How we saved Obansanjo's life in Prison, by Atiku

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MASSIVE OFFENSIVE

Jonathan creates new army division, sends 8,000 troops after Boko Haram *Okiro seeks civil force to tackle terrorism

BY KINGSLEY OMONOBI

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan appears set to boost the strength of the military in the insurgency infested North-east after indications emerged that about 8,000 troops are being sent there.

The troops, according to security sources, will form the nucleus of an army division to be established in Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

Sunday Vanguard was made to understand at the weekend that the need to establish the new army division in the stronghold of the Boko Haram Islamist group is to firm up the successes recorded by special forces of the Joint Task Force (JTF) which have reportedly dislodged the insurgents from the forests and mountains of the North-east.

The move came to light barely 48 hours after the United States (US) said security efforts were necessary to protect innocent Nigerians, prevent Boko Haram’s acts of violence, capture and prosecute its leaders.

The US Under Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman, who gave the recipe to ending the insurgency challenge in Nigeria on behalf of her home government, spoke in Abuja at the opening session of the USNigeria Bi-national Commission’s Regional Security Cooperation Working Group on Thursday.

Also yesterday, the Chairman of Police Service Commission (PSC), Mr Mike Okiro, advocated the establishment of a civil force to complement the efforts of security agencies at the grassroots to curb terrorism and other crimes.

Sunday Vanguard learnt that the new army division to be domiciled in Maiduguri is tagged 7th Infantry Division and may have one General Etnan as the General Officer Commanding (GOC).

The 8,000 troops to be deployed there, according to sources, are made up of 7,000 troops from army headquarters

and patrols over the vast and dense forests of the North-east where Boko Haram insurgents held sway for months, hoisting their flags, claiming territories and collecting taxes from Nigerians.

Towards this end, it was gathered that the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Alex Sabundu Badeh, has directed the relocation of some patrol and surveillance aircraft from the 81 Air Maritime Command in Benin, and the Special Operations Group in Port Harcourt to Yola. Some Alpha jets will also leave Kainji for Yola.

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From left: Chief of Staff to the president, Mike Ogiadomhe, Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State, exchanging pleasantries with former military heads of state, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, at a public function in Abuja last week. Babangida turned 72 yesterday. brigade in Yola, Adamawa State, JTF in Maiduguri, with the Vanguard gathered, also at the the army headquarters brigade establishment of the new weekend, that the Nigerian (Mongonu) in Maiduguri, the division, a source said the Airforce Strike Group with battalion in Yobe and the army JTF will work hand in hand headquarters in Yola, headquarters brigade in Sokoto with the new division, Adamawa State, where some as well as the about 1,000 adding, however, that it attack aircraft of the Tactical Air troops recalled from operations (JTF) is an interim force Command are stationed, is to in Mali. which most likely will be be upgraded with the injection scaled down after the first of more fighter and patrol unday Vanguard was told phase (6 months) of the state aircraft as well as helicopter that the new army division of emergency had achieved gunships. will take over operations of its objectives.

The upgrade became securing the entire North-east Meanwhile, Sunday necessary, according to and seal off the border axis sources, to provide air cover between Nigeria and Niger, Chad and Cameroon where intelligence has shown that terrorists get their training and launch bombing attacks on Nigeria.

Before the establishment of the division which Sunday Vanguard gathered was on the BY TONY EDIKE past recommendation of the Chief of “The reparation will be a the Army Staff, Lt. General HE apex Igbo socio- blanket one to discuss all Oyeabor Azubuike Ihejirika, cultural organization, issues that require discussion parts of the Area of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on reparation including Responsibility (AOR) were yesterday, set up a royalties accruing from under the 1st Infantry Division committee to look into the delineation of oil wells and the of the army in Kaduna, which issue of reparation and rest. It will be all-inclusive; the has Major General Garba Wahab royalties due to Ndigbo since details will be given in due as GOC and 3 rd Armoured after he said. the civil war. course,” Division in Jos which has Major The committee, headed by Igariwey said that the Ime-Obi, General Awala as GOC. the first republic Minister, which is the highest decision Asked about the fate of the Chief Mbazulike Amechi, is making organ of Ohanaeze, Major General Ewansiha led one of the 21 committees also discussed extensively which the Chief Garry about the bomb blasts in Kano Igariwey-led executive of and the killings in other places Ohanaeze has set up to in Nigeria. handle various issues “ e condemn the killing of affecting the Igbo.

Nigerians in mosques; hree other committees we also condemn the killing of inaugurated are Nigerians in other places in North,” he said.

Planning and Strategy, the headed by Admiral Allison On the deportation of some from Lagos, the Madueke (rtd); Outreach, Igbo headed by Senator Hope Ohanaeze leader said that the Uzodimma; and Finance, matter was also discussed at headed by Chief Alex Oti, the meeting and “ we have Managing Director of asked that further comments be restrained.”

Diamond Bank. should Briefing newsmen after the According to him, Ohanaeze Ime-Obi meeting of would take appropriate Ohanaeze at its national measures to address the issue secretariat in Enugu, while appealing to people to President General of the remain calm in order not to Igbo umbrella organization, expand the problem on Igariwey, said the ground.

“Ime-Obi also condemns the Reparation Committee was expected to seek redress abuse of herdsmen on our where necessary from the farms and communities Federal Government on the especially in the South East. resources due to Ndigbo Before this time, Ime-obi had which were denied in the condemned it but since there has been no change in attitude

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he PSC Chairman, Okiro, advocating the establishment of a civil force to complement the operations of security agencies, yesterday, believes the force, under the supervision of the police, will curtail terrorism and other criminal activities at the grassroots.

The former Inspector General of Police (IGP) spoke at the Corporate Council on Africa in Washington, US. The Corporate Council, which has on its membership Nigerians in diaspora, had invited him to deliver a lecture during a round table discussion on civil security in Nigeria.

Citing the civilian JTF in Borno State, he noted that “the positive impact of the youth civilian volunteer group in Borno State justifies such reasoning.”

Okiro based his belief on the principle of the American Homeland Security, stressing that the operation of the civil security force should be in line with Bahama and Sri-Lanka models, which are under the command of the police.

Killings: Igbo demand reparation from Nigeria

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we re-emphasize the need for Ohanaeze to take appropriate actions to curb the excesses of the herdsmen. We condemn the attitude of allowing free ranging cattle into people’s farms, he said.

Igariwey explained that the meeting, attended by eminent Igbo leaders, also reviewed the National Development Plan which is a 30-year infrastructure development plan by the Federal Government.

“Ime-obi agreed that the time given for appraising the report was too short for proper input and assessment and we therefore agreed that there was need for a study group to look at the draft and to make appropriate suggestions to the Agency/Ministry responsible to ensure that the interest of Ndigbo is well protected while our sons in the legislature, the government and all agencies are put on the alert to follow the process and progress of the developed plan,” he said.

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n the forthcoming Igbo Day celebration, Igariwey stated that September 29 is usually earmarked for the Igbo Day but this year ’s would be different because we have a summit which will lead into the Igbo Day proper where the Igbo positions on many national issues now and in the future would be made public.

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IGP sued for alleged unlawful detention

Six die, 21 injured in Ogun auto accident

BY DAUD OLATUNJI Abeokuta

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ragedy struck at Osunpori village near Wasinmi in the Ewekoro local government area of Ogun State on Friday evening when six persons lost their lives while 21 others were critically injured in an accident.

The accident, which occurred along the Abeokuta – Lagos expressway at 11p.m, allegedly involved three vehicles including a truck with number plate: (LAGOS) GGE 200 XC. The Itori Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Fatai Bakare, who confirmed the accident, said that one Mazda pickup van with number plate, XA 626 AAW, and a blue Nissan pick-up van marked (LAGOS) XZ 19 EKY were also involved.

Bakare, who stated that 27

Alake regent slumps, dies at club house

BY DAUD OLATUNJI Abeokuta

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he Egba traditional council, Abeokuta, Ogun State capital was thrown into mourning, yesterday, as the news of the death of the regent of the Alake of Egbaland, Chief Soniran Sowemimo, who reportedly slumped and died at the age of 71, filtered into town.

Sowemimo, who was appointed recently by the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, as a member of Regency Council while he was away on vacation for a month, was reported to have died of cardiac arrest in Abeokuta, on Friday night.

Sunday Vanguard gathered that the late Egba chief, a-three time Commissioner for Information in Ogun State and a veteran journalist, was at Abeokuta Sports Club, Oke-Ilewo, in the company of his club members, when he slumped and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre,IdiAba, Abeokuta , where he gave up the ghost.

persons, 20 males and seven females, were involved in the crash, attributed the cause of the accident to loss of control on the part of one of the drivers of the vehicles involved.

He said, “Two males and four females lost their lives while 18 males and three females sustained various degrees of injury.

“The corpses of the deceased victims have been deposited at the morgue of the General Hospital, Ifo, while those injured were also taken to the same hospital for treatment”.

BY EMMA AMAIZEe UBLISHER/Editor-inP Chief, Delta Guide Newspapers, P

American University of Nigeria's President, Prof. Margee Ensign (left) and Library Director, Amed Demirhan (right), jointly present the Presidential Citation for Innovative Library Projects from the American Library Association, to founder and former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar.

HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY FRACAS

Rivers rejects judgment against Commission of Inquir ows tto o appeal Inquiryy, vvo

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME Port Harcourt

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IVERS State government has vowed to appeal against the judgment of a Port Harcourt High Court that prohibited the Commission of Inquiry into the fracas that rocked the state House of Assembly from going ahead with it’s work.

The state Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mrs Ibim Semenitari, who made this known in a statement in Port Harcourt, yesterday, said: “For the avoidance of doubt and for purposes of clarification, the Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, CON, as governor of Rivers State, has powers under the law to commission an inquiry into any matter or issue.

However, such matters arose as the enabling law does not state the categories or circumstances in which His Excellency can be prevented from constituting such inquiry. Consequently, the exercise of such power does not make

him a judge any more than the appointment of a High Court Judge also makes him a judge in any matter concerning him before such judge that he appointed.

“To the extent that the judgment of Justice Iyaye Lamikanra did not recognize this principle,

the Rivers State government does not accept it as well reasoned and shall take steps to appeal against it”. Justice Iyaye Lamikanra of a Port Harcourt High Court had granted an order restraining the Commission from going

ahead with its operations and also restraining the state government from receiving any report from the Commission.

The judgment further nullified the Commission, describing it as an illegality in relation to the concept of natural justice.

Metuh drags PDP to court

BY TONY NWANKWO former National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh, has asked an Abuja High Court to restrain the party from disqualifying him from contesting for the post of the National Publicity Secretary at a Special National Convention scheduled to hold on August 31. Metu was in the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) that was forced to resign. According to Metu, “Our resignation paved the way for the PDP to fill the vacancies occasioned therefrom, by the appointments of interim officers. The PDP has scheduled a Special National Convention for the conduct of the election to fill these vacancies permanently”, he stated in a 25-paragraph affidavit to the court.

Metuh said he was elected

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in 2012 at a national convention but had a petition by an Emma Mbamalu-led group from PDP Anambra against him. The petitioners complained that he had spent more than ten years in the PDP NWC and that the national executive position is zoned to Anambra North and Central Senatorial Districts while he is from Anambra South. This they said disqualified him.

“The Party did not invite me to participate in the said meeting which was ostensibly convened to discuss my issue and the representatives of the PDP assured the protesters that the Party will advise the Special National Convention Planning Committee on the issue of my non-eligibility”, he stated in his statement of claim..

Metu added: “I believe that the decision by the PDP will include disqualifying me from presenting myself for election at the Special National

Convention scheduled for August 31. and that the notice of my disqualification will come at a time very close to the holding of the Special National Convention when I will not have the opportunity and time to go to a Court of justice to set it aside”.

Metu said there was no guideline that gave the post to any particular senatorial zone in Anambra State, urging the court to make a declaration as to his qualification to contest at the Special National Convention for the purpose of permanently filling the vacancies brought about by the NWC members resignation.

MTN donates security vans to Ondo govt

BY DAYO JOHNSON , Akure

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elecommunications firm, MTN, has donated five security patrol vehicles to Ondo State government. Ondo is the tenth state the firm visited to assist the government in tackling the security problem facing the country. Its Corporate Service Executive Akinwale Goodluck, who handed the vehicles to Governor Olusegun Mimiko, said the gesture was to support the state government in the face of the security challenges facing the country.

Goodluck pointed out that the firm was aware that security of life and property is critical to the growth and development of the state and that it should not be left for government alone.

rince Orhomunokpaye, has sued the Inspector General of Police and majority leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Monday Igbuya, at a Sapele High Court in Delta State, asking for N100 million, as aggravated exemplary damages, for unlawful arrest and detention for 22 days.

Others joined in the legal action as respondents are the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5, Benin City, Edo State, Commissioner of Police, Delta State, Area Commander, Ughelli, and Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Sapele Police Station, CSP Kenneth Akubue. Orhomunokpaye is praying the court to declare that the remand order made against him for 22 days, instigated by the 1st to 8th respondents via the 9th to 14th respondents, being agents of the 11th to 14th respondents on the grounds that he lied on oath, was wrongful. He also prayed the court to declare that his arrest and detention by the 9th to 14th respondents over a factual publication made/or published by his publishing outfit (Delta Gu ide newspaper) is wrongful, unlawful and infringement of his fundamental human rights.

Glo Slide & Bounce Concert grand finale

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HE grand finale of Nigeria’s biggest concert of the year, the Glo Slide & Bounce , which has been successfully organised in eight major Nigerian cities, holds today at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.

A-list acts and Glo Ambassadors like Flavour, Lagbaja, PSquare, NaetoC, Omawumi, Waje, Chee the Voice, Bez, Burna Boy,African Number One Rapper,MI and Lynxxx have promised residents of Abuja and neighbouring cities top notch entertainment during the concert while Basketmouth, Okey Bakassi and Jimmy de Hype would compere the event.

PDP waxing stronger in Oyo —Prof. Adedoja

EOPLES Democratic P Party (PDP) is waxing stronger in Oyo State, going by the positive response of party leaders in the state to repositioning the party for good governance. This was stated by Prof. Taoheed Adedoja, a former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, when a group of PDP Ward Chairmen in Ibadan South-west local government paid him a courtesy visit at his Ikolaba, Ibadan residence.

The group, led by its chairman, Alhaji Ismaila Parakoyi, extolled the virtues of Adedoja, describing him as a committed member of the party and a leader worth emulating because of his peaceful approach to issues and the reputation he had built over the years.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 7

ASUU and Nigerian universities have gone to seeds with my father on these advantages, who wanted me to go either to Ibadan or Nsukka, and who only relented on Jos, by saying, “Oh well, Jos is still Ibadan on the hills!” In any case, I arrived Jos, and the main campus was still then on Bauchi Road, where the University had established what it called its “temporary site” since 1970 when it was still a campus of the University of Ibadan. It was a small, elegant place, as I recall it. The facilities were not gargantuan, the library was even small; but you felt a sense of the academic environment. The faculty was well-trained and diverse.

The student residential facilities were at various stages of development, but they felt hopeful and adequate. Perhaps it is nostalgia for an over-romanticized past, but I had preserved a lovely memory of Jos until very recently. I visited Jos recently on this trip from the United States. I’d wanted to visit old friends and see for myself what the vagaries of time, and the social turbulence had done to one of my favourite places in the world. On arriving, an old friend and classmate, who teaches now as an Associate Professor in the English department insisted that I must talk to her class. It was a Creative Writing Class. I’d been the best in that in my graduating year. Now, as a University Professor of English myself in an American University, after years of work as a jour-

nalist in Nigeria, I’d never been summoned to Jos as an alumnus, to make a single contribution. The University of Jos does not even know where I am or what I do, or how much I have contributed to the world of letters since I left nearly 25 years ago. I have never received a letter to update my records, or offer a dime to a University Fund, or come as a guest of the University to

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EXT June, it would be exactly a quarter of a century since my graduating class left the University of Jos. We had been admitted into the University of Jos in the middle of the 1980s, just at the cusp of the end of the term of Professor Emmanuel U. Emovon as Vice-Chancellor. Professor Emovon was then appointed to the cabinet of the military government of Ibrahim Babangida, as Minister for Science and Technology.

My class arrived Jos for our first semester in the cold September haze that gave the city a bit of its romantic allure. Admission was highly selective and competitive. The English honours class was just a handful; no more than fifteen that passed the university matriculation or the A ‘levels. Jos was a much sought-after University in those years, perhaps because of its location in what was then the most peaceful and one of the loveliest spots created by God on earth. It had a very cosmopolitan feel, moreso, than any other Nigerian University in the period.

Ibadan, Nsukka, ABU, for example had become significantly sedentary and localized. If you wished to truly encounter a broad diversity of Nigerians and internationals in that period, Jos offered the best choice.

It was partly why it kept its admission bars very high. I had argued strenuously

caricature. Yes, they converted what was planned as the University Library into an omnibus building for the faculties of Arts and the Social Sciences. The finishing is poor. The offices are desperate.

The entire place felt oppressively demeaning for a University. The campus is no longer a work in progress, it is a finished product in inelegance. It is a testimony to the lack of aesthetic sensitivity of later-day administrators of Universities, that compared to more properly designed and built University campuses in the past, the campuses of contemporary Nigerian Universities seem like ghettoes: the architecture is poor; the landscaping is atrocious; the conceptual capacity is primitive and reflects the minds

The campus is no longer a work in progress, it is a finished product in inelegance. It is a testimony to the lack of aesthetic sensitivity of later-day administrators of Universities

give a public lecture, or give a reading, or lead a seminar, or visit with my family.

This is what serious-minded Universities in climes where Universities mean anything do: they keep a tab on their alum and use them for the benefit of the university. But not good old U-Jay. Here was an opportunity, even if a slight one, to make a little contribution. And so, I came to Jos, and was shocked to my bones.

It has moved to what it calls its permanent site, but it is a site that besmears the image of a university. Both in terms of the architecture and the environment of the University, this permanent site seemed so much like a

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of those who dwell within it and those who administer them.

I had to talk to a Creative Writing class of over 200 hundred ill-prepared students in a poorly designed room.

First, no one can learn any creative writing with such a number in attendance. Second, the culture of the University is totally lost.

Students today seem like subservient bag carriers, while their Professors or instructors seem like Headmasters or Pentecostal pastors. There is poor collegiality. A University is a system and a culture all its own.

The kind of recruitment

that have gone on to replace and restock the academic and administrative faculties in Nigerian Universities have led to profound catalepsies, and I do remember my friend, Chika Okeke, Professor of Fine Arts and African Studies now at Princeton University, whose own laments about the subversive recruitments into the once Prestigious Fine Arts Program of his alma mater, the University of Nigeria Nsukka, where he began as a junior Lecturer before moving to the United States, seemed surreal until I got to Jos this past summer.

It is no longer news: the Nigerian schools system, from the primary to the tertiary levels, is in dire straits.

ASUU is in part right in drawing attention to these developments. This body of University Faculty has been drawing public attention to the crisis in the Nigerian University for nearly three decades now, and nothing has changed for the better, from the years of Babangida to now. Federal Education policy on Education and Research has so far failed to work.

Private Universities are no alternatives to the crisis in national education.

There is an important question that has not been resolved so far: if the Nigerian labour environment cannot fully absorb the current outflow in number of its generally badly trained graduates from established Federal and State Universities, what could it do with the numbers from the numerous half-baked “private” universities we have allowed to mushroom?

Successive administrations in Nigeria seem unwilling to properly fund and reposition Nigeria’s national Universities and Research institutions for strategic national development . The current ASUU strike does offer an opportunity

Per sonality ersonality sonality,, will pla playy a role in Anambra guber election— Akabueze

BY EPHRAIM OSEJI

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hief Sunday Akabueze, the Execu tive Chairman of Sakab International Company Limited, and chieftain of Labour Party from Akama na Nansa autonomous community of Ihitenansa in Orsu Local Government Area of ImoState, has not hidden his support for Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah’s governorship bid in Anambra State. In this interview, Akabueze says Ubah is the best person to succeed Governor Peter Obi when he vacates the Government House after the November 16 governorship election in Anambra State.

The Anambra gubernatorial election is the hottest issue on the political scene.

How ready is your party for the election?

The pedigree of our only aspirant, Ifeanyi Ubah, stands him out among the 41 governorship aspirants. Many of the other aspirants have at one time or the other occupied high political positions in the past, but what did the good people of Anambra State got to show for it?

Nothing. Now, we are talking about a young man who, as a private business man, has touched the lives of many people in Anambra State positively. We are

Akabueze talking about a young man who is a detribalized Nigerian, a man who doesn’t care about where you are coming from before he will let you have what he feels rightly belongs to you. For instance, I am from Imo State while Ubah is from Anambra, but God still used him to turn my life around. I am not the only one God used this humble and generous man to turn his or her life around. Thousands of Ndi Anambra, Ndi Igbo and Nigerians from other states and tribes have also at one time or the other benefited from this man’s generosity. If God can use him to do all these things as a success-

ful private businessman, what do you think God will use him to do for the people as a sitting governor? And I am not the only one that is not from Anambra making a strong case for the people of the state to support him massively to become the next governor of Anambra.

Many people from other states and tribes who really know who Ubah is and what he is capable of doing in terms of human development and economic transformation are solidly behind him, telling the people of Anambra that the political messiah they are waiting for has finally arrived. He is on course and committed to the transformation of Anambra economically and after tacets of life.

But many people believe Labour Party is not a strong platform to vie for the governorship in Anambra. This, they say, is a minus for your candidate.

The truth of the matter is that if you come to Anambra today, and in Nigeria generally, Labour Party is the most peaceful and organized political party. I am not talking because I am a chieftain of the party. I know Ubah very well. And I know he is a very organized person. He doesn’t associate tent with the people who do not value peace and unity, because he is a strong believer in unity, peace and love. I am sure that before he decided to pitch his tend with the Labour Party, he must have been ruled

for a real conversation to begin in that front, because frankly, what we currently have in Nigeria are no longer Universities. They are outdated and their missions are now unclear. But having said that, ASUU seems also to have outlived its usefulness. Its methods of organization and advocacy no longer work. It is time for this union to reassess itself, its mission, and its methods in the light of developments in the 21st century.

Certainly, Nigerians understand that any nation that rewards its legislators or ministers of government more than its top researchers is bound to slide into atrophy. That is what has happened to Nigeria: the flight of its best from its once vaunted ivory-towers into the embrace of other lands that now nurture them reflects the state of the Nigerian mind. Nigeria will remain uncompetitive for a long time until change happens. There are two strategic sectors that even mad nations preserve by every means: the national research and knowledgemaking spaces; that is national education and research, and the national security system. They could toy with others, but not these life-giving aspects of nation. But Nigeria has undermined its own national education priorities. That Universities remain closed for this long is a terrible indictment of the Jonathan administration. The irony of course, is that this president was once himself, a university lecturer who ought to know where the shoes pinches; and if Nigeria were normal like other places, the University would be where he would return after his presidency.

But no, Nigerian universities today are no longer such places. They are now ghettoes. A terrible shame on this nation.

by his passion for onenessness, peace and unity in the Labour Party. He is a team player and if he joined a political party where there is crisis, without oneness, unity and love, his being a team player will be in vain. He has promised he will carry party members along and also the good people of Anambra. In this election, personality will decide who wins. After all, who knows Labour Party in Ondo State before Governor Mimiko vied on its platform and won? It was not among the parties that every body expected will be one of the those to produce the governor. But when the best candidate declared his intention, Ondo State voted him massively on that platform. Go and see what Mimiko is doing in Ondo State today.

So, I expect to see that same thing that produced Mimiko to repeat itself in Anambra come November 16. Ifeanyi Ubah has no dent, no blemish, generous, he is a lover of youths and women, a committed Christian, a Catholic for that matter. With somebody like Ifeanyi Ubah as governor, there will be nothing like looting the state treasury. Ifeanyi Ubah has already created enough wealth for himself, his family, and people around him.

In terms of a solid, credible and popular candidate, Labour Party in Anambra has it in Ubah. And in terms of strong, popular, peaceful, unity and oneness platform, Ubah has it in Labour Party; there is no doubt that Ubah plus Labour Party equals transformation in Anambra come 2014.

PAGE 8—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Egypt, Nigeria and the June connection •Implications of turmoil for Mid-East stability

•MKO Abiola

•Mohammed Morsi

BY HUGO ODIOGOR, FOREIGN AFFAIRS EDITOR

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ERHAPS only B a s h o r u n MKO Abiola would have understood the agony of Mohammed Morsi, whose electoral mandate was truncated on June 30, barely one year in power. The fallout of the social upheaval in Egypt casts a flash back to the same crisis that followed the annulment of the result of the June 12, 1993 presidential election while Abiola was on his way to being declared the winner.

Morsi, just like Abiola, is being detained by Egyptian military authorities. Egypt is the most populous and influential country in the Arab world like Nigeria is in sub Sahara Africa. The question which the world now has to grapple with is whether Egypt will slip into civil war and the impact that will have on the world.

Nigeria came to the brink following the June 12 election annulment, but its people lacked the resolve of the Arabs to fight the coup that toppled M o r s i .

A massive military crackdown to clear anti-Morsi protesters, on Wednesday, turned bloody, as the military applied force when they moved into the protest camps erected by supporters of the deposed Egyptian president, who were demanding his release and restoring him to power. About 2,000 deaths were reported by the opposition but official figures put the number of deaths at about 600 persons.

The military backed

government of Justice Adly Mansur said it lost patience with the protesters who had been on the streets for six weeks, demanding that the military return Morsi to power. The declaration of state of emergency and imposition of curfew has been backed by massive movement of tanks, bulldozers and other equipment in a bid by government to crush the proMorsi protests.

Morsi, who took power in June 2012 on the platform of Justice Party, was said to be moving Egypt away from its secular status with the introduction of a constitution which the fundamentalist Muslim Brotherhood had heavily influenced the content. There were the minorities concerns as Morsi moved to accumulate extra judicial powers. The first sign of trouble came when he retired many senior military officers whom he felt were too entrenched during Hosni Mubarak presidency for over 30 years. The military were uncomfortable with Morsi for attempting to humiliate the former president who had been shown to the whole world being taken to court in human cage.

Apart from sentencing Mubarak to life jail for ordering the killing of protesters during the 18 day Arab Spring that swept through Egypt between January and February 2012, the former president is still on trial on corruption charges.

This development has been unsettling to the powerful Egyptian military which has been involved in

Egypt’s politics for over 60 years. Mubarak was a former air force pilot and war hero.

The Muslim Brotherhood was in a hurry to see Morsi into policies and legislations that would erode the liberal and secular status of Egypt. The attack on Coptic Christians and other minority groups signaled the limitation on the freedom of worship. On the other hand, the economy was declining at a fast rate.

Majority of young people who

Bashar Al Assad for killing his people. He disagreed with former Iranian President Mahmud Ahmedinajad over his style of Islamic government, yet, at home, Morsi was growing increasingly confused. It was not surprising when a combination of social, political and economic factors pushed the mob into the streets once more.

The toppling of Morsi was the second regime change

A massive military crackdown to clear anti-Morsi protesters, on Wednesday, turned bloody, as the military applied force when they moved into the protest camps erected by supporters of the deposed Egyptian president, who were demanding his release and restoring him to power thought that the exit of Mubarak would open the doors for employment were left in the cold.

On the external front, Morsi was unsure of his place within the Arab world and beyond.

While he was campaigning for office, he had alarmed the world with his anti- Israeli statements, but on assumption of power he began to retreat from his threats to review the Camp David Accord with Israel. He attacked Syria’s President

within 13months and the puppet regime that General Al Sisi put in place was not much different from the Interim National Government that General Ibrahim Babangida handed over to Chief Ernest Shonekan in Nigeria. The composition of the Adly Manusur government, with opponents of the Morsi administration, remains a major political albatross on the country as neither the military nor the freak government

could lay claims to legitimacy, credibility and integrity.

The positions of the opposition that Morsi should be brought back remains forlorn as that would mean sentencing the military and the opponents of Morsi to their untimely deaths. On the other hand, the supporters of Morsi are prepared to fight to the end.

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heir position has been strengthened by the arrival of militant groups from different parts of Arab world, to confront the military.

Already the Brotherhood has singled the Coptic Christian communities for reprisal attacks. They have also i n t e n s i f i e d attacks on security agencies and public buildings as part of the low level insurgency that has become the new face of the social conflict in Egypt.

The unfolding event in Egypt is not the best for peace and stability in the Middle East and Africa as a whole as experience has shown that the fighters that are mobilised for these conflicts often turn out to be sources of instability in other countries and regions.

The Mujahedeen fighters who went to fight the Soviets in Afghanistan became the back bone of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula and in the Maghreb; the same Mujahedeen fighters were also active in the insurgency in Algeria, Libya, Mali, Kenya, Nigeria among others.

The ideologies of hate that emanate from these engagements are often too difficult to contain even when the conflicts are resolved.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 9

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

The face-off on deportation of Igbo from Lagos

The Urhobo and Jonathan's 2015 project Dear Sir,

Dear Sir,

I

am not just happy about the venomous write-ups full of hatred that the Igbo and the Yoruba have unleashed against each other, since some Igbo were dumped at Onitsha by the agents of the Lagos State Government.

This is a repetition of what happened when the late Professor Chinua Achebe published his last book “There was a Country” and they abused each other on the pages of our newspapers and magazines, until they became tired.

The write-ups of Femi Fani-Kayode and Obi Nwakanma, were in bad taste, especially that of Femi Fani-Kayode which reopened old wounds that were better not to be written about again, to remind us about our painful and ugly

past!

It was bad of Obi Nwakanma to have called Femi Fani-Kayode a scallywag who studied at Kings College, Lagos and Cambridge University, London, even though he made his mark as a brilliant scholar whose write-ups, are a delight to read.

His historical facts about the accommodating nature of the Yoruba, their education, their establishment of industries, their- not having killed the Igbo as the Northerners have been killing us since the 50s till date, the heroic sacrifice of Col. Fajuyi and the domineering and aggressive nature of the Igbo for which they are hated, are quite true.

I want to remind him that the first Igbo Medical Doctor, was one Dr. Onwu from the now Enugu State and not Dr. Akanu Ibiam.

It is from his write-up about the Igbo

that I learnt the names of the Igbo Officers who carried out the one-sided bloody coup of 15/1/66 which sowed the seed of discord, distrust, suspicion and hatred amongst our tribes and since then, our country has not been the same again!

How I wish that we should stop reopening old wounds to see if we could live in harmony as one united country, instead of allowing tribe, ethnicity and religion to be dividing us!

It pains me so much when we exhibit so much hatred for each other, even though the tenets of the religions which most of us profess and which we pay lip-service to, by breaking them intentionally, enjoin us to love each other as ourselves and which we hardly do!

Ifeka Okonkwo writes in from Awka, Anambra State.

Mr President, stop PHCN's exploitation of Nigerians Dear Sir,

P

ERMIT me to reach out to the President Goodluck Jonathan to stop the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, from stealing the masses money unchallenged. Where on earth do one pay for what he / she did not use?. In PHCN billing,there is VAT of N250/ month in pre-paid meter. This was followed by government magic of adding fixed rate that started from N200,N350,N500 and now N750.

The PHCN is known for its inconsistence in power supply. In a

month, there is nowhere, except Aso Rock where light from phcn is steady, but at the end of every month , one is made to pay more than N1200 for no services. Mr president how can a parastatal be carrying this day light robbery on the people you govern?.Itis true that you once said you are the "most critisised president" in the whole world, where in the whole world can this type of phcn madness exist? please call these mad advisers to order, else they mess up your good intentions.

You can as well imagine the fuel subsidy scandal where the ministers

could not defend the fraud, yet those involved are giving national honours.In sensitive issues, you need to be proactive, that we cant build more refineries to absorb our youths causing havoc,remove importation that give room to fraud is a shame.God so exposed the fuel cabals that those NASS members asked to probe the thieves became thiefer or better still, thiefest. The dishonourable misfits who have no shame are still parading themselves as law makers.

Pastor Emmanuel Osamudiame, Church of Divine Protection, Port Harcourt.

D

ESPITE the claims of marginalization of the Urhobo people in the Niger Delta by President Goodluck Jonathan-led administration, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders from Delta Central, recently in Sapele have affirmed their commitment to support the President's 2015 project.

These notable men, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Delta State Commissioner for Housing, who represented Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, based their declaration on what they termed Jonathan’s uncommon transformational agenda, which according to them, the masses are benefiting from and said this needed to be sustained beyond 2015.

On his part, Chief Ighoyota Amori, urged his people, the Urhobo to rally round President Jonathan’s project and make meaningful contribution to his success at the polls since God knows why he brought him from the South – South and that we have no choice but to be with him Crowning it all, Chief Edwin Clark, the South – South leader, who was represented

by Chief Godwin Ogbetuo at the support rally said that the South – South people, particularly the people of Urhobo are proud of the great achievements of the Jonathan’s administration in all facets of human endeavours and thus deserves the support of his people to remain in power.

With these men declaring that the Urhobo will support President Jonathan's 2015 project, if he decides to contest, people are of the opinion that 2015 is not only about Jonathan, but about our collective identity and future as Nigerians, the Urhobo have resolved to support him.

Onabire Kevwe writes in from Warri, Delta State

PAGE 10—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Is APC the answer? -- 2

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for amusement than for anything else, all the daily exchanges between Lai Mohammed and his counterparts in the Presidency.

Lai, Reuben and Doyin, could form a comedy team.

Their utterances on serious matters of state, though not informative, will be hilarious.

Let me now return to the list because it summarises all my fears about APC. I searched in vain for the faces of Governors Fayemi of Ekiti, Amosun of Ogun and Ajimobi of Oyo States. Perhaps, they were ably represented by Fashola and Aregbesola. On the other hand, as economists often say, they might not want their mug shots on the wall with the other “SUSPECTS”. But, that is a minor matter. If ever there was a marriage of strange bed-fellows, APC is it. Unlike the PDP which started with the G-34, a group of courageous and largely principled men, Dr Alex Ekwueme; Alhaji Abubakar Rimi, Chief Bola Ige, Professor Ango Abdulahi, Obong Victor B. Attah and others (see the list in my book, PDP:CORRUPTION INCORPORATED pp 6566), and grew into a broadbased national party and a constitution, the APC started with political parties each virtually owned by one individual and which might disintegrate if anything happens to the “owner” of the franchise. That is not a solid foundation in my opinion.

Granted, the PDP had

A time will come….?

"He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have." --- Socrates

C

AN someone tell me the direction in which Nigeria is heading as I am beginning to lose my orientation . In the last couple of weeks there have been so much going on and none of it any way to move towards the future.

The elders often say if you cannot move forward at least you can go back. Not sure going back is a viable option. Should Nigeria go back to one or fast forward to Nigeria nearing 53, I sure know what many are thinking but how can we go back? Not when we have plundered our land of its wealth and resources, with series of woeful leaders and corrupt groups? We have become a sorry state. Don't say its rich coming from me while I am miles away, I can assure it is not. Although I was born in England, I will always be seen as an out-

sider to most and they will often remind me that I don't belong. So can I go back?

Back to where, what and why?

It is infuriating watching Nigerians fighting one another, fleecing each other for the last piece of morsel, billions and whatever it is, that is the latest must have symbol. We have past caring for one and other first as fellow Nigerians and then as human beings.

We lack humanity and magnanimity, yet we often parade ourselves as godly, puritanical and as though better than others. It is very wrong to only show a united front when we feel we are been attacked.

Right, we have the dubious title as being one of the the most corrupt countries in the world according to the Transparency International, which monitors international financial corruption. Nigeria is 172nd worst among the 215 nations surveyed. Surely one is not surprised are we? And it is not something to brag about either. So, which way Nigerians? Let us work to-

since abandoned its original principles and embraced opportunism, it still has a blue-print for organization and governance to which it can return if only men of goodwill prevail. By contrast, the APC, as presently constituted, consists of elements which should not ordinarily be seen dining at the same table – unless everybody comes to the dinner with ten-foot long spoons!!!...

GOVERNORS ALSO LIE “Sin has many tools, but a

,

“The more you read and observe about politics, you’ve got to admit that each party is worse than the other. The one that’s out always looks best”. Will Rogers, 1879-1935.

UNDAY PUNCH of August 11, 2013, on pages 70 and 71 provided the names and pictures of people it called “Opposition Power brokers: The Strongmen of APC”. It reads to me like pictures of WANTED men at a Police Station. For a start, the list had no single woman – that tells us a lot about the gender discrimination in the new political organization.

It is doubtful if this new “progressive” political contraption is what will take us to the promised land.

I have always been free of the deliberate self-deception of commentators who write for print media owned by politicians. My colleagues who write for such papers pretend to objectivity which their papers would not allow to be published. It is my great fortune that the publisher of VANGUARD, like me, does not carry a party card. So our freedom as columnists on this paper is total in that regard. Because the All Progressive Congress aspires to rule Nigeria, it will be subjected to the most stringent test of its suitability for that role. I regard myself as a progressive, but that does not mean I am prepared to swallow all the falsehoods which political parties dish out routinely. I read, more

portation, or the treatment of the destitute or beggars, wherever they may be, to be swept under the rug.

For the record, it is a fact that spokespersons for the Lagos State government, at first denied knowing anything about the people dumped in Onitsha. That was a colossal lie. By the time they later admitted that they were active participants in the atrocity, the explanations offered by Governor Fashola were contrived and unconvincing. He still failed to address the question: why should any Nigerian citizen be forcefully removed from one place and taken to another place. That amounts to kidnapping by government.

Meanwhile, Governor Obi of Anambra was playing dishonest games of his own. His letter to the Presi-

Meanwhile, Governor Obi of Anambra was playing dishonest games of his own. His letter to the President suggested that his government was not aware of the planned deportation of Igbo to Onitsha

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lie is the handle that fits them all”. Oliver Wendell Holmes, 1809-1894. (VANGUARD BOOK OF QUOTATIONS p 130).

“Egbon, if the Ibos don’t like Lagos, they can return to their states”, Isale-Eko Boy. The matter of deportation of Igbos from Lagos had been so thoroughly thrashed, perhaps, there is no need to continue with it.

However, two reasons compel a revisit. First, I am happy that the ethnic conflict which the original outcry started (see Isale Eko Boy’s reaction) is gradually giving way to more reflection on the larger issue.

Second, we run the risk of allowing that matter, de-

dent suggested that his government was not aware of the planned deportation of Igbo to Onitsha. That was, until Obi was reminded by Fashola about the exchange of letters between the two governments. If Obi wanted to enforce the fundamental rights of his people, he should have bluntly refused to accept the human cargo and should have gone public before, not after, the evacuation, which posed a political challenge to him.

While most of the attention was riveted on the Lagos atrocity, Obi was again reminded that his own government had also deported people to Akwa Ibom from his state. To the best of my knowledge, no Ibibio,

wards cleaning up our collective consciousness.

when Nigeria can launch four satellites into space? It is valid you would think, that maybe Nigeria is not as deprived as it claims.

But majority of the ordinary people are that poor contrary to the lifestyles of the powerful. So it will come as no surprise that majority of the oil proceeds are shared by a very small majority. None of the benefits of the oil is seen in and around our country, am not talking about the usual shop window dressing, am talking about a good quality standard infrastructure that will last more than a tenure of a government.

Evidence is there for all to see; non existence or derisory affordable education, health care, welfare, social care, transportation system and security. In fact the onus is on the individual to exist on an average of less £1.30p a day, while the 1% is living large and proud to show up the trappings of his ill-gotten wealth.

In a country so lush in vegetation and resources, 70% of the population live below the poverty line so what have we got to be proud about when our leaders go round in their Lear jets and while most of our

,

The problem in Africa is that when one person takes over, he would not see any good thing that his predecessor did

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people are going hungry and deprived of the most essentials of life?

S

o when the word got round that Nigeria had launched four satellites into space .did even know that we have a space programme!

This was news to me, well; there have been debates in the UK media about the appropriateness of providing charity funds to Nigeria; if Nigeria can afford a space programme they ask, Why should they be funding charities in Nigeria

A

s you can see, every thing is all about show in Nigeria and less about supporting the masses to help to raise majority out of poverty or deprivation and become useful citizens.

Nigeria is rich and produces crude oil that could transform our nation like Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates, and more close to home, Equatorial Guinea.

We produced 35 billion

Anang or indigene of Oron made an issue out of it. Perhaps, they are not Nigerians!!!

