Why Tinubu dumped Buhari for Tambuwal

C M Y K

2 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 3

C M Y K

4 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

C M Y K

Vanguard, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 —5

Why Tinubu dumped Buhari for Tambuwal By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor

T

EAM Tinubu, the camp of the national leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was compelled by some former Nigerian leaders and Northern Islamic leaders to drop its support for the 2015 presidential aspiration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. Reflective of the pressure which also came from some close associates of Asiwaju Tinubu, the political group has switched support towards the presidential aspiration of Speaker Aminu Tambuwal who with his entry this week, immediately turned into a major contender for the ticket. He has Buhari and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as the main challengers for the party’s presidential ticket with Governor Rabiu Kwankwanso of Kano State and newspaper publisher, Sam Nda-Isaiah also contending. Several other factors were taken into consideration by the Tinubu camp in switching support, close associates of the political leader disclosed to Saturday Vanguard. Among the other factors was the alleged overbearing influence of some close associates of Gen. Buhari, who they claimed were likely to fence out other political stakeholders in a possible Buhari presidency. Three former heads of state, two from the north and one from the south and a very influential retired army chief from the northeast who has also held political appointments in the present dispensation were among those cited by sources as having prevailed on the Tinubu camp to drop support for Buhari. The decision of the Tinubu camp to drop support for Buhari, it was learnt, also followed reservations from some sections of the north notably, some Islamic leaders. “It is not that we dumped Buhari, the Islamic clerics, the imams and the political leaders in the north particularly three former heads of state said that they don’t want the man,” the source said. President Olusegun Obasanjo and a former

military president Gen. Ibrahim Babangida met penultimate Tuesday following the latter’s return from a medical trip abroad. The two men met for 30 minutes behind closed doors. However, Gen Babangida had in the past been publicly quoted as urging Speaker Tambuwal to aspire for a higher office. Speaking at the presentation of the Vanguard Personality of the Year award to Governor Chibuke Amaechi of Rivers State in Lagos on April 6, 2013, the former military president said: “When leaders like Tambuwal delivered on their electoral promise, we advise them to try something higher. For Tambuwal, your guess is as good as mine. Well done.” Babangida’s remark was applauded. . The influence of some present and past minders of Gen. Buhari was also another reason taken into consideration, a source disclosed. “There is this perception about Buhari that he is surrounding himself with some people like Nasir ElRufai, Buba Galadima, Sule Hamman” the source said, reawakening complaints about the overbearing attitude of Buhari’s now dissolved political machine, The Buhari Organisation, TBO which had in the past been accused of selectively fencing out people. The Tinubu associates also feared that the perceptions of religious extremism which the ruling party, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP had sought to tag on Buhari could deny the party votes in the South were he to emerge as candidate. Though many of the Tinubu associates do not regard him as an extremist, but the perception already created, it was learned, could be injurious to their political outing. There were also concerns that Buhari could be detached from responsibility and reference was made to his past roles as head of state and chairman of the Petroleum (Special) Task Force, PTF where his subordinates usurped authority in his name. “When he was head of state most of the power was delegated to Idiagbon and when he was at PTF, it was another person, that took

Explosion, sporadic gun shot rocks Kano By Abdulsalam Muhammad

A

N explosion and sporadic gunshot rocks Kano Friday evening amidst fear of dozen of casualties. Eyewitness says the incident occurred behind a fuel station opposite

NNPC mega station in Hotoro triggered heavy gun duel . Both military and police authorities are keeping sealed lips over the development as attempts to get comments from the spoke persons yielded no results.

charge and that if APC says they are looking for change that Tambuwal represents that change,” an associate of Tinubu revealed. Another factor that was taken into consideration which was projected by some associates of the APC national leader, Saturday Vanguard learned was the prospect of Buhari turning on Tinubu and others once he is invested with power. “There are also fears in Asuwaju’s camp that the man may destroy Asiwaju and may come back to hurt him and some of Asiwaju’s loyalists warned him,” the source revealed. The matter of General Buhari’s age also came into consideration in the final consideration to drop support for the former head of state as it was reasoned that 70 to 80% of voters fall between the age of 18 to 40+ and most of them don’t know Buhari. Political associates were also disturbed that inputs made by party leaders into the general’s speech at his declaration at the Eagle Square last month were discarded raising apprehension that the general in office could reject advice. Some were also understood to have raised the fact that the former head of state also did not have enough money for the race ahead. The factors inevitably helped to shift attention towards Tambuwal who was earlier aligning himself towards the Sokoto State governorship contest. Support for Tambuwal’s aspiration is also being boosted by permutations that his sterling leadership of the House of Representatives where he has the committed support of more than half of the members had put him in pole position in more than half of the federal constituencies in the country. The decision of the Tinubu camp to change attention from Buhari and Tambuwal’s entry into the contest was welcomed by associates of Atiku Abubakar who see it as an opportunity for them to move in to harvest support from the influential Southwest caucus that is firmly controlled by Tinubu. The Buhari camp was yesterday adjusting itself not to be in panic mood as it welcomed Tambuwal into the race. Osita Okechukwu, a strong loyalist of Buhari in a statement made available to Saturday Vanguard said the development would not cut off the celestial bond between Buhari and the more than 12 million followers behind him around the country. He said: “The entry of Rt.Hon. Aminu Tambuwal is a welcome development, the more the presidential

aspirants or any aspirant to governor, Senate, national or state assemblies the merrier.” “Our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) will be the greatest beneficiary, as the mobilization of the electorate will be wider, penetrating and robust.” “Therefore, Hon Tambuwal is highly welcome into the

presidential race. This is why the constitution of our party was amended penultimate week, to accommodate in less than one hour, any person who joins APC.” “On his chances, one cannot hazard a guess, as Tambuwal unlike Buhari or Atiku had never contested nationwide election. He only contested in a federal constituency and had never tested his popularity in Kano, Akure or Enugu.” All

one knows is that his entry will neither diminish nor cut-off the celestial bond between GMB and the masses and the middle class of our dear country. The masses and middle class had renewed at every election GMB’s 12million Vote Bank, therefore the contest at the end of the day is between President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and GMB.”

Service of Songs for Late Chief Omotayo Osayande Ogbomo Akpata; The Ima Of Benin Kingdom held at Glover road, Ikoyi, Lagos, yesterday. Photo: AKEEM SALAU

From left;Mr Osagie Akpata, last born of late Chief Omotayo Osayande Ogbomo Akpata; Mrs Olabisi Akpata, wife of deceased; Mrs Omobola Onajide, Sister to Chief Akpata and Mrs Osa Akpata-Idowu, daughter at the event.

From left: Mrs Osa Akpata-Idowu, daughter; Mrs Olabisi Akpata, wife of deceased and Mrs Omobola Onajide.

Plot to rig 2015 elections: Jega goes tough, arrests two INEC staff ...over house-to-house registration By Jide Ajani

T

HE National Chairman of Nigeria’s independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega, yesterday confirmed the arrest of two INEC Ad hoc staff for carrying out a house-to-house registration of voters in Kano State. Weekend Vanguard gathered that the arrest was carried out with the involvement of eagle-eyed operatives of the Department of State Service, DSS, and the Police in Kano, Kano State. The Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, for Kano State also confirmed the arrest yesterday. The arrest was said to have been effected at a Polling Unit, PU, in the

Kabo area of Kano. The two arrested individuals have, however, been granted bail. In fact, Weekend Vanguard gathered from a very competent source that when the Director General of the DSS, Ekpeyong Ita, got wind of the development, he was said to have alerted Jega. The INEC. Chairman, in his response, confirmed the arrest. He was also said to have assured that the replacement for the two staff involved was already on. He confirmed that the arrested persons were not of the National Youth Service Corp. Shockingly, the INEC Chairman disclosed that the individuals were students who were being used to complement the manpower shortage of corp members. He insisted that the offenders would be

prosecuted. Observers are however, of the view that INEC needn’t launch into its now moribund voyage of adding 30000 Polling Units which were controversially allocated, giving the North massive advantage over the South, when it was aware that it had a manpower challenge. And whereas INEC suspended the allocation of the controversial additional PUs last Tuesday, inside sources disclosed to Weekend Vanguard that some Commissioners in the electoral body were still bent on carrying out an agenda that would accord the North massive voting advantage - read details of this new plot in Sunday Vanguard tomorrow

6 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Protest over Delta EPZ groundbreaking ceremony: Itsekiri accuse Jonathan of ethnic bigotry *Threaten secession *Ask Uduaghan to resign for failing Itsekiri By Egufe Yafugborhi

I

TSEKIRIS in Delta state have accused President Goodluck Jonathan of encouraging Ijaw agenda to exterminate them following the violent threats from Ijaws of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta state which aborted Tuesday ’s scheduled groundbreaking ceremony for the $16bn Ogidigben EPZ project by the President. In a briefing yesterday in Warri by Itsekiri Leaders of Thought, the ethnic group in Delta said they were ready to approach the United Nations to seek secession and opt for protection under the United Kingdom or United States in line with treaties signed with these foreign powers long before Nigeria’s independence which they claim have not been abrogated. The decision read by Secretary to the ILT, Edward Ekpoko noted, “Itsekiri and other well meaning Nigerians are surprised at the failure of President Goodluck Jonathan to commission the groundbreaking for the EPZ at Ogidigben, Ugborodo in Warri South West Local Government area due to threats of Ijaw militants mostly of Gbaramatu kingdom. “The EPZ is completely cited in Ogidigben, an Itsekiri town. The closest Ijaw enclave lying to the South, Yokiri, is about 14km from Ogidigben. The other town to the North is Kpokpo. This Kpokpo has no geographical contiguity with Ogidigben.’’. Pa J. O.S Ayomike, Chairman of the ILT, in their remarks said various court injunctions by courts of competent jurisdiction held on the land ownership tussle in the area support the fact that the entire land space currently occupied by the Ijaw of Gbaramatu is owned by Itsekiris of Ugborodo. “President Jonathan’s refusal to perform the groundbreaking ceremony of the project as fixed for Friday was a show of cowardice unexpected of his office which should stand for the rule of law. He has shown that he has

joined the Ijaw militants in building fences among the ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta and Nigeria. “Jonathan should know that Itsekiri the world over will go to the UN to request for secession if Jonathan and Ijaw want to pursue the extermination of the Itsekiri people. We will ask for the protection of Britain and USA and the United Nations”, Ayomike, an octogenarian screamed. Ekpoko added that, “Jonathan is pursuing an Ijaw agenda. We will resist it and will never be intimidated by threats of war and genocide against

the Itsekiri.” The Itsekiri leaders also took a swipe at Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, calling on him to resign as Governor following his failed boast that nobody can stop Jonathan from coming for the EPZ groundbreaking ceremony. Ayomike said, “Jonathan has been stopped by the Ijaw. They have belittled Uduaghan . Uduaghan boasted that he was governor and that nobody could stop the president from coming. Now that his boasting did not yield any result, he should resign like President Nixon did. “Jonathan has been intimidated by the militants, and the Ijaws have grown in fame and

importance so they can control everything, including the president of Nigeria.’’. Meanwhile, the Ijaws of Gbaramatu speaking through Paul Bebenimibo have maintained their position to see that the EPZ never materialises until Gbaramatu stakes are as defined. Bebenimibo in a phone reaction yesterday said, “Gbaramatu Ijaws are not at war with their Itsekiri neighbors. Our leaders are simply saying what is good for the goose is good for the gander. We own a large proportion of the EPZ. We do not deserve to be shut out. Equity is the password to a successful EPZ. Equity begets peace. You cannot talk peace in the atmosphere of injustice and oppression.”

L-R; Chief Florence Rewane, Pa J.O.S Ayomike, Chairman Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILT) and Edward Ekpoko Esq., Secretary, briefing the press yesterday in Warri on Itsekiri anger over the aborted President Jonathan’s groundbreaking ceremony for the Ogidigben EPZ project.

Internet revolution can destroy scholarship, says Soyinka By Vincent Ujumadu, Awka

F

O R E M O S T Nigerian writer and Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka

warned yesterday in Awka that if reasonable steps were not taken, the current internet revolution would destroy scholarship. Delivering the 3rd Zik annual lecture at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Soyinka said the heavy reliance on internet for academic activities would soon witness the end of books as instrument for mind development and potential building. According to him, there has been so much decline in writing and reading among the younger generation and urged them not to allow any primordial considerations to hinder them from developing their innate potentials. He observed that certain traditional,

religious and western teachings enslaved Africans from exploiting their environment and potentials, adding that the problems in Nigeria today such as Boko Haram, which could be attributed to poor mental development occasioned by wrong teaching. Speaking on the theme; “The Magic Lantern, Excursions in the Creative Realm,” Soyinka said that the sun remained the magic lantern of the entire universe which gave life to the earth. He said that such communication gadgets like computers and IPAD were capable of bringing an end to the culture of book writing and reading, adding that the end point should be how to find a way of collaborating between book writing and use of internet knowledge. Their partnership, he stated, may have witnessed a revolution

Prof Wole Soyinka

in the communication world, but regrettably has essentially destroyed the realm of imagination in young people. He enjoined the young people to tap their potentials and not allow certain primordial factors within their environment inhibit them. Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Inter Party Affairs, Senator Ben Ndi Obi, who endowed the Zik lecture series, said the project was started three years ago to immortalize Nigeria’s first President,

Oil subsidy: Petroleum minister makes a pledge to oil marketers

K

EEN on ensuring a hitch-free supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country, especially during the end of year festivities, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, has pledged to intervene and ensure that outstanding arrears of fuel subvention owed to petroleum marketers are paid by the end of November. The Minister who gave this assurance at a meeting with members of the Depot Owners and Petroleum Products Marketers Association (DAPPMA) and Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) in Abuja yesterday said she was already in consultation with the Minister of Finance on the issue.

Animasaun’s remembrance day holds today By Bashir Adefaka

L

AGOS largest family, the over 10,000-member Animashaun, will today be joined by high and low members of the society home and abroad to pray for continuous repose in AlJannah of their late father, grandfather and great grandfather, Alhaji Muhammed Muritala Ajadi Animashaun. The late broadcaster and erudite Islamic scholar, who was born in 1896, Saturday Vanguard learned, spent a fulfilled life before he died at 73 on November 12, 1969. Father of 20 successful and proudable children among who were Alhaji Ishola Olanrewaju Animashaun, late father of former Minister of Communications, Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju and Vanguard Media Limited’s director, Alhaji AbdulGaniyyu Kayode Animashaun popularly called G.K., Alhaji Muritala Animashaun’s enigmatic personality continues to endear him in the hearts and memories of many, 45 years after his death. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe in whom the school was named. He described the lecture as unique and thought provoking, saying that the theme was one of Soyinka’s enigmatic cum realistic, adding that it was an attempt to unravel same without him it would be like an excursion into oblivion and confusion. Obi said the lecture series was a turning point in the process of actualization of his childhood dream of immortalizing Zik, explaining that it was for that reason that he endowed N10 million in 2010, with an additional N2 million over a five -year period for research in honour

of this “icon and legend of all times”. Zik’s faith in intellectual resources as a problem-solving, he added, stood tall in all his classical statements and actions as his Lincoln University experience reaffirmed his belief in education as a constructive social force which could be harnessed for social progress. Chairman of the occasion, Chief Emeka Anyaoku said the lecture was to honour Zik’s legacies and initiatives, adding that people knew him as a great inspirer of nationalism and Africa’s fight against colonialism mainly with his pen, first

in Ghana and later, Nigeria.

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 7

BRIEFS

2015: Jonathan, Balewa beat deadline, submit PDP presidential forms *I will not withdraw for Jonathan, says Balewa *As Abacha, Indabawa submit Guber forms BY HENRY UMORU

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday returned his expression of interest and nomination forms to emerge the Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP come December 10/ 11 where the national Convention would hold for the 2015 Presidential election. President Jonathan submitted his forms to beat yesterday’s deadline for the submission of forms by all aspirants for various elective positions. Vice President Namadi Sambo who submitted the forms on behalf of President Jonathan, arrived the party ’s secretariat at 12.20pm. Speaking at PDP National Executive Committee, NEC hall, Sambo who noted that Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda has touched the lives of all Nigerians and transformed the country into making it the best economy in Africa and 26th in the world, said, “It is with pleasure and humility that on behalf of Nigerians, I am presenting to Mr. Chairman to forward to National Organizing Secretary, completed expression of interest and nomination form of Mr. President for the presidential election.” It would be recalled that the President picked his forms October 30 last day the party fixed for the purchase of forms, before the party further extended the date to November 6. The PDP has also fixed its convention/presidential primaries for December 10, even as the president’s sole candidature was being challenged by son of Nigeria’s late prime minister, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Dr Abdul Jelil Tafawa Balewa. Also speaking, National Chairman of the party, Adamu Mu’azu hailed the party’s national caucus, Board of Trustee, National

Executive Committee for endorsing the president as sole candidate of the PDP. Mu’azu who received the forms on behalf of the National Organising Secretary, Abubakar Mustapha, said with the

completion of the nomination forms, Jonathan has fulfilled the desire of “the majority of our party members who asked you to run as sole presidential candidate of

PDP in 2015. It is a sign of confidence by the people. This is as a result of hard work, this is a sign of commitment for the development of our country”.

T

HE Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Muhammed Adoke, yesterday, urged an Ikeja High Court to discontinue with a N247.746,097.31 fraud case pending against 5 ex-officials of Lagos Trade Fair Complex. The officials-Bassey Dominic, Okafor Ngozi Eunice, Francis Datla, Okocha Ajele Lazarus and Kolo Banabas were in late 2013 arraigned on allegation of conspiracy and stealing by the Economic

By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

R

EPRIEVE came the way of Sani, the younger brother of former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, when he successfully slipped away yesterday morning from the hands of captors. Ribadu, a former chairman of Yola South Local Government and former member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, was seized from his farm along the Yola-Fufore Road by armed men last Sunday. Efforts to locate and rescue him since then had been futile until when he reportedly escaped unhurt from his captors in the thick forest in Girei around 2am yesterday. The escape of Sani was made public by Abuzarri Ribaru, who is a serving member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly in a statement made available to Saturday Vanguard in Abuja. Although Abuzarri did not give details of how his brother managed to escape from his captors, the lawmaker said that the disappearance of the man was a ‘trying time’ for them.

Boko Haram: Stop politics, step up military campaigns— Ekhomu tells Jonathan

P

From left: National Chairman, PDP, Mallam Adamu Mu'azu; Vice President, Namadi Sambo; PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Uche Sekondus; Senate President, Senator David Mark; Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu; Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; SGF, Senator Pius Ayim during a ceremony to submit President Goodluck Jonathan's Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the 2015 Presidential Elections at the Party's Headquaters, Wuse, Abuja. Photo: Abayomi Adeshida

Boko Haram sack Chibok town By NDAHI MARAMA, MAIDUGURI

G

UNMEN suspected to be members of Boko Haram terrorist sect who were defeated and chased out of Mubi yesterday stormed and attacked Chibok town, Chibok local government area of Borno State. Residents who fled the town, among them, Mr. Apogu Afaramai said they had to flee the area to the bushes in fear of their lives. He said “as I am speaking to you now I am in the bush moving towards Biu town. Though I don’t know whether they killed anybody or not because

when we heard gunshot we just fled the area and there was no network service.” He said they had to flee the area because they don’t want what happened to Mubi, Gwoza and Bama to happen to them and called on the Federal Government to do something to bring to an end the lingering crisis. Another resident who fled the area to Gombe state and does not want his name in print told our correspondent that the insurgents who stormed the town started shooting sporadically scaring people as they burnt houses and other public buildings. He said the incident which occurred on Thursday night

at about 10 pm forced them to flee to bushes, adding that they were stranded in the bush. called on the Federal Government to do something to bring to an end the lingering crisis. Another resident who fled the area to Gombe state and does not want his name in print told our correspondent that the insurgents who stormed the town started shooting sporadically scaring people as they burnt houses and other public buildings. He said the incident which occurred on Thursday night at about 10 pm forced them to flee to bushes, adding that they were stranded in the bush.

AGF, EFCC disagree over Trade Fair alleged N247m fraud By Abdulwahab Abdulah & Olamilekan Ajulo

Ribadu’s brother escapes from kidnappers

and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, however, they all pleaded not guilty to the charges. The offence according to EFCC was contrary to the provisions of Sections 516 and 396 of the Criminal Code Cap 617 Vol 2 of Lagos State Nigeria, 2003. They were said to have committed the offences on various dates between 2009 and 2012 by allegedly stealing the money belonging to the management of Lagos International Trade Fair. At the last hearing of the suit, the alleged victim of the fraud, Professor Chika

Nick Eze, had narrated how the alleged crime was carried out, insisting that the defendants kept collecting rents even after the complex

had been concessioned to his company, Pulic Nigeria Limited, a real estate management and development company.

RESIDENT of Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria (AISSON) Dr. Ona Ekhomu has advised the Federal government to halt all political campaigns in the North East of the country, declare war on the Boko Haram terrorists, and intensify military campaign in the areas under emergency rule. Reacting to the suicide bombing that killed 47 students in the Government Senior Secondary School in Potiskum, Yobe State, and that of Niger State, the security expert said that the carnival atmosphere that accompanied political campaign rallies would make mockeryof the memory of innocent school students slaughtered by Boko Haram in thePotiskum attack and several other recent school attacksincluding the abduction of the over 200 school girls from Chibok, Borno State. Ekhomu said that politicking in the states under Emergency rule was insensitive and detracted from the military effort. He said that since BokoHaram has a penchant for attacking large crowds, political rallies could come under person borne IED (PB IED) attacks or Vehicle Borne IED (VBIED) attacks.

Boost your practice with online tools — Workshop advises Journalists By Princewill Ekwujuru

J

OURNALISTS and media professioners alike have been advised to seize the opportunities inherent within the information technology landscape to lift their career and attain a wider audience. According to the facilitators at the just-ended three-day workshop, sponsored by First Bank of Nigeria, FBN, in collaboration with the Nigerian Guild of Editors, and the Centre for Leadership & Management in Journalism, CLeJ of the PanAtlantic University, Lagos, said this has become imperative because of the speedy growth of the IT landscape, even as only a thin line separates software from information development. Delivering a lecture, Dr. Pius Onobhayedo of the School of Media Communication, of the university said the migration of print contents online has shrinked advert revenue for most media outfits, particularly newspaper houses.

2015: Court stops move to dissolve Oyo PDP Exco By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

J

USTICE Evoh Chukwu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has restrained the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, from dissolving the Executive Committee of of the party in Oyo state. The court held that the Committee, having emerged from an election that was duly conducted by the party in Ibadan on March 17, 2012, cannot be devolved before the expiration of its term of four years. In an enrolled order dated October 30, Justice Chukwu further restrained the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from recognizing any group other than the state executive committee duly elected at the party’s state congress held on March 17, 2012, in Ibadan, pending the expiration of the four year term of the current Exco of the party in Oyo state.

8 — SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, NOVEMBER 15 15, 2014

BRIEFS

Navy destroys two illegal refineries in Rivers

Dame Jonathan’s visit: kid feared dead, another injured in stampede T

WO illegal refineries with capacity to produce 50,000 litres of petroleum product valued at about N8 million have been destroyed by the Nigerian Navy. Cdr Chindo Yahaya, Base Operarions Officer of the Nigerian Naval Ship, Pathfinder, Rivers state who spoke to the media said the Navy destroyed the refineries at Abonnema headquarters of Akuku Toru local government area, adding that no arrest was made because those behind the illicit trade disappeared before arrival of his men. His words, : “We went out on patrol yesterday night (Thursday night), and based on intelligence report; the patrol team was able to discover this illegal crude oil refining sites at Opobo creek close to Abonema town. “There are two active illegal crude oil refining sites as at the time the patrol team arrived early this morning; they were still working.

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

A

kid was feared dead while another suffered leg fracture following a stampede at the Samson Siasia Stadium venue of the distribution of economic empowerment items and commodities to indigenes of Bayelsa State by the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. According to eyewitnesses, the kids were trampled on in a stampede caused by armed security men including men of the Joint Task Force code named Operation Pulo Shield. The stampede, it was learnt, occurred at about 6.30pm Thursday at the jam-packed stadium in the aftermath of shooting of tear gas to wage the surging crowd of women and youths waiting to col-

Urhobo want Ibori released *Campaign for more job slots SWEARING IN: Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State (2nd right) his Deputy, Prof. Amos Utuama (2nd left); Mrs. Nkechi Chukwura (right) and Chief Mrs. Faith Majemite (left) as chairman, Ndukwa East Local Government Area during the Swearing-In ceremony as Local Government chairmen in the state by Governor held in Asaba. Photo: Henry Unini

lect the commodities slated for distribution. The programme was organized by the office of

the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MDGs in collaboration with the Bayelsa State

Government through the MDGs conditional grant scheme and office of the First Lady.

Police offer compensation for tips on illegal arms •Parade 76 suspected rapists, armed robbers By Simon Ebegbulem, Benin City

T

HE Edo State Police Command yesterday paraded 76 suspected armed robbers, kidnappers, child defilers, including a 38 year-old Osazuwa Ehizogie who defiled a 10 year-old child at Ikpoba Hill Benin City. The Edo state Police Commissioner, Mr Foluso Adebanjo, who dis-

closed that the command would set up a special squad to mop up illegal arms from people while parading the suspects, raised an alarm over the alleged acquisition of arms by politicians in the state ahead the 2015 general elections. He admonished political leaders in the state to ensure a level playing ground for all aspirants, attributing violence in political parties to failure

by political leaders to allow internal democracy flourish in their parties. While urging all those in possession of illegal arms to surrender, the Edo CP announced that the Command would offer a handsome financial reward for any information that will lead to the recovery of illegal arms and ammunitions in the state. Some of the items recovered from the sus-

pects included 30 vehicles, 17 assorted guns, 30 live cartridges, cutlasses, fake US Dollars and N19, 700. The CP also paraded one Ifeanyi Umeh who was allegedly involved in the production of illicit and adulterated drinks at Upper Sakpoba Road. The suspect confessed to Vanguard, saying that he produced the Hennessey, Red Label and other hot drinks with water and ethanol.

Rivers 2015: Advise Wike to withdraw,FUNERAL aspirant tells PDP leadership By Emma Ujah, Abuja Bureau Chief

A

S the race for the governorship ticket of the People’s Democratic Party hots up in Rivers States, an aspirant, Mr. Atamuno Ajubo Atamuno, has called on the leadership of the party to advise former Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike to withdraw from the race. Addressing a press conference, in Abuja, Mr. Atamuno said that Mr. wike’s withdrawal would be the only thing that would save PDP and ensure victory in next year’s general election,

C M Y K

By Jimitota Onoyume

in the state. He insisted that the former minister’s participation would undermine the governorship primaries, a situation that would lead to protest votes against the PDP at the governorship election. “We are looking unto the National Executive Council, the National Working Committee and the Board of the party to advise Wike to step aside in the interest of the party because all that happened were orchestrated plans and strategies by a group of people to continue to dominate the politics of the state against the overall interests of the state.

Consequences The aspirant warned of dire consequences should the national leadership of the PDP ignore his demand for the withdrawal of Mr. Wike from the race, saying that it would give an undue advantage to another party in the governorship election. His words, “If Wike is going to participate there will be no primaries. We don’t want him to participate. If he can do what he has done to party members, what will happen if he gets into office? Besides the problem of the person of the former

minister, Mr. Atamuno said that it was time for power to shift from Upland to the Riverine part of Rivers, after 16 years. According to him, “Today the Rivers people are disgruntled. Apart from the internal wrangling in the party, there is what we refer to as the Upland and Lowland dynamics of Rivers politics. “Powers would have been in the Upland for 16 years, by May 2015. Even before now, after the eight years of Mr. Peter Odili, there were agitations that power should go to the Riverine but some people said we should wait and we agreed with them.

By Festus Ahon, UGHELLI

C

OALITION of Urhobo Youths Organization, CUYO, has frowned at the alleged marginalization of Urhobo ex-militants by the Chairman of the amnesty programme, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, decrying that “only 20 job slots have been granted to ex-militants in Urhobo land as against the over 37,000 given to those from Ijaw ethnic nationality. It also called on President Goodluck Jonathan to expedite action in activating the UK/Nigeria prisoner exchange/transfer treaty and grant unconditional release to former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori. Fielding questions from newsmen after an enlarged meeting of CUYO in Ughelli, its spokesman, Mr. Stephen Ohwokirerhuo argued that there was no legal basis for the continuous detention of Ibori in the custody of the UK prison when there is an international law that could be exploited to effect his release.

Delta guber: Tilije picks APC nomination form

G

OVERNORSHIP aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief Fidelis Tilije, has assured the people of Delta State of good governance if given the mandate to govern the state in the forthcoming 2015 general elections. Tilije who gave this assurance yesterday at the state party’s secretariat, Nndubisi Road, Asaba, Delta State while picking his governorship nomination form, added that Deltans are fed up with bad administration being perpetrated by the ruling PDP Tilije who pointed out that Delta State is blessed with abundant natural resources, expressed dismay that the ruling party could not impact positively on the lives of the people, assuring that if given the mantle of leadership, he will not only transform the state but people will enjoy more dividends of democracy.

2015: N/Delta youths back Senator Egba for 4th term By Festus Ahon, ASABA

Y

OUTHS of Niger Delta under the auspices of Niger Delta Youths Organisation for Sustainable Development, yesterday, restated their support for the re-election of the Senator representing Cross River Central in the Senate, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba for fourth term in 2015 under the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP. The group in a statement signed by its President and Secretary, Mologe Dogubo, Felix Ekwu respectively and others insisted that “Senator Egba has not only attracted unprecedented developments to the area, but has empowered several women and youth groups that have seen them living better lives as they have become self sufficient and employers of labour.

