Northern pro-Jonathan govs get threat messages

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AGRIC MINISTER CHALLENGES PREDECESSOR:

‘Unlike you, we have evidence of performance’ rates in agricultural sector.

His ‘perfect’ growth rate of 6.50% for crop production, 6.50% for fisheries, 6.50 % for livestock and 6.50% for forestry should raise eyebrows as this smacks of some form of cosmetic and fuddled growth statistics, an indication of some tinkering somewhere. Earlier in the year, Adamu compared his seven years in office with Adesina’s first agriculture year in 2012, relying on National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) alone. In doing so, he was one-sided in his analysis, seeking to confuse Nigerians with manipulative figures”.

To Utomi, the claim by Bello is unfortunate and laughable. The foremost economist argued that under the current dispensation, the ministry of agriculture has reconstructed its relationship with farmers so well that today Nigeria is close to achieving sufficiency in food production.

“Today, they have blocked leakages in farmers’ access to fertilizers, provision of real-time information to farmers through making available handsets to farmers across the country.

The current minister has also helped farmers in dry season farming”.

Taking a swipe at the posturing of the former minister, Damian Ilenre of the Farmers Initiative in Benin wondered whether Bello left any personal belonging in the office he left years ago “that he suddenly realised must be retrieved.” He added that in a civilized community,

BY EMMANUEL AJIBULU

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griculture Minister, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has risen in defence of the achievements of his ministry, saying they are unassailable.

Adesina spoke against the backdrop of the criticism by a former minister in the ministry, Mallam Adamu Bello, who described the achievements as nonexistent.

Renown economist and public affairs analyst, Prof.

Pat Utomi, among others, echoed the minister ’s sentiment.

Bello had challenged Akinwumi’s claim to achievements in the agriculture sector.

An aide to the minister, Olukayode Oyeleye, who responded on behalf of his principal, wanted the former minister to show what positive reforms his sevenyear tenure brought to the agriculture sector.

“It will help greatly for Adamu Bello to point to the number of investments generated in seven years, whereas, within two years, under Adesina, Nigeria has attracted US$4 billion in private sector investments in the agricultural sector,” he said.

He continued: “Adamu Bello never told Nigerians the truth about his actual performance in office. Let him give details commodity-by-commodity, and let him state where and how this impact was felt. In 2004, under Adamu Bello, there was something interesting about growth

THOUGHT FOR TODAY THE WORLD AND THE WORD-1

By Richard Eromonsele

The world here simply means the earth and its appurtenances that is everything beneath it, in it, on it and or around it. The word on the other hand simply refers to the word of God. Today, there is a contention between the world and the word. Ordinarily, man is selfish, he wants the sweet things of the world, he wants to live in the best and finest house, he/she wants the finest spouse, he wants to ride the finest car, he wants to wear the finest clothes, in everything, he wants the latest and finest for himself….

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former public officers of former minister’s ilk should be hiding their heads in the face of the landmark achievements being recorded in that sector under the current dispensation.

“May be he needs to be reminded of the N14billion fertilizer contract scam that rocked his tenure for him to keep quiet,” Ilenre added.

Also, the Chairman, Umza Rice and chairman, Rice Processors Association, Mohammed Abubakar, said that Adesina created incentives for seed and fertilizer companies to develop supply chains to reach farmers directly in the country. He noted that Adesina has succeeded in attracting $5billion worth of investments by the private sector into local fertilizer manufacturing.

A media practitioner and Chairman of 3D Global Leadership, Dr Victor Oladokun, said Bello’s claim was a pack of lies, stating that Adesina has achieved more in two years than Bello achieved in his seven years as agriculture minister. In a statement, Oladokun said his research into Bello’s eight-year

From left: Chairman, Airtel Nigeria, Justice Alfa Belgore, rtd; Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, at the premiere of Airtel Touching Lives TV series held in Lagos . tenure, the longest ever for an agriculture minister, showed that he did not achieve anything worth talking about.

“I also spoke with farmers, private sector executives, and agribusiness leaders.

My findings and the collective scorecards of those I spoke to was that, at best, he was lacklustre,” he said, reminding Bello that success is not judged by how long someone stays in office, but by what was achieved during that period.

He accused Bello of

superintending over an agriculture ministry notorious for its brazen fertilizer fraud and other anomalies. According to Oladokun, within two years, Adesina ended the corrupt, crony-driven fertilizer racket that helped serve the interest of the rich and the politically powerful, and turned farmers into paupers.

Countering Bello’s claim that the federal government gives farmers two bags of fertilizer, Oladokun challenged the former

minister to tell Nigerians how many bags farmers got under his tenure.

He said, “The farmers know better. Their fertilizer was hijacked and ‘shared’ by the elite. So shady was the direct fertilizer procurement system that Nigeria was known to have one of the worst cases of fertilizer corruption in the world.

Just ask the millions of farmers who today receive fertilizer directly, without needing middlemen or political cronies.”

APC decries ‘intolerance by Gombe governor’, calls for caution

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he All Progressives

Congress (APC) has strongly condemned the acts of intolerance by Gombe State Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who has been working hard to obliterate the APC presence and also victimize the party ’s members in the state”.

In a statement issued in Lagos, yesterday, by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the governor’s actions when

he visited Kashere, the home town of his predecessor, Senator Danjuma Goje, last Thursday, were despicable and barbaric, and should be condemned by all right thinking people. ‘’During his visit, Gov. Dankwambo personally ordered the removal of all APC billboards and posters in the town, ordered the police and the army to break into Senator Goje’s family house, where they broke down doors, tear gassed and arrested his relations,

including children,” the statement said. ‘’The governor also ordered the same security forces to break into the family house of Senator Goje’s wife, where they similarly destroyed doors and tear gassed the occupants, including the 90year-old father of Senator Goje’s wife and the Senator’s wife’s 70-year-old stepmother, while all her sisters and brothers were arrested. ‘’All those arrested,

numbering over 50, are now being detained at the police headquarters in the state capital, Gombe, while the Governor has also ordered the arrest of anyone who tries to secure bail for those in detention.

In Gombe town, the Governor has gone further to order the police to remove all APC billboards and posters in the town. In other words, as far as the Governor is concerned, it is a criminal offence for anyone to belong to the APC in his state”.

Northern pro-Jonathan governors get threat messages Continues from page1 night, from very competent sources, that many of the northern political opinion leaders and groups had decided that all necessary support must be given to Buhari to win the February 14, 2015 presidential election so as

to return power to them.

The Chairman of the northern influential group, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Alhaji Ibrahim Coomassie, lent credence to the move when he insisted that power, next year, must shift to the North.

Coomassie spoke during an interview with Sunday Vanguard.

But the Presidency, through the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Public Affairs, Dr Doyin Okupe, said Nigerians will not vote their next President on the basis of ethnicity.

One of the sources, an

influential northern leader and close confidante of President Goodluck Jonathan, revealed that since Buhari’s emergence, the ‘entire North’ had adopted Buhari as its political candidate and was not afraid to stand by him to win the 2015 election.

The PDP big wig pointed out that it was shocking to see how the support base of the APC presidential candidate had evolved beyond political lines, with some radical elements threatening to deal ruthlessly with anyone who betrays Buhari in the North.

“There is a serious change in the political mood in the North since Buhari was elected as the APC candidate last week.

Right now, the people do not care whether they are in APC or PDP. All they are interested in is that

power must return to the North through the election of the former Head of State”, a northern governor supportive of Jonathan’s presidential bid told Sunday Vanguard, yesterday.

“What is really worrying those of us who are perceived to be proJonathan’s governors or supporters is the open threat messages being made directly to our phones”.

It was learnt that some radical northern leaders have also been sending threat messages to some of their governors and leaders believed to be working for Jonathan’s victory in the 2015 poll to stop the support or be dealt with.

The governor, who spoke to Sunday Vanguard, showed two of such threat messages written in Hausa and English to him,warning him not to betray the North for the President as

he did in the last presidential election.

One of the mails came from a ranking federal northern lawmaker while the other was from a man the governor described as his friend.

It was learnt that the current political mood in the North had since been relayed by the security agencies and some friendly PDP governors to Jonathan, who apparently expressed surprise over the turn of events but promised to do something urgent to swing support in his favour.

The President was said to have assured northern governors that he would fulfil the promises he made to them during his 2011 campaign, but it could not be established whether that would be before or after the next

election.

*Coomassie’s and Okupe’s full interviews at pages 33 and 35 respectively.

PAGE 6 —SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

Glo brings Oscars to CAF Awards he Academy Awards, also called the Oscars, T is one of the world’s most

glamorous events.

On the continent of Africa, an event that approximates the glitz, glamour and class of the Oscars is the Glo CAF Awards.

While the Oscars recognizes excellence in the film industry in the United States of America and beyond, the Glo CAF Awards recognizes excellence in football on the African continent. Specifically, the Glo CAF awards every year celebrates footballers and personalities who have excelled in various departments of the game and made meaningful contributions to its development on the continent.

The awards actually dates back to 1970 when the best African Footballer of the Year was recognized. But it has been on a steep ascendancy in stature and class in the last few years, especially since Nigeria’s National Telecom Carrier, Globacom, took over its sponsorship in 2005.

The 2014 edition of GloCAF Awards, scheduled to hold in Lagos on January 8, 2015, from the look of things, will surpass the last

edition in terms of the entertainment quotient, detail of planning, and overall event quality and class. Already, the organisers have released a long list of superstars and first-class entertainers from across the continent, who will thrill guests at the occasion.

Among the stars listed to perform live at the continental event is global Jazz icon, Hugh Masekela from South Africa. The Grammy award-winning trumpeter has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages. Listening to Masekela live will be a dream come true

for many Jazz lovers at the grand event.

Also performing is Congo DRC’s multiple awardwinning song writer, singer and guitarist, Fally Ipupa.

This artiste has held the continent spell-bound since 2006 when he released his first

2015: Onuesoke urges Urhobo to support Jonathan, Okowa

BY EPHRAIM OSEJI

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elta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Chief Sunny Onuesoke, has called on the Urhobo to put the past behind them and rally support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s second term bid, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa governorship bid and other PDP candidates success in the 2015 general elections.

Onuesoke, a PDP governorship aspirant in 2007, who made the appeal while addressing newsmen at Osubi airport, Warri, Delta State, advised the Urhobo to

put the past behind them and vote enmass for Jonathan and the Okowa, stressing that the failure of Urhobo anointed candidate in the PDP gubernatorial primary should not deter them from supporting the party’s candidates in the coming elections.

Onuesoke, who said Urhobo must be in the winning party by supporting PDP in presidential, senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly elections, said since Jonathan assumed office on May 29, 2011, his transformational agenda

has impacted seriously on the people, adding that his economic team has been implementing farreaching reforms and policies conceived in the economic blue print which seeks, among other things, to revive the co untr y ’s infrastructure, diversify the economy from oil and create a vibrant economy.

He pointed out that for Jonathan to fully implement his political, e c o n o m i c a l , infrastructural and social transformational agenda for the full benefit of Nigerians, he should be given the opportunity for second term.

solo album, Droit chemin. So well accepted is he across the continent that he has had countless collaborative works with other continental music stars, including Nigeria’s D’banj.

The highly regarded Egyptian folk singer, Hakim is also expected to strut his stuff at 2014 Glo CAF Awards.

Hakim is something of an enigma in his country and has gradually wormed his way into the heart of music lovers in other parts of the world.

Hakim holds the record of being the first person from an Arab country to perform at a Nobel Prize ceremony.

Globacom subscribers who wish to be part of the event have been given a chance to book a seat by taking part in a promo introduced by the operator as a way of

rewarding and exciting its subscribers. Two hundred and fifty of the company ’s subscribers who recharge with N5000 up till the end of December or buy a smart phone from any Gloworld shop within the period will stand a chance to reserve their seats at the prestigious event.

In another promo on the event, Glo subscribers who successfully predict the African Footballer of the Year, Woman Player of the Year and Coach of the Year stand a chance of winning eyepopping prizes including a 2014 Mercedes Benz G Wagon, 10 tickets to watch Manchester United play at Old Trafford and N10,000 airtime for 1000 winners.

It’s indeed the Oscars of prizes in marketing promotions.

Urhobo cautioned over 2015 polls

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GROUP, Urhobo S t r a t e g i c Movement, has called on the Urhobo people to thread cautiously while taking decisions so as not to plunge into political crisis in the 2015 elections.

The group in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Ochuko Tonukari, after their meeting held in Ughelli, Ughelli Local

Government Area, said, also elected Mr. Julius Ogbevire and Mr. Vincent Eyakwaire as National Chairman and Secretary respectively.

