday.

A director of the party was said to have received the report and relayed it to the necessary quarters within the leadership. This was later leaked to the general staff who took the news with hysteric reactions.

The party chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and new National Secretary of the party, Prof Adewale Oladipo were not in the office A top security official of the party confirmed the development, disclosing that “ the threat is real and we are all aware of the situation”.

Plateau Speaker escapes impeachment, to tender resignation

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peaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Mr. John Clark Dabwan, Friday narrowly escaped impeachment by his colleagues in the House, who said they have lost confidence in his poor and colourless leadership style.

The 18 out of the 24 lawmakers had signed for his impeachment and had gathered in closed door meeting

to proceed with his removal when the Speaker got a wind of it and hurriedly joined them.

He then pleaded with them to rather allow him to resign honourably

by Tuesday next week when the House is expected to reconvene. He was thereafter warned by members to ensure that the House receives his letter of resignation latest by then.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

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Cover

National conference: Genuine dialogue or another jamboree?

President Goodluck Jonathan has just inaugurated a committee charged with preparations for another national conference that would bring together the various nationalities to discuss issues that have agitated their minds. In this piece, News Editor, Abubakar Ibrahim dissects similar meetings in the past with a poser as to whether the current attempt will bear fruit or end up just as another talkshow meant to ingratiate the elite towards a political agenda.

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t has been a fact that experiences from the union of various nationalities in Nigeria has brought forth agitations by various sections on how disparate interests should be represented in an ideal set up we all describe politically as a federation.

This never assumed a crescendo until the Pro- National Conference (PRONACO), a group of human rights and pro-democracy activists laid out a framework for continued co-existence of groups in Nigeria after the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993 election adjudged to have been won by Chief Moshood Abiola. They are asking for a Sovereign National Conference that will assemble independent groups from the various geopolitical zones.

In the year 2000, one of its vehement arrowheads, the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi said “the primary duty of the Sovereign National Conference is to address and find solutions to the key problems afflicting Nigeria since 1914 to date. The concern is to remove all obstacles which have prevented the country from establishing political justice, economic justice, social justice, cultural justice, religious justice and to construct a new constitutional frame-work in terms of the system of government-structurally, politically economically, socially, culturally and religiously”.

But this has been brushed aside by governments of the day with the argument that organizing any national constitutional parley outside the elected representatives of the people, is akin to passing no confidence vote on their capacity, sanctioning of a parallel government or sell out of the country’s unnegotiable sovereignty. There was another fear of acrimonious debate that could lead to chaos under a fledgling union.

However, after weeks of internal wrangling in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the control of its machinery ostensibly

for the electoral ambition of incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, the government on October 1, 2013 announced the convening of a National Conference to discuss major issues probably in line with PRONACO’s wishes. It is expected however, that no-go areas may be spelt out viz: the unity and sovereignty of the country.

But in the last 20 years, hardly had the reports of the panels been executed. They were rather largely viewed as ploys by regimes to cool tempers after so much pumping of adrenalins over desires to linger in power and therefore left on the shelves by succeeding leaders. Could this one be a genuine desire to address the fundamental issues dogging the nation or another tea party meant to once again, throw largesse around? n May 11, 1988, General Babangida inaugurated the Constituent Assembly, and demarcated the Assembly from ‘no-go areas’ . He said: “I should also state categorically that the Assembly should not indulge itself in the fruitless exercise of trying to alter the agreed ingredients of Nigeria’s political order, such as Federalism, Presidentialism, the nonadoption of any religion as State Religion, and the respect and observance of fundamental human rights. . . . Your job is to improve on these agreed political issues and not to change them, . . . do not jump the gun; your immunity only covers your role as members of the Constituent Assembly. . . . You cannot afford to fail; we cannot afford failure at this critical juncture in our national history”, he said.

On assumption of power November 17, 1993, General Sani Abacha also realised that there were many political wrongs that needed correction and formed the national constitutional conference to “lay a very solid foundation for the growth of true democracy”.

He added: “we should abhor any ad-hoc or temporary

O

President Goodluck Jonathan

solutions, the problem must be addressed firmly, objectively, decisively and with all sincerity of purpose…we would set example by our

“

endeavor that we seek we were prepared to travel the distance, bear any burden and seek every valid avenue in our undertaking to lay the

But this has been brushed aside by governments of the day with the argument that organizing any national constitutional parley outside the elected representatives of the people, is akin to passing no confidence vote on their capacity

bedrock of a lasting democracy for our country”.

To do this, the General invited Nigerians to decide for themselves the kind of nation and civil governance they wanted but however, there was no properly constituted national electoral commission, and so, the election of constitutional conference delegate was organised on a direct universal adult-suffrage basis wherein all adults of 18 years and above were free to vote without restriction. he elected representative during General Sani Abacha did renegotiate the nature and scope

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Contd on Page 8

Cover National conference: Genuine dialogue or another jamboree?

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General Yakubu Gowon

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

General Murtala Mohammed

General Ibrahim Babangida

Contd from Page 7

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f their participation in the Nigerian federation but voted unanimously for the “retention of United, indivisible and indissoluble nation built on a federal arrangement that recognizes a thrice-tier Government”. ost of the issues agreed upon in that conference chaired

by Adolphus Karibi-Whyte, Judge of the international criminal Tribunal at the Hague, were discarded by the democratically-elected President Olusegun Obasanjo.

However, during the Abacha conference, delegates debated seriously on the monopoly of power by the majority ethnic groups, and the marginalization of the minorities, and it was agreed that the position of the President, Governors, and chairman of local governments should be rotational while the Presidency should be made less attractive and more power relinquished to the states and local governments. He believed that devolution of powers will also promote more rapid development at the grassroots and therefore established a committee to work out the guidelines for devolving more power and functions to the lower tiers of Government especially in the areas of health, education agriculture, roads and housing. On revenue alloca-

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attempts were the Clifford Constitution 1922; Richards Constitution 1946; Macpherson Constitution 1951; Lyttleton Constitution 1954; 1960 Independence Constitution; 1975/76 Constitutional Conference, 1988/89 Constitutional Conference and 1994/95 National Political Reform Conference.

Out of these initiatives, the review of the nation’s constitution was further subjected to input from the Constituent Assembly in 1977/78 and 1988/89. he Military under General Yakubu Gowon brought about continuous cutting of Nigeria into pocket States, and micro Local Governments. In 1979, the Head of State, Lt. General Olusegun Obasanjo conducted an election and handed over to a Civilian President, a change from British parliamentary system to the American presidential type with Alhaji Shehu Shagari as the Captain of the experiment Each Military administration set up a jamboree of ‘elders-in-council’ to discuss what is good for Nigeria.

Some saw that as a gimmick, pilgrimage, package for the loyalists, and such gatherings, whatever the intent of the leader, could not be trusted, since nothing solid ever came out from the pre-

T General Sani Abacha

tion, the Abacha administration agreed, according to the draft constitution, on a fixed percentage of 13% of all revenue accruing to the federation account from natural resources which should be given to the communities from where such resources are exploited. This is to promote rapid development and to compensate them for any ecological inconvenience occasioned by oil and mineral exploration and exploitation.

In a nutshell, Nigeria, since its existence, has been

General Olusegun Obasanjo

struggling to get its head above waters in its political process. Each administra-

“

tion has tried to formulate a workable framework for the country, all to no avail. Past

Most of the issues agreed upon in that conference chaired by Adolphus Karibi-Whyte, Judge of the international criminal Tribunal at the Hague, were discarded by the democratically-elected President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Contd on Page 9

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Contd from Page 8 vious gatherings.

Records show that the 2005 inauguration of a political reform committee by President Obasanjo was the eighth attempts to give the nation a befitting Constitution since 1922.

The committee spelt out the180-point agenda for debate at the National Political Reform Conference, NPRC. These areas are the Economy: - agriculture and food, land tenure system, oil and gas, manufacturing industry, services, foreign trade, monetary policy and protection of the national currency, debt (external and internal) and foreign exchange and national development, Human and Social Security, Human rights and the rule of law, Education: Primary, secondary and tertiary; Health; Youth development; The development of the Nigerian child; Pro-gender policies; Food and water security; Culture & sports; Social security (Pension); National Security: - Armed forces, The police, SSS, Prisons, Customs, Citizen & Immigration, Substance abuse. Social Infrastructure: - Energy, Railways, Road transport, Information and communications technology, Models and Structure of Government, Tiers of government (federal, regional/ zonal authority), State, Local, Federal, state and local or federal, region and state.

Power Sharing: - Exclusive list for Federal Government (without any concurrent list) with Region/state government or local sharing, Residual power, Power sharing between regional authority and state.

At the end of the NPRC on Sunday night, July 24, 2005,

Prof. Ben Nwabueze

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Cover

National conference: Genuine dialogue or another jamboree? a position paper written and signed by ALHAJI MAGAJI DAMBATTA, OFR, Chairman Media and Strategy Committee, Northern Delegates Forum, initially expressed fears that the confab “might break up even before it had commenced sitting”.

However, he said, “Five months later, the skepticisms and fears have turned out to be unjustified. As President Olusegun Obasanjo and Honourable Justice Niki Tobi, the chairman of the Conference, have pointed out, it has been a great success. After extensive deliberations and treating more than 700 memoranda submitted by Nigerians, it arrived at near unanimity on 187 recommendations out of 189 subjects decided upon.

There was serious disagreement on only one subject, “Resource Control”, and a mild disagreement on another, tenure of the President and Governors.

“

Nigerians reactions to the conference was mixed, some personal and some constructive. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi said, “The reform is similar to the late General Sani Abacha’s National Constitutional Conference of 1995. It is not based on systemic people-determined structure.”

The Chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, Alhaji Balarable Musa, said “what Nigerians wanted was a Sovereign National Political Reform Conference. What Obasanjo has offered is provocative and insulting to Nigerians.” ooking critically at the new move by President Goodluck Jonathan to convene another national conference, questions are beginning to emerge whether the issues to be discussed are going to be any different from those debated in the past or a ploy for horsetra-

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At the end of the NPRC on Sunday night, July 24, 2005, a position paper written and signed by ALHAJI MAGAJI DAMBATTA, OFR, Chairman Media and Strategy Committee, Northern Delegates Forum, initially expressed fears that the confab “might break up even before it had commenced sitting”.

Alh. Dauda Birma

ing towards an electoral objective. Why is this coming at the heat of the internal crisis in the PDP? Is time been bought ala Obasanjo for another personal political strategy and why are the legitimate representatives of the people-the National Assembly left out?.

On this, Dr. Femi Ajayi said “Unfortunately, and that is very sad, the assemblage of the ‘young fellows’ we have at the National Assembly are not up to the task. Male members of the National Assembly are free to clout female members because they are not in the same equation when it comes to money sharing, and Committee Chairs especially, are much more interested in taking bribes from public servants before they do their job. Based on these facts President Obasanjo’s choice is to ‘leave them alone’ and get Nigerians together to discuss their fate, against all odds, and oppositions. However, there was some merit in not allowing the Assembly to waste its valuable time on matters on which the Government seemed to have made up its mind”. owever, some lesson can be learned from the speech given by late Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed at the inauguration of the Constituent Drafting Committee on Saturday, October 18, 1975. He advised members that: “While it is evident that some of our difficulties may have been created by political leaders who operated the

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Sen. Khairat Gwadabe

Constitution, it is clear also that some of the provisions of the Constitution facilitated the periodic political crises this country [Nigeria] went through. Therefore, I trust that you will keep it in mind that the Constitution which we need has to reflect our past experience, while at the same time paying attention to the equally important fact that a good Constitution must also be capable of influencing the nature and the orderly development of the politics of the people.”

He reiterated that: “The fear of the predominance of one Region over another has, for instance, been removed to a large extent by the simple Constitutional Act of creating more States.

Your aim, therefore, must be to devise a Constitution which helps to solve other problems that may arise in the future…”Politics must be transformed from its previous scenario of bitter personal wrangles into a healthy game of political argument and discussion.” e philosophically concluded that: “You are at the bar of history.

Your deliberation during the forthcoming months will be crucial as to whether or not we can create a political arrangement which will be viable and which will sustain us for many years to come.

Nigerians everywhere will be looking up to you for a sound and enduring Constitution.

Whatever Constitution you draft, it must be workable and acceptable to the majority of our people.”

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Sen. Philip Aduda

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News

10 killed in reprisal attack on Benue community From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

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t least 10 persons have been killed in a reprisal attack by suspected herdsmen in Agatu local government area of Benue State.

The member representing Agatu State constituency Hon. Audu Sule who disclosed this on the floor of the House said the fresh attack occurred in the early hours of yesterday when the villagers were preparing to go to their farms.

He said the suspected herdsmen invaded Agena community in the council and unleashed terror on the farmers burning down houses.

According to the legislator, mercenaries were hired by the invaders who were allegedly planning to launch further attacks on the farmers.

He said the corpses of the deceased have been rushed to the mortuary in a nearby hospital .

It could be recalled that only last Sunday, Agatu farmers were alleged to have been ambushed by herdsmen in Apa local government area in Benue state where thirteen persons were said to have been killed.

When contacted, the State Police Public Relations’ Officer, PPRO DSP Daniel Ezeala said the command is unaware of the latest attack but said that they have deployed adequate policemen to restore peace in the area.

Tinubu returns today, cancels rally From Ayodele Samuel and Gabriel Johnson, Lagos

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fter months of fear over the health status of the National Leader of the All Progressive Congress of Nigeria (APC) and former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria today after several months of medical trip.

Tinubu had left Nigeria around July 19 over a nagging injury on one of his knees. He underwent a knee cap surgery at RUSH Hospital in Chicago, United States of America on August 7.

Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State APC reception committee, Chief Funso Ologunde, said the rally and reception earlier planned for him at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos Island has been cancelled at Asiwaju’s instance, in sympathy with the families who lost their loved ones in the air crash of Thursday 3rd October,2013.”

He said Tinubu would address a world press conference upon arrival into the country.

Tinubu is expected to arrive in company of Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola who led some associates to visit him in London recently.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Customs shoot 350 Zamfara traders From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

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bout 350 Zamfara traders were reported to have sustained various degrees of injuries following gunshots fired by the officers of the Nigeria Customs service in an effort to clear the road leading to the Tsafe central market after arresting a truck alleged to convey tonnes of smuggled rice last Sunday.

Narrating the incident to Peoples Daily Weekend, one of the victims, Halliru Jauro Maisauru, said he was in the market to sell his cows

following insecurity in the state, only to hear sporadic gunshots which he thought came from cattle rustlers invading the market.

Maisauru added that, as a result, all the villagers panicked, abandoned their properties and took to their heels believing that, the same group of armed robbers terrorizing their villages had got wind of the villagers’ decision to sell off their cows and had trailed them to the market.

The situation led to a stampede which left over 300 people lying on ground with various degree of injuries.

He noted that, some hi lux vehicles believed to be from the state government were used to evacuate those who could not stand on their feet.

Another victim, Maibuhu Dansani, said he arrived the market to wait for his wares which he loaded on a truck from Dansadau, while he was looking for a broker to negotiate the price of his items. Just then the gunshots stirred the whole market.

“I saw some thieves carting away abandoned properties”, he said, adding that, “even before the fleeing traders were made to understand it was not a robbery attack, properties

worth millions of naira have been stolen.

Reacting on the incident, the Special Adviser to the state governor on media and communications, Sani Abdullahi Tsafe, condemned the action and urged the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service to investigate the matter to bring the culprits to book.

Also responding, the state Comptroller of the Customs, Alhaji Umaru M.Z said the officers were not from his Command, but could have come from the Federal Operations Unit (FOU).

L-R Minister of State Niger Delta Garius Ishaku, Minister of Niger Delta Peter Orubeb, Minister of Petroleum Deziani Alison Madueke and Minister of Police Affairs Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the State House Abuja on Wednesday.

Photo Joe Oroye.

Agagu: Aircraft flew after 43 days on tarmac From Suleiman Idris and Marion Evabor, Lagos

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nvestigation yesterday revealed that the Embraer 120ER 5N-BJY aircraft belonging to Associated Airline that crashed in Lagos was hurriedly deployed on the Lagos-Akure route on Thursday morning for the chartered operations after spending 43 days on the ground without flying.

Sources who witnessed the boarding of the aircraft at the early hours of Thursday said the aircraft was also washed before the ill-fated journey.

The late Governor Segun Agagu’s family were said to have approached the airline for the chartered operation as a last resort as they were said to have inquired about the airline that could ferry the corpse of the former

Ondo state Governor and discovered that only Associated Airline was available.

The state of the airline became a subject of controversy after the crash when it emerged that the aircraft was last flown on August the 22,2013 according to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority but the management of the airline said the aircraft last made its voyage on the 30th of the same

month.

The NCAA at a briefing yesterday said the aircraft engineer Saroh Elaiye certified the aircraft fit to fly having carried out the checks expected in accordance with the civil aviation regulations.

The storage maintenance on the aircraft, it said, had been carried out on the parked plane by the engineering staff of the airline for the 43 days it was parked.

lowed to fly, caused commotion between journalists and the aviation authorities late Thursday night.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Airline management had delayed the release of the manifest hours after journalists had laid their hands on the document. When reporters tried to confirm the document, commotion broke out only for the authority to put forward the same material the journalists had already taken possession of.

Aside the official number of 20

passengers on board the plane, a staff of the airline who craved anonymity, disclosed that a training pilot was also on the ill-fated plane which was not captured on the manifest written by hand. No mention of such individual has been made so far or any other persons not captured on the manifest.

The only staff and officials of Associated airline captured on the paper include the Captain Yakubu, Flight Officer Kola Oyinlola, Engineer Saroh Elaiye and Flight Dispatcher Ibrahim. The rest are

technician Felix Tatoye, Cabin attendant Owolabi and Samson, also a cabin attendant.

An important part of the manifest which carries the official stamp of the airline was expected to have been signed by the Captain or Flight Officer at the bottom right hand of the paper, but it emerged that it was signed on behalf of the two flying officers by someone else.

Also, nothing was stated regarding the grand total of freight in kilogram on board the aircraft.

…Crashed aircraft manifest raises questions

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he passengers manifest, that is the list of persons on board the ill fated Associated airline aircraft that crashed on Thursday raised questions about its true authenticity as it was allegedly put together by the airline about 12 hours after the plane crashed close to Joint Users Hydrant Installation (JUHI), a few meters away from the runway of the domestic wing of the Lagos airport.

The document, which is usually made available to the aviation authorities before any aircraft is al-

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 11

News

FOMWAN urges ASUU to call off strike From Yusha’u Alhassan Jalingo

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araba state chapter of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Association in Nigeria, FOMWAN has appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to call off its strike in the interest of educational development.

Speaking with our reporter on the ASUU strike, Secretary of the Association, Rakiya Jummai

Hamzat said the strike which is in its third month, has affected parents seriously.

Hamzat said the Federal Government and ASUU should resolve the problems between them and must trust and be honest to each other.

She said as a mother, she is worried on seeing children that are supposed to be in school, at home and frustrated.

The FOMWAN scribe urged

Federal Government to dialogue with ASUU after the strike to enable both parties resolve grey areas in dispute.

According to her, parents and students are left to bear the consequences of the strike which she said, was unfortunate.

Hamzat said the less privileged parents are the worst affected by the strike because after working hard to send their children to higher institution, they are back home

roaming the streets doing nothing.

Meanwhile the state chapter of FOMWAN has called on Taraba state Amirul Hajj, Khadi Ahmed Bose to ensure that Muslims performing the pilgrimage for the first time are adequately catered for in the Holy Land.

The state Amiral FOMWAN, Safiya Umar Galadima who made the call in an interview with our reporter on this year’s Hajj, observed that some of the intending pil-

grims have never traveled outside their localities.

She said such pilgrims would need support from the Islamic Scholars accompanying them for guidance to enable them perform acceptable pilgrimage.

Galadima also appealed to the pilgrims to obey the officials and abide by instructions and rules, warning them against engaging in fraudulent activities at the Holy Land.

NGF, APC condole plane crash victims’ families

By Lawrence Olaoye, Abuja & Adesoji Oyinlola, Lagos

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he Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) yesterday condoled Governor Olusegun Mimiko and the entire people f Ondo state over the recent plane crash involving the corpse of the former Ondo state governor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu and his mourners.

The NGF in a statement signed by its Chairman and Rivers state governor, Rotimi Amaechi stated “We hereby commiserate with the government and people of Ondo state and the families of all those who died in Thursday, Oct. 3 Associated Airline’s crash in Lagos as the body of late Governor Olusegun Agagu was being conveyed for burial.

“The incident is shocking and devastating given that the initial sudden death of Mr. Agagu himself was a huge tragedy in itself.

“We pray the Almighty God to give Governor Olusegun Mimiko, the people and government of Ondo state and everyone who lost loved ones in the crash the fortitude to bear their losses.

May God heal the injured and restore them to perfect health… demand a prompt and thorough investigation of this incident… while anyone found guilty of any recklessness or dereliction of duty should be brought to book.”

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has also condoled with the families of all those who died in Thursday’s plane crash in Lagos and prayed for the speedy recovery of those who were injured.

In a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party expressed shock and deep sorrow at the double tragedy, which involved the remains of the late Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, as well as his family and friends.

It prayed that God will give Dr. Agagu’s family and those of all the victims the grace and strength to bear the incident.

APC said the crash, coming about 15 months after the air disaster involving Dana Air, has shown that in spite of the progress so far made in ensuring that the country’s airspace is safe for the travelling public, the government must not relent until total success has been achieved.

L-R Director Federal Ministry of Environment Drought and Desertification Amelioration Dr. Bukar Hassan, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Environment Taiye Haruna, Minister of Women Affairs Hajiya Zainab Maina and Minister of State Power Gaius Ishaku jointly briefing the State House journalists after their meeting on Afforest ration in Abuja on Friday.

Photo Joe Oroye

Gombe Emir advises governors over masses welfare From David Hassan, Gombe

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he Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Shehu Usman Abubakar has advised State Governors to impact on the lives of the masses by ensuring more dividends of democracy.

The Emir gave the advice after inspecting buses and tractors at the premises of the State Ministry of Finance meant to empower people of the state, boost food

production and other agricultural activities.

The Emir who commended the administration of Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo for empowering the people of the state, said that as custodians of the people’s culture and tradition and close associate , he understands that the people would mostly appreciate programmes and policies that are aimed at improving their living standard.

He stated that the purchase of the buses, cars, tricycles and tractors was the first of its kind in the state and urged the management of the Gombe Leasing Company, distribution of the vehicles, to ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of the scheme.

Earlier, while conducting the Emir round, the State Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Muhammadu Hassan reiterated the State Government’s commitment

in initiating programmes that would empower the people.

He revealed that the state Government purchased 50 brand new buses meant for the Gombe State Transport Service (Gombe Line), while old ones were withdrawn, refurbished and committed for town service.

He added that government purchased 200 tractors, over 500 tricycles and 100 taxi cabs for empowerments.

non-governmental organization, Partnering for Reviving Routine Immunization In Northern Nigeria (PRRINN).

He said all donor agencies collaborating with the state would be requested to channel their funds and contributions to the basket fund with the aim of minimizing duplication of efforts and waste of resources.

Pursuant to the same goal, the governor has equally approved the procurement and distribution of the 13 United Nation life-saving commodities covering maternal, newborn, child and reproductive health, in partnership with rel-

evant development partners.

He has therefore directed the commissioner of health to set the machinery in motion to ensure early procurement of the 13 life-saving commodities and to comply with the operational methodology, intervention and distribution platforms.

He said Yobe state welcomes and accept the UN strategy of mobilizing international community to work together to save 16 million lives by 2015 through increased access to appropriate use of the 13 essential medicines, medical devices and health supplies which is aimed at meeting the needs of

people in the state and to avert preventable deaths and diseases.

He used the occasion to appeal to PRRINN-MNCH and United Kingdom Department for International development (DFID) to deepen engagement and investment in the state to cover other areas not touched so far.

He also requested DFID to further expand its health sector support particularly to Malaria Control Programme, the Support to National Malaria Programme (SUNMAP) which was started initially in the state but had to be relocated due to the security challenges.

Health: Yobe sets up ‘Basket Fund’

From Uche Uche, Damaturu

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etermined to continue with health sector reform, Yobe state Governor, Alh. Ibrahim Gaidam has disclosed his administration’s move to create a central account to be dedicated as Basket Fund into which some amount of money would be released monthly to cater for Primary Health Care activities with special emphasis on routine immunization.

He disclosed this yesterday while commissioning a N288 million worth of medical equipment donated to the state by a

PAGE 12

Photo Splash

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Commuters waiting at costain bus stop during the early morning rain in Lagos on Friday.

Locked out staff of the Corporate Affairs Commission’s Headquarters, as workers commenced indefinite strike in Abuja on friday.

Newly promoted comptrollers of immigration at their decoration in Abuja on Friday.

Photo: Justin Imo-owo

Tsangaya teachers reciting the Holy Qur’an during the third day prayer for the late Hajiya Ummi Yuguda, younger sister of Gov. Isa Yuguda in Bauchi on Friday.

Members of Tearfund Nigeria, demonstrating ways of preventing Mother to Child HIV virus, during the Launch of Tearfund’s Impact Project Overview, yesterday Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 13

News

Man loses life, motorbike in pursuit of N50 Lamido may

By Gabriel Gwajime

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commercial motorcyclist (names withheld), last Sunday lost his life and motorcycle to his assailants after he dropped a passenger in an isolated area just metres away from the LEA Primary School, Daki Biyu, Jabi District of the Federal Capital City, Abuja.

According to a co-okada rider, Malam Yusuf Mohammed, the event took place before noon on the fateful day.

The victim was said to have been stabbed severally on his left side and thighs by his passenger-turned-assailant, who was joined by about three others who emerged out of the bush at

the spot he was dropped. He was later abandoned to his fate in a gully, while the assailants were said to have zoomed off with his motorcycle.

A Good Samaritan who happened to watch the dastardly act from a distance was said to have used his GSM line to call a police officer, Corporal Nazir Abubakar of the Daki Biyu Police Post, who was working on his nearby farm.

The police officer, who confirmed the incident to our Correspondent, said he quickly informed the family of the deceased.

The family members, led by the police, and accompanied by many okada riders, stormed the scene of the incident where they

found the victim in his pool of blood.

According to Malam Yusuf, it took three men to lift the victim into the vehicle which the police brought to the scene. By then, the victim was said to have lost a lot of blood and was very weak as a result. Though he could speak, not much information was gotten from him.

Our Correspondent, however, gathered that while being conveyed to the hospital, the victim gave up the ghost. It was also revealed that the victim had only spent two weeks in Abuja before the ugly incident.

A source told Peoples Daily Weekend that the victim came to Abuja on invitation of a benefac-

tor who bought a motorcycle for him to ride as an okada man.

When contacted, a family member of the deceased said they were not ready to speak to the press: “It is the wish of Allah, nothing more, nothing less.”

According to a resident of Daki Biyu who wouldn’t want his name in print, this was the second time in a year that such an incident would occur “on the same spot and on a Sunday noon.”

Meanwhile, the incident has created palpable panic in both staff and pupils of the LEA Primary School which is situated about a kilometer away from Daki Biyu Village.

L-R, Programme Officer, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre Mr Kolawole Banwo, National Coordinator, Publish What you Pay Nigeria Ms Faith Nwadishi and States Coordinator PWYP Mr Edem Edem ,during the Official Commissioning of Nigeria Office of Publish What you Pay, recently in Abuja.

Photo: Justin Imo-Owo

use Dutse airport for 2013 hajj

From Ahmed Abubakar, Dutse

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ith work on Dutse international Airport at 80 percent level of completion, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has given approval for Governor Sule Lamido and some top government functionaries to use a small aircraft that accommodates only 20 passengers, in travelling to Saudi Arabia for the 2013 Hajj exercise.

Speaking while on an inspection tour of the airport yesterday, the Chairman Dutse Capital Development Authority (DCDA) Alhaji Bashir Aminu Yariman Dutse said they were there to perfect plans for the smooth take- off of the governor and his entourage to the Saudi Kingdom today.

He said all the relevant officials involved in the supervision, and other bureaucracy for the take –off, were at the Airport including FAAN, NCAA among others and have all approved the Airlift.

