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DIPLOMATIC ROW

Jonathan shocked, embarrassed •Says he did not speak with King of Morocco •Orders investigation into misinformation

By Ben Agande

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HE controversy surrounding the alleged telephone conversation between President Goodluck Jonathan and the King of Morocco took another dimension as President Goodluck Jonathan Friday evening said he never spoke on phone with the Moroccan King and has ordered the Minister of Foreign Affairs to carry out a full scale investigation into the matter and punish those responsible for the national embarrassment.

Addressing a press conference Friday evening, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati said the President was ‘shocked, surprised and embarrassed” over the controversy generated by his alleged telephone conversation with the Moroccan King.

The controversy over whether or not the Nigerian President spoke with the Moroccan King culminated in the recall of the Moroccan Ambassador to Nigeria for consultation by his home government.

There were reports that the King of Morocco declined a request for a telephone conversation with president Jonathan when the later sought to speak with him, saying that it was inappropriate since President Jonathan was going into an election. They alleged that the Federal Government was trying to use King of Morocco to win Muslim votes.

But an official in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs insisted that president Jonathan spoke with the King on Phone, prompting the Moroccan government to angrily deny such a phone discussion ever took place and recalled its ambassador to Nigeria for consultation.

But addressing State House correspondents yesterday, Dr Abati said the “regrettable furore that has developed over the matter is due entirely to misinformation as President Jonathan has neither spoken with King Mohammed nor told anybody that he had a telephone conversation with the Moroccan Monarch”.

The statement reads: “President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is shocked, surprised and highly embarrassed by the controversy that has erupted over whether or not he had a telephone conversation with His Majesty, King Mohammed VI of Morocco.

“The regrettable furore that has developed over the matter is due entirely to misinformation as President Jonathan has neither spoken with King Mohammed or told anybody that he had a telephone conversation with the Moroccan Monarch.

“It is true that President Jonathan has been speaking with some African leaders to seek their support for Nigeria’s candidate for the position of President of the African Development Bank

From left Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode fayemi; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; Senator Hadi Sirika and National Ex-officio, APC Alhaji Nasir Danu, during an Evening for Nigeria with Buhari /Osinbajo in Lagos recently. Pix Joe Akintola(Photo Editor)

(AfDB).

“In continuation of his efforts in support of the candidacy of the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina for headship of the AfDB, President Jonathan indicated that he would like to speak with the King of Morocco,

the President of Algeria and the President of Egypt.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was consequently directed to make necessary contacts with the embassies of the three countries and arrange for President Jonathan to speak with their

leaders.

“Since that directive was given, President Jonathan has spoken with the Prime Minister of Algeria and subsequently sent Vice President Namadi Sambo to Algiers as Special Envoy to followup on his discussions with the

Algerian Prime Minister on support for Nigeria’s candidate in the coming elections for the AfDB Presidency.

“The President has, however, not yet spoken with King Mohammed VI and President AlSisi of Egypt as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must know.

“President Jonathan has therefore ordered the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Aminu Wali to urgently undertake a full investigation of the claim which emanated from the Ministry that the President spoke with King Mohammed VI. “The investigation is to identify all those who were responsible for the unacceptable act of official misinformation which has resulted in an unnecessary diplomatic row with another country and national embarrassment.

“It is also expected to unveil the motives of the culprits.

“President Jonathan has also ordered that prompt and commensurate disciplinary action be taken against the culpable person or persons.

“While awaiting the outcome of the investigations, President Jonathan urges Nigerians to disregard the vituperation of opposition elements, who have, true to type, latched on to the regrettable faux pas as a fresh opportunity to denigrate the government of their country and advance their irresponsible quest for victory at any price in the coming elections”.

4 die as military discovers bomb factory

By Ndahi Marama with agency report THE military yesterday, recorded more victories against the Boko Haram insurgents, following the seizure of a bomb making factory from the terrorists at a fertilizer company in Buni Yadi, Yobe State.

The military had earlier announced that it had cleared the wholeofAdamawaStateofterrorists after recovering over 35 more towns from them across the north east zone.

The discovery of the site where high calibre of bombs were produced was contained in a statement signed by the Director Defence Information, Major General, Chris Olukolade.

Olukolade said that four soldiers died in the course of efforts to clear the terrorists from journey to recover the bomb making site as explosions followed.

The statement entitled, ‘’Troops discover terrorists bomb making factory in Yobe State,’’ read, ‘’The ongoing cordon and search by troops in Buni Yadi,Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State has led to the discovery of a bomb making factory, where Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, used by terrorists were being produced. A large quantity of IEDs including those commonly used by suicide bombers were recovered from the site. ‘’The factory, which was located in a fertilizer company, has also converted some of the materials therein for production of all types of IEDs. Troops are still evacuating the materials which include a large

quantity of suicide bomber vests from the facility to their base. It is believedthattheheavycalibrebomb used in blowing up the bridge between Damaturu and Buni Yadi was produced in the factory. ‘’The terrorists were sacked from Buni Yadi after a military assault that was conducted last Saturday. The troops advance was delayed by the series of IEDs planted on the highway leading to Buni Yadi. ‘’Four soldiers died from such IEDs in the course of the operation to clear terrorists from the town.

This discovery is expected to degrade the capability of terrorists in the production of explosives, which they have been using lavishly in the area until they were dislodged from their stronghold.’’

TheleadershipoftheBokoHaram had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State militant group that controls tracts of Syria and Iraq following the set back the group had suffered in recent weeks.

This was as African countries have asked the the United Nations to set up a trust fund to finance a force to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria and called on the international community to supply intelligence and equipment, according to a draft U.N. resolution.

However, in accepting the pledge ofallegiancefromNigerianIslamists BokoHaram,theISIS’s spokesman called on supporters to fight in Africa.

Boko Haram, which has killed thousands and kidnapped hundreds during a six-year campaign to carve out an Islamist state in northern Nigeria, pledged

itsallegiancelastweek,highlighting increased coordination between jihadimovementsacrossnorthAfrica and the Middle East.

“Our caliph, God save him, has accepted the pledge of loyalty of our brothers of Boko Haram so we congratulate Muslims and our jihadi brothers in West Africa,” Islamic State spokesman Abu Mohammad al-Adnani said in an audio message, referring to his group’s leader Abu Bakr alBaghdadi.

Islamic State, an ultra-hardline offshoot of al Qaeda, has declared a caliphateincapturedterritoryinIraq and Syria and has gained global notoriety for killing or kidnapping members of ethnic and religious minorities and posting videos of its members killing Arab and Western hostages.

In the audio message, Adnani called on Muslims who could not join Islamic State in Iraq and Syria to enter combat in Africa instead, saying Boko Haram’s pledge had opened a “new door for you to migrate to the land of Islam and fight.”

“We are calling you up for jihadis, go.”

The group, which rejects all but its own limited interpretation of early Sunni Muslim theology as heresy, also issued a threat to Jews and Christians.

“If you want to save your blood and money and live in safety from our swords ... you have two choices: either convert or pay jezyah,” he said, referring to tax for nonMuslims under Islamic rule.

African countries asked the the United Nations to set up a trust fund to finance a force to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria Meanwhile, African countries have asked the the United Nations to set up a trust fund to finance a force to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria and called on the international community to supply intelligence and equipment, according to a draft U.N. resolution.

The draft U.N. Security Council text endorses the creation of a force

by Nigeria and its neighbors Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Benin to take on Boko Haram. The 54nation African Union has already approved a force of up to 10,000 troops. Boko Haram has killed thousands of people in northeastern Nigeria in its six-year insurgency and has also pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, which has created a self-declared caliphate in parts of Iraq and Syria.

The text drafted by Chad, Nigeria and Cameroon, and obtained by Reuters, has not yet been circulated to the 15 Security Council members.

Chad’s U.N. Ambassador Mahamat Cherif has said he hoped the council could vote on a resolution by end-March. The draft is under Chapter 7 of the U.N. Charter, allowing decisions to be enforced with economic sanctions or force. A U.N. diplomat, speaking onconditionofanonymity,saidonce negotiations begin among the 15 council members some of the key issues would likely be how to finance the operation and whether or not it needs to be a Chapter 7 resolution.

6 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

FG replies Tinubu, says his allegation ridiculous

BY BEN AGANDE, Abuja.

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HE Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati yesterday dismissed as “absolutely ridiculous” the allegation by the National Leader of the All Progressive Congress, Bola Tinubu that he was being haunted by the Jonathan administration because he turned down the offer of a Vice President in a proposed Interim National Government.

Addressing state House Correspondents yesterday, Dr Abati also described as “grossly and utterly irresponsible” and “unintelligent” the accusation by the governor of Lagos state, Babatunde Fashola that robbers operated with impunity and killed in Lekki because all the policemen had been mobilised to protect the President who was visiting Lagos.

Speaking on the accusation by Bola Tinubu, Dr Abati said the President had repeatedly said that the issue of Interim National Government is not only unconstitutional but treasonable and could not have been offering any position to a non-existent arrangement.

He said: “A statement from the office of the national leader of the

APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, alleging that he had been offered by President Jonathan the position of the Vice President in an imaginary National Interim Government.

“Except people have not been following the news or they have chosen willfully to play deaf and dumb , they will know and the facts are there that President Jonathan has

said again and again, that an idea of an Interim National Government is preposterous and to use his exact words also treasonable; and that he has never discussed that idea with anybody and he has never proposed it at any forum.

“That as President of Nigeria, the democratically elected president his ambition can never be to head an Interim National

Government under whatever circumstances.

“He is going to this Presidential election on the basis of the records of his achievements. On the conviction that he has served Nigerians well and the overwhelming majority of Nigerians are appreciative of the achievements of his administration and are therefore solidly behind him and will vote for him massively on March 28.

Immigration Recruitment Tragedy: Families of deceased receive N75m, job offers

BY BEN AGANDE, Abuja.

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RESIDENT G o o d l u c k Jonathan Friday handed out N75 million (N5million each) as well as employment letters to families of those who lost their lives in the botched immigration recruitment exercise last year.

President Jonathan’s gesture was in fulfillment of his promise that three members each from the families of those who lost their lives would be compensated.

The event which took place at the press briefing room of the presidential Villa had in attendance the minister of Interior, Abba Moro as well as the Comptroller General of Immigration, David Paradang, the supervising Minister of Information, Edem Duke and other

government officials.

Each of the families of the deceased, was handed a cheque of five million naira each, while three family members were each given employment letters.

President Jonathan in a brief remark after handing over the cheques and employment letters promised that such incidence would never happen again. “ I promise this country that such will not happen again. This will be the last of such things” he emphasised.

He said the monies given to the families of the deceased should not be seen as compensation because it cannot replace the lives lost.

The Comptroller General of the Immigration Service, David Paradang told journalists that out of the 45 candidates ten had

to be replaced because they did not meet the criteria of the service.

He explained that some of them were shorter than required, overweight or over aged adding that the families of the ten have been asked to bring replacement for the slots.

He noted that some of them who are graduates were employed as Assistant Superintendent, those with National Certificate of Education (NCE) were employed as Assistant Inspectors while those with the West African school certificate (WASC) were employed as Immigration Officers 3.

The service has currently resumed the employment exercise. Paradang said the service intends to recruit a total of 2,000 officers less than the already slated 45 slots.

No directive to probe key opposition figures — EFCC ..says letter in circulation fake

BY SONI DANIEL, Regional Editor, North

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HE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission last night raised the alarm that a fake letter purportedly written by the Presidency to it to initiate discrete probe of key opposition figures in the country, was in circulation.

According to the commission, the fake letter was purportedly written and signed by the Chief of Staff to the President and ordering the agency to investigate the opponents.

“The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC wishes to alert the public about a letter supposedly from the office of the Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, mandating the commission to initiate discrete investigation against some prominent political figures in the country.

“The commission urges the public to discountenance the said letter as it is forged document, intended to mislead the people. The features of the letter are markedly different from that on a genuine letter from the office of the Chief of Staff to the president.

Osinbajo suit on alleged damaging documentary adjourned

BY INNOCENT ANABA

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Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, yesterday, adjourned till March 27, to hear the suit by the Vice Presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress, APC, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, challenging the legality of an alleged damaging documentary being aired by the African Independent Television, AIT and the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA. Trial judge, Justice James Tsoho had earlier in the week, granted an interim order, restraining AIT and NTA from further broadcast of the said documentary pending the hearing and determination of the suit.

Osinbaja in the suit by his lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, SAN,is contending that the airing of the said documentary was against his fundamental rights.

At the resumed hearing in the matter, yesterday, Falana told the court that the two defendants had been served, and that he was ready to come back for hearing.

AIT was not represented by any lawyer, while Anthony Okochu represented NTA. Okochu confirmed that the processes had been served on his client and that he needed time to respond to same.

The matter was thereafter, adjourned till March 27 for hearing, after all the necessary processes must have been filed and served.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 — 7

S-Court dismisses suit seeking to sack Kogi Gov, Wada

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

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HE Supreme Court yesterday dismissed an appeal that sought to sack the Governor of Kogi state, Captain Idris Wada from office.

A seven-man panel of Justices of the apex court headed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Mahmud Mohammed, threw out the suit which was filed before them by the governorship candidate of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, in the state, Mr. James Ocholi, SAN. Ocholi had in his suit, challenged the processes that led to the emergence of Wada as the governor of Kogi State, contending that he was not validly sworn in as required by the law.

However, the supreme court in its lead judgment that was delivered yesterday by Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun held that the reliefs sought by Ocholi, in substance and in nature, were such that should be submitted to the state

election petition tribunal for adjudication.

According to the apex court, “The aim of the appellant’s suit was the nullification of the victory of Wada at the election held on December 3, 2011, and a declaration that he is the lawful winner of the election and the person validly entitled

to be sworn in as the governor of Kogi state.

“The Federal High Court had no jurisdiction to entertain his claims.

The concurrent decisions of the two lower courts in this regard cannot be faulted.

“The appellant has not advanced any cogent reasons to warrant

interference by this court.”

The court held that Ocholi waited for more than three months after the conduct of the election that produced Wada as governor before raising the issue of qualification of the candidates who participated in the election.

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HREE bodies were recovered, 22 shops and five vehicles were razed, yesterday, when a section of the popular Mile 12 market in Kosofe Local Government, Lagos State was gutted by fire.

Although the cause of the incident remains unknown but eye witnesses’ account said the inferno which started around 4.30am may

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HE Chairman of Poul try Association of Nigeria, PAN in Plateau State, Mr. John Dasar has lamented the increase in the outbreak of Avian Influenza also known as bird flu in the state and urged poultry

ENIOR military commanders have described stories in major international media and culled by local newspapers reporting that Nigeria is deploying hundreds of mercenaries against Boko Haram terrorists as a joke taken too far.

The officers insisted that the foreigners are technical advisers that are providing trainings and instructions on the use of new armaments recently procured by the Nigerian military in the war on terror.

Some top commanders who spoke with PR Nigeria without wanting their identities disclosed insist that it is part of propaganda to paint Nigerian military as incompetent to deal with the insurgency by desperately ascribing recent spate of successes to ‘others’ rather than the gallant troops’ efforts.

The source recalled that only recently, some news agencies ascribed such successes to Cameroonian, Nigerien and “battle hardened” Chadian forces but when it became obvious that the forces of those countries were mainly fighting along their own border areas blocking free movement of terrorists, “it became necessary to look for others” who are helping Nigerians to fight.

PRNigeria gathered that the foreigners spotted in Maiduguri and other areas close to the theater of wars are technical partners who are helping to train Nigerian forces on how to operate and maintain the recently acquired equipments which came from different sources.

Polls:INEC distributes 81.22 % PVCs to voters

•Kano, Lagos States still lead with highest number of collection

By Joseph Erunke President Goodluck Jonathan presenting an employment letter to Charlie Loveth Akpan, next of kin to one of the 15 victims of the March 2014 Nigerian Immigration Service Recruitment Exercise during the presentation of Employment letters and Cheques to their next of kin at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida.

have been ignited by the illegal petroleum business which the section is associated with.

According to eye witnesses’ account, the burnt vehicles were some of the trucks used in transacting the illegal business while the bodies were some of the suspected dealers of the business before the disaster was recorded.

An eye witness Mr Innocent Alabari said one

of the shops was as at 2am, been delivered of a new stock unsuspecting that the fire will strike.

Some of the affected traders watched helplessly as their goods and shops worth millions of Naira were destroyed by the fire.

One of them simply identified as Mama Kudirat said she was not involved in the illegal business but deals on kerosene in one of the shops.

According to her, she was

alerted by neighbours who live close to the market, “ my telephone rang around 4am, but I could not arrive the scene immediately due to the distance.

Tears flowed freely as they watched the remains of their properties which were burnt beyond recognition. Also, fire fighters found it difficult to fight the fire as they were attacked by some hoodlums who hijacked the incident to unleash terror on innocent people.

Poultry farmers lament increase in bird flu in Plateau

By Marie-Therese Nanlong

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BRIEFS

Three bodies recovered, 22 shops, five vehicles razed as fire guts Mile 12 market

By Bose Adelaja

So-called Mercenaries are Technical Advisers

farmers to take precautionary measures to curb its spread.

The Chairman also cautioned the farmers against taking the flu for granted stressing “the disease is real.’’

Speaking on the issue in Jos yesterday, Dasar stated, “the number of farms and birds affected by

the disease in Plateau have now doubled compared to the number recorded last month.

“In February we had over 80,000 birds that were affected by the bird flu and 23 farms destroyed but today, over 183,000 birds have been affected by the disease and more than 53 poultry farms destroyed, indicating that the spread of the disease is on the increase.’’

The Chairman warned that there should be no wanton destruction of birds and farms as a result of the outbreak of the disease, as indiscriminate shutting down of farms has also affected economic activities of the state.

His words, “The spread of the virus has affected the economy of the state, be-

cause most farms are shut down thereby rendering both the farmers and their workers idle.

“Farmers should adhere strictly to the rules of running a poultry farm, especially by ensuring that adequate bio-security measures are taken to avoid further spread.”

He however assured farmers that Government and the leadership of PAN at state and federal levels were up and doing to ensure the disease was adequately contained.

Meanwhile, the Desk Officer, Animal Health in the State Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Ayuba Haruna also confirmed that the disease was on the increase in the state,but that “all relevant agencies were on their toes to curtail further spread.”

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HE Independent National Electoral Commis sion, INEC, yesterday, said the level of the Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs, distributed to voters so far had reached 81.22 percent.

It also said out of the total of 68,833,476 registered voters at its disposal, I has successfully distributed a total of 55,904,272 PVCs, representing 81.22 percent to their respective owners.

These were contained in a statement, by Mr Kayode Idowu, Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Prof.

Attahiru Jega.

In the latest update, released by the commission, Kano and Lagos states, were seen still leading other 34 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, with the highest number of PVCs collection. While Kano State has recorded 4,112,039, in the PVCs collection, Lagos State trailed behind with 3,767,647 respectively.

But in terms of percentage in turn-out of voters, Zamfara, Gombe and Jigawa States topped other States of the Federation with 95 percent.

Ndigbo in Lagos task Jega on PVCs distribution

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HE Chairman of Ndigbo People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council in Lagos, Emilia Ezeude has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Attahiru Jega to ensure even distribution of PVCs to Ndigbo in Lagos.

The call is coming against the backdrop of claim by some residents in different geo-political zones that they were yet to collect their PVC with barely two weeks to the general election.

Speaking with Saturday Vanguard recently, Ezeude urged Ndigbo to collect their PVCs, adding that it will enable them to elect a leader of their choice.

She disclosed that available reports showed that out of the over 30 groups that make the Ndigbo PDP campaign council in Lagos, 60 per cent of them are yet to collect their PVCs in the State.

FIDA pleads with Senate: Pass VAPP Bill

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By Victoria Ojeme

HE International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria and other partners have called on the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the Violence Against Persons’ Prohibition (VAPP) bill before the end of this 7th assembly.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, yesterday, the national president of FIDA Nigeria, Hauwa Shekarau, stated that the VAPP bill is the only holistic legal instrument that succinctly addressed issues of gender based violence (GBV), domestic violence, some obnoxious customary practises and other forms of violence which is prevalent in Nigeria.

8 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

BRIEFS

Itsekiri fume over alleged cancellation of EPZ groundbreaking *We ‘ll express our bitterness with our votes— Ekpoko *Nobody told us it has been aborted — Ayiri

By Emma Amaize, Regional Editor, SouthSouth

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HERE was resentment in Itsekiri ethnic nationality, Delta State, yesterday, following uncorroborated information that President Goodluck Jonathan has again cancelled the groundbreaking of the $16 billion Gas Revolution Industrial City, Ogidigben in Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state, reportedly scheduled for Monday, March 16.

However, there is no confirmation or denial by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation that the groundbreaking will hold or not hold, at press time.

Saturday Vanguard learned that after the March 4 truce between the Ijaw and Itsekiri brokered at Asaba by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who was directed by President Jonathan to settle the differences between the two ethnic groups, a fresh date of March 16 was communicated to stakeholders, but yesterday, a counter information came that President Jonathan would no longer come.

In fact, a reliable source hinted this reporter that Governor Uduaghan contacted some leaders to inform them that the

groundbreaking has been fixed for March 16, but the governor could not be reached, yesterday, by this reporter to confirm if there was a change in the date.

Before the March 4 respite, President Jonathan visited the Olu of Warri in January and met with him and other Itsekiri leaders at Asaba, last month, where he promised to perform the groundbreaking before the March 28 presidential elections. The sole issue on the table at the meeting between him and the Olu was date for the groundbreaking.

After the meeting, he told the monarch that Governor

Uduaghan would get back to him on the date after meeting with other stakeholders.

Secretary of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought, ILoT and Chairman, Warri Study Group, WSG, the intellectual wing of the Itsekiri nationality, Mr. Edward Ekpoko, who initially told Saturday Vanguard, yesterday morning, that he had been communicated on the March 16 date called back later to say that he heard that President Jonathan would not be coming.

His words, “This is the third time in three months that President Jonathan has breached the promise

Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC Joseph Dawha and Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke during the budget defence hearing of the Joint House Committee on Petroleum Resources recently.

Owl appears in Delta Govt House •Lady vows to avenge its death with five heads

By Festus Ahon, Asaba

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HOSE working in the Delta State Government House, Asaba, Thursday scampered for safety, following the appearance of an Owl in one of the offices.

The owl, according to a reliable source, perched on a table in the office when the office was opened by a lady working there, adding that the lady (name withheld) who was gripped with fear raised alarm which attracted others who were just trying to settle down for the day’s job at about 8 am.

The source, who pleaded anonymity, said the owl was flogged to death and set ablaze by the workers who saw its appearance as a sign of bad omen. He added that songs of praises and worship were sung to adore the Almighty God for the few persons who picked up courage and moved against the strange bird.

to perform the groundbreaking.”

His words, “It is an assault on the collective intelligence of the Itsekiri people to cancel the groundbreaking again after the promise to the Olu of Warri and other Itsekiri leaders on February 27 in Asaba.”

“You can fool people some of the time, but you cannot fool them all the time,” he said, adding, “Itsekiris are now wiser.”

Ekpoko asserted, “He has told not just the Itsekiri, but Niger Delta ethnic nationalities that he cannot be trusted. From what is happening, he is pursuing an Ijaw agenda.”

Speaking further, the source said another lady (name withheld) who is also working in the Government House rushed in few minutes later and threatened that at least five persons would be killed to avenge the death of the owl, which she claimed to be hers.

Disclosing that the said lady hails from one of the villages in Okpe, the source said; “We have decided to leave her for God.” Whatever evil she planned to wreck in the office with the owl, would revert to her.”

Effort made to reach the lady who claimed ownership of the owl proved abortive at press time. However, a source close to her, said “She was just joking; nobody can claim ownership of an owl.

“Do you really think anybody in his or her right senses will come out publicly to claim ownership of an owl and also threaten

to kill five persons to avenge its death? It was a mere joke and that issue has been handled and settled, the source said, adding “We killed the owl, burnt it while drawing power from God Almighty who is the maker of the heaven and earth. And we joined our faiths together in setting the strange owl

ablaze.

“Whatever evil plan it was meant to wreck in our office has been returned to the sender. We are untouchable”. As at the time of filing this report, effort was still being made to reach the lady whose office the owl was found for comment on the matter.

According to an online dictionary, an Owl is a nocturnal bird of prey that kills other creatures for food: appearing traditionally as warnings of doom and as symbol of wisdom.

Poll: MASSOB members protest in Awka, Warri, demand Jega’s removal

By Vincent Ujumadu and Egufe Yafugborhi

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UNDREDS of members of the Chief Ralph Uwazurike –led Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, yesterday took to the streets in Awka, Anambra State and major roads in Warri, Delta State demanding immediate removal of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega over alleged plan to rig the 2015 Nigerian general elections.

The group accused the INEC chairman of working for a Northern agenda to rig the coming presidential elections in favour of northern interests while also picking holes in dust being generated by uneven distribution of Permanent Voter Card.

Delta Zonal Leaders of MASSOB, Chief Joseph Odikpo who led the Jega-must-go demonstration said it is clear that Jega cannot give Nigeria credible elections by his recent actions and utterances.

Group urges INEC to deliver credible elections

By Jimitota Onoyume A pro democracy group, Nigerians United for Democracy, NUD has flayed the rising cases of cult and politically related killings in Rivers state.

South south Coordinator of the group, Mr Anyakwe Nsirimovu who spoke in Port Harcourt said his body was really disturbed with the number of killings in Rivers and beyond. It will be recalled that last saturday eleven persons were shot dead by unknown assailants in Port Harcourt.

Nsirimovu who also warned against the sack of the Chairman, Independent Electoral Commission, Prof Atahiru Jega cautioned against further postponement of the general polls.

While urging the electoral body to give Nigerians credible elections Nsirimovu said use of the card reader machines would enhance credibility of the electoral process.

He said: “We note with utmost concern the growing political tension and killing in various states of the federation, and the potential for this to undermine the electoral process.”

We will deliver Delta votes to Jonathan —Ekewenu

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United Nations Ambassador on Millennium Development Goals, Ambassador Karo Ekewenu, has assured that stakeholders in Delta State were doing everything possible to deliver the votes in the state to President Goodluck Jonathan on March 28.

Ekewenu, gave the assurance yesterday at his country-home, Ugono-Orogun, Ughelli North local government area, Delta State, when he was hosted by the people of the community and the leadership of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the area.

He said the re-election of President Jonathan was imperative to enable him consolidate on his laudable achievements.

Polls: ‘South-South will vote for APC’ *Party condemns attacks on Gov Amaechi’s family

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RESIDENTIAL candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.), has been told not to bother about the SouthSouth as the region will vote massively for him and all the other candidates of the party in the forthcoming general elections. Rivers APC gave the assurance in a

statement in which it congratulated Buhari on his successful SouthSouth Rally held in the Rivers State capital, Port Harcourt, on Thursday.

“There is nothing to compare between General Buhari and President Goodluck Jonathan when it comes to caring for the welfare of the people of the

South-South. While President Jonathan has confessed that he deliberately refused to develop Rivers State and the entire South-South, General Buhari built one of the refineries in SouthSouth and constructed the only road that links Bayelsa with Rivers State. This shows that if he is given another opportunity, he will

develop the South-South more than President Jonathan, who has refused to develop the region and therefore does not deserve the people’s vote.

The people of the SouthSouth will indeed vote massively for General Buhari and other APC candidates for the various elections on March 28 and April 11,” Rivers APC Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, said in the statement.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 — 9

AIG Mbu arrests 60 policemen for disciplinary offences

By Emma Nnadozie, Crime Editor

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O fewer than sixty policemen have so far been arrested and detained by Police authorities at Zone2 Command, Onikan, Lagos, for various disciplinary offences ranging from untidiness, improper dressing, insubordination, lateness to duty and disobedience of the Force Order.

Police sources at Onikan intimated that their arrest and subsequent detention was at the instance of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Joseph Mbu during his familiarization tour of the commands under the zone.

Further more, it was gathered that AIG Mbu also directed that henceforth, all petitions routed to the zone should be rejected. According to the source, the action will forestall the reckless manner in which cases mearnt to be investigated at the command levels are indiscriminately routed to the zone

with a view to prolonging the dispensation of justice. Such petitions, according to the source, border also on civil cases that should have been handled at commands rather than the Zone being inundated with frivolous petitions.

It was learnt that the policemen were personally arrested both at the Zone and in Ogun and Lagos State Commands by the AIG while on routine duty. Most of them were said to have undergone orderly room trial and will soon face disciplinary action.

Saturday Vanguard learnt also that AIG Mbu has started giving the entire Zone 2 a facelift by ensuring that principal officers are equipped with official cars that will enhance and facilitate their movement while on duty.

The source said that the new Police boss in the zone is a stickler to discipline and will do anything to ensure that policemen, no matter their rank, adhere strictly to the rules and regulations

of the force. According to the source, the misconception that AIG Mbu said that his men would kill 20 people if one of them was killed, is unfortunate. “‘Mbu is a disciplinarian. He can’t stand policemen who wear slippers and carry guns.

Some of the ones who do

that have been arrested,” a police source said yesterday.

Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, Gbenga Adeoye, confirmed the development and stated that AIG Mbu believed in upholding discipline generally in the force so that Police image would be enhanced.

Arms Proliferation: UK, WAANSA urge Nigeria, others on domestication of ATT

By Caleb Ayansina

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HE United Kingdom (UK) and the West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA) have called on the Federal Government and other African countries to domesticate the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) recently signed and ratified by them to help curb insecurity in the continent.

ATT is an instrument put in a place by the United Nations to regulate the use of small arms and light

2015: Enugu traders endorse Ugwuanyi Market Traders in Enugu yesterday declared their total support for the gubernatorial bid of the PDP Candidate in Enugu State, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, saying he is poised to continue the good legacies of Governor Sullivan Chime.

The traders who literally shot down their stores to welcome the PDP Campaign train in the four major markets in Enugu said they were happy with the remarkable achievements of the PDP government in the State and want it to continue.

In his speech, spokesman for the

Traders and Chairman of Timber Market Association, Enugu, Chief Levi Obi noted that Hon Ugwuanyi was an

experienced hand who has knowledge of the needs of the people and expressed confidence in his ability to address them satisfactorily.

PDP candidate, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuani identifying with traders and commoners as he pushes a wheel barrow in Enugu.

weapons in the society. The treaty came into force with ratification of 63 countries out of 130 countries that signed it. The treaty is meant to control the proliferation of small arms and light weapons holistically by reducing the ability of the producer to produce and sell indiscriminately.

The Deputy British High Commissioner, Simon Sherclif, who made the call during a one-day workshop on ATT with focus on regulation of Arms transfer and responsibilities of State parties organized by WAANSA, in Abuja, said the British Government had been in the lead of lobbying the government, Civil Groups to know the importance of the treaty to human existence.

He said that there was a huge inflow of small arms and light weapons in the country, giving it as the reason for high rate of crimes in the society.

According to him, “We want to stand behind the government in curbing the problem. The ATT needs to be domesticated that is the next step to take, it is very important.” imperative for all countries in the African continent to domesticate and urgently begin the implementation of the agreement.

He said; “We hope now, with the ATT, there is going to be a structure in the way weapons are coming in to our country.

Pass PIB, BPE boss begs NASS

By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

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HE Director-General, D-G, of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE, Mr. Benjamin DiKki, has appealed to the National Assembly for the immediate passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB. Speaking against the backdrop of the current fuel crisis, Mr. Dikki said a liberalised Petroleum and Gas sector would give private foreign and local investors “confidence to participate in oil exploration, refining and other associated services, with multiplier effects in employment generation and general growth in the economy”.

He said in an interview in Abuja that with the passage of the PIB, investors would take advantage of the huge potentials in the Oil and Gas sector through which the economy ’s diversification would become a reality.

The local content provision in the PIB is major reason why the oil producing communities have consistently urged the National Assembly to pass that piece of legislation which has been argued would mark an unprecedented participation of Nigerians in the petroleum sector.

That piece of legislation would also guarantee the

operation of private sector investors in the refinery sub-sector which would end the embarrassing situation in which Nigeria, a major crude oil exporter depends on other countries for refined products.

However, vested interests have frustrated the Bill’s passage over the years.

Mr. Dikki expressed delight with the transmission of the eight reform Bills by the Federal Executive Council, FEC, to the National Assembly and expressed optimism that the Bills would be passed within this Legislative year.

Emeka Offor donates 20,000 books to Tanzanian schools

By Jacob Ajom

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HE Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), will tomorrow deliver a total of 20,000 academic books to five secondary schools, a University and a primary school, in the Bagamoyo region of Tanzania.

The donation is being made in partnership with a U.S based nongovernmental organisation, Books for Africa.

The partnership which has existed since 2010, has seen the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation donate academic materials including books, computers and reading materials to schools in 19 African countries including Nigeria.

“Our partnership with Books For Africa is paying great dividends and I am happy that we can help provide access to books for as many children as possible in our continent,” said Sir Emeka Offor, who added that “ without

education, people cannot provide solutions to their problems.”

The estimated financial value for this logistical effort is estimated at $18 million.

“Over 99 percent of schools in Tanzania have inadequate or non-existent libraries, which are an essential asset of a school, so we are using the donated books to open a doorway that provides students a chance to explore knowledge,” said Charles W. Sloan, Jr., the Manager of Nianjema Secondary School.”

10 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

BRIEFS

Moroccan King vs Jonathan: Apologise to Nigerians, APC tells President T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) has asked President Goodluck Jonathan to apologize to Nigerians for the embarrassment that he has caused them over his phantom phone conversation with the King of Morocco. ‘’In our earlier statement on the issue, we gave President Jonathan the benefit of the doubt by asking him to clarify what happened, just as the Moroccan King has done.

Instead, a loquacious spokesman for the President decided to abuse us instead of addressing the issues. That tells us that, indeed, these people have something to hide over the phoney phone conversation,’’ the party said in a statement issued in Lagos on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

It said based on the antecedents of the J o n a t h a n Administration, which has little or no regard for the truth, it is safe to assume that the President did not hold any phone conversation with King Mohammed VI of Morocco, adding, however, that the party would be glad if President Jonathan can prove, conclusively, that he spoke with the King. ‘’Whereas Morocco was unequivocal in denying that its King had any phone conversation with President Jonathan, saying ‘Morocco is surprised at the incredible twist given by Nigeria to an alleged phone conversation that never took place between HM King Mohammed VI and Nigerian President’, the Nigerian presidency has been less forthcoming, instead opting to engage in shadowchasing,’’ APC said. ‘’Because of this unnecessary controversy over a phone discussion, Nigerians have now been branded liars. This is very serious, considering Nigeria’s standing in Africa. We therefore expect that any serious administration would not have hesitated

to come clean on what really transpired, instead of dissipating its energy on abuses,’’ the party added.

APC said while its

earlier, measured statement was borne out of patriotism, rather than partisanship, the President’s increasinglyrabid, leading attack dog frittered away the

opportunity to convince Nigerians that his principal did not just conjure up the idea of speaking with the King.

KADA: “We are not against rebuilding burnt Chibok School”

BY NDAHI MARAMA, Maiduguri

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IBAKU Area Development Association (KADA), the umbrella body of all the Kibawu people in Borno as well as in diaspora has said that, as a body representing the people of Chibok local government they welcome the laudable safe school initiative by the Federal Government and embrace it wholeheartedly.

The association which is the body representing the people of Chibok local government in a statement by its Chairman and Secretary, Mr. Daniel Mwada and Mallam Tsarba Wadai, which is made available to journalists in Maiduguri, on Friday said, their attention has been drawn to recent publication credited to a Chibok community leader in Maiduguri, who allegedly said that the Chibok Community has rejected the safe school initiative.