Let me for now conclude this piece by summarizing, as best as I can, the story of deportation from Lagos.

The first two batches, each consisting of 1,000-plus individuals, male, female and children, were sent to the North by train. Although some disembarked on the way (Jebba, Bida, Kaduna, Zaria), Kano was the final destination. This was followed by deportations to Abeokuta, Ibadan and Osogbo (Ogun, Oyo and Osun States respectively). At least the governor of Osun had announced that his state was the recipient of the victims of forced movement from Lagos. The northern human cargo included people from over fifty ethnic groups, but they were all dumped in Kano or on the way there. At least over sixty ethnic groups had been involved. So, the matter of Igbo hatred does not arise.

The truth is, there is no state in Nigeria which is home to as many ethnic groups as Lagos; so the state is the victim of influx of all sorts of people – seeking jobs and houses that don’t exist. To me, what has happened is a blessing in disguise. It has provided the opportunity for all Nigerians to address the problem of the increasing inflow of people into Lagos – which has probably exceeded its carrying capacity. It is self-deception of the worst kind for “Civil Rights activists” like lawyer Bamidele Aturu to assume that Lagos State, or any state for that matter, can continue to welcome over 10,000 new people daily from other states and be able to provide for them. Let those who now, without offering an alternative solution, ask anyone who lives on a street where

there is an uncompleted building, which had been invaded by homeless and jobless people, irrespective of ethnicity, about the experience of the neighbours, and the limits of the constitution will be apparent. Are the neighbours, according to the constitution, not entitled to safety, clean environment etc – all of which the invaders trample upon? We need a national conference on this matter.

SHORT AND SHARP, OBASANJO LIED “Alabi [Isama], however, was right in one thing, that the war had already ended before …Obasanjo came into the picture. And he came on the scene after I allowed Akinrinade to make a call to him”. Col Joe Achuzia, THE NATION, August 11, 2013.

At last we know the truth from the man who was at the receiving end of the Nigerian fore-power during the Civil War. Colonels Adekunle, Akinrinade and Isama had already won the war before Obasanjo, using “Owu wuruwuru”, took credit for the victory. “Coward”, now “liar”. Will a duel still take place?

POWER GENERATION DROPS TO 2,628MW “The total amount of power generated in Nigeria as at 6am on Saturday was 2628.6 megawatts. SUNDAY PUNCH, August 11, 2013, p 7).

Last time I wrote that the Minister of (Mis)Information was telling a lie by stating that the average Nigeria enjoys 18 hours of interrupted power supply, some “ yam heads” (as our Latin teacher at Igbobi College called dullards) wrote back to say that they enjoy 24/7 power supply. How 4000MW can provide 24/7 power supply to 160 million is left to them.

Now its 2628MW, and Lagos supply is down by 67%.

Visit:www.Delesobowale.com

barrels and 100 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. So why have we not moved forward? So, why are we not developed structurally and socially? We see other oil producing countries leading the way don't we?

as if they go to the next room,even if it is just a cough, they take their private plane overseas where they have retained a specialist consultant. Former President Obasanjo spoke recently at the fourth Ibadan Sustainable Development Summit. He said that he was disappointed in the young generation of leaders and that their attitudes to citizenry is underwhelming. Well, they must have learnt that from somewhere don't you think?

Of course, he was in fine form as he extols his achievements and he bemoaned that despite the nation's 53 years of independence, Nigeria has no leader that the citizens could commend. He said:"By implication, we are jinxed and cursed; we should all go to hell. The problem in Africa is that when one person takes over, he would not see any good thing that his predecessor did. Let us condemn but with caution," and he concluded that "during my administration as president, we had some people who were under 50 years in leadership positions. One of them was James Ibori, where is he today? One of them was Alamieyeseigha, where is he today? Lucky Igbinedion, where is he today?" Yes, where are they today and where will they be tomorrow? History will judge these people and time will tell where we are heading.

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f other countries can make a desert into oasis and have diversified knowing one day the wells will run dry. What stops us from doing likewise when we are blessed with such a green land?

These countries are already planning for the future. Not us, the rudderless leaders are busy distributing the spoils of their greed amongst themselves justifying the unjustifiable that they are rebuilding a wall, a banqueting hall, a mission house, roads that is not fit for purpose, endangering lives and you know a lot more. Our rich and powerful then rub the face of the ordinary man in it, which he too can be like them if only, he worships at the shrine of the ruthless and must sell his morals for more of the same greed.

Yeah, the law makers, government award one another stupendous salaries as big as their inflated egos.

Just like the rich of yesteryears the rich can eat cake!

For them, they can buy whatever they want. What if they are feeling unwell?

They do not have to experience the poor standard of the health care at home, they simply can go aboard

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 11

Is Gov. Fashola different from Gov. Peter Obi? the rich and indeed all inhabitants of the state irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

Those who support the removal of destitutes from core cities as part of the modernization and beautification of such cities need to know that the most developed places in the world have their own slums and

,

I

admire Governor Fas hola of Lagos State a lot and would have volunteered to be part of his campaign team if he were to contest the 2015 Presidential elections. Recently however, one of his policies greatly upset me. Now that Fashola has concluded the burial of his father, this is perhaps the appropriate time to tell him that he would lose admirers like me if he does not trace and rehabilitate, the fellow Nigerians he deported from Lagos last month to a location somewhere around the Onitsha Bridge. The deportees who have been described as ‘destitutes’ are like other citizens entitled to one vote each and their votes may probably have been instrumental to the success of Fashola in the last governorship election in Lagos State. Even if they voted against him, they are, as Nigerian citizens, entitled to be cared for by the government of the day. Accordingly, the Lagos State Government has an obligation to care for the sick, the poor,

have deported some of its inhabitants to Anambra State simply because the deportees are supposedly of Anambra origin. Although the Lagos State Government has clearly established that it interacted with the Anambra State Government before it concluded action on the deportees, our premise is that it is wrong

What is amusing about Nigerian elites who claim to hate tribalism is that they often forget that ours is a nation where every tribe or ethnic category has a selfish agenda

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the underprivileged. If so, which foreign tourists is Lagos seeking to please by such anti-poor disposition?

We therefore agree with Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State, that it was patently wrong for the Lagos State Government to

to deport certain Nigerians from any part of their country to another. Thus, those who choose to live in Lagos must be allowed to do so and should be cared for by the state. Even those who are not law-abiding cannot be deported; they can

PhD, Department of Philosophy, University of Lagos,

The difference between running the country and running the country down(2) achievements of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in prosecuting few high profile corrupt public officials and advance fee fraudsters, Obasanjo's regime failed to reduce corruption to a manageable level.

Corruption was so rampant in the three arms and tiers of government that Transparency International ranked Nigeria one of the most corrupt nations in the world. In addition to the financial rascality of Mr. President, his ministers and state governors, the legislative houses at both the federal and state levels became the Mecca of corruption, frivolity and debauchery. In fact, "lawmakers" collected (and still collect) millions of naira monthly for doing almost nothing. The judiciary did not escape decay in the system; judges and magistrates dispensed inverted justice on a cash and carry basis.

The ugly trend continued when late Umaru Musa Yar'Adua succeeded Obasanjo. It is very possible that Yar'Adua was a sincere, somewhat ascetic personality who actually wanted to make a positive difference in people's perception of governance. For instance, his concept of "servant leader" resonated with a broad section of Nigerians, and was hailed as the

beginning of a new chapter in our quest for rapid and sustainable development.

Unfortunately, the late President could not muster enough gravitas and what the philosopher, G.W.F. Hegel, called "cool passion" to clean up the deadly sludge of corruption in government. Additionally, the late President was battling with

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A

S David-West ob served, shame is an important human emotion that enables normal human beings "to recoil from evil and bad behaviour, and so tread the path of rectitude and honour." Shamelessness immunises one psychologically from the pain of evil conduct: the mental disposition allows so-called eminent Nigerians to "wine and dine" with former dictators who almost ran the country aground.

The obnoxious practice of running Nigeria down instead of running her with patriotism, selflessness, creative vision and imagination is not the exclusive preserve of soldiers, for even in civilian dispensations the evil still rears its ugly head with more devastating consequences. Shehu Shagari's corruption-infested government is a case in point. Because it ended thirty years ago, details concerning how politicians of that period squandered the country's resources have faded in the consciousness of our people.

The civilian administrations that came later have blown Shagari administration's record on corruption and incompetence to smithereens. Consider, for example, the "second coming" of Olusegun Obasanjo as civilian President from 1999 to 2007. Despite the modest

only be made to face legal sanctions for their offences. In other words, Fashola had and still has a duty to be the brother’s keeper of those he has deported.

Are we therefore suggesting that Peter Obi is a better brother ’s keeper than Fashola? That is a difficult suggestion to make because neither Peter Obi nor any other state governor in Nigeria gets near the broadmindedness of Fashola in accepting every tribe into his cabinet, government departments; judiciary etc.

Indeed, the only thing in which other Nigerian leaders are better than Fashola is pretence. Otherwise, why is everyone angry with the Lagos State Governor for doing what we all do? A few examples from even the South East, the zone that is the victim in the matter at hand will do. In October, 2011, one thousand eight hundred (1800) Nigerian citizens in the Abia State Public Service were “backloaded” to the same Anambra State because Abia State claimed that it was no longer in a position to continue to cater for ‘foreigners’ in its state.

Bishop Lucius Ugorji of the Catholic Diocese of Umuahia, the Aba branch of the Nigerian Bar Association and other well meaning Nigerians pleaded in vain with Abia State to rescind the decision. Mrs Victoria Aguyi- Ironsi wife of Nigeria’s first military head of state, having been persuaded that the policy was pro-Abia counselled

those affected to accept it in good faith. Now, if Anambra could not stop another fellow Igbo state from expelling Anambra citizens in its state, why is it surprised over the action of Lagos State or could it be that Anambra State loves destitutes more than civil servants? If to back-load means to return, while to deport means to send back, would Anambra have been less angry if Lagos had back-loaded instead of deporting the destitutes?

Meanwhile, Abia State saw nothing wrong with the policy. Rather, a spokesman of the government merely reminded critics that Imo State another Igbo State had dismissed all Abia indigenes in its public service as far back as 2002 while in 2010, remitted to Abia State, the files of all pensioners of Abia origin so that their State could take over their burden. Although this is a negative and condemnable practice, it is a convention for Nigerians to ethnicise their country ’s political and socio-economic development. For example, Nigerian citizens are subjected to differential treatment like non-indigene students paying fees different from those paid by the sons of the soil in the same public school. The reality therefore is that Nigerians love their tribes or ethnic categories more than their nation but everyone mouths the expedience of patriotism in our heterogeneous nation

What is amusing about Nigerian elites who claim to hate tribalism is that they often forget that ours is a nation where every tribe or ethnic category has a selfish agenda. Today in Nigeria, the Ijaws are poised not just to support but to fight for President Jonathan to remain in office. At the same time, Northern opposition to Jonathan is no longer just an Arewa affair.

We now have a platform of all Northern groups called the Joint Action Committee of Northern Group (JACONG) to fight the interest of the North ahead of the 2015 general elections.

Those involved in the fight for and against the President know what they are doing. As children some of them probably faced the dilemma of the Nigerian child who is refused admission into a school but his friend with a lower score is admitted because of his state of origin. Some of them may have also witnessed the cut throat competitive ethnicity in Nigeria in which a citizen who works in the nation’s public service suddenly finds his subordinate staff promoted above him because of his state of origin.

Divisive issues like these can be mitigated if in Nigeria, we can evolve a scheme whereby citizens are identified by their places of residence and not places of origin. Such a scheme would have prevented the Lagos deportation and others like it.

could account for that, such as increase in the number of Nigerians willing to engage with the leadership, greater freedom and outlet for dissent, and tremendous improvement in mass communication. However, the most important reason why President Jonathan has been criticised so severely is probably because of his mediocre performance visa-vis the tremendous goodwill he enjoyed on assumption of office about three years ago. In my view Ibrahim Babangida is the worst leader the country ever had.

But because he democratised corruption nationwide across geopolitical and religious boundaries, those who benefitted from his carcinogenous leadership

tually part of the rot in the system. In fact, the way things are, it is as if we are back to the terrible corruption-infested years of Babangida and Sani Abacha, when looting in millions of dollars and pounds was the hobby of top government officials. The truth is bittersweet, but we have to face it squarely in order to correct our mistakes and forge ahead. Definitely, Goodluck Jonathan has a moral duty to fight corruption with all the weapons available to him as President and Commander-in-Chief. Yet, from his actual pronouncements and conduct, he is not interested in doing that because it will expose him, his political godfathers and benefactors.

Nothing demonstrates Jonathan's cynical attitude to fighting corruption than the ill advised presidential pardon granted his former boss, Diepriye Alameyeseigha. That singular act, irrespective of the sugary insipidities of Reuben Abati and others who tried to explain away Jonathan's terrible error of judgment, portrays him as an unserious leader willing to compromise national interest and morality for selfish political advantage.

But Jonathan is just an individual, and despite the enormous powers conferred on him by the 1999 Constitution, he cannot achieve anything without the active cooperation of other Nigerians in charge of different institutions of state. In that regard, it is unfortunate that the crowd of visionless agbata ekee politicians in the National Assembly now still behave as if Nigeria and corruption are Siamese twins. The idea that Nigerians are inherently corrupt is false, ridiculous and betrays lack of knowledge

concerning the profound influence of environment (in the broadest sense) on human behaviour.

The late novelist, Chinua Achebe, correctly observed that "Nigerians are corrupt because the system in which they live today makes corruption easy and profitable; they will cease to be corrupt when corruption is made difficult and inconvenient." The question now is, has President Jonathan made corruption more difficult and inconvenient since he assumed office?

My candid answer is, no. In fact, a significant percentage of Nigerians strongly believe that is easier now than at any other time in our history for the rich and powerful to dream up, incubate, nurture and perpetrate corruption.

The vast human and material resources in Nigeria provide solid foundation on which visionary leaders conscious of their historical destiny can construct a truly great nation. Specifically, billions of dollars generated from crude oil exportation since its discovery in commercial quantities at Oloibiri in 1958, not to talk of other sources of revenue, would have been enough to propel Nigeria into the orbit of industrialised countries and transformed the lives of the downtrodden.

Sadly, for decades a succession of morally bankrupt and spiritually blind misfits hijacked political and economic leadership and used it to run the country down. We have already lost the 20th century; the way we are carrying on, we are likely to lose the 21st also. This generation of Nigerians has a rendezvous with history, and it will be terrible if it fails to halt the slide into oblivion. CONCLUDED.

Anybody who claims, as Mr. President's subalterns are wont to do, that the level of corruption has decreased since President Jonathan assumed office is either a liar, a fool or is actually part of the rot in the system

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health problems that compromised his ability to perform optimally. Thus, when he finally died in May 2010, Yar'Adua did not leave any tangible legacy for his successor, Goodluck Jonathan, to build upon. Jonathan's meteoric rise from an obscure lecturer to the pinnacle of political power and wealth is the kind of stuff from which blockbuster stories are crafted.

On the other hand, it is possible, as the President ruefully remarked sometime ago, that he is the most criticised leader in Nigerian history. Several reasons

lack the moral authority to criticise him openly. That said, it is difficult to exaggerate the gaping failures of the present dispensation at all levels, because Nigerians have been battling the same problems since 1979 - in fact in many areas things have become much worse. Take the case of corruption, the most formidable obstacle in our quest for national development.

Anybody who claims, as Mr. President's subalterns are wont to do, that the level of corruption has decreased since President Jonathan assumed office is either a liar, a fool or is ac-

PAGE 12— SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

(1) yourself as a leader and thinking more about the generality of the people, not thinking of allocation of money for Lagos- Ibadan Expressway and doing nothing but talking on radio or television that you have done a lot of work. If Jonathan is progressive, before flagging-off Lagos -Ibadan Expressway, the contractor and machinery would have been in place.

Go to the expressway now, you won’t see anything happening there. Maybe, next year, he would come out and tell us why it was not possible to do the road again. That is reactionary leadership.

We want progressive leaders like Governors Fashola, Oshiomole, Aregbesola, Fayemi. Go and see changes.

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*Chief Bisi Akande

My problem with Jonathan, PDP, by Bisi Akande z’How the opposition overcame the hurdle against coming together’ zSays APC has evidence Buhari is now a democrat

By GBENGA OLARINOYE A former Osun State governor and Interim National Chairman of the newly registered All Progressive Congress,APC, Chief Bisi Akande, was quoted as describing President Goodluck Jonathan, last weekend, as a ‘Kindergarten Leader’, sparking angry reaction from the Presidency. Below is the full interview of Akande who spoke in his ancestral home, Ila-Orangun, Osun State.

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ow true is the statement credited to you that your party,APC, is not interested in the 2015 polls?

I would rather say that I was misquoted. We are a major party in 2013 and you think such party would not be keen about 2015? We are very much keen about 2015. The only thing I said was that our pre-occupation as an interim leadership of All Progressive Congress (APC) was to mobilize and register members and to conduct congress and convention to establish a good structure endurable for the new party. And that the priority was the Anambra election and possibly the Delta Central senatorial election which would come up anytime from now. That was what I said, but to have said that we

are not concerned about 2015, it was a misunderstanding. I did not say that.

You were quoted as saying President Jonathan can join APC if he likes. Does that turn him to a progressive and do you admire his leadership qualities?

I know the biggest problem of PDP today is Jonathan. When the question was put to me as to whether our doors are open to PDP members that may be defecting, particularly to Jonathan if he gets tired of the crisis in the PDP, that does not mean that we admire Jonathan.

We have many reasons not to admire Jonathan I had two meetings with him in 2011, I also had a long telephone conversation with him, I did not find him to be a serious- minded leader. I can say boldly today that Nigerian’s problem is Jonathan.

It should have been easy for Nigeria if we have a thinking leadership in Jonathan. I wrote him twice on the state of the nation, he never had the courtesy of acknowledging any of the letters, and I discussed serious issues there and how we can move Nigeria forward. That shows it is with levity that Jonathan is taking national issues. He is not concerned about the society but for the second or third election as president of Nigeria and he reduces Nigerian government to Kindergarten governance. In other words, he is a

Kindergarten Leader. If you remember, because Bola Ahmed Tinubu insisted that the ACN would not participate in the Government of National Unity, he sent the Bureau of Code of Conduct after him until he (Jonathan) was disgraced.

When Dimeji Bankole didn’t want to support his candidate for the speaker of the House of the Representatives, he set the EFCC after him. See the crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly, now he sends EFCC after everybody behaving like Kindergarten Leader. We want a good leader now in our country, not somebody like Jonathan. I don’t have any reason to admire Jonathan. If he came to APC, we would have been afraid so that he doesn’t bring crisis to our party.

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hen you talk about progressive,it is is a matter of political environment. There is no way you can be in PDP and be progressive, but there is a lot you can gain if you come to APC and learn to be progressive and we believe that, no matter how reactionary you are in PDP, if you come to APC, by the time you see us demonstrating discipline, efficiency, you will be ashamed to stay behind; if you can’t be first class, you will be a second class politician. What progressive means is thinking less about

hat is your reaction to the accusation leveled by the PDP that APC is manned by expired leadership?

I think Tom Ikimi said it all that PDP has no leadership at all, not to talk of expired leadership. How do you say that leaders of APC are expired leadership? I left Osun State ten years ago. I am happy today I am being celebrated by the good people of Osun State.

Would you call me an expired leader?

Even today, Jonathan is not being celebrated in Bayelsa State where he comes from. What has he to point to in Nigeria as achievement? I don’t want to react to that kind of question. We are not for abuse, we are for work, business, not for the way they are doing.

Hon. Olayemi Olabanji (formerly of the House of Representatives) spoke in Kwara State at a forum that APC is a party of government- in- waiting. How do you react?

It is not Olabanji alone that has that mindset. If you see the way APC was welcomed after registration, you’ll be anxious to see election come and you will be convinced that APC is a government of change. It is in the mind of the people to judge which party is the party of change.

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here are fears of possible implosion in APC with the amalgamation of different political parties with different leanings and ideologies. What is the leadership doing to forestall this?

The mere fact that people do come from different political parties doesn’t suggest implosion. What do you say about Nigeria with constituents like Fulani, Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, Ibibio,and several other groups? Are you saying Nigerian is going to implode ? If it is yes; then I would be able to answer your question.

As it is, General Muhammadu Buhari appears bent on the APC presidential ticket. What is the party doing about possible counter reaction?

Buhari was the head of a military junta that sent many politicians including me to prison, but Buhari, as a politician, demonstrated to the whole country he wanted to deviate from the military way to democratic way of doing things; so, we have been working with him, discussing with him. In the military, they don’t deviate, now they have been deviating with Buhari. He himself said that he was ready to contest in primary with members of APC and, if he is defeated, he is going to support the winner. I think he said something like that and, in the military, you don’t need to be defeated, you arrest those who want to contest with you and you kill them. So, the environment of politics or democracy is waiting to change Buhari to democrat.

What is your reaction to the clamour for generational change in leadership as people like Sen. David Mark, Jonah Jang, Murtala Nyako still hold sway as political leaders?

Don’t let us make a mistake, those who

Continues on page 13

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 13

(1) Continued from page 12

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ut the tendency to want to circumvent the constitution is what is leading us to what you describe now as recycling of leadership and that was what people called expired leadership.

Why have education and provision of infrasructures which are catalysts for development been our bane in Nigeria?

That is what corruption has done to us as a people. We have schools today without education, successive governments are building schools, but inside these schools, no education is given to students.

So, education is being relegated to the background.

People are going to school and coming out without being educated. The corrupt leadership could have been taken through technology if electricity is working but corruption would not let Nigeria have good electricity but this can be decentralized like they did to telecommunication if they can do it. PDP has no courage, it is only progressive party that can do it, many of them are there to share our money; the only thing that can help us is decentralization and privatisation.

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s APC contesting the Anambra governorship poll?

We are doing what we can in Anambra State. In two weeks time, we will start registration of members and conduct congress from ward to local government and to the state level and quicklyconduct a primary to produce our governorship candidate. Election is not new to us in Anambra State. I know if the election was transparent four years ago, we would have won, but because we belong to a country where the leadership of the security like the Inspector -General thought that he was the President and not independent Inspector- General

want, but let the state take its own and spend it for the people of the state. Because of that, Jonathan doesn’t want Amaechi to remain the Governors’ Forum Chairman.

That is the only offence and because of that they sent the police and EFCC to intimidate the governor and five members of the House of Assembly in Rivers state want to impeach 27 other members, and we were here in this country during the Governors’ Forum election when Amaechi won 19 governors’ votes against 16 for Jonah Jang and PDP embraced the 16 votes as the winner. PDP is a party of riggers. This is the reason we are are running from them and, before 2015 election, PDP would show itself more, but Nigerians will not tolerate such nonsense from them.

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*Chief Bisi Akande

`My problem with Jonathan, PDP’ of Police and we think that from what INEC has just done ,coming out boldly to register APC in spite of all the pressure and obstacle put before it by the presidency, may be the INEC would be bold this time and more courageous to give us transparent election.

And if they do, election is not strange to us in Anambra State, we will win any day, anytime.

Even when we were in ACN, we won and we will continue to win. We only need to ensure that the election is transparent and we are going to create what we call watchdog forum-People who will make sure that our votes count.

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re the factors that constituted impediment for the progressive coming together in Nigeria no more there, judging by past efforts and the registration of APC? The impediment before the progressive or the opposition to collaborate in the past has been totally removed. The major impediment in the past was lack of trust among the leadership or let me say this lack of trust was brought about by lack of political education that has been overcome now.

And impediment of government in power was making sure that coming together was impossible. The lack of confidence is already in the past. The matter of political education is already in the past and the conflict of trust or the lack of trust among leadership is already overcome and that is why we have APC as a reality today.

In Anambra, Ekiti and Osun in 2014, and in the presidential election in 2015, I am predicting we would have successful outings and make life bearable for the people.

Come 2015, APC is coming to take over the government at the Villa and we will achieve this through democratic means.

On the Lagos and Anambra controversy on deportation of Igbo.

This is what I can call quality of mischief. If you remember in 2009 shortly before the election in Anambra State, the same Governor Peter Obi was displaying the pictures of Awolowo, raising up the hand of Dr Chris Ngige or something like that, just to call our member a candidate or a member of a-Yoruba party and it was dramatized the same way he is dramatizing this LagosAnambra face -off. If you read Lai Mohammed, he reminded us that Obi started it in Anambra in 2011 by throwing out people from Ebonyi. What he is accusing Lagos of doing to Anambra today is not strange.

Even in America, it happens from state to state- where you exchange destitute. Fashola has done the right thing by writing

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you mentioned were invariably leaders under the military and there is room for them to be leaders all over again in democracy. It is a pity today that Nigeria refuses to move forward in the hands of reactionary leadership generally. Our constitution is therefore to consider that once you serve as governor for two terms, no way for you again.

So, if it is implemented, and we don’t replicate the person like ex-President Obasanjo for third term election, by the time we begin to have less and less people of that tendency, subsistence system would become more reasonable. And if you remember, when we assumed office, the only place where we had is Lagos and, if you look at the subsistence system in Lagos and compare it with the subsistence of the Obasanjo system, you will be able to say the different is that subsistence of progress was that of Lagos State ACN government, subsistence of retrogression was that of PDP government. So, if our constitution is properly adhered to, I think subsistence would not be a problem for Nigeria.

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onathan style is that if you are not in speaking terms with him, like Obasano before him, he would start sending the EFCC after you. Like Bukola Saraki, the signal has already gone through the generality of Kwara State that APC is their final hope. But in Kogi, we were rigged out in the last general elections. By the grace of God, we are going to win both states.

What is your take on the

See the crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly, now he sends EFCC after everybody behaving like Kindergarten Leader. We want a good leader now in our country, not somebody like Jonathan

to Obi that there are some destitute here in Lagos. He asked Lagos to bring them to Onitsha bridge for some people who will take them but nobody was there to take them home. So, what did you expect Fashola to do? They are just making a mole out of a mountain.

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Central either ACN, CPC, or PDP and, at the end of the day, it happened that PDP won many of these wards which would soon be coming to APC. I know many of them have been worried since Jonathan started sending the EFCC after Bukola Saraki because

hat is APC leadership thinking about bringing Kwara and Kogi on board?

On Kwara and Kogi,I don’t think PDP currently have stake on it any more. Since the beginning of APC, things have changed. If you go to Kwara North,judging by the 2011 election, they were largely CPC while Kwara South was essentially ACN and Kwara

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current crisis in Rivers State?

The crisis in Rivers State, I don’t see it as a crisis. When I started this interview, I said the problem of this country is Jonathan. Rotimi Amaechi is in PDP and he was thinking that the relationship between the state and the Federal Government should be according to the constitution. The situation is that the Federal Government would just dip its hand into the state money and spend it. And mind you, Amaechi was leading governors to go to court to checkmate the Federal Government. The issue is very simple as the constitution is very clear since there is a sharing formula, take your money and spend it the way you

ow do you react to the insinuation that Sen.Bukola Saraki and Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola are coming to join APC? I have not talked politics with Bukola Saraki before, but if he and his people come to APC, we are going to embrace them. I don’t know maybe if Oyinlola would come to APC. Olagunsoye Oyinlola was my very good boy when we were in Alliance for Democracy {AD} before he joined the PDP. He was in AD, his parents were in the defunct Action Group {AG} and the Unity Party of Nigeria {UPN}. He has seen good things before he deliberately went to join bad people which is PDP. I whispered to him here in one of my meetings, ‘ what are you doing in the midst of bad people? Don’t you see how uncomfortable you are now? You better come back’.

Maybe he’s yielding to my advice and if he comes back today, he is welcomed.

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hat is the position of APC on local government autonomy?

ANS: I won’t tell you the position of APC because APC is not a party to the controversy and the matter has not been discussed at any of its meeting, but I will tell you my own mind about it.

There is no federalism in the whole world where you have more than two tiers of government- it has never happened. The moment you have more than two tiers of government, you are no more practising federalism, you are practising unitary government.

We want to practise federalism in Nigeria and we want to practise it according to the rule of the game. Once you enforce unitary, there won’t be federalism again and if you have federal and local governments, you are going to have almost about 800 states and that was madness.

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t is only federal government at the centre and the state at the federating unit, but because there is no sufficient political education to say no, when we were in government, the local government areas formed themselves into what I used to call “ALGON” and the office was created in the Vice President’s officeadministering local government from the Presidency and we went to court.

PAGE 14 — SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

C M Y K

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 15

By BENJAMIN NJOKU

njokujamin@yahoo.com

I could not sacrifice my wife for Nollywood babes —Victor Osuagwu N

O L LY W O O D ac ried to his long to r, Vic to r O su ag w u , go time lover Ros he only wedde eline 16 years t m ar d her last year ago. But at Choba, Port-H arcourt, amid su the bride’s home town in produced four rprises. The m ch ar son will be 15 ye ildren: two boys and two girl riage has s. Th ars come next m the chairman of onth. Osuagwu, eir fist th currently e A ct or s Guild ter describes hi s wife as a repl of Nigeria, Lagos chaplife. He reveal s that trust an ica of what he wanted in d understandin the stronghold g have been of his marriag e.

The beginning met my wife at the later part of 1990. I was an undergraduate at the University of Port-Harcourt. Then, she was a little girl of 17 years who was in her JSS 3. When I met her for the first time, I told her straight away that I was going to marry her. And that I was not interested in boyfriend or girlfriend relationship. I later allowed her to grow. But we became close when she gained admission into the UNIPORT. She did a certificate course in theatre arts after which she switched over to a degree programme.

Since then, we became good friends. We formalized our marriage in 2002.

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Temptation in Nollywood I saw many things in Nollywood but nothing could have made me not to marry her because she has everything that can attract a man to a woman. So, what’s the need looking around?

Moreover, I was serious about my relationship with her. I was not treating her as a girl friend but as a wife.

There was no way I could have gone into another relationship I knew I could not consummate into marriage.

Things that destroy marriage Lack of trust and misunderstanding of each other. These are the two major factors that can destroy a marriage. Again, when the couple allows the third party to mediate in their marriage. Most times, the woman listens to gossips from outside. And if she happens to be the kind of person that they could easily convince, then, the marriage is bound to crash.

The journey so far It has been smooth without

hitches. And if you asked me why, I would say because of our long time of courtship. She has been able to understand who I am, when I am happy or disturbed. We are like friends, and it has kept us going all these years. She has been able to understand my profession and enterprise. She knows when I am not able to step out of the house. It is just a matter of trust and understanding that has kept us going.

Attraction!

She is homely. Her homeliness was what attracted me to her. As beautiful as she was at that tender age, she was staying in the dormitory. But each time she came home, she did all those things that you could not easily find with young girls of those days. In those days, when you saw girls that were beautiful like

her, they usually didn’t do any home work but she was doing the normal home work of fetching water, helping her mother with her chores, and engaged in farming. I naturally love homely people and I was brought up in that setting. I need somebody who can handle my kind of person. I’m not flamboyant. I have a limit to my social life. The truth is that she is a replica of what I wanted in my life.

Accepting your proposal It wasn’t easy. I told her of my intention to marry her without having to date her, that I would wait for her to complete her education. The next day, I saw her and called her but she shunned me.

What kept us going Trust and understanding.

We have been able to understand and trust each other.

Even when I’m not in town, I still believe there is somebody at home that I can trust.

She believes her husband is safe wherever he is.

Before you met her I had a girlfriend while in the university. I was already a star then, because of the course I was studying. Obviously, I needed somebody to be part of me. But then, it was on friendly basis because I wasn’t thinking of settling down with her.

•Victor Osuagwu & wife

*Osuegwu... Same behaviour on set and home

My husband chose truck as our bridal car — Wife

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he journey so far It has been so great. I’m very lucky.

Secrets of my success Love and understanding. When you understand your partner and he understands you, with God on your side, things will work out smoothly.

Meeting him I met him when I was in JSS 3, and he was already in the university. He brought me up like a mother, a sister and a daughter. We grew up together.

I hail from the town where University of Port-Harcourt is situated called Choba. He graduated before I did.

In fact, while he was graduating from the university I was gaining admission into the same institution.

Marriage proposal He came to visit one of his friends who was living in our compound then from the hotel. The moment he sighted me, he said, ‘this is my wife’. I didn’t believe him then, but later, I realised he was sincere. I remember, before we finally got married, we used to do things together.

that would take us home. I was surprised but, all the same, I was happy because it was part of fun for me.

Regrets I always say that if I have the opportunity of choosing a husband again, it must be him. I’m not regretting marrying him.

His lifestyle You know I have been with him for a long time. So, I understand his kind of person. While in the university, I did a diploma course in theatre arts before I later switched over to political science/administrative studies. Acting is all about make-believe. As he’s acting, I’m watching him, as well as seeing the other side of him. What you see on screen is the real Victor Osuagwu. The way he behaves on set is the same way he behaves at home.

Wedding surprises My husband like to surprise people.

I didn’t know he was planning such a surprise. After our wedding, as we were stepping out of the altar, I saw a truck decorated and parked in front of the church. He told me this is the car

Memorable time with him Every time we are together, I always feel on top of the world. I’m happy seeing him around me. There is nothing he does that I don’t like.

C M Y K

PAGE 16 — SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

F G / L E C T U R E R S S TA N D O F F OV E R S T R I K E

Dr. Nasir Fagge....Why can’t we train our people and give them quality education so that we will also be exporting them to other countries?

NUC misapplied universities’ money, bungled courses accreditation — ASUU President, Dr Fagge Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) President, Dr. Nasir Fagge, in this interview, blames government for the dwindling fortunes of education and the National Universities Commission (NUC) for misapplying universities’ Stabilization Fund.

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HE Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Okojie, is shifting the blame on the rot in the universities to the authorities which he accused of lacking in good leadership. What is your take?

The accreditation exercise conducted by NUC in all programmes in the universities was a charade.

That is what the Needs Assessment report proved. If the system is working, maybe, the system is working according to his own personal standard not according to the national minimum standard in education that is in the law of the country.“If he is saying that things are going normal, there wouldn’t have been any problem in the system but our students and we that are working in the system know that there is a problem. And to make matters worse, the proposals ASUU made to government

in 1992 on how to get additional funding for the system, one of them has been cornered by NUC and NUC is just using the money without making it available to the universities, the Stabilization Fund. I think there is the need for investigation into the NUC activities.“ How much did NUC misapply?

The first amount that was made available, I think, was N1.6 billion and the NUC boss himself mentioned at the National Assembly that the money was diverted to buy a house which initially National Open University was supposed to use. In actual fact, the law did not allow NUC to use that money to buy a house. The Stabilization Fund is supposed to be used to assist universities in emergency situations; when they need money urgently, you can draw from the money and stabilize and when they get their own money, they can return it into the Stabilization Fund. “NUC just cornered the money and was using it to do what is normally budgeted for every year. “Government is supposed to replenish the fund so that there will be a certain amount that should be put into the fund

Must our children continue to go to Ghanaian universities for education? Must our people be leaving our country, be brain-drained to other countries to develop their economies

annually; and from the interest, the universities can draw, that was the idea.

NUC is using the money to organize conferences and all kinds of things that the money was not meant to be used for. “ Any hope for the resolution of FG/ASUU crisis soon?

I keep telling people that all my life, I have been optimistic and that I think, if I had been a pessimist, I wouldn’t be where I am now.

I am always optimistic that no matter how difficult a situation is, we will be able to address it. But the key issue is that government must do what is right. “This thing that they are saying

agreement cannot be implemented, we have heard it before. Prof. Ben Nwabueze was always in the media when he was the Minister of Education saying it was an agreement of imperfect obligation. The thing about it is that if other countries are investing about 28-30 per cent of their annual budget in education, typically Ghana, why not Nigeria? Is it because we are under the dictates of IMF and World Bank? Don’t we want to do what is right? Must our children continue to go to Ghanaian universities for education? Must our people be leaving our country, be brain-drained to other countries todevelop their

economies? Must we continue this way? ““Even now, what is happening is that the Chinese have taken over our economy simply because they trained their people, they educated their people and their people can compete anywhere in the world.

That is why our President is going to China to sign MoUs. Why can’t we do the same? Why can’t we train our people and give them quality education so that we will also be exporting them to other countries and bring foreign exchange and we will not need to import people to do sundry projects in our country?“Most of the key contracts now are being handled by Chinese companies; most of our companies are down simply because we have not paid high premium to our education sector.

Are we happy with what we are producing as graduates?

We are not; that is what we are crying out for. Let people understand that it is the pride of an intellectual to produce a well- rounded graduate who is even better than himself. We don’t have the facilities to give our students the state of-the-art training and we are crying out and some people are telling us all sorts of things.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 17

F G / L E C T U R E R S S TA N D O F F OV E R S T R I K E

ASUU collaborated with administrators to run universities aground — Prof Okojie, NUC Executive Secretary

By JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU As the face -off between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) lingers, the Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Julius Okojie, in this interview, exonerates government from blame over the decay in universities. Excerpts of interview: What is the problem with the implementation of the FG/ASUU agreement?

“When there is negotiation, it is easy to implement the salary structure first under the budget, others issues will wait. The question of improving the university system, you can’t do it immediately you have a budget for it, so, you can’t accuse government of implementing salary structure first. “Then they talked about injecting funds into the system. What government has done is to undertake what is called Needs Assessment. TETFund has about N600million for each public university every year for capacity building and capital development, but we are not seeing much improvement in university system. “So, government is saying, ‘let us see from each of the universities what their needs are; each of these numbers of students in this programme, what are the faculty basic needs and requirements of subjects?’

Now we have the Needs Assessment report, it’s a process that passed through the Federal Executive Council. Then, government went to NEC (National Economic Council) because the state universities are not directly funded by Federal Government, so they wanted to get the governors to buy into it and, in fact, at that meeting, it was decided that primary C M Y K

• Prof. Julius Okojie

We send money to universities every year, if it is not well spent, let them indict themselves. Government is saying from now, if we have the money, we will go and look at what project they want to put the money into

education, secondary education, NCE and HND programmes will also undergo assessment. That’s the part we have traded and government is saying N100 billion will be made available to start the project with the needs of each university identified from that report and that, subsequent years, we will make more money available and government is saying it alone doesn’t fund these things because

there are other funding from Central Bank, PTDF, TET Fund, NCCE, NUC, etc.

World Bank is even our development partner. Government is saying if we bring all these together, it will amount to something. It is not a question of releasing the money to universities, you must tie it to a project, and that is ongoing.

N1billion requirement

The issue of age retirement has been concluded while other issues that have not been concluded are ongoing; government is making progress and the AGF gave them (ASUU) a bit by bit response on where we have reached on those issues because you can’t revamp the university system in one year

“They talked about infrastructure. On this, government is saying these are public facilities; and that if it wants to sell them, the unions and the university can form a property development agency and compete, so that they can get fund. We cannot form it for them as NUPENCOM is already in place into which government pays N200m through TET Fund, N50m through NUC and universities make contributions. Because we couldn’t meet the N1bn requirement, we went to the AGF to give us a waiver so that instead of N1bn, government will now pay N600m. We are processing that through PENCOM. And we are not driving it; there are members of board of trustees.

So how can you say government has not done something in that regard?

“The issue of age retirement has been concluded while other issues that have not been concluded are on-going; government is making progress and the AGF gave them (ASUU) a bit by bit response on where we have reached on those issues because you can’t revamp the university system in one year.

“Staff/student ratio On allowances, government needed figures to pay.

When we paid the first salary of ASUU and the nonteaching staff in 2009, because the figures were given, we tried to pay to individuals; we had N359m in excess which was lodged in bank. Government is also

saying ‘let us do the staff and students audit so that we know the staff and students ratio’; but ASUU is saying there is one lecturer to 400 students. The problem they have with the NUC is that we are infringing on the right of the Senate and we told them we have two Acts; one Act talks about the target of NUC and the other talks about the national minimum academic standard and the establishment of higher education. Under the second Act, NUC can decide to withdraw“a degree that has been awarded if we have reasons to do it and they are asking us, ‘how come we have stepped down the high degrees?’ But for some of them in the university system, to be in good standing, you must have 1.5 CGPA; anything less than that means that you are not in good standing. A student in final year that has less than 1.5 CGPA, what are you going to do with him? So we say let there be early admission so that this student can take a programme that will earn him a minimum of third class honour. Is there anything wrong with that?

“Unfortunately, they run the system, they are in the Council, they are in Senate; they are HODs. I don’t see where anybody has gone wrong.