The DCDA Chairman also said that barring the torrential rain fall that hampered work by the Construction Company, even the State’s pilgrims would have been airlifted from the new airport using the Boeing 747 jumbo jet.

According to him, the Airport would, by the grace of God, be ready for any kind of airlift by December this year.

Oyo, Japan partner on teacher training, science From Inumidun Ojelade, Ibadan

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he Oyo State Government has expressed its readiness to collaborate with Japan to improve the teaching of some subjects in schools across the state.

The state Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, who disclosed this weekend while receiving executives of the Japan Inter-

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o fewer than 50 women delivered babies at the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in Plateau.

A leader of the IDPs, Mrs Jemila Lawal, made the disclosure when she spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Jos on Yesterday.

Lawal said 20 children were delivered at Namu, 10 in Kwande, 15 in Kurgwi and six in Gidandabat.

She said most of the IDPs, who were from Nasarawa State, had been taking refuge in different locations in Qua’anPan Local Government Area of the state.

The IDPs, who fled from the neigbouring town of Assakio

national Cooperation Agency (JICA) on a courtesy call in his office, identified the subjects as English Language, Mathematics as well as Science and Technology.

He said that the collaboration would also include the training of teachers, provision of physical infrastructure and education equipment.

The governor said this had

become necessary because Japan ranked high in the areas of science and technology as well as development of intellectual capital.

While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the provision of qualitative education in the state, Governor Ajimobi said, government emphasis had been on human capital development as one of the

means of unleashing the potentials of the people, particularly the youth.

In his remarks, the leader of JICA, Mr. Seki Jetsuo described education as the bedrock of development in any society, stressing that efforts must be made by government at all levels to improve the system from the beginning.

He said that the intervention

50 women give birth in IDPs camps in Plateau on Sept.14 when the hostilities broke out, were being camped at Namu, Kwande, Kurgwi, Gidandabat and Bwal.

She lauded the support the IDPs were receiving from their host communities and Plateau Government, but said that they were still going through some challenges. ``We still having some challenges, particularly in the aspect of health care. The women who gave birth did not receive any serious attention health wise and such may result to other conditions,’’ she said.

She appealed to Plateau and

Nasarawa governments to provide adequate health care to the new born babies.

Plateau State Emergency Management Agency Executive Secretary Alhassan Barde confirmed the births.

Barde said that state government spent over N20 million to purchase relief materials for the IDPs numbering around 7,000, noting that the gesture was aimed at alleviating the sufferings of the victims.

According Barde, the Plateau Deputy Governor, Ignatius Longjan, Chairman of SEMA

Governing Council, had earlier visited the IDPs and donated some relief materials. ``While the responsibility of the protection of the IDPs lies first mand foremost with the state government, it is important for local authorities, spirited individuals and surrounding communities to see how best they can assist them,’’ he said.

He further said that the state government in collaboration with the Nasarawa State government had beefed security in the IDPs camps.

Mrs Vou Dido, the Interim Administrator of Qua’aPan Lo-

programme of the agency in the state would include strengthening Mathematics and Science education, improving the quality of teachers through in-service training, especially in Mathematics and other science subjects.

He also pledged the readiness of his agency to construct classrooms in some schools in the state. cal Government, who received the materials for onward distribution, lauded the state government for the gesture.

Dido said that the materials would be distributed without partialityto all the victims in their respective camps. ``I want to specially thank the people Qan’anPan for show of love and for being their brothers’ keepers. ``I am urging you not to be tired of doing good to the victims,’’ she said.

The items donated to the IDPs included mattresses, mats, blankets, clothing, toiletries and food items, among others.

(NAN)

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Crime Cycle

pmlcrimecycle@gmail.com 08138559513 (SMS only)

Court fines defence counsel for delaying murder proceedings

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ustice Lateefat Okunnu,of the Ikeja High Court, Lagos imposed a N10, 000 fine on Mr Olarenwaju Ajanaku, a counsel in the trial of Akolade Arowolo, who was charged with the murder of his wife, Titilayo, for wasting the time of the court.

The trial judge also adjourned the adoption of final written addresses in the murder case till October 31.

Okunnu said Ajanaku’s failure to file and regularise the defence processes was a setback to the speedy conclusion of the case. On her part, Director, Lagos State Di-

rectorate of Public Prosecutions, Mrs. Olabisi Ogungbesan, who expressed dissatisfaction with the delay, said: “I am surprised that up till now, we have not been served with his written address.

“The charge of murder is a serious offence and we can only urge the court to give him a deadline.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Arowolo, 31, was charged to court for allegedly stabbing his wife, a banker, to death. He was arraigned on Dec. 21, 2011, on a one-count charge of murder and had pleaded not

guilty.

The accused was, thereafter, remanded in Ikoyi Prison. The Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions alleged that the accused murdered Titilayo on June 24, 2011 at their residence at 8, Akindeinde St., Isolo, Lagos.

The prosecution had closed its case against the accused on Nov. 19, 2012, after calling 12 witnesses. Relatives of the deceased, including her father, George Oyakhire, and her step-mother, Adetoun Oyakhire, had testified that the marriage of the Arowolos was characterised by domestic

violence.

Another witness, Prof. John Obafunwa, a Consultant Pathologist and Chief Medical Examiner of Lagos State, had also testified that Titilayo was stabbed 76 times. However, Arowolo , who testified before the court on May 22, had blamed his in-laws for the trouble in his marriage.

He also denied the allegation that he murdered his wife. He claimed that Titilayo died after accidentally falling on a knife she was using to stab him during a quarrel on his birthday.(NAN)

Oil Theft: Cleric urges FG to adopt latest technology to check trend

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xecutive Director of the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), Rev David Ugolor, has advised the Federal Government to adopt modern technology to fight oil theft in the country.

Ugolor said in Benin midweek that government should adopt

the latest technology to monitor oil production in the country.

“We can completely eliminate the problem, if the Federal Government will apply latest technology to avoid these wastes,” he said adding government needs the latest satellite mapping to monitor the coastal areas.

“The earlier government tackles it head on, the better for the country; because oil theft is responsible for the majority of crimes that happen in Nigeria.

All that is required to put an end to this nefarious act is for the President to strengthen all key institutions.’’ he said.

(NAN)

IGP Mohammed Abubakar

Two men arraigned for allegedly faking paint products

By Stanley Onyekwere agency report

with

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Mohammed Adoki Minister of Justice

he police have arraigned two men in a Karu Upper Area Court, Abuja, for allegedly faking Dulux Paint products.

The accused, Fagbile Stephen of No. 12 Oludare Odekoya Street, Ikorodu, Lagos and Jamilu Adegun of Mushin, Lagos, are charged with criminal conspiracy and production of fake products.

The prosecutor, Inspector Emmanuel Edet, told the court that one Adedipe Temitope of No. 2, Adeniyi Jones Street, Ikeja, Lagos,

reported the matter at the Apo Division Police Station on Sept. 20.

He said the accused conspired with others at large to mix some chemicals to produce counterfeit Dulux Paint label and placed it on the paint containers, thereby, deceiving people into believing it was a genuine product.

According to the prosecutor, during investigations, the fake paints were recovered from the accused, adding that the offence contravened the provisions of sections 97, 93 and 366 of the Penal Code respectively.

The accused, however, pleaded

43-year-old trader docked over alleged sex slavery

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or allegedly luring a woman into sex slavery in Libya, a trader, Iyabo Adefioye, is now standing trial before a Somolu Magistrates’ Court, in Lagos.

Adefioye, 43, who resides at No. 14, Umoru St., Olosa in Mushin area of Lagos, is charged with conspiracy and human trafficking.

It would be recalled that a Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action had called for international efforts to eradicate sexual slavery; subjecting unwilling people to sexual exploitation, which borders on human rights.

According to the prosecution, the accused sold a hairdresser, Risi Adegbite, 30, into sex slavery in Libya under the guise of assisting her to seek “greener pastures.”

ASP Akinlabi Adegoke told the court that the accused with others still at large committed the offences sometime in August.

He said the accused, who was a regular caller at the complainant’s saloon at Fadeyi Bus Stop, had promised to secure employment for her in Libya.

“When the complainant arrived in Libya on Sept. 2, she realised that she had been defrauded and sold into sex slavery; and she promptly contacted

her family to intimate them of her predicament.

“The accused, however, claimed ignorance of the development,’’ the prosecutor said.

Adegoke said that the offence contravened Sections 274 and 409 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

Adefioye, however, entered a plea of not guilty; and applied for bail.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Bola Osunsanmi, admitted the accused to a bail of N200, 000 in addition to two sureties in like sum.

The accused, if found guilty, may be sentenced to 14 years imprisonment. The case was adjourned to Oct. 16 for further hearing. (NAN)

not guilty to the charges, and their counsel, Ms Patience Ojo, prayed the court to grant her clients bail.

However, the prosecutor opposed the application on the grounds that they would jump bail and jeopardise police investigations.

According to agency report, the presiding Judge, Alhaji Umar Kagarko, admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N500, 000 each with a surety in like sum each and ordered that the sureties must be resident within the jurisdiction of the court, and adjourned the case to November 26 for hearing.

CRIME NUGGET Causal theories of crime Here are three group and theories postulated as part of attempts to explain the causes of crime in the world: 1. The Physiopsychological explanations traceable to Lombroso and some other early criminologists such as Franz Gall, Charles Goring, and Ernest Hooton. This group of explanations culminated in the psychoanalytic orientation in the Freudian sense which emphasizes that all behaviours posses significant and meaningful personality relationships (Reid, 1971).

2. The second group belongs to the social-psychological framework of explanations.

Theorists in this school have tended to concentrate more on perceiving crime in a holistic perspective.

The violator of legal rules, or even social norms, is hereby recognized as both a psychological being and a product of his environment.

In this tradition are theorists like Emile Durkheim on whose formulation Merton and Cloward and Ohlin (1960) based their theories of criminal behaviour.

3. The last group, like the latter, is made up of the socio-environmentalists or socio-culturalists, who try to find the locus of the crime problem in the socio-cultural setting of the individual offender.

The underlying theme of their thesis is that essentially, the society can be said to be basically responsible for the criminal because many of the causes of crime are inherent in society (Reid, 1971). culled from www.unilorin.edu.ng

Man bags 6 months imprisonment for unlawful possession of arms

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n Ibadan High Court has sentenced one Bameyi Ojoru, to six months imprisonment for unlawful possession of a pistol and two live cartridges.

Justice Ruth Akintola, who gave the verdict, said since Ojoru had pleaded guilty to the crime the court had no option than to convict him.

Akintola said that the prosecution had also established beyond reasonable doubts that the convict committed the offence.

“Ojoru is guilty as charged and will be punished accordingly. He does not deserve to be in the society,’’ she directed that the sentence should

commence immediately.

Earlier, the Police Prosecutor, Ademola Ojekunle, had told the court that the convict was caught with a pistol and two live cartridges on July 9, 2011 at Alesinloye, Ibadan. He said the offence contravened Section 9 of Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

Counsel to the convict, Mr. Oluwole Olukunle, pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy and consider the option of fine since he had spent more than two years in prison custody. (NAN)

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 15

Politics

Vice President Sambo and the price of loyalty

By Emmanuel Yawe

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new dimension to the crisis within the ruling peoples Democratic Party is for the opponents of the President to heap their frustrations on the Vice President, Namadi Sambo. Those who are playing this card are either ignorant of the role provided for the office of the Vice President in our constitution or aware of it but are decidedly mischievous.

The sum total of the 1999 constitutional provisions is that it provides for a united presidency where all power and authority is derived from the President. The role of the Vice President in our system of governance – be it in running the bureaucracy or driving the polity - is to be supportive of his boss. The responsibilities given to him are peripheral and there is little room for him to go it alone when the President is looking the other way.

The reality on the ground in the PDP is that, some state governors elected on the ticket of the party have rebelled. They have not hidden their rebellion against a president elected on the same platform with them nor have they pretended about their position against the Chairman of the Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur. They want Tukur fired from his office immediately while President Goodluck Jonathan should disqualify himself from seeking another term in 2015.

These are indeed very tough demands for a ruling party to meet. The situation is particularly complex for the Vice President Namadi Sambo who hails from the same geographical zone with the majority of the state governor in question. It is a situation that requires tact and statesmanship. This is not a situation for theatrical showmanship and bravado.

While some of us do not hesitate to criticize government, we must give credit when government deserves it. In an article published on the 15th of July, I called readers attention to the noble role the Vice President played and is still playing in resolving the tragic handling of the New Nigerian Newspaper – a proud legacy of the Sardauna of Sokoto to Northern Nigeria.

Not until I spoke to Abdulrahaman Tukur, the Managing Director of the New Nigerian did I know what the VP has done in defending the interest of the North in an institution of the north that was taken over by the Federal Government with the force of arms.

It is therefore not true that Vice President Sambo is not playing a key role in the PDP crisis or in the politics of the North. My understanding of the situation as a northerner who has watched the politics of this region for over thirty decades is that he is playing and has, consistently, played a robust role in all matters – political, economic and social – affecting the North. He has always done so through quiet diplomacy, consultations and effective networking with the broadest spectrum of stakeholders in the region.

The Vice President according to well informed sources is well aware that he is expected to provide political leadership for the region and he has done so, systematically and diligently, since he became the Vice President. What he has not done is to put himself out, loudly and

President Goodluck Jonathan

Vice President Namadi Sambo

egotistically, as the political leader of the North, with an agenda which may or may not be in tandem with that of a Presidency in which he is a significant partner.

When we consider this background, it becomes clear why the Vice President may not have been boisterous and loud in his complex political activities and liaisons. This does not in any way suggest that he is not actively involved in finding solutions to the deep divisions within the PDP. It is totally false and, indeed, mischievous for a rather well informed writer like Zayyad I Mohammed to suggest as he did in a recent publication that the Vice President has made no calculated move to pacify the G7 governors or that President Jonathan has been “left alone to negotiate with peoples he does not, even understand their language”.

The writer even went to the extent of offering a gratuitous and politically imprudent suggestion that the VP should experiment

“

with “calculated adventurism”, which, decoded, means that he should take steps that may not always please his boss, President Goodluck Jonathan. t is surprising that any serious analyst would suggest that VP Sambo should emulate Atiku Abubakar and create “a political space” for himself without demonstrating the political advantages of doing so or the superiority of such a move over and above VP Sambo’s sublime tactics of connecting with and mobilizing northern stakeholders around issues and challenges that are peculiar to the region. Creating “a political space”, which means striking out on an independent course from that of the President is, as history has shown, a recipe for friction, conflicts and, even, disaster.

If the Vice President, as the writer profiles him, is a political moderate, who always tries to play safe and avoid any collision with his boss, it is because he more than the writer

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Creating “a political space”, which means striking out on an independent course from that of the President is, as history has shown, a recipe for friction, conflicts and, even, disaster.

or perhaps anyone else understands his role as Vice President. He is part of a cohesive and united presidential team; a co-pilot, if we must use the symbolism of the crew of an airplane.

He is not a player in a coalition but an integral part of a team bound together by a common political platform, ideology, vision and agenda.

He is a totally loyal and dedicated member of a presidency that has advertised its mission as commitment to a visionary Transformation Agenda. It is most unlikely that the Vice President will harbour any intention of upstaging or undermining his boss – the President.

The constitution of our country provides for unity in the presidency. The history of our country with the presidential system of government is such that we have no option but to work for this ideal. Look at Shagari and Ekwueme perfect gentlemen and a perfect team. Compare that with Obasanjo, Atiku and their roforofo presidency. Nigerians must resist all attempts to elevate indecorous conduct to the highest office in the land? he idea of an executive President in a cosmopolitan polity is to demonstrate to the whole world our desire for unity. A Vice President who disagrees with his boss has the option of throwing in the towel. If he sticks to his principal, he owes it to Nigerians to give unalloyed support to the President and serve the nation with all his God-given abilities. It is therefore a sad irony that in the case of Namadi Sambo, what is patently a virtue, is for the sake of political advantage being propagated as a vice or weakness.

Yawe is former Editor of Crystal magazine

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Prime Interview

2015: North’s aspiration doesn’t depend on Jonathan Contd from Page 2

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f the North. No northern leader has said power to rule Nigeria is patrimony of the North.

We must note that military regimes being credited to the North never consulted the North before their coup because military is a constituency in its own right comprising officers across the nation. And that was why northerners were also toppled. Also, note that by 2015, the South will have ruled for 14 out of the 16 years under this democratic dispensation. So, anybody talking of power returning to the North has not gotten the arithmetic right.

With the crisis in government like the ASUU strike, the ASUP and other agencies threatening to embark on strike, the insecurity situation that is getting worse daily with Nigerians dying cheaply, do you think the President deserves another term? t is not for me to say President Jonathan does not deserve the second term. Only Nigerians can make such a decision on the electionday. It has been the considered opinion of many political pundits that if Nigerians fail to make judicious use of their democratic rights, then they get what they deserve.

Another aspect is the court which should tell Nigerians whether Mr President can be sworn in as president three times and rule for ten years, considering the constitution makes allowance for a maximum of eight years.

So, only the court and Nigerians can make such decision, and not ACF or Anthony Sani.

The insurgency in the North East seems to have staged a comeback with the recent killings in some parts of Borno and Yobe states. What is responsible for that?

Subduing insurgence is not a tea party. It requires imagination, perseverance, risk and purposeful leadership. Recall America toppled President Saddam within seven days, but ended up campaigning for ten years in Iraq without subduing the terrorists.

Terrorism is still in Iraq long after America has left. The same thing in Palestine and in Afghanistan, as well as in Somalia. It took almost 30 years to subdue IRA in Ireland.

So Nigerians should not expect that the insurgency will soon be history. It will take a consciously directed efforts by both the government and all of us to bring the situation under control. It is not a matter for government alone.

With the happenings in that part of the country, Nigerians want to know who is winning the war?

Nobody is winning yet, but I believe if the government can use the strategy of stick and carrot properly, it can win the war, precisely because the insurgence in one geopolitical zone cannot overrun the whole country. No, it is simply not

trying to hype cleavages along ethnic lines? That would be unfortunate.

Consider American constitution was drafted by 55 people. It is about three pages and with 29 amendments since independence. ritain does not even have a written constitution while Nigeria has a book called constitution that is observed more in the breach. I do not see how the ethnic nationalities can be assembled to produce a people’s constitution, as if our legislators are representing ghosts.

There is nothing like true federalism. And that is why no two federal systems are clones. All federal systems derive from circumstance of their emergence. For example, the 13 American colonies came together and formed the USA, whereas in Nigeria, the national government created the federating units. But the common mantra is often appropriate balance of the national government with state level power in such manner that the centre is strong enough to keep the country under one roof and not too strong as to nudge it toward unitary system. As to the form of government, it is note worthy that the presidential system works in the USA, the parliamentary system is successful in Britain while a combination of the two has been implemented successfully in France.

We must also know that however good the law may be, its usefulness to the society depends more on the judgement of executors.

So, the problems of Nigeria has nothing to do with the structure, with the form of government and not with the soundness of the laws but more on the way we do things.

All we need is cultural renaissance.

Rewire the politics, reengineer our sense of justice, make mercy smarter and hope more strategic.

Is north afraid of Sovereign conference?

No, the North is not afraid of Sovereign National Conference but stating the facts based on courage of its conviction. People must know that oil is not a result of hard work, and that there are countries without oil that survive.

What is more, over the long history of nations and long lives of individuals, the powerful and the powerless, the rich and the poor, often change places. Just hear what The Economist August 3rd, 2013, wrote: “The world’s thirst for oil could be nearing a peak. That is bad news for producers, excellent for everyone else.” So, it would be unwise for any nation and the North to allow oil set the national agenda.

How do you view the move by Major Hamza Al’mustpha to unite northern and Southern youths because some people say there is a hidden agenda in it?

If he is able to bring the youths together, including the bellicose and percussive elements, for positive purposes, so be it. I do not know of any hidden agenda.

B

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Mr Anthony Sani possible.

If you are to advise President Jonathan on how to end this bloodshed in the country, What will your advice be?

To use stick and carrot strategically.

This is because force alone has never worked anywhere in subduing insurgency. This is because terrorism is driven by the highest commitment in those who believe it is better to die than to live. So counter terrorism measures like control of imports of chemical explosives, of arms, of sources of funds and recruitment as well as

“

surveillance of borders and prevention of radicalization can help, especially if combined with constructive engagement and deradicalization.

Do you think Sovereign National Conference as being advocated by some elites is the solution to Nigeria’s problems? e have never believed conference, be it sovereign or non sovereign, can solve our problems.

More so by ethnic nationalities which number and population are controversial. In any case, are we now

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We must note that military regimes being credited to the North never consulted the North before their coup because military is a constituency in its own right comprising officers across the nation. And that was why northerners were also toppled. Also, note that by 2015, the South will have ruled for 14 out of the 16 years under this democratic dispensation.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE17

N ew s E x t r a

How Good Samaritans cater for orphans education in Kaduna

Alh. Musa Bello (fourth from left) and AMA members From Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna

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even year old Jamila Sani grew up without knowing who her biological father is because he died when she was just three years old at their residence in Tudun Wada, a suburb of Kaduna metropolis.

Her late father died living behind her mother, a full house wife with no income to take care of Jamila’s feedings and that of her brothers and sisters.

According to her mother, 45 year old Malama Maryam Umar, it has not been easy taking care of her children since the death of their father, especially now that is time for Jamila to enroll in school.

Abdulbasit Abdulrazag is another 7 year old orphan. Like Jamila. Abdulrazag too lost his father four years ago. He was the fourth child in his family and his mother Sikiratu also complained that taking care of him and his four siblings is big task for her.

Auwal Sani a young, shy little lad 7 year old was also an orphan whose father died four years ago in the same area, though he couldn’t explain how life has been with him since the demise of his father because he was also 3 years old

when the father died.

7 year old Pretty Fatima Sani also an orphan lost her Dad the same year with the three mentioned above and life has been rough for their families, particularly mothers who were not finding it easy in terms of feeding and taken care of them.

For the mothers, their major worry was how to educate these poor orphans because they will not want them to end up being like them without a sound western and Arabic Education.

But as God will have it, a foundation AMA came to their rescue to provide knowledge to the less privileged in society. AMA decided to build a standard primary school for orphans in the area.

Alhaji Musa Bello, a business man and founder of AMA named the school Hauwa’u Memorial International School in memory of his late mother who died years back.

The school only enrolls ophans to be educated from primary to tertiary education levels free of charge.

Luckily the above mentioned orphans are among the 20 pupils enrolled as first set of the school located along Albarkawa road, Tudun Wada.

“We started by enrolling 20 orphans in the school for this academic session but we intend to increase their number by enrolling 20 more pupils every year,” he said.

In addition, the pupils will be fed twice a day in the school.

Meaning they will be offered breakfast and lunch every day till they graduated.

They will be also provided with school uniforms and books free of charge. Of course, no school fees will be paid at the end of term as that too has been taken care of.

Alhaji Musa said he built the school for the sake of Allah alone without any hidden agenda or political ambition because he is not a politician.

Such children he explained need assistance and that is why he will ever be ready to educate them from primary to tertiary level God willing. “ We believe this is the only way we can contribute to their lives.

Orphans need our assistance and we need to assist them because we all know the reward that await those who assist this category of children,” he said.

Most of the children parents present while the school was being commissioned in a very low keyed ceremony expressed gratitude for

the philanthropist and for deeming it fit to educate their children free of charge.

“I have a daughter Jamila who is among the 20 enrolled in the school and we didn’t beg anybody before enrolling her in the school.

They were the ones that sent for us to bring our children. “ Her uniform and registration fee was free of charge. They said we are not going to pay any penny throughout her education from primary to tertiary level,” Maryam Umar a widow said.

Sakiratu Abdulrazag 25 year old has this to say: “ My son’s name is Abdulbasit Abdulrazag 7 years old.

The management sent for us to bring him to the school and when we came they gave us everything free of charge without collecting anything from us,” she said.

According to her, Abdulbasit is her fourth child and that she has five children.

“I was responsible for their education until they asked us to enroll him in this new school built for only orphans.

We are very greatful for the founder, may Allah continue to bless him,” she prayed.

Director of AMA foundation, Hajiya Aisha Mamman in her remarks said AMA foundation

stands for Aminu, Musa and Abdulsalam and that the names were that of the founder’s children.

According to her, the foundation has three key areas to focus on which include Education, Empowerment and Health care, stressing that in line with their educational objectives they decided to build the primary school to provide quality education to less privileged orphans in Tudun Wada community. “ As they said charity begins from home and since his late mother lived and died in this community he decided to build the school on the same plot in her memory,” she said.

No doubt the initiatives by AMA is a good one and all right thinking individuals must commend the founder of the school, especially now that education is some how becoming a thing for the elite’s alone.

But the big question on the lips of most of the guests is the issue of sustainability. This was part of the remarks of District Head of Tudun Wada, Alhaji Falalu Zannan Zazzau who after commending the founder for building the school urged him to ensure that he sustain the school for the benefiting of future generation.

Nature

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

The puzzle that’s nature A glance at these breathingtaking scenes across the globe not only brings one nearer to nature but its amazing beauty and serenity therein. No artfully designed creations of man have come near them.

Leshan china buddha, Leshan, China

wave tourist, Arizona, USA

Capadoccia, Anatolia, Turkey

Door to Hell, Derweze, Turkmenistan

Tunnel of love, Klevan, Ukraine

Socotra_trees, Dragon’s blood trees

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 19

Tourism

Gurara Waterfalls: Nigeria’s premier falls

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urara is geographically located in Niger State on the road between Suleja and Minna.

The Gurara waterfalls span 200 meters across with a sheer drop of 30 meters.

Gurara River is a large tributary of River Niger and it is always in full spate especially during the rain seasons.

Apparently in January, the falls are a trickle and visitors can swim in clear pools at the bottom of the falls. Visitors can take a day’s trip to the gushing Gurara waterfalls

which is an hour drive away from the city of Abuja.

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

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

There are two main streams of waterfalls, but in the rainy season,

the whole cliff would be covered with a curtain of waterfalls. To get close to the waterfalls, visitors need to make a daring walk.

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

Construction of a five-star hotel is also on the agenda. part from the spectacular view of the waterfall, Gurara is also a pretty good place for bird watching.

This wonderful waterfall which

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is best described as Nigeria’s Premier Falls is located at kilometre 76 along Minna-Suleja road. From Suleja to the junction is about 45 kilometres, while from the junction to the Falls is about 2 km.

Gurara Falls got its name from the Gurara Village bordering the river and was used for sacrifices by the Gwaris of Bonu in Gawu District. The sacrificial activities started to diminish when some Europeans discovered the place and found it suitable for recreational activities on weekends. (They decided to

develop the place into a reputable tourist resort). oday, Gurara falls is one of the nation’s greatest potential holiday resorts. A tarred road leads to the falls where there are a mini bar and a permanent pavilion which is erected at a strategic point thus offering tourists the best view of the falls while sitting and relaxing.

The fall is at its peak during the months of April to October while it is lowest between January to March. cometonigeria.com

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Homes

Go green with wall papers T

oday, wallpaper is quickly becoming one of the biggest interior decorating trends for both creative businesses and homeowners. No longer seen as boring, dull, or predictable; this decorative wall covering has had delightful makeover and is one of this year’s biggest comebacks.

According to interior designers, a home should tell a story.

You can do this through the use of fabrics and accessories, but one of the most striking ways to attempt this is by accentuating your walls with wallpaper.

Designer, Matthew Patrick Smyth recently designed a room using embellished wallpaper in black and white to create a focal point. The result was striking and the room went on to be featured in Elle magazine as one of the biggest trends for 2013.

Other types of wallpaper designs making a statement this year, include: • Stripes • Animal prints • Exotic designs • Geometric shapes • Floral print Wallpaper today can be selected or ordered based on the existing pieces of furniture

within your home, or during the planning phase or your home refurbishment. Whether you are looking for something sleek and contemporary to match a stylish leather furniture set, or something more playful to complement the eclectic furniture arrangement or curtains in a room, wallpaper can bring a room together.

One of the biggest trends in 2013 is green designer wallpaper. Wallpaper is produced by top designers to create bold, floral, art nouveau, contemporary or neutral designs and patterns to tie in with existing décor, or to completely transform a room.