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, NOVEMBER 15 15, 2014 — 9

Uduaghan to PDP guber aspirants: Don’t foment crisis in Delta By Emma Amaize

G

OVERNOR Emman uel Uduaghan of Delta State, in Asaba, the state capital, yesterday, said he was not afraid of a gang-up against him by Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship aspirants, but urged them to call a halt to divisive actions capable of rupturing the peace of the state. Uduaghan gave the admonition while swearingin the newly elected chairs of Ndokwa East and Ethiope East Local Government Councils, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwurah and Mrs. Faith Majemite respectively. Some governorship as-

pirants on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, notably Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Rt. Hon Victor Ochei, Dr. Mrs. Esther Uduehi and others, after a meeting, during the week in Abuja,warned against a purported attempt by the governor to impose a candidate. His words, “Those who are aspiring to be governor should stop creating trouble, I have tried to be fair to all in our journey towards 2015. Two weeks ago, during the ward congresses, I had meetings with the governorship aspirants, every aspirant and every lead-

er contributed to the emergence of the delegates through a consensus list and they all applauded the free and fair nature of the congress that brought up the delegates list.” “This, the panel took to Abuja and some aspirants even went on television to commend the process, so, where is this opposition or imposition coming from? Tell your friends who are aspirants to take it easy, Delta State belongs to all of us, they should stop creating problems and they should retrace their steps so that they can land safely and get to their destinations,” he asserted.

PDP Ward Congresses in C-River: I never collected N500m bribe— Sen. Anosike By Johnbosco Agbakwuru, Abuja

A

member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Electoral Panel for the conduct of the Ward Congresses in Cross River State, Senator Emmanuel Anosike has denied the

allegation that any member of the panel was given N500 million bribe by a governorship candidate in the state to doctor the results of the exercise. Instead, Senator Anosike who represented Anambra North in 2003 in the senate

has told Governor Liyel Imoke to put his house in order and advise his supporters not to blackmail members of the panel that made sure that the exercise was transparent and devoid of influence and inducement from any quarter.

Let govt fund parties – Umeh By Vincent Ujumadu, Awka

N

ATIONAL chair man of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Victor Umeh yesterday added his voice to the call for the government to fund political parties, arguing that it would help to reduce recrimination in the party system. He spoke after facing the three -man screening panel for Anambra Central senatorial zone in Awka. Umeh said: “I canvas that government appropriates money to political parties. Even representatives elected on the platform of parties should contribute to the running of political parties.

“It is an aberration that government has not been funding parties. Poor funding is the root of bad management among political parties.” At yesterday’s screening, Umeh was the sole candidate for the zone as no other aspirant purchased nomination forms for the area, which was an indication that the coast was clear for him to emerge the candidate for the zone without challenge. The screening panel led by the national vice chairman of APGA in the South West, Alhaji Tayo Sowunmi quizzed Umeh for about 20 minutes. Among the questions asked him were his background, why he wants to replace the incumbent Senator for the zone, Dr. Chris Ngige and his

chances of victory in the election. Fielding questions at the end of the exercise, Umeh regretted that APGA had not been able to win the senate for the zone for the past eight years it has been in power, adding that his candidacy provides a good opportunity for the zone to have an APGA senator. He said: “I consider it a challenge. APGA has been doing well in the past nine years. The party has a very bright future.” “I have been receiving endorsements from my people who asked me to run for the seat and we are doing everything possible with Governor Willie Obiano to win the three senatorial seats in the state.”

Pilot, 2 others die as Air Force chopper crashes in Yola By Kingsley Omonobi, Abuja

A

BOUT 200 kilometres away from the theatre of terrorist’s activities, a Nigerian Air Force ground attack helicopter on Thursday night crashed around Federal University of Technology, Yola, Adamawa State. A terse one paragraph statement posted on Defence Headquarters blog (http://defenceinfo.mil.ng/) narrated that the crew of three was lost in the unfortunate event but that rescuers worked throughout the night until the Friday morning to preserve the wreckage and scene. The statement runs thus: “At about 2200hours yesterday 13 November 2014, a ground attack helicopter on an armed patrol crashed around the Federal University of Technology Yola, Adamawa State. The crew of 3 was lost in the ill-fated accident. Rescue party worked throughout the night to preserve the wreckage of the aircraft and scene of the accident for proper investigation to be carried out. Further details would be made known later.” However, it was revealed that since the Boko Haram campaign of terror commenced in full scale in the North East states of Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states, the Nigerian Air Force has flown at least 6,000 missions in efforts to rid the zone of insurgency. The missions, aiming to decimate the Boko Haram terrorists compr-ised ground attacks platforms, mission on ATR-42, Beech craft air surveillance platform, airlift

missions using the G-222 and the C-130H. Chief of Air Staff of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu said at a recent forum at the University of Ibadan that scope of the operations

included airlift of troops and equipment, rotation of forces, battlefield interdiction, casualty evacuation, air surveillance Operations and armed reconnaissance Missions among other operations.

Apple lauds Glo’s creative sale of iPhones

T

HE creative way Globacom handled the sale of the recently launched iPhone 6 to the first set of customers in Nigeria has elicited commendation from the phone manufacturers, Apple. Globacom had opened its Gloworld, on Adeola Odeku, Lagos, in the early hours of Friday to enable tens of its subscribers who turned up at the retail outlet to purchase the handsets. Mr. Paddy McManus, Apple Regional Sales Manager for Africa, who gave the commendation at the unveiling ceremony of iPhone 6 expressed delight at the impressive turnout of subscribers, adding that he was pleasantly shocked and surprised. “This is a very loud move from a loud network in Lagos. I am extremely impressed. This is what usually happens all over the world when Apple is launching its products. Nigerians are really great,” Mr. McManus exclaimed. An On Air Personality, Mr. Folajinmi Akinsola became the first Nigerian to own an authentic iPhone 6 sold by any telecommunication network in Nigeria when he purchased the phone at the Gloworld shop on Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos immediately after it was officially unveiled at 12.05 am on Friday.

Anambra attracts $1bn investments in 6 months — Obiano By Naomi Uzor and Funmi Amodu

A

NAMBRA State, yesterday, disclosed that the state within the first six months of operation, has attracted investments of almost US$1 billion. The state Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, disclosed this at the ongoing Lagos International Trade Fair. Represented by the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Commerce, Mr. Ifeatu Onejeme, the Governor said that his administration by working with the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA), attracted investments of almost US$1 billion in agricultural, trade and commerce and power sectors of the economy in its first six months of operation.

10—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

B OK O HARAM: The stronger President Jonathan speaks, the stronger they act

•President Goodluck Jonathan

BY SONI DANIEL, REGIONAL EDITOR, NORTH

T

wo things have appeared as a recurring decimal whenever the Boko Haram insurgents strike in any part of the country. President Goodluck Jonathan always condemns them and then promise to deal ruthlessly with them. Below are the bombing incidents and the threats issued by President Jonathan since the outset of bombings by Boko Haram. * On November 10, when the nation was awakened by the news of the bombing of the Government Science School in Potiskum, Yobe State, which claimed no fewer than 50 students, Jonathan responded almost immediately this way:

“We’ll crush Boko Haram”

President Goodluck Jonathan has vehemently condemned the killing of some students of the Government Science Secondary School Potiskum, Yobe State in a Monday morning bomb blast that claimed about 47 lives. President Jonathan hereby assures the grieving parents and people of Yobe state that no matter how long it takes, the Federal Government will ensure that all those responsible for the senseless C M Y K

murder of so many promising youngsters and the continuing acts of terrorism across the country are brought to justice and made to pay for their atrocious crimes.”

*“Boko Haram ‘ll fade away soon” –

Jonathan at the NES in Abuja October 6, 2014. President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, described the terrorist attacks by the Boko Haram Islamic sect as “a temporary setback” which will soon be a thing of the past. This came on the heels of the nation’s quest for direct foreign investment which is the high point of the 2011

Continues on page 11

...As he declares! BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE & CHARLES KUMOLU

P

RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, on Tuesday, declared his intention to seek a second term on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). One of the high-points of his speech was his vow to do everything humanly possible to crush the Boko Haram insurgency that has claimed the lives of over 12,000 Nigerians in the last five years. He said: ''Our stewardship has not been without challenges. We have had to deal with the wave of insurgency that has swept through some parts of our dear country. Only yesterday (Monday), Government Science Secondary School in Yobe State was bombed by insurgents, killing our

Continues on page 11

SATURDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—11

‘We’ll crush Boko Haram’ Economic summit. Speaking at the on-going 17th Nigeria Economic Summit, NES 17, in Abuja, President Jonathan said that his administration was acquiring and deploying all necessary security infrastructure to defeat the sect in order to make the nation an investors’ haven in her quest to be a key global economic power. His words: “We are working very hard to provide a conducive atmosphere for investors. Although we currently have the Boko Haram problem, just like terrorist activities in other parts of the globe, but I can assure Nigerians and the global community that we will soon overcome. “You are all aware that we have conquered Ebola and we will surely crush Boko Haram. And if you look at what is happening, a lot of things are changing. Everything is turning around”. * Jonathan at the PDP South-South Rally in Beinin, Edo State on September 27, 2014.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria will effectively curb the menace of terrorism in Nigeria”-Jonathan has said. *July 23, 2014 on the attack on General Muhammadu Buhari by insurgents in Kaduna. Although Buhari managed to escape with bullet-riddled vehicle, some were killed and some others wounded by the bombers. The President assured residents of Kaduna and all other Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue and further intensify its ongoing efforts to effectively curb the menace of terrorism in the country. “President Jonathan denounces the dastardly targeting of the prominent political and religious leaders by terrorists and enemies of the nation in an odious attempt to inflame passions

C M Y K

and exacerbate disquiet, fear, insecurity and sectional divisions in the country.”

* “We will certainly win the war on terror”- Jonathan

while condemning multiple attacks in Kano, Adamawa and Cameroun in July this year. "President Jonathan urges the security forces to remain resolute, and not be discouraged by the desperation of the agents of evil. He believes that with the continued cooperation between Nigeria’s security forces and their counterparts in neighbouring countries, the war against terror will surely be won," he said. The President described as "shocking, callous and reprehensible the multiple bomb blasts that occurred in Kano within 24 hours, and the unrelenting attacks by the Boko Haram at a time the Muslim faithful are observing the holy festival of Eid el Fitri". *June 25, 2014: "This is one of the darkest phases in the history of our nation but surely we will get over it," Jonathan said during inspection visit to the Emab Plaza in Abuja on June 25, 2014 after being rocked by a bomb the previous day. *May, 2014: “Nigeria remains fully committed to winning the war against terror” President Jonathan on the second bomb blast that killed over 120 persons in Jos, Plateau State on May 20, 2014, occurred. “Government remains fully committed to winning the war against terror, and this administration will not be cowed by the atrocities of enemies of human progress and civilization,” he said in reaction to the bombing. * April, 2014: On the bombing in Nyanya, an Abuja suburb on April 14, 2014: "I also commend the security

Continues on page 12

Jonathan declares Continues from page 10

,

Continues from page 10

Just like terrorist activities in other parts of the globe, but I can assure Nigerians and the global community that we will soon overcome

,

promising young children who were seeking education to build the country and support their parents. Many Nigerians have lost their lives and property to these mindless killings. Let me crave the indulgence of all present here to stand up to observe a minute silence in honour of these young lads who lost their lives. ''Clearly, this has cast a dark cloud on our Nation but we will surely win the war against terror. A number of young men and women have been kidnapped by these criminal elements including our daughters from Chibok. We will free our daughters and defeat terrorism. We are equipping the armed forces and deploying special forces to engage the terrorist and end this senseless war. We must protect our country. We must save our people. I will do everything humanly possible to end this criminal violence in our Nation.'' The speech immediately attracted caustic remarks from leaders of the main opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), who said the President does not have any clue on how to checkmate Boko Haram and added that he is insensitive to the death of the Potiskum students who died via suicide bombing. Indeed, they accused him of dancing on their graves with his declaration. The APC's attack has raised the question of whether or not the President Jonathan Administration can defeat Boko Haram as he has repeatedly vowed. A peep into the litany of Boko Haram's deadly attacks and the president's reaction will unveil an avalanche of assurances that the murderous sect would be tamed in no time. In fact, early January 2014, one of the service chiefs said the sect would be history by April. However, the sect has continued to grow bolder and more daring, and in the last 30 days have captured over a dozen towns across the states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe in North-eastern Nigeria, making the Federal Government's efforts appear as motion without movement. Inability to rescue the 219 Chibok school girls seven months after their abduction in spite of foreign assistance, the phantom cease-fire deal with the insurgents and the difficulty the Nigerian armed forces are facing in containing the sect are some of issues that have dominated the insurgency discourse.

12—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

‘We’ll certainly win the war on terror’ Continues from page 11

*April, 2014, on Chibok girls days after the kidnap: “Every necessary

measure should be taken to find the school girls abducted by Boko Haram terrorists from Government Girls’ Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State on 14th April 2014; "Nigeria and other countries in the sub-region will continue to cooperate and co-ordinate efforts to combat the Boko Haram menace. "The Heads of State have agreed that each country will contribute one battalion of troops to the international force set up to patrol the border areas, in line with the Resolution of the Lake Chad Basin Commission. France, United States of America and the United Kingdom will extend technical assistance to achieve this objective "Furthermore, the Federal Government of Nigeria will rebuild the Chibok School and

fortify security in schools. In collaboration with the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Education, former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and the private sector, the government will launch the “Safe Schools Initiative” which will address security issues; re-build the destroyed schools; and provide equipment and materials". * On May 1, 2014 when the malevolent group unleashed the second bomb that killed at least 19 and wounded many others in the same Nyanya: “Perpetrators of the Nyanya bomb blast will not go unpunished. Boko Haram will not disintegrate this country... Those who foment trouble in the country in the belief that this will lead to the disintegration of the country will be disappointed because 'no criminal group within or outside the country can disintegrate the country. "Nigeria will disappoint those who are thinking that the country will disintegrate; despite the challenges, the country will not divide. "Surely, we will overcome this tribulation. Those who think that this country will be divided into North, south, East and West, or whatever, we will not. “ Most of you are aware when this incident happened in Nyanya, Nigerians from all religions, from all classes, participated in the evacuation of all the people who were affected, even before the security people arrived. "People came from everywhere, irrespective of their religious

beliefs and persuasion. That shows that there is no criminal group, within or outside this country that can break this country. No criminal group will disintegrate this country" * On the February 2014 attack in Yobe: After meeting with the security chiefs, Jonathan on May 3, 2014 ordered the closure of all public schools in the city of Abuja pending the hosting of the World Economic Forum between the 7th and 9th of May, 2014 in Abuja. Before then, there was the Bunu Yadi attack at a school in Potiskum in Yobe State on February 26, 2014 where no fewer than 43 students were killed by the insurgents and Jonathan responded as usual, vowing to deal ruthlessly with the masterminds of the heinous crime. “We will permanently crush Boko Haram in Nigeria.” “We will continue to do everything possible to permanently eradicate the scourge of terrorism and insurgency from our country. We recognise that the root cause of militancy, terrorism and insurgency is not the strength of extremist ideas but corrupted values and ignorance. “My dear compatriots, as we celebrate our centenary, the security situation in some of our north-eastern states sadly remains a major concern for us. Just yesterday, young students, full of hopes and dreams for a great future, were callously murdered as they slept in their college dormitories in Yobe State. I am deeply saddened by their deaths and those of other Nigerians at the hands of terrorists. Our hearts go out to their parents and relatives,

,

services for their prompt action. Though we lost quite a number of people, we condole our countrymen and women. We will continue to work very hard. "The issue of Boko Haram is temporary. Government is doing everything to make sure that we move our country forward in spite of all the distractions that want to take us backward. We promise that we will get over it. "We also want to use this unique opportunity to plead with the media and our great men and women, to come up with enlightenment programme for our people. Those countries that face terror they have developed great awareness. If there are unusual movements of vehicles and bags, they call security and based on this, a lot of incidences are contained. "We believe that if people will become observant and all of us become security-conscious, we will be able to reduce some of these incidents. "We will do our best , the security services will continue to work very hard, God willing, we will get over it. The issue of Boko Haram is temporary. Surely, we will get over it." Coincidentally, while some of the jihadists were bombing Nyanya, others had hauled over 200 girls from the Government Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State the same day into their hideout on the same night. Neither the President nor his security chiefs initially admitted that any person was taken by the insurgents from the school as the news broke. Reacting to the abduction of the Chibok girls, Jonathan also gave assurance that the perpetrators would not only be brought to book but that the girls would be found and reunited with their families.

Nigeria will disappoint those who are thinking that the country will disintegrate; despite the challenges, the country will not divide

,

colleagues and school authorities...That is why our counter-terrorism strategy is not just about enforcing law and order, as we have equipped our security forces to do. It also involves expanding economic opportunities, social inclusion, education and other measures that will help restore normalcy not just in the short term but permanently. “I want to reassure Nigerians that terrorism, strife and insecurity in any part of Nigeria are abhorrent and unacceptable to us. I urge leaders throughout Nigeria to ensure that ethnicity and religion are not allowed to become political issues.” * On the bombing of UN House by insurgents on August 26, 2011, President Jonathan described the act as barbaric, senseless and cowardly. As usual President Jonathan affirmed Nigeria’s determination to continue to play its part in the global effort to eradicate the scourge of terrorism in all its ramifications. He urged all Nigerians and foreigners resident in the country to go about their normal affairs with the full assurance that the Federal Government and its law enforcement agencies would continue to work diligently to ensure the full protection of lives and property in the country. *June 16, 2011: President Jonathan also strongly condemned the bombing of the Nigeria Police Force

Continues on page 13 C M Y K

SATURDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—13

Shouldn’t Mr President talk less and act more? Continues from page 12 Headquarters in Abuja on 16 June 2011. "Let me use this opportunity to assure Nigerians that it happens all over the world, no country is free. "Nigeria is also having some ugly incidents lately but surely we will get over it and people should not panic at all, soon most of these things will be a thing of the past," he said.

*On the December 25, 2011 Madalla and Suleija bombings President Jonathan denounced the attack this way: “the bombing of

innocent citizens on a day millions of people all over the World are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ was a dastardly act that must attract the rebuke of all peace-loving Nigerians. These acts of violence against innocent citizens are an unwarranted affront on our collective safety and freedom. Nigerians must stand as one to condemn them.”

Highlights of Boko Haram Bombings in Nigeria between 2009 and 2014 July 26, 2009 – Police allegedly killed Boko Haram leader, Mohammed Yusuf, in police cell after soldiers, who

arrested him, handed him over to C M Y K

the police alive April 22, 2011 – Boko Haram attacked prison in Yola, Adamawa, freed 14 prisoners May 29, 2011 – Boko Haram attacked several communities in northern Nigeria June 16, 2011 – Boko Haram claimed responsibility for attack on Abuja police headquarters June 26, 2011 – Boko Haram bombed beer garden in Maiduguri, 25 killed, 12 injured July 11, 2011 – University of Maiduguri closed down over Boko Haram threats August 26, 2011 – The Islamic sect bombed the UN Building, Abuja, killing workers and visitors August 12, 2011 – Boko Haram shot dead Liman Bana, prominent Islamic cleric December 25, 2011 – Sect bombed the Catholic Church, Madalla, killing several worshippers Feb 8, 2012 – Boko Haram claims responsibility for Kaduna army headquarters bombing March 8, 2012 – Efforts to free Italian, British captives abducted by the sect failed as they were killed before they could be rescued in Sokoto April 26, 2012 – Bombers hit ThisDay office in Abuja June 17, 2012 – Boko Haram suicide bombers attacked 3 Kaduna churches, 50 killed Sept 19, 2012 – Nigerian army arrested insurgents and claimed it killed Abu Qaqa March 5, 2013 – Sultan called for Amnesty for Boko Haram members Mar 18, 2013 – Suicide bombers attacked Kano Bus stop, killed 22, 65 injured Apr 17, 2013 – Jonathan set up Amnesty Implementation Committee to engage BH July 6, 2013 – Boko Haram attacked Government Secondary School, Mamugu, killing 29 students

•President Goodluck Jonathan Sept 29, 2013 – BH attacked College of Agriculture in Gujba, killed 40 male students April 24, 2013 – Jonathan set up Boko Haram amnesty committee May 14, 2013 - Jonathan declared state of emergency in Borno, Yobe, Adamawa states over BH attacks August 2013 – Abubakar Shekau said to have been shot and deposed by members Chief of Defence Staff said the military would wipe out Boko Haram by April, 2014 – Jan, 2014 April 14, 2014 – BH kidnapped Chibok schoolgirls at Govt. Sec. School, Chibok, Borno April 14, 2014 – BH suicide bombers attacked Nyanya bus station in Abuja, 90 killed May 1, 2014 – Car bomb attack in Nyanya area of Abuja, 19

killed, scores injured May 18, 2014 – BH suicide bomb attack in Kano, five killed May 20, 2014 – Twin bomb explosions in Jos, 118 killed September 17, 2014 – Nigeria military claimed it killed Abubakar Shekau ‘again’ September 2014 – Australian Stephen Davis named some alleged ‘sponsors’ of Boko Haram Sept 2014 – Boko Haram captured some towns –Damboa, Gwoza, Bama and most Nigeria’s border towns with Cameroon in Borno State and Mubi, Madagali and Michika in Adamawa State Sept 2014 – Nigeria’s military fought back Boko Haram’s attack to retake Konduga, killing about 115 of the militants, several insurgents surrendered their weapons September 2014 – The sect claimed it shot down a Nigeria military jet and captured one of the pilots alive. It released the video of how it beheaded one of the pilots October 17, 2014 – VOA reports a meeting of a delegation of the Federal Government and Boko Haram members in the Chad November 10 2014- 47 killed by suicide bomber at Government Science College, Potiskum, Yobe State After every attack, President Jonathan condemns the insurgents and promises to deal with them ruthlessly. He says they will never go unpunished. It is now easy to predict the the President's reaction after any Boko Haram attack. He has refused to change. And the stronger his condemnation remarks, the more the insurgents kill Nigerians and the stronger they appear as reflected in the capturing of Nigerian towns, hoisting their flags and the purported renaming of these cities. The incidents quoted above point to one thing. The President should consider to talk less on Boko Haram and work more to end their terror on our polity.

14 — SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , NO VEMBER 15, 2014 NOVEMBER

Permanent Voters' Cards, PVC:

By CHIOMA GABRIEL

A

lthough the Independent Electoral Commission is trying desperately to apply damage control to correct a very bad situation, Nigerians across the country have expressed disgust over the just-conducted distribution of the Permanent Voters Register, PVC, by the Commission. It was the third phase of distribution of PVC and thirteen states were involved in the exercise which began on Friday, 7th November and ended on Sunday, 9th November 2014. The states were Adamawa, Borno, Edo, Imo, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Lagos,

Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Plateau and Rivers. This exercise had earlier been conducted in twenty one states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Phases I and II. The exercise involved voters cross-checking their names in the displayed Voters’ Register and collecting permanent voters cards in exchange for the old ones. When the exercise failed in Lagos, residents took to the streets to protest, storming the Lagos office of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to vent their spleen. The Lagos exercise was scheduled to hold in Agege, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Ibeju-Lekki, Ifako- Ijaiye, Ikeja,

Ikorodu, Kosofe, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Mushin and Ojo while it was postponed in Alimosho, Amuwo Odofin, Apapa, Badagry, Epe, Oshodi- Isolo, Somolu, Surulere and Eti-Osa from Nov. 28 to Nov. 30.

Tales of woe Despite declaring a public holiday in Lagos to enable workers obtain the permanent voter's cards in the areas INEC approved, tales of woe were everywhere as voters lamented their predicament. “ I checked everywhere,” said Lamidi Idowu, a sixty year-old civil servant, “I didn't see INEC officials

,

How INEC failed Nigerians

Despite declaring a public holiday in Lagos to enable workers obtain the permanent voter's cards in the areas INEC approved, tales of woe were everywhere as voters lamented their predicament

,

at any centre. I was not the only one. I live at Ejigbo and I went to the centre where I registered but nothing like that was in place. I trekked to polling centres I knew existed around Ejigbo and beyond, even up to Idimu but nobody was giving PVC. The PVC can be required for other things, even in the hospital or any place that would require your biometrics. It is terrible. It is true that INEC has extended the date but there is no guarantee that other problems would not crop up.” From Ikeja to Lagos Island, Ibeju Lekki, Ikorodu and other parts of Lagos, residents during the exercise in many centres waited in vain from as early as 8.00am to 5.30pm at various centres. Chief Thomas Ike who lives at Amuwon Odofin Lagos said he didn't see anywhere the PVC was being distributed. What made his case even more peculiar was the fact that he had relocated from where he registered to his own permanent abode. “ I used to live at Ikeja until I built my own house here. But even then, when I inquired from my former area, I was told the distribution process had not

Continues on page 15

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , NO VEMBER 15, 2014—15 NOVEMBER

How INEC failed Nigerians Continues from page 14 commenced and up till late evening, I didn't get any positive answer. INEC officials were not at the distribution centres.” In many centres in Lagos, after waiting in frustration for hours, residents left for their homes. Eventually, the unavailability of the PVC and INEC officials culminated into a protest in Lagos. During the protests, the road to INEC's office was blocked but it didn't degenerate to violence. The fear expressed by Comrade Declan Ihekaire was that Nigerians felt that INEC was planning to rig next year’s election, especially in states controlled by the All Progressives Congress, APC, which informed the hoarding of the PVCs from getting to the people.” Although the INEC’s REC in Lagos State, admitted that the agency had been encountering problems in the distribution of the PVCs in Lagos, he assured the protesters who besieged his office that by the time the exercise is completed, every Lagosian duly registered would get his or her PVC. The story is the same across many states in the federation involved in the third phase of PVC distribution. Story, story, everywhere Card (PVCs) out of the over 1.2 million registered voters, a situation he said was likely to cause dispute within the state . Governor Tanko Al-Makura and other political stakeholders from the state accepted the postponement, saying it was a right step in the right direction. The new date for the exercise is now 28th30th of November 2014. In Kano state, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had to extend the exercise by 24 hours. Allegations and counter allegations After cataloging the problems that trailed the exercise across the states, the national Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu expressed suspicion over the development, saying that INEC was deliberately colluding with the Presidency to rig the elections in favour of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) through delay in delivery of Permanent Voters Card (PVC). He equally queried the eligibility of INEC to conduct a free and fair election going by the shoddy manner it conducted the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) to eligible voters. Tinubu lamented that “INEC had four good years to prepare for the coming 2015 elections and there are laws, particularly constitutional and electoral act requiring certain actions to be taken. They gave us temporary voter cards to vote in 2011 and now decided that there will be permanent voter cards consistent with biometric verification devices to improve on 2011 and make 2015 verifiable and show an improvement over the past record consistent to the standards across the world. “INEC told us that they are ready. They said they have put everything in place. They gave us the date only to discover 48 hours ago that they are not even ready for the 20 local governments recognised by INEC in Lagos State. They gave us the date only to tell us that only 11 local governments will be ready. Rather than outright boycott, the party endures the frustration and appeal to the public to continue with the 11 local

,

In Edo state, the resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Baritor Kpagih, disclosed that no fewer than 4,658 voter’s cards were stolen in nine local government areas of the state during the distribution of the Permanent Voter Card (PVC). The Edo state Electoral Commissioner disclosed the names of the affected local government areas as Orhionmwon, Etsako West, Ovia North East and six others but did not disclose how and when the voter’s cards were stolen although the theft was reported to the police in the areas concerned. In Ogun state, voters who turned up to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), left for their homes in frustration as officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not show up in the polling units. When they eventually did, no cards were distributed. In a bid to pacify the voters, the Independent National Electoral Commission had the deadline extended by one day in Ogun State to Monday, November 10. In Imo state, PVC distribution flopped even though the governor and his deputy alongside other government officials reportedly obtained their permanent voters cards. Public out-cry and frustration according to reports, trailed the exercise in many council areas, wards and polling units in the state. On its own, the Imo state office of the Commission extended the exercise by two days and ended it on Tuesday November 11, instead of Sunday, November 9. Although the exercise was successful in many local government areas and wards in Imo state, it reportedly failed in others like Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, Orsu, Isiala Mbano, Ehime Mbano and Oguta Local Government Areas. It also failed in Atta wards 1 and 2 in Njaba lga; Amurie Uburu in Oru West LGA, llile in Ohaji Egbema, Mgbee ward in Orlu lga and some polling units in Okigwe Urban Ward 2. INEC officials were reportedly not seen in these areas. Also, problems of missing names and booths were reported while in most of the rural areas in the state, more than 75 percent of the cards were left uncollected. The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Nasarawa state; Ahmed Makamma said that the state received only 30% of the Permanent Voters

They gave us the date only to discover 48 hours ago that they are not even ready for the 20 local governments recognised by INEC in Lagos State

,

governments. Our field reports, personal experiences and from what we observed so far, the exercise even in the so-called 11 local governments, the exercise failed and it is unacceptable. “In some instances, we don’t find INEC officials in some of the accredited booths, we don’t find them arriving on time, the cards were not sorted, were inadequate, where are they? To me, this exercise has failed. It is not acceptable. We will consider it as a rigging exercise. INEC has colluded with the Presidency to rig this election from the data”, he said. Although INEC admitted that Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) distribution was shoddy in Lagos, it explained that the loss of the data of no fewer than one million people who registered to vote in Lagos State was partly responsible for the poor distribution of the cards. But Prof. Attahiru Jega’s spokesman, Kayode Idowu dismissed the allegation that it had delisted some voters in Lagos State. “It is completely false that INEC has removed the records of 1.4 million persons from the Register of Voters compiled in 2011 in Lagos State. It is true that at the end of the 2011 general registration exercise, the Commission announced a figure of 6.1 million registrants in the state but nobody has been delisted as alleged.” Letting a sleeping dog lie In the heat of the allegations and counterallegations over the poor distribution of permanent voters' cards,coupled with the earlier controversy over the creation of 30,000 new polling units in the North, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) made a u-turn and suspended plans to create additional polling units before the 2015 general elections. Mrs Augusta Ogakwu, INEC's spokesperson said the decision was reached after the commission reviewed reports sent in from States by Resident Electoral Commissioners on ‘reconfiguration of the polling unit structure and creation of additional polling units’.