“Autonomy “They wanted autonomy, they have autonomy, they also choose those who will be in Council, you find in some universities the chairmen of ASUU are members of the Council. So who are we blaming for what is happening in the system? We send money to universities every year, if it is not well spent, let them indict themselves.

Government is saying from now, if we have the money, we will go and look at what project they want to put the money into. Is there anything wrong with that?

Government is not going to give the money and just fold their hands.“In the past six years, government has given to about six public universities about N3bn to revamp the system. Despite the capital grant every year, do you know the funny thing?

Some of the universities couldn’t defend it. We have so much liquidity in the system; let them mop up what they have.

The problem they have is poor leadership. “When you hear that the system is so decayed, go to these institutions and find out if they are still using chalk.“

PAGE 18— SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

My narrow escape from assassins in Cameroon, by Vice Admiral Adekeye, ex-Chief of the Naval Staff

*’Twice, Samuel Doe soldiers came close to sinking my ship with 70 men on board’

V

ICE Admiral Ganiyu T.A. Adekeye, as a former Chief of the Naval Staff, saw the Nigerian Navy inside out. In this interview, he speaks about his career in the navy that spanned 40 years in the process of which he had close shave with death many times and life in retirement. Excerpts:

BY OLALEKAN BILESANMI How is life in retirement?

I left office about five years back, so it might not be that easy to immediately change from something you have been doing for the past 40 years. The only difference now is that I am not afraid of anybody as to whether I come to the office or not. Nobody is asking now whether I come to the office or not. I get myself engaged now most of the time. If not for the Ramadan, I still wake up around 4am and I don’t go to bed until around 12midnight and 1am every day.

What prompted you to join the navy?

First of all, as a student then, I was reading anything on war, spies and technology.

James Bond stories fascinated me a lot. And because of this, I was determined to go into the armed forces whenever I had the opportunity. So when the opportunity came, I decided to go to the navy, mainly because of technology. This was exactly what I told members of the interview panel when I was asked why I wanted to join the navy. The navy operates on the all the strata, under and on water and even in air and you see the technology that goes with it is quite different and challenging.

But did you at that time think you would come this far by reaching the peak of your career?

There is a saying that every cadet that goes into the academy has at least a star in his pocket. That is high level star.

That was the aim of every cadet. And if you are able to get to the rank of commodore, one would have achieved that. As C M Y K

a cadet, yes that ambition was there that I would go far, just like every other cadet that came in, but there was no certainty of anything. As a believer, I didn’t have any assumptions as to where I would reach but I just applied myself to every facet of my training, administrative and left the rest to the environment to judge. When I went to sit for the entrance examination, I didn’t know anybody; so when I was called for interview, I was surprised and that is why I felt, shortly after I came in to the NDA, that the navy was there for anybody to rise to any position.

Can you recollect some life threatening moments particularly during combat?

There are quite a few. Do you know the rope with which they tie a ship? Those ropes can be terrible because some of them are made of nylon. It has terrible elasticity such that if it parts at maximum speed, it is like a bullet. The effect can be catastrophic. If it hits anybody on the chest for example, that is the end. If it hits a car too, the car would be fatally damaged. So we are always very careful about it in the navy. There is also something we called bite. That bite can close at short notice. In July 1986, I was a lieutenant commander, we were in Malabo trying to bring a ship out.

I was in charge of the front part of the ship; I was giving instruction but I discovered that they were not reacting sharply enough to my orders. So i jumped down from the pedestal I was standing on to meet them. But as I was running there, I stepped on a bite and instantly it tightened on my

*Adekeye ...I had close share with death several times

The next thing that came to my mind was that I was going to lose my leg, but, miraculously, before the bite could cut off my leg, the rope flew off and the belt opened left leg above the knee. The ship was taking its weight on it and the ship was moving.

The next thing that came to my mind was that I was going to lose my leg, but, miraculously, before the bite could cut off my leg, the rope flew off and the belt opened. I kept on giving the orders as if nothing happened. If my leg had been cut off at that time, of course, few months later, I would have been out of the navy. It is not something I always talk about, because it will amount to praising one self. There was a time when we were in Liberia for ECOMOG operations. We captured a ship without firing

a gunshot, because we didn’t have anything to fire. What we did was aggressive pursuit of the ship; the captain was frightened and that was how we captured the ship. There was another time I was patrolling off Downtown Monrovia.

At that time, the late President Samuel Doe was still in power and in the Villa. The Villa over looked the water and his armed men were busy shelling the water. We had gone on patrol and we were returning to base. Suddenly one of my men said, ‘’Oga, something dropped behind us”, and, immediately, I said, ‘’Shut up, it is your ship they will drop

something on, not mine”, but, shortly after, some other shells dropped which I saw myself.

We had to quickly change direction towards the sea we were able to manouvre our way out of the danger. If one of the shells had hit my ship, we would have sunk. And we had about 70 men on board because we were carrying ammunitions too, and there would have been secondary explosions. There was a time they were shelling us at the port. On that occasion, my fuel was low, so I took permission to go to the jetty to take fuel; the ship could take 35,000 litres and had only taken 26,000 when the shelling of my ship started. It was unexpected.

The shells were just falling around us. But minutes before that time, I had gone to meet the men managing the ropes that if we had to leave in an emergency, they had to release the ropes and the bite to us. That was one of the things

Continues on page

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 19

My narrow escape from assassins in Cameroon, by Vice Admiral Adekeye, ex-Chief of the Naval Staff Continued from page that saved us because by the time the shelling started, everybody ran away including those on the jetty. As we were making our way out, the shelling was just following us. Of course, the most talked about was when hired assassins were after me in Cameroon. The sad part of is that was organised from our (Nigerian) embassy.

It originated from a top embassy official and they used two other officers in the embassy.

The men came well determined, they had all the information they needed to execute the job, they even had an insider in my house who was to leave the doors opened for them except that, for one stroke of luck, we withdrew all the keys to the outside doors the previous night. We had no prior knowledge of what was about to happen. Unfortunately the assassins could not come in, so they had to break through the burglary proof of the house from outside. It was that that alerted us. As I came out to look at what was happening, they were just trying to come into the compound.

So as I was shouting at the balcony, I saw that they were withdrawing from the compound, but one of them pointed his hand at my direction, an instinct just told me that this guy might be armed, why not lie down. Second after I took that action, he fired and the bullet hit the upper part of the window. So I ran inside to make a call to the national security but these people, to show they were not thieves, went to the back of my house, climbed through the balcony; it was high that you could not climb it without ladder, and they didn’t use ladder. My bedroom had sliding glass door, very difficult to break, they did. And suddenly they were knocking and banging on my bedroom door, all we were hearing was, ‘I will shoot you, I kill you, open the door.

I say open’. But I kept asking them what I did and whether I was owing them. When I saw that the door was about to give way, I threw the phone away, grabbed my wife and we both ran into the toilet.

Couldn’t you have shot, or were you not armed?

We were not allowed to carry arms as diplomats. The government said they would provide us with security. It was only Americans and Israelis who were lucky to be allowed to carry arms. The Israelis were doing some training for them (Cameroonian armed forces) and so the rest of us were not allowed to carry arms.

C M Y K

The toilet was in two parts, there was the wardrobe side and the wash room . As we ran into the toilet, they were breaking into the bedroom and of course headed straight to the toilet door; they kicked it, the door didn’t give way, they now fired into the toilet but, before that time, my wife and myself were lying down flat. The way they fired the bullet, you would know that they were very technical guys, they fired at an angle thinking that we would be standing at the window, but the bullet didn’t hit the win-

And suddenly they were knocking and banging on my bedroom door, all we were hearing was, ‘I will shoot you, I will you, open the door.

I say open’. When I saw that the door was about to give way, I threw the phone away, grabbed my wife and we both ran into the toilet

dow, it hit the wall; if we were standing, there was no way the bullet would not have hit us. After that shot, I was thinking that these people knew we were not hit by the bullet and they would know that I am a military man; we got up and i took my wife to main wardrobe, we were there for close to 40 minutes. Help did not come and they too were still there. We broke the toilet window glass and threw it to the roof of adjacent buildings so that we could arouse attention, but nobody responded. There and then, I made up my kind that if indeed these men were bent on killing us, one of them would not leave the place with his full body intact. I removed the toilet rack made of steel, and told my wife to lock herself up.

Whoever I lay my hands on first, either his head or hand will go, and if that happened, the tide will definitely turn.

Maybe they thought I might do that, so they didn’t bother to come further, they only stopped at the toilet door. The question on many lips was what stopped them from coming further when they had already gained access to the main room which was difficult; at least every knows that toi-

let doors are usually not that strong. Of course we knew, with benefit of hindsight, that it was God that stopped them.

T

he military, some say people say, are not tackling Boko Haram effectively. What do you think?

I don’t agree with that statement. I think we should look at security globally. Security, first of all, is information; and correct application of such information. The military is always used as a last resort.

These (Boko Haram) are civilians after all. These are people like you and I except that they have another aim, to kill.

So you can’t put everybody under military scrutiny 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

That is not possible. Information is necessary. You need to know what their plans are, how they are carrying out the plans. Military is supposed to go in, in a precise short period, finish the job and get out.

But they have not been able to do that now?

Yes, because the crisis had festered for so long and you now bring the military in.

These are insurgents. They are part of the people. Unless you want to do what happened in Odi to these states under review, the military is not trained to relate to that kind of situation. Military solution should come in as a last resort. Even the secret service will be part of it. It is only when they are not getting the desired result that the military comes in and they are usually given a definite task over a definite time. The fact that we have stopped giving our military definite task over definite time is why you think the military is not effective.

How did you come about the word “iron bender” while in service?

A: It was a very funny matter. Most of my early career, I was always in ships and training establishments, I was always insisting on following the rules especially in operations and training. I always told them that there is a manual combined many years back, taking all kinds of considerations, saying that if you want to do this, do it this way but people will come and say we can do it this way, it does not matter. But for me it matters, we must follow it. If we follow it and develop it, we can now create our own rules; that is a different thing. So in all training, I was always very stubborn when it comes to rules. I will never yield to another rule apart from the

*

Adekeye ...Assassination organised from the embassy laid down ones. It was not as if I was forcing the boys to do it, I was always participating.

Like when I asked the personnel in Port Harcourt to trek 35 kilometres exercise, I participated .It was the trainees that gave me the name. I know better than to trying to stop or fight it because the more you do that, the more it becomes popular.

Any regret at all?

None that I can think of. I am a very flexible person all along. I am flexible enough to know that I cannot force you to do what you don’t want to do. That is why I can never be disappointed. For example, if I didn’t start the Post -Service Housing Programme then, I doubt if it would ever have taken off, may be the present chief of the naval staff would have started it. Nobody would have started it because everybody would just be conscious of the time he would finish

and leave office. So, if I had left office without some of those things we did, I might have regretted. So, I don’t have any regret in my life.

Who are your role models?

At the initial stage of my life, my role model then, if I told you, you will be surprised.

It was General Olusegun Obasanjo. As a soldier and engineer, I was seeing him in two different roles.

He was at the battle front and he virtually ended the war. He was part of those who constructed the Ijora area with inter locking stones then. I have role models all over the world, he remains number one.

Any political ambition?

I have always said it that the vista is wide enough, that there are areas where we all can make impact nationally that all of us will now concentrate on politics.

PAGE 20— SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Email: woman.vista@yahoo.co.uk

(07036819426)

HIV CASES: IGNORANCE CAN MEAN CRUELTY T

here were no dry eyes in our group when we dis cussed the story of 24 year old Gloria Asuquo, who was diagnosed HIV positive which she had got from blood transfusion, at the tender age of 12, and who sometime later, had thought that death would be the best option for her situation.

The report of a chat Vanguard Health Editor, Sola Ogundipe, had with her in Abuja the other week, could melt the stoniest heart.

She was preparing to go to JSS1 when she was diagnosed. There were drugs to control the condition at that time but her family was too poor to afford them. Her father, however, was determined to do his best to purchase what he could for her, but the mother protested this because she thought it was a waste of scarce money to spend on someone who has ‘already been condemned to death’. The woman sought counsel from the pastor of their church, who was reported to have announced Gloria’s status to the community, and who advised that she should be taken to one of the general hospitals and abandoned there to die. Her father refused, asking the pastor if he would allow similar fate for a child of his. However, at home, she was separated from the rest of the family, and apportioned a part of the house to live in by herself.

When the stigma was too

View-Point

Helen Ovbiagele Woman Editor

know what has killed her if she died from the condition. What a brave heart!

God must have blessed that effort of hers not to disguised her ailment because she later met a Dr. Anthony Agu a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nusska, who took her to live with his family, enabled her to continue her education and in 1996, she completed her studies. Dr. Agu then told her that drugs had become free. So she went to Gwag-

,,

She’s pleading with the authorities and anyone in the country who can help, to make the relevant drugs accessible to all HIV positive people, especially young people and women who are the most vulnerable, and helpless

C M Y K

much to bear, she reportedly broke through a window and escaped to an unknown village to live in the bush. She just wanted to die. She found her way to Jabi Park in Abuja.

She had stopped taking her drugs, and it was like life was collapsing around her. She went to NTA and shared her story.

Fearful about how the exposure would affect her young life, she said the staff there asked her to cover her face while narrating her story on screen, but she refused saying she wanted everyone to

walada Hospital, was placed on the relevant drugs, but she said she never went back home. Other medical professionals looked out for her to help her too, but it was Godwin Odemijie of Radio Nigeria who went to look for her and brought her back home, and that today, she’s a testimony in her family, and there’s no event on the condition at which her opinion is not sought. We thank God for all the people who were used to encourage her to live and have hope for the future.

She’s pleading with the au-

thorities and anyone in the country who can help, to make the relevant drugs accessible to all HIV positive people, especially young people and women who are the most vulnerable, and helpless. She would want to become a medical doctor so that she can help find a cure for the condition.

At only 24, she still has many years ahead of her, by the grace of God, to do all that her heart purposes to do, but would one call those who thought that death was the only thing that she was entitled to at the age of 12, heartless? Certainly not! Her dad was unfailing in his support for his daughter, but the mother also loved her too.

In a village, access to correct information about ‘strange’ medical conditions is zero, even now. When the HIV condition was diagnosed on these shores, people recoiled with horror from victims because the first information about possible cause was that it was got through sexual intercourse. You can imagine the reaction of the families of young unmarried girls who were diagnosed the condition! It could only mean that the girls had been leading a sexually promiscuous life! Now we know that it could be contracted through unprotected sexual intercourse of any type, blood transfusion, shared needles for tattoos, drugs, or even used syringe needles for injections at hospitals, or at laboratories. Shared toothbrush could be risky too, due to likely bleeding gums. In those early days too, people believed that hugs, handshakes, using the same plates and cutlery, toilets, beds and chairs with a victim, were all contagious. It’s been proved that this belief is wrong. Thank God for that.

If Gloria’s mum, relatives and her pastor, etc. had known this, I’m sure she would not have been treated by them like an outcast, and someone destined for early death. The truth is, the condition knows no race, age, or social status, and it isn’t something you can diagnose merely by looking at someone. A blood test has to be done to determine a person’s status.

At present, the condition and the sufferers are no longer dreaded as before, by many of those who dwell in the urban areas of our country. This is thanks to the efforts of NGOs on the condition, who, in partnership with the media, have been using seminars, conferences, talks at grassroots level, in schools, at motorparks, and market places, to educate people on

HIV, and how to relate with victims.

Prodded by these organizations, the government has been trying its best too, to educate citizens, and bring help and relief to those affected, and to their families.

Some religious bodies have been helping too by bringing in experts to talk to their members.

Still, there’s a lot more to be done, particularly in the rural areas, before we can be satisfied with the control of the condition. Citizens should be sensitized to the need to go for blood tests, which should be free in all government health institutions in the country. Right now in Lagos, where many parents who want nannies and house-help know that it is important for those they employ to be tested for HIV and Hepatitis B first, the fee is two thousand naira for each test in private hospitals. In my view, this is

too high. Not every home which needs a domestic for young children can conveniently afford this; as they may have to pay for more tests if the first person proves positive. The Ministry of Health should ensure that private health institutions can do these tests for five hundred naira at most.

Then there should be ready counselling and immediate supply of drugs for those diagnosed positive in any hospital – private or public. The giant of Africa can easily afford this. Public money is not just there for those who serve in any capacity to line their pockets with. It is there to be used for the good of all citizens, rich or poor; high or low.

Instead of investing in frivolous projects which usually end up abandoned after the tenure of the initiator, we should invest in the good health and welfare of Nigerians.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 21

Email: woman.vista@yahoo.co.uk

A

yo Olayinka is the CEO of Bold Idea, a media/ entertainment company, with emphasis on radio, television and social assignments that specializes on event management, adult/ children’s parties, carnivals and coverage of special occasions. With an experienced crew made up of radio producers, television directors and camera operators, the company has consistently organized successful events especially children events. In this chat with Esther Onyegbula, Olayinka from Ekiti State shares how she has been able to nurture and build her passion into a lucrative event management company, business experience in the budding industry, child abuse, as well as how organized play helps mental development of children.

Genesis I started doing this unofficially about 15 years ago; organizing events, and gradually I began to assemble some relevant entertainment equipment. I started first with cartoon characters and when I saw that the response was good, and people were asking for our services, I added to the equipment. I went fulltime after I resigned from my job as Manager, Programmes at NTA, Ibadan.

Inspiration The inspiration to have an entertainment company that specializes on children events was kindled by my desire to always want see children have fun. While working in NTA, I was in charged of children’s programs and I realized that I enjoyed working with them. During my presentation I researched different ways to make them have a nice time. The smiles on their faces encouraged me, as I knew that they were satisfied with my services. With every event organized, I have improved and grown to be more efficient in the various services provided.

What services do you provide and what makes them unique?

Our services range from event consultancy, event management, to rental services.

The services that we bring are good and second to none. The children’s entertainment section boasts of the best quality cartoon characters, Bouncing castle, Train rides, ice-cream and pop corn pavilion and access to popular local artistes and performers for appearances at our functions. We always ensure that all our facilities are in perfect condition, and considering the fact that we are working with children safety come first. We’re committed to giving clean and hy-

In event management, safety is vital — Ayo Olayinka

gienic services.

How important is organized play to the development of children?

Play is very important and it helps the development of a child, in the sense that after a hard day’s work in class, it helps build their mental capacity. When they play, they interact with their mates, and they learn one or two new things. So, play too, is educational because children are exposed to things which awakens their minds and help them acquire new skills and cognitive skills.

How affordable are these services knowing that some children will never be able to participate because of their humble background, which is no fault of theirs?

Well our services are very affordable, because we know that everything is not about money, the services we render are the most important. That is why; most times we bend the rules to accommodate the needs of our clients depending on their needs.

In this line of business what has helped your

to get hurt. This includes having equipments and castles that are firmly erected and can stand the wear and tear.

Punctuality is very important in this line of business, using traffic jam as a n

Apart from that most children would not want to report because they are scared, which is why most times people who perpetuate these abuses get away with it.

Ayo Olayinka

,,

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

(07036819426)

Play is very important and it helps the development of a child, in the sense that after a hard day’s work in class, it helps build their mental capacity. When they play, they interact with their mates, and they learn one or two new things. So, play too, is educational because children are exposed to things which awaken their minds and help them acquire new and cognitive skills. company grow?

Safety is key, as much as you want the children to have fun; the safety of each child is paramount to me. I can’t afford any child under my watch

excuse is lame because it is expected that you work ahead of time, irrespective of the size or facility the client requires. Also maintaining a very clean and hygien-

ic facility, making sure that each of the cartoon characters and castles are presentable and attractive are also vital.

Working with people who are receptive and kid’s friendly is very necessary, as the easily key into the vision of providing maximum excitement and fun at each event.

Do you think we have laws that protect child’s rights in this country?

Well we have the laws, but the problem is that they are not being enforced. As parents we are guilty in the sense that we abuse some of these rights. And because of our societal makeup, children who are abused don’t have the courage to report such abuses to appropriate authorities. And even when they do report, do they get the right child support to backup their claims? Unfortunately it is just a few cases that are actually reported by neighbours who feel that something terrible is happening to a particular child.

Don’t you think that poverty is a contributory factor to some of these abuses like child labour?

To some extent, yes poverty contributes to some of these abuses especially child labour, but when you look at most of the families that produce these children you will find out that there are about seven or more children born into a family with little or no tangible source of income. I believe that it is high time people get more involved in family planning and reduce the number of children they can have to the number of children they can adequately cater for. Everybody knows that in Nigeria it is increasingly becoming difficult to cater for a large family.

What is the future?

The future is very bright, in the sense that as children grow into teenagers other children are being born and a whole new generation is coming up, so it is actually a huge market.

PAGE 22 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18, 2013

Scared to approach girls!

Dear Rebecca

I

AM a 20 years old guy, an under graduate. Some time ago, I met a lady or girl at a cyber cafe. We both attend the same school but are in different departments. I have been trying to tell her how I feel about her, but l can’t because I am always shy to speak to a girl or lady. I feel that I may be shunned, insulted, or ridiculed.

Could it be because I was told by my mother to always respect women that I’m too shy to approach them for a relationship? Please how do I express my feelings to her?

Somto, Aba

ready your friend that you would like her to become your girlfriend. If you can’t say so, face to face, do her a letter or give her a greeting card with suitable words. If she tells you that she doesn’t want romance, accept it and continue as friends.

Don’t get jealous when you see her with boys.

After some time, ap-

proach another girl.

If you have been a good friend to the girls who are your friends, they may introduce you to a girl they feel you’ll like. Anyway, I’m sure you’ll meet one yourself.

If a boy is clean, polite, kind, responsible and achieving, girls would find him attractive Yes, some rude girls

may answer you with harsh words, but as a man, you smile, apologise for approaching them and then leave them alone.

They would feel ashamed when you respond in a polite and civilized manner. However, concentrate more on your studies now than on girls.

to tell a girl who’s al-

I

’M a 22-year-old undergraduate in love with a 24year-old business guy.

We love each other very much, but the problem is that he lives near my house and most of my siblings know him, though my parents don’t. I’m not sure if my parents will approve of our relationship, if they find out that he is my fiance. Another thing is that we cut our hands with a razor-blade and licked each other ’s blood. Do you think that could have a negative effect on us? Please, I need your advise Aunty Rebecca.

Girl from Anambra

A

RE you serious?

In these days of great awareness of the HIV virus which can’ be contracted through using already used razor blade, needles, unsterilized dentist’s instruments as well as sex, will an undergraduate really take the

Y

common interest to young people.

See her as a sister.

That should make you relax in her company. If a girl does not respond well when you greet her, then leave her alone.

Make friends with several girls around you so that you can get used to regular interaction with them. This would build up your confidence in their company. Don’t brag or boast, but do most of the talking at first as you get to know them. Listen as they talk to you.

Most girls like sympathetic listeners. Don’t think of romance or sex, just concentrate on being a good friend, just as you can be with a boy.

Later, it would be easy

Dear Rebecca

REPL Y REPLY

REPL Y REPLY OUR mother is right to teach you to respect women, but that should not make you unable to communicate with them.

Afterall, you must have female relations that you interact with regularly.

If you are shy, remember too that most girls are shy and they expect the boy to make the first move towards friendship. Also, as the future head of a home, you must train yourself to be bold and confident in dealing with fellow human beings- male and female. When you meet a girl you like, start off with ordinary greetings first, and later, if you find her responsive, stop to chat about general things like, studies, family, friends, and other respo nsible things of

Will the blood oath harm me?

I love her, but now have my doubts!

Dear Rebecca

I

’M a regular reader of your publication in the Sunday vanguard. I’m very grateful for your tremendous works. I’m a guy of 30 , a business man, in love with a 26 year old girl. We have been for four years now. I so much love this girl that I have decided within me to marry her. I used to express my feelings for her in the notes/ texts I sent to her. Once, she asked me about marriage, and I told her that was my intention. I was surprised that her people began to call me in-law whenever I visited her, even though I haven’t told them anything about marrying her. I’m confused.

One thing is she doesn’t visit me or communicate with me unless I write to her. She attends the Anglican church while I worship at a Pentecostal church. I love this girl so much but my fear is that she will not agree to accompany me to my church. Aunty, what do I do? I know she loves me too Marshall

REPL Y REPLY

A

RE you sure that deep down in your heart, you really think this girl is the ideal wife for you?

There is no doubt that you feel something for her, but I doubt if that thing is strong enough for marriage. Even though you said you had resolved within you to marry her, you did not tell her this until she asked you if your love notes meant you will marry her. You told her ‘yes’ , then you said you were surprised when her people began to call you their ‘in-law’ whenever you visited her, because you had not told them you wanted to marry her.

One would have expected you to be happy that they had already accepted you even before you asked for their daughter’s hand in marriage. Rather, you were like ‘Hey! hold on don’t jump the gun! I’ve not made up mind yet to join your family!’ That your reaction can mean that you have some reservations about marrying her. Maybe, after

four years with the same girl or, eagerness of her people to have you as an in-law, have put you off.

As for visit and communication, you feel you are doing all the running in the relationship, and she doesn’t ring or visit as you would like. After four years, one would assume that your relationship must have become steady enough to have a certain pattern in communication. Then the issue of church. The usual problem among Christians is the Catholic Church being different in doctrines.

Pentecostal churches and the Anglican communion are on the same side, so, I don’t know why there’s this problem of the families objecting to go to either church. It is normal practice for the wedding to take place in the church of the bride’s family, or the church where both couple have been worshiping together. A wedding is the coming together of two families, so, members usually do their best to cooperate with the couple and their plans. Where the couple come from two

different religions like Islam and Christianity, the compromise is to wed in a registry. What is uppermost in the minds of loving families is the happiness of the couple.

You didn’t say whether you’ve discussed vital issues concerning marriage; like, what religion the kids would be raised in; money matters (joint bank accounts, and individual ones); the extended families (who lives with you and who you help from afar); etc, with your girl or not. If you haven’t, do so now so that you can know each other’s mind.

If there are several important issues you fail to agree on, please go your separate ways. Marriage is tough business, so it’s best to start with no problems at all, because it’s bound to gather some on the way later. If you don’t feel this girl is the wife for you, end the relationship now. Both of you would get other suitable partners.

risk of licking some body’s blood? People are asked to prevent even dried blood getting into their system and there you were licking fresh blood! What if the man’s blood is infected? Same goes for yours too as you also could have infected him. What was the blood licking supposed to’ mean? An oath to bind both of you together?

Will it really do that?

Can blood licking prevent either of you from falling in love with other people? 1 think it was a very stupid thing to do.

Apart from the health risk, you debased yourself. If you both love each other, why did you have to resort to such a fetish and childish thing? The person who suggested it ·lacks· self confidence and thinks the other person may leave the relationship.

We don’t believe in blood oath here.

By the way, the man is not your fiance, as you are not officially engaged to be married. You are just boyfriend/girlfriend and nothing more, even if you have been cutting up and eating each other’s flesh! Why have you not told your parents about the man?

Is it because deep down, you know that he is not suitable for you and your parents will never approve of him? Maybe he gives you presents and money and that makes you feel he is right for you. 1 suggest you take another look at the relationship and ask yourself if indeed this man is ideal for you. We always advise young people, particularly girls, that their parents should know who their friends, both male and female, are. Those who don’t do this, get into trouble. If your parents are aware of this boy’s presence in your life, they would be able· to guide you to know whether he is suitable for you or not. When we think we are in love, we cannot really see our partner as he or she is.

Also, he would treat you better if he knows that your parents are observing him. This brings you respect. If you don’t want him, tell him so, and stop accepting things from him. If you want him, introduce him to your parents.

•All letters for publication on this page should be sent to: Dear Rebecca, Vanguard Media Ltd, Kirikiri Canal, P.M.B 1007, Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria. E-mail: dearrebecca2@yahoo.com

SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 23

She wanted answers to her husband’s death from his mistress!

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T is every cheating spouse’s worst nightmare come true. The fear of being caught could be a reality - that happens all the time. But to be literally caught dead in your lover ’s bed brings a cruel twist of fate to the dreaded law of karma.

Vicky, a single mother of two thought she’d struck gold when she met Roland at a close friend’s place. “She’d always told me about her brother,” Vicky said. “He was reputed to be a chronic womanizer but his wife thought he was the cat’s whiskers. It was enough for me that he found me attractive to start an affair with - and he was worth the effort. He would drive me to his guest house at least three times a week where I cooked him delicious meals and made mind-blowing love to him.

“He was a bit kinky in his demands but generous and kind. In time he trusted me enough to tell me about his wife and their non-existent sex life. He was happy to take care of my children any time 1 asked and even bought me a secondhand car. The fateful day our nightmare began, we

were in bed after a hearty meal and some wine when he complained of heartburn.

There wasn’t any remedy in the flat for that, so he carried on regardless, assuring me he was all right. We were having our second romp when he suddenly started jerking. 1 thought he was climaxing, not knowing he was about to collapse on my chest. I was terrified but I heave him off and rang Anne, my close friend who lived nearby. She arrived within minutes but thank goodness he was still alive. He was clutching his chest and I quickly helped him into his clothes whilst Anne went to a hospital nearby to get me one of the doctors.

He worked frantically on Roland only for him to give up the ghost. I was hysterical and Anne rolled on the floor wailing uncontrollably.

She’d taken a likeness to him and they both got on like a house on fire.

“The doctor left to arrange for an ambulance, believing Anne and I were around when his heart attack started.

‘How did it happen?’ she asked when we were

alone. ‘When we were having sex!’ I told her.

Her eyes rounded. Under no circumstance should I breathe a word to anybody about this, she warned. I felt awful knowing I’d destroyed Roland’s wife’s world thanks to me, her bread winner was dead! You can then imagine how shocked I was a few months after the funeral when his wife came visiting. She didn’t tell me to expect her. The doorbell just went, and there she was. Of course I knew what she looked like but this was the first time we would come face-to-face.

‘I understand my husband

died while having sex with you,’ she spat still very bitter. I felt like the scum of the earth as I hung my head. ‘What really happened? I would love to know,’ she pleaded. I told her about her precious husband.

How he loved having sex often especially after some good wine and how I wasn’t his only mistress. Now that we were being honest with each other, I told her I’d been to the house a couple of times when she was away. Her husband had a different entrance to his bedroom and nobody saw us, except the guards of course. She was shocked.

“As far as she knew, her husband stopped taking any sort of alcohol years back on the advice of his doctors. She told me she was baffled when condom and viagra were found in the glove compartment of his car. ‘We stopped having sex years back because of my bad back,’ she said as if she was in a trance. He said it didn’t matter that he loved me and would cope. You know, I’ve learnt of another mistress not far from our house? How was I supposed to handle it all?

I wanted to humiliate him by not attending his funeral, but the children made me. For over 20 wonderful years I’d loved

him, trusted him. How could he humiliate me this way? He’d turned the last 16 years of my life into a sham. Even whilst the priest read the eulogy, listing his virtue as a devoted husband and a loving father, I snorted - I knew better ...

“How he. was able to have successfully kept two or more mistresses; beat my imagination.

Yet, the children and I wanted for nothing.

Where did he get the money to fund his passion?” I shrugged. All I wanted was for this grieve-riddled woman to leave me in peace. I was relieved when she eventually left, mentally looking round my flat, probably calculating how much each item must have set his precious husband back. I learnt that the post-mortem ruled he’d died of natural causes. That is some sort of consolation, because I really loved that man and I miss him terribly. If it were left to his wife, as bitter as she now is, she would happily have put ‘lying, cheating bastard’ on his headstone if she could get away with it...”

08052201867(Text Only)

Regular exercise helps you to maintain good health

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being.

And you do not have to overdo things. All that’s expected of you is to be regular, just as you regularly eat.

I have always said it’s the lack of regularity that’s the root cause of every unhealthy problem.

Just like the psalmist said: Man is fearfully and wonderfully made.

Eat good food, and exercises well enough, and you’ll be able to manifest a body that can attest to the glory of your maker.

No one was born to be ever falling sick without respite We all can improve on our bodies.

Help yourself with these postures.

The Spread Eagle TECHNIQUE: Sit flat on your buttocks.

Spread out your legs as far apart as can be. Now, attempt to hold, or rather hold your big toes with

your forefinger and thumb, put your forehead

to the floor.

Stay in the pose for some 5 seconds and return to the original position.

BENEFITS: This pose strengthens the back muscles, the hamstrings and the pelvic region.

TECHNIQUE: Sit on your heels

and arrange your hands next to your feet. Now, lift your body off your heels, hump up, drop your head down. Stay in the position for some 7-10 seconds.

Rest awhile by sitting on your heels and repeat. *The A-Headstand A-Head stand TECHNIQUE: Put your feet while apart and drop

your trunk hold your ankles with the ..of your head on the floor.

Keep in this position for some 10 seconds.

Return to the original position, rest awhile and repeat.

BENEFITS: This pose affects the endocrine glands favourably. The hamstring are stretched.

,

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HEN you think you do not feel as you used to feel before, then it’s time to stop and think about what it is that’s causing the difference.

You remember being boisterous, energetic, enthusiastic, in short energetic about life.

You think the years past are responsible. You’re perfectly right. The mistake is, you’ve stopped living with the same exuberance as you did as a youngster.

Well, that’s your fault.

Why should you think all the good things that conduce to health should end at one point or another in your life? Health and well being are meant for you. But you should work towards sustaining them from the cradle to the grave, so to speak. But here, one thing is for sure, it’s never too late to seek to be healthy with its attendant benefit of well-

Eat good food, and exercises well enough, and you’ll be able to manifest a body that can attest to the glory of your maker The Headstand Pose

,

The Spread Eagle Pose Yoga classes at 32 Adetokunbo Ademola, Victoria Island, Lagos, 9.10am on Saturdays

P AGE 24— SUND AY Vanguard , A UGUST 18 , 2013 SUNDA AUGUST

bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk

08056180152,

SMS only

Is it selfish for a career woman not to need a man?

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AVE you read ers noticed the new and growing breed of ‘forever singles’? It consists of a band of empowered, independent women who don’t want to be defined by a relationship. Not for them nights slumped on the sofa trying to pacify a screaming kid whilst their man snores in front of Super Sports. Instead, they have made a positive commitment to what is now known as ‘“longterm singleton.’ For these band of women, there are no mandatory trips to visit in-laws they would ordinarily not interact with socially - nor dreary weekends traisping smelly markets in order to warm their affection into their men’s tommy. Being forever single is a lifestyle choice which removes the need for a man from the equation of personal happiness.

“In a recent discussion on one of the TV channels, one of the impressive looking discussants tore relationships to shreds. If they happen and you’re one of the lucky few to find a man who genuinely commit, fine. If not, there are challenging alternatives to complement your lifestyle.

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ccording to her, a lot of single women today are buying their first property on their own – they don’t wait for Mr. Right before making a key decision. What’s more, fewer women than ever are choosing to get married. The number of single women between the ages of 25 to 45 had doubled over the last two decades.

At my regular salon recently, Kemi, the owner of the salon was not impressed by a customer who favoured a nail polish her husband could tolerate. She sneered after the woman left: “I always laugh

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when ladies come to my salon to have their nails done, and when I suggest a particular shade of polish, they say, `my husband wouldn’t like that’. Why tolerate that degree of control over your life? I’ve never been maternal and I’ve never really wanted children. I opened this salon when I was 24, and now I’m building up my events management business.

My business management degree has always stood me in good stead in whatever I choose to do.

“When I have fun, I want it to be on my terms.

My last relationship was a few years ago - it was on and off over a couple of years and I dated other men in between. I realised being in a couple wasn’t for me. My boyfriend never wanted to do the things I want to do, like travelling or night clubbing. I didn’t want to be limited. Mind you, dedicating myself to the single life doesn’t mean I reject my innate feminity, but there’s no room for compromise even when it comes to casual dating. Men take an interest in me all the time. I recently met a man at a friend’s party and he asked for my

number. He was nicelooking and he seemed up for more fun, so I took out my phone and he saw my screen-saver; which is a photograph of my cute dog. When he said he didn’t like dogs, I thought, “why bother giving him my number?’ So, I didn’t. I can’t be bothered with someone who doesn’t like the things I like. Selfish? May be, but that’s the harsh reality.” eing single by choice clearly squashes the theory that a Prince Charming is required for a fulfilled life. As for becoming mothers? Well, as one committed singleton explains with brutal frankness: “The fertility industry is out there if we want to have partners’ if that sounds a cold-blooded and even irresponsible way to bring a child into the world, then according to experts, today’ s modern woman is more emotionally secure because the fear has been taken out of being alone. As I write, I recall a few singletons, who’d gone abroad for their designer babies, even settling to have halfcast onesl”.

Anthonia, 33, a public relations consultant left for the UK six years ago to study marketing. In doing

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so, she waved goodbye to the handsome, successful lawyer boyfriend she was dating then. ‘We later got engaged, but when I got a place at the University I wanted and he gave me an ultimatum - my overseas studies or him.

I told him he was being ridiculous, that he should be supporting me, but he didn’t see it that way. I wanted the freedom to follow my ambition, so I left him.

I was excited about my new path in life. I had ambition, and no one was going to squash it.” nd to what does she owe this free spirit? Is it nature or nurture? She feels she inherited her outlook from her mother. “I was brought up by a single mum, who taught me that you didn’t need to have a man around to be fulfilled. She developed her own toilet soap range and worked as an estate agent – and I’ve inherited her work ethic.

I do 12-13-hour days. I might go to the gym on the way home or chill out at the social club I pay hefty sums every year to belong. When I get back to my lovely flat, I can just crash out.

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My Angel,

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I don’t have to make an effort to stay awake for someone else’s small talk, but I’m not a loner.

I love people, and I enjoy hanging out with friends.” omething else that seems to inspire the forever singles is not having to be financially accountable to a man. “I have some friends who hide expensive buys from their husbands,” said Tessy, 29, a communications and marketing manager.

“They earn money of their own so it’s crazy. If I want something, like the N350,000 set of jewelry I bought recently, I go ahead and get it. I once dated ten men for a project I did at the university - going to the same restaurant over ten nights with a different man. Not one of the men held my interest. I have no desire just to be with someone else because I want a man at my side. I’ve always been fiercely independent with a great job and a nice flat I fully owned.

I’m not anti-relationships, I just don’t. seem to need them in my life.

“My parents have been together for more than 40 years, but they accept the way I choose to live my life. I am good at what I do, I work long hours and I travel widely. It’s not that I don’t find men attractive, but I don’t feel any urgency for them to come into my life and change it.”

A renowned psychologist, Susan Firth offers a word of caution: “‘None of these women should discount the possibility of a relationship. If they ’re genuinely happy, then great, embrace it, but I would advise them not to behave as if they ’re anti-men.

Ultimately you’ll become abrasive, even defensive, and then you may find that no one will want to be around you.

Embrace being a single woman, but keep the light switch on, who’s to

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

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

Who can replace the irreplaceable? What can change the unchangeable? There is only one king in a throne, only one captain in a boat, only one driver in a car, only one true winner in a competition. There is only one God is heaven, only one president in a country, only one life in this life. My love, I just want you to know that, there is only you in my life. There will never be another you in my life. I love you.

Omorville Omorville@gmail.com, 08062486549

Beautiful heart Love the people that treat you right and forget about the ones who don't, there is no revenge so complete as forgiveness. If you want to hold the beautiful one,

say what might happen in the future?”

But Tessy takes her advise with a pinch of salt as she gets ready for yet another trip. “I don’t want to come back after a long day then have to sit down and be supportive to a man about his bad day - because he’ll never want to know about my bad day,” she says. ‘’’Being alone doesn’t scare me. Actually, I find it rather thrilling ... “ Carrying Out His Last Wish? (Humour) An angry woman arrived home from her husband’s funeral with his ashes in an urn. She tipped them onto the table and began to speak to them. “Here, Charles, look at this, it’s a beautiful matching set of the finest leather handbag and shoes. Remember? You promised you’d buy them for me but you never did. “ hen she put a pearl necklace on the table. “And this is the pearl necklace you always promised me - but then, you never kept your promises’. Suddenly she bent down and blew all his ashes on to the kitchen floor. “Well Charles, you’ll be pleased to know that’s the blow job I always promised you!”

“Of Course He’s Your Son!’ (Humour) An old man was dying and wife and family were standing round the bed.

He had four tall and handsome sons and one small average-Iooking boy. In the last few moments of his life he beckoned to his wife and whispered: “‘Patsy, my life is over, please tell me the truth. Is that small lad, that little one, is he mine?’ “‘Oh, yes, with my hand on my heart, I swear he is yours.” At that, the man died peacefully with a smile on his face. “Phew,” said the wife to herself, “‘thank goodness he didn’t ask me about the other four.”