Prof Ade Akinola is dead

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The Presentation of 2015 Annual Indigent Scholarship Awards of Grace Schools Gbagada took place at the school premises in Lagos over the weekend.

Pix from left is Orina Deborah, Mrs Olatokunbo Edun, Administrator of the School, Idowu Oluwatobiloba and Ojelade Omotoyosi all Scholarship Award recepients during the occasion. Pix Biodun Ogunleye.

APC guber candidate raises alarm over high debt profile in Plateau

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

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HE All Progressives C o n g r e s s gubernatorial candidate in Plateau state, Mr. Simon Lalong has raised alarm over the rising debts profile of the

state under the governor Jonah Jang led administration.

Lalong said the state governor, Jonah Jang was still borrowing, berating him for borrowing the sum of “nine billion naira from Islamic bank without the approval of the state House

Jonathan, Buhari for Abuja town hall meeting

By Charles Kumolu

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HE presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party,PDP, President Goodluck Jonathan and his All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate counterpart, Maj Gen Mohammadu Buhari, retd, would participate in a town hall meeting aimed at addressing some critical electioneering issues.

The event which is being convened by the Concerned Nigerian Professionals and Enterprises Forum,CPEF, is expected to hold on March 20, 2015 in Abuja.

Briefing newsmen yesterday in Lagos, Convener of CPEF, Mr. Emeka Ugwu-Oju said a similar event would also take place simultaneously

on March 15, 2015 across five geo-political zones while it would hold on March 16, 2015 in the South-South.

His words: ‘’For the purpose of a successful and professionally organised general elections, we have planned to hold seven town hall meetings in the six geopolitical zones. We are positive that the presidential candidates will be in attendance. There are no doubts about that because we have reached out to them. Professionals are the wealth creators so we are not envisaging that they will ignore us. The issues that will be discussed are key to peaceful elections. We are doing this because we want the elections to be credible.

When campaigns are issue based, the outcome of the elections would not fall short of international standards.’’

of Assembly .”

Speaking yesterday in Jos during the Media Forum organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ in Plateau state for candidates of all political parties, the APC candidate stressed whoever succeeds the governor will inherit the high debts incurred by the incumbent governor.

Lalong also advised the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to stop complaining about the INEC card readers but learn to accept that this is not business as usual where elections were rigged in previous polls.

He further stressed that the governor for the past eight years has disconnected traditional institutions from government and this has led to division and disunity among the tribes but assured he will remedy the situation if elected in the coming election.

Speaking on his manifestos, he added, “it is disheartening that Plateau is now rated low in education as government has neglected teachers without salaries and the State University, Bokkos has had five different Vice Chancellors in last eight years. We will reverse this and give free education to school children.

HE death has occurred of Prof. (Chief) Richard Adebayo Akinola. He died on Tuesday March 3, 2015 at the age of 87.

According to the family, the late professor of geography was a successful administrator. “He was at various times, Dean of Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos and the pioneer Pro-Chancellor of the AdoBayero University, Kano.

The Late Professor Akinola was President Rotary club of Lagos 1977-1978 and the founder of the prestigious Oluyole club Ibadan, a development icon and the Bashorun Tayese of Ibadanland.

Burial arrangements will be announced later Late Prof Akinola by the family.

Bizarre: Two cousins drown in a well

BY PETER DURU, Makurdi

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WO cousins, Odeh Ogbo and Edoh Christopher, aged 20 and 25 respectively, have reportedly drowned in a well, in a rather bizarre circumstance at Ai’Oga community in Oglewu District of Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State. Saturday Vanguard gathered that the death of the duo has thrown the entire community into deep mourning, with many suspecting foul play surrunding the mysterious circumstances that led to the death of the brothers, midweek.

An eyewitness said the duo met their untimely death while trying to clean up the well in Ojali community that used to serve as a source of water to the villagers.

“Ogbo had gone into the well in order to clear refuse from it when suddenly he started shouting for help when he realize that he was stuck and couldn’t get out.”

S/West group drums support for Jonathan

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HEAD of the March 28 presidential election, a group under the aegis of the Yoruba Youth Initiative(YYI) ,in South-West Nigeria in a press conference held recently reaffirmed its support to work and campaign for president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan till he gets Victory on his re-election bid.

The President of the group,Adejumo Ishola disclosed its plan to hold a mega rally in Seme border as part of its activities to show their support for GEJ. Ishola added that four groups of Nigerians in diaspora would be hosted by the group next week to mobilise and re-affirm that they are solidly behind Mr President re-election so that Nigeria can move forward..He urged Nigerans to collect their PVC and vote for a reformer,sustainable transformation which President Jonathan has began. Continuing, Ishola told Newsmen that these Nigerians in Diaspora were PDP members who travelled down the country to register during the INEC registration era and had already collected their Permanent Voters Card,PVC.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—11

Marital Infidelity

Why do married women cheat?

This week we serve you the concluding part of our last week cover on marital infidelity

More questions than answers

When the Durex report was published, the question on the lips of many was why on earth would Nigerian women be the most promiscuous? The authenticity of the report has been queried and the question is, why should a sample of 29,000 people be used to make hasty generalisation for whopping populations of 36 countries when Nigeria alone has population of 160 million with half of them being women?

Why would Nigerian women emerge the most sexually promiscuous?

If Nigerian women are as promiscuous as claimed , what did the report say about countries where artificial penis, synthetic vaginal, clitoral stimulator and all other paraphernalia and tools of sexual perversion are produced?

Nigerian women are not familiar with the practice of Bondage and Discipline, Sadism and Masochism (BDMS) that has taken firm root in Europe?

The kind of lifestyle where men and women enter into selfimposed slavery by surreptitiously maintaining relationships in which they voluntarily yield up their bodies and freewill for the domination

and mastery by other men and women or conversely where men and women exercise sexual domination on other men and women who voluntarily yield up their “bodies, souls and spirits” to them, as it were is not in the character of the Nigerian woman.

Nigeria women emerging as most promiscuous in the world is not real and should a condom manufacturer tell us about virtues of Nigerian women?

Everything a man does is right Johnson Okafor, a traditional chief in Igbo land said that a man's sexual escapades cannot be queried.

“Extramarital sex by men is socially tolerated and, in many respects, even socially rewarded. In Nigeria, marriage is as much an economic, social, reproductive, and reputational project as it is a sexual and emotional endeavour.”

Many women observed a dramatic change in their relationships with their spouses after marriage. Before marriage, husbands were more attentive and more willing to do the sorts o f things that they associated with romantic love, for example, saying affectionate things, buying gifts like jewelry or

perfume rather than just commodities for the household, or helping out with domestic work that is socially defined as female.

These changes are attributed to the relative shift in power that occurs at marriage. During courtship, a woman has two authoritative vetoes: she can deny sexual access and she can refuse to marry. But once a woman is married, the ability to opt out of either marriage or marital sex is dramatically reduced. Divorce is highly stigmatized, and women are expected to be sexually available for their husbands.

Vivian, a mother of four, lamented that marriage and parenthood encroached on the quality of her emotional relationship with her husband.

“When I married my husband, I used to worry all the time about him. Was he happy? Did he still love me? Was he following another woman? Sometimes I would get very jealous, even when there was no reason. But now I am married to my children.”

Vivian could not say categorically that her husband cheated on her but he said he did and suspects his wife knew. But like a lot of men in extra marital relationships, Vivian's husband viewed his family as his highest priority and so, he was discreet about his infidelity.

“Nothing can interfere with taking care of my wife and children.”

In many cultures, a newly married woman is made to sit on a traditional stool in a shrine to guarantee total fidelity.

If such a woman cheats on her husband, it's either she dies or runs mad

Cynthia, mother of five and married for 12 years recalled her rage when she discovered that her husband, Eddie had a girlfriend. “ When it dawned on me that my husband had another lady he was interested in. I confronted him and told him I would not tolerate that sort of business. I stopped everything.

We had no sexual relations at all for sometime and I did not even serve him food. He became sober. He sent friends to beg me. He even recruited my sister to plead for him. Eventually I forgave him, but I put him on notice that I would not stand such nonsense.”

Cynthia was hurt when her husband cheated on her. She saw his infidelity as contradicting his avowed love.

But reconciliation strengthened their love relationship.

Promiscuity is a taboo for women

Marital promiscuity is a taboo in Nigeria. In many cultures, a newly married woman is made to sit on a traditional stool in a shrine to guarantee total fidelity.

If such a woman cheats on her husband, it's either she dies or runs mad.

Among the Edo kingdom in the Mid-Western region of Nigeria, a Bini (Edo) man has liberty on issues of polygamy but such liberty does not allow him to have sex with another man’s wife. In the Benin society, the matrimonial bed belongs to the wife and not necessarily the husband. Consequently, extra marital affairs were not counted against the male as it still is in most contemporary African societies.

In Yoruba tradition, magun which means , don’t climb” is an anti-promiscuity or antiinfidelity charm, usually laced stealthily on a woman by the husband, with the belief that should she have an extramarital intercourse, the man she has it with will immediately after the act, suffer convulsions or epileptic-like seizures leading to instant death.

In current times, there have been reports of of deaths by magun in the Yoruba community of South-West Nigeria. The existence of magun reveals indeed that there have been sexual promiscuity amongst married women.

Why do married women cheat?

Continues on page 12

12—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Women protest husbands' sexual weakness

without telling him. I already had the first two children and was pregnant with the third before my husband found out. I guess they told him but the wicked part of it is that my husband kept the knowledge to himself. After I put to bed the last child, he sent me out of the home and kept all the children. As I'm telling you this, I have not been able to tell my parents and siblings that my husband was not the father of my three kids and that was why he sent me packing.”

Women protest husbands' sexual weakness

Continues from page 11 This is one big question with several answers from our respondents.

“Some women have insatiable appetite for sex ,” said Chidi, a businessman. “ If you recall, sometime last year, a lady posted her profile on facebook asking for both male and female sex mates. The lady said she loves sex so much that she loves to do it with both men and women. She went an extra mile of putting up a message on Facebook to announce her status. If a woman is bold enough to come out to the open with her weird sexual life, you can imagine several others who operate in secret because of social stigma? But left to me, there are many decent ladies. I have four sisters and two are married. I know also that their husbands came back to thank my mother because they found their wives to be virgins at marriage. So, if Nigerian women are said to be the most promiscuous in the entire world, I will doubt it.”

Pedro Johnson, an accountant believes Nigerian women are promiscuous “Yes, Nigerian women are as promiscuous as the men. They can keep several boyfriends on the go without their men knowing about it and from what I am hearing these days, many are doing it whilst in marriage. In my community in my village, we have treated many cases of marital infidelity and each time, the women either blamed it on the devil or financial problems. But to say they are the most promiscuous in the whole is a different thing. I don't believe that

either because we value decency here.”

Florence Chinonye said married women cheat and she saw one with her eyes,“I don't understand it, I was shocked the day I caught my neighbour's wife cheating with a stranger inside his car around the neighbourhood where I live. I was coming back late from work but stopped by the dry-cleaner to pick my clothes. There was a car parked close-by and two people were inside.

Initially, I didn't pay attention because it was not my business who was inside the car parked by the roadside. But my driver's attitude drew my attention and I realised it was my neighbour's wife smooching with another man. I saw her and she saw me but we said nothing to ourselves. “ What I don't understand is why she was doing it. She is a mother of three and her husband owns two cars and has a good job. The lady has just finished from the University and is waiting for national youths service.

In her case, I suspect high libido because she has a young and virilelooking husband who is comfortable and has a good job. For Christ sake, her husband even bought her a car.

As I'm telling you this, we have never discussed this. But what I discovered is that the woman started greeting me since that time. Before then, we hardly talked.”

“Ebenezer Matthew, a boutique owner shared the view that married women are promiscuous. “What I cannot say is whether they are the most promiscuous as reported by Durex. But married women in Nigeria cheat. I have a boutique and sell female clothes. I know what I see.

Some married women bring their boyfriends to the boutique to buy them clothes their husbands could not afford. There is this lady that patronises me. She always comes to my shop every week dressed in Iro and buba. But she would either buy new clothes from me and change into them before going to her destination and on her way back, she comes back to change back into her Iro and buba. She is one of my biggest customers and usually before embarking on her kurukere movement, she would come here and change into jeans trouser and body-hug top before embarking on her mission. She would remove her Iro and buba and keep them somewhere and put on tight jeans trouser and body-hug top. I always marvel at the transformation of a local woman that enters my shop and a city babe that leaves after she transforms herself. I know she is cheating on her husband but I think she is from a polygamous marriage.

Sometimes, she dresses like a muslim woman when she comes and after she changes, I can attest that even her husband cannot recognise her on the road if she walks across him in her new attire. She does this all the time. She must have children because the last time she came, she was pregnant and I doubt that child belongs to her husband. That woman too waka!”

For Tiola, the problem tore her marriage apart. She was married and has three kids but according to her, none of her kids belongs to her husband.

“The doctor told me my husband is incapable of impregnating a woman and after five years, I

decided to look elsewhere

A Nigerian man currently serving life jail in America killed his wife when he realised he is not the father of his twentyone year old son

Recently, the media was agog with a story of a group of women from the Rido community in Kaduna State who took to the streets on Wednesday, February 19, 2015 to publicly complain about their husband’s sexual weakness, asking that they start performing their matrimonial duties or face mass divorce.

The women, who were assembled in the state capital, blamed the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC) for their husbands' inability to perform as a result of the chemical waste and fumes from the company into their environment.

Some of the married women revealed that their husbands suffer weak erection and infertility, while the women suffer miscarriage and other health complications.

A married woman, Jummai Isaac, 27, said she has not taken in since she got married in the year 2000.

“I haven’t conceived since I got married in the last fourteen years, and doctors have, on several occasions, confirmed to me absence of any known cause of inability to get pregnant.

“Initially, doctors thought I had fibroid in my womb, but after several scans and some medical tests, they dispelled that notion.”

A community leader, Mohammed Bashar, explained that, “Most of the complaints could be associated with secondary infertility, because victims have, in the past, given birth to children before they suddenly stopped.

“There was widespread belief that smoke and poisonous gases emitted from the refinery have reproductive health effect on people living in the area, but no medical report has confirmed the allegation due to inability of villagers to seek comprehensive medical tests, perhaps owing to lack of awareness and poverty.”

Indeed, male impotence is one reason why married women cheat on their spouses. A divorce case in a court in Enugu several years ago had a twist when the issue of custody of the children came up.

The wife who did not contest the divorce stood against her husband having custody or visiting rights because, according to her, “he is not the father of my five children.”

A name of a prominent politician from the South-East was mentioned as the father of the five

children and when he was summoned, he proudly

Continues on page 13

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—13

“Benefits of sex” Continues from page 12 acknowledged he fathered the children and made the woman, a proud mother. The case degenerated to a DNA being performed which proved the woman's claims to be correct.

There is a common place saying among Africans that only a woman knows the father of her children. Few years ago, a Nigerian man currently serving life jail in America killed his wife when he realised he is not the father of his twenty-one year old son. His wife was impregnated by her boyfriend and the husband one day stumbled on the exchanges between her and her lover boy living in Nigeria where they discussed the next time he would come over to see his son. The worried husband had confronted his wife with his findings and she admitted that her husband was not the father of their twenty-one year old son. The man killed his his wife and got a life sentence.

Other reasons for marital promiscuity

Nigerian men are known to be polygamous. They marry younger women as they grow older and because they could not sexually satisfy these younger women or give them the sexual prowess they crave for, these younger wives go outside in search of younger men who are stronger to give them what they yearn for.

In polygamous households where there are many wives, a husband sometimes could not meet up or match up with the sexual needs of his wives and this inability on his part creates room for sexual infidelity on the part of the various women he acquired but could not satisfy sexually.

Even among men who are not polygamous, the quest to go after younger women as mistresses and the neglect suffered by their legally married partners creates room for these wives to go after younger men popularly called toyboys.

Ameh, a housing agent said he helped a middle-aged woman to rent an apartment and that was how he entered into trouble. “ She told me that she hardly sees her husband who junkets all over the world and therefore suggested that I pally with her whenever her husband is away. She has two grown up daughters who are my mate and a son a bit younger than me. The last time she invited to her house, she almost raped me but I managed to escape. I have not crossed her path since that time but I learnt she has a reputation for sleeping with both old and young men. There was even a rumour that she sexually harasses her son's friends and seeks the attention of her two daughters 'boyfriends even when her husband is around.”

In a society where women are increasing taking posh jobs and competing with the male folk, there are also women who tend to sleep their way to the top, according Josephine, a lawyer and career counselor. “ It happens a lot in our society.

Women sleep with their superiors in offices to get promoted or keep their jobs. They sleep around for business contacts and contracts and to remain relevant in the job. When a woman sleeps with her boss or influential superior, she can become relevant in that establishment or become untouchable because of who she is sleeping with as against her female contemporaries who are not doing so.

These measures sometimes don't help them but a lot of women do that.

“For instance, some new generation banks in Nigeria tend to employ loose ladies who dress halfnaked to work in their marketing departments. These ladies use their female prowess to generate high capital base for the banks. On employment, these women, some of whom are married target top society billionaires whom some of them sleep with as the banks' customers.

“In our universities, some of our young girls who don't read believe that they have to sleep with their lecturers to pass exams. It is the same group of ladies that keep sugar daddies who give them money, sleep with lecturers who help them pass their examinations and still, they keep their regular boyfriends. That is almost prostitution but it happens”.

There are endless reasons why women, even the married ones are

promiscuous but the last group are

those who do so for the fun of it.

Such women according to a psychologist Felicia Osagie are hotblooded. “ They are nymphomaniacs and have insatiable appetite for sex.

Even in marriage, there is nothing you can do about them and sometimes, their husbands know their problems and when they realise they cannot measure up, they look the other way and leave them to do whatever they want. “ As bad as the situation may appear, there is a social and physical well-being associated with regular sex and a lot of women who are termed promiscuous just crave for that”.

Benefits of sex

A 10-year Welsh study found that those who enjoyed an active sex life were 50 per cent less likely to die young than those who did not. And that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to sexual health benefits, says relationships therapist Dr Gabrielle Morrissey.

"It makes sense that sex is good for you because we need lots of inducements to do it so that we stay on the planet," she says.

Sex involves our circulatory, nervous and muscular systems and brains, so it's a tune-up and workout of everything that's important."Sadly, it's often the first thing to go when our health is on the blink. We have the attitude that sex is a luxury item instead of a necessity for wellness. We also think of it as something only for the young and strong, but its effects are a bonus as we age.”

"Sex releases feel-good hormones such as dehydroepiandrosterone and oxytocin," says Dr Darren Russell, president of the Australasian Chapter of Sexual Health Medicine. "You get more blood moving through the blood vessels."

Those who have regular sexual intercourse respond better to stress than those who engaged in other sexual activities or abstained. A partner's hug can do wonders, too. A US study found it can lower blood pressure and heart rates in premenopausal women. Touch releases

Some experts say that 30 minutes of vigorous sex is comparable to 15 minutes on a treadmill or walking up two flights of stairs, and burns between 360 and 835 kilojoules.

quantities of oxytocin, so you don't have to orgasm," Dr Morrissey says.

Feel-good hormones also help keep depression at bay. Semen contains the hormone prostaglandin, which may be absorbed through the vagina and act like an antidepressant. But this doesn't mean you should not be sexually responsible.

Men and women who have regular sex have higher testosterone levels, which are linked to a lower risk of osteoporosis and bone problems," says Dr Russell.

Research shows that sex can alleviate an aching noggin, especially in women. The endorphins and corticosteroids released have an analgaesic effect, alleviating the pain of headaches, arthritis, cramps and body aches.

"Endorphins are a natural painkiller," Dr Russell says. The production of oestrogen in women may also ward off period pain.

Dr Russell also prescribes sex for people with sleep problems. "Sex helps people sleep better and is less addictive than things like Valium."

Some experts say that 30 minutes of vigorous sex is comparable to 15 minutes on a treadmill or walking up two flights of stairs, and burns between 360 and 835 kilojoules.

Sex works the pelvis, thighs, buttocks, arms, neck and thorax.

Your pulse rate doubles from about 70 beats per minute to 150, the same as an athlete mid-stride. The muscles that stem the flow of urine, reducing leakage and incontinence, are given a workout during sex, says Dr Morrissey. "Orgasm is best because the entire pelvic floor contracts."

Flexing your pelvic muscles during sex maximizes the benefits and makes sex more pleasurable.

Last line

Every single day, women have sexual propositions directly or indirectly thrown at them. As a result of this, women have the final decision to act on or ignore such propositions, and the men looking for long-term mates fear this.

Men appreciate and place great value on women who can control themselves and demonstrate a certain degree of sexual discipline because most men certainly can't.

If a woman can show men that she is honest, loyal, trustworthy, and sexually responsible, then she will have the most powerful weapon to attract men. If, on the other hand, a woman abuses her sexual power with many men, it will backfire on her. Unfortunately, women only realize this when it's too late and the only choice they have is to lie.

Most women have lost a sense of value for their sexuality over the years. They've realized that sex is fun and pleasurable, but in the process, they've forgotten that it's the one gift that they can offer their lover, and that so many men value.

What men want

Most men will agree that they're always on the lookout for a serious soul mate. But this doesn't mean that they can't have fun in the process. So if there are women giving themselves away without commitment, men will definitely pounce on the opportunity.

14—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

BY DAPO AKINREFON

T

HE postponed general elections were greeted with mixed feelings by Nigerians.

Though many had kicked against the six weeks postponement, but beneath the line of such opposition was the general agreement that the shift would afford the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, ample time to put its house in order to avert a post-election crisis.

The two frontline political parties, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and the All Progressives Congress, APC, having also accepted the shift, have since then been projecting strategies to outwit one another at the polls.

President Goodluck Jonathan, mainly having sensed the swing towards his rival, Muhammadu Buhari of the APC in the crucial Southwest has devoted strength and strategies towards recovering himself in the region.

The strategic importance of the Southwest was underlined by the presence of the two major political party presidential candidates in the Southwest last Thursday.

Indeed, any activity that would take the president to Lagos is now a relish.

In an interesting manner, President Jonathan has, perhaps, made the South West his second home, visiting at the slightest opportunity.

In the last three weeks, the president has gone on a tour of the South-West visiting traditional rulers, politicians, leaders of ethnic nationalities and other opinion leaders, seeking support.

On January, 13, he had a stop-over at the palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti soliciting for the support of the people.

Also, on February, 19th, the President visited Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Akiolu.

But the traditional ruler failed to endorse any presidential candidate but he did not hide his position on the current political issues in the country.

Jonathan’s train also stopped in Ondo State where he visited the Regent of Akureland, Princess Adetutu Adesida during his presidential rally in February.

To show his seriousness, he visited the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi twice within two months.

He has also visited the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh C M Y K

•Goodluck Jonathan

Jonathan’s siege on the South-West: Will it amount to votes?

•Ewi of Ado-Ekiti

•Regent of Akureland, Princess Adetutu Adesida

•Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Akiolu

•Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi

The strategic importance of the Southwest was underlined by the presence of the two major political party presidential candidates in the Southwest last Thursday

Oyewumi where he canvassed for votes in the ancient town.

On Mar 11, 2015, Jonathan visited the Awujale and Paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba II at his palace in Ijebu Ode to solicit for the royal father’s support. The traditional ruler, however, said he would not give out an endorsement.

The Awujale was away in England when the president met with prominent traditional rulers from the state on the sidelines of the commissioning of the Olorunsogo Power Plant last month.

The monarchs were led by the Akarigbo of Remoland and Chairman of the Ogun State Traditional Council, Oba Michael Sonariwo, Alake of Egbaland, Oba (Dr.) Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo,Olowu of Owu,Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu,Olu of Itori,Oba Fatai Akamo, Oniro of Iro,Oba Adebari,Olu of OwodeEgba, Oba Sowemimo and other traditional rulers, mostly from the Ogun Central Senatorial District.

On March 7, Jonathan paid a courtesy call on the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, where the monarch led some prominent traditional rulers to pray and endorse the President for another term in office.

On the same day, the president equally visited Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran, in his palace at Ilesa Continues on pg 17

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 — 15

It is only since after the civil war that sycophants emerged in Igbo circle, Food is Ready politicians, this will stop, for patronage encourages corruption, indolence and brigandage.

Jonathan is serious negotiating with the west, begging them and they are giving him conditions; they are negotiating; Is he doing that with Ndigbo? Why are we cheap? Why is Ohaneze cheap?

T

he recent endorsement of President Goodluck Jonathan by the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has raised dust from stakeholders in the southeast geopolitical zone. In this interview, the All Progressives Congress,APC,Spokesperson in the zone and a Chieftain of Ohanaeze, Mr. Osita Okechukwu faulted the position of Ohanaeze leadership insisting that Jonathan has done nothing for Ndigbo to warrant such endorsement.

What is your position about zoning baring in mind that it is only the south-south and south-east geopolitical zones are the two, that had not ruled the country before Jonathan's administration?

I read your interview with Chief Joe Nworgu, whose tenure as Secretary General is stewed in controversy and before the court of law. My understanding of his interview is that the two reasons he gave are spurious.

One is that south-south should complete eight years, after which they hand over to the south-east. Second is that Jonathan, having convoked the Confab, is conscience bound to implement the report. My take is that the zoning convention is premised on broad North/South divide and not the six geopolitical zones of south-south, southeast, south-west, northcentral, north -east and north-west. That's why I said that their reasons for the endorsement of Jonathan are warped, ineffectual and only meant to enrich the actors not the people. Secondly, one has severally warned Ndigbo and indeed Nigerians to beware of ethnic and religious merchants whose only agenda is to expand the fault lines which divide the country, instead of building bridges to unite the country.

Otherwise how on earth can Ndigbo get an additional state under this democracy and under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic without negotiations with the Hausas and Yorubas?

Or how come that our dear president has not implemented the items recommended by the Confab which are basically policy matters? Or has Mr. President submitted an Executive Bill to the National Assembly arising from issues in the report he is in agreement with? Has he set up a lobby team to negotiate the issues on the table? We know when an issue is placed on the front

•Mr. Osita Okechukwu

Rather than disqualify that company, it was allocated Enugu Electricity Distribution Company instead of another company that was the Preferred Bidder. My take is, if President Jonathan so loved the Igbo why did he bend the rules? Why didn't he give Abuja to the company that failed? The outcome of this non transparent transaction is that the south-east has the highest tariff with very low power supply. It means that factories will close and some will move out of our region, hence undermining the enterprise and hard working Ndigbo. The question is on which plank was the endorsement anchored? Is it on fulfilled promises or generally good governance ? Mr President failed in all parameters, crashing the Naira, condoning of monumental corruption, allocating the ownership of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company to a non performing company through a non transparent bidding process.

Today, the south-east has the highest electricity tariff in the country 94%, is that how a good brother treats his brothers? The Enugu-Onitsha road and Enugu Porthacourt road remain the worse major roads in the country. All the federal roads in the south east do not indicate the man has any interest in the area.

President Jonathan' s score card of failure is endless for one has not even mentioned the promises he made before the 2011 presidential election to revamp Enugu Coal, which he apparently forgot or the 2nd Niger Bridge which he forgot to include in the federal budget like the Loko-Owete bridge.

In all our efforts to vote continuously for the PDP since 1999 what's the pay back to Igbo people?

President Jonathan's reward for the Igbo support is not commensurate to our sacrifice and so on what basis, if not personal aggrandizement, was his endorsement by Ohaneze Continues on pg 17

Ohanaeze endorsement of Jonathan,a gross deceit to Ndigbo

— Okechukwu burner by Mr. President.

What's your take on the crisis in Ohaneze leadership ?

It is very unfortunate and diminishes the relevance of Ndigbo in the national political landscape. The old proverb has it that a house divided among itself is bound to fail. A cursory look on Igbo trajectory in the past 16 years of our return to democracy shows that we are lagging behind our competitors the Huasas and Yorubas. We need to restrategize in order to gain respect and recognition. On the tenure issue one can say that there was no amendment going by the Communique of the General Assembly of Ohaneze of August 2010. The communique only elongated the tenure of late Ralph Uwechie and not the present leadership. I was at the 3rd January meeting where they

showed a Nollywood kind of projector film, without reading from any minute book nor any public publication notifying Ndigbo of the amendment. Since the matter is in court one should avoid contempt of the court, and as Thomas Paine said,whatever reason cannot fix, time will fix it.

You said Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, was foisted on Ndigbo in a less transparent bidding process, can you expatiate ?

In summary, a company had to bid for Abuja and Enugu Electricity Distribution Companies and got a negative response in what they classified as Negative Present Value during the National Council on Privatisation Technical Committee evaluation. This means that the company failed consistency test and was to be disqualified.

One has severally warned Ndigbo and indeed Nigerians to beware of ethnic and religious merchants whose only agenda is to expand the fault lines which divide the country, instead of building bridges to unite the country.

16—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

L

the Osu but send search parties to seek out the ancestry of their children’s brides or suitors before they give their approval, you wonder how worse hypocrisy can get . And many times you will hear, “she is very beautiful and well mannered. But she is corrupted”. That’s the euphemism A Christian who discriminates against the Osu, besides being a criminal , is guilty of idolatry. For that inhuman categorization is premised on the existence and placation of a god which Christianity views as man made ineffectual idol. I am not disrespectful of African traditional religion . The Christian picture of the atrocity must be painted for the Christian. And it helps that majority of Igbos claim Christianity . And I am not disrespectful of our culture , our culture and our morality have long shifted.

Morality can be relative and the morality of a cultural practice is relative to time and place. The Osu caste system may not have been barbaric a century ago but is manifestly and despicably so now.

The deities in my village once considered the existence of twins a taboo and the people believed.

And thousands of twins were slaughtered at birth in the service of the wishes of the gods. And mothers who clung to their twins were banished to the evil forest so that the land was spared the wrath of the gods. And my people were by no means barbaric, they were cultured people. The English were cultured when they hung scientists and burnt them. And it was the same gods that barred the existence of twins in Igbo land that perhaps instituted and allowed the discriminatory practice against the Osu. If these Christians and other ardent followers of African traditional religion are afraid of defying the gods let them remember how even the gods saw reason with the colonialists and allowed the celebration of twins.

ive and let live. Let the kite perch and let the Eagle perch.

Blood is thick. Be your brother’s keeper. Never abandon a brother. Igbo maxims. So why does the Osu caste system still exist in many Igbo communities?

Discrimination hurts , bruises, crushes. And it must hurt even more deeply when it is inflicted by kith and kin . Fate can be arbitrary and capricious, but we can always bear with fate. Some are black and some are born white and many whites think there is something else to blackness. Nature leaves some poor and lets some have abundant wealth. Many will live their lives in painstaking service of the whims of others to whom fortune came accidentally. Amongst kings are many idiots . It is however one thing to be disadvantaged by fate , it’s another to be consigned to subhumanity by human prejudice.

Conceit and bigotry and hate sometimes coalesce to produce minds who arrogate to themselves superiority and allocate to others not just inferiority but sub-humanity.

And contrary to reason and evidence , the racist just like the bigoted Diala finds pleasure in insisting that Jews or blacks or the ‘Osu’ are corrupted beings.

On any moral scale neither Botha , nor Hitler nor Klu Klux Klan conjured the hatred and discrimination being meted to the Osu. This discrimination happens within and amongst people of same ancestry, color, language and culture. The conceited Diala habours more contempt for the Osu than the usurping white Australian has for the Aborigenes.

Its inconceivable that within the very midst of a seemingly tightly knit group of people , who endured a genocidal massacre in defence of their freedom, who claim good absorption of civilization and Christianity, is an inhuman caste system . A system that has shackled and dehumanized its victims for many ages. The Osu fought alongside the Diala in the Biafran army. Unfree people fighting for the freedom of their oppressors.

So despite all the pretensions of being one, there are Igbos who arrogate to themselves superiority and freedom and who refer to themselves as freeborn or Diala. And there are fellow Igbos whom they refer to as living sacrifices or slaves of the gods or Ume or Ohu Arusi or Osu. And even though the nomenclature ‘Diala’ has so much to do with African traditional religion and is in a sense ‘heathenish‘, many practicing Christians would happily accept ‘Diala’ to distance themselves from the Osu category . Christianity and democracy, properly practiced, cannot accommodate the existence of an Osu. Historically , the Osu was a monk devoted to the service and worship of the local deity. And before the coming of the colonialists and the now prevalent Christianity, an Osu was respected, was perhaps considered holy. Then the Osu lived around the shrine and voluntarily consecrated himself to the gods .

Communities appreciated the deities and their exploits in battles by donating some conquered slaves to the service of the gods. Though most slaves then were for transatlantic trade . The Osu, traditionally , didn’t mingle much with others in the society because of their aura of consecration, the Diala didn’t want to risk offending the gods by unrestrained interaction with gods’ devotees. The Osu therefore married from amongst themselves. With the abolition of slavery and the exit of the European slave trader, the Osu population swelled further and they lost their prestige and became an ostracized rather than a consecrated group . Anyone who married an Osu became an Osu as did his offsprings.

Before long the ostracized became ‘inferior beings’ and were demonised. An uncle once told me that Osu embodied evil and that C M Y K

The Osu caste system:

The shame of a Nation they were vectors of misfortune .

Whites said so many things about being black including that blacks were noisy , criminally minded , unintelligent brutes structured for manual labour. And because these stereotypes are borne out of superstitions and bigotry and hatred, they persist amongst the ignorant even against clear contradicting evidence.

Christianity came with promises for the Osu. The Osu saw Christianity and western education set twins free and hoped. However, structured social disadvantages and impaired social acceptance have continued to hinder the social advancement of the Osu communities and inevitably weaken the cohesion amongst Igbos. Neither wealth nor education nor power saves the Osu from outrageous contempt . Despite the fact that the life of the Igbo man is now woven around the Roman Catholic and Anglican and Pentecostal doctrines, the Osu continues to suffer intolerable inhumanity. And you can attend church every day of the year in an affected Igbo village and hear sermons against all known human evils including racism but non against the Osu caste system. The Osu is in the church but the church pays lip service to his plight. And while privately no one can articulate reasons for retention of the caste system, no one is courageous enough to speak openly against it and take actions

to end the sufferings of their brothers.

Those who find the courage to condemn it privately lack the guts to permit their children to marry the Osu. But what beliefs and myths have managed to sustain such a tragedy in the modern day Igbo existence? And why have they remained impenetrable to the light of reason? Many Igbos go to church , claim Christianity but observe African traditional religion rituals. Many are avowed Christians but when the push becomes a shove , they approach the shrines for answers.

For these , the gods , just like Ceaser, must get their due and so the Osu is ‘untouchable’. “Its not about Christianity” they always say. Some Igbos who aren’t even religious support the retention of the caste system on the ostensible premise that it was ordained by their ancestors.

Their ancestors, they presume, were wise, infallible and beyond reproach.

The same ancestors didn’t understand albinism and labeled albinos demons.