16—SATURDAY Vanguard , NOVEMBER 15, 2014

A

t 11 o’clock in the morning, on the 11th day of the 11th month of November, just five days ago, the world stood still all over Britain. It was Armistice Day, a day of remembrance named for the peace accord that was signed on that day, and at that hour to mark the end of the Second World War, 96 years ago. This year marks the centenary of the beginning of that war which was supposed to end all wars, but this year’s memorial was also for the honour of other heroes who lost their lives in subsequent wars like the Second World War, and other wars. Ceremonies were held at various locations to depict the significance of the day. The tone was tempered with dignity and a sobriety which fitted the occasion. The event was rounded off with a twominute silence in honour of the fallen heroes. As I watched it all on SkyNews I recall that we too have what we call our “Remembrance Day”. It used to be on the same day in November too, but we have shifted it to commemorate the “labours of our heroes past”, especially during the Nigerian Civil War. Armistice Day, all the same, coincided with the occasion of the celebration of President Goodluck Jonathan’s acceptance of the burden that is supposed to have been imposed on him by his host of supporters to declare his intention of presenting himself, once again, as a candidate for the presidential election under the umbrella of the Peoples’ Democratic Party. It was •President Jonathan acknowledging cheers staged as an extravaganza with all the garish coloration baloney can be pushed associated with a circus of national territory. Someone down our throats with our ought to get angry and turn inebriated jokers. The eyes wide open? It is all surrealistic presentation was away from occasions of so revolting and could get celebrations. heightened by the fact that to a point that even everybody —those on the Even if we must mark some Jonathan himself might high seats, and tall rostrum, momentous events in this start believing the lie and carpeted stage — season of woe—or how less about himself. Let us set everyone, was conscious of could one typify a time like the records straight, for the hollowness of the this—should we roll out the goodness sake. He knows performance, since it was a red carpet over an obvious that we all know that he poorly hidden secret that non-event? Look through a knows that he is going to President Goodluck Ebele pile of newspapers of the cling as though to a Azikiwe Jonathan had past ten days and one’s lifeline to the hope of indeed declared his heart would bleed over the staying in Aso Rock for commitment to vying for the heartbreaking reports of another four years. presidency already, and in bombings and wanton We are also called, as a various ways, except with his killings of innocent people, to examine our mouth in public. Nigerians whose only seriousness in the aIlmisfortune is that of being important task of looking he charade had been Nigerians, living in their after ourselves as human conducted through a own country. You will read beings. That is another harrowingly long process in about Muslims who are way of considering” what a bland exercise that seemed massacred while celebrating we gloss over as security, to insult the sensibility of the a holy religious observance as though we were ordinary citizen of this by other people who claim to referring to the country. It just so happened serve the same God; you will safekeeping of a sack of that the distasteful gala came read about people who are cocoa beans. We really some twenty-four hours after in line in a bank suddenly mean the safety and well- being blown to pieces by a another horrendous assault being’” of human souls— of the Boko Haram yours and mine. The Boko murderous squad which, on Haram insurgents are this occasion, had accounted having a field day cutting for the lives of over 50 down our brothers and students in a suicide bomb sisters while we are attack. That tragic incident, bogged down with in some people’s opinion, “returning” the president should have had some without any opposition sobering effect on the festival within his party. The presentation of President Boko Haram marauders Jonathan’s acceptance to run “suicide bomber ”; you will are striking viciously on for the Presidency. And, read about school children any area with bewildering well, it did. A minute’s who are murdered in their success, causing silence was observed in school compound on the unending sorrow while honour of the students. verge of entering their we are inaugurating a Period. classrooms; you will read sports stadium with the The sum total of all that, is about fatalities in dozens, to attendance of foreign that Nigerians seem say nothing about the heads of state. They incapable of thrusting wounded which are in stream in hordes into vast themselves away from patent scores. areas of our country with folly. If not, how could such And you will then read reckless abandon. They a comical farce be staged for about senators jousting take over local so long, on such a wide against governors, with the government areas which national scale and from so president in between, in the they inaugurate into a many directions? Are we blind contest to move a step foreign country within our such mugs that almost any

them—what is the strength or size of their command? A picture of despair begins to rise in your mind. It is now gradually turning what seemed like bewilderment into sheer angst. But fury sets in when you read that Nigerian soldiers, in this war, are inhibited by something called “rules of engagement”. But we are not talking about a boxing ring where Queensbury Rules apply. Even in the “squared ring”, the presence of a referee ensures that the rules are observed. But it is a rule that existed before the Duke of Queensbury was born that “all is fair in love and war”. And, as we have been trying to say to the hearing even of the deaf, this is war!

*troublesome times Declaration

T

A

higher, or retain the position of comfort they already have. You may also pause to consider what may be going on about the PDP’s perennial war against the APC (All Progressives Congress) and wonder in what direction is the latest swing of defection. If you are then curious enough to wonder how the Nigerian military forces are faring, a bumpy item of unsettling news may then assail your eye. Could it really be true that Nigerian soldiers are fleeing before the riff-raff invaders? Could Nigerian soldiers indeed be throwing their weapons into the bush while trying to evade the pursuing insurgents? So, all those stories about “tactical withdrawals”

,

It is now clear that the problems we face at this time as a nation are quite different from any we have faced before, even in the civil war

,

had more than a ring of untruth about them? It is at this point that you wonder what exactly is happening. Were we not supposed, at a certain point, to be coming back strongly against these felons? Are we not on the side with air cover and air advantage? We are strong enough to retire no less than 15 generals recently. How many battalions were under

nyone who faces you with a weapon which he or she intends to use against you is an enemy. The age or gender is of second consideration. There are some international organizations that are doing a lot of commendable service to humanity by trying to establish a measure of limitation to the extent of fury-that may be unleashed at the point of physical hostilities. However, accomrpodating an armed enemy on the grounds of humanity is definitely outside that boundary. So thefe Sh01lld be no squeamishness about fighting a dirty war with a steady spirit.,. This is a war that must be confronted boldly against an enemy that kills and maims; an enemy that even tries to ridicule with his brutality; an enemy that makes you to climb the painful ridge, and forces you to go the cruel mile. Now we hope the new stadium is open. Now the endorsements are sealed. Now the declaration of intent has been made. Now then is the time to turn our full attention to the national crisis that will only continue to mount higher if it is not removed. Neither the political party in power, nor the members of the opposition can any longer afford the luxury of pointing accusing fingers at one another. This is a duty that beckons with urgent hands. This is a concern of our common heritage. This is a present danger to the whole nation. These are troublesome times not “red carpet” days. It is now clear that the problems we face at this time as a nation are quite different from any we have faced before, even in the civil war. Doubtless, there are sacrifices ahead; but the sooner we face them, the better. Doubtless, there are lives that must be lost and heroic deeds performed. The memorials of these will ennoble the honours we pay to our dead on subsequent “Remembrance Days”. Time out.

SATURDAY Vanguard Vanguard,, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—17

F

not only another continent, it was another world. Then US got hit, UK got hit and Spain got hit before they realised that we are all neighbours after all and helping those countries is in our collective interest. In the world we live in today, what affects one affects all. And in the words of Jane Aristide: ‘if one suffers, we all suffer; together is courage’. So helping our affected brothers and sisters in the North-east is in our collective interest. We in the South are not as safe as we think we are, and it will take just one wayward suicide bomber to wake us up. We can fight the insurgency in a couple of ways. We can organise to make our commander-in- chief realise that lives are being lost on a daily basis and families are being dislocated. Every day brings untold trauma to many innocent souls and we can no longer stand the carnage. He and our current military chiefs should either lead or get out of the line. The press can put this on the front burner by carrying daily human interest stories of victims. Finally we can dip our hands into our pockets and raise massive funds to help ease their pains. Our high flying pastors, the oil and gas millionaires and indeed every one of us should stand up and be counted. Otherwise when they come for us, there might not be anybody left to come to our aid.

irst they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out— because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionist and I did not speak out— because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me.’’ Martin Niemoller (1892-1984).

T

he place she grew up in and had known as home all her life was razed to the ground and all members of her blood family slaughtered with the exception of her father who managed to escape and may never be found. The friends she went to school with, played with, danced with, and shared tales by the moonlight with are all scattered. Many are dead. Childhood memories, often pleasant for many of us, are now embittered. The soul of her town as well as the physical structures have been violated; cherished places have been desecrated. So callous, so wanton, so inhuman, so beastly are these defilers and so deep the wounds they inflict, that these towns

We can ne w the depth of their anguish nevver kno know will never be the same again even if they are reclaimed. Yet this lady whose anguish we are trying to quantify, is in some ways lucky. First she is an adult and better able to articulate her feelings and can seek medical help when necessary. Second, she lives thousands of miles away, in Australia; a saner, more civilised clime. Not so the thousands of children who if they survive, will have to live with the gory pictures of how their world was turned upside

a survival bond of sorts with older people who have lost their own children. In this new tribe of survivors are husbands without wives, brothers without sisters, mothers without children who are being hunted and preyed upon like defenceless animals. In there, are people who need urgent medical attention for physical and psychological wounds. They eat what they find and find what they eat. Some sleep on tree branches, some inside caves.

,

A victim of the Boko Haram insurgency spoke of how her family was virtually wiped out in an interview with Vanguard last weekend. She spoke of how wives were forced to watch as their husbands and soul mates were tied to trees and killed. Then she spoke these profound words which form the theme for this article; ‘No one can quantify my anguish’. It is the anguish of a person who can’t go home because there is no home to go to.

,

We in the South are not as safe as we think we are, and it will take just one wayward suicide bomber to wake us up

down. Many were forced to watch as their mothers and sisters were gang raped repeatedly before they were butchered like cheap Sallah rams. They saw, and were witnesses to the pain, the fear, the revulsion as they were being violated again and again by their abductors. Many saw how their fathers, their role models were disgraced and humiliated before they were killed. Many of these children now live by the day, unsure of tomorrow. Many have formed

Their fear is palpable; their needs urgent. Yet they are part of a country that pumps two million barrels of oil per day. They are part of a country that calls itself the largest economy in Africa. They are part of a country where the presidency budgets over a billion Naira for feeding. They are part of a country where churches and mosques spring up every day. They are part of humanity. ‘He who feels it knows it’ goes a popular adage. We, who are in the South and are ensconced in our private world may never

be able to quantify the depth of the anguish of our brothers and sisters in the North-east whose lives and livelihood have been destroyed. We may never be able to grasp the horror in human terms, in relationship terms of what is happening in the North- Eastern part of our country. We may not be able to gauge how it will affect the rest of the country in future.

B

ut it is no excuse for the near apathy that we are showing. In that same edition of Vanguard where this lady’s interview was carried, in fact, almost on the adjoining page, was an interview with the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN). His comments on what is going on in the North East showed no deep understanding and compassion of the humanitarian crisis there. His defence of private jets for men of God was nauseating and showed a disconnect between them and the down trodden. But I have news for him and for all of us who are burying our heads in the proverbial sand. The lesson of Ebola is very instructive. We all felt Ebola was miles away, in distant unfortunate countries. It took one man, one wayward traveller to bring it all home to us. Now, at the cost of 12 lives and millions of Naira, we have all learnt the importance of being our brother ’s keeper. The Western world was even worse. Africa was

T

oo many people are today being deceived that their future is hopeless and that nothing good can come out of it. They have been lied to by Satan that change is not possible. Some believe this lie or their present situation because probably they have tried certain things for years and yet no positive change has occurred. Thus, they have

You can change your destiny

concluded that their lives can never be better. God has sent me to you today to let you know that His thought concerning you is of peace and not of evil and to give you an expected glorious end, a future and a hope (Jer. 29:11). God did not create you with a destiny that is useless. God is a glorious God. Everything He does is wonderful. This is why I know that your life is planned with great wonders waiting to happen. Don’t believe the lie that your present status is your destiny. It is not true. It can be changed. You can change it. Jabez in the Bible, was given the name by his mother. Jabez means sorrow, pain, displeasure etc. Jabez was not responsible for his mother’s condition at birth yet the mother gave him a name

that for a season was controlling his life. He saw himself as a hopeless person. Nothing seems to work for him. His brothers were celebrated everywhere they went while he was neglected. He was not recognized. He was despised by all. Everywhere he turned to, he could only see sorrow. His life was not only complicated but also messed up. To man there was no way out for him. He has no future and so he was not important. One beautiful thing about this whole situation was that his case seems unbearable. One would be wondering where is God? After all Jabez did not conceive himself, why should he be made to suffer unjustly. The truth is that before any man is formed God already knows. Remember Jer. 1:5, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee;

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

and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations”. So you see the destiny of a man is not in the hands of any man. It is in your hands. God never creates anyone useless. There is no uselessness in God. He is an excellent God. Thus you are an excellent person. You may not look like it right now but that is the truth. Shortly, all those that look down on you will regret it because your destiny will soon change for good. The best of God in your life will start to show forth. I perceive a stirring up in your Spirit. It is time to rise up. Jabez accepted his situation until a day and time like this when he said to himself God is a good God and so my destiny cannot be hopeless but colourful. He rose and saw himself

coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested”. From the text above, Jabez’s destiny as orchestrated by the devil through the mother was changed by him. Jabez had to rise to the reality that he was not created for pain, shame and sorrow. This applies to you today. You can change your destiny now. The God who did it for Jabez will also do it for you. First, do you really desire a change? How desperate are you? When you are truly desperate for a change, change will become inevitable.

beyond been sorrowful. He saw that there is a God who changed the life of Jacob and made up his mind to call upon that same God that is the same yesterday, today and forever. The God who said call upon me and I will hear and answer you and show you great and mighty things which you do not presently know. Thus, in 1 Chron. 4:910, the Bible states, “And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Isreal, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my L

A

E

O Y

I

A

S

T

O

I I

O

J

M E

R

A

U

N

A

D U

E

D

B

A

A

A

S

M

A

N

J

E

O

A

O

U

M A

N

A

A

I

Z

F

Y

R

N

D

L

A

K I

I

A

S

L

O

N

U A

N

G L

A S

O

A E

I

A

A

M

N

R A

I S

L

O

D R

K

T

B

U

I

S

H

E

A

O

N

M K

L

A

K

U R

N

K

U K

S P

A

D L

O

O

E R

G

A

N

L

G

W I

D E

R

M S

W

A

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Mixing music attracts the girls to me

H

ow did it all start for you? I have a degree in psychology from the University of Lagos, I served in an oil and gas firm and then decided to do an MBA in General Management. I saw my friend who happens to be a DJ in a house party, and I was wondering how he got all the girls (Laughs). I started DJ because I love music, the smooth flow and the transition from one music to another and I love the fact that I could go to a party and not spend my money on drinks or impress anybody. Mixing the music already got me the drinks and the girls. It wasn’t about the money. Was money a motivating factor? If you go into it because of money, you will probably fail. I started Disc Jockeying in London when I did the Nigeria independence show in Coventry. It was something I enjoyed doing and I was being paid 250 pounds and that was big back then. I decided to move back because I realized that London is a place where there is a lot of stagnation. If you are not smart to get out fast, the system will end up sucking you in and it is very hard to breakthrough. I would have been one of those DJs who play at the pubs, clubs and carnivals and don’t want to grow old. And so I woke up one morning and said I wanted to come back to Nigeria. I thought it was a better place for me. Why a DJ when you have an MBA? When people ask me why I ventured into Disc Jockeying, I tell them that it is a passion. I come from a family where everybody has at one point in time come in touch with music. While I was in London I wanted to be a DJ, so I decided to come back and pursue my dreams, and what better platform to do that, than with Mavin records. I got acquainted with Dr. SID in January. What was your first gig in Nigeria like? As soon as I came back to Nigeria, my first gig was a Sprite show at Oniru Beach where I got paid almost N1.2 million, which was almost 5000 pounds. The difference between that and the 250 pounds I was earning back in London is a big deal. I thought to myself, if people spend this kind of money on groove in this town there is no way I am going back. I really enjoyed it. Since then I have been able to position myself in the industry. I have played for all the big shows. I’ve played at Aliko Dangote 56th birthday, I played for Jay-Jay Okocha, Nigeria Centenary Award in Abuja for 26 presidents and so on. I don’t do the kind of gigs that every DJ does, I actually select and build a premium brand. So if you are doing a premium show, it is most likely that I will be the one that will be the DJ.

N

DJ BIG N

stars from Mavin records like Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Dr. Sid, D’Prince, Korede Bello and Reekado Banks. It is a 31-track compilation of the hits they have had. It is basically just a reminder of what they have gone through. Taking you down memory lane, when you hear some of the songs, you feel nostalgic. We made over a thousand copies and it is free, the mix tape is online as well for free download. It is free to the public, it’s just an awareness campaign. In Nigeria, a lot of people don’t do that. Everybody wants to be DJ and nobody wants to put in hard work. It is something I decided to do to give back to my fans as well. I found that loop in the industry and I decided to conquer it. It is something I love doing and it is something I won’t stop doing anytime soon. It is a feel good music, because it cuts across all music genres, it is not just the stereotypical music, there is pop and there is Afrobeat as well.

You must be very expensive Good quality, good product. If you want the best, you pay good money. I played music from the 60s, at the Why make it free centenary awards. So you had me when you can playing Remy Jim, Eddie Lawson, actually make Fatai Rolling Dollar, how many DJs can do that? It doesn’t just come with experience, you just have to position yourself. It is not easy playing Victor Uwaifo, Orlando, and Olaiya for two hours. How many DJs can do that? When I got the call from Abuja, they said we have looked at your profile and we want you to perform at the centenary awards. That was my biggest gig. I played for 26 presidents. I don’t think any DJ has done that before, DJ BIG N that was huge. Tell us about your new mixtape It is called the Mavin record mixtape. It features a lot of

—DJ Big N

onso Ajufor, popularly known as DJ BIG N, is one DJ in Nigeria who has created a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. The turntable magician, currently Dr. Sid’s official DJ for Mavin records, is a DJ with an MBA. In this chat with Juliet Ebirim, he talks about his dreams, aspiration, challenges and the new Mavin’s mixtape which is currently making waves.

money from it? It is free because it is the principle of marketing; I want to position myself in a different way in the industry, it is all about branding. I am a premium DJ, a lot of people say why don’t you play in a club or small gigs? I just won’t do that. It is not because I am proud but it is positioning. I had a meeting with Don Jazzy, I spoke with D’Prince and Dr Sid and we understood that this was a way of giving back to the Mavin fans, a way of reaching out and saying that we know you people have done so well and you are the ones that have made us what we are. So we are giving this CDs for free and they appreciated it, and you know Nigerians love freebies. If you give your fans your materials for free, I think that is a direct marketing strategy. I have also given out more than five hundred branded T-shirts. A lot of people are high up there, they don’t even care about who made them, but I believe in getting across to my fans. You said there are a lot of artistes who don’t see the reason to give out. It may be because they are struggling to make ends meet, unlike you who is from a rich background. What do you think ? When I mean artiste, I mean the A-list artistes, who have attained a certain level of relevance in the industry. I am talking about artistes who command nothing less than N2million per show. If you command nothing

,

18 — SATURDAY

I have also given out more than five hundred branded T-shirts. A lot of people are high up there, they don’t even care about who made them, but I believe in getting across to my fans

,

less than N2million a show, I see no reason why you shouldn’t give back. There are artistes who even earn more than that. It doesn’t have to be monetary value that you should give to your fans. For instance, I am not giving money, I am giving materials. In less than four days I have had more than 40,000 downloads of that mixtape. The number of downloads mean that our fans are loyal and that they still want to hear what we have to say. That is my mindset. I have always believed in giving back since I was a young kid. And as long as you are rising, you should carry people along. Most Nigerian artistes forget their roots. Getting to the top is one thing, staying there is another. Don Jazzy and 2face have been in the industry for more than ten years and people wonder why they are still relevant. This is one of the reasons. Do you think that your good gesture would be a good opportunity for people to pirate some of their works? Honestly, when I had that discussion with Don Jazzy, he said I shouldn’t be surprised if I see my mix tape in Alaba. That is another issue we have to tackle. There are bodies set up in Nigeria to tackle piracy. You bring out one CD, in less than ten minutes you have ten thousand copies going round. It kills the creative work of an individual and I think that is what is actually killing us. I am not worried, if somebody decides to make money out of my work, there is really nothing I can do about it, but I know that God doesn’t sleep. If an artiste has toiled day and night, put in his blood and sweat into it and someone decides to make money from it when I have not, that person will have his just reward. I don’t have control over piracy, but in every bad situation I tend to look at the good side.

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—19

JULIET EBIRIM 08137897935

Not with one who hurt me

Can you remain friends with an ex-?

Actress/Model

C

— Ene Ochu,

I

can remain friends with an ex, but it depends on the terms on which we broke up. I can never be friends with an ex who hurt me without remorse. There are some who hurt you badly and regret it and they apologise. There are others who hurt you terribly and don’t care to apologise. In a nutshell, I can only be friends with an ex who broke up with me maturely and amicably.

harles and Vivian were hopelessly in love with each other, they both had an incredible chemistry between them and hoped to tie the knots someday. For some reasons their relationship failed to go the distance,but they agreed to remain friends. When a romantic relationship ends, is it possible to remain friends? According to John Aiken, a Sydneybased clinical psychologist and relationship expert, it is, with a lot of maturity and hard work. But there are differing levels of friendship. “If there are children Singer involved it’s crucial to remain at least reakups are usually horrible civil,” he says. “But and unpleasant and most if you don’t have times, you don’t want anything to children or financial do with your ex, especially when reasons tying you you have moved on. Pain is part together and you of life, but we can’t decide to want to stay become bitter continuously over a friends, you need to bad ordeal. So, I will definitely think about how the move on and eventually become friendship will an acquaintance with my ex. work: what the boundaries will be, adjusting the expectations you once had and asking yourself, what your true motivations are for wanting to keep your ex in your life?” We sought the views of some entertainers on this issue and here are their responses;

I can’t remain bitter forever – Tolu Adesina,

B

Tolu

I am still friends with an ex- Ezinne, Actress

Personally, I have remained friends with an ex-. It depends on how messy the breakup was and what led to it.

Angela

Yes, we can still be friends — Finnest, Singer

I

can only remain friends with an ex depending on the reasons for our breakup. There are limits to everything. Both parties can put their differences aside and reason together. Speaking from personal experience, I think we can still be friends.

Finnest

It depends on what led to the breakup

— Angela Philips, Actress

I

t depends on what led to the break-up. If in the course of the relationship, he became arrogant and made me feel worthless, honestly, I wouldn’t want to have anything to do with him again.

20 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

With FLORENCE AMAGIYA 08061644307

email: daise4000@yahoo.com

•xxx

•He owns the biggest organised shows in West Africa

I

T is not enough to say that you have struggled to make something out of nothing, when you don't have anything to show for it. Ayo Richard Makun, popularly known as AY is outstanding in his profession as a comedian because he didn’t allow the hurddles he encountered earlier in life to deter him from his dreams; today he has a lot to show for it. His University days were filled with tales that would make a block-buster movie if scripted. But that did not change his mind-set as he was determined to get to his Godgiven destination. In this edition, we celebrate an icon who has affected so many young lives and whose shows have launched so many entertainers into spotlight, but whose greatest wish is for his parents to be alive to see what he has become.

How far has AY gone?

A

Y is a father and he is married to Mabel. He is multi-talented, a multiaward winning standup comedian, and one of the most successful comic acts Nigeria has produced. AY gained fame through mimicking Rev. Chris Okotie in his hilarious jokes, and by 2006 he was called the Best Up-Coming Comedian in Nigeria. He comes across easily, as Nigeria’s most creative comedian. He is also an established Compere, radio C M Y K

•AY with his hostel mates at a beach party in school

and TV presenter. He is a promoter, producer, actor, director, writer and an amazing event manager.

Abuja’s most attended entertainment event ever. He owns one of the biggest and most comfortable club houses in

Nigeria. Ayo Makun has invested heavily in stand-up comedy as he has influenced so many upcoming comedians through his AY “Open

Ayo Makun is the host of one of Nigeria’s largest comedy shows known as the “AY live”. He is the director and also acts in AY’s Crib. Great Comedians like Helen Paul and Bovi arguably had their breaks from his shows. AY is the owner of Corporate World entertainment, Nigeria, Mr. Corporate is an award he won severally in his university days. It is no wonder, he loves the name. AY Live enjoys huge attendance in Nigeria and London. In 2007, he held Lagos spellbound when the second edition of AY Live, Lagos Invasion drew a record crowd forcing him to do two shows in one day instead of one as planned. A similar feat was re-enacted in Nigeria’s Federal Capital City when AY Live, Abuja Invasion gave Abuja a standstill; it became

•AY with his wife Mabel Makun and their daughter

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 21

Mic Challenge”. AY just recently premiered his latest movie titled ‘30 Days in Atlanta’ shot in the US. 's crib •Cast in AY

But it was not always like this for AY…

H

e was already in 300 Level when he decided to study a course different from his original course which is Music. It was so difficult to change, so he did the almost impossible by buying another Jamb form. He wrote the exam, passed it and was given admission to study Theatre Arts from 100 level, but he wasn't perturbed as he was happy studying his dream course. Inbetween studying music and changing to Theatre Arts Department, AY spent about eight years doing a-four year programme. Even though AY was exceptional student, he had to sponsor himself

•AY on stage with Helen Paul

through the University, although he was very young. Ayo Makun was raised in a very humble home; he lost both parents pretty early and had to take the responsibility of being a father to his siblings. He was forced to pick up the challenge of sending his younger ones to school while he was there himself. AY is the first male child amongst seven children, so it was not out of place when he had to wear the shoes of his parents at a tender age. AY became a popular photographer just to make ends meet in school. He contested for different corporate competitions which he won, of which the proceeds of which he used to pay tuition. Along the line, using the platform of Delta State

University, AY became the biggest event organiser on campus. He launched and hosted shows like Miss Delsu, Miss Delta, Face of Delsu and many others. He didn't give up even when he was gang-beaten by some cultists oncampus because he had beautiful girls flocking around him. Most ladies who went for

Miss Nigeria and even to the Miss World Pageant from Delta State University in his time were managed by AY. But he was doing all these without actually making much money, until he graduated and moved to Lagos, to a bigger and brighter future.

vage and Timaya •AY with Tiwa Sa

•AY marking a birthday with family & friends

C M Y K

22 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

KEHINDE AJOSE 08024212530

I was blind for 15 nights after birth C

— Chidinma

2Fcae

hidinma Ekile, one of Nigeria’s most talented pop stars took music to another level when she featured her mum, Mrs Martha Ekile, in a new song dedicated to her. The song ‘Martha’ had the mum doing the intro while Chidinma picked it up from there. However the petite singer couldn’t hide her excitement over the whole thing as she took to her Instagram page to express her feelings: “The song ‘Martha’ is dedicated to my mother, Mrs Martha Ekile. I decided to show my fans a different side to Chidinma, a side never revealed to so many, a side I will forever remain grateful and indebted to Father Lord for his miraculous interventions and guidance in my life,” she wrote. “I was conceived and certified totally blind at birth. For fifteen nights this woman held me in her hands and wept uncontrollably, with my father calling on God to bless the newly born, Chidinma with sight. On the sixteenth day I opened my eyes and they have been opened ever since. I was born a very fragile baby with some health conditions. Her prayers took it all away. Life is such a wonderful and colourful piece of art and it must feel like hell not to envision God’s creation” she added.

I don’t follow the bandwagon of anything — 2face I

nnocent Ujah Idibia known as 2face is one pop star who loves to break new grounds in music. The African Queen sensation yet again broke new grounds with his Ascension album both locally and internationally. In a chat with Showtime recently, the top crooner spoke about the album and his relationship with Kennis Music ”The ears of Nigerians have been tuned to a particular kind of sound but this album doesn’t follow that pattern .That’s me, I don’t like to follow the bandwagon of anything. The album is not really something you can play in the club at once, it’s for matured minds.” Regarding his relationship with Kennis Music, his former Record Label, the singer says, ”It’s been ten years since the release of my first album, Face to face under Kennis music. They are celebrating the 10 years anniversary of that album and it has been re – mastered .That is what I and Kennis are working on right now. I have a working relationship with Kennis Music, but I am not under Kennis music. I am under Hypertek.”

Chidinma

Skales releases French version of Shake Body B

aseline Music act, Skales has said he had to release the French version of his hit song Shake Body due to popular demand. The singer who has a massive francophone fan base speaks impeccable French and impresses in a terrain only few from this part have thrived “If you go through my social media pages, the #ShakeBodyFever as I like to call, it keeps growing more and more daily, all around the world. Just after I dropped Shake Body, I performed in Benin Republic and someone randomly asked why I hadn’t done a full French version as well. I thought about it and started working on it. I hope that someone and all my French speaking fans enjoy and appreciate the effort I have put into this version,” Skales said. The singer, who since signing with the Howie T and Dipo Abdul led Baseline Music, has found his feet again in the Nigerian Music Industry and is working effortlessly on his debut album. C M Y K

Ketchup bags Magrellos Deal L

Ketchup

Skales

agos-based fast food chain, Magrellos, recently signed a partnership deal with dancehall musician Ketchup as part of the company’s quest to continue to grow its brand. The singer says that the deal is one of the best things to happen to him this year. In his words: “First of all, I love food. Secondly, I love Magrellos’ food and I stop by anytime I’m close to any of the outlets. When this came up it wasn’t a difficult decision to make and I will love doing this as much as I love going to the studio.” Management of the company led by Margaret Ohwofa has Ketchup on the forefront of a new campaign tagged “Ketchup on the Chips.” The deal, which was signed on Friday November 7, 2014 in their latest outlet in Festac, Lagos, will see Ketchup’s image used in adverts and in other communications and marketing roles. “Both brands match each other in some very good aspects as they are both fast growing brands and so we expect a successful partnership and campaign,” says a Magrellos spokesperson from Brand Connect Media.