The group, stated that it has not been well with the Urhobo people politically for sometime now due to harsh decisions which they said must be corrected before the 2015 general elections.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 7

•From left: The Managing Director, First City Monument Bank, FCMB, Group Plc, Mr. Peter Obaseki; Patron of The Compassionates for Senior Citizens, Honourable Justice Samuel Duro Adebiyi; an executive member of the association, Mrs. Abigail Ebun Sofowole, and the Group Head, Marketing and Communications of FCMB, Mr. Ikechukwu Kalu, at the end-of-the-year get-together and merit awards ceremony organised by the FCMB for the senior citizens. The ceremony took place in Lagos.

STOMACH INFRASTRUCTURE:

Fayose distributes 80,000 Christmas birds, 100,000 bags of rice, cash

By Gbenga Ariyibi, Ado-Ekiti

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KITI State governor, Mr Ayo Fayose, yesterday, commenced the implementation of his stomach infrastructure programme, as he distributed no fewer than 80,000 birds, 100,000 bags of rice and cash gift to the less privileged, widows and the aged in the state.

According to a press statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Gover nor, Mr Idowu Adelusi, yesterday, the office of the governor was besieged by the people who later went back home with gifts.

According to the statement, some of the elderly, who could not hide their joy at the rare opportunity of having to celebrate the season with the package, were full of prayers for Fayose and members of his cabinet.

Some of the beneficiaries had stormed the office as early as 10am as the governor, a l o n g s i d e

•Fayose distributing ‘stomach infrastructure’ to Ekiti State people yesterday. members of his staff, started distributing the package to the people who kept appearing in their multitudes.

Some of the beneficiaries, including Mr Jewoola from AdoEkiti, Mr Ife Akinyeye and Mrs. Afolabi Mary, noted that the gesture reaffirmed the governor as a grassroots man.

They appreciated the governor for putting himself in the shoes of the common man who may find it difficult to prepare sumptuous meal for his family at this

period of festivity.

The governor later moved to markets in the state capital with same package for those who could come to the Governor ’s Office with a promise that all the 16 local governments had designated centres for the distribution.

In a chat with journalists, Fayose stated that his priority was the welfare of the people of Ekiti who, “against all odds”, returned him to office after eight years in a landslide victory.

APGA unveils Anambra candidates for 2015

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HE All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, yesterday in Awka unveiled its candidates for the 2015 senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly elections at an impressive ceremony at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka.

It was a carnival or sorts as all the candidates from the three senatorial zone, the 11 federal constituencies and 30 House of Assembly candidates and their supporters marched round the venue of the rally displaying poster of the various candidates.

For the over six hours

that the event lasted, dancing troupes that accompanied the candidates performed ceaselessly to the admiration of the capacity –filled arena, while it was time for brisk business for producers and sellers of branded APGA materials.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees, BOT, and leader of the party, Governor Willie Obiano, presented party flags to all the candidates, thus confirming them as standard bearers of the party for the election.

Obiano told them that with APGA growing from strength to strength in many states of the

federation, he had no doubt in his mind that they would all emerge victorious in the February, 2015 election.

He also informed the eligible voters that apart from the presidential election, APGA would contest for all other seats and urged them to vote massively for the party’s candidates.

National chairman of APGA and senatorial candidate for Anambra Central, Chief Victor Umeh, who spoke on behalf of the candidates, assured Obiano that they would not let the party down.

•Prince Oladele Akinola, Global Campaign Group, and some members of his group, during a visit to the Adamawa State gubernatorial candidate of the PDP, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu (2nd left), at the weekend.

By Simon Ebegbulem, Benin-City

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OVERNOR Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State says he will continue to accord respect to former governor of old Bendel State, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, saying he is a leader who is sincerely worried about the future of the state.

He disclosed this, yesterday, in Benin-City while commissioning the new six lane New Lagos Road and the Ewohimi Hospital in Esan South East of Edo State.

According to him, “when I spend nine minutes with Dr Ogbemudia, all I

Why I will continue to respect Ogbemudia —Oshiomhole keep hearing from him is advice on how to move Edo State to the next level”.

The governor said, however, that he would not disappoint the twotime former governor of the old Bendel State, adding that his administration would continue its developmental strides across the three senatorial districts of the state

despite “the mischief of the opposition PDP in the state who never want anything good for our people”.

Oshiomhole further explained that national leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, was carefully chosen for the commissioning of the projects due to his achievements in Lagos and as a leader of the opposition party in the country.

No relief after we were chased out of our homes by insurgents —Victims

By Caleb Ayansina

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EOPLE displaced by insurgency in some parts of the country, at the weekend, called on government at all levels to look beyond the provision of food for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the country, while recounting their ordeal.

Also, a nong o v e r n m e n t a l organisation (NGO), Save-A Child Foundation, called on the Federal Government to create a database for IDPs in the country.

The founder of the foundation, Mrs. Adaora Onyechere, disclosed that the move would enable relief get to the exact population in dire need of support and promote better planning by government.

Onyechere, who made the call during a press conference, in Abuja, said that some of the victims, who were mainly from the North-East and Jos, were either forced out of their homes or chased by insurgents.

However, she said it was imperative for relevant agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to partner with NGOs to address the

situation before the 2015 general elections.

According to her, some of the victims should be provided with rehabilitation or relief centres so that they could be empowered, trained and sheltered.

She added that the relevant agencies and development partners should also look beyond provision of staple foods and relief materials.

Job Pitman, from Shendam local Government, Plateau State, lamented how his family of about nine children slept under cashew tree for survival.

Pitman said: “They came to pursue us were we are staying. They demolished the makeshift wooden house.

We want government to come to our rescue because we have lost hope. They should help us with a place to live.

“It was fight that chased us out. We don’t have money and even if we have money, we cannot go back because of the fight.

Election is near but we cannot vote because our voter cards are in Jos.” Another victim, Mrs. Joy Abraham, lamented how she slept under the bridge with her husband and three years old daughter

before she went to Lokogoma in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Book on Shonibare for launch

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book, S.O SHONIBARE – LEGEND OF ALL TIME, is due for public presentation on Thursday, January 8, 2015.

The biography project on the life and times of Samuel Olatunbosun Shonibare, international business man, technocrat, politician, statesman and founding member of the Action Group, was written by award winning writers, Peju Akande and Toni Kan with a foreword by Otunba Subomi Balogun.

Commissioned by the Shonibare family to commemorate the 50th year anniversary of the death of their patriarch at 44 in 1964, the book is a c o m p r e h e n s i v e examination of Shonibare’s humble provenance, his ascent to the pinnacle of his career at UAC, his foray into politics as one of the seven founding members of the Action Group, alongside Obafemi Awolowo, his unique partnership with his wife and his emergence as the first international businessman Nigeria has ever seen.

PAGE 8 —SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

From left: Chief Willie Obiano, governor of Anambra State, handing over the party flag for Anambra, Central senatorial seat to Chief Victor Umeh, National Chairman of APGA, during the party's rally to flag off the campaigns for the 2015 general elections in Awka... yesterday with them is Chief Mike Kwento, Anambra State Chairman of APGA

From right, founder and CEO, Field of Skills and Dreams Vocational Technical and Entrepreneurship Academy, Mrs Omowale Ogunrinde; First Lady of Lagos State, Dame Abimbola Fashola; and Mrs. Yinka Yussuf, during the opening of Field of Skills and Dream Vocational and Entrepreneurship Academy new office complex at Ikeja, at the weekend.

N15BN COMPENSATION

Fresh trouble in Odi over 1999 military attack

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

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NGRY youths from Odi community in Kolokuma-Opokuma council area of Bayelsa State, yesterday, reportedly, attacked a prominent chief and other indigenes of the community over their alleged involvement in alleged discrepancies in the sharing of the N15 bn compensation paid by the Federal Government for the 1999 military invasion of the community.

Odi, one of the biggest Ijaw communities, was invaded by the military during the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo in the aftermath of the killing of some policemen by suspected hoodlums.

The community was reduced to rubbles with several lives lost in what became known as the Odi genocide.

Reprieve, however, came the way of Odi when a Federal High Court ordered the Federal Government to pay N35bn compensation to the community after several years of legal battle.

It was learnt that out of the initial N15bn paid, some percentage was deducted at source by the consortium of lawyers engaged by the community.

The angered youths, according to reports, descended on the homes of some prominent elders of the community over their roles in the alleged disappearance of over N600million from the money, which, they claimed, was deducted by the Odi Invasion Case Committee headed by some prominent indigenes as payment for their efforts to secure the

compensation for the community.

A deputy chief in the community was attacked at his home in Odi with machetes and his car set ablaze.

The angry youths, reportedly, marched through the town de-

manding for the heads of those identified as the beneficiaries of the alleged missing sum.

According to eyewitnesses, the youths also marched to the community burial site and invoked curses on those

accused of diverting the funds meant for the community.

It was also learnt that a squadron of armed mobile policemen has been deployed to the community to maintain law and order.

Failed attack: 110 Boko Haram insurgents killed in Borno

BY Kingsley Omonobi and NDAHI MARAMA, MAIDUGURI

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O fewer than110 Boko Haram insurgents were, at the weekend, killed in a gun battle in Damboa, the headquarters of Damboa local government area of Borno State in an attack repelled by men of the 7 Division, Nigerian Army.

Damboa is about 95 kilometers from Maiduguri, the state capital, and was the first local government area captured by insurgents in June this year before it was recaptured by troops in July.

The killing of the terrorists came barely 24 hours after troops in support of Civilian JTF killed over 75 insurgents at Dogonwire while attempting to repair the vandalized power transmission line along Damboa- Maiduguri Road since July this year as well as the combing of Tashan Alade and other communities of Hawul local government Area taken over by insurgents.

A security source, who did not want his name in print, told our correspondent that the insurgentswho came mostly in black uniform resembling that of theNigeria Police, used cat-

tle as their shield, but the troops and the vigilante youth quickly realised their trick and killed all of them.

“We rounded them up and killed them as there was no escaping route for them. We killed over 100 of them, while their vehicles and motorcycles were destroyed”, the source said.

A resident of the area, Alhaji Mohammed Bulama, said,” The incident occurred at about 1:35 pm

when we are about to start jumat prayer (Friday congregational prayer) when we started hearing gunshots. We quickly went back to our houses leaving the vigilantes and soldiers behind.”

When contacted, Defence Spokesman, Major General Chris Olukolade, confirmed the incident but insisted that the exact casualty figures were still being ascertained.

Mimiko’s defection: Ondo PDP sets up truce panel

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

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HE embattled Peo ples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has set up a peace and reconciliation committee to meet with aggrieved members following the furore the defection of Governor Olusegun Mimiko to the party generated.

Mimiko’s defection into the party had polarised it into the old and new PDP factions before the resolution of the crisis by leaders of the PDP and the inauguration of a new State EXCO. Also, the party has said that all aspirants who lost out in the consensus arrangement ahead of the 2015 polls would have the money they paid for the expression of interest and nomination forms refunded.

A former Chairman of

the party in the state, Hon Ebenezer Alabi, and his EXCO had resigned following the integration of the PDP and Labour Party, LP. Addressing newsmen in Akure, the Ondo Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr Banji Okunomo, said the party would liaise with the aspirants who lost out in the consensus arrangement of the party.

Rising from the meeting of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party, yesterday, Okunomo said the crisis that rocked the state chapter of the party in the past few months over the defection of Mimiko from LP to the party had been laid to rest.

He however said that” the peace and reconciliatory committee is to iron out grey areas in the sharing of elective positions between members of the old LP and the old PDP”.

2015 Poll: Agbaje, cleric want INEC to repeat PVC/ registration exercise in Lagos

By Dapo Akinrefon

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AGOS State governor ship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Jimi Agbaje, yesterday, appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review the Permanent Voter Card (PVC)/distribution registration in the state.

Agbaje made the appeal at a rally organised

by Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ) Support Groups, NGOs, marketers and traders to endorse President Jonathan and Agbaje for 2015.

Addressing the rally,

Agbaje said INEC must act swiftly to ensure that those still complaining were attended to, noting that “there are still so many people in Lagos that may be de franchised from the process.”

He stated: “Lagos is not like other states. The population makes is different. The disappointment of most of the voters in obtaining the PVC may put them off and dis-

courage them from participating in the 2015 polls”.

He however urged the people not to be deterred but to continue to visit INEC offices across the state for the PVC.

APC nullifies Ondo primary Dayo Johnson, Akure

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HE National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has nullified the primary election that produced Mr Festus Adefiranye as the candidate for Odigbo/ Ileoluji/Okeigbo Federal

Constituency in Ondo State.

It proclaimed the daughter of renowned Yoruba author, Chief D. O Fagunwa, Mrs Yejide Ogundipe as the duly elected candidate of the party.

The party leadership upheld the recommen-

dation of the National Appeal Committee to the effect that Mrs Ogundipe scored 189 votes to defeat Adefinranye who polled 188 votes.