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hold yourself to yourself.

Search a beautiful heart but not a beautiful face.

Beautiful things are not always good but good things are always beautiful.

Chris Onunaku 08032988826.

Your love To discover a damsel like you is akin to discovering a goldmine because your love is simply irresistible. And even if all the atoms of my life were scattered,each tiny individual bit of it will still love you because your love is sweeter than honey.

Akachukwu Ferdinand, aka5forever85@gmail.com, 08063819314

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013 — PAGE 25

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DEATH AT NOON IN ABUJA

Mother of five jumps from Okada, crushed by runaway truck

BY FAVOUR NNABUGWU

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Fatal plunge

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he was said to be return ing on Okada around 12 noon when, she, like many others at the scene, sighted an articulated vehicle, which, apparently, having lost control, the driver and his conductor started shouting, ‘brake failure, brake failure’, for everyone to clear from the road. At that point, panic gripped Mrs Ike who was said to have jumped from the Okada and, without stopping, the Okada rider zoomed off unhurt, but Ngozi lost her balance while trying to run, fell on the verge of the road where the trailer met her. The trailer, with number plate XV 245 EPE, crushed her and went further to ram into other vehicles parked around. Eye witnesses picked her phone, searched it to know who she spoke to last and that person informed Mrs Ngozi’s husband before he and other family members rushed to the scene of accident. An eyewitness, who spoke to Sunday Vanguard, said the trailer was sighted from Arab Road Junction heading towards Byazhin Road, Kubwa. The eyewitness

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Inset: Deaconess Ike...Life cut short in her prime

,,

hen Deaconess Ngozi Ike, a 39 yearold mother of five and a trader, woke at about 6a.m on August 10 to supervise her house chores and prepare food for her household, she did not know that death was looming. After taking care of her children and husband, Elder Frederick Ike, she set out on a journey of no return. Deaconess Ike, who hailed from Obiaruku, in Kwale, Delta State, left her Byazhin Across, Kubwa, Abuja home at about 8.30 a.m. for her shop in the village market where she was selling Nigerian prints and Hollandis. Ngozi usually took motor bike a.k.a. Okada or her husband would drop her off if he was still at home, but, that morning, she trekked down the street while looking for Okada.

Then she got a lift from a family friend who dropped her half way to her shop.

Ngozi, whose first born is about 18 years and the last born, 4, according to an eye witness, arrived the shop; then went out.

At that point, panic gripped Mrs Ike who was said to have jumped from the Okada and, without stopping, the Okada rider zoomed off unhurt; but Ngozi lost her balance while trying to run, fell on the road where the trailer met her

confirmed that the driver of the trailer and his assistant indeed kept shouting, ‘brake failure; brake failure,’ to warn people to clear off the road but that could not save the housewife from being crushed. Another eye witness, who said he was a member of the same church with Ngozi, said the deceased’s junior sister, identified as Lilian, had premonition of an imminent death in the family though the dream did not zero-in on the victim.

Smashed vehicles

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ix of the cars smashed by

the articulated vehicle were damaged beyond repairs while two others were badly dented. All the vehicles were parked on the verge of the road while some of the owners have their workshops just by the scene of the accident. One of the vehicle owners, Mr Ambrose Bello, kept thanking God for saving his life. Bello said he parked his vehicle in front of his workshop when he heard noise outside and rushed out to see what was happening only to see his car crushed by the trailer.

Sunday Vanguard visited the home of the Ike family

which was under lock and key as the entire family was said to have had travelled to Obiaruku, Delta State for the deceased’s burial. Mr Emmanuel Ekpah, a neighbor, said he was at the Ike family house that fateful Saturday to invite Mr lke for the community meeting to deliberate on issues concerning the security and other matters. Ekpah said that when he knocked at the door at about 7a.m., he heard Mrs Ike calling her husband who was having his bath to hurry up for the meeting before he left the house to invite others. He said the husband later joined the meeting held close to the Ikefamily house when he sighted Mrs Ike trekking down possibly to catch an Okada and that was the last he saw of her before the news of her death broke.

Another neighbour, ex-Sgt Bello Samuel, said the Ike family moved to that neighbourhood less than six months ago. Samuel said they are easy going family, very peaceful that they maintain cordial relationship with neighbours. He said it was his house that the Ikes kept their building materials when they were erecting their own building before they finished it and moved

in. Ike family friends of 13 years, Elder and Mrs Alizor Chuks, said Mrs Ike visited them on August 7while they also saw her on August 9, when she was returning from Kubwa village market. That was the last they saw of her before Mr Ike called them to break the sad news of her death on that Saturday. Mrs Alizor, who did not go to Church the day after the tragedy, Sunday, was in black dress when Sunday Vanguard visited, apparently mourning her friend with red eyes from weeping. She said Ngozi Ike was a peace loving and jovial friend since she they became friends in 2000and that both families worship in Christ Chosen Church of God as senior members.

Warning

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lder Alizor told Sunday Vanguard that when Elder Ike informed his late wife’s family about the death of their daughter, her family insisted that they must see the remains in Obiaruku, warning that she must not be buried in Abuja or anywhere else. The Ike family traveled on August 11 to Obiaruku to commit her remains to mother earth.

PAGE 26 — SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18 , 2013

08116759757 weakest members of the society and that is the reason we are doing this. I must not fail to mention this that without Christ, nothing would have made it possible for us to do this because, in Nigeria, it is not only thankless, people will even persecute you for doing what you are doing and we have so much persecution, but it is the special grace of God that has been sustaining us.

SIMON EBEGBULEM, BENIN CITY

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any people may not be happy with the achievements of Chief Lucky Igbinedion while he was governor of Edo State, but there are thousands of persons whose lives he has touched through charity. Since he left office in 2007, apart from attending to his businesses, the former governor has been busy giving help to the helpless in different orphanage homes in Edo State. In fact, as at the time of filing this report, he was building a storey building for the staff of Project Charilove, an orphanage home in Benin- City, just as he provides food and shelter for leprosy patients and people with disability. Sunday Vanguard learnt that Igbinedion was into charity even before he became governor. The Coordinator General of ChariLove Center, Mr Chris Omusi, who himself gave up his job in the United States of America to come and serve humanity in Nigeria, describes the former governor , in this piece, as an exceptional person.

How we started project in 1990 t the beginning, it was A like starting with my own little savings, but before then, I had worked with Shell, and as a senior civil servant at the federal level. I also had a brief work experience in the United States where I was able to have some little money that I came back to Nigeria with to start the project. But along the line, we were not having

Challenges e have had so many rea W sons to feel very frustrated, but one thing that

Lucky Igbinedion...Gives succour to orphans

An ex-governor’s help runs deep personal use, I really cannot tell. We met Igbinedion and requested if he could allow us to have the place and he just readily granted us the use of the place and that was how the place became ours. It was a jungle in the middle of the city and a hideout for hoodlums. The houses were dilapidated and we needed to renovate them to make the place habitable; so we met with the governor again and asked him to give us a fraction of what we will spend for the renovation; we asked for N500, 000, but it

,,

There must be caring for the weakest members of the society and that is the reason we are doing this

enough money to do what we wanted to do. But there are some Reverend Father friends that helped, then there was this big leap we had when Chief Lucky Igbinedion, then he wasn’t governor, came into Charilove and, at the end of that particular year, he became our biggest single donor.

And when he became governor, the first pleasant surprise he gave to us was when we were being thrown out of where we were before, we had nowhere to go; it was like we were in the jungle.

So we had this government property, we had asked the previous government to give the place to us but whether they were eyeing it for their C M Y K

was like he knew the enormity of work that was going to be involved in fixing the place and making it habitable. Instead of the N500, 000 we asked for, he said his government would give us N2 million. It was the biggest single donation we ever had. And when we thought it was a political statement, a few days later, officials of the Ministry of Finance came and asked for our bank account which we gave to them and, shortly after that, the N2 million was sitting in our account. We made a judicious use of it.

Financially, a lot came through him and from him.

A few years later, we started our soup kitchen project and

he said he was amazed that his own family, the house of Igbinedion, had ventured into this soup kitchen thing in the past but it failed because of people’s attitude towards it and wondered how we were going to manage it because it was capital intensive. He committed the state government to giving us N250, 000 monthly. At that time, the soup kitchen was feeding 50 to 60 people on daily basis except Saturdays. We were encouraged by the government and, from the 50 to 60 that we started with, the Charilove soup kitchen is feeding about 300 school children every school day. We stepped up our services and other people have been donating to the soup kitchen and that is why we have been able to sustain it up till today and thank God successive governments have continued to sustain that N250, 000 monthly donation even though it has become inadequate.

Igbinedion out of office fter he left government, A we were surprised that Igbinedion still remembered Charilove. Something that still amazes me about him is how he was able to identify the sincerity of Charilove and to identify with it. Charilove is all about service to humanity as a way of glorifying God, as a way of expressing my loyalty to God, the Supreme and that Lucky Igbinedion could come and be so supportive is so splendid and, as at the last time he visited us, we showed him our on-going projects which had been dragging for years because we didn’t have the

resources. One of them is our administrative building and he asked us how much it was going to cost to complete it. Our structural engineers told him and he agreed to handle it. He brought the first instalment and we now told him we had a lot more pressing need than the administrative building; what was uppermost in our hearts was a more conducive accommodation for our residents as about 8 to 9 of them were clamped in one room. We agreed that the money was going to go a long way in building a dormitory for the residents and he approved that whatever we thought was our need, we should spend the money on it and today we are building a dormitory and it is Chief Lucky Igbinedion that is sponsoring that. He is soft hearted and generous person. When the dormitory is completed, it will take, conveniently, 24 children not including the caregivers. These children are not easy to manage, some have multiple disabilities, some are orphans and they are all young people, so we really need to have enough accommodation for the caregivers.

Motivation The need has always been there but people were not paying attention to it; so we started to see how much of the need we could fill, we know we can’t do everything and government too cannot do everything, but we just felt that if we do a little, by God’s grace, that little we do will inspire people to also do in their own different ways or to support us to do more.

There must be caring for the

beats my imagination is that we have never really had that urge to quit. I think that is where the special grace of God is at work because if you see some of the people who are here, the way they look down on me and I know if I wanted to pursue money, pursue prestige, pursue position, many of them will not be fit to be my secretary. But today they come here, they look down on us, they talk to us anyhow, they classify us as those who needed to be given pittance, they feel they want to be worshipped and some of the people in the positions to help, they even constitute themselves into a band of discouragement and that can be very frustrating.

Those you think will come around to give some support are even thinking of how much they will get out of the place. We have about 97 persons but our services go beyond here, like the soup kitchen takes food to indigent children at the Central Hospital. We have many indigent patients there, those who have been abandoned by their people and they are just there in the hospital, the soup kitchen takes food to them when the social welfare department brings their list.

The list is always updated.

Beyond Benin, there is Osiomo leprosarium which you classify as a place of the poorest of the poor perhaps in Nigeria. There are so many children and grandchildren of ex-leprosy patients. In those days, you see them on the highway between Edo and Ijebu Ode but, to a great extent, we extended the soup kitchen to them and it did some miracle. Because they go there with their children to win sympathy, many of the children were usually knocked down by vehicles when people throw bread and Naira notes and they run to pick them. We were thinking of address that when our finances improve but we wanted to start from the home base at Osiomo. We had discussions with the Reverend Sisters resident there and they told us where we could start is let our soup kitchen give food to the children and so we started with the children.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 27

08116759757

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN

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HE durbar in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital commenced immediately after the eid prayers which ended shortly after 9.00 a.m. Once the prayer ended, Governor Sule Lamido, after a brief exchange of pleasantries with the Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Nuhu Muhammadu Sanusi, took his leave and rushed to the Government House, about three minutes drive from the prayer ground.

With the exit of the governor, the durbar commenced.

The beauty of the durbar is seen in the colourful parade on horseback of the title holders, princes and members of their entourage. Each title holder, depending on his ability, is accompanied by an entourage of horse riders. On this occasion, the least number of horsemen accompanying any title holder was ten. Some had as much as twenty-five.

The title holders were separated from their horsemen by their unique dressing and turban.

Even among the title holders, there was still a difference reflected in the kind of turban they wore. Princes and those from the royal family had two pointed fingers from their turbans. Those from outside the royal family had only one pointed finger from the turban they wore.

Once Governor Lamido arrived the emir ’s palace shortly after 10.00 a.m., he was received in the outer court by Dalhatu who had been delegated by the emir to perform the task.

Governor Lamido, followed by

BY EPHRAIM OSEJI

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he people of Egbaoma clan comprising of Akoku and neighboring towns of Umutu, Ebedei, etc in Ukwuani local government area of Delta State have decried the lack of social amenities and political imbalance ahead of 2015 elections in the area.

They called on Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to remember them because they worked hard to vote him into office notwithstanding the opposition to the PDP in the area in the 2011 elections.

Speaking to news men in Akoku, the National President of Egbaoma People’s Congress, Comrade Chibueze Odigidawu, said the mindset of over 95% of Ukwuani people was to work and vote massively for their child, Chief Great Ogboru, whose mother is from Ukwuani. “Our people felt that they would have more benefits from the Ogboru candidature in the election when compared to PDP’s Itsekiri/Urhobo,” he said. He continued: “Surprisinly, however, a few days to the elections, our son, Mr Leo Esegbue, was appointed as C M Y K

Durbar in Dutse

Bashir Dalhatu * A durbar of many colours Dalhatu, climbed the stairs to the elevated platform atop the main gate of the palace from where the emir and his guests watched the procession of horses coming directly to the palace.

Garu Road, beside the prayer ground and ends in a T- junction at the emir ’s palace, was the setting for the durbar. From the prayer ground, the traditional title holders on that Sallah day proceeded with their horsemen singing and dancing along the road. They moved in batches with each entourage separated from the other by a distance of about 20 meters.

About 300 meters to the emir’s palace, each title holder made a momentary stop as he prepared

to gallop the horses in his entourage for the final dash.

There was, however, one horny male horse in one entourage which sought to divert attention when it brought out its sex organ in a desperate attempt to mount a female horse. It was quickly whipped and brought to its senses.

Once the horse riders got to the front of the palace, the escorts of the title holders proceeded through a side alley on the left of the palace leaving the title holders to form a parade, awaiting the arrival of the emir who was at the rear.

While the title holders from outside the royal family stayed on top of their horses on the left of the expanded forecourt before the

palace gate, those from the royal family stayed on the right.

The approach of the emir was celebrated with, first the arrival of royal princes and then the shooting of gunpowder. The Galadima Dutse, who is the senior brother of the emir, had two batches of at least 30 horses in his entourage.

Galadima was followed by Turaki Dutse and Ciroma Dutse, all princes who lined up with other princes awaiting the arrival of the emir.

The Sarikin Bindiga, who is the commander of the gun shooters, was not far from the emir who was on top his own very colourfully decorated horse with an umbrella shielding him. At the

Delta community laments lack of amenities

Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan commissioner. We must confess that was what changed the political permutation. We were very happy because in history, this was the first time an

Akoku son had been so appointed inspite of the fact that we are the biggest ward and oil producing community. But that happiness was short lived because he only served for few months. That is unfair. He is a good man that has the interest of the people at heart.

“When he was made commissioner, he opened a welfare center where he was addressing the various problem of our people. He also opened a channel for the people to reach government with their complaints which was called Delta State Government Complaint Center.

“He provided a facility in Asaba where Ukwuani people that went to Asaba for one thing or the other could be accommodated before they finish their assignment, called Ukwuani Peoples Lodge. None of the past or even present political office holders has sacrificed or implemented this kind of people oriented initiatives”.

back of the Sarkin Bindiga was Sarkin Baka, the commander of the fighters with bow and arrow.

The line up was explained to be that an enemy passing through the defenders with gunpowder, would not pass through those with the bows and their poisoned arrows.

As the emir approached, Sarkin Bindiga gave orders to his men armed with guns, albeit with only gunpowder, to shoot. The sound of the gunpowder told those waiting in the palace that the emir was near. Once the emir approached the forecourt, all movements ceased. Praises of the monarch rent the air as his outriders and the title holders shouted Sarkin barka dole, meaning a visitor you must accept. That is, when the king comes to your house you must open the door to him.

The emir moved round first to the title holders from outside the royal family acknowledging obeisance before doing the same from the princes. At the end of the procession, he gave a short address to his subjects in which he urged them to support the administration of Governor Lamido given the good works on ground. He urged them to clear blockages from culverts in front of their homes, to avoid flooding and charged them against illegalities.

At the end of the address, he passed through the main gate of the palace and dismounted and was received by Governor Lamido and other guests who climbed down the stairs from the elevated platform to greet the royal father.

Cleric tasks Christians on legacy

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ENERABLE J. O. Okekporo has called on Christians to continue to seek the face of God and endeavour to leave behind a positive legacy for posterity.

Ven. Okekporo made this charge in his homily at the 5th anniversary service of late Chief James Ogboko Edewor, at St. Mathias Anglican Church, Eku, Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State, calling on all to emulate the positive legacy Edewor left behind and to entrust their lives in the hands of God. He recalled that as part of his humanitarian service, Edewor personally built the vicarage and contributed immensely to the building of the church, urging the children of late Chief Edewor to be united for them to preserve the good work left behind by their father.

The occasion was graced by the Delta State Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama, who was represented by deputy Chief of Staff to Government House, Hon. Lucky Avweromre; Olorogun Felix Ibru, former Delta State Governor and former senator who represented Delta Central Senatorial District, Rev. Fr. Ambrose Abaka, traditional rulers, chiefs, top government functionaries and other important personalities across the state and beyond.

PAGE 28—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Naval chiefs with Gov Liyel Imoke (sitting 8th from left) and Minister of State for defence, Dr Erelu Obada )sitting 6th from right)

GULF OF GUINEA US, UK, African navies join forces against oil thieves, pirates

BY EMMA UNA

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T was the largest gathering of naval officers in Africa in recent time with special focus on the Gulf of Guinea. The heads of navies from Nigeria, Cameroun, Ghana, South Africa, Benin Republic, Niger, Angola, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Togo, with the backing of the United States and United Kingdom navies, descended on Calabar, Cross River State to find solution to the insecurity challenge plaguing Africa’s territorial waters.

Endowed with vast sea resources to meet the requirements of the three regions in sub-Sahara Africa: South Africa, West Africa, and East Africa, the need to address the dire security challenges of the area was of utmost imperative to the naval chiefs.

Described as the most insecure in the world with criminal gangs of all sorts freely operating in the vast waters and imposing a climate of constant threat there, the seriousness of the issues discussed underplayed the severity of the problems in the territorial waters.

That accounts for the attendance of the heads of navies of nearly all African countries at the three -day conference, tagged, Regional Maritime Awareness Capability (RMAC), from July 29.“Vice Admiral Joseph Ezeoba, Nigeria’s Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), who addressed the gathering, harped on the high state of insecurity in the territorial waters and emphasised that they would continue to be a safe haven for criminals unless there C M Y K

was collaboration and synergy among security agencies of the various countries through which the gulf runs in intelligence gathering, information sharing and coordinated activity.

“This conference is targeted at putting in place building blocks that will raise the templates for a sustained regional co-operation towards security in the Gulf of Guinea,” he said“Ezeoba added that the conference was facilitated by Nigeria in cooperation with the US Navy to find ways of ensuring a strategic maritime environment for the landlocked states that the Gulf of Guinea runs through.““The Gulf of Guinea is a strategic maritime environment with enormous potentials that has been constantly plagued with a myriad of threats directed mainly at economic lifelines of its littoral landlocked states“.

He said those threats have become very worrisome not only to the regional governments but also impinge on international security and listed those threats to include piracy, sea robbery, drug and human trafficking, pipeline vandalisation, crude oil theft, illegal and unregulated fishing. ”More worrisome is the proliferation of small arms, light weapons, and environmental degradation though oil flaring of petroleum products into the sea,” the CNS said, adding that the threats are not insurmountable and that, that was why the conference was being called for the heads of navies of the“African states to meet to seek ways to gather intelligence, carry out surveillance and share information

since no single state can stand aloof and claim that the threats by criminals“in the regional waters have no effect on its economic life and state“security.

“We can eliminate the threats through sincerity of purpose, strength of character, and willingness to cooperate with one another”.“Dr. Erelu Olusola Obada, the Minister of State for Defense, said the presence of the heads of navies at the conference was an expression of their willingness to share ideas,technology, and human resources to ensure that the waters are not only safe for the region but also the whole world since water boundaries do not exist like land boundaries. ““Maritime technology recog-

safe water for the countries that have anything to do with the area.“Senator Imoke, Cross River State governor, said the deliberation was significant since most parts of the state are bordered by water. “We were strong advocate for regional integration and cooperation which is the key for development of our continent which is endowed with enormous resources both on land and in the water,” Imoke said.

Several papers on how to ensure maritime security domain were presented and, at the end of the talk shop far reaching decisions were taken.

The first was the call on governments of the sub regions to facilitate the establishment of a legal regime for the enforce-

The naval chiefs recognized that crime and illicit activities in the GoG constitute a threat to the individual and common maritime security of members nises collaborative efforts for effective policing of the waterways and since water boundaries are not definable as land boundaries, nowhere can be said to be exempted from the activities of sea criminals; therefore there is need to cooperate among African navies”.“She said the African heads of government in a security meeting in 2006 recognised the lapses and started the need for regional capability integration to monitor the gulf and ensure

ment of maritime law.

Enforcement of the law, the naval chiefs argued, was one sure way of reducing crime in the region, ensure that the waterways are safe and thus improve the economy of memberstates.

And for the law to be effective, it was agreed that basic capacity for maritime domain awareness should be developed in each member-state, and that member-states ‘’initiate the integration of maritime

domain awareness efforts through equipment and procedural interoperability by December 2013’’.

Governments in the region were advised to ‘’collaborate on the development of capability for effective response and capacity for maritime domain awareness coverage within individual and common sea areas of member-states in the GoG’’.

They also resolved to facilitate the establishment and activation of a common maritime information sharing mechanism through the establishment of inter-regional coordination centre by March 2014 even as centres of excellence should be established on capacity building for maritime domain awareness in the GoG. The naval chiefs recognized that crime and illicit activities in the GoG constitute a threat to the individual and common maritime security of members.

Consequently, there’s need to develop effective capacity for Maritime Domain Awareness and response capability among member-state navies and coast guards just as effective and collaborative surveillance of the maritime areas of the GoG was necessary.

Implementation of the common maritime information sharing mechanism amongst navies and coast guards and other relevant agencies should be pursuant to the agreement reached at the summit of Heads of Government of ECOWAS, ECCAS and GoG Commission in Yaounde, Cameroun from June 24 to 25, 2013.

They emphasized the need to sustain the RMAC on a periodic basis while the Nigerian CNS made a strong case for the implementation of the resolutions taken so that the conference will not be seen as a mere talk-shop.

He said experience had shown that each time they met, resolutions agreed on end up in file cabinets gathering dust, hence there should be a difference this time.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18, 2013 —29

Glorious cheers for Monty Chibundu @ 80

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eing 80 must have some special feelings attached to it and it was no surprise when Chief Monty Chibundu, an ‘Old Boy’ of Christ The King’s College, hosted friends and family to a deluxe reception to mark the special occasion at Eko Club, Surulere, Lagos.

Of note were his ‘Old Boys’ from Christ The King’s College Onistsha, who became boys again, while celebrating with the celebrant. Photos by Bunmi Azeez

Chief Monty Chibundu, celebrant[middle] with members of Christ the King's College Onistsha, Old Boys Association.

L-R:Chief Chris Uddoh his wife, Mrs. Cecilia; and Elder N.C. Orogwie.

From left: Ursula Chibundu, Otunba Wale Bello and Mr. Billy Ofesi, Chairman Pipetracking Ltd, Warri.

When lat e FFrancis rancis late Eigboc hie w as laid tto o rest Eigbochie was

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hey called it a”celebration of life” and it was everything well deserved for Late Mr. Francis Omontuemwen Eigbochie, father in-law of Vanguard’s Nath Onojake, who passed away at the age of 81.

After a funeral service at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, Igueben, Edo State it was merriment galore as the children of deceased known as ‘the Man’ entertained guests who came from far and wide. Photos by Nath Onojake

From left: Mrs. Joyce Sanyaolu, Ms. Yeye Rewane, Mrs. Rita Amuka and Mrs. Aghante Juliet,

From Left: Mrs Onome Onojake,Mrs Juliet Adeniyi Omosebi and Mrs Pat Ilevbare, daughters.

From right: Mr & Mrs. Christopher Ugowe and Mr. Joe Billy.

From left: Mr. Adebisi Adetunji, Chief Monty Chibundu, celebrant, his wife, Rose and Elder Dele Ogunmiluyi,

Abimbola and Ololade

Omokehinde and Kabiru

ABIMBOLA Serifat and Ololade Akinjide Kupolokun received their marriage certificate at Ado/Ota LGA, Ogun State on September 3, 2013

KABIRU Mudasiru and Princess Adenike Omokehinde Adeigbe sealed relationship in a Holy union on June 22, 2013

L-R: groom parents; Chief Akinjide and Chief (Mrs) Bukola Kupolokun flanked by the newly wedded couple,Mr Ololade Akinjide and Mrs Abimbola Sherifat Kupolokun

L-R: Benjamin K . Adeigbe, bride’s dad, Princess Adenike Mudasiru (nee Adeigbe} Mr Kabiru Mudasiru and Mrs Olayinka Adeigbe

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From Left: Mr. Lawrence Onojake, Mr Nath Onojake, in-law and Mr. Moses Ochuko Mentie.

Mr.Nath Onojake and Mrs Agnes Eigbochie, late papa’s wife

PAGE 30—SUND AY 30—SUNDA

Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Matthew Okikiolakan Aremu Olusegun

Turaki Atiku Abubakar

The story of Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku Abubakar

BY JIDE AJANI

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he story of Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku Abubakar This is the story of how former President Matthew Okikiolakan Aremu Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President, Turaki Atiku Abubakar, first met, and how their relationship blossomed before nose-diving over political ambition. In his soon-to-be released auto -biography, ATIKU ABUBAKAR, THE STORY OF MY LIFE, Sunday Vanguard discovered that whereas Obasanjo appointed Atiku as his running mate in 1999, there are pieces of information before that fact to suggest that the former may indeed be indebted to the latter. This is an exclusive report.

He was arrested on March 13, 1995. But before Matthew Okikiolakan Aremu Olusegun Obasanjo was picked up that day, he had been forewarned. It was the second meeting between one Atiku Abubakar, then known as a politician who made massive waves during the Social Democratic Party, SDP, presidential primaries held in Jos, the Plateau State capital – the SDP primaries took place in March, 1993, some two years earlier. That day, Atiku (who is one of the few Nigerians identified by their first name) visited Obasanjo at his Temperence Farm, Otta, Ogun State, in the company of Oyewole Fasawe, a mutual friend and business partner of both men. They were there to forewarn Obasanjo about a possible impending arrest in connection with a coup plot. In a rare snippet by Sunday Vanguard into the soon-to-be-released autobiography of Atiku, it was found that, contrary to the generally held belief that prior to the

politicking of 1998/1999 which produced the presidency of Obasanjo/Atiku, both men had never been close; it came to light that their relationship dated back to 1993. In the book, ATIKU ABUBAKAR, THE STORY OF MY LIFE, Sunday Vanguard discovered that Atiku had, indeed, gone to the same Otta for avuncular consultation with Obj,as Obasanjo is fondly called. Just some weeks before the landmark June 12, 1993, presidential election, Atiku, who withdrew at the last minute in the run-off primaries to allow for Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola gather some gravitas against Babagana Kingibe, visited Obasanjo. His request was simple: “Please prevail on my boss, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, to support the presidential bid of Abiola at the general election”.

Although Sunday Vanguard could not confirm whether Obasanjo indeed prevailed on the elder Yar’Adua to support Abiola, Obasanjo’s statement during the crisis that trailed the disputation over the election, to the effect that “Abiola is not the messiah” betrayed the workings of the mind of the former President. The second meeting between both men, according to the book on pages 247 – 248, is reproduced, verbatim, here: “The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Walter Carrington, picked up the information on Obasanjo’s impending arrest. He immediately alerted the former Head of State who was attending the UN social summit in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Obasanjo returned to the country, confident that he had not committed any crime. Atiku had also been tipped off about Obasanjo’s impending arrest. “He went to the retired General’s farm in Otta, Ogun State, to alert

him. He had hardly finished speaking to Obasanjo when the divisional police officer in Ota arrived with some plain-clothes security officers to arrest Obasanjo. “What has he done? What is his offence? Is this the way to pay him back for the services to the country?” Oyewole Fasawe, who was with him at Otta, emembered Atiku asking the security agents as they led Obasanjo away.

“I had never seen Atiku so angry as he was that day. He was ready to fight them if we had not restrained him”, Fasawe recounted. Atiku and Fasawe left Otta to break the news of Obasanjo’s arrest to many prominent Nigerians. “Obasanjo’s arrest and detention brought closer international attention to the reign of terror in Nigeria”.

Obasanjo was tried for being part of the coup plot against the maximum dictator of the time, General Sani Abacha; he was sentenced to life in prison. Owing to international pressure, this was later commuted to 15 years – the pressure came from friends abroad, including South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, former US President, Jimmy Carter, and former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt.

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fter his sentencing, Obasanjo was taken to the SSS (now Department of State Services, DSS) Interrogation Centre in Ikoyi. From there, he was moved to KIRIKIRI Maximum Security Prison alongside Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

But something happened there as you would discover later. Mind you, the recent controversy over character, leadership and integrity was ignited by Obasanjo at the 4th Annual Ibadan Sustainable Development

Summit organised by the Centre for Sustainable Development of the University of Ibadan, an engagement in collaboration with the African Sustainable Development Network. The former President, characteristically, waxed pontifical when he declared that the younger generation of leaders under 50years has betrayed the nation because they lacked integrity. He mentioned the likes of Atiku, whom he said he picked as his deputy but was soon to “show his true colour”.

Obasanjo also took on Bola Ahmed Tinubu, referring to his controversial scholarship and academic qualification, insisting that it was not different from the scandal which led to the removal of Speaker Imam Salisu Buari in 1999. However, what Obasanjo did not mention was the fact that he fought tooth and nail to retain Buari as Speaker of the House of Representatives, even in the face of Buari’s glaring folly of claiming what he was not. Back to Atiku!

Obasanjo launched a sweeping diatribe against Nigeria’s younger generation of politicians whom he accused of lacking the integrity, character and credibility to lead Nigeria to progress and development.

According to Obasanjo, he didn’t know Atiku well enough and that the former Vice President had not met his expectation as a credible successor. Now, at the risk of holding brief for the former Vice President, the questions are: Is this claim altogether correct? Was Obasanjo trying to be economical with the truth? What degree of familiarity was Obasanjo talking about? At what point did he realize his knowledge of Atiku was not comfortable enough? Did he complain to Atiku at any point that this lack of familiarity could disqualify the former Vice President from succeeding him? What degree of personal familiarity could qualify a politician to be nominated to become a running mate to a presidential candidate of a political party?

What is the length of time needed by one politician to trust another? Did Obasanjo

Continued from page 31

SUND AY SUNDA

Abacha

Shehu Musa Yar’Adua

Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PPA AGE 31

Abiola

Tinubu

The story of Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku Abubakar Continued from page 30 not invite former governor of Rivers State, Sir Peter Odili, to Aso Rock Presidential Villa for morning prayers after which the former broke the news to the latter that he should drop out of the presidential contest?

Could all those Obasanjo bullied out of the presidential contest be described as lacking integrity too?

As earlier stated, contrary to Obasanjo’s claim, he and Atiku had met twice closely before 1999.

In any case, pray, Could an enemy have visited an adversary to warn him about the imminent risks to his life or freedom? Could an enemy also have extended such goodwill fraternal visit? How many years would an individual need to know a man who had wanted to put him out of harm’s way? Yet again, destiny played a fast, very fast one on both men.

Sunday Vanguard learnt from very authoritative sources that Atiku it was who arranged for and warned Obasanjo, as an inmate (a prisoner), not to allow himself to be injected or his blood taken.

Sunday Vanguard gathered from very impeccable sources that “this warning became necessary following confirmed reports that the late Major Akinyemi and Shehu Musa Yar’Adua were both injected with lethal viruses that eventually led to their untimely deaths”.

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n fact, dependable sources close to the family of Major Akinyemi confided in Sunday Vanguard that the sentiments being expressed in favour of those who operated at the very top echelon of the security machinery of the late General Sani Abacha junta is misplaced because the officers devised very sinister ways of eliminating those they considered as troublesome subjects.

In the instance of Akinyemi, the now infamous military medical doctor through whom a series of eliminations was carried out, walked into his cell in the company of another serving military officer and demanded to extract blood from the incarcerated Major. He refused.

They pressed him. “But he maintained”, according to a source close to the family, “that he had neither complained of any ailment nor was he afflicted by any. His refusal almost led to a scuffle. But the serving military officer simply looked outside the cell, nodded to two body guards who were waiting in toe, and gave

them instructions to subdue Akinyemi. “Worse still, rather than extract the so-callled blood from the Major, the military doctor brought out a syringe that was almost filled with some form of solution. Having been held down by the bodyguards, the doctor injected the Major”.

Sunday Vanguard was made to understand that it was later learnt that the solution injected into the body of Major Akinyemi was nothing but the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, otherwise known as HIV. By the time the Major was released from prison, it had developed into almost full-blown Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, AIDS. He gave his life to Christ afterwards and began a ministry which ministered to prisoners. Sunday Vanguard was told that during one of his ministrations, Major Akinyemi returned to Kirikiri where he again met with the serving military officer who superintended the administration of the lethal injection on him but

schemed was for Obasanjo to be close to the former’s base in Yola, Adamawa State.

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ndeed, there were reports that there was a systematic engagement strategy that was perfected by that regime to eliminate known opponents of the military junta. According to mutual friends of both Atiku and Obasanjo, the claim by the latter that he did not know the former until a year into their tenure of office is equally beyond comprehension, considering the facts as written in at least two earlier unchallenged books that Atiku and others made life easier for the former the President in his stay in prison by arranging his meals and doctor ’s visits.

Obasanjo’s late wife, Stella, was said to have been privy to these arrangements. In truth, Atiku got ever closer to Obasanjo in 1999 when his Peoples Democratic Movement, PDM, threw its weight behind Obasanjo to become the PDP presidential candidate.

The Third Term agenda of Obasanjo in 2006 brought their mutual disdain into public glare. Atiku openly disagreed with his boss over the attempt to extend his constitutional term limit of eight years was now doing his own time. The officer saluted Akinyemi in military style and apologized for what had happened about a decade earlier. The Major was said to have laid his hands on the now-jailed officer, prayed for him and told him that he was forgiven of the dastardly act. It was gathered from multiple sources last week that had Obasanjo “not heeded Atiku’s warning, only God knows how they would have dealt with him too”. At least, if they could do that to Yar’Adua, they could do it to anybody. God used Atiku’s to save Obasanjo’s life”, the source concluded. Beyond that, however, Sunday Vanguard learnt of the details of how Atiku and some associates engaged a strategy that ensured that Obasanjo was moved from Kirikiri Prisons in Lagos to far away Yola Prisons. The thinking of those in the corridors of power at that time was that Yola, considered distant, would serve a more punitive purpose. However, what Atiku and his people actually

Obasanjo invited Atiku to become his running mate immediately after the Jos convention of the PDP. He sought reassurance from Atiku that he would be loyal if he made him his running mate and the Turaki Adamawa, who was then a governor-elect of Adamawa State, pledged his allegiance.

Perhaps, Obasanjo should have told Atiku that loyalty included supporting constitutional breaches. Indeed, Obasanjo, in a self conceited manner, junked an earlier consensual agreement by leaders of the PDP on how to select his running mate, by unilaterally picking Atiku. The beginning of the distrust between both men started with the botched impeachment attempt on Obasanjo – an attempt which was alleged to have been masterminded by Atiku. Then came Atiku’s politics of attrition which dragged into the eve of the presidential primaries of the PDP sending jitters down Obsanjo’s spine when he threatened contest for the ticket against his boss -

Atiku actually set some state governors against Obasanjo and the agenda to dump the then President almost succeeded. But the third term agenda of Obasanjo in 2006 brought their mutual disdain into full public glare. Atiku openly disagreed with his boss over the attempt to extend his constitutional term limit of eight years. It remains plausible that any other Vice President could have faced the same hostility from Obasanjo once he had opposed the idea of the third term project.

However, Obasanjo had always been a very rambunctious individual who, in the process, does himself in. A sample: Just about six years ago, a summit was held in South Africa where leaders came together to jaw-jaw about global issues.

They were called the ELDERS. Obasanjo was not deemed fit to be invited. Reason: He had taken a tumble from the high pedestal of grace to the abyss of irrelevance on account of that single- most destructive thing which he did to himself - lust for power and more power. He attempted to elongate his tenure as President. It failed.

A Man of Might

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s President and Commander-in-Chief, from his early days in office, Obasanjo caused his party and the Senate to pick a wrong choice for the Senate presidency – Evan(s) Enwerem was made Senate president against the party’s position that Dr. Chuba Okadigbo should be the one; Obasanjo launched an onslaught against opposition; he captured the South West geo-political zone states except Lagos; when his Third Term bid failed, he paid the polity back by imposing Umaru Musa Yar ’Adua as the PDP candidate and then made him President; when the Yar ’Adua illness saga started, Obasanjo it was who, after obtaining incontrovertible evidence that Yar ’Adua would not survive, played on the polity by coming out to admonish Yar’Adua to resign if he knew he could no longer discharge his responsibilities as President and Commander-inChief; once Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan became first, Acting President and later President, Obasanjo moved to take charge as godfather. But Obasanjo it was who told Emeka Offor, at the height of the Anambra PDP crisis in 2002, that he was behaving like a man with an elephant on his head but who still wanted to catch a cricket. The

same Obasanjo, during the first term of Governor Gbenga Daniel of Ogun State, insisted that his choice must be the Olowu of Owu, allegedly tearing to shreds the paper on which votes of the king makers were recorded. He had his way as he always did.

Goodness, Once Upon a Time To be fair, Obasanjo is not a totally bad man.

He had (yes, had) his qualities.

Here was a man who has accomplished much more than most African leaders. Here was a man who, while the great Nelson Madiba Mandela was in prison, bestrode the African continent and the globe like a colossus. Here was a man who, as co-chair of the Commonwealth Eminent Persons Group, EPG, a journalist had thought he could embarrass Obasanjo by accusing him of bias in the report of the group sometime in the late 1980s, citing Obasanjo’s nationalisation of British Petroleum, BP, (which became African Petroleum, AP), but got more than what he bargained for. Obasanjo’s response was simply that had he seen and known what he saw and got to know during the tour by the EPG, while he was a military head of state, he would have done more to hurt the British. That was the end of the discussion for the journalist. Again, here was a man who could have refused to hand over power but did so – even if under duress – to the consternation of his peers in Africa in 1979. The question to then ask is: What happened? And how did a man so accomplished drop so low? He had his own construct of how everything must work.

H

e allowed himself to fall into that trap which fuels a feeling of omnipotence and omniscience. But talk about staying power, Obasanjo had it.

One way or the other, Obasanjo’s selfishness has robbed Nigerians of great deeds. Because Obasanjo was selfish even to himself, he became selfish to the whole of Nigeria. Till date, no Nigerians leader, dead or alive, has had the opportunities Obasanjo has had.

Yet, he continues to conduct himself in a decidedly shambolic manner. Former Speaker, Dimeji Bankole, once described Obasanjo as the Ebora Owu - the spirit of Owu - an allusion to his sometimes indecipherable disposition.

Well, it is hoped that the gods would guide and help him guard against outbursts that only ridicule the former President.

PAGE 32—SUND AY 32—SUNDA

Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

TWIST IN ABACHA CSO’S CASE

Why Al-Mustapha, Shofolahan should die — Lagos govt *‘Appeal Court erred on 14 grounds’

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

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t is not yet uhuru for Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer, CSO, to late Head of State, Gen Sani Abacha, over his acquittal by the Court of Appeal as Lagos State government on Monday, filed an appeal at the Supreme Court to challenge the court’s decision that set him and Alhaji Lateef Shofolahan free over the murder of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola. Shofolahan was Kudirat’s aide.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, who disclosed this, said the state government took the decision after one month of thorough evaluation of the judgment and found out “there are enough and very good grounds for appeal.”