The foundations and origins of the obnoxious system can be understood but the superstitions and myths that support its continued existence are flimsy. If the Osu was offered to the gods as sacrifice wouldn’t it take a leap of stupidity to insist that their offsprings who weren’t party to the exchange and who in any case are not priests of some of the now extinct deities are also living sacrifices who must remain ostracized in an age when no one can be a slave either to man or to any god? Hasn’t slavery been abolished? And when Christian parents deny discrimination against

Historically , the Osu was a monk devoted to the service and worship of the local deity. And before the coming of the colonialists and the now prevalent Christianity, an Osu was respected, was perhaps considered holy

There is some wisdom in the saying that what one cannot learn by formal education he learns by travelling, exposure. The Igbo is the most dispersed group in Africa and is therefore a group particularly well acquainted with the horrors of racism. The Igbo man suffers unbearable discrimination for being Igbo and for being black. You would think anyone so badly and chronically victimized would champion equality. Ironically many Igbos who reject marriage with the Osu are the well travelled, well educated, roundly humiliated victims of virulent racism.

But the Osu caste system is worse than racism . Racism prepares you, gives you advance warning . So the black girl is socialized to understand her racial handicaps, the hatred of blacks by some whites . Many Osu are only aware of that identity only after a brutal dehumanizing rejection.

How many more youthful hearts will be shredded by bigotry?

Humiliation and discrimination breed frustration and ultimately violence. Mere mention of the word Osu has precipitated communal feuds with whole communities wiped out .

Some communities have abolished that caste system but a pan Igbo abolition will be the only real solution. Let all the governors and political office holders and all traditional rulers in Igbo land meet and abolish the Osu caste system.

And let the osu be appointed to traditional stools and cabinets. And let them take part in all rites. Let a cultural compliance committee see to the permeation and enforcement of the policy. Let the church rise to the occasion. Let offenders be named and shamed. Let the laws that already exist against discrimination be robustly enforced

I am not an Osu but no one is an Osu.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—17

Jonathan’s siege on the South-West: Will it amount to votes?

Continues from pg 14 to get assurances from him for his ambition.

However, in the South West, Jonathan would need his good luck and the bulk votes to stand a chance of turning the tide against his major rival, Buhari.

The zone has the strongest inclination to Buhari among the three geopolitical zones in the South.

It is thus understandable that the Jonathan and the PDP have been making frantic efforts to woo the people of the region.

Indeed, the PDP and its strategists in the Presidency are believed to be jittery over the realisation that losing the South-West might cost them the presidential election.

The outcome of the presidential elections will tell how far his consultations went.

It’s too late - APC The APC meanwhile, has derided the efforts to canvas for votes in the forthcoming general elections as an effort in futility.

The party said President Jonathan was attempting to do in six weeks what he could not do in four years.

It, however, noted that such calculation and assumption that the PDP could make the people

•Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewumi vote for it within six weeks was “a glaring instance of cluelessness, incompetence and near total lack of governance that the Jonathan administration has exhibited in the past six years.”

The APC, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed early this week said “Even if President Jonathan moved Aso Rock to the South-west or opened the nation’s treasury for Nigerians so as to remain in

•Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona power, it is obvious that majority of the citizens have rejected the government.”

While it frowned at the president’s lobbying in the Southwest, it said all the president’s “latter-day” efforts went up in smokes when over one million Nigerians marched through the streets of Lagos in support of change.

The party said its latest opinion poll on the forthcoming elections showed that Nigerians had already made up their minds

The APC meanwhile, has derided the efforts to canvas for votes in the forthcoming general elections as an effort in futility

•Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade regarding which party to vote for even before the six-week postponement which the PDP orchestrated to allow its candidates at all levels recover from its dwindling image.

“It was amazing the president’s men can even think that six weeks of unprecedented bribery of individuals, pretence governance, and cash-induced occult-like ‘prayer’ sessions, among others, will turn the tide in their favour. Nigerians are not fooled by these antics,” the APC stated.

Ohanaeze endorsement of Jonathan,a gross deceit to Ndigbo Continues from pg 15 anchored?

You mentioned items which do not need amendment of the constitution to implement, can you name such items?

They are too numerous. All that is required is a president that has the political will, the discipline and the suavity to negate the tendencies and interests in our political horizon. Without being immodest, Mr President lacks the political will to fix hard choices, which include issues like Revenue Allocation to all the tiers of government. Most people agree that the revenue allocation formular today is warped and unduly conferred unearned power to center. There is the issue of the Mineral Resources management which does not require constitutional amendment to be pushed through. A lot of people do not remember that after the 1996 Constitutional Conference, General Sanni Abacha of blessed memory unequivocally stated in black and white that derivation will be not less than 13%. Those who demonized the North forget that the 13% derivation inserted in the constitution is traceable to a northern president. May one ask, what prevented President Jonathan to work towards increasing the

percentage?

Do you think Buhari will implement the Confab report or create additional state in the southeast?

That's a nice question. I have been with General Muhammadu Buhari, whom we fondly call GMB since 2002. It was late Rt.Hon. Chuba Okadigbo that led our foray into the GMB camp. Immediately after his impeachment, he called about twenty of us to his house and announced that he was leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and we cajoled him of sour grape, prodding whether it was because he was impeached that he was jumping ship. Okadigbo said no, that we must move because the then President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was constructing a one party state, that in GMB he found a man who possessed the political will to traverse the marathon race of constructing a political party that would challenge the one party state Obasanjo was constructing. The rest, they say, is history.

You have not answered my question?

Hold on, I am coming. In his manifesto in 2003, 2007, 2011 and currently GMB subscribes to the idea that we must restructure to true federalism. And luckily today we

are in camp with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and co who are protagonists of true federalism, state police and the fine ingredients enumerated by the Confab. So who is fooling who?And most importantly GMB is one of the few Northerners who have the loyalty of the north. They believe in him and he believes in them and also share common affinity with the masses of the country. He stands tall to assist Ndigbo in getting the necessary cooperation to address injustices meted out to our people. Jonathan does not posses this unique panache with other Nigerians because he disappointed many constituencies. GMB is of the candid opinion that we do not need a federal government that drills borehole, he prefers a federal system where the center concentrates in defense, foreign affairs and policy matters on other issues.

Definitely, he will present a bill to the National Assembly which will address the issue of state creation, the principle of derivation and bridging of all the fault lines contained in the Confab report more than Jonathan.

What other things should make Ndigbo vote for GMB? We are hard working, innovative and entrepreneurial people. This is why I said that those who endorsed Jonathan are deceitful and did not

All that is required is a president that has the political will, the discipline and the suavity to negate the tendencies and interests in our political horizon

honestly chart or draw any check list in their bargain either in 2011 or 2015. This is my worry, how some individual mortgage the fate and destiny of people with levity. GMB mentioned in the letter he wrote to Ohaneze the imperative of check-list. I delivered the letter and GMB said, lets discuss so as to acquaint me with core interest of Ndigbo. The meeting did not hold because of time factor.

Jonathan is serious negotiating with the west, begging them and they are giving him conditions; they are negotiating; Is he doing that with Ndigbo?

Why are we cheap? Why is Ohaneze cheap?

Briefly, one can say that GMB regime will profit the Igbos more than Jonathan regime, because all the hard working Nigerians will benefit immensely from his regime.

GMB will run a transparent government that will favour the hard working, innovative and entrepreneurial citizens more than patronage system.

It is only since after the civil war that sycophants emerged in Igbo circle, Food is Ready politicians, this will stop, for patronage encourages corruption, indolence and brigandage.

18—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

What people don’t know about Joseph Mbu

— Austine Young

•Sa omot es human •Sayys: Mbu pr promot omotes rights and community par tner ship partner tnership

By Ishola Balogun

A

ustine Young, a former Chairman of Police Community Relations Committee, PCRC, in Rivers State and now the National Organising Secretary of the committe in this interview tells the untold story of the former Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Mr Joseph Mbu, now AIG Zone 2 and what led to the frosty relationship between the CP and the governor. Austine who is also the Publisher and CEO of AGV Multi-Project says that the negative perception of Mbu was as a result of the superior propaganda machinery of the state government.

The roles of PCRC Community policing is a philosophy and not just a department. Some people think it is a formation that the local government should control it just like people talk about state police. It is rather an organisational structure in community partnership in order to address the issue of crime in the society. So, the emphasis on community relations is to think of a solution when a problem arises. The police admit they cannot do it alone, so, they have to partner with the community because, essentially, it is the community that benefits from these arrangements; they benefit from the police product. If you go a little further, we also look at Community Safety Partnership, where we pool ideas and resources together in order to address the priority of the people’s need in a particular geographical area.

For instance, the way you police Sokoto may not be the way you police Rivers State or Lagos State.

Community policing has entrenched human rights values because we always emphasis that you must respect the human rights, you must be accountable to the people, you must see people as your partners. It operates on tenets of the five elements of community policing; these

are quality service delivery; partnership; empowerment; problem solving and accountability. In partnership, it is not a master-servant kind of relationship, but two equal parties with common interest.

And in this case, the interest is the security of lives and property of the people in the community. That is what the Police Community Relations Committee promotes. It was formed by the then Inspector General, Etim Iyang in 1984 and it has since been structured from the division to the national level. Last year, the present Inspector General had to dissolve the executive of the formation and reconstituted the body. So, I left as the the state Chairman and became the Organising Secretary at the national level.

How did you relate with past CPs and what is your view of Joseph Mbu as the CP in Rivers State I met Joseph Mbu when he was CP Rivers State, then I was the chairman of the PCR of the State. I did not just rise to become the State Chairman and National Organising Secretary, I started from my Division. I was the Secretary of the Division, and one-time Chairman of Port-Harcourt metropolis. I have worked with different policemen, DPOs, Area Commanders, Commissioners of Police.

Where there was an issue between the Commissioners and the people, I would always come out to issue a statement.

The PCRC is neither for the police nor the community; it is a bridge between the two.

When Dabawa was the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, there was a false accusation on him which led to a protest calling for his removal. Incidentally, he was in America, when the incident happened. So, I came out to issue a statement that it would be unfair to have Dabawa removed because of the incident that led to the death of some students. Police had gone there begging the people

•Joseph Mbu to leave, but they refused.

Also, when Bala Hassan also had problems with Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, involving one DPO and lady journalist, I mediated between the two parties and we resolved the issue.

Why was the situation different in the case of Mbu and the governor?

It was a personality issue.

Joseph Mbu is a thorough bred professional police office. He is a man who does not want any interference when doing his job. He likes to draw a line, he understands the need to work with the public and the need to protect the less privileged.

Interestingly, he worked in a state where the Governor saw himself as the Commander-inchief and the Commissioner of Police, an appendage of one of his ministries. The Governor, more-or-less talked to the Commissioner of Police the way he talked to his appointed aides. And when the Commissioner of Police did not take to that, they began to have strained relationship. For instance, if the governor wanted to hold a meeting with his commanders, he would ask his Aide De Camp (ADC) an Acting Assistant Superintendent of Police to call the CP to a security meeting. It happened a few times and the PC later felt that it a direct contact with the governor would be better for better policing of the state. The CP would say ‘if you want a security meeting, you call me yourself and set the agenda to be discussed.’ Mbu maintained that the Governor is the Chief Security Officer and in his

Community policing has entrenched human rights values because we always emphasis that you must respect the human rights, you must be accountable to the people, you must see people as your partners

absence, it is the Commissioners of Police as far as security issues are concerned. Mbu also told him that it was better to have a mutual relationship. But that did not go down well with the governor. Again, as expected, in security operations, some people may accept to tow the same line with the governor while others may not, but in the case of Mbu, he was not disobedient to the governor; I emphasise that, he only wanted to do his work the way it should be done. That appeared to be the genesis of the conflict.

Again, a local newspaper in Port-Harcourt published that fifteen journalists were given money to run down the CP, but no journalist came up to deny the story neither did they call the publisher to make clarification of the allegation.

You can see that it was a deliberate and concerted effort to ensure that Mbu was discredited in the state.

The governor himself had said it severally that he would not fund the state police because of Mbu. But the same Police Commissioner that he refused to fund achieved far more than any Commissioner before him. For instance, he repaired six abandoned Armoured Personnel Carriers, APC; refurbished more than 26 abandoned patrol vehicles; he renovated the police headquarters and the officer’s quarters along Hospital Avenue; he did the roofing and other things and also the POWA secretariat, he made a lot of changes. There were Continues on page 19

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—19

an order that police should shoot 20 civilians for every policeman killed, how true was that?

He never said that, it is on you-tube. It was made up. On election campaign alone, several policemen died. When Bola Tinubu said ‘rig and roast’ in Osun State, was he going to roast people who found rigging the election? No! It was a psychological warfare.

He was sending a message that they would not tolerate rigging.

Continues from page 18

abandoned sets of computers, he repaired and put them into use. Such a Commissioner, we can understand when you hear particularly in the electronic media that people demonstrated against him, they don’t show those who demonstrated in his support. In 2013, some women came up in black attire to demonstrate, we heard they were paid N10,000 to do that.

How did you know?

Some of them were complaining: “I have not received my N10,000.” Another group of women came up and said Mbu must stay. This is because people saw the work he did. During that time, crime rate in the state reduced, kidnapping also reduced and generally, the security situation in the state improved. They also saw a commissioner of police who will not take unnecessary orders.

But he was seen and believed to be taking orders from Abuja and as you know, he who pays the piper...

(Cuts in) That is the misconception. In the first place, do you know that he didn’t like to go to Rivers State?

The same feat that he recorded in Rivers state, refurbishing patrol vehicles and renovating quarters were achieved in Oyo State. He renovated the Commissioners quarters in the state which is about the best in the country today apart from that of Rivers state. Within six months, the IG transferred him.

And for about one week after his transfer, he was still in Ibadan. So, one night, the IG called, and because he had a special ringing tone for his boss, people there including his wife knew it was from the IG. The caller said: “You mean you are still in Ibadan? What are you doing there? If you don’t get to Port-Harcourt before 9am tomorrow, we will issue you a query.” So, that same night, he got to Lagos and took the first flight the following morning to PortHarcourt. On getting to PortHarcourt airport, he met the First lady who came to PortHarcourt that same day. He had to provide security for the First Lady. That was the begining of his problem because he was thereafter accused of being a PDP card carrying member. His arrival and First Lady’s visit probably gave a wrong impression. The first time he met the President himself was at Minna, Niger State when he was AIG, Zone 7.

In Oyo State, there was a little misunderstanding between him and the governor.

The governor had set up a joint patrol team made up of Police, Army, Navy, and Air-force. The Police were providing 80 per cent of the personnel but it was either an Army leading the team or Air-force or a Naval Officer. No police officer led any team. Then Mbu said no, he would not take that, he would rather withdraw his men than having another force lead a team he contribute 80 per cent of the personnel. The governor did not understand that but he later pointed that to the Brigade Commander. He said: “this is not a war situation, it is a civil duty and I

But did he say that?

No. He didn’t say that. I am saying assuming he said it but he never said so. The point I am making is that the same people who wrote the bad editorial on him, didn’t bother to dispense the same energy on people who said ‘rig and roast.’ Why didn’t they say they are barbaric and other unprintable words they said on Mbu? Why are the press descending on this man, yet they never mentioned the good things he did in Rivers State. I am from Rivers State.

So, why didn’t he speak on all these?

He has made some public advertorials in some papers, dealing with some of these issues.

•Austine Young

What people don’t know about Joseph Mbu can’t produce 80 percent of the men and others will be heading the team. Let us reshuffle it and we will work harmoniously.”

They saw reason in what he was saying and reorganised the setting. The governor was later to open up on his request for a CP that would not be influenced by big men and even himself. The governor wanted an officer who would discharge his duty without fear or favour. After six months, the governor reportedly said he couldn’t believe he was in Ibadan. He said there had not been any major incidence of crime and people could sleep with their eyes closed. The House of Assembly planned a valedictory session for him on account of this. They wrote the IG begging to send him back for the valedictory session and the IG obliged. So in Rivers, it was an issue of personality problem. The Oyo state governor had once stated that the Mbu was the best Commissioner in Nigeria. That was a man who did not see himself as an overlord. He knew that somebody had a duty and he had to do his work according to the dictates of his conscience.

Again, when he was constructing the quarters, he did not consult the governor, he did it with the collaboration of the bankers’ forum. It was when the governor saw what he was doing that he decided to assist. The same thing in Rivers State, it was some members in the state who said, “You are doing all these and you are not from the state; we will assist you.” So, 98 per cent of people in Rivers State appreciated what he did.

So, why did the people rise against him?

It was pure propaganda. It was propaganda machinery.

Adolf Hitler said: “By the skillful and sustained use of propaganda, one can make a people see even heaven as hell or an extremely wretched life as paradise.” They painted issues with their propaganda machinery. What they said he did in Rivers, Abuja and even when he came to Lagos were all propaganda. Immediately he was transferred to Lagos, APC issued a statement that he was coming to deliver the state to the PDP, these are part of the gargantuan lies against him.

He reportedly handed down

He renovated the Commissioners quarters in the state which is about the best in the country today apart from that of Rivers state

How did you know all these about him?

If a policeman shoots a civilian, I will be the first to carry placards, because no policeman is allowed to do that. Besides, these days, any policeman who kills a civilian will go in for it. It is not like those days of ‘accidental discharge’. I work with them and I know that these present h airachy of police promotes human rights values. Mbu will always tell his younger officers, that he will personally deal with anyone caught harassing a civilian. He says that every day. His ideas are focused on community partnership, promotion of human rights. We have heard about policemen in this country who abused human rights. Have you heard any about Mbu? Have you heard about any case of corruption against him? No! There were reports that he aided some form of protest against the state government while he declined to give permission for opposing group of protesters in Rivers State?

No! What happened was that he banned street protest including those ones in his support. But there was a group who called themselves Grassroots Democratic Initiative; he never knew they had political affiliation. It was somebody in the government that called him that these people had political affiliation and he said if you also want to carry out any protest, go and write, I will approve it. So, they wrote and he approved and they had their rally. At the rally, the governor of the state with all the APC dignitaries and party stalwarts in attendance said the Commissioner of police was a PDP card carrying member. Can you imagine that? The same man who approved your rally, you abused him at the rally.

The Rivers State Youth Continues on page 20

20—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

What people don’t know about Joseph Mbu Continues from page 19

Federation, an umbrella body of the youth gave him an award as the most disciplined Police Officer that has worked in the state.

But why do you think he is so immersed in several controversies?

The question again is that ‘did you hear of him before he went to Rivers State? He was not in the news. He is a silent achiever. When there was high rate of crime in Potiskum, they had security meeting and Mbu was sent to Potiskum, and in less than three months, the criminals took to their heels. As Area Commander in Delta State, he received awards as the best even with a cash gift of N500,00 by the then Governor, James Ibori. Even in Rivers State where he was bashed, he received award as the Best Crime Bursting Police Chief in Africa and the State Command was also given award as innovative Police Command in Nigeria. Don’t also forget, it was not the people of River State that were protesting against him, it was the government with its propaganda machinery just to rubbish him because he was not carrying out the orders of a man who felt the Commissioner of Police should be under him.

He was also honoured in Ghana; he was given award on Ethical Policing and Professionalism. Sometimes, you don’t value what you have.

Find out from the Police education Directorate, he was once a Director there. He gave a face-lift to all police schools facilities in the country, which engendered high academic standards and enrollment into police schools and colleges. He also got books worth over N20million from the United States of America for police schools and colleges in Nigeria free of charge. Go find out his records, he instilled discipline in the Police Mobile Force as PMF Commissioner and gave face lift to decaying infrastructure. So, the employers of Mbu know his value, they will not listen to you when you make those spurious allegations against him. They know the man is an asset for the Police. They know he does not abuse the privileges given to him. So, if you protest against him based on propaganda, of course, his employers will know. So, his employers can judge him better.

What do you think is on the table for Lagos especially in the area of crime prevention and also the apprehension of violence during and after the forthcoming election?

There is no need for panic.

Within the few weeks he has spent in Lagos, the attitude of policemen on the street has changed. Do you still commonly see policemen in the state dressing shabbily? They were used to flying out their cloths, wearing slippers or

sandals, carrying gun on mufti etc. All these have changed.

Quite a number of them who are not disciplined are now in cell. So, he will instill discipline in the police and they will be made to serve the public the way they ought to serve them.

On the conduct of the election, let us not forget that he was the one that supervised the Edo State election which Adams Oshiomhole won. He is not here for any party and he was not posted because of election. Election could be part of it because he has to ensure that policemen under him supervise the election dispassionately without fear or favour to any political party.

How would you convince Nigerians that you are not doing a hatchet job for Mbu? This is no hatchet job. You don’t argue with darkness.

When you get into a darkroom, the next thing is to switch on the light and darkness will disappear immediately. When he was in Rivers State, there was a particular issue about Chidi Lloyd that he was being maltreated. So, one day, some journalists met him and they insisted they wanted to see Chidi Lloyd. Surprisingly, other journalists that were writing bad things about him never met him to ask him his own side of the story. He asked the PPRO to take them to Chidi Lloyd. They were surprised to find out that the same Chidi Lloyd was found in airconditioned office. He was not

ecently, along with R Eyobong Ita, a former Vanguard staff and president of the US-based National Association of African Journalists, I attended a campaign rally in Akamkpa, Cross River State where it was refreshing, for a change, to hear politicians talk about strengthening the youth of the nation.

The highlight of the rally was the speech by Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke, during which he spent time focusing on how to empower the youths of the nation.

“The time has come for youths to stop saying I go vote for the person wey go give me fifty thousand or twenty thousand naira,” he cautioned the rapt audience of about 4,000 locals.

Having attended another quasi -political forum tagged “Solemn Assembly”, a few weeks earlier in Uyo, in which the presiding minister described politicians as masquerades; it was refreshing to hear a high-profile politico talk passionately in Akamkpa about empowering the youths as well as encouraging them to shun any negativity in the upcoming presidential and gubernatorial elections.

I did not know whether to believe Governor Liyel Imoke, but he seemed to be speaking from his heart, as he urged the youths of the state to shun violence.

Ironically, the home of Gershom Bassey, one of the candidates (for Senate) for which the PDP rally in Akamkpa was held, was recently attacked by unknown

even in the cell. They broke the story the following day and those people who were claiming he was being maltreated looked stupid. So, there is no hatchet job.

My relationship with him is not different from that of any other police officer in relation to Police Community Relations partnership

deficient in infrastructure, teaching facilities and teacher quality than schools in urban areas, this may help account for the high growth in rural unemployed youth. In fact, some experts suggest that the major jump in rural youth unemployment …could be due to the mass failure in national examinations conducted among finalyear secondary school students in 2010, which made many of them unemployable in 2011.”

His research paper also emphasized the fact that “there is a lack of vibrant industries to absorb competent graduates.”

So in reality we have a national crisis with our youth, especially when you consider that no one really has a good grasp of the correct unemployment statistics which could be anywhere from 30 percent as the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicated in 2013, and/or upwards. We only need to reflect on the sad tale of last year’s National Immigration Service recruitment tragedy, where at least 16 job seekers were trampled or suffocated to death in a nationwide recruitment drive for 4,000 positions (that attracted millions of applicants across the country), to understand how dire the unemployment situation is nationwide.If it were in some other climes, that singular event would have galvanized serious soul searching and action in the programs targeting our youth and the unemployed.

But in Nigeria, business

Empower YYouths ouths ffor or a new Nigeria gunmen in an assassination attempt. Fortunately, he survived unscathed because he wasn’t home.

“The person wey you carry knife or gun for, he go enter office siddon well, well,” Imoke cautioned during the Akamkpa rally, adding that “the future depends on you the young ones… no matter who give you weapon for elections, tell the person na lie… Don’t allow anybody deceive you.”

Indeed, anywhere you go in the world you often hear that the “future lies with our youths.” Realistically, that’s the way it should be.

But for Nigeria where the National Population Commission indicates that about half of the nation’s 168 million populace is made up of youth, the country is looking at a very bleak future if the commitment toward empowering the youth doesn’t change.

From what I have observed in the last few months, I have never seen a demographic group so marginalized and disillusioned as I have seen here among Nigeria’s youth. In

fact it is a recipe for disaster if the politicians do not realize that reversing the trend in favor of the nation’s youth is crucial, because as the saying goes an “idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”

We are not just talking about idle minds here, but investing in demographic groups that realistically should comprise the majority of the country’s workforce.

In a recent research paper for the Brookings Africa Growth Initiative, Professor Tunji Akande of the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), showed how serious and endemic the issues of marginalization and unemployment is among the nation’s youth, especially those between ages 15 and 34.

According to him, “deficient school curricula and poor teacher training have contributed to the failure of educational institutions to provide their students the appropriate skills to make them employable. Since schools in rural areas are generally more

Then, what is your relationship with him?

My relationship with him is not different from that of any other police officer in relation to Police Community Relations partnership. It pains me because when you see people doing a good job and you refuse to appreciate them, it is bad. Something happened in Agungi now, and some people are just calling for the resignation of the Commissioner of Police. It is unfair. I have not come here to do any job for the AIG, but he is somebody I know in and out, somebody who is doing his best for the members of the public. If you meet him one on one, you will know clearly that he is being misjudged. He is completely different from what people perceive of him. It will also interest you that Mbu is also a philanthropist. In his village, there is no church or pastor that does not receive Christmas gift from him including so many orphans. He is currently training so many orphans and giving other indigent children scholarships.

He has been doing this for more than ten years now. He is not a kind of man that will drink a cup of water today and forget tomorrow. He is a very quiet but hardworking officer.

continues as usual.

In fact I think next to insecurity and the economy it is my humble opinion that the two presidential candidates should make initiatives for empowering the nation’s youth a major campaign objective because we are talking about the development of human capital for the sustenance of the nation now and in the future.

It is difficult to imagine that compulsory child education, the first building block to making all of our youths relevant for the future, has not been enforced through compliance with the free Universal Basic Education (Act) of 2004. According to recent reports, “the federal government contributed N238 billion to the fund from 2005 to 2013. However, due to the failures of some state governments to access the fund, the sum of N49.9 billion is lying idle at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).”

Speaking recently about good governance on a TVC program, my good friend Femi Falana, succinctly framed this complex topic when he said “The common man does not go to court, he does not have the economic wherewithal to go to court, and when the common man is offended he leaves his fate in the hands of the almighty God, and that is why the common man often says “God Dey.” But it is about time that the common man and our youths graduate from saying “God Dey” to “Government Dey”.

That’s the way it should be.

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, MARCH 14, 2015—21

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he service was to be followed by T a Merit Award lunch for Old Igbobians who had been nominated for

professional achievements. In between was some 30 minute hiatus. Time enough for me to fulfil one of my desires of the day which was to go round the school and see one more time, my favourite haunting grounds.

I went with two other classmates who felt as I did. Somehow, the school had shrunk; what looked so vast in the past had reduced considerably. My house, Aggrey House, the same house which had produced many great men, looked unbearably small and nondescript. The master ’s quarters looked like small huts. The Principal’s house which had o you know that so many people claim D to come to God, asking for one thing or the other without receiving their desires?

The question one may ask is why is this so?

After all God says He is who He says He is and would do what He says He would do.

Why then do I not have my answers or miracles? Beloved, know for a surety that God cannot lie. It is absolutely impossible for God to lie. It is not in His nature and character. You see, even if God tries to lie He cannot. God is not a man that He should lie nor the son of man that He should repent: hath He said, and shall He not do it? Or hath He spoken, and shall He not make it good? (Numbers 23:19). God is a God of integrity and is always faithful. The truth and the question therefore is, how did you or how do you approach God? Did you or do you approach Him in fear, doubt, unbelief or in faith? This is what determines the kind of result that you receive from God. The bible says in Heb. 11:6, that “but without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him”. From this text, you can see that it takes faith to please God. What is faith? A simple definition is, faith is acting upon that which you believe. Until you act upon that which you believe you are not operating in faith. Look again at what part of the text says. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is”. What do you believe that God is? Now I am not talking about what your pastor or a Christian brother or sister said or preached to you. I am asking you, what do you believe that God is? Is He your miracle worker, your

Old school values looked so grand had, well, shrunk with age. The school field which in our days was the biggest and best in Lagos was not that appealing any more. But it still reminded me of my happy moments and the feats of natural athletes, many of them now pot-bellied, grey haired and stooped. The orchard which became the third field in my time had completely disappeared. In its place a building. But the compound was still neat, maybe neater than I remembered it since the roads were now tarred. All these brought memories as I hoped they would.

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ast month, I stepped, no, drove confidently with a wife and son in tow, to the same compound I first tentatively stepped into as a shy, small boy some 50 years ago. My first port of call was the chapel where a thanksgiving service was going on.

This chapel held many bitter/sweet memories for me because it was, in my early years before the school hall was rebuilt,more than a prayer ground.

Many important announcements took place there; especially on Friday afternoons when you learnt whether your weekend was going to be free or your name had been submitted for punishment by a prefect or teacher. The chapel was still the same small, cosy place though now air-conditioned. I looked across with nostalgia to my favourite corner where I used to sneak in novels to keep me company during ‘boring’ sermons.

The chapel this time, was filled with old students. It was the 83rd Founders Day anniversary service of Igbobi College, my Alma Mater. Three of the five officiating priests were Old Igbobians.

Two were my contemporaries —one ahead of me and the other behind me. One of them, Bola, was such an unlikely candidate in his school and after school years that you wonder how he got into priesthood. The ways of God are indeed unsearchable.

Why swim against the tide when it is easier to just flow with it?

My first Sunday in school was an unhappy one. It started happily enough until after dinner when the senior prefect stood on a table to announce the school rules to fresh intakes. If I found the rules restrictive, the by-laws were worse. Some I still remember till today. You couldn’t walk the lawns; you couldn’t pass a piece of paper without picking; you couldn’t walk past a senior without greeting; you couldn’t walk along the seniors’ corridor or laugh at his jokes; your sandals must be polished and buckled while your canvas shoes must be kept white and laced—at all times; your shirt must be tucked in at all times and the tie properly laced on Sundays.

Then the bell; your life was ruled by

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academics, sports and character. Just as St Paul in the book of Corinthians extolled the virtues of faith, hope and love but put love above the three, we were made to see the importance of character over sports and academics.

It was a school built on tradition which you had to maintain and pass on. It was also a school that recognised only excellence; not ethnicity or tribe.

I have heard many Old Igbobians argue that the school’s emphasis on moral and ethical values did not prepare its students for the rough and tumbled life in Nigeria and many suffered as a result of it. In fact, our boys thrive more in the diaspora than in Nigeria. Survival in Nigeria is about

Believe that He is healer, provider, etc? It is important that you catch a personal revelation for yourself.

People always manifest victories in life the moment they have a revelation. Remember in the gospels, Jesus Christ asked His disciples, who do men say that I am? While they tried to give various answers, Jesus turned and asked them who do you say that I am? Peter answered and said thou art the Christ the son of the living God. Beloved don’t approach God as though God is a man that is limited. Know that nothing is impossible with Him. What is impossible with man is possible with God. For with God all things are possible to him that believeth. You must believe that God is everything He says and nothing less. Not only should you believe that He is but that He is a rewarder. Your case is not hopeless because there is no hopeless situation with God and it is definitely not too late. People thought it was already late in Lazarus case, but God proved them wrong. This same God

For more details, contact us at Christ Reality Church, beside Gossard Hotel, opposite First Bank Sports Ground, Community Road, Satellite Town or P.O.Box, 3196, Yaba Lagos. Tel: 08023062635 08168955932; 08033378769. E-mail: Johnson_crm@yahoo.com. Website: www.christrealityministries.org.

Our account details are Pastor Johnson Omomadia, Guaranty Trust Bank, A/C Nos. 0005171407; Christ Reality Ministries, Zenith Bank A/C 1011711622.

Worship with us on Sundays, 1st Service: 745am-9:15am; 2nd Service 9:1511:30am. Wednesdays Word Revelation 6pm. Counseling days Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. 11am-5pm daily or by appointment. Showers of blessing every 2nd - 4th Sat. of each month, 6 a.m - 7.15 am.

C M Y K

the bell. It started at 5.30 am and ended at 10 pm. Different strokes meant different things and you ignored any at your peril. On top of all this, you were told that you probably got admitted because you were good academically but you would only be retained if you were good in character.

You were told repeatedly that your name was written in pencil and could be erased if your character was found wanting. I cried that Sunday night and almost every night for a week. But I survived; enough to spend seven years in the school. In the early, junior years, we were taught the importance of

shall prove all of your enemies wrong in Jesus name, amen.

Let’s conclude by looking at two people in the bible who operated Heb. 11:6. First is the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5:25-34. For twelve years this woman had being bleeding with no solution in sight. She had being to doctors but instead of getting better she grew worse. But then she heard of Jesus being the miracle worker and she made up her mind to go to Jesus. She said to herself, if only I can but touch the helm of His garment I know that I shall be made whole. Here you can see that she believed that He is a healer and miracle worker.

She had no doubt or unbelief. She had faith. Know that this woman had never had an encounter with Jesus before yet she believed and acted on what she heard. Was she rewarded? Yes. She was made whole completely. Her faith was rewarded.

The second person was the centurion who came to Jesus on behalf of his servant in Matt 8:513. The centurion requested that Jesus should heal his servant. Jesus accepted to go with him to his house. The centurion said to Jesus, you don’t need to go to my house just speak the word and I know that my servant shall be healed

end justifying whatever means and those who try to stick to principles invariably lose out.Many of our leaders are liars and looters yet Nigerians call them messiahs. Why swim against the tide when it is easier to just flow with it? That is the dilemma of an average Old Igbobian.

It was time to enter the school hall for the Merit Award ceremony which was the second part of the day ’s programme. I was surprised, after all these years, that I still felt some awe as I stepped into the hall. In my days, it was a place for assemblies, for lectures, seminars and plays. Many important messages and pronouncements came from that raised dais. Many were inspirational. For example, there was a time Nigeria had only five universities and three of the Vice Chancellors were Old Igbobians.

The Principal made sure we knew about it.

When Dr Taslim Elias, an Old Igbobian, was made the first Nigerian Attorney General, we were also told.

And when Chief Mike Ibru was making big splashes in the ocean of big business, we were reminded he was an Igbobian. For many of us however, the only time we heard our names was when we were slated for punishment or reprimand.

So for me to stand on the podium and listen to my citation being read for achievement in Journalism—I, who had fought my nomination almost to fisticuffs on the ground that I was the least deserving—to be recognised by a school known for its high standards, was special. It is a testament to the values learnt in school that my classmates, some of whom were internationally renowned Professionals and businessmen still had the humility and altruism to insist on my name.

Many Old Boys are proud of the school and its not for academics only but also for character moulding. How I wish Nigerians could all line up behind a man of character in our presidential election which comes up in a couple of weeks. A man who says only what he means and stands by it.

Or is that too old school? because I know that you are a man of authority. Again you can see that this man came to Him believing that He is and that He is a rewarder. What was the result? The centurion’s servant was healed.

Note that in the two cases Jesus said that their faith that they acted upon was responsible for their miracles. They both came believing that God is who He says He is and would do what He says He would do.

Believe that God is your healer, provider, refuge, strength, prosperer, deliverer, etc.

Don’t permit fear, doubt and unbelief into your life. Resist them by turning to God’s word and act upon the word that will manifest your desired breakthroughs. Come to Him believing that He is and He will reward you. God cannot lie. Trust Him to fulfill His part as you fulfill yours. God bless you mightily.

Have you given your life to Jesus? If not, please pray this prayer. Father, I come to you as I am. I invite Jesus into my life to be my personal Lord and Saviour. Wash me cleanse with the blood of Jesus and empower me with the power of your Holy Spirit. Thank you Father for saving my soul and making me your child

22—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

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his is a period of rarities. They occur in their original forms or in the variations of even familiar events. The desire to convince, the urge to prevail is so overpowering those normal limits of behaviour are ignored or forsaken. The results are sometimes bewildering. They emerge in outlandish statements from highly respectable sources and totally unexpected directions. A very unusually season.