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 23

By AYO ONIKOYI, 08052201215

I have probably bedded 1,000 girls, says Hucknall of Simply Red BY FRANCESCA INFANTE

Reggae can never be pushed aside

M

ick Hucknall has confirmed a notorious claim that he slept with 1,000 women. Asked if the rumours were true, the 54-year-old singer, who has sold more than 60million records said: “It probably is. I’ve not denied that, but I never claimed it. I never bragged about it. I don’t keep count. “I’ve no idea, but I would think over a 25-year period that’s probably reasonable to say. But do I want to say it? No. It’s not what makes me tick. I don’t put chips on the bedpost.” Talking ahead of a 30th anniversary reunion of his band Simply Red next year, he added: ‘It’s like kids in a candy store. You can’t believe it. There’s girls chasing you all the time – it’s incredible. “When you’re 24 you don’t give a toss. You’re invincible. You can do anything. Your mind is set in a way that the world is just ready and you’re just going to take it all. You’re just going to have a grand time.” Hucknall formed Simply Red in 1985 and their hits include Holding Back the Years and

Waje turns love doctor

Hucknall Stars. After more than 30 top 40 UK singles and two US No 1s, they split up in 2009. Born into a working class family in Manchester, Hucknall began singing at the age of four and held his first gig when he was just six. “I was singing all the time. I used to sing for the girls,” he said. “I feel very blessed because I grew up in what was effectively a British musical renaissance. “The Sixties and early Seventies, to me, mark an era that is unsurpassed in British music.” He dropped out of grammar school at 16 after struggling with bullies who singled him out because of his bright

red hair. Being accepted at an art school proved to be the turning point for him and after two years at a further education college and three at a polytechnic, he emerged with a 2:2 degree. He said it was a disappointing result that he blamed on departmental politics. While studying he formed a punk band called The Frantic Elevators, playing their first gig in 1978. Hucknall drifted away in the 1980s to set up Simply Red. Their record Stars, released in 1991, was the best-selling album in the UK for two years running – and remains joint sixth highest of all time. Culled from Daily Mail

Legendary reggae musician, Ras Kimono, popularly known for his dancehall hit song, Rumba Stylee, opened up recently in an interview, what he thinks about the present state of reggae music. He puts it this way: “Nothing lasts forever. Nigeria is a case of Soldier go soldier come; a different brand of music can come up tomorrow. Reggae can never be pushed aside, reggae has been here for a long time. When Reggae came here a lot of people came into it, but how many survived?” Ras Kimono topped music charts in the 80’s and 90’s with his unique brand of reggae music.

I love wearing mini skir skirtt

T

he RnB diva, Waje Iruobe, popular for her hit song, I wish, recently showed her romantic side when she took to her Instagram page to give romance tips to guys, saying guys are no longer innovative when it comes to romance. According to her: “God, guys has got no game going for them anymore. What happened to being innovative in romance? Now romance is all about popcorn and ice cream with movie. Be innovative guys, Paris isn’t too far or a rooftop dinner. That’s romance,” she advised.

—Ras Kimono

— Yinka Davies

E Waje

ccentric jazz artiste, Yinka Davies, is one songstress who is frank about whatever she believes in. She recently revealed in an interview her love for wearing miniskirts.“I love wearing mini-skirts, I don’t care and I don’t believe there should be any shame in wearing it. For leggings, you have to wear it very well and know your body type to wear it.” Yinka Davies is a veteran when it comes to the business of music, and she has been an inspiration to the likes of Asa

Yinka Davies Ras Kimono C M Y K

24—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15 , 2014

At AFRIFF, emerging e h t e k a t rs a t s d o o w y ll o N centre stage

•Gbenro Ajibade, Chelsea Eze and others

E

XCEPT for Rita Dominic, Kate Henshaw , Nkem Owoh , Kalu Ikeagwu , Adeyemi Okanlawon, Fred Amata. and Segun Arinze, who were the top stars at the ongoing Africa International Film Festival, AFRIFF, holding in Calabar, Cross River State, arguably belongs to the new generation of Nollywood stars. The festival, which closes today with an award ceremony, had movie stars and stakeholders from across Africa, Europe, America and other parts of the world in attendance. But it was the emerging Nollywood stars who dominated the space since the festival opened at Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort last Sunday. Tinsel star, Gideon Okeke, Chelsea Eze, Linda Ejiofor, Beverly Naya, Tope Tedila were among the young stars who were all over the place,networking, hugging and having good time with their colleagues. others were Blossom Chijekwu, Enyinna Nwigwe, Mbong Amata and Gbenro Ajibade .The 7-days festival did not only provide them the platform to interact with their counterparts from other parts of the world, but also, the relaxation and warmth that the green and clean city

C M Y K

offers to the august visitors. From Day one of the festival till the last day, the city was bubbling with festivity, with captivating posters and bill boards dotting the streets of Calabar to announce the

•Nse Etim Ikpe

festival. Also,to add glamour to the festival, the organizers provided the popular London-styled open tourist bus, which was moving the celebrities from Tinapa to Marina Resort, another festival

•Rita Dominic

venue where most of the films were screened.

I

nterestingly, it was one week of film screenings, trainings and parties. There were also fashion show and the regular all-night party

•Dakore Akande

that was the highpoint of the festival . The presence of notable Nollywood practitioners, including Igwe Gabosky, Tunde Kelani, Mahmood AliBalogun, Madu Chikwendu,

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—25

How they ruled the moment Charles Novia, Teco Benson and Lancelot Imasuen helped to boost this year’s festival and added intellectual angle to it. While the festival lasted, over 105 films were screened. Some of them , however, got standing ovation after the screening .and they were “ The Square”, an Oscar nominated documentary by Egyptian filmmaker, Jehan Noujaim, which was the opening film of the festival, and which charts a the course of three years of Egyptian political upheaval, “ Gone Too Far”, an adaption from Bola Agbe’s Olivier, award winning play set in London, Tunde Kelani’s “Dazzling Mirage”, “Invasion 1897” by Lancelot Imasuen and the much anticipated Kunle Afolayan’s October 1.

•Uru Eke, Omoni Oboli, Dakore Akande and Chioma Akpota

A

s noted by the festival director, Keith Shiri, the organizers selected an array of feature films this year, some hard hitting documentaries and a generous selection of short stories , representing over 20 countries from all the regions of Africa. In his opening remark, Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State, the host state stressed the need for the film makers to look at other ways to expand our stories to reflect our continent’s developmental achievements. “By this, I

•Paul Obazele

ran new direction in terms of content for African films.” “ For us, the excitement the state derives in hosting this remarkable event lies, in the fact that we see the film

opportunity to showcase our rich and robust tourism and hospitality assets.” “ when you consider that Nigeria’s creative sector remains our largest non-oil export, you will appreciate how important tourism and therefore culture is to our country.” “ Given this enormous

industry as one of the strategic components for the growth of our local economy and so, the great benefit of having you here in Cross River is that I offers us the

•Uru Eke

•Gov Liyel Imoke with Kate Henshaw, Nse Etim Ikpe and others

potential, there is therefore, the need for a synergy between stakeholders and governments, to translate this potential into a great source of growth for our economy.” The festival ends this evening, with an award ceremony, holding at the state cultural centre, in Calabar.

26 —Vanguard, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

anozieegole@yahoo.com

08116759764

Why I showed my boobs instead of bra at Halloween — Cossy Orjiakor

C

ontroversial actress cum singer, Cossy Orjiakor, who seems to derive pleasure from flaunting her God-given gifts in the open, is at it again. This time, she is in the news as a result of her daring presence in the just concluded Halloween held in Lagos recently. The sexy actress, who went to the event bra less, told Matinee why she chose not to wear bra to the event. Hear her, “Actually, a friend of mine and her husband invited me to the event and I decided to go with one of my craziest costumes which I have not worn for a long time. The top has a very tiny

hock in the chest and if I should wear bra, my bra will be exposed. So, I decided to show my boobs instead of my bra. I think people would prefer to see the boobs instead of bra. You, which one will you prefer to see?” she asked our reporter. “The funny thing is that, the very first time I stepped out bra less, I got pips freaking out. Everybody wanted to have pictures with me. Then I got bitten by the Egyptian vampire, these boobs are simply amazing, bra less in Halloween” she added.

Seun Akindele praises Tunde Kelani as Dazzling Mirage premieres

W

ith over 80 films to his credit Seun Akindele has left no one in doubt of his dexterity in interpreting roles since he came to Nollywood in 2005. The actor, who was one of the acts in Tunde Kelani’s blockbuster, Dazzling Mirage, has opened up on his role in the movie and why he chose to feature in the movie. “In the movie, I played the role of a playboy, who fell in love with a sickler, Kemi Akindoju (Funmiwo) despite her health challenges. I featured in the movie because, the producer, Tunde Kalani is wonderful in his field. He would put pressure on you to bring out the best in you. You cannot be on his film to relax; you must work hard and prove yourself,” Other stars in the cast of the movie include Kemi Akindoju, Kunle Afolayan, Seun Akindele, Taiwo Ajai Lycett, Yomi Fash Lanso, among others. The film which was produced by Mainframe films and Television Productions was premiered last weekend in Lagos.

C M Y K

Kemi Lala

•Didi Ekanem

Cossy

JB R ecords’ of Records’ offfer too good tto o refuse — Jahbless

A

fter being away from the Nigerian music scene, cooling his feet in faraway USA, Nigerian-born talented singer, Owoloye Olatunde Oluwabukunmi better known as Jahbless, who recently got signed to JB records has come forth to explain his absence and why he took the JB Records offer. The talented singer, who dropped an album with about four music videos to go with it said the offer was too good to refuse. “I must tell you the truth; the offer was Jahbless juicy, financially and otherwise. I had no choice than to pen down my signature for a year deal. One other good thing about J.B records is that, they have futuristic plans for the industry” On his leave of absence from the music scene, JB Records’ first signed-on artiste defended himself, saying, “I did not disappear, I was actually working on myself. I knew there is a bigger strength in me outside what I was doing and thought I needed time away to develop it. So, what I did was to stay away and took a journey into myself.

How Didi Ekanem saw 30 Days in Atlanta When AY’s self produced film, 30 Days in Atlanta, hit the cinemas a couple of weeks back, many celebrities joined in the rush to be among the first people to see the much anticipated movie. One of such stars is Didi Ekanem, an upcoming actress who is quietly warming her way to movie lovers’ hearts. But what was so special about Didi? See her picture and see if pictures aren’t truly louder than words:

AY dares mo vie movie lovers on 30 Da ys in A tlanta Days Atlanta T

AY

Seun Akindele

hough it didn’t come as an open challenge to all and sundry but A-list comedian, who made his debut as a movie producer in blockbuster movie 30 Days in Atlanta, has vowed to return his celebrity colleagues’ money if they did not enjoy his effort which continues screening at cinemas this weekend. AY (Ayo Makun) made the declaration on social media, saying his film is a comedy movie to beat. The movie which was shot in US and Nigeria, featuring multi-racial talents tells the story of the comic character known as Akpos and his exploits in Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America after winning a 30-day holiday for two in the Uncle Sam city.

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 27 BY IYABO AINA

•Sandra Bullock

08184172548

•Demi Moore •Mariah Carey

Hollywood’s Hottest Cougars

S

imply put, cougar is slang for a woman, typically 30-50 years, old who seeks a sexual relationship with a man who is considerably her junior. With that being said Hollywood is full of them! Here’s a look at Hollywood’s hottest cougars: Demi Moore Moore may just be the hottest cougar of them all. As the ex-wife of Ashton Kutcher, who was 15 years younger than her, Moore has a fondness for the younger men. And she didn’t stop with Kutcher. Moore, who is now 51, is linked to 27-year-old Sean Friday, the drummer for the band Dead Sara. Once a cougar, always a cougar. And something tells us if things don’t work out with Friday that she’ll have a slew of more young men lining up to date her. Sandra Bullock You might not have realized that Sandra Bullock has a bit of thing for younger men. Despite her previous marriage to the similarly-aged Jesse James, Bullock has been linked to a few Hollywood hunks much younger than her. Following her split with James, she was linked to Ryan Gosling, an actor 16 years younger, and then on-screen love turned into an off-screen fling with her The Proposal co-star Ryan Reynolds, who is 10 years younger than her.

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez J-Lo has a pretty rocky romantic history full of divorces and broken engagements (Ben Affleck, anyone?). But maybe it’s just because she was dating men that were too close to her in age? You know, men who weren’t nearly young enough to appreciate the type of woman that she is. After separating from ex-husband Marc Anthony, she began dating one of her backup dancers, Casper Smart. And Smart is 18 years younger, young enough to be her son! Mariah Carey More than a decade in age separates the pop singer from her husband of

C M Y K

five-plus years, Nick Cannon. What’s more is that these two appear to be going strong, and that’s remarkable considering that they were married after just a few weeks of dating. Perhaps it was cougar love at first sight for the Drumline star. Either that or he, like us, came to admire all the tabloid photos of Carey who is seemingly always in a bikini on the beach. Madonna Wow, what can we say about Madonna? Madonna is in her mid-50s, so she’s a tad bit older than the conventional cougar, but she’s dating someone that’s more than half her age– French break dancer Brahim Zaibat. In fact, Madonna has made it a habit of dating men who are significantly younger than she is for pretty much her entire life (or good chunks of it at least), so she’s in a class of her own when it comes to being a cougar. Like in 2009 after her marriage to Guy Ritchie fizzled when she began dating then-22 year-old model Jesus Luz for a couple of years. Of course, after failed relationships with older and similarly aged men such as Sean Penn, Dennis Rodman, Warren Beatty, Vanilla Ice, Willem Dafoe, Jose Canseco, Big Daddy Kane, Antonio Banderas and John F. Kennedy Jr.

•Madonna

Julianne Moore Julianne Moore gets the “cougar longevity” award for being with her much younger husband for almost 20 years now. Moore and her husband, Bart Freundlich, met when she was 35 and he was 26. They were officially hitched in 2006 for the sake of their two children and still seem very much in love to this day. Moore was a cougar who roped in her man and made sure he didn’t go anywhere

•Julianne Moore

28 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

W AP po

BY DAMILOLA SHOLOLA & MAUREEN NWANZE

T

here is no doubt that Desmond Elliot is one of the most prolific actors in Nollywood. Not only is he talented on screen, he is also into directing and producing movies. Just recently, he ventured into politics. Desmond Elliot is planning to run for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly come 2015. We met him at a location in Lekki where he was shooting his latest movie. In this exclusive interview as our Showtime Celebrity he talks about his career, political ambition and more: What movie are you working on now? It’s a movie called ‘Clueless’. It is starring Uru Eke, Joseph Benjamin, Blossom Chukwujekwu and my humble self When is it going to be released? Maybe before December or by January When did you get into movie directing? I started directing movies about 6 years ago Which was the first movie you directed? It’s called ’Uyai’, it’s an Akwa Ibom film

Has directing been more rewarding than acting? Not financially, but fulfilling, Yes What is the highpoint of your career as a movie director? You learn every day. I wouldn’t say I’ve gotten to my peak but you learn every day. Directing means being creative and being creative means you’ve been doing a lot of thinking. And all that is to be put into the film that you’re doing. I wouldn’t say I’ve gotten to my peak yet but I know I’m rising Any challenges? A lot; you have challenges with actors, insufficient equipment, locations, unforeseen circumstances, a lot. What has been your highest budget movie in terms of directing? I can’t tell, maybe ‘Apaye’

–D

,

What has been the biggest movie you’ve acted since you got into Nollywood? I think it would be ‘Behind Closed Doors’ ; that was almost 6 years ago

I didn’t suddenly go into politics; politics has always been a part of me. I’ve been involved in campaigns for some Governors and even the President

,

•Desmond Elliot

What’s your idea of a good script? A script that has a story that can be captivating, that the people can relate with and that can be slightly daring. This is so because you’re not sure if the people would accept it or not How has life been since you went into politics? It’s been okay, it’s been good, it’s exposed me to seeing more and the fact that I even want to give back. Out there, the people are not asking for a perfect turnaround, all they are asking for is something that can symbolise a change in their lifestyles. Why did you suddenly go into politics? I didn’t suddenly go into politics; politics has always been a part of me. I’ve been involved in campaigns for some Governors and even the President. I’ve been on the campaign trail for very long time now. Even though I have never sought any elective office before I have always had it at back of my mind as something I would do one day. It is not a surprise at all, it’s a well-thought out action and I came very prepared. I didn’t just sleep one day and say okay, it’s time to C M Y K

go into politics If you were elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly, what change should people expect from you? A Lot; First, I’m young, dynamic, very vibrant and fast thinking. I’ve had lots of links with corporate bodies, private bodies and nonprofit organizations. Through me I know a lot can be achieved because of my articulated experience. Just wait and see me in action.

Why Surulere? That’s my constituency; I think it’s good I face my constituency for now Are you going to leave Nollywood if you get elected? I can never leave Nollywood, I am only going to help in propagating and promoting laws that would help to structure the industry and make it better and improve it from the present situation – that’s it.

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 29 youths? I didn’t say I was there for the youths, I just said I also represent the youths

Why I chose PC as my olitical party

Desmond Elliot

Do you have anything special to offer them? Oh yes, in my constituency, I want to make it a point of duty that in the next two years, every youth as long as you’re a Surulere resident, you’re doing some form of tertiary education. Right now as it stands, we have already gotten admission for a couple of people at the Open University to study. We also have skills acquisition in that same university, we also have things to offer like nursing abroad. All these are subject to funding which I intend to have from corporate bodies and see how we can interface. There’s a lot that could be done which is the reason why I said you need brighter, fresher, renewable minds that are ready to work. My plan is to make sure I get people to go learn skills, empower them by getting them shops to realize these skills, get even the banking sector into realizing the SMEs, make sure there’s funding, try to get as many people off the streets as possible Are you planning to provide jobs for youths or what? I’m not a job maker but I can make sure that I provide the avenue for which they can work. I can influence things when I become a lawmaker.

•Desmond Elliot

•Says “Entertainers deserve to be in politics”

How do you see some of your Nollywood colleagues going into politics; do you think anybody can just wake up one morning and say they want to go into politics without having the potential in them?s First, everyone is entitled by law to vote and be voted for. Secondly, I am maybe not too surprised that many of Nollywood actors in this dispensation are going into politics. It’s not too far from the fact that there have been a lot of socio-economic changes that have happened to us in recent times. That being as it may, we still must realize the fact that Nollywood or entertainment as an industry has contributed immensely to the growth of the Nigerian economy and as such, it is not absurd or strange that those who have contributed to the growth of the economy should

want to partake in politics to serve. We have a good relationship with our fans which are the public and the grassroots. Sometimes people don’t just accept it because they don’t understand why somebody who is playing make-believe on TV should want to rule or serve. At the end of the day, I can’t speak for everybody but what I do know is everyone is entitled as far as you’re a Nigerian to vote and be voted for. Many people believe that entertainers are getting into politics because of money? Granted, yes, there’s money in politics but have you asked yourself one question, is it sand that you use to play politics? The answer is No. What you’re playing politics with is money. I’m not so much into what government is going to be giving as allowance, my idea as a fresh mind is how to harness the resources around me and provide for the people. Because if I just stick with what government is giving, then I am just going to be like everybody else. But when I harness resources from both home and abroad, harness NGOs, harness non-profit organizations, corporate bodies, private bodies, and bring all into creating social responsibility and social development in the people, then I know I’m achieving something that has not been done before. That is the major difference I’m bringing in; using me and the platform I have to create a lot and to make so many changes. It’s already started. You said you’re into politics for the

,

Why did the name ‘Olusola’ just come up from nowhere? Olusola didn’t just come up; I’m in an industry where we have names. Desmond is my first name, Elliot is my last name and my middle name is Sola. I’m going to a constituency that knows me as Sola so I put it in; it’s not something I just suddenly developed. Everyone is surprised, we’ve gone past surprise; question is what do you have to offer? Let’s move on. Whether I have the name Sola or not, that does not affect my capability to do work

I can’t speak for everybody but what I do know is everyone is entitled as far as you’re a Nigerian to vote and be voted for

,

Why APC? It’s the party of change, it’s the party to be in, and it’s the party to realize every dream. Its manifesto has said we are giving more than a million jobs to youths; every unemployed youth is entitled to at least N5, 000 a month. There’s housing and I’m talking genuine housing, low-cost housing for people, the expansion of Lagos State in terms of housing is one of the things we’re looking at. There’s so much, not just promises but things you know they can do. A simple example is what you see happening in Osun State which is almost like a blueprint where even children are entitled to lunch; they are entitled to one meal a day from the government. Those are the kinds of social welfare we’re talking about, alleviating the problems and the poverty of people. This is a party that means change; all I’m asking for is people should get into this boat and seize this opportunity to be in this party because it is indeed the party of change. It is diversified in terms of the people that are members of the party, you couldn’t ask for anything better Which politician do you admire or aspire to be like? I admire Raji Fashola for his administrative effort; I admire Tinubu for his strong will and resilience, and I also admire the innovative style of Godswill Akpabio and his energetic mind in nation-building. Those are the three people that motivate me politically Some people believe there’s no difference between acting and politics..? (Cuts in) There’s a huge difference. Politics is a game, acting is more real. Politics is a game because you’re dealing with people; it’s a game of life. Acting deals with a way of life but they are distinct in their ways, in their approaches Many people perceive politics as a dirty game; are they right in your own opinion? I’ve always felt and I still feel that the Ministry of National Orientation has failed as regards this. I mean in giving people the right orientation as regards politics and violence. They have failed in their duty of sensitizing and giving information to people on how they should conduct themselves in a political dispensation. The orientation should be a continuous thing, not just during elections. If people have been rightly sensitized that violence is not part of politics, violence would have disappeared in our politics. C M Y K

30—SATURDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Fight pneumonia, save a child A

“

M glad I did not die of pneumonia as a child.” This was the general consensus on this year’s World Pneumonia Day, November 12. The threat of pneumococcal infections to the wellbeing of children below five years of age remains a concern. In Nigeria and the rest of Subsahara Africa, there has been a lot of talk about introducing vaccines against pneumococcal illnesses. Granted, the Nigerian government is at advanced stage including the HIB and pneumococcal vaccines into the national immunisation programme with support from the Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiative, GAVI. This year, the theme for the Day was about Universal Access to Pneumonia Prevention and Care. Emphasis is on pneumonia prevention and care, but paediatricians, who look after children, are in short supply. Some states have a doctor child to doctor ratio of 1: 7000. The need for universal access to effective and affordable management and treatment approaches for the most types of serious pneumonia was canvassed, amid development of more realistic strategies that can help to ensure that children receive the right treatment for pneumonia quickly. As the world marked World Pneumonia Day November 12, Sanofi strengthened its commitment in the fight against pneumonia with the Paediatric Initiative tagged ‘Healthy Children, Happy Children’ in partnership with the Paediatric Association of Nigeria, PAN. As part of measures to close the gap, PAN came up with a guideline to help identify a child with pneumonia. The PAN began training of doctors on utilisation of the guidelines, and brought about the partnership with Sanofi to reach out to those who see children. We want less children to die, it is streamlining antibiotic use, and also to refer the child when necessary.”Medical Director, Sanofi Nigeria and Ghana, Dr. Fifen Inoussasaid, observed “Paediatrics is a priority for Africa because one child out of four in the world is African and 50 percent of the worldwide infant mortality occurs on this continent. The Sanofi Paediatric Initiative corresponds to the strong desire to reinforce our commitment to

child healthcare.” Estelle Dogbo, Product Manager, Sanofi added that the Paediatrics Initiative which adapts healthcare offer to children relies on the development of medicines and vaccines offer adapted to paediatric care, provision of quality medical information and dedicated training to healthcare professionals by way of continual medical education programs in paediatric topics. The third commitment entails the deployment of awareness campaigns to the general public.

Recognisingthe symptoms Speaking on the typical symptoms of pneumonia in children, Consultant Paediatrician Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, Dr Ekanem Ekure, recounted a recent study by the Paediatric Association of Nigeria showing that many mothers are often able to identify the symptoms of pneumonia in time. “There are two basic things to look out for. One is cough and two, fast breathing. Most mothers would know

•Breast feeding is the norm...

We are saying that healthcare should be made free at all levels in every state of the Federation so that every household has access to healthcare delivery at all levels. ”We want access to all the new vaccines that will prevent disease especially pneumonia is brought into our immunisation schedule. Let us stop shifting the goal posts. We have been hearing that this vaccine will be introduced before the end of the year. We want Nigeria to be brought out of the list of the bad nations. Several less endowed countries have A mother should monitor her baby... done it. We want this to be brought forth so that it how their babies breathe normally and can will be well with our children. tell if they are experiencing difficult breath. When a child breathes and you look at the ”Role of exclusive breastfeeding chest, if the child is breathing with Consultant Paediatrician University College difficulty, you will find that the spaces Hospital, UCH, Ibadan Prof. Adegoke Falade, said between the ribs will be going in and out, particularly the space just under the last breast feeding is the norm in the lower animal rib. ”If the child is breathing with difficulty, kingdom. “We should encourage breastfeeding, it is the chest and stomach will be going in and extremely important to encourage bonding out, in and out. The basic rule is that if a child is between mother and child and encourage coughing, and is having difficulty breathing bonding, We do not want to bring up cowboys or breathing fast, and the chest is and and girls, however, if mother cannot cope we can stomach are going in and out alternatively, supplement, but the emphasis is to encourage the that child should be immediately taken to mother. ”In the view of Consultant Paediatrician, and the hospital.” President-elect Pan African Society of Paediatrics, Prevention and treatment of pneumonia Dr. Dorothy Esangbedo, the more the baby feeds ”We are looking at a world where every on the breast, the more breast milk is produced. “The issue is not about milk production, but child has the chance of access to survival whether the mother has the strength to cope if and also to thrive, so the chances of she gets tired. It is about encouraging the mother prevention and caring for the pneumonia patient, so the message is out and I want to eat. Mothers need support to breastfeed, hence to be loud and strong to government at people advocate for prolonged maternity, not so various levels to ensure every child has much the production. The information about pneumonia has to be access to care for pneumonia.

enforced. Challenges President, Paediatric Association of Nigeria, Prof. Adebiyi Olowu, identifies pneumonia as one of the preventable but major causes of child mortality in Nigeria. He argues that it is essential that parents, guardians and care givers take essential precautions to ensure good health-seeking behaviour. Preventive efforts such as proper nutrition, exclusive breast feeding, handwashing and routine immunisations are essential to prevent pneumonia. Olowu urged government, relevant agencies and stakeholders to make concerted efforts that would significantly improve on the health of children.notes that when a child with pneumonia gets to the hospital, that child is likely to be saved. “The greatest numbers of children die in the community as a result of the mothers not being able to recognise the symptoms. The combination of poverty, lack of information and poor awareness, are major factors contributing to the spread of pneumonia. If a mother knows that her children have higher chances of survival, the population will come down. If health is made free, the probability of children coming down with illnesses will reduce.

SATURDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014 — 31

Never keep these foods in the fridge

W

here should you store bread, potatoes, or honey? Should you store tomatoes in the fridge or countertop? While there may not be a definitively right or wrong way to food, some foods never belong in the refrigerator. Storing these foods in the fridge when you shouldn’t can remove or alter their flavour, or make them go bad fast. If you’ve been storing some of these foods in your fridge, when you should really be keeping them out on the counter or in the pantry, it’s time to change.

NATURE’S HEALTH

Tomatoes Tomatoes will lose all their flavour in the fridge. A trial will easily convince you. The cold air in the fridge stops the ripening process that gives tomatoes more flavour. While the low temperature breaks down the membranes inside the fruit walls, turning it mealy, it also changes the texture. The best way to store tomatoes is to put in a bowl or basket on the shelf or table. Basil Basil will wilt faster if left in the fridge, and it will also absorb all the smells of the food around it. It’s better to keep it out in a cup of fresh water. If you want to store basil for a long time, blanch it and then freeze it. Potatoes and plantains Keeping a potato or plantain in the refrigerator will turn its starch into sugar more quickly, so that you’ll be left with a sweet, gritty potato or plantain. Don’t put potatoes or plantains in the fridge. Store them in a paper bag in a cool - not cold place. A dark place, like the pantry, cupboard or vegetable rack is ideal. Paper bags work better than plastic because they’re more breathable and the plantain or potato won’t rot as fast. Onions Onions kept in the fridge become moist and will eventually turn soft and mouldy. Onions should be kept in a cool, dry place separate from potatoes to minimise rot. Avocados If you want avocados to ripen, definitely don’t put them in the refrigerator. However, if

•Storing these foods in the fridge is not the best you’ve bought an already-ripe avocado that you don’t want to use right away, the fridge is ideal for storage . Garlic Eventually, garlic will start to sprout in the fridge, and it may also get rubbery and mouldy. Keep garlic in a cool, dry place.

Bread The refrigerator will dry out bread quickly. Unless it’s to be eaten within a few days, keep bread out of the fridge. Bread in the freezer should be wrapped so it retains its moisture, and when you remove it from the freezer, you should let it thaw slowly and completely before eating or toasting.Olive OilStore olive oil in a cool, dark

place, but not in the fridge, where it will condense and turn to a harder, almost butter-like consistency.

its flavour and freshness. You can store larger quantities of coffee in the freezer, however.

Coffee If you leave coffee in the refrigerator, it will lose its flavour and actually take on some of the odours in the fridge. You should store coffee in a cool, dark place, where it will retain

Honey There’s no need to store honey in the fridge and keeping honey in the refrigerator actually causes it to crystallize (solidify). Honey will keep almost indefinitely if stored in a tightly sealed container.