Every room in the house from the living room to the bathroom can be covered in wallpaper designed just for you.

If you are looking at covering your walls with something other than paint, choosing a green wallpaper design that will complement or highlight your existing décor, or one which will make a striking contrast all on its own, may be just what your renovation needs. obcbuilding.co.uk

Kitchen interiors

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 21

Magazine

Weekend

Why I’m still single at 42 —Kate Henshaw >>P34

Lady Gaga to perform at first ever YouTube music awards >>P34

I was never delivered from witch —Jim Iyke >>P35

P’Square tops Nigeria’s highest paid hip-hop artistes >>P35

PAGE 22

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Food The many uses of honey outside the Kitchen I

am an unabashed honey lover. I enjoy honey in my tea, drizzled on top of peanut butter on toast, and mixed into my smoothies. Of course, the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashana (which occurred earlier this month) is celebrated with honey on apples, and the "land of milk and honey" is referenced in the Bible.

Honey has a long history of human consumption for thousands of years. In the modern era, a preponderance of the honey that we come across has been heated and filtered so that it contains little in the way of the many beneficial nutrients that honey contains, or isn't even honey at all (apparently a good percentage of the "honey" that is imported from China is just sugar water - and other Chinese honey is contaminated).

Long story short, buying unprocessed (look for the label "raw"), local honey is the healthiest way to go. Yes, it costs more, but fresh, local honey has superior flavor, could prevent seasonal allergies, and importantly, supports local beekeepers who are the last line of defense before a beepocalypse - we all rely on bees to pollinate our gardens and local crops!

If you're looking for even more ways to use honey and support beekeepers, here are a few things it can do outside the kitchen.

1. Shine up your hair: Add 1 teaspoon honey to a quart of warm water, dilute, then soak your hair in the mixture postshampoo (no, you don't need to rinse it, since it's already diluted). You can also use straight honey on the ends of your 'do to calm frizzes.

2. Facewash: Just mix a small dollop of honey with a bit of warm water in the palm of your hand, then massage over face, working up and out.

3. Fight parasites: A drink made of equal parts honey, vinegar and water is a wellknown cure for "backpacker's stomach."

4. Clean cuts: Honey is naturally antimicrobial (that's why it literally lasts forever; it has been found in tombs and such). So slather a bit on

scrapes, minor cuts and basic burns, always using a clean implement, of course. Lightly cover the wound - basically you can use honey like a natural antibiotic cream. Skeptical?

Here's proof - scientists are actually using the bee product as a potential future source of antibacterial proteins.

5. Get rid of acne: Dab a bit of straight honey on your pimple, and let it sit for a halfhour, then gently rinse off.

Repeat the next day; this works best for whiteheads.

6. In the bath: If you are out of fancy bath salts and oils, add 3 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to your bathwater; it will moisturize and condition skin, and smell lovely too.

Honey comb

7. Anxiety relief: Whether mixed in with a calming tea (try chamomile, fennel or lavender, or a mix thereof), on its own, or added to oatmeal at the start of the day, honey has long been used in India to quell nervousness, especially the kind associated with the stomach.

Dr. Oz recommends a blend of honey, ginger and lemon juice.

8: Make lip balm: It's as simple as combining beeswax, olive oil, cocoa butter and honey (and an essential oil if you like).

Recipes online abound.

9: Fight insomnia: If you don't have much trouble falling asleep, but tend to wake up in the middle of the night, it could be totally natural (for centuries many people had a two-sleep schedule) or it could be due to stress hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, being out of tune.

A bit of salted honey (you need both sweet and salty) can help reset these hormones and get you back to sleep. You only need a small amount (this shouldn't be a snack!), so use a teaspoon or egg spoon to keep yourself from overindulging.

Bowl of honey

10. Soothe a sore throat or cough: In clinical studies, honey has been shown to be as effective at calming coughs as over-thecounter cough medicines. Take it straight, or mix honey with a bit of coconut oil and lemon juice for additional benefits.

Culled from Mother Nature Network

Fair honey on display

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 23

Womanhood

Hajiya Naja’atu Muhammed: From activism to politics

By Miriam Humbe

H

ajiya Naja’atu Muhammed is the widow of Dr Bala Muhammed, Political Adviser to Second Republic governor of Kano State, Malam Muhammadu Abubakar Rimi. Muhammed was murdered 28 years ago by a mob which went on the rampage after Rimi issued the Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero a query. She is reputed for her progressive views very much like her deceased husband.

Hajiya Naja’tu Muhammed, popularly known as Hajiya Naja is without doubt, a woman of substance. She is renowned for being a vocal, radical activist especially in defence of democracy, women and human rights in general. She is also better known as wife of yet another late activist Dr Bala Muhammed. Until his demise, Dr Bala was the Political adviser to the late Governor Abubakar Rimi regime in Kano state in the 80’s. Naja has remained a force to reckon with on the political scene both in Kano state and the national level.

Literally speaking, activism is in her blood. During her undergraduate days, Naja emerged as the first woman President of the Students Union at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. It was a remarkable achievement for a northern Muslim.

And, it’s even more remarkable for a woman given the obstacles women face in the daily battle for survival in the North.

But the Amazon appears to know how to clear hurdles and go ahead to thrash men to their game. A major test came during the late General Sani Abacha years.

Naja forwardly surprised many conservatives by seeking to contest an election into the Senate. Sources said the Ulamas and some entrenched forces such as the erstwhile highly powerful National Security Adviser; NSA Ismaila Gwarzo opposed her senatorial ambition. But the highly politically active Kano people wanted her and that was it. And they voted for her at the polls. She became senator-elect for the Kano Central Senatorial District. She thus emerged as the first woman to be voted into the Senate from the entire North.

Through the Abacha-era, her senatorial ambition became still-born as it was never inaugurated. This Amazon however, left her indelible mark in the sands of time.

The true test of her political skills came in 2003 when there was heavy opposition to the ruling People‘s Democratic Party, PDP whose candidate and serving Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso wanted to be reelected into office in 2003. The people of Kano wanted change and Naja among other political activists in the state joined forces with the masses to ensure that Kwankwaso was not re-elected. They stood at the barricade and mobilized the people of Kano.

The epic struggle for change culminated in the emergence of Ibrahim Shekarau of the All Nigerian People‘s Party, ANPP as the new governor. The icing on the cake of that battle was that Naja was among the key people including retired General Bashir Magashi who stood firm to ensure that the people‘s mandate was not stolen in 2003. Kwankawaso became a minister in the President Olusegun Obasanjo regime. Those conversant with Kano state politics said the forces that ensured victory for Shekarau have

Hajiya Naja’atu Muhammed

“

She became senator-elect for the Kano Central Senatorial District. She thus emerged as the first woman to be voted into the Senate from the entire North.

Through the Abacha-era, her senatorial ambition became still-born as it was never inaugurated. This Amazon however, left her indelible mark in the sands of time.

long splintered in various directions as the former ANPP governor made new friends afterwards.

Understanding the sea- change in Kano in 2003 would require a deep knowledge of the Muhammadu Buhari factor which became a rallying point for opposition politicians. Hajiya Naja equally played an active role within the Buhari circle. In fact, she was the director of campaign for the Buhari-Okhadigbo presidential organization. She also headed the electronic media campaign team for the Buhari/Okhadigbo organization in 2003. turning point that however made her part ways politically with Buhari came afterwards: Some key politicians had been meeting to form a major political party aimed at checkmating the People‘s Democratic Party, PDP. Those involved in the discussion, it was gathered, included Atiku Abubakar who was then an embattled vice president, Muhammadu Buhari, the ANPP presidential candidate .Others included then Abia state Governor Orji Uzor Kalu and Bola Tinubu who was at that time, Lagos

A

State governor. Their group was called G-4. The G-4 decided to form an alliance and delegates were chosen by the G-4 members for the alliance talks. aja was chosen to head the North West delegation representing General Buhari in the alliance talks. And she became an active participant in the group’s activities. She had been assigned to mobilize people in the North West. She was doing exactly that when someone who apparently heard news broadcast on radio told Naja that General Buhari had pulled out of the group for which she was mobilizing furiously in the North West zone. She felt surprised that the General who delegated her to represent him in the alliance talks would opt out of the group without letting her know. She chose to take her destiny in her own hand by remaining with the group which later became Action Congress, AC. In the course of time, she also became a prominent admirer of the principles that Nuhu Ribadu, former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC boss and former Action Congress of Nigeria, A C N presidential candidate in the 2011 na-

N

tional elections stood for. And she always said at public functions that the battle to rid Nigeria of corruption was a fight that must be kept alive. She is one of those utterly disappointed now that the anti-corruption war is grinding to a halt.

How has she fared after the death of her husband? “I think the experience is quite normal. As a mother, I survived the trauma. I subsequently got married, had children, and went to school, work and trade. I think it is quite normal, except maybe from the political aspect. This is because I went into politics after the death of my husband and I started off from the university and became the first woman in Nigeria to lead a students’ union. I was President, Ahamadu Bello University Students’ Union. Then, I went to contest the senatorial election in Kano, which I won. I have been in and out of politics. Not much has changed in my life, really”, she said Hajiya Naja believes that the God-given role of a woman is to nature and nurture the human being. The responsibility for the continued existence of the human species has been put on the woman. So, that primary and God-given responsibility is one of the reasons why women cannot go into mainstream politics. peaking on her political career, she said, “Before I thought of contesting elections, I had to think of all the school fees, feeding, my mother and father. So, there is that basic responsibility. But men are so self centred. They will just put on their agbada, abandon everybody and go into it. Women cannot do that. Then, a lot of women that have the strength to go into it are not educated.

Thirdly and unfortunately so, those that have acquired Western education don’t want to soil their nails in the mud of politics”, she added.

S

PAGE 24

Kiddies World

With Nami Hassan Kadir namy.kadir@yahoo.com 08130693795.

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS

D

Barbushe though, only leaves the hilltop for other businesses far from Dala once every year.

Whenever he does that, it is believed he goes for hunting. The animal he hunts mostly is the elephant which he carries all by himself to the top of the hill.

Although nobody can really say what Tsumburbura looks like, it is believed by many that the shedeity was something that has to do with their living and culture. The chief priest is also the soothsayer who foretells the future with the help of the gods. This was popularly believed to have kept the people on guard against marauding invaders of that time. The advent of Islam changed everything because when Islam was accepted in Kano, idol worship stopped. The Arabs, through the Trans- Saharan trade brought with it longer venerated as a worship site. ala hill remains one among the ancient monuments of Kano. It is preserved and protected under the Kano History and Culture Bureau. One fascinating aspect about Dala hill is that you get to see both the old and the new city of Kano Modernity has zensured that climbing to the top of Dala hill no longer poses the strain it may have used to even for Barbushe, as a flight of 120 steps have been constructed to take one to the top of it. While at the top you could notice the tunnel dug by the ingenious Maguzawa meant to ensure steady water supply downtown during the rains.

If you are in Kano but yet to visit Dala hill, you could well have just been beating a talking drum without a sound.

ABCDE

HIS AND HERS’ CORNER

Dala hill in Kano state

alla Hill is a hill in Kano, Kano State, Nigeria. It is 534 meters (1,753 feet) high, there are steps on the hill (Dala) which has nine hundred and ninety nine foot steps (999) In the seventh century. Kano was originally known as Dalla, after the hill.

Dala hill is considered the first settlement of Kano people.

Legend has it that the top of the hill serves as a worship ground for the Maguzawa (initial inhabitants of Hausa land).

Barbushe, the then chief priest in charge of the ground, is said to be the one mediator between the people and Tsumburbura, the goddess to whom they owe reverence. Remarkably, Dala hill still holds some of that awe even now given the fact that then, the people are not allowed to climb the hill, they could only stand at the foot of it for any deific service as only Barbushe was virtuous enough to climb the hill.

Dala owes its name to a man who was a hunter. Lore has it that Dala used to frequent the hill to source for raw materials for his craftsmanship. The belief among the Maguzawa reckons that wherever they see a rock, there is the prospect of wealth like aluminium metal and so on especially for metal Crafts.

Being the one prominent figure most associated with the location, the Hausa Designation Dutsen Dala [Dala’s hill, in English] gradually stuck as a name for a site that was to serve as a place of worship and economic importance.

According to history, any sacrifice offered to Tsumburbura is taken up by Barbushe.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Disney Angle

D

The Lion King

Mickey Mouse

Tom and Jerry

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Kiddies World

PAGE 25

With Nami Hassan Kadir namy.kadir@yahoo.com 08130693795.

CREATIVITY

Make a friendship bracelet loom

S

everal years ago I discovered these nifty bracelet looms but like all good things, it got stretched out, one of the kids decided to use it as a teething toy and one by one we lost them – but the concept of the loom stuck with me.

Materials: -Elmer’s Foam Board - We used leftover scraps

-Razor Blade -Embroidery Thread -Crayon or a pencil To begin you will need to cut your lengths of thread: 1. Measure the wrist you plan to use and make the strands that are the alternate colors (not dominate color – in my case the yellow and green strands) twice as long as the wrist.

ABCDE

MODEL OF THE WEEK

2. Then make the dominate color three times as long as the alternate colors.

3. You will have leftovers, but it is better to have too much thread than not enough.

Tie the threads around a crayon or pencil to help stabilize your bracelet as you weave it.

By doing this, you would have a bracelet for your friends.

AFRICAN TALES

The hare and the Lion (I)

O

ne day Soongoo′ra, the hare, roaming through the forest in search of food, glanced up through the boughs of a very large calabash tree, and saw that a great hole in the upper part of the trunk was inhabited by bees; thereupon he returned to town in search of some one to go with him and help to get the honey.

As he was passing the house of Boo′koo, the big rat, that worthy gentleman invited him in. So he went in, sat down, and remarked: “My father has died, and has left me a hive of honey.

I would like you to come and help me to eat it.”

Of course Bookoo jumped at the offer, and he and the hare started off immediately.

When they arrived at the great calabash tree, Soongoora pointed out the bees’ nest and said, “Go on; climb up.” So, taking some straw with them, they climbed up to the nest, lit the straw, smoked out the bees, put out the fire, and set to work eating the honey.

In the midst of the feast, who should appear at the foot of the tree but Sim′ba, the lion? Looking up, and seeing them eating, he asked, “Who are you?”

Then Soongoora whispered to Bookoo, “Hold your tongue; that old fellow is crazy.” But in a very little while Simba roared out angrily: “Who are you, I say? Speak, I tell you!” This made Bookoo so scared that he blurted out, “It’s only us!”

Upon this the hare said to him: “You just wrap me up in this straw, call to the lion to keep out of the way, and then throw me down. Then you’ll see

what will happen.”

So Bookoo, the big rat, wrapped Soongoora, the hare, in the straw, and then called to Simba, the lion, “Stand back; I’m going to throw this straw down, and then I’ll come down myself.” When Simba stepped back out of the way, Bookoo threw down the straw, and as it lay on the ground Soongoora crept out and ran away while the lion was looking up.

After waiting a minute or two, Simba roared out, “Well, come down, I say!” and, there being no help for it, the big rat came down.

As soon as he was within reach, the lion caught hold of him, and asked, “Who was up there with you?”

“Why,” said Bookoo, “Soongoora, the hare. Didn’t you see him when I threw

him down?”

“Of course I didn’t see him,” replied the lion, in an incredulous tone, and, without wasting further time, he ate the big rat, and then searched around for the hare, but could not find him.

Three days later, Soongoora called on his acquaintance, Ko′bay, the tortoise, and said to him, “Let us go and eat some honey.”

“Whose honey?” inquired Kobay, cautiously.

“My father’s,” Soongoora replied.

“Oh, all right; I’m with you,” said the tortoise, eagerly; and away they went.

When they arrived at the great calabash tree they climbed up with their straw, smoked out the bees, sat down, and began to eat.

Oluwanifemi Olaoye is saying hi to friends

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

PAGE 26

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Bicycle-Like Machine Leonardo da Vinci drew up plans for a two-wheeled vehicle some 500 years ago.

This wooden model, based on those plans, was constructed for a museum.

Owen Franken/Corbis

Mona Lisa The Mona Lisa was painted by Italian artist Leonardo da Vinci. The woman’s mysterious smile has made the painting one of the most famous pieces of art in the world.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 27

Side Talk Oga Madam and her oil lover Madam

By Evelyn Okakwu

T

his week’s side talk spotlights focuses on an Amazon that heads Nigeria’s biggest economic sector. She is more masculine than her true feminine nature, who regularly features on the gossip pages in the media.

Powerful in all ramifications, this beauty not only holds a sensitive position in the executive council, but has the ears of the Chief Servant at the Presidency.

We learnt she had an ‘underground’ relationship with a Lagos-based oil and gas big boy, whose initials have the alphabets “D” and “A”. Her first name too starts with the letter “A” We hear she dated her lover for a while and while it lasted, both of them enjoyed it to the fullest: in Nigeria and abroad.

Her lover was the apple of her eyes during the tenure of a former boss of Aso Villa, who departed to the great beyond after a protracted illness. Then, the Special Lady headed the traffic warden section of Nige-

ria’s economy.

Their love saga was a closely guided secret even to keen watchers of the Villa but Mr D, a man from the western part of Nigeria the name of whose Oil firm sounds quite similar to the word: “Hidden” benefited tremendously from the similarly hidden relationship. He got more patronage than any other of his counterparts in the sector because of his lover’s influence.

drop in his fortune.

The fight our credible source says is still on and Hidden oil owner is still trying to find a way into the heart of his ex-lover. This woman who has a link with the Navy is raised the hedge and would have nothing to do with Mr. D even from a million mile. Yet, this powerful lady has told her close confidants that he belongs to her past.

ing utterly bemused. Some say he’s a classic vegetable and therefore as hapless as any need milk could be. His condition has suitably fitted into a similar episode some four years ago: The controversies, betrayals, horse- trading, political theatrics, ethnicity and all such irritant posers that leave the electorate too bewildered to blink an eyelid.

They say the fellow has the capacity to lead the state.

That’s right he can do that with equanimity provided it

has nothing to do with superintending over the political cum economic affairs of the state. Well, his proficiency is better manifested elsewhere: He uses the canine better than the medulla-obloganta. Sure, he must have learnt well from Lius Suarez of the ‘We never walk alone’ club.

Side talk learns the fellow has repeatedly experimented with his better half. And now yearns to render similar service to whoever comes across him.

nd parting with that story, we move on to yet another story of a Pat, who bears the same last name with the popular “Don Etteh”.

News has it that this powerful beautician cum politician is seriously preparing to launch a comeback this time to the upper chambers. After the episode where she was accused of pocketing just N628 million meant for the renovations of her Apo Legislators’ Quarters residence and the purchase of 10 vehicles, one would have thought that she has had enough of ‘public service’.

Critics say that Madam would soon find out that the pep talk at the saloon is unmatched by the ‘pep talk’ on the floor of the House. Both areas, (hair saloon and House floor) are the assembly of people that can talk: talk sense, talk rubbish, easily suffer verbal diarrhea. What’s more, fisticuff is the norm not exception.

assistance of doctors there was sought. Eventually, it was decided that trado-medical practitioners would be the better option because Mama’s seems “a spiritual attack”. So, to a spiritual healing church we went in the Ogida area of the Ancient City where she eventually died, Adesua said.

One would have expected that with the death of Madam Okhiria , Adesuwa and her husband would have heaved a sigh of relief, but no. Firstly, his elder brother Tony pestered her with phones to explain the circumstances that led to the death of their mother and it became so persistence that Adesuwa said she was compelled to put an end to such calls.

Secondly, Kelvin suddenly became paranoid and restless

often talking all by himself and punctuating such talks with: “They want to kill me, they have bewitched my home, and they have taken possession of our cars.”

It got to a point that the family Doctor and other sympathisers advised the couple to seek spiritual solution to their crisis. The couple then decided to go to the Synagogue Church of All Nations in Ikotun -Egbe even as Kelvin continually insisted that their residence had been infested by evil spirits. On their way to the place, Kelvin suddenly parked his Bora Jeep by a palm tree and pointed at it while shouting: “Look at them they are here already”, Adesuwa said.

They made the trip the following day and checked into a hotel close to the Synagogue Church. Later that night, Adesuwa said Kelvin suddenly decided that they should return home because of some spirits waiting at the gate of their house.

Surprisingly, at the gate, Kelvin suddenly exclaimed, “oh! They are not there, let’s go back to Ikotun”.

We returned to the hotel but it took some pleadings for the manager to allow the security men open the gate for us.

“We were also allowed into the room we originally checked into and we changed into our night dresses preparatory for night rest though belatedly,” she said adding that deep into the night Kelvin ordered her to pack their belongings for a journey

back to their Ikeja home. She opted.

From then he became frenetic and started banging on the doors and windows that soon got the guest and staff of the hotel awake and that when they came around, all efforts to calm him down failed until he was allowed to sleep inside their parked car.

Eventually, when the family doctor came and observed his violent behaviour, he advised that he be taken to the Psychiatric Hospital in Yaba.

The inevitable happened as Adesuwa immediately got her husband into the vehicle for the psychiatric hospital in Yaba.

“My beloved husband died on our way to the psychiatric hospital in Yaba, bringing to a sad end my 9-year-old marriage to the best husband any woman would wish to have on September 16, 2013.”

However, rather be allowed to mourn the dead, Adesuwa has been subjected to mental torture and public disdain by the same family members that rejected their mother and did nothing to assist during Kelvin’s travail. They addressed a press conference a day after her husband’s death on the September 16 accusing her of killing her husband.

“I didn’t kill my husband, he died on the 16, in a very miserable circumstance suggestive of supernatural powers. My accusers stand better position to explain what killed my husband of nine years.

The biting leader A

leader of one of Nigeria’s northern states has suddenly become infamous. The pharmacist cum politician has been on the front burner since last October when he opted to compete with angels.

Our man had opted to dare the gravitational force with little or no precautionary measures. Well, he paid dearly for it. He took a bland sabbatical in Germany.

Our daredevil fellow returned two months ago look-

Don returns

But somewhere along the line, Mr Lover boy got smarter than necessary and went against laid down rules. Consequently Mrs. A had to give him the fight she felt he had earned.

“When she became responsible for the affairs of this gold mine, of a sector, Mrs A made sure that her ex- lover got little or no allocation for the importation of Mr D’s firm products, which accounted for serious

A

Woman tortured by in-laws recounts ordeal From Matthew Aramunde, Lagos

E

ven before the demise of her husband Mrs. Adesuwa Okhiria, has known no peace. Then, the responsibilities of caring for her ailing mother in-law was imposed on her by her husband’s sibling who chose to abdicated their filial duties.

Adesuwa and her husbandKelvin Okhiria had brought Mama to Lagos where she was admitted at the Naval Hospital Ojo. In spite of avalanche of drugs Mama did not respond to treatment. Several other hospitals visited included. Rivet Hospital Ajao Estate, Mobineki Hospital Dopemu and Unity Hospital on Awolowo way, Trinity Hospital off Awolowo way and the General Hospital in Ikeja, all to no avail.

However, it was only at Rivet Hospital Ajao Estate that she was diagnosed with kidney failure, liver enlargement and septicaemia.

In all of this, none of the other siblings who are well to do came to their aid. Eventually, Mama was returned to Edo State and was admitted for further treatment at the Irua Specialist Hospital while Kelvin and Adesuwa engaged the services of one Sister Lovett to take care of the ailing woman and paid for the services on weekly basis.

But her other children complained that Adesuwa and her husband have gone to “dump mama to die.” Some days later, a car driver was paid to return

Adesuwa Okhiria ailing mama to No 18 Modupe Street residence in Balogun, Ikeja, where Adesuwa and her husband resided.

The scene attracted many concerned neighbours who wondered what manner of siblings would “package half dead old woman to the home of their brother and abandon her there”.

Kelvin protested but in vain.

Then, he sought Tony his elder brother in the US and one of his uncles in the village informing them of the development and their sister’s rejection of her mother. They sought help from various hospitals unsuccessfully before appealing to their uncle to help him look for another maid because he had concluded plans to return her to the village.

But on the advice of family members in Benin City, the

PAGE 28

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

s p i T y t u a Be

Facial Care With Mangoes M

ango the juicy, aromatic and nutritious fruit is not just delicious, it is also used for beauty purposes.

You can find numerous mango beauty products on the market shelves. From mango face wash to mango face mask, from mango body butter to mango face cream. Now you can learn how to make mango masks to mango scrubs at home, a mango beauty kit!

5Steps of facial treatment Step 1 cleansing Take 2 spoons of curds in a bowl, apply on your face avoid eyes and eyebrows gently massage for 5 to 7 min then wipe with cotton roll.

Step 2 steaming Take hot boiling water in a vessel cover napkin from back side and take steam for 6 to 7 min, do not take steam for more than 9 min as it will make skin dry. Now

Compiled by Patrick Adrew

Sliced mango

wipe your face from cotton roll.

Step 3 scrubbing Take chiku fruit skin you can directly use on your skin or else you can make paste of the skin and rub the skin or paste on your face for 8 to10 min gently, than wipe your face with wet cotton roll.

Step 4 massaging Mix 1 spoon of honey in 3 spoons of mango pulp, mix it well and now take the mixed paste and start massaging gently on your face, massage for 10 to 12 min than leave the paste on your face for 3 min than wipe with cotton roll. Now face pack time.

Step 5 Face mask Take 2 tablespoons of chopped mango pulp, 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of almond oil.

Mix everything well and apply on the face. After 15 minutes, rinse the mask. It is perfect for all skin types.

Facial mango treatment

Homemade mango and egg face mask

H

omemade mango face mask will give you a healthy glow. Just beat 1 egg white till stiff and mix in 1/2 tsp honey and 1/2 cup mango puree. Apply it on your face and neck, rinse off after 30 minutes.

HOMEMADE MANGO AND OAT FACE SCRUB This homemade mango face scrub will efficiently shed off the dead skin and make the facial skin baby soft. Mix 1/2 cup fresh mango juice with 1 tsp of honey and 1 cup of porridge oats. Apply it on your face and neck and rinse off after 30 minutes.

Mango mash Mango

HOMEMADE MANGO MUD MASK Get the spa like skin pampering at home with homemade mango mud mask.

This homemade mango mud mask will gently exfoliate, clean and soothe your skin. Blend 1/4 cup of mango puree with 2 tbsp powdered oats, 2 tbsp powdered almonds and 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream until smooth.

Apply it on your clean face and neck. After 20 minutes, wash it off with lukewarm water while gently massaging your skin. This homemade mud mask is great for normal to dry skin.

It’s a lace affair

Compiled by MIRIAM HUMBE

Fashion

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

T

he lace fashion is so beautiful; it is a clothing material that has been in use for decades within the country and outside. But one very captivating thing about the lace now is the way in which it is designed and made into various fashion styles by fashionistas. Interestingly, the hottest and most latest wears in the fashion trends ranging from evening wears, office wears and party wears are made with the lace outfits. It’s all so amazingly gorgeous.

It’s an all lace affair.

PAGE 29

Pots & Pans PAGE 30

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

French fries [fried potato] T

he secret of delectable fries lies in the frying process.

The oil needs to be just the right temperature, too cool, the potatoes will absorb the oil; too hot, the outsides of the potatoes will burn.

Ingredients: • 4 medium irish potatoes • Vegetable or olive oil, for frying • Coarse salt, to taste

Preparation: Peel potatoes, and cut into desired size and shape. To make thick French fries, slice potatoes lengthwise into 1/4inch slices, and cut again into 1/4-inch strips. For shoestring potatoes, use a mandolin fitted with the fine julienne blade.

Make basket-weave-style fries by fitting the mandolin with the fluted cutting blade; rotate the potato 90 degrees between each pass over the blade. Place sliced potatoes in a large nonreactive bowl, and cover with water.

Drain potatoes, and dry thoroughly with a towel. Heat three to four inches oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Carefully add potatoes to oil in small batches so as not to lower the temperature of the oil. Cook shoestring and basket-weave potatoes for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally. French fries need to cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally. They will not take on much color at this point.

Transfer to a flattened brown paper bag that has been lined with paper towels, and let cool for a few minutes or until just before ready to serve. French fries need to be fried a second time: Raise oil temperature to 375 degrees and fry until crisp and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from oil, and drain again on the paper bag. Sprinkle with salt, and serve with veggies or beef or chicken stew as desired.

