PA E. K. CLARK TO KIDNAPPERS: "Please release my son".

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I never wanted to be a pastor, says Adeboye

BY SAM EYOBOKA & OLAYINKA LATONA

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multitude of accompanied children from across the nation, on Friday night, listened, with rapt attention, when the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, relived how he objected to his nomination to be a pastor by the founder of the church, the late Rev. Josiah Akindayomi.

In a sermon entitled: “Great and mighty seeds”, delivered at the April Holy Ghost Service dedicated to children, the 72 years old former mathematics lecturer recounted how he joined the then unknown RCCG because of a problem and was contented with the salvation of his soul.

Justifying his teaching on the theory of how people attain greatness in life, he maintained that some people are born great, some others become great by dint of their own efforts while others have greatness entrusted upon them. According to him, a problem brought him to the church. ”But not long after, Papa Akindayomi said I was go-

ing to be ordained pastor. I was not prepared to become a pastor. I was satisfied with just coming to the church to worship and go home,” he narrated, adding, however, that the founder called him a few years after to tell him he had been ordained to succeed him. ”I couldn’t say no to him immediately. So when I got back to the University of Ilorin where I was a lecturer, I wrote a letter to the founder telling him to appoint someone else. I was prepared to assist whoever turned out to be his choice.

Papa was an illiterate, he couldn’t read. Thank God, the one who read the letter to him is here on the platform tonight; Pastor David Kuo,” he stated, turning to the direction where members of the Governing Council of the church were seated.

Adeboye said there are three categories of greatness in life; those who were born great, those who attained greatness and those who had greatness bestowed on them, noting that there were in certain cases some people who combined two of the categories like Isaac and Solomon while

in other occasions some combined the three categories. ”A classical example of people who combined the three categories was Elisha,” he said elucidating his point with the biblical narrative of how even after death, the bones of Elisha continued to heal people.

The RCCG leader said another example of someone who combined the three categories was Jesus Christ, drawing attention to several biblical passages including Matthew 3, Luke 1:30-33, Acts 10:38, Philippians 2:5-11, John 1:11-12 and Romans 8:1617.

He said, however, that anybody could become great, noting that as soon as one becomes born again, he has become great but he must work hard to remain great by meeting all his spiritual obligations to God. In continuation of the special service for the Marion’s children, the General Overseer is expected to pray for students at all levels today at the national headquarters of the church at Ebute Metta, Lagos. The service will begin at 7.30 a.m.

Clark mourns Uwechue

BY HENRY UMORU

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RSTWHILE F e d e r a l Commissioner for Information and Southsouth leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has described the death of former PresidentGeneral of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Ambassador Ralph Uwechue, as painful and came at a time the nation was in dire need of his services with his wealth of experience and wise counsel.

In a condolence letter to the PresidentGeneral, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Garry Nnachi Ener- Igariwey, Clark, who noted that the death of Uwechue has left a vacuum which would be difficult to fill, said, “ It is with heavy heart I received the sad news of the painful exit of former PresidentGeneral of Ohaneze Ndigbo, His Excellency, Amb. Ralph Uwechue. ”Regrettably, Amb. Uwechue’s death came at a time the nation was in dire need of his services with his wealth of experience and wise counsel. He was Nigeria Ambassador to Paris and many other countries. ” While I join the Igbo race and indeed, the entire Nation to mourn the exit of this illustrious son of Africa, I urge Ohaneze Ndigbo to find consolation in Amb. U w e c h u e ’ s distinguished service to

his father land and his indelible footprints in sands of time! ”I therefore convey our heart - felt sympathy to the families and to OhanezeNdigbo President, his successor in office. His death has left a vacuum which is difficult to fill. ” It is indeed a great

loss not only to the family, but to the entire people of Delta state in particular and Africa as a whole. ” I pray the Almighty God to grant you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Once again, kindly accept my heart- felt condolences.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

•Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi with site supervisors, Emmanuel Itunuoluwa (left) and Richard Lee (middle), during the governor’s inspection of construction work at the Funmi Olayinka Civic Centre in Ado-Ekiti....on Friday.

Reps bye-election: Mixed reactions in Ondo

BY DAYO JOHNSON, Akure

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IXED reactions, yesterday, trailed the bye election in the 395 units in Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency area of Ondo State.

Electoral materials arrived the areas on Friday while sensitive ones, which arrived yesterday morning, were subsequently distributed without hitches.

Accreditation and voting commenced on time.

The election was generally peaceful in the two council areas save minor skirmishes recorded in some areas.

Report had it that some ex-militants allegedly prevented distribution of electoral materials and voting in 12 units in Arogbo Ward 2 over some

unresolved issues.

Also, allegations of the use of fake voter’s cards, underage voting in New Jerusalem unit 12 in Arogbo Ward 1, prevented election in the area.

In Ajapa, Arogbo area, some thugs stormed a centre, carted away the ballot box and threw already thumb printed voter’s cards into the sea.

The thugs reportedly fled while the speed boat in which they came was seized by the youths from the area.

New National ID card now ICAO compliant

BY LAWANI MIKAIRU

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HE new smart national identity card is in compliance with the security recommendations and standards of the International Civil

Police parade 19 suspected kidnappers, recover arms, ammunition, hemp in Anambra

BY NWABUEZE OKONKWO, Onitsha

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NAMBRA State Police Command yesterday paraded 19 suspected kidnappers arrested by men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, and displayed their operational arms and ammunition.

Also displayed were three bags of cannabis sativa (Indian hemp) allegedly recovered from them.

The arms and ammunition were displayed during the parade at the state SARS Headquarters, Awkuzu five AK-47 rifles; a barreter pistol (English pistol); six pump action guns, 9,000 live cartridges; eight AK47 magazines and a locally made pistol.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Usman Gwary, who carried out the parade exercise, warned kidnappers and their informants as well as armed robbers and

assassins to vacate Anambra.

He regretted that kidnap victims and their families have not been cooperative by way of giving information to the police to help track down the suspected criminals, adding, “after paying ransom and secured their freedom, they would maintain sealed lips, thus

making it impossible for the police to get at the kidnappers”.

He revealed that most of the suspected kidnappers paraded and weapons displayed were arrested and recovered in Delta, Imo, Lagos and Anambra states through intelligence gathering, adding, “when they commit the crime, they usually crossover”.

Speaking with newsmen, the Special Adviser to the President on Amnesty and Niger Delta Affairs, Kingsley Kuku, confirmed that the election was generally peaceful except in some units in Arogbo.

Kuku commended the electoral officers for their efforts in ensuring the election is credible.

He noted that some unresolved issues caused minor skirmishes in some units but have been adequately addressed.

On the joint task force set up by Governor. Willie Obiano, he said that the task force was still working in Onitsha, adding, “after Onitsha, we will get to other senatorial zones like Nnewi and Awka. So it is one after the other and we don’t need to tell you how successful the operations have been so far”.

Aviation Organization (ICAO) and could be used as travel document.

This was revealed after an independent laboratory and field test conducted on the new smart national identity card.

The Deputy Director of the National Identity M a n a g e m e n t Commission’s (NIMC), Mr. Abdulhamid Umar, disclosed this when he fielded questions from journalists at the Murtala M u r h a m m e d International Airport, Lagos at the weekend.

Umar explained that the successful testing confirms that the new smart card would be used as a travel document when as it has security details for individual profiling and identification.

Stolen assets: Only small percentage recovered by Nigeria •ICPC boss laments

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HE Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Mr Ekpo Nta, has lamented the inability of Nigeria to access stolen assets from where corrupt Nigerians lodged them.

He said only small percentage of recovered the assets had so far been returned to victim-states by the receiving-states.

Ekpo Nta made this known during the J K

Gadzama 7th Annual Public Lecture held at the Sheraton Hotels and Towers Abuja.

The ICPC boss was the Chairman at the occasion held under the theme, “Money Laundering And Financial Crime: Problems of International Enforcement”.

He said, “It is not enough to recover stolen assets, but priority must be paid to the systematic and timely return of such stolen assets money to their countries of origin.”

Nta told the audience,

which included two former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Justice Muhammed Lawal Uwais (GCON) and Justice Alfa Belgore, that the delay in the return of the recovered stolen funds “is now attracting discussions at the appropriate international fora on ways of reducing or eliminating discordant national laws or processes that hamper the tracing, recovery and repatriation of stolen assets especially to third world countries.”

He said the

sophistication of money laundering and related offences had been growing geometrically to the extent that normal national and international policing could not keep pace.

This, he said, had resulted in the setting up of specialized intergovernmental bodies like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Agencies (UNODC), international initiatives like The Stolen Asset Recovery Initiative (STAR).

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014 — PAGE 5

Clark cries out over kidnapped son Continued from page 1 in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State on Wednesday.

Reports said the kidnappers were demanding N50 million ransom.

“I am not surprised that the kidnapping took place because when your children start to steal and they are out of tune, out of direction and nobody controls them, the next thing is that they will go and steal from their father or their uncle and so on,” the elder statesman, currently a delegate at the National Conference holding in Abuja, said.

He explained that the kidnappers should see him as their father and release his son.

Clark was worried about the plight of his daughter in law and grandchildren amid the kidnapping of Ebikeme.

The Ijaw leader spoke to Sunday Vanguard, yesterday, at his Asokoro, Abuja residence.

According to him, the kidnapping had been reported to the police and the Department of State Security (DSS) even as some suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.

“Kidnapping is not new to me, but I didn’t know it was going to affect me personally. I have been involved in rescuing people who had been kidnapped since 2003 as a result of the freedom fighters agitation to draw the attention of the world and Nigerians (to the problems in Niger Delta).

They have been involved in the kidnapping of expatriates working for oil companies and, in many of these cases, we intervened; we spoke to our boys and they respected us and most of these expatriates were freed,” Clark said.

He went on: “I remember a particular case when some Indians and Americans were kidnapped. Most of the victims were working for Wilbros, one of the oil servicing companies based in Port Harcourt. I remember the freedom fighters around Escravos spoke about how their villages were bombed from the air, attacked from the seas and they said they kidnapped some of the expatriates in order to provide them cover and that actually stopped the bombing of the area. And I remember most of the expatriates were released to us, some, to me, in my house and so kidnapping of expatriates is not new to me. ”But after some time, kidnapping became a commercial venture whereby these boys, few of them, looking for money, decided to engage in kidnapping of human beings for monetary reasons. This also occurred in neighboring states like Abia, Imo and Anambra. They have this kidnapping in Rivers, Beyelsa, Delta and Akwa Ibom and sometimes in Edo and it was all for money. ”They were selfish young men, jobless young men who had nothing to do and they decided to kidnap human beings in order to make money. ”So I was not, therefore, surprised when some of these states like Edo and Bayelsa began to enact laws that made it a capital offence; I was not thinking that these boys, who know me as their father, will one day come to me. But I am not also surprised because when your children start to steal and they are out of tune, out of direction and nobody controls them, the next thing is that they will go and

SOLUTION

Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, and Chief (Dr.) John Agboola Odeyemi, during the thanksgiving service at Chapel of Saint John the Evangelist Church of Nigeria (Anglican Commuunion), Mokuro Road, Ile-Ife to mark the 75th birthday of Odeyemi, yesterday. steal from their father or their uncle and so on. ”Nowadays, you will find that school children arrange for their fathers to be kidnapped, wives arrange for their husbands to be kidnapped mainly to make money. ”So this thing has become rampant and I am surprised that they came after my son. He is a chief in our community and a responsible man, a politician, a PDP man. He contested those days under the DPP, but has since come back to the PDP; he is the managing director of the family company. He is 44years old and a graduate of the University of Benin. He is married with four children. ”My only worry is that the children and the young wife are anxious to see their father. ”This is a criminal offence and I don’t have to keep it to myself. I reported (the matter) to law enforcement agents: the director general of the SSS and the commissioner of police in my state, and the governor who has been helpful. The waterways agency has also been told about it. Tompolo also got his gadgets and he is out combing everywhere. ”That very day, it was raining, that is why it was conducive for them to come with a small bus and my son was already in his car to drive back to Warri when they came in, they stopped him, dragged him down, knocked him on the head with the butt of the gun and took him away in his car. ”But on getting to the next village, my mother ’s place, their car fell into a ditch by the bridge. So they jumped from the car into the boat leaving the car behind. But the car has been recovered by the police and the young man who was driving the car arrested by the police”.

The elder statesman said there was a man who claimed to be part of the conspiracy to kidnap his son, but changed his mind. “So he came to Kiagbodo to inform my son to run away or get himself adequate security, but by the time he came to the village, he had been kidnapped,” Clark disclosed. ”So he too has been arrested by the police to help them in their investigation. The people who kidnapped Ebikeme are already known, but where they are and where they have taken him to, we don’t know; that is the position and we pray that he would be freed,” he stated. ”They are demanding for money. My appeal to them is that they should release him. We all cannot get jobs at the same time. Every effort is being made that everyone gets job and most of them are employed in the area in the jobs we are doing at home. The issue is that we haven’t got enough jobs to do. But some of them have become chronic kidnappers. There is nothing that could stop them. Armed robbery no longer pays as kidnap-

ping because they get good money from kidnapping human beings.”

IYC warns kidnappers Meanwhile, Ijaw Youth Congress, IYC, has condemned Ebikeme’s kidnapping.

Spokesman for the body, Dr. Agagha Clarkson, in a statement in Warri, said, “We call on the perpetrators of this dastardly act to release their victim unconditionally.

“IYC will work in synergy with the relevant agencies to ensure immediate release of Papa’s son. We warn all youths involved in kidnapping and other nefarious activities to desist and engage in profitable ventures that will better their lives knowing that such activities could cut short their lives” .

Let Ebikeme go – UYC, VC PRESIDENT of the Urhobo Youth Council, UYC, Mr Henry Baro, also condemned the kid-

napping.

Baro appealed to the kidnappers to release Ebikeme unhurt, adding that kidnapping and other forms of criminality were not good for the image of Delta State.

Saying that Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan should be encouraged in his effort to make Delta a business haven for investors, he said, “No investor will come to Delta if our youths don’t stop kidnapping.”

Also, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academy), Delta State University, Abraka, Prof Victor Peretomode, said: “I appeal to the kidnappers to release Chief Ebikeme Clark”, describing him “as a hardworking boy.”

Tompolo sends emissaries to kidnappers In another development, ex-militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, yesterday, sent emissaries to Ebikeme’s kidnappers after he allegedly identified the kidnapping syndicate and it’s hideout in the creeks.

A source told Sunday Vanguard, “It is true that Tompolo has made contact with the kidnappers, he spoke to them on phone and has sent emissaries to their kidnappers to release the hostage they are holding.”

The source, who spoke to our reporter at about 2.00 pm, yesterday, said, “As I speak to you, the Tompolo rescue team is on its way to the den of the boys that abducted Ebi.” At 4.20 pm when Sunday Vanguard contacted him for further development, he asserted, “There is no news yet. I will reach you when I get information, but we now know where they are hiding and nobody is going to pay ransom.”

Army to probe Nasarawa herdsmen’s massacre

BY PETER DURU

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HE army has prom ise d to commence

investigations into the alleged killing of about 50 herdsmen by suspected military personnel in Keana local government area of Nasarawa State.

The Director of Defense Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, made this known, yesterday, while fielding questions from newsmen in Makurdi, Benue State capital.

Olukolade said, “At the moment, we cannot say we know anything about what happened until the matter is fully investigated and the true picture of what actually happened is ascertained. ”Let us be sure of the narration of the people who are recounting what happened. The matter will be thoroughly investigated by the military. ”The point, however, is that the incident in certainly not in line with the pattern of our operations. It is not in conso-

nance with our modus operandi. But we will investigate it, to know what happened. ”The essence of our operation in the Northcentral is to end the operation of all terror groups and armed gangs marauding within the area. ”The mission is not targeted at any individual, organization or ethnic group. But if anyone belongs to an armed gang, he has every reason to be afraid unless he

drops his arms.”

PAGE 6—SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014

Osun 2014:Omisore wins PDP ticket

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE, Osogbo

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ormer deputy gov ernor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, yesterday, won the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ticket for the August 9 gubernatorial election.

The exercise, which commenced at about 12 noon and ended two hours later, had 1,285 delegates spread across the 30 local government areas of the

state and the Area Office, Modakeke. At the primaries, held under tight security at GMT Hotel, Osogbo, Omisore polled 1,128 out of total votes of 1,186 to defeat two other aspirants.

The two other aspirants, Senator Olasunkanmi Akinlabi and Hon. Wole Oke, scored 45 and five respectively while 18 votes were voided. Senator Isiaka Adeleke, the fourth aspirant, earlier announced

his boycott of the primaries, citing alleged irregularities during the party’s ward congresses on Wednesday. Announcing the results, the chairman of the five-member Osun PDP governorship primaries, Alhaji Adamu Aliero, said though 1,380 delegates comprising statutory and ad hoc delegates were expected to participate, only 1, 280 showed up for accreditation. In his acceptance speech, Omisore stat-

ed that Osun deserved more than it is getting from All Progressive Congress, APC, government in the state, stressing the need for all members of the PDP to unite and wrestle power for the party.

He commended the Osun State Working Committee of the party for its transparency in the organisation of the primaries and expressed his belief in the ability of the PDP to win the August 9 governorship poll.

APC congresses: Amosun, Osoba avert Methodist calmed the supporters. bloody clashes in Ogun Freeman Primary School and Addressing the elected leaders for ward aggrieved members of the ut for the Tension was high at party, Amosun appealed B intervention of Igbore where a faction of 13, Abeokuta North.

In a bid to forestall break to them to embrace Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and a former governor of the state, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, there would have been bloodletting during the ward congresses of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Supporters of Amosun and Osoba across the state, at the wards congresses held, yesterday, reportedly engaged one another over the structure of the party at the ward level.

the party held its congress while the other group held its congress at

down of law and order, Amosun and Osoba raced to the volatile areas and

peace, assuring that all members would be allowed to vote.

One shot dead in Ambrose Ali varsity students poll

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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HERE was tension in Ekpoma after one student of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) was shot dead during a clash by rival cult groups.

Meanwhile, soldiers and battle ready mobile policemen took over the university, yesterday, following the crisis which, Sunday Vanguard learnt, was as a result of the Students Union Government (SUG) election.

Edo State Police Commissioner, Mr Foluso Adebanjo, who confirmed that one person was shot dead, disclosed that about seven persons had been arrested and vowed to crack

down on the perpetrators of the violence.

It was learnt that the crisis stemmed from the battle by rival cult groups in the university determined to impose their members as leaders of the SUG. Some armed students were said to have started the shooting at about 5pm on Friday at the university gate.

The fight later moved to the university town as members of the rival cult groups commenced house to house search of their targets. It was in that process that one student was shot dead. The shooting continued prompting the Edo CP to deploy more policemen to the area.

Delta is fastest developing state —Onuesoke

BY EPHRAIM OSEJI

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he Project Director of Ughelli-Asaba Dualisation Road Project in Delta State, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has described the state as the fastest infrastructural developing state in Niger-

ia.

Onuesoke, who made the observation while inspecting the work done in the on-going UghelliAsaba dualisation road project, said Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration has vigorously pursued its in-

frastructural development programme such that the whole of Delta has become one huge construction site, adding that key projects like the Asaba International airport had been completed and Asaba- Ughelli road dualisation projects is on going..

He maintained that roads, bridges, sports facilities, beautification and erosion control measures, among others, are visible across the nooks and crannies of Delta. He pointed out

that the Ughelli-Asaba dualisation project is a major infrastructural project embarked upon by the state government, adding that, when completed, it will jump-start economic activities in Delta as it will open up the state and serve as a gateway to the East while facilitating optimal usage of the proposed Asaba Business District.

“It will facilitate optimal usage of Asaba International Airport and the proposed Asaba Business District. It will

encourage agricultural development and ease transporation of agricultural products from the rural areas to the urban areas. There will be free movement of goods and services all over the state and other parts of the country,” Onusesoke noted.

He appealed to the communities in the area to cooperate with workers of Consolidated Construction Company (CCC) because they would be the first to benefit from the project.

From left; Dame Abimbola Fashola, First Lady of Lagos State; Governor Babatunde Fashola; Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulere, Deputy Governor;, and Mrs Funmi Adesegun, wife of Deputy Governor, Ogun State; during the 2014 International Women’s Day Celebration. PHOTO: Kehinde Gbadamosi

Lagos recovers capsized boat

BY GODWIN ORITSE

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agos State Water ways Authority (LASWA) has recovered the wreckage of the boat which capsized and claimed eight lives on Wednesday.L ASWA’s

Managing Director, Mr. Yinka Marinho, said the boat was recovered during the search and rescue operation yesterday.He explained that besides that boat that was recovered, the logs that it ran into

which caused the accident was recovered and towed to the yard of the authority.He said that other detached logs on the channel that could be dangerous to navigation were towed to their Falomo Jetty.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014 — PAGE 7

There once was....

edy. I have found that I cant fight reality, so I tend to just roll with it. I do my 3 B's checklist and I move on. I check for the first B, am I bruised or bleeding? Most times I am. I check for the second B, am I broken?

Sometimes I am. The 3rd B is the most important as it cancels out the first two; am I breathing? So far the answer has always been yes, so I move on, a breathe at a time. I have learnt to make peace with reality in every form and whether I like it or not death is a part of that. In my life so far, I can honestly say two deaths have really devastated me and this is because the two people have shaped my life and continue to do so by their enduring legacy.

My first ever loss of a loved one occurred on

the 3rd of august 1986.

My little sister, Modupe died at the age of 10 and till date, even over 3 decades later I still remember the grief in my mom's voice when she broke the news. It was a painful experience but it paled in comparison to the pain of my two great losses.

There was once a woman that was a friend, counsellor, confidant; she was also my mother.

My mom was a maverick who couldn't be shocked or disgusted out of loving. She was fiery and very passionate but she was 100 percent love, not just for her children but for everything and everyone. We grew up in a large noisy household, games everywhere, food, lots of food and it all centred around this one woman, who opened her home and her heart to everyone. Her death on the 14th of June 1996 changed life as I knew it and it took years to move forward. My undying and unflinching faith in The Lord has brought me to a place of gratitude for

my mother. I am thankful that I was a part of her life, that I carry her in my heart, that I hold true her values, teachings, empathy and even talents. I continue to miss her, there are so many things I want to share with her but all the grumbling and wailing in the world wont bring her back; I

,

L

IFE is like a revolv ing door, people seem to be passing through all the time. There are some who believe I have been hardened by a lot of sorrow early on in life and they could be right.

What they observe is my calm acceptance and almost indifference to trag-

ness meeting, day after.

I had left lagos and had planned to stage a commando visit to see him in London the very day I got the news. Most members of the church (City of David RCCG) had wanted to visit him but we had been told to let him rest. As the months passed and he didn't return some of us had decided to go see him one by one. A friend who had succeeded in seeing him had told me all I needed do was mount sentry at the Tesco supermarket opposite his building between 4-5pm and ambush his wife Pastor Bimpe, so she could take me to see him. It was not be as he died a day before. I was not prepared for the pain his death brought;

There was once an age of innocence, easy living and optimism. A time when tragedy and pain happened to people you knew from afar; those days are long gone

have made my peace with that. I would never have thought that losing someone else could hurt as much but life still held in stock a few unpleasant surprises.

There also was once a man, a teacher, a father, a disciplinarian, a mentor; he was also my pastor. Pastor Eskor Mfon went to be with The Lord on the 30th of April 2007, I didn't learn of the news on that day, I got to hear it in the middle of a busi-

,

it felt like someone had carved my heart out of my chest and the days and months after were very dark. His death attacked the very foundation of my faith and for years after I stumbled. If the promises God were not fulfilled in his life, how could they be fulfilled in mine? What belief was true and what wasn't? It took the Holy Spirit to answer those questions and bring peace.

There was once an age of innocence, easy living and optimism. A time when tragedy and pain happened to people you knew from afar; those days are long gone. Two weeks ago I saw a familiar face on a blackberry profile with the dreaded R.I P and had to ask my friend to identify the face. I just knew that I knew this person but the name didn't strike a chord. We were about the same age and mixed in the same circle so why couldn't I remember? A few days later a scene from the past flashed in my mind and I went digging in my old albums.

Sure enough, there she was, Funmilola Daramola, at my 23rd birthday.

In those days I loved taking pictures and always made sure to write the names of people on their pictures. I spent time looking at those old albums and I could not even relate to the person I used to be; those were the days before innocence died. The friends I thought I couldn't live without back then I had even forgotten. The memories came flooding back and I remembered the young doctor, who was brilliant and fun. I remembered her easy smile and gentle manner and I grieved not only the loss of a wife and mother but a friend I had lost to reality. We had all just grown apart all over the world and had lost touch, the tributes I read of her confirmed she remained the beautiful

soul I used to know and I could only pray for those most touched by her passing.

This last week, I had felt an ominous presence I could not put my hands on and I was also getting lethargic in prayers. I was beginning to fall into a little depression when I remembered the religious schooling of my Pastor; I call him Eskor the Great. He was a a great scholar of the Bible and I had felt his death was like burning a great library; without any back up. The Bible in Hosea 4:6 says "my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge". I thank God for the knowledge imparted by Pastor Eskor, it proved invaluable and life saving this week, 6 years after his passing. It takes me into a place of gratitude, that God placed me under the tutelage of greatness. A part of me felt despondent that he was no more as I would have gone to see him this week, just like I would have gone to spend time with my mother anytime I felt blue. I did the next best thing and called his widow to testify that the anointing of God upon her husband's life continues to bless. I pray for all reading this that our lives would matter, that we would touch others, bless others and that someday, after we are gone, we would be missed enough for them to recall that we once were..

PAGE 8 — SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

All letters bearing writers' names and full addresses should be typed and forwarded to: The Editor, Sunday Vanguard, Kirikiri Canal, P. M. B. 1007, Apapa, Lagos. E-mail: sunvanguardmail@yahoo.com

Reduce the cost of property rate tax in Abia Dear Sir,

P

ROPERTY rate is a compulsory payment made yearly by house owners in Abia State. It is a kind of special tax on their buildings.

The amount paid depends, among other things on the nature of the property. For instance, a residential building attracts a lower rate than a commercial or industrial building. Presumably, the amount paid on a particular building is based on certain percentage In Aba, property owners used to pay their rate at the local government and obtain receipts but since the collection of the rate was contracted out to private outfits, it has been a different ball game. The amount has been astronomically increased by above 1000%. This abrupt increase has put many house owners into untold hardship as some of them, especially those living in private buildings that are not fully developed cannot afford the amount.

Property rate is synonymous with tax on property and as such should not be a burden to the payer. For that is one of the canons of taxation, the payment should be affordable to the payer. More importantly, Aba residents have been saddled with multiplicity of payments of various taxes and levies, including infrastructural levy that was introduced by the past government, mainly to cater for deplorable roads in the state, especially in Aba, but unfortunately the impact is not felt in the city. Up to this moment Aba residents do not know

how a good road looks like. Let alone being opportune to witness functional industries in their vicinity. Presently all the industries in Aba are moribund without any hope of revival in the near future.

I know the state government is in dire need of money to cater for myriad of

her responsibilities but it should not be the reason why the inhabitants should be impoverished. If nothing is done to reduce the rate, it might have a multiplier effect on the residents as monthly rent would definitely be increased.

Against this backdrop, I earnestly

appeal to our able governor, Dr T A Orji to intervene in this crucial matter by impressing it on the contractors to reduce the rate to a reasonable level that could be affordable to the affected poor masses.

Nkemakolam Gabriel Port Harcourt 08072257360

The challenge of Lenten period Dear Sir,

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S Christians all over the world continue to observe the Lent en period of 40 days fasting that will culminate in Easter, we are supposed to use it as a period of sober reflection and repentance from our sins, to reflect the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This year's Lenten period presents an ample opportunity for Christians to pray for Nigeria and solicit God’s intervention in efforts to surmount the current challenges facing the country.

Actually, I want to concede to the fact that insecurity is not peculiar to Nigeria, as all the people of the world ought to enter into a period of penitance and seek the face of God. Also, the rest of the globe are in distress for now. As we have bloodbath in the

North-eastern part of Nigeria, Europe is enmeshed in political crisis, Africa is locked in violence and America and its allies are in perpetual economic crisis.

Presently, the truth must be told, Nigeria is sharply divided into the haves and have nots), where bad governance, insecurity, joblessness and infrastructural decay have made life miserable for the masses. Hence, this Lenten period calls for the need of our Christian faithfuls to search their souls and consciences and meditate on the state of the nation.

Also, this is the time for the poor, rich and powerful to express goodwill, brotherhood and personal introspection towards one another, as the enduring lesson of Lent is the need to live a life that is not self-controlled, but bears fruit for the larger society.

In totality, Christ suffered for human-

kind. Christians should, therefore, use the opportunity presented by the Lenten period to demonstrate their humanity and agreement in one God, so that good things can come to the human spirit, not only during Lent, but beyond.

As the much expected National Conference began this Holy month of Lent, I urge the delegates to place the interest of the people of Nigeria over and above every other consideration. As we pray for the success of the conference, I appeal to government to allow the will of the people to prevail.

Prophet Oladipupo FunmiladeJoel, General Overseer, The Way of Reconciliation Evangelistic Ministries (TWOREM) Int’l, Lagos, Nigeria & The CEO, Messiah Broadcasting Network. (babasekunderin@yahoo.com) 08033733470

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 9

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foolish consisten cy is the hobgob lin of little minds,

adored by little statesmen..Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803-1882.

Ordinarily, I would not have tried to offer any explanations to those asking this question, except that last week, the matter was raised by the Publisher of VANGUARD, our dear Uncle Sam, in Abuja. We had gone to the nation’s capital for different reasons and accidentally met at the VANGUARD office. On our way to lunch (for me a free lunch which no ajeru Area Boy would turn down) Uncle Sam informed me that he was with some friends who were “disappointed” that Dele Sobowale, who writes mostly philosophical articles, would descend so low as to start introducing religion into politics.

Then the next day I received a text message from one of our readers: 0803691-0602 ..Sir hope you read Femi’s back page column in today’s SUN? He has a different perspective

from yours about Lagos gov & religion. Aminu, Birnin Kebbi. I was deeply touched by both, especially Aminu’s.

I opened the VANGUARD office in Birnin Kebbi about fifteen years ago and I have fond memories of the city both when I was working in Sokoto and when I went to find an office for our paper. I was happy to know we still reach the old city.

Although I replied Aminu by saying that Femi is entitled to his views, so am I, it had occurred to me that a fuller discussion is required. To be honest with you, I never thought my columns affect so many important people. So, I owe them an explanation – despite the fact that I know that on an emotional subject matter, like religion, it is impossible for people to keep an open mind. This might be a labour in vain.

First, it is surprising that anybody, with the minimum knowledge of history, would consider that it is possible to separate religion from politics in a heterogeneous and multi-cul-

tural society like Nigeria.

With all due respects, that appears to me as a deliberate denial of all we observe and practice everyday. For instance, at every public function, e.g the CONFAB 2014, two religious leaders, one Christian and one Muslim, are asked to pray.

Yet, there are millions of Nigerians who practice other religions or have no religion at all. We have established Pilgrims’ Boards for Christians and Muslims and spend billions of public money on them. We have ignored all the other religions. No Ifa, or Ogbanje Pilgrims Board. Who among those complaining has failed to notice this?

The truth is; the Federal, State and Local governments of Nigeria have unambiguously adopted two religions – Islam and Christianity. They introduced religion into politics; not me.

Second, who among my critics is not aware that in states where there is a heavy population of Christians and Muslims, the Governorship and the Dep-

The President’s conference: Between monarchy and secession

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KEPTICISM con tinues to trail the on-going conference called by the President in Abuja to determine Nigeria’s future path. There questions of the legitimacy of the conference. Such a question has been raised because there is no obvious constitutional backing for the conference.

For the National Conference to convene there must be an act of parliament given it backing and legitimizing its outcomes. It would not be considered, properly speaking, a national conference. No article inherent to the section on presidential authority under the constitution gives the President of Nigeria any such powers to convene a National Conference. As have said, for a National Conference to take place, the national Assembly, and the Assemblies of the various constituent states, which under the Federalism principle are independent governments on their own, must give the necessary assent.

So, properly speaking, what is currently going on in Abuja is the President’s Conference. Its terms are not the terms of the Nigerian nation; it is the terms set down by the President of the federation for a body of people he has selected to discuss certain aspects of the National question that his office has determined to be important to the Presi-

dent’s agenda. He has given his boundaries – the socalled “No go areas” – and such limiting grounds fit the president’s rather narrow domestic agenda.

The outcomes of this Presidential Conference on Nigeria will ultimately be for purely advisory rather than constitutional necessities, and is not binding on Nigerians. Nigerians had no hands in the election or selection of the conferees, most of whom were products of smoky backroom politics rather than clear citizens mandate. That ground itself constitutes the first delegitimizing principle and will ultimately cast doubts on the outcome of this conference.

It is therefore quite right that critics of the on-going conference have grounds to describe it as a most expensive form of the talk-shop; a distraction, a short-cut to defusing the ignited fuse of the nation characterized by the massive anger in the land. But I did say once in this column that it is “right for kinsmen to meet.”

Meetings, such as the one the president has called in Abuja, with all its profound flaws also have ways of throwing up important truths. such a truth was dramatically conveyed in the first week of the Abuja conference by the Lamido of Adamawa, Muhmmadu Barkindo Mustapha, who in a fit of pique said he

would take his people back to the cameroons from whence they came if Nigeria disintegrates. He has a home in the Cameroons, he said, which in fact has a greater portion of his Adamawa Kingdom or Emirate: “My Kingdom has been in existence hundreds of years before the so-called entity called Nigeria and the so-called civilized peo-

,

“Why is Dele Sobowale introducing religion into politics?”

uty Governorship are shared between the two religions. In the Yoruba states, where there are Ifa worshippers, no political party would dare present a candidate for Governor or any other post – if the candidate openly announces he is an Ifa or Egungun or Ogun worshipper. Irrespective of his/her other qualifications, the vast majority of our people would not vote for her/ him. A Christian candidate has no chance in Sokoto; neither does a Muslim in Imo State; we know it; but we pretend that religion is

We have established Pilgrims’ Boards for Christians and Muslims and spend billions of public money on them. We have ignored all the other religions. No Ifa, or Ogbanje Pilgrims Board. Who among those complaining has failed to notice this?

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not a factor in elections. The bulk of the overwhelming votes cast for Jonathan in Lagos State in 2011 were delivered by Christians. I know because many of them voted for Fashola and Kuforiji – both Muslims. So, who introduced religion into politics? Hypocrisy, by my definition is saying one thing and doing something else. So save me the hypocrisy and let us face the fact

gene-clensing as well. Lagos State has been the only state in Nigeria, since 1999 where the number of nonindegene appointees to office exceed the indegenes.

No single South West State has a Lagosian as a Commissioner or Chief of Staff or Special Adviser. That alone demonstrates that the orientation of the political leadership had

State.” I think the Lamido meant to sound a note of warning for those unlike him, who have options of alternate statehood; who may not be stuck in the collapsing Babel called Nigeria, with Moloch – its national god now baying for blood. But hidden beneath the threat of secession by the Lamido of Adamawa is history. Perhaps the Lamido does not quite remember, following the 1961 referendum, the people of the Adamawa areas voted to join Nigeria and be administered as part of its nation.

It became known from 1961 as the Sarduana province. On the other hand, the people in the Southern cameroons, who were then part of the Eastern region, voted with their feet out of Nigeria, to join the Republic of Cameroon. Ahmadu

filiations are determined by various factors, one of which only is ethnic coherence. But even ethnic coherence is no longer grounds for determining geography.

As nations form, and as people travel, or are dispersed, or even subdued by conquest.

There is not a single homogenous nation in the contemporary world. But that said, I think Nigeria has an obligation to offer the Lamido of Adamawa and the people of Adamawa, a chance to make that decision, through a referendum, about whether they wish to remain part of Nigeria or whether they wish to secede and join their common kin in the current Republic of Cameroon.

This is important. Perhaps the Boko Haram insurgency might be in part connected to this attempt: disenchanted nationalist groups, fighting to reshape and restore old principalities in the old Kanem Bornu or Adamawa areas with their cross-border affiliations.

We do not yet know with certainty, and we may never know yet with certainty because the Nigerian National Intelligence and Security apparatus is weak, and has transnational loyalties. This is a matter for another discussion, but the Lamido has only just given us an important food to chew on, and while we are chewing our cud on it, let me put this quite simply: The Adamawa must be given the right or option to secede if that is the wish of the people of Adamawa.

But that decision must never be on the say-so of an old and irrelevant institution like the monarchy of Adamawa which is, by the very construct of Nigeria as a constitutional Republic, something of a quaint anachronism. It must be on the strength of a properly

No great thought is invested in creating a modern Nigerian nation. Nigeria is crippled by limited ideas offered by limited minds who have limited visions of nation and nationhood ple from the West who are the people who came and divided us. The larger part of my kingdom is now in Cameroon and a part of it is named a state that is Adamawa State in Cameroon.

If you go to Cameroon, you verify that.”

Two things struck me in the Lamido’s statement: the first is in the Adamawa monarch’s description of the Nigerian nation – it is for him “the so-called entity called Nigeria” and the second is the claim of a greater suzerain space in Nigeria’s neighbouring state of the Cameroons, with its own “Adamawa

that religion has always been a part of our politics; and will remain so.

That religious politics has been subdued in Lagos State can be explained by the fact that there is hardly any Lagos State family which does not have a mixture of Muslims and Christians. And it would have remained so if events since 1999 had not proved beyond reasonable doubt that the “Progressive” leadership which had assumed power in the state had not only been practicing religious-clensing but indi-

Ahidjo, the Premier of the Cameroons at the time, who grew up in Nigeria, and basically had relatives, and possibly still has his family ties in Northern Nigeria did sign the treaty.

My point is that Adamawa to all intents and purposes ceased to be a part of the Cameroons.

It is true that colonial boundaries fragmented many old kingdoms and nations in Nigeria, and distributed them, with the scramble for Africa in new colonial nations. But as I have argued, nation and nationality are not permanent identities. National af-

changed drastically. The same has been true of the sly introduction of religious discrimination – while all the while pretending it was all based on merit. What are the merit criteria for choosing an Iyaloja such that only individuals from one family possess them? The same sort of absolute power, which we know corrupts absolutely, has been subtly employed in practicing religious politics in Lagos while all the propaganda machinery imaginable is brought to bear to deceive the public that ALL appointments are based on merit.

Will someone tell me by what criteria of merit had it been possible that, since Governor Jakande’s government, only once has a Christian been Governor and only once Speaker of the State House of Assembly? The three most powerful positions in any government remain the Governor, the Chief of Staff and the Speaker of the House. With the exception of Olorunfemi Mamora, who was hastily shipped off to the Senate, since 1999, ALL the three positions had been occupied by Muslims. The first Chief of Staff was not only Muslim; he was from Kwara State !! So who introduced religion into Lagos State politics?

Visit: www.delesobowale.com or Visit: www.facebook.com/ biolasobowale organized plebiscite. If on the other hand Nigeria were to be a forward looking nation, its Foreign and National Commissions should have thought up something of the “Adamawa Purchase” and the “Bakassi Purchase” – akin to its own Louisiana Purchase which took up what was then called “New France” – practically the whole of what is now Western United States from Louisiana to Minnesota and as far West as Montana then under French rule – and integrated it with the United States to expand its geographical and economic frontiers.

Nigeria could make the Cameroons a great offer to purchase the Cameroonian part of Adamawa, and the Bakassi Peninsula – and integrate them, and expand the geographic and economic frontiers of Nigeria.

Nigeria should be moving towards a West African expansion to integrate those parts of the Egun, the Yoruba, the Benin, and such people with historical ties with core communities in Nigeria, for greater economic and social viability and peace in the region.

But it seems that Nigerians have been distracted by powerful forces seeking to control its center purely for narrow self- interest, rather than for long lasting and shared national interests, but for purely old, primordial interests and affiliations.

No great thought is invested in creating a modern Nigerian nation. Nigeria is crippled by limited ideas offered by limited minds who have limited visions of nation and nationhood.

Such limits cause economic and social disparity, and therefore, disenchantment and rebellion.

PAGE 10,

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

Rotimi Amaechi and the Verdict of History N today’s Nigeria, Roti mi Amaechi the current Governor of Rivers State is likely to emerge as one of the great personalities that shaped the Nigerian political history of his time. From 2007 till date, he has been a dogged fighter. First, he fought his former political party - the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) - over the latter ’s breach of internal democracy. What happened was that the PDP imposed a candidate to contest the governorship election in Rivers State notwithstanding that by its own record, Amaechi won the party primaries arranged to pick the candidate. He then did what many saw as the unthinkable by going to court against the party. It was a battle he fought to the Supreme Court in which no one gave him a chance of survival let alone to defeat the almighty PDP. Indeed, Senator Ifeanyi Araruame the party ’s governorship candidate for Imo State who was similarly short-

changed never made it but Amaechi was declared Governor by the court.