Also the NWC upheld the election of Chief Tayo Alasoadura as the candidate for Ondo Central Senatorial District.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014,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

Okowa’s deputy: Gbaramatu-Ijaws’ finest hour Dear Sir,

W

ITH the emergence of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as Peoples Dem ocratic Party,PDP, standard bearer in Delta State, the clamour for the Deputy Governorship slot is understandably a straight battle between the Ijaw and Isoko in Delta South senatorial zone to which the position is zoned.

The Itsekiri, also in the Delta South, are not in the permutation having produced the outgoing Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

The Isoko have come out in their various groups, namely the Isoko Development Union,IDU, the Isoko National Assembly, etc, asking for the Deputy Governorship position—a demand they say cannot be fairly objected to. Their strongest argument in their contest with the Ijaw clamour is that they have always helped the Itsekiri and the Ijaw who presently occupy the Senate position in Senator James Manager gunning for 4th term. They allege denial from holding lofty political posts in Delta State.

I would have preferred that my Isoko neighbours anchor their demand for the Deputy Governorship position on other indices than on concession of Senate position to James Manager. I need not say that Senator Manager is also richly biologically Isoko from whom Isoko gets fair attention. Being at the national level, Manager ’s influence in Delta State is no doubt restricted. I should say that in a clamour such as this, it is not surprising that the Isoko conveniently hid the fact

that they are the current holders of the influential position of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG)—the engine room of governance in Delta State—in the person of Comrade Macaulay Ovuzourie, which more than balances out that occupied by Senator Manager in influence in Delta State.

But perhaps because Ovuzourie was not reportedly disposed to a Delta North Governor, the Isoko calculations led by Ovuzourie did not factor in a possible Okowa emergence leading to their current fierce “medicine-after-death” campaign for the Deputy Governor when the Ijaw were in horse-trading for the position before the primaries.

The reason-in-chief for this piece really is how to resolve the controversy within the Delta Ijaw nation on which camp should produce the Deputy Governor.

Frontline Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Clark, Senator James Manager and High Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo are all said to be advancing candidates.

It is my considered opinion that the lessthan-meritorious argument that the Gbaramatu-Ijaw are not yet politically matured for Deputy Governor position should be reason why Chief Clark should enlist Senator James Manager to raise them up politically for the challenges ahead for the entire Delta Ijaw nation. It is incontestable that Gbaramatu-Ijaw reserves right to the highest office in the land and contributes so much oil wealth to the state and nation. It is on record that they have produced commissioners in Delta

State severally. It is on record that the Gbaramatu-Ijaw inspired agitations for equity in the Nigerian federation was largely responsible for concession of the Vice President slot to the South-South region leading eventually to an Ijaw President.

Incidentally, it cannot be faulted that Tompolo, who had been active player in the Niger Delta agitations, first, under the leadership of Dr. Bello Oboko, President of Federated Niger Delta Ijaw

Communities,FNDIC, had been loyal to frontline Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Clark. He was a staunch supporter and promoter of Chief Manager ’s 4th term senatorial bid before Governor Uduaghan bowed out of the senatorial race.

The political horse-trading can and should hence favour Tompolo’s bid in the interest and harmony of the larger Ijaw nation.

Bulou Kosin writes in from Warri

The deplorable state of Enugu-Onitsha road!

Dear Sir,

I

T is so sad and disheartening that our present crop of politicians are so much ensconced in their comfort zone and in their Olympian Heights, that they do not feel what commuters go through daily on the bad roads that are found throughout the length and breadth of our country.

A case in point, is the Enugu-Onitsha expressway that has turned into a killing field at several bad spots on it, despite the fact that it has been under reconstruction for some years now.

It is rather unfortunate that our president and his wife who have been to Awka and Onitsha for certain functions,

were not made to travel on this death trap of an expressway, to have a feel of what their compatriots go through on daily basis! Ironically, they completed their journeys to Anambra state with helicopter, from Enugu international airport!

On a final note, PDP members from Anambra and Enugu states, should bury their heads in shame, that they do not have clout and backbone to influence the completion of this very important expressway.

Ifeka Okonkwo

Plot 44, Ahocol Housing Estate, Phase II, GRA, Awka.

Nigeria in dire need of quality leadership Dear Sir,

T

HERE is no gainsaying the fact that after gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria is still at cross roads because we are still divided along ethnic, religious and political lines.

Therefore, to turn things around now, Nigerians are expecting purposeful and Godly leadership. One is deeply surprised that Nigeria’s development continues to be hampered by bad leadership. That is why we have moral dec-

adence, hunger, poverty, insecurity and deep-rooted corruption. Our leaders tell lies under oath, trust in deceitful words. They make promises and break them.

What Nigerians need now is good and God fearing leaders who will work hard in raising the standard of living of the people, transform the society, initiate policies that would give Nigerians a sense of belonging.

Nigeria has very great potentials to become one of the most powerful coun-

tries of the world and for it to occupy such position, it must transform its system, integrate the people, grow the economy and fight poverty and hunger. Nigerians and the leaders should also allow God to direct the affairs of governance.

Nigerians should be prayerful to give the government divine assistance to tackle the raging problems facing the nation, like- suicide bombing, kidnapping, political killings, smuggling, controversial issue of removal of fuel subsidy, international terrorism, reli-

gious and ethnics crises, among others.

Our leaders have to learn to take decisions on what is best for the country, rather than their self-serving interests.

Unless and until we address the challenge of leadership, the country can never move forward.

Prophet Oladipupo FunmiladeJoel, The President, The Way of Reconciliation Evangelical Ministries, Lagos. babasekunderin@yahoo.com

PAGE 10 —SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

Understanding the size of Nigeria was a challenge – Ex-Cuban ambassador

By Victoria Ojeme

Immediate past Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Hugo Ramos Milanes, speaks on his country’s relations with his former host nation

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would like to know the challenges while your stay in Nigeria lasted Well, I have not thought about challenges, and I have not encountered very big challenges.

But, perhaps, the first was that despite the connection with Nigeria years ago, it is not possible for a Cuban, considering the cultural links that we have by history, by the influence of our African people, to understand how huge and diverse this country is. So, probably the first challenge is that when you are right here to understand this situation, you must have concluded that the population of all Nigerians are Yoruba because we have a very strong influence of the Yoruba culture.

So the first thing to know is that Yoruba is only one of the main ethnic and cultural groups in Nigeria, rather there are hundreds of ethnic and cultural groups that make up this country; the three major being Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba and I am sure that all the ethnic groups in different ways influence our culture. I am sure that the Arabic influence that we have in Cuba probably came mainly from Muslim people. So, probably my first challenge was to understand how huge Nigeria is.

The second challenge, which has been affecting the people of Nigeria, is the challenge of terrorism because if there is no peace, no security, it is difficult to go ahead with projects. For example, I remember, and I have to say with sadness, that one of the first governors I met here in Nigeria, and a very good friend of mine, was the governor of Borno State and we were trying to understand how to support each other, but of course in a very tight security situation. I must say that it is not easy to develop co operation where there is no peace and security.

So this can be mentioned as the second challenge and I think it is the most important one. In my three years here, I have been able to understand the history of the country, the traditions, policy, the way of life, the behaviour of the Nigerian people, the way the Nigerian people have been able to overcome this kind of challenge. I have no doubt that the people of Nigeria will overcome terrorism. This country just celebrated the centenary of the amalgamation, so it is a huge and diverse country, so I can’t believe that an extremist minority can divide the country.

A weak Nigeria is not convenient for West Africa, it is not convenient for Africa, it is not convenient for the developing countries. Nigeria is recognised

Hugo Ramos Milanes ... Cubans’ ties with Yoruba very strong in international community by its very dynamic contribution to the polity. We have had very good relations with the Nigerian government during these past 40 years because of the kind of co operation we had in international organisations particularly in the United Nations.

Talking about terrorism, do you agree Nigeria has to negotiate with terrorists?

This is Nigeria’s internal affairs. So my opinion is not valid in the sense that I am a diplomat. I am obliged to respect the decisions of the government of Nigeria. We understand what terrorism is because we have been suffering it for some years; we have more than three thousand people who died because of terrorist acts against Cuba, bombings when we were trying to develop Cuba, bombs planted in planes were not easy to overcome. What I want to underline is that we respect the decisions of the Nigerian government and we support all efforts towards securing peace for the country.

Talking about bilateral relations, Nigerians are so few in Cuba, so I don’t know the effort you are making to increase the number.

Yes, it is something that really surprises me and really I can’t give an exact explanation. We have a very small Nigerian community in Cuba and a very small Cuban community also in Nigeria. It is not an unusual thing; there are African countries that have bigger communities in Cuba and I have also seen bigger Cuban communities in different African countries.

But considering the strong historical and cultural links that we have, the natural thing should be to have a bigger community, a dynamic collection of people going and coming between both countries but it is not like this.

Really I can’t explain why.

Somebody told me that probably it had to do with language; that it was English, but it is not true because we have a lot of Canadians coming to Cuba and they speak English and French and we have a lot of tourists from United Kingdom, Germany, France and so on, and language is not a problem. Both countries have realised this situation; Nigerian minister of foreign affairs visited Cuba last September and the Cuba minister visited Nigeria last March and we talked about this situation and both governments made a commitment on bilateral relations in different areas and opportunities. For example, I remember that the Nigerian minister of foreign affairs and even the president mentioned the pharmaceutical

industry, the industry for the production of bio-technology products for human and animal health, we mentioned also education as one of the areas in which we can co operate more dynamically. I can see that agriculture is one of the areas in which we can co operate because we have the same objective. The products that we both have are practically the same; I can remember that when I arrived for the first time in Nigeria; a friend invited me to his house and said he was going to prepare a very good Nigerian meal for me and he offered me fried plantain. And I said to him, ‘this food from my country; this is not a Nigerian food’. Of course, it is an African food that we have now in Cuba.

Because of historic and cultural relations, cassava, plantain and yam went to the Cuba with the immigration of Africans. As I said earlier, we have the same objective, we have been importing foods that we are not able to produce in Cuba; what we need is to change the policy and support the people producing to making a resection in agriculture in our country. Give these people land for the opportunity to produce more in large quantities and agriculture will be an opportunity for employment, and a country like Cuba and Nigeria will be able to produce enough food to sell to other countries.

When you talk about expertise, Cuba is very much developed in the area of health and the last time Nigeria had scholarship was during the Obasanjo regime. Why has Cuba stopped offering scholarship to Nigeria students?

After that huge group during Obasanjo’s regime when we received a hundred students to study medicine after which we received a smaller group, the last one, which was two years ago, was just about four students to study medicine.

We are hoping to agree a wider co operation in the health sector and in particular training of doctors.

The discussions which we have being having with our partners is that small countries like Cuba with a population of 11 million people can’t support forever the training of thousands of doctors and professionals free of charge because we are not a rich country, we are a developing country like most of our partners and we

A weak Nigeria is not convenient for West Africa, it is not convenient for Africa, it is not convenient for the developing countries. Nigeria is recognised in international community by its very dynamic contribution to the polity

are hoping to discuss how to share the cost of the trainings.

For example, some countries which have the facilities, we send professors to work in their universities where they train young people as doctors or in any other specialty. There are other countries that send about a hundred students to Cuba and pay for 50 of them and we pay for the remaining 50 students. So there are options that we are hoping to discuss with the Nigerian government and any other developing country in this area of training. In health, we have an agreement with ECOWAS to combat malaria in West Africa and Nigeria is one of the three countries of focal points, Ghana and Cote D’Ivoire being the other two. According to this agreement, Cuba will build a factory to produce a Cuban product that kills mosquito in its initial stage, the lava stage which is usually in water. So, if this product is put in rivers, lakes and any place where there is water, the lava will not grow; so there will be no mosquito and no transmission of malaria. This is one of the ways in which malaria can be phased out and we have an agreement to build three factories, one in each country.

There is a third component to this global agreement. Venezuela is financing the project. A Venezuela delegation was invited

by ECOWAS and we hope that before the end of the year we can close the agreement and next year we proceed to build the factories.

The issue of medical tourism is all over the world. Why is Cuba silent on its medical experts?

It is not easy to develop a campaign to make people to know about these opportunities.

We have been working with different partners including Nigerians; we ask them to collaborate with us but I would like to confess that we didn’t succeed. We need to find a way in which we will inform the Nigerian people that there is this opportunity in Cuba. One of the recommendations I recently made to the Cuban authorities need to get a commercial office in Nigeria that can deal in everyday activities in this kind of promotion, and we need to have a strong presence in trade fairs and other fairs; one of the most important trade fair in Nigeria is the Lagos trade fair celebrated same day with one of the most important trade fairs in Havana unfortunately. So to mobilise Cubans to Nigeria to show their products has been impossible for me because they are focused on participating in the Havana trade fair and the same happens in Nigeria as Nigerian businessmen have the opportunity of Lagos. So it is difficult to send delegates to Havana to do business same week but we just have to find a way of doing it.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE11

By Vera Samuel Anyagafu & Prisca Sam-Duru

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lobally, an estimated one in three women worldwide has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime. According to the World Health Organization, at least 35 percent of women worldwide have experienced such violence at the hands of an intimate partner. Moreover, women and girls with disabilities are two to three times more likely to suffer physical and sexual abuse.