All you need to know about Zobo Drink

By Franca Lucky- Ojile

I

n Nigeria it is called zobo , in Senegal, it’s called Jus de Bissap while in Egypt is known as Karkady.

This vert known plant is scientifically referred to as hibiscus sabdariff and called Roselle in English.

The main difference with many appellations is that in Nigeria and Senegal, it’s served cold, while it’s served warm in Egypt.

Roselle(Hibiscus) has been used in folk medicine as a diuretic and mild laxative, as well as in treating cancer, cardiac and nerve diseases. Although information is limited, the potential for hibiscus use in treating hypertension and cancer, as well as for its lipid-lowering and renal effects are being investigated.

One can drink Hibiscus tea hot or cold.

As iced tea, the infusion is known to satiate thirst quite effectively. It is often recommended as an alternative to artificially made commercial “sport drinks” that are marketed to physically active individuals.

Hibiscus tea’s ability to cool the body is well documented by cultures that include it in their diet or medicinal practices. This benefit is probably associated with the diuretic properties of hibiscus, a property that helps in the excretion of excess fluids from the body.

The body produces an enzyme known as amylase which functions to break down complex sugar and starch molecules in food.

When a person consumes too much carbo-

hydrate-rich food (full of sugar and starch) that individual is most likely going to gain weight. According to pubmed.gov, hibiscus contains a substance that can inhibit the production of amylase. A person regularly drinking hibiscus tea can thus prevent too much absorption of carbohydrates and consequently not gain excess weight.

According to the book “Healing Herbal Teas,” fresh hibiscus flowers contain around 6.7 mg of ascorbic acid, a form of vitamin C, which is one of the more essential nutrients needed by the body. Along with this significantly beneficial substance, hibiscus is known to have anti-inflammatory and mild anti-bacterial properties thus hibiscus tea is often used as a supplement to help treat coughs and colds.

Because of its cooling effect, it is especially effective in reducing the discomfort of

fevers that may accompany such ailments.

Hibiscus has been proven to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels since it is caffeine-free and has 100 per cent of recommended daily Vitamin C. Extracts of the flower is alkaline in nature and contains cleansing properties.

It helps to keep the body’s pH balanced, (without white sugar) and the flower has pectin that can make a firm jelly.

Traditionally, it has been known to help several health issues including high blood pressure, loss of appetite, circulation, liver diseases, fevers, and as a gentle laxative and diuretic. Modern research also supports the fact that hibiscus has multiple health effects.

The use of hibiscus has also been found to help with the following conditions: Reduce cholesterol, Hypertension, High blood pressure, Diabetes ,Constipation, Fluid retention, Cardiovascular disorders, Nerve disease, decreases spams in the stomach, intestine and uterus, Antibacterial – works like antibiotics to kill bacteria and worms, Metabolic syndrome Studies have shown that the safety profile of hibiscus is quite excellent hence It's safety for most people. It has earned itself a Generally Recognised Safe (GRAS) Status. It is however not safe to take during pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding Next time you see zobo drink sure you will love to drink it as well as learn how to prepare it for it has a unique taste that make it pleasurable to all classes of people. How you prepare it is your own little recipe secret.

With Hajiya Ramatu Usman Dorayi

Lemon lime juice The secret of delectable fries lies in the frying process. The oil needs to be just the right temperature, too cool, the potatoes will absorb the oil; too hot, the outsides of the potatoes will burn.

Ingredients: • 4 medium irish potatoes • Vegetable or olive oil, for frying • Coarse salt, to taste Preparation: Peel potatoes, and cut into desired size and shape. To make thick French fries, slice potatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices, and cut again into 1/4-inch strips. For shoestring potatoes, use a mandolin fitted with the fine julienne blade. Make basketweave-style fries by fitting the mandolin with the fluted cutting blade; rotate the potato 90 degrees between each pass over the blade.

Place sliced potatoes in a large nonreactive bowl, and cover with water.

Drain potatoes, and dry thoroughly with a towel. Heat three to four inches oil in a heavybottomed pot over medium heat.

Carefully add potatoes to oil in small batches so as not to lower the temperature of the oil. Cook shoestring and basketweave potatoes for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally. French fries need to cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally. They will not take on much color at this point.

Transfer to a flattened brown paper bag that has been lined with paper towels, and let cool for a few minutes or until just before ready to serve. French fries need to be fried a second time: Raise oil temperature to 375 degrees and fry until crisp and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from oil, and drain again on the paper bag.

Sprinkle with salt, and serve with veggies or beef or chicken stew as desired.

PAGE 31

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Why the craze for transborder relationships?

By Evelyn Okakwu with agency report

L

ike gangrene, not a few African women and men alike have suddenly got the bug.

The vogue is catching fire. Nigerian men and women have now found solace in the bosoms of foreign men and women. There is a sudden yearning for transborder romantic saga. Mostly European and American men and women and a few Asian men in the mix, Nigerians have suddenly found a new leeway to explore and exploit their romantic appetite beyond mere licentious escapes.

Reason varies according to taste. Some have attributed the craze to the dip in the economy and the desperation to escape its seething aftermath- the harsh realities that Nigeria and Nigerians daily grapple with but seem to be on the losing end.

Others though are merely adventurous seeking for opportunities to explore new romantic horizons, an experience that has led them to tie the nuptial knot. So, preference for trans-border romantic relationships, hitherto a rare occurrence, seems to be part of the bargain once a young Nigerian hit Europe or the USA and Asia as well. Also, young promising Nigerian girls crave for opportunity for a relationship with a fair skin, fellow, especially if the fellow is loaded or has prospects.

Here we take a look at the various arguments for and against this growing craze.

So, why are black men interested in fair skin, non-African women? What’s the attraction?

Firstly, it is the liberal attitude of many African men. After several years of living in the US, some have come to the conclusion that African women are simply too raw, unrefined and conservative. The alternative then becomes women who, in their opinion, are stylish, sassy and spunky: nontraditional- very romantic.

They seek women who are liberal and with expansive worldview that fits with their new orbit. Yes, women who are unrestrained by cultural ethos, habits and norms which these men think should give way to modernity or civilization, so to speak.

The second factor revolves on the issue of compatibility and companionship. The room-mate phenomenon where you test-drive a relationship is not very common in Africa. That’s dating, which seems strange and until recently a forbidden thought in Africa. The new African man wants to date: tests and shifts from a mix and be certain the woman he finally settles down with meets his taste in style and romance.

In a society where trial-anderror relationships are not very

common, some men and women feel trapped by such reality. The couples may be subjected to a life of anguish especially should things go awry. But in the US, one could test-drive a relationship without long term commitment.

This kind of arrangement gives the Africans the opportunity to explore alternatives. And this they cannot easily and readily do with African women.

In the movies and in magazines, most fair skin (European and American) women are depicted as sensual, sexual and alluring; and as creatures to be taken. Besides, they are seen as available, approachable and easily take-

Female friends of mine.”

It seems some make the conscious decision to abandon African women in favour of the whites. This kind of attitude is mostly prevalent among the younger generation of Africans from the English-speaking African countries.

Also, there is old-fashioned love. By this I mean there are African men who love white women for no particular reason than oldfashioned love. For such men, loving and marrying white women has nothing to do with race or colour or nationality or culture. Or even sex. They are not rejecting the African woman. No, not at all!

more fun and accommodating and are easy to get along with. Africans -- and frankly, black men in general -- will tell you that for the most part, white girls are free of the high and low dramas that are usually associated with African and African-American women.

And finally, it is believed that black women mostly wait for men to walk up to them, to propose -while white women have no such hang-ups. If necessary, and under the right condition, they would make the first move. Many men, it seems, find this direct approach joyful and liberating and aphrodisiacal.

The most controversial, and in

Inter-racial relationship on the rise away-able. These images, and the messages they send have not escaped the mind of a typical African male. Who desires to conquer in romance and manliness, once in the U.S, all he wants is what he has for so long desired.

With the freedom to explore, he itches to poke, to bite and to lick the once forbidden fruit. In other words, the untouchable become touchable. For many African men, once they taste the white honey, they may never go back to the blackberry basket.

And, the fifth reason is this: for some Africans, the mind altering sex is a standalone reason to want the white woman. And of course, there is the rejection of the familiar. Americans are wont to say “Been there…done that.” Africans are wont to say it, too -- especially when it comes to African women. Their argument goes like this: “for years and years I dealt with African women; well, now that I am in America, why should I deal with them again?”

As my cousin, Raphael Harry puts it, “…now they are in a foreign land they need to try something else and some ended up loving what they tasted and never went back.... I have seen it in Male and

They simply can’t help themselves and blind to several externalities.

In order words, such men would have married a Chinese, Japanese, a Mongols or whomever and it still wouldn’t matter.

Love is love and they marry the person they love and are in love with. It is that simple. These are men who believe that love conquers all and are determined to stay in and nurture their loving relationships.

Furthermore, there are the anecdotal reasons. For instance, there are those who believe that white women, in general, are

this case the very popular reason, is the issue of the proverbial American dream. That is to say that the African immigrants are not much different from other immigrants who come to the US in search of the American dream. America, after all, is the land of endless possibilities. To get their feet inside the American door, therefore, some believe they needed an agreeable native to help them through this process (without which the American dream may become very difficult to achieve).

For the women, these are some of the factors they prefer

“

The new African man wants to date: test and shift from a mix and be certain the woman he finally settles down with meets his taste in style and romance.

the average white men. Although the rate of interest in whites is normally low, African women’s crave for white men is ironically high as these women would prefer to marry the white whom most of them say are more homely than the African men.

They claim the African men prefer to lord it over the women while their European counterparts use the democratic approach in domestic Issues.

Another factor is the rather romantic nature of European men. An average European would go to the length and breathe of the world and even practically die for the woman he loves, irrespective of what the society says about such women, while the African man; these women say would rather consider the opinion of his kinsmen. Though this has its own advantages, African ladies in the diaspora prefer their men more liberal then emotionally dependent.

Also the thing about the natural manners of the average white man he knows that a woman is not only a helper but a pet of a sort a special asset meant only to be pampered. He, therefore, does all in his power to cuddle her as much as necessary, unlike the average African man who considers a wife as; what these women describe as domestic machines meant to satisfy their every domestic necessities and also share the home bills with them.

“Quit it” one of them says; adding that a white man is twice better in treating women and twice the cash. This last saying brings to mind the quotation of a woman in the famous Black American Movie “the Brothers”. But the most striking thing about this last statement is that women also prefer these white men for the cash.

Judging from both sides, therefore, one cannot help but conclude that both parties have similar motives, though some of these may not be encouraged, the beauty of it all is that the union of the Black and white is certainly a beautiful one as was written by John Piper in his book the “Bloodlines” in Bloodlines, Piper shares three reasons why interracial marriage is permitted by God and is a positive Union.

His reasons include: All races have one ancestor, and all humans are created in God’s image.

In Christ our oneness is profound and transforms racial and social differences from barriers to blessings. Criticizing one interracial marriage was severely disciplined by God. Certainly as long as these Africans do not bring shame to its continent the union of these races is but a beautiful innovation to the divine plan of procreation.

PAGE 32

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

City of wrath

By Dayo Ògún

...continued from last edition

T

he sight of blood ignited the crowd.

Another slap, a kick, and then the blows came down on him like a hurricane.

‘Killer’.

‘Ritualist’ ‘God don catch you today’.

Adaleh raised his hands to protect his face and he got a killer kick to the groin for all his trouble. The pain was a white hot flame, filling his whole body and he crumbled to the ground.

‘Wait, wait’. It was T-shirt again.

Through the haze of pain, Adaleh saw him with hands raised, trying to restrain the crowd.‘Wait. Let him return the man’s thing before we deal with him’.

The man squatted beside him on the burning hot tarmac. The pain was excruciating, Adaleh had to squint to look into his face.

‘It’s better you talk, you know’ ‘Ahh, bros. I’m a banker’, Adaleh stuttered. ‘I didn’t do anything to him, I swear’.

The slap came fast and hard, and on its heels came another vicious punch in the eye. Adaleh cried out in pain.

‘Kneel down’ T-shirt ordered. ‘Get on your knees now’.

Adaleh struggled to his knees. The blood was now flowing freely from his mouth, soiling his T-shirt.

His accuser was still wailing and bemoaning the loss of his organ to everyone who would listen. Through his swollen eye, he could see the man’s terror at his loss was real and not feigned. He wondered again why he had chosen today of all days for his Christmas shopping. He also saw that the crowd had tripled in size. Most were just onlookers, who had found a respite from their boring existence. They needed relief, no matter how brief, from their lives of quiet desperation and the spectacle before them promised it. He saw different emotions in the faces before him. Revulsion, horror, pity, and wonder looked back at him as he searched desperately for sympathy. He also saw murder in some eyes too.

These were the ones who needed a scapegoat for the frustrations that urban living in Nigeria was dolling out by the kilo. The noise was deafening; it came from the roaring of his blood in his ears.

Snippets of conversations from within the crowd came to him.

‘Na so dem tiff one man prick last two weeks. That’s the third time this month alone; this wickedness is getting too much o’ ‘Ahhhh, blood of Jesus’ a middle-aged woman blurted, making the sign of the cross to ward off any badluck or demons hovering around her.

‘All of because of money, haba’. It came from another woman who was wearing an Ankara print blouse. The blouse looked familiar and then Adaleh remembered. He had bought that exact print for his mother last Easter.

A young voice said: ‘Make dem torture am well well; he go confess’. He turned to look at the speaker. It was the street hustler who had tried to sell him a watch earlier. The fellow was obviously excited at the prospect of partaking in a lynching and Adaleh could see the bloodlust in his eyes. The crowd was a living threat, a wild animal and Adaleh feared what it would do to him when it pounced. Without thinking,

A sharp cry of terror rent the air without warning, he jumped to his feet and took to his heels. God forbid that I let them torture me for what I didn’t do. He darted towards the car park, his heart racing, and the noise of the crowd behind him was like the roaring of the ocean waves at Kuramo Beach where he had played as a kid with his mother and sister.

‘Ole’ ‘Thief’ ‘Catch him; don’t let him go’ Adaleh dashed past his car, heading for the market fence. He was a fast sprinter who had represented his secondary school in races; he would have gone on to greater heights if not for a hamstring injury that put paid to his career. The mob followed, their shouts now sounding like football spectators in a stadium or like a million worshippers down at the Mountain of Fire and Miracle Prayer City where his mother was likely to be calling on God at the moment.

He was almost making it to the fence when a thick-set young man came at him

“

at a speed that was almost equal his own and from an angle that was perpendicular to his direction. With Adaleh weighing under eighty kilograms- the strain of life as an aspiring banker had seen to it that he remained perpetually underweight, the impact was like being hit by a fast-moving car. Adaleh’s feet left the ground and he was airborne for some seconds. He crashed to the asphalt and saw stars. The chasing mob reached him and then it was open season in hell. Sticks, iron pipes, rocks rained on him. Adaleh screamed but he could no longer hear his own voice amidst the roar of the animal that the crowd had become and amidst the roar of pain that filled every fiber of his body. An iron pipe gouged out his left eye, and a crack in his knee told him he was crippled forever- that if he got out of his hell alive. His whole world turned into pain; the walls and ceiling were made of pain. The doors were bolted and he could not get out. The blows kept raining. Another crack on his head and…

He also saw murder in some eyes too. These were the ones who needed a scapegoat for the frustrations that urban living in Nigeria was dolling out by the kilo.

Daddy was raving drunk again. The room was dim; it was low-current as usual and the lone light bulb hanging from the ceiling cast long shadows all around giving the single room apartment where they lived an unearthly hue. Daddy was standing over Mummy wielding his belt with its big ugly buckle. The belt came down and Mummy screamed in pain. Kauna was sitting in the corner, shivering and her big innocent eyes wide with terror. Adaleh was tugging on Daddy’s jean trousers, shouting at him to stop until a kick sent him flying to join Kauna in the corner. The belt came down again and again, and the room became a house of pain. He joined Mummy in screaming, each lash a cut in his young tender heart. He covered his eyes with his tiny fists so that he wouldn’t have to watch Mummy suffer. He remained like that for what seemed like eternity, mouth open in an unending scream until he felt a persistent tug on his shirt. He opened his eyes to see Kauna’s wide eyes. Tears were streaming down her pretty face and it broke his heart. Her voice, so angelic and musical, broke through his pain.

‘Brother, is Daddy going to kill Mummy tonight? He had no answer.

The blows rained down without mercy. Adaleh curled into a fetal postion, trying unsuccessfully to protect his head. A strange numbness crept all through his body dulling the sharp edge of the dagger that the pain had become. His thoughts ran in all sorts of directions and his mouth was filled with blood. He spat out it out coughing. He could no longer find the strength to scream or cry out; all he could do was moan on the ground where he lay. From the angle where he lay he saw the feet of his torturers. The shoes revealed where the owners occupied on the social ladder; scuffed shoes that most likely belonged to labourers, he saw sporty ones favoured by the youth, the well polished ones were few- their owners were sure to be upper middle class or plain wealthy. A random Bible verse came to his mind briefly. And the God of peace shall crush Satan under your feet shortly. No, it wasn’t fair, he thought as he lay there dying. His whole life had been haunted by the spectre of pain. His hustle in the banking sector was a crusade to shield his mother and sister away from pain. Now, Pain had finally traced his address and was now crushing him under Size 48 shoes. No, it wasn’t fair at all. The crowd’s roar appeared to be coming from a distant place now, and as the darkness came rolling in, he saw his sister in her graduation gown. A tear rolled down his face. He wasn’t going to make it to her convocation ceremony after all.

EPILOGUE The heat was subsiding when Mallam Shuaibu alighted at Maraba. His fair-skin had been assaulted ruthlessly by the sun all through the day so he welcomed the evening like a lost lover rediscovered. He was bubbling with excitement and it was all he could do to keep from breaking out in a run to the marabou’s house. He had gotten the required material so he was sure that the battle against the abject poverty that had oppressed his bloodline for decades was going to be won after all. His skinny frame would soon fill out when the money started rolling in. He walked down the untarred road humming to himself.

Source: Abuja Writers Forum

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 33

Couldn’t take my eyes off him

T

he tray didn’t just hit the floor. It crashed and smashed his lunch to pieces. Serves you damn well right, I thought. You were staring again.

He stood stock-still and looked down at the food. Suddenly I got up and moved towards him. I hadn’t intended to, hadn’t wanted to help him. I called to the woman behind the counter. She closed her mouth and brought a cloth to clean up the mess.

I picked up tableware, put it on the tray.

There was a soppy stain on his trousers and through it you could see just how bony his knees were. Like the rest of him, all bones, dangling jacket and hanging trousers stooped shoulders and mile-long arms.

Then he smiled at me. It was a wonderful smile that creased up his worn face and totally surprised me.

“Thank you.”

I shoved the tray at him and went back to my table.

I worked at a large publishing company and ate lunch in the canteen. I had noticed him because he stared at me. He was weird-looking. His hair was badly cut and his clothes were ancient and dull; too-short corduroys, baggy at the knees and colourless sweaters, dotted with fluff. Often he sat alone and just picked at his food. Or he read and jotted things down.

A few days after the crash, he stopped at the table I was sharing with Mark from proof reading, and asked if he might sit down. I said the seats were taken and continued eating. He apologised and took his tray off somewhere else.

“What’s your problem, Leanna?” asked Mark.

“No problem. It’s just that I like to choose who I share my mealtimes with.”

“A bit rough on the old chap though.”

I shrugged.

It was Mark who told me more about him. He had gone over to scrounge a cigarette. By the time he came back to the table, I had my head stuck into the news-paper.

“Interesting chap. Sub-editor. Been all over the world,” said Mark.

I decided to find the newspaper more interesting and finally Mark shut up and finished smoking.

“Asked your name,” he said.

“He what?”

“Yeah.”

“What’d you say?”

“Leanna, of course.”

I folded the newspaper.

“I’ve loads of work this afternoon.”

“

His voice was soft and cultivated. What could I say? The tables were all pretty full so I nodded. He said bon appétit and began to eat. I’d always thought he picked at his food. But as I watched, I noticed that he selected small pieces, speared them and moved them carefully to his mouth.

“Have you been there?”

“Been where?” I was totally dazed.

From dropping my book and banging my head and everything.

“Australia, New Zealand.”

I stared at him and thought again of what Mark had said about me reminding him of someone. An Australian? Maybe an ex-girlfriend or wife?

“Not such a strange question,” he said.

“You’re old enough to have travelled there.

And Katherine Mansfield, Janet Frame, are most likely in the book.”

His smile crinkled up his eyes.

“No, I haven’t and yes, they are,” I said.

That’s how it started. He asked me a question, nodded when I spoke and then asked another. I was off, talking about reading, books and all that stuff I love.

Days later Malcolm passed our table with his tray and spontaneously I said a seat was free. Mark stared at me and I felt a rush of heat to my cheeks. fter that, Malcolm often sat with us and he and I discussed a lot of things. We spoke a little about ourselves too. I told him how Mom had brought me up on her own at the start of the Hippie Era. He said he had married during that time but divorced a few years later. Mark asked me how come Malcolm and I always had so much to talk about.

“He’s easy to talk to. And he reads a lot.”

“You two got so much to say, I don’t get a chance to open my mouth all lunch-time.”

“You do. You shove food in.”

One lunch time Malcom asked me if I’d like to go to a reading with him.

“Um. Don’t know.”

“Amelia Turner. Shortlisted for the Booker Prize last year.”

I wanted very much to go. But although I no longer thought Malcolm quite so weird, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go out in his company.

“Afterwards, I’ll cook us curry. Do you like it? “ “Love it.”

“Me too. Settled then?” he asked and smiled his soft smile.

It didn’t surprise me that I nodded.

After the reading and the curry dinner, I went into Malcolm’s sitting room where there were more books than I’d ever seen on anyone’s shelves. I began to read the titles.

“Help yourself,” said Malcolm.

“Thanks. But if I read a book, I have added it to my collection.”

“Strange, same here.” He waved his arms towards the shelves. “But look where it’s got me.”

“I’d hate to be without books. They’re ... friends.”

“That sounds like lonely,” said Malcolm.

I turned and pulled out a book.

“Are you?”

“Am I what?”

“Lonely?” …………….to be continued eastoftheweb.com

A

“Said you look familiar,” said Mark.

“Like someone he knew.”

“Someone he knew?”

“Yeah. Could be strategy. Maybe he fancies you.”

“Fancies me? But he’s old.”

“Only old enough to be your father.”

I grabbed my tray and left the table.

I didn’t do much work that afternoon. I kept wishing Mark hadn’t said what he had said. Old enough to be your father. he following week I took along a book to read during lunchtime.

When I got into the lift on my floor, he was already inside. He greeted me so I had to reply but I didn’t smile. We were alone and that worried me. I wondered whether I should get out at the next floor

T

A few days after the crash, he stopped at the table I was sharing with Mark from proof reading, and asked if he might sit down. I said the seats were taken and continued eating. He apologised and took his tray off somewhere else.

and walk up the stairs to the canteen. Don’t panic, I thought. Just because he’s stared at you for ages doesn’t mean he’s going to do anything.

“Well, I suppose one of us should press the button or we’ll be here all day, won’t we?”

I’d been so busy wondering what he was going to do and expecting him to do something, that I’d completely forgotten to do anything myself. I felt like an idiot and this made me smile and I hadn’t wanted to. He smiled back, his blue eyes crinkling right up to the grey hair at his ears and making him look ... nice. Then there was a slap. My book hit the floor. I bent down and so did he, and we bashed heads. At that moment, the lift shuddered to a stop and the doors seemed to fling themselves wide open. I was so embarrassed, I marched out of the lift, straight towards the queue at the counter. I ordered without looking at the menu and took my tray to a table where there was only one empty seat. I breathed a sigh of relief and began to eat. But the salad stuck in my throat when I noticed that everyone else at the table had already finished lunch and they were getting up to go. I glanced over at the counter. He was paying and in a second, his eyes would scan the room to find me. I ducked my head. Waited. Any minute now he’d sit down with his tray.

Short Stories from Australasia. My book appeared in front of my eyes. His fingers were the longest I’d seen and his nails were manicured. I hadn’t thought he’d bother.

“You left it in the lift,” he said. “May I sit down?”

Nollywood PAGE 34

Freeman to narrate ‘Island of Lemurs: Madagascar’ in documentary

M

organ Freeman is set to narrate the upcoming Imax 3D documentary ‘Island of Lemurs: Madagascar’, a co-production with Warner Bros, Hollywood Reporter has said.

The film will be released in select Imax theaters beginning April 4, 2014.

‘Island of Lemurs: Madagascar’ reunites Freeman with Drew Fellman, who also wrote and produced the 2011 Imax documentary, ‘Born to be Wild’ 3D, and director David Douglas, who served as director of photography on that film.

Greg Foster, CEO of Imax Entertainment and senior executive vice president of Imcx Corp, said Tuesday in a statement: “As proven with Imax documentaries such as Born to Be Wild 3D, Morgan Freeman is the perfect guide to lead moviegoers through this one-of-a-kind experience.”

Island of Lemurs: Madagascar features scientist Patricia Wright, an expert on lemurs and the wildlife of Madagascar, followed with Imax 3D cameras on the trail of the wild creatures.

Freeman

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Why I’m still single at 42

Lady Gaga to perform at first ever YouTube music awards

—Kate Henshaw P T he 42 year old actress who separated from her husband in 2011 speaks on why she is still single and the reason she is only focusing on her career for now.

According to her “I just decided that, ok, it didn’t work. Next, I had to move on. There is no need holding on to the past – no need holding on to something if it’s not working any more.

“There is no need flogging a dead horse since it is already lifeless. And when you decide to bury the horse, would you not leave the grave site afterwards?

“I’m not thinking about anything. At the moment, I’m facing my career. If it comes, fine. If it doesn’t come, that’s okay. It’s not the end of the world because I’m convinced that God loves me”.

Kate Henshaw

op sensation Lady Gaga is all set to perform at the first ever YouTube music awards.

The video sharing website will recognise the songs, artists and videos that were most viewed on its channels in the last year, the company announced.

“From catalysing careers and pop culture phenomena to propelling a song’s rise to number one on Billboard’s Hot 100, our global community’s influence is felt across the music industry.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate our fans and the music they love with a whole new kind of awards show - the first-ever YouTube Music Awards - judged by you,” Danielle Tiedt, YouTube’s vice president of marketing, said in a statement.

The YouTube Music Awards is due to take place on 3rd November, 2013, in New York City and Hollywood filmmaker Spike Jonze will be the creative director.

Lady Gaga

Uche Jombo, Rita Dominic, Oge Okoye, others jostle for honours at BON awards

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he organisers of Best of Nollywood (BON) awards have released the nominees for the awards to be held in November 2013 in Asaba, Delta State.

The list was released late last week and the race has begun to unveiling the following winners; Iretiola Doyle, Chioma Akpotha, Uche Jombo, Omoni Oboli and Queen Nwokoye have made the ‘Best Actress in Leading Role in an English Movie, while Dayo Amusa, Joke Muyiwa, Khafiyat Kafidipe, Toyin Aimakhu and Mercy Aigbe made the same category but in Yoruba Movie section.

In the ‘Best Actor in a Leading Role in an English Movie category, the likes of Bloosom Chukwujekwu, Seun Akindele, Bayo Alawiye, O.C Ukeje and Funso Adeolu were nominated, while Odunade Adekola, Mike Ezenronye, Richard Aigbor, Muyiwa Ademola and Femi Adebayo made it to the Yoruba Movie section of the same category.

PAGE 35

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Bollywood/Hollywood

PSquare top Nigeria’s highest paid hip-hop artistes

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he list of highest paid celebrities in Nigeria recently released by Encomium magazine indicated that the duo of P’Square topped the list as the highest paid hip hop artists.

The music duo are learnt to be charging between N9 and N10 million for a show within Nigeria.

D’banj comes second on the list with a charge between N6 and N7 million to grace any event in the country. Before the split from Mo’Hit, D’banj topped the list with charges between N7 and N8 million while P’square was N5 million.

Also, 2face comes the third highest paid artiste on the list.