32 — SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard, NO VEMBER 15 NOVEMBER 15,, 2014—33

E

very woman once in a while, needs some fabulous tailoring in her wardrobe. This season, designers are getting creative with designs that are so structured they lend credit to serious structural engineering. So you find skirts with some unusual hems or sleeves with sharp edges and contours. Whatever pattern or structure worked into your skirt, dress or blouse, the overall objective is to give it an edge and add zing to the outfit. To make your piece interesting and modern, the best way to pull it off is to add a pop of colour for added punch. Check out what the runway is churning out and see how celebrities are rocking them on the red carpet.

Simisola

Design by Meena

Design by Meena

34— SATURDAY

I

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

went with my wife to an office I visit often, but that was the first time I was going there with her. Immediately I introduced her to the two young ladies at the reception, in unison they chorused: “no wonder.” I knew where they were going, but decided to hear from them rather than assume. For them, my wife is very beautiful, that is why I have not looked their “way” these years, even though they are stunning beauties and we are close. Being spinsters, I wanted to educate them that no woman (This also applies to men) can keep a man to herself just because of her beauty, so that they do not go into marriage with wrong expectations. It takes the grace of God and other factors for worried for his wife when they that major miracle—yes that is were to get married, because what it is, a miracle—to he was deep in another happen. But I did not want it relationship a few weeks to the to look like I was de- marriage. Everything changed marketing my wife, so I just after he got married. I often smiled and allowed her lap the tease him that he did not accolades. repent; God simply arrested I have talked with a good him. His case is a testimony of number of men—both the God’s awesomeness. Another faithful and the unfaithful— friend, an Urhobo, says his about marital fidelity. None wife will retaliate if she finds gave the beauty of their wives out he is having an affair. For as the reason for their fidelity. him his wife sleeping with The number one reason I got is God. They treasure the personal relationship they have with God and do not want anything that will disrupt it. Two of them, but for their refusal, would have been pastors of branches of their another man is the ultimate churches by now. They “have humiliation. He will rather die been in the world and seen it than see that happen. So out all. of self-preservation, he is forced to be faithful. Another t is all vanity.” One of them is a devout Catholic who was notorious in his attends masses daily. He says university days and used to that going for “mass without have threesome with girls. receiving communion is like “There is nothing in sex to eating eba and soup without make me offend my God meat or fish”. Since he does not anymore”, he will always say. “ want to receive Christ in a Josh, my other friend, was no state of disgrace”, he avoids less notorious. In fact, we were sins of commission that

Grace,not

infidelity is. “I am already saddled with too many sins of omission, why add sins of commission”, he rationalises. He also loves his wife dearly because “she is a nice woman” and would probably have been faithful to her if God was not in the equation, but God is the principal reason he is faithful. Dom, another friend, radiates an aura of holiness. That is what you feel when

,

There is nothing in sex to make me offend my God anymore

I

beauty

,

you meet him for the first time. Whatever shortcomings he has do not diminish this aura. Dom is one of those naturally gifted people for whom fidelity comes naturally; it is a way of life and manifests in all aspects of his life. Peter does not “ want to have anything to do with the complications that go with keeping another woman; I also do not want to hurt my wife.” His “recipe to stay out

of trouble is simply flee from temptation, the Joseph style.” He does not believe in overcoming temptation; neither does he trust himself to be able to do it. Chike feels men have an innate desire to have multiple sex partners. He is,however, unwilling to satisfy his own desires because “unprotected sex with multiple partners is risky and I hate (using) condoms.”

S

ome of the most unfaithful men I know have stunningly beautiful wives, so their infidelity has nothing to do with the looks of their wives. They also love their wives and can kill because of their wives, so the issue is not really about whether or not they love their wives. That is why I often smile when I hear women whose husbands have been unfaithful ask: “Am I not good enough for him?” Madam, you are, but this matter goes beyond your beauty or good deeds. A man with a stunning beauty of a wife gave himself a target of sleeping, and has slept, with women in all continents,

except Australia, at the time we lost contact. Someday, when humans are found in Mars, he will probably go there and continue his escapades. A time might come when he will reflect on his life and either feel justified about his escapades or like King Solomon wonder if it was worth all the trouble. For now the beat goes on because he has neither repented nor reached that stage in life when, like most aging men, the spirit is willing but the body puts up varying degrees of civil disobedience. No Viagra or external boost can salvage the situation then. I guess men of all ages have faced their own challenges in respect of marital fidelity. I have not lived in another time, so I do not know the challenges they faced, but I get this eerie feeling that men have probably never faced the kind of temptation today ’s men are facing. Nudity and pornography are more commonplace; last week’s Saturday Vanguard appropriately tagged it “ weapons of mass distraction.” There are more beautiful women now than there ever were and women have become more daring in going for what they want unlike before. One thing is certain though from my findings, the grace of God and self preservation, more than spouses’ beauty, play the dominant roles in marital fidelity for men.

(Text Only)

Upright Bent knee forward Bend Technique: Sit down with both legs extended in front. Bend the left knee upright place the hands at the back and hold a wrist with the other hand with the upright bent knee between the left hand and the side of the trunk.

On the case of the pot belly •Upright Bent knee forward Bend

Benefits: The posture tones the muscles of the legs and strengthens the arms. It also gives an effective massage to the abdominal organs getting rid of constipation.

The Boat

Technique: Sit down with the legs extended in front of you. Raise both legs up and touch the toes with the finger tips. Stay in this position for 20 seconds. Rest and repeat. Benefits: The boat reduces the size of the belly and improves the muscles of the back. The Bridge Lie on your back and drawC M Y K

•The Boat •The Bridge

ing up the knees, raise the trunk up and support the lower back with the hands. Retain the pose for 15-to 20 seconds and repeat after a

short rest. Benefits: The Bridge favourably affects the abdomen and the thigh muscles.

Yoga Classes @ 32 Adetokumbo Ademola, Victoria Island Lagos. 9.00am — 10.00am on Saturdays

SATURDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—35

juliecoker100@yahoo.com

She doesn’t like condoms Dear Julie, My girlfriend doesn’t like condoms. She prefers sex naturally without any artificiality. We have begun having sex recently. The first few times we did, we used condoms. But she doesn’t feel good with it. She said she prefers to feel me. Lately, we stopped using it. I always pull out before I come. Is this still safe? Is it safe to re-enter after this? I will appreciate all the help. Thanks. Efe, Warri

Dear Efe, I want to understand the problem here. Is it sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy, or both? In the case of STIs, the answer is a resounding NO! Pulling out, or withdrawal, isn’t an effective method of STI prevention because most diseasecausing microorganisms don’t depend on ejaculation for transmission. A condom will only help prevent the spread of STIs if you put it on before sex and leave it on the entire time you are having sex. If both of you have been tested before you started having sex with each other, you may not be concerned about STIs. If you haven’t been tested you may want to consider doing so. As a primary means of pregnancy prevention, withdrawal has several disadvantages. First, there’s the pre-ejaculatory fluid on which the withdrawal method has no effect since it’s released well before you ejaculate. Preejaculate itself doesn’t contain sperm, however it may pick up

Coming home late

sperm left in the urethra from a previous ejaculation, and thus, re-inserting your penis after ejaculation (outside of the vagina) does present a risk of pregnancy. Next, and what perhaps has even more of an impact on the effectiveness of the method, is the issue of consistency and self-control. Can you use the withdrawal method correctly and consistently each time you have sex? If not, then you might want to think about whether this method is right for

How do I tell my ex I’m pregnant for him? Aunty Julie, I found out that I’m pregnant and my ex-boyfriend is the father. We have broken up before I found out I was pregnant. He’s going out with another girl now and acts like he doesn’t want anything to do with me! I don’t know how to tell him. I don’t also know how to tell my parents or his parents .I don’t want to go through this as a single parent. What should I do? Laide, Akure Dear Laide, Since one cannot cover up pregnancy, you need to tell your ex and your parents. Many parents, perhaps most, will be more

Two married buddies are out drinking one night when one turns to the other and says, “You know, I don’t know what else to do. Whenever I go home after we’ve been out drinking, I turn the headlights off before I get to the driveway. I shut off the engine and coast into the garage. I take my shoes off before I go into the house, I sneak up the stairs, I get undressed in the bathroom. I ease into bed and my wife STILL wakes up and yells at me for staying out so late!” His buddy looks at him and says, “Well, you’re obviously taking the wrong approach. I screech into the driveway, slam the door,

C M Y K

you. Of course, you do have the option of emergency contraception. Withdrawal does have its advantages. It’s free and always available. Second, no side effects are associated with this form of contraception. The estimated failure rate for typical use is around 22 percent. When practiced perfectly, the failure rate is estimated to be around 4 percent. This means 4 to 22 women out of every 100 who use withdrawal as their contraceptive method get pregnant. If you haven’t already, perhaps you and your girlfriend could talk about your concerns and work toward reaching a mutual decision on what form of contraception and/or safer sex you both want to use. Besides the issue of STIs, it’s best to talk about how willing you are to risk having to deal with a pregnancy and what either of you would do if a pregnancy occurred. Withdrawal is definitely less effective than, say, the birth control pill. But, if both of you are okay and comfortable with the risk involved, then you may decide that withdrawal is a good method for the two of you. To make a decision like this, it’s helpful to have as much information as possible.

supportive than you imagine. Maybe people close to them, have gone through similar experiences. They may be upset at first, and disappointed; but, trust that they will help you decide about your next steps. However, if you are afraid they would be so upset that they might harm you, you may decide to share your situation first with someone else very close to you, maybe a favourite teacher at school or a health care provider. Your ex-boyfriend and his parents may or may not be involved in your present or future decisions but as hard as it will be, it is inevitable that you face them and sit down with one or both of your parents, soon.

C O C K - T A L E S storm up the steps, throw my shoes into the closet, jump into bed, slap her on the butt and say, ‘You as horny as I am?’ . . . and, she always acts like she’s sound asleep!”

Twice a week

After just a few years of marriage, filled with constant arguments, a young man and his wife decided the only way to save their marriage was to try counseling. They had been at each other’s throats for some time and felt that this was their last straw. When they arrived at the counselor’s office, the counselor jumped right in and opened the floor for discussion.

Neighbour ant ttoo eighbourss w want destroy our relationship Dear Aunty Julie, I love your wonderful advice on so many topics! Please advise me on this urgent issue. I live in a face-to face apartment in a crowded compound. People don’t seem to mind their business here. I cannot have privacy even though I live in two rooms. It seems the paper thin walls in my apartment make it tough for me and my boyfriend to be intimate, during conversations, during sex, without the neighbours reacting. If I’m on the phone and tell him how I feel about him, the couple next door starts to crack up. I thought at first it was a coincidence, but it has happened about eight times. Once I even said, “let’s talk later because the neighbors are listening” and they shut right up. What’s most offensive to me is if we make a noise above a whisper while talking or making love, we hear the neighbours react by sarcastically making sex noises and laughing next door. This feels like a big invasion of privacy. It’s making me self-conscious to make a peep during intimacy.Do you have any suggestions?

Frances, Lagos Dear Frances, Everybody value privacy especially in intimate situations. And, it’s hard to think of a positive side to having paper-thin walls. If the neighbours were your friends, your set-up would have let you to play a little practical joke on them involving a conversation you “accidentally” let them overhear. But, since you don’t seem to be on great terms with your neighbours, it seems best to focus on privacyenhancing solutions. The first advice is to limit your self-expression during sex or even during conversations with your partner because what the neighbours might hear puts an unfortunate burden on your relationship. It’s polite to consider that other people might not want to hear your every word or listen to you have sex 24 hours a day, but intimate conversations and sex are natural and nothing to be ashamed of. Still, some privacy is clearly important. Do the neighbours have any kind of regular schedule? Maybe they’re usually away from home at certain times. You might use those times for more private activities or conversations. Have you ever spoken directly with your neighbours? If you’d rather not talk with them, and it seems like they’re always there, maybe playing some music could camouflage your conversations. Rearranging your living space might also enhance your privacy. Could you move your bed or bedroom farther from the wall you share with the neighbours? Hanging a thick tapestry on the wall might also offer some noisedampening effect. If you can’t move somewhere with thicker walls, increasing the ambient noise level in your living space may offer you more privacy, or at least prevent you from hearing your neighbours make fun of you. Hopefully, you can focus on enjoying your music and your boyfriend.

“What seems to be the problem?” The wife began talking 90 miles an hour describing all the wrongs within their marriage. After 15 minutes of listening to the wife, the counselor went over to her, picked her up by her shoulders, kissed her passionately for several minutes, and sat her back down. Afterwards, the wife sat there speechless. He looked over at the husband who was staring in disbelief at what had happened. The counselor spoke to the husband, “Your wife NEEDS that at least twice a week!” The husband scratched his head and replied… “I can have her here on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

36—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Beggars can't be choosers, eh Mr Miliband: 08 116759 759 081 6759759

Making a splash:

But not everyone thinks of the car wash as good, clean fun. 'When we opened up we offered free services for law enforcement because we appreciated their service,' Mr McMahon said. 'One day a female officer took a picture of sheriffs getting their cars washed - they quickly got an email from the captain saying "no more Baywash",'he added. washed - they quickly got an email from the captain saying "no more Baywash",'he added. Despite some criticising the car wash for objectifying women, the vast majority of customers are happy with the work. Customer TJ Reed said: 'They do an awesome job at Baywash - and you also get some great eye candy as well. 'If a young lady has to wear a bikini in 90degree weather to make it through college or pay their bills - I don't think there's anything wrong with that.' And business is booming at the car wash which will be opening in multiple locations in the future. 'I have a couple locations getting ready to open up in Altima and one in Miami,' Mr McMahon.

A

n American car wash is employing women to soap down and rinse cars in their bikinis. Baywash Bikini Car Wash in Winter Park, Florida is open seven days a week and offers a variety of bikini-clad cleaning services ranging from $10 for a hand wash and dry to a $60 waxing. Owner Steve McMahon, 47, originally came up with the idea five years ago to help raise money for his daughter's school - but it has proven so popular that he now plans to open a chain of bikini-based car washes across America. Not everybody is impressed however - the local police force has now banned its officers making repeat visits to the car wash, where they have been taking advantage of free services. Mr McMahon first opened the controversial car wash in 2009. 'It started as a fundraiser for my daughter's school and it just evolved from there,' he said. Now we have a lot of high-end cars coming through - we've done Lamborghinis, Ferraris and Bentleys - we get a lot of nice cars here,' he added. Mr McMahon trains each employee in leather maintenance, how to dry windows with minimal streaking, wax coating and proper detailing methods. Jacki Orlando, 24, has worked at the car wash for three years. 'I enjoy working at Baywash. It is hard work as far as labor but it's a lot of fun at the end of the day,' she said. 'Some people can potentially view Baywash as sexist - but I don't view it that way. My boyfriend and family are fine with the fact that I work here - it's just my job,' she added. But not everyone thinks of the car wash as good, clean fun. 'When we opened up we offered free services for law enforcement because we appreciated their service,' Mr McMahon said. 'One day a female officer took a picture of sheriffs getting their cars Jacki Orlando, 24, has worked at the car wash for three years. 'I enjoy working at Baywash. It is hard work as far as labor but it's a lot of fun at the end of the day,' she said. 'Some people can potentially view Baywash as sexist - but I don't view it that way. My boyfriend and family are fine with the fact that I work here - it's just my job,' she added. C M Y K

I

t's a dilemma we all face – do you give money to a homeless person or not? For Ed Miliband, the awkwardness of that predicament was all too clear to see as he passed a beggar in Manchester yesterday. On his way to deliver a speech, the Labour leader first passed the woman in a green headscarf. Realising photographers were present, he doubled back. But in a toecurling encounter, he failed even to make eye contact as he leant to-

wards her... and appeared to drop just 2p into a cup. Despite the intended act of kindness, Mr Miliband’s ham-fisted attempt sparked criticism on Twitter last night. One tweeted about the politician, who earns more than £130,000 a year: ‘Real man of the people eh!’ Another wrote: ‘He looks terrified stiff that she might touch him’ and a third said: ‘The Party of the less well off? Ed wants to keep it that way.’ Witnesses said Mr Miliband appeared to change his mind when he

ALCOHOLISM:

Irish teacher Katie refused job

A

n Irish woman received an out rageous rejection letter from a school in South Korea where she'd applied to teach. Katie Mulrennan, from County Kerry, earns her living teaching English around the world. Although she says she's been passed up for jobs because certain schools prefer a North American accent, she said a recent rejection letter really crossed the line. After applying to a job in Seoul on Craigslist, the 26-year-old was shocked to get a rejection email that turned her down due to the stereotype that Irish people are drunks. The email reads: "I am sorry to inform you that my client does not hire Irish people due to the alcoholism nature of your kind." A screenshot of the email was posted to Reddit earlier this week and has since gone viral. Mulrennan is now sharing her story with the press. "When I got the email, it was so abrupt and short. I actually laughed when I read it initially," Mulrennan told the BBC. "In the end I took a deep breath and sent back a reply that was a little bit sarcastic, as I couldn't believe the email I had received." She didn't receive a response to her second email, but says it doesn't matter since she's found another job in Seoul. Although WHO data has shown that Irish binge drink with some regularity, other countries aren't far behind. Additionally, a 2014 survey by London-based business intelligence company Euromontior showed that South Koreans of drinking age consume about 13.7 shots a week, while Irish only drank about 2.6 shots a week on average.

realised photographers were present. One said: ‘Mr Miliband half walked past and then seemed to realise he was going to be photographed walking past a beggar and kind of doubled back.’ Aides could not say how much he had given – saying it was a ‘handful of coins’. Last night a homeless man even claimed the beggar was not homeless but part of a gang of Romanian women who make up to £50 a day. Last week incident also prompted debate over donations to beggars. Charity Crisis said it was a ‘personal decision’, but some groups urge donations of food instead of cash. Labour-run Manchester City Council even asks residents to report begging to the police, so officers can give advice. The Manchester Evening News said police later tweeted: ‘It’s a crime under Vagrancy Act & we always urge public to donate to charities not beggars.’

Giant pink condom lowered onto city centre landmark to kickstart new campaign against HIV

Y

ou couldn't help but see that there was something a little different in Sydney's Hyde Park this morning. Workers in the city centre were met with the unusual spectacle of an 18 metre (60 foot high) bright pink condom which appeared over city landmark heritage-listed obelisk. The giant sheath is part of a new awareness campaign about HIV by ACON, a health promotion organization with a central focus on HIV/AIDS, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender health. But Wendy Francis from the Australian Christian Lobby said the stunt was disappointing and "inappropriate for open spaces where children can see it", she told Australian Associated Press. The number of new HIV cases in Australia is at its highest level in 20 years with 1,235 new cases diagnosed in 2013. The giant condom, which reads 'Test more + treat early + stay safe = ending HIV, 'will be on the obelisk until Wednesday.

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 157U, 2014—37

Pomp as Ov oK ek eje w eds TTosan osan Uk ube yinje Reception for Delta Ovo Kek ekeje weds Ukube ubeyinje State new HOS t was celebration galore in the oil city of Warri, Delta state, on Saturday, November 8th, 2015 when

I

Ovo and her heartthrob, Tosan, fulfilled their life dream of being together for the rest of their lives in a wedding that was witnessed by the movers and shakers of Delta state.

The couple, Ovo and Tosan Ukubeyinje, at the traditional marriage.

L-R: Mr and Mrs Ukubeyinje,groom's parents; Hon. Justice Zai Smith; Chief Judge, Delta State, Chairman of the occasion and sponsors of the marriage; Mr and Mrs Dan Abale, with bride's parents.

L-R:Sir (Chief) Isaiah Kekeje, bride's father and Mr. Lawrence Ukubeyinje, groom's father

L-R: Mrs Theresa Kekeje, bride's mother with Mrs Esther Ukubeyinje, groom's mother.

Swiss Spirit Ho es ber ths in Asaba Hottel & Suit Suites berths

R

eception for new Head of Service,Delta State, Sir Patrick Oyambevwe Origho, a member of Erhuvwu Club of Nigeria, took place in Asaba recently. Many dignitaries graced the event. Photos by Nath Onojake

L-R: Sir Okey Ofili Chairman of the occasion with Sir and Lady Patrick Origho, Head of Service, Delta State.

From Right Lady Origho, Sir Patrick Origho, Sir Okey Ofili, former Head of Service, Lady Etefe Rita (nee Origho) and Sir Okporkpor, former Head of Service.

T

he commissioning of Swiss Spirit Hotels & Suites in Asaba, Delta State penultimate Saturday was an event that attracted many notable personalities into the city. Below are some of the dignitaries that graced the occasion:

L-R: Capt Ikechukwu Aduba [RTD] Commissioner of Police, Delta State and Mrs Patience Ikomi, Chairman, Delta State Local Government Pension Board. L-R: Lee Hess, GM, Swiss Spirit Hotels & Suites; Chief Paul Odhomo, Pastor Oki; Deaconess Bukky Okuhor (ED, Swiss Sprit Hotels &Suites) and Deacon (Arch) Ambby Okuhor (Chairman / CEO, Swiss Spirit Hotels & Suites) .

Deacon Arch Ambby Okuhor (Chairman / CEO); Chief Ross Uredi; Glamour Gramma Lizzy Ogbefu

Deaconess Bukky Okuhor (Executive Director) and Deacon Arch Ambby Okuhor (Chairman / CEO) at the dedication

?L-R: Mrs Remi Offili, Deacon Arch Ambby Okuhor (Chairman / CEO); Deaconess Bukky Okuhor (Executive Director) and Chief Paul Odhomo at the thanksgiving

From Left; Mr.Ben Igho Perm-Sec, Ministry of Economic Planning, Mr.Emmanuel Sowho, Financial Consultant, Mr.Tonnie Egun, Special Assistant, Directorate of MDGS,Asaba and Mr. Victor Onogagamue, DG, Sports Commission, Delta State

38 — SATURDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15 15,, 2014

bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

How to cope when your teenager has tasted the forbidden fruit!

I

T’S always a heartening news when your child does well in secondary school but when Fred’s 14-year old daughter scored 95 per cent in mathematics, he hit the roof. “Who do you think you are?” he shrieked at her, “A wiz-kid?” With that he dragged her virtually screaming and kicking to my place. “I want you to do a bit of aptitude test for her!” he roared, “let her repeat the feat that scored her so high her to abort one or in her exams.” Fred’s more pregnancies? temper has always had a When I got to the short fuse but this day in principal’s office, I question, he was apoplectic! wanted to beat him It was all I could do not to up. The burst out laughing at this proprietress was indignant Fred who was visibly distraughtsuspicious of his daughter’s begging and crying academic prowess. So I I shouldn’t take a conducted a fairly simple police report of the test for the now frightened incident as the girl, insisting her dad leave police might likely us alone and come back for make it a longher later. His suspicion was drawn affair. She right. The girl knew next to expelled the nothing about maths. Did principal on the she cheat? Saw the exams spot. That was question? “I’ll get to the when I insisted that bottom of this,” Fred vowed, Rose should come glaring at the girl before and stay with us in ordering her to wait for him my own house. As a in the car. “She’s my first prince in the town, wife’s last daughter,” he I used my influence explained. “The mum was with her school bag almost to get her a good secondary constantly unfaithfully to bursting at the seams. What school very close to the me, so I sent her away. could she be hauling around house. That way, we’ll keep Unfortunately, my second in that school bag? ‘Put down a close watch on her... “That your bag and open it!’ I yelled at her. When she did, I almost went into shock. She had a change of clothes in the bag, a wig and several other accessories that had nothing to do with her school. I seldom beat my children but that afternoon, I took a belt to her when she refused to tell was some five years ago and wife was hostile to her four me what she was up to. It was Rose seemed to be making step-children, so two of them then she confessed she progress—apart from the opted to stay with their always went to a hotel’s usual teenage pranks. When mother, Rose (the swimming pool with her I saw Frank recently though, ‘mathematician’) and her mates after school hours. I he looked resigned. “I think elder sister. When Rose beat her some more. I’m a failure as a father”, he finished primary school, her sighed. “But then, how could “It was later I tried to mother informed me that the that be totally true? The rest rationalise my missing money school had just started the of my children are doing to her. The next time money secondary school wing, so I well. Rose will always be the got missing, it was N20,000 agreed for her to attend. I’m black sheep of the family!” from the N100,000, I brought off to that school now to find Now what? I asked myself back home. I was livid. I out what went wrong.” quietly, “Rose has turned painstakingly went through couple of days later, into a thief.” He declared. A her wardrobe and suitcase. I he was back. “There was thief? “For months now.” finally found the cash in the no real secondary school,” he Continued Fred, “I’d been pocket of one of her well fumed, “What happened was missing huge sums of money folded trousers. I took it and they have only one classroom from my briefcase on a said nothing. I told my PA to where a handful of pupils regularly. I always suspected watch her reaction when she were placed in JSS I. Before I my wife until Rose came in came back from school. He went with Rose to the school, I from school one afternoon said my daughter was visibly sat her down and threatened

Fred’s temper has always had a short fuse but this day in question, he was apoplectic

,

,

A

her and her mother. It was then she confessed that the principal of the school was constantly having sex with her. Luckily, I have a clinic on top of my flat, so I told her there to be tested both for STD and pregnancy. It was a relief to know that she was OK. But like my second wife pointed out, how were we sure the randy old goat hadn’t forced

agitated after coming from her room. Yet I said nothing until four days later. Then I called her elder sister and told her what happened. She

confessed Rose had an indigent undergraduate who was trying to raise money for his studies. That the lout was trying to build a fish pond and Rose was helping him with the money she was always stealing from me! “That evening, we all had a family meeting and I got the address of the boy from Rose. By the time we go to the shack he lived in, he’d already bolted. I then went to the palace and arranged for some palace guards to go and fish him out in the early hours.

T

hey got him at 4.00am and nearly beat the daylights out of him. When I saw him, he looked pathetic where he was harnessed to a post like a goat. I wanted to beat him some more but was restrained by the guards who told me that he’d been so professionally thrashed, it would take him weeks to recover. How could this miserably looking thing

be bedding my daughter and encouraging her to steal so much money from me? The cheek of it! When I asked which university he attended, he said he was still looking for admission. What really puzzled me was how Rose got access to my room. I always carried the keys with me. When she’s been sufficiently punished, I asked her. She said she used to prise the other exit door open enough for her to slither into the room. I’d wedged the said door with a big TV set and a couple of stools. I asked her to show me. She then heaved the door open as far as it would go, then flatten herself to go through. She than came out the same way and pushed the TV back. The next day, I called the carpenter to nail down the door.

“Today’s girls are really something else. Where we men pay through the nose to have affairs, my daughter was not only giving it away for free, she was paying for it with money she stole from me!” It was one of the few times I was actually lost for words.

T

eenage years could be terrible ones and a parent has to tread carefully as if on egg shells, when dealing with teenage girls and their raging hormones or they become their mortal enemies.This much I said to Fred, assuring him he wasn’t a bad father. He couldn’t have done more than he’d already done. Rose’s teenage years will soon be over and sanity might return to her way of thinking enough for father and daughter to be friends again. In the meantime, Fred had to rid himself of the bad taste Rose’s escapades have left in his mouth.

Why men crave compliments more than women Think: When it comes to winning a man’s heart, flattery will get you everywhere. Don’t be fooled by their macho posturing—they need their egos stroked on a regular basis. So, show some pity on your poor boyfriend and

toss him a few kind words, say he smells incredible when he greets you before a night out. If you want to kick up a notch, zero in on his weakness. For instance, if, he likes to toil around the

kitchen, tell him he cooks a mean chicken stew and ask if he’s ever considered entering a cooking competition. What’s in it for you? Thanks to the remarkable power of reciprocity, he’ll

want to return the favour. The only warning is: Don’t fog his head with gratuitous praise. He’ll be able to sniff out your insincerity. Or worse, he could start believing the hype.