According to a E. Brewer, Charge d’Affaires, ad interim, U.S. Embassy to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, “Gender-based violence occurs in Nigeria just as it does in the United States and every other nation. According to the Nigeria Stability and Reconciliation Programme, approximately 80million Nigerian women and girls are victims of this type of violence.

Society as a whole pays a huge price for gender-based violence in the areas of health, justice, economic and international security. According to a recent World Bank report, the estimated costs of such violence run from 1.2 percent to 3.7 percent of GDP—the equivalent to what many governments spend on primary education.

In Nigeria, that would roughly equate to between 1.1 and 3.4 trillion naira.

Gender-based violence also fosters the spread of HIV/ AIDS by limiting one’s ability to negotiate safe sexual practices and by limiting dis-

d e s a b r e d n e g t s n i a g a US moves a i r e g i N n i violence closure of HIV status and access to services due to fear of reprisal.” Ending this global epidemic she posited, “Will require all of us to take action. We must recognize that gender-based violence is, at its root, a manifestation of the relatively low status of women and girls around the world. When women and girls can live free from violence and are afforded equal opportunities in education, healthcare, employment, and political participation, they lift up their families, their communities, and their nations and act as agents of change.”

“Prevention and elimination of gender-based violence require a multi-faceted approach. It will require increased advocacy and partnerships between the international community, governments, multilateral organizations, private sector companies, and grassroots advocates. It will require empowering women and girls to speak up for themselves and educating men and boys to speak up and speak out for their mothers, wives, part-

Maria E. Brewer ners, sisters, and daughters.

It will also require adequate legal and judicial frameworks.” She also disclosed that many nations have passed legislation address-

ing gender-based violence.

Her words, “In March 2013, the Nigerian House of Representatives passed the Violence Against Persons Prohibition bill. The signing of

this bill into law would empower all parties to work together on its implementation in order to increase accountability and address impunity.”

Continuing Marie pointed out that to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to ending human rights abuses around the world, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and U.S. Consulate General in Lagos this year are organizing a number of activities, including screening films on preventing gender violence, organizing workshops and panel discussions with civil society members and expert panelists, and promoting “Orange Your Neighborhood” activities that create safe spaces for women and girls.

As U.S. Secretary of State John Ker r y said recently, “This is a fight that demands action from every single one of us. We have to communicate in a unified way with a single loud voice that there is no place in the civilized world for those who commit gender-based violence,” she concluded.

Vote against LGA autonomy bad omen for nation’s democracy — Owie

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM, BENIN-CITY

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former Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Rowland Owie, yesterday, described the vote against local government autonomy by 23 state assemblies as a bad omen for the nation’s democracy.

He urged Nigerians to mobilize against the lawmakers who voted against the autonomy and ensure they are voted out in the 2015 general elections.

Owie, who expressed surprise at the vote while speaking to Sunday Vanguard in Benin City, said, “It is shocking that 23 state assemblies voted against LGA autonomy duly passed by the National Assembly. I call on the electorate all over the country to vote all the members of the respective state assemblies who voted against the LGA autonomy and are seeking reelection to any legislative position.

“Their action is anti-democracy. Giving autonomy will not

only create more employment opportunity in the grass root but will accelerate development because the LGA executives will now embark on projects of their own, they will create jobs and not always wait for the state government to tell them how to use their money or give whatever they like to

them.

“Infact LGA executives ought to make decisions at the local level like governors and that is the beauty of democracy. But with what they have done now by voting against LGA autonomy, they have killed the hopes of the ordinary man. This generation and

From left: Amb. Moses Essien; Chief Executive Officer, Institute for Government Research Leadership Technology; Amb. Angela Colley, immediate past Gambia Envoy to Nigeria, and Prof. John Akanya, Deputy Chairman of the Institute, during the African Product Forum held in Abuja.

generations yet unborn should note them as those against development of the grassroots.

I pray the Almighty God to

bless those legislators that voted for LGA autonomy and grant them peace of mind in Jesus name. Amen”.

Edo monarch hails Oshiomhole, salutes Tinubu

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ollowing the commission ing of the ultra modern Clara Oshiomhole General Hospital, Ewohimi, in Esan South East local government area of Edo State, indigenes of the town, led by its paramount ruler, Lord Peter Ojeifo, rose up in appreciation as they hailed the governor for what they termed his unparallelled commitment to the development of the town.

In a statement made available to newsmen shortly after the commissioning of the hospital, Ojeifoh pointed out that but for the commitment of the Comrade Governor, Ewohimi would have remained confined to the backwaters of underdevelopment.

“Today, we are hardly able to contain our joy over what Oshiomhole has done for us as a people. Today, we can talk about good roads in Ewohimi and here we are celebrating the commis-

sioning of a hospital that has raised the status of our town in no small measure. Like Oliver Twist, we may be asking for more but I assure you, Oshiomhole has made us proud indeed. We are very grateful. On behalf of myself, the traditional council and the entire people of Ewohimi, I want to say thank you to the Comrade Governor for living up to his words,” he said.

Ojeifoh was also full of praises for former Lagos State governor and All Progressives Congress, APC, national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for finding time in his very tight schedule to be part of the ground breaking commissioning of the hospital. According to him, the people of Ewohimi as one, are particularly grateful to Bola Tinubu for finding time to be in Ewohimi.

PAGE 12—SUNDAY

Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

The NYSC food project to create one million jobs T

he diversification of the country’s economy became imperative following the crash of the price of crude oil at the international market.

Campaigners for the diversification of the economy are of the opinion that the agricultural sector can ameliorate the pains of the crash of crude oil taking cognizance of the current Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA).

CALEB AYANSINA x- rays the strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Prior to the oil boom era of the 1970s, agriculture was the main pillar of Nigerian economy, contributing about 70 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

But in 1980, agriculture’s contribution to GDP declined to as low as 25 percent, giving way to the oil sector. However, oil revenue dwindled between 1986 and 1999 as a result of the introduction of Structural Adjustment Programme of 1986.

This again brought the agricultural sector to lime light, accounting for about 40 percent of the GDP. Today, its contribution to GDP has dropped to 30.9 percent, giving room for the wide agitation for diversification of the economy.

Experts opined that the shift in attention from the renewable C M Y K

natural resources in the agricultural sector to the nonrenewable oil resources was not only a mark of ignorance, but also a suicidal step that was not going to take more than a decade to crash.

There is no doubt that Nigeria’s economy is experiencing a hard time because of the falling price of crude oil, forcing the Federal Government to introduce austerity measures.

The dwindling price of crude oil in Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), particularly in Nigeria, makes agriculture an alternative means of revenue generation.

In the past, agriculture in Nigeria (particularly forestry, livestock and fishing) served as the major preoccupation of the majority of Nigerians. The people engaged in agriculture purely as a means of survival rather than a deliberate effort to sustain the economy.

But the recent focus on agriculture and particularly designing ways of involving the

youth, who are the strength of any nation, is heart warming and apt.

The recent launching of the Youth in Agriculture initiative by the Federal Government was the icing on the cake of the strategic agenda to boost the foreign reserves through increased agricultural production.

Speaking at the launching in Abuja, President Goodluck Jonathan said his administration would not relent in the execution of programmes that would engage the teeming Nigerian youths in profitable and viable economic activities especially in agriculture.

“Nigerian youths will not just take agriculture as a way of life; they will run agriculture as a business,”he said.

“Nigerian youths have showcased Nigeria in positive light more than the politicians and Nigeria needs younger and more entrepreneurial commercial farmers, as the ageing population of farmers are posing challenges to the system.”

The initiative, which resulted from a partnership between the NYSC, the CBN, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, is to design appropriate mechanism for the diversification of the economy through an agricultural value chain strategy.

It is expected that by 2015, that is the first year of the commencement of the programme, a total of 1,667,959 direct jobs including 302,860 new youth and women agropreneurs will be created

To the pro-NYSC, the initiative is long overdue and remains the best launching pad for any initiative that involves the youth.

With about 250,000 young graduates passing through it yearly, the NYSC remains the best option as the initiators of the agenda have rightly discovered.

Consequently, an inter-agency committee was raised to ensure the realization of the initiative.

According to the committee, the collaboration will use the agricultural value chain window in four selected commodities (rice, wheat, fish and dairy products) to create jobs and conserve foreign exchange.

The specific targets for the increase in agricultural output for the four selected commodities are 1.08 million metric tons, 400,000 metric tons; 250,000 metric tons and 200,000 kg for rice, wheat, fish and dairy respectively.

Foreign exchange It is expected that by 2015, that is the first year of the commencement of the programme, a total of 1,667,959 direct jobs including 302,860 new youth and women agropreneurs will be created in the production of targeted commodities and foreign exchange savings of $1.265 billion. Thereafter, the number of jobs to be created is expected to increase to above two million annually.

According to the strategic document released by the committee, the implementation budget for the programme is estimated at N69,528 billion to be financed by major stakeholders driving this

initiative.

Each corps members participating in the programme would be given three hectares of land to ensure profitability and sustainability, 500 fingerlings per farmer for aquaculture, and five animals per farmer for milk production. This excludes the indirect job creation through services from transportation and the estimations are based on the availability of adequate land to meet production targets.

Participants would be required to spend their service year farming while government provides fund which they would use. Corps farmers will be allowed to go with the profit while the capital will be refunded to government.

There are several benefits attached to the programme as corps members participating in the scheme will be provided with certified seeds and other agricultural inputs in collaboration with agro dealers and research institutes while agro-allied firms will be encouraged to start or sustain out-growers schemes through backward integration to guarantee raw materials required for their production process.

This will provide capacity building opportunities for young graduates participating in the programme to learn the rudiments of sustainable mechanization farming and also encourage the learning of best practices under a communal approach and offers opportunity for scale economies.

It will provide channels for product sorting, cleaning, drying, standardization and quality assurance and minimize postharvest losses and price stability.

It will provide steady market for agricultural products as farmers will be given a guaranteed minimum price for their output in case they are not able to get a better price at the open market.

Other incentives will include the government introducing fiscal/trade policy to boost local production and utilization while measures will be put in place to discourage importation of goods that can be produced locally.

Investment incentives such as tax holiday/pioneer status, infrastructural support will be put in place, while trade incentives will be extended to local manufacturers that use local raw materials as a way of encouraging them to patronize local farmers.

Experts believe that the NYSC remains the best platform for government to achieve its aim of inducing youths into agriculture as the scheme already has farm land in states, but the fear is, will there be political will to follow up this?

Like the saying goes, ‘it is easier said than done’.

Government has in the past initiated several beautiful schemes only to abandon them at implementation.

Also it is expected that the National Assembly will pass a bill on the initiative into law, so as to institutionalize it while the National Economic Council should also adopt it as the blueprint to save the economy from collapse in the face of dwindling oil price.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 13

2015: Plateau braces up for non-violent polls

BY MARIE-THERESE NANLONG

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omen and children have always borne the brunt of violence often initiated by men.

In Jos, the Plateau State capital, the situation is not different as the city has witnessed the breach of peace in more than a decade, a situation that brought untold hardship on many women, many of whom became widows and children who are orphans.

One violence which still remains fresh in the minds of residents is the 2008 postlocal government election crisis. As another election year approaches, stakeholders are working hard to ensure the city in particular and the state in general do not witness a repeat of the ugly incident.

One of the stakeholders, Institute of Governance and Social Research, IGSR, preparatory to the 2015 elections, organized workshops on non-violent elections and mandate protection as well as the role of women in peace-building in the state.

The President of IGSR, Prof. Isawa Elaigwu, speaking at the Crest Hotel, C M Y K

Jos, venue of the workshops, said they were necessary to prepare the stakeholders and the electorate for the 2015 general elections so that they know what is expected of them.

“Given the series of violent conflicts which had disrupted the peace of the city of Jos especially since 2001 and the 2008 postelection violent, as elections are fast approaching, strategies are devised to prevent electoral violence in 2015”, Elaigwu said.

“The objectives of the workshops are to create a platform for experience sharing among stakeholders and equipping a critical mass of citizens with the knowledge and skills in the campaign against violence during the 2015 general elections.

“These are also avenues to educate and encourage responsible civic action from key stakeholders, develop the capacity of participants for non-violent participation in electoral process and mandate protection in the 2015 general elections.”

He stressed that participants were exposed to various strategies for working with civil society organizations and public institutions charged with the

Given the series of violent conflicts which had disrupted the peace of the city of Jos especially since 2001 and the 2008 postelection violents, as elections are fast approaching, strategies are devised to prevent electoral violence in 2015

responsibility of protecting electoral mandates.