Thus Rotimi Amaechi overthrew the ‘garrison commando’ style and gave hope to others that ‘caucus politics’, ‘godfatherism’ as well as the old order in which certain party chieftains played God was tenuous. He established that

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this writer, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) named Amaechi, ‘Man of the 2007 Year’.

Governor Amaechi exhibited courage and determination while leading the Governors’ Forum. Unlike some of his colleagues who may be mocked by posterity, the man refused to accept the bizarre mathematical

Amaechi overthrew the ‘garrison commando’ style and gave hope to others that ‘caucus politics’, ‘godfatherism’ as well as the old order in which certain party chieftains played God was tenuous

anyone who had patience and faith to test the rule of law using due process would smile at the end. It is only logical to deduce that this must have made a mark on those who hitherto believed that political violence was the way. Under

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equation of the time in which 16 was regarded as greater than 19. Many say Amaechi is stubborn but his insistence that he won the election to the position of Chairman of the Governors’ Forum puts him up as a greater democrat bearing

PhD, Department of Philosophy, University of

08116759758

The anti-intellectual character of Nigerians (1) cussing with two colleagues from the faculty when a respected Professor of law interrupted our discussion with the reprimand: "Douglas, I hope now that your promotion has gone through you would stop your vituperations against ASUU." Initially, I was somewhat surprised because it had been quite a while I had any conversation with the Professor. However, when he expressed "disappointment" and "disgust" towards my essays criticising both government and ASUU for the deterioration in teaching, learning and general infrastructure in our public universities, I understood the cause of his unwarranted unfriendly rebuke. Obviously, the "learned" Professor was not happy that a university lecturer could criticise ASUU publicly for frequent recourse to indefinite strikes.

As far as he was concerned, the "academe" should not be criticised by one of its own. Anyway, I reiterated my position, and challenged him to identify any faulty reasoning or factual inaccuracy in my articles.

But he hurriedly left for a lecture without responding to my challenge.

The incidents I just recounted motivated this essay, which calls attention to the dangers of increasing anti-intellectualism by Nigerians, even among respected academics. Before

defining who an intellectual is and the characteristics such a person must possess to be properly so called, it is important to address the issues raised by Mr. X and the Professor, at least to correct deliberate misunderstandings and clarify my own position. To begin with, I am a highly trained philosopher.

Anyone with a patina of philosophical knowledge knows that criticism is the

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AST week, I received a text message from an anonymous critic (Mr. X for convenience) who responded to my riposte on the national conference going on in Abuja.

In the text, Mr. X called me a hypocrite for criticising the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) anytime it embarks on indefinite strike to press home its demands from the federal government while at the same time complaining that lecturers are not well paid. In the essay in question, I argued that a government which claims it cannot meet the financial demands of lecturers because of dwindling financial resources should not pay each of the delegates to the conference N4 million per month. But Mr. X, rather than appreciating my criticism of financial rascality by the Jonathan administration, claimed that "You are hypocrite because whenever ASUU embarked on strike for the improvement of staff and sundry matters, you not only dissociated yourself from such strikes, but used your newspaper column to attack ASUU with the hope that government will take note of you as a 'good boy.'"

Mr. X grotesque comments remind me of an incident that took place some weeks ago in front of the Faculty of Law building, University of Lagos. On a certain afternoon, I was dis-

in mind that one of the pillars of democracy is majority rule. Indeed, in a true democracy, it is only the candidate with the highest number of votes that can carry the day.

At a time the issue of State Police was the matter of the moment, many public analysts wrote severally against it. But by the time the controversies surrounding Governor Amaechi and the Rivers State Commissioner of Police subsided, many anti-State Police advocates began to have a rethink. The previous viewpoint was no doubt influenced by the use into which state governors put any instrument in their control.

With the Rivers State case, the Police did not bother to convince anyone that federal authorities could be more temperate with power.

In the last few weeks, Governor Amaechi has been engaged in another battle- this time with the Judiciary; the bone of contention being the appointment of a Chief Judge for Rivers State. Whereas the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended the most Senior Judge of the State High Court for the position, the Governor rejected that and appointed another Judge. To show that it can bite, the NJC has now suspended Amaechi’s preferred candidate and has also queried him to show cause why he should not be disciplined.

Many learned writers

who are in support of the NJC position have been calling to no avail on the Governor to allow peace to reign - ‘strong-headed’ Amaechi again! Although I would have similarly preferred the choice of the NJC and as such disapproved of the acclaimed stubbornness of the Governor, a peep into the issues involved cautions me. For instance, I have searched in vain for answers to the following questions that would have placed me on the side of the NJC. First, who does the constitution empower to appoint a State Chief Judge? I have found that it is the State Governor and not the NJC. Second, what is the proper role of the NJC? I have found that it is only to recommend a candidate to the Governor. On this ground, I am unable to agree with the stand of the NJC which appears to be turning its advisory power to recommend to the substantive power to appoint.

Since the constitution did not expressly state that the recommendation of the NJC must be accepted, it stands to reason that the NJC has a duty to persuade rather than to intimidate the Governor to accept its recommendation.

Third, does the NJC have the power to suspend a State Chief Judge? I have found that it has. Thus, I would ordinarily have endorsed the suspension of the new Chief Judge of the Rivers State. Unfortunately, I

am unable to, because the suspension appears to have run foul of the elementary principles of natural justice as the man has been queried only after having been summarily suspended without an opportunity to defend himself. Why is the NJC seeking to try a case in which it has already pronounced guilt? In addition, if the constitution had intended to make the NJC to have the final say in the appointment, it would not have given it the power to merely recommend. I am therefore tempted to believe that in this matter, Amaechi is legally superior to the NJC. He will thus make history again, no matter how the case ends By the way, what is the NJC - is it a court of law? If not, what then gives it the right to give judgments; more so, in a case in which, it is itself an interested party? We can only hope that the NJC will not handle this case as it did in that of Justices Ayo Salami and Katsina-Alu. In the latter, the NJC found one of the parties to be both guilty and innocent, went ahead to suspend him and later sought in vain to re-instate him.

At the end of the case at hand however, historians may find that the stalemate was resolved because Amaechi did not timidly accept the dictation of the NJC thereby making the controversy to turn out to strengthen our democracy.

phy is all about. He is flippant in using a negative adjective like 'hypocrite'; otherwise, he would have been circumspect in using it to describe someone he has never met. From his comments, it appears that Mr. X is ignorant, blind and pachydermatous to the destructive effects of frequent indefinite ASUU strikes on the universities. Every honest and keen observer of Nigeria's tertiary education in the last twenty-five years would acknowledge that strikes have been detrimental to the quality of teaching and learning in the universities. I am a stakeholder in the system, eminently qualified to point out areas where things are going wrong. Therefore, as a philosophy teacher who values objectivity and critical selfexamination as enjoined by Socrates, I am always pre-

stated that President Goodluck Jonathan, having been propelled by the complex dialectics of life into the highest political office in the country, has abandoned his original constituency, the poor and the powerless, and is now behaving like the oppressors whose pathological quest for primitive accumulation impoverishes the masses. Mr. X should know that not every academic craves to be invited by a profligate government to "come and chop."

Moreover, despite growing anomalies in the university system and unsatisfactory emoluments, teaching gives me the kind of intellectual freedom and fulfilment easy money from working for government cannot buy. Therefore, Mr. X, if you are a university teacher unperturbed by the negative repercussions of frequent indefinite strikes, you are one of those lecturers for whom teaching is merely a career for daily bread, not a vocation that requires commitment and dedication in the pursuit and impartation of knowledge. If you are not a lecturer, which, by implication, means that you are not an ASUU member like me, why are you a sympathiser crying more than the bereaved?

The Professor of law who presumed that my criticism of ASUU was due to delayed promotion is completely wrong. In fact, his rebuke is so irritatingly irrational that I just do not understand why he thought my stance against incessant indefinite stoppage of academic work by lecturers was due to promotion issues. Those close to me know that I have never for once complained about delay in promotion. I have been in the university system long enough to know that just as the hood does not make the monk, aca-

demic designation does not necessarily translate into solid scholarship.

In universities across the country, merit and excellence are not always the decisive factors in the promotion of lecturers. I know several excellent and committed lecturers that have stagnated in a position for up to ten years or more, on the ground that they were not publishing, whereas clever but uninspiring lazy colleagues who managed to publish mediocre papers are promoted on time. Of course, there are procedures for quality control. Nevertheless, the system is imperfect. Sometimes powerful individuals and groups within the universities manipulate it for their own selfish interests.

The promotion system in our universities rarely rewards good teaching; instead, it places undue emphasis on publication of papers, a sizeable percentage of which were read only by those that assessed them in the first instance, if they were peer reviewed at all.

Little wonder that in our universities today, lecturers are suffering from publication mania, with little attention paid to quality of teaching. The lopsidedness must be reversed to ensure a rewarding classroom experience for students.

In different universities, there are dedicated senior academics that do not compromise quality. But their number is going down every year, such that if care is not taken, senior academic positions will be dominated by second and third rate lecturers. I am not obsessed with academic designation or promotion, and will never allow my view on ASUU or on any issue concerning university education for that matter to be dictated by promotional considerations.

To be continued.

Despite growing anomalies in the university system and unsatisfactory emoluments, teaching gives me the kind of intellectual freedom and fulfilment easy money from working for government cannot buy

engine of philosophy. Without searching rational criticism, philosophy would degenerate into repetitive hollow banalities bereft of creativity and revolutionary potential that make it the intellectual discipline per excellence that it has been since humans began to philosophise thousands of years ago. Hence, I consider it my duty, both by temperament and as a matter of training, to subject everything, including myself, to ratiocinative scrutiny from time to time.

Obviously, Mr. X does not understand what philoso-

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pared to criticise my union, ASUU, with good reasons.

For over fifteen years I have been writing for Sunday Vanguard. Ardent, attentive and unbiased readers of my column know that I never write with the hope that "government would take note of [me] as a good boy," as Mr. X mischievously alleged. Indeed, in the very essay he was reacting to, I severely criticised the Jonathan administration for wasting billions of naira hosting a discussion fiesta that would eventually generate heaps of ineffectual papers. I even

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 11

OBEYING THEIR MASTER’S VOICE

ters, advisers, etc the President could appoint with a view to reducing the cost of governance. This idea should also be extended to legislators, Permanent Secretaries and heads of parastatals. Finally there is need to consider what dangers would arise if the ministers are appointed from among the members of the National assembly whereby such appointees would only be entitled to only additional fixed allowances for the additional duties placed on them as ministers, etc.

How President, Govs breach police rules, by Justice Akintan •Says Constitution review can stop anomaly

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USTICE SUNDAY A. AKINTAN, a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, is a former member of the Police Service Commission and one-time Legal Adviser in the Federal Ministry of Justice.

Akintan, in this piece, offers his perspectives on the ongoing efforts to review the Constitution.

Format The debate as to what form the Constitution review should take has been very intensive. Some believe that it should be sovereign while some say it should not. Some even believe that such exercise was not necessary or that the matter should be left with the National Assembly as provided for in the present Constitution. While the position of those calling for a sovereign conference is not yet clearly defined, they probably envisage that the outcome of such conference should not be subjected to interference by anybody as was the position in the past.

One thing is however clear clear..

What is in issue in the present situation goes to the very root or complete existence of the present Constitution. This is because the envisaged review may result in changing the entire system or make a complete deviation from the present way we are governed. It will therefore be unreasonable to expect that the result of the exercise should be submitted to the present National Assembly for approval. It is thought

that that idea should be totally ruled out. It is therefore suggested that the correct position should be to submit the outcome of the deliberation to the entire nation for approval in a referendum since the decision of the entire nation overrides that of any legislative body. It is however gratifying to note that the proposition of submitting the outcome to a referendum was not ruled out in the guidelines published by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). The SGF was reported as saying that” the National Conference shall advise the Government on the legal framework, legal procedures and options for integrating the decisions and outcomes of the National Conference into the Constitution and laws of the country.”

The statement of the SGF is an improvement on the President’s earlier stand where he was reported as saying that the outcome of the deliberations would be sent to the National Assembly for adoption. The adoption of the President’s stand would either lead to undue delay or eventually kill the entire efforts. It is therefore suggested that the option of recommending the adoption through a referendum should be made at the conference. The point must however be made clear that the new Constitution should come into force before the national elections in 2015. This is because extending the life span of the present Constitution

beyond 2015 could lead to an unhealthy situation. Efforts should therefore be made to ensure that the reviews envisaged are concluded and made into a new Constitution which will be effective before the 2015 elections.

Federal Government The present Constitution

ments. One point we have to consider is that under the present system, our legislators sit, during sessions, for only three days in a week, i e: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Legislative activities are duplicated in both chambres. There is the need to consider what dangers would arise if the considerations are done in one chambre and the members are made to be on part time as was the practice in the 1963 Constitution.

The President While the election of the members of the National Assembly could be retained as presently based on each constituency, that of the President should be made nationwide as in the p r e s e n t Constitution. To do otherwise, as was in the 1963 Constitution where the political party with majority of members in the National Assembly picked the Prime Minister, will pose great danger in that a situation could arise whereby a person so imposed by such means would not necessarily need to be known by or care to know anywhere outside the constituency that elected him into the National Assembly. There is, however, the need to consider the enormous cost of the presidential election and the need to find a way of reducing or pegging it and also fix the number of minis-

It is therefore suggested that the option of recommending the adoption through a referendum should be made at the conference provides for two legislative chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

There is need to consider (i) if we can make do with one house, (ii) whether the members should be full time or part time; and (iii) whether the President should appoint his ministers from among the members of the National Assembly as opposed to the present practice of looking out entirely when making his appoint-

State Government The present state and local government structures should be retained but subject to modifications aimed at cutting down costs. It is suggested that the legislators in the state Houses of Assembly and councilors in the local government areas should be on part time and the Governors are made to appoint their Commissioners from among elected members of the State House of Assembly. The number of advisers the Governor could appoint should also be pegged in the Constitution.

At the local government level, only the Chairman could be on full time basis while the councilors should be on part-time basis.

Security The greatest threat to the nation today is insecurity. There is now almost total breakdown of law and order. Armed robbery, kidnapping and other heinous crimes occur daily in every part of the country. The new additions introduced by religious fanatics – otherwise known as “Boko Haram”- has added a new dimension to insecurity. The question in everyone’s mind is, how did we degenerate to this horrible level and what is the way out?

The main duty of ensuring internal security in the country, as in all other countries of the world, is given exclusively to the Nigeria Police by Sect. 214 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

The Force is put “under the command of the Inspector General of Police and any contingent of the Nigeria Police Force stationed in a state shall, subject to the authority of the Inspector General of police, be under the command of the Commissioner of Police of that State“ (Sect. 215(2).

The direction which the President may give to the Inspector General is specified in Sect. 215 (3) of the Constitution. It is restricted to “such lawful directions with respect to the maintenance and security of public safety and public order as he may consider necessary…..” The Governor of a State is also empowered to give similar “lawful directions with respect to the maintenance and securing of public safety and public order within the State” to the Commissioner of Police in his State.

1999 Constitution T he

created two executive bodies to deal with police matters.

They are (i) the Nigeria Police Council, and (ii) the Police Service Commission (3rd Schedule Sections 27 and 29 respectively). During the military admin-

Continues on page 12

PAGE 12—SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014

Boko Haram’s days are numbered — Amb. Eke

By DOTUN IBIWOYE Amb. Solomon D.O Eke, a consultant on international intelligence and conflict resolution and President, National Liberational Democratic Task Force, a security organization which supported the West African multinational military outfit, ECOMOG, with intelligence on Liberia, Sierra Leone and other countries in the sub region, in this interview, speaks on Boko Haram and the country after 100 years of amalgamation. Excerpts:

A

s a security expert, what do you feel government can do to curb Boko Haram insurgency because people now feel the state of emergency declared in the three northern states is not having impact?

Looking into what is called state of emergency, I could have advised the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, the Senate and the House of Representatives to put heads together with the service chiefs to redesign the concept in the troubled states. It is not supposed to be a haphazard state of the emergency. I call for a full military declaration in the states.

This will help to curb the Boko Haram insurgency. When one takes a critical look at Boko Haram and analyze the insurgents actions, you will observe that north-

erners are not happy with the situation. Why must somebody who claim to be fighting for Allah and the Holy Quran go ahead to kill his brothers, sisters killing and innocent children?

I am not a Muslim, but I am so sure that there is no place in the Quran that asks them to slaughter innocent human beings, destroy cities or even disturb the peace of the country. It is evil men that sent them and is happy that the President is having sleepless nights over this issue. The enemy of progress is the opposition, the so-called mad politicians who want to use this opportunity to discredit this administration. The President is having sleepless nights over this issue. He is not resting; he is always bringing one idea or the other and he is making huge financial commitments. In this war

against terrorists, the strength and intelligence of the military cannot be over emphasized. The President is also calling on people in different parts of the world that could help, yet, people go about blackmailing him saying all sorts of things. During a conference recently, I told Nigerians that very soon, there will be no name again called Boko Haram in Nigeria.

The insurgents will surely be brought to judgment and those sponsoring them will have themselves to blame because they will be flushed out. Nigeria’s unity is not negotiable because I am an advocate of peace and unity.

So you mean politicians and sponsors of the insurgents will capitulate?

Imagine someone who is the chief executive officer of a state saying Boko Haram is better equipped than the army. Well, that is his own opinion. I am so sure he will eventually apologise because the army is highly equipped even more than any army in West Africa. I am so sure the army, in no distant time, will wipe out the insurgents and there will be victory parade. If you observe, in most guerilla warfare, the professional army will avoid as little civilian casualty as possible. This is what the army has been avoiding. Avoiding that does not mean they don’t have the strength, they don’t just want large civilian casualty. So they are using a tactic that is acceptable even to the international community and they will definitely succeed.

•Amb. Solomon D.O Eke Several Nigerians say the centenary was not worth celebrating.

They spoke against the backdrop of the security and socio-political situation in the country?

I want to put it this way, because the father does not have money does not prevent him from making arrangement for the children to celebrate during festive season or Christmas. This centenary celebration, no matter how we see it, is a glorious one. It is an inevitable celebration, no good leader will want to abort this kind of event. If you fail to do so, the land will ask him questions, the wind

that blows will question him also.

100 years go with a spiritual phenomenon. To any nation, that celebration stands like a sort of sacrifice that must be made. For 100 years to be a reality, there are things that are unavoidable.

There are certain celebrations that no matter what happens, you must do it. It is good to celebrate and to send a message to the world or any bad neighbour who does not wish Nigeria good. Despite all the problems we are facing as a nation, we are still able to celebrate 100 years.

be very detrimental to the corporate existence of the country. An example of the arbitrary roles now being played on some of our highways by some state or local government revenue taskforce officials despite directives barring them from carrying out such roles can be imagined if state police are constitutionally constituted.

Again the point must be clearly made that it is doubtful if any of the states as presently constituted is financially strong enough to set up and maintain an efficient police organization. The solution therefore is to decentralize the present Nigeria Police. The Civil Defence Corps should also be merged with the police. The most appropriate way of carrying out the decentralization is by recognizing the present six zones in the new Constitution. The police should then be deployed on zonal basis in such a way that the officers and rank and file in each zone should come from each zone.

Each Zonal Command should be under the command of a DIG who should also come from the zone.

The present constitutional roles of the Police Service Commission should be retained but with modification whereby that body should also be decentralized in such a way that each zone should have a sub-unit of the Commission which should be responsible

for the recruitment, promotion, discipline, etc of the police in its zone.

The Police Council should be made to play its constitutional roles while the

‘How President, Govs breach police rules’ Continued from page 11 istrations prior to the coming

into force of the 1999 Constitution, appointments, promotions, etc. into the Nigeria Police were made without any laid down principles.

The Force was by that means heavily distorted in that merit and competence were not strictly followed.

The effects of such deficiencies include indiscipline and low morale in the Force.

But only the Police Service Commission was constituted and made functional since the coming into force of the 1999 Constitution.

The Police Council created by the 1999 Constitution was not constituted as envisaged in the Constitution and as such the opportunity opened to the State Governors for inputs is not available to them.

All efforts made by the Police Service Commission to fully correct the rots and defects in the Force while there was no Commission met a brick wall; a large number of incompetent officers who had been promoted to very senior positions could not be removed by the Commission without running into serious political implications that would be read it. Many Governors, particularly from the South, were also dissatisfied with the fact that Commissioners of Police posted to their states were mainly from the North. The Police Service

Commission could not do much to correct the glaring anomaly in that promotions had to be mainly on seniority which had been distorted in favour of some zones in the country. However, a situation where the Commissioner of Police of a State is in open disagreement with the State Governor cannot be blamed on the President since he is not constitutionally responsible for appointing him for the State but the Police Service Commission who could re-deploy him if necessary.

Way Out of Insecurity State Police should be ruled out as a possible solution to the problem of insecurity in the country.

This is because doing that could lead to the breakup of the country.

Although the Constitution is clear that only the Nigeria Police should be the sole police organization permitted in the country, the provision of the Constitution has been breached by the Federal Government and some state governments under different guises. On the federal side, the setting up of the Civil Defence Corps who are now armed and without any defined roles given to them in the Constitution is not only illegal but also constitutes unnecessary proliferation of firearms. Some states have also set up illegal bodies and give them different names but made to per-

form some of the duties of the police. In some states, they are even made to enforce arbitrary religious laws. There is need to examine whatever defects that are in the operations of the Nigeria Police that led to the calls for state police.

The most glaring defect is in the over centralization of the command structure of the Force.

The present system of posting Commissioners of Police, other officers and ranks to the States from the centre makes the Governors uncomfortable and feel insecure. In many cases, policemen posted to a state do not speak the local languages in the area where they are to operate. Their ability to fully interact with the people therefore becomes an uphill task and that massively affects their effectiveness. Although they are not being given the opportunity of playing their constitutional roles as members of the Police Council, the Governors are now major contributors to the needs of the police units within their states while the votes of the police provided for by the National Assembly are wrongly passed on to dissipate exclusively by ‘Ministry of Police Affairs’ (instead of the Police Council) - a body not known or provided for in the Constitution, and without any input by the Governors.

The idea of state police should never be pursued as doing so will

Governors in each zone should be constituted into a Zonal Body of the Council whereby they could meet to discuss matters relating to the police units in their zone and chairmanship of such zonal council rotated among the Governors. The appointment of zonal DIGs should be made by the Central Police Service Commission but must be in consultation/recommendation with each zonal body while the promotions/appointments and postings of Commissioners of Police to each state should be made by the Zonal Police Service Commission in consultation with the Central Body.

Apart from the roles which zones are to play in police matters, it is also necessary to transfer some of the powers now being exercised at the federal level to the zones so as to reduce the over concentration of powers at the federal level.

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 13

NATIONAL CONFAB

fact, what was omitted in the speech was, in my view, much more important; the speech was not remarkable from what was avoided. For example, the issue of national security is missing.

The President did not care to mention it for delegates to address squarely whereas the issue is number one bedeviling Nigeria today. Second is the issue of national economy. ”In a nation where unemployment is so high that, for the sake of having a job, over 20 people died two weeks ago, it means that the President has not found a space to discuss the management of national economy, especially youth and graduate unemployment. And I find it disturbing that most of the delegates are here praising the President to high heavens in the expectation that, after the conference, as has been the usual practice in the past, some of them may be picked for ministerial appointments.

And that was what the former IGP and National Security Adviser, Alhaji Mohammed Gambo Jimeta, meant.

Everybody who stands to speak will praise the President for what he has not done. I that hypocritical.”

The ‘drum beaters and praise singers’

*A mix of patriots and stooges?

BY LEVINUS NWABUGHIOGU In their numbers, they poured encomiums on President Goodluck Jonathan and ignored the issues that brought them to the occasion.

Though their seeming sycophantic indulgence may stem from the courage displayed by Mr. President in putting the National Conference together, one felt so flabbergasted to see everyone become the President’s Man Friday such that, in quick succession, they devoted the three or more minutes allocated to them to comment on the President’s speech, eulogizing him to high heavens.

The conference, inaugurated on March 17 in Abuja, was three weeks old last week. And for the purpose of assimilation and accentuation, even though the idea was not populist amongst delegates, the conference, at its preliminary sessions, decided to deliberate on the inaugural speech of Jonathan before going into sensitive issues. Well thought out.

Understandably, everyone in the list of the 492 delegates was willy-nilly drafted into the dialogue. And so, from last Monday, the talks began.

From the left side of the hall to the right, down to the centre, they tried to outsmart each other in what may, to critical analysts, pass for mere grandstanding.

Yet again, they created impressions.

Both positive and negative.

It’s either they are patriots or stooges.

Again, it’s either they are sincere or selfish.

Many who had followed events in Nigeria knew that before the announcement, in his October 1, 2013 independence speech, to convoke a National Conference, the President had pooh-pood the idea of a conference. But suddenly, Nigerians saw a President who changed his mind and was now disposed to a national dialogue.

He was later to nominate several delegates representing various platforms and interest groups at the conference.

Thus, a good number of men and women were nominated as Federal Government delegates. Others are elder statesmen also nominated by the President. Many others came from

his loyalist-governors. Some independentminded persons made the list and so, the conference, to many people, is a gathering of stooges and patriots.

Comment of some of the delegates read: “This is the best speech of Mr. President ever”; “I commend Mr. President for this singular move to save the nation from breaking apart”; “ I salute Mr. President’s courage in convening this conference;” “Mr. President means well for this country;” “Mr. President will continue to rule this country,” etcetera.

At the last count on Thursday before it adjourned plenary till tomorrow, Monday, only two hundred and something delegates had spoken – that’s about half of the conferees. It therefore means that the whole of next week or beyond may still be another period of praise-singing.

’Great disservice’

Apparently dissatisfied with the encomiums continuously poured on the President, Alhaji Mohammed Gambo Jimeta, an Adamawa state delegate, took a detour.

He advised his fellow delegates to show moral courage in pointing out the mistakes of Jonathan rather than praising him. He said that praising him would amount to a great disservice to the President.

According to Jimeta, a former Inspector General of Police (IGP) and National Security Adviser (NSA), Jonathan’s speech, like any other President’s speech, was a conversation between the President of a country and the citizens.

Submitting that most Presidents do have their speeches written by exceptional speech writers to make it sound interesting, the Adamawa elder statesman said that speeches don’t usually reflect the leaders minds, charging the delegates to show courage in telling leaders the home truth especially when they do wrong.

“One of the greatest disservice you can do to your head of state is to praise him when you should tell him what he has done. The President’s speech, particularly in this case, is just ordinary interaction with the citizens. We could bring out very fundamental issues and ask him to do something about it, legally though,” he stated.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please, let’s us display moral courage and ensure that we are not drum beaters and singers. We should be able to tell our head of state the truth and point out to him where he’s wrong. That’s the only way we can help the nation.” Earlier in the day, Engr.

Abubakar Buba Galadima, a delegate from Yobe State, had also criticized the

conference, saying Jonathan’s speech was one of the speeches of a leader, adding that the problems of Nigeria were known to everyone and as such there was no need gathering to discuss it.

“The address of Mr. President, as laudable as many people have said, to me, it is one of the speeches of leaders. I have been one of the critics of this conference, may be that was why when my state submitted my name, the Federal Government found it expedient to remove it,” he said.

“Well, we are here. We all know the problems of Nigeria. We don’t need to assemble here spend so much for such a gathering. Where is the power of the people? I could have continued for hours and hours. This is why I have no paper.”

Conference uneventful —Junaid Mohammed

Meanwhile, another critic of the

,,

P

raising President Goodluck Jonathan by delegates to the National Conference in their opening statements has triggered the question on their sincerity.

Presidential speech is a precursor—Bode George Chief Bode George, a delegate at the conference, however, disagreed with his critical colleagues. He said comments on the speech were meant to water the ground ahead of the committees stage of the conference. ”Normally, when you have this kind of conference, it is like an x-ray of your country. The President has itemized the road map. He listed all those perennial problems that we have been going through as a precursor to the various committees that will be set up. It makes a lot of sense for us to be on the same page. What I mean by that is that he has told us that, first of all, the divisibility of this country is a no-go area.

Secondly, he mentioned fiscal federalism, ethnicity, religion, those things that have plagued us. You know every body will not be in the same committee. So, people are now ventilating their bottled up issues.

Because when you get back to you committees, those talks, people who are

Let’s us display moral courage and ensure that we are not drum beaters and singers. We should be able to tell our head of state the truth and point out to him where he’s wrong.

That’s the only way we can help the nation

conference, who is a delegate from Kano State, Alhaji Junaid Mohammed, has found an expression for the three weeks old conference. To him, the conference has been uneventful.

Mohammed took a swipe at some delegates whom he said have become lackeys of the President. ”So far, the conference has been uneventful. It has been interesting, occasionally stormy but in terms of dealing with substantial issues, in terms of discussing the destiny of Nigeria, it has been monumentally anti-climax,” he told Sunday Vanguard. ”Delegates have been falling over themselves to praise the President for convening the conference and to praise for a speech which I regard, at best, average. If you know how these speeches by heads of government are drafted,they are normally the work of small to medium level officers and the only thing the senior officers care to do is to make sure that the facts are right.

Otherwise, most of the styles of writing, most of the language are the language you pick on the pages of newspapers. ”I personally did not find anything interesting in the President’s speech. In

not members of your committees, having heard, will take them up. So, those issues you will never know about had been said,” George told Sunday Vanguard. ”People are not eulogizing the President per se. But they are saying the fact that he had the mind and the gut to say yes, ‘let’s talk about our country, this is centenary, we are 100 years, we don’t have time... let’s discuss it’.

“There is no President anywhere in the world that will have the time to sit down and write his own speech, physical writing. What he does, he sits down with his people and tells them these are the things I wanna talk about.”

What to expect this week Since comments on the President’s speech have not been exhausted, it is obvious they will continue this week.

Until all the delegates have spoken, it is most unlikely that the conference would go into the main business. But then, you can trust that with the advice from the trio of Jimeta, Galadima and Mohammed, a little bit of sycophantic comments might drop off. Only time will tell, anyway.

PAGE 14—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

NATIONAL CONFAB

The problem with Prof. Nwabueze,

by Goody Uwazurike C

How do you describe the proceedings so far?

So far so good. We had our teething problems as expected of a body that is not a standing one. Remember it is adhoc because we were created to do some things which we all came from different backgrounds to do. In other words, from our different backgrounds, we have to reach out to do set out the rules, the work plan and so on. These have taken our first two weeks and I will say we have not done badly. We have resolved the issue of voting percentage. This is actually the most trying one we have had so far. I will say we are on the right track.

There is the insinuation that the conference is a waste of time in the light of the fact that we had some previous conferences without fruitful results?

Whoever is saying that is being uncharitable. In any case, the person has no sense of history. In history, all these talk shops had given rise to the next line of action. Let me drag you a little further. In invention, when they were trying to fly the first aircraft, eminent professors of physics came out and declared that nothing heavier than air will ever. But today we know that we have gone beyond that. In 1994/95, we also had a conference.

People said it was a talk shop. It was this, it was that. That it was just nonsense. One of the things that came out of that conference is that today we look up to six zones in this country Yet people do not think it was possible.

Obasanjo’s own raised a number of issues. Obasanjo’s 2005 conference was not conclusive in the sense that issue of whether Obasanjo will run for third term or not disrupted the trend of movement. But not this time. Here, President Jonathan has his right to look for second term. It is not even an issue here. Support for Jonathan is not an issue. What are the issues: governance, cost of governance, the judiciary, the political system and equation, women’s rights, the rights of everybody, creation of states, issues of local government. These are the issues in the front burner. Since they are in the front burner, these issues are germane to the future of this country. So, if you talking of what next, no body will ignore the outcome of this conference.

Because everything will be sent verbatim to Mr. President. It goes to C M Y K

is wrong. The military caused most of our problems and they are here too.

Another controversial issue is referendum. Government appears slightly undecided over it. Delegates themselves are also divided on what to do with the outcome of the conference.

What do you think?

Well, Mr. President set us up. When we are through with our deliberations, we have only one job: hand over the report to Mr. President. Now, he will decide what he wants to do. He has some options. He may decide to sit down and suppress it for which he will risk the anger of the people or most likely, he will take it and present it to the National Assembly as an Executive Bill. Now, what Mr. President said about referendum is that the amended constitution being proposed by the National Assembly, there is a provision for referendum.

In all future amendments of the constitution and that this one we are doing here will fall squarely into that and when he presents it to the National Assembly; of course part of the process is referendum.

nation. There should an abolition of the dichotomy of you are from here, you are not from here.

Professor Ben Nwabueze, a legal luminary, elder statesman and leader of The Patriots, in a nut shell, summarized what is going on here as a waste of time. Most people are tempted to say, given his antecedents in constitutional matters and law, an elder statesman man who knows it all has spoken. Would you dismiss or welcome his submission?

I will not dismiss his submission but I will also remind you of what you said now: “An elder statesman who knows it all.” That is the problem. No body knows it all. In the case of Professor Nwabueze, we have always called him the Oracle of Law. And as the Oracle of Law, we pay attention whenever he speaks. We analyse everything he says and he is somebody I have the highest regard for. As the President of Aka Ikenga, he knows how we feel about him. We did our 10th anniversary, he was there as guest speaker. I still hold him in highest regard but there are so many issues he is canvassing that I am not comfortable with. When this issue of advisory panel for this conference came up, he was there. He was nominated. But he declined on the grounds of ill health. So, we lamented, ‘oh, we have lost a great mind’. But shortly after, he formed The Concerned Igbo Leaders of Thought. Then we had about five meetings in all. Suddenly, it became very active. He would choose a delegate and the end of the day, he light of day. With such question mark, You are an Igbo man. What are the didn’t choose a delegate. He was do you think Nigeria will make any Igbo bringing to the table at the going to tell us the Igbo position and, progress having these people in the conference? at the end of the day, no body said ongoing conference? anything. Delegates had been chosen, The Igbo of the South-east, because we the Igbo position we already had it.

Well, there are so many people. Some have the Igbo of the south-south, the were here in the 1950s, at least I know Igbo of the South-east, are here in full, Several meetings we have been holding and today he describes those one person who was already in the of course led by Senator Ike Nwachuk- meetings as a waste of time. Well, he is parliament that time. In 60s, a couple wu. We have the president of Ohaentitled to his opinion. of them. In the 70s, many of them. naeze, remember Ohaneze covers We also have other legal luminaries.

Then in 80s and 90s, you also still find South-east and South-south. But the We have other people who have been some of them. Today, we have those south east delegation alone is led by ministers. Like Nwabueze was a who were born after some of them had Senator Ike Nwachukwu. Now, the minister too. We don’t even remember stopped being governors. They are Igbo in the South-south also have their it. He was a Minister of Education. We here. You have those who are in their leaders. The things we are bringing are have great authors like him. We have 20s who were born probably when many. One of them is equity and Abacha was in power or when Shone- fairness. That us what we are demand- leaders. The President of Ohanaeze, Chief Gary Igarowo, is here. So, there kan was in power. There are so many ing in this country. You can’t have is no way anybody can ever describe who were born when Babangida was South-east with five states, North-west what is going on here as a waste of in power. with seven states, all the other zones time or nonsense. We have just comThey are all here because from the six states. Of course, we are looking menced. You don’t even know where experience of different people we must forward to true federalism. we are going. You don’t even know harness some things we must use and What’s the point in all kinds of local how far we will go, you are describing work with. The man who I know was governments with 1,000 names when, in his 50s will tell you what happened in fact, there is no body there. Based on it as nonsense.

That is being uncharitable. That is when they went for various conferenc- that you collect all kinds of unfair being petty. It is not necessary. All you es. Now, you talk of those who were allocations. We are not interested in have to do is to keep our fingers there in the 60s, they will tell you what local government being the creation of led to civil war. We must harness from the constitution; it is true federalism we crossed. We have even asked the each and everyone of them in his own are asking for. The structure of govern- public to submit memoranda. Let him support his own. He can even say this experience. I am tempted to describe it ment we are asking for today is that as the good, the bad and the ugly. But there will be federal government, there nonsense and we will still consider it.

There are 492 of us here from different they must come together for us to will be state government. Local govern- backgrounds, from different ethnic choose what is good. And, believe me, ment is the business of the state groups representing different profesthose who were there in the 50s are government. Of course in this country, sional groups. As far as we are conworried more than us about the future we are asking for reduction of the cost cerned, we are here for a serious of this country. So to just wave them of governance. We are asking for the business and we will stick to the aside and say they caused the problem right of residency in any part of the serious business.

,,

Goody Uwazurike hief Goody Uwazurike is the President of Aka Ikenga, the think-tank of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo. A lawyer, he is also a delegate to the on going National Conference in Abuja. In this interview,with LEVINUS NWABUCHIOGU he reacts to Professor Ben Nwabueze’s position on the conference, describing it as petty.

him then it goes to all the principal officers of this country.

As germane as these issues are, they have been enveloped by issues of ethnicity and religion. And we see them here playing out.

In every gathering, the issue of religion and ethnicity must play out unless you have taken a decision to push it away from the front burner. In Nigeria, we have kept ethnicity and religion in the front burner, therefore, those two must rear their heads and these two issues are among the issues to be handled by 20 committees, so that we have to find a way to manage ourselves in religious and ethnic matters. That is why we have the six zones based on ethnic nationalities. It is there. We also have the two principal religions: Christianity and Islam producing people. So , it will always be there. Let’s make no mistakes about it.

Many delegates made allusions to the fact that some people amongst them are cause of Nigeria’s numerous problems as they had participated in post conferences that didn’t see the

I still hold him in highest regard but there are so many issues he is canvassing that I am not comfortable with

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 15

INTERVIEWS BY OKEY NDIRIBE

negotiate our unity; not towards disintegration but towards building a lasting country.

I know countries that refused to discuss their unity. They have already disappeared.

But in a country like Ethiopia where the differences of the nationalities which make up that country were discussed, their unity was strengthened and they eventually adopted a constitution which endorsed the rights of the component nationalities to self-determination up to the point of secession. Yet, nobody has attempted to use that clause in Ethiopia. It is better for us to discuss in an open manner without inhibitions. I would like to convince other delegates that the path to follow is the path of true federalism.

The preamble to the 1999 Constitution which states that

I

think this is a make or mar conference for Nigeria. I appeal to all delegates to understand the urgency of this period. Our country is falling apart. We need to put things right. Nobody should come to this conference with any sense of arrogance. We must not negotiate out of fear.

We must come as equal partners to the Nigerian project and shed all our prejudices. We should focus on how to build a country that works; a country where human life is not cheap as it is now. For now, Nigeria is not just in a state of war; we are at war. This is because if you look at the number of corpses we pack every day, it has surpassed that of Afghanistan and Iraq. In those countries, we hardly hear of 100 or 200 deaths in a day. We must find a lasting solution to the problems of this country. We should adopt an attitude of give and take, not my way or their way. An attitude of my way or their way will not solve the problems of this country.

Let us come to the conference table as brothers and consider the interest of Nigeria. Let us find ways and means of building a united and equitable country based on a foundation of justice.

I came to this conference as a federalist. I would be pushing a federalist agenda. It is only

Y

NATIONAL CONFAB

This will make or mar Nigeria — Odumakin a true federalism arrangement that can get this country out of the woods. We have travelled on the wrong path for a long time. There is no way you can run a country like Nigeria

which has a multi-ethnic composition as a unitary state.

That is the problem we are having now. We need to deamalgamate. Amalgamation means that you cobbled

entities together without looking at the content or properties of what you are amalgamating. This time around, we must sit down as the nationalities of Nigeria to

Job creation, unfettered students union, loans top students agenda

inka Gbadebo, Presi dent, National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, speaks on students agenda at the National Conference.

We are here to present issues that affect Nigerian students and youths in general. First and foremost, it is pathetic that we have students of polytechnics and colleges of education staying at home for almost eight months due to a prolonged strike by their academic staff.

So, one of the

Yinka Gbadebo

major issues we are going to table before this conference is that of finding a lasting solution to strikes in higher institutions of learning in Nigeria.

I believe that this conference can find a lasting solution to that problem.