Ipaye told journalists in Lagos: “The step by the state government was to ensure that all issues were fully and well articulated and that the victim’s family, the defendants and the society were not deprived of the last window of opportunity provided by the constitution for the resolution of the case”. He added, “Government was committed to ensuring that law abiding residents and visitors continued to live, work and pursue their various aspirations in a safe and secure environment in the state.”

The Commissioner argued that the state would be encouraging impunity by not challenging the judgment of the Appeal Court, especially when it stated that the delay in the criminal trial of Al-Mustapha, Sofolahan and others earlier freed were deliberately ochestrated to frustrate their trial.

He said: “I can report that we have indeed appealed the judgments, one in respect of Al-Mustapha and the other in respect of Lateef Shofolahan. Both have been studied closely and we came to the conclusion that there were good grounds for appeal and we have since filed all the necessary papers. We did that yesterday (Monday).

Officially, we have put in our indication that we want to contest the judgment of the Court of Appeal at the Supreme Court.

C M Y K

“This step will also ensure that all issues are fully articulated and the victim’s family, the defendants and the society are not deprived of the last window of opportunity provided by the Constitution for the resolution of the case.”

Loopholes Answering question on the admissibility of loopholes in a paid advert, Ipaye denied this, but stated, “What we said was that the accused persons deliberately delayed the trial and this may have affected the case, because justice delayed is justice denied. This is one of the major reasons we are challenging the judgment of the Honorable Justices of the Appeal Court. It will discourage sense of impunity that if someone can deliberately delayed his own case, he may eventually escape justice. This will not be good for justice delivery, our democracy and the nation.”

The state argued that the appellate court erred in law by discharging and acquitting the two men when the evidence linking them to the crime was not materially challenged Also, the Commissioner addressed several issues including the controversial relocation of some Igbo indigenes from Lagos State, detention of some minors in Kirikiri prisons and the Amnesty International’s report on Badia area of Lagos State.

Kudirat Abiola was murdered on June 4, 1996 by gunmen suspected to be government’s agents following which Al-Mustapha and Shofolahan were charged.

Three other persons-Mr James Danbaba, an ex-Lagos police boss, Lt Col. Jibrin Bala Yakubu, former

Hamza Al-Mustapha military administrator of Zamfara State and commander of Mopol in the Presidential Villa, and CSP Mohammed Rabo Lawal also stood trial in the case before they were freed. In the appeal, Lagos State government formulated14 issues before the Supreme Court to justify why the apex court should set aside the decision of the Appeal Court.In separate motions on notice filed against the judgement of the appellate court, the state formulated eight and six issues against Shofolahan and Al-Mustapha respectively. The motion was brought pursuant to section 233(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), Section 27(2 and 3) of the Supreme Court Act, Cap S15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, Order 7 Rule 1 of the Court of Appeal Rules 2011 and under the inherent jurisdiction of the court.

It prayed the apex court to set aside the judgement of the Appeal court, which upturned the conviction of the respondents by a lower court presided by Justice Mojisola Dada of the Lagos High Court on January 30, 2012. The lower court sentenced Al-Mustapha and Shofolahan to death by hanging for the murder of Kudirat.

Evidence The state argued that the appellate court erred in law by discharging and acquitting the two men when the evidence linking them to the crime was not materially challenged.

According to the state, the contradictions in the testimonies of the prosecution’s star witnesses, Barnabas Jabila (Sgt. Rogers) and Abdul Mohammed (Katako), were not sufficiently substantial to warrant the acquittal of both Al-Mustapha and Shofolahan, arguing that the testimonies of PW2 (Jabila) and PW3 ( Mohammed), were detailed, graphic and consistent.

It contended that there was evidence on the record of appeal that the second prosecution witness (Jabila) explained the immaterial differences in his evidence made under examination-in-chief and under cross-examination.

The state added: “PW2 (Rogers) gave detailed and consistent evuidence of the consipracy to murder; and murder of the deceased. These detailed facts were not materially controverted even under cross-examination. “There was evidence on record of Appeal that PW2 explained the immaterial differences in his evidence made under examination-in-chief and confirmed under cross-examination and in spite Continues on page 33

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 33

Continued from page 32 of the detailed consistent evidence of PW2 and the detasiled explanation of the immaterial differences, the Court below still went ahead to impeach and disregard the whole evidence.”

On the second ground, the government stated that the court erred in law when it held that there were material contradictions that rendered the testimony of the third prosecution witness, (Abdul Katako) unreliable and asserted that the witness gave graphic and detailed evidence of conspiracy to and murder of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, adding that his testimony was neither denied nor discredited in cross-examination. It said: “Section seven of the Criminal Code identifies circumstances where a person may be held liable for commission of offence”, adding, “there was concrete evidence (both oral and documentary) before the trial court indicating the participation of the second and third prosecution witnesses and the respondent in the alleged crimes.”

The government further stated that both witnesses had testified how they participated in the killing of Kudirat under the instruction given by AlMustapha with Shofolahan’s assistance as an informant but later denied and recanted the incriminating testimonies during cross-examination. It stated: “The Court of Appeal gave overriding credence to a statement made under-cross examination

by PW3 that he was in Azare on June 4, 1996 (day Kudirat was murdered) when the Defence did not show through the witness that even if the accusation was true, he could not have committed the offence and then proceeded to Azare, Bauchi State.”

It added: “DW1 (Al-Mustapha) provided the logistics for killing the deceased in Lagos. PW3 (Mohammed) was assigned as driver to PW2 (Jabila) because of his knowledge of Lagos and PW3 gave graphic evidence of how he drove PW2 to the scene of the crime and how PW2 shot the deceased severally.

Conspiracy On conspiracy, the stated government stated: “PW2 (prosecution witness) admitted meeting DW2 (Shofolahan) and the killing of the deceased and testified that DW2 took them to the deceased’s house and provided information about the identification and movement of the deceased. “The statements of PW2, PW3 and even DW1 tendered and admitted by the trial court showed that these three witnesses indeed met and had common intention to commit a crime.

It was an undisputed fact that Alhaja Kudirat Abiola was shot and died on June 4, 1996. PW2 (Rogers) admitted he severally shot the deceased on June 4, 1996. “It was unchallenged that DW1 gave his gun to PW2 for killing the deceased and the insistence of PW2 that he would be surprised that he used 5.6mm gun instead of 9mm to kill the deceased.

There was circumstantial evidence establishing the fact that DW1 and DW2 participated and aided the elimination of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.”

Alhaji Lateef Shofolahan

TWIST IN ABACHA CSO’S CASE

Why Al-Mustapha, Shofolahan should die — Lagos govt Ipaye, in the appeal notices, said the contradictions were immaterial and urged the Supreme Court to affirm the death penalty. On ground four of the appeal, the state argued: “The Court below erred in law by substituting its own assessment and evaluation of the evidence with that of the Trial Court in its judgment in circumstances of this case, when it held that there was no creduible and reliable evidence in the entire record to justify the conviction of the Respondents.” It pointed out that the the Appeal Court “did not

On conspiracy, the stated government stated: “PW2 (prosecution witness) admitted meeting DW2 (Shofolahan) and the killing of the deceased and testified that DW2 took them to the deceased’s house and provided information about the identification and movement of the deceased properly evaluate the evidence on the printed record which the Trial Court considered in arriving at its conclusion before setting aside the conviction of the Respondents. “In the circumstances of this case where the Court below could not assess the witnesses, consider their demeanour, the nuances of the process before the court, including specific conducts, or attitudes of the witnesses in relation to specific, critical, vital; and material evidence,

oral or otherwise; the Court did not disclose sufficient reasons for substituting its own views for those of the Trial Court”, it added.

Bribe, inducement On the argument that Rogers was bribed or induced, Lagos State government submitted: “The Court below erred in law by misconstruing what the appellant characterised lawful “Witness Protection”measure as “Promise” and on one hand ignored it but on the other hand attached so much weight to the Respondent’s characterisation as promise.” Pointing on the error, the state said, “A court both trial and appellate is not allowed to approbate and rebrobate at the same time; PW2 confirmed that he had agreed before the “promise” to give evidence against the defendants as part of his duties to the State ten years before his oral testimony. It said further: “In his later attempt to resile from his testimony, PW2 (Rogers) categorically stated that it was human to react that way because his family members were attacked and the prosecution could not help them. The Court below, even in the face of credible and uncontroverted testimony about witnesses’ fear or concern, and aspiration for safety for themselves and their families, failed to recognize the purpose and value of such evidence in its assessment of the evidence before it.”

It added that the Appeal Court ignored relevant materials and gave weight to irrelevant materials and misconstrued the Witness Protection programme for PW2 and PW3 as inducement and discredited their entire evidence. It concluded that there was no controverted evidence of PW2 (Rogers)concurrence of DW1 (AlMustapha) that he is the leader of the Strike Force constituted under the

military regime of Late General Sanni Abacha and that DW1 provided logistics for the killing of the deceased (Kudirat) and that PW3 (Abdul) was assigned as driver to PW2 because of his knowledge of Lagos and he gave graphic evidence of how he drove Rogers to the scene of the crime and how he shot the deceased severally.

The state therefore prayed the apex court to allow the appeal as well as setting “aside the judgment of the Court below delivered on 12th July, 2013 which set aside the conviction of the Respondents for offence of conspiracy to commit murder and murder.” The Court of Appeal in its judgment, had stated that there was a “gaping hole” in the prosecution’s case. Highlighting the default, the appellate court said the prosecution first witness, Dr. Ore Falomo, testified that the bullet extracted from Alhaja Kudirat Abiola’s skull was a “special bullet” that could have come “only” from the Presidency.

The victim, according to the witness, died after a three-hour surgery to remove the bullet and after suffering a second heart attack. Falomo said that the police took away the bullet “for investigation”and never returned it.

The appellate court noted that the prosecution failed to state the whereabouts of the bullet, get a ballistician to examine the bullet or tender it as an exhibit before the court.“The prosecution failed to produce the bullet, and there was no explanation as to why it was not available,” the court held. Again, Mr. Jabila, during his testimony, according to the court, gave a vivid account of how they, acting on the orders of Al-Mustapha, trailed their victim from her Ikeja home to Lagos-Ibadan expressway where they sprayed her white Mercedes Benz with bullets.

However, under cross-examination, the witness said he was in Abuja on June 4 but was asked to give such testimony as part of an agreement with the Federal Government and Lagos State government. Jabila said that he was promised a job, house, and security. His wife had been on a N15, 000 monthly salary which was later increased to N20, 000. He also said that Professor Yemi Osibajo, the then Lagos State Attorney General and the late Bola Ige, then Attorney General of the Federation, paid him repeated visits while in detention, with the latter giving him N100,000 on one occasion. Mr. Abdul, who had admitted being Mr. Jabila’s driver when the murder was committed, said he was made the same offers by the authorities including a promise that he would not be brought to court – but they reneged on their promise. When he recanted, Mr. Abdul said that he was in Azare, Bauchi State, on the day of the murder.

“There was no explanation for this somersault,” Justice Pemu who read the judgment said. No date has been fixed for the hearing of the case.

However, the judgment of the Supreme Court will determine whether or not the joy and the reunion of AlMustapha and Shofolahan with their loved ones will endure.

PAGE 34— SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

WORKERS of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) and Ikot Abasi community youth groups have raised the alarm over alleged asset stripping in the company, which has been without a legal management since the court sacked the Russian firm, UC RUSAL, from running it.

Although UC RUSAL suspended production in the first quarter of the year, it has nevertheless continued to lay claim to the ownership of ALSCON, insisting that the Supreme Court ruling of 2012 does not stop it from manning the steel firm.

While production has been halted, RUSAL is allegedly engaged in systematic stripping of the assets in a bid to cripple the plant and frustrate the American firm, BFIG, which the court recognised as the bonafide buyers of the firm. RUSAL dismissed the allegation, saying it was merely ridding its territory of obsolete assets.

The workers, under the aegis of the Metal Products Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (MPSSAN), alleged that UC RUSAL had been dismantling and selling for cash stem rods and anodes, vital components of the plant used in the manufacture of steel ingots.

A spokesman of the workers association told reporters in Abuja that the Russian firm, which had failed in recent times to pay salaries to workers, was also cutting and melting the bussbar/risers used in transmitting electric current to the production pots for melting aluminium and selling them as ingots.

It was also gathered that about 20 fairly-used company cars are slated for immediate disposal.

The MPSSAN spokesman, who pleaded that his identity be protected to avoid being victimised, said the cut stem rods and anodes were often sold to some Chinese customers.

Industry experts gave the current estimated market value of the bussbar/risers, which have never been used since the completion of the plant in 1998, at over N1billion, while each of the about 4,200 stem rods and anodes at the plant was valued at over $100,000.

The workers alleged that the Russians, working with three top Nigerian managers in the plant, have been actively selling off core assets of the firm without rendering accounts to anyone.

An aggrieved worker alleged, “The Russians have put everything in place to sell the remaining coke and alumina from the silos.

“When they took over the plant in 2007, they inherited over 8,000 metric tonnes of alumina; 5,200 pieces of anode blocks; 5,820 pieces of cathode blocks; over 8,000 anode stems; over 200 tonnes of cryolite and over 170,000 tonnes of cast iron. Why they now want to sell even cast iron blocks, together with the pots, is mind boggling”.

The workers said they were compelled to bring the matter to public knowledge after reports to government representatives on the Board of ALSCON, including the Director General, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Benjamin Dikki, and the

Concerns grow over ALSCON! *Plant being stripped of assets – Workers *It is not true – Russian firm *Our hands are tied - BPE Deputy Director (Steel) in the privatization agency, Mohammed Dikko, about the development at the plant failed to yield result.

Following the allegation of the cannibalisation of the plant, community youths, under the platform of ‘Mboho Ikot Abasi’, wrote to the Managing Director of ALSCON, Stanislav Kruglyashav, demanding to meet with him to express their concern, and requested to tour the facility to verify the allegations.

But the request was turned down.

Dissatisfied by the company’s action, the community, in a letter to the Managing Director, dated August 2 and signed by the President General, Donatus Uko, and Secretary General, Genesis Udoh, the “Mboho Ikot Abasi” expressed concern over the rejection of their request, saying the firm must discontinue the “systematic cannibalisation of the plant facilities.”

UC RUSAL Director,

ALSCON Stem rods already cut and ready for sales to buyers Communication/Meida, Tatyana Smirnova, in response to media enquiry, described the allegation by the community as “misleading and does not correspond to reality.”

According to Smirnova, ALSCON is presently cleaning its territory of unrealizable assets, obsolete and not suitable for use equipment, which cannot be utilised for production of aluminium.

“In addition, I would like to

emphasise that the acquired equipment is the property of RUSAL and makes a part of modernisation program that was implemented from 2007 till 2012. RUSAL has put around $US159.4 million of its own investments into the plant,” she added DG of BPE, Dikki, denied knowledge of any letter from the community on the issue.

When told that BFIG also

claimed to have sent a similar letter to the BPE to intimate it of the issue, Dikko said, “Any such letter from BFIG would not be taken seriously, “Nobody will act on any letter on the issue from BFIG. They have not been fair to us. All the reports about ALSCON in the media are from BFIG, which is causing us troubles”.

But BFI Group’s Executive Vice President, Public Relations, Frank Shearer, in a telephone interview, said his company, which he described as the real owners of ALSCON, was surprised “at the level of sabotage at the plant”, saying after the allegations from insider sources, BPE was promptly notified with a view to ensuring that steps were taken.

“Yes, we are aware of the ongoing attempts to bring the plant to a state that it would become difficult for any investor to resuscitate and operate successfully after the Russians must have left”, he said..

“We feel that the ongoing assets stripping of ALSCON by the Russians, who are supposed to transform it into a national productive asset for job creation and foreign exchange earnings is a deliberate attempt to further undermine Nigeria’s efforts to transform her economy into a leading player in the world.”

‘Delta beyond oil’ and the new tax regime

BY CHINWEOKE AKOMA

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ENERALLY, there are three major indicators of an efficient tax system - number of tax payments, time required to comply with tax obligations and total tax.

In Delta State, factors which had hindered the achievement of a well organised system of taxation included multiplicity of taxes before July 2009, inadequate use of technology in tax collection and a defective tax dispute resolution process.

Among several other reasons adduced for the cumbersome nature of tax administration in the state were: lack of transparency and accounting, collection of taxes by touts and lack of tax awareness.

It was to eradicate the aforementioned challenges and to sanitise the revenue collection process in the state that the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR), led by Hon JoelOnowakpo Thomas, started a process of involving experienced tax professionals and accountants in the administration of taxes.

The collaboration between the professionals in the state ,under the auspices of the Tax Audit Monitoring Agency (TAMA), and the Board of Internal Revenue, is generating huge results as reflected in the tax collections in the past two years.

TAMA ,which comprises bodies/groups of tested professionals, tax practitioners and accountants, skilled in tax management and administration, was instituted by DBIR in May 2011 with the sole objective of bringing professionalism and expertise to bear in relating with all companies in Delta State,

improve on the state IGR and expand on DBIR tax net.

TAMA was also saddled with the responsibility of monitoring, auditing and investigating companies operating in Delta state shore to enable the attainment of the actual tax due (i.e PAYE & WHT) and payable to the state Government.

In carrying out its responsibility, the tax professionals largely employed moral-suasion to convince its various clients on the reasons they should comply with the tax laws in the state rather than being compelled to do so.

Having created the conducive environment for operation, members of TAMA have been liaising with their clients to

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BY SONI DANIEL

Joel-Onowakpo Thomas provision of copies of monthly PAYE and WHT receipts to TAMA for record purpose has also become routine. At the end of each calendar year, TAMA carries out end of year tax audit of its clients.

Because of the collaboration

In the past, multiple notices were issued in respect of taxes but the new partnership between the board and the companies is meant to address such matters

ensure full disclosure of employees, adequate/actual PAYE deductions, full disclosure of all contractors’ details and adequate/actual deductions of WHT. The understanding among the Board, the tax professionals and clients has further helped in ensuring full disclosure of expatriate employees, provision of actual expatriate quota and monthly immigration returns, provision of expatriate deletion where applicable and prompt remittance of monthly PAYE and WHT to the bank.

Collection of DBIR receipts from local tax offices and

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between the tax professionals and the tax board, tax compliance has increased as most clients have paid up all their tax liabilities to DBIR. TAMA also liaises between its clients and DBIR at the instance of its clients and thus enhances tax compliance by providing relevant DBIR tax details to enable the creation of a better and robust tax template for their use, expansion of tax net: sourcing of clients to increase DBIR tax clientele base and creation of client education/ awareness to help them embrace DBIR. However, in order to take the

‘’Delta Beyond Oil” policy to the next level, there is the need to create further tax awareness and enlightenment of the informal sector to further get more tax paying public into the tax net of the state.

The success of the relationship between the tax professionals and DBIR has also been attested to by the Executive Chairman of the Board, Thomas, who said the revenue agency had engaged the services of tax professionals to work on behalf of the state government in the reforms.

He told some World Bank functionaries that the consultants were going through the books of the different companies in a cordial atmosphere with their officials, and come up with the relevant taxes to be paid, based on the laws of the state. ‘’In the past, multiple notices were issued in respect of taxes but the new partnership between the board and the companies is meant to address such matters.

The agency is committed to ensuring efficient tax generation that would lead to increased for the state,” he said.

According to him, measures put in place were already yielding results and had led to “the remarkable increase in the state’s IGR from N1.2 billion when the Board was inaugurated in July 2009 to N5.7 billion recorded in January this year.”

He noted that the Board’s relationship with the tax gurus had led to the blocking of all the leakages in the tax system . “Before 2009, the dependence on oil in the state was 90 per cent and what that meant was that if for instance there was a drop or fluctuation in oil price, it will affect everything in the state including the payment of salaries”, he added.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 35

BY WALE AKINOLA

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F you are a bank customer and you issued dud cheques at least three times since July 5, then you have something to worry about.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed all banks to compile the list of such customers to be forwarded to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation.

According to a CBN circular, the move became necessary as the actions of dud cheques issuers were beginning to adversely affect the ‘cash-lite’ policy currently at the pilot stage in some states.

The apex bank said dud cheques issuance, which it said is on the increase, results in low

CBN moves against dud cheque issuers *Asks banks to compile list for EFCC investigation *’How errant customers’ actions adversely affect ‘cash-lite’ policy’ confidence in the acceptance of cheques, one of the key elements of the ‘cash-lite’ policy, and advised all banks to warn their customers against issuing bounced cheques.

A statement by one of the banks to its customers said, “We write to inform you of the recent circular issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) with reference number FPR/DIR/CIR/ GEN/03/005 and dated July 5,

2013. The CBN, through this circular, has directed all banks to advise all customers against issuing dud cheques to third parties, i.e, issuing cheques against unfunded accounts.

“According to CBN, the volume of dishonored cheques in the financial system is on the increase and has shown no signs of declining. This results in low confidence in the acceptance of cheques and adversely affects

the “cash-lite” policy aimed at reducing the volume of cash based transactions in Nigeria.

“As part of efforts to address the issuance of dud cheques, CBN has directed all banks to identify customers who have issued dud cheques on three instances with effect from July 5, 2013. The apex bank asked banks to send details of customers together with copies of dud cheques to it after which it will forward such

details to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.

“Our esteemed customers are therefore advised to make sure that their accounts are funded before issuing a cheque to a third party and to also confirm all cheques via our internet banking platform or Relationship Managers, as this will ensure the cheque is honoured”.

How 4years of reform transformed Customs — Compt. Jubrin As the on-going reform in Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) completes four years in August 2013, stakeholders are of the opinion that the reform has impacted positively to promote professionalism and efficiency, even as it tranformed NCS to operate in line with global trend. The Customs Area Controller (CAC), of Tincan Island Command, Comptroller Zakari Jubrin, who has spent 31 years in Customs, serving in Apapa, Seme, Bauchi, Cross River state, Abuja, MMA2, Port and Terminal Multi-Service Limited (PTML) and other Commands, speaks on what Nigeria’s economy stands to benefit from the reform in NCS. UGUST 2013 marks four years of tremendous reform embarked upon by the Comptroller General of Customs, Dikko Inde, in the Service.

What are the economic benefits of such reform?

To start with, the on-going reform has transformed every aspect of Customs operations, in terms of revenue generation for government, the anti-smuggling campaign, in-depth capacity building, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and other areas. The Service through the initiative of the current CG has been restructured in such a manner that makes Nigeria to gain international recognition for best practices in Customs operations.

You mentioned revenue generation. Can you give us statistics in naira and kobo about the current revenue profile of NCS? At present, Customs generates over N100billion every month for government.

It is important to note that before the managerial framework of the current CG, the revenue profile was only N30billion monthly. You can see the astronomical increase

A

in revenue collection compared to what obtained before the reform. For instance, in Tincan Command alone, we raked in over N127.3billion from January to July 2013. We also recorded seizures with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N355.2million between January and June this year. Some of the seizures include furniture, printed wax, television sets, bags of rice, automotive batteries, used clothes, generators, used tyres, lace materials, and cartons of whiskey among many others.

Aside from revenue profile, what will you say are other outstanding achievements of Dikko in his four years reform of NCS? In the area of capacity building, Nigeria is one of the best

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BY UDEME CLEMENT

Comptroller Zakari Jubrin Also, aside from facilitating trade in line with international standards, we are working tirelessly to police the borders in order to curtail influx of offensive goods into the country. For example, we had cases where the MMA2 Command intercepted air pistols

Customs reform in the last four years has not only repositioned Nigeria’s economy for greater growth but has impacted positively on the entire West African Sub-region

in the world now. For example, the Customs College in Abuja has world class standard and even people from other African countries come here regularly for training programmes. I can say categorically that NCS in the last years has trained about 80 per cent of officers within and outside the country in different Customs procedures, which include e-processes of all relevant documents for operations, risk management, and other skills needed to facilitate trade for more productivity in the economy. As the officers are being trained, they are also promoted as at when due. If you get to three years and pass your examination, you a re promoted without any discrimination.

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loaded in many cartons. Such prompt action prevented those dangerous items from being circulated in the country. A recent example is the interception of 56,750 rounds of live ammunition by Oyo/Osun Customs Command. Imagine the danger, if such offensive items had gone into our economic ambience un-checked.

That is why we are commending the insight of the current management in restructuring the Service. This is because hard work and intelligence brought to bear in Customs operations by officers steamed from regular training and improved welfare package for them. The NCS is working hard to prevent proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country, while also

seeking collaboration with Customs administrations across the world as well as other relevant agencies to curb criminal activities at the nation’s borders.

The records are available for people to see. This is the first time in the history of Nigeria that Customs experienced tremendous reform, which has repositioned the Service to an enviable position in the world.

The on-going reform in the Service is outstanding and laudable. The current management by Dikko has the best records in the history of NCS. Customs reform in the last four years has not only repositioned Nigeria ’s economy for greater growth but has impacted positively on the entire West African Sub-region.

For example, the Customs College in Abuja is adequately equipped to deliver worldclass capacity building programmes for officers in Nigeria and within the sub-region.

Dikko made history as the first Customs CG to address over 1,000 stakeholders made up of importers, manufacturers and agents in Lagos trade fair.

He is also the first Customs Boss to embark on border community projects like provision of boreholes, clinics and schools, with a view to ensuring development of bor-

der communities.

Can you give us more insight into Customs migration to Single Window platform?

The current CG initiated Migration to the Single Window platform, which allows parties involved in trade and transport to lodge standardised information and documents with a single entry point to fulfill all import, export and transit-related regulatory requirements. Before 2009, capacity building for officers did not receive the deserved attention because the training was limited to ASYCUDA and refresher courses in Kano and Lagos training Colleges. Later, a department of Human Resources Development was formed by the CG. So far, the department has completed the training of over 18,036 officers, both locally and internationally. Many officers benefited from trainings in the US , Japan , Switzerland ,,South Africa , Hong kong and other countries, which contributed greatly in transforming the Service positively to what we have today. My advice is for smugglers to desist from illegality and allow sanity in our economic environment. The media should partner with Customs to check criminal activities in our country.

From left: Alvaro Manoel, Lilia Razlog, facilitators from World Bank, Economic Policy and Debt Department (PREMED), Director General, West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), Prof. Akpan Ekpo and Mr. Baba Musa, Director, Debt Department of WAIFEM, at the regional training on Debt Management Performance Assessment Tool (DeMPA), organised by World Bank in collaboration with WAIFEM in Lagos.

PAGE 36—SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18, 2013

Advertising: The Performance Indicators (1)

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a method of measuring the effectiveness of advertising, considering the benefit and value of advertising, from the client and the practitioner ’s point of view? If we know that advertising spend is a form of investment, then the spendchannel must account for invested financial capital, for the benefit of cost-benefit consideration, if for nothing else.

Suffice that the participant’s question jolted me and the entire class into trying to do two things: understand the question within the context of its consideration (advertising practice and service delivery), and in the face of its “strangeness”, appreciate the propriety, for the benefit of us all.

As it turned out, the seemingly simple (strange) question turned out a topical case-study for all. To appreciate the import and invaluable contribution of the question, one has to take it from its ordinary or surface meaning: is the value of advertising measureable? If it is, how is it measured? On the whole, therefore, is advertising accountable?

Often times, advertising budgets are drawn up, based on the client’s resource capability. So what obtains is Agencies work based on the client’s brief. The other method of determining advertising budget is by appreciating the derived cost of driving proposed marketing or advertising solution known problem. In other words, the client, often times the deep pocket ones, permit Agency’s budget proposal for consideration, in so far as the campaign proposal is considered good enough to help achieve set-objective.

Either way, the driving force is expectation. It is either the campaign proposal is sold and approved wholly; including

budget indication or the client manages to achieve a downward budget review, yet get the campaign executed as proposed, on the revised budget.

So, the client’s brief determines the extent of agency presentation. And on client’s approval, the budget is spent on campaign execution…story ends. The question is “IS THE VALUE OF ADVERT MESSAGES MEASURED ON THE BASIS OF THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE ADVERTISERS’ GAINS IN RELATION TO THE AD-SPEND - in real or quantifiable terms?” In other words, how can the client determine the Return on his/ her advertising Investment (spend), to the extent of ‘justification and net-off ’ on the balance sheet.

So, the client briefs the

,

N a personal note, I expect a large number of advertising practitioners among our readers to be piqued by the title of this piece. In the first place, the phrase “performance indicators” is not ordinarily commonly related with the practice and/or business of advertising (by extension, brands management), in its latent connotation. Going by its manifest implication, also, it is way out of practitioners’ consideration. The more interesting thing is, “ADVERTISERS” are the most alienated of the group, not minding their direct financial commitment and responsibility.

Customary to our tradition on this platform, let us be quick to cleanly leave out those who engage in offering advertising services as purely a business engagement, without care or concern for the professional aspect of the industry. To the extent where we should either evaluate ourselves on the basis of professional robustness and application of general knowledge in our professional engagements, it will be inappropriate to not make that distinction.

To a large extent, many of us professionals in brand management are quite guilty of in-appropriate internalization of the phrase in consideration. Primarily, narrowing our scope of concern to our immediate professional environment, place such otherwise important elements on the blind side of our consideration bracket.

At last MC&A DIGEST organized training session (Training Non-Professional Brand Managers), a participant asked the question “ what are the performance indicators for advertising?” my initial reaction was that of askance; perhaps the participant was yet far from the basics of advertising as we tried to familiarize his class with. But again, the quick flip turned me on the side of the investigated … “do you really understand the question?” in that quick interval between when the question hit me and when I reacted, so many things rushed to mind; one, is P E R F O R M A N C E INDICATOR captured in the entire creative process?

Yes, PERFORMANCE INDICATION captures evaluation and success rate measurement…but where does it fit in the process of advertising? Or, still can we graft it into what we already know? And finally, what do we already know and permit…as

terms. It is for the fact that has actually been one of the major problems facing advertising as an investment, ironically. It is because clients cannot expressly put value to the contribution of adverts in the gamut of marketing expenditures on the basis of cost-benefit analysis. In some big and properly structured marketing-driven corporate environment, the tradition is for advertising or brand support budget to be determined at a percentage of actual earnings based on historical records, for the projected engagement. That way, the head of marketing team pegs the ad-spend on the figure determined by such calculation. So it is the practice corporate players such as Nigerian Breweries, Procter& Gamble and Unilever, to draw up advertising and

Often times, advertising budgets are drawn up, based on the client’s resource capability. So what obtains is that agencies work based on the client’s brief

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agency for a sales promotion campaign, and at the end of executing the agency ’s proposal, the brand managers seat-back to justify the advert spend. The question is whether this is done, and by how much is the agency held accountable or credited for the plus or minuses captured at the end, if it really does happen.

Within the context of conventional practice, it is not common practice for advert messages intervention to be held accountable in value

marketing budgets, preparatory to yearly brand support activities.

From the participant in reference’s perspective same process of drawing up advert budget should be structured to evaluate the contribution of advertising/marketing communication/brand support, post-engagement. To him, that will help put in perspective, the value and essence of advertising, in the scheme of marketing activities.

This topic would have been very easily determined within

the context of conventional advertising practice; a period when media platform was traditional, target audience psychographics were possibly run through standard format.

Within that same context, target audience media habit never changed, in so far as the age bracket is same for any two assignments. For target consumer expectations, it was almost same, except that competition among brands threw up little variants of value offering within certain product categories, in which situation, particular attention is paid to possible target reaction to such stimulus.

Within the conventional setting, evaluating contribution of advertising support to marketing was given to simple appropriation.

The only social science figment in the system is that the extent of appropriation is directly equal to the extent of value proposition. So, the agency presentation convinces the client that a particular campaign is targeted to achieve ‘X’ value in (either) quantifiable or derived terms, the client does ahead to appropriate same measure of value as gains from advertising or brand support, in so far as the client’s team approved the agency ’s presentation. It was that simple!

In rare situations when the agency chose to impress a client towards deeper professional service delivery and peculiar competitive advantage, they introduce target response tracking or monitoring – through response coupon (press) and/ or shelf off-take tracking (in a defined location). At the end of the day, clients are as good or satisfied, as the agency leads them.

Looking back, this unscientific method of value measurement is responsible for the less than appropriate appreciation of the services of professional brand management, because in any way, who know the extent of advertising agency ’s contribution (so, just anybody can do it!). Moving forward, therefore, it is important for clients, practitioners and students in brands management/advertising to be clearly certain on standard of value measurement of brand advertising support in marketing.

MC&A DIGEST will drive this inquest to its conclusion next week; the task would be to identify that standard of value measurement of advertising in marketing.

Until then, contribution from our readers will help.

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGSUT 18, 2013, PAGE 37

The Church may back civil revolution —Archbishop Adewale Martins *On apparitions: ‘We must guard against fraudulent practices’ ARCHBISHOP Alfred Adewale Martins, born on June 1, 1959, was the choice of the Holy See as the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos to replace His Eminence, Anthony Cardinal Okogie who resigned on attainment of the age of 75. Martins was consecrated archbishop on July 5, last year. In this interview to mark the first anniversary of his consecration, the Abeokuta, Ogun State-born cleric speaks on the state of the nation, saying the Church may throw its support behind a civil revolution if need be.

•Archbishop Martins...Christ is not divided

BY SAM EYOBOKA How has the journey been? ell, there is nothing that is completely without its challenges, as long as we are human beings living in the world in which we find ourselves. But I believe that there have been more ups than downs in the one year that I have been here. I have in many ways, on many occasions, and in many circumstances enjoyed the cooperation and collaboration of the people of the Archdiocese—clergy and laity. In very many ways, there have been opportunities to express our unity of purpose and our unity of focus. Everyone recognizes the fact that we have a mission given to us by Christ, that each one must play his or her own part. But in the midst of these, there have been the usual human challenges that you go through; but that is nothing compared to the ups that God has given us.

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You must have set out some goals and targets at inception. What are some of such goals and how well would you say you have succeeded in achieving them?

My attitude has always been that whatever task that one is given by God or by the Church is an opportunity to carry on the ministry of Christ; the ministry of salvation; the ministry of contributing to the welfare of God’s people; the ministry of ensuring that worship of God is done in spirit and in C M Y K

There is nothing that is new. Whatever happens has happened before and you only need to look at them with the eye of the present moment in order to deal with them truth; and that purity of worship is also part of what one considers as one’s task.

Of course these include the administration of the goods and properties of the Church; and the administration of God’s people. These are the main tasks that naturally one has the responsibility of carrying out.

We try to ensure, in practical terms, that there is unity in the management of God’s people; to ensure that there is a common focus and common goals and that the goods of the Church are managed in the best possible ways, and that, basically, the mission of Christ in the Church is advanced.

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hat will you say has been the main thrust of your one year in office?

First of all, my idea is to get to know where I am working and the people with whom I am working; to be familiar with the strain of thoughts and the flow of people; to be able to know… to feel the people that I work with. That is the first thing that was upper most in my mind. And then of course to sell the

idea or rather continue to build upon the idea that every single individual in the Archdiocese has a role to play.

Virtually the administrative structure left behind by your predecessor is still intact. Why is that so? Is it part of the studying process?

The fact of the matter is that there is the general wisdom; that is, the native wisdom, that when you enter a new place, the chicken stands on one foot and observes its environment. And, in any case, the fact of the matter is that a good number of these people who are taking responsibilities in these areas have been there over the years; they have the experience and, therefore, it is good to see how they carry on their work, and then of course observe others who are also able, who are also growing within the system, such that there will be minimal disruption and maximum results.

So, do we expect a change of focus in your second year in office?

Well, the focus remains to build the

kingdom of God in the Archdiocese. If by change of focus you mean administrative; you see, there are certain circumstances in which certain people are doing some work that need not be interrupted in order that it be brought to a good conclusion. You don’t just change for the sake of change. You change for the sake of bringing greater growth to the life of the institution. That is not to say that there is no need for change, or there won’t be change.

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agos Archdiocese is cosmopolitan in nature. What is your perception of the level of interrelationship among the flock in the Archdiocese?

My perception of it is that there is a good working relationship among the different groups that are there in the Archdiocese. And I believe that, that is the way it ought to be, considering the fact that Christ is not divided. We were all baptized with the same baptism and it is the blood of Christ that binds us together. So, one expects that there should be collaboration amongst the people. But then, of course, we are human beings who may have differences of opinion and step on one another’s toes. But those are not so fundamental to the life of the Church.

Our Church is over 2,000 years old.

There is nothing that is new. Whatever happens has happened before and you only need to look at them with the eye of the present moment in order to deal

Continues on page 38

PAGE 38—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

embrace charity. What’s the import of this on the Church?

I am one person who believe very strongly that nothing happens by chance. God has a purpose for whatever it is that happens. God has a purpose for giving us Pope Francis at this time. He has a purpose for helping to refocus our attention on areas we need to work on. And I think that, that is the purpose that he is fulfilling in our Church today. His emphasis is on the need to love the poor; the principle of caring for the down trodden, and the principle of ensuring that those who are disadvantaged are taken care of. That principle has been there and it continues to remain valid. But, obviously, as I said, with time, we tend to slow down on some of these important things.

The Pope recently declared his in-

•Martins admonishes the faithful

‘We must guard against fraudulent apparition claims’ Continued from page 17

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oes the refusal of the priests to accept bishops posted to them by the Mother Church mean that the vow of poverty, chastity and obedience no more hold water?

No! The vow of obedience, poverty and chastity remains very fundamental to the priesthood. But as we have seen in these circumstances, people, out of various kinds of weaknesses or failures, may stray. The vows are as strong and effective as they ought to be. Majority of priests are faithful to their vows of obedience, both in this nation and all over the world. The problem is not with the vow of obedience itself! And the Church knows how to deal with this situation and I am sure they are studying it and the Mother Church, the Church universal, will take appropriate action.

Pope Francis has shown exceptional love for the poor; forsaking personal comfort and calling on the world to

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our predecessor was very critical of the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria and other excesses in the Church. But there are some gifted priests in the Catholic Church. How do you ensure there is decorum in the use of such powers or gifts?

We live in a country in which people are sometimes carried away or susceptible to gullibility. And that is why we have all kinds of false miracles and charlatans at work

with them.

The Church is one and universal.

Let’s therefore look the situations in the Owerri and Benin Provinces where there have been internal rifts among some priests, religious and laity in Ahiara and Benin Dioceses over the choice of bishops. Is it permissible for a group of people to openly reject their bishop?

Obviously, it is an aberration. It is a conflict that should not have happened.

And it should not have gone to the extent to which it did. I believe that the Church has a procedure by which it does its things; such procedures have been established over the years. There should therefore be no need for such rifts. That is not to say that people should not express themselves. But I think people ought to be able to see matters from the point of view of faith. I believe the Church, as old as she is, will continue to make itself relevant and act appropriately in every given circumstance.

with its own understanding, with its own principles founded upon the scriptures and traditions, looks at these religious experiences, evaluates them properly and be able to give appropriate direction or appropriate pronouncements on them. However, the fact that they come up at all is an indication of the fact that people have faith. People are very disposed to experience God and His action. And, therefore, for that reason, it’s a good thing that such things happen. But we must guide against fraudulent religious experiences. We live in a country in which people are sometimes carried away or susceptible to gullibility. And that is why we have all kinds of false miracles and charlatans at work. So when those experiences come, the Church will not dismiss them outrightly but will evaluate them properly, using scriptures, using the traditions, using the teachings of the Church in giving directions as to what people should make of those experiences.

tention to canonize Pope John Paul II later this year. Some Nigerians are already asking questions as to why our own Blessed Tansi is yet to be canonized, several years after his beatification. What is your take on this? think we should realize that there is a process for beatification and then canonization. It depends on how quickly the process is concluded.

I know that the body that is responsible for facilitating the canonization of Blessed Iwene Tansi has been working very hard. I know for sure that they have not relented in their efforts to ensure that the canonization of Blessed Michael Iwene Tansi takes place as soon as possible. And indeed we have been constantly encouraging people to also pray for it. Because it is not just a result of all our effort, but rather, through our prayer and the will of God; all of these are essential. Remember that right from the death of John Paul II, people have been clamouring for his canonization but it doesn’t just come that way. It is not how popular you are that determines it, but rather due process must be observed.

Child marriage has generated much debate lately. What is your take?