Although his fee is not consistent, He is said to be charging between N5 and N6 million. It was learnt that because of his love and pas-

P Square

I was never delivered from witch —Jim Iyke cries out

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ollywood ‘bad boy’ actor, Jim Iyke has debunked news report going viral on the internet that he was delivered from witchcraft at the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCoAN) headed by Prophet TB Joshua.

The actor was said to have undergone a deliverance session on Sunday at the church and was reportedly freed from some evil spirits which have allegedly prevented him from finding a wife despite being qualified to have one.

Some had also alleged that he was delivered from witchcraft, but the talented makebelieve star has rebuffed such reports by laughing it out.

He reacted to such reports via his twitter handle when he wrote, “lol witchcraft?!

It’s imperative I underscore that people are oblivious to what transpired [during my deliverance]. Ignorance is no excuse. Tailor your opinion to who you know.”

Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail the incident. Some Nigerians have questioned the authenticity of the video which showed the deliverance of Jim Iyke. Others termed it as another form of ‘acting’ by the actor allegedly planned with the church for publicity purpose.

Jim Iyke

Katherine

sion for the art, 2face easily adjusts fees and not always keen like other artists on their particular amount.

Wizkid is the fourth on the list with a gracing fee of N4 to N5 million. Artistes like Owawunmi who actually is the highest paid female star, Flavour, Timaya and Olamide charges N3 million.

Others in this category are Darey Art Alade, Duncan Mighty, and Chocolate Music artistes, M.I and Ice-Prince.

The likes of Iyanya, Davido, Wande Coal and Tiwa Savage are in the league of artistes that go for N2.5 million, while D’Prince, Dr.Sid and one time highest earning artiste, 9ice collect N2 million respectively. Naeto C and Waje are said to be in the category of N1.5 million.

Kanye West, Kim set press rules in Paris

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im Kardashian and Kanye West are the most popular couple in the world at the moment and the press could not have enough of them. Ever since the delivery of their baby girl, North West in June, both their lives have changed.

Even though the couple know the paparazzi will always trail their movements, as well as they will need them for business, they also want to set some ground rules.

He told Press men in Paris “Don’t ask questions, just take the video. Don’t do like the L.A [paparazzi]. I like how you guys

move out here. You got total respect for yourself. You have respect for the people that you’re photographing. You also take time off at eight o’clock. You’re not around people’s houses. I just really appreciate and respect that.

And I understand that you have to make a living”.

Despite his outburst with the Paparazzi around his home in L.A last weekend, the rapper is prepared to do anything and everything this week with the Paparazzi in Paris, to ensure him and his baby mama, Kim Kardashian have a peaceful stay in Europe.

PAGE 36

Kannywood

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Meet The New Kannywood Face: Rahama Sadau Kannywood is a hub for multi-talented actors and actresses with new faces being signed in every now and then. This time around is a cute and charming Rahama Sadau (aka Priyanka) from the beautiful city of Kaduna. Unlike many actors and actresses who play several minor roles before making a breakthrough, Rahama was lucky enough to play the lead role in her debut movie Gani Ga Wane. Kannywood Gossip had the chance to catch up with her in an interview during the shoot of Gani Ga Wane in spite of her busy hours on set. Below is the excerpt:

F

irst of all, can you tell us about yourself please?

Well, I’m Rahama Sadau from Kaduna State, I earned a diploma in Business Administration from KadPoly and currently living with my parent.

So what inspired you to

join Kannywood Movie Industry?

Acting is one of my dreams, I always dream to see me one day on set.. So it has been my ambition to join the entertainment industry.

How did you finally get into the Industry? Did you

face any challenges from parent, family members or friends?

Yes of course! I suffered for a year now. My Mum didn’t really want me to do it, but after all the hurdles I went through, she finally agreed to it.

Did you get any encouraging words from family members or friends then?

So far concerned; my dreams, my expectations and my ambitions are all my problems. Alhamdulillah everyone is in support of it.

We understand that Gani Ga Wane is your debut movie which is still in the making, what role are you playing there?

I’m the leading actress of Gani Ga Wane, alongside the wizkid director and actor Ali Nuhu.

How can you describe your first experience on set?

It was fabulously great! It’s a new experience of my life.

Though this is your first time on Kannywood movies, were you involved in any form of Drama Production Clubs back then in school? Nope, never did that in school.

Though you’re just starting, where do you see yourself in some few years to come?

A better star, I want to check out myself and be amazed too.

Who are currently your favourite Kannywood stars and or role models?

Ali Nuhu and Zainab Indomie.

Do you see Kannywood Industry competing with their counterparts like Nollywood?

I think this happens in industries all over the world and not just Kannywood.. So it’s not actually something new.

Can you tell us about your relationship status? (wink) I’m single, trying to make a

concrete relationship with my career (winks back).

You’ve been watching Kannywood movies long before you joined the industry, what do you think needs to be improved generally?

Almost everything in life wants to move on. So far joining the industry, I’ll suggest the government to put hand please.

How do you feel like working with top Kannywood figures like Ali Nuhu?

It’s a dream come true after all the struggles I had wanting to work with him.. It’s now a reality. Actually I feel highly over-

whelmed.

That’s nice (smiles). Very very nice indeed!

In the end, what words do you have for those wishing to join the industry in the near future?

If you really want to do it, just go for it. It’s a great job, so very interesting!

Thank you so much Rahama and this is all there is to it for now, we really appreciate your timewith us.

We also wish you every bit of success in your career.

Thank you so much too Source: Kannywoodgossip.com

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 37

Entertainment Flakes

Eith FUNSHO AKINWALE PHONE NO:08051101191

Mercy Johnson, Mama G sheathe swords

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ollywood heavy weight and MTN Ambassador, Patience Ozokwor, better known as Mama G, and Mercy Johnson have finally settled their two year rift.

They were said to have just completed

a new flick yet to be released. Johnson took to twitter and posted an emotional message about working with the veteran actress.”Just shot the most emotional scene ever with Mama G. So cool with Mama G for life.I have nothing but respect for her”.

Adewale Ayuba floats clothing line

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unky Fuji star, Adewale Ayuba has just opened a clothing line. The top Fuji star was said to have opened the clothing line to compliment his dress sense and business frontier.

According to the KORA Award winner, “we decided to sign Shegsy Fashion because he has proved over the years that have a very good understanding about the job and I’m particularly moved by his sheer dint of hard work.

He’s one of the most talented fashion designers around and we are proud of his success over the years”.

Mercy Adewale

Oba Akiolu celebrates 70th birthday with coronation of Iyaloja General

T

he Oba of Lagos, His Royal Higness, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, will be celebrating his 70th in a couple of weeks.

Different groups and associates are said to be working round the clock, making a grand preparation for the event.

Amongst activities planned to spice up the celebration, we learnt, include the official installation of Shade Tinubu-Ojo, the first daughter of the Lagos state ailing political godfather, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Iya loja of Lagos General.

Kunle Afolayan’s new flick debuts

Nollywood actress, Abimbola Akinsanya picks latest multi million Naira SUV

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ovie- scare actress, Abimbola Akinsanya, has just acquired an expensive automobile.

Akinsanya, who got out of court some months back, recently picked the powerful ride and she has been painting everywhere red with the car.

The Toyota FJ Cruiser is said to worth millions of naira according to some car dealers. It would be recalled that Akinsanya, has not featured in some movies released recently but gathered she has been busy with other things that is fetching her money aside acting

T

op Nollywood actor cum producer, Kunle Afolayan, has finally released his much talked flick to the public.

The blockbuster movie hits the cinema on Tuesday October 1 for several viewers who have been in anticipation to watch the movie.

The multi million naira movie of the ex-banker, has been adjured as much film for all Nigerians.

Kunle

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 38

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LETTERS National Conference: A way forward or backward?

By Lucy David

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resident Goodluck Jonathan’s Independence Day pronouncement on the proposed National Conference leaves much to be desired. It seems President Jonathan has pandered to the whims and caprice of some persons who had continuously pestered him to dance to their tune.

Nigerians had expected a deeper appraisal of the prevailing security challenges and the ever growing unemployment in the country. However, instead of concentrating on the needs of the people, he opted to confer a mere talk shop that will neither address the problem of poverty, which is evident on the faces of the majority nor put paid to the insurgency and spate of kidnapping ravaging the nation.

Sadly, the government seems to think less of the need of the ordinary citizens, instead tend to pursue frivolities and aimless debates that will neither bring Nigerians together nor foster needed understanding and our corporate existence.

One is at pains understanding what exactly the National Conference will do that the National Assembly cannot do. After all members of the NASS were elected by

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Email: opinion@peoplesdailyng.com adverts@peoplesdailyng.com pictures@peoplesdailyng.com contact@peoplesdailyng.com their constituents and they, as representatives of the people, know where the shoes pinches and should rightly reflect the yearnings of the people.

The National Conference is in all assessment a duplication of the legislature, an obvious avenue to big jobs to some persons and at best to divert attention from the glaring failure in governance to unnecessary talk shop where ethnic and religious bigots will take the centre stage.

One recalls that the previous exercises during the Abacha Junta and the one set up when the country was under the watch of Olusegun Obasanjo yielded no positive results. It was just the conveners who wanted it to be: an exercise in futility, a diversionary measure meant to occupy the minds of some that could have challenged the administration on certain issues.

If Obasanjo with all his roforofo government failed to come up with anything meaningful how will it be possible for a government known

for its want of vision, aggression, and political will to enforce the submission of the National Conference. Besides, though the modality of the Conference has not been drawn without being a sovereign national conference its decision will neither be binding nor enforceable. So, what’s the need of gathering some characters and spending huge sum on them?

Rather, it is to create another wasteful avenue such as obvious in the duplications of many MDGs, parastatals and agencies, plus bloated pay for political appointees most of whom do nothing in particular aside from being pimps and political thugs. The Federal Government should concentrate efforts on building solid democratic institutions to strengthen our lawmakers to rise to the challenge of legislation.

I call on the NASS to rise up against the National Conference because it infringes on their constitutional responsibilities. Jonathan should rather address headlong issues of insurgency, ASUU strike, incidences of kidnapping and unemployment. These are the real issues bothering the Nigerian people, not a jamboree talk shop.

Lucy David writes in from Maitama, Abuja

FCT Minister, please Pegi needs attention

By Ishaya Abdullahi

T

o mark the 30th year of existence of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mallam Nasir el- Rufai came up with a brilliant idea- he dreamt of new suburb for Abuja which he christened Abuja at 30th.

Structures were built and put in the market. Many persons bought those houses even as the minister painstakingly conceived of what would have become a thriving suburb by building roads and putting other social

amenities in place.

His administration conceived of network of roads within the new small city, plots were allotted while those who were displaced by the first demolition exercise in Abuja were relocated from Gwagwa and karimu to Pegi.

El- Rufai conceived of roads within the new small city which were to link Capital Science and a major that was intended to connect Kuje from the popular Kuje junction straight to Apo legislative quarters. Neither the internal roads nor the main link from Kuje

to Apo completed before he was dropped as minister.

His departure from government ended the dream for the new residents and many who had thought that the new road from Kuje to Apo would spare the torturous journey through Airport Road.

It is sad that on yearly basis, the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed has consistently captured the Kuje- Apo road in the budget but without actual execution of the project. The internal roads have been

abandoned despite the relocation of a Navy Barrack, the biggest in Abuja to Pegi.

As a resident in Pegi, I plead with Sen Bala Muhammed, the FCT Minister to give us a sense of belonging by making us feel the presence of government in our area. Opening up the area would decongest many places as well as reduce the man hour lost because of the hectic traffic along the Airport Road.

Abdullahi send the letter from Pegi, Abuja

PAGE 39

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

O pi ni o n

How to improve your life by inspiring others (I) Arianna Huffington

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ast week a few HuffPost editors and I were treated to a visit by Bill Drayton and Mary Gordon.

Bill Drayton is the founder of Ashoka and a longtime champion of social entrepreneurship, a term that he coined and that has now spread across the world. Mary Gordon is a former kindergarten teacher who founded Roots of Empathy, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional literacy and promoting empathy in children. She was also one of the first Ashoka fellows. Our visit started with talk of the newborn recently welcomed by one of our editors, Gregory Beyer, whereupon Mary presented him with a onesie with “Empathy Teacher” emblazoned on the front. But as Mary -- a great empathy teacher herself -- told us, it’s a two-way street, and empathy is best nurtured by example. “Love grows brains,” she told us. “We need to show children a picture of love as we raise them.”

And giving not only nurtures empathy; it’s an outgrowth of our innate capacity for empathy. It’s also one of the key components of HuffPost’s Third Metric initiative to redefine success beyond the first two metrics of money and power to include well-being, wisdom, and our ability to wonder and to give -- all of which are boosted when we give our time and effort to something other than ourselves.

Philosophers have known this for centuries. “No one can live happily who has regard for himself alone and transforms everything into a question of his own utility,” wrote the first-century Stoic philosopher Seneca in his Moral Letters to Lucilius. And in practically every religious tradition and practice,

giving of oneself is a key step on the path to spiritual fulfillment. Or, as Einstein put it, “only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”

Since Einstein, scientists have been trying to come up with the “theory of everything,” which would explain our entire physical world by reconciling general relativity with quantum physics. In the study of our emotional world, there’s no analogous theory of everything, but if there were, empathy and giving would be at the center of it. And modern science has overwhelmingly confirmed the wisdom of those early philosophers and religious traditions. Empathy, compassion, and giving -- which is simply empathy and compassion in action -- are the building blocks of our being. With them we flourish; without them we perish.

In his book The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom, Jonathan Haidt writes that “caring for others is often more beneficial than receiving help.

We need to interact and intertwine with others; we need the give and take; we need to belong.”

Science has broken down why this is. A crucial component, a molecule of compassion, is a hormone called “oxytocin,” also known as the “love hormone,” the “love drug,” and the “moral molecule.” And not without reason.

It’s released naturally in our bodies during experiences like childbirth, falling in love, and sex. Higher levels of oxytocin are associated with heightened desire and ability to connect socially. Lower levels are associated with conditions like depression and autism.

Researchers have found that giving people oxytocin can lower their anxiety and mitigate shyness.

A study by neuroscientist Paul Zak showed that a squirt of oxytocin to the nose increased the amount of money participants offered each other in an experiment. “The seven deadly sins are still deadly, because they separate us from other people,” said Zak. “They are all about putting ‘me’ first and that is maladaptive for social creatures like us.”

The hormone should not be confused with oxycontin, a highly addictive opiate-based painkiller that has caused thousands of overdose deaths. Oxytocin, the “love hormone,” is in a constant battle with cortisol, the “stress hormone.”

Of course, we’ll never completely eliminate stress from our lives, but nurturing our empathy and giving is a sure way to reduce our stress.

But for the greatest positive effect, it’s not just about empathy; it’s about the right kind of empathy. In trying to understand our leaders’ “weirdly detached” reaction to Hurricane Katrina, Daniel Goleman, a journalist and the bestselling author of Emotional Intelligence,describes psychologist Paul Ekman’s breakdown of the three kinds of empathy. First,

“

there’s “cognitive empathy,” which is knowing how someone else feels or what they’re thinking. But simply understanding another’s position doesn’t mean we’ve internalized what they’re feeling. So there’s also “emotional empathy,” in which we actually feel what another person is feeling. This is triggered by socalled “mirror neurons.” But given the amount of suffering we’re so frequently exposed to, it would be too draining to live in a constant state of emotional empathy. “This can make emotional empathy seem futile,” writes Goleman.

But there’s the third type, which Ekman designates “compassionate empathy,” in which we know how a person is feeling, we’re feeling their feelings along with them, and we’re moved to act. So compassionate empathy is a skill we can nurture, and one that leads to action.

So this is the kind of empathy we’re fueled by when we’re giving back -- though even the term “giving back” is misleading. It implies that service and volunteering are important only in terms of what they do for the community or the recipient. But just as important

No one can live happily who has regard for himself alone and transforms everything into a question of his own utility,” wrote the first-century Stoic philosopher Seneca in his Moral Letters to Lucilius.

is what they do for the giver or volunteer. And the science on this is as unambiguous as it is amazing.

Essentially, giving back is a miracle drug (with no side effects) for health and well-being.

Indeed, we’re so wired for it that our genes reward us for giving -- and punish us when we don’t. Last month Gretchen Reynolds reported on a study by scientists from the University of North Carolina and UCLA that found that participants whose happiness was mostly hedonic (or about consuming) had high levels of biological markers that promote inflammation, which is linked to conditions like diabetes and cancer. Those whose happiness was based on service to others had health profiles showing reduced levels of these markers. Of course, we all experience a mix of both kinds of happiness, but our bodies’ internal system is subtly pushing for us to augment the kind based on giving.

Many other studies show the positive health boost provided by giving. A 2013 study by Dr. Suzanne Richards of the University of Exeter Medical School found that volunteering was connected to lower rates of depression, high reports of well-being, and a significant reduction in mortality risk. And a 2005 Stanford study found that those who volunteer live longer than those who don’t.

The effects of giving back as we age are especially dramatic: A study from Duke University and the University of Texas at Austin found that seniors who volunteered had significantly lower rates of depression than non-volunteers.

Arianna is the President and Editor-in-Chief at The Huffington Post Media Group

Andrew Yakubu: Time for objective assessment

By Simon Imobo-Tswam

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s a people, we Nigerians have never been slack to criticise ineptitude and incompetence from our governments. And we did this very well even under the military when, as it were, the doctrine of publish-andbe-damned was very much operative.

But in this dispensation of democracy when the right to free speech has become a constitutional right, there is a surfeit of critics. And the army of critics ranges from opposition politicians to professional critics. While the former tend to politicise everything, especially now that 2015 is in silhouette, the latter must find something negative to say against the government of the day.

But in all these, whether out of political considerations or wanton cynicism, we miss or ignore the point that it is we Nigerians who constitute the Nigerian government at any point in time; and that government cannot be all bad. In other words, no matter how bad we perceive a government to be, we cannot gloss over the incontrovertible fact that in some areas, it is doing very well, if not superlatively. And this is where the Group Managing Director, Engr. Andrew Yakubu, comes in.

And for that matter, this is where the Nigerian National Petroleum corporation (NNPC), which he heads, also comes into focus.

Of course, as the nation’s sole egg-basket by reason of our monoeconomy (oil), the NNPC gets more attention than it merits if things were otherwise. And coming against the

backdrop of regular politics, geopolitics, pure mischief and deliberate misinformation, the attention the NNPC gets has largely been negative.

The resultant outcome has been an admixture of political blackmail and media terrorism. Under such a stifling atmosphere, it is difficult, if not impossible, for someone to prove his worth; or for an institution to fulfil their mandates.

It was in such circumstances that the 1979 alumnus of the prestigious Ahmadu University (ABU), Zaria, took over in June 2012 as the 15th helmsman of the NNPC. But as if these circumstances were not foreboding enough, the Chemical Engineer had to contend, upon assumption of duty, with the aftershocks of the nationwide uproar that greeted the fuel-imports, following hyped reports of monumental improprieties. But for the oil bureaucrat, who joined the NNPC 32 years prior to his appointment, and knows the oil industry inside out, it was a challenge well-prepared for.

And 15 months into his tenure, the consensus among industry watchers is that he is a round peg in a round hole.

Simply put, the man has acquitted himself excellently. And if in appointing him, the President sought to “further strengthen the on-going reforms and transformation of Nigeria’s petroleum sector, and to achieve greater transparency and accountability” as government stated while announcing his appointment mid-last year, Engr.

Yakubu has proved himself trustworthy. His is a classic case of someone

being tried and tested, assessed and approved.

And this is why there is concern that NNPC-bashing has continued unabated; and that the man is not being given the praise he rightly deserves, especially in the light of his deft repositioning moves at the NNPC. Yes, it is true that last October, the Atyap community, otherwise known as Kataf, in Zangon-Kataf local government area of Kaduna state, where Yakubu hails from, gave him a grand-reception at the Palace of the Agwatyap, the traditional ruler of the Kataf. However, given his transformational imprint at NNPC, with its nation-wide reach, there is need for a better appreciation, and, therefore, a better assessment of Engr.

Yakubu’s stewardship. Even if Nigerians had adopted the wait-and-see attitude, his salutary work and its great promise mean it is time for its acknowledgment.

Put differently, if we are vociferous and scathing in condemning incompetence in government quarters, we should likewise be graceful in giving generous praise where and when it is evident as is the case here.

As someone who rose through the ranks, becoming the Managing Director of Warri Refining and Petrochemicals Company as well as the Group Executive Director (GED) in charge of Exploration and Production before capping it with his present appointment, the lack of a comprehensive legal-cum-regulatory framework has been a source of concern – not just for the stagnation of our oil industry that its lack engenders,

but also for the multiple returns a properly regulated environment will bring for all stakeholders. This is why he hardly misses any opportunity to stress the importance of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) by the National Assembly.

One of such occasions was the well-reported Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) which took place in May in Houston, Texas, the United States, where the NNPC boss spoke passionately about the PIB and painted a rosy picture of a post-PIB Nigerian oil/gas industry.

Yakubu, who presented a paper entitled: “Post-PIB Challenges, Prospect and Opportunities,” described the proposed PIB as a critical instrument for the transformation of the nation’s oil and gas industry, stressing how, by its integrated or multi-dimensional approach, it will engender greater participation by all operators under an efficient governmental framework that guarantees returns to all stakeholders.

“It also stipulates guidelines for operations in the upstream and downstream sectors which can be viewed in terms of the following thematic areas: policy, legal and regulatory dimensions, economic dimensions, including participation and ownership, knowledge-based human and institutional capabilities, environmental stewardship as well as governance structure for sustainable resource development,” the GMD had said at the OTC, which received ample coverage in such international media as CNN, Aljazeera, The Washington Post

and New York Times.

But it is not only the PIB that is dear to Engr. Yakubu. Industry watchers point to other projects engaging his attention as the revolutionary introduction of the Petroleum Host Community Fund, which incorporates useful templates from the Amnesty Programme in the Niger Delta.

The Fund is a mechanism that recognises host communities of oil infrastructure as important stakeholders, and thereby entrusting the security of oil and gas infrastructure to them; with the objective of minimising such vices as crude oil/ product theft, pipeline vandalism, kidnapping and environmental degradation as well incorporating penalties to the communities in the event of breaches.

It is a measure of the successes of these measures as well as the effective liaison with security agencies and other industry stakeholders that the current national daily production has peaked at 2.6mbpd as against the pre-June 2013 figure of 2.13mbpd.

In practical terms, all these reforms have eventuated in zero-fuel queues which were becoming part of our national life before Engr. Yakubu’s advent. And it is all these necessitates this call for a sober and more positive evaluation of the fellow of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).

Simon Imobo-Tswam, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja, and can be reached at simonpita2008@yahoo.com

PAGE 40

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

A gr icult u r e

Nigeria’s 53 years of stunted growth in agriculture

By Patrick Andrew and Mohammed Kandi

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igeria is blessed with arable land, which offers great potentials for agriculture.

Prior to independence and indeed the immediate post-independence era, agriculture was Nigeria’s mainstay until the ‘black gold’ was discovered.

It seems the advent of crude oil turned everything upside down as attention became sharply focused on crude oil production and the immediate wealth than the agriculture which ironically still remains the main employer of labour across the nooks and crannies of the country.

One recalls with relish the early 1960s when Nigeria was synonymous with cocoa, palm oil and groundnuts pyramid among other agricultural products. However, with the coming of the ‘black gold’ attention on agriculture had a sudden disconnect and the centre had never been able to remain kneaded together.

Albeit it, several governments have since independence pontificated on agriculture, only a handful had any visible policy specifically for agriculture during the oil boom era. Gen. Yakubu Gowon hardly had a conceivable policy nor did the subsequent military regime of late Gen. Murtala Muhammed.

Well, Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo eventually attempted to arrest the drift off the path of agriculture by introducing the ‘Operation Feed the Nation’ which some mischievously referred to as Obasanjo Farm Nigeria, at Otta. Then, Shehu Shagari equally sought to re-direct the nation back to its old reliable ways in agriculture by launching the ‘Green Revolution’.

Irrespective of the efficacy of the implementation and execution of the policies, they tended to remind the people that agriculture remains the largest employer of labour and indeed the only reliable means of arresting the consciousness of Nigerians from all walks of life. Of course, food sufficiency is the livewire of any nation.

True, IBB introduced DIFRIDirectorate for Food, Road and Infrastructure- ostensibly to lure the younger generation back to land. But many say that it was largely a lip service, seedlings for planting were scarce as was fertilizer which became a source for the sudden wealth by the middle men, who were mostly government officials.

Generals Sani Abacha and Abdulsalami Abubakar followed the pattern set by Gowon and left visible evidences of the huge gulf in agriculture. Even the return of Obasanjo with his celebrated focus on cassava product still left much to be desired in government’s political will to cure the ill the sectoral decline.

Sadly too, even states which are closer to the people and whose policy could easily have had tremendous influence have failed to live up to expectation.

Agriculture would have provided their subjects ample employment opportunities as well as avail them sufficient food and thus boost self esteem, health and ultimately virile nation. Instead, the states preferred the handouts from the federal government and ended up being perpetually cap in hand before the centre. Apart from Police

Commissioner Fedelis Oyakhilome who introduced ‘back to land’ programme no military administrator in the many years of military regime did anything of significance for agriculture.

Today, the story of agriculture in 53 years of Nigeria as an independent nation is hardly inspiring. Current Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Akinwunmi Adeshina succinctly captures the prevailing despicable trend thus: “since 1975, the nation had become a net importer of basic food items.”

“Agricultural productivity had fallen to its lowest ebb, compounding food insecurity, even though there was vast economic potential in the country.

In those good years, Nigeria accounted for over 60 per cent of the global supply of palm oil, 35 per cent of groundnut, 23 per cent of groundnut oil and 25 per cent of cocoa, while farmers from the north and south made money from their sweat.

“Then, the quality of life was good; children went to good schools, the nation was food sufficient but today, that has become history. Adeshina also revealed that the nation’s food import bill between 2007 and 2010 stood at N98 trillion.

“Over N635 billion was spent to import wheat, N365 billion on rice, N217 billion on sugar and N97 billion on fish importation.”

However, available data shows that in 1960, at independence, the agriculture sector accounted for about 60% GDP, which is typical for developing agrarian nations. However, this share declined over time to only about 25% between 1975 and 1979.

This was due partly to the phenomenal growth of the mining and manufacturing sectors during the period and partly as a result of the disincentives created by the macroeconomic environment.

Similarly, researcher said the 1962-1968 development plan was Nigeria’s first national plan. Among several objectives, it emphasized the introduction of more modern agricultural methods through farm settlements, co-operative plantations, supply of improved farm implements and a greatly expanded agricultural extension service.

All the same, the country was at no time without brilliant agricultural schemes. In 1972, the government launched the National Accelerated Food Production Programme (NAFPP). There were also a number of agricultural development intervention experiments, notably Operation Feed the Nation (OFN), launched in 1976; River Basin and Rural Development Authorities (RBRDA), established in 1976; the Green Revolution Programme, inaugurated in 1980; and The World Bank-funded Agricultural Development Projects (ADP).

As if all these schemes never existed, an average rural farmer never felt the impacts. In 1998, the Nigerian government once again turned its attention to the agricultural sector. It adopted an agricultural policy that had the objective, among others, of ensuring food security for the population by developing local production.

Since the reference document “Agriculture in Nigeria: The New Policy Thrust” was issued in 2001.

The strategic document for reducing

Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adeshina poverty in Nigeria, “National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy” (NEEDS II 2008-2011) emphasising economic development driven by the private sector, and the “7-point Agenda in May 2007, which intended to help the country achieve the Millennium Development Goals for 2015 and its own “2020 Vision” plan. or agriculture, the National Food Security Programme (NFSP) issued in August 2008 by the federal Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources is designed to attain food security by ensuring that all Nigerians have access to good-quality food while making Nigeria a major exporter of foodstuffs.

The programme designates priority crops (cassava, rice, millet, wheat) for achieving food security and outlines objectives for all stages of these supply chains. The aim is to create more value in production, particularly downstream in the chain, by improving storage, processing, and access to agricultural markets. The programme also plans the creation of irrigation schemes (450,000 ha).