Another issue which we want to present before this conference for endorsement is the Nigeria Students Union Bill which will ensure that students unionism in our tertiary institutions is made compulsory. When you are talking about the National Conference, it is supposed to discuss the future of this country. Future leaders of this country are supposed to be groomed through the leadership roles they play in the students unions of tertiary institutions. But what we have across the country today is that the culture of students unionism has been bastard-

ized by the authorities because they feel they don’t need anybody to challenge them.

This is the reason in over 60 percent of the tertiary institutions we have across the country today, we don’t have democratically elected students unions. What we have all over the place are transition committees and students representative councils had picked by the authorities. Such unelected students representatives always end up dancing to the tune of the authorities that appointed them. We also want this bill to be passed by the National Assembly.

Another issue we want this conference to consider is that of granting interest-free loans to indigent students who cannot afford to pay the exorbitant fees charged by tertiary institutions today. Most tertiary institutions in the country have told us in very clear terms that education is not cheap. If education is not cheap, then the nation ought to assist indigent students have access to qual-

ity education. When we have interest free loans that can be accessible by indigent students to pursue their education in tertiary institutions, I think we would be getting close to the promised land as far as the future of Nigeria is concerned.

We would also present the issue of unemployment before this conference. The rate of unemployment has become so high that you have up to 70,000 people assembling here in Abuja for a job test that ended up in a stampede where we lost seven youths. That bill that was presented to the National Assembly to ensure that every graduate is employed would have to be reconsidered. If government is not yet sure of how to provide jobs for graduates, then it must evolve a scheme whereby every unemployed graduate is paid a minimum stipend of maybe N20,000 per month.

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Yinka Odumakin, the Publicity Secretary of Afenifere Renewal Group and a delegate, speaks on National Conference.

We need to deamalgamate.

Amalgamation means that you cobbled entities together without looking at the content or properties of what you are amalgamating

the people of Nigeria adopted that document is false. The constitution lied against itself and that is perjury. So, the constitution lied on oath.

Nigerians were never involved in the making of that constitution. We knew how that constitution was imposed on the nation.

Former military Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha organised a Constitutional Conference which produced a report. He set up another body which reviewed the report of the Constitutional Conference.

One of his ministers called Yadudu did his own review.

When former President Olusegun Obasanjo came on board, he did his own review. As at the day Obasanjo was sworn in, in 1999, he had not even seen a clean copy of that constitution. Even after Obasanjo had been sworn in, they still secretly amended the constitution. The people of Nigeria were never involved. The constitution was promulgated into law through Decree 24 of 1999. To me, the 1999 constitution is a military decree. It is not an autochthonous constitution. It is only if we rise from this conference and produce a constitution which goes through a referendum, that the preamble could truly state that the people of Nigeria have adopted the document.

PAGE 16— SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

Youths expectations from conference — NYCN leader

Y

akubu Shendam, National President, National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, speaks on youths agenda. One of the issues we want to present before this conference is unemployment.

Today, about 25 percent of the nation’s population predominantly made up of youths are unemployed.

However, this situation is not the making of the present administration.

The situation has persisted for a long time. Unemployment is a global phenomenon; it exists even in developed economies like Britain and America. We want this conference to tackle the issue of unemployment in the country.

Those who are saying that the present administration is not working are people who lack knowledge. Yes, the government is supposed to create the

enabling environment to provide jobs.

The government alone cannot provide jobs. Government convened this conference so that we can discuss areas in which we have problems in this country. We are here to identify the areas where we have failed so that we can make amends. ”We need to emphasise that the unity of this country is not negotiable. We must all put our hands together to

build this country because we don’t have any other country. Those who are calling for secession should go to South Sudan and see what is happening there. Southern Sudan which only recently broke away from Sudan does not yet have peace. We must look at the remote and immediate causes of our problems. By the time we discuss all these problems, I am sure this country would come out better.”

Let’s go back to the 1963 Constitution — Ezike I

Ibuchukwu Ezike

buchukwu Ezike is the Executive Director, Civil Liberties Organisation, CLO. He, along with three others was nominated by the South-East Coalition of Civil Society Groups, made up of over 70 civil society organisations that met in Enugu to nominate four delegates to the confab . His position on the exercise: My expectations from the National Conference are not different from those of the majority of the Nigerian people. I expect that after this conference we would have a brand new constitution that would establish clear relationships between the various ethnic groups that make up Nigeria. I also want a constitution that would provide justice, equity and fairness for the people and cause the socio-economic rights of Nigerians to become justifiable.I want a constitution that would ensure that the people would go to bed and sleep without hunger ; that would ensure that Nigerians are not

denied access to education, healthcare, housing and good roads.

I want a constitution that would give Nigerians access to those things that make life livable. I would like the Nigerian working class to earn a living wage and not a starvation wage. There was never a time the Nigerian people sat together to give themselves a constitution apart from the Independence and Republican Constitutions of 1960 and 1963. The 1999 Constitution was actually Decree 24 of 1999 which was written by former military Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha, and his lieutenants. It is not an autochtonous constitution that came from the views and positions of the Nigerian people.

The Nigerian people, especially the Igbo nation where I come from are of the view and very strongly so, that going back to the 1963 Constitution which provides for stronger federating units and a loose federation is the best for the country because it

would enable the citizens to own their resources. This would ensure that the federating units would have enough resources to run their societies and only pay tax to the Federal Government.

I think the exclusive list of the new constitution should include things like foreign affairs, armed forces and police. Other items of governance should go to the regions. The regions should have more responsibilities than the Federal Government because that is where majority of the people live. Government is actually about the security and welfare of the people. So, if you are talking about providing amenities to serve the majority of the people, it is the regional, state and local governments that should have the responsibilities.

Since it is in the regions that the people live and the bulk of the resources needed for running the country come from them, they should have more responsibilities.

D’Banj goes into farming, asks youths to join him

BY VICTORIA OJEME

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IGERIAN pop music star, Dapo Daniel Oyebanjo, popularly known as D, Banj, has unveiled a campaign to encourage popular participation in agriculture, under the theme, “ Do Agric, It Pays”.

The AU has declared 2014 as the Year of Agriculture and Food Security, and leaders are expected to review their agricultural investment commitments at the next AU Summit in June 2014 in Equatorial Guinea.

D’ Banj, the face of the campaign and a successful agribusiness personage under the name of KOKO Farms, who spoke at the launch of the campaign in Abuja, said agriculture, like the fast growing Nigeria music scene, needs to be taken seriously , because of the expected high yield returns on investment.

“Several years ago, when we sought to enter the music industry in Nigeria, we met with a lot of resistance because the public thought music could not be profitable. Today, musicians are well paid and well respected,” he said. “ In the same way, we have identified a much greater resource in agriculture,

and I am confident that the youths of Nigeria and Africa will join us in exploiting the vast gains that lie in that field. We want to be known as the ‘Do Agric Generation’, and it starts with youths like me”.

He therefore called on Nigerian youths to, “ join me in asking our gov-

ernment to treat this issue urgently to treble the current levels of investments in Agriculture targeted at youth and small holder farmers so that we all have a chance to compete globally.”

In his remarks, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, noted that agriculture in

Nigeria had for long been a hidden gem “ for sustainable wealth creation in Nigeria and Africa. While other industries are dwindling in comparison, agriculture remains a viable investment frontier, which government remains committed to unlocking for the continent’s young entrepreneurs.”

Women disorder worries experts

BY VICTORIA OJEME

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EDICAL experts raised the alarm over an increasing condition in women known as endometriosis which causes unbearable pain during menstrual cycle but wrongly diagnosed by most doctors.

The condition, which affects one in every ten women, is sometimes mistaken for other forms of infection or fibroids by medical personnel, making treatment options very difficult and painful for the patient.

Speaking at the ‘Million Woman March for Endometriosis’, the Medical Director of Nordica Fertility Centre, Dr Abayomi

Ajayi, pointed out that the wrongful diagnosis of the condition is not limited to the developing countries but also rampant developed countries where it takes 6- 10 years to get the right diagnosis.

“Diagnosing it is very difficult as it is made by a surgical procedure known as laproscopy,” he said, adding it’s a condition sufferers have to manage throughout life.

According to him, most hospitals do not have the equipment to diagnose the condition neither do they have the expertise to handle the women who show up with it.

Earlier in his remarks, Prof. Oladipo Ladipo, described endometriosis as one

of the most challenging gynaecological problems he ever encountered in his more than 35 years of clinical experience.

He tasked government to invest in public education and advocacy to pharmaceutical companies who in turn will come up drugs to reduce the pain.

At the forum, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, called for a yearly national consultative forum to enable health experts brainstorm on challenges in the sector. He said a coalition on these challenges would help to improve health outcomes in the country. The senator noted that several challenges and lack of funding in the country tend to allow issues to be ignored.

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PPA AGE 17

ABUJA ROADS:

Harvest of accidents, deaths

By FAVOUR NNABUGWU

UP & DOWN: Typical Abuja accident scenes

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OAD accidents do not just happen, they are caused.

Given the fact that Nigeria has the highest road accidents rate as well as the largest number of deaths per 10,000 vehicles, one may be tempted to believe that the level of awareness on the causes of road traffic accidents is very low among Nigerians.

Accidents in developing nations account for 50 percent of the world’s road traffic but 90 percent of the traffic fatalities.

among the best and widest in the country with 10 lanes.

Many Abuja motorists are ignorant of the dangers associated with smooth roads and therefore have little consideration for safety, hence avoidable accidents are commonplace. For this reason, officials of FRSC have stationed their ambulances at some locations along the expressway.

The Abuja-LugbeGwagwalada Road, also being rehabilitated, is another blood sucker. When completed, it may rank among one of the best in the country. Many reckless drivers have met their deaths on that road, while several others have sustained critical injuries as a result of deadly accidents.

A green-and-white taxi sped through the road intersection, ignoring the traffic police officers there and narrowly missing an ash KIA jeep. A policewoman on

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Nigeria has the worst driving record in Africa: nearly 34 deaths for every 100,000 residents, according to a 2013 World Health Organization report.

Nigeria also has one of the highest road traffic crash records in the world with the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, scoring the highest.

The killer metal is our most necessary accessory, the essential thing that gets us from here to there: the motorized vehicle. Speed limits in Abuja appear to be viewed as mere suggestions, lanes are flexible, driving against traffic is routine, and if you are caught, a little money can save you all the troubles.

In 2012 alone, a total of 4,260 deaths were recorded on Nigerian roads; an average of 12 persons daily and 20,752 injured translating to an average of 69 persons daily; 48,114 persons were involved in 6,269 documented cases.

The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) data shows that FCT tops the list of road accidents in the country in the third quarter of 2013. A total of 3,247 road traffic accidents were recorded nationwide during the period with 1,533 deaths and 8,710 injuries. Of that figure, FCT recorded 176 crashes.

Some roads in the FCT are notorious for deadly accidents. Abuja-KubwaZuba Expressway tops the list. The road under reconstruction, when completed, will likely be

counterpart will shout ‘Wawa’ meaning fool while the Igbo man would impulsively yell ‘Onyeara’ meaning ‘mad person’.

As each day breaks in the nation’s capital, traffic officers, the police, the FRSC, and the Vehicle Inspection Officers, VIOs, prepare for infractions on Abuja roads.

The FRSC blames most of the accidents in the FCT on over speeding and tendencies of drivers to break the rules.

A private car owner says it is not just about drivers not observing the rules. The truth, he observes, is that most of them do not even know the rules. “How many of our road drivers go to driving schools before getting their driver’s licenses? To tell the truth, even me I had not perfected my driving ability when I got my driver ’s license”, he

The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) data shows that FCT topped the list of road accidents in the country in the third quarter of 2013 duty screamed at the errant driver as he stepped on the turtle and zoomed off. The traffic officer glared helplessly at the disappearing vehicle, powerless to do anything no ticket, no fine, nothing for reckless drivers who routinely act as though the law does not apply to them.

The slightest brush with the reckless Abuja taxi-driver will elicit “Wèrè!” (the word means lunatic in Yoruba language), his Hausa

explains.

The Federal Government has endorsed various policies to deal with the menace of unqualified drivers yet the same government has consistently fallen short on enforcement while people seem to always find a way around the system.

One of the most recent accidents in Abuja claimed the life of a woman, identified as Deaconess Ngozi Ike, 39, and a mother of five, who was crushed by a truck which suffered brake failure.

Another victim, Mrs Rose Awhia, aged 52 and mother of two, who, perhaps missed her way and, instead of driving a stretch to turn, chose to drive against traffic on the speed lane when a Toyota Hilux van, on speed, had a head-on collision with her car. Though the impact was more on the Hilux van and the two persons inside it, the woman died before medical attention could get to her while her sister survived.

What many motorists fail to understand is that vehicles are designed for maximum loads. It is, therefore, not surprising that when subjected to stress above the loads, accelerated wear and tear set in on the vehicles.

The net effect is deterioration in the condition of the vehicles which may result in accidents.

A police officer, who explained the possible scenarios in the accident that killed Mrs Awhia, said two things could have happened if the Hilux man had tried to avoid a head on collision with the woman’s car.

One:the Hilux could have somersaulted on sudden application of the break leading to worse fatality for the driver and passenger.

Two: The Hilux could have caused multiple accidents if the driver had stopped suddenly as vehicles behind could have rammed in a chain into one another and caused more deaths.

Above all, traffic laws are promulgated by legislators who seek to protect all users of the road network. In order for the laws to have the desired effects, they must be enforced by the various law enforcement agencies fairly and justly. Experience has shown that in states where enforcement has been adequately provided for in all its ramifications, road traffic accidents have been reduced.

PAGE 18— SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

BY LUKA BINNIYAT, Kaduna

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‘Ancestral land of Fulani’ In a press statement by the Mobgal Fulbe Development Association, Kaduna State branch, signed by its Secretary, Ahmad Yandeh, the search by the Army was an infringement on the liberty and right of the Fulani on their ancestral homes of Ladduga.

“This association wishes to condemn in totality the attitude of the security operatives who invaded Ladduga this morning without recourse to the law. . . in the end they arrested over 20 people without giving any reason for their arrest and without informing their family members where they were taking them. . .”, the association stated.

“It is noteworthy that the Fulani of southern part of Kaduna State are bonafide indigenes of southern Kaduna and not settlers and have been living there from time immemorial pre-dating all other tribes claiming indigeneship.

Our people cannot and will not leave and abandon their ancestral home (Ladduga).

Anybody or group of persons thinking otherwise is only daydreaming and deceiving himself”.

‘Absolute, arrant arrogance’ On his part, Dr. Zwahu Bonnat, a former history lecturer with the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, and Chairman, Southern Kaduna Peoples’ Union (SOKAPU) Development Forum, alleged that the Fulani were lying about Ladduga.

Zwahu, now Principal Research Consultant, Centre for Population and Development, Kaduna, said the Fulani came down from the Futa Djallon

FULANI HERSDMEN...Are they behind killings?

Arms haul in Kaduna controversial village

mountains of Guinea and Senegal to southern Kaduna only after the Othman Dan Fodio jihad of the 19th century.

Said Bonnat to Sunday Vanguard in his office in Kaduna: “That is a lie, that claim by the Fulbe, or Fulani. An average Nigerian knows that the Fulani left Guinea and Senegal, their ancestral homes, between the 17th and 18th century. The Fulani were a formidable part of the ancient Songhai Empire, and were never anywhere in the present Nigeria state. We in the Middle Belt started our contact with them around the 19th century. Even during the Dan Fodiio jihad, most of our communities had never seen the Fulani before.

“And it must be stated that every Fulani who had a straw hut to live with his family and herded his cows was always given that piece of land by a particular family under the consent of the community”. The SOKAPU leader explained that no Fulani just came, found a place and started living on it. “Since they are nomadic in nature, they migrate between the rainy and dry season. Yes, some of them do settle to the extent that they built mud houses, and even modern houses in southern Kaduna today. But, every Fulani person in southern Kaduna is a settler and has no right to claim it as his ancestral land. That would be absolute arrant arrogance”, he stressed.

Bonnat pointed out that the claim by the Mobgal Fulbe Development Association that Laduga is their ancestral home, including the entire southern

Kaduna, would not surprise him as it is a measurement of their education, and also the extent they will go to lie in other to grab people’s land.

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N the morning of last Monday, troops from One Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, landed at Ladduga village, the only settlement of Fulani in southern Kaduna. They cordoned off the place and carried out a house-to–house search. According to the Army, it recovered a haul of weaponry and arrested 18 suspects.

Ladduga is a controversial reserve located on large pristine woodland served by perennial streams and rich fodder for grazing in the heart of Ikulu land, about 100 kilometers south of Kaduna metropolis.

Some natives of southern Kaduna alleged that the village is a safe haven for Fulani militants suspected to be involved in the bloody raids of their communities since the 2011 post-election violence, a charge rebutted by the Fulani of Ladduga.

But, after the Monday search, the spokesman for One Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Col. Usman Abdul, said that several weapons were discovered in Ladduga and that 18 persons were arrested in connection with the arms.

That claim by the Army set the tone for a bitter controversy about the real ownership of Ladduga, and the propriety of the search.

Some natives of southern Kaduna alleged that the village is a safe haven for Fulani militants suspected to be involved in the bloody raids of their communities since the 2011 post-election violence

‘Land owned

by Ikulus’ “The Ladduga cattle grazing reserve is in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State. It is on Ikulu land. What happened was that the Fulani specifically requested for it, and they were granted 30,000 hectares of the land covering mainly Ikulu villages, though other tribes also ceded their land”, the SOKAPU leader

stated. He went on: Villagers were displaced, but never paid any form of compensation. And according to grazing reserve law, as long as no compensation is paid to the owners of the acquired land, the land still belongs to the original owners.

Ladduga was created in 1988.

The Fulani moved in there in 1991. It was in 1996 that Kaduna State government gazetted Ladduga. “Majority of the people in Ladduga came there in 2011 after the post-election violence.

And since the Ikulu natives have not been compensated by government, they have been insisting that the expansion of the reserve from 30,000 hectares to 70,000 hectares is official stealing of their land. They have written several petitions to government about this. And correspondence between them and government shows that government is begging them to be patient. If the Ikulu people did not return to their land, it could at best be said that Ladduga belongs to Kaduna State government, not Fulani. Because even some of the terms in the grazing reserve law makes it clear that the owners of the land, not Fulani, were to harvest all the cash trees there. So, in what way did Ladduga become an ancestral land of the Fulani?

“Ladduga has become a dangerous place not only to southern Kaduna but to all travellers along Kachia – Kaduna axis because of the robbery there.

“The discovery of weapons by soldiers in Fulani homes and the arrest of the suspects just confirmed what the people of

southern Kaduna have been saying about Ladduga.

“There was this obituary of a Fulani man in his 80s in Ladduga. In the announcement, it was said that the man was buried in Ladduga ‘the land of his birth’. So you can see the ruse displayed by these people. This is a wild, and false claim that can easily be rubbished even by our youths in their 30s.

‘We’ll resist action on cattle grazing reserve’ “Government does know what it is doing; if not, how can they contemplate creating grazing reserve for nomadic pastoralists like the Fulani in the 21st century?

“Look at it this way - the Fulani, not the Hausa, are all over the Middle Belt killing and destroying villages with feeble attempt by the Federal Government at stopping them. It does indeed look like it is a deliberate attempt to reward them with Middle Belt land as a way of appeasing them.

“I want to say that every community in the Middle Belt will resist to the last the grabbing of their land to be allocated to violent people. The reward for mass murder of people cannot be grazing reserve for the Fulani.

The Fulani know where they come from, and should go back, if they would not respect the right of their hosts to live in peace.

“If not, government should find ways of helping them in modern ranching at other places, not nomadic pastoralism, which is an index of backwardness world wide. No group of humans do that these days”.

SUND AY SUNDA

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

‘Defecting PDP senators’ and their tormentors

either anti-PDP or anti-government through point of order. However, the 11 ‘defectors’ may, within them, be in appreciation to the Senate President for, at least, saving them from the trauma of the Justice Ademola Adeniyi judgment, whether rightly or wrongly delivered.

Third term saga resonates

The Senate was, on Wednesday, divided over the proposal by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Constitutional Review and Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, on the The Federal High Court proposal that the Presidency should be given judgment which advised the 37 powers to initiate constitutional amendment.

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, While some senators argued that it was a ploy members in the House of by the Presidency to have its way after the NaRepresentatives who defected tional Conference to come up with a referendum, to the opposition All Progresothers expressed the fear that it was a subtle sives Congress, APC, brought attempt to allow the Presidency usurp the funchumour in the Senate, on tions of the legislature.

Tuesday, when two PDP To some senators, it was another attempt to senators who are the ‘tormencome from the back door to smuggle ‘toxic’ items tors-in-chief ” of the opposition into the constitution that would only be to the senators called on their 11 colleagues who had advantage of the executive. submitted a notice letter to the Senate President, Ekweremadu, in the proposal, wanted the David Mark, for their defection to the APC to come amendment of Section 3 (b) of Clause 2 of the up with the letter again.

The two journalists turned politicians, who seem Fourth Alteration Bill dealing with how a new to be the PDP hatchet men in the red chamber and constitution can be processed, adding that Section 9 of the First Alteration Bill provided for how a headache to the APC, Senator Ayogu Eze and new constitution can come into being through the Senator Smart Adayemi, on sighting some of the National Assembly. ‘defectors’ on the floor of the Senate before the He said the aim of the plenary commenced, immediately called them to insertion was to make raise their defection issue so that their letter provision for the President would be read. in addition to the National As the drama, which attracted laughter across party divide, was going on, Senator Bukola Saraki, Assembly to initiate the process of a new constituwho is the arrow head of the 11 ‘defectors’, sauntered in. Ayogu and Smart directed their request to tion.

While Senator Ahmed him, but the Kwara State political ‘demagogue’ Lawan, APC, Yobe North, merely watched the PDP senators in amusement.

Ayogu and Smart always tackle the APC senators said the proposal was an from all fronts during plenary especially when attempt to allow the Presisensed that an issue being commented upon by dency usurp the powers of the opposition party senators is perceived to be the legislature, Senator

Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PPA AGE 19

Kabiru Marafa, APC, Zamfara Central warned the Senate to be careful in the way it repeals and re-enact laws to avoid making laws that would render them useless.

INEC and the burden of proof on election petitions

The Bill to make the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, take the responsibility of proving the conduct and regularity of elections in the country before Election Petitions Tribunal or the court, on Thursday, scaled through second reading.

The Bill, if passed into law, would now place the burden of proof of elections on the shoulders of the INEC instead of the litigants and also reduce the difficulties petitioners face while trying to get the necessary documentary evidence in support of their petitions.

Expectedly, the Bill attracted divisions among senators as some argued that the Evidence Act and Electoral Act had categorically stated that the onus of proof should be the responsibility of the petitioner and not the electoral umpire’s.

Senator Hadi Abubakar Sirika, who sponsored the Bill, said the process to proof the regularity of elections in the country by the petitioners had become very cumbersome.

But Senator Heneiken Lokpobiri opposed it as he argued that passing the Bill would mean the amendment of the Evidence Act which he said was not easy to achieve.

He said the proposed amendment was “unmeritorious, misconceived and should be thrown to the dust bin.” It will be a miracle if the bill scales through third reading going by the mood of the Senate.

on Tuesday where a decision was taken that the issue should not be discussed until a copy of the judgment was served on the House and a decision taken on it in accordance with the point of law. That explained why members of the PDP did not raise the issue at the Tuesday plenary.

However, the position of the caucus changed when another meeting was held by the PDP Caucus before the plenary, on

BY EMMAN OVUAKPORIE Wednesday, to appraise the condemnation of the judgment by the APC and the denigration of the PDP by the APC in a bid to blame the PDP for the judgment as The APC condemned the judgment and has delivered by the judge. gone on appeal.

PDP members resolved at the meeting Indications that all may not be well that a point of order should be raised at ast Wednesday would have been emerged when the PDP Caucus in the House plenary to ask the leadership to implea sad day for the 37 defected met as early as 9am, on Wednesday, to ment the judgment.

Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, strategise on how to end the APC onslaught The source explained that a decision was lawmakers following the move to on the PDP. The day’s plenary started at reached also that PDP members should declare their seats vacant. about 11.45am and the turnout was massive. resort to physically throwing out any of Justice Adeniyi Ademola of Federal the affected lawmakers present in the High Court, Abuja had, in a judgment The lawmakers had barely spent 1.30minutes on the day’s legislative chamber, should the leadership fail to on Monday, ordered the business when they resolved to heed the request that the defected APC members in the House go into an executive session. lawmakers’ seat be declared vacant in to halt any move to remove Sunday Vanguard gathered that accordance with the demand to be made the principal officers of the a female lawmaker from the through the point of order. green chamber who were South-south, during the execuTambuwal and Ihedioha, who got wind elected on the platform of tive session, suggested that the of the plan, stalled it by refusing to give the PDP. seats of the defected members be room for the point of order to be raised.

The judge went further to declared vacant.

As soon as the plenary was convened, the rubbish the former 37 Our source said she rhetorically leadership caused an emergency session members of the PDP who asked the Minority Leader, Hon to be called for the legislators to have defected to APC to give the Femi Gbajabiamila, to defend discussions in camera. party the numerical his earlier position on leaderAt the session, Tambuwal and Ihedioha strength upon which the ship change. The Speaker and were said to have pleaded with the planned removal of the his deputy, Chief Emeka Ihedio- aggrieved PDP members to bury the principal officers was ha, had to step in to calm frayed nerves. If hatchet and allow peace to reign in the predicated then, saying they had lost not for the pleas of the two principal green chamber. The source explained that all moral grounds to continue to stay officers, there would have been crisis at the it took the leadership close to 1.30mins in the parliament and urged them to resumed plenary as members of the PDP before the aggrieved PDP lawmakers vacate their seats.

According to Ademola, the lawmakers Caucus had made arrangements to physical- were placated. Throughout the session, defected from the PDP for no justifiable ly throw out the members who were affected APC lawmakers were said to have been by the judgment. sober save Hon. Samson Osagie, Deputy reason before the law, and, therefore, According to a source, a meeting was held Minority Whip, who was said to have should no longer sit in parliament.

Court order humbles defected lawmakers

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C M Y K

angered the PDP members more by remaining defiant that the position of the APC on the judgment was right.

An unnamed PDP legislator, it was gathered, who was irritated by the claim of Osagie, was said to have insisted that the House should revert to plenary and allow the point of order to be raised so that the APC could defend itself openly so long as Osagie was not convinced that the APC had no genuine facts to fight its cause.

However, other APC members were said to have pleaded with the House and asked Osagie to drop his hard stance and allow peace reign.

At the end of the day, a stern warning was said to have been issued to the APC to stop “making noise” on the issue. The APC Caucus was also said to have been warned to stop denigrating the judiciary as well as the PDP government over the issue as the concession was said to have been given to the affected lawmakers on the premise that everyone in the parliament was expected to relate as friends.

Some dissatisfied PDP members were said to have insisted that should the table have been turned the other way, APC members would have stuck to their guns and would not have agreed to the political settlement. Briefing journalists later on what happened at the executive session, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Victor Ogene, said resolutions were reached at the session on the need to insulate members from the new trend of partisanship which he said was gradually creeping into the floor during debate on issues in the House.

PAGE 20 — SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

2015

North must negotiate with Jonathan or lose out — Ogbemudia *Says confab ought not to have no-go areas *’The Biafran story that created UNIBEN’ *’There is no law stopping defection SIMON EBEGBULEM, BENIN CITY

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ouths from the three senatorial districts of Edo State besieged the

Benin-City residence of the two-time governor of the old Bendel State, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, on Tuesday, calling on him to lead the search for Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s successor in 2016. The youths’ visit did not come as a surprise to many who believe that Oshiomhole’s transformation agenda for Edo State must not be tampered with after his exit in 2016. Sunday Vanguard spoke with Ogbemudia after the youths’ visit during which he bared his mind on some national issues. While commending President Goodluck Jonathan for setting up the on-going National Conference, the elder statesman, however, said there should not be no-go areas in discussions at the confab in order to find solution to the problems confronting Nigeria.

He spoke on how Oshiomhole’s successor should emerge,

I think that the President has good reasons to say there should be no-go areas and the people themselves are interested in getting information as to why there should be no-go areas the security challenge in the North, oil theft, just as he predicted doom for Nigeria in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil.

Excerpts: How do you assess the on-going National Conference so far?

First of all, we must congratulate the President for having the courage to put together this conference. For decades, many people had been clamouring for a conference; many said they wanted sovereign (conference), others said no.

I was opposed to sovereign conference because I did not think we should have two governments at the same time.

Having said that, there is bound to be problem arising from the voting system at the conference, problem arising from how information should be passed on to members and how members can put up their motions. All these are expected but what is important is that the members that have been selected are people that I myself believe are supposed to be there. The exercise will be very successful and I hope that, by the end of the conference, Nigeria will be more united.

But the President gave the condition that there are no-go areas. Are you comfortable with that?

I think that the President has good

reasons to say there should be no-go areas and the people themselves are interested in getting information as to why there should be no-go areas. So if there is any information that will help them they should give it to them; otherwise, as far as I am concerned, everything should be discussed. I have no fear that Nigeria will break up because those at the conference have no alternative to Nigeria. I have no fear because there is no where you will go that will be better than Nigeria.

Some states in the North are still burning due to the activities of Boko Haram, Do you think that our military is getting its strategies right?

The issue of security coming to the conference cannot help because it is the President and the security architecture that can sit down and decide what option to take because what we are facing is really not a serious terrorism, it is urban guerilla and the people running its affairs are somewhere around the country. The people shooting the gun, I believe, going by my training and understanding, belong to the military wing of the main body. In that main body, you have those who are in charge of political issues, you have those who

are in charge of rumour mongering, you have those who are handling matters of sabotage, they have publicity unit; so many units they are well organized. It is

Continues on page

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 — PAGE 21

‘There is no law stopping defection’ Continued from page because the military wing is killing people, that is why we are paying so much attention to it. I think we should pay more attention to their publicity and propaganda which are also serious issues.

Many people think the allegations and counter allegations between the Presidency and northern governors over the issue of Boko Haram are worrisome?

I think the governors there can help the security to overcome the excesses of these people. They are the chief security officers of their states; therefore they have a duty to ensure the safety of their people. These are matters that there should be outside publicity; if I have serious suggestions, I will channel them properly, not on the pages of newspaper, it will not work.

2015 Presidency I think we have passed that stage; there was a time they talked about the zoning system of the PDP. The argument went on and we agreed that President Jonathan should contest the election. So we have passed that stage. What is important now is for the North to negotiate with Jonathan on what they are going to get during his tenure so that they will not lose out completely.

But do you sincerely believe Jonathan deserves second term?

Well he is doing the best he can and the best that Nigerians are making him to achieve. The issue of governance is not the issue of one person, he is not a sole administrator. If they want him to do more than he is doing, then they must assist him. I once discussed with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu that it is the duty of the opposition to assist the government by giving them what is called constructive criticism so that government can learn from it and he gave me an example of what they had done in that regard. So the country is moving in the right direction.

Oil theft / dwindling allocation Oil theft is not an issue of today, stealing of oil has been there since the day oil was found. One young man came to me some years back and said he was in charge of the records of the litres being pumped into ships and he found, in one particular case, that they pumped more than a man paid for and he reported the matter to his superiors but they removed him from that unit.

Perhaps there should be a stringent law to check oil thieves?

The laws are there but it is enforcement that is the problem. Somebody has to enforce the law; the law cannot enforce itself.

But I believe that we should continue to train our law enforcement agents so that they can be straight forward.

What is your take on the defection of National Assembly members from one party to the other?

The movement of individuals from one party to the other is an essential part of democracy. But if they don’t want it that way, they must write it down in the Constitution that anybody who moves from one party to the other loses his position. Then people will have to think seriously before they move but at the moment, there is nothing like that.

That is why they are moving for economic reasons.

But the court ruled that they should vacate their seats.

The lawmakers who defected must have read the temperature before they left and they know the consequences of abandoning their own party. The court of law interprets the law and if they are not satisfied with the judgment of the court, they will have to go to the next stage until they get to the Supreme Court. I think the court is right, so it is left for the lawmakers to know what to do.

There is the fear that the APC might defeat the PDP in the 2015 presidential election. Do you have that fear?

As far as I know, the PDP is the only organized party in this country; the others, although they might be together today, when

*Ogbemudi...UNIBEN came as a child of necessity

The movement of individuals from one party to the other is an essential part of democracy. But if they don’t want it that way, they must write it down in the Constitution that anybody who moves from one party to the other loses his position it comes to sharing positions, crisis will set in and you will see them running about. But we will wait and see; as far as I know, everything that PDP needs to return to power has been put in place. They have registered their people, they are telling their people what to do. So any viable opposition should counter it and produce a superior program.

What is your party, the PDP, doing to take over government in Edo State?

That is a policy matter. As far as I am concerned, myself and my group are working hard to ensure that Jonathan returns to power, that is all I am concerned with at the moment.

But your group, the Enunuedo, has been agitating for a Benin governor after Oshiomhole.

That is a Benin agenda which I support.

Everything is being done to make sure that a Benin man with sufficient integrity and ability takes over from Oshiomhole. But many of us are beginning to modify that attitude that what the Benin people want is somebody who can develop the area, rather than a Benin man who may not be able to.

So it is development that the Benin people want, they don’t care where the governor comes from as long as the person can deliver the goods.

What efforts are you making to get a credible candidate?

Every day we take a critical look at each of the aspirants and draw our conclusions based on the information we have about them. So at the appropriate time the one that will be will emerge at the congress and we will support him based on his credentials, character and ability. There are lots of people with intimidating credentials but

when it comes to doing the work they are disasters. We are already working on that, my group has pencilled down some names and we are talking and working quietly. We are going round to get information; at the end of the day, we will decide who to support. My dream for Edo is for the developmental strides of Oshiomhole to continue. My dream for Edo is to see that whoever is going to be there at Osadebey Avenue has the capacity to take the state as his constituency and then fulfil his campaign promises, otherwise he will find it difficult next time around.

Did you entertain any doubt that Oshiomhole may not perform when he came as governor?

I have known Oshiomhole for a very long time. And as Minister of Labour, I worked very closely with him. And I have always convinced myself that he has all that is needed to galvanize people, to lead them and provide

for them. And when he came, I felt that, well, let us see what he can do, and he has done wonderfully well, he has acquitted himself creditably well. God brought him at the right time for the people of Edo. How were you able to achieve so much as military governor?

God was my leader, He led me throughout.

At the same time, He made me believe that while in office, I must leave sufficient evidence of my tenure for historians to appreciate, so that many years later, the verdict of history will be favourable. And I am glad it is happening today.

How was your allocation then like?

For four years programme then, the Midwest was allocated N700million. We did not have much, the highest I ever got was N300million a year. But, as God will do it, I had a very strong team which wanted to see development and they joined me to ensure that development really took place with the little money that was available.

How were you able to build UNIBEN? UNIBEN came as a child of circumstance.

The civil war was raging and the atmosphere was full with a signal that the war will come.

Then one night, Ojukwu announced that all none Igbo living in the Eastern Region should leave as he could no longer guarantee their safety. And majority of Midwesterners left the area and came to Benin. So the streets were filled with students who were in their final year at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and that caused us a lot of embarrassment. Many of them we sent overseas, others we had to find something for them. So we started by setting up an institution known as the Midwest Institution of Technology which later became University of Benin. They were a lot of opposition from people that the Midwest ought not to have a university and that Adeyemi College of Education was there for us. Unfortunately when our people went there, they did not admit all the people we sent; so getting our own university became very important and we had to build our own university. And the Commonwealth University Association, the Economic Commission for Africa helped us tremendously and that was how we built the university.

After Ojukwu gave that order, did you try to reach him, maybe on phone, to know why he took that action?

There was no way I could reach him. I tried by telephone no way, but when the boys arrived and they told me what they went through, there was no need for me to bother Ojukwu. We made sure that our people were comfortable, that they got what they wanted and they went into the labour market for the development of Nigeria.

People enjoyed bursary and scholarship during your time but those things no longer exist. Why? And Bendel State was number one in sports during your time but those things suddenly disappeared.

In my time, why bursary was necessary was that they were many children in the streets. So we either gave them bursary or scholarship to carry on their education. And for sports, there were reasons for the introduction of sports. The first was that there was a break in communication between the so-called true Midwesterners and Ibo speaking Midwesterners. There was a suspicion that the Ibo speaking Midwesterners were supporting Ojukwu and that when the secessionist troops entered the Midwest, they facilitated the entry. So what do we do? We couldn’t continue to rule and operate between divided people. So government had to make effort to build a united state from a divided people. Secondly, the youth, as we all know are the leaders of tomorrow; so what do we do to bring them together because they were already afraid to go beyond Agbor to come to Benin? So we had to introduce sports and when they were playing football they forgot where they came from and everybody was cheering them. And gradually, it dawned on everybody that we were all one. At the same time, in order to remove the suspicion, I set up a rebel activities tribunal. So any body who had something against anybody went there to say it. By the time the tribunal ended its sitting, it became obvious that there was no Midwesterner guilty of betrayal.

Reviving sports Reviving sports in Nigeria, government has to decide whether it requires sports for the purpose of exercises or recreation or you want to use sports to make more money and influence other countries. Once government takes that decision it will know what to do. If it is for recreation, we don’t need more investments like we have today, but if it is for the purpose of getting more money through sports, organizing the people, unifying them, making them feel like one then we need massive investments in sports. And to invest, you need a people who understand what is happening and what they want to achieve to be in charge not anybody who has run hundred meters because you don’t need to run to know how to organize sports.

Sports managers in Nigeria must insist on training and every aspect of sports should be given equal attention. For example, football today is our major sports but they should give sprint the same attention they give to football; the same to with swimming, basketball. With all these together, the country will be respected abroad on sports.

One gold in the Olympics will give you more publicity that you can ever write in any newspaper.

Do you think Nigeria will do well in Brazil?

I don’t think will do well. First of all, our people don’t have the expertise, the techniques. Before a footballer will do well, he must be good and effective but what we have on the ground today, in my view, cannot win the World Cup. I don’t want to wish them bad luck but what I am trying to say is that they have not trained enough. They can beat the minor teams but beyond that it will be difficult. But if they get to the quarter finals I will be very happy, but I am only telling you my fears. The coach is good, but I don’t think Keshi has the free hand to do his selection or enough money to invest in training. I know Keshi very well and some of the boys playing now are not getting younger; so they are deteriorating. So they need 17-year-old boys to train against the next Wold Cup and they should train daily.

So our training need to be doubled and we need stamina; some of them don’t have stamina anymore. For example, they put some girls under 17 to play World Cup, if you see them playing, you will be ashamed to be a Nigerian. So we must change our style.

PAGE 22—SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014

BRANDS & De-marketing T

serves as the steering wheel for its managers, towards presenting or representing such brand to the public. It is the BPS that shapes the image of the brand towards achieving its desired image.

Interestingly, the culmination of a brand’s impression at the market place and the consumers’ perception of any brand is a function of how much it aligns itself with its positioning statement in delivering on its promise. So, a brand fails as a person soon as it permits a disconnection between its performance and the promise it made. Suffice, therefore, that the success of any brand depends on the consumer ’s perception. I am yet to see any brand that continues to exist at the market place when the consumers see it as not fit to continue.

However, the consumers’ power is dependent upon some factors, primary of which is the power to vote disposable income. The primary consideration in the definition of a brand’s market is ability to pay the price for such brand. So a brand can only be influenced by those who BUY it the consumer ’s influence is also dependent on socio-dependent variables to include literacy, sophistication, media habits, lifestyle, etc. when all the variables are under the consumer’s control, then we have the ideal market situation THE BUYER’S MARKET. To a large extent, that is the situation with markets in developed and sophisticated economies; markets where the brand adheres to all the expectable. In those markets, the brand either keeps to its promise(s) to the

last detail or dies. The judgment is instantaneous.

Whereas such markets are equipped to check any form of consumer abuse, same cannot be said of the primitive ones with all their short-comings.

Consider this very sad story involving FedEx in Southern California, USA presently streaming (as at Thursday December 22, 2011, about an irresponsible employee. According to the footage captured in a surveillance camera, the FedEx driver was to deliver a customer ’s parcel,

he did the unimaginable. FedEx is spending more than can be imagined to undo the damage this unfortunate development is costing the brand presently.

In a market like ours in Nigeria wouldn’t the driver and the company have been free to go? Where would have been the surveillance camera to pick the driver? Even if the consumer complains, it would have been his/her word against the driver ’s. Fed Ex has not only replaced the damaged monitor, its senior vice

,

HE key components of a brand are product (of fer), name and promise. It is interesting to note that all that takes place around brands in whatever name revolves around these three components. So, there is the offer or product, the name for reasons of identification and differentiation, and the promise, that establishes the reason(s)why for such brand person.