We must go back to the fact that this whole discussion started from, whether Section 29, 4b of the Constitution should be expunged or not. That’s where it all began from, and so if, indeed, it has been expunged, that in itself is an indication that there is a willingness to deal with the problem of early marriage. However, whether there will now be a deliberate insertion of a Section or Sub-section or whatever it is, into the Constitution is another story entirely. And I think that is what majority of the people have been advocating since this whole issue started and I believe that the Senate ought to listen to the people. Otherwise they give us the impression that all their traveling around the country, pretending to be listening to the views of people was just a waste of money and time. igerians are said to be among the most religious people on earth. Ironically, there is so much crime and corruption in our land. What do you think is responsible for this disconnect?

I think to be religious is one thing. To be religious in terms of carrying out one’s religious obligation is another thing. To be truly a friend of God; one who surrenders himself to the will of God and does the will of God is a separate thing entirely; and I think that, that is where the problem lies. You see people carrying out external religious activities, showing piety and acts of piety but, right in the depth of their hearts, they are not making efforts to follow the dictates of Christ and the dictates of the scripture. That is where the problem lies. We need to constantly remind ourselves on the need to rise above our human weaknesses that tend to make us run contrary to the will of God. Mere religious practices and religious activities without love is useless.

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Not too long ago, there was this report of a reverend sister who experiences stigmata. There have also been reported cases in recent times of apparitions of Jesus and Mary in some churches in Benin City. What do these incidents portend for the Church?

In the first instance, apparitions, stigmata and all extraordinary religious experiences are personal to those who have them. And, therefore, it is important that the Church as an institution

will contradict that which the Church and God stand for. And there are practices within the Church with regards to liturgy. For example, if a person is exercising the so-called gifts in a way that goes contrary to the rules and regulations of liturgy, then naturally that person has gone beyond his bonds. And so, if there are such individuals or such persons that are found, naturally you would correct them, call them to order and help them to recognize the fact that whatever it is that they call their gifts are supposed to be exercised within the boundaries of the Church; otherwise, if you want to take your gifts outside, that is another story entirely. So, basically, we must recognize the fact that gifts are given by God for the good of God’s people. Even St. Paul said that if you have the gifts of tongues, the gifts of healing, etc, but you don’t have love, your gifts are useless; you are just like an empty gong. Every gift needs to be tested for its authenticity and the exercise of it also needs to be seen to be in tune with the institution to which you belong.

•Martins: We have all kinds of false miracles and charlatans at work I think what we should look at is: what does the scripture say? What does the Church say? What does the Holy Church in Nigeria say about these things? The scripture says to us that we have a variety of gifts and people have a variety of ways of explaining and making God present. And so, we cannot dismiss it outrightly, that these gifts are there. But at the same time, you have to put the gifts to test… so to say. If an individual says he has the gift of healing but he does not have the gift of obedience in terms of being ready to submit that gift to the relevant authorities, then you wonder; is such gift from God or from somewhere else? It is important to be able to put the gifts to test, to know their authenticity. No gift that anybody gives

People have consistently called for a drastic cut in the cost of governance, especially in the salaries and emoluments of political office holders, as a way of bridging the disparity between the leadership and followership. Is this realizable?

It is important that those who lead us are, as it were, conscious of what the people are going through and how they

Continues on page 40

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18 , 2013, PAGE 39

*Ladipo...Moderate family size should be the rule the number of children we can care for, rather than just reproducing and expecting God to take care of them. There is no reason for having children who are just languishing in abject poverty, roaming around, doing nothing productive,” he remarked.

*A seven-member family on motor-bike

The dangers of too many children, by Professor •Says uncontrolled population is a Ladipo time-bomb

By SOLA OGUNDIPE

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AST year, President Goodluck Jonathan stirred the hornet’s nest when he declared that Nigerians were having too many children. The President’s accusation was directed at persons unable to properly cater for the needs of their children as those guilty of giving birth too many times and too often. “Uneducated people are having too many children. People should only have as many children as they can afford,” the President remarked. His declaration that Nigerians ought to learn to limit the number of children they brought into the world did not go down well with a lot of people. The call, which was essentially for new policies and legislation on family planning in the country towards controlling number of births, was greeted with mixed reactions. Although incisive debate still trails the President’s commentary on C M Y K

the sensitive issue of childbirth, the implications of unchecked population increase and a high fertility rate remain paramount, especially with growing evidence that unchecked population growth is a major trigger of violence in the country.

Population moderation “There is great wisdom in having only the number of children you can provide for.

We need a population moderation and management policy because people should not just be having as many children as they want,” asserts Professor Oladapo Ladipo, the President/CEO, Association for Reproduction and Family Health, ARFH, Abuja. Anyone who disagrees with this assertion should ask Haruna, the maiguard whose wife just gave birth to her 11th child.

Kunle, his employer, who also has one wife, but three children, is already sponsoring Haruna’s first two children in school. Four other

Criminal act “What is more painful is to see children unhealthy, malnourished, languishing and dying prematurely. God himself does not support producing children you cannot cater for. God does not tell us to bear children that we will be seeing die under-nourished and leading unproductive lives.

“We are just being deliberately blind to reality. It has been

There is great wisdom in having only the number of children you can provide for. We need a population moderation and management policy because people should not just be having as many children as they want children are scattered around, and at least two others are being brought up by relations and guardians.

Ladipo argued that millions of “Harunas” out there, who have failed to moderate the size of their family, and the ones rocking the boat by continually transferring the responsibility of catering for their children to the “Kunles” who have moderated the size of their families and are doing well as a result. “It is important for Nigerians and indeed Africans generally to recognize the need to have just

shown clearly in the Asian countries there is no country classified as developed that has not moderated its population. If one person is telling another to reproduce recklessly, to me, it is a crime to the state. It is a crime to just be reproducing recklessly and transferring the responsibility of looking after the children to somebody else”.

Ladipo’s assertion that having a moderated family size should be the rule and not the option is hinged on the premise that, when a family size is moderated, the husband and

wife will have the opportunity of increasing the quality of their own lives.

“That will give the family good quality education; good nutrition and good accommodation and such children will become responsible citizens. Poverty is widespread in Nigeria and people that are having too many children are suffering every day. We see it; we do not need research to see it. The difficulty of survival is glaring – joblessness, frustrations and abysmal poverty, radicalism, extremism. We are beginning to see all these, but we can avoid it if we moderate the family size.”

Over the years, family planning proponents have called for resources to bring up the demographic gains that would lead to extra income so that the average Nigerian family can have better quality of life and to provide more for heath, education, agriculture, roads, and development of the environment.

Brain drain “There are many qualified persons, but too few jobs.

People cannot get jobs, either in the public or private sector.

Those who are not highly skilled for jobs that are available are forced to look for another source of income or go abroad. There is no way the public and private sectors can absorb the huge numbers of trained graduates.

“So what do you do? You export them having paid a lot of money to train them. That is the situation we have now.

Many people who are highly qualified, they have gone for greener pasture abroad because they have no .

•Continues on page 40

PAGE 40 — SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

‘We must guard against fraudulent apparition claims’ Continues on page 38 are living and put that into consideration in any decision that they make. I was listening to news recently, and it was said that political office holders in Africa earn by far higher than others in the rest of the world; and that Nigeria has the highest paid political officers in the whole of Africa. It is therefore imperative for our legislators, the executive; and all those who occupy political positions to recognize the fact that, if they continue to award themselves huge salaries and emoluments, they are by so doing setting the people further apart from them. And people look at them as if they are not the same stuff as the rest of the nation. herefore it is important for them to ensure that funds are not diverted into payment of huge emoluments and salaries; but rather into development of infrastructure and social structures within the nation.

These are what impact on the lives of the people.

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What can you see on the unity of Nigeria beyond 2015?

The unity of Nigerian is obviously something in my own estimation that

•Continued from page 39 opportunities for employment here. Ability of government to absorb highly skilled people is minimal. We are exporting manpower to develop other countries of the world,” the professor lamented.

Risky births Apart from the issue of having too many children, one of the more pressing concerns is the health risk to the mother.

That risk is a combination of maternal death and infant death. Fertility affects health mainly because certain types of births are exceptionally risky.

“Risky births” are defined as births that are too closely spaced, or when the mother is too young or too old, or when the mother has too many children - all of these could cause death or injury to the mother and child. In Nigeria, more than six in 10 births fall in at least one of the high risk categories. High-risk births are usually defined as births that are spaced too close together; births to mothers who are either too young or too old; and births to mothers who have large numbers of previous children. This equates to more than half the children born having an elevated risk of dying before their fifth birthday a risk that could be significantly diminished by using child spacing to avoid births that are too C M Y K

is not negotiable. I think we need Nigeria to be one united country and focused. We need a Nigeria in which everyone feels a sense of belonging as part and parcel of the nation. But the system of government we now run does not take care of these. And that is why we cannot but continue to talk about the fact that federal character should be brought back into the forefront of our national life. Federal character has been rubbished, as it were, now because everybody has to go to the centre to be able to do anything or make anything.

If this nation were allowed to flow according to the pace of the different geographical zones now, then I believe that we’ll be better off and development would be more rapid; there would be more accountability and the leaders would feel more responsible to the people. So, while the unity of the nation is beyond negotiation, we need to put in place the structures that will make that happen.

Can you lead a revolution?

Obviously my job is to be a priest.

My job is just to be a priest. The point is, the Church has a responsibility to empower its people. The Church has

a responsibility to speak to the minds and the hearts of the lay faithful. And it is their own role to ensure that these things that we are talking about happen. Of course the Church will give a backing but I don’t believe that it is the responsibility of the Church to say, `okay, let us go into the streets'.

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e know of priests that have led revolutions.

That is true, but we also know the challenges that have come with taking that kind of responsibility. We saw the problem in Haiti and in other parts of the world.

We saw what happened. Even in our nation, people who think that they are priests and, therefore, can be governors, you saw how they were rubbished. And that is why we say that the important thing is to ensure that we create an atmosphere by which our people would be thoroughly imbibed with the spirit that is necessary. And, therefore, do the work.

Some Christians in Lagos State have been clamoring for a Christian governor. What is your take on this?

I have heard about the need to have a higher Christian presence at the helm of affairs in Lagos State. We gen-

erally have looked at governance from the point of view that the most efficient and capable should take the position. But, of course, the time comes when you also ask: Are there not also others, like Christians, who are equally qualified to be in positions of leadership? I think it is important for the political office holders and those who exercise political power within the state to also ask themselves that question such that we don’t find a situation in which there is a wide disenchantment. Our political leaders need to pay attention to this clamour and do something about it.

How is your typical day like?

My typical day is a full day. I begin about 5.30 in the morning and work till about 4.00 p.m. when I take a break to attend to other less official matters.

But my days are often loaded with meetings and engagements. So it’s usually a full day by the grace of God. How do you relax?

I try to! I have a treadmill in the house that’s sometimes gathering dust; so I am trying to redefine myself as far as that is concerned. But then…I do other exercises within my own environment. Perhaps one day I’ll also begin to play squash or something.

‘The dangers of too many children...’

Ladipo

closely spaced or that fall into other high-risk categories.

Number numbness Currently, Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country, with an estimated population of 168 million, according to the National Population Commission. Estimates by the

*A typical unplanned family United Nations show that the population of Nigeria could grow from 160 million to 400 million by 2050. But how did the country get here?

In 1963, Nigeria and its colonial master, Britain, had the same population size of 56 million. By 2011, a space of 48 years, Nigeria’s population had tripled to 167 million while the population of Britain

had only risen to 62 million.

With a sustained fertility of 5.7 and the growth rate of 3 percent, this population is expected to double inless than 24 years.

International statistics indicate that Nigeria experienced and is still experiencing one of the fastest rates of urbanisation in the world. A recent study by the Nigerian Urban Reproductive Health Initiative, NURHI,

revealed that over the last few decades, growth rates of the population of Nigeria’s urban areas had been almost double those of rural areas.

For instance, in 1950, Nigeria had over 30 million rural population but less than four million urban population.

After 1990, the rural population has grown more slowly, whereas urban growth became very rapid. In 2005, Nigeria’s rural population numbered over 75 million compared to 65 million urban population.

By 2010, the urban and rural populations were nearly equal. It is projected that by 2015, Nigeria’s urban population will be almost 94 million while the rural population will be around 82 million. More people are living in Nigeria’s cities and the country ’s rapid urbanization rate is expected to continue into the future.

UN projections estimate that by 2030, Nigeria’s urban population will reach 162 million whereas the rural population will be only about half the number of urban residents.

With all this in mind, already, experts are of the view that no matter what is done, the population of Nigeria will keep growing rapidly, even if the path of low fertility is taken

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013 — PAGE 41

Fani-Kayode: A bigot in search of redemption

BY KELECHI JEFF EME

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ne lesson I learnt over the years is to ignore rabble rousers no matter the degree of their provocation. The recurrent decimal that defines political failures is their unalloyed penchant at deploying religion and ethnicity in craving for a seat on the political gravy train.

The irony is the success rate of this tactics notwithstanding the damage it does to the polity and national cohesion. Are politicians really ready to learn or is the number the most important factor no matter the character of coalescing individuals?

I read the piece by Femi FaniKayode on the brouhaha over the “deportation” of some Igbo from Lagos to Anambra State and one thing struck me: he was a man left in political wilderness and earnestly seeking for redemption through the back door. Unfortunately for him, the Yoruba political establishment on the left flank rarely forgives “vagabonds” no matter the staccatissimos of their music. So my summation is that Fani-Kayode is on a blind mission in pursuit of relevance.

I must however concede that he is entitled to dwell in silly land

where bigotry, charlatanism and idiocy reign supreme.

Only an ethnic irredentist could have authored the piece in question considering the factual inaccuracies and blatant falsehoods shamelessly displayed. That the writer eulogized the virtues of Sir Herbert Macaulay of blessed memory as a thoroughbred Yoruba man is not only strange but depicts the elastic intellectual flaws associated with him. Macaulay’s father was a native Sierra Leonean of Creole origin. He settled in Nigeria and did marvelous things and his son automatically became a Nigerian hero based on his fight for the people. If the loquacious Fani-Kayode appropriated the legacy of Macaulay and used same to demonstrate the impeccable heritage of his Yoruba tribe, what is the difference between his position and those who claim Lagos to be “no man’s land?” In any case, there are many Lagosians of Sierra Leonean and Brazilian origins that are rightly classified as indigenes. What is the difference between these Nigerians and Igbo or other tribes that settled and do business in Lagos?

•Fani Kayode Another juvenile sophistry by the writer was his introduction of Nigeria alongside Africa in the Zik’s address to Igbo Union Congress in 1948. He mischievously introduced Nigeria to deceive the gullible that there was an agenda by Igbo to “colonize” the country.

1948 was the peak of the agitation for self-rule in Nigeria and Dr. Azikiwe spoke at the Igbo Union Congress to galvanize the people to be part of the struggle to liberate the continent. It is a shame that Fani-Kayode classified that as the beginning of ethnic politics in Nigeria. He further stretched that to the failure of NCNC to be the dominant party in

Nigeria at the time. I think this guy needs to be educated a bit here. Two things contributed to the failure of NCNC to win the independence election in Nigeria: the departure of the present Western Cameroun from Nigeria and the whimsical allocation of parliamentary seats to northern Nigeria at the time.

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he declassified British government’s report made this assertion very clear.

Somebody should educate the writer that the NCNC and its allies led by Zik won the 1951 election in Western Region before carpet -crossing denied him of the premiership. I must also add that the NCNC

cleared almost all the seats in Lagos. How did the Azikiwe’s Igbo Union Congress speech which took place three years earlier affect the outcome of that election? Review your notes again Mr. Fani-Kayode.

It is instructive to note that had the British colonial administration been fair to Nigeria, Azikiwe could have occupied the Prime Minister’s position of the federal republic at independence regardless of the departure of Western Cameroun. The facts are there. The lopsided nature of Continues on page 42

Before Femi-Fani Kayode dies of Igbophobia

By NELSON AKO OKOLI

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had the ugly experi ence of reading the infantile postulations of a former minister of aviation, Mr. Femi Fani –Kayode, headlined, ‘The bitter truth about the Igbo’. I wept for Nigeria as I remembered that such a character was once a member of the Federal Executive Council under Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s presidency.

Fani – Kayode’s diatribe could be summarised in the following statements, some of which are quoted verbatim. (1(a) “I am not in this debate for fun or for political gain” (b) Fani- Kayode wrote as if he was a spoke person for the Yoruba race. (2) The outrage and condemnation that greeted the deportation of Igbo from Lagos is asinine and uninformed because Lagos belongs exclusively to the C M Y K

Yoruba. (3) The Yoruba has for long been accommodating and generous to the Igbo by allowing them to come back to Lagos after the civil war and allowing them to do in Yoruba land what Yoruba have not been allowed to do in Igbo land. (4) Igbo have a domineering tendency and are not accommodating because they never had any history, monarchs or structured societies.(5) The Igbo introduced tribalism into southern politics because one Mr. Charles Dadi Onyeama, a federal legislator in 1945, said to his fellow Igbo that the domination of Nigeria and Africa by the Igbo was only a matter of time. (6) Herbert Macaulay a Yoruba man founded the NCNC and handed same over to ZIK an Igbo. The Igbo man will not form a party and hand it over to a Yoruba man. (7) “Unlike them we are not mere traders but…. major industrialists…. And… we were producing university graduates

at least three generations before they did.” (8) The Igbo have recorded a string of negative “FIRSTS” some of which include, the first military coup in Nigeria in which the author dubbed an Igbo coup …..,and drawing the first blood in the unfortunate events of 1966-1970.

(9) The Igbo are responsible for the civil war “…….by provoking a full scale military conflict…… when they launched a vicious and unprovoked attack against the rest of the South……… the Igbo and their Biafra killed Nigerians for three years in which courageous sons and daughters of the Federal Republic lost their lives…….. trying to stop the Biafrans from taking over our land”.

The natural thing for me would have been to ignore the provocative postulations of this failed and drowning politician who, in his infantile fantasy, has assumed the position of the spokesperson for our dear Yoruba brethren.

Initially I felt it would be unnecessary to dignify the attention - hungry former minister who has been “enjoying” the company of our anticorruption agencies of late by authoring a rejoinder to his diatribe.

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have however decided to do a rejoinder for the sake of posterity and the deep mutually beneficial economic, professional, religious and even matrimonial relationships that have existed between the Yoruba and Igbo even before the birth of Mr. Femi Fani – Kayode. I have tried to summarise the Fani – Kayode’s venom and hate – laden “bitter lies about the Igbo” into nine numbered statements which I shall comment on and traverse seriatim viz: “I am not in this debate for……… political gain.”

Pretension to being the spokesman for the Yoruba race.

Nothing could be further from the truth than the preceding

quote. Since the end of the former minister’s lack luster tenure as federal minister of aviation and the exit of his lord and master Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo from power, FaniKayode appears to be sinking deeper, by the day, into political oblivion. To make matters worse, his political party (PDP) in his native Osun State and Lagos which he now claims as state of origin appears not to be doing well in the two states which the PDP lost to the ACN. Even within the PDP he has little or no relevance. The latest rumor is that he has joined the ACN or APC as it is now called. He urgently needs to earn the trust of Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr. Fashola and other leaders of the party. How can he be shut out of the corridors of power at the federal and state levels? How would he be able to maintain his “big man pikin” lifestyle? Even if

Continues on page 42

PAGE 42—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

A bigot in search of redemption Continued from page 41

parliamentary seats allocation was responsible. A glance at the popular votes during the 1959 independence election proved this point beyond reasonable doubt: the contesting parties at the time, namely, NCNC-NEPU alliance scored-2,594,577, Action Group-1,992,364 and NPC-1,992,179 votes respectively. However, the above result translated into NPC-142, NCNC-NEPU-90 and the Action Group-73 seats in parliament. So the tagging of Zik and NCNC as ethnic oriented could only be the imagination of Fani-Kayode.

In further addressing the infantile tattles of the writer, he misfired by describing the Igbo as unfriendly to the eastern minorities that made up the old Eastern Region.

Western Region from Premier to Deputy Premier, Governor, Finance Minister, among others. How do you reconcile this? How many of us still remembers the saying that “the Ooni is here, the Alaafin is here, the Western Region is complete” notwithstanding the presence of the revered Oba of Benin at a state function?

On this issue of ethnic politics, may I remind the writer that the crisis that rocked Warri in recent past was a throwback to the

Action Group years of old Western Region. The Itsekiri are known to have tribal affiliation with the Yoruba and identified with the AG at the time while the Urhobo, led by the late Okotie Eboh, were of the NCNC. The government. led

by Chief Awolowo. capriciously changed the nomenclature of the Olu of Itsekiri to Olu of Warri, thereby ceding the metropolis to them at the detriment of the Urhobo and Ijaw. That was the genesis of

the crisis that took place in Warri.

Let me finally address the issue of citizenship in a federation as practised worldwide. FaniKayode must be living in utopianism to think that he has the capacity to stop a train that has taken off from the station.

For his information, the “Lagos for Yoruba” he is craving for is impossible and exists only in his weird mindset. Lagos was a federal territory and was developed by the collective will of the Nigerian people. The

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hat this man was a federal minister was a judgmental failure on our political and administrative leadership. The fact that a man imbued with all the inglorious anti- nation building characteristic was allowed to occupy prominent positions in government is a further demonstration that our redemption is still far. Political abyss is the only dwelling place for the likes of this bigot.

The rest of the issues raised by Fani-Kayode are too pedestrian to indulge him with a response. *Eme lives in Lagos

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admit that a few issues arose at the time and my conclusion is that the minorities could have gotten a better deal. However, I am amazed that this guy could go this far in exposing the political shortcomings of the Yoruba represented by Chief Obafemi Awolowo of blessed memory.

While the dominant Igbo elected an Efik/Ibiobio man as the Premier of Eastern Region despite its overwhelming majority, the Yoruba occupied all the prime positions in the

world has moved so fast that xenophobic actions are no longer restricted within the territorial boundaries of a country or region. What you can do is to encourage your people to compete and do so fairly.

Have you asked yourself what Lagos economy will look like if oil revenue and investment is taken off the state? What do you want Niger Deltans to do about their wealth that has been used to develop Lagos, Abuja and other cities? It is the foreign exchange import cover the oil wealth provides that sustains the Lagos industrial base. Do not be deceived my brother. We all need each other but that must be based on equity.

In a multi- ethnic society, the likes of Femi Fani-Kayode are dangerous to national development and cohesion.

Lagos...Igbo deportation sparked row

Before Femi-Fani Kayode dies of Igbophobia Continued from page 41 he has gained from one form of rehabilitation or the other, he knows that rehabilitating a failed politician from irrelevance to relevance may not be easy. A drowning man will naturally attempt to claw at anything and everything whether real or imaginary to save himself from extinction. He is indeed in this so called debate for purely selfish reasons, having failed as a federal minister.

He did not only fail Nigerians, but also the Yoruba. I knew the state of Murtala Muhammed Airport Lagos, Benin Airport, Enugu Airport, Port-Harcourt Airport and others during his tenure and I know the state of these airports under the present minister. Fani – Kayode misused a God given opportunity to prove himself a hardworking and honest person but blew it. Save for the payment of salaries, he cannot point out any tangible or significant achievement as minister.

If indeed Fani – Kayode is a Lagosian as he claims, he should explain to all how and why he

suddenly went politically deaf and dumb when Obasanjo unjustly withheld the allocation to Lagos State for months. If he cares to know, Lagos State at that point was being sustained by the taxes paid by companies and individuals resident in Lagos of which at least forty percent is Igbo. What makes him more Lagosian than these Lagosians?

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n line with his character, he couldn’t even wait to be fully forgiven, accepted and given a position among his new found friends before he began to speak for them. I must add at this point that if Sen. Tinubu (Asiwaju) does not disassociate himself from Fani – Kayode’s present diatribe and megalomaniac outburst, the Igbo would be right to assume the he spoke on behalf of APC and the Lagos State government.

I have associated closely enough with the Yoruba for over twenty years to doubt if the very respectable sons of Yoruba land like Sen. Adeseye Ogunlewe (a former minister of works), Prof.

Wole Soyinka, Prof. Yomi Osibanjo, Mr. Ayo Opadokun,

Prof Taiwo Osipitan and many others would agree to be associated with the infamous and ignominious submissions and falsehood of Fani – Kayode.

The APC must know that no selfish, designer- tribalist can ever be a political asset to any party.

Fani – Kayode is already doing an irreversible damage to the electoral fortunes of APC in Lagos and in the East especially, and I am in a position to know.

How sad.

The outrage that greeted the deportation of Igbo from Lagos is asinine and uninformed because Lagos belongs exclusively to the Yoruba.

The deportation of any person from one state in Nigeria to another is a fundamental breach of the person’s constitutional right to reside in any part of Nigeria. The exercise is, in itself, an iron fisted affirmation or naked and brutal use of power. It is an admission of the irresponsible failure of the Lagos State government to care for the less privileged within its area of jurisdiction. If indeed the idea behind the deportation was to

link the destitute with their kith and kin, in their home states, the Lagos government should tell the world the names of the relations to which they handed over these so called destitute by 2 a.m. at Upper Iweka Road motor park.

The Lagos government has a sworn duty to do good to all citizens in Lagos. I believe that ownership of any modern cosmopolitan city like New York, Lagos, etc could be categorised into three. The first type of ownership could arise by indigeneship which could arise from being born in a place or being the child of any parent who came from a particular place.

There is also the second type of ownership which arises on account of acquisition of pieces of real estate and other economic investments, and there is also the third type of ownership which could arise by settlement and legal residential status over time in a particular area. None of these categories of ownership excludes the other, rather they should be in constant positive interaction while complementing and improving each other. None is superior to the other. None can

exclude the other.

It therefore follows that Lagos is “someone’s land” and that someone could be Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Kanuri, Ijaw, etc as long as he falls into any of the categories. It was on account of this that a man from Ife could claim to be a Lagosian. It was also on account of this that a man from Kwara State and another from Osun could become governors of Lagos State at various times. It is also on account of this that Obama is the President of America.

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he mutually beneficial and long standing relationship that have always existed between the Igbo and their Yoruba brothers/ sisters would not be impaired by the narrow -minded postulations of a man in dire need of rehabilitation.

Sincerely, Fani- Kayode’s article under reference is the most childish, pitiful, rickety, wobbly and watery article I have ever read. He is indeed everything a graduate of Cambridge

Continues on page 43 C M Y K

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013 — PAGE 43

Continued from page 42

told an Igbo gathering that the domination of Nigeria and Africa by the Igbo was only a matter of time.

In his hatred of the Igbo, Fani – Kayode conveniently forgot to mention that the various ethnic nationalities were all engaged in some form of healthy competition to be better than the others.

Who was Dadi Onyeama? A federal legislator who was never at any time a spokesman for the Igbo. The statement was not credited to Dr. Azikiwe, Dr. Nwafor Orizu or any leading Igbo figure of that time.

The Igbo man would not form a party and hand it over to a Yoruba man like Herbert Macaulay did for Azikiwe Nothing could be farther from the truth.

I have already mentioned the role of Ekwueme as the founder of the PDP. We must not forget that Ekuweme opened the doors of his newly formed party for all including the Hausa, Yoruba, Ijaw and all other ethnic groups.

University should not be - a weak, weltering and ineffectual man. As minister of aviation, he could be likened to a man who mounted scaffolding, pulleys and tackles, gathered all the tools in the neighborhood with so much noise, demonstration and precept and then set no brick. Such a man cannot be a political asset but an onerous liability.

Did it ever occur to him that the former Intercontinental Bank became the giant that it was on account of Igbo/Yoruba synergy?

Does he know how much revenue the bank generated for the Federal and Lagos governments?

The number of people it employed? A “big man pikin” like him is in no position to appreciate these.

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he Yoruba have been accommodating……. allowing Igbo do in Lagos what the Yoruba have not been able to in Igbo land.

The Yoruba did not need to allow the Igbo before they could come back to Lagos after the civil war. The Igbo traveled to various parts of the country immediately after the civil war and began to set up their businesses. In the same manner, people from other regions who had things to do in the East also traveled to the East immediately after the civil war.

How would the spoilt silver spoon kid know that Igbo and Yoruba were involved in formal and informal business and professional relationships prior to the civil war. Business profits and indeed our currency notes do not have any tribal marks.

Fani – Kayode failed to tell us what Igbo have been allowed to do in Lagos that the Yoruba have not been allowed to do in Enugu, Onitsha or Port-Harcourt. Is it in the area of education? There are Yoruba students in the higher institutions in the East. There are Yoruba traders in the East. There are Yoruba workers in the East.

As a Students Union President, I was always invited for Yoruba cultural day celebrations and I participated actively in such celebrations during my university days in the East. Yoruba students also participated fully and actively in the general cultural day celebrations during my university days and we had fun. It is doubtful if any Yoruba man would be denied an opportunity to pay for a property that is up for sale on account of his tribe. If any Igbo man decides to sell his property, he like his Yoruba brothers would be interested in collecting a fair price for the property.

The problem here seems to be that the Yoruba are not as migrant and adventurous as the Igbo. In every state of the federation today, you would discover that after the indigenes of the states, the Igbo are the next in population – thus confirming their belief in the principle of one Nigeria. If the Igbo are more visible in Lagos and other cities located in the South-west, it would be because it is in their culture to settle down and ply their trade anywhere they consider safe and profitable.

Statistics have shown that the voting population of Lagos State is more than forty percent Igbo.

Most of these voters are tax payers whose taxes end up in the coffers of the state government.

Gov Fashola of Lagos: his action ignited controversy

Before Femi-Fani Kayode dies of Igbophobia Would it be fair for a law abiding club member who pays his annual subscription to be qualified to vote for other club members while being disqualified from standing for election on account of his surname? If Fani – Kayode’s problem is the increasing number of Igbo in Lagos and their demand for greater representation in government, why would that up-set any true democrat? Could it be that the deportation policy is aimed at reducing the number of Igbo in Lagos? Mr. Fashola and his party should please clarify this.

The point I am trying to make here is that the few Yoruba who have agreed to settle in the East have been allowed to do what their Igbo brothers have been allowed to do in Lagos. Sen. Tinubu is a title holder in my home town in the East just like some Igbo are traditional title holders in Lagos, Ibadan, etc. As a matter of fact, Asiwaju’s title entitles him to sit nearer to Igwe Iaz Ekwueme’s throne than myself on certain occasions.

Igbo are domineering and unaccommodating because they never had any history, monarchs, structured societies.

An Igbo adage has it that the spoilt child who does not leave his mother’s hut to join others for moonlight activities would end up believing that the moon only shines on his mother’s hut. Fani – kayode should tell the world how many (if any) Igbo friend he has.

The party under which he became a minister was PDP. The party started as G18 then G34 and later fused with other groups to become PDP under the guidance and chairmanship of the revered Dr. Alex Ekwueme.

How can a beneficiary of Igbo accommodation say that the Igbo are not accommodating?

Unknown to many Nigerians, we are enjoying democracy today

because of the maturity, accommodating, and selfless spirit of Ekwueme, an Igbo man. When the retired multi-millionaire generals hi-jacked the PDP and imposed Obasanjo as presidential candidate, the permutation was for Ekwueme to revolt and cause problems enough to derail the transition programme. Being the super intelligent man that he is, Ekwueme congratulated Obasanjo and toured the whole of the East campaigning for him.

Many Igbo companies today have on their staff list, hardworking Yoruba men and women.

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t is Fani – Kayode who is unaccommodating. He is the one without a history as he does not seem to be sure of his state of origin. Does his Lagosian status start with his father, grandfather, great grandfather or more?

The rabble-rouser is in no position to understand that while some segments of the ancient Igbo society e.g (Onitsha, Arochukwu, Nri etc) had monarchs, others ran republican democratic structures that maintained peace and order and encouraged enterprise. I recommend Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” to Fani – Kayode.

That may help secure his deliverance from the disease of combative ignorance. The ancient Hebrew society had no monarchs but that does not mean that they had no history and neither does it mean that they were unaccommodating. Ditto the Igbo.

Only a man suffering from terminal Igbophobia could spew something so hollow, so shallow and pedantic like Fani –Kayode’s “bitter lies about the Igbo.”

The Igbo introduced tribalism into southern politics because one Mr. Dadi Onyeama in 1945

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his was the same party that went ahead to deregister it’s founder while Fani-Kayode was in the corridors or even bedroom of power. ”Unlike them we are not mere traders but major industrialists………producing university graduates at least three generations before they did.” There is nothing wrong in being a trader.

There is dignity in labour.

Of what use is the unintelligent comparison? What does it add to the progress and unity of Nigeria? There are traders and industrialists among the Igbo and among the Yorubabut since he is interested in the Igbo, he should be reminded that CHISCO, ABC Motors, Innoson Group of Companies, Emzor, Coscharis Group of Companies, Chicason Group of Companies etc are not mere traders. These are Igbo companies employing Nigerians including Yoruba.

Even if the Igbo started producing university graduates three generations after the Yoruba, have the Igbo not excelled in every profession or trade? The first successful separation of Siamese twins on African soil was by Prof. Festus Nwako and his team at UNTH Enugu.

Anambra is one of the states with the highest number of indigenous Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN). In engineering, Prof.

Barth Nnaji, the late Prof.

Gordian Ezekwe and many others are from Igboland. Would anybody mention architecture in Nigeria without mentioning Ekwueme?

Do you talk about mathematics without Prof Chike Obi? The Igbo have a string of negative firsts including the first military coup in Nigeria and drawing the first blood in the events of 1966-1970……they launched a vicious and unprovoked attack on the rest of the South. “Sons and daughters of the Federal Republic lost their lives…trying to stop the Biafrans from taking our Land” Every ethnic group in Nigeria has its positive firsts and negative firsts. Before Aba and Benin produced “Osisi Kankwu”, and “Anini the law” respectively, Lagos had produced “Oyenusi”.

The same Igbo Fani-Kayode hates with so much venom and is trying to denigrate recorded many positive firsts in Nigeria.

The first Nigerian PhD holder in mathematics was Prof. Chike Obi, an Igbo. The first professor of mathematics in Nigeria was

Prof. James Ezeilo, an old boy of D.M.G.S Onitsha, an Igbo man.

The first Nigerian professor of music is Prof. (Igwe) Laz Ekwueme, an Igbo man. The first open-heart surgery on African soil was by Prof. Aghaji and Prof.

David Nwafor and their team at the UNTH Enugu. Prof. Kenneth Dike was the first African vice chancellor of any university on African soil. Prof. Eni Njoku, another Igbo, was the second.

The first President of Nigeria was Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. These are remarkable positive firsts recorded by the Igbo who, according to Fani-Kayode, were not producing university graduates until when the Yorubs had produced their third generation of graduates.

Prior to the first military coup, which many Igbo haters dubbed an Igbo coup, the Igbo were already in the commanding heights of business, politics, academics, bureaucracy, etc. The Igbo would not need to stage any coup against their tribal interest if that was their calculation.

They were already at the top and so did not need to stage a coup to remain there. If anything, the Nzeogwu coup was an anti-Igbo coup as it was targeted at a government headed by an Igbo man. The young army officers, who carried out the said coup, were not sent by the Igbo State Union (the equivalent of Ohaneze Ndigbo in those days).

Fani-Kayode went further to celebrate the massacre of Igbo in the North and also said that no Igbo was killed in the West. I know some Igbo who escaped by the whiskers from AN Barracks Yaba where many Igbo were slaughtered. If the “big man pikin” would understand Prof.

Wole Soyinka’s ‘The Man Died’, he would see that Igbo were killed everywhere including Lagos.

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t was Soyinka’s condemna tion of the genocide and his attempt to end it that landed him in Gen. Gowon’s jail. Even if Prof. The Igbo had every reason to go their separate way and take their destiny into their hands hence the secession attempt which was not really the first in Nigeria. Isaac Adaka Boro had attempted to excise the present Rivers and Bayelsa states from Nigeria long before the declaration of Biafra. The Igbos did not declare war on Nigeria. All they did was to declare their homeland area, their safe haven where they can protect themselves from their fellow Nigerians who did not want them anymore. It was a legitimate attempt at self -preservation. It was Nigeria that declared war on itself and by extension the Igbo.

The civil war has come and gone and we are all Nigerians now.Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution, every Nigerian should work hard to achieve national integration. We must love, respect, encourage and assist each other in line with the provisions of our Constitution which provides in S.15 (2) as follow:“…….national integration shall be actively encouraged, whilst discrimination on the grounds of place of origin, sex, religion, status, ethnic or linguistic association or ties shall be prohibited”.

* Ako Okoli is the National Legal Adviser of the Eastern Professionals Forum.

PAGE 44—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

2015: Core North, Middle Belt fall apart •JACONG to the rescue, says, ‘A divided North is a liability’ •Hakeem Baba-Ahmed

The Middle Belt points to the lopsidedness in the number of political appointments, jobs at the state and federal levels, in favour of Hausa-Fulani, despite what they described as their bigger contributions to the development of the region

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much to its minority, which has chosen to maintain a Middle Belt identity.

They believe that every part of the North has had a fair share of everything, but that its minority misused its quota, refusing to take advantage of the positions it occupied to better its lot, and lack resourcefulness in business and commerce despite its mental and environmental endowments.

They see the violence in the North not as Muslims versus non-Muslims, but a conspiracy by Western powers to destroy Nigeria, taking the advantage of the long distrust among the Hausa/Fulani Muslims and others since the Othman Dan Fodio jihad of the 1800s.

However, the core North, in the past one month, has come up with efforts to re-unite the North, accusing “outsiders” of trying to “put asunder what the late Ahmadu Bello, Premier of the North has put together”.

It cited historical, social and cultural affinities forged by contiguous boundaries. It agreed that there were “mistakes and bad leadership” in the past, but said it did not kill the oneness of the North.

Why Middle Belt is angry,

by Hon. Jonathan Asake Hon. Jonathan Asake is the National Youth Leader of

the Middle Belt Forum. He was a member of the House of Representatives (1999 to 2003) representing Zangon Federal Kataf/Jabba Constituency, Kaduna State.

He spoke in Kaduna on the problem of the Middle Belt with the core North.

Define the Middle Belt as it stands today.

In those days, the MiddleBelt was perceived to be mainly the North Central that we know today, which constitutes six states. But, by and large, political exigencies compelled the Middle-Belt to grow beyond geographical

area of North Central. It has now both a geography and socio-cultural expression of the people and it captures all those people that are found within the areas of geographical landmarks that have similar cultural affinity with one another, which are mainly ethnic nationalities different from Hausa-Fulani core North. These people would be found in southern Kebbi, southern Kaduna in the North-west zone; southern Borno, southern Yobe and the entire Adamawa, Taraba, re Continues on page 45

‘Oshiomhole deserves vice-presidential ticket of APC’ of them could also be VicePresident, people like Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who is doing very well in Edo state.

We are believing that the APC can choose Oshiomhole as vicepresident, then get somebody who will be generally accepted from the North as President.

Buhari’s presidential ambition

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM Mr. Odaro Omoregie is a chieftain of the newly registered All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State and a member of the Publicity Committee in Oshiomhole’s Campaign Organization in 2012. In this interview, he urges General Muhammadu Buhari to jettison his presidential ambition in the interest of the party, just as he declares that Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s leadership in Edo will guarantee victory for the APC in future elections in the state. Excerpts:

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OW optimistic are you that the APC will form the Federal Government in 2015?

You need to deploy wisdom when you play politics. It is becoming clearer by the day that there is a conspiracy from the PDP in trying to jettison this new wind that is taking over the country now, the APC. They tried to thwart the registration but it did not work; and even today we are aware that there are groups working seriously

Mr. Odaro Omoregie

to divide the APC by supporting certain elements as candidates. I think internally we should have a new brand of leadership in the APC. For APC to continue to enjoy the support of the public, they should be able to bring out their best candidates and they must be young men and women.

With the rumours going round now that people like General Buhari want to run for President, we are also hearing that Tambuwal is joining the APC, we must ensure that we bring in new breed of politicians different from the PDP style. The APC governors are doing well and I believe some of them are also qualified to fly the presidential flag of the party. Some

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FTER a long, stormy relationship between the Hausa/Fulani - and other tribal groupings in the North, the marriage appears critically wounded as both battle ahead of 2015.

The non-Muslims, nonHausa/Fulani of the 19 northern states, who choose to be identified as Middle Belters, have risen to insist that they are in the majority in the enclave that once boasted as “one monolithic, indivisible North”.

The Middle Belt people say they have been unfairly treated by the Hausa/Fulani, used and dumped as second rate citizens when it comes to matters of national security, welfare, politics, economics even in social relationships such as marriages.