Similarly, Olusegun Obasano’s government also launched an initiative in 1999 for seven agricultural products (cassava, rice, vegetable oil, sugar, livestock, cultivated trees and dry grains). The aim of these initiatives was to boost Nigeria’s agricultural exports by taking advantage of preferential agreements in the framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Economic Partnership Agreements

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between the European Union and the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific countries.

In terms of land mass, Nigeria’s total land area is 92.4million hectares.

Of this area 91 million hectares is adjudged to be suitable for cultivation.

Approximately half of this cultivable land is effectively under permanent and arable crops, while the rest is covered by forest wood land, permanent pasture and built up areas.

Among the States which have the most abundant land areas are Niger (7.6 million hectares) and Borno (2.8 million hectares). On Nigeria’s potentials in available crops, in 1996, a total of 33 million hectares were cultivated to crops generally; out of which 17.7 million hectares were for staples and 4.9 million hectares were for industrial crops.

Consequently, agriculture crops in Nigeria are grouped into: cereals-guinea corn, millet, maize and rice.

There are also root and tuber crops— cassava, yam, cocoyam, and potatoes (sweet and irish). The grains legumes and other legumes include cowpeas, locust bean, soyabean, and other beans such as groundnut, pigeon pea, and bambara nuts. Oil seeds and nuts include melon, benniseed, kolanut, and coffee. As for the tree crops, there is the prominent cocoa, oil palm, and rubber.

In terms of vegetables, Nigeria has onions, African spinach, Indian spinach, Pumpkin, Sweet pepper, hot pepper, water leaf, carrot, and lettuce. Nigeria farmers also engage in fruit production pineapple, pawpaw,

However, available data shows that in 1960, at independence, the agriculture sector accounted for about 60% GDP, which is typical for developing agrarian nations.

However, this share declined over time to only about 25% between 1975 and 1979.

mango, banana/plantain, citrus, and guava.

With all these natural and human resources domiciled in just one country, what else does a nation needs? Prayer more hard work? May be we should consult with the oracles or overturn the country’s fate with the help of voodoo!

We obviously need to stop playing politics with issues of global concern.

Besides, the right time for Nigeria to join the global community and take earnest action towards its agriculture sector is now. You want to know why?

The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organusation (FOA) said by year 2050, world’s population will rise to 9 billion, and to satisfy global food demands, food production for developing countries like Nigeria, will need to increase by 70 percent.

Similarly, African richest business man and Nigeria’s business magnet, Aliko Dangote once said, “Whether we like it or not, we must face agriculture; not only to sell and make money but to feed the nation because by 2025, the nation’s population will be hitting over 250 million.” These socking statistics calls for serious concern and urgent action by all. ll Nigeria needs are continuity and well-coordinated long time policies for the agriculture sector. The current government must under its Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) programme co-opt and analyse as part of the plans, the successes, failures and lessons learned in preceding programmes. The absence of indicators makes it hard to track and evaluate policy implementation.

There is the need for Nigeria to also embrace the global trends of transformation in agriculture, which is the development and application of biotechnology (BT) driven farming system. Through this system, farmers have been able to access hybrid seed that brought about improved yields, including insect and disease resistance crops. Also with BT, researchers have developed crops that tolerate extreme climatic conditions such as drought and heat.

For Nigeria, the right time to act is now!

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Muhammad Ali in Nigeria in 1963

PAGE 41

Archive

Amalgamation day on Tinubu Street in 1914 in Lagos

King George of England pictured with the Emir of Katsina and his entourage in 1933

The Emir of Katsina, his entourage and grand kids

Line up for a crucial duel ... by the Green Eagles of old: Okala, Nwobodo, Okosieme and others

Wole Soyinka under arrest

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

News Analysis

PLATEAU VIOLENCE: The unending killings in Wase

A village in Wase that has been raided by attackers

From Ado Abubakar Musa, Jos

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he crisis that has overwhelmed Wase local government area of Plateau state since 2002 to date has left the entire area in a sorry state. This year is exactly eleven years of killings and arson where hundreds of lives were lost and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed and yet the crisis continues to recur. Just last two weeks, many people were reportedly killed and hundreds of houses burnt in the area. The ethnic and religious diversity cannot be dissociated from the crisis as it has been a common feature of the state.

What is quite unique about Wase crisis compared to other places, is the continued attacks and assaults which has been snuffing innocent lives despite the presence of the security agencies stationed in the area.

Reports have revealed that various efforts have been made to resolve the crisis but were not successful.

For instance, the Plateau state government recently set up a reconciliation and peace committee to look into the crisis in the state particularly the southern zone where the violence is presently more prevalent but it has refused to stop. Places like Jos and Yelwa where the crisis first engulfed before the Wase conflict have at least known some peace.

It is now bewildering why Wase crisis has refused to stop while other places like Jos and Yelwa have come under control for quite sometime.

According to the Emir of Wase, Alhaji Muhammad Sambo Haruna, the crisis involves 24 tribes in Wase and Tarok ethnic group of Langtang extraction but the Tarok keep stressing it has no had in the crisis, adding that it had been

a problem between Tarok and other tribes in Wase.

Wase and Langtang are two different ethnic communities sharing boundary who have been in serious conflicts and disagreement for more than 11 years. Wase is predominantly inhabited by Hausa, Fulani and Jukun Muslims.

On the other hand, Langtang is mainly inhabited by Tarok Christians. Their engagement in the ceaseless fire attacks have resulted in loss of many lives and properties. Many villages surrounding Wase town and parts of Langtang North have been left deserted. From January 23rd to September 20th this year, Wase and other villages have witnessed incessant attacks will huge loss of lives. akalafiya, a village in the neighbourhood of Wase and predominantly Muslim, was completely raided in an attack. In this village, peo-

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ple, including the village head, Mallam Usman Aliyu who was 80 years old, lost their lives.

Zamshen is another village in the neighbourhood of Wase where many people, including one pastor were killed. Pinnau, Wadata Garga, Jigawan Audu, Gandu, Kambar gember, Rogon Salawai, Tsamiya, Lazhe, Zango, Barkin rijiya and many villages were also affected in the violence and people lost their lives and lots of properties were annihilated.

However, it appears that the presence of the security agencies in the area is not capable of stemming the violence and other criminal practices as stories of killing, burning and rustling of cows have become more frequent. The string of killings and destruction may trigger the question over how civilians in the area easily get sophisticated weapons to carry out assault on communities every day.

There are lots of accusa-

tion and counter accusation between the two warring parties. For example, the Wase unity forum in an open letter to President Goodluck Jonathan published on April 18, 2013, accused the Tarok ethnic group, particularly of Langtang extraction of lunching eight different attacks on its people from 23rd January, 15th April to 27th of July, 2013. The Taroks were also accused of lunching attacks on Wase and its surrounding villages where many people lost their lives and cows in the thousands, were rustled. he letter further read “we the people of Wase wish to draw the attention of Mr. President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, to the atrocities and impunity displayed by the Tarok ethnic group, specifically of Langtang against

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Contd on Page 43

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 43

News Analysis

The unending killings in Wase Contd from Page 42

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ur people. The cold blooded murder of innocent citizens, the maiming of men, women and children, the wanton destruction of property of our people has continued with reckless disregard of the law or constituted authority by the Tarok ethnic group, with specific and particular references to the recent attacks on Wase town on the 6th and 8th April, 2013 and of Wase Tofa on the 15th April, 2013, where many people were killed and several others were injured with millions of naira worth of properties destroyed. This is now a recurring decimal most especially in recent time, from 2002 to 2013. Why this carnage?” he letter further made references to other recent attacks on Takalafiya on the 2nd June, 2013, of Jigawan Audu on the 16th June, 2013, of Lamba- Gember on 16th July, 2013 of Pinau on 19th July, 2013 and Wase town again on 27th July, 2013.

Similarly, on August18, 2013, the Emir of Wase, Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna also accused the Tarok ethnic group of incessant attacks on Wase and plot to take over Wase in an attempt to extend its territory.

He said “it is very clear that Taroks are those who always attack us and even children know that. They killed our children and rustled our cows. Because of exposure and education, they believe in owning what does not belong to them. It is not possible because you are stronger than the other. You then take what does not belong to you. It is not done like that.”

When contacted, the Tarok youth chairman of Langtang North local government area of the state, Isitfanus Ayuba denied the accusation, saying that Taroks of Langtang extraction were not part of Wase crisis. According to him “the Tarok in Langtang has no

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hand in Wase crisis. The crisis in Wase has been between Taroks in Wase and other tribes in the area. On the allegation that the Tarok ethnic group has a planned mission to take over Wase territory, Ayuba said that it is not true.

“We cannot send people out of their homes. The people of Wase are saying it in order to get sympathy from outside. What we only want is our chiefdom of Kadarko”, he said.

The Tarok on the other hand accused the Emir of Wase of withdrawing the chiefdom given to its people and that the Emir has been keeping silent over the crisis. The group also accused Wase community of keeping Fulani fighters, who have prevented Taroks living in Wase from going back to their homes. Responding on the withdrawal of chiefdom and silence over the crisis, the Emir said it was mischievous to be accused of withdrawing chiefdom given to Tarok.

According to him, he had no right to give or withdraw chiefdom, adding that he can only recommend to the state government which has the sole prerogative to either approve or not. He said “I Muhammadu Sambo Haruna, being the 14th Emir of Wase, do no have the right to give chiefdom. Whoever tells you that I have the right is full of mischief. We only recommend to the government what we believe is the interest

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Another village in Wase raided by attackers

of the people.

On Tarok accusation that Wase community had been camping Fulani fighters, the interim committee chairman of Wase Council, Alhaji Muhammadu Zakari debunked the accusation saying that the Taroks were just scared of returning to their houses. Zakari said “How can my secretary who is of Tarok and I, be endorsing money to keep Fulani men on behalf of the government to kill Taroks. There is no way government will do that. But I know there are Fulani that were displaced from other places in camps and they have settled in their camps. I cannot ask them to leave because they are also Nigerians”. he complexity and difficulty in understanding the genesis of the crisis has deepened the more as the two opposing parties give different perspectives. The Emir said “the whole thing has been on leadership and acquiring what does not belong to you.

Wase was founded by a Fulani man who met the Jukuns, the Basharawasa, the Bogoms and five other tribes. Because of development, later on about 12 to 20 tribes moved in and today they are free to do what they want to do in the local government. Among the people that moved in are Taroks and that is just 59 years ago. But all of a sudden because of exposure and

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From the accounts of the warring parties , it is very clear that both Langtang and Wase have no confidence and trust in each other. Various committees have been constituted to find lasting solution to the problem but yet, the crisis keeps recuring. What then does the state and federal government need to do to prevent the bloodshed in this area?

This too was not spared by the attackers

education, they believe that they can own what does not belong to them and this came about during the last administration of former governor Joshua Chibi Dariye. ‘’There were similar attacks meted on the people of Wase in 2013, 2004 and early 2005 and about one third of the local government was taken over by the Tarok people. They instituted authority and even the last government recognized and gave them a second class chief. You know that was a wrong decision to make. That problem is what has been brewing other crisis and has been affecting us up till today”.

On the other hand, the chairman of the Tarok ethnic group of Langtang north gave a different dimension on the genesis of the unbending crisis. He said “the genesis of the crisis in Wase was highly political. This is because when Tarok man, Jacob Dashe became a local government chairman of Wase and another Tarok man, Hon. Lohlum Samuel became State House of Assembly member representing Wase, then the issue of (Wase ban da yargam came up). Thinking that one day Wase will be divided into two local government areas. So Tarok should vacate their land where everybody came and saw them. o the aggrieved Wase community started writing lies. Then they turned it to religious crisis but it’s not. We accommodate Muslims in our communities. If they think Tarok should not be in their own land, I think they want to create storm in a tea cup”.

From the accounts of the warring parties , it is very clear that both Langtang and Wase have no confidence and trust in each other. Various committees have been constituted to find lasting solution to the problem but yet, the crisis keep recuring, what then does the state and federal government need to do to prevent the bloodshed in this area?

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Great Speeches

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 45

We claim our independence with pride, by Tafawa Bale-

The Speech Declaring Nigeria’s Independence by Nigeria’s First Prime Minister Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa on October 1, 1960

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oday is Independence Day. The first of October 1960 is a date to which for two years, Nigeria has been eagerly looking forward.

At last, our great day has arrived, and Nigeria is now indeed an independent Sovereign nation.

Words cannot adequately express my joy and pride at being the Nigerian citizen privileged to accept from Her Royal Highness these Constitutional Instruments which are the symbols of Nigeria’s Independence. It is a unique privilege which I shall remember forever, and it gives me strength and courage as I dedicate my life to the service of our country. This is a wonderful day, and it is all the more wonderful because we have awaited it with increasing impatience, compelled to watch one country after another overtaking us on the road when we had so nearly reached our goal. But now, we have acquired our rightful status, and I feel sure that history will show that the building of our nation proceeded at the wisest pace: it has been thorough, and Nigeria now stands well-built upon firm foundations.

Today’s ceremony marks the culmination of a process which began fifteen years ago and has now reached a happy and successful conclusion. It is with justifiable pride that we claim the achievement of our Independence to be unparalleled in the annals of history. Each step of our constitutional advance has been purposefully and peacefully planned with full and open consultation, not only between representatives of all the various interests in Nigeria but in harmonious cooperation with the administering power which has today relinquished its authority. At the time when our constitutional development entered upon its final phase, the emphasis was largely upon self-government: We, the elected representatives of the people of Nigeria, concentrated on proving that we were fully capable of managing our own affairs both internally and as a nation. However, we were not to be allowed the selfish luxury of focusing our interest on our own homes.

In these days of rapid communications, we cannot live in isolation, apart from the rest of the world, even if we wished to do so. All too soon it has become evident that for us, independence implies a great deal more than self-government.

This great country, which has now emerged

without bitterness or bloodshed, finds that she must at once be ready to deal with grave international issues. This fact has of recent months been unhappily emphasised by the startling events which have occurred in this continent. I shall not belabour the point but it would be unrealistic not to draw attention first to the awe-inspiring task confronting us at the very start of our nationhood.

When this day in October 1960 was chosen for our Independence, it seemed that we were destined to move with quiet dignity to our place on the world stage. Recent events have changed the scene beyond recognition, so that we find ourselves today being tested to the utmost. We are called upon immediately to show that our claims to responsible government are well-founded, and having been accepted as an independent state, we must at once play an active part in maintaining the peace of the world and in preserving civilisation. promise you, we shall not fall for want of determination. And we come to this task betterequipped than many. For this, I pay tribute to the manner in which successive British governments have gradually transferred the burden of responsibility to our shoulders. The assistance and unfailing encouragement which we received from each Secretary of State for the Colonies and their intense personal interest in our development has immeasurably lightened that burden.

All our friends in the Colonial Office must today be proud of their handiwork and in the knowledge that they have helped to lay the foundations of a lasting friendship between our two nations. I have indeed every confidence that, based on the happy experience of a successful partnership, our future relations with the United Kingdom will be more cordial than ever, bound together, as we shall be in the Commonwealth, by a common allegiance to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, whom today we proudly acclaim as Queen of Nigeria and Head of the Commonwealth. Time will not permit the individual mention of all those friends, many of them Nigerians, whose selfless labours have contributed to our Independence. Some have not lived to see the fulfilment of their hopes – on them be peace – but nevertheless they are remembered here, and the names of buildings and streets and roads and bridges throughout the country recall to our minds their achievements, some of them

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on a national scale. Others confined, perhaps, to a small area in one Division, are more humble but of equal value in the sum-total.

Today, we have with us representatives of those who have made Nigeria: Representatives of the Regional Governments, of former Central Governments, of the Missionary Societies, and of the Banking and Commercial enterprises, and members, both past and present, of the Public Service. We welcome you, and we rejoice that you have been able to come and share in our celebrations. We wish that it could have been possible for all of those whom you represent to be here today.

Many, I know, will be disappointed to be absent, but if they are listening to me now, I say to them: ‘Thank you on behalf of my countrymen. Thank you for your devoted service which helped to build up Nigeria into a nation. Today, we are reaping the harvest which you sowed, and the quality of the harvest is equalled only by our gratitude to you.

May God bless you all. This is an occasion when our hearts are filled with conflicting emotions: we are, indeed, proud to have achieved our independence, and proud that our efforts should have contributed to this happy event. But do not mistake our pride for arrogance. It is tempered by feelings of sincere gratitude to all who have shored in the task of developing Nigeria politically, socially and economically. e are grateful to the British officers whom we have known, first as masters, and then as leaders, and finally as partners, but always as friends. And there have been countless missionaries who have laboured unceasingly in the cause of education and to whom we owe many of our medical services. We are grateful also to those who have brought modern methods of banking and of commerce, and new industries. I wish to pay tribute to all of these people and to declare our everlasting admiration of their devotion to duty. And finally, I must express our gratitude to Her Royal Highness, the Princess Alexandra for personally bringing to us these symbols of our freedom and especially for delivering the gracious message from Her Majesty, The Queen. And so, with the words ‘God Save Our Queen’, I open a new chapter in the history of Nigeria and of the Commonwealth, and indeed, of the world.

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 46

Int e rnati onal

Iran, Syria crises steal spotlight at UN General assembly

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he United Nations headquarters complex and its nearby traffic-choked neighborhood returned to nearnormal on Tuesday as the 112 heads of state and government as well as high-ranking ministers relinquished the podium at the end of the UN General Assembly’s General Debate.

But the spotlight wasn’t always on the podium as it veered to the margins, particularly last Friday when the UN Security Council unanimously approved sending a joint team with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons team into Syria to enumerate, locate and destroy such weapons and the machines that made them. The team arrived in Damascus Tuesday.

Another example was when U.S. President Barack Obama telephoned from the White House to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani heading to the airport in New York, marking the first time in decades for such a high-level contact between the two countries.

There were bilateral meetings galore among top leaders of member states as well as sessions between high-ranking representatives of member states and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon.

But, for many, it was at the faux marble podium in the no- frills temporary General Assembly Hall in the Temporary North Lawn Building at UN headquarters where the great and not-so great traipsed before the microphones to deliver their country’s messages.

Plans call for the return next year to the much larger and grander General Assembly hall, marking completion of a 2-billion-U. S. dollar Capital Master Plan of renovation at UN Headquarters.

Outside roadblocks have been lifted; TV Satellite trucks have packed up and the VIP passageways inside have returned to just plain corridors.

Overseeing the debate this year was General Assembly President John Ashe, the ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda, and the vice presidents who spared him from his center seat on the dais behind the podium.

Three countries who did not speak were Saudi Arabia and Djibouti, which gave no reason, and Kenya, which didn’t need one, considering the bloody Westgate Mall terrorist attack in Nairobi just over a week ago.

President Goodluck Jonathan who also spoke at the Assembly said among other things that: “We can attain this objective if we adopt measures and policies that will promote nuclear disarmament, protect and renew our environment, and push towards an international system that is based on trust, mutual respect and shared goals.

I believe that I express the concern of many about the slow pace of effort and apparent lack of progress in the reform of the United Nations, especially the Security Council. We believe strongly, that the call for democratization worldwide should not be for States only, but also, for International Organizations such as the UN. That is why we call for the democratization of the Security Council.

This is desirable for the enthronement of justice, equity, and fairness; and also for the promotion of a sense of inclusiveness and balance in our world.

Our support for the United Nations Security Council in its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security has been total and unwavering.

UN Sec. Gen. Mr. Ban Ki Moon

Iran President Hassan Rouhani

Syria President Bashar Assad

We have, in previous membership of the Council, demonstrated both the political will and capacity to engage in key Council responsibilities. Nigeria has therefore decided to seek election for the 2014-2015 NonPermanent Seat of the UNSC. t the outset on Sept. 24, Ashe set a theme and outlined a number of priority areas for member states to discuss in either high-level events or thematic debates.

At the end, he called the session “one in which member states gave voice to their distinct needs and diverse challenges, as well as individual and shared concerns.”

His theme was “The Post 2015 Development Agenda: Setting the Stage!”

This was to signal the world organization wasn’t just going to let the time-bound Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) expire with no follow-up.

“Virtually every delegation that referred to this theme commended the choice and pledged full support and cooperation for its further elaboration,” Ashe said in his concluding remarks. “ This heralds a sense of promise about what is to come over the next year and I trust that we will all be able to work collectively and creatively during this session.”

Many delegations expressed the need to begin work toward defining a universal

development agenda, “inclusive of sustainable development goals, based on common but differentiated principles,” he said.

Sustainable development also was a priority announced by the secretary-general earlier in the year.

During the debate, a number of countries said they wanted to emphasize culture, education, climate change, job creation, sustainable energy, social inclusion, equality for all and access to water, Ashe said, adding that many also called for sustainable agriculture and use of ocean resources, food security, health care, including maternal care, noncommunicable diseases, and the fight against HIV-AIDS. “Some delegations reminded us that democracy, human rights, peace and security must also be a part of sustainable development; some emphasized the role and empowerment of women, youth, indigenous communities and persons with disabilities,” he said.

“There were reminders that while South-South cooperation has become an important part of development cooperation, it is a complement to North-South, not a replacement,” Ashe said. “ Partnerships are also needed among state and non-state actors.

The means of implementation, the need for adequate resources and funding, innovation

and technology transfer were further recurring themes.”

There were reminders of the specific needs and vulnerabilities of the Small Island Developing States as “an important consideration for the Post 2015 development agenda,” he said.

“Reforming the global economic governance architecture to reflect the weight of emerging and developing countries was also a concern,” along with the usual call for reform of the United Nations itself, Ashe noted.

“Concern was expressed for the situations in Guinea-Bissau, Central Africa Republic, Sudan and the Sahel,” the president said. “On Somalia, there were both words of encouragement and caution.” here was strong condemnation for terrorist attacks in Kenya, Pakistan and Iraq.

“Sadly, we can now add Nigeria to that list,” Ashe said, adding “There also was praise for progress in Mali and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“Member states underscored the need to protect women and children in conflict; end sexual violence in conflict and the enrollment of child soldiers; support transition processes following the Arab Spring; and address issues of cyber-security, with suggestions for the UN to play a greater role in this area,” Ashe said.

“The need for disarmament was emphasized, with concerns about the use of weapons of mass destruction and risks of proliferation; calls were made for the creation of nuclear weapons free zones,” he said. A solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict was also sought.

Summing up, Ashe said, “The General Debate provides a useful measure of stock taking on the issues at the forefront of our lives within the mandate of this organization, and it is the only mechanism by which our 193 members can make their voices heard.”

Source: Xinhua

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There was strong condemnation for terrorist attacks in Kenya, Pakistan and Iraq. “Sadly, we can now add Nigeria to that list,” Ashe said, adding “There also was praise for progress in Mali and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

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PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

World Oddities

Bizarre: Brazilian animal lover moves seven tigers into his home

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e lets the seven tigers live in his house, swim in his pool and even give his baby granddaughter rides on their back.

And now Brazilian tiger-lover Ary Borges wants to build an ecopark at his home in Maringa, near Sao Paulo, for the giant predators.

The father-of-three refuses to accept being so close to the 35-stone animals is dangerous and insists if he gives them respect, they will respond.

Borges rescued two tigers from a circus eight years ago and built a sanctuary in his garden before launching a breeding programme.

He was forced to call an end to it when the authorities realised he was breeding the big cats without a permit.

Borges, 43, said: ‘I was never worried about my daughters coexisting with these animals.

‘You have to show the animals respect and love - that’s how you get it back from them.’

He and his daughters Nayara, 20, Uyara, 23, and Deusanira, 24, walk the tigers on leads and feed meat directly into their mouths.

They even allow them into their kitchen during mealtime and let them lounge around the house.

Incredibly, Uraya, who also works as a dog trainer, is happy for daughter Rayara to interact with the massive predators with minimal safety precautions.

She said: ‘Rayara loves playing with the tigers - she sees my dad interacting with them and she goes crazy.

‘But it’s safe. I would never expose her to a dangerous situation.

‘Every day since they were born we have taken care of them and fed them so their instincts become dormant.

‘They are part of the family. I can’t imagine life without them.’

Nayara regularly takes a dip with 35-stone tiger, Tom, clinging to his back as he paddles through the water.

She said: ‘I swim with Tom three times per week to help keep him in shape.

‘He wouldn’t get in the water with anyone else now - he associates the pool with me.’

Despite having no training in animal handling, Borges began to breed tigers at his property to secure their survival.

He hoped to boost their numbers to counteract the worldwide decimation of the species, and one day release captive tigers back into the wild.

Bond: Borges said living with the tigers is not dangerous because by showing ‘the animals respect and love - that’s how you get it back from them’

But he was later forced to discontinue a breeding program after officials told him he needed a permit.

Now he plans to open a 40acre ecopark in Maringa where his animals can roam free.

But not everyone in the family is happy about being in such close proximity to the lethal carnivores.

Uyara’s husband, Rafael, worries that his daughter is being put in harm’s way.

He said: ‘I think her interaction with the animals is dangerous, they can be lethal.

‘I’m very afraid, I try to avoid any sort of contact as much as I can. I’d prefer her to be more distant from them too.’

Borges hopes to get permission to build his park to educate people about the plight of endangered tigers in the wild.

He said: ‘Today tigers are worth more dead than alive.

‘The claws are used to make lucky charms, the penis is used as an aphrodisiac and in China they use the bones to make wine.

‘I want to own an eco park that focuses on always bettering the lives of these animals - I have a soft spot for tigers.’

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Friends: Nayara says she swims with Tom the tiger three times a week to keep him in shape

Dangerous: Ary Borges’ granddaughter Rayara is allowed to ride on the back of the family’s seven tigers, despite protests from her father that it is not safe

Family affair: Ary’s (left) two-year-old granddaughter Rayara (right) is even allowed to play with the tigers under the supervision of mother Uyara (right) and aunts Daniella (second left) and Nayara (centre)

Ary Borges plays with two of his seven pet tigers at his home in Maringa, Brazil

Bizarre: The family’s pet chihuahua is perched on top of Tom the tiger inside their home

PAGE 48

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Wellness

Healthy Living

Diabetes and marriage W elcome to Wellness Column this weekend. I like to express my profound gratitude to numerous readers out there who are increasing by the day and the management of this News Medium who provides the platform. Thank you for your comments, questions and suggestions on ways to enrich this column.

For those who participated in the quiz last week, I must commend and inform you that the competition is getting stiffer and it promises to be healthier. A handsome prize was sent to the eventual winner after a random computation.

Last week, I concluded the series I started the previous weekend on Diabetes and Weight management. This week we shall take a look at Diabetes and Marriage.

Diabetes, marriage and relationship share some common feature, in that they are all long term involvement, hence care, planning, knowledge and tolerance are important ingredients for sustainability. Diabetes, being a chronic metabolic disorder, is characterized by high blood glucose levels which, if uncontrolled, can lead to cascade of conditions like depression, mood swings, erectile dysfunction, and financial challenges amongst others. These problems no doubt make relationships or marriage difficult to carry on with.

It is important to note that diabetes does not prevent you from getting married or going into relationship. People

with Diabetes are getting married and having children on a regular basis. In essence, knowledge and information cannot be overlooked because it would help all concerned to have a measure of enjoy in life.

THINGS TO KNOW OR DO FOR YOUR SPOUSE LIVING WITH DIABETES 1. Learn more about diabetes but do not rely entirely on information from the Internet.

2. Have some basic knowledge of how to manage low (Hypoglycemia) and high (Hyperglycemia) blood glucose levels.

3. Identify your spouses’ signs of low (hypoglycemia) blood glucose levels. It could be sweating, hunger, tiredness, confusion or there could be none at all.

4. Identify mood swings and device appropriate techniques to handle them.

5. Encourage and support physical activity or exercise, participate if possible.

6. Learn to eat same food as your spouse with diabetes especially fruits and vegetables.

The list above is not exhaustive; you may share some interesting ideas with me via the regular channels either by mail or sms. There are, however, some things you should not do to your spouse living with diabetes. These include: 1. Do not blame your spouse

because he/she is living with diabetes.

It is no fault of anyone. Diabetes knows no race, colour, religion or tribe. Instead of blaming the diabetes, see it as a challenge.

2. Diabetes does not prevent you from falling in love. Stories abound of people who severe their relationship when they became aware that either of the partner is living with diabetes. This has resulted in people keeping secret

With Isaac Yakubu Akogu

www.diabetesguidenigeria.blogspot.com, 08176179496, diabetesconcepts@gmail.com

about their status, which unfortunately cannot be for too long. Learn to share with your partner information about diabetes and how he/she can help should an emergency arises.