Immediately the product on offer assumes a personality, it becomes responsible for all that happens as a result of its being, such as keeping appointment (timing), presence, fulfilling promises and communicating. So, when professionals say a brand is a product with a name, the objective is always to underscore the basics in the definition of the brand’s person; it’s all little technicalities in the world of brands and brands management that are pieced together in telling interesting stories.

Part of such story is the consumer ’s experience, trade influences, price mechanism and movement, sales activation and promotion; it involves other imperatives such as research and planning, advertising, brand line extension…on and on. All these mentions must be coming as spin-offs to many of professionals at this point, but we are coasting home somewhere.

There is also this very interesting marketing tool (or should I call it instrument) known as DE-MARKETING. At the beginners’ class, we were told this is a tool used by practitioners to limit a brand’s pursuit towards achieving some aspect of set-marketing objective for bigger gains in the future. So, managers of a given brand may decide to hold back in distribution to limit market or shelf presence, for some reasons. Or, a brand may just be over-priced in such a manner that may initially be considered injurious to its market performance, for reasons considered of strategic importance to the managers.

Now, when marketing decisions that are not manifestly in the immediate interest of the brand is taken, it is termed a de-marketing move. But in such moves are always expectedly made in the interest of the brand.

Otherwise, every action taken or decision made for any given brand should be towards growing the brand in the face of prevalent market situation.

To do this effectively, begins with proper brand positioning statement (exclusive area for consultants). The BPS is a statement that establishes who the brand is and what it should be known and taken for. It

The prevalent situation in the underdeveloped or developing markets is the reason why brands will not keep to their promises, compromise, abuse and cheat consumers without consequence. How else would one describe a situation where sales promo based on raffle draws are never won by anybody and so much lies are told on newspaper pages of winners

,

which is a computer monitor.

On getting to the address, the guy just carelessly tossed the monitor over the fence. That was awful in any case, but it is worse so because at the time, the recipient was not only at home, the gates to the house were wide open! Can you ever imagine that? Whatever stopped the guy from simply knocking and going in to carefully deliver the parcel,

president Mathew Thoraton just posted an unreserved apology on the net for the driver’s misbehavior! But I still recall my experience with NIPOST speed delivery service some time in 1988/89, I sent a parcel from Sokoto to Lagos till date, it is yet to arrive. Within the first week of their failure to deliver the parcel to the destination I made my complaint, wrote letters through Sokoto office to Lagos

headquarters, without response. In fact, the most senior officer at the Sokoto office then advised I forgot about the matter because nothing will come out of it. So it turned out.

So, the efficiency of any brand is to a large extent dependent upon the extent of the market’s development and sophistication. The prevalent situation in the underdeveloped or developing markets is the reason why brands will not keep to their promises, compromise, abuse and cheat consumers without consequence.

How else would one describe a situation where sales promo based on raffle draws are never won by anybody and so much lies are told on newspaper pages of winners. Often times you find that names and addresses of publicized “ winners” are not given to easy independent verification.

Sometimes you see awkward combination of names from places so far away from common imagination, it discourages further questioning.

Unfortunately, consumer protection is not popular in this market, so the consumer remains at the mercy of persons ad brands that decides to abuse the system. Bad as the situation is today with the consumers, however, we like to put it before all such brands careless with delivering on their promises that they are gradually burning their candles (from both ends) , with the consumers. Indications are that the population of discerning consumers is growing, and very soon brands will be accountable for their deeds, in this market. When that happens, it will reverberate as the consequence of involuntary DE-MARKETING to all such brands that are presently taking us consumers for granted, such that will not be unto any good.

It is bad enough that nobody cares for or about the consumer, irrespective of the horde of non-governmental organizations signed up for that role and even the government institutions established for same reason. Even when brands flaunt their NSO and NAFDAC numbers, it all amounts to nothing before the consumer. But to all you liar-brands, be rest assured you are compromising yourselves for the future, as you continue to abuse consumers for immediate gains.

Or could be you are all experimenting with DE-MARKETING dangerously. 2012 business year could just turn out a new beginning.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 23

08112662589

“You can find love at 60 and have a ball!” - A Reader

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ANDIDA, I read with a bit of amusement your article of the 16th March, virtually advising women over 60 to forget everything about romance” so wrote Dolapo, an events planner. “According to the article, any ‘granny’ being toasted at that age should be wary of being conned. Haba! All over the world, some lucky women in their twilight years have found genuine love that guarantees them a happy companionship for the rest of their lives.

“Have you been reading the papers lately!? A few weeks ago, that respected architect and a grandmother, Dada Marquis, not only marked her 70th birthday with a lot of fanfare, she capped the landmark event the next day with a lavish wedding. Her heart-throb?

Socialite Gabby Yadua, another grandfather, who was 76! It wasn’t a registry quiet do either. The show-stopping wedding reception had Ebenezer Obey on the bandstand!

A couple of months before that, Chief Sammy Olagbaju, another socialite had an impressive native ‘marriage’ with his lover of several years, Funke Shonuga. She is in her 60s, he is close to 70,

if not 70! Friends and well-wishers celebrated their good fortunes and I bet you a lot of single ‘grannies’ out there wished they were so lucky! “ These are couples in their seeming dotage who went public with their love. There are loads of them who prefer private ceremonies.

But the fact remains that the heart doesn’t age!

Feelings of jealous rage and pulsating heart beats remain the same, no matter how old you are.

Some people’s libido doesn’t completely disappear with age, and some men prefer responsible and matured women to handle their children’s weddings. I mean, how would it look if the bride’s father looks say 65 and has a thirty something ‘ wife’ by his side to welcome his would-be in-laws to his daughter ’s engagement rites!

“Finding love at 60 might be down to a lot of luck, but what do today’s youth make out of marriage? Maturity is not in their dictionary as most of these so-called cosmopolitan brides go into matrimony with a retinue of helps - and pep talks from their parents that they need not brook

any nonsense from their husbands. They are encouraged to scuttle back home if they couldn’t stand the matrimonial fire. A friend told me recently that the choice of a wife his son made a few years ago, left him bewildered. He’d invested a lot of money into training his four children, gave them a lot of love and stressed the importance of having a healthy home front. ‘We had meals together any time we could’, he said sadly, ‘and when my eldest wanted to get married, we spared no expense.

The house is like a mini estate, so the new couple had their own self-contained bungalow, inde-

pendent of the main house. ‘“My son usually enjoys listening to classical music and playing the piano. His wife enjoys the night life and boogying with her friends. My son could hardly hold his liquor, his wife could drink you under the table any day.

And she smoked, irrespective of who was around. My poor son went with her on a couple of nights out but it was obvious that wasn’t his scene, so he begged off. This didn’t faze his wife as she happily went out with her friends, coming home late in the night and making a spectacle of herself as she stag-

gered into the house from the car in full glare of the helps.

“She stayed long enough to give my son two healthy kids, then went back to her parents.

She was her mum’s only child and she was happy to take care of the kids full time. Efforts to make the marriage work hit the brick wall as her parents advised they should stay apart for a while with the hope that absence might make the heart grow fonder. My son, who’d been itching to go back abroad simply packed his bags and left. He later hooked up with his European sweetheart and they ’ve been happily married ever since. In

the mean-time, his first wife looks the worst for wear - thanks to her lifestyle. To this day, she remains unmarried.

What sane man would settle for a slob like that?...

“As I write, I recall an older friend in his 60s who took a long-term girlfriend to the alter.

His two married daughters grudgingly attended the registry do they daren’t step on their well-heeled father ’s toes in case he wrote them off his will.

The second daughter made for my flat as soon as the ceremony was over. ‘Can you imagine my old wrinkly father telling this equally old mama ke that ‘ with my body I thee endow?’

What body? The whole thing was obscene. My poor mum must be turning in her grave at such treachery as the new wife used to be a family friend..’

“I tried to pacify her.

Her poor mum is dead.

Surely, her father, who has a lot of mileage in him has a right to spend whatever money he has on whomever he wants before his greedy children get their grubby fingers on what is left of his wealth - after he must have gone!”

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Stay healthy with regular exercise

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C M Y K

T gladdens my heart to see lots of people hitting the streets and either walking or jogging. I guess it’s dawning on an appreciable number of people that having not exercised for years has been a negative thing.

Now this human body of ours can be anything we want it to be. If we choose to be overweight with its attendant problems or elect to help the body with moderation in what we eat and drink added with a habit of exercising regularly, the body will go along with it.

The curious thing about our bodies is that we can almost always arrest any negative condition they may have.

I have come across someone so determined he was able to change dramatically from an obsess person to learner individual. In my own case, I traded my stiffness and lack of robust health for a body quite supple and with the energy a hundred thousand of angels!

Asking my friends to inculcate an exercise proC M Y K

gramme into their lives, they have been rescued from things like asthma, headaches and indigestion; the women folk have got relief from painful periods and others. Such proofs of the efficacy of exercise is probably what has helped me sustain my practice over the years. In fact, my yoga teacher was proof enough that exercise is beneficial and can be practised for decades if the life is long.

We should learn ways of purifying the body, and put them into practice. We should also learn ways of keeping the body supple and strong. How else can we live and enjoy life?

Unless the doctor decrees otherwise, for most people, fruit juice or simply water (in moderation, of course) too much at a time and you’d be nauseous (until 10 am or better still mid-day will work wonders.

The system must not be laden with solids, because the energies that must go into house-cleaning the body get diverted for digestion. In this case, there’s al-

ways a lack of thorough elimination of wastes and this can and does translate into all kinds of maladies.

According to the rules of natural hygiene appropriation, eating starts at midday and should cease by 8 p.m. It may be between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. The next day is digestion and assimilation time; from 4 am to midday being elimination period.

Sticking to a discipline like natural hygiene the body feels better managed and the results are improved health and vitality.

Apart from the abovementioned discipline of eating and then restraining, another crucial factor is exercise. In yoga, exercise comprises bending, stretching and twisting the body and an assortment of breathing techniques.

Being the most ancient physical culture known to man, it has helped the health of thousands over the ages and still does.

Here are some yoga postures to try out.

The Twist Technique

Sitting down on your practice mat or rug with legs stretched out in front of you, bend the right knee and cross the right leg over the left thigh with the foot firmly planted down.

Now, bring the left hand to clutch the outside of the right thigh with the pit of the elbow against the right knee. Place the right hand at the lower back with the palm on lap.

Look over the right shoulder holding high the head and turn the trunk rightwards. Breathe deeply.

Hold the pose for a slow count to 10 and repeat on the other side with similar arrangements of the hands.

Benefits: This posture helps with the lateral flexibility of the spine. It gives an effective massage to the abdominal, organs, that way improving digestion and elimination.

It also positively affects the kidneys.

The Triangle pose Technique: Stand with feets apart.

Bend the right knee to waist level with toes pointing forward. Keep the left leg

slanted with the knee locked. Keep the hands at shoulder level. Hold-up straight the trunk. Count to 10 and repeat on the other side.

Benefits: The triangle posture helps to keep the front thigh muscles in great tone. It can also check a stoopy trunk.

* The Triangle Pose

Yoga classes STARTED at 32 Adetokunbo Ademola, Victoria Island, Lagos, 9.10am on Saturdays

P AGE 24—SUND AY Vanguard , APRIL 6 , 2014 SUNDA

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Husband who resents his father-in-law’s financial muscle

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ATIENCE and her husband had been married for five years when they.moved into a posh bungalow on a better side of Lagos. As they both showed guests round during the house-warming ceremony, they looked the perfect couple and took in the ooh and aah gasps of admirers.

The guests thought that Luke, the husband, must have made some appreciable progress in his job for him to be able to afford a pad like this.

Three years after, Luke was out of the house, the bitter feud that’d been brewing for a couple of years had now boiled over. One day, Luke came home from an allnight outing and found his suitcases neatly packed and waiting for him by the door. In the rain! Four fierce-looking men stood guard at the door, menacing looking cudgels in their hands. “\ was shocked and I guess the shock will never wear off,” Luke said a few months after the incident. “That’s what comes with marrying a rich man’s daughter I can’t see my children now and my wife thinks I’m dirt, and it’s all thanks to my money-bag father-in-law. He wants you to roll on the floor with gratitude whenever he shows you the slightest favour. I mean, there are other ways of showing gratitude without licking someone’s hand like a dog. Well, he has his daughter now, let him marry her!” Patience was at pains to talk about a marriage she described as a waking ‘nightmare’.

I sought her out to ask

her side of the story.

“That man is an animal,” she shuddered, remembering the things she said she had to go through to stay married to him. “Despite the good education he had, he had this giant complex about my parents’ wealth. Daddy was very generous to us when we got married. I am his first daughter and he gave us a brand new car and furnished flat. Luke was quite happy letting daddy shoulder his responsibilities as that gave him extra cash for his twin obsessions: wine and women. I’d seen these traits in him before we got married and had naively assumed marriage would change him.

The women he ran around with were obviously a deliberate attempt to belittle me. Very uncouth and classless, they thought they were having a stab at the upper-class by sleeping

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OUR column to express your loving thoughts in words to your sweetheart. Don’t be shy. Let it flow and let him or her know how dearly you feel.

Write now in not more than 75 words to: The Editor, Sunday Vanguard, P.M.B. 1007, Apapa, Lagos. E.mail: sunlovenotes@yahoo.com Please mark your envelope: “LOVE NOTES"

MOTHERLY LOVE

I could remember vividly back in the days, When I came home in the rain

with the same man that I was sleeping with. I felt really inadequate and humiliated. My friends told me that I was probably a bit too straightlaced; that men prefer firebrands in bed and that I should be more adventurous in the bedroom. They gave me a few pointers. So when next we made love and I wanted to try some of the things my friends advised, my husband just stopped. ‘What was all that for?’, he asked, I felt stupid. What the hell did he think it was for? He obviously preferred to have me subdued and unadventurous. After a few more incidents like this,he started giving me little lectures about how unfeminine it was for married women to become sexually aggressive. Can you imagine what I did suddenly being turned into an aggression? I felt really angry; especially when he

lectured wives shouldn’t be trollops!

“After that, he criticized everything I did and openly ran down rich men and their kids with such a vengeance that it finally dawned on me that he really resented my coming from a rich family. The more Daddy did for us, the more he sneered at him. In fairness to my husband, daddy always had this impression that Luke was a lout and he never tried to hide his disapproval of him. Unfortunately, my husband proved my father right in the end. Our second child was on the way when daddy gave us the bungalow but my husband said we should pass it off as a furnished accommodation to the personal department of his office so he could collect the rent. It was my dad who took me to the hospital when I was in labour. My husband was nowhere to be found. I

had a difficult birth and had to be operated on.

Luke didn’t come to the hospital for days. On one of daddy’s visits to the hospital, his face was like thunder. He said he was just from our house and Luke was having this big party to welcome his new son without even bothering to find out how mother and child were!

“The final straw came about three months later when I woke up to feed the baby and heard female giggles in the sitting room. When I went to investigate, I found my husband with two of his friends and four girls - they were obviously drunk to the eye-balls.

They grinned stupidly as I drove them out of the house. My husband went with them. I was really livid. That was when I phoned dad that I had had enough. He said I was to do what I deemed fit. I knew I no longer had a marriage

anyway. Putting his things in the rain was a way of having my own back. He couldn’t take anything from the flat because they were all daddy’s and he wouldn’t take the car. Let’s see how he likes scrimping and saving to keep up with his pet hobbies...”

Leading A Horse To The Brook! (Humour) A man drove too fast down a country lane, skidded on some boulders and ended up in a ditch. Fortunately, a farmer appeared moments later, leading a big black horse. When he saw the man’s predicament, he offered to help.

“If we tie a rope round the car, I think old black Bess here will be able to help get it out”. So they tied the rope from the horse to the car and the farmer shouted, “come on Starlight, pull as hard as you can!” but the horse didn’t move.

Then the farmer shouted, “come on Silky, one, two, three. Pull!” But still the horse didn’t move. So for a third time the farmer yelled, “Ok, Dublin, pul! now!” Nothing happened. Then he called, “Go on Black Bess, my beauty, pull hard.” This time, the horse took the strain and slowly pulled the car out of the ditch. The motorist was very grateful but also a little puzzled. “Don’t mind me asking,” he said, “but why did you call the horse by all those different names?” “Well, it’s like this,” explained the farmer, “Old Black Bess is blind and if she thought she was the only one pulling, she’d never have bothered trying.”

-Father asked: "why didn't you take an umbrella??"

Be proud of Your Awesome Mom. Chris Onunaku 08032988826/08184844015.

-Sister advised: "why didn't you wait till the rain stopped??"

My Princess

-Brother angrily warned: "Only after getting a cold you will realize!!"

-But Mother, while drying my hair, said:"Stupid Rain!

Couldn't it wait till my child came home...??

That's why All mothers are special in so many criteria, GOD bless them.

Looking back those beautiful days when it all started, I felt and thought it humanly wise to appreciate you. My Princess,words are never enough for me to express my inner most feelings toward you. You gave me love and care even till this wonderful moment and I can't help, but to say...I love you and I will always cherish you, my adorable Princess...

CHEERS James N. Okonkwo C freesoulj@yahoo.com

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 25

The big manhunt for Edwin Clark’s son’s kidnappers *How seven gunmen seized victim in broad daylight

BY EMMA AMAIZE

T

,,

HE people of Kiag bodo, the country home of former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, have never witnessed such as far as kidnapping is concerned in the Niger-Delta.

It had always been cases of government, leaders and other concerned persons reaching out to the Ijaw national leader to assist in the release of kidnap victims and Clark did not disappoint in the days of militancy and thereafter.

Some persons even called him names for his role, but it never really bothered him.

Nobody, therefore, thought that, given his towering status, kidnappers would contemplate doing anything that will hurt him, but the impunity with which seven gunmen, suspected to be his Ijaw kinsmen, stormed the Kiagbodo between 3pm and 5pm, on Wednesday, defied the expectation of the people.

His son, Ebikeme Clark, known to have political ambition in Burutu local government, was reportedly inspecting on-going works at the proposed Edwin Clark University of Technology, a lproject his father wants to leave behind for future generations, when the gun totting men drove to the site in a bus.

The gang, which apparently had insider information on the movement of Ebikeme, knew the time he got to the site on the outskirts of the community and they went straight to the location he was standing when they broke in.

With guns pointed at him,

As at Thursday night, it was learnt that the kidnappers had made contact with family members of Clark, demanding about N50 million

the fierce-looking intruders ordered him to enter his own vehicle and, with one of them on the driver’s seat, they bundled him to the Kiagbodo waterfront, where a speedboat was waiting to transfer the “cargo” to their hideout.

A source told Sunday Vanguard, “I was told the kidnappers came in a commando style armed with sophisticated guns in a car to the site of the Edwin Clark University of Technology, Kiagbodo, Delta State. While they drove in a car to the school site, a speedboat was positioned at a bridge between Kiagbodo and Otu Jeremi communities. The bridge is called Eruware Bridge.”

Luck, however, ran out on one of the kidnappers, suspected to be the one that drove the gang to the site, as he could not maneuver his way out of danger after the opera-

tion. Community youths and motor cyclists at the scene apprehended him and handed him over to the police.

As at Thursday night, it was learnt that the kidnappers had made contact with family members of Clark, demanding about N50 million.

“The kidnappers made contact with family members of Mr. Ebikeme Clark in the late hours of Thursday. They and Ebikeme spoke with family members through the victim’s phone. In their usual manner, the kidnappers demanded for ransom within the region of 50 million Naira,” a source disclosed.

Investigation carried out by Sunday Vanguard showed that a member of the Bekderemo/Clark family contacted Ijaw leaders and security agencies at about 5.00 pm after the incident.

It was learnt that a syndicate

of kidnappers in Delta State may have been responsible for the kidnapping. A source said, “While some are usually on the land carrying out surveillance on potential victims, others are from the riverine areas. As we speak, those in whose custody Ebikeme Clark is are from/ in the riverine area.

“Though they came in their own car, it was in Ebikeme’s car that they drove to the bridge where they entered the speedboat and zoomed off to the riverine areas.”

An Ijaw youth leader said he was sure the abductors were commercial kidnappers and that they kidnapped Ebikeme with a view to making money from his father.

Delta State Police Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ikechukwu Aduba, confirmed that four of the suspected kidnappers were in police net and gave assurance that the police would not only fish out the kidnappers, but also secure the release of Clark’s son within the shortest possible time.

He spoke confidently about the measures that have been put in place to track down the kidnappers, saying they acted without respect for the elder statesman.

Clark is also in touch with the police commissioner on the rescue operation and, accord-

ing to sources, “He is helping the police with all the necessary information that came to him.”

The Ijaw Youth Council, IYC, in a statement by its spokesman, Mr. Eric Omare, said, “Information at its disposal is that he (Ebikeme) was taken to the kidnappers’ hideout through Kiagbodo River, which connects the Ramos and Forcados Rivers in Delta and Bayelsa states.”

The council strongly believes that the gunmen were still within the Ijaw axis of the two states and directed its officials in riverside areas of Ingbelebiri, Oporomor and Seimbiri clans to trace and fish out the kidnappers, adding, “We will use all the resources at our disposal to fight kidnapping and any other form of criminality in Ijaw land.”

Omare urged Ijaw youths to give information to the police on the whereabouts of the kidnappers. Clearly, if the kidnap of Ebikeme is for ransom, the effort seems like a “bad market” for the gunmen given the searchlight by the police and Ijaw youths.

But, there are those who do not believe the kidnap was commercially motivated. They alleged that it was part of the political intrigues in the area.

A source said, “Currently, there is underground tension in Burutu over who becomes the next chairman of the local government council. They said Ebikeme was eyeing the chairmanship seat and the forces against his father want to stop him at all costs.

“Ebikeme is seen as a threat by some political leaders and power bloc in the area, who do not want his father to control the politics of Burutu. They do not want him to become local government chairman and they believe the way to stop him is to strike the fear of the devil inside him.”

National President of Ijaw People Development Initiative, IPDI, Mr. Austin Ozobo, who described the abduction as barbaric, pleaded with the kidnappers to release Ecikeme without delay, saying, “There is no point abducting the son of a man who has been in the forefront of the betterment of the Niger-Delta for selfish reasons. We want his abductors to have a rethink and release him to avoid the full weight of the punishment that will fall on them.”

He said facts available to the organization showed “Ebikeme’s abduction was politically engineered by some dubious politicians in the state.” But, a security source told Sunday Vanguard, “Even if it is true that the victim has a political ambition, which he is entitled to, the boys are looking for money, the police are aware that they have demanded N50 million or so for ransom.”

PAGE 26—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

The Imo police story of ambush and sting, by CP Ali zSpeaks on the IG’s visibility policy

His task as the Commissioner of Police in-charge of Explosive Ordinance Device, EOD, was tasking. He was, however, able to surmount the challenges at a time insurgency was at its apogee. Suddenly, he was posted to Imo State as the police helmsman, a state facing kidnapping and armed robbery challenges, among others. His choice was seen as a step in the right direction based on the achievements he recorded while heading EOD. CP Abdul Mahid Ali bared his mind to our CRIME EDITOR, EMMA NNADOZIE, in Owerri. Excerpts:

Surmounting the challenges I am not new to crimefighting. I am a crime-fighter and, before being posted to EOD, I have been on the field; I have contributed my dues particularly when I was the Deputy Commissioner of Police in Ogun State where robbery was the order of the day. Coming here is to use the experience I have to fight crime and criminality.

Assessment of crime in Imo Honestly, it’s not as bad as people talk about. Imo is a peaceful place, the people are lovely and, since my arrival here, we have not recorded any major incident. What we have are skirmishes particularly in the area of child stealing and kidnapping and, from assessment, we discovered that most of the kidnapping are stage-managed; it’s inside operations where the house boy planned to kidnap the master, where a woman planned to steal the neighbor ’s child. We have been able to go round and sensitize the people to be very careful and warn their wards to watch the type of group they keep and also advise people to watch their back whenever they move around.

I have set up a crack team which I call ‘Scorpion’, basically to fight crime and to ensure that we keep Imo away from hoodlums. I named the team ‘Scorpion’ because they sting, they go into operation for all those people in hiding,

they comb the bush to ensure that the places those people use as camps are continuously raided and ensure that hoodlums and miscreants are arrested. My predecessor had called his team ‘Ambush’ and I call mine ‘Scorpion’.

‘Ambush’ connotes a lot of things while the ‘Scorpion’ also has its own brand of operation and they have different modes of operation and specific mandates. The mandate of ‘Scorpion’ is to go after kidnappers, robbers and fish them out. We have made a lot of arrests; the team is headed by a Chief Superintendent of Police, CSP, we have a monitoring team as well, headed by a Deputy Superintendent of Police, DSP. The monitoring team is to monitor

,,

Posting as a challenge First of all, I need to thank you for the support you have been giving me, particularly when I was at the bomb unit. Your contribution has helped to uplift the EOD section and the innovation that was made while I was there. My coming here is a challenge in the sense that, moving from the volatile EOD, particularly when you have a situation of attacks by insurgents to an area where kidnapping, child stealing, armed robbery is the order of the day. Definitely, it is a different ball game and you have to change your tactics and mode of operation.

stop-and-search. Though before my coming, my predecessor did a good job as well in keeping the state calm; he was able to bulldoze into many of the activities of these underground men and many of them fled the state . So, it is my intention to keep up the tempo.

MASSOB So far, MASSOB has been calm; and we have not had any incident or any report even from their base in Okigwe; we don’t have any problem with them. Since my arrival here six weeks ago, I have told the people of Imo that my vision is to ensure that the state is safe and to see that business continues to thrive because, when I came in, I

The mandate of ‘Scorpion’ is to go after kidnappers, robbers and fish them out

the police itself. We also have this human rights group which I resuscitated. The mandate is to go round the divisions and see the people detained and ensure that the surrounding of the police stations are clean.

The human rights group puts the DPOs on their toes to ensure that necessary things are put in place.

found out that Owerri has become some kind of a melting point where people love to come down to. . If you come here on weekends, you can’t believe what you see, people come from all walks of life to relax here and it is the responsibility of the police to ensure that they and the state are safe.

IGP ’s visibility policing directive The IG’s visibility policy is in line with the setting up of the ‘Scorpion’ team. The IG has a vision and mission for Nigeria Police. The agenda has assisted the police in many ways; when the IG has given you a marching order, who are you to look back? I never looked back on the directives of the IG and that has been what has been keeping me on, his style of operation, administration and public relations need to be emulated.

We don’t have roadblocks anymore, we only engage in

Managing the relationship with those in power I know I am in a state led by the opposition, that has nothing to do with my policing as my main purpose here is to fight crime and criminality. I am not a politician. I have warned politicians that I won’t tolerate political rascality. I will provide a level playing ground for politicians. They have no option than to adapt to the new situation because this is a new ball game.

Synergy with other security agencies We have synergy with other

CP Abdul Mahid Ali

security officials in the state.

When I came, I visited the brigade commander, the SSS, the NDLEA, and other sister agencies, we have been working together; we exchange ideas whenever we meet.

maximum cooperation from the people, they should see us as partners in progress, they should know that we are human beings like them.

Information is very important, they should pass information to us freely for us to act.

Assessment of the police leadership The present leadership is fantastic; in fact, I am short of words to describe our indefatigable IG. He is a man that you have to copy and I do say that we are very unfortunate not to have this man before now. This is a man that could have changed the police completely. He has, within a short period, changed the concept and image of the Nigeria Police. He is a man that has vision; he is ever and I am convinced about anything he’s doing. He never jokes with the welfare of his men; he is ever ready to equip the police to the teeth as well as fight crime and criminality to the lowest level.

Aesthetics You can see the surrounding of the headquarters, you see that we love good things; Nigeria Police needs good life and people should not see us as beggars. And we want

How to be remembered By the time I leave this office, I would like to be remembered as a man who came to serve in Imo and changed the concept of policing into one that is people friendly, a man who made the police visible all over the state, and changed the structure and look of the command. I want to be remembered as a man people felt free to come to his office.

My office is permanently open to members of the public, people come to me; in-fact, I don’t book appointment, you are free to come any time, any day. I want people to cooperate more with the police because, with them, we can achieve our goal.

Who is Abdul Mahid Ali? He is an police officer who has served the NPF for almost 27 years now in various capacities. I am happily married with children, I see myself as a crime fighter.

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 — PAGE 27

2015

APC and the Muslim-Muslim ticket gambit

BY FEMI FANI-KAYODE

T

he last notable Christian-Christian ticket was Awolowo-Umeadi in 1979 and the last notable Muslim-Muslim ticket was Abiola-Kingibe in 1993. You can figure out the rest. But let the optimists know that reality always trounces wishful hope in political contests. Chief Femi FaniKayode’s advice that we get real must be directed where it truly belongs - to the leadership of the APC”- Chief Kayode Samuel, Facebook, 29th March 2014.

I thank my brother Kayode Samuel for his contribution and I shall take his advice and direct my counsel to the leadership of the APC and to the Nigerian people in general. That is the purpose of this essay and so important is the subject matter under consideration that I would urge as many as possible to find the time to read it from the beginning to the end.

Chief Akin Osuntokun, the Bashorun of Oke-Mesi, the former Special Advisor to President Olusegun Obasanjo and the highly celebrated columnist for Thisday Newspaper, is one of my closest brothers and friends even though we tend to disagree on virtually everything. He is a very complex and interesting person who has a penchant for speaking the bitter truth. He is blunt to a fault and brutally frank and he manages to give as good as he gets in any argument.

I respect him immensely for a number of reasons, one of them being his unquestionable loyalty to his friends regardless of their circumstances, political views and party affiliation. Simply put, he is capable of mainitaining a good relationship even with those that he disagrees with politically. I say this because most of Akin’s friends like Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Alhaji Kashim Imam, Mallam Uba Sani, yours truly and a host of others have left the PDP yet we still meet virtually every other night as a group and slug out politics and current issues.

Even though Akin is invariably the lone voice in a hostile sea at such meetings, he always holds his own and stands his ground in a most admirable and spirited manner even when things get rather heated up. His loyalty to and support for President Goodluck Jonathan and his administration is second to none and I have often wondered how difficult things would have been for us if Akin and his likes were the ones speaking for this government. He is an intellectual par excellence and one of the most underutilized assets that the PDP has in their armoury. Yet I often marvel about how well he stomachs the attacks and intellectual riposts that he suffers from those of us that are no longer in his political party but that have the rare privilege of still being in the inner circle of his friends.

That is what makes Akin special. That, together with the fact that more than any other person that I know, he can tell his friends the bitter truth about themselves and point out their mistakes. You can count on him for that. And the strangest and most uncanny thing is that nine times out of ten he has been proved right.

Today I shall take a cue from my brother Akin and tell a few bitter home truths to my own friends and political associates in the APC. Whether this will break or enhance our friendship and association remains to be seen. I hope that it does not have any negative consequences for our relationship

but if it does I have absolutely no regrets. After all the greatest gift and virtue that a true friend and brother can offer is truth and wise counsel. That is what real friends are supposed to do even when that truth and counsel is unpleasant and painful to hear.

The subject of my counsel is the suggestion by some that our party the •APC National Leaders: Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) and Senator Bola Tinubu APC should consider fielding a Muslim/Muslim ticket in the 2015 presidential election. Even hell is paved with good intentions’’. Let us though the party leadership itself has not one of his celebrated articles and I am still be mindful of our actions, deeds and words, expressed such an intention and even though trying to find it in my heart to forgive him no matter how well-intentioned they may the matter still remains in the realms of for that. be, and let us ensure that we do not confirm I also have many friends from both the the terrible stereotyping that those that are speculation, as someone recently pointed out, I can confirm to you that quite a number South-west and the North who are Muslims against us are trying to label us with. of people within the party are discussing it and who can testify to the fact that I have Unlike some who only joined the politiprivately and are actually considering it. As nothing against islam. I am talking about cal fray a few years ago, I have been in polia matter of fact, some are openly advocat- people like my dear brother, Senator tics in this country for a total of 24 long ing and canvassing the idea. Whether we Musiliu Obanikoro, our current Minister years and, during that period of time, I have like to admit it or not, this is the subject of of State for Defence, who I not only grew up learnt a thing or two. The first lesson that I heated discussions in many party circles to- with in Lagos but who I also cut my politi- have learnt and which must be appreciated day with some party leaders being for it cal teeth with in 1990 when we both joined is the ability to distinguish between an ideal the defunct NRC and people like Governor and reality. It is laudable to pursue an ideal whilst others are against it.

Consequently, the party would do well to Tanko Al Makura of Nassarawa State who and we must do all that we possibly can to issue a statement on the matter and tell us formed and led the youth wing of the de- enthrone it but, it is disastrous to ignore the whether they are in a position to rule out funct NNC with me in 1989. realities on the ground no matter how unsaThe reason that I have gone to great voury or distasteful that reality may be. such a course of action or not. If they refuse lengths to point out my strong links and The ideal, which we all desire and which family ties with the Islamic faith is simply we all seek to enthrone, is to play the type of to prove that I have nothing against Mus- politics in our country which has no relims and that the great faith of Islam is part course to religion and where a man or womand parcel of my proud and noble heritage. an’s faith is entirely his own affair. Yet the Yet despite my deep respect for and affinity reality is that to ignore the religious sensiwith Islam and in spite of my fondness for tivities and differences of the Nigerian elecall those that have espoused that ancient torate is a manifestation of, at the very best, and noble Abrahamic and monotheic faith, political naivety of the highest order and, at I would be the first to say that it would be the very worst, dangerous, self-depreciating most improper and politically inexpedient and self-destructive ignorance. Simply put, for anyone to suggest the idea that any po- religion SHOULD NOT be a factor in our litical party in Nigeria today should present politics but in reality it IS a factor. a Muslim/Muslim ticket in next year’s presiTo those who say that the APC will prodential election. duce a presidential and vice presidential candidate that have ‘’integrity, capacity and have said it privately in countless po competence” and that the religious faith of litical meetings and I will say it those two candidates does not matter, I have publiclly today. Please mark it- the only the following to say. The ‘’integrity, to do so, the speculations will simply con- biggest mistake that my party, the APC, can capacity, competence” and all those other tinue and, like an insidious cancer, the mat- make is to field a Muslim/Muslim ticket in laudable qualities are virtues that can surely ter will eat away at the very soul of the party the 2015 presidential election. If we do that, be found in adherents of both the Muslim and eventually squander it’s fortunes. It is we will not only offend the Christian com- and the Christian faith. but we will also lose the election They are not the exclusive preserve of the in order to avoid this and for that very rea- munity woefully. This is not 1993 and, whether we son that I deem it fit, wise and appropriate like it or not, we must accept the fact that adherents of one faith alone. You can find to make my views on the matter known to religion plays a major role in our politics Muslims that have these qualities and you the world, regardless of what the conse- today. This is not the ideal but it is the real- can find Christians that have them as well.

It therefore makes perfect sense to present quences of doing so may be for me. The out- ity that we have to accept and live with. one of such people from each of the two come of this exercise and the reaction to my Our party must have both a Christian and major faiths as presidential and vice presicounsel will determine whether I am indeed a Muslim on the ticket if we want to be taken dential candidates respectively. in the right political party or not. seriously in the presidential election. I imThis is especially so given the fact that Let me start by stating loudly and clearly plore those that think otherwise to sit down Nigeria is a multi-religious, multi-cultural that I have nothing against Muslims. As a and think this through properly. We must and multi-ethnic country which suffers from matter of fact, I am very proud of the fact not present a Christian/Christian ticket as severe religious tensions and periodic secthat I have both Muslims and Christians in this would be insensitive to the feelings of tarian violence and which has at least 80 my family. So strong is the Muslim influ- Muslims and we must not present a Mus- million Christians and Muslims on both ence in my extended family from my moth- lim/Muslim ticket as this would be insensi- sides of the divide living side by side. We are er’s side that I, together with all my sib- tive to the feelings of Christians. I for one already sitting on a keg of gunpowder and lings, have at least one Muslim name. Mine would NEVER support a ticket that presents to ignore one side of the religious divide is Abdul Latif, which I am told in Arabic two members of the same faith no matter and treat them with contempt and disdain means ‘’servant of the All Gentle’’, and I am what the consequences would be. may be the trigger that causes that keg to very proud of it. This is a name which my This country belongs to both Muslims and explode. friend and brother, Dr. Hakeem Baba Christians- we are all one and we must enAhmed, in an attempt to crack a joke about sure that we do not hurt the feelings or the me and my ‘’one eighth’’ Fulani bloodline, sensitivities of one another either advertently *Fani-Kayode was Minister of Aviation mischevously reduced to ‘’Boda Lati’’ in or inadevertently. As they say ‘’the road to under the Obasanjo administration.

,,

Please mark it- the biggest mistake that my party, the APC, can make is to field a Muslim/Muslim ticket in the 2015 presidential election

I

Page 28— SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014.

Email: vanguardwoman@gmail.com

MAS TECTOMY

What if your wife’s breasts are cut off?

W

hat is it about a woman’s breast that it so excites men? From childhood, the male child is remarkably more obsessed about the mother’s breast than the female, seeing it both as a source of food and a plaything. As the child progresses into adulthood, this obsession is enigmatically transferred to those of his lover and then wife. So endeared are they to this ‘plaything’ that it often beclouds their definition of beauty. Hence the breasts alone are enough to attract most men to any woman, her personality notwithstanding.

“Breasts were the first thing I was ever introduced to as a child. Remember even the Bible says the child will always go the way he was trained. So, you see, we’ve been so wired from birth. Even babies, while

sucking from their mothers, shake their legs in excitement. As a father, I get really jealous seeing this because I feel they’re mine.

The breast is fundamental.

So, how can I now break away from it as a grown up?”, Johnson Ariyo, a 35year-old Computer Scientist retorted when quizzed by Feminista.

“Read your Bible very well and you’ll find that one of the things which made Adam eat from Eve even when he knew that was the

*Breast cancer is fast becoming a leading cause of death in women forbidden fruit, were her breasts. The fall of great men have often been because of the breasts”, Osaze Ebohon, another young man chipped in.

But now, imagine the

Did a man just say ‘God forbid’?

But that’s a fact because all it takes to be wracked by breast cancer is to simply be a woman! What becomes of her man who so much loves that ‘plaything’? What if such victim were a young, unmarried lady? Will her man disappear into thin air?

,,

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

*Male child wrapped in excitement

woman is diagnosed of breast cancer and the cancer progresses dangerously that she must have a mastectomy- surgical removal of one or both breasts, if she must survive. Did a man just say ‘God forbid’? But that’s a fact because all it takes to be wracked by breast cancer is to simply be a woman! What becomes of her man who so much loves that ‘plaything’?

What if such victim were a young, unmarried lady? Will her man disappear into thin air?

It’s however amazing how indispensable the female breast is to most men, who, like 42-year-old Onyeka Chidi, must opt for any other breast-carrying specie if his wife’s breasts are hacked by breast cancer.

“There are many breasts out there and mind you, breast is breast. It doesn’t matter who is carrying them.

Even now, my two sons hardly let me enjoy the breasts I have at home.

Imagine you touching your wife and your baby shouting as if you’re stealing her. So, whether my wife has a mastectomy or not, I will still enjoy breasts anywhere”, he said.

Anayo Okoli, a 29-year-old, is however of an unsympathetic view.

“Why will I marry a girl who has her breasts chopped off? For what? Then what I’m I marrying? What will even take me to her in the first place? I won’t have anything to play with! No feeding bottle will be like the breasts.

I’m sorry to say this but if we’ve been married before

the ailment, I’ll have to seek pleasure outside. Though it may not affect my marriage, I don’t think I will find it easy even if she goes for implants”, he said.

Bayo Adesina, a 33-yearold about to walk the aisle, however vowed that no deformity would make him turn his back on the woman in his life.

“The breasts should not be an issue because love and companionship are most important. I’ve seen a lady with a bad leg being wedded by a very handsome man.

I’ve seen a beautiful lady who has turned down handsome, successful young men and married a cripple. I personally do not think I should abandon anyone simply because of any deformity because I do not know what the next minute would result to for me. A cousin of mine always mocked a lady with crippled legs in his neighbourhood but suddenly, he was involved in an auto crash with his friend and he lost an eye. So, mastectomy should not affect a sincere marriage.

Besides, marriage is supposed to be for better for worse.”

Kayode Ajani, another 32year-old with a view similar to Bayo’s however advised that other points of attraction like character, care, etc., other than the breasts, be strengthened. For him, attraction to a woman’s breast is borne out of lust and not love. Hence, the loss of any body part shouldn’t diminish attraction between partners.