The professor added his organization was also working with girls to enable them reach out to their peers across religious and ethnic divides and work as a team to restore peace in troubled areas of Plateau.

Elaigwu disclosed the institute had organized the maiden edition of the IGSR Female Football for Peace and Unity Tournament under the phase II of the Peace in Jos Project for teenage girls from six local government areas of Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Riyom, Bassa and Barkin Ladi.

His words, “Citizens of the state, irrespective of tribe, culture and religion, should imbibe the culture of peace, close ranks and rise against crises which are the common enemy seeking to destroy the state.”

In another development, women in the state have expressed dismay in the lack of gender equity and equality in activities leading to the 2015 general elections.

The women, at a stakeholders’ meeting on political participation ahead of the 2015 general elections lamented that they were not even able to access the 35% affirmative action at all levels of politics.

Addressing women from the 17 local government areas of the state who gathered in Jos, the state capital, Mrs. Blessing Ibe of the Nigeria Stability and Reconciliation Programme, NSRP, urged women to stop taking the back seat but come out to canvass for elective positions so that they can address the issues affecting women effectively.

The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Sarah Yusuf, who was represented by the Ministry’s Director, Women Affairs, Mrs. Charity Dimlong, also tasked the women on action rather than just discussions.

“For several years now, we have been deliberating but implementation is always a problem. We need to be wise, rise up to support one another and make ourselves relevant in the society”, Yusuf said.

Delivering a lecture at the occasion, titled: “Increasing the political participation of women in Plateau State towards the 2015 general elections”, Prof. Dennis Ityavyar, of the Inter-Gender Development Centre, Jos, said wrong ideology and stereotype have hindered women’s effective participation in politics and called for a change.

PAGE 14—SUNDAY

Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

2015

Ex-Minisstterr,, Orrttom, tearrss Benue APC aparrtt

BY PETER DURU, MAKURDI

T

he primary elections of the two leading parties in Benue State, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, may have come and gone, but the fallout of that process has certainly left sour taste in the mouths of most of the aspirants in the APC. The APC in the state is in turmoil and the reason for this may not be far fetched.

Virtually all the aspirants who lost out in that contest are crying foul and even going as far as threatening to sabotage whatever chances the party may have in the forthcoming general elections.

Their anger arose from the fact that a former Minister of State in the Ministry of Trade and Investment, Dr. Samuel Ortom, was allegedly foisted on the party, as its governorship candidate, by the leaders of the party in the state.

Ortom, who, until some weeks ago, was a leading member of the ruling PDP, was compelled to jump ship after losing out at the party’s governorship primary in Makurdi.

His defection to the APC C M Y K

was somewhat a welcome development for the leaders of the party in the state, especially the Senate Minority Leader, Senator George Akume, who saw in him a candidate with the clout to galvanize the party in it’s quest to occupy the Benue Government House come 2015.

Hence, the APC leadership wasted no time in anointing him as the flag bearer of the party irrespective of the position of other gubernatorial aspirants who saw the decision as an attitude of superiority manifested and displayed in an overbearing manner.

Understandably, their agitation arose from the fact that they had, over a long period, traversed the entire state drumming support for their candidacy with the ultimate belief that having done the needful, the choice of who takes over the platform as flag bearer would be left in the hands of party faithful who, through APC’s laid down rules, would decide the fate of the aspirants.

However that was not to be. In fact, days to the governorship primary, the party was enmeshed in a legal dispute instituted by an aggrieved aspirant, Prof.

Steve Ugba, who was excluded from the exercise

on the grounds that he was not qualified to run in the election after buying the expression of interest and nomination forms of the party.

The suit was later discontinued, paving the way for the party to conduct its primary which had been shelved twice.

However, while the suit lingered, Ortom cashed in on the development; after losing at the PDP primary, resigned the ruling PDP and pitched his tent with the opposition APC where he was availed the ticket of the party by its leaders, on the basis of a contentious consensus agreement.

The decision drew the ire of other gubernatorial aspirants including Ugba, Emmanuel Jime and Senator Joseph Waku who vowed to fight to quash the arrangement.

The battle got to a head when Waku, in a radio announcement, dismissed the claim that Ortom emerged the party’s candidate through consensus.

According to him, “those spreading the false information were only trying to deceive members of the party because nothing like that was reached by key stakeholders of the party in the state.”

The battle got to a head when Waku, in a radio announcement, dismissed the claim that Ortom emerged the party’s candidate through consensus

Waku insisted that no one had been chosen as the candidate of the APC through such an arrangement because no decision was taken to that effect by the party and those of them that were in the race for the party’s ticket.

“I therefore urge all my supporters to discountenance the information because I was not a party to that decision.”

On his part, Jime, who was regarded as the leading contender in the race for the APC ticket, also came out to renounce the action of the party and even went as far as threatening legal action.

Ugba, in his reaction, described the process leading to the endorsement of Dr. Ortom as unacceptable vowing to resist it.

While these aspirants were crying foul, the Media Adviser to Samuel Ortom Governorship Campaign Organization. Mr. Tahav Agezua, told Sunday Vanguard, in a text message, that his principal had already commenced his documentation in Abuja in order to fully assume his position as the APC governorship candidate in Benue.

In the message, he said, “Dr. Ortom, the APC consensus gubernatorial candidate, is in Abuja for documentation at the moment. He will hopefully complete the process by weekend and be back in the state.”

Meantime, while the opposition is caught in this web of quagmire and disenchanted, the ruling PDP has put its house in order after its gubernatorial primary election with most of the unsuccessful aspirants falling over heels to drum support for the candidacy of Prince Terhemen Tarzoor who emerged as the flag bearer of the party after the primary.

In fact, the PDP seems prepared to overrun the opposition in the state, and the party is going about it with so much panache and confidence.

Tarzoor has almost completed his thank you visit to members of the party in the state ahead of a well coordinator flag off of his campaigns.

However, whatever happens in the coming days in the opposition camp will certainly give an inkling as to outcome of the general elections in Benue.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014—PAGE 15

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

F

ollowing the controversy that trailed its emergence in 2012, there were doubts that the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme ,SURE-P, would achieve the objective it was was seeking to achieve.

Assurances that it had come to make up for some areas where the government had failed to largely meet popular expectations, did nothing to change the perception that it was a conduit pipe of sorts.

It was in the face of this apprehension that SURE-P kicked off across the country.

Specifically, the programme, from inception, implied that money saved from the removal of subsidy from petroleum products would be channeled towards programmes that would impact the lives of poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

The Federal Government pledged to invest its own share of the subsidy in programmes designed to stimulate the economy and alleviate poverty through the provision of critical infrastructure and social safety net projects.

Nearly three years after, indications have emerged that virtually all areas of the nation’s life have attracted the attention of SURE-P. Of note is the health sector which had, for a long time, struggled to deliver efficient health care services to the citizenry.

In the light of that, maternal mortality gave Nigeria the image of a country where too many mothers lost their lives in the throes of child birth.

Statistics in that regard suggested that Nigeria’s maternal mortality ratio was 576 deaths per 100,000 births in 2013.

That rate was rated among the worst in the world by experts.

To arrest this trend, the initiators of the programme conceived the Maternal and Child Health,MCHP, Project, a component of SURE-P. Findings showed that MCHP has offered a unique opportunity to increase access to maternal and child health services through the continuum of care for pregnant women and their new born.

In four years, the project has a nationwide coverage and focuses on rural communities.

It also seeks to increase the availability of skilled health workers to provide maternal and child health services at the Primary Health Centres across the country.

In addition, efforts have been targeted at the provision of infrastructural renovations to PHCS and increasing the supply of essential service commodities at PHC facilities to improve service delivery.

Health question C M Y K

When SURE-P saves mother and child!

*Subsidy from petroleum saving lives Knowing that there is the supply and demand side to the maternal health question, the MCHP has also explored the possibility of increasing the demand for MCH services in rural communities through the use of Conditional Cash Transfer ,CCT, and community engagement at the grassroots.

The supply aspect is concerned with increasing and improving both infrastructure and human resources to improve health service delivery at the primary health care level.

Prominent among the successes achieved in this regard are the refurbishment of PHC infrastructure, the scale-up the number of trained health workers (midwives, community health extension workers ,CHEWs,and village health workers ,VHWs. This is with the aim of guaranteeing adequate antenatal attendance, skilled delivery at birth, routine immunization and postnatal care for women and their babies.

Also, the shoring up of the human capacity in the health sector is one area in which the project has recorded resounding success.

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency, in its report, stated that, as at August 2014, the SURE P MCHP has increased the supply of manpower for health and created jobs by recruiting 11,912 health care workers.

It added: “They have now been deployed to provide quality antenatal, skilled birth delivery at birth and postnatal services for previously underserved rural, poor women accessing maternal, neonatal and child health

services in 1,000 SURE-P supported primary health care (PHC) centres spread across the 36 states and FCT.” It was further gathered that no fewer than 3,000 midwives and community health extension workers have been trained on life saving skills like basic emergency obstetric care, and helping babies breathe.

3072 village health workers ,VHWs, also received, induction course on key household practices in December 2012.

In order to establish a

Major General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), speaking on the initiative’s giant strides, said the goal of the CCT is to reduce maternal and infant mortality by encouraging pregnant women to go through the full continuum of maternal and child care.

The project has successfully rolled out CCT pilot programme in 37 primary health facilities across eight states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). As at June 30, 2014, a total of 25,954 women have been enrolled into the CCT pilot

Nearly three years after, indications have emerged that virtually all areas of the nation’s life have attracted the attention of SURE-P referral system between primary health care and referral general hospitals, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency observed, in its report, that SURE-P MCHP procured 50 ambulances for distribution across SURE P clusters throughout the country.

SURE P MCH has also entered a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Union of Road Transport Workers ,NURTW, so that its members can help to convey pregnant women in need of referral from communities to where SUREP facilities are located. All referrals from SURE-P MCHP CCT sites are treated at the referral general hospitals free of charge.

Chairman of of SURE P,

programme.

Similarly, a total of 10,000 women have completed the continuum of care and exited the programme. SURE-P MCH Programme has disbursed over N40,000,000 to CCT enrolees in all eight states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as at the end of March 2014.

The gains from this creative touch have been phenomenal.

The data from SURE-P shows that 217,131 pregnant women have completed focused antenatal care.These milestones have led to commendations and calls on government to explore ways of sustaining the programme.

Stakeholders, comprising representatives of the Abia Council of Traditional Rulers,

as well as professionals in the health sector, however, called on government to surmount some challenges regarding some aspects of the project.

These aspects include the distribution of drugs, as well as the location of health centres for ease of access.

These areas that have experienced hitches notwithstanding, the stakeholders called on the government to ensure the project does not die.

Goodwill

The role of the civil society in helping to take the project to the people at the grassroots was also described as crucial.

The stakeholders therefore called on SURE-P to empower civil society organisations to embark on aggressive advocacy and sensitisation to create the desired awareness about the programme.

In the end, the SURE-P MCH programme has a timeline, within which it should ordinarily wind down.

But many Nigerians who have seen the benefits of the programme want government to consider extending it. This is no doubt a manifestation of the enormous good will the project has generated among the ordinary citizens. There is no doubt that what makes the project resonate is the possibility it has shown on how to transform primary health care centres to enable them deliver better health services to Nigerians.

To sustain this however will require state and local governments, with whom the responsibility for primary health care actually reside to step up and provide the leadership required to transform system in a sustainable way for Nigerians.

PAGE 16 — SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

C M Y K

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 17

bb pin: 20C37A25

Many awards for Bob ManuelUdokwu

My political lessons — Kenny Saint Best

By Kehinde Ajose

G

OSPEL artiste, Kenny Saint Best, who recently lost out in the All Progressive Congress (APC) House of Assembly primary elections to Folajimi Lai Mohammed has declared that she has learnt a lot in her new found romance with politics.

“The experience is that of inner strength. I got stronger because this was a new terrain, unlike entertainment that you have gotten so used to and you take everything for granted. I also got humbled.

In entertainment, you have ego but in politics you dare not bring up that ego or you will be messed up” she told Potpourri Continuing: “I learnt how to work with the grassroots; I learnt how to respect the grassroots.

I learnt how to respect the ward leaders. I learnt to respect not just the ward leaders, but also the leaders at the local government levels. Politics is a terrain where what you say can either make you or mar you. In entertainment, we talk anyhow we like. In politics, you dare not be loose with what you say because it will be used against you, just like it’s done in the court of law. Everybody has their time in politics. On the flipside, overtaking is also allowed.”

On her current state of mind, the TV talk show host said: “My state of mind is that of a winner. It’s the state of mind of a potential political leader. It’s the state of mind of an overcomer because politics is challenging. I am new in politics, losing the first time cannot stop me”.