3. Do not blame your spouse when the blood sugar level gets too low (Hypo.) or too high (Hyper), rather try to identify the reason and discuss about it. You want to try and come up with solutions on how best to manage such situation next time.

4. Do not despise or allow room for friction in your relationship when either partner living with dia-

betes loses interest in sex or complain about erectile dysfunction. This could happen to a person who has lived with uncontrolled diabetes for quite a while.

This issue should not be a thing of too much worry as solutions can be provided once you discuss with your physician during a visit to the clinic.

5. Do not blame your partner living with diabetes as the source of your financial burden. This could make your partner depressed. Discuss the financial needs and work together to achieve it as there is strength in unity.

A doctor attending to a diabetic patient

The amazing health benefits of Magnesium

By Simon Agwale

O

ur bodies are in constant need of some of the most important vitamins and minerals, yet most of us suffer in some way or another from a deficiency of one or more of these key substances. Different minerals have different benefits, so no mineral can be termed as more beneficial or less beneficial.

All minerals are critical for the proper functioning of the body. In this series or couple of weeks, I will attempt to review the health benefits of minerals and why they are important to supplement because of the way our foods are processed today.

Most people today are well informed of the importance of calcium in the body. Few, however, are aware of the need for magnesium, an essential mineral which has a close relationship with calcium. In fact, calcium and magnesium are both necessary for strong bones and teeth.

This shows that without magnesium, calcium alone would be useless.

Magnesium makes up about .05% of the average person’s body weight. Sixty percent of this is found in the bones, while about 28% is found in the soft tissues of the liver and muscles – including the heart.

Magnesium is the second most abundant intracellularcation in the body involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions involving glucose,

fat and protein among many others.

What does that tell us about magnesium? Numerous studies have been conducted on the effect of magnesium on the body. In a study reported in the American Journal of Cardiology, 20% of patients with a trial fibrillation had a magnesium deficiency. In a study conducted in South Africa, a ten percent reduction in deaths caused by coronary heart disease was shown for every six milligrams per liter of magnesium in the water levels.

In Oklahoma City, patients with low magnesium in their blood required more drugs to control hypertension that those with normal magnesium levels. Twenty patients receiving long term diuretics in Umea, Sweden, were given 345mg. a day of magnesium. After six months, nineteen of the twenty showed a drop in blood pressure.

Without the proper levels of magnesium in the body, results can be painful and destructive. The earliest symptoms of a magnesium deficiency include appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mental changes, irritability and seizures.

Magnesium deficiencies may cause calcium deposits in muscles and kidney – often resulting in painful kidney stones. A deficiency in magnesium leads to the constriction of blood vessels as well as reducing the amount of oxygen in the blood.

Germ life multiplies; intestinal putrification products build up; Schizophrenic tendencies, borderline insanity, neuroses and manic depressive disturbance may occur.

As a treatment option, magnesium can do many wonderful things.

In combination with calcium, magnesium is useful in reducing hypertension. A diet high in magnesium may prevent heart attacks and heart diseases and improve cholesterol.

Magnesium can be used to treat PMS, prevent kidney stones, fight depression, prevent premature labour, aid the treatment of nervous disorders, and treat diarrhea, vomiting and indigestion.

A combination of magnesium – vitamin B6 therapy is often used to

“

treat patients with Autism. Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome often respond favourably to magnesium supplementation. Magnesium can also be used to calm nerves, make the body more flexible, induce restful sleep, and cool the body.

Other benefits from magnesium supplementation abound. It purifies the body tissues and prevents phosphates from depositing in joints, which may lead to arthritis, bone complications, and gout. Magnesium has also been proven to cool the liver, sooth nerve endings, prevent motor nerve contractions, end neurotic cramps and mellow the temper.

Magnesium is found in many food sources such as savory cabbage, dandelions, nettles, rye, barley, whole

Magnesium… purifies the body tissues and prevents phosphates from depositing in joints, which may lead to arthritis, bone complications, and gout. Magnesium has also been proven to cool the liver, sooth nerve endings, prevent motor nerve contractions, end neurotic cramps and mellow the temper.

wheat, walnuts and almonds. The best food sources are whole grains and legumes.

However, even if you believe you are eating plenty of magnesium-rich foods, you may still be deficient.

Over 80% of magnesium is lost in the process of making refined white and enriched flours. Certain chemical additives used to keep frozen vegetables bright strip the food of its magnesium. In addition, there are many chemicals which deplete the body of magnesium.

Diuretics and alcohol deplete what magnesium stores, while caffeine increases the excretion of magnesium, and phosphates, widely available in soft drinks, bind magnesium in the bowel and prevent its absorption. It is essential that one has sufficient calcium, vitamin C, and protein in order to absorb magnesium.

Magnesium can therefore treat high blood pressure, heart attack, alcoholism, bone health, cramps, diabetes, menopause, pregnancy, and asthma.

The only sure way to be confident that your body has sufficient magnesium is by magnesium supplementation, preferably by using a liquid source that is easily absorbed into the body’s cells.

Simon Agwale, Ph. D CEO Innovative Biotech LTD

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 49

C ommen ts

Terrorism Conspiracy: Between Shekau and Kelvin, any link?

By Gabriel Goodhead

T

he Federal government’s coordinated war against terrorism and other acts of criminality witnessed a major boost recently with the arrest and detention of a kidnap kingpin, Mr Kelvin Oniarah, who is believed to be the mastermind behind all kidnap cases in the South East and South South regions.

Without any doubt, Mr Oniarah’s eventual capture by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the oil city of Port Hacourt brings to an end the dark days of increasing kidnap cases in the Niger Delta region. I am a Niger Deltan and we should all have reasons to celebrate over this huge achievement. It is gratifying to affirm that even members of the international community are indeed pleased with the successes Nigeria has so far recorded against terrorism.

Nigerians equally woke up within the same period to be greeted with wild claims by the Boko Haram group that its former leader who was believed to have been fell by JTF’s bullets sometimes in July is still alive! Discerning Nigerians, especially those who have come to understand the game plan of the Boko Haram sect and its apologists and local collaborators have since discovered that the video clip released by the group was to divert attention from celebrating

the capture of kidnap kingpin, Oniarah by the DSS. Nigerians are too advanced and knowledgeable a people to fall for dummies as presently bandied around by the terror group.

Forget about what President Goodluck Jonathan said about him not knowing whether the man was alive or dead. I believe he was only playing the usual security trick of diverting attention from key events so as not to compromise other efforts of the security agencies.

Nigerians have since realized the obvious fact that the Boko Haram group and other terror groups are their common enemies.

These groups have indeed visited mindless terror on Nigerians of different faiths, tribes and ethnicity.

We cannot afford to fall so cheap for this grand plan to divert attention from rejoicing over the capture of Mr Oniarah. Believe you me, the capture of Oniarah and Shekau’s concocted video clip should be seen for what they are,- a planned coincidence by the terror group to divert attention. This incident further revealed the extent to which these bloodthirsty elements could go in their resolve to make the country ungovernable. Unfortunately for them, the orchestrated plan has fallen flat on its face. Nigerians have discovered that these terror groups and kidnappers are birds of same feather whose past time is to instill fear in people. There appears to be between them a coordinated

network system through which they communicate and share ideas on ways to perpetrate evil.

Long before now, while suicide bombers visited terror on innocent Nigerians living in the North Eastern part of the country, kidnap groups made life meaningless and miserable for Nigerians in the South South and South East regions. These twin issues gave government at various levels, especially the Federal government cause for concern. Government, obviously was not pleased with the wanton destruction of lives by suicide bombers in the north and rising kidnap cases in the South.

A government insider recently said that as a responsible and responsive government, the Federal government never considered the inglorious option of abandoning Nigerians in the aforementioned regions to their fate. It stood beside them all through these perilous times. It vowed never to allow criminal elements lay claim to any part of the country. To achieve this feat, it deployed troops to the troubled states as well as going ahead to declare partial state of emergencies in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. These wise moves no doubt produced immense results.

The arrest of Kelvin also known as Ibruvwe calls for celebration and commendation for the DSS .It was gathered that Oniarah was apprehended by a combined team of

SSS officials from Abuja and Delta State Command in collaboration with the troops of the Joint Task Force, JTF, in the Niger Delta, Operation Pulo Shields.

This kidnap kingpin is said to be the mastermind of several high profile kidnap cases in different parts of the country. Report says he was responsible for the recent kidnap of a senior lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome, in Edo State, during which four policemen were killed.

We are also told of how he was said to have maintained operational bases and detention camps in Warri and Kokori communities in Delta State and Ugbokolo community in Benue State.

A highly elated Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikechukwu Adaba, who confirmed the arrest to newsmen, described the development as a great achievement in the war against kidnapping and other vices. Government had earlier declared the kingpin wanted over his involvement in deadly escapades, especially armed banditry and kidnapping in which over 100 persons have been killed in different parts of the Niger Delta. Also on his list of atrocities were the attacks on some high profile personalities in that region. He is also linked to a bloody operation in Warri Federal Prisons, where he allegedly freed some members of his gang, after killing prison wardens.

With the barrage of terror acts perpetrated by Mr Orainah and his

gang, especially in the Niger Delta region and the lives and material possessions lost to their attacks, Nigerians, indeed have every reason to celebrate his eventual capture. While it will be rather too premature to roll out the drums for celebration, it is not out of place to congratulate security agencies on this great feat.

With the wide jubilation that greeted the news of the arrest of Kelvin across Nigeria, I am further convinced that Nigerians are more than ever before united against terrorism. Terrorists and kidnappers don’t carry out their nefarious acts based on ethnic, religious or political considerations.

In fact, these elements tend to be more united in visiting terror on Nigerians.

The million dollar question is, why did Kelvin Oniarah’s capture by the DSS coincide with Shekau’s claims of being alive? I smell conspiracy in this act. How come Shekau and his collaborators have remained silent for months only to resurface that day? Answers to these questions are not far-fetched, infact, we can find the answers in the questions. It should be seen simply as an orchestrated attempt to divert attention from the arrest of Kelvin.

Emmanuel Goodhead Nnebisi Road, Asaba Delta State emmanuelgoodhead@yahoo. com

Enough of politics of bitterness and selfishness

By Ada Stella Apiafi

I

n the last few months, the media (traditional and new) has been awash with all manner of negativities. Those who are supposed to be leaders and elders of the nation appear to have thrown caution to the winds, engaging in open abuse and castigation.

Everybody is preoccupied with politics of bitterness. During the period, attention has been completely diverted from development to mundane issues of office and personalities. Most of our leaders and elders have stopped discussion about the rot in the educational system, decaying state of our health sector, rising incidences of unemployment and poverty and inadequate infrastructure. The tendency is to appear as if the 2015 election is the ultimate in itself and not an essential means of politicians getting an opportunity to correct seeming inadequacies in the land and improving on Nigeria’s low human development index.

Well, if leaders and elders have forgotten themselves, we at I-Nigerian are using this opportunity to remind them that the younger population of Nigerians, constituting over 80 percent of the population and indeed the whole world is watching!

As at the last count, unemployment situation in the country is officially about 24 percent; ASUU members (lecturers of all

federal and state universities) have been on strike for three months; Nigerians constitute the largest number of medical tourists across the globe; electricity generation stood at about 5000 megawatts for a population of 174 million people, among other very serious developmental issues and we expect leaders and elders to rather brainstorm on how to solve these myriad of problem and catapult Nigeria to its pride of place in the comity of nations.

Nigeria is a country with great endowments. It is a country with individuals bubbling with ideas ready to grab the opportunity to rule the world and it is unfortunate that those at the helm of affairs and at the corridors of power that are supposed to help the extremely talented young men and women to achieve their dreams concentrate on frivolities and potentially divisive issues.

There is an evil prediction that 2015 might be the year that Nigeria will break. Instead of our leaders and elders working to put our enemies to shame, they are acting as if they are the very agent of an anticipated destruction.

Unfortunately, most commentators even on the social media are taking sides with this generation of old Nigerians who appear to have forgotten the very essence of their being placed in their exalted positions and making hate and inflammatory comments.

The I-Nigerian Initiative appeals

to everybody involved in the current bickering one way or the other from every opposing side politically and geographically to please hold on a second and consider the potential dire consequences of the continuation of the tendency on our dear country, the youth and posterity and have a rethink.

Let us uphold the interests of the country above personal interests.

The world is watching and that the psyche of Nigerians are being further dented and redirect your energy to improving the human dignity. The dramas are coming at the period some nations are debating Nigeria appropriateness as permanent membership of the United Nation Security Council (UNSC). The debate stemmed from the decision to reform the global body in such a way as to reflect the growing dynamics of our world.

The Security Council takes the lead in determining the existence

“

of a threat to the peace or act of aggression. It calls upon the parties to a dispute to settle it by peaceful means and recommends methods of adjustment or terms of settlement.

In some cases, the Security Council can resort to imposing sanctions or even authorise the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security.

Since 1945, many of the then ‘insignificant’ nations have grown to become powerful global players. For instance, the Brazilian economy is now larger than that of Great Britain. Nigeria, even as a young independent nation in 1961, started its trip into international peace enforcement by contributing to the peace keeping force in The Congo. 52 years later, it has never stopped. In the 1970s, Nigeria’s contribution towards the quest for independence by southern African countries like Zimbabwe, Angola and Mozambique catapulted her

Nigeria is a country with great endowments.

It is a country with individuals bubbling with ideas ready to grab the opportunity to rule the world and it is unfortunate that those at the helm of affairs and at the corridors of power that are supposed to help the extremely talented young men and women to achieve their dreams concentrate on frivolities and potentially divisive issues.

into being referred to as a frontline state even though its geographical location is not contiguous to those countries. Nigeria was also a major force against apartheid in South Africa. In Lebanon, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, and Yugoslavia as well as other places where there was war and disturbance, Nigeria has never been found lacking in moral, financial and manpower contribution.

It is therefore, only natural and fitting for Nigeria to be considered a permanent member of the Security Council whenever the much anticipated reforms finally happen. In the meantime however, it is time again to replace the 10 non-permanent members who are rotating out and President Goodluck Jonathan’s Administration has been busy canvassing support for the country. This was also a prominent pillar of his address to the United Nations General Assembly recently in New York and we at INigerian endorse the quest, which we consider as noble and fitting when the efforts of the country in the promotion of global peace is considered.

As Nigerians we have to be united to support this quest and for once, forget our political differences and forge a common front.

Ada Stella Apiafi National Cordinator I-Nigerian Rennaisance Project

PAGE 50

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Sports

Pillars, Enyimba Klitschko stakes four titles to replay in Lokoja against Povetkin in toughest Wednesday duel since Sanders T W ladimir Klitschko will defend his collection of heavyweight titles against Alexander Povetkin in Moscow tonight. The Ukrainian will stake his four titles against his tough opponent.

The fight against the Russian could be Klitsckho’s most difficult one since March 2003 when Corrie Sanders, a South African, beat him in the second round, 10 years ago.

The now 37-year-old Klitschko must defend his WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO heavyweight belts against a 34-year-old undefeated Russian who has won 18 of his 26 professional fights inside the distance.

Klitschko has been fighting as a professional for 17 years and has compiled a record of 60 wins – 51 inside the distance – and three defeats.

Povetkin, a former Olympic Games gold medallist, is a strong man who can brawl with the best in the division. He won the vacant WBA “regular” heavyweight belt when he outpointed Ruslan Chagaev in August 2011.

He has made successful defences against Cedric Boswell, whom he knocked out in the eight, round, Marco Marco Huck, who took him 12 rounds, Hasim Rahman, whom he stopped in the second round, and Andrzej Wawrzyk, who lost in the third.

itle rivals Kano Pillars and Enyimba have now been ordered to re-play their Nigeria Professional Football League Week 31 match which was not concluded.

The re-play, which will be the full 90 minutes, will be in Lokoja this Wednesday week.

The appeals committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) made the ruling on Thursday after it heard the appeal of Kano Pillars.

The NFF organising and disciplinary committee had earlier ruled that Enyimba be awarded the match.

As a result of this decision, Enyimba have dropped to second place on the table on 56 points, meaning Bayelsa are top of the standings on 58 points from 35 matches. Pillars have 54 points.

The appeals committee also decided that Warri Wolves be awarded the three points after their match at Kwara United was not finished.

Wladimir-Klitschko with his four titles

Alexander Povetkin

Klitschko has height and reach advantages, more experience and good defence, as well as one of the most effective jabs in the game.

Povetkin is a good technician but has to get past the champion’s left hand to work on the inside. He will be hoping for the champion to tire in the later rounds.

On the undercard, Poland’s

Mateusz Masternak (30-0; 22) and Russia’s Grigory Drozd (361; 25) meet for the European cruiserweight title.

Two other boxers with more than 30 professional fights behind them are set to fight for the vacant WBA continental heavyweight title. They are former “world” champion Ruslan Chagaev (31-2; 20) and Serbia’s Jovo Pudar (30-3; 17).

will slug it out with the NSCDC team later in the day to see which of them will emerge for the finals.

Earlier, semi final matches in the female category were concluded with NIS beating Customs 3-1 while NSDC defeated Plateau 3-1 to set an epic final battle between them on Saturday.

Ismail Charkuma, Coach of the Immigration service team said that he was proud of the teams’ performance, insisting that they would emerge champions.

``Since the competition started we have been improving in all the matches we played, we only lost one out of the matches and we are very optimistic of winning the championship in all categories.’’

On his part, Coach Dennis Eleri of NSCDC said the performance of his players in all the matches was very high, adding that ``it is the team of the future’’.

Heritage Site and arguably the most-recognised symbol of India, as compensation for the low-key ceremony.

India is the first international stop on the Baton’s tour around the Commonwealth. a 190,000KM and 248-day worldwide tour, before it arrives in Glasgow for the opening ceremony on July 23.

There had been doubts on the possibility of the Baton’s visit to Delhi, host of the last Commonwealth Games in 2010.

The doubts were because Indian officials claimed that the date had clashed with celebrations for Dussehra, a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Semi finalists emerge in ongoing Customs Volley ball championship

T

he Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) male Volley ball team on Friday beat the Nigeria Prisons Service 3-1 to qualify for the semi finals of the maiden Nigeria Customs Volley ball Open Championship.

Also the Nigeria Customs team beat Niger 3-0, the Navy defeated Rivers 3-1 and the NSCDC walloped Ondo 3-0 in the quarter finals matches played in Kaduna.

In the semi finals pairing, the NIS will meet Navy while Customs

(NAN)

Finally, handball team departs for African Championship in Morocco

T

he Kano State male handball team, representing Nigeria at the 35th African Handball Championships finally departed for Marakech, Morrocco yesterday aboard Maroc Airline, a day after the tournament started.

Musa Hamza, the Technical Director and team leader, said that the team departed two days behind scheduled, due to ``some unanticipated circumstances at the Murtala Mohammed Airport, Ikeja, Lagos. ``We encountered some challenges which contributed to our flight delay but the joy of it is that everything is now in order and our trip is confirmed.’’

He also expressed the team’s readiness for the competition, saying that they were in high spirit to defeat their counterparts and lift the trophy for the country.

The director said that in spite of the team’s lateness for the competition, it would still be on time for its match in Group C preliminaries against Egypt on Oct. 5.

Hamza said that Nigeria, going by the fixture, would also meet Tunisia, Libya in the group, adding that the draw was held on Sept. 12 in Congo Brazaville.

He said that the team comprised five officials, including two coaches, two doctors and the Kano State Commissioner for Sports, Umar Farouk, adding that the officials were familiar with the players’ psychology. ``The coaches and doctor have been in camp with the players, having studied and identified the players’ psychology and technical abilities, their presence will come in handy.’’

Hamza said that Nigeria ended 7th position at the 34th edition, held in Tunisia in 2012, adding that the target was to improve on the previous performance.

The annual continental competition organised by the Africa Handball Continental (CAHB) would hold from Oct. 2 to Oct 13.

The Baton is scheduled to arrive at Delhi on Oct. 11 and would leave for Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Oct. 14, while the Dussehra festival holds between Oct. 12 and Oct. 13. ``We will receive the Queen’s Baton Relay at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, with all necessary due respect and honour.

``But we have decided not to have a relay where sportspersons will run for a few metres in turn, holding the Baton,” the statement said.

The Queen’s Baton Relay is due to be launched by the Queen at Buckingham Palace in London on Oct. 9, before travelling to India.

(NAN)

Commonwealth Games: Low-key ceremony in New Delhi for Queen’s Baton

T

he Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has said that it would hold a low-key ceremony to mark the arrival of the Queen’s Baton in New Delhi, for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

A statement by the IOA said that the Baton would visit the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Sports

Barca, Atletico out to extend good run

B

arcelona and Atletico Madrid look to extend their club record starts to the season when they host Valladolid and Celta Vigo respectively this weekend.

Both sides have won all seven of their league matches to date and could set a new Spanish record should they make it eight out of eight. The Catalans have the chance to open up a threepoint gap at the top of the table as they play first on Sat-

urday night.

Young defender Marc Bartra particularly impressed in Glasgow as he continues to deputise for the injured Javier Mascherano and he is thankful for the confidence Martino has showed in him.

The champions will have to do without World Player of the Year Lionel Messi as he is sidelined with a thigh injury. Mascherano and Jordi Alba are also unavailable through injury, but captain

Carles Puyol is back to the squad for Saturday’s match.

Also, Real Madrid travel to Levante today needing to bounce back from last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Atletico which left them five points off the leaders. Gareth Bale is once again unavailable due to a thigh strain.

Atletico also continued their 100 percent start in the Champions League thanks to a come from behind 2-1 win away to Porto on Tuesday that owed much to Diego

Simeone’s men’s expertise from set-pieces. Top scorer, Diego Costa rejoins them for the match.

Elsewhere, Valencia will hope to extend their fourmatch winning run when they travel to face Athletic Bilbao in a meeting between Champions League contenders tonight.

However, Athletic will also fancy their chances having won both matches since moving into their new San Mames stadium last month.

In-form Mourinho says ‘Chelsea not Bayern, ready to dominate like before’ Leverkusen clash today

J

ose Mourinho said his Chelsea squad is not strong enough to dominate the Premier League like his side did at the start of his first spell in charge at Stamford Bridge in 2004-05.

Then, Mourinho’s expensively-assembled squad sealed Chelsea’s first title in 50 years with a brand of power football that earned them a Premier League record 95 points.

But his return to Stamford Bridge has been less fruitful with early leaders Arsenal, a rejuvenated Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur all in the mix along with Manchester City and Manchester United.

Chelsea have dropped seven points in their opening six games and are fifth in the table, although their displays in the second half of a 1-1 draw at Tottenham last week, followed by a 4-0 away victory against Steau Bucharest were impressive.

But Mourinho said: “In relation to my team at this moment we are not strong enough

to be dominant in every match and win consecutively. I think the league will be open until the end,” he added. n-form sides Bayern “At this Munich and Bayer Levmoment some erkusen will clash at the teams are beBayer Arena today in a ing helped by Bundesliga match. the fixtures, The hosts have won six some are of their seven league games more difficult so far and are a single point than others. behind the defending chamManchester pions in third as well as six United have clear now of their closest purthe most difsuers Hannover. ficult one, Bayern, who are levelled immediately on points with Borussia Dortfollowed by mund at the top, will be wary us. I think by of the only side that beat the end of Nothem in the league last seavember, that son although that success acis the moment tually came in Munich, with we will find the quadruple-winners-inout somebody waiting taking the honours is in a little bit in the return meeting at the better situaBayArena. tion than others. I think this season can go all the way and I think that is Lius Suarez good.” onaco may have seven games since the beginEnglish Barclays Premier League|lOGS emerged as Paris ning of last month, and chastenS a i n t - G e r m a i n ’ s ing 3-0 defeat away to Borussia Pos Team P W D main rivals in the Ligue 1 ti- Dortmund in the Champions 1 Arsenal 6 5 0 tle race this season, but the League on Tuesday, the match 2 Liverpool 6 4 1 biggest game for the reigning seems must-win.

3 Tottenham Hotspur 6 4 1 champions is still against their PSG are unbeaten in 11 4 Everton 6 3 3 bitter old foes Marseille. matches in all competitions this 5 Chelsea 6 3 2 They meet at the Stade Vel- season and have not lost in 19 6 Southampton 6 3 2 odrome on Sunday night in the games in Ligue 1 since a 1-0 loss 7 Manchester City 6 3 1 fixture that the French have at Reims on March 2. It is their 8 Hull City 6 3 1 2 Aston Villa 6 3 0 come to call the ‘Classique’. longest unbeaten sequence since 9 West Bromwich Albion 6 2 2 As it stands PSG trail Ligue a record 27-game stretch during 10 Cardiff City 6 2 2 1 leaders Monaco on goal dif- their title-winning 1993-94 cam- 11 12 Manchester United 6 2 1 ference while Marseille are a paign.

13 Swansea City 6 2 1 point further back in third. So, Meanwhile, Monaco, who Norwich City 6 2 1 there is plenty of incentive for have already taken four points 14 15 Stoke City 6 2 1 ‘war’. from trips to Marseille and Paris 16 Newcastle United 6 2 1 OM have lost just one of this season, will be hoping to ex17 West Ham United 6 1 2 their last nine home meetings tend their unbeaten start when 18 Fulham 6 1 1 against PSG, with that 4-2 re- they entertain Saint-Etienne in 19 Crystal Palace 6 1 0 verse coming in October 2008. the principality on Saturday af- 20 Sunderland 6 0 1 But with just two wins from ternoon.

I

Weekend fixtures Barclays Premier League Manchester City v Everton Cardiff City v Newcastle United Fulham v Stoke City Hull City v Aston Villa Liverpool v Crystal Sunderland v Manchester United Sunday Southampton v Swansea City Norwich City v Chelsea Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal French Ligue 1 Monaco v St Etienne Guingamp v Rennes Toulouse v Nice Valenciennes v Reims Lille v Ajaccio Nantes v Evian Sunday Montpellier v Lyon Bordeaux v Sochaux Marseille v Paris Saint Germain German Bundesliga Borussia Mnchengladbach v Borussia Dortmund FC Schalke 04 v FC Augsburg VfB Stuttgart v SV Werder Bremen VfL Wolfsburg v Eintracht Wolfsburg v Eintracht Mainz v TSG Hoffenheim Bayer Leverkusen v Bayern Munich Sunday FC Nrnberg v Hamburger Nurnberg v Hamburg Sport-Club Freiburg v Eintracht SC Freiburg v Eintracht Frankfurt

Old rivals Marseille out to end PSG’s splendid run

M

PAGE 51

Italian Serie A Chievo v Atalanta Internazionale v Roma L 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 6 3 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 5 5

GF GA GD Pts 13 7 6 15 8 4 4 13 6 24 1 3 9 6 3 12 7 3 4 11 5 2 3 11 14 7 7 10 7 -1 1 0 9 8 1 9 6 5 1 8 6 7 -1 8 8 8 0 7 8 9 -1 7 4 6 -2 7 4 6 -2 7 7 11- 4 7 4 5- 1 5 4 9 -5 4 4 10 -6 3 4 14 -10 1

Sunday Parma v Sassuolo Napoli v Livorno Udinese v Cagliari Catania v Genoa Bologna v Verona Sampdoria v Torino Lazio v Fiorentina Juventus v Milan Spanish La Liga Elche v Espanyol Rayo Vallecano v Real Sociedad Levante v Real Madrid Barcelona v Real Valladolid Sunday Atltico de Madrid v Celta Sevilla v Almera Getafe v Real Betis Athletic Club v Valencia

PAGE 52

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

Sports

And the stench rises

I

t has been in muted tunes.

And finally it broke out. Well, money, they say, has always exchanged hands. That’s legit enough provided it is not an under table dealing. None though has ever been nailed because it is never written.

Of course, the law says such deal must be written, without which no accusation would ever hold water.

For years, no matter the blaring complaints it never held water.

Well, it seems there could be a change. The Organizing and Disciplinary Committee (O&D) of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is enmeshed in bribery allegation.

Its chairman, Leye Adepoju, is alleged to have collected the sum of N1.5 million from the officials of the Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan (3SC) purportedly to facilitate favourable decision of the committee for 3SC against Sunshine FC of Akure.