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, Page 29

Email: vanguardwoman@gmail.com

Mastectomy: Love, companionship should matter most — Dr.Olaniyan, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

B

reast cancer ac counts for 22.9% of all cancers and is fast becoming a leading cause of death in women.

Unfortunately, mastectomythe surgical removal of one or both breasts, which happens to be the most holistic approach to invasive breast cancer, has consistently been hit by mixed reactions, particularly from the male folks. In this interview, Dr.Yinka Olaniyan, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Abuja-based Gynaecare Clinic, says love and companionship should form the pillar of any relationship rather than body parts.

What’s your reaction on the attitude of most men towards mastectomy?

It shouldn’t matter to the man as long as he didn’t marry the woman because of beauty. There are still a lot of other things like love and companionship which should matter most. Instead, the man should be more supportive and give the woman all the love, care and support she needs rather than avoid her like a plague

Dr.Yinka Olaniyan

simply because she’s lost one or both breasts.

How come breast cancer isn’t ebbing despite increase in awareness?

This is because of changes in lifestyle. We’re eating a lot of refined and fatty foods, people are not getting enough exercise, many are driven by drivers in air conditioned cars and there’s remote control for virtually everything. Obesity too is increasing.

Is government doing enough?

Well, government is trying.

Compared to other countries?

We have our own peculiarities and I would not like to pass a judgment on my government. However, I believe we are all government. The media has to play its part by creating enough awareness on breast cancer, I as a practitioner will continue to improve my skill on how I manage breast cancer patients, and more.

What areas should be focused on?

We should focus more on awareness and prevention, instituting methods of prevention and then create more screening avenues for women. This is particularly because prevention is far cheaper than cure.

Some researchers claim diary products promote breast cancer. Is that true?

That is in the sense that they contain fat because whatever contains fat can increase a woman’s chances of having cancer.

Are you saying women should stay off fatty foods?

Yes. Women should eat more of fruits, vegetables, nuts and stay off fatty foods.

What else should they be mindful of?

Every woman should ensure she gets enough exercise. Stay away from tobacco, alcohol and eat right. Even if it’s your husband who smokes, make sure you avoid inhaling the substance or exposing yourself to it.

Advice for men whose wives are presently victims of breast cancer…

They should continue to be supportive because these women need emotional and social support, apart from financial support.

How can victims also help themselves?

They should go to recognised centres where they can get cure rather than hope in other avenues of unproven cures because there are of course so many charlatans in town. Patronise recognised medical institutions only.

Self-care for breasts W

hether our breasts are small or large, perky or droopy, whether we have implants or lumps, or have had a mastectomy, all of “the girls” are wonderful. Our breasts are a source of nourishment and pleasure for both ourselves and others, and should be seen as such! You can improve your breast health almost immediately with these selfcare practices formulated by Dr.Christiane Northrup, the world’s leading authority in the

field of women’s health and wellness.

*

WHEN you touch your breasts, do so with respect and caring. Be grateful they are part of your body.

Thatmeans if you do a monthly breast self-exam, do NOT do it with a searchand-destroy mentality. Pay special attention to the area up under the armpit where all the lymph nodes are.

Massaging this area will assist in ridding your body of toxins, while increasing blood flow and life energy! *Open yourself to receiving help, nourishment, and

compassion from self and others. When you experience events that cause you sorrow, resentment, or pain, allow yourself to quite literally get these feelings off your chest by experiencing your emotions fully, grieving, and then letting go. “Make a clean breast of it.” *Minimize the time you wear your bra every day.

Don’t wear a bra to bed. The lymph channels around your breasts and in your armpits need to flow freely. Tight bras shut off this lymph flow, making it much harder for your body to detoxify breast

tissue. *Sweat it out. Regular exercise is medicine for your breasts. It helps detoxify your body and also helps decrease the amount of estrogen that affects your breasts. Women who exercise regularly have a 30 percent decreased risk for breast cancer. *Eat a low-glycemic diet.

High blood sugar, which occurs when you eat a highglycemic diet instead, results in high insulin levels. A high-glycemic diet is a well-documented risk factor for breast disease. *Supplement! Take a

comprehensive multivitamin/mineral supplement that is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, E, B-complex, D, betacarotene is a must. (This means at least four pills per day.) Antioxidants help the cells in your breasts fight cellular inflammation. Get plenty of vitamin D. Studies show that women with optimal levels of vitamin D have a lower risk of breast cancer. Your vitamin D level should be at least 40 ng/ml. If it’s not, discuss with your doctor how to raise it.

PAGE 30—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 31

PAGE 32 — SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

What Nigeria can learn from Ghana’s democracy — Nana Akufo-Addo

Two-time presidential candidate in Ghana, member of parliament, attorney general, minister of foreign affairs and opposition leader, Mr. Nana Akufo-Addo, was recently in Nigeria. He has won a reputation as a fighter for social justice and was one of the leading pro-democracy figures in the days of military rule in Ghana. In an interview during his visit to Nigeria, he spoke of being flattered when he was described as Ghana’s equivalent of Nigeria’s late social and human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

As attorney general in the Kuffor government, Akufo-Addo helped to repeal the criminal libel law that had been used as a weapon of intimidation against the Ghanaian press. He fielded questions on the situation in Ghana, saying the country was not doing well under the National Democratic Congress, NDC, administration.

In essence, he is ready to offer himself as the presidential candidate of his New Patriotic Party, NPP. He also spoke on what Ghana and Nigeria could learn from one another. Excerpts:

By EMMANUEL AZIKEN

H

ow is the political situation in Ghana after the last

election?

One thing that we will continue to be grateful for in Ghana is peace and stability.

The political activity in the country is very vibrant, but largely lacking in social peace and that is an important matter to us. But as you can imagine, I am on the other side, so my view of what is going on in Ghana is not very complimentary. I think there are major difficulties confronting our country and I don’t think the administration is doing a very good job handling the problems.

The elections of 2012 are now history, our party and the population are getting ready to look at the next election which will be in two years time. Yes, the situation is quite active and we are hearing

different voices. So, apart from the political parties as you would expect, civil society in Ghana today is very active in commenting on what is going on in our country.

What are those issues?

The economy is poorly managed and that is bringing difficulties to the people. We have had significant depreciation of our currency; it appears government is in a very serious financial crisis, statutory payments that should be going to public bodies in Ghana are not being made. Teachers, nurses, important segments of society are not being paid. There are arrears of salaries being owed for many months, escalating cost of living, prices going up and in some cases being doubled, serious balance of payment problems. Generally, the management of the economy is not the best and it is bringing a lot of difficulties for the ordinary people. That’s our concern. (Blackout).

Do you also have blackouts now in Ghana?

Unfortunately, we used to think that it was a Lagos problem, but it is also an Accra problem. We have something we

bringing up of our gas deposits and, generally, the financing of the energy sector have proved difficult for this administration such that the development of the infrastructure that we need is not taking place. So, you have a great deal of difficulties for our industries getting uninterrupted power supply, having a great deal of difficulties for domestic consumers; we are going through this process of load shedding and, generally, the situation at the energy front is very difficult and very difficult for the ordinary people of this country as well as the business community because, not being able to function means the country is not functioning well. These are the difficulties, these are the issues that are animating the political debate in Ghana.

Unfortunately, we used to think that it was a Lagos problem, but it is also an Accra problem. We have something we call ‘doomsawdoomsaw’, and that is blackout. call ‘doomsaw-doomsaw’, and that is blackout.

Not too long ago, Nigerians were saying Ghana had achieved uninterrupted power supply.

It is not true. We have not managed very well, the

It is in the news that you are running for the next presidential election in 2016?

That is a fact.

Considering the issues you have raised, how do you hope to address them?

I am coming from a party that has a track record which is very positive; that is the track record of the Kuffor era.

When we came into office in 2001, many of the same phenomena that we are seeing today existed then. But within a period of eight years, a very major effort was made to bring stability into our exchange rate, bring stability into the rate of inflation and an environment that allowed businesses to function better than they are doing now.

The issues are simple. First of all, we are borrowing in Ghana at a rate that is compromising the future of our country.

Today, interest payments on government debts are four times the oil revenue that we are getting. That is very, very dramatic statistic because it means that going forward, looking at the future, we can’t even be looking at this particular source of revenue for the development of our country. What is the reason?

Government debts in the period in which the National Democratic Congress, that is the ruling party in Ghana, has been in power these past four to five years have quadrupled, borrowing as if tomorrow will never come. That is the major problem of our country and we are not seeing the other side of the borrowing, what it is being used for. If we had seen major expansion of our infrastructure, roads, hospitals and social infrastructure, then you can see what is being done. Let me give you another example.

In the election year, 2012, we had a deficit of US$4 billion and, in terms of our GDP, it represented something like 11%. Every year, World Bank has calculated that we have an infrastructure deficit of $2 billion a year. But that year without meeting the $2 billion target, you are able to create a deficit of $4 billion.

So, the question continues to be asked, it is asked by me, it is being asked by other figures in the opposition, what is happening to our money?

All the borrowing that is taking place, what is it being used for?

So, it’s true I am contesting.

I have tried twice in 2008 when I was the candidate of

Continues on Page 34

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 , PAGE 33

2015 BREAK-UP PREDICTION:

Nigeria will shock Western world — CAN leader Archbishop God-Dowell Avwomakpa is Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, South-south region; Chairman, Christian Pilgrims Board, Delta State; President, Association of Niger Delta Bishops and Founder/President, Christ Missionaries Crusaders International Church. In the wake of charting a new course for Nigeria through the ongoing National Conference, Avwomakpa, a former military personnel, spoke in his Warri office on the nation’s past, the present and the way forward.

BY JOSEPHINE IGBINOVIA

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hat’s your opinion on the National Conference? Does the Christian body have any agenda to promote?

I will not tell you what the agenda of the Christian body is until it is made public in the conference. As I have always said, we need to pray. Some people will say ‘but things are still rough with all the prayers’, but I tell you, Nigeria cannot survive without prayers, even for one week. Prayer is the glue that gums Nigeria together; if you remove that glue, Nigeria will break into pieces. Let us put aside tribal and religious sentiments. Nigeria has long awaited this conference; so, I advise that those who have not been chosen to attend the conference should take away malice and sentiments and pray for its success.

You just spoke about tribal and religious sentiments, but these diversities are recognized in the selection of delegates and each of them has his agenda. Don’t you think this could have a negative effect on the conference?

Nigeria is the United States of Africa. That’s why our diversities and language heterogeneity have not, all these years, disintegrated us.

Like pieces of clothes in tailoring are able to allow themselves to be sewn together to form a beautiful dress, we should absorb and accommodate one another.

That way, we will overcome.

For instance, when the matter of gay was being deliberated, the way we joined forces despite our diversities helped us to conquer and outlaw it.

On this national conference, I want to say that Nigeria is looking for solution and will get it with prayers.

But many have argued that the national conference is in no way a solution to our plethoric problems and that Nigeria will disintegrate nevertheless…

Those are called political statements.

But some religious leaders are of the same opinion…

Yes, that is because they are selfish; for the fact that they are not seeing yesterday and are not also looking to tomorrow. It looks rough now, but it shall be smooth. We are not together as one nation by accident. Lord Lugard may have made some mistake yesterday, but God’s hand is in it. Even Boko Haram is not enough to frustrate us. We just have to speak up as one and against the killing of Nigerians. I told you from the beginning that Nigeria is the United States of Africa.

Always remember that because it does not matter where we come from. In 1966/ 1967, I fought in the Biafran war and one of our slogans was: ‘To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done’. We could have been able to let the Igbo go away, but we didn’t because we still love them.

Igbo, northerners and probably Niger Deltans have done things that could make the nation to say ‘go’, but that has not happened. We must look at our existence with the

or has shown you about Nigeria?

I have not seen splitting or disintegration bringing a solution to Nigeria. Let us do the analysis. The North and South split then the South is broken into three or four, making almost every tribe to become a nation. Then there’s going to be an embassy. You have to take visa before you move from Lagos to Warri for example. If Edo decides to have its own embassy, you will then have to take a visa

eyes of God. The question is, what is God thinking about this nation?; not what we are thinking about this nation.

These people are telling us what they think about this nation but I tell you, it is who God says we are that matters.

from Lagos and then another from Edo to get to Warri. We cannot imagine how bad it can be. What will happen then will be the case of a man who decides to let his wife go because of a quarrel and sees the woman three years later and begins to wish he did not let her go.

What I love in Nigeria is the fact that unbelievers are here, Muslims are here, Christians are here and we are all able to stay together. If we can learn to respect one another’s religion and respect one another as well, I believe we can forge ahead.

God speaks to His own, such as men of God like yourself; what is He saying

Some prophets have also reeled out prophecies, declaring that the year 2015

In 1966/1967, I fought in the Biafran war and one of our slogans was: ‘To keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done’.

We could have been able to let the Igbo go away, but we didn’t because we still love them

will be disastrous for Nigeria if Goodluck Jonathan is reelected; what do you make of that?

Having a dream for the entire country is not enough.

You must confirm whether God is the one giving you that dream. Don’t forget that the Western world is already manufacturing cameras and hiring offices within Nigeria so they can make big news out of their predicted dissolution of Nigeria in 2015.

Let me tell you something, Clemens Westerhof, one of Nigeria’s former coaches, was asked when he returned to his country (Holland) about what he had to say about Nigeria and he said: “I learnt something from Nigeria and that is the fact that if they do not want something to happen and they pray to their God, they are able to change that thing overnight”. You know, during the time of Babangida, there would have been civil war and people were going home already because Abiola was not allowed to be president. There was going to be real bloodshed. Some of us went into prayers declaring that affliction will not come to us the second time, and because of that prayer, the finger of God averted the war, and it shocked everyone. So, I want those men of God to go back and ask God if dissolution and disaster are His thoughts for Nigeria.

Some people are of the opinion that the conference is to aid agenda 2015 for Jonathan while others are also condemning the amount of money spent on delegates…

People do not know what is called ‘leadership’. Do you know how much it is to for instance to invite a man of my caliber to go and spend days, weeks and months somewhere?

But you can do that free of charge for your country….

This case doesn’t require gift because you’re going to use your brain and spirit. The fact that those people agreed to go alone is very important because this conference will prove to the world that Nigeria can still sit down and talk face to face. It is a solution. Anytime there is problem and the two parties involved are not discussing, know that it is going to be bloody. By the time they talk, even if they are shouting during the first meeting, the second will be calmer.

Whether anybody says it is another way of bringing the president in again, that is not a problem. The entire country was three regions: Northern, Western and Eastern. One

Continues on Page 34

PAGE 34—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

Continued from Page 34 region became 19 states and all the rest two put together became 17. We’re in the game of numbers; so, tell me how Nigeria can create another state if the North says no.

You earlier said Nigerians are blessed with the ability to overturn events through prayers; but why is the insurgency in the North escalating despite prayers?

People are very confused over this, but I know how God works. Sometimes, He allows things to happen so that His name can be glorified. You may not have known that those who set up Boko Haram to destroy the peace of Nigeria are on the run now. I have spoken several times about this. If it were not for God, the plan was to swallow up Nigeria.

Are you insinuating that Boko Haram can’t tear Nigeria apart?

No. They can’t do it and they know it. Boko Haram has its own temptations and they might have been bewitched to do what they are doing. Otherwise, a genuine Nigerian killing Nigerians would have felt it, no matter how bad he is.

Nigeria just celebrated 100 years of existence which some people called frustrating amalgamation and some Nigerians were honoured, including the late General Sani Abacha, whose nominastances is more than enough tion was greatly criticized. to touch God’s heart. The Was that honour to Abacha celebration alone can make deserving and does Nigeria God do wonders in this really have any reason to country. Did you know celebrate?

Nigeria before many of you Being able to live for only were born? Nigerians were one day calls for celebration. eating only Uncle Ben’s rice; The fact that the place called not anyhow rice. The white Nigeria is still there as one people were coming to marry entity for 100 years is a our daughters so they could miracle. Nigeria has fought become our citizens. This was civil war where many young why our first national anthem men died; I was there. That it says ‘Nigeria we hail thee…’. could come back together is a These were the Oyinbos miracle. Our existence calls hailing us. I remember when I for celebration, though it was traveled to Washington DC in done in a very low key. The 1979 to represent the Chrisfact that we did not take the tian body. That was the time of grace of God for granted but Jimmy Carter. Some white went ahead to glorify His ladies there were begging to name despite our circum-

Avwomakpa

‘Nigeria will shock Western world’ Our fifty kobo was one dollar and when we were to return to Nigeria, we had nothing to do with dollars; we gave them out! take photographs with me and I said no! Our fifty kobo was one dollar and when we were to return to Nigeria, we had nothing to do with dollars; we gave them out! People were coming into Nigeria from different parts of the world

and were taking from us. But I’m telling you, Nigeria will rise again.

At what point would you say things went wrong in this country and what do we do to get it right?

Nigeria was blessed. God doesn’t joke with them where there is a multitude; remember the story of Jonah and Nineveh. Now, at what point did we get it wrong? You know Nigeria was coming up shortly after the over-throw of the first military people and somehow God opened doors through our oil and the money was so much that we spent anyhow. We did not know how to manage that

money. Hence, Awolowo was released unconditionally from prison so that he could show Nigerians how to divide the blessing. Money was actually distributed to the grassroots and everybody was happy. No armed robbery! Then, Nigeria said it needed to have a festival to glorify the devil. So, it invited every demon in Africa and we were celebrating Festac 1977. They rounded off the festival and, when the people who came for the festival went home, the demon in the festival refused to go. You know what happened thereafter? Nigeria Ports Authority, NPA, first went on strike; after that, it was students. Government started to settle with money until the Structural Adjustment Programme, SAP, came in.

What do we do to go back?

We must repent as a nation.

But we have more churches and religious homes than we had in those days?

We’re talking of genuine repentance. Since then, God has been waiting for somebody like Jonathan to come to lead. Every president of Nigeria was unique but you may not have known. People blame Babangida but it was Gowon who broke the relationship between Nigeria and Israel. Babangida was the one who came to restore the ties despite being a Muslim.

Since then, no serving president has ever made attempt to go to Israel on pilgrimage. Gowon was a Christian and Obasanjo was a Christian too but they didn’t go. It was Jonathan that decided to go. And I assure Nigeria, we will see a difference.

‘What Nigeria can learn from Ghana’s democracy’ Continued from Page 33 the ruling party and then as the candidate of the opposition party in 2012. I have examined myself and feel that I have the support within my party, and also, within the country and I believe that I still have the energy and the drive and the commitment to try again. So we will see, God willing, I am in good health; I will try again.

The dire picture you paint, is it not because you are in opposition?

No, the statistics are there.

They are not my statistics.

Make the investigations for yourself. It is difficult to massage statistics; rate of interest, rate of inflation, deficit and all those things are not things that can be manufactured. They are there in the public domain. Of course, the normal thing is for the opposition to oppose and to criticise, and it is good. It

keeps governments on their toes and, in itself, that exercise is good for the society. But beyond that, you are journalists, it is your duty to be the watchdog, check the facts that I am giving you to see whether I am talking out of the back of my mouth or whether I am saying the truth.

Those are the facts I have put before you, check them and see whether they are true or not.

What is going on in the management of the Ghanaian economy is not helpful for the future.

Have you ever heard of Chief Gani Fawehinmi?

Of course I have. Famous Nigerian lawyer, human rights activist and everything.

To some, you are like Ghana’s Gani Fawehinmi. Do you think Fawehinmi would have served Nigeria better if he had entered into active politics?

That is a difficult one for me

because I am not familiar with all the nuances of the Nigerian situation. He was a man all of us admired very much because of his courage. He was a character who was prepared to speak out when he saw things were going wrong and never worried himself about the consequences.

I am, however, flattered by the comparison

W

hat do you think Ghana can learn from Nigeria or what do you think Nigeria of today can learn from Ghana?

I think the most important thing that we have been able to do in Ghana is to grow our democracy to the extent that twice in a decade we have been able to supervise peaceful transfer of power between the two main contending parties, from the NDC to the NPP and from the NPP back to the NDC. Those

two events in 2000 and 2008 have really given a big impetus to the development of our democracy and shown our people that it is possible, without violence, without intervention of soldiers to change government if the government is, in the view of the majority, not going in the right way.

You have not had that experience here; it has been so far one way. People are telling us that this time around, it is going to be a closer contest, but I don’t know, I am not prepared to comment on that, but I think that that phenomenon is an important phenomenon that nations need to go through and I believe that next time or the time after, it would be a good thing to see that happen here in Nigeria. But please don’t make a headline that I am calling for a change of government! I am not. I am just saying that if you are

asking what you can learn from Ghana, I think that that is the biggest lesson so far that Ghana can give and I think that is why people are talking about Ghana as a beacon of democracy. We have been able, twice in the fourth republic, to have this alternative groups coming in into office.

What then can Ghana learn from Nigeria of today?

This may not be very flattery to Nigeria, but I think that the most important thing that we can learn is how best to make sure that resources that we have in our country are used for the benefit of our people.

Some of us still find it difficult to understand how come Nigeria, with all its wealth, oil and all that, still has blackouts and these things that you know about. I think what we have to try and do is to make sure that we don’t go down that way!

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 — PAGE 35

US SLAMS NIGERIA

Corruption is extremely high in this country — Dep. Asst. Secretary of State

By VERA SAMUEL ANYAGAFU and PRISCA SAM-DURU Bisa Williams is United States Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs. She is responsible for West African and African economic policy issues.

Wiliams, who visited Nigeria, disclosed the US government’s position concerning Nigeria’s 2015 elections and the need for the authorities to ensure fair and nonviolent polls.

She stressed, in an interview with Sunday Vanguard, the importance of diversifying the Nigerian economy.

Excerpts:

US position on Nigerian elections?

Nigeria is a very fascinating and dynamic country and there are enormous interests and attractions from the international community, particularly the US, concerning your up coming elections.

Our government has said several times that we are looking forward to the elections being credible, fair, transparent and non-violent.

And that is the key, because Nigeria is such a model for the young democracies in the continent, so it is important to us that the elections are conducted credibly.

United States government and those in the private sector have very great interests in Nigeria, and, during my visit here, I have met with your government, civil society leaders and business people to discuss better ways to progressive elections in your country and also ways that Nigeria can attract new investments, and curb oil theft.

Curbing oil theft in the NigerDelta.

As a matter of fact, I was part of the delegation that came to Nigeria last December at President Jonathan’s request to assess what is happening in the Niger-Delta concerning oil theft.

We met with the oil companies, and the Nigerian authorities who are responsible for securing the water ways.

We also held a meeting in Abuja with the governments of the region and we returned to Washington DC with reports to your government on what they could do to stop oil theft that is going on in the Niger-Delta region.

Interestingly, most of our assessment actually coincided with what your own analysts came up with, so the problem

*’The honest steps to end crude oil theft’

•Obama and ways to approach the issue is well known.

Your government should really insist on application rule, accountability, rule of law and transparency in receipts and documentation.

These are honest steps to addressing the issue and your government should take that decision.

Concerning our elections, what level of support are we expecting from the US government?

The level of support the US government would give to Nigeria to ensure they operate fair and transparent elections would come in many ways.

Although, Nigeria is one of the wealthiest countries in the African continent and they are quite capable of handling their elections, I am sure that the US will not relent in supporting INEC to conducting transparent elections.

We will definitely have observers. We have been meeting with all segments of your society to talk about how important we consider these elections to be for Nigerians, and how important it is for all Nigerians of voting age to be able to execute their rights, and how important it is for the elections to be peaceful.

Your government has not necessarily indicated a need for support, but when we had discussions with your government, your civil society and politicians, a lot of what was said focused on your government to ensure that INEC has all the resources it needs to conduct the elections the way they should be.

The US is ready and willing to support everything that INEC needs to make sure there are no technical confusions during the elections.

How is Nigeria’s bi-national trade with the US? We are involved in bi-national trade in several ways. First, Nigeria is the second largest

•Bisa Williams

Our government has said several times that we are looking forward to the elections being credible, fair, transparent and non-violent African trade partner that the US has, and Nigeria is probably the largest beneficiary and participant under the Opportunity Act that we have. But it is true that majority of Nigerian goods that are exported to United States are oil related.

And when you take out the oil proceeds, Nigeria still has some respectable degree of exports nearly as many as we have hoped for to further encourage binational trade.

So I think there are a couple of things to think about with Africa or Nigeria specifically when you talk about bi-national trade.

One is that Nigeria needs to diversify its economy, and not put all the money in one basket, which is the oil basket.

Nigeria needs to diversify its interests and attention and invest its money in producing other things that can be exported, aside oil.

Nigeria certainly has the resources, the strength and creativity, in addition to the human resources, to produce other export goods.

So the burden is not on us, but on you to look within you for other things which you can

•Jonathan choose from that could further grow your economy.

It is also important for you to use that same creativity which you have to look around for other greater markets prospects and try as much to improve your infrastructures to get your goods move from Nigeria to Togo, Chad, or to Tunisia, because you are bound to probably reap far better proceeds than you would in trying to get that number of products to the American market.

This is one of the reasons President Barack Obama is focusing on another of his economic trade prospects for Africa, which is the ‘Trade Africa Initiative’.

The Trade Africa Initiative is intended to improve intraAfrican trade and shortening the time it takes to get merchandise across land borders.

Human power and productive capacity.

Estimates are that by the year 2040, the population of Nigeria would be larger than the population of China and India and that means Nigeria would be the largest most populated country in the world. That also means that Nigeria would have the human power and productive capacity that can certainly increase your GDP, given the fact that your human capacity is educated and you use that capacity to diversify your economy.

Another side that is depressing and at the same time promising for Africa is that 60 per cent of the sub-Sahara Africa is unexploited and agriculture is something that Nigeria specifically could exploit but you are not, because you feel you have got your goldmine here in oil.

Several of Nigerian governors were at a meeting in Washington DC, and they talked about

farming, agriculture, oil and transformation of food processing, but not one of them talked about the service sector and the various source employment and the money making initiatives that you have access to.

But, essentially right now, we are working with your government and the private sector to double access to energy, access to electricity.

Certainly, with the resources, armed with the human capacities with which to catch up with developing infrastructures, American investors and funding institutions are all ready and waiting on decision by the Nigerian government to ensure that the regular frame work is put in place, followed by consistent efforts to ensuring that planning on your national side is carried out. You have the structures and what you need are the people who are committed to ensuring things work the way they are supposed to, and that takes political will, rule of law, meaning enforcing the law.

It also takes respect for human rights, accountability and wilingness to make all the people accountable, regardless of their position, political party or affiliation to a particular person.

There has to be a robust determination and political will to do the right things.

On Boko Haram I think it is important for your country and perhaps other affected countries to get together and map out better strategy to curtail and or sanction the perpetrators and what is happening around Boko Haram.

Many of them take refuge in neighboring countries and it is worse in the northern part of Nigeria; in our view, there has to be a way for the countries that are affected to come together and solve the problem nonviolently And I hope there would be discussions on how to cooperate with each other and also look at border security.

Corruption It is our sincere hope that President Jonathan would join other African Presidents who have been invited to the leaders summit that President Obama would be hosting in Washington DC. If you ask me, I would say that corruption is extremely high in this country; there is no other polite way to say this.

It is extremely unfortunate, because Nigeria as a country has tremendous intelligent people who do not have to be corrupt, because they have all it takes to be successful. Nigerians are resourceful and they are living in abundance of wealth and to acknowledge the fact that there is corruption in Nigeria is disheartening.

Corruption is something that Nigerians ought to want to handle in order to restore the image of the country. They ought to be proud of their country and it is not acceptable for the citizens to say, ‘that is how life is in Nigeria’.

We just had a successful binational meeting weeks ago and we sent the number four person from State Department and they talked about the burden of the society and good governance.

We are good friends with Nigeria and as we consider these bothering issues, we would ensure that you get the high level of policy attention coming in from our government.

PAGE 36—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

INTRIGUING EXPERIENCES

How we chased kidnappers, baby factory operators out of town — Gov. Orji ’Abia people, not me, will decide my successor’

To Chief Theodore Orji, the governor of Abia State, what is uppermost on his mind is to complete his transformation agenda for the state before he leaves office in 2015. After a project tour of Abia State, the governor took time out to field questions from Sunday Vanguard on issues ranging from his successor to the steps taken by his administration to transform the state. He also spoke on the challenges posed by kidnappers and baby factory operators in Abia. Excerpts: We have gone round and seen the infrastructure in place including the youth empowerment programme. Is there anything more you want to do for the youth under the empowerment programme?

As a government, what we want to do for the youth is unlimited but we are taking them in sequence. First and foremost, you have to provide a means of livelihood for them. Employment by government is not easy because the fund is not there. So, providing employment through government agencies like the civil service is very limited. A lot of people are unemployed; if you go through government agencies, it will only take a limited number of youths but then they have to live and they have to move forward.

Therefore, what we can do is give them the ones that will give them immediate employment like what we are doing here now.

There are a lot of programmes like the skill acquisition where they can be trained and, on graduation, you equip them and give them money to start up. The most immediate one is this issue of transportation; you buy the vehicle and give to them and they become the owners, they become transporters and entrepreneurs.

Of course these were people who were not doing anything before.

They are self-employed and now they have eased a congested transport system in the state.

They help to transport goods and services from one location to the other with ease. Another one is farm settlements or liberation farms where these our youths are employed. We also have a palm estate being managed by some persons. They have been employed from the three senatorial

zones. We have our park estate, which someone is managing. We are in partnership with a company recruiting our youths there, over 500 of our them and in the estate over 1,000; this is a way of getting our youths busy.

Do the beneficiaries include those displaced persons?

Of course, they are the major beneficiaries. Any person that was displaced from the former market will be considered before any other person in terms of shop and price. That was the condition we gave; the price must reduce drastically.

Many people thought it was not going to be possible; but kidnapping disappeared. How were you able to tackle insecurity in the state?

As I always tell people, I will not come and tell you the secrets I used because these are security issues. First is determination. You have to be determined to fight kidnapping and that comes with a lot of things. You have to put in a lot of resources, because it is capital intensive, buy equipment to give to security agencies; spend money on information gathering and on the populace to help you.

It is something that involves life and death. Before you send a per-

,,

BY DAPO AKINREFON

ganised and came to murder the man and his wife. So, for a person to volunteer and get information, a lot of things must be put in place, and you have to keep the identity sources of your information secret. These are some of the things you have to do; it is the function of the government, which can pull you down as well as lift you. You will achieve it when you know the gains that will come; it will spur you to action.

When you know there are people who have confidence in you; they will more than determined to follow you, because they know you are protecting their lives and their property. Life is essential as well as property, because if it is destroyed over-night you won’t be happy. In every 12 there must be a Judas but that doesn’t mean security agents didn’t cooperate with us – they gave us maximum support. The team took a higher level when the army came in. Before it was only the police that was handling it; but the inadequacy in the police did not allow them to fight very well; though they did their best. But when the military was involved, that was when the kidnapper ran away.

You know our people don’t like soft hands; the khaki of a soldier terrifies them. When they saw it, they knew it wasn’t business as usual. The army engaged them seriously.

Their leader died in the course of exchange of fire when soldiers went to his camp. His men fled,

So, kidnapping is drastically r e d u c e d .

That of baby factory, which is a new phenomenon, started after the battle against kidnapping

son to do such a job, you make that person happy. You have to inject some resources into that …then the people must cooperate with you. These are the people that gather the information; they get it even more than the State Security Service (SSS). The people know the kidnappers, because they live around. When they give information to the police, the army or SSS about kidnappers, their work will be made easy.

It is very expensive to get information, because there was a time one traditional ruler gave out the name of a notorious kidnapper, who was apprehended.

From outside the state, they or-

because their general had been killed.

What about the issue of baby factory that has surfaced in the state?

The level is quite low, just as the level of kidnapping is very low. I will be telling a lie if I say there is no kidnapping again in Abia. But now you can have one incident of kidnapping, perhaps, once in a long time, which is very encouraging. There used to be six to seven issues of kidnapping in a day, especially in Aba. There was a time almost the entire Aba people ran away. Today, it is just minimal. The kidnappers do it with fear because they know the consequences. We have police

posts everywhere in Abia with the establishment of army unit in Ohafia. So, kidnapping is drastically reduced.

That of baby factory, which is a new phenomenon, started after the battle against kidnapping.

We confronted and arrested the people involved. We demolished their buildings. Now, baby factory issue has diminished. The same happened in Umuahia south local government; one woman who was living there was said to be running a maternity home, recruiting girls and inviting men to impregnate them and she would take the baby and sell.

When we learnt about that, she is a very rich woman, making money from the business, we went there and brought down the building, some of her vehicles. We are on top of the issue as we are beaming our searchlight everywhere.

Do you have a blueprint as the chairman of South East Governors?

Yes, I have that in mind. We have this Southeast Economic Summit by Engineer Chris Okoye. He has to come and champion this issue in conjunction with government so that we can now have a blueprint of what we can do as a group and individually and what we can do with foreign participation and in alliance with our colleagues in the South-south and South-west, if possible. If we have that blueprint, by the time our tenure is over, we will be in a position to put up a standard which we may accomplish to a certain extent and if we don’t achieve it, those coming behind will follow the footstep and do something.

You have on ground huge projects. How do you ensure they do not become a waste after you have left?

If you didn’t come to Abia, you wouldn’t know anything as you have seen is on ground especially with the propaganda championed by the person we all know.

We took a lot of things into consideration before we started building. The first thing now is that we are considering some event/property management people, because after building, including the secretariat; if you leave it for government to manage, in the next two years, if you come to that conference centre or secretariat, you will weep. Now we are trying to bring in experts, who will cater for the structures to make sure they are maintained. If there is any fault, they will take care of it and government will be paying them.

Secondly, they have to organ-

ise events to make money. So they will run that place like a business venture not government going there every day; not paying anything. Anybody who wants to use that place will have to pay money to government and that money will be used for other projects. That is what we have in mind about the international conference centre, the secretariat, the BCA building and the elibrary among others.

What programme do you have for women?

We do not discriminate; women are all involved in our programmes. When we have our empowerment programme, if women that come cannot drive, we advise them to bring one of their children. So their children enjoy our empowerment programme, they benefit from scholarship as well as bursary and our health facilities. They and their children get involved in the skill acquisition programmes.

Often times, you will see my wife building homes for widows and widowers and empowering them with cash. Some of them will come and meet you to also assist them on personal issues and you will oblige them. These are little things you do to make them happy. That is why you see them in the field; or anywhere I go; they are ready to die for you because they know you care.

Most second term governors plan to go to the Senate. Are you going too and do you have an anointed candidate to succeed you?

Really, there is no anointed candidate! I have promised Abia people that they will be the ones to elect the next governor. What I have done here is to provide a level playing ground to enable Abia people achieve their aim of electing any successor.

On the Senate issue, I never thought of what I would be after here until the people of my zone, Abia central, began to mount pressure on me. They started coming, beginning from members of the House of Assembly who passed a resolution that I must go to the Senate, that they would buy the nomination form for me; I was their consensus candidate. The whole of Abia Central senatorial zone has come to mount pressure on me.

The pressure is so much that you cannot refuse. This is politics and your people are telling you that this is the first time something like this would happen in Abia when a sitting governor is there and they are urging him to go to the Senate, that they will

SUNDAY, Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 37

When ne w look Legend Extra S o tto own new Sttout came tto

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n Friday, March 28, 2014, the new look Legend Extra Stout from the stables of Nigerian Breweries Plc., was unveiled to the public in a ceremony held at the Eko Atlantic. The new look Legend comes in Stanoil and metalized labels. See faces at the event.

L-R:Victor Famuyibo, Human Resources Director and Hubert Eze, Sales Director, both of Nigerian Breweries.

L-R: Ethel Emma–Uche, Brewery Manager and Kufre Ekanem, Corporate Affairs Adviser, both of Nigerian Breweries Plc.

Ken Okolugbo commissions ICT centre

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t was fanfare galore recently in Obiaruku in Ukwuani Local Government Area, Delta State when Ken Okolugbo,commissioner representing Ndokwa Nation on the Board of DESOPADEC commissioned an ICT Centre at Obiaruku Grammar School, , built and equipped by DESOPADEC.

Femi Kuti, the headline performer L-R: Chief Nwajiogoli, Chairman, Hostcom Ukwuni LGA, Mrs. Otono, Principal, Obiaruku Grammar School, Sir Ken Okolugbo and Chief Christopher Ominimini, cutting the tape to Commission the centre.

Plc. Edem Vindah (right), Corporate Media and Brand PR Manager and Emmanuel Agu, Marketing Manager – Gulder, Legend and Life, both of Nigerian Breweries Plc.

L-R: Hon. Ochor C. Ochor, Chief Christopher Ominimini, Mrs Otono and Sir Ken Okolugbo.

Gordons, the show compere, engaging the audience

L-R: Sound Sultan and Bovi, celebrity guests .

Lauretta Ogbu hooks Kingdom Nwanyanwu THE Holy union between Kingdom Uchenna Nwanyanwu and Lauretta Ogbu was held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, Alhaji Estate, Rumuodomaya, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Reception was at Chetaeu Bon Voyage. Photos by Nwankpa Chijioke

The couple; Mr and Mrs Kingdom and Laura Nwanyanwu

L-R: Hon. Ochor C. Ochor (T.C Chairman Ukwuani LGA), Sir Ken Okolugbo and Chief Christopher Ominimini.

L-R: Mr Felix Nwanyanwu-Nwala, groom's dad; Mrs Ngozi Ogbu, bride's mum; couple, Mr and Mrs Kingdom Nwanyanwu; Mrs Angelina Nwayanwu-Nwala, groom's mum Sir Ken Okolugbo dancing with various and Mr John Ogbu, bride's dad.

Women Groups and well wishers.

PAGE 38 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014

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Love has not been kind to me — Chika Agatha

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ast-rising Nollywood actress, Chika Agatha, isn’t one of those out-of-luck Nollywood wannabes, that would be fast to tell you they are either resting or having a time off. The beautiful, business management graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has her hands full, with too many yet-to-be released jobs even though she has scores of others in her kitty.

Sex in the Bar Beach; Ajekpako Billionaire; Temple of Serpent; Sons of Zebedee, are some of the films Chika has just wrapped up. A look at any of these films may just have you to appreciate Chika’s forget-me-not eyes, that could do things to you, not to talk of her boobs, which seem to throw themselves at you, like saying “ What the hell can you do to me?”

But with all these assets that could set a man on fire, Chika is far from being lucky with the opposite sex. In fact the Anambra State-born Thespian doesn’t believe in love “Love? I have heard it in the movies; musicians sing of it, writers do stories about it, just one person proved it exists and that’s my father” she said “I have dated guys, yes, but saying love, is a bit of a cliche , love is what one says to either get sex, money, or any material thing from the opposite sex”.

Now, isn’t that a teaser for a jigsaw puzzle? A girl, so full of life, luxuriantly beautiful,with the right curves in the right places, asking questions that would get your mind in a quandry and yet sounding like something that got caught between the night and day, isn’t exactly something that has played fair with my imagination.

“Seriously, haven’t you been in love before?” I queried. “ Yes, I have. I thought

I was in love until I got a shocker that p r o v e d otherwise. Yes, I was in love but never again. I would get married someday, I know, but whether love would be the reason is something I cannot say for now. I am used to being alone. Sometimes, I have stayed over two years out of relationships before.

I have been in and out of relationships that didn’t work. I am not in any relationship currently. Imagine, I spent the last St. Valentine’s Day with someone, my ex, I didn’t expect anything serious though, we had sex and I went home next day. Do you believe I haven’t got a single call from him till today, since February 14th? Of course, he got me lots of gift for Valentine.

Men of nowadays are too greedy. Right now I am taking my time. I have been alone a long time, so am not ready to settle for just any man”, she said rather gloomily

I don’t have any business wit h a poor man – Uche Benjamin ight spotless skin, pretty L face, poise and a gait that leaves men gap

ing in its wake are those assets that set Uche Benjamin apart from many others. The graduate of Biochemistry who found herself in acting because of her passsion for the trade has had enough of men, paid her dues and thus, has come out on top stronger in the spirit and mind.

The Owerri, Imo State gir said she learned to deal witl men by being independent.h I love to work because I lov “ money. I work hard so I cane enjoy. I don’t like being taken for granted. Maybe I have suffered a few harassment from men but never heartbreaks. I am ver y wise, so my heart is not broken. The kind of person I am, I am never hurt. I choose

carefully and I am smart to know who to follow or not.

Most ladies are harassed generally in this part of the world, it takes a lady that knows her onions to handle well” she said rather cockily it .