V

eteran Nollywood actor and Governor Obaino of Anambra’s Senior Special Assistant on Movie/Entertainment industry, Bob Manuel Udokwu may have lost his intent to represent his people of Idemili North Constituency at the Anambra State House

•Kenny Saint Best

There may be sequel to 30 Days in Atlanta —AY C

Ayo Makun

OMEDIAN, Ayo Makun also known as AY has revealed that his wavemaking movie 30 Days In Atlanta cost him a lot financially. The movie which clinched the comedy movie of the year at the Best of Nollywood awards has been getting a lot of rave reviews.

In an exclusive chat with Potpourri, the entertainment entrepreneur said: “I am satisfied with how well 30 Days In Atlanta is doing. The people who have seen it are already asking for a sequel.

Trust me, if the demands continue, we will go for it. I will be very honest I only pictured and anticipated it doing well. I only wished, but seeing it happen is a different ball game. I will say categorically that I didn’t know it will be this successful. It cost a lot of money and relationships to put the movie together. As a matter of fact, I am not good with mentioning figures. It cost a lot of money to put 30 days in Atlanta together”.

of Assembly in the 2015 elections but he still has good fortunes coming his way. Just days ago the gangling actor bagged the Karifest award for Best of Nollywood Actors, to add to his collection of awards this year.

Speaking to Potpourri, the anchor for Gulder Ultimate Search reality TV show said that would be his third award this December alone. The two others received this December are Excellence/Man of Honour Award by National Grammar School, Nike, Enugu Old Boys Association and Award of Recognition as Outstanding Figure & Role Model for the Youths by Anambra State Students Association, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

“In November I was nominated in the Best Actor category in Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards in Port Harcourt. Again in November I was nominated in the Best Actor category in GIAMA Awards in Houston, Texas,USA. I don’t want to go into other awards I have received so far because I will bore you to death” he enthused.

•Bob Manuel Udokwu

Jaywon, Sound Sultan, others for Music Africa Beach Splash

E

•Sound Sultan

LEKO beach in Lagos will play host to Music Africa Beach Splash on the 21st of December 2014 at the Chaka Beach Resorts. In the spirit of the yuletide, Oritsefemi, Jaywon, Sound Sultan, Patoraking, Ketchup, Young Greyc and a host of others will add colour to the event.

Speaking on the purpose of the event, Phillip Trimnell, Managing Director of Music Africa said: ”The Music Africa Beach Splash is a colourful concert that will feature some of the best music stars in Nigeria who have performed and created impact in the Nigerian music industry till date.”

Lolo1 and Ogbolor are the comperes for the day, while DJ humility and DJ Bobbi will be on the wheels of steel. Senator and Funny Bone are also billed to add humour to the event.

PAGE 18 — SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014 Onikoyi68@gmail.com

Seyi Hunter returns with Indecent Assault S

eyi Hunter is one budding actress who continues to reinvent her brand and walk the path less travelled. The sexy Industrial and labour relations graduate recently unveiled her new movie titled Indecent Assault.

On the motive behind becoming a movie producer, she disclosed that she likes the fact that a story can be taken from nothing into something people can learn from. “This is my first movie as a producer. I think I am going to go into movie production fully. I like the fact that you have to take something from nothing and create something people can learn from” she said “Indecent Assault is a story about sex, betrayal, greed and hate. It’s a story that paints beautifully the picture of how far human beings can go to meet their self-centered desires” she added The sexy actress said she wanted to do something different, which made her work with scriptwriters with excellent scripts. “I wanted to do something memorable so I contacted scriptwriters and people that have good stories. I got different scripts before this and when I saw it, I just liked it. I loved the fact that it’s touching and sends a message across” she explained. Indecent Assault features Angela Phillips, Jude Orhorha, Seyi Hunter and others.

•Violinists of Foundation Choir & Orchestra

Christ Foundation Xmas concert, a picture of heaven — Levi Adegbe

By Osa Amadi

T

I ffeel eel indebt ed tto o indebted my pr oducer producer oducerss — Rodney

By Anozie Egole

B

ARELY few months after the release of his first single, Baba Loke, the winner of the debut edition of Naija Street Champ, Rodney Edemhanria, aka, ‘Rodney the Monster’, has dropped the much anticipated video for the single. The video which was shot in Lagos was directed by Cardoso. According to the singer, who is currently signed to Unmissable Music record label, the video release is a dream come true for his musical career and he is very grateful to the producers of the video.

“I am very excited and proud to announce the release of my first official video for ‘Baba Loke’. I feel indebted to Unmissable Incentives Limited, my producers, ID Cabbasa, D’Tunes and Terry G for their immense contributions to my career.

Works are still ongoing on more hit tracks that will be rocking the airwaves soon,” he said.

The singer who recently performed at the 2014 edition of the Nigerian Sports Award alongside 9ice and Black Magic hinted that he has two more hot singles ready for release soon. While commending Cardozo Imagery for the creativity it brought into the video by interpreting the song perfectly, he stated that the video promises to be one of the best music videos for 2014 especially the ones shot and produced •Rodney in Nigeria.

•Seyi Hunter

he 2014 Christmas concert staged by the Foundation Choir & Orchestra of Christ Foundation Gospel Church, Lagos, has been described as a picture of what heaven is like.

Speaking to Potpourri shortly after the hilarious performance by the orchestra on Sunday, 14 December, 2014, Pastor Levi Adegbe of the PFN, Oshodi branch, extolled the excellent performance put up by the orchestra. The musicians are trained

by Dr. Stephen Olusoji, senior music lecturer in the department of creative arts, University of Lagos.

Pastor Adegbe said, “What we saw today was a picture of heaven, because in heaven, there will be no prayer meetings, no retreat. It will be only praises like this. And when we praise God like this heaven opens.

What prayer cannot do, praises like this will do it. “ The concert spiced with sudden appearance of slight harmattan that Sunday, instilled the emotion of Christmas into all who attended the carol. The magic fingers of Dr. Olusoji on the organ completely utilized the numerous voices technology has built into electronic keyboard – oscillating between strings, brass, and woodwind, fussed with sounds of violins, cellos, trombone, Tuba, and the angelic voices of the choir and then, as a vehicle, transported all guests to Bethlehem of Judea where baby Jesus laid on a manger!

Wizkid, Seyi Shay, Efya, others for Music Meets Runway F

INALLY, the organisers of Music Meets Runway (MMR) have announced artistes that will headline this year’s edition of the popular music and fashion show.

Wizkid will lead host of stars which include; Mpumi from South Africa, Sauti Sol from Kenya and Efya from Ghana. Other Nigerian stars to join Wizkid in gracing the stage with musical performances are Girlie O crooner, Patoranking, foremost female DJ, DJ Cuppy, and Irawo crooner, Seyi Shay.

Music Meets Runway is an annual fashion and music event which features fashion collections presented alongside live performances by popular music acts. Music Meets Runway was established to create awareness for new talent and upcoming fashion designers, musicians, models, stylists and make-up artists to emerge and be fostered toward a future that otherwise may be out of reach. Music Meets Runway also aims to promote networking among fashion industry professionals including educators, retail buyers, fashion journalists, trendsetters, taste makers and consumers.

The show is scheduled to hold at Eko Hotel and Suites on December 23. MMR was recently endorsed.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014PAGE — 19 Onikoyi68@gmail.com

What growing up in the slum taught me — Ruth Kadiri

By Kenny Kehinde Ajose

Ruth Kadiri is one of the fast rising actresses cum scriptwriters you would love to meet some day. Soft-spoken, easy-going and highly articulate Ruth has built for herself a name that may get the likes of Geneiveve and Omotola going green with envy in no distant future. The Edo State born actress who debuted as an actress in “Sincerity”, a movie that she also wrote, in recent times, has upped the ante. She opened up on her relationship, lessons she has learnt as an actress, childhood experiences and other interesting revelations.

W

hat lessons have you learned as an actress?

I have learned to be patient. I have also learned to understand that our destinies are different. More so, I have realized that not everybody would appreciate your style, or understand where you are coming from .All you need as an actor is to be focused. It’s easy to get distracted, or follow the trend. But if you have a style and you are able to stick to it, as long as you know that you are doing the right thing, you will surely get to your promised land.

Who is that director you can’t wait to work with?

I have been blessed to work with so many directors and I have personal relationships with some of them. Mentioning their names right now can put me in a very tight corner. But I appreciate all of them for their various strengths.

Mention one of the famous actors you have been privileged to work with?

Majid Michel is a fantastic actor; he stars in my “Matters Arising.”

Alex Ekubo also portrayed the character wonderfully well. Sharon Francis is also very good.

What inspired your recent photo shoot?

I followed the footsteps of senior colleagues. If you want to go far, you have to do everything to avoid comments on social media.

That means you don’t read the comments?

I try not to. If you listen to what

people say at the end of the day, you will lose it. What is important is that you are comfortable in your skin.

Has there ever been a comment that made you cry?

No, not yet.

Have you ever kissed an actor with a bad breath?

No, I hardly kiss in movies.

But you have kissed before?

Yes. So, what actor has given you the best kiss?

Are you kidding me? No! People don’t understand that there is no personal attachment when it comes to kissing in a movie.

Some of your colleagues still remember?

But I don’t.

Why do actresses in Nollywood appear richer than their male counterparts?

•Ruth Kadiri I don’t know. Are they? Women have a tendency to show off things, things a guy will normally ignore.

You recently flaunted your Range Rover SUV, what is the story behind it?

I didn’t flaunt it. I am not that kind of person. Go on my Instagram page, you will find it there. It was just a presumption from a blogger. Apparently, it turned out to be true that I bought a Range Rover. But I didn’t post it on Instagram.

It was presumed that your boy Continues on page 20

Women have a tendency to show off things, things a guy will normally ignore

PAGE 20 — SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014 Onikoyi68@gmail.com

What growing up in the slum taught me

the right way. Growing up as a child in Ajegunle, it’s either you get lost or it helps you find your way .Right now, there are so many mistakes I can’t make. I see many ladies misbehave. If I am able to overcome it at childhood, I can’t start doing it now.

Growing up in the slum, helped me to discover myself.

It’s either you are defined or you are not.

Continues from page 19 friend bought it for you?

Yes, the person who bought it is just my friend. Somebody I have known for a long time.

Are you in a relationship?

Yes

A statement was credited to you that you fell in love at the age of 18, how true is that?

I didn’t say that. Nothing happened to me at the age of 18. Are you kidding me?

I had that interview, but I didn’t say that. As at that time, I don’t even think I had fallen in love

Any marriage plans?

Hopefully, we will get there by the grace of God Who is your ideal man?

Every woman wants a good man.

I want somebody who respects me.

Do you think you are successful?

Yes, I know I am successful.

What are the new projects you are working on?

It’s still in the pipeline. I am working on a movie called “Over the Edge”; I told you we just finished shooting ‘Somebody Lied.”

Next year, I am planning to produce quality films.

You adore Uche Jumbo a lot.

What impression do you have about her?

She is a very sincere person. She is someone who is ready to tutor you. For a colleague who takes someone up and doesn’t give up on the person, I think that is a strength I know I don’t have. But I appreciate that so much about her.

•Ruth Kadiri

How would you describe your transformation as a superstar who was raised in Ajegunle?

As a child I have always known what I wanted. In my room, I have a write up that when I turn 18, I would rent my own apartment .My dad saw it and was like “Where are you going at 18 years? I told him, my plans to get my own apartment and start making money for myself.

He laughed it off. I think that decision helped me to cultivate the desire to be independent, and do it

Lisa Omorodion’s movie ‘Fir st Cut’ tto o hit cinemas ‘First C

OME January, First Cut, an emotionally charged movie, produced and directed by delectable actress, Lisa Omorodion will hit the cinemas across the nation.

The movie, ‘First Cut’ lines its plot with a collection of suspense, emotions, neglect, sex, insecurity, parenting, abuse, trauma and other psychological colours that throw the movie on the highway of creative suspense.

‘First Cut,’ narrates the story of KC Morgan as the central character, which is played by Lisa Henry Omorodion; a character with a talent respected by

many yet suppressed by trauma.

The plot is however, thickens when the central character finds herself being oppressed by loved ones even as a painful secret threatens to shatter the new life she has created for herself.

Produced by Nollywood’s curvy actress, Lisa Henry Omorodion, the movie is directed by award-winning director; Chico Ejiro, with a stellar cast that boasts of prominent names within the Nigerian movie industry and beyond - some of whom include Monalisa Chinda, Joseph Benjamin and Bobby Obodo.

I notice that whenever I want to take pictures, I just find my hand going towards my boobs

When was the first time you fell I love?

Sincerely, it’s my present relationship.

What is it about your present relationship that makes it different?

I think he is very mature.

Like I said, he respects me a lot in a certain kind of way that I appreciate. If you have not been on the other side, you probably will not even know that you are not respected.

Have you ever been abused in a relationship?

No, but there are certain things I cannot take. For example, I can’t stand watching my man receive a call from his ex. I can’t take that.