It cannot but be thus.Very seldom has this nation found herself plunged in the depths of uncertainty about a major event in her life. And the uncertainty continues. Many of us are yet to be convinced that the election has suffered its last postponement. After the mind-boggling state of unpreparedness of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, there are still pockets of disenchantment with the delay which the Commission has itself described as “blessing in disguise”. Even at this time, the percentage of error recorded during a mock run of the infernal card reader is hardly satisfactory. Yet, from all indications, the evident occurrence of disenfranchisement points towards the areas where those who are in favour of a roller-coaster election appear to have appreciable support.

But Professor Attahiru Jega insists on assuring us still that we have a free, fair and credible election ahead with the opener on March 28. He was not worried by the complaints of an “indigenous” Abuja group who were anxious about their Permanent Voter ’s cards. The collection date has been

could have created some considerable impact. The pitch of disappointment for me was attained when an accomplished thespian of no less a repute than Segun Arinze was revealed to be among the cast. It can only happen in this period.

The love of country of course goes far, far beyond such goings-on which one can only find a place in a situation of desperate promotion of causes. It rises to the level of the country’s prestige itself, especially before the world. That was what made the Moroccan rebuttal of the claim that President Jonathan had a telephone conversation with King Mohammed VI of Morocco very painful.

T

•Professor Ben Nwabueze

But the former head of the cultural Ohanaeze group may have been moved purely by patriotism. He undoubtedly wants the best for his country

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subsequently extended again by two weeks.

That makes the INEC chief somewhat incredible himself.

There are still pressure groups within the PDF openly opposed to him and his works.

In the meantime, as though enough sediment had not risen to the surface of the muddy pool, no other personality than the venerable Professor Ben Nwabueze has suddenly headed a group which is asking that only a university graduate may attempt to be the president of

*I lo love myy countr countryy ve m

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this country. The professor even went further to suggest the establishment of a “coalition government”—or “unity government”— which would be represented by all political parties. It is the season of the unusual—need I repeat? The legal luminary who has seldom, very seldom, been associated with frivolities, waited on the verge of a national election to advocate a constitutional change.

However, he was careful not to mention the word “change”,

which is said to have been proscribed by a certain lady who would need to be more patient in her dealings in the campaign to make her husband acceptable to Nigerians as their president, all over again.

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he should have a host of supporters among the women, though. After all, this government has always held up a banner of “genderinclusive” administration for the nation. It is remarkable that the only woman in the presidential race is from another party.

Professor Sonaiya, being an academic, has however not been very loud on any official preference for the sake of “gender ”.

Whilst in favour of women’s rights and all that, the retired university teacher tends as well to be on

the side of ability and proven merit, a height she has scaled with her record—which is well above the first university degree, as Professor Nwabueze would be pleased to note.

But the former head of the cultural Ohanaeze group may have been moved purely by patriotism.

He undoubtedly wants the best for his country. Some strips off the acting profession also got together to present something along that way of thinking in an advertisement devised for President Goodluck Jonathan, and a more sparkling glob of drivel is hard to imagine.

The production was slipshod, to say the least, and the message was drowned in a measure of obscurity that was absolutely uncalled-for. The repetitive phrase, “For The Love Of Country” was devoid of any captivating resonance which

he language was uncivil, not to say undiplomatic, and made my face burn, that Morocco could have the nerve to attempt a confrontation with Nigeria. But it is an electioneering period, and the court of Mohammed VI has a calm sea on which to sail into our harbour with any amount of insult. What impact could the Moroccan monarch have made in favour of the President, anyway? His influence as a Muslim leader is no more valuable than that of our Sultan of Sokoto but, no doubt, this is a season that leaves the actors open to blackmail of all sorts.

It even tends to happen within the country. But we must continue to love our country. A lady once referred to a baby’s face as so ugly that only her mother could love it.

Maybe Attahiru Jega did fumble, maybe you disagree with those who feel only graduates should rule; maybe the Moroccans do spite us.

Yet, This na we country, we no go lie; For inside ‘am we go live and die...

Come on now, let us all go and vote for the candidate of our choice.

Time out.

SATURDAY

Why I opted for Ghanaian girls in my video —Tom Lash

By IYABO AINA and KEHINDE AJOSE

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ince Tomiwa Lashe, called Tom Lash, dropped the video, ‘ Road to Ghana’ where he featured Ghanaian girls twerking their big butts suggestively, issues have been trailing him, especially on why he featured Ghanaians instead of Nigerians.

But Tom Lash has his reasons. In this encounter with our reporters, Tom Lash throws more light on ‘Trip to Ghana’, the conflicts between his belief and the type of music he does:

H

ow has it been like?

I’ll be very honest. It’s been very challenging because it has not been the easiest journey to take. But you know life generally, you have to work hard to be the best in anything you want to be and everything you want to do.

So, I’ve just been trying to survive by looking up to God and I am where I am now and still looking to get to a greater height. But I know I’ve put in a lot of work which has made me to come this far.

How much work have you put in so far?

Well, I’ve dropped a couple of singles. I started with Got it in you. That was my very first song in 2011 and it was an inspirational song. In 2012, I was still trying to put myself together and then I did a hip-hop song in 2013. I will say it was unconventional and I wasn’t expecting becoming a super star with that kind of song especially in Nigeria where it’s all about party and dance. The song was titled Fire Brand. After that, I did something commercial as we all know, that in this new generation the entertainment industry will always expect you to do something commercial so I followed that up with Road to Ghana which was inspired by my trip to Ghana in 2014. But just before that, I did something which was based on the situation of the country last year about the Chibok girls’ abduction and Boko-Haram Insurgency. It was a song titled Say No and it was after Road to Ghana which I took further by shooting the video.

So basically, that’s what the journey has been like from 2011 to 2015. But still, I have quite a number of songs I haven’t released. I am not the kind of person that rushes to put songs out, I like taking my time.

Why music?

I will say music chose me, because I am a petroleum and gas engineer by training. I actually studied it in school and I finished C M Y K

with upper credit at the University of Lagos in 2010.So, it’s not as if I rushed into music just for the fame or money. It was a sort of turn-around for me. It was like an encounter with God. Even when I recorded my first song ever I wasn’t even thinking about doing it fulltime but along the line I realized I was not only good at it, but that I actually loved music, and that’s just the story. Also, there was a time I realized that I wasn’t happy with what I was doing and when I tried music I realized that I was actually good at it and loved it and at that point in time I actually prayed to God about it.

How do you mean, an encounter with God? Yes, basically because I am a spiritual person. I’m not trying to prove I am a holy person but I really take God seriously. You could see me dancing with girls, going crazy and doing all that, but deep down inside I always get down on my knees to beg God to guide and forgive my sins.

But why are you not doing gospel music?

Vanguard , MARCH 14 , 2015—23

butts but if you listen to my songs very well my kind of music is different from that.

I first started with inspirational songs, followed by a hip-hop song and commercial which basically addresses topical issues. So, I will say that my music is not just about boobs and butts alone but I mix it. When you listen to my songs you will encounter the full artiste in me .

But for the purpose of selling records you just have to say what people want to hear. But if you want to be a successful artiste you must learn to do commercial music.

What makes you unique?

Without trying to sound pompous, I think am a very versatile artiste, which means you can listen to me on different records and be able to know my songs from my voice.

What is the story behind your recent song, Road to Ghana?

You have to look closely for you to get the storyline, because the video is a blend of •Tom Lash storytelling and shakebody part. And the sex appeal was intentional because that’s what I am not trying people want to watch. to sound hypocritical, but Why did you feature Ghanaian I don’t think I would make it as girls instead of Nigerian girls in your video? a gospel artiste First, the video was shot in because I am a Ghana which explains why the secular artiste girls are Ghanaians. Both naturally.

Nigerian girls and Ghana girls are amazing girls but an average As a godly person Ghanaian girl has a very good backside, good-looking than an who does secular average Nigerian. music, how far you can Also, Ghanaian girls are go in doing secular music and generally more accessible which the usual ‘things’ associated with means they don’t pretend like it?

Nigerian girls. So generally I will We are all sinners and I do say Ghanaian girls are less secular music because that’s materialistic. where I find comfort and I actually enjoy it because I While on set, how do you express myself very freely. I can do gospel music as well because I separate emotion from work, with the flock of girls around? have featured in a song with a You just have to be professional gospel artiste before. But when you are doing anything. whenever I do my secular songs I always go back to God to say I am And the secret to overcoming your emotion is knowing how to sorry if I’ve committed any sin. draw the line. It is applicable not We are in the music business not only in the entertainment just to enjoy and explore our industry but in every profession. hearts but also to be successful. I You must be able to learn how to am not going to pretend that I am be focused. into music only for the love of it; I am into it for the money too.

Any female celebrities crush?

I love a lot of female artistes but These days, most artistes do the one I really love is Lola Rae; songs that have almost the same reason being that I like her lyrics. Are you planning to go physical appearance and the same way, or are you going personality. I like cute girls to be different? generally.

Actually, that is what the people want to hear. They want to hear artistes sing about boobs and

24 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

With FLORENCE AMAGIYA 08061644307 email: daise4000@yahoo.com

Ndidi Osaka:

The world of ace broadcaster behind I beg una F

Japanese, the or a long time, ace broadcaster, Ndidi Osaka aka Nigerian profession. shop Princess of the Nigerian airwaves, held sway in the talk ental. In accid s Her adventure into the broadcasting world was by no mean which on passi of ng flame the early days, young Ndidi could not control the burni und all-ro an was lay dormant inside her. In her secondary school years, she mother who was a her of ath footp noble the g trailin entertainer, systematically is a true tale of likerenowned dramatist, dance teacher and an organizer, She secondary education, she mother-like-daughter. However, upon completion of her Corporation of Nigeria got a job in the Library department of the Federal Radio ult for her. In no time, (FRCN) when admission into the University became diffic soon as she got launched she became the people’s advocate in her radio show as mother left an indelible into the bubbling world of broadcasting. The proud grand sh programme, I Beg footprint in the sand of time with her famous special Engli ha-born broadcaster who Una, I beg una would be 20 years this October. The Onits ese-Nigerian, has prides herself as the only federal government certified Japan Training school in been detailed to oversee the affairs of the Radio Nigerian casting. In this edition, I Shogunle, Lagos. After thirty five years stint in real broad General Manager, present to you a mother, grandmother, one- time Metro FM caster, Ndidi Osaka. foremost Nigerian female stand up Comedian and a broad Read on...

CAREER START would say I had the passion, if you are specially gifted in something; the drive would push you to it. After completing my secondary school education, I found myself acting plays, dancing and getting deeply enmeshed in entertainment. Ironically, my mother was into drama and a dance teacher. She loved her profession with a passion. So, it was only normal that I developed the traits from her. Hence all through my years in the secondary school, I found myself participating actively in virtually all entertainment activities because I derived great joy from it.

I

THOUGHTS I had no idea that I would end up as an on-air personality. Though, as a person, I make caricature of situations and people around me with effortless ease and that I would say helped to garnish my raw skills.

C M Y K

CHILDHOOD My childhood was an interesting one; I am from a wonderful, energetic and talented family. The fifth child in a family of nine. Only the last boy and I followed the noble footpath of our mother. He is renowned master of ceremony (MC). I went straight into broadcasting where my passion lies as I couldn’t gain admission into the university early enough.

HOW IT STARTED I came into Lagos state precisely in 1978 to look for admission into the University, when it was not possible to get admission, I joined the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as a librarian. However, before I went fully into production, I had to apply for a transfer because I gained admission into the University of Lagos to do a diploma programme in Mass communication. Later l gained admission to study Business Administration and obtained a Bsc honour degree. If I can retrace my steps, I would

•Ndidi and her hubby

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 — 25

choose the same profession over and over again.

LIMELIGHT At the time I worked as a librarian, the foremost Nigerian Comedian, the late John Chukwu was into variety and light entertainment, so I clicked into that. Radio Nigeria, Ikoyi happened to be the main station at that time before it was moved to Abuja. I was the only female voice available for a 30-minute slot. I played the part of ‘Mama Caro’.

Collins Onomo acted as ‘Papa Caro’ and that show shot me into limelight. We were the pioneers of Stand-up comedy.

All through this period, I was still under the library but everyone knew my skills were accurate for the job.

CHALLENGES I did not encounter difficulties in learning the robes of the job because it was a calling. I found myself interested in everything and had no regrets whatsoever, aside from experiencing traffic daily on the way to the office, taking care of the home front, all was okay for me. Unlike nowadays where people do not adhere to norms and tradition of the broadcasting profession. In our days, we had to strictly follow the laws and procedures guiding the profession particularly in studio management and that wasn’t easy. I think I can mention those as some of the challenges we faced. We produced a lot of programs that were staged. At that time, one had to record close to ten programs in a week and I got acquainted with the rudiments surrounding the job. However, when I got married, the challenge of being a housewife and a job-loving individual were great but I owe it all to God and discipline. I had to cut my coat according to my cloth and stayed away from those kind of friends that would put you in trouble. My husband is a very

•Ndidi and her family

•Ndidi with late Art Alade

•Nd work idi and F r ed to gethe ank Edoh o wh r at M ile th etro ey FM

understanding person and we were able to manage ourselves.

WHAT ELSE Broadcasting took the whole of me that I had little or no time to think about anything else. Today, I find it difficult to engage in any job outside broadcasting because it is my life.

However, no aspect of my life conflicted with my passion as I made a good blend in managing my life and profession. When I look back now at those trying times on the job l give thanks to God. ABOUT THE SHOW, I beg una The programme I beg una, my own baby would be clocking twenty years in October. As a producer, you call up ideas and at that particular time, we saw people who were dedicated to the job. We tried to create an avenue to assemble minds and stop irrational attitudes which were the bane of the profession. To curb the abnormalities in the society, we had to employ the media and create a programme that addresses issues. I made the suggestion and presented it in a raw format to call attention. People could call into the program, report basically anything that needed to be addressed and the official language chosen was vernacular (pidgin) because everyone understands it.

The program was a ‘’30 minutes” slot, but was extended a day after because of it’s popularity. We received about 30 phone calls or more on daily basis. Legislators and government officials became part of

If you don’t possess a gift, calling or passion towards something, that is as good as wasting precious time. I went through a whole lot because I was diligent and focused, nothing good comes easy. Know what you want and go for it. Perseverance is the key

the show. When the programme started gaining momentum, it was a dream come true for me and it is still running till date. The Good, the Bad, the Ugly and the Most Beautiful tagged my show, to distinguish myself I became ‘The only federal government certified Japanese in Nigeria’ because my surname is Osaka (like the Japanese brand) that alone attracted more loyalists.

OPEN DOORS As a woman, it has not been easy.

Getting recognition was a challenge.

I thank God my name has come to stay now. I am indeed grateful for my family background. The Nigerian Institute of Journalism in 2013 honoured me with an award because of the good name I had built over the

years. I have spent 35 years and still counting in broadcasting and nothing has made me much happier.

My Family I am blessed with four children, three girls and a boy. I almost had my last baby in the studio.

The children are all doing well in their respective endeavours. One of them took after me as she is currently working as a broadcaster with the voice of Nigeria(VOA). She is happily married and blessed with a child.

So that makes me a grandmother.

My first daughter is doing well in her job. Recently, she surprised me with a car gift. However, I must thank my husband for all the support and the encouragement over these years. He is a darling in a million.

•The car she drives C M Y K

26 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

By KEHINDE AJOSE 08024212530

Why we collaborated on Vex -Emma Nyra I

t is not every day you see three seductively beautiful divas collaborate on a song. In an industry filled with envy and jealousy,the trio of Emma Nyra,Cynthia Morgan and Victoria Kimani decided to team up on a song called Vex to validate their star status.

Speaking on what led to the

collaboration, Triple MG’s first lady Emma Nyra said it was inspired by Victoria Kimani.

“The collabo was inspired by Victoria Kimani, saying that we need to come together to do a song on modern day love and relationships. The lyrics of Vex simply state that we should love and not fight. It was so much fun working with the ladies especially when we did the photo shoot. It revealed our personalities” says she.

Asa flaunts her new found sex appeal O

nce upon a time,Asa was known to be a songstress boyish with her fashion sense and hardly shows her cleavage or reveals her femininity. No one cared, because she made up for it with her soulful voice and stirring music.

But these days it seems the melody has changed for the Jailer queen as someone must have impressed on her that her voice alone cannot carry her through. Now, the once boyish Asa is coming out with quantum of sex appeals to ginger the boyish look.

She recently performed at Chateau Rouge in France on March 6, 2015 and her performance pictures grew a wing of their own, and went viral.

Asa was dressed in an all-black outfit, with a black fitted turtle neck and black jacket. During her performance, she decided to take off the jacket. Those who were at the event were shocked at what they saw. Asa looked more endowed than she has been known to be. While some believes she has done a boob job,others a parade of fireworks. assume she made use of a push-up bra.

Elizabeth R Invents Memorabilia Night

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he night of tribute and service of songs for Late Chief Alexander Omolade Okoya Thomas held on Wednesday 4th March 2015.It started with an emotional church service which took place at Trinity House, Zion centre in Oniru, and immediately after

Family members and guests then moved to the Dorchester event centre, also in the same compound as the church, for the Memorabilia night.

The Memorabilia night (a first of its kind) was instituted and set up by Ibidun Ighodalo of Elizabeth R. It was a carefully curated chronology of the life and times of Chief Okoya Thomas, with his actual clothing, awards, pictures, and other personal effects on display. This presentation took his family, guests and dignitaries on a bitter-sweet journey of his life in different stages and at different moments; as a sportsman, industrialist, philanthropist, provost . Family and friends were moved to tears by this poignant celebration of the life of Chief Okoya Thomas, and indeed a well deserved exit of a legend.

Munachi Abii recounts her dark moments W

hen ex beauty queen Munachi Abii delved into music, only a few people believed in her craft. This made her collaborate with Waje on I am so inspired,a song that preaches determination and tenacity. Though Muna has gone past the period when she lost faith in herself, the

•Sinach

gorgeous rapper took to instagram to bare her mind on the dark periods of her life.

She puts it this way: “In the beginning, I was a rebel but I didn’t love myself. I wasn’t looking at how far I had already come, I focused on where I felt I should have been. I didn’t see my blessings as blessings. If anyone told me I was beautiful, I would argue with them. I thought that was humility. It got so bad that I felt I didn’t deserve any praise I got. I felt they were lies.

And when love found me, I would find ways to jeopardize it or run from it. How can you love me? And yet all I’ve ever wanted was to love and be loved. What is love? Could this be love?

So what the hell was I looking at that made me forget what I’ve had all along? A lie. An illusion.

I was looking at a “space” that didn’t exist which I probably created in my own mind. A lady said to me :”Muna you are getting fat”. I said “Thank you, I am eating well “. She said: “So you like it?” I said: “Yes, I love myself “.The moral of the story is that when you love yourself, you can do anything .It’s not pride, it’s not arrogance, it is a healthy mind.”

C M Y K

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 — 27

By KEHINDE AJOSE By 08024212530 AYO ONIKOYI, 08052201215

I have no bad blood with Wizkid no more —Skales B

aseline artiste Skales, who recently had a Twitter spat with his former label mate Wizkid, has opened up in a new interview that the relationship he had with the star boy had always been about music. “We never really fell out; the relationship we had has always been about music. It’s not like we are brothers. We are not from the same family. Like I said, it was just business and music. So we were cool, and even till now we are still cool. I have no bad blood against him. I just want to face my music right now. I’m about to drop my album and that’s all that matters to me right now. The truth is, we were not really together. We were just at the same venue at the same event that’s all. And really, whatever needs to be said now has already been said on Twitter, so you can pick everything there. Right now, I’ve put the whole episode behind me. I just want people to focus more on my music. In life life human beings must always fallout”.

ore m ts e g e g a v a S a iw T t n a Pregn energetic with collabos D

Peter Okoye hosts Olympic Facebook contest winners F

By Iyabo Aina

ollowing the conclusion of “My Olympic Valentine Facebook contest”, multi-award winning hip-hop star, Peter Okoye of PSquare musical group, and the brand ambassador for Olympic Milk, recently hosted winners of the contest.

Out of a total of 30 couples who participated in the contest which required couples to take selfies while holding Olympic variants, five lucky

wa Savage has been espite being pregnant,Ti e the airwaves. The furthering her quest to rul sic hasn’t released of the Nigerian pop mu s year, but she has een qu own thi any song or video of her the va cu um wi th he r g lin fil en be y all tic tac artistes which seem to collaborations with other be paying off. darling video she has Since releasing her My e-natal matters.When ant taken a break to focus on

couples emerged winners as a result of the number of ‘likes’ received by their selfies on the Olympic Facebook Fan page.

Speaking at the event which took place at Marcopolo Oriental Cuisine,Peter expressed appreciation to the winners for participating in ‘My Olympic Valentine Facebook Contest’ and being loyal consumers of Olympic variants, assuring them that the Nutricima Limited remains committed to providing high quality nutritious products.

Speaking further, Integrated Marketing Communications Manager, Nutricima Limited, Funsho Jacob expressed appreciation to the couples for participating in the contest and taking out time to dine with the brand ambassador.

He added that the initiative was one of its several moves to share happy moments with consumers, afford them the opportunity to experience the brand and spend some time with Peter Okoye.

C M Y K

r uld be a decline in he people thought there woLove sensation has been visibility, the Kelekele collabos with others. gaining buzz through her Da nie l’s Wo ju rem ix Sh e fea tur ed on Ki ss Ge ral d’s Ju st inc ase , ac alo ng sid e Da vid o, IsaSean Tizzle’s Igi Orombo, Pasuma’s Iwo ni mofe, Dr Sid’s Oyari. She might Skuki’s Gbemileke and baby in sight but it doesn’t be taking it easy with the out of sight just yet. seem she is ready to go

Mr 2kay gives Bad Girls new meaning

F

ast-rising pop artiste, Abiye David Jumbo otherwise known as Mr 2kay, has brought on a new meaning to the perception of girls commonly referred to as bad girls. In the video of his hit song Bad Girl the singer captures the good side of the so-called bad girls.

The singer made this assertion in a recent chat with Showtime. “First of all, in our generation bad means good. I am also of the opinion that nobody is perfect. So what inspired Bad Girl Special are those girls out there that are real without trying to hide it,ladies who treat their men like kings and are willing to do anything for them” says the singer.

The Rivers State born singer who featured Cynthia Morgan and Seyi Shay in the song explains why he did so.”I love their style of music and they are great song writers. They also strike me as the special girls that are down-toearth and real” he quips. Commenting on the raunchy behind-the-scene pictures of him and Cynthia Morgan from the video shoot which the songstress posted online, Mr 2kay says there is nothing to it.”The picture was posted

by Cynthia initially but I love the position and the looks on our faces, nothing more. Expect a lot from the video because a lot happened. We might have two versions. I am not saying more until Clarence Peter delivers with his expertise” he explains.

28—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Merit of Living in Bondage fame reappears in another Igbo film

Members of the group

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wenty-one years after she disappeared from the screen, Nnenna Nwabueze-Okonta who acted Merit in that pioneering movie that gave birth to what is today

Enter ta i n rally fo ers r electio peaceful n s donate , to IDPs

known as Nollywood, “Living in Bondage” has reappeared again.

She’s featuring in another Igbo film titled, “ Ndi Gbo Ochie”(Primitive) which they are currently shooting in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

HVP caught up with her during the week, while she was on set.

She explained that she returned to the industry since last year after her family relocated to Asaba from the United States.

According to her, since she returned, she has featured in more than four films.

Speaking on why she’s using another Igbo film to relaunch her career, Merit said, “It is the love I have for my language and culture that drives me because there is nobody without a culture.

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Besides, I read sometime ago where UNESCO said that Igbo language will soon go into extinction and I find it very

scary. How can my language disappear from the face of the earth? So, I have to contribute my own quota even if it means I have to shoot Igbo films.

Somebody actually called me and asked why I am shooting another Igbo movie again; that people are saying that I left the movie industry because I cannot speak English, and that I am not educated enough. I said, well, if that is what people are saying, I don’t mind. But I know that I have a Masters Degree. After I left UNIPORT, I studied Environmental Education; I did my masters in Administration and Planning. So, I don’t know why

Merit on the set they are saying that I act Igbo films because I cannot speak English. That is not true anyway; it is just because I love anything Igbo, and anytime they call me for something like that, I am willing to go and do it. The film is so wonderful; the producer gave me the script and I read it. He later asked

me what I thought about it; and I told him that the script is wonderful and I would like to work with him.”

Starring the likes of Chioma Chukwuka, Ella, Toni Fredrick

Okoli, among other actors, “ "Primitive”is produced by the duo of Iyke Odife and Emmanuel Odife. Look out for the full interview next week.

Miss Niger Delta unveils plan to strengthen her pet project

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•Deborah C M Y K

fter a rigorous and tension-filled process that led to her emergence, Miss Niger Delta, Deborah Alfred Ibeinmo, has revealed plans to strengthen her on-going pet project on health.

The dark-skinned model and native of Nembe Local Government of Bayelsa State hinted that she has concluded plans with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), following her plans of kickstarting an active pet project after a due research on dental, which involves human health development.

The beauty queen declared her readiness to tour the rural areas in all the "Niger Delta states so as to enable her meet with

the people, and render sound solution to their health problems through aid provision.”

However, she pointed out that she would be relying on the support of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), as well as on the goodwill of well-meaning Nigerians to enable her carry out the tasking pet project under the office of Miss Niger Delta.

Of all the challenges surrounding the health sector, she said dental would be her major priority. “I have made my research to go with health, and I have realized that dental is an untouched area that needs to look into. We’ve seen a lot of patients diagnosing for other little health challenges, but dental aspect is very much ignored,” she said.

group of practitioners in the creative industry under the auspices of No Baga Group, a non partisan Civil Society Organisation have been campaigning for non-violence actions in Nigeria ahead of the rescheduled general elections.

The group which was unveiled on February 3rd, at a World Press Conference, which held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, was led by the convener, Ms. Peace Anyiam-Osigwe and actor, Kanayo. O. Kanayo.

The group urged all the political actors to know that there must be a country before any politician can actualize the ambition of occupying any political office at the Federal, State and Local Government Levels.Setting the ball rolling was Kanayo .O.Kanayo who noted that he was a young boy when the Civil War broke in 1967 and he experienced the pain and anguish of war, adding that politicians across the political divide beating drums of war do not wish the country well. He urged them to see election as an integral part of democracy and popular choice not a do or die matter.

As part of the nationwide advocacy campaigns, the group including Patience Uzokwor, Nkem Owoh, Alex Osifo, Osita Iheme, Chinedu Ikedieze, and other notable actors have distributed over 1000 bags of 25kg rice and other essential commodities such as cloths, blankets, plates, among others to the camps of Internally Displace People in Abuja, Jos and in Kaduna.

Nigeria currently has over 3 million people in various IDP camps across the Northern parts. The #No Baga Movement has held public rallies in Abuja, Lagos, Jos and Zaria and also running social media campaigns preaching against hate speeches and violence in Nigeria.

In her speech, the Convener, Ms. AnyiamOsigwe revealed that her motivation and that of the other members of the #NO BAGA group was the level of violence that is going on in the North East and how Boko Haram is daily killing Nigerians without other Nigerians, particularly Southerners showing concerns.

•Seyi Edun

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 —29

Ramsey Nouah set to share his Nollywood story

Chioma Chukwuka :

‘I feel comfortable starring in language films’

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opular actress Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha has expressed her love for language films, saying she feels comfortable starring in such films as well as rendering folktales songs.

Chioma said this, while in a chat with HVP in Asaba. She was on a set of an Igbo film, “ Ndi Gbo Ochie”(Primitive), which is produced by the duo of Iyke Odife and Emmanuel Odife. According to Chioma, “It’s like doing what I love doing in a language I am very comfortable with. Over the years, there has been predictions that some of our languages will go into extinction. That’s why some of us came up with the idea to bring back our values, norms and beliefs through movies. I am glad I am part of this movie, and I am also glad I am part of the move to save our language and our culture from going into extinction.”

Speaking further, Chioma who is playing the role of Abuoma in the movie,said she’s excited that producing more Igbo films will help to project the dying language

in addition to helping in telling our stories better. “I am coming from another movie set where we had to speak in Igbo. So, I was more excited that doing more Igbo films will help to project our •Chioma language in addition to telling our stories better. ordinary things. The role Though the next movie I am is passionate to me for the going to feature in, is an fact that I am a Christian.

English movie, I hope to do The role I am playing in more language movies.” this movie is close to my On her role in the film, heart. I am not singing Chioma said, “Abuoma is a any song in this movie, girl who is unaware of the but I find myself more powers she possesses as a comfortable in playing born again Christian; roles like this, as well as possessing godly powers like exploring African folk raising the dead, making the songs” blind to see and doing extra

Belinda Effah threatens to wash colleague’s dirty linen in public

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exy actress, Belinda Effah has been threathening to wash the dirty linen of her colleague, Daniella Okeke in public. While in anticipation to the threat that would bring distress and embarrassment to the light-skinned actress, Daniella , it got sealed and settled when findings

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indicated that it all emanated from the storyline of a new movie titled, "Friends or Foes."

The film, starring Belinda Effah, Daniella Okeke, Jojo Charry and Dabby Chimere, tells the story of three career women in the entertainment industry: an A-list actress, an upcoming musician, and a respected movie producer who became friends but unfortunately, were taken advantage of, by a self-proclaimed celebrity stylist, Belinda Effah.

For Effah, her role in the movie seems challenging, but quite interesting. She admits in a chat with HVP that it will be one of those memorable roles for her in a long time to come.

“It was actually challenging, I won’t deny that fact. But it’s an interesting movie to watch. A lot of lessons to learn; at least for a celebrity, it will teach us to be real. And I must say that the producer assembled the right stars. In fact, all those that acted in the movie with me complemented a lot to my role,” she said.

Interestingly, the movie which probes deeply into variety of issues ravaging the make-believe-industry, according to the producer, Dabby Chimere, was written based on true-life story. "Friends or Foes" is directed by Chinedu Ejike Obim, while Lawrita Obioha is the Associate Producer.

•Ramsey

N

ollywood playboy actor, Ramsey Nouah will be sharing the story of his journey into Nollywood as the guest speaker of this month’s edition of the Nollywood Studies Centre’s Filmmakers

Forum, holding on the 18th of this month at Pattaya Oriental Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Nouah will be speaking on the topic, “ A Journey of Two Decades: Promoting the Actor’s Trade in Nollywood.” The handsome actor's career kicked-off after he starred in the TV series, “ Fortunes” in the 1990s. He featured in his first film, “Silent Night”,which starred the likes of Joke Silva, Kate Henshaw, Segun Arinze and Alex Usifo in 1996. Since then he has featured in numerous films and playing lead roles.

According to Chioma Anokwuru, Coordinator, Nollywood Studies Centre, School of Media and Communication (SMC) PanAtlantic University, the evening will witness the grand inauguration of young filmmakers and scriptwriters awards in various exciting categories.

Caribbean spirit headlines filmfest 10th anniversary celebration

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he dates are set for the highly anticipated 10th anniversary celebrations of the Caribbean Tales International Film Festival (CTFF). To the delight of fans, film aficionados and cultural connoisseurs, the famed festival returns to the exciting downtown Toronto core from September 9, 2015.

To kick-off this milestone celebration, organizers have announced this year's theme as "Caribbean Spirit" which explores the extraordinary dynamism and diversity of Caribbean heritages, in all their myriad incarnations. The event will also include a retrospective of the best Caribbean-

themed films of past years.

This year's festival is headed by an impressive Steering Group of new and veteran CTFF associates including Trinidad and Tobago filmmaker Mandisa Pantin (Programming Coordinator), and Toronto-based digital storyteller Emmanuelle Pantin (Community Partnerships and Screenings Coordinator).

It brings together noted arts and media practitioners, industry programmer, Chloe Sosa Simms; producer, Lea Marin; filmmaker and writer, Elizabeth Topp; fund raising and grants specialist, Lauren Mohammed; cultural communicator, Stephen Weir; marketer, Louise Noel Ambrose; gender equality activist, Stephanie Leitch; and cultural entrepreneur, Frank Francis.

The full Who's-Who of CTFF 2015 is on the festival's newly revamped website.

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SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14 14, 2015

Karina Smirnoff’s third engagement over T

he super talented Dancing With The Star diva Karina Smirnoff ’s engagement to Jason has been called off after months following reports that it was because the pair had “different family values.”

TMZ reports that while Jason is not accusing Karina of cheating, “he was uncomfortable with the way she acted around other men especially dancers.”

Karina’s rep responded to Jason’s nasty comments, calling them “disrespectful and insulting to the entire dance community,” adding that it is “nothing less than an attempted smear campaign from a malicious person.”

Marvin Gaye’s daughter in tears as court awards $7.4 million in copyright suit

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jury awarded Marvin Gaye’s children nearly $7.4 million on Tuesday after determining singers Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams copied their father’s music to create “Blurred Lines,” the biggest hit song of 2013.

Marvin Gaye’s daughter Nona Gaye wept as the verdict was being read by her attorney, Richard Busch.

The verdict could tarnish the legacy of Williams, a reliable hitmaker who has won several Grammy Awards and appears on NBC’s music competition show “The Voice.”

An attorney for Thicke and Williams has said a decision in favor of Gaye’s heirs could have a disturbing effect on musicians who try to emulate an era or another artist’s sound.

The Gayes’ lawyer branded Williams and Thicke liars who went beyond trying to emulate the sound of Gaye’s late-1970s music and copied the R&B legend’s hit “Got to Give It Up” song.

Thicke told jurors he didn’t write “Blurred Lines,” despite receiving credit. While Williams also testified he

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crafted the song in about an hour in mid-2012.

And that Gaye’s music was part of the soundtrack of his youth but said he didn’t use any of it to create “Blurred Lines.”

According to Nielsen SoundScan figures, “Blurred Lines” has sold more than 7.3 million copies in the U.S. alone, and has earned a Grammy nomination and gotten Williams and Thicke millions of dollars.

Recall that Gaye’s children Nona, Frankie and Marvin Gaye sued the singers in 2013 and were present when the verdict was read.

Karina Smirnoff and Jason

It sounds like Karina is totally taking the high road as she has reportedly returned the ring. Recall that the stunner was previously engaged to her fellow prodancer Maksim Chmerkovskiy back in 2008, but their relationship was later called off in Sept. 2009.

Two years later, she found love again with MLB pitcher whom their engagement ended in December 2011.

Karina definitely doesn’t seem to be letting her most recent breakup with Jason bring her down, as report has it that she is busy promoting her book, “We’re Just Not That Into You: Dating Disaster From the Trenches,” which as the title suggests is an open and honest book about her dating mishaps.

Similarities between Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown’s bathtub incidents obby ’s nephweaws y …as Bed Whitne nt Pat T alleg ered by Au rd he saga surrounding Bobby Brown’s family and what some of them believe happened to both Whitney

Houston and Bobbi Kristina Brown, her daughter with Brown, the day that each woman was found unconscious in a bathtub continues.

Recall that Houston died back in 2012, while Bobbi Kristina has been in a coma for more than a month now.

However On Monday, messages were posted from the Facebook page of Bobby Brown’s nephew Jerod Brown that spelled out some pretty damning theories, including that both Houston and his cousin Bobbi Kristina were preyed upon by those who wanted them dead.

According to Jerod’s facebook post, “Auntie Whitney was murdered not drowned. That’s a fact. Now the whole bathroom plot shows up again with Bobbi Kristina’s situation. Come on are you people that bold to try to perform this act again on my family.