One recalls the altercation that is said to have erupted when certain hoodlums beat up officials of the Ibadan team including the Oyo state Commissioner for Sports, they also break television belonging to the club.

Not content with their ‘evidence’ they opted to substantiate by advancing N1.5m to members of the O and D. Armed with these, the Ibadan club thought the case was a close deal, sealed and only awaiting delivery. The verdict was delivered but far from expectation. The committee ruled against 3SC and

awarded the three goals and three points to Sunshine FC. Expectedly, questions were asked over the N1.5m committed into fighting the case. And so the bubble burst. The members were challenged to refund since they neither walked the talk nor provided soft landing for Shooting.

Of course, they were embarrassed. Nothing got to them to soften their faces and provoke ‘a brotherly consideration’. But Shooting insisted. The members refused to balk. So did Shooting which threatened fire and brimstone. A bewildered committee member was not only told of the amount involved but the person through whom it was to be delivered: Leye Adepoju, their chairman.

To further buttressed their point, 3SC official handed over a copy of the voucher signed by the O&D chairman on behalf of the members. Confused and left gasping for breath, Chidi Nwatu then put up a call to ask for a share of the loot. But the barrister vehemently denied.

But on Thursday, a member of the committee, Iyke Igbokwe blew the whistle when he presented a voucher allegedly signed by the chairman of O&D, Mr. Adepoju on behalf of the committee members to the press.

Apart denying receiving any money Igbokwe insisted the money neither got to him nor other colleagues who mentioned by name.

He then urged the chairman to

resign honourably to pave way for proper investigation.

Fortunately, Abuja-based Nigeria Info, a radio station with a reputation for prudent and credibility put a call to Mr. Adepoju who admitted collecting the said amount for services rendered to the club, but denied collecting any money on behalf of O&D members.

However, he admitted collecting the same amount in question (N1.5m) from 3SC FC but for a different purpose. According to him, the money was for professional services he rendered to the club.

“I never received N1.5 million from 3SC for O&D. I collected N1.5 million in respect of my professional service”, he said even as the station insisted his signature was on the voucher.

The chairman argued rather piously that the signature could have been lifted from any of the documents he had forwarded to the club in the past.

All this isn’t WatchDog’s position. The point is that for years similar act had been recurrent, but never proven by anybody.

Like match-fixing, which is difficult to prove without documented evidence, compromising officials at the level of O&D has been on. It is palpable, felt by all except officials who often pretended it doesn’t exist.

Had the money in question been delivered would the members have had the moral gut to reject it much less go public with the infor-

owoidoho_ng35@yahoo.com 08093782812 mation? They never did nor will ever except where, as it would appear in this case, someone or some persons have outsmarted them.

Chief Oyuki Obaseki once told a club official that he too had trodden the path and so knows whatever nooks and crannies they would ever want to take in that business.

Yes, because he knew their ways they find in him a hard nut to crack.

That’s why teams win the league from the board, would do anything to ferment trouble, always win at home and have neither character nor flair. Every season sees a fresh beginning that never matures.

All clubs officials do is to extort state governments, who themselves use sponsorship of teams as a drainpipe. Such sponsorships are like security vote, unaccounted for, never requited. It’s a vicious circle because it’s a yearly ritual; one that has no end in sight.

Perhaps, the authorities will take a critical look at sponsorship of clubs at the premier level or

whatever level. It is not compulsory each state must have a club in the premiership or nationwide league. Club’s sponsorship is an entreprise, managed by professionals not Area Boys, as is the case in Nigeria.

Should the present debacle be investigated? Yes, just to fulfill all righteousness, nothing will ever come out it. What has become of the celebrated match-fixing case that Dolphin, Sunshine and Lobi Stars? What happened in the celebrated 13-0, 9-0 and the recent 67-0 results which were embarrassing before the international community?

No, until Nigerians see football in its true colour: big business managed by shrewd professionals not some Man Friday, civil servants who by virtue of working in states FAs or appointed as Aides to political office holders automatically qualified to run football.

That’s why we are where we are: in the woods in spite of the motley of talents available.

Jeilan looks to emulate Bekele in Lisbon debut

E

thiopia’s Ibrahim Jeilan, the 2011 IAAF World Championships 10,000m gold medallist and silver medallist over the same distance in Moscow, will attempt his first Half Marathon when he competes at the Rock’n’Roll Vodafone Half Marathon of Portugal in Lisbon this Sunday.

All eyes will be on Jeilan to see whether he can make as big an impact on his debut over the distance at the IAAF Gold Label Road Race as his illustrious compatriot Kenenisa Bekele did at the recent Bupa Great North Run, another ever in the top echelon of IAAF Road Race events.

Jeilan longest competitive outing so far has been over 15km and he hasn’t run over that distance since 2009 and, just like Bekele did when he duelled with Great Britain’s Mo Farah, Jeilan will also have to fend off some of the world’s top distance runners if he is to emerge triumphant in the Portuguese capital.

The classy Lisbon field includes three men who have already run under one hour in their careers.

One of that trio is Jeilan’s compatriot Imane Merga, the silver medallist at 2013 IAAF World Cross Country Championship.

The other two are Kenya’s 2010 IAAF World Half Marathon champion, Wilson Kiprop, who won the prestigious Rome-

Ostia half Marathon in 59:15 earlier this year, and his team mate Gideon Ngatuny, although the latter has not run under 61

Ibrahim Jeilan

minutes since 2009.

In to the bargain, on the start line will be a the strong Eritrean pair of 2013 IAAF World Cross Country Championship bronze medallist Teklemarian Medhin and Yared Asmeron.

Everyone will have the course record of 1:00:20, set by Kenya’s Silas Sang in 2009, in their sights and be bidding to become the first runner to go runner the one hour benchmark on the course.

“I know this is a fast course, there are great pack of runners and I think that we can run in one hour or less,” said Kiprop on Friday.

With African men winning the previous 13 editions of the race, it would be big surprise if a European was to come home first but Ricardo Ribas, Hermano Ferreira, and Luís Feiteira will be battling to be the top local runner across the line.

However, there could quite conceivably be a European winner in the women’s race for the first time in the women’s race with Italy’s Valeria Straneo taking part.

The surprise silver medallist in this year IAAF World Championships Marathon faces her fellow Italian Nadia Ejjafini, Ethiopia’s 2012 New York Half

Marathon winner Firehiwot Dado and her compatriot Worknesh Debele; while the top Portuguese runners, Ana Dulce Felix, the 2012 European Athletics Championships 10000m champion, and Jessica Augusto could also be in the reckoning.

Kenya’s Mary Keitany holds the women’s course record with 1:07:54, set two years ago.

Around 17,000 runners are expected to take part in the Half Marathon on Sunday.

In addition, the Rock’n’Roll Lisbon Marathon EDP will be run in conjunction with the famous Half Marathon.

Ethiopia’s Dadi Yami, who can boast of a 2.05.41 personal best set al last year’s Dubai Marathon, and his compatriot Deriba Merga, the 2009 Boston Marathon winner, are the favourites.

Kenya’s Elijah Keitany, who has a personal best of 2.06.51, is also in the field. Ukraine’s nine-time European corss country champion Sergey Lebid will also have his second try at the marathon after failing to finish in Warsaw earlier this year.

In t he women’s field, the major names are Kenya’s Helena Kiprop and Agnes Kiplagat, who have personal bests of 2.23.37 and 2.23.54 respectively.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 53

Digest

Meet the the apple tree that grows 250 varieties • Paul Barnett has been growing his ‘family tree’ for over 20 years • It is jam-packed with apples of all shapes, colours and sizes including rare cooking apples dating back to 1883

By Craig Mackenzie

K

een gardener Paul Barnett always has plenty to show for the fruit of his labours.

He has grafted 250 different varieties of apple onto the same tree in his back garden over the past 20 years.

The 20ft high ‘family tree’ is jampacked with apples of all different shapes, colours and sizes, including cooking apples Withington Fillbasket which originated in 1883 and Eadys’ Magnum in 1908.

Paul, 40, from Chidham, West Sussex, has been nurturing the tree since 1989 after working at a nursery which had 90 different varieties of apple trees in rows.

He didn’t have the room in his own garden for all the different types, so he started a ‘family tree’ where he could grow them all, adding to it each year by budding in the summer and grafting in the winter.

He said: ‘I label them with eightinch wooden sticks next to each variety to remind me what they are but I can normally tell by their position and colour.

‘The tree has cooking, eating and cider apples on it but I normally only get a few of each variety of apple each year.

‘It’s great to see all the different colours and sized apples on the tree this time of year’ Some of the branches are propped up with planks of wood due to the sheer weight of the fruit.

Paul will gather his unique collection of apples in two to three weeks when they

are at their juiciest to show at horticultural fairs.

He said: ‘My favourite eating apple is Winter Gem as it has a really nice flavour.

It’s crunchy, crisp and sweet.’

Paul adds to his collection either by buying them in from the home of the National Fruit Collection in Kent or swapping them with other apple enthusiasts.

There are around 6,000 different kinds of apples worldwide. aul, who also acts as an apple identification service, added: ‘It’s really important for people to know what kind of apples they are growing to know when they should be picking, eating and storing them.

‘There have been some varieties which have been lost over time. I don’t want to see any disappear. You don’t know what will happen in the future with global warming or pesticides.

“You may need to crossbreed apples with older varieties to make them resistant to such things.

‘That’s why every type of apple is worth preserving.’

Paul added: ‘My family have always been into horticultural, so it’s in my genes.

My parents help me pick and tend to my garden.

‘But my great-grandfather was particularly good with fruits so I have always grown up with people passionate about gardening.’

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

P

Fruitful: There are 6,000 apple varieties worldwide and over 2,000 different types kept at the National Fruit Collection in Kent

Laden: Paul has grafted 250 varieties on the ‘family tree’ over the past two decades

Apple turnover: Paul Barnett in the apple tree in his garden in Chidham, near Chichester, West Sussex, on which two hundred and fifty different apple varieties grow

Core structure: Paul has been grafting different kinds of apple onto the one tree, shown here, since 1989

PAGE 54

Online Comments Outrage trails killing of 40 students in Yobe

Jossy says: He that kills by the sword shall die by the sword. May the blood of the victims cry out loud against their assailants!

APC alleges plot to rig 2015 polls Azis says: Nigerians everywhere are saying no to bad government.

They say they are tired of killings, unemployment, blackout, bad roads, oppression, corruption all over. These are the things we are facing in the country at the moment under leadership of the GEJ. We want a change. If it is an Igbo man or Hausa or Yoruba or whoever that will save us from this mess so be it. This is the real change, because the present bunch of rulers have failed.

Boko Haram and the SSS mess Aliyu Yesufu says: The innocent blood of Abel murdered by Cain went before God with a devastating percussive effect. It led to generational curse on Cain because he shed the innocent blood of his younger sibling.

Whether you are president or head of any privileged institution such as security agencies, shedding of the innocent blood of anybody attracts generational curse. Both the person/s that

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

veloped if Nigeria were to attain the status of a developed country by 2020.

Both FCT and Lagos should have sound transportation systems that match the other capital cities in the world. The government should do everything possible to see that this great task is achieved before 2016.

It doesn’t matter if the project is financed by a team from the private sector or an individual company on a contract basis. What matters is that the task should be completed soon enough to the benefit of Nigerians as well as to launch Nigeria into the league of developed countries by 2025.

ordered the attack as well as the institutions even the nation involved cannot be exonerated from blame.

Those behind this terrible and tragic “waste them” syndrome cannot escape from divine vengeance. I think they should ponder over what befell Cain after he murdered his brother especially the nature of God’s curse on him.

Perhaps, one of the reasons why our nation is wallowing in abject poverty in the midst of economic sources of abundance is repeated shedding of innocent blood. Human lives are sacred even in war time. May God forgive those behind this terrible and dastardly act and the nation!

Nigeria’s Igbo Jews: ‘Lost tribe’ of Israel?

Travel In Israel says: Asking questions are actually fastidious thing if you don’t understand the subject matter fully as respond to it appropriately. In this issue of Igbo- speaking persons and extraction from the Jews there are questions which need to be asked.

Why FG wants ASUU strike to continue Ernest Tubonimi says: Education no doubt is the breath of Life. FGN/ASUU must reach a compromise by 30th September, 2013 to open all Universities.

Nigerians must rise and stop this act of impunity by government which appears to be dragging education 50 years back.

Ironically, we have highly

Healthy living Chief Bisi Akande

educated President and Vice President, yet we cannot feel their impact in education. It is obvious they lack commitment, something past Leaders at least had for the sector.

Why must we spend so much on Presidential Fleets, minister’s, legislator’s (Federal, State & Local), governor’s salaries and allowances at the expense of education, health, agriculture, roads, power and industries?

I think the private universities should consider shutting down in solidarity for the good of education and our generation unborn. We cannot continue to pretend that all is well because there are private universities where the sons and daughters of the rich can attend. All Nigerians irrespective of their parents’ status quo should have a sense of belonging.

Politicians at all level must STOP this diversionary and self- inflicted problems and face programmes that deliver on all fronts for Nigerians.

2015 is far away and God alone knows those who will be alive to see that year.

Nigerians wake up from slumber!!!!!!!

NIAS, ASAN inducts 171 new animal scientists R M Basheer says: Please the government should have sympathy for students of the NIAS, who seem to be less coordinated. One wonders how possible it is that these students pay their examination fees but are not called for the exams? It is harder to bear when they see fellow students have been inducted. What about us and what about our payment?

Appraising the Abuja light Rail project Uncle Y says: Of course, FCT, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Kano and Enugu are major cities in Nigeria that should be highly de-

Bacteria find ‘key to treating obesity without surgery’ Weight Loss says: I think the administration of this website is genuinely working hard for his website, since here every material is quality based stuff.

Gov. Ibrahim Geidam

President Goodluck Jonathan

Www.Olemissdcp.Com says: You already realize that living healthy is important, otherwise you could not be here.

Then the ratings are translated to numeric equivalents and totaled for the specific vendor.

It’s important to see your doctor each year if you’re over 50 in order to get screened for potential diseases that could threaten your qualify of life and longevity.

2015: Don’t run, New PDP tells Jonathan Truth Power says: It appears certain persons are ever enamoured of bloodbath. Well, this time it seems their cup of iniquity is full.

God’s judgement is hanging on the head of some persons who think rulership is their destiny and servitude that of others. Well, God is never asleep whoever plots evil against another will reap his or her evil deeds.

PEOPLES DAILY, SATURDAY 5-SUNDAY 6, OCTOBER, 2013

PAGE 55

Forget not the Lord (III)

I

n the previous editions of this series, I talked about four dimensions in which you should not forget the Lord. I want to talk on other dimensions today of how to you should not forget the Lord.

1. Don’t forget the wonderful deeds of the LORD – His wonders in the past.

David said, “I recall all you have done, O LORD; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about them. O God, your ways are holy. Is there any god as mighty as you? You are the God of miracles and wonders! You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations. You have redeemed your people by your strength, the descendants of Jacob and of Joseph by your might” (Ps 77:11-15 NLT). You should emulate David too. Don’t forget the signs and wonders of God especially in your life.

These works of the Lord should draw you closer to him. The warriors of Ephraim were guilty of forgetting the wonderful miracles the Lord did for their ancestors in Egypt, and the Lord counted this against them. “The warriors of Ephraim...did not keep God’s covenant,” (Ps 78:9-12NLT).

Does this Scripture describe you?

It seems that man is quick to forget what the Lord did for them as soon as the pains are gone. They don’t often keep memory of the Lord’s wonders and appreciate him for long.

“They soon forgot His works; they did not wait for His counsel, but lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tested God in the desert. And He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their soul” (Ps 106:13-15 NKJV).

Jesus denounced the cities where Jesus did most of the miracles in his ministry because they didn’t repent despite the mighty works they saw Jesus do there. They were not moved at all (Matt 11:21-24 ASV).

Don’t be like these cities.

Forget not the works of the Lord, His wonders. Meditate on them and worship him. Appreciate the mighty works of the Lord.

Don’t take Him for granted.

Remember His marvellous works which He has done especially in your life. “Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His face evermore! Remember His marvellous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth” (Ps 105:4-5 NKJV). The more you remember his marvellous deeds, the more you love him.

And those you love are always on your mind.

2. Don’t forget where and what God brought you out from and how He has led you. God brought the children of Israel out of Egypt by a powerful hand.

“This night had been reserved by the LORD to bring his people out from the land of Egypt, so this same night now belongs to him. It must be celebrated every year, from generation to generation, to remember the

LORD’s deliverance” (Ex 12:42 NLT).

3. He brought them to the land of Canaan to worship Him there and warned them not to serve the gods that the former inhabitants of the land were worshipping which made Him to command the Israelites to destroy them and possess their land. In dealing with the Israelites, God kept referring to their deliverance from Egypt reminding them that they were slaves in Egypt before he rescued them. (Deut 24:18 NKJV).

Why did the Lord want them to remember they were slaves in Egypt? Deut 16:12 (NLT). It is because this will enable them to obey the laws that the Lord had given them.

If you can’t remember where you were before you got to where the Lord has brought you to, you may begin to misbehave and live contrary to the Lord’s instructions. “Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt. That is why I am giving you this command” (Deut 24:22 NLT).

The command here refers to the command regarding leaving some part of their harvests for the foreigners, orphans, and widows remembering that they were once slaves in Egypt. Not remembering where the Lord has brought you from will make you not to behave humbly and appreciative of the Lord.

Don’t forget where you are coming from – where you used to be; your small beginnings.

From the Pulpit GREEN PASTURES By pastor t.o. banso

cedarministryintl@yahoo.com GSM: 08033113523 You were somewhere before you got to where you’re today.

Remember that it wasn’t by your power that you are where you’re today.

The Lord led you from somewhere to this place.

Ps 78:53-54 says about the Israelites, “And he led them on safely, so that they feared not: but the sea overwhelmed their enemies. And he brought them to the border of his sanctuary, even to this mountain, which his right hand had purchased” (KJV).

The Lord rebuked the Red sea for them and it was dried up; He led them through the depths, as through the wilderness (Ps 106:9).

The Lord led the Israelites in the daytime with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire (Ps 78:14).

There are some wilderness and Red Sea that the Lord has led you through in your life.

Don’t forget that. It wasn’t by your power that you didn’t die in that wilderness and you didn’t drown in the Red Sea. It was the Lord. Remember the ministry of the Holy Spirit in

your life leading you – as many as are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of Go. (Rom 8:14).

“And you shall remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not” (Deut 8:2 NKJV).

This is where I’ll stop today.

Until next week when I’ll bring you the concluding part, do not forget the Lord.

TAKE ACTION! If you are not born again, kindly say this prayer now: “0 Lord God, I come unto you today. I know I am a sinner and I cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God who died on the cross to save me and resurrected the third day. I confess Jesus as my Lord and Saviour and surrender my life to him today. I invite Jesus into my heart today. By this prayer, I know I am saved. Thank you Jesus for saving me and making me a child of God”

Knocking on heaven’s door until it is opened 2. INTENSITY IN PRAYER SIGNIFIED

BY KNOCKING Matthew 7:7,8; Luke 13:25; 11:5-10; Hosea 12:3,4;1 Samuel 1:9-20; 1 Kings 18:41-46; James 5:16-18; 2 Kings 20:16; Acts 4:23-31; Romans 10:1-4.

The fervency of our prayer and force of our faith often show how important our request is to us. Coming back to the illustration of knocking, the desperate man who is knocking at the door to meet a pressing need will knock differently from a casual visitor with no definite purpose.

Those who knock casually in prayer often have wandering thoughts in prayer; they are formal and repeat the same phrase

each prayer time; they do not have any specific need in prayer; they habitually sleep off when praying; they lack freshness of thought and have no grip on any promise of God; they do not remember what they have prayed for and they are not conscious of their spiritual state. Like the Laodiceans, they are lukewarm in the closet, too lazy to seek urgent remedy for their spiritual malady.

Intensity in prayer is demonstrated by the righteous whose fervent prayer avails much. Watch Jacob at Peniel; observe Elijah on mount Carmel; visit with Abraham as he intercedes for Sodom; follow Moses to the mount where he pleads for backslidden Israel on the verge of destruction;

By pastor W.F Kumuyi kneel beside Daniel as he prays for Israel’s seventyyear captivity to end; feel the great heaviness and continual sorrow in Paul’s heart as he cries in prayer for the salvation of his kinsmen according to the flesh, and you will catch a glimpse of what it means to knock with importunity and intensity.

3.

INIQUITY IN PEOPLE SPECIFIED AS STUMBLING-BLOCK WHILE KNOCKING

Luke 13:25-27; Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1,2; Jeremiah 5:25; Ezekiel 14:1-11; Isaiah 1:4,12-20; Psalm 32:5-10; Ezekiel 18:30-32; 2 Timothy 2:19; Job 22:23-28.

God is so eager to bless us and if we are as eager to be blessed, our spiritual stature will change so quickly that it would be difficult to recognize us.

Our lack of thoughtfulness is often our greatest hindrance. We hinder

ourselves more than any enemy, demon or Satan can ever hinder us. Holding on to iniquity or sin is the major reason we knock and knock in vain. Sin is dangerous and deadly in itself and it also hinders the opening of heaven’s door of blessing. We commit two evils against our soul in one stroke: we poison ourselves with iniquity and at the same time prevent remedy and infinite goodness from coming to us. Repentance and cleansing in the fountain of Christ’s blood will remove all hindrances.

Then, we shall pray and God will answer; we shall knock and the door will be opened; and we shall also decree a thing and it shall be established unto us.

BIG PUNCH “So far the people of Nasarawa South Senatorial district have watched with incredulity these unprovoked acts of aggression on the people by the Eggon (Ombatse), just to realise their selfish ambition of ruling Nasarawa state with all the danger this now portends.”

—Honourable Mathew Akwe, chairman Alago Development Association

SATURDAY 5 — SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER, 2013

The other 2015

K

ofi Anan set the tone in 2000 by his report to the United Nations, titled, We the Peoples, in which he proposed, at the onset of the 21st Century, what he called a common vision, for Mankind.

‘There is much to be grateful for.

Most people today can expect to live longer than their parents, let alone their more remote ancestors.They are better nourished, enjoy better health, are better educated, and on the whole face more favorable economic prospects,’ Anan told the world body. ‘There are also many things to deplore, and to correct.The century just ended was disfigured, time and again, by ruthless conflict. Grinding poverty and striking inequality persist within and among countries even amidst unprecedented wealth.

Diseases, old and new, threaten to undo painstaking progress. Nature’s life-sustaining services, on which our species depends for its survival, are being seriously disrupted and degraded by our own everyday activities.’ Therefore: ‘No shift in the way we think or act can be more critical than this: we must put people at the centre of everything we do.

No calling is more noble, and no responsibility greater, than that of enabling men, women and children, in cities and villages around the world, to make their lives better.’

Kofi Anan gave a graphic picture of the true situation of the Global Village, which is endowed with an unimaginable wealth and yet is at the same time besmirched by an equally unimaginable deprivation. Here is Kofi Anan’s metaphor: Let us imagine, for a moment, that the world really is a “global village”— taking seriously the metaphor that is often invoked to depict global interdependence. Say this village has 1,000 individuals, with all the characteristics of today’s human race distributed in exactly the same proportions. What would it look like? What would we see as its main challenges?

Some 150 of the inhabitants live in an affluent area of the village, about 780 in poorer districts. Another 70 or so live in a neighborhood that is in transition. The average income per person is $6,000 a year, and there are more middle income families than in the past. But just 200 people dispose of 86 per cent of all the wealth, while

nearly half of the villagers are eking out an existence on less than $2 per day. Men outnumber women by a small margin, but women make up a majority of those who live in poverty.

Adult literacy has been increasing.

Still, some 220 villagers—two thirds of them women—are illiterate. Of the 390 inhabitants under 20 years of age, three fourths live in the poorer districts, and many are looking desperately for jobs that do not exist. Fewer than 60 people own a computer and only 24 have access to the Internet. More than half have never made or received a telephone call.

Life expectancy in the affluent district is nearly 78 years, in the poorer areas 64 years—and in the very poorest neighborhoods a mere 52 years. Each marks an improvement over previous generations, but why do the poorest lag so far behind? Because in their neighborhoods there is a far higher incidence of infectious diseases and malnutrition, combined with an acute lack of access to safe water, sanitation, health care, adequate housing, education and work.

There is no predictable way to keep the peace in this village. Some districts are relatively safe while others are wracked by organized violence.The village has suffered a growing number of weather-related natural disasters in recent years, including unexpected and severe storms, as well as sudden swings from floods to droughts, while the average temperature is perceptibly warmer. More and more evidence suggests that there is a connection between these two trends, and that warming is related to the kind of fuel, and the quantities of it, that the people and businesses are using. Carbon emissions, the major cause of warming, have quadrupled in the last 50 years.

The village’s water table is falling precipitously, and the livelihood of one sixth of the inhabitants is threatened by soil degradation in the surrounding countryside.

Who among us would not wonder how long a village in this state can survive without taking steps to ensure that all its inhabitants can live free from hunger and safe from violence, drinking clean water, breathing clean air, and knowing that their children will have real chances in life? f you add ‘Nigerian Factor’ to Kofi Anan’s metaphor, you can say with some degree of confidence

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members of the United Nations.

The General Assembly, attended by 152 Heads of State, adopted the the Millennium Declaration in September 2000, which binds all the nations of the world: • To halve, by the year 2015, the proportion of the world’s people whose income is less than one dollar a day and the proportion of people who suffer from hunger and, by the same date, to halve the proportion of people who are unable to reach or to afford safe drinking water.

• To ensure that, by the same date, children everywhere, boys and girls alike, will be able to complete a full course of primary schooling and that girls and boys will have equal access to all levels of education.

• By the same date, to have reduced maternal mortality by three quarters, and under-five child mortality by two thirds, of their current rates.

• To have, by then, halted, and begun to reverse, the spread of HIV/ AIDS, the scourge of malaria and other major diseases that afflict humanity. he Millennium Development Goals [MDG] became the global project to actualize the UN mandate.

2015, therefore, is the year by which Nigeria, as a signatory to the Millennium Declaration and an active participant in the Millennium Development Goals project, must have reduced extreme poverty and hunger by half of what they were in 2000; in addition to achieving full and productive employment and decent work for all, including women and young people, as well as assuring full course of primary education for all boys and girls, among other goals. The 2013 UN report, however, indicate that in most critical areas, Nigeria’s performance is either average or weak. In fact, poverty, the core and kernel of the MDGs, has only become aggravated and entrenched. Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Kimoon, has stated that Nigeria, along with Sierra Leone and Somalia, might be a possible hindrance to the realization of the MDGs target in the Sub-Saharan Africa. Here, perhaps, is 2015 developmental at work.

2015 political and 2015 developmental both intertwine in Nigeria!

T Former UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan

that out of the 200 inhabitants who dispose 86% of the total wealth of the Village, there still emerges a monstrous syndicate – comprising the ‘principalities and powers in high places,’ in the words of Shell chieftain Mutiu Sunmonu, who are stealing, without let or hindrance, its strategic resources, as much as 20% and aiming at 50% or more in due course, who, says Sunmonu, ‘mastermind this multibillion-dollar business using influence, corruption and violence.’

They steal at will, with ease, with impunity — operating an industry parallel to the state, acquiring wealth of the magnitude almost parallel to the state. ‘Vast amounts of cash may circulate in Nigeria outside the formal banking system: some is run through legitimate local businesses, while other amounts are bagged, wrapped, sprayed for insects and stored physically in guarded stash houses,’ Chatham House Report reveals.

‘Other practices support the heavy use of cash as a money-laundering technique. Otherwise, target accounts can be opened in the names of shell companies and domiciled offshore in known tax havens or other high bank secrecy jurisdictions.’ In addition: ‘As with the stolen oil itself, it is also unclear how much of the money trail passes through foreign markets. In at least some cases, thieves and their front men must use accounts and credit from major financial centers, especially when buying high-value foreign assets. Interviewees named various East and West African countries, South Africa, Dubai, Indonesia, India, Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom and Switzerland as destination points for oil theft proceeds.’ Here, perhaps, is 2015 political at work. ofi Anan’s report and recommendations received the endorsement of the 189

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