SATURDAY

Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—39

YETUNDE AREBI

Family planning: Why men should take up the battle been known to walk off with moderate settlements in terms of fat bank accounts, houses and even establishment of businesses of their own. According to him, once a while, he meets ladies he does actually either fall in love with or is highly emotionally tied to. Those ones often enjoy a special place in his life and more perks than the regulars. One of such young women was Laide, a university undergraduate he met at the Island club during one of their regular parties. Pretty, humble and respectful, Laide was also an extrovert studying Law and this further endeared her to him. He really enjoyed her company and decided to have her around for as long as possible in a mutually benefiting relationship to both of them. He treated her like his baby and practically took care of her needs, sometimes, extending his largesse to other members of her family with whom he had become acquainted. Three years plus down the line, Laide completed her studies and commenced her Youth Service year, then the unexpected happened. She dropped a bomb shell on Uncle Steve. She was pregnant. He'd thought she was joking and promptly told her there must be a good reason for the delay in her monthly cycle. It could be hormonal or health or stress related, he suggested, and asked her to go for a retest as he was sure she was not pregnant. However, he became worried and began suspecting fowl play when Laide called him a few days later to confirm that the retest was also positive. He said it was at that point that he realised that Laide was serious and began suspecting her of planning to trap him into a permanent relationship. If she was indeed pregnant, it was definitely not his. And even though it was a confirmation that she had not really been the faithful though naughty girl he assumed her to be, he was not really angry as he'd expected her to have a young man of her age that she would eventually settle down to marry. In fact, he had plans to sponsor her wedding, anytime she decided to settle down. That was how much he was fond of her. He had no idea that she had an agenda of her own and was desperate enough to try to pin another man's pregnancy on him to achieve it. So, he'd invited her over for the weekend in a bid to help her sort things out and assist her get whoever was

A

,

W

e all listened with rapt attention as Uncle Steve narrated a personal experience he described as a narrow escape from the hands of a young, calculating, gold digger and her mother. But for reluctantly opting to undergo a vasectomy seven years ago, he would have blindly walked into a trap and become a polygamist, he said, and we all broke into laughter, including his wife. Uncle Steve was not one to hide or mince words, he is a professional ladies man, if there is anything like that. I had always wondered why his wife allowed him so much freedom and preferred to look the other way even when Uncle obviously went out of line with his relationships and stories. But by the end of that evening, a small gathering of close family and friends to mark his wife's 57th birthday, I had a clearer picture of the relationship this very unique couple share. At 59, Uncle, as we fondly call him is by all means, a successful gentleman, especially by typical African or Nigerian standards. A business man and Lawyer with connections in and out of government circles, extending even to border countries, he had almost everything going for him. To his name are a couple of houses in choice areas of Lagos and Abuja as well as the Uk, and Dubai. His five children are all grown up with the last, a university undergraduate and a wife who shunts across countries, combining business with pleasure as she fiddles with a fabric business she obviously had no need of its proceeds. It is simply her way of whiling away time since her husband has little or none to stay at home by her side. Besides, to such a couple, home is indeed a difficult place to define. It is therefore only natural that Uncle Steve has a string of female companions, and it is no big secret, for most women are easily attracted to the trappings of his personality. Women are naturally drawn to men of means and power and so, they willingly flock around him for whatever they can will out of his hands. This is however not a difficult task as Uncle Steve's reputation at generosity precedes him. He has no inhibitions about spending lavishly on the ladies he shares his bed with. Perhaps, depending on luck or bargaining power, some of his women have

responsible to do right by her. But he was further disappointed when she insisted that he was her only lover and was responsible for the pregnancy. She told him to man up and stop embarrassing her, after all, they had been sexually intimate for almost four years without protection. Uncle said it was at this point that he became very angry and told her he would not accept responsibility for her pregnancy and she should go and sort herself out. He said he left her at the apartment the next morning in annoyance after dropping a note that the driver will drop her off at the airport anytime she was ready to leave. For the next couple of weeks, Uncle disclosed that Laide did not allow him a breathing space as she kept calling and sending text messages on why she would not have an abortion and he must accept the pregnancy and take care of her and the baby. He refused to pick her call nor reply her text messages. She promised to remain in the shadows with her child and would not embarrass him or his family. All he had to do was settle her and the child and he could take a walk. He does not even need to mention them in his will, she offered. At that point, he said, all the love and affection he had for her flew out of the window. It was not the first time a lady had tried to pin a pregnancy on him, but so far, she was the most brazen and most determined. He understood the game, she was trying to build a safe and comfortable nest for herself. But she was backing the wrong horse as he had undergone a vasectomy as a birthday gift to his wife when she turned 50. It had been the only way he could assure her that he would never have a child outside of their marriage. He said it was only after the procedure that his wife had found peace, happiness and a new lease of life and willingly left him to his escapades. Seven years down the line, he'd been clean and checking regularly and could therefore not father a child as Laide was claiming. So, he'd advised her to look elsewhere for the father and not to bother him with such stories again.

But she was backing the wrong horse as he had undergone a vasectomy as a birthday gift to his wife when she turned 50

,

s I made our way home later that evening in the company of a cousin and two others, one of them a male, I reopened the discussion. We unanimously agreed that Uncle had done the most noble thing, considering our culture and the fact that he had enough resources at his disposal to have far more number of children than the five he has. The women went on to rain abuses on Laide, for daring to attempt such an invasion into another woman's property. Her lack of shame, guilt or conscience was also breathtaking. Had Uncle not been sure of the status of his fertility, she would have had her way and dumped a bastard child on his laps. But Dipo, our only male companion had a different view and wondered why Uncle had gone to such drastic measures just to convince his wife that he would not have children outside of their marriage. A vasectomy was too extreme and unsafe as anything could happen to warrant a reversal or review of his position. Without thinking, we all shouted Dipo down for his insensitive and reckless views. Why should anything happen to cause him to regret his decision? The worst case scenario was death of all five children. Not impossible, but it definitely was not Uncle Steve's portion. I have not stopped wondering since then why we cannot have more men like Uncle Steve rising up for their wives and protecting them even when the odds do not seem in their favour. Why women have to be the ones to fight tooth and nail, employing all possible measures, including scheming, blackmail, cajoling, prayer and fasting and even remote control to ensure that the union's booty are kept safe for themselves and their children? Must some of our men always be carefree and reckless with their extra marital affairs such that they undermine, compromise and sacrifice their wives and children's welfare? Besides, must women always be the ones to worry about family planning and contraceptives? Lets meet here again next Saturday for the concluding part of this discourse. Please remember that you can always reach me via email address: yetty5050@yahoo.co.uk should you wish that your reactions or contributions to issues raised on this page be published. Do have a wonderful weekend!

40—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Ajegunle boils as thugs go berserk

in the wrong places. It is as if they avoid parading the den of these thugs,”he stated.

POLICE BOSS INTERVENES

F

ollowing this development, Crime Guard learnt that the new Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti, gave matching orders to all the police formations in and around the area with stern directives to flush out the thugs and recover all the illegally acquired weapons. He was also said to have directed that henceforth, politicians who fail to control their supporters would be held liable in case of any crisis. Based on this, detectives reportedly swung into action and arrested seven persons in connection with the crisis. They are currently in Special Anti Robbery Squad , SARS. They were arrested for their involvement in the crisis affecting the community.

•Police launch offensive, arrest kingpins

P

alpable fear has gripped residents of Ajegunle community in Ifelodun Local Government, Lagos State, following incessant attacks by heavily armed hoodlums who parade the streets, terrorizing people. In the past two months, the densely populated area witnessed several violent clashes between different groups of thugs who openly brandished assorted weapons with which they terrorize residents of the area and people going about their normal businesses. So far, no fewer than 15 persons have been confirmed dead while scores were seriously wounded during the fracas. Last week, the warring gangs took over the streets leaving four yet-to-be identified persons dead with many others sustaining varying degrees of injury. The streets most affected are: Alaba-oro, Akpasa, Adejiyan, Safejo, Ishaga, Jinadu down to Bus-stop in Ojo Rd, under Ajegunle. During the fracas, assorted dangerous weapons like machetes,

C M Y K

cutlasses, jack knives etc were freely used by the hoodlums who also fired indiscriminately to scare away their opponents. After the crisis which lasted for hours, residents of Ishaga and Jinadu streets where the fierce fighting took place lamented the loss of properties and cash which they alleged were forcefully taken by the hoodlums. They also alleged that a large number of thugs broke into their homes and made away with valuables and damaged properties, shops and other items like; water tanks, parked vehicles etc.

COMMUNITY UNDER SIEGE

M

r Musa Amadu, a motorist narrated to Crime Guard how he narrowly escaped being killed by the thugs while conveying people to the area. “It is so sad that we have lost our daily bread to this insurgence in the area. Several times, we have been apprehended by these thugs and harassed for bringing passengers to the area. Just this week, several motorcycles were destroyed by the gunwielding thugs but for the

C

•Dare: One of the victims swift intervention of the police from Amukoko district and other vigilante groups, it would have been messy.” Another resident, John Momor, said shops had been shut down while some residents had to flee the community. “After the bridges that link Jinadu street from Ishaga and others were destroyed during one of the clashes, the threat was so intense that customers are afraid to come and purchase goods from us. Even when some of them come, the thugs will subject them to ceaseless interrogation accusing them of leaking their hideouts to the police. The hoodlums have taken over the area completely and created road blocks which they man with their arms. Unfortunately, the police have been carrying out arrests but

,

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA AND EDIRI EJOH

RESIDENTS REACT

No fewer than 15 persons have been confirmed dead while scores were seriously wounded during the fracas

,

ondemning the unwholesome activities of the political thugs and hoodlums in the community, Mrs. Rukyat Awe, a food vendor in Mosafejo area told Crime Guard, “The problems we are facing in this community are the activities of hoodlums. Their activities are threatening our lives. In our own country, we sleep with our eyes open. We are living as if we are under siege, we live in fear as these thugs go about causing trouble, breaking into people’s houses and shops and robbing people of their valuables. Every day, they attack innocent people for no just cause.” A landlord in Adejiyan, Alaba area also said, “The whole area has been taken over by thugs who mask their faces. They move in groups carrying guns in broad day light, looting shops and destroying parked vehicles. We don’t know where they get these guns from. Imagine, we couldn’t sleep all through the night because of these people. Yesterday, a young secondary school student was hit by stray bullet from one of the masked men. If not for the police who have been helping to curb the crisis, they would have turned the area into a war zone.”

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—41

Aftermath of bus conductor’s death: Children out of school •We are financially handicapped— handicapped—widow, bereaved father •Victor and Destiny : out of school because of father's demise

T

he harsh reality of the tragic end of Ikechukwu Abasirim, the bus conductor who was allegedly crushed to death by policemen attached to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, along Apapa/Oshodi expressway , last month, has begun to take its toll on his pregnant widow and four children. As at Thursday last week, only one out of the four children of the late conductor had gone back to school while the rest were still at home, owing to lack of money to pay their school fees. When Crime Guard visited the widow's abode at Oshogbo street, Ijesha road, it was learnt that she had since relocated to her in-law's place at Taiwo Keji street, along the same axis, with her four children.

were still at home instead of being in school. The distraught and dispirited widow responded in a weak tone “ they have not started because I do not have money to pay for their school fees”. At that point, one of the children, Victor , broke down in tears and asked the mother curiously, “ does it mean I won't go to school again?” The question elicited sympathy which was accompanied with a gush of tears from his grandparents, his mother and sympathizers. Before his father's demise, 7- year-old Victor, a primary 3 pupil, was said to have boasted to his parents that he would attend Kings college , after his primary education.

He had reportedly also advised his father to be saving towards his university education but that dream may not be realised except a miracle happens.

WIDOW LAMENTS In an emotion-laden tone, the pregnant widow lamented that the demise of her husband of 13 years had plunged the family into a difficult phase. She said: “ I wonder how I will carry on without my husband. He might not be rich while alive but, at least , we lived within our limit. He managed to pay the children's school fees as at when due. But right now, I can't foot the bills. Our first child , Ndubuisi, who is in Junior Secondary School in a public

FATHER'S REGRET

In an emotionladen tone, the pregnant widow lamented that the demise of her husband of thirteen years had plunged the family into a difficult phase

GLOOM AT HOME On arrival, parents of late Ikechukwu, were found sitting on a mat while their pregnant daughter-in-law sat on a sofa in the sitting room with her chin on her palm, carried away in thought. At a point, she clapped her hand and exclaimed in her dialect, apparently trying to fathom how long the pang of anguish will last. Her children on the other hand, were sighted in a corner of the sitting room looking gloomy . One of them had a reddish eye ball. The sight of the children aroused pity from sympathizers who still throng the home to commiserate with the family. Out of concern, one of the visitors asked why the children

school has resumed. The second child, Emmanuel (11) finished from a private school but I have to start processing a school in the public sector for him because the person that used to pay his fees is gone. But Victor (7) and Destiny (4) are still at home because of lack of funds. I honestly do not know where to begin from”, she said in tears,with sympathizers advising her to have a grip on herself , considering her present state.

,

BY EVELYN USMAN

•Late Ikechukwu's widow,Ini

•Mr Abasirim

,

While she was lamenting, late Ikechukwu' father, who retired from the Nigeria Ports Authority, kept shaking his head in self pity, trying as much as he could not to betray his emotion. At a point, he said in a shaky voice: “ The most painful aspect of it is that I can not assist financially because I have not been paid my pension. Currently, we have dragged government to court over the non-payment of our pension. My dear daughter, you know that nothing can be more painful than watching one's children sit at home while their mates are in school. Much as I desire to assist them, I am financially handicap . My wife,(points to his wife who sat on a mat), a petty trader who has been assisting tremendously, is at home at the moment. She has not been herself since the incident”. At 74, who will employ me, in order to take care of these children? This is, indeed, the most shattering incident that has happened to me since I was born”, he lamented.

C M Y K

42—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

How the original Siamese twins had 21 children by two sisters ... while sharing one (reinforced) bed

,

Taking control: Chang (left) and Eng Bunker become slave-owning Southern gentlemen

T

he walls in Chang and Eng Bunker’s bedroom would have had some tales to tell, if walls could talk. Their marital bed was built for four brothers Chang and Eng in the middle and their wives on either side. Between them, they conceived some 21 children in that bed. For Chang and Eng were the original Siamese Twins, conjoined siblings who provided the name for all who suffer this accident of birth. As a new biography reveals, the pair triumphed over extraordinary odds and appalling prejudice in 19th-century America and Britain. Brought to the West to be exhibited as freaks and probed by doctors, the enterprising Bunkers eventually became rich Southern gentlemen and plantation owners. But, says U.S. academic Joseph Orser in The Lives of Chang and Eng, the pair were never allowed to forget that many considered them ‘monsters’ whose sexual urges and desire to pursue a

C M Y K

normal family life were unnatural, even devilish, abominations. Born in 1811 in a fishing village 60 miles from Bangkok, the twins really had their roots more in China than in Siam, later renamed Thailand. Their father was a Chinese fisherman and their 35year-old mother was half-Chinese, halfMalay. The two midwives who helped at the birth recoiled in superstitious horror at the thick ligament connecting the babies just above their waists. The twins’ mother probably saved their lives by untwisting the ligament which had been connected to a single umbilical cord and moving the babies so they lay staring into each other’s eyes. She named them In and Jun (anglicised to Eng and Chang). Chang on the left was always slightly shorter and the upper half of his body arched away from his brother. Their mother encouraged the boys to exercise, stretching their connecting ligament

The two midwives who helped at the birth recoiled in superstitious horror at the thick ligament connecting the babies just above their waists

,

so that it gradually grew to more than five inches enough for them to run, swim and handle a boat. Crucially, they were able to bow 18 times, as custom dictated, when they were presented to the king of Siam, Rama III. Their life, helping their family to sell preserved ducks’ eggs, might have passed in obscurity had they not been spotted by a British merchant when they were adolescents. Robert Hunter at first thought the twins were ‘some strange animal’ when he saw them swimming in a river. But he recognised their commercial potential and easily persuaded their impoverished family that the twins should accompany him back to the West and be exhibited as a public curiosity. They agreed but the king, who wanted to show them off at court, was reluctant. It took five years and the help of an American sea captain, Abel Coffin, to win over the king, who was bribed with a telescope and a troupe of temple dancers. The twins’ mother whose husband had died when the boys were young received $500 (£300) for contracting her sons to Hunter and Coffin for 30 months. On board Captain Coffin’s ship as they sailed for Massachusetts with a translator in 1829, the 17-year-old twins showed that they were bright and extremely co-ordinated. They quickly picked up the rudiments of English and could scurry up the mast as fast as any sailor aboard. In Boston they were exhibited as The Siamese Double Boys and were an immediate sensation. In theatres and halls across the U.S. they performed for four hours a day, six

Continues on page 43

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—43

quiet life. They accepted Calloway’s invitation to return home with him. North Carolina was a slave state but under U.S. law, the twins counted as white. They became U.S. citizens, realising only when they got to the naturalisation office that they had no surname. They borrowed ‘Bunker’ from the man standing behind them in the queue. Canny and industrious businessmen, they opened a store and, buying 200 acres, branched into farming and built a spacious home for themselves. The twins who had been leased out as teenagers themselves became slave-owners, buying dozens to work their new plantation. But their thoughts turned increasingly to fulfilling more physical needs. Observers had long noticed that the

‘W selves ‘Wee enjo enjoyy our ourselves —we’re making love pretty fast’

•Defying the gossips: The Bunker twins (pictured back centre) with their wives and two of their sons

How the original Siamese twins had 21 children by two sisters days a week, entertaining thousands with somersaults, backflips, an uncanny ability at draughts and chess, and their prodigious strength they could carry a 20-stone man. Although Captain Coffin told some people that he and Hunter ‘owned’ the boys, the twins were actually paid well for their hard work. Not many conjoined twins had survived for more than a few days, so doctors and scientists clamoured to see them too. It suited their promoters that they were examined, albeit often invasively, by some of America’s finest doctors. Those doctors’ conclusion that women and children could view them safely ‘without harm or offence’ was perfect titillation to include on the show’s advertising posters. Britain hankered to see them too, and the twins sailed there in 1830. In London, some of the world’s leading physicians were waiting to examine them. At 5ft 2in tall, the twins were now fully grown and their connecting

The twins fought anyone who slighted them ligament was about the size and roundness of a child’s arm. Each one appeared to sense when the other was tickled or ate an unpleasant-tasting food, but he couldn’t hear a whisper in the other’s C M Y K

ear or feel a pinch on his arm. Although both were clearly intelligent, the hardier Chang was dominant and Eng would rarely speak out of turn. The big question nagging the doctors could the twins be separated and survive? was something on which they couldn’t agree. Of one thing Sir Astley Cooper, the ‘Great Lion of British Surgery’, was sure. ‘Depend on it, those boys will fetch a vast deal more money while they are together than when they are separate,’ he said. ‘Why separate them? The boys seem perfectly happy as they are.’ But that was not always to be. The pair went on to tour the Continent and returned to the U.S. in 1831, aged 20 years old, healthier, more educated and richer. Dispensing with Coffin and Hunter and hiring their own manager, they now insisted on being treated with respect. They were not above getting into fights with those who slighted them, especially anyone who suggested that their mother had sold them into slavery. They might sound like the cruelly mistreated ‘Elephant Man’, but the pair were natural showmen who realised that their deformity was a path to a fortune. They spent the next seven years on the road, including three-month stints at the Museum of Curiosities in New York. There they met and befriended James Calloway, a young doctor from Wilkesboro, a remote township in North Carolina. By this time the twins were tired of being continually stared at, even for money, and hankered for a

,

Continues from page 42

By this time the twins were tired of being continually stared at, even for money, and hankered for a quiet life

,

pair loved discussing attractive women together, yet the outside world dismissed the idea that they could have a sex life as a joke. Newspapers for years ran speculative stories about them and various women. A London woman claimed she had fallen madly in love with them but could not offer herself in marriage for fear of committing bigamy. There was similar sniggering over an American admirer who fell in love with Chang but realised a ‘divorce’ from Eng was out of the question. There was even a joke that Chang had interfered in a ‘love intrigue’ of Eng’s: the brothers wanted to fight a duel over it but couldn’t agree on a distance from which to shoot at each other. The twins were undeterred by the mockery. ‘We enjoy ourselves pretty well but have not as yet married,’ they wrote, aged 31, to Robert Hunter, the man who had ‘discovered’ them. ‘But we are making love pretty fast and if we get a couple of nice wives we will be sure to let you know about it.’ In fact they were pursuing the daughters of a neighbouring farmer, David Yates. An unusual romantic conundrum had arisen. Over several years, Chang and the slimmer, more attractive sister, Adelaide, had fallen in love. Eng and her sister, Sarah, had not. Marrying two sisters made sense, however, as Victorian propriety would not have tolerated a woman sharing such intimacy with any other female. It took the somewhat portly Sarah five years to agree to Eng’s entreaties, but both couples were married by a Baptist preacher in Yates’s living room in 1843. The foursome then returned chez Bunker, where the marital bed had been enlarged and strengthened. Quite how they all envisaged their marriage working is not clear but, according to some reports, the twins had considered drastic measures. Despite being warned by various doctors over the years that an operation to separate them could prove fatal, they had travelled to Philadelphia a few months before their wedding for just that purpose. They were waiting to go into surgery when the sisters, who had learnt of their quest, burst in and persuaded them not to go through with such a risky procedure. Nonetheless, the wedding provoked a national scandal, with accusations that the marriage was ‘bestial’. When both wives rapidly produced daughters proving that these were not platonic relationships the outrage reached fever pitch. Abolitionists in the North blamed the ‘depravity’ on a Southern culture perverted by the ‘sin of slavery’. ‘The prospect of the twins engaging in

Continues on page 44

44—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Man filmed being eaten by anaconda defends stunt A

naturalist who has outraged animal rights activities after donning a “Snake Proof ” suit in order to be eaten alive by an anaconda for a television show has welcomed the social media backlash against his stunt. Paul Rosolie, 26, who described himself as Indiana Jones with a green twist” filmed himself in the Amazon being swallowed by the 30foot green anaconda the world’s largest snake species. The US film maker is said to have doused himself in pigs’ blood to attract the snake, which usually eats wild pigs or deer. His self-designed suit protected him against the snake’s digestive juices and had a cord so his colleagues could pull him back out. But news of the tunt, which will be aired next month on the Discovery Channel in a programme called Eaten Alive,

provoked anger from animal rights activists and social media users. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) led the criticism, accusing Rosolie of “tormenting the animal”. In a statement, Peta said: “If the description is accurate, the snake was tormented and suffered for the sake of ratings as animals usually do when they’re used for entertainment. Anacondas go days without eating and expend the energy needed to do so selectively. Making this snake use up energy by swallowing this fool and then possibly regurgitating him would have left the poor animal exhausted and deprived of the energy that he or she needs. “Shame on this pseudo

Preview footage shows an anaconda being captured ready for its encounter with Paul Resolie, who designed his own ‘snake-proof’ siut ‘ wildlife expert’ for tormenting this animal, and shame on the Discovery Channel for giving him the incentive”. Peta said it had not heard back after asking the Discovery Channel to pull the show. Whether it was a hoax or not. The programme also attracted ire on social media. “Using an animal for entertainment is wrong, @Paul Rosolie should be studied and tortured like the animals he makes money off of ”, was a typical comment. But Mr. Rosolie responded by

saying he would never hurt a living thing” and welcomed the fact that people cared about snakes. “Throughout history snakes have been one of the most feared and misunderstood animals on earth”, he said on Twitter. “In the last 48 hours thousands of people from all over the globe have spoke out and petitioned in defence of a snake. It is a passionate and weeping response that is encouraging to watch”.

Culled from The Independent

How the original Siamese twins had 21 children by two sisters Continues from page 43 sexual relations with women disturbed sensibilities,’ says Oser, their biographer. When a Kentucky woman gave birth to stillborn conjoined twins, she blamed seeing pictures of the Bunkers at around the time she conceived. Still, the brothers went on to father 21 children 11 by Eng and ten by Chang. The couples’ bedroom etiquette remains unclear. It was certainly not considered a polite topic at the time, although a local newspaper noted that their wives’ first children were born just six days apart in 1844. A later pair were separated by eight days. Amid reports that the wives who must have shown amazing forbearance over the years finally began to argue, the twins set up separate homes and installed a wife and children in each. They agreed to split each week between the two. But while the families might seem to have had all the trappings of gentry, with their estates, slaves and silverware, money was sometimes tight especially after the South was ruined in the American Civil War. So the brothers had to go back ‘on tour’ six times in later life, sometimes taking their children (none of whom was physically deformed, though two were deaf). It must have been humiliating, especially when in their 50s they signed up in New York with the C M Y K

, When a Kentucky woman gave birth to stillborn conjoined twins, she blamed seeing pictures of the Bunkers at around the time she conceived

,

infamous freak show proprietor P.T. Barnum. The Prince of Wales was among guests who watched them perform alongside the midget General Tom Thumb, the Bearded Lady and the tiny-headed Zip the Man Monkey. In 1868 they returned to Britain. The twins had fond memories of the country, but the public mood had turned against freak shows. Reporters doubted that their children could actually be theirs. ‘For some, it was too “disgusting” to imagine these “human monsters” as husbands or fathers,’ says Orser. Meanwhile, the twins found they were cramping each other’s style: Eng loved allnight poker, Chang’s weakness was boozing. In 1870, as they were returning from a tour of Europe and Russia, Chang suffered a stroke down the side closest to his brother. Eng nursed him as best he could, carrying around Chang’s now useless leg in a sling as his ailing brother leant on a crutch. In January 1874, when the twins were 62, Chang caught bronchitis but still insisted that they venture out in the cold to honour their twice-weekly house-moving ritual. Two days later, Eng awoke early and called for help. His brother had died. ‘Then I am going!’ cried Eng, and began twisting in panic in bed. Sweating profusely and saying that he was in great pain, he told

his wife: ‘I am dying.’ Drawing his brother to him, he uttered his final words: ‘May the Lord have mercy on my soul!’ By the time the doctor arrived, ready to cut the twins apart, Eng was dead, just two-anda-half hours after his brother passed away. A post-mortem examination, conducted by doctors who described the twins as ‘the monster now before us’, showed that Chang may have had a cerebral clot but Eng appeared literally to have died

They died within two hour hourss of eac eachh other of fright, overcome by the realisation that he was attached to a dead man. Even in death, the twins provided a spectacle when the postmortem results were made public. Finally, doctors were able to discover just how connected the twins were. Not only did they share a liver, it transpired, but the make-up of their connecting ligament was so complex that they would never have survived being parted. The Lives of Chang and Eng: Siam’s Twins in Nineteenth Century America, by Joseph Orser. Published by the University of North Carolina Press, price £17.50.

Culled from Daily Mail

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—45

What happens when a woman wants more sex than her husband ? Or the other way round!

the UK. Relate, the relationship counselling service, says that different expectations of how much sex is enough in a marriage is one of the top topics when husbands and wives seek its help. That’s hardly surprising when one in five of those who responded this summer to a Relate survey, entitled The Way We Are Now, admitted they are always too tired to make love. Meanwhile, only 23 per cent said they have sex as

Desire: Rebecca is in the mood ffor or sex eever ver veryy night but husband Paul (pictured together on their wedding day) would rather do it less

S

ettling down on the sofa in front of the TV after tucking their daughters up in bed, Vanessa Powell’s body tensed as her husband reached towards her and started to stroke her thigh. ‘Not tonight darling,’ she told Stacey, her husband of 12 years. ‘It’s only been a few days since the last time.’ By Stacey’s reckoning, it was actually more like a fortnight since he’d made love to his wife and he joked, not for the first time, that he would have to start marking their intimate encounters on a calendar. Then Vanessa would see just how infrequently they occurred. But keeping a tally is unlikely to resolve the fundamental

difference between Stacey, 39, an architect, and Vanessa, 45, a receptionist, from Surrey, because when it comes to their appetite for sex, they are poles apart. ‘I make advances most nights and, if I’m lucky, Vanessa responds two or three times a month,’ says Stacey. ‘From telling her how beautiful she looks to pouring her a drink or offering her a massage, I will try anything to get her between the sheets. I try different approaches because I don’t want to sound like a stuck record.’ The sexual tension in the Powells’ marriage one that arises from mismatched libidos rather than lack of affection is shared by many thousands of couples in

frequently a s once a week, with t h e other 7 7 p e r cent making love even less often, or not at all. Stacey was frank with Vanessa about his high libido early on in their 1 3 - y e a r relationship. When she told him her desire for sex was, by contrast, very low, he promised to ‘love her whatever’. Although Vanessa admits to never having been very interested in sex, she says that juggling children, work and home has killed off what vestiges of passion she once felt. But Stacey would ideally like to have sex every single day. ‘Sex has fallen way down my list of priorities because, unlike the other things I have to do, it’s not essential,’ Vanessa says in an admission that

will resonate with many working mothers. ‘I can go for months without sex and not miss it. When our daughters were babies we didn’t have sex for months and I didn’t miss it at all. ‘Stacey has a long commute to work and is out of the house for 12 hours a day. But, unlike me, stress doesn’t seem to stop him wanting sex.’ Janice Hiller, consultant clinical psychologist at the London Tavistock Centre For Couple Relationships, confirms

that clients repeatedly cite the pressures of daily life as the cause of libido problems. Some couples have sex drives that are equally strong but out of sync because they have different working patterns. Katie Whitney and her husband Paul, from Bridlington, East Yorkshire, want sex at different times because

Continues on page 46

46—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Continues from page 45 their jobs are incompatible. Katie, 26, is a carer by day and a waitress at night, while Paul, 36, runs a motor repair business during the day and is a security officer at night. Paul has three children from a previous marriage, whom he supports financially, and the couple are hoping to one day have a baby of their own, so need every penny they can earn. Katie says the only time they have for intimacy — when one of them isn’t working and when Paul’s children aren’t visiting — is every other weekend. And while Paul is keen to stay in bed all day and make love, that’s the last thing she feels like doing. ‘On my one day off I want to get on top of the washing and shopping and then do something fun and sociable, like have a day out or go for a meal,’ says Katie. ‘Sex is the last thing on my mind. ‘But there are times during the week when I have a few days off work, following a nine-day stretch, and then I’m up for sex — but Paul isn’t. He’ll come home for a three-hour break between his jobs and all he wants to do is sleep.’ Katie says that her libido is very much linked to her most fertile time of the month and she rarely thinks about sex at the start or end of her cycle. ‘Paul gets a bit cross and says we’d improve our chances of conceiving by having sex more often, instead of just the couple of days a month when I’m ovulating,’ says Katie. ‘But our bodies are different. I can wake up on a Tuesday and think: “Ooh, yes, sex,” but not feel at all like it at the weekend when Paul’s in the mood.’ Desire is influenced by hormones, chief among them testosterone, production of which is stimulated by regular sex. So when a woman goes off intercourse, it can become a vicious circle. Testosterone in women also declines naturally by an average of 50 per cent between the ages of 20 and 45, with some women experiencing a far greater fall. Additionally, for reasons that are not fully understood, sex doesn’t provide the physical and psychological rewards and satisfaction for some females that it does for others. More than a third of women either do not experience orgasm with a partner, or find sex painful. Perhaps not surprisingly, therefore, studies involving thousands of women in Britain, Europe and America indicate that up to half experience prolonged periods of having little or no sex drive. While loss of libido can hit women at any age, childbirth and the menopause are wellrecognised triggers. But is it a myth that men are always ‘in the mood’? Dr Anna Janssen, a clinical psychologist and psycho-sexual therapist, believes it is. ‘I’d say, from the couples we see in our clinics, it’s a pretty even split, with an equal number of men and women reporting lower libidos than their partners,’ she says. A recent UK study for online pharmacy UKMedix found 62 per cent of men turn down sex

ago. But Paul assumed that, like many couples, they were going through a honeymoon period and their sex drives would settle down once they were past the first flush of romance. The couple married three years ago, their first child was born a year later and their second a year after that. Paul says: ‘Having sex twice a week is enough for me. All I want to do in the evening is collapse in front of the TV. But then Becci starts tickling my thigh and whispering in my ear. When that fails, she’ll change into silky underwear. ‘There are times when even that won’t work and I tell her I’m too knackered.’ Paul sometimes even disappears to the pub to escape his wife’s advances. ‘A lot of guys end up looking elsewhere because they don’t get enough sex at home, whereas I go out to get a bit of peace,’ he says. While his complaints are made with a wry smile, Janice Hiller regularly works with couples for whom libido imbalance causes ‘severe distress’. ‘For many people, what’s more important to them is the stability of the family unit,’ says Janice. ‘But among those who do seek help there is usually a lot of hostility and misunderstanding and often anxiety about infidelity.’ ven for otherwise happily married couples, there can be tensions. E Paul Whitney misses the early intimacy