I read somewhere that a female lecturer wanted to seduce you. How true is that?

It happened. At first, she took a lot of interest in me. The first time I went to write an examination, she saw me came close to me and asked me what I was writing. She knew the days I don’t come to school and even my scores. Then one day, I think I missed her test and went to her office. I was sitting across her like this and then she just moved her leg and started touching my laps. I just moved backwards and left.

•Lisa Omorodion

What do you have to say about the picture that had you putting your hand on your boobs?

I notice that whenever I want to take pictures, I just find my hand going towards my boobs.

You will see at least five pictures of me in that posture. It was that picture that created loads of controversy.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 21

Memories are for ever L

OVE and sex are almost inseparable in a normal loving relationship, even though one can be achieved without the other sometimes. However, the two must be nurtured in order to keep them alive, interesting and dynamic at all times. The good news is that you do not have to break the bank or look too far to achieve this. Many of the things you need are all around you. In fact, you may already know them but are not aware of the treasures you have at your finger tips. Let's look at a few of them.

Scents: The power of our sense of smell is very great.

Just as a foul smell can be a real turn off, the opposite goes for a sweet smelling, pleasant smell. Another good thing is that smell can have a lasting impression on one, and can also be stored up in one's memory such that it can be recognised and even associated with the initial contact or original source of the smell. Do you get the drift

The memory of the scent of a romantic partner can stay with us even after the relationship is no more. And should we run into that scent again, we immediately remember and are filled with the memory of that person opposite sex. Mind you, I am not referring to body odour but that distinct natural smell of of an individual. Is it not therefore wise to invest in how we smell?

Invest in something you like and are comfortable with, but most of all that also appeals to your partner. Even though you might not wear this same scent all the time, make it your signature perfume whenever you have the opportunity to be

around each other. Soon, your partner will come to associate that scent with you and it will invoke the memory of you and a desire for you whenever they come across the scent.

Music: If music be the food of love, then play on, so said Shakespeare. Music can set the mood, carry the mood or even ruin the mood of romance.

However, the most effective element of music is what we associate with it, such as the circumstance and the person.

Dance is also an element of music and a mating ritual worth investing in. Besides, it is said that a good dancer makes a good lover. Music and dance therefore go hand in hand too. Create time for your own. Identify the genre of music that works for you. Pick a couple of songs you both love and you can even make it your own special or signature song.

Even when you are not together and they hear the song, the memory of you crops up, same with desire for you.

Do have a lovely Sunday!

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DISCLAIMER!

PAGE 22— SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

Email: vanguardwoman@gmail.com

I did not leave my husband —Olatunji-Ede t, Lagos la wmak er Olatunji-Edet, lawmak wmaker

*Omowunmi

the less privileged and youths. The headquarters of the organization is in Ghana.

Olatunji-Edet

By Ebun Sessou onourable Omowunmi Olatunji-Edet is the Chairman, House Committee on Establishment, Training, Pension and Public Service in the Lagos State House of Assembly, LSHA. She holds a first degree in English Language from the Lagos State University, LASU, as well as a diploma both in Theology and Computer Science.

In this interview, the elegant and stylish female politician speaks on issues bothering on life as a woman politician, especially as it relates to sexual harassment.

H

Let us into your world…

I grew up in Lagos, Edo and Ondo states because my father was a civil servant who got transferred frequently. I got married at the age of 20, and that was in 1993. I was so naive and inexperienced, but I had an understanding of family values because I was raised by a civil servant, who was focused and wanted to give

value to the society. My husband was in the ministry so after my graduation from a Bible school programme which I embarked on, I was ordained by Pastor Ben Enoch of Communion Chapel in 1995. I became an assistant pastor and later a full time pastor in 1998.

G

od soon ministered to me and I started an NGO through which I reach

I

T was after one of my trips to Ghana that the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) began sensitizing Christians to go into politics, and I heeded the call; which was what led me into politics.

I’ve lost three elections since 1999 when I tried my hands on politics. But I have since 2007 won two which brought me into the LSHA, representing OshodiIsolo Constituency 2. I have facilitated several projects in my constituency.

As an “inexperienced” young lady, were there challenges and did they affect your home?

It is no longer news that my marriage broke up in 2009, though I hold on to

the name because of the three children involved. I am going to re-marry and it will be known to the whole world. But sometimes, you get stories that are not true.

Being a pastor, I try to convince the people around me that you could find yourself in an unpalatable situation. I never envisaged I would have to go through a second marriage; I wanted a marriage that would work because I grew up with my father, mother and siblings.

I never envisaged that I would have to go through a second marriage; I wanted a marriage that would work because I grew up with my father, mother and siblings.

○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○

By Josephine Agbonkhese

I

T was a day of unlimited fun for both the entire management and pupils of The Learning Place, TLP, when the Lekki-based school clocked ten recently.

Tagged ‘Reflections’, the celebration which featured competitions ranging from academic to social such as dance and games, also afforded parents an uncommon exhilarating time with their kids, as they also engaged in exciting competitions, clad in uniformed t-shirts.

The highpoint of the event was a documentary display which took participants through the last ten years of the school, highlighting its various growth levels.

Speaking on the inspiration behind the establishment of

TLP celebr at es 110th 0th anniver sar celebrat ates anniversar saryy TLP which caters for children aged one to 12, its Founder/ Director, Mrs Bolanle Adewole, said TLP was inspired by God for grooming well-rounded future leaders.

“We’ve been through it all in the last ten years and can only give God the glory. We always get good feedback about our children who have moved on to other schools. They are recognised as gifted students and are winning awards and holding key positions. Our Montessori teaching method has worked magically and we are grateful. His blessing has been enormous. Hence we were also able to move into our own property at Lekki four years after start-up.

“In our ten years journey, we’ve seen close to 1000 children go through the school

even when we try not to admit For 12-year-old too many,” Mrs Adewole said Oluwabukunmi Shodipo who gratefully of the school which, recalled how she always cried four years ago, branched into persistently at age four when the education of children with she joined TLP, it was how Mrs autism and other related Adewole soon taught her to developmental disorders begin to act her age and through its TLPCentre. become quite independent on Some old pupils shared their her mum’s presence. experiences at the event.

“I learnt a lot of extra things at TLP. I’m in Year 10 now in a secondary school where I am part of the Students' Representative Council, and I’ve been getting awards and good grades too. It all began at TLP,” Ayomikun Bolanle, Director, TLP Adewole said.

I should also reiterate the fact that I did not leave my husband Pastor Edet; he left me for reasons best known to him.

I heard about your relationship with King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, can you clear the air on your closeness to him?

The relationship between me and KWAM 1 was orchestrated by God, I met him divinely. I had been working as a board member of the state Ministry of Youth and Sports before I met King Wasiu Ayinde. I had contested several elections and lost until I was advised to visit him as he was living in my area.

There are two prominent people in that area; Dr. Fredrick Fasehun, Founder of the Odua Peoples Congress, OPC, and KWAM I. I solicited their support and was endorsed as their candidate.

Unfortunately, people thought I was dating KWAM 1. Meanwhile, I never set eyes on him throughout the first three years that my marriage crashed. He has helped me, and I cannot but make him a friend. But he is not my boyfriend, husband or sugar daddy.

Sexual harassment scares most women from politics, what is your experience?

In 2007 we were only five women out of 40 lawmakers in the LSHA. At first, some male lawmakers tried to woo me, but my response was “I bind you” and so, they nicknamed me ‘I bind you’. But with time, I started studying them and found out most of them meant no harm. I however tried not to fall victim, because I knew where I was heading. You can imagine if as a Governor of a state I had slept with male lawmakers, I am sure it will not be a good story to tell.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 23

08112662589

Hubby temporarily out of job? Make him useful around the house!

W

HEN Florence’s husband lost his job with a manufacturing firm, where he was a products manager, Florence said she knew she was in for a great taxing period. “Not because I believe my husband could not get another job”, she explained, “but because I suspected that now that he did not have to work, he might like the idea!

“He was a bit responsible for his being laid off. He is basically a lazy person and despite his education, he never had any sense of responsibility. He never rendered any help in the house. Besides, he did not believe he had to cut back on his twin obsession which are wine and women when things became financially tough. His moods, which are basically mercurial, became dangerously unpredictable. He started making life miserable for me and the children. Every woman needs a man with a bit of pride. I don’t really begrudge spending my money on my family, but I want my husband to show some sort of gratitude for my efforts. If wives are supposed to be grateful to their husbands because such husbands shoulder the bulk of the financial

responsibilities I the home, why can’t the same situation occur if the roles are reversed?

“My husband now has a job teaching Chemistry in a tertiary institution. He brings in a salary which sounds ridiculous compared with what he made when he was with his old firm but at least, he has some sort of a job. I earn a good enough salary for us to make ends meet, and I wish my husband would appreciate how important my wages are in this family! Not continue moaning about the fall in the standard of living. He should do more in the house to justify all that money, my money, he spends on himself!”

“The way things are going”, complained Segun, “our women will expect us to turn into house husbands with an apron tied round our waists and a duster to flick over dusty furniture while they put up their feet and bark orders!” egun says he’s now S lucky to have a job.

He holds an HND and had

been looking for a job for over two years. His wife is a secretary. They got married just before he finished his final exams.

was earning.

More surprised when she changed into the nice girl she used to be. Why should women get intoxicated with a little thing like financial power?

Surely money is not all that important? Does it matter where the money comes from as long as the family is happy?” ope was already a M successful business woman when she met Felix.

She was heavily pregnant and he thought finding a job should be a piece of cake because of his qualifications. Well, it wasn’t. In the meantime, he moved into his wife’s twobedroom apartment and wrote tons of letters of application. His wife got disillusioned by the minute and accused him of several things under the sun.

“When she went to the office”, Segun told me, “I looked after the baby. I was expected to do a few household chores too before her ladyship arrived from the office. She started scowling with nasty jabs

whenever she talked to me.

I was beginning to feel like a useless rag when I got an offer of a job in my home town. I went to see how the place was and I settled down quickly. I e-mailed my wife ordering her to ask for a transfer or resign and look for another job in my new station. “Secretly, I hoped that she would refuse.

That would have given me a good excuse to ditch her like the shrew she’d turned into when things weren’t rosy for me.

“I was surprised when she promptly resigned and came to join me, settling for a job that paid less than she

Three months later, Felix, who said he was an artist who worked from home moved into her flat. Mope went on: “He had to. The flat he shared with two friends had the lease cancelled and by that time, I was very much in love with him. He was handy too, decorating the flat and doing flattering portraits of me and my friends’ But his paintings which he boasted he sold to corporate firms and interior decorators, weren’t selling as fast as he anticipated. In the meantime, I paid the rent, fed both of us and it was my car he used all of the time.

“He got sloppier every day and his friends were the riotous type who believed in a lot of booze and deepthroated back-slapping laughters. I couldn’t take anymore and I asked him t

leave. When I think of the names he called me, I cringe. He accused me of using him; of being pompous about the money I was making and of being a heartless bitch who forced him to leave his flat to live with me only for me to throw him out on the streets. Honestly, he hadn’t a home when I met him!

“Anyway, I don’t see any reason why I had to keep on spending my money on him while he spent the little money he earned on his friends and materials for his paintings. hen a woman gets W married or is in a serious relationship with a

man, she expects to be provided for, to some extent by her partner. Once in a while though, things don’t work out that way, especially when a man suddenly finds himself out of a job. Roles re naturally reversed and her partner hopes it would be temporary. It is frightening for a woman to realise that she might have to fend for the family possibly for the rest of her life. No one should really blame her if she decides to take a walk when she doesn’t see any silver lining in a proverbial cloud!

08052201867(Text Only)

Exercise helps longevity

P

ERSONS with the longest lives i n the world are the Georgians of the Caucasus mountains in Southern Russia, the Hunzas of Kashmir and the Vilcabamba Indians of Ecuador.

These three, seem to share some common traits which must be the key to their longevity. On the whole their diet is frugal, low in salt, refined sugar, fat and high in fibre and hardly any frying in oil.

They consume a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. The drinking water is high in mineral content from fresh mountain streams.

They practise holistic medicine, applying traditional herbs and medicines to forestall and cure diseases. They seldom drink or smoke.

They exercise regularly C M Y K

by way of their hard lives. They don’t use preservatives and live at altitudes with little air

fact that the healthiest life is the one with as much naturalness as possible.

The further we go from

Heels-to-Crotch Pose pollution. They respect their elders who are actively engaged in their 100s and harp on good human relations over the pursuit of riches.

They live in extended families from the cradle to the grave. They enjoy regular sex even at 100.

All these point to the

nature, from what’s natural, the less healthy we become.

As regards activity, the more occupied we are the better it is for us. That’s why the person whose job is sedentary must set me aside for regular exercise which need never be over the top.