And the public believes whatever these people put in their faces; I mean it is convincing if you’re not on the inside. Soon evidence will be handed over to assist this investigation”.

Jerod Brown suggests that a family member was responsible for Whitney

mu

Houston’s death. He also suggests that Bobbi Kristina never trusted that family member.

Jerod Brown’s Facebook posts are just the latest examples of the Brown family ’s very vocal and, at times, physical response to Bobbi Kristina’s bathtub incident which happened on January, 31, 2015 and her subsequent comatose state.

Cara & Naomi

Naomi Campbell denies claims of physical fight with Cara Delevingne

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upermodel Naomi Campbell has denied claims that she was embroiled in a physical fight with fellow model Cara Delevingne.

Recall that the pair were said to have clashed after 22-year-old Delevingne was “disrespecting” Rihanna at Dasha Zhukova’s Garage Magazine party at Paris club Castel.

A source also disclosed to New York Post’s Page Six that “Naomi accused Cara of “disrespecting” Rihanna and started yelling, which made Naomi to

pushed Cara, who pushed back. Cara pulled Naomi’s weave, but it didn’t come off.

“Naomi was angry because she felt Cara had said something negative about Rihanna.”

Following the incident, Fashion For Relief founder Campbell has taken to her Twitter account to deny the claims.

“Don’t know where this story has come from about @Caradelevingne and I fighting! It is completely untrue, ignore the rumours XN,” she tweeted.

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Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2013—31

32— SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

KISSING ON SET

I’m always afraid of bad breaths — Habibat Jinad Habibat Jinad needs no introduction in the entertainment industry. Many people who know her would remember her for her refreshing show ‘Miliki Express’ which airs from 1pm to 2pm on Startimes Channel Orisun TV. But her profile does not stop there.

She has also made her mark as a prolific Yoruba actress who is defining the landscape. Some of her movies include “Omo K’omo”, “Iku L’okunrin”, and “Irin Ajo Eda Laye,” to name a few. She recently won an award for Fastest Rising TV Presenter of the Year organized by Azaria 360. In this engaging interview, she talks about her career, life and more:

By Damilola Sholola How has life been so far in Nollywood?

It’s been cool. It’s been fantastic even with the ups and downs; we thank God. What movie are you working now?

I don’t have a personal project on hand right now but I am on set of a movie produced by Biola Adebayo. In the script I have to take on a character of a prostitute. I think it should be interesting.

Who else is in the movie?

I’m working with Femi Adebayo, Tope Osoba, big Val Jokotoye and some other people.

Do you do other stuff apart from acting?

Yeah, my friends call me a Jack of all trades because I do a whole lot of things at the same time. I’m an actor, a movie producer, TV presenter and On-Air-Personality.

I’m also an artiste manager.

•Habibat Jinad

How did you feel winning TV Presenter of the Year?

I felt great, it was very cool with me. I love it because winning that award is another privilege for me and it makes me to want to work harder.

How did you get into

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presenting?

It’s a very interesting story. I can remember the name of the guy, Lateef Adedimeji aka Kabiyesi. He called me as a guest on his show and I went there and his producer Bimbo Ogunsanya asked me if I could present a show and I said no. He said he had a feeling I could it and insisted I should give it a try. I wasn’t convinced because I didn’t have any formal training but he stood his ground and offered to train me. There and then he took me to Kwame, CEO of Nigezie and Orisun. When I got there Kwame asked me to present and I did. But to me everything I said was pure balderdash but to Kwame it wasn’t. He told me that out of the four qualities he was looking for I had three. He said the only thing he wanted me to work on was my confidence. At the end of the day I ended up working with him for many years and before I stopped working with him, I won an award.

What do you do on your show?

Miliki Express is on every Thursday. I talk fashion, lifestyle and other stuffs.

Is it only Yoruba movies you do?

I haven’t had the privilege to do English movies because the opportunities have not come. I would have featured in Married but Living Single with Funke Akindele, Joseph Benjamin and Joke Silva but things didn’t work out as planned.

There was a picture you took wearing a bra and you captioned it ‘Tired of being a good girl, let me try the bad part.’

(Laughing) Seriously, I just don’t know what really happened that day. That day I

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015 — 33

was in my room, all alone and I told myself I should try something new, something different from the usual. I said to myself : “I’m tired of being a good girl, let me try the bad girl part anyway” So I snapped the picture of myself (selfie) with just my bra and a jacket. Funny enough, some people reacted saying it was nice.

Others were simply aghast with it, saying Habibat you shouldn’t have done that. It was only a bra and a jacket for God sake. What if I had put on a bikini. Really, there wasn’t anything to it, I just wanted to do what came to my mind at that time.

How bad can you be in a movie?

I am a very gentle girl but I can smoke in a movie. I can drink, I can be saucy and I can be nasty too but not to the extent of wearing a bikini. I can wear a bra and tights but wearing only pant and bra, I will never do that. If you see me wearing pant and bra, you’ll definitely see a net on, I’ll wear net on it.

You can wear pant and bra but you can’t wear a bikini?

I can’t wear bikini.

Can you kiss in a movie?

I’m always afraid of bad breath. If you have bad breaths I’ll tell you I’m sorry, please I can’t kiss you.

What if someone has good breath?

Then we can kiss as many times as possible.

What do you think is missing in the Yoruba movie industry?

A lot of things are missing. A lot of people really want to invest in the industry but piracy is killing it.

How do you think government can stop this piracy thing?

Government can do so many things; it is not until they arrest people. They can just call them and educate them on the harms it brings to the industry.

They need to understand that they are feeding off the sweat of some people.

If you arrest them, some other people will come up with another thing, so the only thing you can do is just to gather them together, talk to them, encourage them and let them know that this is not good for the economy.

As a pretty actress, has anyone ever asked to date you for a role?

I won’t lie to you, it has happened. Once you say “Habibat, before I can give you this role, you have to date me or sleep with me,” I would be on my knees begging you.

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will start crying but that was then, when I was still coming up. It’s only once that it happened to me but now that person can’t really tell me that kind of thing again.

Who do you like working with on set?

I’ve worked with so many people; Yomi Fash Lanso, Odunlade Adekola, Murphy Afolabi, Femi Adebayo, Funke Akindele, Bukky Wright, Mercy Aigbe, so many people. In English movies, I’m looking forward to working with Majid Michel and Joke Silva. I’m also looking forward to working with Omotola Jalade, one of my role models.

Who inspired you to become an actress?

To me, I would say acting is something that came from within me. Nobody can train you; you can only have people that will guide you. When we are talking about acting, it’s something that has to come from within you What has been the high point of your career?

I would say presenting. You know when you do something you couldn’t believe you could do, you start looking at it in a different way. It is really amazing, doing something you never thought you could and what more, people accepting you. My big ‘thank you’ goes to Bimbo Ogunsanya who trained me well.

You’re a single mother, right?

Yeah, I’m proud to be a mother.

How is life as a single mother?

It’s not been easy but I thank God for everything. God has been faithful to me, so is my family, and even my son who has been a fantastic boy. He’s in boarding school now and he’s been very supportive.

How old is he now?

He will be 9 years

by April 27.

Were you ever married?

I was engaged, we did normal introduction and all that but we never did any marriage. I’m just Habibat Jinad for now.

A lot of people really want to invest in the industry but piracy is killing it.

Are you still planning to get married?

I’m planning to get married if the right guy comes along.

What else do you want to say?

I want to say a big thank you to my boss Afeez Owo and my mom, my family and to someone special, I’ll keep saying it, Bimbo Ogunsanya. I appreciate so many people that have been there for me and have been encouraging me and I’m also very thankful to my fans.

•Habibat Jinad

34 — SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

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SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2013—35

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36—SATURDAY

Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Secondary infertility? You need a second opinion T

here millions of couples who conceived easily when they started a family, but find it more difficult when they want number two. Such couples suffer from what’s called secondary infertility. Admittedly, it is a condition that is hard to accept and initially a lot of people ask “Why?” or “What have we done wrong?” There are no straightforward answers, just numerous possibilities and in order to get a second pregnancy going, quite complex investigations and treatment.

Most people believe that once a woman has had one child, she has proven herself to be fertile and therefore will have no problems conceiving again in the future.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Secondary infertility is a very common problem. In fact, it is so common that it accounts for as much as 60 percent of infertility cases. Yet, there are women who often fail to see this type of infertility as a major problem.

Secondary infertility is usually defined as the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after successfully and naturally conceiving one or more children.

Millions of Nigerian couples are experiencing secondary infertility.

Unlike those experiencing primary infertility (when a childless couple is unable to conceive), couples that are affected by secondary infertility are much less likely to get treatment for their infertility. This usually due to the misconception that “once you’re fertile, you’ll always be fertile.” While this false belief is often perpetuated, it is not uncommon for a couple to be told to just keep trying and that eventually it will happen. While this may be true in some cases, in many others, advice like this only adds to the frustration and heartache experienced by a couple having fertility problems.

Reasons for secondary infertility tend to be the same as reasons for primary infertility. For instance, if since a woman was last pregnant, she or her partner may have had an infection, gained some weight, or started eating fewer healthy foods. These seemingly small variances in their lives can have large repercussions on their reproductive health. Additionally, if it has been a few years since they last had a child, the woman’s egg quality may have begun decreasing or the man’s sperm may not be what it once was.

Abnormalities with sperm and ejaculate are frequently cited as causes of secondary infertility.

Medical experts acknowledge that factors which cause secondary infertility are numerous. Age is primal. For women in their late 30s and early 40s the chance of conceiving is actually quite low. As for fallopian tube damage, complications during a previous pregnancy or delivery, or a recent pelvic infection, can harm or block the fallopian tubes and reduce the chances of eggs being fertilised. Putting on a significant amount of weight during the first pregnancy, increasing the body mass index can interfere with regular ovulation, and cause an imbalance of hormones and significantly reduce fertility. Research shows that even a little weight loss will help improve chances of conceiving.

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•The trauma of infertility

Most healthy men retain their fertility well into middle-age but any chronic illness (like diabetes or high blood pressure) can have a detrimental effect not only on the sperm count but also on the mobility and structure of the sperm, both of which have a role to play in the fertility process.

But there are occasions when, despite all the tests and investigations, no apparent cause can be found for secondary infertility. Other common explanations for secondary infertility include ovulation problems, endometriosis, pelvic adhesions and uterine fibroids or polyps.

Now when should the couple see a doctor? In the view of Medical Director, Nordica Fertility Centre, Lagos, Abuja and Asaba, secondary infertility is not an infrequent problem.

“Women often delay evaluation because it happened so easily the first time. I would expect a woman to be concerned when she has attempted pregnancy for one year after stopping breastfeeding. For women over 35, I would probably initiate an evaluation after six months of attempting conception.”

In Ajayi’s view, ideally, it is always a good idea to seek out a fertility expert if you have troubles conceiving. “If you are under 35, have been having regular, unprotected sex for a year and have not been able to conceive, make an appointment with your doctor or a fertility specialist. If you

are over 35, then start investigating the issue after six months of regular, unprotected sex. However, there are times when you should make that appointment with the specialist sooner.

“If you experience two or more miscarriages, have irregular periods, have especially painful periods, an

unusual increase or a burning vaginal discharge, or if your partner is experiencing a decrease in his sex drive, painful ejaculations, or impotence, then make an appointment sooner. These are all indications of medical problems that need attention before a successful conception can occur.”

However, because secondary infertility is often unrecognized as a problem, many couples find it hard to receive the proper support from their family and friends.

Treatment depends on diagnosis. If the woman has irregular ovulation, ovulation can be induced with fertility. For damage to the fallopian tubes, surgery may be needed, or IVF. For sperm problems, the procedure of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) helps for conception.

While fertility problems can always put a strain on a relationship, secondary infertility can be especially stressful. The ways in which people deal with the situation can vary.

Communication can breakdown when one partner does not want to discuss the issue at all, causing the other to feel shut out. Whether or not treatment for the infertility should be pursued, and how much to spend can other areas of contention for couples.

It may be beneficial to seek out therapy to help you and your partner deal with the emotions that secondary infertility brings.

Joining a support group for people experiencing secondary infertility can help you realize that you’re not the only one going through this difficult time.

Support groups have been shown to be very effective in helping people cope during a difficult time.

•Thinking infertility

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Lifestyle

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Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—37

Keep diabetes in control

heck your blood sugar food smoothly through People with type 2 diabetes can often keep their blood sugar levels under control with your digestive tract. When diet, exercise, and medicine. But unless you check your blood sugar level every day with a your stomach can’t empty meter, you won’t have the most accurate results. quickly enough, a Avoid thirst condition called Thirst and frequent urination are gastroparesis, you may two classic diabetes signs caused by deal with unpleasant too much sugar in your blood. As your abdominal problems like kidneys work harder to filter out the diarrohea, constipation, or sugar, they also pull more fluids from incontinence. your tissues, which is why you have You’re losing your sight to go to the bathroom more often than High blood sugar and usual. Thirst is your body’s way of high blood pressure both telling you it needs to replenish the can damage the sensitive liquids it’s losing. structures in your eyes and Don’t get fatigued threaten your vision.

Fatigue is another signal that your Diabetic retinopathy — blood sugar isn’t under control. When caused by damage to the sugar is staying in your bloodstream blood vessels in the eye — instead of being diverted to your is the biggest cause of body’s cells, your muscles don’t get blindness in adults. enough fuel to use for energy. You Blurred vision, spots, might feel only a little tired, or your lines, or flashing lights are •Diabetes fatigue might be so bad that you need signs that it’s time to see a nap. your eye doctor. Get your If the room is spinning eyes checked now, before your vision has have kidney disease.

Diet changes may Feeling dizzy or shaky can be a sign a chance to deteriorate. help. Work with a nutritionist to keep of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.

You’re losing weight your blood sugar under control.

Because your brain needs glucose to If you’re losing weight quickly, without Numbness or tingling function, a drop in blood sugar can be trying, or without doing anything Nerve damage (called peripheral dangerous — even life-threatening — different, it may be a sign that your blood neuropathy) can be another sign of if you don’t address it. If you’re sugar is too high. When your glucose is chronically elevated blood sugars. It regularly feeling shaky, talk to your results in numbness or tingling in your high, it gets flushed out of the body in doctor. hands and feet, or inability to feel pain urine, taking the calories and fluids you Swollen hands and feet consume with it. or temperature changes.

If you have high blood pressure as Recurring infections Stomach trouble well as diabetes, as water builds up in Frequent or recurring infections are Diabetes also damages the nerve that your body, your hands and feet may sometimes a sign of high blood sugar. You helps your stomach empty and move swell — a warning sign that you may

SEXUAL ISSUES & SOLUTIONS SEXUAL ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS AMAZING FACTS ABOUT PENIS SIZE (I)

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’D like to start a series on some facts about the penis size. Many men have a very wrong idea about their penis sizes. Penis shapes also varies with individual , but we are going to take a critical look at some facts you need to know about your penis.

1. To keep your penis in shape to need to regularly have erections. Without regular erection, penile tissue can become elastic and shrink, making the penis shorter with about 1 to 2cm. to maintain a healthy tone, the smooth muscle of the penis must be periodically nourished by oxygen which is made available by the rush of blood that engorges the penis and makes it erect.

Hi,im a 65 year old diabetic man suffering from serious weak erection, I got a set of Vimax and Noto tea from you some weeks back and I must confess that my erection is now better despite my age and I’ve also noticed my diabetis level has drastically reduced and I feel better.. I learnt from a friend that Rhino 7 is also good, do you have Rhino 7? Should I continue with Vimax or use Rhino 7? Olisa Hello Olisa, im so happy to learn that Vimax with the Noto tea really worked for you, I will advise you stick to it cos it works well with your system, Rhino 7 is also good for strong erection for diabetics, but Vimax works better for diabetic and cardioparthy patients without any side effect as it is herbal and takes effect in less than 30 minutes of usage,while the Noto tea helps reduce, diabetes, hypertension and blood lipids, Im a 49 year old circumsized woman who never experience orgasm unless i get serious foreplay from my partner. I was told that rabbit vibrator could do the job of stimulating me to orgasm, cos its not everytime that he’s ready for foreplay and I really want to enjoy having sex with him, pls kindly advise me- Bola Dear Bola, Just to let you know that clitoris is not the only erogenous zone of a woman, your nipples, the inner g-spot just at the entrance of vagina,the back of your ear are some of the erogenous zones that can turn you on.

Yes rabbit vibrators such as Moonlight pearl, dolphin pearl, Remore control dazzling dolphin, ultimate rabbit pearl to mention but a few would do the work of enabling orgasm in you and will serve you for foreplay before the main sex.

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I have a very serious case of premature ejaculation which is very embarrassing. Hardly can I penetrate for 4 minutes before ejaculating and to go for second round is not even possible pls kindly help me- Chuma Like I use to say , premature ejaculatoin arises from so many causes like stress, alcoholism, smoking to mention but a few; check the nature of your work and if it’s a bit tasking, I’l advise you try to relax before having sex with your partner and also herbal supplement like Vimax pills will help you last long and it totally corrects premature ejacuation and also allows you go for more that 2 rounds if you want, so you can go for it and may combine with delay cream like stay erect or Delay condoms or Delay sprays with Cockrings helps a man last longer.

I want to enlarge my penis but I would like to know how enlargement occurs and what ican use to make it happen – Chuks Penis enlargement sure happens and this is how; in the penis we have some empty spaces and also the penile tissues which increases or expands anytime blood flows in during erection especially if you have used enhancement like pills or creams; if this blood is pumped into the tissues, it enlarges further to hold more blood and thats when enlargement occurs.

To achive this purpose , you can use Vigrx plus with either Plump cream, Max-width , plump cream or penis pump to mention but a few. And like I use to say, you habe to stay on anyone you are taking for at least three months if you want any good result.

I have a serious case of menstrual disorder and I have never gotten pregnant in my lifeand im about 39 uears of age, sonebody recommended the Sheep placenta supplement with Ganoderma tea, how effective are these two and I need to know if I can get the from you. Linda Yes Linda, Sheep placenta supplement is a very potent herbal pull that alleviates menstrual disorder, prevents barrenness, abortion and premature delivery especially when used alongside the Ganoderma tea.and yes you can get from us.

These are all we can take for this week. Adults who needs any of these aphrodisiacs can cal 08034666358, 07059294782 or place your order at www.viewden.com. For further enquiries,send an email to us at: vieweden@yahoo.com, viewden@ymail.com.

Kemi Fawole (MD )

might experience gum disease, urinary tract infections, bacterial or fungal infections of the skin, or, if you’re a woman, yeast infections.

Other infections might include pneumonia and respiratory infections, kidney and gallbladder infections, and severe bacterial middle ear and fungal sinus infections.

Cuts and bruises won’t heal If your blood sugar isn’t well controlled, you might find that cuts and bruises are slow to heal.

Infections themselves can also worsen blood sugars, which makes it even harder for your immune system to fight off the infection.

Keep control Don’t panic about diabetes complications — try to avoid them by carefully following your doctor ’s treatment plan.

Take your medicine, eat a healthy diet, and exercise to keep your blood sugar levels in check. Use your meter to test your blood sugar so you know that it’s staying in the recommended range

38 — SATURDAY VANGUARD, MARCH 14, 2015

Uduaghan’s school football begins tto o yield results as Amunek e ttour our Amuneke ourss Delta

•Peter Dedevbo

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overnor ’s Cup, the football competition among secondary schools Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan launched two years ago in Delta is already yielding results.

National Under 17 coach, Emmanuel Amuneke toured Delta State to select potentials from the Governor ’s Cup. He selected some from the three different centres that students gathered in Ogwashi Uku, Agbor and Warri.

Delta is the only state that engaged ex footballers to be coaching students in various schools in the state. Sunday Lucky, Onyema Okolo, Gibson Poto, Victor Otumare and Ken Ipawore are among the coaches training secondary students in Delta. Below are some of the pictures from the selection trials in Delta.

•Siasia

•Keshi

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•Garba

o

•Eguavoen

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•Obuh

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n the serious business of football coaching, the rule of the game is presentation. Far from leading you team to victories, today’s coaches are increasingly coming under the microscope of journalists and critics, who search for any scrub to put in the public domain. Like the saying goes, the way you are dressed is the way you will be addressed. In the western world, coaches are known for their good dress sense. Top gaffers like Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, Carlo Ancelotti, Louis van Gaal, Arsene Wenger, Joaquim Low, Dunga, Vincente del Bosque set the tone for others in terms of dressing.

They spot immaculate blazers, with fitting shoes during matches involving their teams. The trend to look dapper is fast gaining wide appeal even in African countries, where local coaches, in a bid to flow with the rhythm, wear jackets with clean shirts and fine shoes to match.

In an ever-increasing savvy country like ours, coaches are also falling in line with the current dress style permeating the global coaching sphere. Coaches like former Samson Siasia, John Obuh and Godwin Uwua. All former Flying Eagles managers are some of the notable names who have carved a niche for themselves in looking great in their spectacular wears.

When Siasia was Eagles coach, he was always on point in his dressing and fans drooled over him. Having lived in the United States of America, Siasia was always looking cosmopolitan while in public or private gathering. His successor at the

The trend to look dapper is fast gaining wide appeal even in African countries, where local coaches, in a bid to flow with the rhythm, wear jackets with clean shirts and fine shoes to match

Flying Eagles, John Obuh, was also a big fashion man, always accentuating the game as the situation permits. It is recalled that when in Colombia for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2011, Obuh made a name for himself as one of the best dressed coaches of the tournament as he spotted the trademark south American cap throughout the campaign of the Flying Eagles.

Despite failing to lead his charges to the trophy, Nigerians were still forgiving of Obuh, laregly because he burnished the country’s image well abroad.

But some coaches are still drooling in the archaic world, where being garbed in track suits of their teams used to be the trend. A major culprit of this fashion faux pas is former Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, who has shown in several national engagements with the Eagles at the Nations Cup, World Cup and international friendly that he needs to consult fashion experts on the best way to dress publicly.

Another coach, who seems to be oblivious of the current trend is Flying Eagles coach, Manu Garba, whose penchant for spotting track suits and tee-shirts is becoming unbearable for fans, despite the fact that he is leading his team to victories in their matches.

Golden Eaglets coach, Emmanuel Amuneke is also feeding on the bug created by Stephen Keshi, as he is yet to flash that dapper look when handling the cadet team in continental assignments.

His team’s failure to shine at the last African Under-17 Championship in Niger has certainly ruffled his feathers and caused him to rejig the process, which we feel should also include his own dress style as Nigerians would love to see a coach looking dapper like the world\s glamorous and well-dressed coaches.

In our refreshingly different style, the following pictorial illustrations of Nigerian coaches show the best and worst dressed coaches around.

40—SATURDAY VANGUARD, MARCH 14, 2015

A

ndy Murray sits in a quiet room on the first floor of the clubhouse at The Queen’s Club in west London. It is a crisp, bright day outside and a groundsman and his mower are starting to bring summer’s lawns back to life. In its manicured beauty, it is a picture of serenity and of order.

Murray’s mind is clear and sharp now but he lets it drift back a few weeks to Melbourne and a time when it was madding with tumult and confusion. In the Australian Open men’s final, when he and Novak Djokovic were level after two typically gruelling and intense opening sets and the Serb appeared to be on the brink of a physical breakdown, Murray says he started to think too far ahead.

‘I was thinking, “Oh my God, this could be yours”,’ says Murray. ‘If someone is cramping in the final of a Grand Slam, the match is yours.’ But Djokovic recovered and Murray abandoned himself to uncomprehending fury. By the time Britain’s 2013 Wimbledon champion retrieved his composure, it was too late.

‘I definitely got down on myself,’ says Murray. ‘I don’t want that to happen. It’s not like I come off the court and I’m really proud of myself and I say, “Well done, Andy, you just blew C M Y K

the Australian Open”. Sometimes, the criticism afterwards can be quite difficult. I don’t want to behave that way. I’m telling you right now, I don’t want to behave that way.

‘Having learned a little bit about how the mind works, I understand that it can happen. It is like when a footballer gets kicked and stands up and slaps somebody across the face and gets himself sent off and then is immediately, “Oh no, why have I just done that?”

‘People don’t want to behave in those ways in pressure situations but unfortunately they do sometimes. I have only got myself to blame but in some ways, it’s natural. It’s something I’m working on constantly to try to improve. It’s not like I dismiss it and say it was nothing.’

As Murray thinks back to Melbourne, to screaming at himself, to contorting his face with anger and yelling up at the section of seats where his coach, Amelie Mauresmo, his fiancée, Kim Sears, and other members of his team were sitting, he recoils at the memory. He knows it was selfdefeating.

It is one of the reasons why he has been open about the fact that, like many other leading sportsmen and women, he has sought the counsel of a psychiatrist and a psychologist. Mental health and the psychology of the game is a theme one of the greatest British sportsmen of our generation keeps

Mauresmo was only 19 when she announced at a press conference at the 1999 Australian Open that she was gay.

Lindsay Davenport, whom she had just beaten in the semi-final, said that battling Mauresmo was like ‘playing a guy’

returning to over the next hour.

‘In the past, the things I would say on court, it’s embarrassing,’ says Murray. ‘I would never, ever speak to anybody like that. Ever. Here or in a restaurant or in my day-to-day life, I would never do it.

‘If you listen to a lot of the things I say when I’m on the court, I’m incredibly self-critical. But I have learned how the emotional part of our brain takes over, that what we will tend to do is try to make excuses and blame other people and say that it isn’t your fault.

‘But I know fine well when I come off the court after the match, the first person that I blame is myself. I don’t want to say anything wrong to anyone when I am on the court, but it happens. When someone starts questioning you and you are in a pressure situation, the natural thing to do is to start making excuses for why you are doing something wrong.

‘So sometimes I will say, “Oh, I missed that backhand because I haven’t practised it enough”, when I know that that is not the case and I know it is completely irrational. It is something I am constantly trying to get better at. I have spoken to a lot of athletes and that is what we do.’

To understand more about Murray, it helps to understand a little of Mauresmo, too, and why Murray appointed her as his coach in June last year, a few months after his split with Ivan Lendl. Many said it was a ‘brave’ move, which was their code for ‘stark, staring mad’. Most thought the partnership would fail. More than that, it seemed last summer and for much of the time since that most people hoped it would fail.

Mauresmo was only 19 when she announced at a press conference at the 1999 Australian Open that she was gay. Lindsay Davenport, whom she had just beaten in the semi-final, said that battling Mauresmo was like ‘playing a guy’. Martina Hingis, who beat her in the final, said that Mauresmo was ‘half a man’.

She was labelled a choker, even though she reached world No 1, having lost in several Grand Slams from positions of strength. But then in 2006, towards the end of her career, she won the Australian Open and Wimbledon.

Murray knew her story and was inspired by it. He spoke to her and was impressed. He liked the fact that she seemed to have found an inner peace and that she was not bloated with the bombast that seemed to dominate the characters of some of the male coaches on the ATP Tour.

‘The reason I started working with her was that when I sat down and spoke with her, I found her very calming,’ says Murray. ‘She listened to everything I said. It wasn’t like I started talking and then she immediately just started talking over me.

‘One of the things I felt she did extremely well as a player — and I felt she could help me with — was that she used a lot of variety on the court. She used a lot of slice, different spins.

She used to come to the net a lot. She served and volleyed every first serve at Wimbledon.

‘I’m certain now that, after the last two months working with Amelie, I can significantly improve my game. Unless I win a Grand Slam with Amelie, people will say that it wasn’t successful or that she is not a good coach. I know the reality.

‘I had great success with Ivan Lendl. Was he a perfect coach?

No. Was he a very good coach?

Yeah. He had some very strong qualities and some things that weren’t so good. Amelie, likewise, has some very strong qualities. Amelie was the best in the world at what she did and to be the best in the world at what you do in anything, you have to have strong mental characteristics.

‘She went through a lot as a person as well and she handled a lot of the issues that she had during her career very well.

She was seen as being a choker.

People would call her that.

Even though she was No 1 in the world. But she got through that and won a couple of majors. So mentally, I think she is extremely strong.’

Those who had doubted the wisdom of Murray’s hiring of the Frenchwoman claimed vindication last November when he was trounced 6-0, 6-1

by Roger Federer in an ATP Tour Finals round-robin match that knocked him out of the tournament at London’s O2 Arena. Murray lost the match but Mauresmo took the hit.

‘I was shocked at the criticism she took after the O2,’ says Murray. ‘There was no questioning of anyone else in my team. There were some people questioning me, but a lot of it was about how it was Amelie’s fault. They were saying I was confused and I had no identity and that she was no good, basically.

‘I didn’t get it. I hadn’t seen that with any of the other supercoaches or the ex-players. I hadn’t seen people saying “Michael Chang is rubbish” or “Ivan Lendl is rubbish” or [Stefan] Edberg or [Boris] Becker.

‘Since then, Amelie put me in the position where I was competing for a Grand Slam again.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—41

F

it-as-a-fiddle Opral Benson, popularly known as the Iya oge of Lagos, believes everything that could be written has been written about her. And so for the occasion of her 80th birthday which she celebrated last month, Woman to Woman preferred to chat with her about her charity work, as well as the legacy she would like to leave behind.

You have an unusual amount of activity in the non-profit, to what do you attribute this?

I think that we need people to help with NGOs and activities that could move the country forward and empower people so they could be made independent in their own right. If there’s anything I know that I can do to make the next person’s life better I should go ahead and do it.

After all, what am I here for?

What does the milestone of your 80th mean to you?

To be grateful to God that I’ve lived this long and to thank everyone who has participated in my little victories one way or the other. There have foes, there have been friends, there have been family and I think my milestone now is to do what I’ve been doing, keeping myself fit, busy, looking after individuals and NGOs and trying to be a complement to the society in which I live.

At this point is it appropriate to ask what legacy you would like to leave behind?

That I did my best when I was here and to live my life the best way I could- productive and without being a problem to anyone. I tried to help as much as I can in this country, in Liberia where I was born and brought. Interacting with other people. Also I had a school that trained people in the beauty profession and by so doing we have been able to put many people into jobs and also catering for themselves and to make a living one way or the other through the beauty industry. I am glad that I did. To be useful to somebody- that is my legacy You have been so decorated with so many different awards.

Which one means the most to you?

Every one of them; I don’t want to discriminate. So far I have had a hundred and something awards from various groups, organizations, individuals, governments, international and it won’t be fair on my part to say this one is good and that one is not good. If they think that much of me and they want to give me an award I would want to say that all of them have been good but I think that because government has recognized me in Nigeria and Liberia and given me awards, I place government on top of the individuals. It doesn’t mean that their award means more to me. It just means that being recognized by the countries in which I’ve lived.

To you, what role could

•Opral Benson

I did my best — Opral Benson fashion play in Africa’s development?

Fashion like any other business tends to improve the personality of people. Fashion is how you carry yourself and what to do with yourself and all of that makes you feel self confident and love yourself and let others love you.

Beyond the individual…

It also provides a living for people- designers, tailors. It’s one of those things that will always be on the ground. They contribute as well to national development.

So much has been written about your celebrated marriage to TOS Benson.

I don’t know why they are writing so much about my celebrated marriage- a marriage is a marriage, why are they celebrating mine?

Because we came from two different countries?

I know I’m not coming to this world again. I might come as a spirit but I won’t come as a young lady getting ready to get married but what I did was

something I felt very strongly about at that time and I still feel that I did not make a mistake so if I was a young girl all over again- which is not going to happen- and the circumstances on the ground were the same I would do it again.

Your country Liberia produced the first female African president ever. Do you see this as an advantage?

I think so because it has encouraged many women to be able to think positively about themselves and know what they can achieve. What a man can do administratively a woman can also do.

The country of your birth was once war torn. What is the role of women in peace keeping?

Women have to first of all the whole concept of peace and what it’s all about. There are people out there trying to destroy peace and I think that from the home, from friends, from acquaintances, you have to understand what it’s all

I know I’m not coming to this world again. I might come as a spirit but I won’t come as a young lady getting ready to get married but what I did was something I felt very strongly about

about which is getting ahead with each other so that at the end of the day they are not putting petrol into the fire. They are trying to solve problems in a positive manner. They are trying to make people see what they cannot see in terms of how we can develop ourselves. I think it’s from the love angle and point of view that women can really help. We have to go out there and really try to talk. It comes from interaction with others in a very positive manner.

In our particular situation in Nigeria, how could this happen?

I don’t think I’m in a position to know what is happening in Nigeria because like you and others in the media write, I just read what you write so I cannot say what situation we are really in. I read what the papers say then I use my own brain and try to analyze and I try to compare.

Don’t follow everything you read or hear but do the best that you can to help the situationanything that is pleasant, anything that is peaceful.

42 —

C M Y K

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14 14, 2015

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—43

08 116759 759 081 6759759

The young Aussie woman who gave up modelling for mining, and has made enough money as a truck driver

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hana Mooyman turned her back on a glamorous life as a model and swapped it for a job in the iron ore mines of Western Australia, which has earned her enough money to buy her three investment properties.

The 25-year-old started modelling from a young age and often saw her face plastered on promotional nightclub and festival posters.

Ms Mooyman, from Bunbury in Western Australia, made the unusual career switch at the age of 19 when

she became a mobile plant operator at a mineral sands mine in Cataby. After six years behind the wheel of heavy machinery, Ms Mooyman, who is now a fully qualified operator, is adamant she can hold her own - despite working in such a predominately male industry.

‘I was a little nervous first coming into this work, being so isolated from everyone into such a small area grouped together with mainly blokes around,’ she said. ‘But I survived my first couple of shifts and an older lady took

me under her wing. ‘We started having after work drinks with my crew and that’s when the potty mouth started.

‘They converted me. I was now just one of the guys holding my ground not taking any of their nonsense.

‘You just need to learn to speak up and don’t take their jibes seriously and you’ll be fine.’ Ms Mooyman said she wanted to move into the mining industry as it was ‘something so new and exciting’ with ‘heaps to be learnt’.

‘Once I started I was earning

A ffemale emale Lebanese TTVV hos hostt has won wide-spread suppor ound agains supportt af aftter ssttanding her gr ground againstt an Islamis Islamistt sc holar ffollowing ollowing his sexis scholar sexistt comments live on air air..

R

ima Karaki was conducting an interview with London-based Islamist Hani Al-Seba’i for Lebanon’s Al Jadeed on the weekend of International Women’s Day, discussing reports of Christians joining Islamic groups such as ISIS in the Middle East when the scholar went off on a historical tangent.

The row, which has been watched more than 2.3million times on YouTube, comes as global views on women’s rights face more scrutiny than ever before.

In the recent footage, Karaki urges Sheik Al-Seba’i to get back to the issues being faced in the present day, and asks him another question, a request which sparks a heated argument.

Karaki tries to get Al-Seba’i back on topic, asking him to ‘focus on the present’.

She asks: ‘At present, what slogans are used to attract (Christians) to these groups?’

But Dr Al Seba’i becomes angry and abruptly replies: ‘Listen, don’t cut me off. I will

answer as I please.’

He then raises his voice, adding: ‘I will not answer the way you like, because I’m here to serve the idea in which I believe.’

Karaki politely explains that they have limited time

on the show, but Al-Seba’i refuses to listen, telling the TV host he would not be interrupted and that he will answer as he pleases.

The host then lets the scholar know exactly who’s in charge. ‘In this studio, I run

more than I ever did locally and loved being outdoors all day. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else,’ she said.

‘It’s definitely not for all men and women as there are so many downsides to being away.’ Ms Mooyman said she left the modelling industry because she needed a more stable profession. ‘I started modelling at a young age but it was never serious enough for me to take it up further,’ she said.