“A woman must make hersel to be independent of a man, f that’s why I love to work for money. But that does not memy I can settle with a poor man.an Never! A man must be hardworking and rich to be my man. I don’t have any busine with a poor man. Yes, I believss love but that does not mean e in blind. I love love and I love I am mo Don’t get me wrong when I ney. don’t get hurt. If a relationsh say I doesn’t work, I leave, it doe ip sn’t mean I am heartbroken, leaving pea and remaining friends with cefully the person doesn’t mean one is hurt” she explained.

Men go crazy over my figure – Evia Simon

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via Simon came into Nollywood in 2010 and between then and now, the curvy actress has done more than twenty movies. Some of her movies include, Three Generals, Stubborn Generals, Ifunanya, Oga Madam, Men in Bondage, released some days ago, Girls Cot, When Love Dies, and a host of others.

Evia told me she has been having a flourishing career because of her talent and looks. Talking to me on how men react when they come in contact with her. “ I find their reaction annoying sometimes and embarrassing. Some even go as far as screaming and they let me know I am the reason they are screaming.

Some go out of their ways to do the craziest things.

One of the craziest things a guy ever did was to leave his car parked along the roadside and entered the same cab with me just to have a word with me because if he had kept on driving he would have missed me. And it was so funny when I found out he parked his car along the roadside to follow me down to my house just to have a word with me” she said. “ I am not the type of girl who is only interested in money.

I believe in love. To me, love comes first. I hate to have anything to do with a guy because of his money. I can stand love and bear anything that comes with it but as for money I can’t stand everything that comes with it, because I hate it when someone makes me believe I am getting close only because of his money”.

•Evia Simon

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 39

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I am not dating KWAM 1

— Dayo Amusa cries out

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t hasn’t been easy for beautiful Yoruba actress, Dayo Amusa, popularly known as Dewunmi Iberu since she took part in a special role during the wedding of King Wasiu Ayinde Mashal’s daughters, couple of weeks ago. The producer of ‘Unforgivable’ has been having a hard time to explain if she is or not having a secret affair with the Fuji maestro.

In a recent interview, the hazel eyes beauty told her story, saying “Left to me, I wouldn’t like to react to this kind of question anymore because it’s more like a dead issue. It doesn’t have any meaning to me again. This issue has been on ground since 2011, when I launched my movie Dewunmi Iberu. That was the time K1 performed, forgetting that I am not the only actress or actor the man had played for.

Recently he performed at Murphy Afolabi’s movie premiere. The question is, is he also sleeping with Murphy Afolabi? So, some people are just not alright upstairs. K1 is happily married. I respect him and his wife. I saw a good father in him, likewise, he saw a

good daughter in me. But once they don’t understand the kind of relationship between you and a man, they start insinuating what’s far from the truth. Fine, they said I played an important role at his daughters’ wedding. They forgot I wasn’t the only one invited to play a role. I don’t even know what was so important in what I did.

I don’t need to be repeating myself. He is a father to me, and I respect him a lot. He has not disrespected himself before me, and I have also not disrespected myself before him. So, if he is doing something, and I am invited just the way I was at the events they’re talking about, I must play my part well. Besides, I wasn’t the only daughter he invited. A lot of us were there, even adopted ones. So, I wasn’t the only one that stood as his daughter during the week-long ceremonies. I have known K1 to be very nice, and I respected him for that.

People should just let me rest. Alhaji invited a lot of celebrities to his daughter ’s weddings, and I was contacted to entertain all the actors and actresses, which was exactly what I did on his behalf. So, what’s so special about that? How can that be fueling unnecessary speculation about myself and him? Some people are just jobless. I don’t know what their problem is. If since 2011 people have been insinuating we’re dating, are we not supposed to be tired of each other? Just because they don’t understand the true relationship between us, that’s why they keep peddling useless rumor.

They are just disturbing their brains over what is not. But my conclusion is that whoever thinks my way of life is a problem to him or her should vacate the earth surface and stay six feet underneath” she said.

My most romantic moment — Lizzy Gold Onuwaje ormer Miss Delta State and industry. budding Nollywood actress, F Yet, Lizzy isn’t all about money Lizzy Gold Onuwaje, is beautiful, she has a heart of gold and from bold and daring. When only a few women would ever accept money means anything to them, Lizzy came out bluntly in an interview with Potpourri that she loves money so much bank alerts turn her on.

She was being frank where many of her peers would have shied away and put up an act. But not Lizzy, who also agreed she would never marry a struggling man, let alone a poor one. She dumped her former boyfriend when it dawned on the Itsekiri actress that the guy could not keep pace with her own speedy success and climb in the movie

the little she has made, she is reaching out to the lessprevileged through her NGO which is sponsoring indigent students.

Once again, Lizzy showed her daring spirit when she revealed in a recent chat what she considered the most romantic thing a guy has ever done for her.

“It was when my present boyfriend got me a car. Actually, he didn’t let me know that he wanted to get me a car. I was driving a small Kia car when we met. He told me the car was very

I am only taking a break from acting for politics – Jibola Dabo T

he latest actor to have been bitten by the bug of politics is veteran actor, Jibola Dabor, who is currently strategising on how to clinch the ticket to represent his people of Owo Federal Constituency, Ondo State, at the House of Representatives. According to the veteran actor, it was never his call or decision but the call of his people who clamour for him to represent them. But does that mean Mr. Jibola Dabor would be quitting making movies? “ I can still do one or two movies, because nothing in the constitution says I can’t do movies, but I know there won’t be time to do much movies. I’m not quitting, I’m just taking a break to give back to the people, because I’ve realized that the industry has taken me to a particular peak. Giving back is not going to be easy from that industry, but if I’m part of a voice, I can better develop the industry and give back to the community. So, I’m not really quitting, I’m only taking a break” he confided in me. He also told me he doesn’t have to be a career politician to know what his people need. His focus, if elected, “ Would be rural development. I’m quite experienced in the cultural activities in my constituency and I know how we can use the basic things we have in the land to enrich the youths in particular. I’m going to concentrate on putting my constituency in the international brochure on tourism because we are very rich culturally and also use arts and crafts to create jobs for the youths which is part of the youth empowerment project I have been talking about with the current government. These are self created wealth that can happen from the land, because most of these youths have left the land seeking greener pastures where there are none. I believe that I can help redirect heir attention to the land”.

small. So one day, he just called me over to Lagos, because he was about to travel out of the country. So I flew down,when I got to the airport, he drove down a brand new Lexus Jeep. He told me it’s mine, but I didn’t believe him. So he brought out the documents and they were all bearing my name. Automatically, I knelt down and started crying. I was just wet with happiness and tears of joy”

PAGE 40—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6 , 2014

Between rice smugglers and Customs STORIES BY UDEME CLEMENT

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EW weeks after the interception of over 30,000 rounds of live ammunition, the Oyo/Osun Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded massive rice seizures estimated at about 26 metric tones.

When Sunday Vanguard visited the Command, its warehouse was filled to the brim with seizures of rice packed in various compartments, even as some seizures were displayed inside trucks.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, Mr. Oteri Richard, expressed displeasure about the nefarious activities of smugglers in mapping out new and sophisticated trend of smuggling prohibited goods into the country through the borders.

He said, “On the early hours of Wednesday, April 2, 2014, our patrol teams, led by Service number 27137, SC ASAGBA, B.F. intercepted nine buses loaded with 481, 50kg bags of

The CAC of Oyo/Osun Command, Mr. Oteri Richard, with other Customs Officers, inspecting massive seizures of rice, estimated at about 26metric tones, impounded by his Command. rice with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N6million, along IseyinSaki axis of the state.

This is another remarkable feat, which gives credence to our resolve to make Oyo/Osun States a no hiding place for unpatriotic Nigerians who engage in this illic-

it business of smuggling. In the last three months alone, the Command+ intercepted over 3,715, 50kg bags of rice with the DPV of N43 million.

“It is pertinent to mention that the Command, within the past one year, made a total seizure of

over 15,485, 50kg bags of rice with DPV of N172.8 million. This will also go a long way in debunking any claim that the NCS is not doing enough to curb the menace of rice smuggling through the borders. I want to use this medium to advise unpa-

I want to use this medium to advise unpatriotic Nigerians who patronise our neighbouring ports with the intention of smuggling to desist from the practice, as we will not fail to make them face the full wrath of the law

triotic Nigerians who patronise our neighbouring ports with the intention of smuggling to desist from the practice, as we will not fail to make them face the full wrath of the law. Importation of rice through the nation’s borders is prohibited.

Those who wish to im-

port rice should do so using the nation’s sea ports. The Comptroller General of Customs, Alhaji Abdullahi Inde Dikko is passionately committed to implementing the rice import policy to the latter and we reiterate our unequivocal support in doing so within our Area Command.”

most telling issue in the border community now is the menace of motorcycle smugglers of rice.

Within a short period, we have impounded over 1,000 motor-cycles used in smuggling rice through the border. With the number of motor-cycles arrested, you can imagine what our oper-

atives go through to apprehend one motor-cycle, because any mistake may result in casualty.

We also recorded the arrest of fraudsters by SARS operatives, who handed over the culprits to us for further action.

“In exploring other areas from which more revenue could be harnessed, the Ogun/Guandong Free Trade Zone provided the platform.

The Command is putting measures in place to provide the enabling business environment for enterprises to thrive in the zone. We recorded positive revenue collection from the zone and we are advising the border communities to invest in the zone rather than smuggling. In anti-smuggling efforts in 2013, we recorded over 1,368 seizures with the DPV of N1.3 billion, as against 1,084 seizures with DPV of N694million made in 2012. This shows a progressive difference of 284 seizures with DPV of N619.8million. In January 2014 alone, the Command recorded 83 seizures with DPV of N37.5million, as against 71 seizures with DPV of N28.4million realised in the same period in 2013”.

‘Our problem with Okada smugglers’

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EANWHILE, Idiroko, the border between Nigeria and Benin Republic, has also been hit by massive seizures of rice carried out there almost on daily basis.

The seizures displayed at the Command were over 15,790 bags of rice, equivalent to about 27 trailer trucks. Over 1,000 motor-cycles, popularly known as Okada, used to convey the prohibited items were impounded along the rice. The DPV of the rice was put at N94.740million. Besides the items at Idiroko border, rice seizures in different trucks were also seen at Abeokuta axis of the Command.

In the same vein, the Ogun Customs Command arrested three suspected fraudsters, said to have been faking Customs documents, there- Seizures of over 1,000 motor-cycles used in smuggling rice at by depriving govern- Idiroko border, intercepted by Ogun Customs Command ment of huge revenue. recently.

The items found in their possession include fake within the border com- various communities Customs documents, munities refused to see where we met with the desktop computers, smuggling as a serious traditional rulers to edprinters, stamp-pad and crime and economic sab- ucate them on the danotage to government’s gers of smuggling. Durtypewriters.

The Customs Area Con- effort to promote indus- ing the tour, we appealed to them to call troller (CAC) of the Com- trial development.

He said, “On assump- their subjects to order, to mand, Comptroller Haruna Mamudu, ex- tion of duty at the Com- desist from illegal imporplained that the people mand, we embarked on tation of prohibited items a sensitisation tour to into the country through

the border, but they are not cooperating enough.

That is why we have huge seizures of rice coming into the Command, almost on daily basis.”

He added, “We uncovered a new trend of smuggling at Idiroko with the use of motorcycles (Okada). The

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 41

Jinx will break; women will be govs in 2015 — Kema Chikwe

BY HENRY UMORU Mrs. Kemafor Nonyeren Chikwe, from Imo State, is a former Minister of Aviation, a former Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland and the incumbent National Woman Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. In this interview, Chikwe bares her mind on her blue print for PDP women, her mobilization of women for the party ahead of 2015 presidential election, President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, politics in her home state, among others. Excerpts:

Y

OU have been moving around mo bilizing women to support PDP. What is the place of women now in the party?

Well, I can tell you that there is a very high momentum for women in the party now, because the new Chairman is giving us unprecedented support. For instance, everywhere we go, I have to go a day ahead to sensitise the state and local government leaders and then supervise what is going on there.

I have his support and then the women are responding because, prior to that, not really that they were dormant, they were active in their own way, but they needed the re-energizing that is going on now and it is generating excitement. Most Nigerian women prefer to be known as PDP women it is a brand.

Let us talk about the idea to ensure improvement in women participation by conceding additional slot to them in the federal cabinet. How hopeful are you on this?

I am very hopeful that Mr. President will do it. When you watch a president that appointed a coordinating minister for the economy, not just the Minister of Finance who stands to address world leaders on economic matters in our country from among women, then you know that that president appreciates gender issue of this country.

The president understands that women have a lot to contribute in this country and they are prepared to do it. By his appointment of women into sensitive positions, some governors have toed that line, some of the local government chairmen and everybody is highly sensitized on the issue of women.

Quite frankly, there is still a very serious problem but the president is breaking the jinx by the kind of positions he offers to women. You can see that in his cabinet, women occupy almost 35% and, in his utterances he has shown that he has more to do for women. You can look at his developmental pattern in every sector; he is not only developing infrastructure, he is also developing human structure and, when you talk about developing human structure, women stand to do it.

Look at the attention he is giving to them in the business meant for men in agriculture. So, if they are empowered they will be more confident and more visible in the developmental process and I think the president is fully aware of the potentials of women. Women themselves aren’t keeping quiet, they are also putting pressures on government at all levels to be recognized, to be empowered, to participate.

Even by your asking me this question, you can see that this consciousness has grown and people are beginning to be appreciated.

So, hopefully, if our strategy go right, women eventually will gain more, because he has started the experiment with 35% and it worked very well. Essentially, in 2015, it is not going to be an experiment anymore, it will be consolidated and, when it is consolidated, more women will be incorporated.

At the state level, you can see that many of the governors are very conscious of the gender issue: women are secretaries to government ,deputy governors, commis-

Mrs. Kemafor Nonyeren Chikwe sioners in very strategic ministries. You have them as judges and so many women who have excelled because of their expertise at the state level. And the local government election in some of the states that I have interacted with, for instance Cross Rivers State, you see where a woman is chairman and a man is vice-chairman of the council and, because of that, the governor and his wife were able to support quite a number of women to become vice -chairmen of

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the line.

When it comes to governorship, I don’t think that too many women are contesting, but what we are saying is that our chairman, Adamu Muazu, is going to break the jinx.

We know that with the combination of the chairman and the president, being also gender-friendly, Nigeria is going to produce female governors in 2015. I cannot tell you how many, because, much as we ask for

We have women who are qualified, grounded in politics and we are hoping that the leadership of the party will do everything possible to ensure that women emerge successfully as governors to accelerate our national development

councils.

I think some other states did that : AkwaIbom and Niger, among other states, did well and, you know, as you empower women, it becomes a natural phenomenon.

People are now looking at their competence and not their gender anymore. So, there is a big conscious effort, but we are hoping that in the electoral process in 2015— we know it isn’t easy but we are appealing to Mr. President and the governors to ensure that 35% of elective positions go to women; it is achievable.

What does it take to do an election? The woman has to be on ground; we aren’t talking about bringing alien into the system but women who are on ground—if you support them financially, help them in their campaign and give them logistics, there is no reason they shouldn’t win; there is no reason we wouldn’t get 35% in the National Assembly, state assemblies and down

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these positions, we are also diplomatic, we are also practical, but we want to break this jinx in 2015. Of course, we have women who are qualified, grounded in politics and we are hoping that the leadership of the party will do everything possible to ensure that women emerge successfully as governors to accelerate our national development .

What is your blueprint for women in PDP? Can you give us an insight into what you want to achieve as the national woman leader?

You know my office, I have a strategic plan, but in politics you don’t really disclose what you want to do. What is important is that we are focusing on empowerment of women; we are partnering with those who have the resources to empower women and we have structured it to ensure that women are actually engaged in commercial activities so that they can earn their

income.

We also have a strategy of partnering with the media, because a lot of women don’t get media exposure. We just started a workshop to partner with women in the media to assist. We are also going to have our own team, whereby we will penetrate everywhere. Of course, you know PDP has structures down to the lowest level of mobilization in this country.

So, we are going to use those structures to vempower women. You know the president and the national chairman assisting to ensure that women are thoroughly empowered before the election. So, these are the things we are focusing on now and the opportunities in the different sectors now like the Ministry of Agriculture, the opportunities in the Ministry of Communication for instance, some of our women benefitted from the ICT training at the Ministry of Communication and we sent the e-women, I run a programme, the ewomen network, these are younger women from age 18-45 and they mobilise online and I think right now, there must be more than 1 million e-women online.

Ordinarily, women are apolitical but because of the attraction that PDP has to offer and because PDP is a branded party, they see the reason to support the party and they see the reason to support the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, because women seem to trust President Jonathan, because of what he has done so far for women and even his wife.

There is hardly any week the wife doesn’t come up with a programme and she has shown so much compassion for women.

So, the strategies we have are quite many, but most importantly we have programmes that will empower women, because if you don’t have anything in your pocket, it will be very difficult to do politics. So, we are ensuring that PDP women are empowered.

Just few weeks ago, your state received some defectors to the party, Senator Chris Anyanwu was one of those who returned to the PDP. What is your reaction to the recent declaration by her that she once defeated you in primary for the PDP senatorial ticket?

First and foremost, I am very happy that they all came back. You know political party is like a cathedral, everybody can come in, provided they have the voting power. Achike Udenwa was governor for eight years, so he must add value to the system. We weren’t happy that they left the party. We thought he shouldn’t have left the party aftermserving as governor and as minister. But it is also good that he realised this and came back to reenergize the party and some other people who came back.

But talking about rivalry with Senator Anyanwu, I really don’t have rivalry with anybody. I contested the Senate position with her, but what is really surprising is that Chris Anyanwu claimed in the newspapers that she defeated me in the primary. I can assure you she didn’t and she couldn’t have . Anyanwu cannot defeat Kema Chikwe in primary in any state. She doesn’t have a structure, I have a structure an enduring one and at least my state knows that. So, how could she defeat me?

There was this story that Abuja said she should be returned and that the Committee that came to Owerri to conduct the primary was there to return her. She had a field day being a serving senator and it wasn’t a hidden fact in the party that the idea was to return at least one serving senator. But I still won the primary. Even the election itself, my husband couldn’t vote for me and I couldn’t vote fornmyself, with the intimidation from the military. The result was doctored and it wasn’t the returning officer who returned the result and the REC refused to announce the result. All of a sudden, they said Abuja put pressure on

Continues on page 42

PAGE 42—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

EKITI 2014 The shape of the three-way battle to come

Governor Kayode Fayemi T was a dual political event that happened in different parts of Ekiti State, penultimate Thursday, spearheaded by two former friends in the same political camp who fell apart.

The once upon friends are Governor Kayode Fayemi and Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele, gubernatorial candidates of All Progressive Congress (APC) and the Labour Party (LP) respectively.

They are both defenders of human rights, belong to almost the same age bracket and are intellectuals of high calibre.

Fayemi and Bamidele were both in Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) which later merged with some parties to become APC. Both of them are now in different parties and want to become the next governor of Ekiti.

While Fayemi and the APC were at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium Ado Ekiti where the governor kick- started his second term campaign bid, Bamidele was in another location in far away Ido Ekiti in Ido -Osi Local Government Area of the state where he, along with thousands of his supporters and partymen, launched his gubernatorial campaign.

The Ado Ekiti event witnessed a huge crowd of people including eight APC governors. The governors who stormed the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium,venue of the Fayemi rally, included those of Adamawa, Alhaji Murtala Nyako; Sokoto, Alhaji Aliyu Wammako; Ogun, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun; Zamfara, Alhaji Abdulaziiz Abubakar; Imo, Owelle Rochas Okorocha; Oyo, Sen. Abiola Ajumobi; Osun, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, while Kwara State governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, was represented by his deputy,Elder Peter Kisira.

The occasion also witnessed heavy presence of top ranking musicians, actors, actresses as well as jesters led by Fuji musician, Adewale Ayuba, and traditional music exponent, Elemure Ogunyemi.

The governors, who spoke one after the other at the event, unanimously endorsed Fayemi for second term in office. They noted that Fayemi had touched the life of every citizen of Ekiti, calling on the people to vote in the governor during the June 21 governorship election. The APC governors equally cautioned the electoral body, INEC, to refrain from doing anything that would portray the organisation as partisan in the forthcoming poll.

Also speaking at the ceremony, a former C M Y K

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BY GBENGA ARIYIBI

Opeyemi Bamidele

The governor challenged his cogubernatorial candidates in other parties to come and explain what they have done to alleviate the suffering of the people

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governor of Ekiti, Chief Niyi Adebayo, condemned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for affirming his successor, Mr. Ayo Fayose, as its candidate in the election.

The first civilian governor of the state faulted his defeat by Fayose in the 2003 polls, describing it as a fraud perpetrated through a gang-up between Fayose and the powers-that-be then.

The APC chieftain warned Fayose to stop boasting that he was the one that brought Fayemi to office, and the one that would soon send him parking.

He said Fayose and PDP of today would regret their actions if they do anything aimed at manipulating the coming election as allegedly done in 2003.

“In 2003, Fayose and his cohorts stole my mandate, but I want to warn that if he attempts what he did 11 years ago, he will meet his waterloo because Ekiti people will never allow him to succeed this time around,” Adebayo warned.

Ado-Ekiti stood still for several hours that the campaign lasted, with pedestrian and vehicular movements hindered.

Fayemi, in his acceptance speech, promised to improve on his performance and denied reports that he would sack some civil servants and teachers if he secured second term.

Ayo Fayose

He equally promised not to tamper with commercial motorcycle business, otherwise referred to as Okada, saying the operators must ride in conformity with standard practice.

The governor challenged his co-gubernatorial candidates in other parties to come and explain what they have done to alleviate the suffering of the people. Bamidele, who, along with other LP leaders, was at Ido Ekiti at the same time the Ado-Ekiti rally held, vowed to unseat Fayemi in the June 21 election.

At the campaign arena which witnessed a huge turn out of LP supporters and youth leaders, the apparently overwelmned LP candidate said Fayemi should stop deceiving himself that he had majority of the people of the state behind him.

He said about half of the members of the governor’s cabinet were not only supporting him, but also assisting him financially.

Bamidele said he remained more acceptable to APC members in Ekiti based on how he had built the party and assisted

many others while still a member of the defunct Ekiti ACN that merged with others to become APC. The federal lawmaker equally faulted Fayemi for reneging on his promise that the campaign for the election would be issued based. ”I heard them on radio calling me names and doing same to the people in the PDP. We are not going to do that. We are going to tell the people what we have in store for them. ”Our mission is to rescue the state from bad governance and to unite all. Basic necessities of life will be provided and a new dawn will begin in the state,” he said.

Among LP leaders present at the rally were the Deputy National Chairman, Hon Joseph Akinlaja, the state chairman, Mr. Akin Omole, and Prince Akin Olayisade.

The candidate of the PDP in the election, Mr Ayo Fayose, is soon to flag off his own campaign. The June 21 election promises to be tough given the strong character of the three contenders - Fayemi, Bamidele and Fayose.

‘Women will be govs in 2015’ Continued from page 41 the REC and the result was announced.

But I went away because I am a politician; I didn’t leave PDP because I knew that it was sabotage against me, but I stayed on in PDP but I won her in primary. That was what happened, but she shouldn’t go on with her claims. It is ridiculous . There are some people who are lucky, Abuja works for them, but I don’t believe in Abuja in an election and anybody who knows me knows that I will always tell them, go and win the grass root, even if you don’t win the main election.

The grass root is with me, any day. If you come to my state, you will know that the people are with me. That’s the truth. She doesn’t have a structure up till now. So, how could she have defeated me? I am happy she came back but this politics for women, you need humility, you need diplomacy. Don’t always think that you will be a privileged candidate. If I were Anyanwu, I would stay in APGA, build it now that the governor has left. So, if she won me, why did she abandon the same platform ? I am happy that she is back in her party but for goodness sake, she must be humble about the so called victory she

was awarded.

Even as your office tries to galvanise support for increase in space allotted to women in elective positions, are you worried over issues of alleged financial malfeasance in ministries under women: the aviation sector under then the former minister, Stella Oduah and Petroleum Ministry under Diezani Madueke?

Well, let me tell you: in this country, we always hear about corruption and those that are talking about it are people who arereally involved in that corruption. Allegation is allegation, perception is perception. Nigerians aren’t used to women holding the portfolio that Diezani Madueke has; that’s the truth. She is just a woman, she is just a minister most of the other operators there are men. So, if there is any problem in the Ministry of Petroleum it isn’t about Diezani. In fact, it is about the men who are around there. And in the case of Stella too, it is the same thing.

All the heads of parastatals are men and that is another problem. If we had more women in those ministry, maybe you have less trauma. It is perception; you cannot pronounce somebody guilty until you have tried the person and found him guilty.

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 43

2015: Abians shouldn’t focus on zoning — Ikoh

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BY CHARLES KUMOLU

Chief Ndukwe Ikoh, leader of Progressive Peoples Alliance ,PPA, and a former governorship candidate in Abia State, in this interview, argues that what the state needs ahead of the 2015 governorship election is the best man for the job and not zoning.

Abia has suffered so much; it is a sad commentary and I think the next governor would have a Herculean task trying to give Abia people dividends of democracy. We need the best to work now and not zoning

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HAT is the political situation in Abia? It is said that your PPA is dead in the state.

The 2015 election in Abia is clearer than a lot of people know. The contest is going to be between Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); other parties like All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), All Progressive Congress (APC) and Labour Party (LP) may try their best. The former governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, is going to play important role in the politics of the state as well as the incumbent governor, Chief T.A Orji.

The Ukwa-Ngwa zone wants to produce the next governor, while other zones are kicking against it on the grounds that there is nothing like zoning arrangement.

What is your position?

They call it ‘Abia Charter of Equity’ and nobody has seen the document and most of us who are young don’t understand it in full details. Politics is a game you really have to go and take and not sit at a place and get served. You go out and grab power.

I will advise my Ukwa Ngwa brothers and sisters to come out and claim it if they really believe it is their turn to rule Abia. On the other hand, I’m not an apostle of zoning when it comes to governorship. I believe that whom the cap fits let him wear it. The philosophy of zoning reduces the chances of getting the best hand in any situation. I personally could opt, as a personal principle, to say, let the best emerge from anywhere; all the zones in the state, and let every aspirant be given equal opportunity to contest and the best emerges as governor. Abia has suffered so much; it is a sad commentary and I think the next governor would have a Herculean task trying to give Abia people dividends of democ-

Chief Ndukwe Ikoh racy. We need the best to work now and not zoning. Ukwa Ngwa are saying it is their turn, the question is, has there been any gubernatorial election that they have not fielded candidates or aspirants? In 2011, they said it was their turn, they fielded candidates in all the political parties except PDP and they voted against their people and helped to re-elect Governor Orji. We need the best to come from any zone to lead our people to the promised land.

You are so emphatic about the PPA making great impact in Abia gubernatorial election, but some believe that the governor has performed wonderfully.

Don’t you think it will affect the PPA chances?

The governor ’s performances ended when he was in PPA. He was elected in his first tenure on the platform of PPA in 2007.

During that time, he had elected local government chairmen and things were better than now, but since he decamped to PDP, everybody can testify to the disorderliness in the state. The PPA platform, which he used to come to power, gave him a clear direction of governance than what we are

witnessing now. One can attribute his better performance in the time past to his being a member of PPA but now, he is a rudderless ship and difficult to control; you don’t know what he is up to or not. PPA controls the grassroots when you talk about party politics in Abia. It produced the governor while he was in prison, and for a party to achieve that feat means the party has grassroots appeal and we have not lost that Midas touch to return our candidates in an election. But for the intimidation we suffered in the last election when military men, security officials were expressly instructed to stop us, we would have formed the present government.

But now, things have changed and we are going to take back what rightfully belongs to the people, which is the mantle of leadership in Abia. PPA will come back to power in Abia in 2015.

Don’t you think Kalu’s exit from PPA will affect the fortune of the party in the state?

Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu left PPA and Chief Ndukwe Ikoh came to PPA. Both of us are good men of Abia State and good businessmen in our own rights and at our levels and good community leaders. We share a lot of attributes in common but I must

tell you, Kalu’s exit from PPA is strategic.

He didn’t leave the party to make the party come low. Unknown to outsiders, it was properly discussed and he left. It was sacrificial because he loves PPA so much, but he has to be in PDP to enhance the opportunity of the president returning in the next election and to ensure a level playing ground in party politics in Abia as well as ensures normalcy is returned in South-east PDP. You people are supporting Jonathan.

Are you sure the whirlwind, APC, blowing across the country will not blow away Jonathan in 2015?

Jonathan’s return to Aso Rock is not negotiable. The good works he is doing speak volumes. About a year ago, I went online and saw that Jonathan could be the most popular president Nigeria has ever produced, I didn’t take it serious but now I can tell you that he is becoming a revolutionary president. Talk of the National Conference going on, which past leader had the gut or courage to convene discussion about Nigeria’s future?; look at the revolution in power generation, infrastructure and standard practice of governance. He is the kind of president we need at the moment of our history to lay solid foundation for Nigeria to move forward and be reckoned with in the country of nations.

There was the allegation of Abia government trying to disrupt PPA meetings.

It is only when PPA is meeting that the state government comes to disrupt the gathering. It is instructive, the security agencies should mark my words, and it is not that PPA cannot come out in retaliation, but we are peace loving party, we know we are the only real opposition in the state. When APGA, Labour and APC hold their meetings, government does not come out. I don’t know if it is working for APC but when PPA is meeting, a party which is pro-PDP at the national level, he comes out with intimidation. We are watching, complaining and written to all the security agencies, but the paranoid of Governor Orji about PPA is real because he knows the party is coming back to form the next government.

Why Osun reforms must continue – Bankole

BY AMAKA ABAYOMI

Ahead of the Osun State gubernatorial election scheduled for August, the Coordinator, Osun Movement for Peace, Comrade Temidayo Bankole, in this interview, talks on why well-meaning Osun indigenes must speak up against attempts to derail the current developmental momentum in the state to attain the Osun of their dreams.

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S your being in the news a strat egy to make your organization ahead of the coming governorship election in the state?

We have been in the news for a while now, but it is wrong to conclude that our increased tempo of advocacy and media visibility is to achieve political or election-related goals. Osun Movement for Peace, OMP, is a non-political and non-governmental public advocacy cum civil society group. We are a part of the Civil Societies Coalition in the state. Our concern and purpose of existence since 2007 has been to defend the peace, unity and interest of our state.

In the last few months, attempts have been made by some irresponsible political elites to push the state to the precipice by misrepresenting the intenC M Y K

tions of the state education policy. Our movement decided to intervene by organizing an education summit to douse tension.

Our objective has always been clear - we don’t want politicians to play politics with the future of Osun State, so we ask those who want to contest elections to go about it responsibly and not instigate our people against one another. Let issues that will determine elections in Osun State be as objective and development-focused as possible; not religion, ethnicity, thuggery or any other form of societal manipulation.

Well meaning indigenes and professional groups in Osun State must rise up and speak against all attempts aimed at derailing the current developmental momentum in the state. If you knew Osun five, ten years ago, and you see what is going on now in terms of visible positive transformation, you will want to pray that the state should never be returned to the era of the past.

The least we all can do is to say no to vandalism and any form of manipulation that could turn the hand of the clock back.

Is this about working for the second term of the incumbent administration?

OMP is not working for any political party or contestant; rather, we are a

Now is the time for us to let the world know that our state is replete with pragmatic, intellectual and peace-loving people who are passionate about forging an alliance to promote the best interest and development of the ordinary people watchdog for the well-being of Osun State. Go and check: we have never received any form of patronage from anybody or party within or outside the state and we have no intention of doing so.

There is nothing wrong if Osun people are impressed with what is happening in the state in the last couple of years and they want the person who is responsible for the transformation to continue. All we are saying is that let whoever will lead Osun assume the mandate of the people freely, fairly, peacefully and responsibly because we

are decent, peace-loving people.

What role do you see your group playing in the build-up to the governorship election?

We will be playing the town-crier role by vehemently and ceaselessly drawing the attention of the whole world to any minute incident that could affect the peace of the state. We will also work with like-minded interest groups to put together programmes that would serve as a strong platform for advancing the wish of the people of Osun for free, fair and peaceful election.

Now is the time for us to let the world know that our state is replete with pragmatic, intellectual and peace-loving people who are passionate about forging an alliance to promote the best interest and development of the ordinary people.

In terms of how prepared we are in mobilizing Osun citizens towards achieving peaceful, rancour-free elections, the truth is that majority of the people of Osun are wiser now because they have seen the transformation going on in the state. So, they are keying into the direction the state is going now and will definitely not precipitate crisis, rancour or any such unwholesome acts that may destroy the peace of the state.

PAGE 44, SUNDAY

Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

GOV. UDUAGHAN AT BRITISH PARLIAMENT

’This is my story’

*Speaks on developmental strides and national unity *How we tried to save mother and baby during delivery

BY JIDE AJANI, who was in London

A

t the British African Diaspora Conference, the theme of which was, “NIGERIAN ENVIRONMENT, BEYOND POLITICS AND AMALGAMATION, organized by the AFRICAN PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, Delta State governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, grabbed his audience and took them through the developmental strides of his administration. The event, which took place, penultimate Tuesday, at the Grand Committee Room, House of Parliament, Westminster, London, UK, regarded as the second Debating Chamber of the House, saw a state governor who was at once deliberate in his presentation and expansive in the scope and vision of what Delta State should look like. In the chamber were parliamentarians, professionals and international journalists. To be fair, Uduaghan’s seven-year old administration has more than delivered on his campaign promises. However, as he engages the last year of governance, what would be uppermost on his mind is how his successor would build on - and not dismantle - his legacy. This is the story of Dr. Uduaghan.

PROLOGUE He came face to face with horror - this was some 25years ago. Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, a medical doctor then, was hurriedly called to try and save a dying woman who was caught up in the pains and

complications of child birth. When he got there - a hospital somewhere in Delta State - what “I found was a woman, a dead woman, covered with cloth”, he narrated to his captive audience inside the Grand Committee Room, House of Parliament, Westminster, London, UK. Though Uduaghan, who is today the Delta State governor, made it clear that “this is not a story that I often enjoy telling; but it needs to be told so that people can appreciate where we are coming from and why a good healthcare delivery system is very paramount to my administration.

When I pulled the cloth from her body, I discovered that it was lifeless. What happened?”

He answered the question himself. He explained that the woman had not undergone the necessary antenatal care because of lack of funds. To make it worse, at the time of delivery, she went to hospital, was turned back because she was not registered, and found her way to a local hospital. There was no scan and, therefore, it was not possible to have discovered that the baby in the womb was not properly positioned for easy delivery - the child was bridged, because rather than come out with the head, it was the buttocks; the woman had lost strength and the child was stillborn. That is the horror of poverty and lack of good medical care.

A pall fell upon the chambers after this sordid tale. But Uduaghan then gave hope. ”That is why we have taken great pains to establish the General Hospital in Oghara, with state-of-theart facilities. That is why medical care in Delta State is free for pregnant

women and some other categories of dwellers in the state”.

THREE HOURS EARLIER Just three hours earlier, Uduaghan cut the picture of a day-time creature suddenly caught by the cold hands of darkness. With a slight shiver and cocooned in his robes, the Delta State governor sat in the middle section of a three-seater sofa in his hotel room in London. He was suffering from cold - call it flu. With a coterie of aides and appointees as well as two or three legislators milling around, Uduaghan welcomed his guests - four journalists. It was obvious that fatigue and weather had played a

session to be organized by Alabi’s body.

ENTER THE FEMALE PARLIAMENTARIANS Coincidentally, that was the same day the parliament was voting on the nation’s budget. The significance of the budgetary event was that two prominent MPs were always in transit between the event and the voting chamber of the parliament. Meg Hillier, Chair of the ALL PARTY PARLIAMENTARY GROUP, a position she has held since 2010; and Chi Onwurah, MP for Newscastle-Upon-Tyne Central, had to make sorties between participating in the voting on the budget and the conference. Hillier said Nigeria held promise and this was discovered upon many visits to Nigeria.

She, however, let food for thought regarding the trafficking of Nigerian women abroad - the country is the largest source. She believes the future is bright for Nigeria.

For Onwurah, the prospect of Nigeria becoming one of the 10 rising economies in the world is a possibility.

She supports a strong united Nigeria and she would “love to have the sociopolitical and economic infrastructure in place as quickly as possible and would also like to see the country more

THE BRITISH AFRICAN DIASPORA CONFERENCE 2014, according to its organizers, African Partnership Development, is a programme for Africa with focus on Nigeria, especially at a time it is marking its 100th year of British amalgamation of the Southern and Northern Protectorates disturbing role on the health of the governor. He acknowledged greetings; engaged in a tete-a-tete and prepared for the event of the evening.

THE BRITISH AFRICAN DIASPORA CONFERENCE 2014, according to its organizers, African Partnership Development, is a programme for Africa with focus on Nigeria, especially at a time it is marking its 100th year of British amalgamation of the Southern and Northern Protectorates. Tunde Alabi, the Executive Director, welcomed participants and explained the giant strides of the body. It was the sixth

prosperous”.

THE INSPIRING PARABLE OF A VILLAGE BOY Udughan spoke after his colleague, Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako of Sokoto State, had made some comments - the latter flew in from Washington DC just to make an appearance..

The Delta governor grabbed his audience and took them on a historical voyage. From his presentation, it was obvious that the dress or the office does

Continues on page 45

SUNDAY

Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 PAGE 45

Continued from page 44 not necessarily make the man. What makes the man is the stuff he churns out, his disposition and his effective communication skills which should either present him as a charlatan in a powerful office, or a man of intellect who is transforming an office.

Uduaghan is of the latter.

Firstly, he stepped down from the podium where he sat (although by the time he moved to the centre of the chamber, his true height was revealed).

Clad in a white shirt, black tie, a black pair of suspenders and a black suite, Uduaghan embarked on his voyage firstly about Nigeria’s amalgamation history, post-independence journey, the discovery of crude oil, its effect on agricultural produce, the military coups, the imposition of unitarism, the effect of crude oil exploration on the Niger Delta and the issue of militancy in the area which he attributed to marginalisation.

The very first sign that Uduaghan was communicating very effectively dawned on all when he relieved his childhood experience of how he would rush to the farm in the very early hours of the day to tap rubber, rush back home and prepare for elementary school - this was in early 1960s. His story made most faces long, some shot out of their necks in disbelief, glanced at the persons sitting next and immediately refocused on the governor For his rise from grass to grace, it is fitting that he is in a bear-hug with the poor in his state, sopping to their needs. ’MY SUICIDE MISSION’ About his administration, he said, “The first thing is about economic development which we believe would help our politics” Uduaghan drew a parallel between the need for gainful employment spurred by very active economic activities which his administration has engaged, and the reduction in militancy, insisting that “when there is no hunger, there is no anger and, therefore, no violence”, adding that “it is very difficult to recruit gainfully employed people for criminal activities”.

He lamented that most companies have left the Delta area because of environmental and infrastructural degradation.

He made it clear that the unemployment crisis is real and a timebomb. Therefore, his administration created an economic development environment to cater for youth employment, stressing, “That is why we are involved in Delta Beyond Oil”.

On current challenges, the Delta governor enumerated the need for peace and security, infrastructure, and human capital development as issues being tackled by his administration.

He noted that being a governor, upon taking oath of office, is a suicide mission. ”As a governor, I engaged some of the brains behind militancy or sent people to them. And with time, they began to believe in our commitment to developing the environment, provision of jobs, development of critical infrastructure and the demonstrable delivery of democracy dividends”, Uduaghan stated.

It was at that point that he told the painful story of the pregnant woman.

Another tale of woe which he told was the embarrassment of confronting pupils in his very early days as governor. ”You visit some schools and naturally the students would get up to say (in chorus) ,’Good morning Mr. Governor ’. ”Now, for me, it was very embarrassing because these were pupils you saw sitting on bare floor in what is called their classroom. After greeting you, the natural thing to do is to say they should sit down after acknowledging their greetings.

Gov Uduaghan and Meg Hillier discussing the future of Nigeria

Uduaghan drew a parallel between the need for gainful employment spurred by very active economic activities which his administration has engaged, and the reduction in militancy ”But in all honesty and good conscience, how would I tell them to sit, when the only place they would return to is the floor - bare floor? ”But we have taken care of all that and we are still doing more.”

In the area of Diaspora involvement in the development of Nigeria (and specifically Delta State), the governor said the State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara is a wonderful testament. With an imposing structure, state-of-the-art facilities and first class medical personnel - some of them brought in from abroad - Uduaghan has transformed the face of medical care in his state.