They also sees the unprecedented killings of non-Muslims in places of worship by Islamists in the North, and incessant raids on their communities by alleged Fulani herdsmen as some kind of retaliation against them for voting, almost in one bloc, for President Jonathan Goodluck, in 2011.

The Middle Belt points to the lopsidedness in the number of political appointments, jobs at the state and federal levels, in favour of Hausa-Fulani, despite what they described as their bigger contributions to the development of the region.

For example, the Middle Belt Dialogue (MBD), made up of young academics, technocrats, politicians, business men and women drawn from the 19 northern states, recently, lampooned President Jonathan Goodluck for marginalising the Middle Belt in his appointments, despite the graphic details it gave to show that the area won the election for him in the North in 2011.

Also, the Middle Belt Forum

rejected the idea of “one North”, saying it was a ruse used by the Hausa /Fulani to appropriate power and resources to itself, accommodating a few of its apologists from the Middle Belt.

But the core North sees the pronouncements as the whimpering of a spoilt baby.

Some thinkers of the Hausa/ Fulani, who consider themselves as in a clear majority, see the Muslim North as having conceded too

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BY LUKA BINNIYAT

•Ango Abdullahi

I don’t think the PDP slogan of being the largest party in Africa will go beyond 2015, they will be defeated across board because they have failed the people

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I know General Buhari very well, and I know that he is a man of integrity and man of his words. So if there is an arrangement that he should step aside with Tinubu so as to have Continues on page 45

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 45

2015: Core North, Middle Belt fall apart Continued from page 44

southern Gombe and southern Bauchi in the North-east geo-political zone. You have all the states of Nasarawa, Plateau, Benue, Kogi ,Niger and the FCT coming together as the Middle-Belt today. If you take the map of Nigeria and you map together southern Borno, southern Kebbi, southern Yobe, southern Bauchi, southern Gombe and the other states mentioned earlier, you will discover that they fall in the Middle-Belt area of Nigeria and the land is contiguous.

But the Middle Belt goes even beyond this, because it also has members who are or of core northern origin, but their faith and social values are in sync with that of the majority of the people of Middle Belt. Again, the Middle Belt is not restricted to one religion.

You find Christians, Muslims and those that don’t belong to any of the two. One basic thing that binds them together is culture. Though it is true that we are not monolithic, the most important feature of the Middle Belt is this: Take the map of Nigeria and draw all the areas mentioned as Middle-Belt, you will realize that they fall mostly in the middle region of Nigeria. It’s a very massive land. In fact, it’s the largest land mass area in Nigeria. To me, this underscores the importance of the Middle-Belt in the definition of Nigeria, not the North made up of only 19 states.

When did the term Middle Belt come into existence?

The Middle-Belt expression came into existence during the days of the Sardauna of Sokoto, who was the Premier of Northern Nigeria. He left several physical developments and projects for the North to put to shame those who succeeded him. But even during his time, there must have been issues of identity, history, religion, traditions, etc. That may have informed our forebears like the late Chief Joseph Tarka, Pastor David Lot, the late Chief of Kagoro (in southern Kaduna), Dr. Gwamna Awan, and many others to come with the term Middle Belt. But, even at that, the concept of ‘One North’ versus the rest of Nigeria was very strong. And before and after the civil war, the North looked like one solid bloc, until the eyes of the Middle Belt started noticing incredible unfairness in the way it was treated by its coreNorth counterpart, even when, in actual fact, the Middle Belt is in the majority.

In what way is ‘the minority’ now the majority?

I am sorry to say that the media has helped to force the majority status on the HausaFulani when talking about the North. That is only true when you take the two as a single tribal group. Yes they have more numbers if you compare them to say, Tiv, Nupe, or Atayp each standing on its own. But, as an aggregate the Hausa-Fulani is a minority to the rest of the tribal groups of the Middle Belt, the way I have defined the Middle Belt.

The Hausa – Fulani in the 19 northern states is not in the majority in Benue, Kwara, Kogi, Taraba, Nasarawa, Plateau, Niger, FCT, Adamawa. It is hardly even present in Borno State - Boko Haram notwithstanding. The Kanuris are in the majority in Borno and Yobe. It is only 49% of the population of Kaduna State; the Middle Belt of southern Kaduna is 51% according to the 2006 census. It is just 45% of Gombe State, it is not an overwhelming majority in Kebbi State. The Middle Belt is 30% of Bauchi. The main area of strength of the Hausa – Fulani is: Sokoto, Kano, Zamfara, Katsina, Jigawa, Bauchi and part of Gombe and Kaduna. So, you see, the Hausa-Fulani who, everyone has so made the Lord of the North is actually a minority, unlike what you have in the South-west and South-east with the Yoruba and the Igbo.

The Hausa-Fulani, though found everywhere in the 19 northern states, is really a minority if it comes as a bloc.

The so-called minorities as an aggregate, are the majority.

And that is the Middle Belt.

If you doubt this, look at the 2006 census result, and the way votes in the 2011 elections were cast in our

•Hakeem Baba-Ahmed areas.

Is it true that the Middle Belt has come up with a new geo-political concept?

Yes. We have six geo political zones in the country now, they are not in the Constitution but they are used more in the allocation of resources, economic, social and political activities more than even issues that are provided for in the Constitution.

We have proposed that we have North-west zone to comprise Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, northern Kebbi and northern Kaduna. Then North-east to comprise of Jigawa, northern Yobe, northern Borno, northern Gombe and northern Bauchi.

In the Middle-Belt, we should also have two regions: Middle Best West made up of southern Kebbi, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Benue and southern Kaduna, while Middle Belt East will comprise of Nasarawa , Plateau, Taraba, Adamawa, southern Gombe, southern Borno and southern Bauchi.

With this arrangement, we feel there would be justice and equity in sharing of power and resources.

Professor Ango Abdullahi of the Northern Elders Forum recently came out, saying the North wants back the presidency in 2015. He said the North could retain power as long as it wished.

Is the Middle Belt of this thinking?

It depends on the North he is talking about that will produce the next president.

And if he’s talking about 2015, then it’s different from what we are thinking in the Middle-Belt. And don’t underrate what I am saying.

We in the Middle Belt vote in bloc, because our values, challenges and expectations are largely the same. We recognize that there is a sitting president, Goodluck Jonathan, who is entitled to a second term if he wishes just like any president in a democratic setting in the world guaranteed by the Constitution. We are not in contention, if he wishes to contest. However, if he does not wish to contest and the seat of the president is zoned to the North, then it should go to the Middle-Belt region. Either the Middle-Belt West or East can produce the president and not the core North as they might want. This is our position. And the way we voted in 2011 clearly shows that we are in charge when it comes to the 19 northern states.

JACONG to the rescue Meanwhile, a group that calls itself the Joint Action Committee of Northern Groups (JACONG), last week, emerged.

Its Publicity Secretary, Dr. Hakeem BabaAhmed, said it was formed to represent an all inclusive North, aimed at presenting a good presidential candidate for Nigeria in 2015.

Baba-Ahmed, a retired Federal Permanent Secretary

from Kaduna State, said the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), “and a number of groups from the Middle Belt, the Code Group, Northern Reawakening Forum and the Arewa Research and Development Project are members of JACONG. Baba-Ahmed is also a member of the Federal Government Committee on Amnesty for Boko Haram.

Excerpts of the interview with him.

What led to the formation of JACONG? Discussions among leading northern groups resulted in the formation of JACONG. The committee represents an additional asset for all the collaborating groups towards achieving great impact and harnessing the tremendous endowments of the North.

How will JAGONG operate differently from others?

The groups will devolve some of their responsibilities to the joint committee, but they will continue to exist. The committee was essentially created to reduce waste in energy. T h i s is a collaboration to improve the way the North approaches 2015 via politics generally and all other developmental issues.

There are many other options we are looking at and we will not limit ourselves to the issue of northern presidency, because it is only one of the options available to the North and we are going to work with others all over the place and we are going to be very strategic about the manner in which we work and advise politicians in this Continues on page 50

‘Oshiomhole deserves vice-presidential ticket of APC’ Continued from page 44

an acceptable candidate, I think he will honour that. But don’t forget he is a man with broad based support and most of his supporters would want to see him rule this country once again. But we will not give our support on emotional ground; I believe we must do what is best for the party to be able to kick out PDP from power. We really need the new breed to take over the leadership of Nigeria and that is what APC should focus on. Buhari has exhibited leadership both as a military president and a civilian, but I think the APC arrangement now will necessitate him to become a statesman or a national leader of the party and play advisory

role to ensure that younger people are brought into the system.

I believe he will honour the agreement but I know that some persons will push him but I know he should be wiser than that because for the APC to defeat the PDP, the leaders must make painful sacrifices. Nigerians will appreciate him more now if he stays at the back ground and assist the party to grow.

APC optimism I am very optimistic about that.

It is only in Nigeria that we don’t remember that election is a game of numbers and performance.

If you go back to the last 14 years of the PDP government, the impact has been minimal, if you

want to compare the revenue of the Federal Government with the development we are seeing, there is nothing to write home about. Jonathan was our hope when he became President but if you look at what we are getting today Yar’Adua’s administration was even better. There is so much insecurity, poor road network, lack of steady power, poverty, unemployment, nothing is working.

So I don’t think the PDP slogan of being the largest party in Africa will go beyond 2015, they will be defeated across board because they have failed the people.

Edo State APC I don’t think we still have PDP in Edo; it is only on the pages of newspaper you hear comments

as if they still exist here. But if you look across the state, in local governments, state Assembly, the PDP is no where and I believe we will finally bury them in the 2015 National Assembly election. That is why I laughed when I read the former chairman of Owan West Local Asekhame saying that APC will not survive in Edo, he is day dreaming. I think what he is supposed to say is that the PDP might disintegrate into a different name both in Nigeria and Edo. The last local government election in Edo gave a clear picture of what the people want and gone are the days where rigging was acceptable because of the lack of awareness of the electorate.

PAGE 46—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Understanding APC in Delta

BY DOYIN IYIOLA VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF The battle by the political forces in Delta

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AN the newly regis tered All Peoples Con gress, APC, truly upstage the Democratic Peoples Party, DPP, in Delta State?

While many will hasten to say no, others might be slow in answering if they consider a recent remark in the media by Chief Frank Kokori, a former member of the DPP, who was quoted as saying that the emergence of APC meant the possible death of DPP in the state. Well, the fact is that the DPP remains the party to beat in Delta.

Kokori’s statement is disturbing given his past principled stand against corruption, bad leadership and the ruling elites’ disrespect for the rule of law and cherished democratic principles. Kokori had aligned with DPP, especially

in Delta, because of the correct perception of the party as one that stands for justice. It is no longer news that Kokori has now switched camp from the DPP to APC which he considers to be the bigger party.

What worries discerning observers here is the dangerous thinking that might is right.

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progressive personality of Chief Great Ogboru, the de facto leader of the DPP in the state, his travails and sustained but dogged battle to free the state, obviously count for nothing as far as the APC is concerned. Democracy is no doubt a game of numbers and Deltans remain the ultimate

In the calculations of the APC’s leadership especially in Lagos, the character, the giant strides and the pedigree of the DPP leadership in the state do not matter

Also worrisome is the fact that nothing else matters to the APC leadership and its new converts in their determination to win the state by all means.

In the calculations of the APC’s leadership especially in Lagos, the character, the giant strides and the pedigree of the DPP leadership in the state do not matter.

In fact, the legend and the

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decider of who leads them after an election.

Long before its registration, the APC had nurtured a group led by the late Senator Pius Ewherido to destabilise the DPP. The late senator was assisted by Akamukali who now claims the national leadership of DPP despite INEC’s assurance to the contrary. But INEC has since issued a state-

ment reassuring the party’s members that it “has not recognised the existence of any faction in the DPP.” Ewherido, who wanted the APC’s governorship ticket in 2015, had worked assiduously with Akamukali, who was later expelled from the party, to factionalise DPP and finally deal it a death blow.

Ewherido’s sudden death however blew this plan apart and threw the likes of Akamukali into disarray. But the DPP’s popularity has continued to soar, a fact that was visibly demonstrated recently in Abrakar when the party held a stakeholders meeting.

Kokori and his co-travellers have to carefully consider Delta’s idiosyncrasy before pitching their tents with any outside political groups especially those who disguise their real intention in the state.

They need to be wary of Emperor Tinubu and the inherent dangers in the APC taking over Delta.

Kokori is a dogged fighter who should remain steadfast with the progressive DPP. Kokori should also not forget quickly how the Tinubu camp abandoned him since the ad-

vent of democracy in 1999 despite his contribution to the struggle for June 12. Despite his gallantry on June 12.

Kokori needs to know too that Tinubu, Ibori and Uduaghan are partners and that they are working together to achieve a common political objective in Delta. It is a known fact that the three of them own the ACN and by extension APC in Delta State.

The calculation is to discredit and weaken the people’s preferred candidate, Chief Ogboru, and foist the Ibori/Uduaghan candidate on the people of Delta State using the APC. This was where Ewherido got it wrong, he had assumed that the APC would give him its ticket in 2015.

Deltans know what the DPP stands for. They also know that the APC’s agenda is to preserve the status quo. While Kokori appears impatient and understandably battle weary, he needs to remember that a known devil is better than an unknown one. DPP is synonymous with Delta.

* Iyiola is a London based media consultant.

Fighting cloned drugs has its rewards

BY MARTINS IKHILAE VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF The battle against counterfeiters gets impetus

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RITICS of the Jonath an administration had better have a rethink.

This is because, contrary to the non-performance accusation heaped on the President, a lot is being silently achieved in an attempt to give more democratic dividends. Remarkably, the monumental landmark achievements being made in the nation’s health sector by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control - NAFDAC – are part of the dividends.

Also, just as the emergence of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan drew criticisms owing to his minority Ijaw background, so also was the emergence of Dr Paul B. Orhii who is equally of the minority Tiv

tribe of Benue State extraction.

Such was the opposition against the Orhii; candidacy as a suitable replacement for the out-gone NAFDAC chief executive that it became evident that those at the forefront of the campaign of calumny were unpatriotic, self-centred and tribalistic. These disgruntled individuals were undeterred in their nefarious acts as they engaged local and foreign media as well as the nation’s judicial institutions in their negative campaign.

Thanks to the President’s refusal to heed their call, otherwise the sterling dividends which Nigerians enjoy from this sector currently would have eluded us. Now, the NAFDAC chief helmsman has refused to betray the confidence reposed in him by the Presidency and Nigerians as demonstrated by his achievements at the agency. Aside adopting technological paraphernalia to curb pharmaceuticals counterfeiting which has empowered consumers to independently detect and discard fake or cloned drugs, dy-

namic and pro-life elongating achievements have indeed been recorded by the Orhii-led NAFDAC management team.

Just recently, another “ feather was added to his cap” when a “high profile conviction was secured by the agency against the producers of

achieved this feat in the annals of the agency.

Interestingly, efforts are underway to ensure that a sizeable part of the assets forfeited by convicted drug fakers are channeled towards compensating victims. Already, the agency is extending coopera-

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Efforts are underway to ensure that a sizeable part of the assets forfeited by convicted drug fakers are channeled towards compensating victims. Already, the agency is extending cooperation to non-governmental organisations to stem the tide of pharmaceutical products counterfeiting

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“My Pikin”, the teething mixture which allegedly killed some babies. This, of course, is in addition, to other convictions recorded by NAFDAC in drug-counterfeited cases since 2009 which confers on it the status of a premier NAFDAC chief executive to have

tion to non-governmental organizations to stem the tide of pharmaceutical products counterfeiting.

That the NAFDAC sustained battle against counterfeiters of pharmaceutical products is being won is unarguably a democratic dividend. Orhii

cannot be likened to “a prophet without honour at home” owing to the conferment of the Officer of the Order of the Niger award on him by Jonathan.

From far away United States of America also came an honour for the NAFDAC boss tagged: ‘An Award of Special Congressional Recognition’, endorsed by a notable American Congresswoman Janice Hahn. The presentation was made at a well-attended reception held at the James Madison Hall on the historic Capitol Hill, Washington D.C. These honours are enough to ginger Orhii to do more in his campaign against fake drugs, but there is the need for speedy review of the NAFDAC enabling Act to create special courts for counterfeiters speedy trial, introduction of life jail sentence, assets forfeiture while maximized funding for NAFDAC to boost the anti-counterfeiting campaign. * IKHILAE is a Lagos based public affairs analyst.

Email:martinsikhilae@ymail.com; Tel: 08023405821

Contribution of not more than 1,200 words should be sent to sundayvanguard@yahoo.com

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 47

Moment of redemption for Anambra

BY IKECHUKWU OKOYE VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF Time to end a state’s challenges

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R. Ifeanyi Patrick Uba, the Nnewi-born business mogul and oil magnate’s entry into the gubernatorial race in Anambra State is the best thing to have happened to the state politics.

The political platform under which Uba is seeking to serve Anambra is not important. What is paramount is the man himself, a Daniel come to judgment, a modern-day Moses who has come to lead Anambra State to the promised land, a philanthropic octopus of sorts whose patriotic and nationalistic zeal is unquenchable and a fresh political blood and personality who has not been tainted or compromised by yester-years politics of brigandage, wanton destruction of public property, electioneering malpractices and plunder of

Anambra State’s resources.

It is unfortunate and disgraceful that the same politicians who inflicted grievous injuries on the state, who plundered her resources in the past, who ordered and supported destruction of public property as vendetta for not being allowed to milk the State dry, who sponsored brigandage mayhem and anarchy, who held the state by the jugulars with a view to asphyxiating her, who tried to control the fate and destiny of the state from elsewhere mindless of the feelings and sensibilities of Anambrarians and who gave Anambra State the bad name she carries today as an albatross, are the ones on the blocks again with intent to continue from where they stopped.

Uba’s entry into the race is purely providential as he is God-sent. He has come to deliver Anambra State from the bondage of her citizens. He is not in politics to make money like vultures parading themselves as gubernatorial aspirants who have nothing to show for their aspiration.

Uba has businesses which offer employment to Nigerian youths numbering more than 4,000. He has a scholarship scheme which he uses to assist indigent students. Uba pays school fees for countless and numerous Anambrarians. His

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He has built roads, installed transformers and provided electricity in many towns and communities.

He is a man who does not joke with the affairs of the youths.

When Igbo youths, especially Anambrarians, were displaced in

The acceptance of Uba by his people and others is proof that the gubernatorial election in Anambra State will be an academic exercise

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resolved.

When he visited Alaba Market, Lagos the other day, he was welcomed by a tumultuous crowd of arousing and cheering supporters.

The acceptance of Uba by his people and others is proof that the gubernatorial election in Anambra State will be an academic exercise. This is because the people have already voted for and endorsed Uba is, to all intents and purposes, the governor-in-waiting in Anambra State.

Uba has no political baggage. He is a clean, wealthy young man who wants to help to transform Anambra State.

He is not seeking office to make money. In fact, he is rich by any standard. His entry into politics is an interventionist measure to rescue Anambra from self-destruction by some tired, hopeless and care-free political wolves who are only seeking relevance in order to grab whatever they lay hands on.

company supplies fuel to all the nook and crannies of the country. In fact, his company is the reason fuel and kerosene are readily available to the poor masses.

His company supplies fuel free of charge to all motorcyclists in Nnewi on Mondays. He built churches donated to both the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion. In his hometown in Nnewi, he is a pillar of support to his people.

Balogun Market in Lagos, none of these politicians struggling to run the affairs of Anambra State said a word. Uba visited the market to address the traders most of whom hail from Anambra State. He comforted them, intervened in their plight and proceeded to hold discussion with Governor Fashola of Lagos State on the matter. Following Uba’s intervention, meaningful support and contributions, the issue was

*Okoye, a political analyst, is resident in Lagos.

till date. Out of the pack of leaders, Babangida stands tallest. He has been the issue in Nigeria politics on the positive side since he mounted the saddle and left 20 years ago.

Even though his was a military administration, he carried civilians along.

National issues were thrown open for debates. All over the world, a military government is dictatorial but, because of his tilt towards subjecting issues to public discuss, he was nicknamed a “benevolent dictator”. It was the first time such a paradigm came into our political lexicon.

Most of the programmes that are being executed today were initiated by him – deregulation of the telecommunication sector, broadcasting, peoples banking, community banking, NDE, DFRRI, FRSC etc were his brainchild. After a careful study of the problem of ethnicity in relation to political development, he came up with two party system, NRC and SDP, which Nigerians are clamouring for again. The merging of the opposition into

APC to face the ruling PDP is bringing that idea back. He is a man who saw tomorrow.

The June 12, 1993 election, which was adjudged by every standard as very credible and transparent, was conducted out by his administration.

But problem came when enemies of change didn’t want

strategist, it was better to live and tell the story. The blame was on him because the buck stops on his table. He established diplomatic ties with the Jewish State of Israel. A leader and a moderate Muslim , the international community claimed, confirmed they could do business with according to

IBB on my mind

BY BRADY CHIJIOKE NWOSU VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF Extolling IBB's achievements.

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F recent, there has been a controversy as to who is the greatest Nigerian leader from independence. The dynamics of Nigerian government and administration in our 53 years of independence has produced a variety and diversity of leaders both civilian and military.

However, each leader was unique in his own style of leadership and distinguished in his sphere of operations and formulation and implementation of policies and programmes.

Since independence, we have had Nnamdi Azikiwe who was titular President, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the first Prime Minister, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Premier of Western Region, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, Premier of Northern Region, Dr. M. I. Okpara, premier of Eastern Region. There was Major Gen. Thomas Aguiyi

Ironsi, the First Military Head of State, thereafter, another Military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, who was succeeded by Gen Murtala Mohammed. Gen Olusegun Obasanjo assumed power following the assassination of Mohammed. President Shehu Shagari became the first executive president when the country returned to civil rule. Major Gen. Mohammed Buhari toppled the civilian government and was also ousted in palace coup by Military President Ibrahim Babangida. Chief Ernest Shonekan was on board during the June 12 imbroglio and was sacked by Gen Sani Abacha after 83 days in office. General Abdulsalam Abubakar mounted the saddle when Abacha died mysteriously and he handed over another civilian government led by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo who after completing his second tenure passed the mantle of leadership to President Umaru Musa Yar’dua. Yar’dua died few days to his third year in office and his deputy President Goodluck mounted the saddle

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Most of the programmes that are being executed today were initiated by him – deregulation of the telecommunication sector, broadcasting, peoples banking, community banking, NDE, DFRRI, FRSC etc were his brainchild

it to come to fruition. The same people who are now masquerading as politicians and foremost citizens threatened to kill IBB if the result of that watershed election saw the light of day.

The options were that if he declared the result, he would be killed and the election would still be annulled or he annulled the election and lives. Any sensible person who faces this ugly ambivalence would choose the second option. As a military

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the late former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher .

He is one Nigeria leader that has trusted friends across political platforms, religions and ideologies. He tried more than other leaders to weave the threads of the country’s coats of many colours into one fabric.

•Nwosu, the National/ Diaspora Publicity Secretary of NJIKO IGBO and a former PDP governorship aspirant in Imo State, lives in Okai, Eziama, Isiala Mbano.

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PAGE 48—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013 sameyoboka@yahoo.com

08023145567 (sms only)

Churches are rich but lack good foundations-----Akin-John Doctor Francis Bola Akin-John, Church growth consultant, organises conferences for church leaders across the world. He addressed newsmen in his Lagos office ahead of another major conference on girl-child marriage, the new Lagos Domestic Violence Law, church leadership and sundry issues. SAM EYOBOKA was there. Excerpts: to walk out of their matrimonies. The rate of single parenthood is rising just like divorce. Most of our Nollywood stars are having children without men. This law has the tendency to encourage that. They can walk out under the slightest challenge. In Europe, men cannot even raise their voices. The women will call 911 and the police will show up. They will walk the husbands out and jail them.

They believe whatever the women say whether or not they are lying. That way, many homes are breaking. The government had better tread softly so that we are not taking two steps forward and 10 steps backward.

What is the big deal about this year's programme?

It is basically to explain that leadership is about lifting others. I believe it is not for personal benefits. From my research as a consultant to churches and ministries, I have seen that is not our idea of leadership. Leaders are not lifting but limiting people. The idea is to remind church leaders that we are there to lift people. That is the fundamental, primary, basic and most important reason for leadership. Leaders must lift people emotionally, financially, spiritually and economically.

Have we had such leaders in this country?

I am afraid I am going to say no; with the exception of a very few people. Rather, we have looters and not leaders.

We also have rulers and not leaders. Our rulers do not have the skills, capacities and motivations to serve others. We can all see how people who were so poor suddenly become billionaires once they get to positions of leadership.

They serve themselves and their cronies. I say it a lot that the only curse on Nigeria is that of leadership. We have everything else, except good leaders across board. We lack leaders that can lead us through vision, sacrifice, personal examples and integrity to the Promised Land.

Once upon a time government agencies and officials asked churches for nominees.

At what point did the Church lose out in providing leadership for the country?

Oh, that was when we deemphasised training. When we de-emphasised going to Bible schools. There was this crop of leaders that emerged in the late 70s without attending bible schools. They had secular training and good degrees but lacked biblical training. In those days, the Church emphasised biblical teachings, integrity, honesty and hard work. Churches were not flamboyant then but they had well-groomed leaders.

These secular trained church leaders started anointing rich, successful Christians to become pastors without good foundation. Churches become rich, popular and full but lack good foundations. That was when we lost it. Today, pastors misbehave and you are really saddened. They lack consistent walk with the Lord when popularity, prosperity and pressure come. Until the Church goes back to emphasi-

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*Dr. Francis Bola Akin-John

How can a mature father with right senses be forcing yourself on a 13-year-old? She is a girl not a bride se discipleship, godly living and biblical instructions, we’d remain in the doldrums.

How would you assess a growing church?

I’d judge a growing church by its health. There are many growing but unhealthy churches. Many think every church with thousands of worshippers is really growing.

You can have money, popularity and fame and yet remain unhealthy. I’d be interested in knowing the quality of life by those attending those churches. Many preachers focus on testimonies, prophecies and miracles that will bring people without discipleship. Churches like that are not healthy but growing. So, I will look for the moral lifestyles and value systems of the people.

What will you say is responsible for the rising spate of domestic violence?

I will put it down to loss of values. When the Church no longer teach values and people lack fear of God, things will really fall apart. When we lack fear of God, there is nothing you cannot do. That is why we have girl-child

marriage and domestic violence. People are just looking for how to fulfill their lust.

Someone argued his religion allows him to marry teenage girls. For God’s sake, how can you marry a girl? How can you bear to be sleeping with a 13year-old girl? How can you be violent on your wife or spouse? It means there is no fear of God or value for human lives.

The Lagos State Government recently enacted the Domestic Violence Act. How do you respond to such governmental interventions in marital affairs, considering what happens in the West?

That law is, to some extent, is praise worthy but lopsided.

I want to sound a note of warning that we are treading the path that the Europeans walked. That is why those countries have become females’ nations where men are endangered specie. I know women that beat their husbands. I know many men that dare not talk. Does the law cover that? If not, then it is lopsided. My fear is that we might have just licensed women to become more daring

Don’t you think the high unemployment among men will further encourage women to provoke them and invoke the law?

Sure! You know I teach marriage and I know many women lose it once their husbands are out of job. Only few women can be breadwinners and not misbehave. I want to say that men must not wait for government jobs. To me, it is foolish to be a graduate and not have a job for five years. I have not travelled much but we can start a business and if you are intelligent and hardworking, you will break even in five years. The market is there and the opportunities. I don’t think we should blame the government but ourselves. I believe we must return to learning crafts and skills. If men remain at homes, waiting for jobs, they will lose their authority at home. School is to prepare people for life but we must be street wise to survive.

year-old daughter?

God forbid! Even if I am not a Christian or a pastor, it will not happen. For God’s sake, a 13-year-old is not ready for marriage. Some people say once a girl is menstruating, she is ready. But they fail to tell us that once an adult forces himself on a girl that is not ready, it leads to VVF. That is why the only four hospitals that treat VVF in Nigeria are in the North. I put it down to self-indulgence and lust. How can a mature father with right senses be forcing yourself on a 13-year-old? She is a girl not a bride. She is not ready for marital responsibilities. To me, it is a product of warped minds. Those who advocate for it are only done with older women and want to finish off our girls. That proposal should be thrown out like we rejected Same-sex Bill. Like we arrest rapists, we should also arrest those sleeping with girls.

Otherwise, our future is in jeopardy. Our girl-children have become endangered species. It is frightening that older men now believe they can rejuvenate themselves by sleeping with girl-children.

What would happen after the conference?

I expect that our church leaders would learn skills on how to become lifters, because only spiritual men can lead the church to the next level of impact. So, we are talking on practical skills on how to lift people. We are empowering them on how to change lives and transform the society. We want them to be in touch with God and become agents of change. We want to de-emphasise motivational preaching and encourage leaders to teach and cite only the bible.

Can you marry out your 13-

Group tasks Church on corruption

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BUJA---THE campaign coordinator of Nigeria Exposed Campaign, Mr. Peter Akanimoh has said that for any meaningful progress to be recorded in the war against corruption in Nigeria, religious bodies, particularly the Church must prepare to take the lead, reports CALEB AYANSINA. The campaign championed by a coalition of Christian groups around the world is to mobilize one million Nigerians to stand up for integrity and transparency by making

a personal commitment and to collect 100,000 signatures to go to the global call to the G20 leaders.

Akanimoh, who stated this at the official launching of the campaign in Abuja, also challenged the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to redouble its efforts by mobilizing its members in the course of the campaign. “If we want to record pro-gress in the fight against corruption, then, the Church has to take the lead.

"We are calling on the NigeContinues on Page 49

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 49

O

N 21st April, 2013, Douglas Anele wrote an article in Vanguard newspaper entitled: “Femi Aribisala and his Errand-Boy God” in response to my earlier article: “The God who Does Not Exist.” In my article, I detailed many astonishing things the God Douglas says does not exist did for me.

Douglas’ position was that the God who would do all such things would amount to no more than my errand-boy.

When I read Douglas’ title, I could not resist a smile. Little did he know how close he came to the kingdom of God with that insult. The knowledge that God is a servant of men comes from my being a child of God, while Douglas is an atheist. The God I serve is oh so amazing! Yes, he is my Lord and my Master; but he is also, most astonishingly, my servant. He shows his love for me by serving me. Isaiah says: “You shall call, and the LORD will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, ‘here I am.’” (Isaiah 58:9).

Jesus confirms this, saying: “Ask, and it will be given to you.” (Luke 11: 9).

Servant-God Jesus reveals God as our provision. He observes that God is the faithful provider for even the birds of the air. Although they don’t sow, reap our gather into barns, yet the heavenly father feeds them. If God thereby serves birds by feeding them, why would he not serve us, who are his children and

do that to you, put you on a pedestal like that.

You all have a single Teacher, and you are all classmates.” (Matthew 23:5-8).

Servant-disciples

GOD IS A SERVANT OF MEN are created in his image and likeness? Surely, man is far more valuable to God than birds. (Matthew 6:26-30). The psalmist concurs. He says to God: “The eyes of all look expectantly to you, and you give them their food in due season.

You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.” (Psalm 145:15-16).

When we search the scriptures, we see that from the beginning of creation, God reveals the very nature of himself as a servant. God is the one who plants a garden east of Eden on his hands and knees. (Genesis 2:8).

It is God who puts his hands in the dirt to form Adam and then mould Eve. When he felt Adam was lonely, servant-God became his match-maker and created Eve: “And the LORD God said, ‘It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.’” (Genesis 2:18). When Adam and Eve sinned and became aware of their nakedness, servant-God became their tailor: “Also for Adam and his wife the LORD God made tunics of skin, and clothed them.” (Genesis 3:21).

When Abram was childless, servant-God became his “Jehovah-jireh”

A disciple of Jesus is never a master but a servant. Jesus loves as a servant: therefore, so should we and gave him Isaac.

It is servant-God who takes it upon himself to serve the Israelites by redeeming them from Egypt. He served them by providing “electricity ” for them by night and a shade in the daytime as he carried them on eagle’s wings and led them to himself. (Exodus 13:21). Thus, Isaiah declares of our incredibly-wonderful servant-God: “You have been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat.” (Isaiah 25:4).

Servant-Jesus Jesus says: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you.” (John 13:34). If we are to love as Jesus loves, then we need to appreciate fully how Jesus loves. Jesus loves by being a servant of men.

He loves by laying down his life for us. He says: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved

you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends.” (John 15:1213).

Thereby, Jesus reveals something absolutely revolutionary. So revolutionary, it confounds men like Douglas. If it had not come from Jesus, we might have deemed it sacrilegious. God is a servant of men. “God is the first servant,” declares Benzak Uzuegbu.

“But although he serves men, it is important to note he is not a servant to men.”

A disciple of Jesus is never a master but a servant. Jesus loves as a servant: therefore, so should we. A disciple of Jesus is never a shepherd but a sheep. We should not arrogate ourselves as “Men of God.” We must see ourselves as “children of God.” Jesus did not become a servant by coming to earth. He has always and will always be a servant.

Jesus does not become like us as a servant. He invites us to become like God as loving servants.

He says: “Love your en-

Makinde tasks leaders on nation building

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MUAHIA---PREL ATE, Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Sunday Ola Makinde, has charged political and church leaders at every level in the country to begin “to learn how to do things right” in order to make Nigeria a better nation, reports ANAYO OKOLI. Makinde said that there is urgent need for both the Church and political leaders to apply the nine recipes for good governance, which included seeking the face of God, seeking for justice and always doing what is right.

He spoke recently in Umuahia where he conferred knighthood and other awards on 71 persons. Among the 28 personalities conferred with the Knight of John Wesley is Chief Ikechi Emenike, a development economist and publisher of The Economy, who was honoured for his philanthropic activities and especially for building a church, St John in his village of

Umukabia Okpuala, which is a replica of the Methodist Church at Tinubu Square, Lagos.

Makinde, was on a visit to Umuahia Archdiocese where he celebrated his valedictory service at Wesley Cathedral, Umuahia, where the awardees were honoured.

In a sermon at the service, the bishop of Remo, Most Rev. Babatunde Taiwo stressed the need for church leaders to be upright and do the right things for the good of the nation.

He urged them to at all times ensure justice and always seek the face of God. “If your intention is good the action that will follow it must equally be good”, Taiwo said, quoting the founder of Methodist Church, John Wesley.

The bishop insisted that leaders must ensure that justice prevails in the society at all times.

Abia State governor, Chief Theodore Orji, who was rep-

resented by the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu, called on the church to continue to support his administration with prayers and good counsel.

He commended the outgoing prelate for the quality leadership he has given the Methodist Church and for his contribution to nation building, promising that he would take the message of the sermon to both President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Orji.

emies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” (Matthew 5:44-45).

Jesus is the master, but he loves by washing the feet of his servants. Jesus says: “Since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.” (John 13:14-15).

That is kingdom dynamics. The master becomes the servant of his servants. We do not love others by being their boss.

We love them by being their servant.

Thus, Jesus cautions us against being like the pompous Pharisees: “Their lives are perpetual fashion shows, embroidered prayer shawls one day and flowery prayers the next. They love to sit at the head table at church dinners, basking in the prominent positions, preening in the radiance of public flattery, receiving honorary degrees, and getting called ‘Doctor’ and ‘Reverend’. Don’t let people

Continued from Page 48 rian Church to take the lead in the fight against corruption. We hope to see, at least, 1,000 churches organizing 1,000 public vigils against corruption,” the co-ordinator said.

He debunked rumors that churches were used as conduit pipes, to siphon the country’s money.

The co-ordinator also called for a review of methods of fund raising organized by churches, saying, money should not be taken from corrupt public officials, who were known to be living above their normal income.

He emphasized that the cam-

Jesus says: “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.

And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

(Mark 10:42-45).

This means we are required to give our lives as a ransom for others, even as Christ did. We must not see Christ’s ransom as exclusive to Christ, according to erroneous doctrines of atonement. We must see it as the example we are required to follow. The shepherd does not walk for the sheep: the sheep follows the shepherd.

It is humbling to know that God Almighty chooses to be our servant. Zechariah says: “Tell the people of Israel, 'Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey.’” (Matthew 21:5).

How then can any man be uppity after this? Jesus says: “When you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’”

(Luke 17:10).

Group tasks Church paign would aim at challenging global churches, businesses, governments and politicians to highlight the impact of corruption on the poorest of the poor.

Akanimoh explained that “all signatures collected in Nigeria will go to the National Assembly to advocate for stricter anti corruption law enactment and enforcement. The signatures will also go on a petition to the President, requesting him to take tougher action against corruption”.

Fashola's wife chairs Ayewa's thanksgiving service

W

IFE of Lagos State governor, Dame Emmanuella Abimbola Fashola, is expected to be the Mother of the Day at the 37th thanksgiving service of Ayewa International Gospel singers holding today at the Multi-purpose Hall of Lagos Television, Lateef Jakande Road, Ikeja.

The event which holds by 12 noon, will be chaired by Pastor Ade Popoola of Real Pharmaceuticals, Lagos while the message will be delivered by the Ibadan-based bishop and president of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Bishop Francis Wale Oke. President of the organisation, Pastor Adebayo Adela-

kun a.k.a Ayewa, said the programme was a request from God to stage an appreciation service to Him, and bring together lovers of God in all spheres of life including men and women of God, traditional rulers, as well as young and old people who want to thank God with him.

PAGE 50—SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

DELTA CENTRAL SENATORIAL BYE-ELECTION

DPP will win a free and fair election —Edijala

A

fter several weeks of consultations, Olorogun Abel Edijala, a two-time governorship flagbearer in Delta State, finally declared interest in the race for the bye election to fill the vacancy left by the passage of Senator Pius Akpor Ewherido to represent Delta Central Senatorial District in the Senate.

In this interview, he explains the reason he is the best candidate for the seat and why his platform, Democratic People’s Party, DPP, remains the party to beat in Delta State. Excerpts: YOU seem to be among the leading contenders in this race. Can we know what informed your ambition?

Hardly can one find any legislator, the world over, with a manifesto far different from what his or her political party has, but I have taken time to draw out my personal attributes vis-a-vis my understanding of the legislative process knowing fully well that I cannot promise to provide roads, bridges, power etc, like the executive arm of government will do. I believe that all political parties generally are looking for the same thing: a strong economy, good jobs, clean environment, high quality of life and the best education system possible for our children and grandchildren. Yet the parties have different ways of getting their goals achieved. As a member of the Democratic People’s Party (DPP), I believe government should have a limited role in our lives and believe in the right of the citizens, private sector and free market. I don’t just believe in social engineering, I am welfarist cum capitalist. I support a progressive tax regime and will work to strengthen families and small businesses.

You are aspiring to go to the Senate at a time the members of the National Assembly have come under intense criticism for not showing how best to be legislators in a constitutional democracy- How do you feel?

I believe as most Nigerian do that many senators today are wolves in sheep’s clothing, but this has to change with younger minds being infused into the chambers. People look up to the Senate for its supposed highminded, impartial reasoning and good judgement on issues of national importance. If previous Senates were any guide, the public has been sorely disappointed, as most of the senators were political old-timers, particularly former military dictators and retired government officials. Only a small minority have been academics, social

workers, human rights activists and independent thinkers. The problem has been that the majority of those senators with political connections couldn’t be trusted as it was much easier to profess impartiality than to practice it. I promise to bring to bear all my international experience as a policy advocate by using my agenda setting techniques to turn things around for our country.

Can you tell us what stands you out of the pack of aspirants?

Having spent well over 20 years in the transport sector as well as the oil and gas industry, first as Chairman / CEO of Express Cargo Liner Shipping Company Ltd, a wholly Nigerian owned ship owning and management company in the downstream sub-sector of our economy and now the Chairman of Chart and Capstone Integrated Ltd, which is very active in power and gas, I have had an excellent training ground for life in politics, where staff members and colleagues tend to fall into a single category: outspoken and extroverted. When you’re working as an elected official, you come in contact with a lot of outgoing personalities. As a result, the political world is a little bit easier for me to handle in terms of personalities. The same goes for political office where national income—and the way it is spent is under constant scrutiny. We don’t need a backbencher as our senator. I have a track

Olorogun Abel Edijala

,

BY EPHRAIM OSEJI

I believe government should have a limited role in our lives and believe in the right of the citizens, private sector and free market

,

record for speaking my mind as was the case in the governorship debate of 2011 on Channels TV when I ran for the governorship of Delta State under the Labour ticket.