‘When I was 18 years old I did a lot of promotional modelling night clubs, the show,’ Karaki says.

It provokes an angry reaction from Al-Seba’i. ‘Are you done?’ he says. ‘Shut up so I can talk. ‘It’s beneath me to be interviewed by you. You are a woman who...’

‘If you are going to elaborate so much, we won’t have time for other questions. ‘Now, it’s up to you. If we have time, you will answer all the questions,’ she says. Dr Al Seba’i replies: “You can decide as much as you like, but I will do whatever I want.’ With her palm facing the Sheikh, Karaki then delivers the ultimate end to the conversation.

‘How can a respected Sheik like yourself tell a TV host to shut up?’ she asks.

‘Either there is mutual respect or the conversation is over.’ The studio cameras then switch back to the studio leaving the Sheik in the dark.

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Married TTVV act or w ak es up ttoo ffind ind actor wak akes his testicles have been STOLEN—

olice in Russia are P tracking a gang apparently including a doctor - who drugged a TV soap actor and removed his

testicles. Dmitry Nikolaev, 30, had a drink with a ‘young blonde woman’ who approached him at a bar after he finished a performance at a small Moscow theatre.

Flirting with him, she invited him to a sauna, and though he was married, he agreed to go with her. ‘They kissed and had some more beer and after that the actor remembers nothing,’ said a police source.

He woke up next day at a bus stop, feeling acute pain, and with blood on his trousers. Rushed to hospital, he was told that his testicles had been removed and that ‘it was done like proper surgery by someone with a medical education’.

The operation was conducted in a ‘skillful way’, said police, who believe his beer was spiked by an unknown drug. They fear a gang seeking to sell human organs on the black market.

The actor, now working as a children’s animator, was too embarrassed at first to explain what had happened to his wife, said media reports. Russia’s Life News carried exclusive pictures of the victim in hospital.

festivals and concerts in the Perth area. ‘This involved photo shoots for particular venues to use for advertising purposes so I was plastered on posters for events also wearing certain outfits. ‘But I was paying off loans and needed a change of job so a friend helped me out.’ ‘In no time I’d developed skills to operate a large variety of machines such as excavators, loaders, dump trucks, water carts, tractors and forklifts you name it, I’ve driven it,’ she

said.

‘I’ve been contracted to work on a variety of sites including Gin Gin, Eneabba and local areas around Perth.

‘These would be a few weeks at a time working solo to get a job complete so I was stuck at the mines for long periods at a time.

‘It can be very isolating.

Being stuck in a tiny bedroom isn’t for everyone.

‘But it’s been a great step for me and something that I never knew I’d end up doing.’

Chile leader visits ailing 114 4 yyear ear ear-old who wants to end her life hile’s President C Michelle Bachelet on Saturday visited a 14-year-

old girl suffering from cystic fibrosis who made a heartwrenching video appeal to be allowed to end her life.

Valentina Maureira had addressed Bachelet personally in the message, which she recorded with a smartphone and uploaded to YouTube from her hospital bed without her parents knowledge.

“I ask to speak urgently with the president, because I am tired of living with this disease,” she said.

“She can authorize an injection to put me to sleep forever,” she said.

Maureira is in “stable” condition from cystic fibrosis, an incurable genetic disorder that attacks the lungs and other vital organs, making it difficult to breath and causing a host of other symptoms. Her message has been viewed thousands of times on social networks, igniting debate over euthanasia in Chile, where it is forbidden by law.

Bachelet responded to the appeal with Saturday

morning’s unannounced visit, accompanied by Health Minister Carmen Castillo.

They spent nearly an hour with her at the Catholic University hospital in Santiago, according to the government, which posted a photograph of the encounter on Twitter.

Bachelet’s spokesman Alvaro Elizalde had said on Thursday that the government could not comply with Maureira’s wishes but would cover the cost of psychiatric treatment for her and her family.

Her father Fredy Maureira said he had to respect his daughter’s wishes. “She is 14 years old and she knows this disease better than anyone,” he told the Chilean press.

“It’s very tough, I don’t want to be going through this, but I have to respect my daughter’s decision. She wants to be at rest.”

“She is 14 years old and she knows this disease better than anyone,” he told the Chilean press.

“It’s very tough, I don’t want to be going through this, but I have to respect my daughter’s decision. She wants to be at rest.”

44—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Pomp as Admiral Amusu’s daughter weds

I

L-R: Rear Admiral Lanre Amusu (Rtd), bride's father, Mrs. Solarin, groom's mother, the couple, Mr. & Mrs. Taiwo Senate Solarin, Mr. Solarin, groom's father and Major-General Tilewa Amusu, bride's mother

t was a gathering of military top brass when the daughter of Rear Admiral Lanre Amusu (rtd) and Major General Tilewa Amusu wedded heart-throb in Lagos recently. Senate Oluwakemi Amusu and Taiwo Solarin were solemnised at St. Paul’s Anglican Church Idi-oro Lagos.Amongst the dignitaries that graced the occasion were General Ogoimudia (Rtd) (former Chief of Defence Staff), Vice Admiral Ezeoba (Rtd), Major Gen. Ogunbiyi (Commander Nigeria Army Medical core, (Rtd), Major General Njoke, Odika, Ogini (Rtd) and others.

Elizabeth Chris marks bir thda birthda thdayy in style

F

or Elizabeth Chris of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and mother of Nollywood actress, Matilda Lambert adding another year was a blissful experience as her daughter, friends and wellwishers came together to celebrate with her. The birthday party held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja recently and it was filed with merriment, refreshment and memories to cherish for long.

The celebrant with her children, Matilda , othersand their friends, Voke, Lizzy. Laye, and Lolas,

The bridal train.

The couple, Mr. & Mrs. Taiwo Senate Solarin,

Vanguard pho ther wards phottographer ographer,, o other therss bag NIPRESS a aw

V

anguard photographer, Mr Wumi Akinola, stationed in Ogun State were among eminent Nigerians honoured for their outstanding contribution to Islam during a national symposium organised by Nigeria Islamic Press (NIPRESS), publishers of Islam Speaks in conjunction with Campaign Group for Better Life in Africa (CAGBEA)

L-R: Matilda Lambert, celebrant, Elizabeth Chris, Layefa Offumbu and behind is, Francis Charles.

L-R: Layefa, Lizzy, Matilda, Happy and Agatha.

L-R: Hon Justice Demola Bakare , Prince Bola Ajibola, Chief Lecturer, and representative of Alake of Egbaland.

R-L: Barr. Adisa Adewolu receiving his award from Hon. Justice Demola Bakre (Rtd.)

R-L:Mr Omowunmi Akinola receives his award from Oba Yunus Akinmade Onigbedu of Gbedu.

L-R: Nurse Nosirat Olawale, Mrs. Bose Akinsola , Mr. Wunmi Akinola, awardee, Mr. M. Olawale and Master Olawale Lekan .

R-L: actress Matilda Lambert and mum, Elizabeth Chris

SATURDAY

T

he Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke has declared that the Ministry and its parastatals are focused on mitigating the effects of lower crude oil prices by directing efforts and investments towards the diversification of oil revenue base in 2015 and beyond.

Speaking at the 2014 budget performance and 2015 budget defence presentation before the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources-Upstream, Downstream and Gas Resources, Mrs. Alison-Madueke stated that the ministry will expand its revenue frontiers by enhancing gas operations, expanding retail outlets and increasing refineries’ capacity utilization while at the same time minimizing the losses.

The Petroleum Minister noted that the year 2014 was packed with several industry activities, the most apparent being the upsurge in divestment and acquisition transactions that are boosting the number of Nigerian upstream operations. ‘’However, the petroleum ministry still faced a number of challenges, such as pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, declining crude oil prices, inadequate funding.

Notwithstanding, with all hands

Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—45

Alison-Madueke seeks diversification of Oil Revenue Base •As NPDC grows Crude Production from 130, 000 to 205, 007 barrels per day on deck and the support of the National Assembly, the industry performed well in 2014,” Mrs. Alison-Madueke said.

The minister listed some of the achievements of the industry in 2014 to include: the increase in In the production capacity of the National Petroleum Development Company, NPDC from 130, 000 barrels per day to 205, 007 bpd, the sustenance of crude oil production at an average of over 2.24million barrels per day in spite of all the attendant challenges of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, growing of NPDC into a midsize Exploration and Production Company and major gas supplier to the domestic market with over 600 Million Standard Cubic Feet of gas per day supplied through Oredo, Ughelli and Utorogu gas plant.

•Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke Also listed as achievements within the period are; the enhancement of gas infrastructure through the

addition of new Central Processing Facilities along critical gas pipelines, restructuring of the upstream gas sector by increasing the delivery price and transmission of gas with a view to boosting investment in the sector, collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN to settle outstanding indebtedness of the Power Sector to upstream gas suppliers in order to ensure continuity of supply, boosting of gas supply to power with current ability to support 5, 800 MW of generating capacity with all completed power plants connected to permanent gas supply lines as well as the attainment of an average Gas Production of over 8.6 billion cubic feet of gas per day and over 7.6 bcfd utilization at the end of 2014.

The Petroleum minister said that in 2014 the ministry through the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation commenced the critical expansion and construction of major backbone infrastructure which led to the expansion of Escravos –Lagos pipeline to 2 billion cubic feet per day capacity, the East-West OB3 Pipeline as well as the Calabar-

Ajaokuta-Kano Pipeline utilizing Eurobonds and IFC Funding. “ within the period we embarked on aggressive Gas infrastructure delivery which resulted in the completion of over 450km of gas pipeline, additional 377km pipeline construction is ongoing plus another 1, 400km at developmental stages expected to commence in 2015, ” she said.

In the downstream sub-sector, NNPC Retail increased operational stations from 432 in 2013 to 496 in 2014 while stability in the supply and distribution of petroleum products was achieved within the period.

“After many years of being inoperable due to pipeline vandalism, we have upgraded many of the our pipelines and products Marketing Depots across the nation, namely: Port Harcourt-Aba product; WarriBenin; Kaduna-Gusau; SulejaMinna; Kaduna-Jos, Jos-Gombe, only last week, the Aba Enugu pipeline. All these depots are now fully operational and will enhance the stable supply of petroleum products across the country despite the challenges of vandalism,” she said.

Cote D’Ivoire Seeks LNG Supply from Nigeria •••As NNPC affirms Gas Supply commitment to Ghana via WAGPCO Corridor

N

igeria’s move to seek broader frontiers for its Liquefied Natural Gas away from the traditional Asianpacific hub received a subregional push on Wednesday as the Republic of Cote D’ Ivoire signaled its intention to procure LNG supplies from Nigeria in support of its growing power needs.

The package which is the first of its kind in the West African sub-region would see Nigeria commit a small chunk of its daily LNG output which stands at over three billion cubic feet of gas per day, to its sub-regional neighbors in the first instance before the eventual extension of the West Africa Gas Pipeline to Cote D’Ivoire and Senegal.

Leading a delegation from the Ivorien Ministry of Energy to the NNPC Towers Abuja, Kone Moussa, a Director stated that his country would be relying on structural diversion of LNG Cargoes from Nigeria as a starter within the next few months to tackle the growing energy needs. He informed that the country has already entered into a working relationship with Sahara Energy to drive the process.

Receiving the delegation, Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Dr. Joseph Dawha stated that the NNPC is ready to cash in on the opportunity in line with its overall strategic expansion drive for Nigeria’s LNG market.

Dr. Dawha’s perspective was echoed by Dr. David Ige, Group Executive Director, Gas & Power of the NNPC who emphasized that the move would help broaden the supply base.

“At the moment the entire West African Sub-region starting from Nigeria is undergoing phenomenal economic growth and that practically translates into a higher demand for energy. As you know the West African Gas pipeline terminates in

Ghana, so Cote D’Ivoire has come to request that we bring gas to them in the first instance by LNG and ultimately in the future by extension of the pipeline,” Dr. Ige said.

He noted that apart from offering a strategic opportunity for NNPC and Nigeria, the project is in line with the NEPAD spirit and would serve the mutual growth of ECOWAS member countries by fostering the economic integration of the

West Africa corridor.

“What this means is that in future we don’t have to go as far as Europe or Asia to supply LNG when we can do so next door,” he said.

Earlier a delegation from Ghana led by the Minister of Power, Honourable Kwabena Donkor was at the NNPC Towers to seek support on recent unintended gas supply disruptions in the West Africa Gas Pipeline grid.

Dr. Ige assured that the NNPC is working

aggressively with all other partners in the WAGPCO to restore supply disruptions wrought by extraneous factors. “ It has been a very difficult time not only for Ghana but for Nigeria as well because of the disruptions in pipelines.

But I believe and strongly too that the various interventions that are ongoing by the Federal Government would help restore as well as grow the reliability of the WAGP,” he said.

NNPC Sheds Light on Pipeline Protection Contracts to Community-Based Companies I

n a bid to effectively combat the growing scourge of pipeline sabotage that has impacted negatively on its operations, the Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has announced the renewal and extension of the pipeline protection contract to some of its host communities.

Explaining the rationale behind the renewal of the contract which was first awarded in 2011, the Corporation stated that there has been a noticeable increase in the spate of attacks on crude oil, products, and gas pipelines since the expiration of the

first community-based contract in 2012 leading to frequent production shut-ins and deferrals of gas supply to power plants.

“The pipeline protection contract is part of our community engagement programme across our host communities aimed at getting community members to help in the task of protecting the pipelines around their communities.

“It would be recalled that while the earlier pipeline protection contract to the communities which lasted from 2011 to 2012 subsisted, breaches to our pipelines were minimal which conduced to the rise in

production. The recent rise in the frequency and intensity of willful attacks on our pipelines dictates that we step up our community engagement programme to help stem the tide of the pipeline vandalism scourge.

“In the current programme, we have not only renewed the contracts for the three initial community-based companies involved in the 2011 contract, we have extended the programme to five other community-based companies in other states where we have a high concentration of pipelines stretching from the Niger Delta to the Ondo, Ogun, Oyo and Lagos States.

“The contracts do not in any way obviate or undermine the responsibility of the police and other security agencies to protect the pipelines.

They are actually designed to complement the work of the security agencies by raising the alarm and drawing the attention of security agencies to any suspicious movements around the pipelines right of way,” the Corporation stated.

It called on the media and other members of the public to desist from reading political meanings to the Corporation’s operations.

46—SATURDAY VANGUARD, MARCH 14, 2015

juliecoker100@yahoo.com

My marriage is suffering Dear Julie, I have been having a lot of trouble with my husband. It’s not necessarily trouble, but I’ve been unhappy for a long time. Lately, nothing seems good between us anymore. He doesn’t want to do anything. Our anniversary came and went without a card. So did Mother’s Day and my birthday. We haven’t exchanged a Aunty Julie,

M

y boyfriend and I have been together for four years. We have been a very happy couple. We love the companionship and we get along really well. Everything was perfect until we both found jobs in the same area and decided to move in together. Our relationship was still strong, but I have been feeling like I need space. Space to be alone. I told him how I felt. Without a doubt, he was hurt, but he packed his stuff and left. Now I feel like I made a mistake and I’m missing him so much.

I just turned 26 and have been with

hug or a kiss in I don’t know how long, and sex between us doesn’t even exist.

What am I going to do? Please help.

Funmilayo, Lagos Dear Funmilayo, Being unhappy is trouble. Ups and downs are a natural aspect of all relationships, especially long-term relationships where some of the flash and dazzle subdues into

I want space this guy for a pretty long time now.

He is my first love. I see myself marrying him in the future. Yet, I am still so young and need to explore to experience other things. He is 100% sure that he wants to be with me, wants to marry me, and loves me so much. He has dated girls and has been in a serious relationship before.

He got to see what is out there. So basically, we both see a future together, but I feel that we need some time to be alone for once. We

Why did she break up with me Dear Aunty Julie, I don’t know what I did wrong. My girlfriend of one and a half years broke up with me out of the blues. We never fought or argued. I asked her why, she said “I don’t know.” I asked her what did I do wrong and she said “nothing.” She was my first ever girlfriend and I was planning to ask her to marry me. I don’t understand what I did wrong. There has to be a reason. Why won’t she tell me?

Ibrahim, Auchi Dear Ibrahim, Breaking up is hard to do, especially when you are the one left wondering what went wrong. This must be a tough time for you, especially considering that you were planning on proposing. It can appear challenging to start over when you thought you had your life all squared away. But start over you must! Have

faith and believe in yourself — it will become easier with time.

What really matters is that you realize you did nothing wrong and that you couldn’t have prevented the break up. In order to heal, it may help to have a sense of closure. Why it ended needs to be clear to you; otherwise, you may have doubts about the relationship and yourself for a long time. Do you feel comfortable letting your ex-girlfriend know that an explanation, or one reason, for breaking up with you will help you to go on with your life?

Even if it has nothing to do with you, you deserve to know at least part of the reason why. It is possible that she may not even know why she broke up with you.

Have you considered the possibility that your ex-girlfriend may not be willing to speak to you?

Perhaps she needs some personal

What an insult “Harry,” whined Mary, to her husband of 20 years.

“What should I do?! I’m not ready for old age! I’m only 40 years old but I look and feel like I’m over 55! My face is all wrinkly, my back is bent over, and my hair is all thinned out.” “Well,” said Harry after looking her up and down, “There is one thing about you that still works as good as new.”

“Oh Harry!” said Mary sitting down next to her husband, “you always know just what to say!

What are you referring to?” “Never mind” said Harry looking down. “C’mon Harry, please tell me what you were referring to.” “Mary, please don’t make me.” “Harry I insist.” “Well I was going to remark about how your eyesight seems to be working just fine!”

Celebration time Mark was passing by the bar on the way home from work when he sees his good friend Tom gulping down one shot after another. Fearing the worst, Mark charged into the bar and confronted Tom. “Tom what’s going on?” Mark asked. “It’s my wife Beckie,” Tom replied. “She ran off with my best friend!” “Hey wait a second! Said Mark “Aren’t I your best friend?” “Not any more,” Tom said with a happy smile. “He is!”

the more sustained benefits like steadiness, trust, and reliability. But that certainly doesn’t mean you should live without happiness or the physical intimacies and affectionate gestures that can make love such a pleasure.

Rather than speculating about what may be going on with your husband, talking openly about your concerns could help clear the air. Have you told your husband how you’re feeling?

Have you asked him why he isn’t interested in doing things together, acknowledging important dates, and why his lust seems to have faded? He may be under unusual pressure at work, having a physical problem that he’s not discussing, or experiencing a host of other challenging, embarrassing, or painful issues. Asking him what he’s feeling, how he’s experiencing the relationship, and then sharing your side of things might help you two come to a new understanding of the state of your marriage, and decide on a course of action to make things better.

are the type of couple to see each other everyday, but we both work full-time and have our own hobbies. Why did I feel so trapped?

Liberty, Benin City Dear Liberty, Moving in with a significant other can be a big step, even for couples who’ve been together for a while. In your case, the transition seemed to be a shock to your system! The decision to marry or spend the rest of your lives together can feel overwhelming, and moving in together may have felt like a big step toward committing

space and time to reflect on her needs and desires. While unpleasant to think about, it is always good to have a back-up plan in case she won’t give you an answer. Your family and friends may help you to reaffirm your selfconfidence and move forward in life and new fulfilling relationships.

Although you need to grieve for this loss, make sure that it doesn’t consume you. You may want to participate in activities that you enjoy to keep your mind off of your lost love or perhaps introduce you to new and exciting people. Perhaps you can talk with friends and family about how you feel. For many knowing that people in your life love, support, and care about you can be comforting.

Know that you will be okay on your own, and that someday, you may meet that special someone who will feel the same way as you do about sharing your lives together.

C O C K - T A L E S Beggars and players John Sam and Abe, 3 retired friends,would get together every night, rain or shine, to play poker. It was a nice way to pass the time and the men enjoyed it immensely. John’s wife wasn’t so fond of her husband’s poker playing. She thought it was a dirty and low way to fill his time, but she had long ago resigned herself to her sorry fate, although inside of her, there was always a low flame on the back burner waiting to erupt. One Wednesday night, after a few nights of boring games, something exciting happened.

Sam watched in amusement as John and Abe, each convinced that they had the better hand, slowly put their life savings into the pot. Things started to get really intense when John, running out of available cash, added his car and house into the pot. When there was no money left to bet on they each showed their cards. As soon as John saw Abe’s cards and realized he had lost, he had a heart attack and died. “Sam,” asked Abe “how are we going to tell his wife?” “Don’t worry I’ll take care of it” Abe replied. Abe knocked on John’s door. “John just lost all of your life savings in a poker game,” said Sam when the door was opened. “He’s afraid to come home.” John’s wife was fuming “HE DID WHAT?!” She screamed. “TELL HIM I DON’T WANT TO EVER SEE HIS FACE AGAIN! TELL HIM TO JUST DROP DEAD!” “Ok,” said Sam nodding his head, “I’ll tell him just that!”

Remember to try not to attack or accuse him, but to discuss diplomatically how you’ve been acting towards each other. Find a time when you can sit down quietly and calmly to talk about some of these things. You might want to start off by preparing your husband for a serious conversation.

Some examples of relatively easy ways to start a conversation like this might be, “I love you and our marriage is really important to me, so I want to talk to you about some things I’ve noticed.” Or, “Would you be willing to talk with me about some things that have been hard for me recently?”

Often, acknowledging that a problem exists is a first major step towards solving it. You sound like you’re aware of aspects of your relationship you’d like to change, and that is a great place to begin. Sharing your feelings with your husband, and trying to come up with ways to create those changes can lead to a revitalized marriage with renewed sexiness, thoughtfulness, and affection.

yourself to that path. Maybe it’s time to have a heart-to-heart about how your desires for space and exploration affect the future of your relationship.

You seem to have some conflicting feelings about the relationship: it’s happy, and you both think it has potential, but you have a desire to experience being with other people. What do you want to experience before setting down? If you have doubts about what you want, you could take time apart to explore some options. Some people feel that they learn valuable things from being with different people. Every relationship is different and may help you realize things about yourself, characteristics that you value in a partner, or dynamics between two people that you want in a relationship. There’s also a possibility that one of you might meet someone else and decide you don’t want to be together. Or, you might discover that you really do want to be together, and you can get rid of your doubts.

Maybe you want to be together but still live apart. Separate places nearby could let you slowly transition to living together. This way, you both can spend time at each others’ houses and still have a refuge when you need alone time. If you do go back to living together, you could purposefully schedule some alone time. Having time to yourself at home and time apart from your partner to pursue your own interests and friendships may help both of you maintain a healthy relationship.

It sounds like a strength of your relationship is that you’re able to express your needs and your boyfriend listens and respects them. A good partner will also value the fact that you take the time and space you need to make sure that you make the best decisions for yourself. Giving yourself time and space to think about your priorities and what you want from the future can help you build a solid relationship with anyone you choose.

Legends of the game “So Grandpa” asked Dave at his engagement party “your marriage to Grandma is legendary everyone talks about how you two get along so well and never fight, what’s the secret to your marital success?” “Well” said Grandpa Joe after taking a deep puff on his cigar “it all started on the way home from our wedding, we hadn’t gone but a mile when the horse started giving us trouble I gave the horse a little whip and that’s when I heard your Grandma say in a low voice “that’s strike one.” A bit later the horse stopped again “that’s strike two” she said. The third time it stopped she grabbed my shotgun out of my holster and shot it in the head. I was in shock! “What in the world was that all about?” I had protested at the time. “That’s strike one!” she said back to me. “And that is what I owe our marital success to.”

Master of the house A solicitor for the Red Cross called upon a well-to-do young couple for a donation. Hearing a commotion inside he knocked extra-loudly on the door. A somewhat disheveled man admitted him in. “What can I do for you?” he growled, clearly upset about something. “I would like to speak to the master of the house,” said the solicitor politely. “Then you’re just in time,” barked the young man. “My wife and I are settling that very question right now!”

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, MARCH 14 14,, 2015—47

bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

S

“I prayed never to be like my dad as I held my first child”

ome five months ago, Earnest, a chartered accountant who’d just ventured into doing it alone in his private firm, became a father for the first time. He’s still in awe of what he termed “a miracle and God’s priceless gift to us.”

According to him, “My son’s coming has turned me up-side out. All those things that seemed essential to me have, in the past days, taken on a different colour. Like many young unattached professional men I know, I have lived a life that on occasion has veered along the edge— parties, reckless relationships, you name it.

In a word of insecurity and ambition and ego, it is easy to be drawn in, to take chances with your life, to believe that what we do, and what people say about us is reason enough to gamble with life.

“How I got married was not such an event. I’d knew Clair for a few years, but I’d other girlfriends too. Then she got pregnant and, for the first time in my life, abortion didn’t feature. I was 28, a few of my friends were already married and Clair seemed keen to give it a go, so we got married. But as this moment to even the baby grew inside her, I think of children being became curious. Who was I hurt and abused and bringing into the world? I even killed. Looking at imagined what it would look my son gives me flashlike. Would it be a boy? A back of an abusive father girl perhaps? And now that who was glued to the he is here, days have melted bottle. I was the first of into nights and back again. five children and the Clair and I are learning a memory of my mum is new grammar — a long not a pleasant one. sentence whose punctuation Money was scarce and marks are feeding and the little there was paid winding and nappyfor the alcohol to which changing. Clair’s mother my father has become had offered to help and addicted. The cancer of she’d stayed for a few weeks alcoholism ate away at until Clair, could cope with looking after our son.

When my son is older, he will learn how complicated life becomes, how people can easily lose their way and get hurt inside and out

,

“I was never tired of watching the baby suckle contentedly. And my dear wife, who’s always been a designer freak, is often more tired than I have ever known her, yet she’s happier. I’ve learnt to give her a break and look after our son from time to time.

These are my moments too — moments when I gaze into my son’s sleeping face, listening to his occasional sigh and gurgle and I wonder how I could ever have thought that all that chasing after fame and fortune was sweater than this wonder I’ve helped create.

“It is times like this that I’m pained, haunted more like, by the memory of each suffering child I have come across. To say the truth, it is almost too much to bear at

,

my dad until mum died prematurely. We were then left to be raised by our maternal grandparents. They did their best but I always hated the way people looked at us with pity.

Some had seen our father weaving and stumbling from one cheap bear parlour to the other.

Though I loved my father, I was ashamed of him.

Before the drink possessed him, I remember the time he showed us off proudly at parties, the few things he bought us and the stories he told once in a while.

“Thank goodness I was a brilliant scholar and had a good education due to a few scholarship I was awarded. My siblings

haven’t done so well for themselves, but they’ll get by. I help from time to time and when dad died last year, we were all he had to give the semblance of a good burial. How could he waste away his life like that? A man who’d had a fairly basic

education. Only, he couldn’t hold down a decent job—the booze always won.

When I went to clear his room at the insistence of his younger brother who graciously gave him a room in his house, the room was full of old cheap gin bottles and clothes. I noticed that he had kept all the letters I and my siblings had written to him. Letters and photographs from years ago.

For all those years, they were his link with the family that was lost to him. Then I noticed a Bible lying on the bed.

It lay open, and I noticed that he had underlined sentence: (Lord

let me hear thy mercy in the morning, for I have hoped in thee...)

“When my son is older, he will learn how complicated life becomes, how people can easily lose their way and get hurt inside and out. I’ll also let him know that when he let out his first powerful cry in the delivery room where I’d gone to watch the miracle of his emergence into the world, and I became a father, I thought of my own father. And foolish though it may seem I wish he were here to see his first grandchild. To witness sound of hope in your first lustful cry, a new beginning, that you, in all your innocence and freshness, have brought into the world...”

Rekindling your sex-life after childbirth

R

emember —you’re a lover as well as a mum. Buy some sexy new undies, have a new hairdo and get a make over— even the cheapest one could do wonders to your ego. ·To overcome nerves, try making love the night you get the doctor’s go-ahead.

But remind your partner to be sensitive. ·If you’re wary, tighten your buttocks to protect yourself from any discomfort as he slides.Then relax and see how it feels. · Once you’re more confident, try different positions. Going on top will give you control. And use lots of lubricant. · Make time for sex. At least once a week,book some ‘your time’ for cuddles and lovemaking. · If your doctor has given you the green light but you’re still not enjoying sex, go back to your doctor—there may be physical.

S E X A P A D E S! Love rats who got away with murder: Who’s your daddy? “A few months ago, my recently divorced dad decided to date this younger girl who’s closer to my age than his. She’s gorgeous so every time I’d see her, I couldn’t help but check her out.One day while my dad was out of town, I stopped by his place to pick up a set of golf clubs. His girlfriend was home ,and she was wearing this top that was so thin, I could see her nipples through it. She invited

me in to get the clubs and was being flirty the time.On my way out,she kissed me. Since my dad wouldn’t be back until Monday, I decided to spend the night. We promised to never talk about it.”- Alex 29.

Finger nailed: My friend’s family was going out of town and asked me to watch their cat called paws; so I invited my boyfriend over. We snuck into my friend’s parents’big,beautiful bed that had the softest sheets and couldn’t resist having sex on it. Our afternoon rendezvous was amazing, but when we got up, there was blood stains all the sheets. I initially freaked out, but then I remembered I had gotten pretty passionate during the sex act and scratched up my guy’s back.

The stains wouldn’t come out after scrubbing them with soap and water,and I couldn’t afford replacements, so I just turned them inside out and prayed that they wouldn’t notice.

When the family returned home from their trip, her mum pulled me aside and said: “We don’t usually let paws sleep in bed with us, which must be why she panicked and scratched you so well you bled” Abiodun —26

48—SATURDAY

Vanguard , MARCH 14, 2015

YETUNDE AREBI

bed. Honestly, my wife doesn’t deserve to be cheated on, hence I am begging you for any possible solution (if there is).

I don’t want her to know about this yet (unless there is solution to it) so that she won’t feel bad. She always wants the best for me and my siblings. Please help me.

Readers advise will be appreciated.

Thanks and God bless, Taraba man

Should I still marry her?

Dear Yetunde, I am totally confused and devastated with what my fiancé did to me. This is a girl I have known for six good years and have never had any problem with her nor suspected her infidelity until recently.

Everything she tells me, I accept with trust.

At the start of our relationship, I asked about her past and she told me that ever since she was born no one had ever had canal knowledge of her.

From my mail box

Help solve these problems Hello Readers,

A

s some of you may already know, this is a reader participatory platform where we discuss all issues relating to love and life in general. In seeking solutions to the issues raised on this page, I do not claim to have all the answers. I believe that with the vast experiences and intellects of well meaning Nigerians out there, we can trash out many of these problems together.

Let me use this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to you for all your contributions to articles published on this column. Today, I have decided to publish these two letters below. They were sent in by two guys who want readers to help them take decisions concerning their relationships. I have offered my own opinion on the issues raised in their letters, but based on their requests, I have also brought them to you. Please, feel free to send in your opinion/contribution to either or both of the letters. Remember that they will all be published here for the sake of other readers who may also be going through similar problems. My mailing addresses are yetty5050@yahoo.co.uk and inthesunlovezone@yahoo.com I am looking

C M Y K

forward to reading from you. Do have a wonderful weekend!

My wife is too big

Dear Yetunde, Thanks so much for the good work so for and for the way you are solving people’s problems here. May the good Lord keep you and your entire family healthy for us in Jesus name.

Ma, please here is my problem. I got married 2012 to a perfect lady I met online via social media and she happens to be second to none. Every good home needs a woman like my wife.

Honestly, she is too kind.

My problem now is that her honey port is too wide (open) and makes a lot of noise. Too much for my liking and hardly satisfies me while having sex. My thing is just the normal size. I have been bearing this but it is making me to start eying other girls and imagining how sweet they could be on

This February (2014) because of how I trusted and believed everything she has been telling me, I formally let her know of my decision to marry her come next year (2015). To my greatest consternation, something happened in September this year which made me began to suspect her. So, I decided to ask her again to tell me everything she had told me in the past. At first, she told me that she does not have anything to tell as she has kept no secret from me. But when I threatened to quit the relationship, she then confessed that before I knew her somebody raped her. Because of the love I have for her, I decided to forgive her, especially since it was rape. So, I told her “OK fine, no problem, let’s move on”.

But still I was not comfortable with what she had said. I was also not convinced that she was telling me the truth. So, I had to persist, asking her to tell me everything.

Then, she said another one again. She told me that where she was working four years ago- that the man she was working for was also sleeping with her. I again forgave her and insisted if there was more, she must tell me. She insisted that she had confessed everything. But something kept telling me that there was more. So, I decided to use force. I began threatening her that I will take her to a native doctor to go and swear that she was no longer keeping any secret from me.

Initially, she told me she had no problems about going, but when she realised I was serious, she told me she had more confessions to make. I felt a great sorrow in my heart. She confessed that she had had sex with several men and that even in the cause of our relationship she has had abortion six times. I was shocked. This year, I gave her some money to go and clear herself in school. That same week that she received the money from me, she was with a man in a hotel.

I want to stop here because I can’t really give full details because of time. This is my confusion. Should I still go on to marry her with all these atrocities she has committed agains me? Or should I just call off the relationship? This is really troubling me.

Thanks.

Confused man

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

N

o suspense, I got the title of today’s topic from a small story on Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, American entertainers and celebrity couple. Will was once married, but divorced three years later. But he and Jada have been married for 18 years, an eternity by Hollywood standard. Okay, not only Hollywood; 18 years is a long time to sleep and wake up every day seeing the same face; it is a long time to stick with only one lover.

Even though Will and Jada “have built a reputation as being one of Hollywood’s most unshakable couples, Will Smith recently admitted that within their highly talked about marriage, there have been times so rocky that driven by two people simultaneously their relationship has pretty much died not have hiccups? You will get at points. However, instead of calling worked up sometimes, the it quits, these two just find a new way relationship can hit an all-time low, to make things work. you can get bored and tired of your “He told The Sun newspaper: spouse and feel like walking away ‘ whatever you have is gonna die and from the marriage, your differences you are gonna have to rebirth can get increasingly “irreconcilable”, something new. You have to be willing your spouse can get on your nerves to ride the waves. There’s gonna be with lifestyle changes and other some flat days and some stormy days, and that has to be OK’.

“Additionally Jada…has previously said Smith is more than just a husband to her. She explained: ‘We used to have all these rules, [but] as you go on in your relationship, you just get into a flow. Will, to me, encompasses changes like piling on the weight. The everything. It’s almost as if calling him list just goes on and on. Every ‘my husband’ is too small of a word for marriage “dies” at certain points; what he means in my life… I think I happily the parties involved can had a very stuck idea of what a husband resurrect it. looks like, what a wife should be. Once Going through the brief story, a few I broke all of that, a whole new world tricks for refreshing marriages stick opened for me and man, oh man! I got out: Their marriage is real, not an to see him in all his glory. And so that’s illusion. The relationship transcends what it’s evolved into. And I’m just husband (male)/wife (female); they ecstatic about it.” are friends, companions, partners, When I meet people who claim that confidants and soul mates. There is their marriage is all smooth sailing all trust and enormous respect which was the time, I shake my head in pity, earned; they mean the world to each because they are making complete other. That is why the word, husband, fools of themselves and such marriages is too limiting and “too small” for Jada never grow because the foundation is to describe Will. I have always fake and defective. How can a car being

Vanguard,MARCH 14, 2015—49

“My marriage has died”

,

BY EMMA NNADOZIE, CRIME EDITOR

I

t was like an epic Hollywood scene. Five young men, dressed in military fatigue

uniforms and wielding AK47 automatic rifles, just emerged from the nearby waterway bordering the lagoon along Ikoy/ Lekki bridge. Their mission was obvious because they started firing from all fronts. It was the peak hour when workers were on their way home.