Although he was quick to admit that whereas the attitude to work of the Diaspora doctors and medical personnel is rubbing off on their Nigerian counterparts, thereby providing excellent medical services comparable to anywhere in the world, he, nonetheless, explained that his “administration is moving on by providing well-furnished General Hospitals as well as other medical institutions to cater for every category of our people”.

He also spoke about Delta State One Stop Shop for Investors (DSOSSI). The governor did not leave out the leader of his party, President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. He enumerated the achievements of the Jonathan administration. On the security challenges confronting the country, Uduaghan made it clear that the threat of Boko Haram predated the present regime but that the military has been able to confine it to three states, just as he stressed the improved operational capabilities of the military. On power, he told his audience that the once exclusive sector has been opened to private investors and, in due course, things would get better. But he made his audience understand that the unity of Nigeria is

Uduaghan stressing a point very dear to him and that it would do the nation a world of good if “ we all ensure the unity of the country”.

There were questions and comments.

Ade Aminu, a Nigerian who is the acting Mayor, Lambert Borro, appreciated the good works of the governor and urged for better relationship between Nigerians in the Diaspora and those back home.

Before him, Sam Foxman of Developed Africa, another partnering group for the conference, said he believed small entrepreneurs could move the wheel of development much more that those big firms governments always focused on.

He used Delta State as an example with its micro-credit scheme from where over 10,000 persons have benefited and are into exportation of quite a number of items.

Joe Okemena, UN Special Envoy on African Development, as well as Chair, Nigerians for Labour, a pressure group galvanizing to get more Nigerians on the ladder of the Labour Party and parliament, explained that some $200trillion is available annually for drawing from international development agencies. He, however, lamented that only about 30% is drawn down annually. He admonished the Nigerian authorities to endeavour to access the funds for the development of the country.

THE CHALLENGE OF SUCCESSION Now, even as he prepares to enter his last year in office as governor, it would be nice to come down to earth with Uduaghan. In a polity of clashing socio-political and economic interests, what is the succession agenda? There are already agitations that zoning should be the order of the day. Yet, it has already manifested in the larger polity

the danger which zoning without merit poses. During his presentation, the Delta governor made it clear that some of the policies in place have the backing of law so that continuity can be guaranteed. However, like the words of Alfonse Capone, you can go further with a kind word and a gun than just with a kind word – the governor should know what that means. Legislation alone does not guarantee continuity. The Asaba International Airport, the Delta Towers in Abuja (adjudged as one of the best edifices in the skyline there); the 11storey High Court Complex that is under construction and is sure to be the best judicial complex in the country, the Teaching Hospital in Oghara which would still be expanded are projects dear to Udughan’s heart. His Excellency would do well to allow popular participation rather than pander to the myopic sentiment of allocating his office par succession. Competence, unalloyed loyalty, understanding of the dynamics of governance as well as a strong commitment to and firm belief in the principles of his outgoing administration, garnished with popular acceptance, should be the abiding ingredients in engaging a succession plan. The governor knows the people working with and around him. He knows those to whom, with mass participation, he can entrust the reins of power to, come 2015. It would be his call. Abuja’s meddlesomeness would rear its head once again. To appreciate the issues raised herein, he should, for once, imagine what would have been his lot had any other person other than him taken over as governor of Delta State. A good man should not be denied the benefit of having a successor he believes in and in whom continuity is guaranteed. When the time comes, the call would be his - the burden, watts and all.

PAGE 46—SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014 sameyoboka@yahoo.com

08023145567 (sms only)

RCCG Kings Court moves from prayer to praise

By SAM EYOBOKA

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T the beginning of the year, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye stunned the Christian world when he announced a 100-days fasting period for members of the church beginning from January 2 to kick-start the new year.

The announcement came as the 72-year old Pastor Adeboye released his prophecies for the new year, during a crossover service held at the Redemption Camp of the church, declaring that “2014 will be the year of Overflowing blessings" and "the destinies of many people will be determined this year.”

According to Pastor Adeboye, the only persons exempted are newly wedded couples and elders who are above 70 years of age, noting that he would fast despite his age. The other group of persons exempted are nursing mothers and pregnant women.

Said he: "You can drink water during fast.

You can drink tea if you are overseas and it is cold. If you miss a day, you must substitute it for two days."

That exercise is expected to end on Friday, April 11.

The Kings' Court parish of the church located in Victoria Island in Lagos has perfected plan to take the session to a new level. It is ending the fasting period with an extravangant praise session.

Addressing newsmen in his church office, the Pastor-in-Charge of the Province, Pastor Ben Akabueze gave reasons why the Kings'

*Pastor Ben Akabueze Court, which has metamorphosed to become a provincial headquarters, is resorting to a praise session after the 100-day spiritual sacrifice.

"As we head to the end of the fast, we now want to move on to praise. There was a prophetic word spoken through our General Overseer, Pastor Adeboye, to the effect that for some persons this year, on account of what God would do, they would go from prayer to praising God. First of all, before you can go from prayer to praise, you must have

been praying.

"It does not mean that when you move from prayer to praise, you stop praying. Neither does it mean that you have not been praising God previously. So effectively, the prophetic word means that God will do some awesome things that will cause its people to praise Him in an outstanding way, more than previously done.

"And so as we come towards the end of the 100-day fasting, which is itself part of God’s prophetic agenda for the church, we are having this special programme on the theme, “From Prayer to Praise” which will hold on April 13, 2014, here at the King’s Court.

"That pre-supposes the fact that we believe God to move in mighty ways in the lives of individuals and families in the church, so that they will have cause to praise Him because they have answers. When you get answers to what you have been praying about, you don’t continue to pray about it, rather you switch to praise for the answers. Whichever you look at it, we will indeed have answers to lots of prayers," he

Nigeria needs spiritual re-armament, says Methodist prelate...plans city wide crusades in Lagos

By SAM EYOBOKA

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ETERMINED to fulfill a self-imposed fourpoint agenda of growing Methodist Church Nigeria spiritually, numerically, financially and infrastructurally, new prelate of the church, His Eminence Samuel Emeka Uche Wednesday announced plans to hold a city wide crusade in Lagos.

The crusades are scheduled for April 10-11 which will move throughout Lagos and achor at Ile Pako, Amoo Playing Ground, Amoo-Agege on the outskirts of Lagos, adding that there will be free medical screening by experienced medical doctors just as “ we shall start a programme of social action to empower the unemployed, the indigent, widows, orphans, prisoners and the likes under the auspices and sponsorship of the prelate’s family NGO, Care and Touch Foundation” Addressing newsmen at Hoares Memorial Methodist Church, Yaba, Dr. Uche said the church had identified City Wide evangelistic outreaches as an effective methodologies of growing churches, adding

L-R: Methodist Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Joseph Ajayi, Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Samuel Emeka Uche and Connexional Secretary for Evangelism and Discipleship, Bishop Edoka Amuta at the media chat. that he had therefore instructed all the 16 archdioceses to hold crusades this year.

“I have decided to take the lead by attending and ministering in each of these crusades,” the prelate said, pointing out that he had actually ministered in crusades in Igbogini, Aba, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, Benue and Abuja archdioceses.

According to Prelate Uche, adequate arrangements have been perfected for security and transportation of participants from different parts of Lagos to

the venue of the crusades, stressing that he is committed to the spiritual and life-transforming city wide crusade.

On the security situation in the country, the prelate who was flanked by the archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Joseph Ajayi, connexional secretary for evangelism and discipleship, Bishop Edoka Amuta among others, the prelate blamed the state of affairs in Nigeria's North Eastern region on the neglect by past leaders.

He maintained that it's a well known fact that a governor

initiated and sponsored the Islamic fundamentalist group, Boko Haram which holding the rest of the nation to ransom because outsiders had taken advantage of it and now scheming to destroy the nation.

"Nigeria is currently living in a glass house; but I daresay that whether you are Muslim or Christian, everybody knows the implication of throwing stones in a glass house. I was tasted war; I was a victim of war during the Nigerian Civil War and I suffered untold hardship.

Those who are fanning the embers of war must be careful. its even worse with religious war," he warned.

Uche further said that what Nigeria needs today is a spiritual rearmament, adding that Nigerians must de-emphasise religion and ethnicity and focus attention on things that unite us as a people.

He reiterated his call on members of the National Conference to shun selfish interests and work sacrificially and diligently for the development of the nation, stating that the amalgamation exercise of 1914 was not a mistake but a divine arrangement.

stated.

Continuing, the pastor said "instead of continuing to pray, we will shift gear and go into praise for the answers.

Also important is that very often, when people receive answers to prayers, they just move on and don’t even remember to return to God with thanksgiving for what He has done for them."

Drawing attention to a biblical story of the 10 lepers who were healed, but only one returned to thank the Lord Jesus, Pastor Akabueze said they don’t want to be like the nine other lepers.

"We want to be like the one Christ commended. That is why we believe that God will do big things in our lives during the fasting period and we will shift gear from prayer to praise," he said.

He hinted that preparations and rehearsals for a worthwhile celebration have reached feverish pitch because the occasion will witness guest appearances of established gospel artistes just as it will be a platform for revealing budding artistes who may walk away with recording deals.

Asked that one of the prophecies for this year is that the destiny of Nigeria will be determined this year and what impact will the praise have on the fortune of the nation?

This was his response. "As a church, we will be standing in the gap for Nigeria. But in all honesty, the programme coming up is primarily for members and families represented here in the King’s Court parish and all other families who will join us in the programmes. Yes, we will be praying for Nigeria and we hope that God will hearken to our cries for Nigeria and the cries of many others who have been interceding for this country."

*ANNIVERSARY

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HE leadership and members of The Holyghostants' World Mission, Owerri, Imo State will today 8:30 a.m. mark her 16th year of God's faithfulness and steadfastness. Billed for Holyghostants' Chapel, Ikenegbu Extension, Owerri, the event will be hosted Bishop K. K. Degaya alongside Evang.

Uju-Blossom, priest-in-charge and other anointed men of God. Chairman planning committee, Deacon Emeka Patricks hinted that the event will feature music, drama and other edifying activities.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 47

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N 2003, FemiKevin’s headmas ter sent me an email forecasting that he would fail his GCSE exams because he had done so badly in his mock exams. I wrote an angry response and asked him: “Are you God? How are you so sure he would fail?

Is it because he is black?”

After he took the exams, God did something strange. Before his results came out officially, he showed them to me in a dream; subject-by-subject and grade-by-grade. The results were excellent: Femi-Kevin got so many “A” grades.

The next day at the dinner-table, I announced to everyone that I had seen Femi-Kevin's GCSE results. They thought the results had come out.

But I told them they had not; nevertheless, had God revealed them to me.

Then I gave them the details. Six weeks later, Femi-Kevin's results were officially released. Guess what? They were exactly as it had been shown to me.

Revelation knowledge God reveals things of his choosing to us in dreams. This is part of the privilege of walking with him. Job says God uses dreams to “open the ears of men.” (Job 33:16). He also uses them to give us invaluable understanding of his works. What we learn from dreams enable us to pray constructively in order to prevent imminent evil. Alternatively, it enables us to pray in order to ensure that God’s will is done in our lives.

Dreams can give us

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ORLD Watch Monitor re ports Fulani herdsmen have destroyed more than 20 churches during attacks on

UNRAVELING THE MYSTERY OF DREAMS valuable insight of what is happening in the realms of the spirit. Indeed, we can pray to God for such revelations because the spiritual state is the true state of everything. You may want to know spiritually the man who is proposing marriage to you. You may want to know the spiritual character of the house you just moved into. You may want to know the reason why there is a big mountain in your path. God often answers such prayers through dreams.

Remember this: God is the one who tells us what we need to know but cannot know naturally. Thus, Jesus said to Peter: “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 16:17).

Frightening dreams Some will tell you if the dream is frightening, it is not from God. This is not necessarily true. God occasionally terrifies us with warnings in dreams. (Job 33:16). He uses them to wake us up when we are complacent, too relaxed and are not paying enough attention to him.

He uses them to make us face disturbing truths about ourselves. Accordingly, Job laments:

The fact that you saw someone in a dream does not mean the dream is about him “When I say, 'my bed will comfort me, my couch will ease my complaint,' then you scare me with dreams and terrify me with visions, so that my soul chooses strangling and death rather than my body.” (Job 7:13-15).

God also scared Nebuchadnezzar in dreams.

He said: “I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts on my bed and the visions of my head troubled me.” (Daniel 4:5). This did not happen because Nebuchadnezzar was demon-possessed. It happened because God wanted to impress an urgent message on him. Similarly, God troubled Pilate’s wife in a dream in order to warn Pilate not to participate in the persecution of Jesus.

She said to her husband: “Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.”

(Matthew 27:19).

However, most scary dreams are not from God. Hidden areas of our subconscious mind; things we see, watch or hear; areas of anxiety; these can all produce frightening dreams. Some dreams

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Busybody dreams Soulful dreams are produced by the natural processes of our mind, will and emotions. When we think, not all our thoughts originate from the Holy Spirit. Therefore, when we sleep, the natural mind continues to process our natural thoughts. As a matter of fact, when we are preoccupied with something or someone, it shows up in our dreams: “For a dream comes through much activity.” (Ecclesiastes 5:3).

King James calls this a “multitude of business.”

Accordingly, God warns: “(Don’t) listen to your dreams which you cause to be dreamed.” (Jeremiah 29:8).

Significance of dreams A lot of what we dream about others is first and foremost for us. Jesus counsels: “First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.” (Matthew 7:5). A dream that your fiancé is unfaithful does not necessarily mean he is. It might simply be dealing with your fears and insecurities. The fact that you saw someone in a dream does not mean the dream is about him. It is customary for dream-characters to “borrow” the faces of others. Therefore, don’t be quick to impose your dreams about others on them.

(To Be Continued).

Death toll rises as Fulani herdsmen kill Christians communities in Benue State. The death toll has now surpassed 150 fol-

lowing last weeks’ vicious attacks on Christian villages in Nigeria.

US church honours 5 governors, TB Joshua HE Ecumenical Apostolic Church, Virginia USA will on April 26, honour five Nigerian state governors and the General Overseer of Synagogue Church of all Nations (SCOAN), Prophet Temitope Joshua as well as the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbenedion with the Global Award of Excellence.

A release by the coordinator of the USbased church in SouthSouth Nigeria, Bishop Nmalagu Greatman, on

provide avenues for tormenting demonic spirits to harass us and rob us of our inner peace and joy.

The antidote for this is prayerfulness and spiritual fervency. God says: “Awake, awake, O Zion, clothe yourself with strength. Put on your garments of splendor, O Jerusalem, the holy city.

The uncircumcised and defiled will not enter you again.” (Isaiah 52:1).

Since our spirits never sleeps, if you sleep in front of a television, you are likely to dream what is showing in it. Dreams are often the product of our subconscious mind revealing to us our deepest, innermost thoughts.

(David) says: “my heart also instructs me in the night seasons.” (Psalm 16:7). If you spend the day watching horror films, you might have a horrific dream at night.

During times of intense spiritual warfare, you may also dream about situations involving dark forces of the enemy.

The human mind is a dream factory. Therefore, be careful not to put too much reliance on dreams for the primary way that God talks to us in these last days is by his word: “For in the multitude of dreams and many words there is also vanity.”

(Ecclesiastes 5:7). By the same token, don’t allow yourself to be derailed by the dreams of others: “Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are in your midst deceive you.

For they prophesy falsely to you in my name; I have not sent them, says the LORD.” (Jeremiah 29:89).

Since what we dwell on during the day often appear in our dreams, it is important to spend our waking hours meditating on the right things. God

counsels that we should procedurally meditate on the scriptures: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”

(Joshua 1:8).

As we digest relevant scriptures during the day, our minds will continue during the night to assimilate the truths we have imbibed. The psalmist says: “I remember your name in the night, O LORD, and I keep your law. (Psalm 119:55). As a matter of fact, we can even meditate on the scriptures by listening to them and dreaming about them while we are sleeping.

behalf of Presiding Archbishop John Johnston, said the ceremony would take place at God Worshippers Assembly along Amai Road, Obiaruku, headquarters of Ukwua-ni local government area of Delta State at 10.00 a.m.

The release listed the selected governors include Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Comrade Adams Oshio-mhole of Edo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, Mr. Baba-tunde Fashola of Lagos State and Chief

Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State.

Others include the immediate past governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi and his Bayelsa State counterpart, Timi-pre Sylva.

The statement said the award was approved at the Biennual Bishops Conference held at Lanexa Virgina, USA on December 28, 2013, adding that the nominees were recommended to the Board by the South South Nigeria Regional Chapter Co-ordinator, Bishop Greatman.

During 2014 violent assaults on Christians in Nigeria’s northern and central states has dramatically increased.

According to International Christian Concern Christians are attacked almost weekly. Fulani herdsmen, who are mostly Muslim, and the extremist group Boko Haram are at the forefront of perpetrating these attacks on Christians.

"The inability of the government and military to provide protection for Christians is inexcusable, said Todd Daniels, Regional Manager for ICC. “While certainly there are challenges, the military needs to devote substantial resources to seeing this process

brought to an end. There has even been speculation of various government officials being involved in supporting various groups as a means of gaining political leverage. These sorts of acts raise serious questions concerning both the integrity and the aptitude of the Nigerian politicians. The result has been that Christians have been left vulnerable to repeated, systematic acts of violence throughout the country."

Benue State is 95 percent Christian, and the remaining mostly Muslim.

EASTER 2014 GOOD FRIDAY HOLY SATURDAY EASTER MONDAY

Yiman Orkwar, chairman of the Benue branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria, also told World Watch Monitor the government has shown little concern about the attacks.

"It is a two-prong attack to take over our land and convert the people left in these places to Islam, but we resist," he said. "They have been killing everybody they find in the villages. They butcher women, children and others. What they are doing is barbaric and very similar to the attacks by the Boko Haram terrorists."

APRIL 18, 2014 APRIL 19, 2014 APRIL 21, 2014

PAGE 48—SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 japhdave@yahoo.com 08056402376

Transerve Discs Tech intensify fight against piracy FILM

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ne of the greatest challenges facing the Nigerian entertainment industry is piracy. It has robbed the industry billions of Naira, in fact one of the stakeholders in the industry described the perpetrators as terrorist and that the act is more deadly than AIDS. And in line with its core mission to create and maintain a pace setting organisation by adapting technology to customers’ needs, finished with transcending excellent services, the management of Transerve Discs Technologies Limited, one of the optical discs replicating plants, registered by the Nigerian Copyright Commission, last week unveiled its new products. They are Transerve Discs’ new DVD mastering facility and DVD 5 & 9 replicating machines, glass mastering (Stamper) as well as its new anti-piracy initiative, the Job Alert Management Systems (Jams).

The new products which were unveiled recently at the Golden Tulip Hotel, FESTAC Town received commendation from many stakeholders in the industry including the Director General of the Commission, Mr. Afam Ezekude.

spective business environment. The Director General, reassured guests at the event, particularly copyright stakeholders, •Mr Cyprian Orakpo, CEO of Transverse (R) with Nollywood actor Kanayo of the Com- O. Kanayo at the event mission’s readiness to support He called for stricter en- 16 containers containing piand partner with stakeholders in forcement measures to curb rated products from China, creating a conducive environ- the hydra-headed phenom- which included books. While, the Director-General of Nigement for creativity to thrive. enon.

On his part, Nollywood actor anayo who is not rian Film and Video Censors and Chairman, National Instihappy that the pi- Board, Mrs. Patricia Bala tute for Hospitality and Tourism rates are feeding fat liter- spoke on the precautions that Studies, Kanayo O. Kanayo con- arily and figuratively on can be taken to nip the activicreative works at the ex- ties of the intellectual property pense of the supposed ben- pirates in the bud. She apThe decision of the company to introduce eficiaries of the works, then pealed to the stakeholders in the JAMS initiative was informed by the called for the establishment the entertainment industry and need to address the problem of piracy of of Intellectual Property Po- the companies replicating films copyright works at point of production lice like the EFCC, to han- to send the letters of approval dle this scourge. to the Censors board for veriin the business of production demned piracy and called it an The Director-General, Ni- fication. This, she said, would of copyright works. He en- act of “intellectual terrorism”. gerian Copyright Commis- help the board check the films joined all players in the copy- Kanayo noted that the wealth of sion (NCC), Mr. Afam that are replicated.

The events of the day, also right industry to emulate Nollywood is judged not only on Ezekude revealed that durTranserve Discs Technologies, its past works but on the subing his administration, featured the presentation of a in adopting proactive solu- stance that is coming from the NCC has secured 46 crimi- documentary on Transerve tions to challenges in their re- industry in contemporary times. nal convictions and seized Discs Technologies.

of optical discs in Nigeria with 13 CD/VCD replicating lines. The addition of two DVD Lines and one DVD mastering facility has boosted its capacity of replication to more than 420, 000 CDs/ DVDs per day.

The Director General, in his speech noted that the introduction of the Job Management Alert Systems (JAMS)

by Transerve Discs Technologies has taken to a new dimension, the underlying policy for regulation of operations of optical discs manufacturers, which is to entrench international best practice, credibility and transparency

K

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By JAPHET ALAKAM

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Drinking from Oba Erediauwa’s fountain of ideas

Addressing the problem of Piracy In his opening remarks, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Transerve Discs Technologies, Mr. Cyprian Orakpo stated that the decision of the company to introduce the JAMS initiative was informed by the need to address the problem of piracy of copyright works at point of production, by instituting the core value of transparency, integrity, excellence and professionalism in its operations.

He disclosed that Transerve Discs Technologies has a policy of zero tolerance for piracy.

According to him, the JAMS initiative enables Customers to monitor and track all activities relating to the production of their copyright works, and also ensures that the Customer is promptly alerted of any future attempt to reproduce the work by a third party.

Continuing he stated that Transerve Discs Technologies is the first indigenous Replicating Plant in Nigeria, and has grown from a modest one replicating line company in 2006, to the largest replicator

LBHF 20 14: Lagos celebr at es African creativity in colour 201 celebrat ates colourss

By JAPHET ALAKAM FESTIVAL

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HE state and city of La gos will for the fifth time roll out their mat of variegated colours and textures to locals and international visitors to an all round fun and entertainment as this year ’s Lagos Black Heritage Festival kicks off. Inspired by the spirit of convergence for which Lagos remains pre-eminent, the Lagos Black Heritage Festival celebrates African creativity within a carnivalesque of traditional and contemporary Dance, Music, Painting and Photo Exposition.

This was announced by Disu Halloway, the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism and Inter Governmental Affairs last week while briefing the media on preparations for this year ’s festival. The LBHF 2014 events is scheduled to hold from April 14th through 21s1 at the Freedom Park (Old Colonial Prison), Broad Street, Lagos. ccording to him. while it has not abandoned the Festival policy of a thematic selection for each edition, this year it takes a break from its current series — The Black In the Mediterranean Blue and moves from the geographic outlook to the disciplinary of Music.

“Much is happening in the

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musical field, but there is a domination of Eura-merican pop forms, which near completely stifles the exploration of indigenous musical resources both in direct performance for audiences, and in their application to other disciplines — most notably in theatre and cinema/video.

Music, we know plays a dominant role in social life , so LBHF yields front stage this year to Music, its fortunes under technological enhancements and the proliferation of foreign music.”The festival will make an attempt to resuscitate this unique performance genre, so highly developed in other societies.

International competitions The Festival will use the event to also pay tribute also to pioneers — such as Steve Rhodes — whose struggling orchestra and choral ensemble won laurels in famous international competitions such as the Welsh Eisteddfod. It will provide a homecoming platform for contemporary composers whose works have been enjoyed for decades by foreign audiences but remain totally unknown in their own homeland.

As always, the supporting cast to the main theme will be out in full form. There will be at least

•An artistic performance by the youths in previous edtion two dramatic premieres, the ever-popular Do Your Own Thing, always a showcase of surprise talents and unpredictable presentations. The Water Regatta constantly outdoes its previous outing, festooning the lagoon in a bla/e of pennants and choreographed motions, while the Street Carnival continues to complement its Calabar sister Carnival,which rounds up each year on Easter Monday.

There will also be Ancestral parade through the streets of Lagos, From ancestors to the living: the Night of the Poets celebrates the lyric voices of the living,

then further down to the next generation which is represented in the Children’s Carnival, while their viewpoint of the world they inhabit finds expression in Vision of the Child, a competitive exposition through brush and paint, poetry and prose, that seeks out, and gives pride of attention to the often unheard questions and aspirations of creative minors.

“The 2014 edition has been designed as an interactive test to stretch youthful creativity even more than in previous editions. Instead of the unidisciplinary interpretation of the given theme, participants will now express their vision both in Painting and the Literary Arts .”

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 49 japhdave@yahoo.com 08056402376

Poetry, music, dance, drama herald Muse Season 1

By PROVIDENCE OBUH DRAMA

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Nigeria culture is rich and we need to let people know that these things have not been covered, so we need to bring them out

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Bantu, Aramide light up Lagos with Afropolitan Vibes MUSIC

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he anniversary of Afropolitan Vibes, a monthly live concert which serves as platform where musical acts express their talent in an exciting no-holdsbarred manner, was held penultimate week at the old prison yard, now known as Freedom Park, Lagos. The show which aims at employing real African music to drive change in Nigeria, had the surrounding area of Freedom Park, packed with cars as people made their way through the Freedom gate after paying N200 entry fee.

Prior to commencement of the show, the audience spent time, getting popcorn and freshly tapped palm wine, from the palm wine stand to water their expectant souls while the band performed last-minute checkups and warmed themselves up for the night, As soon as Nigerian-German musician, producer and activist, Ade Bantu got on stage and began to lead, it dawned on the audience that finally, the first anniversary of Afropolitan Vibes was live and real. Aramide, “a female

dar kness of Homosexuality darkness

By JAPHET ALAKAM

rt lovers in and around Lagos were treated to a fusion of dance, drama, music and poetry reading last week at the The Muse Season 1 event held at Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos. The event which was attended by many theatre lovers afforded them another opportunity to reflect on the state of the industry in Nigeria.

Film Director, Abiodun Kassim observed that Theatre and stage plays have become •A scene from the drama perfomance at the event a thing of neglect in the country, compared to the cinemas Young Tomi Odunsi, titled, ‘I Won said.

Earlier, Emmanuel said, where people rush to watch Blow.”

“Over the years I realise Meanwhile, Kassim said, movies and music shows. theatre has shifted to the Is“Theatre in terms of stage play The Muse is a biannual land and so I decided that it and its education in Nigeria have event of creativity which enis good we compasses poetry, music, bring it dance and drama, put toback to the gether by Oluseyi Emmanuel, mainland. an actor, producer and also a “Nigeria stage director, with fifteen culture is years experience in the enterrich and tainment industry. we need Some of the stage activities been neglected, if we go back to to let peothat took place at the event inthe root, we will begin to impact ple know that these things clude: “Open Letter” a dance have not been covered, it is people. drama written by Segun “People flood to watch music embedded in the inside of us Adefila and demonstrated by shows, movies, theatre is not only and so we need to bring it Crown Troupe fo Africa. It foentertainment in Nigeria, it trains out,” he said. cused on the things that are Popular artistes who parour children from the grass root. happening in the society; Because people do not see the ticipated at the event in“Whose House Is This Anyessence of theatre, our national cludes; Jude Orhorha, Toyin way?” is a drama piece that theatre is in jeopardy, we are Oshinaike, Zara Udofiadepicts the attitude of contembuilding cinemas every where but Ejoh, Olusola Emmanuel, porary caretakers and tenants, we neglect the theatre which is popularly known as Lord of written by a poet, Olusola the backbone of every society,” he Poetry, among others.

Emmanuel and Music done by

By PRISCA SAM DURU

Dissecting the spiritual

R&B singer who has come to represent the African woman and give her voice on what she sees, feels, and how she wants to be treated”, stormed the stage amidst deafening cheers from the women.

Bantu came on stage once more, immediately Aramide’s performance was over. He asked the audience to proceed on stage and dance, which is one of the signature activities of any Afropolitan Vibe show.

At first, no one seemed interested but as soon as the first person strolled out, others got onstage and danced. The danceall activity was followed by the performance of Ghana’s FOKN Boiz’s, a deep, satirical, and inspired group who use their rap music to ask questions and tread where most Africans wont tread. hey came on stage and per formed a song they had written with Bantu first before performing one of their hit singles; “Thank God We Are Not A [sic] Nigerians.” That song needed an explanation and the duo sure gave it to the waiting crowd.

Their presence excited the crowd and in order to calm down skeptics who likely hadn’t heard the song before, the duo stopped their performance half way and explained that they couldn’t remember why they wrote the song

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anymore as the same conditions plaguing Nigeria had started plaguing Ghana. The song actually focuses on the real issues that affect both countries. nother musician that drove the crowd wild was Sound Sultan who came in from backstage. Chants of “Suntan! Niger Ninja!” charged the atmosphere and the talented musician quickly began with “A jo o da bi ile” (no place can ever be like home) line out before his group joined him on stage, and together, they provided a lively performance of “Bush Meat” and “The Hunter.”

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REVIEW ne of the contentious issues that has attracted a lot of comments recently is the issue of Homosexuality or same sex marriage especially since President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan signed the bill into law. Many who commented on it commending the president for his action did that without knowing the serious implications as they just seem to agree that it is not natural.

But what actually is homosexuality, what is the origin, why should someone leave the opposite sex and be attracted only to a person of the same sex, why are some people so engrossed in it that despite the dangers they stick to it; how would Christians respond to it and what are the likely ways those into it can adopt to come out of it. These and other issues related to homosexuality are what the young author and teacher, Kenneth Chinedu Okocha who is divinely led by God, as a servant of God came up with in his new book titled Homosexuality as a Spiritual Cult of Darkness.

The 51 page book, Homosexuality as a Spiritual Cult of Darkness is a six chapter book published by Beaken Enterprises, Lagos Nigeria.

In it, the author who is a seasoned believer on fire of God attempts to bring to limelight the satanic wickedness of homosexuality as well as the web of iniquity and destruction tied to this ungodly lifestyle orchestrated by Satan while making it abundantly clear that it is a spiritual cancer that will spread as this age draws to a close.

In a detailed analysis of what homosexuality is all about, the author also brings to the fore the current happenings in the world such as the campaign for homosexual rights which serve as the preparatory ground for the eventual take off and the establishment of the government of Antichrist immediately after the church is

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Book launch/Award EKEL Publishers and Association of Nigerian Ten D ants (ANTs) in collaboration with ALEA Awards will launch its new book, ‘The Morning Sunset’ written by Joy Chinwe Aguguo Duru and the 1st Nigerian Tenants Summit 2014.

The event billed for April 10 at the Banquet Hall, Development Centre, Abuja, by 5pm is themed: Give Them Houses, Stop them From Running Abroad. It also has as topic: Every Nigerian Can Own a Decent House.

Among dignitaries expected to grace the occasion are Her Excellency, Dame Patience Jonathan, First Lady, Fed-

eral Republic of Nigeria as Mother of the day; Dr. Mrs Sara Jubril as Chairperson; Her Excellency, Dr. Laraba Bhutto, Nigerian Ambassador to Cuba as Special guest; Hajiya Zainab Maina, FCIA, MFR, Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, and Honourable Nyesom Wike, Minister of Education and others.

raptured .

Divided into six chapters for easy reading, chapter one and two introduces the reader to the meaning of homosexuality and its origin.

Here he said, “ while some people would copiously argue homosexuality is wrong, some others would argue that it is right. I wish to categorically state clearly and unambiguously that it is unnatural, it is filthy, dirty. It is unclean and highly demonic.”

In chapter three with the title, fallen satanic spirits controlling and expanding homosexuality, the author highlights how satan who rules the earth with his agents are controlling and expanding homosexuality while chapter four takes a look at the worldwide apostasy and homosexuality as a tool for its propagation, where he paints a picture of how satan use the various world leaders and church leaders to propagate it.

The author in chapter five highlights how Christians should respond to the dreaded venom while chapter six takes the reader to the seven fundamental steps to take to quit homosexuality and all forms of sexual perversion. He did not end it there , he also suggests what they have to continuously do to maintain their deliverance and enhance their work with God.Fused with Biblical references and quotes, the au-

Homosexuality as a spiritual cult of Darkness; Kenneth Chinedu Okocha; Beaken Enterprises, Lagos Nigeria; 2013; PP. 51 thor who confessed that the need to herald the second coming of Jesus Christ which will take place very soon is the motivating factor that propelled him to write the book said that the aim is simply to bring to limelight the dangers of homosexuality. As a minister of God, the author also warned seriously that the hour is here, so the earlier sinners repent and come out of it, the better.

The book is a good manual for all, especially the youths and those who are already into the game.

PAGE 50—SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014

Anambra politics: Has Ifeanyi Uba thrown in the towel?

BY SAM OKWOR

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

Questions over the whereabouts of a candidate in the Anambra poll

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read an article in Sunday Vanguard entitled, Ifeanyi Uba: A lesson for Nigerian politicians, written by Mazi Omife I. Omife. To me, that article was timely and a master piece of advice for our politicians, not just in Anambra State but also the country as a whole.

Here is a new generation politician with a masterpiece manifesto that was a clear and innovative departure from the worn out and recycled manifestoes of old brigade politicians.

At the end of the day, this magnificent idea was not allowed to see the light of day, not because the people of Anambra State were not eager for such a promising idea, but because the same old

godfather based political actors applied the old system to deny the people a choice they unmistakably desired as was clearly evident during the election campaigns.

But again that broad day light electoral frustration revealed even more transparently Uba’s unique political attribute and credential that places him head and shoulder above his counterparts. Contrary to the well known character of Nigerian politicians of never accepting defeat by fair or foul means and going ahead to challenge election result, Uba, even when it was clear he lost by foul means, decided to let go, without disputing INEC’s widely disputed and disreputed verdict on the governorship election.

By this rare political behaviour, Uba has left no one in doubt about his distinctive political personality and therefore the genuineness of his political agenda for Anambra State, a fact that was so glaring in his political manifesto which stood so transparently head and shoulder

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VIEWPOINT

Uba’s current political silence or hibernation, anybody who knows him and his whereabouts should please inform him that the masses of Anambra are waiting

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above those of his rivals put together.

In choosing the path of concession and sacrificing a mandate that belongs to him or that is contestable, Uba has stepped into the shoes of great African heroes like Zik of Africa, Mallam Aminu Kano, and Nelson Mandela, all of who in accepted to suffer all sorts of political injustice, deni-

als and deprivations in the interest of peace and unity of their countries and in t he hope of future victory.

However, in as much as his post-election political conduct has further beefed up his political image in the state, it has become worrisome to his teeming supporters and masses that for months since the election, not much has been heard or known about Uba’s political whereabouts.

Ordinarily, one would not worry over Uba’s silence all this while which many people have interpreted as a period of rest after the hectic campaigns. But what makes the scenario disturbing is the speculation that Uba has decided to call it quits with politics.

For the masses of Anambra, the suggestion that Uba has been taking a rest is well taken.

But not the suggestion that he has quit politics which will amount to an anti-climax of hope and expectations to his

Making a Mark @ 66: A tribute to the Senate President TRIBUTE IN BRIEF The story of an achiever on his birthday

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OME business executives and politicians have rea sons they don’t celebrate birthdays. To some, celebrating birthdays is nothing but a distraction from their most important engagements. Others feel that celebrating might amount to self-aggrandizement and giving self an undeserved glory.

The weight of this argument notwithstanding, history always allows generous space for exceptions. And the merit of those arguments, though noteworthy, cannot subtract anything from the fact that celebrating the achievements of someone like Senator David Mark is indeed

VIEWPOINT

BY JONAH NWOKPOKU

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INCE the uprisings and vio lent protests that have rocked some Arab nations 2011, some people had feared that such would be replicated in Nigeria, with the level of corruption across the country and the impunity with which our politicians loot the treasury.

It has been said over the years that Nigeria is a time-bomb, a keg of powder waiting for a devastating explosion. However, all that has remained a sheer optimism.

Revolution, a violent one, is the most unlikely thing that will ever happen in this country. Unfortunately, the only set of people that are aware of this sad reality are politicians.

The reason is simple. The youths who usually get angry and resort to violent protests that end in revolution are in deep slumber.

There could be variety of reasons for this state of acute inactivity but the chief among them is the poor quality of education that they have been fed with.

For instance, the Nigeria Im-

where voters know next to nothing about candidates or the ideological leaning of their parties; yet they must make a choice.

Mark, first elected Senate President in June 2007, and re-elected on June 6, 2011, is the first two-time Senate President to achieve this feat in Nigeria.

He has brought to bear on the floor of the house his profound experience and intelligence. His disposition has helped to bring stability to the upper chamber that was notable for incessant change of leadership. He has helped to restore trust, confidence and honour. It’s to his credit that the Senate was able pass many impactful bills that are too numerous to mention here.

He is noted for promoting national interest over self. This he emphasized while leading the review of the constitution. Mark urged his colleagues to set aside their personal interests and focus on the interests of the people.

With his uncanny bravery and

Mark, first elected Senate President in June 2007, and reelected on June 6, 2011, is the first twotime Senate President to achieve this feat in Nigeria

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sense of patriotism, he rebuffed the United Kingdom and the international community to keep their aid when they threatened Nigeria during the same-sex marriage saga.

As a military governor in Niger State, Mark, in his quest to reduce high level of illiteracy

and poverty among women, promoted the girl-child education.

This he did by making education compulsory for all girls and encouraging entrepreneurship in the rural areas.

David Mark as the Minister of Communications in 1987 introduced mobile phones and digital telephone system in Nigeria.

He started the city coding system; removed Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) from the civil service structure, improved their welfare package, and built two ultra modern digital earth stations from internally generated revenue without recourse to the Federal Government. NITEL also stopped receiving subsidy from the Federal Government and operated purely with its own generated revenue.

It was also able to make profit and even contribute to the Federation Account.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO THE PEOPLE’S SENATOR. •Thomas is a senior legislative aide to the Senate President

Why there will never be revolution in Nigeria migration Service recruitment test incident. Over half a million graduates gathered write a test for less than five thousand job slots, and they were confident and comfortable with it that they would trample themselves to death.

This was a clear indication that the education that has been given to these young people is bereft of any fibre of quality.

The Immigration Service recruitment test exercise provided the most disappointing clue that change cannot come from our youths. Each of the applicants reportedly paid one thousand Naira and purchased a white Tshirt, too. As if that was not enough, due to the shoddy arrangement by the organisers, there were stampedes at various venues of the event leading to the death of about 21 applicants.

The revolutionary minded people were so sure that that was the moment. They were so certain that the sun would not set on Nigeria that day without the people rising to demand for a drastic change.

But what followed was the usual condemnations, complaints and bulk passing between the government agencies involved. The youths did nothing rather than curse politicians under their breathe.

The truth is, there will never be a revolution in Nigeria. Who

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BY DAYO THOMAS

desirable. It is not for the purpose of noise making or self-aggrandizement. Rather, it’s meant to celebrate aspects of people in order to encourage those who may pass through similar paths in the journey of life. Nothing encourages better, than knowing that those who faced similar challenges that one is currently facing came out of them better.

It’s important for politicians like Mark to celebrate birthdays especially now that voters are daily becoming more self-esteemed and would not look down with benevolence on anyone who has made unwise use of previous chances. It’s my strong convinction that the Senate President has to a greater extent enlisted himself among statesman worthy of celebration.

When achievers refused to let people know about their achievements, they are indirectly incapacitating voters in making right choices. This is even more important in a country like Nigeria

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VIEWPOINT

teeming supporters and masses who still look forward to the realization of his vision in the political leadership of the state, some day.

The option of quitting politics on the part of Uba, although unlikely, is altogether at variance with all known principles of successful human vision and ambitions which include that of the tough getting going when the going gets tough and the Uba we know has everything it takes to be classified as a tough person.

His personal biography as well as business credentials certify him as such.

For those of us who know Uba as a person and read his manifesto in the Anambra poll, and the masses who had the opportunity to listen to him during the campaigns, it is clear that his agenda held promise of positive masses-based socio-economic change in the state.

Uba’s current political silence or hibernation, anybody who knows him and his whereabouts should please inform him that the masses of Anambra are waiting. *Okwor lives in Akwor.

It is reprehensible that Nigerian youths should go ahead to sit for that same test that resulted in the death of their fellow youths

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would lead the revolution? What more can inspire it?

As a matter of fact, those who continue to hope that one day

there will be a revolution in Nigeria will continue to be disappointed.

In other climes, that people rose to demand for change, it was inspired by the young people who could no longer stomach endless corruption that rendered their future hopeless. In Tunisia, for instance, where the Arab spring started, it was the self-immolation of a Masters Degree holder, Mohamed Bouazizi, who was a street peddler that sparked the revolution.