The late Senator Pius Ewerido, who represented Delta Central in the upper legislative chambers, was said to have been active on the floor of parliament. How do yo intend to build on that

record?

I have learned courtesy of my background in transport that you cannot do anything all by yourself without collaborating with others. Winning an election is about winning good things for your constituents, and not personal gains.

The transport sector is a key driver of modern economies and forms the first impression when investors come to our country. A good transport policy will enhance movement of goods and services which is the catalyst for economic growth. I intend to use my vast experience in this sector to reshape and revolutionize our intermodal transport system within the one year that is left in the life of the 7th Senate, if elected. My understanding of the Senate is that it is a deliberative body, a protector of minority rights, a promoter of compromise, a “cooling factor” in the legislative process (i.e the House of Representatives boils the water and makes the tea, but the Senate allows it to cool), as “states’ ambassadors” and as an advisory body. I promise to help maintain the Senate traditions with some positive innovations. I hereby offer myself to serve in the senate committees that will bring the desired change to our body politic.

On the registration of APC. APC is a good party and it’s a welcome development. I

have always been an advocate of a two-party system in Nigeria, so I congratulate members of the new party as well as INEC that went the full hog without interference from any quarters. In Delta State, nothing has changed. We have had DPP and PDP as the dominant parties with ACN now APC as the subterfuge. I wish APC well but I know it takes a while before you can win the confidence of the grassroots. Without running the risk of shutting anyone out, Delta State will continue to be dominated by DPP in a free and fair contest and I have no doubt that DPP will regain the seat at the Senate.

Ordinarily, there ought not to be a bye election to fill the vacancy because DPP as a party won the seat in the 2011 general elections going by the precedents in the Amaechi case where the Supreme Court ruled that parties not individuals win elections.

Currently the Electoral Act is silent on bye elections but I think the fair thing to do would be for DPP to provide a replacement through their internal mechanism under the close supervision of INEC. This way, we can steam the possibility of disgruntled elements exterminating elected persons just to bring everybody to the starting line again. We have to find a way of discouraging electoral expenses both for the government and the contestants alike.

2015: Core North, Middle Belt fall apart Continued from page 45 regard.

Are you out to produce a northern candidate for 2015?

Our group is to make sure that the best candidate with the best interest of Nigeria emerges president in 2015.

One of our objectives is to take full advantage of the many options and opportunities that are available to the North. We want to see a situation where the North plays a very informed, disciplined and strategic role in the manner politics is played in this country. There are many options available and we want to be sure that we work with those who will take the decisions to make sure that the North takes the best position in the interest of the people.

What is the position of the Middle Belt in this

arrangement?

Let me say that this collaboration is unique. It is one of the very few efforts that we have made that involve the genuine participation of all northerners.

Our committee does not recognise core or subsidiary North. We recognise fundamental equality of northerners because the problems of the North affect all northerners equally. What happen to the northerner in Benue happens to the northerner in Zamfara.

We see the same level of poverty, insecurity and concerns. Those who use words like core northerners have no idea and we don’t want to operate with that kind of mindset. All northerners are equal and we realised that we have been divided by these kinds of talks. There is no such thing as core North.

We are united by our common heritage, our history, our poverty and our contemporary exposure to the same kind of problem. But it

is the only part of the country that is continuously regressing economically and continuously being exposed to more and more insecurity.

We are weakened by the day.

There is no northerner that will tell you that he is better off because of his tribe or religion.

So, this divide and rule has not worked for any single northerner. We have fought ourselves to a standstill and there is no single northerner that will tell you that he has benefited from it. One of the things we want to do is to capitalise on this new resolve by all northerners that it is time to turn a new leaf for the north.

‘Divided North is a liability’ This can be done because a divided North is a liability to the North and Nigeria and it is time to build bridges and I believe those bridges can be built. This new collaboration which involves all major groups in the North will heal those wounds that are making

northerners to use those kinds of language about being core northerners and non-core northerners.

The North is facing too many challenges. We will build bridges between northerners.

I don’t know about the elitist North. The masses have to be led by somebody because they cannot lead themselves and the Nigerian masses have been let down by the elite for too long.

Many people have claimed to be leading the North and they have let down the people.

The elite themselves are rediscovering their potentials to lead and will submit their leadership to the goals and aspirations of the ordinary northerner. The elite cannot work without the masses.

One single cry that everybody hears now is that the poverty in the North is so serious that anyone who wants to continue to render services cannot continue to treat the North as if it is business as usual.

SUND AY V anguard , A UGUST 18, 2013, PAGE 51 SUNDA Vanguard AUGUST 2013,P

H

Love

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08077208274 •Jeff, resident in Lagos, needs a beautiful, sexy and well behaved girl aged 18-22 for a serious relationship.

08039278742 •Uche, 35, Delta Igbo, but resides in Abuja, needs a busty and a slim girl, for marriage this year.08065719210 •Olamide, 6ft tall, good looking, needs a beautiful lady, for a relationship.

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08063867151 •Emma, 23, caring and fun to be with, from Delta state, needs a responsible lady, aged 17-22, for a serious relationship.07081464425 •David, 38, employed, from Imo state, needs a God fearing and employed lady, aged 25-33, preferably from Imo or Abia and resides in Lagos, for marriage.08035278791 •Collins,20, 5.1ft tall, a student, resides in Abuja, needs a caring lady, aged18-50, for a honest relationship.

08169371145 •Adewale, 23, resides in Lagos, needs a good girl for a serious relationship in Lagos,

aged 17-25.08168467563, 08096276355 •Chris, 25, from Delta state, needs a girl aged 20-28 for a serious relationship 08063566340 •Victor, needs a mature, handsome, decent and responsible girl, aged 18-22,who resides in Benin, for a serious relationship.08106787257 •Collins, 23, an ND holder, needs a girl, for a serious relationship, that can lead to marriage.08161755576

Sugar Cares Searching Female •Ann, 24, beautiful, busty, pretty and intelligent young girl needs a kind and generous sugar daddy for a sexual relationship.08105650856 •Oge, 5.10ft tall, sexy and resides in Abuja, needs a caring and loving sugar daddy, who can take care of her.

08063989916 •Chisom, 28, a graduate, from Enugu state, needs a sugar daddy for a relationship.

08092429244 •Nancy, 21, a graduate, needs a sugar daddy that is really buoyant, for a relationship.

08166245147 •Tessy, 25, from Delta state, needs a sugar daddy, who can take good care of her.

08030971220 •Amanda, busty and romantic, needs a caring sugar daddy, aged 48 and above, who can take care of her financial needs.07038723929

Searching Male •A guy, 26, resides in Anambra state, needs a caring, sexy and fat sugar mummy for romantic relationship.

08096202878 •Frank, 23, chocolate in complexion, resides in Lagos, needs a romantic and wealthy sugar mummy.08187496407 •Pulo, 35, from Anambra state, needs a rich sugar mummy to help in sponsoring his business, for a serious relationship, that will lead to marriage a g e d 4 0 - 5 5 .

08166116376,08064094694.

•Murphy, 28, a graduate, unemployed, from Cross River, but resides in Calabar, needs a sugar mummy for a serious relationship. 08033855043 •Kelvin, 25, a student and resides in Warri, needs a sugar mummy, sexual relationship, aged30-45. 07038485100, 07053 577664, 08185751214 ,08121132908 •Derrick, needs a sugar mummy.07030295066, 08154940938 •A guy, 28, dark in complexion, needs a rich, loving, caring and pretty sugar mummy, aged 33-50.07064857745 •Prince, 22, a student, needs a sugar mummy.08064746229 •Peace, 26, a graduate and resides in Delta State, needs a sugar mummy.08154680860 •Justine, 25, handsame, tall, fair in complexion and resides in Lagos, needs a sugar mummy, for a serious relationship.08082914343 •Clement, 30, from Delta state, but reside in Abuja, needs a sugar mummy, who is ready to spoil him.08068111910, 23C1B65F bbm •Kola, 30, resides in Lagos, needs a caring and good sugar mummy, aged 45-55.

08032447519 •Ken, handsome, dark in complexion and average height, needs a sugar mummy either in Port-Harcourt or in Delta.

08100960948

PAGE 52—SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18 18, 2013,

By JAPHET ALAKAM chimeena@yahoo.com 08056180157

LECTURE

The shrub among the poplars of Obi Nwakanma’s Verse

Understanding electricity utilisation in Nigeria

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E

WAKANMA was educated at the pres tigious Government College Umuahia, the English-type boarding school for boys where famous Nigerian writers — Chinua Achebe, Gabriel Okara, Christopher Okigbo, V.C. Ike, I.N.C Aniebo, Ken Saro-Wiwa and others went before him. He earned a degree in English at the University of Jos, the MFA in Poetry at the Washington University in St. Louis and a PhD in English from the Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri. He has worked as a journalist in Nigeria and internationally as Group Arts Editor of the Vanguard and Deputy editor of the Sunday Vanguard. He has also written variously for the American Newsweek magazine, the Neue Zurcher Zeitung (NZZ) of Zurich and the Independent in South Africa. Often described as the most gifted of his generation of poets in Nigeria, Nwakanma who writes a famous weekly column in the Sunday Vanguard, The Orbit not only writes recondite poetry, but he is also a versatile literary critic. Last week, one of his new collection of poems, Birthcry was among the 11 books shortlisted for the prestigious NLNG prize for literature In this essay, Obu Udeozo takes a critical look at some of his works.

LITERARY CRITICISM

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bi Nwakanma was edu cated at Government College Umuahia, and wears that heritage, like a precious Jungle Cap, among officer cadets. He remains one of that haloed institution’s freshest ambassadors on the global stage. Obi Nwakanma is a cerebral and committed writer that has edited Nigeria VANGUARD Arts section for over a decade; and contributes amazing wisdom over policy matters on Nigeria and the world. He also has the distinction of breaking frontiers of significance by syndicating for the international media, like Newsweek Magazine, the South African Independent, and the Neur Zurcher Zeitung of Zurich.

Obi Nwakanma has a stunning grasp of the politics of privilege and marginality on worldviews and their salient channels of broadcast. He sensitized TIME International Magazine to restore their ranking of Chinua Achebe among the global literary colossus in their Centenary Series. And in furtherance of that impetus to promote Africa’s heritage on world affairs; Nwakanma has laboured on the first Biography of Christopher Okigbo, - inadvertently lost during production. He has never wavered to illuminate exceptional scholars which the Nigerian officialdom

and academic circuit have failed to honour.

The Roped Urn was Obi Nwakanma’s first collection of poems, which won the ANA / Cadbury Gabriel Okara Prize for Poetry in 2007. He wrote the famous literary essay Lives of the Lagos Poets in 19 –; and was guest poet at the international Poetry Festival in Rotterdam. From his recent Resume

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BY OBU UDEOZO

•Nwakamma

Obi Nwakanma has a stunning grasp of the politics of privilege and marginality on worldviews and their salient channels of broadcast

,

we learnt that Obi Nwakanma, who has joined the numerous members of The Third Wave of Nigeria Poets domiciled overseas, received an MFA in creative writing from Washington University in St. Louis; and edited the Ars Poetica, the writing program’s publication of that institution. He now teaches at Saint Louis University Missouri, in the United States of America.

Overview of life and art.

An Igbo proverb says that after an old woman’s second fall; it becomes cheap to estimate the earthen wares in her bamboo trough. Evaluating Obi

Nwakanma’s art, presents a peculiar challenge: he is the only writer said to have lost two completed works at different times and locations in less than seven years. That is why this appraisal must countenance, the inescapable reminiscence over the lives of artists in general.

The Roped Urn Obi Nwakanma’s debutant anthology, is reported to have become lost by the Nigeria Press.

With the lost version of his completed Biography of Christopher Okigbo, there is a genuine attitude problem, at the level of crisis in the creative process.

I

n 1999, at Chinua Achebe’s Odenigbo Lecture in Owerri, I presented Obi Nwakanma, with photocopies of The Roped Urn, which I made from Ben Obumselu’s desk in Lagos, 1998 – but both of us, could not sort the unpublished manuscripts; because, the pages of the poems had sub-headings but no page numbers. The work is like that, till this moment.

And we must proceed, as inferentially as we can, over the organic sequence of the book in question. I shall hereafter; cause the manuscript in my custody to be computer type set; re – photostated, saved in electronic DVDs, and hard copies – and sent to Obi Nwakanma – again to his American address. I shall also deposit these versions to the Association of Nigeria Author’s •Continues on page 53

BY JAPHET ALAKAM REVIEW

to ensure that lives and property are protected.

Fire outbreak is another issue that wrecks havoc in many homes and companies, as such emphasis should be on how to prevent it. And the book explains the key elements of fire safety policy, some causes of fire hazards, domestic fire protection, fire fighting and prevention and others.

In chapters 7 and 8 takes on the issue of Domestic metering, its importance to both the Power holding companies and individuals . The need to have an accurate and reliable means of measuring the units is crucial to all hence the need to know the different types of meters, their merits and demerits, its installation. And suggests that meter installation must follow quality

NGINEER Adegboyega Osideinde is one of the few N i g e r i a n s who have contributed his quota to the development of electricity in Nigeria. The University of Ife trained graduate of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, who had worked in many departments in the electricity industry for many years believes that there is need to educate the public about domestic electricity utilisation especially now that the President Goodluck Jonathan led government is battling with the issue of power reforms.

Osideinde is of the view that if the reform is achieved, the joy of the masses will be short lived if the electricity companies and the users fail to adhere to set down rules about electricity. Based on the fact that many people do not have the requisite knowledge of some terms about electricity, there is need for a document that will provide such needed information and as part of his contribution to humanity, he came out with a new book titled Domestic Electricity Utilisation in Nigeria.

The 154 pages book from the coffers of Imade Publishing company is the author ’s third book on electricity and its uses, having published two books on electricity beDomestic Electricity Utilifore. In it the author takes sation in Nigeria: a critical survey on the all Adegboyega important issue of elecOsideinde:Imade Publishtricity generation in Niing Company, Nigeria: geria and how best to utilise it for the benefit of the 2013, PP. 154 companies and the public.

Divided into ten chapters and laced with good pictures installation practices to be able of the various instruments, each to optionally exploit the helpful chapter provides the needed infeatures of modern meters. formation on one aspect of elecThe book also x rays electrictricity. The author begins with a ity bill and the methodology for overview of the origin of elecits estimation. In line with edutricity in Nigeria, explaining the cating the public, he opens the different phases it passed before eye of customers to the operacoming to the present Power tors rights and obligations and Holdings Company of Nigeria. the regulator (NERC) responsie then went on to analyse bilities. some topical issues that Finally, chapter 10 addresses are vital for every home. In energy efficiency and conservachapters 2 and 3, the author tion. He says that there is need looks at the Domestic power into preserve energy so as to save take points and Domestic wircosts, hence points some of the ing, installation and standards. steps to be taken, example the In it he explains the different design of the house, the type of processes involved in supplying bulbs and tips to use in order to electricity to various homes, the reduce the energy budget. instruments required and others. ritten in very simple lan He also highlights the materiguage for a thorough unals and best way to wireand inderstanding of the concepts and stall electricity to meet the reprinciples discussed, the book is quired standard. a useful guide for every home Many use cables and gear especially for electrical contracswitches for all purposes, here, tors and consumers. Through the he carefully explains the type of book, the author has again sucinstruments and their carrying ceeded in breaking down comcapacity. The electrical instruplex technical details into evements need to be protected at all ryday language for everybody to times and on that he provides understand. I recommend it to the necessary steps to be taken all.

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SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18 18, 2013, PAGE 53

The shrub among the poplars of Obi

Modeling cultural ties between China and Africa

BY VERA SAMUEL ANYAGAFU &NJOKU SAINT JERRY A. (BEIJING)

in order to bridge the inherent rift in the growing bi-literal relationship between Nigeria and China, Zhao, implored all African cultural N a bid to further create a solid ministers present at the forum to baseline for effective and stable ensure that they establish their cultural ties between China and Afcultural potentials in China. rica, the Chinese Ministry of Culture Based on the foregoing therefore, recently held a symposium, which Nigeria Minister of Culture Tourism presented Africa’s culture in its full and National Orientation, Chief potentials.

Edem Duke, pioneered the The event which gathered over 50 exhibition of several Nigeria cultural African Ministers of culture themed, attributes in China.

“African Culture in Focus: Modeling The ministry’s performances were cultural ties between Africa and able to cement the longstanding imChina”, according to Chinese vice pression that Africa is a Continent Minister of Culture, Ms. Zhao that is blessed with good dancers, Shaohua, “ Is intended to promote drummers, and fashion designers, equal cultural exchanges between China and Africa, especially Nigeria. while Africans believe the Chiare “Kung The ministry’s performances were nese Fu Fighters” able to cement the longstanding with vague impressionthat impression that Africa is a many young continent that is blessed with good Chinese are related to the late dancers, drummers etc.

Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan.

Impressively, “ Zhao noted that, “ Investment in soKung Fu and Tai Ji chuan, are merely cial relation is most imperative at this traditional passive activities, which period when a lot has been explored in most cases, are either for Self to solidify Africa-China relationship in defense or improving ones reflexes. different sectors of both countries Good and entertaining as these economies. “ activities seem, they do not and may And for the fact that the overall effect not contribute to the desired objective of the cultural ties would likely result of China and Africa in promoting a into an investment in social relations, harmonious cooperation, which is CULTURE

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,

,

A Nigerian dancer displays the medals won in a contest expected to out wit the misunderstanding, conflict of interest, cultural clash and disorientation that have produced the growing unrest between Chinese investment and the indigenous workforce in Africa.

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o harmonise cooperate relations and eco nomic development between China and Africa, strategies should be devised to model cultural education, in order to reflect a clear interpretation of both countries differences in business ethics and social responsibilities.

In pursuant of this desired goal, one may not rule out the possibilities of encroaching or stepping across boundaries.

Although such encroachment could either impede proposed structural development processes or become harmful to social relations, the delight is often the successful end.

Jennifer Makumbi wins Kwani Manuscript Prize these values.

BY JAPHET ALAKAM WITH AGENCY REPORTS

he winner, Jennifer T Nansubuga Makumbi’s The Kintu Saga, is an ambitious

LITERATURE

attempt to bring the history of Uganda into the present lives of the novel’s protagonists. Through successive generations, the author sketches out the continued rel-

U

GANDA’S Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi has won the Kwani?

Manuscript Project, a new literary prize for unpublished fiction

by African writers and will receive the winning prize of 300,000 Kenyan Shillings (equivalent $3500) for her novel The Kintu Saga.

Liberia’s Saah Millimono came second for her novel, One Day I Will Write About This War while the third place went to Kenya’s Timothy Kiprop Kimutai for novel The Water Spirits.

Reacting to the award, the excited winner, Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi said: “It is hard for me to express my joy because sometimes language can be limited - even for a writer.

When you have been writing as obsessively and for as long as I have, winning a competition like this one is like stepping out in the sun after a protracted period in the dark.”

The winners were selected from a shortlist of seven by a high-profile panel of judges chaired by award-winning Sudanese novelist Jamal Mahjoub and including Deputy Editor of Granta, magazine Ellah Wakatama Allfrey, leading scholar of African literature ProC M Y K

evance of the past in the present.

The winner will receive 300,000 Kenyan Shillings (equivalent $3500), with 2nd place receiving 150,000 KShs and 3rd place 75,000 Kshs at an award ceremony billed to hold in Nairobi in November 2013 as part of Kwani Trust’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

Rivers sets up 100 Libraries in PH Jennifer Makumbi fessor Simon Gikandi, Chairman of Kenyatta University’s Literature Department Dr. Mbugua wa Mungai, editor of ; Zimbabwe’s Weaver Press Irene Staunton and internationally renowned Nigerian writer Helon Habila.

Chair of Judges, Jamal Mahjoub said: “All three titles chosen by the judges display an urge to engage with the complexities of modern day Africa.

They tackle issues such as civil war, the struggle against poverty, and the continent’s historical heritage, among other themes.

As a manuscript award this prize naturally seeks to focus less on finding a perfect finished product than work which shows literary promise as well as a breadth and depth of vision. The winner and two runners up all reflect

R

IVERS State govern ment has renovated hundred libraries ahead of next year when Port Harcourt would assume the UNESCO World Book capital 2014.

Festival Director, Koko Kalango, who made this known in Port Harcourt, said one hundred book clubs would be set up in primary and secondary schools in Port Harcourt as part of the activities lined up to celebrate the emergence of the place as UNESCO World Book capital 2014.

Kalango said the move would stimulate interest in reading among students, adding that the annual Garden city literary festival had been changed to Port Harcourt Book festival as part of effort to con-

solidate the city’s reputation for literary activities.

Continuing, she said with several Garden cities in the world, the name Port Harcourt book festival would erase confusion about where the garden city festival holds because there is only one Port Harcourt.

Kalango said an essay competition to mark Nigeria’s centenary would be launched nationwide for youths and winners would be recognized and rewarded at the Port Harcourt Book festival 2014.

The Festival Director, Kalango, said an art library, book shop, writers residence, a theatre/conference were visitors that would come to Port Harcourt with its position as UNESCO World Book capital 2014 will use to achieve their aims.

•Continued from page 52 archives, and the internet. As Rev. [Professor] Joseph Schulyer, used to tell us, at The Elements of Social Relations in 1978: “ Politics is too serious a matter to be left to politicians alone”. He was obviously citing Charles De Gaulle. n Obi Nwakanma’s scholarship and creative works are too significant to be left to the vagaries of tragic oversights. Any writer Black or White, doing an important literary work – Needs to back it up at all stages of the creative process – in hard copies, electronic devices and different locations This has been my own practice – against heart - breaking failure to our mutual heritage and civilization.

If I could have advanced without these public admonitions; one would have moved into the critical appraisal head -on: that the morphology of our landscape be made vivid – before appreciating Obi Nwakanma’s verse.

Owing to the practical obstructions encountered in this apparently seamless anthology, the evaluation, shall countenance only the aspects that are clear and unambiguous.

And to keep the proceedings, less cluttered and lucid, The Roped Urn, will be appraised first and entirely; before commentaries on the unencumbered second volume: The Horsemen and other poems published 2007.

The Roped Urn is an anthology of poems that is structured by the faith of their lyrical weight and, payload. There are sub-title motifs like The Roped Urn; Songs of Dawn, The Firestorm, A Midnight Call, A Song of The Reed, Flute, [for Maik Nwosu, Uche Nduka, Toyin Akinosho and Izzia Ahmad]; I know Why the Wind Whispers to You; Turns in the Gyre, Bury Me at Six O’clock; The Pilgrim’s Chant and The Last Light.

The Roped Urn – movement, which lends the anthology its title is an inspiration that invokes cosmological memories.

The opening stanza, speaks of shepherds in the fields of starfield nights; and of how like Adam in Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel murals, God’s hand reached them / and they began to speak / This obvious reference to the universal birth of Jesus Christ the notion of Christian pilgrimage; pays oblique homage to T.S. Eliot’s The Journey of The Magi, and to Christopher Okigbo’s Labyrinths. The Okigbo sentience, saturates the presentation at this point. See: In this ravishing tribute to a literary avatar, Christopher Okigbo, the younger poet reminds us of too much semblance at a particular point – and carries this disposition throughout •To be continued

PAGE 54 — SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18, 2013

Premiership opener: Will Mourinho smile on his return debut against Hull?

Supporters J

OSE Mourinho will open his second spell in charge of Chelsea with a home date against Premier League new boys Hull City today.

The return of Mourinho to English football has created quite a buzz - and not just around Stamford Bridge.

Having guided Chelsea to five major honours during his first stint in west London - including two Premier League titles - the Portuguese tactician will be hoping to sprinkle his magic dust over the Blues once again.

He has wasted little time in reshaping a squad inherited from interim coach Rafa Benitez and will want to ensure that the struggles of recent years - which have left Chelsea sweating on their involvement in the UEFA

•Admits return’ll be emotional C HELSEA boss Jose Mourinho says it will be difficult to control his emotions when he returns to the Stamford Bridge dugout for Sunday’s Premier League opener against Hull City.

Mourinho rejoined the club for a second stint in charge in June after leaving by mutual consent in September 2007.

“When I go to my stadium, my dugout, my people, I will have to control it a little bit,” said Mourinho, 50. “It will be a couple of minutes and then I can concentrate on the game.”

Mourinho first arrived at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2004, weeks after guiding Porto to the Champions League trophy.

He won the FA Cup and two League Cups as well as two Premier League titles but could not win the Champions League with the Blues.

His relationship with owner Roman Abramovich grew increasingly troubled and he quit despite having three years left on his contract.

He won his second Champions League trophy with Inter Milan in 2010, but left to join Real Madrid later that summer. He finished second in La Liga in his first season but won the title a year later.

Mourinho said he was looking forward to “the salt and pepper of football”, adding that when he goes to Stamford Bridge, he wants “to try and give joy to

club mourn Bello

Champions League - are put firmly to one side.

While nothing less than a charge towards the top flight crown will be accepted by the Blues, Hull City would be happy to end the campaign with a standing among English football’s elite safely cemented.

The Tigers lasted two seasons the last time they graced this level, but will need no reminding how difficult it can be for sides stepping out of the Championship to find their feet at the top table.

Steve Bruce’s experience could be crucial, and he will be looking to get points on the board early to help calm any nerves and avoid making the 2013/14 campaign more of a challenge than it is already shaping up to be.

everyone”. The former Real Madrid boss said he would take the players to the stadium yesterday before the game for training so that some of the new faces could settle in to their new surroundings.

“We train there tomorrow because I want the boys to know

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Mourinho where the dressing room is, where the dugout is,” he said.

“I will feel something different for sure. On Sunday(today), I think the fans will focus on me and [owner] Roman [Abramovich] but then they have

to forget us and focus on the team.”

Mourinho would not be drawn on Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney’s link with the club but he did insist defender David Luiz was going nowhere.

HE Nigeria Football and other Sports Supporters Club has expressed shock over the death of its ex- officio member; Suliamon Bello.

Bello, 67, died early last week after a brief illness at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja and has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

According to a statement by the club signed by its President General, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo, the club noted that his death came at a time his services and fatherly advice is highly needed by the club.

The statement while expressing its sympathy for the bereaved family, prayed the Almighty God to grant his soul eternal rest and his family the fortitude to bear the loss even as it announced that the eight day fidau prayer for the repose of his soul will be organized on Wednesday, August 21, 2013.

Sapele can produce more Fregenes — Ogufere A FORMER president of the West Africa Football Union (WAFU), Chief Jonathan Ogufere has tasked Sapele based Academyforstarstoproducequality footballers that would do the nation proud in international football, besides distinguishing themselves in local and foreign leagues.

Ogunfere, a former top shot of the NigeriaFootballAssociationrecently endorsed the Academy for Stars pioneered by England based football manager, Elvis Ewruje.

“I have been following progress of this unique Academy for stars since its establishment on June 9, 2012 and I’m certain it is a veritable

Founder of Sapele Academy, Elvis Ewruje (l), team coach, Clyde Okoro, (at the back), former WAFU president, Chief Jonathan Ogufere (m) and Head coach, Sani Mohammed (right) pose for a photograph.

ground to discover and groom budding football talents for Sapele, Delta and Nigeria generally. We are proud that ex Green Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Fregene is a product of this town and I appeal you give us more now”.

Speaking on the role of Sapele in the nation’s football development, the veteran administrator who was the special guest of honour at an exhibition and presentation of young stars in Sapele said,” The late Chief Festus Okotie- Eboh of blessed memory was one of the earliest promoters of the game through founding the Bata Football Club Of Sapele in the forties.

“LateIbrahimKhalilthentookover and founded the Amukpe All Stars team that made waves in the then Challenge Cup and the old Western region, producing late ex Nigeria international like Sam Opone, Jerry Azinge, John Abeke, Akpu Ewerebo, Macauley Otire amongst others with A.J.E Egboko as coach.

Khalil also founded the then Ethiope FC of Sapele that later metamorphosed to New Nigeria

Bank FC which dominated the WAFU Cup with top players like Henry Nwosu, Stephen Keshi, Lawrence Orairo and Co. I also wish to remind you players and officials of Academy for Stars that former Green Eagles goalkeeper Peter Fregene was produced through school sports in Sapele.

“We remain proud of the exploits of such past Stars from Sapele.

Indeed Peter Fregene went on to represent Nigeria for several years, including being rated the fourth best goalkeeper at the Mexico ‘68 Olympic Games. He also played a key role for the nation at Libya ’82 Africa Cup of Nations. As far as I’m concerned, Sapele can still produce Stars like Fregene and others once again”.

Ogufere, an Octogenarian, poured encomium on the chairman of the Academy, Elvis Ewruje for his effort to boost Sapele football and sued for cooperation of people and corporate groups in and around Sapele towards realizing talent discovery.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, AUGUST 18, 2013 — PAGE 55

Lagos SWAN to recharge GLO League, domestic football

World Championships: Bolt rakes in gold number two •Okagbare aims for third medal

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HE body of sports journalists in Lagos have set about the organisation of a conference and workshop to examine the factors that may have contributed to the depleting fan base of domestic football and to proffer solutions towards rebuilding public interest and enthusiasm in this aspect of the nation’s sporting culture.

The programme is especially targeted at rekindling and sustaining attraction to the Globacom Premier League organized by the League Management Company (LMC) and the Federations Cup organized by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) besides other notable domestic football events.

Coming under the auspices of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos State Chapter, the conference and workshop slated for Sep-tember 19 and 20 will seek to bring

together various stakeholders in the media, corporate Nigeria and football industry to build consensus, strategic plans of action and commitment towards resolving the challenges of the low

public enthusiasm and disappearance of fans from domestic football venues.

Chairman of Lagos SWAN, Fred Edoreh, said the workshop will hold over two days and will seek to have in attendance

U

SAIN Bolt won his second gold medal of the world championships, cruising through the finish line to win the men’s 200 meters yesterday.

The 100 champion won the race in 19.66 seconds for his third straight world title in the 200.

Warren Weir of Jamaica was second in 19.79 and Curtis Mitchell of the United States took bronze in 20.04.

Bolt can make it three golds today when he runs for Jamaica in the 4x100 relay. He won all three of those medals at the 2009 worlds and at the 2008

and 2012 Olympics, but he missed out on the 100 title two years in South Korea when he was disqualified for a false start in the final.

Nigeria’s women 4x100m led by Blessing Okagbare will also attempt to win at least a medal in the event. But all that depends on how the team will fare in the heats that begin at about 1.45pm. Nigeria is in the same heat with Jamaica featuring Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce who won a sprint double.

Nigeria is drawn in lane and the girls will have to do extra work to qualify for the final.

Quotes

Anthony Village Senior High School coach Biodun Ademuyiwa, (left) Ephraim Abiona of Etisalat,( right),Captain, Anthony Village Senior High School, Ajayi Iyobo (2nd right) with Anthony Village Senior High School U-17 football team after they beat Magbo Alade Senior Grammar School to qualify for the final of the Etisalat U17 football competition in Lagos Wednesday.

SAIN Bolt JAM: I am feeling good, I am feeling alright. I am just not a morning person.

My foot is feeling better. It was sore then. I have worked on it for the last four days. The race was easy. We are just trying to get through the morning rounds as easy as possible.

Murielle Ahoure CIV: It

felt very easy, super relaxed and I am very happy. In the final, I will be in a good lane. I am in a confident mood because of my medal in the 100m. My first 100m will help and then I just have to move on. I will definitely try to spoil the double for Shelly-Ann in the 200m final. At home they are tremendously in joy:

sport enjoys to the detriment of others.

This lack of support for other sports has led to the gradual death of some of the very viable ones like boxing where Nigeria gave Cuba and the USA a run for their money. Even athletics where Nigeria once rubbed shoulders with USA, is fast becoming a nightmare as the country continuously relies on one athlete, Blessing Okagbare, so much so that if Okagbare fails, then Nigeria fails.

Somehow, Okagbare is being over loaded, all in an attempt to get the desired gold medal. In 1996 when the government gave all the support to football, Ajunwa unexpectedly won the long jump gold, Nigeria’s first from any sport and the abandonement showed so much as she couldn’t find a Nigerian flag to celebrate with.

At the on-going World Athletics Championships in Moscow, Russia, the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN are still bemoaning the lack of funds which prevented it from giving the athletes quality training necessary for top performance. As

usual, the blame game will only last for a few weeks and we return to the same old story.

The neglect has continued till date. Last year, nobody looked in the direction of basketball and quietly, the Nigeria Basketball Federation, NBBF sourced funds to camp the players of the men’s team, most of whom were products of American and European schools and a few of the NBA. They surprisingly picked one of the tickets for the London 2012 Olympics and the nation and government suddenly realised they had a basketball team who could jostle for a medal. But it was too late as the preparation they had from the little fund the NBBF could muster was not enough for top notch preparation to battle the sport’s giants like USA, Spain, Lithuania, Greece and Russia.

As you read this, the team just arrived from the USA yesterday where they had their last training camp ahead of the 2013 Afrobasket, basketball’s Nations Cup in Africa. But it would shock you to know that the federation scratched everywhere to

raise money for the trials and camping the team had and they are expected to face strong teams like Angola whose annual budget of $US4 million makes nonsense of our quest to be Africa’s power house in sports.

The NBBF is not waiting to be praised by anyone and so it hosted the team to a reception/sendforth as they depart today to attempt to conquer Africa. Like they were not considered worthy enough for the All Africa Games gold but won it Maputo, Mozambique in 2011 and shocked all with the Olympic Games qualification last year, the team handled by Ayo Bakare head into the Afrobasket with the desire to do their best and win again to shame their critics and push the authorities to recognise their effort and give them the needed support as well as their female counterparts who are still struggling to commence camping for their own version of Afrobasket 2013 hoding in Maputo, Mozambique next month.

U

So that other sports may grow E

VERY country has one or two sports where it has a strong following and equally a comparative advantage at international championships. Some like the United States are strong in much more sports like athletics, swimming, basketball and boxing. They are also very passionate about the American football.

The Cubans are well known for amateur boxing while coming down to Africa, South frica’s strenght lies more in swimming and rugby and the East Africans very strong in the long distance races with Kenya almost having a field day there..

Nigeria’s first stronghold was in boxing where the Late Hogan Bassey won her honours in the ’50s.

Other boxers like Nojeem Maiyegun and late Emmanuel

represent-atives of media prop-rietors in print, radio and television, the Guild of Editors, sports editors, reporters, club owners, club media officers and rights owners such as the LMC and the NFF.

Ifeajuna followed suit before the emergence of others like Isaac Ikhuoria, Obisia Nwankpa, Jeremiah Okorodudu, Davidson Andeh, Tony Konyegwachie, David Izonretei and a host of others.

In athletics, Nigeria was never lacking and it produced the likes Modupe Oshikoya, Felix Imadiyi, Charlton Ehizulen, Chidi Imoh, Olapade Adeniken, the Ezinwa brothers, Davidson and Osmond, Falilat Ogunkoya, Mary Onyali, Beatrice Utondu, Faith Idehen, Maria Usifo, Fatima Yusuf and the golden girl, Chioma Ajunwa, to mention just a few.

Football did not make any serious impact until in 1973 when the country won the All Africa Games gold on home soil in Lagos and in 1980 when she hosted and won the Africa Nations Cup also

in Lagos for the very first time.

At global level, the frenzy for football grew to high heavens when in 1985, a group of young boys stunned the world when they lifted the FIFA/Kodak U-16 tiournament in China.

The U-17 had also gone to win two more of this title in 1993 in Japan and in 2003 in South Korea, incidentally all in Asia.

These victories at the junior level have not translated into anything substantial at the senior level where the Super Eagles keep struggling to make an impact at the World Cup. Because of the passion the people have for football, the governments in Nigeria, State and Federal, have kind of stuck to it and have termed it, number one among others. This is reflected in the amount of financial and material support the

SUNDAY Vanguard, AUGUST 18, 2013

Moses misses Chelsea EPL opener •As Villa dismantle Arsenal at Emirates Super Eagles striker, Victor Moses will miss today’s English Premier League opener between Chelsea and Hull City

and according to coach Jose Mourinho Moses will not taste action having failed to train with the team.

It was reported that after the match in Johannesburg, Moses was delayed by a change in his traveling plans from South Africa.

Moses, I don’t know where he is. I don’t select him for Sunday,” Mourinho said after training.

However, Moses is back in London and will watch from the stands as Chelsea open their 2014 account with lowly Hull City.

In yesterday’s matches Christian Benteke struck twice to inspire Aston Villa to a shock 3-1 win at Arsenal on a dramatic opening day of the Premier League season.

Striker Daniel Sturridge scored and new goalkeeper Simon Mignolet saved a late penalty to earn Liverpool a deserved 1-0 win over Stoke City and Norwich City drew 2-2 with Everton.

West Ham United beat promoted Cardiff City 20, Fulham won 1-0 at Sunderland and Southampton striker Rickie Lambert converted a late penalty to secure a 1-0 victory at West Bromwich Albion.

Arsenal took an early lead at the Emirates through forward Olivier Giroud but Benteke equalised from the rebound after having a penalty saved and the powerful striker fired home another spot-kick after 62 minutes.

after he failed to show up for training on Friday.

Moses. was a factor in the 2-0 win the Eagles posted against Bafana Bafana last Wednesday

Malawi FA promises Flames ‘special bonus’ to beat Eagles zAs Saintfiet dreams upset against Eagles THE Football Association of Malawi, FAM has assured their national team, Flames players of a ‘Special bonus’ if they beat the Super Eagles in the last group match scheduled for the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on September 7.

FAM president, Walter Nyamilandu Manda told the media in Malawai that the bonus is to boost the players to ‘die a little and work extra hard’ for the nation against the Super Eagles.

“We are making all efforts to ensure that our preparations for the Nigeria game should go on smoothly. The association also thought it wise to give the players a special bonus if they happen to beat Nigeria.

“We are also making arrangements that will help our players to travel safely and also not to be affected from any tricks that the hosting country may apply before the clash. Starting from our flight we want everything to go on smoothly.

“If anything, we want to make a special arrangement whereby the team should arrive in Calabar at least 24 hours before the game. We are also going to send an advanced team to make sure that all the arrangements should be perfected before the team departs for the game,” Nyamilandu was quoted to have said by an online Malawian publication.

Meanwhile the Flames Belgian-born handler, Tom Saintfiet who named a 21man squad to battle the Ea-

TODAY’S MATCHES

KESHI’S HOPE... Emmanuel Emenike missed the international friendly aghainst South Africa in Durban on Wednesday and Super Eagles coach who excused him from the game said he missed him sorely. He hopes to return for the crucial game against Malawi in Calabar next month. gles is still exuding confidence that his side could upset the Stephen Keshitutored side in Calabar when both sides meet in the crucial qualifier but quickly added that he is not under-estimating the Eagles.

RESULTS Liverpool Arsenal Norwish Sweansea Eintrancht F. Freiburg Hamburger VfB Stuttgart Wofsburg

4 1 2 1 0 1 1 0 4

Crystal Palace vs Tottenham 1.30pm

Stoke Aston Villa Everton Man Utd Bayern M Mainz 05 Hoffenheim B/Leverkusen Schalke 04

CAF CHAMPION LEAGUE AC Leopard de Dolisie 0

0 3 2 4 1 2 5 1 0 Al Ahly

1

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1.Taraba capital (7) 4.Exchanges (5) 6.Crest (5) 7.Speared (7) 9.Fashion (5) 10.Weird (5) 11.Donor (5) 13.Domain (5) 17.Crestfallen (3) 19.Face (8) 20. Pianos (6) 21. Much (6) 23. Stayed (8) 24.Frozen water (3) 25.Snake (5) 27.Own up (5) 30. Arise (5) 31.Evade (6) 32.Dotted (7) 34. Lariat (5) 35.Moves like a horse (5) 36. Sowed (7)

DOWN 1. Incarcerates (50 2. Nothing (3) 3. Command (5) 4.Cut (5) 5. Vapour (5) 8. Dog (3) 12. Nigerian state (6) 14. Ovum (3) 15. Connected (6) 16. Cooked (6) 17.Glare (5) 18. Ill-fated (6) 22. Maiden name (3) 25. Revise accounts (5) 26. Staggers (5) 27.Old fable writer (5) 28.Child (3) 29. Gave in (5) 33. Benin chieftain (3)

1

2

Chelsea vs Hul City

3

4pm

4

5

6 7

8

9 10

11

12

16

13 17

15

18

19

21

14

20

22

23 24

25

26

27

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SOLUTION on36page 55

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