Mismatched libidos: Vanessa does not want to have sex with husband Stacey Powell (pictured together) as of oftt en as he would lik likee and sa sayy s she can go months without making love and not miss it

Mismatched schedules: Katie and her husband Paul (pictured t oge ther ) w ant sex at dif difff erent ogether want times because their working hours are incompatible

What happens when a woman wants more sex than her husband? more frequently than their female partners, with a third reporting that they had lost their sex drive. aul Morris-Jackson, 35, from Bromley, South-East London, P admits to rejecting his wife

Rebecca’s sexual advances several times a week. While making love eight times a month would be enough to satisfy Paul, 40-year-old Rebecca is in the mood for it every night. Rebecca’s rampant libido is perhaps even more surprising given that they both work full time Paul is a chef and Rebecca a legal secretary and they have two baby sons, Jack, 20 months, and Charlie, eight months. ‘There’s an assumption that women who are married and have children don’t want sex, but that’s certainly not true in my case,’ says Rebecca. ‘I really enjoy sex, so can see no reason not to have it as often as possible. I take the view that once the kids are in bed and asleep, there is nothing to stop us making love. ‘Sometimes I wish it could go on for longer, but afterwards I feel so good, positively glowing. My

husband, however, is one of those people who can live with or without sex. He’ll say to me: “Stop looking at me like that, I’m not a piece of meat.” ’ Rebecca, who says a high sex drive runs in her family, uses her ‘womanly wiles’ to get sex four or five times a week a compromise between the seven she’d like and the two that Paul prefers. ‘Paul will often say: “Oh, baby, not tonight.” But if I wear certain things a little skirt or nightie and silky lingerie I know he will find me hard to resist. Or I’ll send him suggestive text messages while sitting on the sofa opposite.’ Rebecca’s friends are astonished she has the energy for regular sex, but she insists it relaxes her, which, in turn, helps her cope with the daily demands of motherhood and work. Although Rebecca is confident about her size 14 figure, she admits there have been times when Paul’s rejections have left her smarting. ‘I was ready for sex within a few days of giving birth, and when Paul didn’t want it I took it personally. I’d keep asking him: “Is it because I’m fat?” ‘But he’d say: “No, I’m just tired. Why aren’t you after being up with the baby half the night?”’ Nowadays

she accepts that some nights, whatever she tries, the answer will still be ‘no’. So is Paul the envy of his friends for having such a highly sexed wife? ‘I don’t talk about it because it’s shameful admitting that my wife has a higher libido than me,’ says Paul. ‘But it’s hard work being a chef, and when I come home I just want to rest.’ Ironically, Rebecca’s libido was one of the things that most appealed to him when they met at a restaurant he worked at five years

he and Katie experienced when they first got together four years ago. ‘I do sometimes resent it when she wants sex with me because it’s her fertile time, after three weeks of knocking me back, but I rarely turn her down,’ he says. ‘But I try to get Katie in the mood by sending her suggestive texts at work. ‘She texts back: “Can’t we just see what tonight brings?” Unfortunately, I know from experience, the answer is probably nothing at all.’ Meanwhile, Vanessa reveals that Stacey struggled with her rejection of him after the births of each of their children when she could have happily gone without sex completely. ‘He’d say: “Isn’t there any time for me?” But I’d tell him not to feel neglected because it’s instinctive in a mother to nurture her newborns at the expense of everyone else around,’ she says. ‘Now the children are older, I do try to make time for sex occasionally because it makes Stacey happy and we always feel closer afterwards.’ Stacey, however, insists his relationship with his wife is too precious to jeopardise by seeking fulfilment elsewhere. ‘Just the sight of her makes me smile she’s such a beautiful person, inside and out,’ he says. ‘I tell myself that if we made love all the time it would become less special. As it is, I really appreciate those moments when we are intimate.’ Dr Janssen says that many couples can enjoy long and happy marriages despite huge differences in their appetites for sex. It’s how couples manage these differences in desire that has the greatest bearing in the long run. ‘The most important thing is to talk about sex, rather than retreating because you feel hurt and rejected, or getting cross because you feel under pressure to perform,’ she says. ‘If you find communication difficult, counselling can help.’ They are words that will surely reassure many couples. Certainly, for Stacey Powell, giving up on his sex life is not an option. ‘I persevere because I enjoy sex and, as well as family time, I think one-onone time with your spouse is hugely important in a marriage it’s what keeps you bonded,’ he says.

Culled from Daily Mail

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , NO VEMBER 15 NOVEMBER 15, 2014—47

It's green light as Ambode tours Lagos T

he tour of Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode to parts of Lagos has shown positive signals if the account of party followers is anything to go by. Ambode is a front-line contender for the All Progressive Congress(APC) ticket in Lagos State. Since the beginning of this week, leaders of the APC in Ikorodu, Alimosho, Badagry, Ojo, Ajeromi Ifelodun, Ikeja and Agege local governments areas of the state adopted him ahead of the gubernatorial primaries in December. Amobode is currently on the last lap of his tour of the 20 Local Governemt Areas (LGA) and the 37 Local Council Development Ares (LCDA).

,

At the enlarged meeting in Ikorodu, Prince Olu Ogunleye led other notable leaders like Olorunfemi Bashiru, State to the State Government government(SSG) under the Lateef Jakande administration, Kaoli Olusanyan and Mrs Aderenle Ogunsanya , SSG to the Babatunde Raji Fashola administration among others to welcome Ambode to Ikorodu. Speaking at the meeting, Ambode told the gathering that his bid to govern Lagos was borne out of his passion to use his energy to take Lagos to the next level. The candidate promised to return government back to the people of Lagos through the strengthening of the LGAs and the LCDAs in order to take government nearer to the people. He assured further that the manifesto of the party for the welfare of the people would guide all his actions if he got the mandate from Lagosians. Ambode noted that he chose to kick off his local government tour from Ikorodu because of the socio-economic importance of the Local government to Lagos. Responding, Ogunleye assured Ambode that leaders in the local government have no doubts about his ability to rule Lagos and promised him their support. At the Alimosho Local government Area, which is reputed to be one of the biggest local governments in Nigeria, High Chief Solomon Ogundola a.k.a (Adinmula) led other leaders of the party like Titi Adebayo, the women leader, Alhaji Waheed Orire, Alhaji Abdulahi Enilolonbo, Alhaji Yisa Yusuf, Hon. Femi Adebanjo, Olusegun to receive the aspirant. While addressing party leaders and faithful who gathered to meet with him, Ambode reminded them that he was not a stranger to the council, having served as treasurer of the Local government for three years. He expressed his total commitment to the advancement of the LGA and pleaded

•Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode

He pointed out that the local government produces the chunk of votes which determine who becomes the governor of Lagos state and assured the visitor of the support of the local government

,

that the leaders should support him. He promised to open up the local government and provide opportunities for the people including youth and women if he got the mandate of the people to serve. In his response, Chief Ogunsola described Alimosho as the “country home” of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the National leader of the APC. He pointed out that the local government produces the chunk of votes which determine who becomes the governor of Lagos state and assured the visitor of the support of the local government. At Badagry, Ambode was welcomed by Sunny Ajose, a former Head of Service who led other notable leaders of the APC in the LGA to pledge their support for him. The former Accountant Genersl for the State expressed his readiness to take Lagos to higher heights if given the opportunity to govern. He reminded the people of Badagry that he was familiar with the developmental needs of the LGA and promised not shirk in his responsibility to see that they receive due

attention during his tenure as governor. Ambode assured Lagosians that he would run an all inclusive government where the less privileged and the rural communities will enjoy the dividend of democracy. He went on to promise to continue the massive transformation currently going on in Badagry and introduce more projects The current SSG, Dr. Aderanti Adebule received Ambode at the Ojo local government area. He was in the company of former Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos state on rural development, Hon Paul Kalejaiye and other leaders of the party in the LGA The aspirant, in his speech, reiterated the fact that Lagos needs a man who knows where the shoe currently pinches to take it to the next level. He assured that he was the best man for the job having served in the civil service of Lagos for 27 years, most of which he spent working among the people in virtually all the local governments in the state.

48—SA TURD AY 48—SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , NO VEMBER 15, 2014 NOVEMBER

RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGY:

Nigeria’s economy may collapse by 2050—study By OSA AMADI he year 2050 is the deadline T scientists have set for climatedamaging greenhouse gasses to be

reduced worldwide by at least 50% compared to 1990 levels if the world must curtail average global warming by the end of the century. Failure to achieve this target will

mean that man has chosen extreme drought, flooding and possibly other environmental catastrophes. Here at home in Nigeria, where ecological literacy and consciousness is lacking both in public and private life, this alarm sounded by the world’s renowned scientists may make little or no meaning. Among the eight leading

industrial nations (G8) however, the alarm carries much weight and is springing people into action in search of sustainable solutions. Those solutions, found in renewable energy technology, as beneficial as it is already proving to the global environment, may spell doom for Nigeria’s economy which is largely based on sale of crude oil,

a study by Total Environment Protection Alliance (TEPA) reveals. Burning of fossil fuels derived from crude oil – petrol, diesel, kerosene, and engine oil – accounts for a huge amount of carbon dioxide responsible for global warming. Since 1992, global emissions of carbon dioxide have risen to almost a third to 30 billion tons a year, and the way out, according to scientists, is clean or renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro and geothermal energy. The renewable energy technology is not something the scientists of the industrialized nations are experimenting on, it is already a breakthrough and in use. What they are now talking about is expansion, which must surely come. In Germany, the leading country in renewable energy technology, about 6.43% of their energy consumption comes from renewable sources. As early as 2009, the United States invested 112 billion dollars in green technology. More than a decade earlier, Al Gore, the former vice president of USA had disclosed that the new generation of environmental technology American companies can sell in the world market for pollution control is worth $500 billion a year. He forecasted that worldwide market for new energy technology will hit $10 trillion in two decades. As early as 1992, Gore made the suggestion that American technology should move away from internal combustion engine (which involves burning of petrol, diesel, and engine oil) over the next quartercentury. After a brief opposition by enemies of the environment, American auto companies are making investments in alternatives to internal combustion engine, acknowledging that “environmentally preferable alternatives are key to future competitive success at home and overseas.” Europe and China are not left out. China has thrown more than $20 billion into green technology. Europe’s recovery packages for the 2008 global financial crisis included 6 billion euros for renewable energies. Between 2009 and 2011, 500 million euros has gone into research in the field of electromobility which aims to integrate electric and hybrid vehicles into existing transport network. Hybrid vehicles are expected to reach a market share of between 16 and 24% in 2020. “Without doubt, the future belongs to zero-emission electric

cars,” says Martin Winterkorn, CEO of Volkswagen. And zero-emission electric cars mean cars that do not use petrol, diesel or engine oil. It means collapse of the oil market and industry and the economies that solely depend of it of which Nigeria is one. Quietly, the renewable energy technology, called the third industrial revolution, is gaining ground, and after it has been well established, the industrialized nations will no longer need to buy crude oil from Nigeria or from any other oil producing nation. One day they may gather in Kyoto, Copenhagen or some other city, and with a stroke of the pen, make the burning of petrol, diesel and engine oil illegal as in slave trade. The big question is: what is Nigeria and those who are entrusted with the management of her economy and future doing about the approaching third industrial revolution? Already, many countries and their car automobile companies are preparing for the inevitable era. In Europe and America, car companies that are even cutting down workforces are hiring electrical engineers to help them prepare for the time after internal combustion engine. For how long is Nigerian going to continue to play the ostrich, burying its head in the sand, pretending that this and other problems do not exist? Change, especially in technology, is as certain as the fact that the sun will rise and set again tomorrow. It is such change that has always brought the end of many civilizations which ignored to prepare for it. It will be a very costly mistake for politicians in Nigeria to sit down in government houses, sharing oil revenue and believing that the oil will continue to flow endlessly from the oil wells of Niger Delta. Even if Nigerians have this national psychosis of deriving pleasure from punishing themselves, they cannot afford to leave a dead country for their children by leading them into an economic quagmire where they would be holding the rotten end of the wood among the comity of nations. Although it is certain that the country is terribly late in this matter, it is better to start doing something now than nothing ever. The future belongs to individuals, companies, and countries that can tap into the renewable energy technology, efficient resource use invention, and green businesses.

Man needs N6m to live Aged dad appeals to Uduaghan BY ISHOLA BALOGUN

D

iare Michael Etsede, a 32 year-old Warri, Delta State born businessman is in pain, atrophying by the day. He is bedridden with a life-threatening kidney ailment for which he needs N6million for kidney transplant in order to live to tell his story. His worsening plight has become a source of worry for his only aged father, Pa Emmanuel Etsede. Since Diare was struck by a renal disease about a year ago, he has been moved from one hospital to another and now, his chance of survival hangs in the balance with a weekly dialysis to the rescue. According to the medical report signed by Dr. Bomi-Omowo T. Omade for the Medical Director,Gbagada General Hospital and made available to Saturday Vanguard, Diare was admitted into the Hospital several weeks ago and being managed for Chronic Kidney disease. “He had C M Y K

two sessions of haemodialysis done while on admission but subsequently were hampered due to financial constraints.” Not ready to leave things to chances, his only parent, Pa Etsede, a 75-year-old retiree stormed Vanguard premises to seek for assistance of well meaning Nigerians and the governor of Delta State, (his home state) in order to raise funds for a kidney transplant. Pa Etsede said: “My son, Diare has been on bed since last year. We didn’t know we were treating a different thing until we discovered that he has kidney disease. We have been going from one hospital to another until we got a referral to Gbagada General hospital, Lagos, where he has been placed on dialysis. The dialysis was initially meant for three times in a week with a cost of about N30,000 to N40,000 but since we could not cope financially, and after further examination, we were advised to do it five times in a month.

The investigation showed that one of the kidneys is bad and urgent steps must be taken to correct the anomaly lest it affects the other. I cannot cope financially now, and his condition is deteriorating.” He stated further: “The medical advice we have now is to go for a transplant which will cost about N6million. That is why I have come to Vanguard to appeal to Nigerians for help.” Pa Etsede who retired as an oil worker several years ago said he lost his wife 18 years ago, adding that the fear of losing his son to renal disease was too harrowing to contemplate. According to him, the procedure will cost N6million in France. “we have started talking with one hospital in France, and one of his brothers has agreed to donate a kidney if necessary and once the money is available. I want people to help me, I am particularly appealing to my amiable governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta

Etsede...needs help State and other good spirited Nigerians to come to my aid, so that Diare can live.” Cash payment can be channelled

into his bank account with the following details: Emmanuel Oris Etsede, 0000060438, Union Bank. Telephone: 08029763528.

SATURDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 15, 2014—49

Our statistics on development are deceitful — Amuta *Where are the infrastructures that promote development? *Countries don’t develop without reading culture State. Currently he is the chairman and CEO, Silson & Weizmann Associates Ltd, a media and information warehousing company, and OUTCOMES, an international public affairs and policy consulting company. In this interview with MOSES NOSIKE, he speaks on how lack of reading culture is dragging development in Nigeria into the mud, saying that statistics on development are not in consonant with reality on ground, and that deficiency on record-keeping is a huge setback. Excerpts: You’ve been writing for many years now as captured in your new book, do you think some of your write-ups had influenced any government policies at any point in time? I was speaking with some journalists recently, and the question was, you know so many leaders and politicians, why are you not in politics? and I answered “no, that is not my style.” I have been mostly a background person and in that capacity, one has influenced a lot of policies one may not know. Essentially I prefer functioning at the background and the essays that are in the book billed to be presented a few days from now form part of that engagement with leaders and people who make policies. So, if you are a good background person, either you’re an adviser to a president, governor etc. the first rule is that you must not ascribe any of their policy or successes to yourself even though you designed the programme for him; once he is the person that announces it, he takes all the accolades. So, those pieces of writings that I brainstormed in aid of specific policies, are deployed to those who are in position to make policies. I contributed to the decision by Nigeria to go into Liberia during the period. If you go to that book you will see essay on Liberia and that forms the policy bed rock, but I didn’t know. Years later, major actors called me and said you helped us, once you came out with that position we adopted it and made those changes in Liberia. Again, the restoration of tiers with Israel; normalisation of relations with South Africa; once Mandela was released from prison it was pointless not having ties. Before then, a lot of Nigerians were trading with South Africa, and our policy on Equatorial Guinea at our backyard here.

The reading culture in Nigeria is very low; information deficiency is another challenge, how do these affect leadership and development? The problem of our reading culture is even more frightening. If you have kept tracks of the utterances of our leaders overtime, they have lost interest in reading. One of them said he doesn’t read newspapers. Even the current ones say there is no need reading newspapers; that the media is predictable. And when you do that, it is not just the newspapers, but everything that is read. Recently, government reviewed import tariff on books with 50 per cent. How do you encourage reading and writing when you place tariff on intellectual materials in a country that needs ideas. There is no country in the world that has developed that is not rooted in ideals. I was reading something about China, how they established a high level technology where they train their young bureaucrats that would help them project what position China will occupy in the world next 50 years. They also simulate what China will do in Nigeria, Angola etc. All those things you are seeing; the Chinese here, they are building five airports in Nigeria presently. Do you know the statistics implication of having one country build five airports in most strategic airports, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, Lagos and others – all the gate ways, even the approved plan is made in China and is already with them. And we are living in a country that has a global People wake up agenda. For whatever reason, I don’t know why we and say whatever believe that we can develop they like and there without ideas. Now, we know that books is nobody to are carriers of ideas. Attitude challenge them to reading in Nigeria is very worrisome. How do we because the change it? It doesn’t matter people who to us that our kids are scoring very badly in basic expression, should challenge basic English and them either have Mathematics. I was looking at recent statistics. We are died or have given about the worst in Africa in up or they are tired high school results. We are misplacing emphasis. If we want to declare emergency, it should start from education. When Obama

,

hidi Amuta is the founding director of the Rural Directorate of Food, Roads C and Rural Infrastructure (DFRRI), old Imo

,

IPR C ttasks asks ssttak eholder s, pr actitioner IPRC akeholder eholders, practitioner actitionerss on professionalism

T

o ensure more efficiency and effective productivity in the work place, standardisation and professionalism, Institute of Professional Recruitment Consultants, the professional body for Recruiters and HR presents a 3-day workshop on resourcing skills in recruitment and outsourcing. Speaking on the benefits of the knowledge empowering programme, Director General, Nick Odife, said there will be award of Certified Recruitment Professional CRP and Full Membership of the Institute of Professional Recruitment Consultants, IPRC Nigeria and United Kingdom, to Recruitment Managers, Consultants, Human Resource & Admin Managers, Head Hunters, Line Managers, Executive Selection Consultants and Talent Acquisition Specialists that

participated in the programme. According to Odife, the programme billed for November 20 – 22 in Victoria Island is ideal for recruiters who want to improve their hit rate when sourcing new candidates and prove they have been performing within the global best practice, saying also that Certified Recruitment Professional CRP is for advanced recruiters and practicing HR professionals planning to move from medium to large organizations. He advised candidates attending the workshop to bring their laptops while soft copies of the coursewares will be sent as soon as participation is confirmed. Direct Executive Membership available for individuals and Corporate Membership for companies having between two to eleven staff.

Amuta: A sad man can’t read nothing, even some journalists don’t read their own papers. That is the problem. took over as President of United States, one of the things he did was to approve a special training programme for teachers and ensure that American kids began to do well again in the sciences and mathematics because they found out that American kids were lagging behind the European peers, China and Singapore. But they said “No, if this continues, America will take a back seat in a global development. In our case, for some reason whatever, some people sit somewhere and said, Nigeria will be the greatest country in 2020; others sit down in Abuja and take statistics, saying Nigeria is the greatest economy in Africa – just by sitting around the best computer. The numbers don’t add up. Where is the infrastructure? Where is the access to employment? How many Nigerians have access to home loans? You are young people, how many of you own houses? How many of you can hope to own his or her own houses in the next fifteen years? How many people have access to decent water or electricity? There are no roads. All I’m saying is that we have to be very careful how we play with statistics. People wake up and say whatever they like and there is nobody to challenge them because the people who should challenge them either have died or have given up or they are tired. When Chief Awolowo was alive, once the FG publishes its budget, Awolowo would release his own budget based on facts and figures. In fact, he had superior facts and figures than the government of the day. Today they are doing APC versus PDP. PDP doesn’t have the fact even though it’s in government presiding. APC doesn’t have the facts, and does not have alternatives. If Jonathan were to close his mouth or stop making mistakes, APC will have nothing to

say because they only wait for the man to open his mouth and say something, then they (APC) will counter. There is nothing they are doing. But, Awolowo had his own budget, timeline, school enrollment, even his facts and figures from the CBN. He was the first person who warned Nigeria that at the rate Nigeria was borrowing we would get into trouble in the next ten years and it happened. Today, what you see is governance without ideas, culture without reading. There are also other things that make people not to read; how many hours are there in a day? How many hours will a Nigerian need to work in order to earn a livelihood? There are 24 hours; the average Nigerian worker needs about thirty hours of work to even survive. How is he going to read? When is he going to read. Most of the time, he is unhappy. A sad man can’t read anything, even some journalists don’t read their own papers. That is the problem. So, this is where we are. I used to operate from the UK. Once you enter a train in the UK, you see everybody reading either newspapers or novels, journals, text books etc., with the result that the newspapers that wanted a lot adverts distributed themselves free and placed their copies at the Metro station. There is a newspaper called Metro. It is heaped at every train station. When you go there you collect your own and read it free of charge. So advertisers prefer that because people have access. But here I have to buy papers before I can see the advert and if I don’t have the money to buy, that becomes an impediment.

To be continued

Gr oup ttoo honour indus trious business mother Group industrious motherss others across the country who are combing business as well as career in the home will be M honoured this December by an organisation, Access

Media Limited in an event known as Working Moms Awards. Access Media Limited, which publishes Working Moms Africa Magazine, is also calling for nominations from Nigerians to nominate working and career mothers who have made a landmark combing career or business with the management of the home. The Working Moms Awards, which was launched in 2013 as a platform to recognize and acknowledge the achievements of working mothers within the family and wider society will be rewarding mothers in ten different categories; Working Mom of the Year, Working Mom in the Media, New to Motherhood, Best Company for WMA, Mom in Banking/Finance, Power Mom, Bump Up Mom, Super Mom, Trailblazer Moms and Momprenuer. There are also three special categories, namely; Power Mom, Mom To Greatness and Mother Theresa Award. The award aims at recognizing mothers who strive between the herculean task of working in the ever challenging corporate world, and at the same time

striking a balance at the home front. According to the Project Director, Mrs. Mary Ikoku, nomination is done online at the award website: www.momsafrica.com/event, saying that there is opportunity for an individual to nominate herself as well as a colleague, friend or relation who met six basic criteria as stated on the website. According to her, “Moms play major roles in the society, they provide support within their families, works, and businesses. She added that the 2014 edition of the Awards will commence with a conference in the morning, while the “Moms Ball and Awards” event will take place in the evening. The conference with theme; Succeed and Achieve” designed to help mothers in career and businesses reach their full potential will attract over 500 delegates and will feature high level speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, members of the press and supporters.

50 — SA TURD AY Vanguard, NO VEMBER 15, 2014 SATURD TURDA NOVEMBER

BY FESTUS AHON

Delta 2015: My govt will be tough on crime — Omo-Agege

O

BAISI Ovie Omo-Agege is one of the strong contenders for the Delta State Governorship in 2015. The United States of America trained lawyer is very resolute in his aspiration to govern the State. Omo-Agege who insists that his passion to govern is not because he is an urhobo man, said his agenda is pan-Delta with all stakeholders being carried along in his government, when elected. In this interview, he spoke on his readiness to clinch the Governorship in 2015 among other issues of interest. Excerpts:

The urhobos are resolute in their resolve to produce the next governor of the state in 2015. Can you win it for the urhobos should they give you their total support? First, let me state that this election is not a contest between Urhobo and others, neither is it a contest of Urhobos versus the Aniomas or Urhobo versus Itsekiri or Ijaw or Isoko. Second, I am not running because I am an Urhobo man. Third, my support base cuts across ethnic and senatorial divide. So the question of winning it for the Urhobos does not arise. But don't you think the urhobos are desperate in their quest for the governorship? I don't see it that way at all. The Urhobos have a legitimate case and they are making it in a way that is democratically acceptable. First,

•Omo-Agege

,

How prepared are you to clinch the Delta state governorship in 2015? I have stated previously that I am in this race to win and considering the fact that the will to win is worthless without the will to prepare, I can tell you without hesitation that I am prepared. I strongly believe that the best preparation for success is to be more strategic and that is what I have been doing all through this campaign. I realized very early in the race that a winning strategy that is based on issues and the realities on ground is essential for a successful campaign. My team understood that whoever will emerge as the flag bearer of the PDP must be one who can demonstrate to the party that he can easily win the governorship for the party and help President Goodluck Jonathan do better than what he achieved in 2011 in the state. This understanding defined our message which has resonated with the leadership; and rank and file of the party. This message will see us through at the primaries because at the end of the day, it is the interest of the party, not the interest of a few that will prevail.

•Battle not contest of Urhobo versus Anioma or Ijaw or Itsekiri or Isoko

I have spoken severally on the urgent need to transform our agricultural, tourism, manufacturing sectors and the entertainment industry

,

contrary to zoning based agitations, the Urhobos are not advocating for the exclusion of others from the race. Rather, we are the ones saying we should not be shut out of the contest since everyone contested all previous gubernatorial elections in the state. Second, the Urhobos are saying that in the past four years we have not been fairly treated in terms of federal appointments and projects despite our contribution to the national and state economy; and the electoral support to the PDP in 2011. Third, the Urhobos are asking for a level playing field for everyone to contest for the ticket of the party which is good for our democracy. I don't think there is any rational basis to fault the quest of Urhobo people for the governorship in 2015. So what is it that is propelling you to want to govern the state? I am in the race because I strongly believe that I can add more value to governance in Delta state at this particular time in our history than anyone else. Governor Uduaghan has done well on his three point agenda of Peace and Security, Human Capital Development and Development of infrastructure. But a lot still needs to be done to actualise the Delta of our dream. So we need someone who can build on the achievements of Governor Uduaghan's administration as well as make good the shortcomings to achieve greater value for our people. Those who have been heavily involved in the present

government cannot be trusted to bring about the necessary changes. This is key to the choice we make in this election. We need a new spirit of self-assurance, hope and optimism that a new PDP government in the state can do better. We need to grow our party by bringing in new people into the mainstream of the party. My candidacy will grow and strengthen the party. I can unify the party and bring everybody on board for the challenge of winning the general election. We urgently need a revitalised economy that is diversified and less dependent on oil. While the Delta Beyond Initiative of Governor Uduaghan provides the guide for future policy actions on the economy, there is need for new vigour. I have spoken severally on the urgent need to transform our agricultural, tourism, manufacturing sectors and the entertainment industry. I will give these sectors top priority in resource allocation in order to achieve a strong and stable economy in the next four years. We need a new security arrangement to secure our society and provide the enabling environment for the growth of the private sector especially the small and medium scale enterprises. My administration will be tough on crime and the causes of crime by setting up Community Security Marshals in every community of Delta state to provide intelligence to the security agencies and create jobs for our teeming youth population. Because I believe that unemployment is the greatest security risk will face today, I will focus on the creation of jobs like a laser beam. As part of a broader effort to stabilise our economy, strengthen, secure and modernise our society and further democratise our political system, we need to restore people's faith in governance by running a more open, accountable and ethical government; and

strengthen institutions of government such as the civil service and local government administration. These are some of the areas we will be different. What is your reaction to the rumour that a governorship aspirant is being imposed on Deltans by the State Government? The present day political realities in Delta state and Nigeria as a whole do not favour imposition of any sort. Indeed the era of imposition is over and any party that allows its flag bearer to be imposed by any one, will pay a heavy price for it at the general election. The primary process is supposed to choose popular candidates that can win and not candidates that serve the special interest of their benefactors. Okay so what is your position on zoning of the state governorship in Delta state? I have been very clear on this issue. There has never been zoning of the governorship position in Delta state and there can't be one now because introducing it now will amount to changing the rules of the game midway which is unfair and unacceptable. Those advocating for zoning should realize that due to the more competitive political environment we have today, zoning is not a winning strategy in the absence of an acceptable zoning formula. The mood of the people do not favour zoning and any attempt to impose it on the electorate will surely backfire. The people want jobs, security, better schools, better hospitals, better roads, regular power supply, affordable health and educational services and housing. They don't care about where the provider of these services come from. A close look at the changed political landscape, demography, geography and the road ahead for the 2015, it's clear that the interest of the president should guide our actions especially in deciding who should be the gubernatorial candidate of the party. I think if we accept and implement this principle, Delta PDP will come out of the election stronger than we are now.