But I bet that if Bouazizi were to be Nigerian, his fellow young people would have called him a fool. This is because Nigerian youths have changed for the worse. They are not only getting poorer mentally, their self esteem has been battered and they are becoming tolerant of suffering, exploitation and rule breaking.

All these stem from the kind of education they are getting today. The quality is hopelessly poor.

Quality education is supposed to be total, from teaching liter-

acy to building the self esteem required to survive in real life.

However, it is unfortunate that our education has been unable to inspire this crucial ingredient of survival. The implication is the production of graduates who cannot stand to assert their rights, let alone confronting constituted authorities, demanding a proper cause of action. And that was what we saw that played out in the NIS incident. If our graduates had proper training, they would not conduct themselves in such a manner that would result in a stampede in the first place.

It is reprehensible that Nigerian youths should go ahead to sit for that same test that resulted in the death of their fellow youths In other climes, right there and then, the test venues would turn to protest grounds and those at home would join them.

The truth of the matter is that there is no hope for a change where the young cannot get angry. Their collective spleens have become numb and the anger that should spur a reasonable change can no longer be felt by them.

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014 — PAGE 51

Okotie-Eboh ordered the arrest of Odunewu and I over Daily Times analysis — Adeleye @ 80 •’Why current arrangement doesn’t guarantee peace in Nigeria’

He showed the vibrancy of a middle aged person. Same could be said about his articulate ideas on life, nationhood, international affairs, among others. These uncommon attributes, displayed by Mr. Adisa Adeleye, in this interview in commemoration of his 80th birthday, left one doubting his age. But mistake should not be made about that. Adeleye was 80 yesterday. While this chat lasted, the economist, journalist and retired multinational company executive in him, radiated.

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OU just clocked 80 in a society where things rarely work and where life expectancy is abysmally low. How has the story been?

I thank God for my life. I was born the North, precisely Jos where my parents were traders. I did elementary school at Saint Luke’s Anglican School and Baptist Day School after which I left for my home town, Ogbomosho. I finished in Eko Boys High School in 1953. I worked with UAC before I went abroad as a private student. At that time, we also struggled because we did all what children do. The survival rate was not high but we managed to survive. If I were to rate how it was then, I will give myself a bronze medal. But later when we came to Lagos, the crave for education, especially at the University of Ibadan was high. And the urge to further our education was there. So, some of us left for the United Kingdom for private studies at the University of London.

I came back with a degree in economics.

Entering into journalism, which I like much from secondary school, was a decision I made. I wanted to get into Daily Times Newspapers when I left secondary school but it was not possible. With the strength of my school certificate result in English, I wanted to get a scholarship to study journalism but it did not work. So I went to study economics. And economics had been a field of study I like. It was new as a field of study in Nigeria in the 1950s. It was not taught as a degree then but as an elective course. I came back and got into journalism, then I later left journalism for the oil sector where I saw how Nigeria works in many ways. During my time in journalism, hardly could you see any article on the oil industry.

I started commercial reporting, which is now known as business reporting in Daily Times.

Having worked in places of enlightenment, I found myself in the oil sector, where I worked in different managerial capacities.

I got interested in politics after retirement in 1989. I did not go far because I discovered that it was a jungle and you have to be able to adapt yourself to jungle life for you to succeed and I don’t think I was set for that. I was a senatorial candidate of the NRC in Oyo North, but I opted out. I left the political scene because of absence of principles and ideologies.

You have a robust experience in journalism, that makes one to wonder what could have made someone with a degree in economics in the 1960s to have opted for journalism in an era when there were good jobs for graduates?

I was reading London Times after having my degree. I discovered that their top editors had different degrees which were not related to journalism. I said to myself that if these people could go into journalism with their different degrees, the profession will be enriched. That was how I did a diploma in journalism. It was that qualification that got me a job in Daily Times. I started writing quality editorials and eventually pioneered commercial/business reporting in Nigeria, where we carried stock news and started to analyse budgets. I could remember a budget analysis which I wrote then. It made the then Finance Minister, the late Chief Festus Okotie Eboh, to order for my arrest. When they came to our office, they arrested me and my Editor, who was the late Alhaji Odunewu. We were taken to Okotie-Eboh office where he said that we were irresponsible journalists. He also said that we were divulging information in the

budget. I responded that we were not doing such. And that Nigeria’s budget then, was just centred on tax increment, increment of import duties. That made the economy so simple then because the manufacturing base was so low. The encounter ended on a good note. I also did something about the economic prospects of Obudu Ranch in1965, and I am happy that what I foresaw then has become a reality today.

As someone who pioneered commercial reporting in the country, how do you feel when you open the pages of newspapers and find a lot of pages allocated to business reporting?

I am so happy that many newspapers have embraced that. That is very good because people should know many things about the economy. Otherwise we will be living in ignorance. For instance, the sort of confusion about subsidy should not have come up if people had in-depth knowledge about the economy. I remember I once wrote about sensible economics in my column. That implies how one can use knowledge of economics to turn economic factors to his favour. I don’t think it is right for an import dependent nation to have a fixed foreign exchange regime. If you are wise, you will make your currency strong so that you will be able to import what you need. But if your currency is weak or depreciated, then you will need more money to import. Our oil is sold for less than one hundred dollars and it is being refined abroad, while you say that the cost of landing is one hundred and forty naira. I have never seen a nation that produces oil, sells and imports. Before government took over the downstream sector, we will sit down and know the structure of the market here and predict demand. If it is gasoline or diesel that we need per day, we will calculate that through a formula and go to the refinery and collect

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BY CHARLES KUMOLU

We were taken to Okotie-Eboh office where he said that we were irresponsible journalists. He also said that we were divulging information in the budget

our product. No body will be going to buy oil, product by product because you get so many by-products from each barrel. What is going on now is economic sabotage.

Many people who read your column and know the ideas you postulate would want to know the secret behind this ability to write with the zeal and vibrancy of a young man at 80?

I am still active because I don’t want to disappoint the nation. Education facilities have expanded, and, when you write, you have to consider your readers, so you have to think how they think. And you have to be able to convince them that you know what you are talking about. I also thank God that I have a very rich library. I write without basic knowledge about what I am writing about. Sometimes ago, I added my voice to the Crimea crisis, because I remembered something that happened 50 years ago when I graduated in 1963. We discussed the Crimea war at a tutorial class in 1962. When I was in Daily Times, I wrote an article where I discovered the British fears about Rhodesia becoming a communist country. My argument was that Britain blundered on Crimea and might find themselves with the same consequences if they repeated same with Rhodesia. And I remember a colleague then asking what I knew about Crimean war. I told him that the war was brought to the doors of Russia by Britain and France and it was just to humiliate Russia. Britain was thinking that breaking up that area will make Russia to interfere with the trade route

•Mr. Adisa Adeleye... I foresaw Obudu Cattle Ranch prospects. of India. It was the same thing that is playing out now. Ukraine used to be part of Russian empire and NATO is trying to build bases around there now. I am not saying that Russia took a legal and rightful position by annexing Crimea, but what will be the reaction if you don’t want a hostile neighbour and you are now doing the same thing to Ukraine? So it is all about balance of power in Europe, with actors wanting to remain relevant. So, this is how extensive reading helps to keep me informed about world affairs. With an in-depth knowledge about issues, people and events, one will remain active in the society.

You experienced the fruitful and promising periods in Nigeria. Today, the country is unable to find its feet. So bad it is that the teething problems of nationhood are still common. What does that imply to you?

My observation is that we missed our opportunities through the kind of politics we play. After independence, we thought we had everything whereas the infrastructures were underdeveloped and when independence came we tried to assert ourselves. So our donor agencies felt we were okay, that is why nobody wanted to help.

Every body wanted to trade with us and get as much advantage they could get.

Unfortunately we did not organise ourselves well. And that led to the war in the first decade of independence. The politics we play affected our progress. We did not understand the party politics we played well.

And our colonial masters tried to help by bringing the idea of a national government before independence. And if you study the independence constitution, it created rooms for working together.

Are you talking about the 1960 Constitution?

Yes, it was a federal constitution. Before then, there was a national government. And if you see the Federal Government of the pre-independent Nigeria, you will discover that it had representatives from the various regions. The NCNC, AG and NPC sent representatives to the central government.

These people represented their regions at the centre. The British people felt that if we followed that kind of party politics, we might have problems. That is why they suggested that there should be national government at the centre. But we had government and the opposition which could not see eye to eye at the centre. Awolowo was jailed, while the Western region was boiling. The parliamentary system was abandoned in 1979 and the presidential system came without the American system. The United States constitution vested much powers in the states, leaving the federal government with defence, currency and international relations. But real development is buried in each state. Here the Federal Government is the greatest power. They dictate so much that no state is viable now. The states have

to go to Abuja to collect monthly allocations.

You don’t run a federation like that. Lately I have been writing on Switzerland where there is a loose federation. The Federal Government there is a coalition of five different parties. The President retires years ago and no single party rules.

Are you saying that what they have is a confederation and do you suggest such for Nigeria, in view of the myriad of institutional problems in the country?

It is a confederal system. Their Federal Government is composed of five parties and there is no one cheating the other. The election into the federal parliament is proportional. If you score 12 million and I score 18 million, the 18 million rules under the parliamentary system, what happens to the 12 million under the federal system? You create danger when you exclude people. So what we are doing is a type of government where the PDP takes all because they are in power. We created the situation where the opposition wants to get rid of the ruling party. What I am saying is that the spirit of federalism allows each area the opportunity to have a say in the overall policy-making process in the country. To achieve that, there should be a coalition at the centre just like the old system where regional governments sent representatives to the centre. There should be stronger regions with a weak centre. The centre may become stronger when foreign affairs dominate. But the actual workings of government rest on the states.

Let each zone develop at its pace by having its own institutions, so that only difficult cases come to the centre. You can never get peace under the present arrangement in Nigeria. We saw how the former Rivers State police commissioner ruled the state for a long time. Although the governor is responsible for security, the security apparatus is with the Federal Government.

The police is under the states in all federal arrangements. Why is it different in Nigeria?

If there is a problem now, Fashola cannot dictate to the Lagos State police commissioner. That is why Boko Haram can flourish.

You support the on-going National Conference. But from what you have seen so far from deliberations by the delegates, are you impressed and do you see them coming up with something that can launch the country to the next level?

I will commend President Jonathan for having the courage to set it up. But by setting it up, he has to be extremely careful. If it was set up to achieve something concrete, that is good. But if it was done with a view to making delegates talk without results at the end, then he will have to reap the consequences. For instance, when the states describe oil resources as their oil, the Federal Government says the oil belongs to Nigeria. The militants started their war because of resource control, now they are silent and they are not controlling anything.

PAGE 52,

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRI L 6, 2014

Explore the art of kissing (2)

By Yetunde Arebi

say goodbye to someone you love. In fact, apart from a friendly hello, a cheek kiss can be a cute way of saying a flirty ‘thank you’ to someone or a cute appropriate signing off after a first date that has gone well.

Another facial kiss is the Jawline kiss which is done by people who are well known to each other or already dating.

You should never try this kiss on someone you just met.

A Jawline kiss is a firm kiss on the lower side of the jaw where the neck meets the jaw. For those already in a relationship, it is usually fun to kiss a partner’s jawline after having some

kisses. From the hands to the legs, these kisses can be very chaste and erotic depending on how it is applied. The Hand kiss dates back in history and was performed with a bow to show deference to a lady. It was used to demonstrate respect, adoration and kindness.

However, over time, being one of the first physical contacts between a male and a female, especially in public gatherings, not a few men often use this gesture to make their intensions of an intimate relationship known by gently gracing the inside of a lady’s palm with their fingernail.

tight lipped kiss on the lips or cheeks, capable of sparking romance between two people.

A peck on the lips is a suggestion that there is to be much more smooching in to be done in the future. It is very sensual, yet still somewhat chaste and restrained.

Then there is the Woodpecker, rapid, cute and playful fire pecks. Like the peck, you can convey a lot of affection without allowing things to get too hot and heavy.

The message being passed here is, “I really like you, a lot, but I don’t want to get myself all randy right now.”

The woodpecker is also a good option when it comes to Public Display of Affections (PDAs).

No one wants to watch you swallow each other’s saliva or faces.

The Cheek kiss is a closed mouth kiss on someone’s cheeks and can be used to flirt, pass a friendly greeting or to

intense French kissing. If they respond well to it, make a path of jawline kisses up to their ear and give them an Earlobe kiss.

This involves taking your partner ’s earlobe between the lips and tugging gently upwards or downwards.

This kiss can be made more intense by gently rubbing the tongue in a circular motion, or using a gentle sucking motion on the earlobe.

Avoid making loud sucking noises as ears are sensitive noise detectors. Finally, you have the Chin kiss which is done simply by holding your partner’s chin with your fingers; middle, index and thumb. You can combine this kiss with the French kiss for effect too.

I call this next group the Limb

This can be very tickling and erotic, though some find it quite distasteful, especially if the female does not share your kind of enthusiasm.

Then, there is the Foot kiss which though also used in some cultures such as the Indians to greet or show respect, is also both a romantic and erotic gesture.

A friend recently told me about her passionate encounter with a guy she met recently who turned her on to no end with an erotic foot job, a massage interrupted with sensuous kisses. The best time to do this is after you are freshly showered as the feet might be dirty. Keep your toenails neatly trimmed and manicured too.

The Thigh kiss is simply what

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i!

Last Sunday, I brought you the first part of this article which could not be concluded due to space constraint. Below is the concluding part. Happy reading and do have a beautiful Sunday.

The next group of kisses are what I call facial kisses or the Pecks. Like the French kiss, this come in various styles so you can apply according to the situation. Pecks are simple kisses done with closed tight or soft lips on the Cheeks, Jawlines, Earlobes, Chin and the Lips.

Though the Peck is usually a polite kiss, it can mean several different things, depending on the person and how long two people have been dating. It is used as an expression of friendship.

On a first date, it may also be a means of testing the waters without seeming too aggressive. The peck is a short,

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it implies. It is kiss applied to the thighs and is highly effective as one of the kisses for foreplay.

This kiss can be applied outside or inside of the thighs, from the hips to the knees as many times as possible, depending on the objective of the game. This kiss is so erotic that even the worst of kissers can easily score very high points.

The Wind kisses comprises of two major types when it comes to romantic kisses, the Breath and the Vacuum kiss. Both kisses are more of games than kisses and they create major anticipation in an already hot moment.

First, you and your partner should part your lips slightly, barely touching them. Inhale deeply and lock lips (like you’re performing CPR). Slowly exhale into their mouth while they’re inhaling and then begin to share your partner’s breath.

You can move your heads to experience different sensations and touch your lips on and off slightly.

The Vacuum kiss is simply the opposite version of the Breath kiss and involves sucking of air from your partner instead of blowing it in. Kiss your partner with an open mouth and suck in so deeply that you’re sucking away your partner’s air. Gently begin to kiss him and share your air with him. Fresh breath is also a must for these kisses, remember!

Finally, there is the Teaser or Travelling kiss. Just as the name implies, this is a kiss meant to tease and tantalise a partner’s senses and bring out their passion.

When done correctly, this kiss can be quiet useful if you mean to turn your partner on and make them want more than just kisses. It is a kiss that can start from the forehead and then travel down the entire length of the body. If you do not have sex on the agenda, do not encourage to be kissed this way.

Stop at the shoulders.

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You might not realize it, but your kissing style can be influenced by whatever is on your mind about the person you are kissing. Smooching with love on your mind will make your kisses extra soft and sweet.

Ways to spice up your kisses Whether you’re an experienced kisser or you’re still learning the ropes, you can add spice to your kisses by introducing some elements into the act, just like spicing up sex with sex toys.

Follow these few tips: All you have to do is trade off, exchange or pass substances from your mouth to your partner’s. You can only do these with someone you are already comfortable kissing.

During this kiss, each person should have a different flavour of candy of their own. You can slowly switch the candy with each other during the kiss, mixing the flavours in your mouth. Be careful not to choke on them. You can also do this with chewing gum, chocolate or sweets.

Choose something with a sexy flavour, like strawberry or mint.

This simple sexy act can be replicated with liquids too. An exchange of your favourite drinks. Be careful to start with small sips to avoid spilling. You can also try chewing on an ice cube until your mouth is freezing.

Then, kiss your partner, sliding your tongues. You will feel a sexy chill if you do it right. For the female partner, the lip gloss kiss can be a perfect way to have some lovey-dovey fun with your partner too. Splash on a harmless amount of lip gloss on your lips and then rub it on your partner’s until they are coated.

Don’t forget to use one with a very sexy flavour.

If you’ve had a great time learning to kiss or sharpening your skill, please let me hear from you. You may also wish you share one or two kissing experiences with other readers. Or perhaps, you wish to ask any questions concerning relationships. You may reach me via the email a d d r e s s : inthelovezone@yahoo.com Cheers!! who is ready to settle down for marriage,aged29-32.

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SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 53

Allardyce hails Suarez as West Ham host Liverpool W

EST Ham manager Sam Allardyce has hailed striker Luis Suarez as one of the world’s best footballers, and is fully aware of the Uruguay international’s threat ahead of their clash with Liverpool today.

The Premier League leaders visit Upton Park today, with West Ham facing the unenviable task of trying to halt the Merseyside club’s 13-match unbeaten league run, which includes eight straight victories.

The Reds’ title challenge has been forged around the strike partnership between Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, with the duo combining for 49 top-flight goals this season.

Allardyce reserved particular praise for Suarez, who he places “in the top two or three in the world”.

“At the moment I think that the Liverpool team, in terms of its form and results, is operating at 100 per cent,” he said.

“When you have two quality strikers of the ilk of Sturridge and Suarez then the rest of the team know that somewhere along the line they’re going to put the ball in the back of the net if they provide the service for them.

“At the moment he [Suarez] now finds himself in the top two or three in the world. The commitment he showed to Liverpool and they showed to him, seems to have given him that extra impetus this season to go out and be even better than he was after the problems he had.

“The combination with Sturridge has flourished where that looked a little concerning in the early stages as neither wanted to play in a wide position.

“That seems to have all come

together now and the rest of the team is providing the service behind them and has grown in quality and confidence.”

Liverpool will undoubtedly begin the match as favourites, but West Ham head into the encounter with back-to-back 21 victories over Hull City and Sunderland.

And Allardyce is hopeful of giving Brendan Rodgers’ men a run for their money.

He added: “We’re on a topsix run of form at the moment and hopefully that will give us

SWERVE.... Liverpool goal poacher, Luis Suarez in a mesmerising move during a match.

Allardyce plans to chech him as Liverpool visit them at Upton Park today.

Wenger thumbs up FIFA on Barca ban F

OOTBALL’S world gov erning body, Fifa, is right to impose a 14-month transfer ban on Spanish champions Barcelona, says Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.

The Catalan club are appealing against the sanction for breaking rules on signing international players under 18.

“They were banned because they have not respected the rules,” said Wenger.

But the Frenchman believes the Fifa regulations, aimed to protect young players and prevent child trafficking in football, need to be changed.

Barcelona cannot buy players in the next two transfer windows and were also fined 450,000 Swiss Francs (£305,000).

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) was also sanctioned for the same breaches,

receiving a fine of 500,000 Swiss Francs (£340,000).

Fifa rules state that international transfers are only permitted for players over the age of 18 - unless the player in question meets one of three qualifying criteria.

Under-18s can move to a club

in a different country if their parents move there for nonfootballing reasons, if they are from another nation within the European Union or European Economic Area and aged between 16 and 18, or if they live within 100km of the club.

“The rule is quite simple,

Lagos SWAN, SDEVPEN join forces for UN sports/peace seminar r i a

T

HE Sports Writers Associ ation of Nigeria, SWAN, Lagos chapter, has joined forces with the Sports development and Peace Network, SDEVPEN, for the celebration of the first UN International Day for Sports Development and Peace.

Highpoint of the project is the organisation of a seminar on “Bridging the Conflict Divide

Through Sports,” scheduled to hold on April 15, at the Lagos SWAN Secretariat, Lagos with the convergence of various critical stakeholders in sports.

According the the chairman of Lagos SWAN, Fred Edoreh, the networking is calculated to provide a forum for advocacy and promotion of the theme of sports as a vehicle for development and conflict resolution in Nige-

NSSF commends Abdullahi, tasks Danagogo on grassroot sports

T

HE Nigeria School Sports Federation has tasked new sports minister, Dr Tamuno Danagogo on the institution of grassroots sports development while commending ex sports minister, Bolaji Abdullahi for his strides at the grassroots level especially in schools.

President of the NSSF, Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed said Bolaji Abdullahi did very well in the area of school sports which he said remains the bedrock for sustainable sports development.

you cannot move the players before the age of 16 unless their parents move for professional reasons, so that of course creates a bit of a debate - do the parents move for professional reasons or not?” said Wenger.

“I want to hail the appointment of Dr. Tamuno Danagogo as the new sports minister but will always commend the efforts of Bolaji Abdullahi in the area of grassroots sports development through school sports promotion and development.

During Abdullahi, school sports was recognized and given its rightful place in the development of sports. I would like to encourage the new sports minister to follow •Danagogo suit and do even better nation’s children are looking because the generality of the up to him for the

development of sports especially from secondary schools.

If he embraces school sports which is the global focus now, his tenure will record successes because the foundation to the elimination of age cheats and proper scouting, discovery and development would have been set,” he said.

He revealed that the next National School Sports Festival is slated for Makurdi, the Benue State capital later this year.

.

The Chairman of the event is Chief Cosmas Maduka – Chairman of Coscharis Group whilst the Special Guest of Honour is the Honourable Minister / Chairman, National Sports Commission, Dr.Tamuno Danagogo. The audience will be made up of stakeholders from the sports sector, organised private sector, the international community including the United Nations agencies, Diplomatic corps and donor agencies, Civil societies groups and the network of Nigerian NGOs. The key note address will be delivered by Darlington Okpebholo-Ray, CEO of Raymond Coleman Energy and Marine Services Ltd. and in keeping with the theme, the address will be based on “Bridging and solving conflicts in communities through sports – The Private Sector Perspective”.

Sponsorship consideration for the event has been provided through SDEVPEN by Raymond Coleman Energy and Marine Services, supported by Nino Construction, ABG Paulas of Germany and FA Consults, as a private sector response to the need to deepen the utilisation of sports for the development of society.

PAGE 54 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014

Brazil 2014 World Cup:

NFF query: Ex internationals throw weight behind Keshi •Say they should not distract him •Decry poor preparation for Eagles

BY OJIEVA EHIOSUN

B

ARELY 67 days to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil and seeming frosty relationship between Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi and the Nigeria Football Federatio, NFF, some ex intenationals and coaches have poured out their minds on the issue, calling on the Alhaji Aminu Maigari-led Board to concentrate on things that will give Nigeria good result at the World Cup, rather than dissipate their energy on issues that will not yield any result for the national team at the Mundial.

Etim Esin: What the Nigeria Football Federation NFF is doing to Stephen Keshi now is very much uncalled for, they can not tell me that they will do that to a white man. We are all living witnesses to activities of the so called white coaches they have employed to coach the Super Eagles in the past, Berti Vogts never stayed in Nigeria for two weeks, and he was not crucified neither was he issued query for one day. Why don’t we always respect our own person, what has the white man got to offer us that a Nigerian coach can not offer, why can’t we learn from our past mistakes? Are we not ripe enough to solve our problems ourselves, why sell ourselves to the outside world. I think the time has come for us to do things like professionals and stop fooling one another.

I’m not against the NFF neither has Keshi paid me to de-

•Etim Esin fend him. In fact since some of our ex- Internationals started handle the Nigeria national side, be it senior or junior, I have not taken a bottle of coke from them, but I stand for the truth and I will continue to defend them even though most of them don’t know whether Etim Esin exist or not.

•Yisa Sofoluwe Again Keshi should know that it is Nigerians that gave him that job, and some greedy members of the NFF never wanted him, and he should always stand his ground and never give room for them to rubbish him, because if he fails now, Nigerians will hold him accountable not the NFF. More so, somebody like Chris

Emmanuel Obasuyi Green has no business heading the technical department of the FA, because he knows virtually nothing about football. They are there because of one political connection or the other so they should not misuse the opportunity so that God won’t be angry with them.

On the issue of selection of players, NFF should leave that to the head of the technical crew,the coach knows the best players to pick. The World Cup is like a war, if the commander decides to go into the war front with rooky soldiers, he would come back home disgraced.

Yisa Shofoluwe: If you ask me, I would say that I’m not too comfortable with the happenings right now. The matter between the NFF and coach Stephen Keshi is nothing but a mere distraction, it can be settled without the world knowing of it. We are talking about having the best of preparation for the team and some people are there trying to cause confusion. They should not frustrate Keshi and his squad, we will not allow another person to come and eat where he or she did not sow. Keshi

•Christian Chukwu should be given good support to enable him get good result at the World Cup. Also they need to play more friendly games to further prepare the boys for the challenges ahead. Our preparation is very poor. The World Cup is not a place to test players, so the NFF should focus their minds on something that will bring good result.

Christian Chukwu: As far as I remain a member of the technical committee, nobody has any plan of removing Stephen Keshi and the NFF have no negative plans against Keshi. He will lead Super Eagles to the World Cup in Brazil, and we are always ready to give him the very best of our support. There is no where in the world were a staff of an organization is not given a query when something goes wrong, so this should not be seen by the Nigerian press as a bad omen. I have been there, I passed through some difficulties too, there is no perfect working environment in Nigeria, we all try to manage whatever situations we find ourselves in hoping for a better day. You journalists suffer the same thing in the hands of your employers, why has heaven not fallen. We should all join hands to build a

I expect that every hand should be on deck now to ensure that we work towards having a formidable squad for the World Cup. Keshi should know the kind of people he is working with and therefore know how to tag along with them. Not every member of the board is happy that he is the head coach of the Super Eagles. We the ex- Internationals are not respected despite what we have done for this country. They prefer to have a foreigner take charge rather than their own person. For the interest of the World Cup, I want to appeal to both parties to let sleeping dog lie.

Lawrence Akpokona: Keshi should know that he is under an organization and therefore should respect them. The NFF has a right to query any person under its pay roll, so that of Keshi should not been seen as a taboo. We must put sentiment aside, as an employee, you do what your employer wants you to do. This is not the first place Keshi is coaching the national team, he knows what is obtainable out there, they should not give Nigerians sleepless nights over issues that can be resolved amicably. We should be talking about first class preparations for the team instead of finding one fault or the other.

Arthur Egbunam: Keshi must not give room for people to put him under undue pressure. He should always cry out whenever people are trying to mess him up or jeopardize his job. He knows, in the first place, that some members of the board never wanted him there and should not play into their hands. Nigerians football fans are ready to kill any one that will make the team fail at the World Cup, this country is bigger than any individual, those

•Ndubuisi Okosieme

•Lawrence Akpokona good team for the world country.

Ndubuisi Okosieme: To me this is not the time for quarrel, we have a big task ahead of us,

greedy members of the Glass House that like to call the shots should be very careful. They should know that the World Cup is not for village champions, but a game for real stars. We have not even seen quality preparations of the team we are taking to the World Cup, we should be busy with preparations not having an issue with the head of the technical crew.

On the issue of query or no query, Keshi should know that people are paying his bills and so must work according to the contract agreement he signed with the FA. You can not do that in Europe he knows that very

•Baldwin Bazuaye well. When they call you for a meeting to discuss something that will be of benefit to you and your team, you have no reason to be absent from it, if it where in Europe, that alone will earn you a sack. But now that such a thing has happened, they NFF should put it behind and move ahead because this is not the time to find faults, the World Cup should be the priority of all at this stage.

Baldwin Bazuaye: We can not really know the true situation of things but as a coach, we see many things in the hands of our employers. The thing is that you must be ready to bear no matter what the situation is.

We see ourselves as servants, because all we are interested in is results, anything that will act as an obstacle to your progress should be put aside because when you fail to deliver, it is the head coach that will take the blame and all the insults that goes with failure.

Keshi should be able to understand the environment that he is working and know how to handle situations. Keshi needs absolute concentration now for the World Cup and I want the NFF to continue with their support. We want the Super Eagles to excel at the Mundial.

Obasuyi: To the head coach of Edo state football Association EFA, Emmanuel ‘Shakara’ Obasuyi, the “NFF should not destroy what they have taken time to build. Nigerians are happy that our football is gradually returning to its premier position in the continent.

For years, we have been struggling to build a formidable national side that can stand the test of time, now that we are almost there, we must do every thing to maintain that top position in Africa. Anything that will make both the NFF and the technical crew lose focus now at this crucial stage of the World Cup build-up should be put behind. The parties must swallow their pride and work together to enable us have a highly respected and jinx-breaking team at the World Cup in Brazil come June. What Nigerians want is good results. One thing I want to beg Keshi is for him to recall the likes of Osaze Odemwingie and those other experienced players that will give him results.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, APRIL 6, 2014, PAGE 55

Keshi can do without me in Brazil, says Odemwingie •Hails Okosun for the peace move

S

TOKE City forward Osaze Odemwingie has revealed that the Super Eaglescan do well at the 2014 Fifa World Cup, even without him.

The former Cardiff City player who recently mended fences with coach Stephen Keshi said he was upset at being dropped from the Eagles’ squad to the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and has realised his mistakes.

“I have been speaking with the coach, it’s the only right thing to do,” Odemwingie told BBC Sport.

“I had to be humble and make a step forward towards my senior colleagues.

“You can’t continue to stay in that angry state of mind. Staying in that state, it’s not the right thing to do. It’s never helpful for anyone,” he continued.

“It was very disappointing at the time, it was hard to accept it. I had a strong feeling that it was Nigeria’s time to win it. I was as frustrated as any other player.”

Odemwingie praised the impact of the national team’s psychologist Robinson Okosun towards helping him improve his relationship with Keshi.

“For me to hear that was very important on a human level. It’s not about people, its always about the country. We’re

all defending the colours of our nation. ”Coach Keshi can do

without me at the World Cup and my life will go on as well, but the most

important thing is mutual respect. ”Now I know how he does things and how he wants things done and vice versa,” concluded the 32-year-old forward.

Owed Bonuses: Stop embarrassing Nigeria, Obienu tells NFF

BY PATRICK OMORODION

T

HE sack of Super Eagles Assistant Coach, Sylvanus Okpala and the refusal of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF to pay him money due him is still generating ripples with former vice chairman of the football house when it was known as NFA, Barrister Nwabufo Obienu castigating the Aminu Maigari-led Board for dragging the name of the country down.

Obienu in a telephone chat from his Enugu base said the right thing for the NFF to do was to pay Okpala off once they feel his services were no longer needed, stressing that the NFF needs to tidy up a few things about how they operate.

“When a coach is sacked, you fulfill the contract by paying him off. This issue of owing coaches puts the country in bad light to the outside world. I am sure (Christian) Chukwu, (John) Ogbuh and (Austin) Eguavoen are still being owed. This isn’t good for our image,”he said.

Though he said the

NFF has done well by the victories recorded so far, he advised them to stop the sacking of coaches without paying them, stressing that “they claim they don’t have money, yet they want to hire an assistant for Keshi. The backroom staff of the Eagles is not as large as that of the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire or England so why are they complaining about money.”

On the denial by the NFF that Alhaji Aminu Maigari did not boast that President Goodluck Jonathan cannot force him to pay Okpala his money, Obienu said, “I know Maigari is capable of saying it. He had told Ogbuh (former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles coach) the same thing before. Maigari should stop playing God because if he continues doing so, his destruction is around the corner.”

He said Chief Mike Umeh, Felix AnyansiAgwu and Emeka Inyama who come from the same constituency as the sacked Okpala should hide their faces in shame for allowing Okpala to be messed up by the NFF. On the N2 billion bud-

get put forward to the Federal Government by the NFF for the World Cup, Obienu said, “what do they need N2 billion for. FIFA provides flight tickets for business class for 30 people, provides money for transportation and feeding. Nigeria expects to get at least $ 8 million dollars for participating at the World Cup so tell me what they want to do with additional N2 billion.”

BY EDDIE AKALONU

F

ORMER National Sports Commission, NSC Lagos Liaison Officer, Mrs. Tayo Oreweme has called on the Commission in Abuja to consider as top priority implementation of memoranda for securing the National Stadium in Lagos, saying it would stem the rising tide of theft in the massive complex.

Oreweme, who spoke at a handing over ceremony in Lagos to her successor, Mr. Francis Gbiri, implored her employers to

B

C M Y K

DRIBBLE... Chiwendu Nwaigho (right)of Lagos Islanders trying to dribble Yomi Alegbe of Oluyole Warriors during the 2014 DStv Premier Basketball League game in Lagos on Friday. Islanders won 68-55 points. Photo Courtesy Akinkunmi Farinto.

win over the Texas Legends. The following week, on March 30, he tied his season high with 32

points in a 115-109 win at the Santa Cruz Warriors.

For the season, Diogu is averaging 18.0 points on

Abdullahi hides away for sober reflection

BY BEN EFE

F

ORMER Sports minister, Bolaji Abdullahi has refrained

NSC must take National Stadium security seriously — Oreweme

Diogu named player of the month of March AKERSFIELD Jam forward Ike Diogu was at the weekend named NBA Development League Player of the Month for games played in March. The award is the first of Diogu’s career.

Diogu (6-8, 255, Arizona State) led Bakersfield to a 10-3 record in March, including a 7-2 road record and a seven-game winning streak between March 12 and March 26.

For the month, Diogu averaged 21.4 points, shooting 59 percent from the field, to go with 12.3 rebounds and 1.0 blocks.

He recorded a doubledouble in 12 of his 13 games in March, notching two 30-plus point outings.

On March 19, Diogu recorded a season-high 19 rebounds to go with 30 points in a 114-106 road

PRESIDENTIAL CHAT. ... President of the International Association of Athletics Federations, IAAF, Lamine Diack (l) welcoming Mr and Mrs Dan Ngerem to the AIPS Congress in Dakar, Senegal recently.Ngerem, former AFN president was guest of the AIPS where he delivered a paper on sports sponsorship in Africa..

55 percent shooting, to go with 9.4 rebounds, good for sixth-best in the NBA D-League.

approve a new arrangement reached with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corp NSCDC, provide their armed personnel to guard the complex at night while the preliminary arrangement that makes the commission’s own personnel operate during day time.

“This has become necessary to halt the high incidence where offices are broken into at night, cables of various designs for projects and facilities in the complex are cut and stolen by thieves and miscreants during the night.

Even the measure on ground cannot protect shop owner whose shops are broken into at night and goods carted away.

They cannot be left to incur losses. We owe a duty to them to provide security guarantee because they are with doing business for profit,” she said.

According to her, an evaluation has proved that about 40 armed NSCDC officials protect the complex at night if paid an agreed salary with the top echelon of the organization. She then implored her successor to pursue vigorously the security issue with their bosses in Abuja.

Responding Gbiri who praised his predecessor for the landmark measrures she has put in place, promise to continue where she had stopped without bring down the standards.

The arrangement with NSCDC is project to be in place this month.

from making public appearances and granting press interviews after he was unceremoniously removed by President Goodluck Jonathan in a cabinet shake up.

Abdullahi was regarded as a success by most Nigerian sports enthusiasts, but he was consumed in the web of political intrigues ahead of the 2015 general elections. According to one of his associates, the Kwara -born politician has refused to make any comment about his sacking, but rather has retreated to reflect on his experience and relaunch himself.

“He is not ready to make any statements at the moment. But I can tell that he does not feel bitter that he was removed. He handled his job professionally and he is pleased with his achievements.

“Abdullahi was on his way to Poland for the IAAF world indoor championships when the news reached him. It wasn’t a surprise to him as he had always expected it to happen,” said Julius Ogunro the former minister ’s personal assistant.

President Jonathan replaced Abdullahi with a relatively unknown Tamuno Danagogo. The thinking in the public was that Abdullahi was fired because his godfather belonged to the opposition party and he was seen as a mole in the federal executive council hence he was dispatched by the President, despite his good track record.

SUNDAY Vanguard, APRIL 6, 2014

Chelsea bounce back to top M

ANCHESTER City enjoyed a temporary leadership of the Premier League by beating Southampton 4-1 at Etihad Stadium as rivals Chelsea

LONG RANGE...Stoke City striker, Peter Osaze Odemwingie fires a long range shot at goal but it was not good enough to earn his side a goal as they went down 0-3 to their host, Chelsea yesterday at Stamford Bridge in London. Photo: AFP

hit three goals past Osaze Odemwingie’s Stoke City to reclaim leadership which they lost to Liverpool last week.

Ivorian import Yaya Toure set the victory party rolling when he scored from the spot three minutes into the game to give the hosts the lead, but Rickie Lambert equalised for Southampton also with a spot-kick of his own.

Goals from Samir Nasri and Edin Dzeko in first-half stoppage time, then a late effort from Stevan Jovetic, made it 14 wins from 15 home league games for City this season.

The victory moved them to within a point of leaders before yesterday’s games, Liverpool, who visit West Ham today having already played a game more than Manuel Pellegrini’s men.

Minutes after, Jose Mourinho’s men had to wait for 32 minutes before getting on the score sheet through Mohammed Salah on his first Premier League start .

Frank Lampard increased the tally when he hit in a rebound after his spot kick was parried by Stoke goalkeeper, Asmir Begovic.

The rout was completed by Willian who curled a beauty into the top corner. Eden Hazard had switched the ball out to the Brazillian to the left of goal, backed the defence up to the edge of the box and then flicked it into the corner with the greatest of ease.

World Cup 2014: Don’t gamble with Osaze, Uche, Peters tells Keshi F

ORMER national team coach, James Peters has said that calls for the inclusion of Peter Osaze Odemwingie and Ikechukwu Uche in the 2014 World Cup squad could backfire on coach Stephen Keshi.

Peters, a veteran coach, stated that it will be a gamble if Keshi bows to fans’ pressure and include players that are not suitable to his plans and tactics at the tournament. He argued that Keshi had kept faith with certain group of players in his campaign and they have come to understand his team tactics, stressing that introducing new players will be inimical to the team’s progress.

“There are some kind of players a coach may want, maybe he wants speed, maybe he wants a player who is a hard marker, maybe he wants a player who does not lose his opponent when he is told to do so. There are some players you give directives and instruction they will not carry them out, they will play their own and sometimes coaches don’t like that. So, it depends on what the coach likes, that will inform who he invites to his team for him to get the result.

“We must respect Keshi’s choice and not force him to pick players that he has no plans for. If he takes players that cannot conform to his

TODAY’S MATCHES Everton West Ham

v v

Arsenal Liverpool

1.30pm 4.00pm

RESULTS Man City Aston Villa Cardiff City Hull City Newcastle Norwich Chelsea

4 1 0 1 0 0 3

S’hampton Fulham Crystal Swansea Man Utd West Brom Stoke City

1 2 3 0 4 1 0

tactics and he loses, he should not come around and say people asked him to include these players,” said Peters in Abuja.

There has been a popular clamour for the recall of Odemwingie and Uche who are enjoying a run of form in their respective clubs. This is against the background of

Keshi relying on Emmanuel Emenike in his campaigns.

“It is difficult to see the way the coaches see a player, but if you have a player that you think is very good and he can play to your strategy or tactics, why not? But if he cannot, you do not have to because you will lose and when you lose everybody will blame you.

“The buck stops on Keshi’s table. So, if he sticks to his plans and he succeeds, he will feel fine for himself and he would have done what he wanted to do,” added Peters, who had coaching stints with various Nigerian club sides.

Abia Comets 1 Ekiti Utd. 0

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1.Nigerian state (5) 3.African river (7) 7.Near-extinct animal (5) 8.Roof part (5) 9.Greek alphabet (3) 10.Supplement (3) 12.Widespread (4) 14.Replies (7) 17.Let (5) 19.Limb (3) 20.Donkey (3) 21.Cots (4) 24.Pitcher (4) 26.Reverential fear (3) 27.Goal (3) 28.Peruses (5) 30. Sure (7) 34.Eleven (4) 35.Flying mammal (3) 37.Unwell (3) 38.Hausa boy’s name (5) 39.Possessor (5) 40.Wearing away (7) 41.Commonplace (5)

DOWN 1.Prevents (6) 2.Church part (4) 3.Queen Amina’s old city (5) 4.Anchors (5) 5.Bird of prey (5) 6.Notions (5) 11.Niger-Delta tribe (8) 13.Zealous (5) 15.Nigerian state (8) 16.Bar (3) 18.Vital liquid (5) 21.Animal (5) 22.Therefore (2) 23.Exist (2) 25.Misery (3) 29.Polluted (6) 30.Wireless (5) 32.Excuse (5) 33.Synthetic fabric (5) 36.Pie (4)

SOLUTION on page 5

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