Pandemonium ensued as people ran helter-skelter. Some motorists on top of the bridge nearly plunged into the river safe for the rails that barricaded them. There was mass race towards the Ikoyi end of the bridge. The race transcended age limit as both the young and old took to their heels.

ATTACK ON TARGET While this lasted, the gun totting hoodlums proceeded towards their target. There was no doubt that their fire power was to clear way for the accomplishment of their mission. They entered by the lagoon into an empty but fenced land beside a shopping complex which borders FCMB and Stanbic bank, IBTC, by the roundabout of the Lekki end of the bridge. They forced the miscreants in the empty plot of land to open the makeshift black gate entrance of the plot and burst out into Admiralty road and stated shooting indiscriminately.

That was how they succeeded in forcing their way into the banks.

POLICE VICTIMS

believed that your spouse should mean the world to you; your spouse should be a light you put on the lamp stand, not hide under the table. You should celebrate your spouse. If he/she is not measuring up, sort out where the shortcomings are from and make amends.

The other lessons from their story are: they are no quitters. When the going

I have always believed that your spouse should mean the world to you

,

gets tough, they find a way to get going. You should go into marriage with the mindset of “no retreat, no surrender.” That way, like a surfer, you will be prepared for waves that must inevitably come your way. The final lesson from the celebrity couple is that change is inevitable and we should brace up for it. It reminds me of a little book I read some time ago. It is small and simple like a children’s story book but mighty. It can be applied in our marriages and other aspects of life: Who Moved My Cheese. It advises us that change must occur, so we should anticipate change. We should also monitor change and adapt as quickly

as possible. It said changes will continue to occur and we should learn to enjoy changes.

To keep your marriage alive and healthy, also note that it is like your body; you feed it with good food. Feed it with junk food and it will become unhealthy; starve it and over time it will die. Nourish your marriage, tend it well and give it good grooming. Like your body too, these actions are not be once in a while, they should be regular.

Communication is the live-wire of a marriage. As long as couples are talking, the marriage is alive. Stop talking and the marriage dies. But it is not just communication; I am an apostle of Stevens Covey’s empathic communication: Seek first to understand your spouse before seeking your spouse’s understanding.

It helps greatly to know where your spouse is coming from. Also sexually active couples should keep a constant eye of their love life, its death sometimes precede the death of the marriage In addition, go on retreats, dates, holidays and getaways with your spouse alone. You need the quiet time to bond, relive your younger days, straighten issues, recharge your batteries and restrategise to make your marriage better.

But note that you might read a trailer load of literature on how to improve your marriage and get useful tips, but ultimately you must come up your own winning formula because marriages are almost as varied as finger prints.

Life is too short and marriage even shorter to waste on hating instead of loving, enduring instead of enjoying, denigrating instead of celebrating, grudging instead of forgiving, making war instead of making love, killing instead of saving. Constantly makeover your marriage and enjoy it until death do you part. I keep saying it, marriage is meant to be enjoyed not endured.

ROBBERY AATT TT ACK AATT LEKKI TTA

How the bandits struck

Unfortunately, as soon as the hoodlums outside the banks sited some policemen in a white coaster bus, they released volleys of bullets towards their direction. The policemen were on escort duty with expatriates in the bus when they ran into the scene. Three of the policemen were felled while the expatriates were seated unruffled in the white coaster bus as the operation lasted. Not even their brief cases (quite a number of them) were touched by the hoodlums. This triggered off

another round of commotion as both passers-by including other pedestrians and hawkers, took to their heels. A little girl who sales fish around the area was also felled by hot leads of bullets from the bandit’s weapons.

ESCAPE ROUTE

While the bandits were busy packing huge sums of money into bags, their colleagues were at alert outside the banks, busy releasing bullets in all directions. After they had packed money to their

satisfaction, they escaped through the toll plaza where millions of cash were collected daily. But they did not collect even a kobo fro them.

POLICE ARRIVES SCENE

Barely fifteen minutes after the bandits escaped through the water way with their loot, a team of policemen arrived the scene. Police sources said information about the attack came late to the command

headquarters in Ikeja which swiftly deployed men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, to the scene. However, their counterparts at Maroko, which is the nearest to the scene reportedly claimed they were not informed early.

POLICE BOSS REACTS Sources said the daylight operation which took place around 4.30pm rattled police authorities in the state. Based on this, a crack team of Antirobbery detectives were deployed to Lekki, Ajah, Badagry and Epe areas with stern instructions to fish out perpetrators of the attack. So far, both the anti -robbery team and Marine Police are combing the waterways with a view to tracing their escape route. It was reliably gathered that few hours after the incident, the State Police boss, Kayode Aderanti, abandoned his other official engagements and proceeded to the scene to personally access the situation.

Thereafter, he personally led a crack team of policemen later in the night to all the black spots in and around the area where it was reliably learnt that appreciable success was recorded after the arrest of suspected hoodlums at the spots. The operation by the police, reports said, lasted till the wee hours of the night.

50—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

The killer of our daughter is on the loose — Family of murdered Lagos housewife

inform him that his wife had slumped, he said he did not know her and that it was not his business if she died. Thereafter, the victim’s friend called her husband, Theo Onyali and informed him about the development and he immediately went and reported at the police station leading to the eventual arrest the suspect on February 23, 2015 after he had been on the run. The victim’s friend and her husband were also detained by the police officer but were released after they paid some money for bail.

*allege tardiness in police investigation

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

F

ate, has an uncanny way of affecting human beings. At times, it turns out positive, some other times, it ends negatively. For the families of Late Mrs. Obiageli Anajekwu and Chinyere Onyali, her bosom friend and neighbour, it has been a tragic tale of woes and untold suffering. To the foster family of late Obiageli, they are not only contending with the traumatic effect of losing their loved daughter under painful circumstances in her matrimonial home but, are more saddened that investigations into the circumstances that surrounded her agonising death may be stalled by the police.

Worse still, late Obiageli’s bosom friend and her husband in whose house she died after she was allegedly manhandled by her own husband, have been made to suffer untold hardship. The couple who are the principal witnesses in the case were not only thrown into police cell after the brutalized woman who ran for succour into their home, slumped and died, but are also living in fear following threats to eliminate them. In fact, their home was raided by men of the underworld few days after they were granted bail by the police.

They were lucky not to be at home when the bandits arrived and ended up carting away a laptop containing pictures of injuries allegedly inflicted on Late Obiageli by her husband.

HOW IT STARTED Narrating how the incident happened, brother to the deceased, Nnamdi Eze told Crime Guard: ‘’We are yet to recover from the brutal murder of my sister, two months after the incident. She died after serial brutal assaults by her husband. My sister, a 37- years-old graduate of Economics from University of Nigeria, Nsukka, got married to her husband in the year 2002. ‘’After their traditional marriage ceremony and due to his dwindling financial fortunes, the husband travelled back to Brazil where he was based with a promise to his wife that he would return in 2003 when things would have improved.

Unfortunately, he did not return until sometime in 2011, when on his way back through Cameroon, he was arrested, tried and jailed for 3 years over drug related offences.

During his period of imprisonment, C M Y K

his wife was visiting him frequently to take care of his needs. She spent all her life savings estimated at about eight hundred and fifty thousand naira (N850, 000), catering for the needs of her jailed husband until he regained his freedom and returned to Nigeria in 2013.

RETURN FROM JAIL ‘’Upon his return in 2013, he moved with his wife into his personal house at No. 7, Okoye Close, Iyana-oba Estate, Igbo-leri. Sometime in December 2014, after thoroughly beating and inflicting grievous bodily injuries on his wife- a habit he developed shortly after moving in with his wife- he invited his relations and others and claimed that he discovered a charm in her bag. Consequent upon this claim and his decision to send his wife away, a meeting of representatives of both families was called with the community chief of his village, Chief Ezeani and his own father present.

FATHER INTERVENES ‘’Fortunately, his father revealed that the item his son saw in his wife’s bag was prepared by him and given to her for protection against evil attacks by some members of their family, including one of his sons whom he said was notorious in the community for his diabolical ways. The father of the suspect further explained that he had to prepare the protection after he and his daughter-in-law, Obiageli, had swollen legs which were later treated by a traditional healer who informed them about those responsible and recommended the protective charms in order to ward off further evil attacks. ‘’The suspect’s father further told his son that the charm was not targeted at him or meant to harm him but to protect his wife and himself from evil members of their family and counselled that that should not be enough reason to end their marriage. His father, however, said that if he insisted on sending his wife away, he should set up a Supermarket for her and refund her the money she spent taking care of him while he was in prison in Cameroon. The suspect agreed to this proposal to set up a business for his wife and give her back the money she spent on him before they would

•Late Oby

part ways. It was, however, agreed that his wife would remain with him until he fulfilled all the agreements which he said he would do after he had sold his house at No. 7. Okoye Close, Iyana-Oba Estate, Igboneri.

BATTERING AND ESCAPE FROM GOLGOTHA ‘’While the deceased was still waiting for her husband to set up the business for her and pay her back the money as agreed, the suspect on January 19, 2015 battered her, aided by his friend one Polycarp. He tore his wife’s clothes and threw her out by 1.00 am with her property leaving her with injuries all over her body, head and around her neck. The victim ran to her friend’s house, one Chinyere Onyali and narrated to her how her husband had repeatedly beaten her for days and inflicted injuries and sometimes resulting to her being hospitalised. Her friend, seeing her condition, with the many injuries on her body, advised her to report the case to the police and she lodged a report of the incident at Adolf Police Station.

FAILED INTERVENTION ‘’Further, on the advice of her friend’s husband she also reported the incident to one Mazi Okonkwo who hails from her husband’s community, Igbo-Ukwu Anambra and living in the same area. Efforts

by Mazi Okonkwo to intervene and resolve the problem was rebuffed by the suspect who even refused to attend any meeting to discuss the matter. Instead, he continued to issue threats that he would kill her if he set his eyes on her. The police did not intervene until she died two days later on the 21st January 2015 at her friend’s house.’’ …AND THE WOMAN DIED The brother continued; ‘’My dear sister, Obiageli slumped in her friend’s house and when her friend called her (Obiageli’s) husband to

Fortunately, his father revealed that the item his son saw in his wife’s bag was prepared by him and given to her for protection against evil attacks by some members of their family, including one of his sons whom he said was notorious in the community for his diabolical ways

POLICE INVESTIGATION TARDY AND SLOW ‘’Our pain is that Police investigation has been very slow and tardy, making family members suspect that we may not get justice after all. The police have demanded and received various sums of money from members of my family for embalming and autopsy but are yet to charge the matter to court. We also requested for police protection for the primary witnesses who are under threat by the suspect who has continued to threaten them should they testify against him.

Severally while at the Ojo Divisional Police Station, the suspect, threatened the prime witnesses, his late wife’s friend, Onyali Chinyere and her Husband, Theo Onyali. After they were released on bail, armed men stormed their house located on 20, Okonkwo Street, Igboleri, Iyanaba Estate. They did not meet them at home and they made away with a laptop containing pictorial evidence of injuries on late Obiageli Anajekwu inflicted on her by her husband. The suspect also threatened one of his brothers-in-law, Chukwuma Ezeh.

PRINCIPAL WITNESSES YET TO BE INVITED ‘’We are worried that the police are yet to invite and interview or interrogate the principal witnesses in this case including the suspect’s father, same for the chief of his community who lives in the neighbourhood and whose efforts to intervene in the matter were rebuffed by the suspect before the death of his wife after he made further threat to kill his wife if he set his eyes on her.

Frankly, we suspect that the police may compromise investigation, hide the truth and deny us justice because of the tardiness in their investigation.

There seems a deliberate attempt by the police to stall the investigation due to the influence of the suspect who boasts that he belongs to a powerful group alleged to be a gang of criminals. The suspect has been boasting that nothing will come out of police investigation.

APPEAL TO POLICE BOSS ‘’We have been advised by human right groups that under the currently circumstance, only a Coroner’s Inquiry into her death will be free from interference and influence peddling and will unravel the truth and ensure justice is done. We are therefore, calling on the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Kayode Aderanti and the Inspector- General of police, Suleman Abba, to intervene and ensure that my late sister gets justice even in death.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—51

•The suspects

BY IFEANYI OKOLIE

S

even members of the Supreme Eyie Confraternity said to have been terrorizing residents of Magbo, Morogbo and Agbara areas of Lagos State are currently cooling off at the dreaded cell of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, Ikeja. Two locally-made pistols were recovered from the suspects who have also been accused of robbery.

It was gathered that the suspects who were identified as Timothy Obi, OladeleAlade, Christian Matthew, Adebayo Tomoloju, Ajai Peter, Ogbene Ochuko and Olaitan Joshua, were arrested following complaints on their criminal activities including armed robbery and murder.

TIP-OFF FOR THE POLICE Sources intimated Crime Guard that policemen attached to Morogbo police division who arrested the suspects got a tipoff that the gang could be behind the killing of some people whose corpses were usually seen around the area.

One of the suspects, 20- yearold Timothy Obi, who claimed to be a native of AkinruoruIgbo in Oshiunili North Local Government Area of Delta State, is a student of Gateway Polytechnic in Ogun State.

CONFESSION BY SUSPECT No1 In his confession, Obi said he joined the confraternity out of intimidation from other groups in his area. According to him; “On February 8, 2015, I was in my hostel preparing to go to church when my mother called me that some policemen arrested my father, Mr. Joseph Obi, alleging that I was a member of a cult group. So, I came down to Lagos and

C-U-L-T-I-S-M

Pastor’s son, others in Police net reported at Morogbo Police station where he was detained.

I told them that I was the one they were looking for. They released him. I told the police I belong to Eiye Confraternity.

That I was threatened by one Chinwe Okafor to come and join the black movement of Africa, Aiye, and when I refused, he mobilized members of his gang to attack and beat me up. I reported the incident to the police at area ‘K’ Command, Marogbo. They searched for him but did not see him. I recovered one cutlass he used to machete me on my right hand and gave it to the police. ‘’After that, one Mr. Ogidan, the former number 1 of Eiye confraternity at Gateway Polytechnic saw me and asked what happened to my hand. I told him that Chinwe Okafor and his gang attacked me, he told me to come and see him later for help. The day I went to

meet him, I was initiated because my father is a Pastor at Christ church. I felt bad about it. He asked me to give him N10,000. Two weeks after giving him the money, he gave me a gun which was not functioning. I showed the gun to my friend, Ochuko who knows about gun. Ochuko told me that the gun was not functioning. I needed the gun for protection. I left the gun with Ochuko. After some time, I asked Ochuko to give it to Dale my friend, to keep. It was when they arrested them that I was arrested.

My parents cried and said I have tarnished their image. We are four and I am the first son,” he said while weeping.

SUSPECT No2 The second suspect, OladeleAlade, 20yrs, from Igbaja in Kwara state said “ I am a barber at Magbon. I am married with a child.

On Sunday morning, police came, forced the door open, arrested me in my house . They asked me at Magboro police station if I am a

It was gathered that the suspects who were identified as Timothy Obi, OladeleAlade, Christian Matthew, Adebayo Tomoloju, Ajai Peter, Ogbene Ochuko and Olaitan Joshua, were arrested following complaints on their criminal activities including armed robbery and murder

cultist. I said that I belong to Eiye.

They had already arrested Obi’s father. The only gun with me is the one Obi gave me to keep through Ochuko. He said he will come and collect it from me on Monday.’’

SUSPECT No 3 But for Christian Mathew, 20, from Okpe, Delta state, an Okada rider, he was accused of carrying bandits for operations. In his confessions, he said “ I carry them for operations. We have gone to Agbara, we collect phones. I carried Webo, a senior confraternity member. I have carried Ochuko to operations inside Ogun state. We collected two phones. I carried Webo for operation three times, Ochuko once. All the money I received was N11,000.

SUSPECT No 4 The fourth suspect, Ogbene Ochuko Peter, 23, is from Warri North, Ugheli, Delta State.

He said: “‘I am into business,. My mummy sales fish at Onyigbo. I attended Federal College of Education, Akoka. I read Auto- Tech.

We are three in my family - 2 boys and one girl. I am the first son.

Police arrested me because I belong to Eiye confraternity. The community knows that we belong to the cult group. I heard some people in the neighbourhood informed police that the person that owns gun is Obi. He said Ogidan sold fake gun to him. He brought it and showed me. I told him it was fake. I gave it to David, one of my boys to keep. We went to Obi’s school for matriculation after he invited us.

Webo ask us to give him the motorcycle. He is number 1 man.

When I refused, he sent one of his boys to give me three slaps and collect my phone. You dare not argue with number 1 man. We later left with Webo and Henry. They entered into one hotel and collected some things because they had gun.

They later gave me my phone and gave Mashal Christian Mathew N700 for fuel.’’

52—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

BY LAJU IREN 07017860213 ELLEJAYMEDIA@YAHOO.CO.UK

EDUC ATION BRIEFS EDUCA STORIES BY LAJU IREN

Corps member launches Youth Devt. Club

A

member of the National Youth Service Corps, Mr. Abraham Owoseni, recently launched a Capacity Building

Nigerian prodigy: Ten year old British-born, genius Esther Okade, who recently got admitted to the United Kingdom’s Open University to study for her Mathematics Degree. Source: Daily mail

Why we chose technical schools —Students, parents

BY LAJU IREN & MAXMILLAN ANOSIKE

N

eedless to say, technical schools across the nation are not the most popular choice.

There are only about 132 technical colleges compared to the thousands of secondary schools across the country.

The idea that technical education is inferior to senior secondary education is accepted by many parents and teachers for reasons ranging from the craze for white collar jobs to the reported underfunding of technical colleges.

However, the need for vocational and technical skills all over the world is increasing day by day. Parents and students, who go against the grain, making a case for technical education, say that they are more interested in effectiveness than paper qualification.

For them, the world has gone beyond, ‘what credentials do you have?’ to ‘what can you actually do?’

Kayode Bamidele is a technical student who hopes to start his own electrical engineering workshop after his studies. He told Saturday School Life, SSL: I choose to attend technical school because of their hand work and quality studies. From my own opinion about technical school, I have been able to make things on my own for example I can do some electrical connections had it been I attended secondary school I wouldn’t have

gotten to this level, the school is practically based. My friends are thinking that attending a technical school is where I will end but that’s not what it really means. The school equipment are of good standard and I am sure that after my training I am sure that I will be able to put what I am being taught into practice.”

Raji sheriff chose to attend a technical school’s because of his goal to be an upholsterer. According to him, “in secondary school they don’t teach such practical things but in technical school they teach both theory and practical. My area of study is furniture design and craft. The reaction of people towards my choice is good because of my ability to do wonderful things. Even now, I can make quality furniture.”

A parent, Mr. Akpuluku James told SSL,that he had always planned to send his son to a technical school. He said: “With the current rate of unemployment, the crux is about being creative or skillful. Without that you are alone. My friends have questioned me about this, but I know what will be good for my son. Looking at the state of technical education in the country at the moment, I would say that there have been a lot of reforms. And I don’t have any doubt that when he is done, he would be able to get admission to any tertiary institution of his choice.”

Another parent Mrs. Ayoola Sade,

said two of her children are currently in technical colleges. She said: “I choose to send them to the technical school because it is creatively oriented.

From my children I observed that there is a very big change in the technical school through the creative innovations of my children. My plan after their technical education is to send them to the tertiary institution whether it’s a polytechnic or university.

When they are done, even if they can’t get jobs, they can empower themselves instead of running about carrying files in a bid to find jobs. The problem with parents is that some are ignorant about this technical education and this has deprived their children the chance of being independent and carving out their own future.”

Francis Ani is yet another parent in support of technical learning. He said: “Technical schools are my passion, I am looking forward to sending my children to technical school as soon as they are of age. I have realized that in this day and age, the emphasis is on technical schools, on what you can do with your hands. All over the world, people don’t really care about paper qualifications anymore, but about skills. I am already grooming my older son to learn vocational skills. It is true that some people say that technical schools are not properly funded but I will find one that is well equipped to send my children there.”

Resource Centre as his personal community development project at Vetland Senior Grammar School of the Education district 1 in Agege, Lagos.

The newly commissioned center which will serve as a hub for Owoseni’s newly commissioned Youth Development Club, consists of 30 metal fabricated single seats, 2 book shelves stocked with personal development books, 2 computer tables, 6 wall frames of inspiring leaders, 1 white board, and 1 wall mounted projector screen.

According to Owoseni, an Architecture graduate of Covenant University, the club is a “weekly advocacy and capacity building where student members are educated and taught the basic aspects of youth development. By addressing the grass root of youth development, which are mostly secondary school students, the Youth Development Club is designed to raise a new breed of young people who will be instilled and nurtured with life skills and values, in the capacity building resource center thereby addressing challenges such as moral and ethical delinquencies, unhealthy and unhygienic habits, teenage pregnancy, illicit relationships, poor reading culture, poor academic performances and wrong career choices that results into the supposed challenges of youth uncertainties, under/ unemployment and social vices.”

Present at the commissioning were officials of the National Youth Service Corps, Officials from the Education District 1, as well as organizations who contributed to the infrastructural remodeling of the centre such as HOPE foundation, Munac Design Limited, i-Cubic Designs and Furniture, Covenant Microfinance Bank, Agile P3 Limited, Attainable Standard Designs, Form and Void Developers, Greetings World Stationery, Success Within International among others.

ICPC establishes AntiCorruption academy T

he Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has established the AntiCorruption Academy of Nigeria, ACAN, as the training and capacity building arm of the Commission.

According to ICPC’s resident consultant, Mr. Fola Olamiti, “The establishment of ACAN is one of the bold steps taken by the ICPC in recent years to step up the fight against corruption in a more structured, determined and concerted onslaught. It is also partly a fulfillment of Nigeria’s commitment to the global initiative to rid the world of the menace, as the Academy is a key enabling instrument required for the successful implementation of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, UNCAC, in the country.

With this singular move, Nigeria has taken its pride of place among the nations that have shown seriousness to tackle corruption under the UNCAC initiative. Situated in a serene environment in Keffi, Nasarawa State, the Academy began operations in November last year, two years behind the target set for its take off by the current Chairman of the ICPC, Mr. Ekpo Nta, due to funding constraints.

However, the Provost of the institution, Professor Sola Akinrinade, who was appointed last October hit the ground running immediately and the institution has already done its first training programme for officers in the Intelligence Unit of the ICPC, which was concluded in January 2015.

According to the Provost, another training programme is scheduled for March 2015. This one, like some others being planned for the year, will involve external participants. Prof Akinrinade, before his new appointment, was the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the Osun State University, Osogbo and former Visiting Professor to the Nigeria Universities Commission, NUC.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—53

BY LAJU IREN 07017860213 ELLEJAYMEDIA@YAHOO.CO.UK

CAMPUS GISTS

Stories by LAJU IREN

Covenant Varsity students redefine theatre with Midnight play

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ovenant University Theatre Group, CUTG, last weekend performed a stage play for the school environment. The play which marked the seventh in the group’s Drama Night series, begins like a fairytale. Nkem, poor blind girl falls in love with Femi, a rich young man who, despite disapproval from his family and friends goes against all odds to marry her. When they are wed, he uses his training and connections as an ophthalmologist to ensure that she gains her sight. When she does, it seems like a happily after moment until the gentle Nkem transforms into a vicious woman who constantly berates her husband, cheats on him and is addicted to cocaine.

Femi, constantly forgives her misgivings but is pushed to the wall after a heated argument. He leaves the house in a rage and is involved in a car accident. At the hospital, his now sober wife is told Femi is in a precarious state and has until midnight, after which he will be put off life support. Nkem is repentant and feels tremendously guilty. She keeps apologizing to an unconscious Femi until midnight comes and he is put off life support. The lights are turned off and all hope seems lost.

Years later, a much older Nkem is reading her diary and looking at her wedding photographs. Surprisingly, a much older Femi comes onto the stage to comfort his wife. Contrary to what the audience thought, he had survived the accident. He tells her not to worry about her past failures and mistakes but to focus on his undying love for her.

Olusola Olaleye who directed the play, said that the prayers of the cast and crew was that everyone who watched the play would leave understanding the love of Christ even in man’s unfaithfulness as portrayed in Femi’s love for Nkem.

He said: “Hope that everyone who watched the piece today would be able to understand the full expression of God’s love. I hope that they understand that no matter how much they have gone against God, His grace is still available for them to repent and turn to him.”

Michael Akinrogunde, who wrote the plot that formed the basis of the script, said the idea came when he least expected. He said: “The inspiration for the script came from the fact that this is the seventh Drama night in the series. We were inspired to do something on perfection because seven is the number of perfection. We prayed about it for a while and the inspiration came when we least

expected it. I was on a plane from Abuja and wrote the original plot on the food pack given to me on the plane. When we got the school, I told the entire team about it and we improved on it thereafter. There’s no way we could have done it without the cooperation of everyone in the group.”

BSU Lecturers strike

The Benue State University, BSU, Makurdi, was shut down earlier this week following lecturers’ protest over non-payment of salary arrears by the state government.

Although the details of the action were not clear as at the time of this report, other media reported that the Chairman, BSU-ASUU, Dr. David Ikoni confirmed the strike and said the state government has not complied to pay off the lecturers’ February salary which, he stated prompted the indefinite strike action.

Although all attempts to reach Ikoni failed, another ASUU national official who did not want his name in print confirmed that ASUU-BSU had taken permission from the national body to embark on a strike action.

Tales from UTME

My nephew told me that his Computer Based Test, CBT centre is in Abeokuta. But we live in Lagos, and he registered here. At first, I thought he was just trying to get money, until I confirmed. It is unfair; I do not know anyone in Abeokuta.

Where will he stay?

—Anonymous, from Lagos

SCHOOL CRACKS

Water Teacher: What is the formula for water?

Student: H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O Teacher: That’s not what I taught you.

Student: But you said the formula for water was...H to O. Q: How is a dog and a marine biologist alike?

A: One wags a tail and the other tags a whale.

Q: Why did the student throw his watch out of the school window?

A: He wanted to see time fly.

Q: Why didn’t the skeleton go to the school dance? A: He didn’t have anybody to take. (any BODY) Q: What happened to the plant in math class?

A: It grew square roots.

(culled from jokesforus.com) Science ‘pick up’ lines Girl you must be made of Florine, Iodine, and Neon, because you are FINe Even if there wasn’t gravity on earth, I’d still fall for you.

Hi does your body consist of Oxygen and Neon? because you are the ONe.

54—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Jimi Disu likens PDP’s complaints to antics of school children

BY JULIET EBIRIM

T

he ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, were once against the use of Permanent Voters Card, PVC, and campaigned for the use of Temporary Voters Card, TVC. That didn’t sell. They mounted a campaign that INEC, Professor Atihiru Jega must go.

That didn’t sell too. The campaign now is for INEC to drop Card Reader Machine, a device that is meant to check rigging. This was hot in the media during the week and veteran journalist, Jimi Disu, in his daily newspaper reviews on Classic FM had the following to say on Tuesday: I have a funny feeling about PDP and these elections. It’s just like a spoilt child looking for excuses not to go to school. The irony is that for 16 years, we’ve had a PDP government in place and we’ve had a PDP president for 16 years. The current INEC plan was constituted by a PDP government. First of all, it was the issue of security, later we had the issue of PVCs. Now, we have the issue of card readers. What they are telling Nigerians is that the INEC they put in place is poorly prepared for the elections. That’s enough for them to quit government. It means that the PDP government, in itself, has failed. It’s an admission of failure. They should stop behaving like spoilt children and go in for the elections and let’s see what the results are.

Instead of giving excuses day in, day out, confusing people. What else do you want INEC to do? You can never get 100% PVC distribution, you can never get 100% performance on the use of card readers. In fact, you can never get 100% on the use of ballot papers and so on. You will always leave a margin of error. Are you going to say because POSs fail, we should stop using ATM cards. In any system in the world, there are flaws here and there. The only being that doesn’t make mistakes at all is God. They are just behaving like spoilt children with all these excuses they are giving.

Imoke said somewhere that as far as he was concerned, “INEC has failed completely”. If they failed completely, then the government has failed completely. It is the government that conducts elections.

INEC was appointed by the government. Every time they accuse Jega, I just sit back and laugh. You appointed Jega and 36 representatives. Are you now saying that they are headed to the same direction? If they are headed to the same direction and they were

C M Y K

appointed by you, then there’s a problem. We’re not fools here and I maintain that this election is not going to be won either by discrediting Jega or by raining curses and abuses on your opponent. It’s going to be won by Nigerians voting for who they think will get them out of the current quagmire that we are in. That’s the crucial point. I’m glad that on one hand the federal government has been trying to publicize what Jonathan has been doing for the young people and all that. That’s a step in the right direction. We are beginning to see that Jonathan has done this and done that. That’s what they should focus on rather than focusing on non issues, hate campaign and all that.

They’re not showing reservations about the cards.

The headline is very clear; INEC poorly prepared for elections – PDP Governors. They’re discrediting the election before it takes place. What if they win?

Supposing the PDP wins? Will they be claiming victory for a poorly prepared election?

Ivory Coast Former First Lady Simone Gbagbo aged 65, has been jailed for 20years for her role in the violence that followed the 2010 elections.

She was charged with undermining state security.

So she will leave jail when she’s 85. There’s a lesson to be learnt from what has happened to Simone Gbagbo. She never shot anybody and I don’t think it was said that she had a gun in her hands. She’s being jailed for 20 years for her role in the violence that followed the 2010 elections. These should be a pointer to all our politicians down the line that whatever you say now counts. God forbid, if there should be violence after these elections, some people are going to be sharing cells with Simone Gbagbo for statements that they have made now. So we need to be careful with all these careless talks. Don’t forget that these are not Nigerian courts where you can settle the judges and prosecution. These are international courts. You can’t prolong the case, no tricks, no long adjournments. Our politicians need to learn that now. Everything that is being

•Jimi Disu said now is being documented by some people. There are certain people in the world who are documenting the various statements, documentaries and adverts that are being made.

They are saying to themselves “Should there be any problem in this country, these are the people that are going to be held responsible”. So we need to learn a lesson from this. A word is enough for the wise.

Less than one week after delivering Obasanjo’s birthday lecture, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, Chairman of the multimillion naira SURE -P scheme, the government’s much criticized answer to the crushing unemployment in the land, got a boot.

One of the opportunities I thank God for in my life is the fact that at a very young age, I was able to work as a Senior Manager in a Unilever Company. I remember we had something then that was being used that is called the Green Field Exercise. What it does is that it separates the person from the job. The rumor here is that Agwai was removed because he attended Obasanjo’s party and he said something about ‘change’. Luckily, nobody was there to ‘stone him’. The man was employed by the federal government of Nigeria and the president is just a custodian. Was he good at his job? Only the federal government can answer that. Is this the way this country wants to go forward? You have to be loyal to the Office of the President. But if this is the way this government wants to go, so be it. Let’s assume for example, that I work for a bank and my MD has divorced his wife and they are not on talking terms. I am a General manager in the bank and I happen to be related to his wife and she’s having her 50th birthday. Will you now tell me not to go for my cousin’s birthday party because my boss is going to be unhappy? And then I get fired! That’s a correlation. It’s left for

Nigerians to ask themselves if this is the way a government should be run.

You can never get 100% PVC distribution, you can never get 100% performance on the use of card readers

House of Representatives demand details of sanctions by National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) I know in the parastatals across the board, the politicians usually put the civil servants under a lot of pressure. I know it’s going to very difficult for the DirectorGeneral of the NBC to pass sanctions on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) also owned by the government thereby indicting them. So I’m glad the reps are stepping in to provide a platform for the NBC to do the job they are being paid to do. We need to bring sanity into the system and therefore, the NBC should be allowed to do its job. I’m sure that they’ll also be under a lot of pressure from the top. We are not going to have a good democratic system if various organs are not allowed to do their jobs professionally.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—55

By ANOZIE EGOLE

H

type

e may not have spoken with this

of anger before.

Obviously, he is not happy with the Gov. Okorocha led administration in Imo state.

In this interview, Chief Dr Achike Udenwa, a former governor of Imo state and also a one time Minister of Commerce and Industry under late Yar’dua, talked about prevailing issues in the state and the forthcoming general election.

*Achike Udenwa

After eight years as Imo state Governor and two years ministerial appointment, much have not been heard about you, what have you been doing?

It depends. You have not been hearing about me maybe because I have not been making enough noise. But, I have been around.

What have you been doing since then?

I am a private man. Since I left as a minister, I have been a private man and still participating actively in politics.

In the last general election, in 2011, you contested for Orlu senatorial seat under the platform of the defunct ACN and now your are back to PDP. What happened between that time and now?

I joined ACN in 2010 and after the election of 2011, I remained in ACN. In fact, I was one of the founding fathers of what we call APC today. We had the initial discussions that finally led to the formation of APC. But shortly after the formation of the party, there were some differences between my group and some other groups especially in Imo state so we decided to go back to PDP. What could the differences be?

It was not much but the issue was that the APGA elements in Imo state joined APC because the governor was with them.

Together with the governor, they wanted to hijack everything and our people were not happy with that. It is not as if it was personal to me, but my group, the old ACN were not happy. So most of us left for PDP. After Mr. President had invited me and some others to join PDP, we considered that and joined the party.

Due to Gov. Okorocha’s education policy in Imo state, it appears the APC is enjoying more support from Imo people. What is your take on the education policy?

Quite frankly, the support the present government is enjoying is misplaced. Misplaced in the sense that it has been based on deceit. Now many things are being done and crimes are committed and people don’t know, people are not aware of what is happening.

For example, you find out that C M Y K

Okorocha is deceiving you, Udenwa tells Imo people •Sa ys Jonathan ma •Says mayy win but . . .

the Okorocha’s administration is not really working if you consider the amount of money that is available to him. Since the present administration came into government, they have taken so much money. Most of the proceeds of the loan Ohakim took, came over to the present administration. They have this money and they have over N150 billion coming from the local government system plus the normal monthly allocation which is averaging about N5 billion per month. In our time you would be lucky any time you had up to N1.5 billion. They had all this money and the present government has been borrowing also. In our time, we did not borrow any money from any

The yardstick to measure how good a government is will be to ask questions on the livelihood of the people where. So he has so much money at his disposal and I can assure you that the bulk of this money the administration has at their disposal, he cannot account for it. A lot of it has disappeared in the system and he is doing a

sort of public relations project.

The general hospital buildings in Imo towns even with the ones in almost every local government areas are dilapidated. Why not rehabilitate and re-equip them.

He decided to build brand new

general hospitals and each one is on the main road so that people will see it. Even if the hospitals are in the bush, people will not use them because non of them is completed. So, this is the type of project you will get from this government and people think that he is doing well. Come to the state capital, Owerri you have so many conference centers. What is he even doing with conference centers? These are not priority projects for the people. The yardstick to measure how good a government is will be to ask questions on the livelihood of the people. Are people today betteroff than they were maybe eight years ago? The answer is NO. In our own time, we were receiving less than one third of what the present government is receiving but I can assure you that if you go out and ask an average Imo man whether he is better of now than then, you will get NO for an answer.

So most of the things that are being done are pure and complete deceit. Today, I can tell you that our governor has the best private residence I have ever been to in Nigeria as a whole. So these are things that happen everyday. Check the number of estates around him, check what they have acquired within four years. Then you will know whether an average Imo person is better off today than he/she was before.

Most Imo people have been saying that they are unfortunate when it comes to governance. According to them, since the time of Mbakwe, they have never had a dynamic government. What do you have to say about that?