SA TURD AY SATURD TURDA

Vanguard , NO VEMBER 15, 2014—51 NOVEMBER

Introducing the profession of public procurement “In the country of the blind, the oneeyed man becomes the king!” …Anonymous

I

relocated from the U.S. to Nigeria in 20 13. Soon after that, I was “ welcomed” with a very public dispute between the federal Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP) and the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN), through very hostile newspaper advertorials. Upon close review, the dispute could be summarized as follows: CIPSMN is unhappy that it was not consulted or asked to recommend the leadership of the BPP at the inception of the BPP in 2008; as a result, the Federal Government ended up selecting and appointing as the Director-General (DG) of the BPP somebody who did not have prior training in public procurement. As a further result, many things were being done wrong by the BPP, the latest being BPP’s engagement of foreign “experts” to help it prepare a training schedule and curriculum for BPP personnel, an assignment that CIPSMN felt qualified to do as a local “expert”. As CIPSMN sees it, the BPP thereby criminally infringed upon Nigeria’s Local Content law. On its part, the BPP accuses the CIPSMN of interfering in its affairs; it also claims to be employing “global best practices” in discharging its duties, including its hiring of foreign professionals. The BPP also denies CIPSMN’s claim of having statutory supervisory powers over the BPP. As I see it, both sides are wrong to a large extent: The Federal Government (FGN) made a serious mistake in appointing as D-G of the BPP somebody who had no training in Public Procurement. Yet, even after that mistake, today, six years later, there is still no National Council for Public Procurement (NCPP) in place, as mandated by the law. As a result, somebody who had no prior training or experience in Public Procurement is running the BPP without any supervisory authority over him, doing exactly as he sees fit, but backed by hype and propaganda from his employees and other wellwishers! This is very wrong, because no string of academic degrees, Master ’s or doctorates, can qualify somebody who has no professional certification in Public Procurement to run the BPP as its D-G. On the other hand, CIPSMN is a chartered institute for private-sector purchasing and “procurement”. The founders of the Institute may have

succeeded in manipulating Nigeria’s National Assembly into granting it a charter with various subtle clauses and verbiage whose implications the legislators themselves probably did not quite realise. Nonetheless, certification by the CIPSMN does not in any way qualify anybody to lead or supervise the activities of the BPP. This is because, to those who know, the differences between public procurement and private-sector purchasing are enormous, as much by actual practice as by its nuances. It is nonsensical therefore for the CIPSMN to claim that it can train BPP employees in public procurement practices when the CIPSMN “trainers” themselves are not trained, certified and experienced in Public Procurement! This then brings us back to the quotation about “the country of the blind”: Precious few people in Nigeria, apparently including even the Federal Government, know that there are persons trained and certified specifically in Public Procurement. That is why the FGN was satisfied, without any public advertisement, to appoint any person with a Master ’s degree in something-or-other as D-G of the BPP! Apparently, this is also why some state governments, in advertising for public procurement reform consultancy, would be satisfied with some person as Lead Consultant who merely possesses a Master ’s degree with ten years postgraduation experience in any of the numerous fields usually listed… but Public Procurement is never mentioned as required training or certification for this Lead Consultant position! But today, around the world, there are now professionals specifically trained and certified in Public Procurement. There are now professional organizations (i.e. institutes) whose members are strictly public procurement practitioners. One example is NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement, of which the undersigned is a well-regarded member. It is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, U.S.A. Finally, there is now also a worldwide body, independent of the individual professional institutes, established for the sole purpose of setting professional standards for the practice of

public procurement, examining interested candidates, and certifying those who meet the standards. That body is the UPPCC – Universal Public Procurement Certification Council. It is also headquartered in the U.S.A. In addition to his postgraduate (academic) degrees, the undersigned studied and practiced public procurement for four years before he took the UPPCC exam, passed and became designated as a CPPB – Certified Professional Public Buyer. This is the professional equivalent of the academic degree of Masters in one subject or another. The undersigned, again for a further four years, studied and practiced public procurement, including at the managerial level, before he took the final UPPCC exam, passed and became designated as a CPPO – Certified Public Procurement Officer. This is the highest designation in the field of public procurement, and it qualifies the holder to manage the procurement/contracting office of a whole Ministry or the entire government. Around the world, as at May 2014, the UPPCC had certified exactly 2,532 persons with the designation of CPPO. (Please compare to 15-20 million persons with a PhD.) Of the 2,532 CPPOs, only two are Nigerians, and the undersigned is one of those two. Indeed, the CPPO and CPPB credentials are recognized throughout the public procurement profession as demonstration of the individual’s comprehensive knowledge of as well as competence in Public Procurement. In passing, I believe it is worthy of note that in November 2007, soon after I received and reviewed a copy of Nigeria’s Public Procurement Act 2007, I sent a message of congratulations to the Nigerian Senate through one of the members of its Committee on Public Procurement. Additionally, fully aware that the bane of the Nigerian society was the bad implementation of wellintentioned laws, I also advised the committee of my willingness to send to it, free of charge, a memorandum on the implementation of the law (PPA ‘07). Hence, as soon as I received the Senate’s approval for such, I rushed off a six-page implementation memorandum for PPA ’07. That memo was dated January 12, 2008, and its receipt was duly acknowledged. Unfortunately, for the next several years, the information I was getting about the goings-on in the BPP and the implementation of PPA ’07 convinced me that the Federal Government of Nigeria simply ignored my well-intentioned Memo. But it was only after I relocated to Nigeria in 2013 that I discovered that the Implementation Memo I had sent never left the Senate and never got to the Executive arm of government. Hence all the mistakes that have taken place and are continuing to take place, both in the law itself and in its implementation. In conclusion, I note with a certain degree of sadness that while several Nigerian state governments have sought to effect Public Procurement reform in their states, they have turned to the same “experts” who worked on the federal PPA ’07. These “experts”, sad to say, simply copied and adapted the federal PPA ’07, warts and all, and the same implementation bottlenecks are being transferred to these states, unbeknownst to the state officials who pay or authorize that the “experts’” bills be paid. Thus, one can only hope that this publication will make other State governments a little too wise to fall victim to these same “experts”. Sincerely, F. Eke Urum-Eke, CPPO, CPPB, MScIE. Group Managing Partner The Merrimack Resource Group

52—SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

How female bomber beat security to bomb kontagora school •Injured student dies

BY WOLE MOSADOMI MINNA:- Any suicide Bomber has a mission and the mission is to waste his or her life and other lives that may be involved. There target knows no bound. At the early stage of the insurgency in the country, the mission looked as a religious war as the bombings were being targeted at churches and other Christian worship centres. It later graduated into public functions and Arenas. In the past few months, schools including secondary and tertiary institutions became the new targets especially in the North Eastern part of the country. Niger state has had its own bitter experience of the Bomb blasts, all occurring in Suleja town within two years before normalcy returned in the state. However, Kontagora town last Wednesday had its own bitter experience of the Bombing when a female suicide Bomber stormed Federal College of Education, Kontagora to carry out her dastardly act. The target of the Female bomber was the School Examination Auditorium where hundred of students were sitting for their English Examination. The bomber was said to have beaten the campus security men at the gate and succeeded in entering the campus. Our correspondent reliably gathered that the bomber in order to succeed in her mission changed her tactics at different points she got to in order not to be suspected and her mission truncated. At a point, she was said to be begging for alms, at another point, she behaved like a student and at another point, she behaved like an illiterate and succeeded at ever point she got to until the bomb exploded just before she could reach her target, the examination hall. Her last point of call before the bomb exploded was in front of the school library where many students were sitting. Even with LIBRARY boldly inscribed on the building, she was still making inquiries where to locate the library thus indicating she was illiterate. Her own mission had been known and sealed and it was to kill innocent students and anybody she met on her way and with her own life also given up. As fate would have it, one of the female students, Miss Fasilat Oludeji , a 300 level English student from Ondo state whose own mission was to graduate from the school next year had her dream terminated by the suicide bomber who claimed her life through the bombing. The late Fasilat was the first to drop her pen after the English paper and after living the hall she was immediately sighted by the bomber who hurriedly crossed to the other side of the road to meet the deceased, (Fasilat) on the way to the library. The plan of late Fasilat was to hurriedly go back to her room and plan ahead for the other papers the second day but she had her ambition and aim terminated on the street of the College where she had stayed C M Y K

for over three years as she met her untimely death. As the bomber was asking for the way to the library from late Fasilat who was not aware of her mission, the explosive blew off leaving the female bomber’s body shattered. Fasilat and two others close to the range of the explosive were however unlucky as they were injured with Fasilat who was closest to the female Bomber greatly affected. The three were immediately rushed to the General Hospital, Kontagora where they received treatment. Fasilat was however referred to Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Specialized Hospital, Minna for further treatment due to the severity of the injuries she sustained. While the two others were treated and discharged immediately in Kontagora, Fasilat gave up the ghost few kilometers away from Kontagora to Minna and her corpse deposited at the General Hospital, Kontagora. The other students who sustained injuries but treated and discharged were Suleiman M. Basira 100 level English/ Arabic student, Olivia Nwabodo who is also a 100 student of Library/Integrated Science while the third victim Mustapha Mohammed was said to be a long time and popular Okada rider on the Campus. The remains of the Suicide Bomber which were shattered except the head had also been deposited at the Kontagora General Hospital Mortuary. BAD SIGNAL TO THE SCHOOL:There was immediate panic in the college. Some students rushed to their different hostels and hurriedly packed out of the school premises. Security Agents including the Police, Army, men of the State Security Service (SSS) were immediately drafted to the campus to keep vigil. Provost of the college, Dr. Nathaniel Adediran thanked God for saving the Institution of what would have been another national calamity. The Authority of the college after its meeting decided to close the school for two weeks for normalcy to return to the campus. GOVERNORALIYU’S REACTION:The state Governor, Dr. Mua’zu Babangida Aliyu while reacting to the incidence asked soberly-”why Federal College of Education and why Kontagora town?” This question was raised due to series of political violence that had erupted in the town in the past that left several people dead with properties worth millions of naira including the multimillion naira state secretariat destroyed. He said, “the face of the suicide Bomber and those who survived the bombing could lead to those who sponsored the attack.” The Governor who less than

The Governor of niger state dr mu’azu babangida aliyu [middle] inspecting the ground zero of the blast at the federal college of education Kontagora.

24hours visited the scene of the incidence noted that security challenge in the country has taken a different dimension where women are now being used as suicide bombers. He said the development was a challenging dimension in the fight against terror, adding that the trend will not only pose a major challenge but capable of exposing women in the North to unnecessary discrimi-nation. Meanwhile, security Agents

including Police, Army, SSS and others have been drafted to most schools in the state including secondary and tertiary institutions to keep vigil in order to forestall any attempt to cause havoc in the state. While inspecting the scene of the incidence at Federal College of Education in Kontagora on Thursday, the governor directed the school Authority to relocate the

shopping centres and double security in crowded places. Aliyu also called on people of the state on the need to be vigilant especially in target areas like schools and places of worship and that security should not be left in the hands of security operatives alone but should be seen as everybody’s business.

POLITICAL NOTES By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor Redefining the PDP S a party which styles itself as the main platform for the concretisation of democracy in the country and which even went as far as styling itself as the Peoples Democratic Party, the PDP’s seeming aversion for democratic tenets in some of its ways could be puzzling. At issue is the increasing tendency by some within the party to super impose despotism instead of democracy as a culture in the party. First was the party’s unusually despotic affirmation of the right of first refusal for the president and subsequently, the clarion call for performing first term governors to win automatic re-election tickets. That craze has now been carried forth to the legislature where National Assembly members are now agitating for automatic second term tickets for themselves. This seeming determination not to subject elected political office holders on the platform of the party to

A

internal referendum is undoubtedly not in fashion with democratic ethos. As some have noted, by giving automatic tickets to office holders, the party inevitably whittles its credential of internal democracy, dilutes the space for de-

bate on issues and indeed, rejects the meaning of the middle word in its name. It would be better viewed as Peoples Despotic Party, PDP given the increasing rejection of democratic culture.

T inubu turns ttoo TTambuw ambuw al ambuwal

T

HE seeming withdrawal of support for Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s presidential ambition by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu must have shocked many and left several others in confusion. But not so for the camp ofAtikuAbubakar, a frontline aspirant for the All Progressives Congress ticket, APC. While Buhari’s followers would obviously be anxious about the development, the camp of AtikuAbubakar was in celebration over the development. Atiku and his associates are glad that finally the strong cord between Buhari and Tinubu has finally been disengaged offering in their view, the pros-

pect for Atiku to pick support from among those who had in the past been under obligation because of Tinubu to support Buhari. While Atiku and his associates may well celebrate the disruption of the friendship between Tinubu and Buhari, they will have every reason to remain cautious given the claim that Tinubu may now be propelling his machine in support of Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal. If really so, Atiku and the other aspirants may yet console themselves to the fact that Tinubu could again change his mind and one day endorse them!

SATURDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

— 53

Keshi: Mikel super fit S

UPER Eagles arrived the Congolese city of Point Noire 2:30am yesterday and after passing through immigration proceedings were checked into Atlantic Palace Hotel in the heart of the city. The team made up of 25 players, the technical crew led by Big Boss Stephen Keshi, NFF President Amaju Pinnick who led the delegation, Senate Committee Chairman on Sports, Alhaji Adamu Gumba among others have since settled down for the business of getting three points off the host on Saturday afternoon. It was drama at the airport as over 100 Nigerians resident in Congo, kept vigil to welcome the team with familiar songs, drumming and dancing. They were joined by the Nigerian Football and Other Sports

Supporters Club, led by Dr Rauf Ladipo. The atmosphere was very lively as they mobbed the coaching crew and players while seizing the rare opportunity of taking photos with the Nigerian team. Head Coach, Stephen Keshi was however not happy with reports that the team was riddled with injuries, inferring that the team was actually 100 percent fit at the moment. “Mikel is super fit, Enyeama (Vincent), had a slight shoulder strain and he’s also in perfect shape now, Raheem Lawal had knock during our last training session and he has since bounced back. So we should stop scaring Nigerians with reports that the team is injury hit”, he declared after conferring with team doctor, Ibrahim Gyaran.

Equatorial Guinea to host 2015 AFCON

E

QUATORIAL Guinea have been handed hosting rights for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, CAF confirmed in a statement yesterday. Morocco had initially won the right to stage the

Cote d’Ivoire thrash Sierra Leone 5-1

C

OTE d’Ivoire yesterday kept alive their hopes of qualifying for next year ’s Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial with a thumping 51 away win against Siierra Leone. Liverpool defender, Kolo Toure scoired the opener on eight minutes but Mustapha Bangura levelled scores on 25 minutes and it remained so until the 50th minute when Salomon Kalou stuck the Ivorian second goal of the night, followed by further strikes from Max-Alain Gradel, Gervinho before Kalou, netted his second of the enounter to cap a memorable win for the Ivorians, who now await today’s match between table-topping Cameroon and D.R Congo in Yaounde.

continent’s biggest footballing tournament, but withdrew themselves over fears regarding the continent’s recent outbreak of Ebola. Equatorial Guinea had, along with Gabon, staged the 2012 event, but will now take sole ownership of the reins for next year’s spectacular. “The head of state of Equatorial Guinea agreed to host the competition. As a result, the CAF executive committee confirm that the tournament will go ahead and Equatorial Guinea will compete as the host nation,” a statement from CAF read.

•Mikel in the thick of the action.

Expect Red Devils onslaught C

ONGO coach Claude Le Roy said the visiting Nigerians could expect a vicious onslaught during the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations fixture at the Municipal Stadium in PointeNoire torday. During the first fixture in Calabar earlier this year, Congo breached the Nigerian defence three times, to secure a dramatic victory. Le Roy is confident that his players will have the capacity to build on the momentum created during the current Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

T

“I know that the Eagles are going to descend on us. We’ve mapped out our plans to attack them as well as defend effectively to frustrate them,” Le Roy told journalists on Friday. The fact that Nigeria will have to chase the result this weekend, has been well documented. It is a ploy that Le Roy has prepared for and one which he plans to exploit. “The danger in this game is that we might use counter-at-

tacks to see off the Eagles,” added a confident Le Roy. “We would have to plan effectively to attack and at the same time recover and defend well. We will guard against counter attacks.”Congo have accumulated seven points during this qualifying campaign, which is three more than Nigeria who currently occupy the third spot in the Group A standings. A defeat for Nigeria will almost certainly ruin their campaign.

Mashaba: We are set to qualify

B

AFANA Bafana head coach Ephraim ‘’Shakes’ Mashaba is confident that his side will be in the right mental state when they face Sudan in today’s qualifier. “I’ve heard a lot of people talking about psychologists and all that. Yes, psychological problems are not easy to solve The only thing (we can do) is to pray and, from what I have seen and the high level of performance from the boys, it tells me that they have put it behind their backs and I think we are ready for the game now.”

Umanah tasks Eagles to win for Akpabio HE Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, culture and Ethical Re-Orientation, Aniekan Umanah, has charged Super Eagles to go all out for an outright victory in the decisive Nations Cup qualifier against Congo. Umanah said Governor Godswill Akpabio wanted the victory to make the last game equally crucial for Nigeria. Umanah is however conscious of the fact that it is

•Le Roy warns Eagles

only a win that could make the Nigeria, South Africa match a big game. The match is scheduled to hold at the Akwa Ibom International Stadium on November 19. “The Eagles have everything to beat the Congolese at home since that was what they did to us in Calabar. Governor Akpabio has sent words to the players that he will receive them next week in Uyo when they will be set to crush the South Africans,” he said.

Enyeama, Okagbare, Fashola win awards

G

OVERNOR Babatunde Fashola, Super Eagles’ captain Vincent Enyeama and sprint queen, Blessing Okagbare were the shining stars of the Nigeria Sports Award held at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre, Onikan on Thursday night.. Governor Fashola was adjudged the Sports Governor of the Year for his contributions to sports development not only in Lagos but the whole country, Lille of France’s goal tender, won the award for Nigeria’s best football player (male) and was also adjudged the sportsman of the year. The former Enyimba goalie was absent at the award ceremony because of the Super Eagles’ Nations Cup qualifying match against Congo today. On her part, Okagbare won the award for the sportswoman of the year and track and field star of the year under review.

It’s now or never for Eagles Continues from BP with an odd goal today while Congo travel to face an uninspired Sudanese team in Khartoun. As the reigning champions of Africa’s premium soccer tournament, failute to qualify for the next tournament will be seen as a monumental setback for a team, who only last summer, were part of the 32 teams who battled for honours at the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Having won the tournament three times, a Nigerian ouster in Congo is almost imaginable for football purists, who are still at a loss as to how the Eagles, found themselves in this mess after losing 32 to Congo in Calabar, drawing goalless in South Africa and labouring to a 3-2 defeat of Sudan in Abuja. So for the Super Eagles, only a victory will do as Nigerians chorus, “all we are saying, give us this day.”

54—SATURDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

Battle of Congo:

Don’t wish Eagles bad because of Keshi — Amun Former Golden Eaglets coach Fanny Amun has come out from the trenches to ht back at those trying to cause trouble in the house of Nigerian football. A former scribe of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amun, who hails from Edo State remains an unrepentant apostle of the Federal Ministry of Sports. As Nigeria battle Congo today in Point Noire, Amun tells JOHN EGBOKHAN that Nigerians should not wish Eagles bad because of their disposition towards out-of-favour coach Stephen Keshi.

S

O much has happened to our football since the exit of Aminu Maigari as President of the Nigeria Football Federation. Is the change of guard good for our football development. I want to put in on record that despite all the political troubles we had during his time in office that Maigari remains the most successful NFF leader that we have had. His record are there to see that under such an h o s t i l e environment he was still able to win the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, as well as the Golden Eaglets triumph at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2013 as well as numerous other international and continental tournaments. Maigari was a product of the crisis that took out Sani Lulu, who was also a product of crisis that swallowed I b r a h i m Galadima, whose fall was orchestrated by some persons in

the Sports Ministry. s change in the leadership of the NFF as being allegedly masterminded by the Sports Ministry doing our football any good? In the past, government’s interference was deemed not good for our nation’s football development, by those against government. It is curious to however note people are always quick to point at government’s interference w h e n t h i n g s don’t go their way, while those who benefit from the system say that it is not government’s interference. So the answer is always going to tilt to the divide to which you belong. T h e government is a stakeholder in football, so they have a right to jump into the fray.

Maigari was a product of the crisis that took out Sani Lulu, who was also a product of crisis that swallowed Ibrahim Galadima, whose fall was orchestrated by some persons in the Sports Ministry.

•Amun At the last Elective Congress of the NFF in Warri on September 30, a credible Executive Committee was elected by the delegates and government has endorsed the board as being credible enough to take our football to the next level. This board led by Amaju Pinnick has come to stay. Age and wisdom are on the side of this board. In Pinnick, we have a king, who is young and has a longer lifespan to do well . Nobody can rubbish the tremendous works he has done in Delta State and what he will do in his new capacity in NFF. Pinnick understudied great minds of Nigerian sports, like the late Patrick Okpomo and Solomon Ogba. He has the wealth of experience to

transform our football and I see our football rising again to international prominence under this dispensation. What is your disposition towards the Appeals Committee sitting on the NFF Elections? It will be suicidal if anyone, knowingly or unknowingly will try to run back the hand of the clock. In any elections, people will always be angry. They will always cry wolf, blue murder but the thing is that there must be winners and losers in any election process.

•Keshi It is instructive to note that the Appeals Committee is not bigger than the Executive Committee and that the only organ that can nullify the election in the Congress. So let reason prevail and let us allow sleeping dogs to live in peace. Today in Point Noire, Nigeria face the prospects of kissing bye to next year’s Nations Cup. The blame for this ugly scenario is being heaped on Coach Stephen Keshi, who somehow is still in charge of the team, despite massive outcry for his dismissal. Will Keshi not further jeopardize how AFCON chances? All hell would not break out if we don’t qualify. Keshi is a human being, who has been successful during his time as Eagles coach. People should not wish the team bad because of Keshi. When you go into a match, you either lose, draw or win. Someone is supposed to win today’s match in Congo and my wish is for the Super Eagles to win. How about the poor results that we have suffered in the last matches, which have made our chances bleak? Keshi is in charge and part of his duties is to invite players who he feels can do well for Nigeria. But that has been the issue all through this campaign It is fair to say he should invite players who are doing well for now. But he will be judged by the results. And the results have not been exactly favourable for us as we have wobbled and fumbled this far? I don’t know what you are talking about because the process is not yet over. As a grassroots coach, are you comfortable with Samson Siasia’s choice to coach the Olympic Eagles team? He has always been in charge of our youth teams and it is only appropriate that he is in charge. The challenge for him is to produce stars who will form the bulk of the Super Eagles team to the 2018 World Cup in Russis. And he should also win the gold at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

SATURDAY VANGUARD, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

— 55

Ghana face Ugandan hurdle

U

GANDA have been boosted by the r e t u r n to training of their two players strike r Yunus Ssentamu and goalkeeper Dennis Onyango after the duo suffered injuries while training with the squad ahead of today ’s clash with Ghana.

Eagles face bumpy flight in Congo

Chances of goalkeeper Dennis Onyango’s recovery brightened after the Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper trained. Both players had twisted their ankles Cranes coach Micho Sredojevic and his men know only victory over the Black Stars will keep them in with a qualification chance. Micho is confident it is not beyond them to put one over the four-time African champions. “One moment of brilliance

could decide the match on Saturday. Whatever October took away from us November can return to us. “Respect to Ghana, they are a very good team with very talented players. But it is not about names. “I have full confidence in my players and we shall stretch ourselves to the limits. We really want to get the best out of ourselves and look forward to qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations.”

A

FRICAN champions, Nigeria have a serious task today when they confront the Red Devils of Congo in a 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at the Stade Municipal in Point Noire. The Super Eagles should expect a serious fight from their opponents who have been impressive as far as the ongoing qualifiers are concerned. Supersport.com’s Ibitoye Shittu was in Congo last year with Nigerian champions, Kano Pillars and witnessed how the Sai Masugida were sent out from the champions League by AC Leopards. The Eagles will play on the same pitch, the Stade Municipal in Pointe-Noire where Kano Pillars crashed out last year after losing 3-0 to AC Leopards. He was the only Nigerian Journalist embedded with Pillars and now shares his experiences with us. Stadium The stadium though small has one of the best grounds in Africa if you like artificial turf, which we know the Eagles don’t, then the advantage is clearly with the home team. Fans I would advise the Nigerian supporters to be calm today in Point Noire because Congolese fans, who blow your mind with their non-stop cheering will do all their best to make life difficult for them at the Stadium.

•Point Noire Stadium, venue of today’s match between Congo and Eagles.

Tunisia qualify for Nations Cup

T

UNISIA became the fourth country confirmed in the field for the African Nations Cup finals after a goalless draw away against Botswana at the National Stadium in Gaborone yesterday. The result moved Tunisia to

11 points and guarantees them a top-two place in Group G after an unbeaten run of three wins and two draws, with a game to come at home to Egypt on Wednesday. Tunisia join Algeria, the Cape Verde Islands and Equatorial Guinea.

•Ayew of Ghana.

South Africa v Sudan:

I will die for Bafana—Furman U

NLIKE May Mahlangu, Dean Furman is not “fatigued” to put his body on the line for Bafana. “When your country comes

•From left, Michael Ade-Ojo, Maj-Gen. Tukur Buratai and Kunle Ade-Ojo at the final day of the 11th Elizabeth Wuraola golf tourney

calling, you need to be here,” Furman said ahead of today’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sudan at Moses Mabhida Stadium in

•A South African fan.

Durban. “You can’t speak about different people’s circumstances. I can only look at myself, but I know that when my country comes calling, I am really proud of being here. “We know we want to be at the top tournament. It has been a while since we qualified for a tournament and I hope we can get the job done. It would be a massive boost for us should we qualify because it has not happened in a long time and there was also the pain of missing out on World Cup qualification.” Bafana have not qualified for a tournament directly since the 2008 African Cup of Nations in Ghana, and none of the current squad members carry any baggage of that failed campaign.

•Furman

SATURDAY Vanguard, NOVEMBER 15, 2014

STANDINGS Group A South Africa Congo Nigeria Sudan

Played 4 4 4 4

Points 8 7 4 3

Group B Algeria Mali Ethiopia Malawi

4 4 4 4

12 6 3 3

Group C Gabon Burkina Faso Angola Lesotho

4 4 4 4

8 7 4 2

Group D Cameroon Cote d’ Ivoire D.R. Congo Sierra Leone

4 5 4 5

10 9 6 1

Group F Ghana Togo Uganda Guinea

4 4 4 4

8 6 4 4

Group F Cape Verde Zambia Mozambique Niger

4 4 4 4

9 5 5 2

Group G Tunisia Senegal Egypt Botswana

5 4 4 5

11 7 6 1

TODAY’S AFCON FIXTURES

By JOHN EGBOKHAN

T

HE only result that will keep alive the hopes of the Super Eagles in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign is victory, which they are condemned to get in today’s match away against the Red Devils of Congo at the Stade Municipal. Eagles have a paltry four

Time 3:30pm points from four matches, three less than the Congolese and four adrift of South Africa, with just two matches left to play. After today’s matches, the deciding games hold November 19, with the Eagles hosting South Africa, who might qualify should they beat Sudan •Continued on page 53

Equatorial Guinea to host 2015 AFCON — Pg 53

Tunisia qualify for Afcon — Pg 55

•Kalou

Cote d’Ivoire thrash Sierra Leone 5-1 — Pg 53

Malawi South Africa Cameroon Congo Togo Angola Mozambique Lesotho Uganda Cape Verde Egypt Algeria

Keshi: Mikel super fit — Pg 53

Mali Sudan D.R Congo Nigeria 3.30pm Guinea Gabon Zambia Burkina Faso Ghana Niger Senegal Ethiopia

Expect Red Devils onslaught — Le Roy •Keshi

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1)State in Nigeria known as “Centre of Excellence”? (5) 5)Lobi Stars Vice Chairman, Mr. Dominic – (5) 8)British Currency (5) 9)Spain & Napoli FC Goalkeeper, Jose – (5) 10)Malaysian Prime Minister, Mr. Najib – (5) 11)L.G.A in Kogi State (5) 12)Former President, Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Najim – (5) 15)Country in Asia (5) 18)Vietnamese Currency (3) 20)Kogi State Capital (6) 21)England Capital City (6) 22)Greek Alphabet (3) 24)Brazil Vice President, Michel – (5) 27)African Antelope (5) 30)Former Minister of Finance, Mr. Shamsudeen – (5) 31)L.G.A in Plateau State (5) 32)Warning Device (5) 33)Edo State Capital (5) 34)Ecuador National Coach, Reinaldo – (5) 35) L.G.A in Jigawa State (5)

v v v v v v v v v v v v

DOWN 1)Democratic Republic of Congo National Coach, Claude – (5) 2)Brazillian Premiership Club (3) 3)Country in Europe (5) 4)Zambian Capital City (6) 5)The Emir of Zazzau, HRH Alhaji Shehu – (5) 6)Blade (5) 7)Former Nigerian Star Actress, Regina – (5) 13)Attorney-General & Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohammed – (5) 14)Cross-River State Governor, Mr. Liyel – (5) 16)Fenerbahce SK Coach, Ersun – (5) 17)Former Minister of Science & Technology, Prof. Turner – (5) 18)Headgear (3) 19)Traditional Ruler of Warri (3) 23)Kano Pillars Left-Back, Nazifi – (6) 24)Former PDP Chairman, Mr. Bamanga – (5) 25)Former Minister of Environment, Mr. Bala – (5) 26)Latin-American Music (5) 27)Chairman, Senate Committee on Rules & Business, Senator Ita – (5)

— Pg 53

•Le Roy

SOLUTION on page 17

Printed and Published by VANGUARD MEDIA LIMITED, Vanguard Avenue, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B.1007, Apapa. EDITOR: ONOCHIE ANIBEZE Advert Dept: 01-7924470; Hotline: 01-4544821; Abuja: 09-2341102, 09-2342704. E-mail:news@vanguardngr.com, letters@vanguardngr.com. (Text) 08053068728; Advert:advertproduction@yahoo.com Website: www.vanguardngr.com (ISSN 0794-652X) All correspondence to P.M.B. 1007, Apapa Lagos. C M Y K