Well, I do not know whether they are saying that. But I have to tell you that as far as we are concerned, this is the worst deceit we have had of a government.

No doubt during your administration from 19992007, you made conscious efforts to ensure that the state was counted as one of the neatest states in Nigeria, but now, the reverse is the case. Who would you attribute the blames to?

I think it depends on the priority of a government. In our time, we engaged ordinary people. We engaged ordinary women to clean the streets and from there they earned a living.

Today things have changed just like what I am telling you about the present economic situation of our people. You talked about our own time, I am not here to praise my regime but at least in Imo at that time, we made sure that the funds we had, though little, went round. Today, you hear of a government importing school desk, uniforms among others.

Does it mean we don’t have tailors and carpenters in Imo state? How will the money flow down? Government does not give people money but by deliberate efforts and policies the government makes sure that whatever money available to it goes down even to the common

Continues on page 56

56—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Continues from Page 55 man in the street. When we were building a secretariat here in Owerri as at that time, they were 10 blocks and we divided these blocks among local contractors from the 3 senatorial zones in Imo state. So the contractors will go home and hire labourers from their villages to come and do the job to earn a living. Even some youths who would have been miscreants, didn’t have time to play pranks because they worked hard and earned their money and lived a better life. That had the double effect of one, improving their economic standard and secondly, bringing down the rate of crime in the state. Those were deliberate efforts of government. But you don’t see that in Imo today.

Because, almost every contract that is being done in Imo state today is by one single construction company directly or indirectly. People of Imo state know these facts, they know that this government is not in anyway looking after their interest.

You said something about using a single construction company. During your administration there was this Monier Construction Company, (MCC), that was doing some major jobs in the state that time. It seems they are no longer into existence, why?

No, MCC did not do many jobs in the state. They did only a few jobs which I can even remember.

We distributed the jobs all round at that time. Most of those companies not just MCC, are no more around. Because, what the present government is doing is to be using one particular contractor. The other indigenous companies are sub-contractors who are not doing any major jobs. Some of them are owed by the government. A lot of them have left on their own, living behind huge debts the government is owing them and that is the new policy in Imo state.

And that is why we say that these deceit must stop. The people of Imo state are being deceived, they don’t really see through what is happening.

Lets do a review of Imo state administration starting from your tenure. How would you assess the government?

I am not in the position to do that. It is not ethical for me to start comparing the past administrations. It is for the public to do that assessment and not me.

What do you make of the war of attrition going on between the President’s hatchet men and APC’s campaign organization over the later’s presidential candidates? Would you say its healthy?

I was one of the people who conceived the idea of bringing smaller parties together into what we today know as All Progressive Congress, APC, and to me, it is healthy. That we have two major parties, even though we have many other smaller parties, gives our people a choice. And that will help to ensure that no party will remain complacent. Each of these two major parties will work hard to win because, one is as strong as the other one so they must

Jonathan may win but ...

*Achike Udenwa

work hard to win. What you are seeing today is not unhealthy, it is healthy.

Being one of the founding fathers of APC in Imo state, don’t you think that would have given you a better opportunity of achieving your senatorial ambition?

No, there is nothing like that.

Today, I don’t have any ambition to contest for any position. It is not a question of party, I am not just interested in contesting. At least for now, I am interested in seeing how we can help our party to win the election.

The governor in Imo is APC member. Any hope for your party?

We are already working hard.

The most important thing in Imo state today is to get the people at the grassroots to understand the real position and it is our duty.

We understand the level of the deceit and misuse of the government fund. We understand the level of using our people, we understand the level of starvation our people are going through and we also understand the economic stagnation of the state.

It is for us to make sure that the grassroots understand these things and it is unfortunate that many of them don’t understand these things. We have made conscious efforts and its yielding fruits. People especially, the elites are beginning to understand these things.

The question you will ask yourself is, in Imo state who belongs to APC? 80 percent of politicians in Imo state belong to PDP. We understand that what is happening is pure deceit. But with the grassroots, it is difficult.

One of the deceits being presented to the grassroots is the so called free education.

Education is not free in Imo state.

I was one of the people who conceived the idea of bringing smaller parties together into what we today know as All Progressive Congress, APC, and to me, it is healthy Anybody who is telling you that education is free in the state is deceiving you. It is not true because, education is free at the national level in the whole country up till JSS 3. What is happening in Imo state now is that the so called university free education is only applicable to Imo state university. What happens to the numerous Imo indigenes who are in other universities outside the state?

And what this present government has done is to limit the admission of Imo people in IMSU. They now prefer students from other states, because they are not giving them anything.

They talk about free education to Imo people yet they have reduced the number of admission of Imo people into IMSU, are we going up or down?

At the same time, if you are told how much these children pay for both registration and acceptance fee, you will know that there is nothing free. We need to talk to the people and the parents and let them understand the deceit.

Now if you are admitting less Imo students into the state university, are you doing good to Imo people? The main aim of establishing Imo state university is to ensure that more of our people go to school. But because

you say you are giving free education, you now cut down the number of Imo people in the school. It is all deceit. In education itself.

You said that the elites are aware of the deceit in Imo state, how do you intend to communicate this to the ordinary man on the street?

Exactly, that is why we are now doing a door to door campaign.

We have finished the rallies.

What we are doing now is meeting people in their own homes through associations. We are meeting market people, artisans, and even the religious bodies and we are beginning to educate them. Many of them don’t understand what is happening. So, what we are doing now is to educate them and we believe that once they know the truth, they will not touch anything APC in Imo state and it is paying off. I know in many places were I have engaged and talked to them, they said that nobody has told them all these things since. Go and see the roads constructed by the present state administration, some of them cannot stand two raining seasons. Some of them would be washed off after the first raining season. Are they the type of

roads we need? We have roads that were built over 10 years ago and they are still strong without any maintenance. You now count that you have constructed 800km of roads while you have done nothing.

What are your post election plans?

I am still enjoying my private life. I must not be in any government position to survive but I am still a politician. I am still bent on giving my people the right direction. And that is why today, we are looking for that person who will be the governor of this state and be honest to our people. Not just one who is there deceiving the people, preaching to the people on one hand and on the other hand doing nothing. . We want to follow a leader who will tell us to go and he will follow us. That is the type of leader we are talking about. We are not talking of a leader in whose administration, there is no economic development in the state, there is nothing bringing in money in the state and the little money that comes to the state is just for the benefit of the family.

With me as the former and the longest serving governor of the state, I will be doing a disservice to our people if I don’t tell them the truth. It is my duty to tell them that these things happening to you are not good. And that is what I am doing.

If you are asked to predict the forthcoming presidential election, who do you think will emerge the winner between the ruling party, PDP and oppositio0n APC? Well, I spoke about that recently in an interview and I made it clear that it is going to be tough and I am happy that it will be tough.

But at the end President Jonathan will win because, he has the credentials to win. Its going to be tough and it is good to be tough so that whoever wins and gets in there will not take us for-granted.

There are strong speculations that there will be post election violence. As a member of the ruling party.

How do we avoid violence?

I think that anybody who is thinking that way does not mean well for this country. Elections should not be a do-or-die affair and there should be no violence.

If anybody wins, it is our duty to support the person so long as we see everything transparent.

Some people have been clamoring for Jega’s resignation. What is your stand about that?

Jega is a man I know and have respect for but with some of the allegations that have been leveled against him recently, I feel personally disappointed. Now, North-east is a zone we all know that are on war and there are many displaced people yet they had one of the highest distribution of PVCs, how did it happen? Is it not a big irony, that people who have been displaced were the ones who have collected the PVC’s most? About removing Jega, I don’t know if it will be the best thing but if we find out that removing him will give us a free and fair election, so be it. Nobody is indispensable. If removing him is for the best interest of the country and not for any selfish reasons, we will do it.

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—57

Why Imo may return Okorocha as governor —Mbata, IMSU Pro Chancellor authorities of the university and we are ro Chancellor/ Chairman going to ensure that the problems of the P Governing council of Imo State university are solved.

University (IMSU) , Prince Alex Mbata has declared that his desire is to see the university become one of the best in the country.

Mbata who was last year appointed the university’s pro chancellor by Rochas okorocha who is the visitor to the university in an interactive session with media men in Lagos said he can not afford to fail as the job is a litmus test for him as a young entrepreneur.

Excerpts: What are your plans for the varsity after your appointment as its pro chancellor cum council chairman?

Mbata: let me start by saying that my vision is to take the university to the next level. I’m, by his grace, a very successful entrepreneur. Whatever I touch becomes gold and this is courtesy of God’s grace and now that I m involved in the state university , I will do my best to ensure that it becomes one of the best in the country. You know many employers don’t want to engage graduates of state universities, but IMSU will be different. You know the governor is passionate about education and with his support we will make IMSU a real citadel of learning. I have held meetings with the

So far, what have you identified as the major problems of the university?

Mbata: As you know the university is a young one when compared with the first generation universities like UNN , ABU and UI. So it would understandably have the problem of infrastructure, that of hostels to accommodate the students etc.

But the state government is doing all it can to change all that. The governor deserves a pat on the back over what he has done for the University’s Teaching Hospital in Orlu. A lot more will be done to the other programs of the university. My vision is for the university to have world class facilities and we are on the same page with the governor on this.

What is your view on the governor’s free education policy. It has received a lot of bashing with some of his political opponents saying it is not working?

Mbata: You need to go to Imo state and ask the people if it is working or not. It is not enough for some people to stay in Lagos and throw stones instead of commending the good job Owelle is

•Gov Rochas okorocha doing. The truth is that Imo has never had it so good not just in education but also on all fronts. But if there is any area the governor has scored close to 100 percent, it is in education. His free education program alone is enough to give him second term in office. Students in the state primary and secondary schools are not just going to school free but getting stipends and things like

uniform and sandals. The people of Imo are no fools , they know a government that has done well and would do everything to ensure continuity with their votes.

Education is the biggest industry in Imo state and Owelle’s government has invested heavily in that area and as I said earlier that alone is enough to bring him back to Douglas House. In fact as things stand now there is no vacancy there. Outside education, the governor has equally done well. For the first time since after Mbakwe, we are having a government that is developing every part of the state simultaneously. Go to Orlu, Okigwe , Uguta, the story is the same. So why wont such a governor get a second term?. What Imo people should rather be praying for is for the governor to keep doing what he has started when he returns. His rescue mission agenda must continue. Imo cant afford to return to the land of Egypt when we are on the march to the promised land.

Can we get to know you better?

Mbata: Well, I m the CEO of AMB Global group of companies which has interest in Oil and Gas, real estate, manufacturing and hospitality industry. Ours is a fast growing outfit with corporate headquarters in Lagos.

We are investing heavily in Imo state in line with the appeal made by the state government for the state industrialists to come home and invest. ABM now has one of the biggest industries in Imo state and we have only done the first phase of the industry. My vision is to employ as many Imo youths as people as a way of reducing unemployment in the state. If that is done the crime rate in the state will reduce and let me also give the governor a pat on the back in the area of security because he has done a lot in that area.

t has become necessary to make attempts at I clarifying some issues now before we drift from the already hazy atmosphere into more serious

political miasma. All these are as a result of the postponement of the 2015 elections, sorry, I mean rescheduling of the elections. Everybody; the ruling party, the opposition, the electorate and observers have agreed that INEC acted within the law and everything seems alright, but it may not be so in the real sense. INEC is empowered to do what it did by the electoral act. Specifically, SECTION 26 (1) of the Electoral Act 2010, (as amended) is clear on such rights and powers of INEC. It states: Where a date has been appointed for the holding of an election, and there is reason to believe that a serious breach of the peace is likely to occur if the election is proceeded with on that day or it is polity and credited to elders and impossible to conduct the statesmen in the country at this critical elections as a result of period of her history have become, as they natural disaster or other would say, a cause for concern. The emergencies, the chairman of APC insinuated that the commission may postpone military engineered the postponement of the election and shall in the elections and thus claims that it would respect of the area or areas not be out of place to regard that as a concerned, appoint another first stage of silent coup. I consider this date for the holding of the somewhat an expensive joke. I hope I am postponed election, the only person that will give provided that such reason consideration to that. Well this is for the postponement is democracy, the government of “talk, make I talk.” Even at that, there is a need cogent and verifiable.

Many people did not to talk with caution. Within this period, realize this initially or if they we have heard highly placed Nigerians did, they never wanted to make statements that attract comments acknowledge it. For a brief from fools. The Igbo people say that a moment, both local and man who brings an ant infested firewood foreign commentators and home has invited lizards for a feast. This analysts of the events in is what the elders are doing this period Nigeria presented their and lizards must surely have a good time. personal views and A former president has had to talk to a prejudices as the real and serving president with so much disrespect authentic points of view. It that many people are beginning to was not until this section of question the sanity in such speeches ( note the canons governing the clearly that I did not say the sanity of the entity called Nigeria was speaker, the former president) and what pull that all parties they are designed to achieve. I was concerned held their peace. particularly astonished to hear him refer But now, tongues are still to the president as a “failed president” wagging and degenerating and also to place him in the circle of the to a ridiculous level. former Ivorian President Laurent Utterances, some creeping, Gbagbo. To say the least, as at the time and some blasting into the he made these statements, he was a leader

From Hazy Air ttoo PPolitical olitical Miasma? of the ruling party and it was the party that provided a platform for him to become the President of the country.

Such developments are incomprehensible.

Anyway, let me not spend all the time on this, two examples are enough. I return to the important issue now; the drift to political miasma waters. True, the security agencies provided reports which point towards insecurity of life and property, if the elections were to hold as earlier scheduled but there are still more important considerations in the orbit of security. By far the greatest threat to our individual and collective security is the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East. Arguments have come in different directions concerning this.

Some have argued that the entire country is threatened and if the present administration has been unable to combat the insurgency so far, then it has failed in protecting life and property of the entire country despite the fact that only three out of thirty six states are caught up. The same group approached the problem from a different perspective, insisting that it is not enough to let what affects only three states determine the fate of the entire country. This argument was put forward when the group protested the postponement of the elections. Now that the picture is a little clearer, it has become certain that the postponement

was not only necessary but wise. The security agencies are almost completely occupied by the efforts to ward off Boko Haram and maintaining a violence-free election in a country like Nigeria equally demands absolute involvement of joint security action. This is why it makes sense to control one big issue before starting with the next.

The insistence of INEC and the security agencies are thus commendable. I have no doubt that these authorities knew that they would face a lot of protests and even rejection by groups, yet they insisted, and that amounts to patriotism. There is every need for relative peace before elections. The country cannot afford to risk either a civil war or heavy presence of insurgency during elections.

Either of these two evils will confuse the election processes.

Right now, the situation in the country is such that many observers believe has gone beyond sporadic insurgency to a sizeable civil war. I personally was told that Nigeria was going through “another civil war” late last year when I was in Boston USA.

Though it did not seem true to me, yet it was difficult for me to refute that. What I am saying is that there is a need, indeed, an urgent need, to reduce the terrorist disturbances to the barest minimum, that is, if it cannot be completely eliminated before the time scheduled for elections. I say this because we must respect the constitution of this country and Section 135 (3) of the Constitution restrains the country from holding elections in a time of war or any disturbance deemed to be so: If the Federation is at war in which the territory of Nigeria is physically involved and the President considers that it is not practicable to hold elections, the National Assembly may by resolution extend the period of four years mentioned in subsection (2) of this section from time to time; but no such extension shall exceed a period of six months at any one time I have only honoured the Independent National Electoral Commission and the nation’s security agencies for taking a prompt action that could prevent invoking the letters of section 135 (3) of the constitution. I am not one of those calling for Interim National Government because that, in itself, is unconstitutional; rather the constitution recognizes that the existing president should hold forth until an elected president is sworn in. This is the responsibility of the President and the National Assembly.

Nigeria will survive. Long live Nigeria!

Chimdi Maduagwu (Ph.D) chimdim@yahoo.co.uk

58—SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

Senator Manager has been spoiled; we’ll stop him – Prince YYemi emi Emik o, APC Delt Emiko, Deltaa South Senatorial Candidate

Emma Amaize, Regional Editor, South-South & Egufe Yafugborhi

P

RINCE Yemi Emiko is the All Progressives Party Congress, APC, Senatorial Candidate in Delta South Senatorial District of Delta State, slugging it out with the incumbent Senator James Manager, an Ijaw, who is gunning for the seat for a record fourth term against the unwritten understanding of the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Isoko ethnic groups that make up the district. In this interview with Saturday Vanguard in Warri, Emiko not only dismissed the contention over his candidacy by a rival contender, Temi Omatseye, he spoke on the readiness of the electorate in the district to vote out Manager on March 28, who he said had not really contested any election in the district since 2003.

Can you clarify the contention between you and Temi Omatseye over the APC Senatorial ticket in Delta South?

By law and by party provisions, there can only be one candidate for one office from one party for an election. The APC senatorial candidacy cannot be any different.

There is only one candidate and that is me. If you go to the INEC website to find the final list of candidates for the 2015 elections, you will find, as at today, only nine names put forward by nine political parties for the Delta South Senatorial seat. My name is the only name representing the APC for this election.

My brother, Temi Omatseye, is just a bad loser, and I see him as somebody being misguided. The reason is simple.

He lost out in the primaries. By the way, the primaries were inconclusive, smeared with violence, but the votes that were already cast were rescued despite the violence that attended it.

And when they were counted, I scored 434. He scored 229. There was a third candidate. He scored 68 votes. The party held to that and said we were not going to do another primary. They

said we stand by this result and that is what we are going by.

So, he raised issues for a re-run and that the primaries were inconclusive and all that, but the party said no, we have investigated the issue, we know what happened, we know who sponsored the crisis, so why going back? So he went to court, but before he went to court, he went to the Appeal Panel because as you know, every political party has a process for redressing grievances after the primaries.

The matter was looked into and the panel said sorry, you have no case! They still gave me the ticket, so he went to court, Federal High Court, Abuja. Two Mondays ago, the matter was thrown out, but I read him in the papers, three days ago, that Omatseye filed a fresh suit.

But the merits of the case have not changed, so even if he files 1000 fresh suits, we are going there with our preliminary objection, because Temi Omatseye is not a registered voter in Delta state. He registered in Lekki, Lagos, and my lawyers went to Abuja and got certified true copies of his registration details. The electoral laws are very clear, if you can’t vote for yourself, why should others vote for you? He knows about all these things but he still goes about making all this noise as if we are in a lawless society, but I have been calm and restraining my people, telling them that look, first of all we are brothers.

You see all the acts of provocation he is putting up, because you see all the billboards he is painting around town campaigning as if he is a candidate in this election. It is criminal in the first place. The party has written petitions to the Area Commander who has invited him and he has refused to go there. All of this is impunity because we are in a country where people just get up and do what they like. It is wrong.

Recently, some agitators in Burutu and neighboring Ijaw communities stopped Omatseye

•Yemi Emiko and other parties, except PDP, from campaigning in the area, have you taken your campaign to the creek and were you harassed?

I have established that Temi Omatseye is not a candidate for this election, so he has no business going there in the first place, but to answer your question, I have been to those places over and over, and I don’t have any problem or rejection from anybody. I have pictures to prove that. I am sure you know some of these people in the area. You will see me with Gen. Black, Gen. Roland, and Gen. Boyd, mention them. I have been to those places and I tell you they are as enthusiastic about our project as we ourselves are because they know what we represent.

As you know most of our people in the area have been PDP, but the PDP itself is in the process of burning itself out. So I have been to these places. I meet these ‘generals’, I speak with them and we are planning another trip there.

At the PDP setting, the incumbent governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, an Itsekiri like you, stepped aside his senatorial ambition for Senator Manager in the interest of peace, what makes you think

The politics of seclusion and divisiveness which they play in PDP is what has happened in the instance you just mentioned.

you can withstand James Manager when the governor backed down for him?

The politics of seclusion and divisiveness which they play in PDP is what has happened in the instance you just mentioned. The governor by himself withdrew from the race because if he stood his grounds from the beginning and say I want to face primary and whatever we see, let’s take, that would have been different, but he voluntarily, as it were, withdrew.

There might have been some pressure here and there, but he had a choice to stay and say I am going to stick by my ambition, but he said in the interest of peace, in the interest of security of our people, that he is not going to pursue that race to a logical conclusion.

However, James Manager has never contested any election in this state. He has never campaigned for any election in this state. 2015 is the first time ever that James Manager is pasting one poster. Quote me, this is the first time James Manager is printing a single poster to say vote for me, because they don’t vote in our area. They just write results and announce his name.

He has been so used to that. He has been so pampered, spoilt. James Manager has been in government all his life. So, our people are asking him now, what more does this man want?

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SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015—59

Continues from page 58 When Olorogun Felix Ibru was governor in Delta state, he was his Commissioner for sports and youth development. He went on to become Chairman, Bomadi Local Government. From there he became first chairman, PDP in Delta state in 1999. He was hardly there for a year before James Ibori made him Commissioner for Works. By Ibori’s second tenure, he now chose to be a Senator, and he was allowed. They wrote the results first term 2003, and another one 2007. They wrote another result for him. They don’t vote. He has never faced any stiff election here. They don’t him. I went round the places and they told me this is the first time they have seen a senatorial candidate, even in his own Ijaw areas. He has been pampered and spoilt; now he wants to go for a fourth tenure.

We will stop him. Quote me; we will defeat James Manager at the general elections. I am not saying this because it is time for politicking. I am saying it with a serious sense of responsibility.

Let me also emphasize that James Manager is from Delta South and in this senatorial district, there are three distinct tribes, the Itsekiris, the Ijaws and Isokos. Forget the First, Second and Third Republics. The present dispensation started in1999, and we had Stella Omu, an Isoko woman as the first senator for this district under the current democratic experience.

She did one term. Whatever issues or differences she had with James Ibori and all that, she did not get a second term, so the mantle swung to the Ijaws. And you know we have some kind of tacit agreement among these three groups that no need to fight, let’s rotate it amongst ourselves. So the thing went to the Ijaws and we, as Itsekiri people, expected James Manger to do two terms maximum step aside for an Itsekiri to come in, do one or two terms before it then goes back to Isoko and so on and so forth. But James Manager has been there one, two, three terms, now he wants a fourth term. I have issues with that. We have issues with that in a multi-ethnic environment like Delta South. It is unacceptable.

Our people are saying no to that and James Manager should have the moral standing to look back and say yes and step down, but of course the human greed in all of us, if you don’t know how to control it, will take over your sense of judgment and that is what we are seeing all over the place now, but I believe our people will do the right thing at the poll and that is why I believe very strongly that our

issue before me. We will deal with those issues because that is why they elected me to represent them, not a James Manager, who is locked somewhere and nobody can see him. I will have another office in the Isoko area, most likely at Oleh where I will also spend one day in a month and everybody from that axis will have access to see me and bring their issues.

And then, one in Warri here for people in this area so we are saying we are going to be accessible. They will bring their issues and we will deal with them.

It is not about vote for me for senate and then when you get there, nobody sees you, you become big man in quote overnight and you get so big headed.

•Yemi Emiko

‘A sitting government is the one begging INEC not to use card readers’ people will stop him. We will stop him this time around.

Bomadi Local Government area. So I am telling you that we will stop him.

How do you intend to stop James Manager?

Our people will vote him out and that is why they are scared of the card readers. A sitting government is the one begging INEC not to use card readers.

Can’t you see something is wrong somewhere? They know that if there is free and fair election, we will stop them. So, they don’t want the use of PVCS, they are saying use Temporary Vote Card.

INEC test run the card reader only yesterday in a few units here in our area, and the things worked well. There may have been some hitches here and there which are normal, but overall it was a huge success.

James Manager and the PDP people are so afraid of the card readers that they are saying, no, don’t use them. And we will defeat them, and INEC has put its feet down that no card reader, no elections. In fact, I would have preferred option A4 , so If they say no use of card, fine, but let everybody line up behind his candidate, and we will see if he will get one vote from even his home Akugbene in

What has Manager not done for Delta South that you would like to do?

The question would have been more like what had he done for anybody in this senatorial district? And the obvious response is James has not done anything. I have gone round and like I said, I was in Patani and I asked them because senators do have constituency projects.

I asked them to name or point to one constituency project that Sen. Manager has delivered so far. Before I could even finish asking the question, I heard a loud chorus of no, no, same thing in Bomadi, same in Burutu. I then told them that I thought maybe because Manager is Ijaw; he was probably pushing all the projects to Ijaw. Again they responded with a thunderous no. I just did that for the sake of politics because I wanted them to disprove me, but they all said no, no, no. So, it is not about what he has done because he has done practically nothing here. There is nothing you can point to and say this is what James Manager has done for the people with all his years in government. That is why we are asking what else does he want?

He is not even accessible. That is one of the biggest issues they have against him. They don’t know him because he is not accessible. We have learnt from that and that is why we have told them that we are going to have three district offices across the senatorial district. We shall have one in Bomadi for the Ijaw people so that I can spend one day of every month in that office where they can have access to me and table

Our people will vote him out and that is why they are scared of the card readers

What are you putting on the table for the people of Delta South?

We have taken our plans, our vision to the people in the constituency. Of course we are going to be accessible.

That is primary. You need people to bring their issues to you, so that you can understand and help us to reclaim our lives, reclaim our communities. For me, that is key and a critical success factor.

Two, we are going to carry out a needs assessment programme. I am very familiar with all these areas because I spent most of my working life in Chevron Nigeria Limited. I tell you there is hardly any community in Nigeria Chevron does its business that I do not know the in and out and they know me so well as well, whether in Bayelsa, whether in Rivers, anywhere Chevron operates, so Delta state I am most familiar with.

I have told people that the most important senatorial district in this country is Delta South and the reason is simple. This is the only senatorial district where you have two oil terminals, the Forcados and The Escravos, what have our people got to show for it? So, if we contribute so much, we are also due for so much.

We are going to work with other likeminded people in my district to draw attention, to pass bills that will bring value to our area in terms of development, tangible development.

We shall work with the state government to ensure that DESOPADEC, for instance, delivers.

Right now, I don’t see what DESOPADEC is doing. Under the 13 per cent derivation funds, nearly N15b comes to Delta state every month, 50 per cent of that by act of parliament goes to DESOPADEC for building these areas. I can’t see anything they are doing. DESOPADEC has no business doing bench and table for schools. If they do that, what will local governments do? We are asking the basic questions and nobody is providing answers. All those billions, where have they gone, where have they entered? So, we need to put their feet to fire and ensure that they spend that money in those areas so that within four years, you can see some transformation. And it is realizable, it is not rocket science. It is just the will and the leadership that we lack.

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SATURDAY VANGUARD, MARCH 14, 2015 — 63

Yakubu:

Never too old to dream T

HE Yak is back and so is the question that used to annoy him but now just brings a smile.

Age, for the striker who scored more Premier League goals than Cristiano Ronaldo and Fernando Torres, has always been more than a number.

That is possibly because David Moyes once joked Yakubu Aiyegbeni was a ‘Nigerian 25’. And because Steve McClaren claimed the striker told him he was 25 when he signed for Middlesbrough 10 years ago.

So, how old is he? The profiles say 32; the sceptics are ruder. The big man among Reading’s big dreamers says he’s heard it all before.

‘It was always like this,’ he says.

‘But it does not bother me. Kanu has had it as well.

‘I just laugh about it — people joke and that is it. If I was lying I don’t think I would be playing now. I would be retired.’

Thankfully for Reading and the FA Cup, the jibes have not got the better of him. Yakubu scored the goal that saw off Derby in the fifth round to set up the tie against Bradford, guaranteeing at least one side from outside the Premier League will be at Wembley in the semi-finals.

For the neutrals, the hope is that League One Bradford can trip up another bigger club.

For Yakubu, there is the hope that he can make it to Wembley for the first time after a mangled achilles tendon kept him out of Everton’s 2009 final defeat against Chelsea.

If he does, it will complete a quite surreal journey that spans almost three years since he left Blackburn — ending 10 seasons in England — following relegation to the Championship. His absence has seen him scream at confused Chinese footballers and gain a sweaty taste of football in Qatar. ‘No regrets,’ as Yakubu says.

And yet there were times in China, at Guangzhou R&F in the days before Sven Goran Eriksson rocked up, where he quite literally had no idea what was going on.

‘When I was there (after leaving Blackburn), we had a Brazilian coach (Sergio Farias) and he spoke in Portuguese,’ Yakubu says. ‘A guy that speaks English, he had to translate into English and then another guy had to translate from Portuguese to Chinese. The manager is supposed to speak for like five minutes but we are C M Y K

there for nine minutes.

‘It’s so difficult to speak with your team-mates. You don’t know how to tell him to pass. You just scream at him and when you scream, he knows that he has to give you the ball.

‘When you want to go shopping or to a restaurant, you have to have it written in your phone in Chinese and you have to show it. Everywhere you go, you have to take your phone and show it to the taxi driver.

‘But when Sven came in, it was great to work with him again. I worked with him at Leicester City. He is always really calm. He just wants you to enjoy the game.

‘Sometimes when I played two or three games and didn’t score, he never said to me, “You didn’t score”.

He’d just walk towards me and say, smiling: “It’s been a while since you scored”. Always calm.’

After 18 months in China, Yakubu wound up at Al Rayyan in Qatar last year. He is confident that despite having to train in the middle of the night, they can host a good World Cup. ‘I had a good offer in Qatar,’ he says. ‘It was another experience so no regrets. Believe me, they can get a good World Cup there. They have nice stadiums. But when it is hot, it is hot.

We had to train at 9.30pm in summer.

You finish training at about 12 and then go home at 12.30am and then bed at about 4am. You have to stay home all day because it is really, really hot. You can’t train when it’s 50 degrees, it is too much.’

He adds: ‘In winter it is good, we can train at 4pm. We played matches at 7.30pm or 8pm and they have to stop for water breaks once or twice.’

On deadline day last month he came back to the country where he first arrived in 2003, when Harry Redknapp took a punt on a striker

playing in Israel.

‘Even when you play the big teams, Harry makes you believe,’ he says. ‘He’ll say, “The defence is not good. Come on, just kill him”.

If you’re scared, like you’re going to play against Sol Campbell, he’d say, “Sol Campbell? He’s s***. Don’t worry”.’

The memories of his first English stint make him happy. Now his hope is to finally reach Wembley on his second chapter. ‘Every player wants that,’ he says.

Should Reading defeat Bradford in the replay on Monday March 16, Yakubu will be leading his team’s attacking assault against Arsenal in the semifinal on Saturday April 18.

You’re never too old to dream.

Culled from Daily Mail

YAKUBU FACTFILE Age: 32 Date of Birth: November 22, 1982 Born: Benin City, Edo Nigeria Career in England: Portsmouth (2002-5) Middlesbrough (2005-7) Leicester (2011) Blackburn (2011-2) Reading (2015)

Games 92 103 20 33 5

Goals 43 35 11 18 1

SATURDAY Vanguard, MARCH 14, 2015

ay, Confederation Cup: Dolphins pr pra yesterday.

Wolves hopeful Warri Wolves have no

D

olphins Football Club of Port Harcourt will face an uphill task today as they tackle Tunisian side Club Africain in the

More sports inside

second round of the CAF Confederation Cup in Tunis.

Dolphins left only yesterday for Tunisia after the players staged a protest over unpaid backlog of salaries and other entitlements. Apart from this, the club is also missing key players However, coach Stanley Eguma is hopeful that Dolphins will return unscathed from their trip to Tunisia.

“The travel hiccups could happen to any side. So we are not writing off ourselves yet as in football even your perceived hardship can become a blessing in disguise”.

“Our chances are as bright as the hosts, Club Africain, we only just have to maintain absolute calmness.

“In addition to management, players disagreement we equally had bad weather that further compounded our early departure.

“We’re already boarding and quite hopeful for positive result in the game on Saturday,” Eguma said as the team departed

AYC: Flying Eagles ready for Elephants’ stampede

N

igeria’s Under20 team at the African Youth Championship in Dakar, Senegal are aiming to maintain their 100% record, as they meet Cote’d Ivoire’s

Junior Elephants in the semi-finals this evening.

The Flying Eagles have won all their games so far in the tournament, the last being the 4-1 thrashing of Congo despite playing with ten men

from the 26th minute.

But against Cote’d Ivoire it will be a test of the Flying Eagles intention to win the trophy. Coach Manu Garba stated that his wards are dreaming of going to the World Cup as African champions.

-

5.00pm 5.00pm

CONFEDERATION CUP Warri Wovles v Dedebit - 4.00pm Club Africain v Dolphins NPL

Heartland 5.00pm Bayelsa 5.00pm

EPL Crystal Palace v QPR Arsenal v West Ham Leicester v Hull Sunderland v Aston Villa West Brom v Stoke Burnley v Man City

D

espite suffering a painful home defeat in Wednesday’s champions league match against Paris StGermain PSG, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich wants to give Jose Mourinho a new contract.

It was gathered that Chelsea are ready to begin talks even though his current three-year deal does not run out until the end of next season.

beat Nigeria 1-0 in the group stages and also in the final where they won on penalties. However the Nigerian team where worthy champions of the 2013 FIFA Under17 World Cup. “Our target is to win all

Jose Mourihno

ACROSS

AYC

3SC v Kano Pillars v

Abramovich backs Mourinho

CROSS WORD PUZZLE

Today’s Matches Nigeria v Cote’d Ivoire Senegal v Congo

Both teams are no strangers to each other.

They have in their squads most of the players from their respective under-17 teams that played in the final of the African U-17 championship in 2013 in Egypt. Cote’ d Ivoire

such worries. They are looking to collect all points from Ethiopia’s Dedebit in the other Confederation Cup fixture. Warri Wolves coach, Paul Aigbogun revealed that his wards are in good mental and physical condition to handle the encounter.

He added that he was expecting a tough match and they are adequately prepared.

“We knew, even before our second leg (preliminary round game against RC Bobo Dioulasso) that we would play them (Dedebit FC), so we started doing our homework on them a long time ago.

“The good thing is that all our players are available and are available for selection,” said the coach.

-

1:45 pm 4:00 pm 4:00 pm 4:00pm 4:00 pm 6:30 pm

1)Italian Prime Minister, Matteo _(5) 4)Argentina National Coach, Alejandro _(7) 7)Italian “SerieA” Club-Side (7) 8)Renowned Business Magnate, Alhaji Aliko _ (7) 9)Lesotho Currency (7) 11)Period of Seven Days (4) 13)Uruguay Striker & Barcelona Forward, Luis _(6) 15)Imo State Capital (5) 19)South African President, Mr Jacob _ (4) 21)Former Chairman, Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Larry _ (7) 22)Spanish “La Liga”Club-Side (7) 23)Osun State Capital (7) 24)Super Eagles Midfielder, Obiorah _ (7) 25)African Antelope (5)

DOWN 1)Belgium Foreign Minister, Mr. Didier _ (7) 2)President, Nigerian Tennis Federation (NTF), Mr. Sani _(7) 3)National Publicity Secretary, All Peoples Congress (APC), Mr Joe _ (7) 4)L.G.A. in Delta State (6) 5)Former Edo State Commissioner of Sports, Mr. Brown _(7) 6)Former Minister of Justice, Mohammed _ (5) 10)L.G.A. in Cross-River State (4) 12)L.G.A. in Ebonyi State (4) 14)Myanmar Capital City (7) 16)Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Aliyu _(7) 17)Burkina Faso “Stallions” Midfielder, Fabrice _ (7) 18)AC Milan Coach, Fillippo _ (7) 20)L.G.A. in Kano State (6) 21)Estonian Currency (5)

Solution on page 21

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