With exercise there can be as much as 10 percent of improved physical function in the young. In the old it can make as much as a difference of 50 percent.

Exercise, performed on a regular basis can fulfil the anti-ageing functions of regulating weight, joint mobility, flexibility, strengthening of the skeletal system and strengthening of the heart.

Exercise improves the blood circulation and this in turn brings extra nutrients to the surface of the skin, increasing the collagen content to make it thicker and more flexible.

Apart from the above, exercise also helps lower blood pressure, cuts down on the risk of heart attack, stroke, arthritis and depression.

I suppose if we all become very aware of how serious we need to include exercise in the life on account of the many

serious conditions we can legs flat down on the side-step if we practise, floor with the feet touchwe should be abl;e to ing each other and the summon up the discipline heels as close to the to exercise consistently. crotch as can be. Form a Below are some Yoga ring around the big toes postures to practise. with the forefinger and DEEP KNEE BEND thumb and then lower (Supine) the trunk. A variant of Technique the posture is to keep Sit down in between the trunk erect. both heels. Lower the Benefits: trunk down, first on one The posture tones u p elbow then the other and the muscles of the legs gently ease the whole and it is also said to imtrunk flat down with the prove manly vigour. hands by the sides.

Breathe normally. Stay in Wishing the posture for about 10 you a Merry Christmas 15 seconds. A variant of and a the posture is to keep the Healthy trunk erect.

New Year in Benefits: advance The deep kneebend banishes stiffness in the hips, knes and ankles keeping those Yoga Classes areas well lubricated.

STARTED HEELS TO Physical Therapy Centre CROTCH @ 32 Adetokumbo Ademola, Technique: Victoria Island Lagos.

Sitting down with 9.00am — 10.00am the feet extended in on Saturdays front of you, draw the knees and place the

P AGE 24 — SUND AY Vanguard , DECEMBER 21 , 2014 SUNDA

bunmsof@yahoo.co.uk 08056180152, SMS only

Best friend used confidential secrets to snatch her friend’s husband!

W

hen you need a shoulder to cry on, the first person that springs to your mind is your best friend, right?

Well, not necessarily.

Some best friends could be as deadly as your worst enemy. That’s what Sefi found out when she s having problems with her husband. He was almost 18 years older and she was his second wife.

“His first wife is quite cantankerous and vowed never to have anything to do with me or my two children”, Sefi said. “So Raymond, my husband, set up another home for me and the children. He was building a bigger house on the Island where he meant to relocate all of us. I was to be in a completely detached bungalow so I wouldn’t clash with his first wife.

“But she was having none of that – it was either her or she wouldn’t relocate anywhere with him. As soon as the house was ready, she moved into her own house – a house Raymond was unaware she had until then. He was a bit angry but secretly I was happy.

Raymond had always been a skirt chaser but if we were under the same roof, maybe I could curtail this – after all,he wasn’t getting any younger. The house he set up for us had stopped being a love nest, we were lucky if we saw him once a month. He did most of his communication on the phone. Luckily, my social life didn’t suffer. My friends are party buffs and we had fun to the max.

“Inevitably, I met Lati, one of my friend’s elder brother, whom I’d known since school. He’d just come back from abroad and was expecting his family to join him in a few months’ time when the schools were on

vacation. I had a furniture shop and he visited to buy a few items for his new flat. I even went to his flat to give him professional advice on how to furnish it.

“The day we moved in his double bed, we both bounced on it excitedly wondering who would `christen’ it and before we knew it, we were making love on the bed.

I had not had sex for months and didn’t feel sorry. I knew he wasn’t looking for a mistress who might foul things up for him when his family arrived.

I

n the meantime, Banke, my closest friend had confided in me she was having an affair but refused to tell me who with. Now we were at par as I excitedly told her I was having an affair too!

As we swopped secrets, I discovered Raymond barely came to visit. He was either too busy with work or overseeing the new house. He was often short with me whenever we eventually talked.

“Banke urged me to be patient with him, telling

Y

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"

CHRISTMAS IN BETHLEHEM,

Christmas in Bethlehem. The ancient dream: a

me I was lucky to have Lati to take my mind off things. But Lati’s family had since been back and I didn’t want a hole-inthe-corner affair where we had to sort to motels.

O

nce in a while, when the kids were out, I let Lati in, but I wasn’t happy with Raymond’s behaviour.

Then, out of the blues, Raymond told me he’d moved to the new house and had decided to live alone. He didn’t want to give the impression his first family was more important than mine, so all h is children would be free to come and go as they pleased! I was shocked to say the least - what was he playing at? Banke was as furious as I was and urged me to go and have a heart to heart talk with him.

Only, he wasn’t really answering the phone and when he eventually did weeks, later, he agreed we needed to talk. `Phone me afterwards’, Banke said, when I told her, `I’m here for you if you need me’, she said, I thought that was strange. What would I be needing her for?

“Raymond was not keen

on living with me – it was that obvious. ur lengthy talk did O nothing to dissuade him. Whenever I needed to

see him, he said I was free to visit – so were my children. He’d always been a good father. I was on my way from church one Sunday morning when I decided to call on Ray as his house was on my way.

When I saw Banke’s car in the drive, I was confused. Surely, she wasn’t there on my behalf this early in the Morning? I was shocked when I got in and found both of them having breakfast. Banke didn’t bat an eyelid as Ray asked me to join in! I asked Banke what she was doing in my husband’s house and Ray quickly defended she was giving him details of enquiries he asked her to make. By now, I was visibly furious but I was on my way from church and didn’t want an ugly confrontation. I had too much dignity for that. So, I left, trying not to imagine my so-called best friend and my

cold, clear night made brilliant by a glorious star, the smell of incense, shepherds and wise men falling to their knees in adoration of the sweet baby, the incarnation of perfect love.....Wishing you all a awesome Christmas celebration/a prosperous NewYear in advance.

Chris Onunaku 08032988826/08184844015.

I love you forever

Looking into your eyes I can see beauty, looking into your soul I can see passion, looking into your mind I can see intelligence, but looking into your heart I can see the beautiful world!Love you forever my gal!

Innocent Oluku,

husband laughing at my expense. She even had the guts to want to see me off but I stopped her with one of my killer looks.

“I made sure I spread her betrayal amongst our friends and we all ostracised her. I was really bitter and I made my feelings known to Raymond. He’d had his share of affairs and this latest one of his begged understanding. Months later, he kicked Banke out of his life. He’d already used her to get at me. As shameless as she was, she even tried to apologise but I told her I’d moved on.

Thanks to both of them, I was now free to pursue some of the contracts Ray said I wouldn’t have time for because of the kids and I have now moved on to bigger and better things.

When last I ran into Banke, I almost felt sorry for her.

She looked embarrassed to see me. The traitor!, she deserved all the bad thing that happened to her ...”

cosmetics contain a cocktail of diverse chemicals that are applied frequently to the body, without question of toxicity, and are placed on an area adjacent to the breast. They are not rinsed off, as shampoos or soaps, are, but the entire application is left on the skin each time, allowing accumulation in the underarm and breast area”.

The main ingredients in antiperspirant are compound aluminium and zirconium, which have been designed to prevent perspiration.

Antimicrobial agents kill the bacteria that makes us smell and fragrance helps to mask any odour. In addition, preservatives ensure a long shelf life. The nature of the chemicals in these cosmetics and the lack of advice about safe quantity or frequency of application should be of concern”. Dr. Darbre claims that there is evidence to back up her theory.

ost tumours in both an anti-perspirants M men and women C really give you occur in the upper and outer cancer For over eight years, Dr. Phillipa Darbre hasn’t used antiperspirant deodorants because she suspects that there is a link between our increasing use of antiperspirants and the rising case of breast cancer.

According to her, new cases of breast cancer. According to her, new cases of breast cancer have doubled I the last 25 years and the incidence of male breast cancer is increasing.

“Is it just a coincidence that sales of antiperspirant have been rocketing too?”, she wonders. A senior cancer research in he department of cell and molecular biology at the Reading University, she has published a comprehensive review of research on the issue.

She says: “The suggestion that underarm cosmetics might be a cause of breast cancer seems almost too simple to be possible. But these

section of the left breast.

She says that if the use of antiperspirant is to be blamed, this would be explained by the fact that most people are right0-handed and likely to apply more deodorant on their left armpit.

However, a study was published a few years ago in American Journal of the National Cancer Institute which found no link between cancer and cosmetics that control body odour. According to Dr. Mirick, an epidemiologist: “The research began in 1992 as part of a larger study into the cause of a breast cancer.

About that time, rumours about antiperspirants and cancer started to crop up on the internet, so we threw in some additional questions, wrote a paper to lay their fears to rest.

profprof2010@yahoo.com

My burning desire

My Angel!

Put you head to my heart. Hear the beating of my burning desire flow around my body. Close your mouth around mine, taste all I am. Feel my heat, my fire, light up inside me as you come closer. See the pure, raw love I hold for you. And let us burn together.

Forever! We can already see each others flames flicker in ecstasy, together, as they will always. Forever!

CENT OBAMA centobama@gmail.com +2348061379003

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 25

They should tell me where my daughter is because we are sensing foul play

FATAL WALK INTO MATERNITY HOME

7-yr-old girl mysteriously disappears! *Troubled parents beg police to resolve puzzle SIMON EBEGBULEM, Benin City

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LL has not been well with Mr and Mrs Ariajiegbe Anthony, indigenes of Ewatto, in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, following the mysterious disappearance of their seven-year-old daughter, Christable. The girl, according to the parents, went missing on November 25 when she walked to a maternity home in the community while playing, but which authorities are denying the claim while the police in the area have refused to listen to their plea to carry out investigation. The family said they had combed the forest in the community in search of Chistabel, a primary two pupil. In a petition, dated December 1, 2014, and signed by their solicitor, Olayiwola Afolabi, the family cried to the Edo State Police Commissioner, Foluso Adebanjo, to come to their aid by investigating the disappearance of their daughter. They pleaded that the fact that they are poor must not deprive them the opportunity of finding the girl.

Mr Ariajiegbe, who narrated the incident to Sunday Vanguard, said: “On that particular day that she disappeared, our daughter came back from school and went to meet her mother where she sells snacks.

While playing around the area, she went into one maternity home close by. The mother was thinking that she was at the maternity home playing with the people there, but when she was about to leave and called her, the child was nowhere to be found. She went inside the maternity home and couldn’t find her but she didn’t enter the matron’s room. She then went out and sent for me asking if Christabel was at home. That time I had returned from school because I am a teacher and I told her that Christabel had not yet returned. We then went back to where my wife sells to search for her.

“While we were searching for her, the matron in the hospital came to say maybe the child was sleeping somewhere else.

In the process, she volunteered to take my wife round in her car to see if our daughter was somewhere around. She later dropped my wife after she said people needed her attention in the maternity home. She advised my wife to look for another vehicle to continue the search. So I decided to go to the police station to make a report that I didn’t see my daughter.

“The following day, I called the community members to help me search for the child. We entered the bush and searched everywhere but there was no trace of her. Before then a boy called Enuwawangbe said the child was breathing inside a borehole. The following day we took experts to the borehole, but after a thorough check, no trace of her. But while that was going on, the police went

inside the maternity home to arrest the nurse on duty that day. But before that, two boys working in the maternity home, Michael and Samuel, ran away.

“The DCO that was with us asked the maternity to bring the duty roaster of those that worked that day. The DCO decided to arrest the nurse and all of us went to the police station. When we got there, they asked my wife to make a statement and when she was about to do that the nurse said she wanted to call a doctor running a private medical hospital. After my wife made her statement, as we were about entering our car to leave, a community leader came and said the nurse should not be detained.

The community leader said he was there to bail her. But then the DCO refused saying thorough investigation had not started, and so she could not be bailed like that.

“The DCO followed me to the residence of another community leader who said the nurse should not be detained. And, surprisingly, since that incident, the matron in that maternity has stopped coming to work. In fact, she has locked up the maternity and disappeared. The police whom I cried to for help want to turn the matter against me. A doctor not working in the maternity home accompanied them to threaten my children, saying nobody should say the child went missing in the maternity home. They are now threatening my family that we are saying the child was stolen in the maternity home. We are scared about even our lives and I am begging Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the Edo State Commissioner of Police to come to our rescue because what they are doing is wicked.

“They should tell me where my daughter is because we are sensing foul play. The police that was our hope at the beginning of the matter have now changed; we don’t really know where to go to for help. My daughter is just an innocent girl, just seven years, and I don’t want anything to happen to her.

Since that incident, we have not seen her. I want to use this opportunity to appeal to o u r Comrade Governor to come to our aid. We know that if he intervenes, the truth will come out. We want to know what happened to our daughter.”

Edo State Police Commissioner, Adebanjo, told Sunday Vanguard, while speaking on the matter: “We will get to the bottom of the matter. I will request for the case file and find out what happened. How can a seven-year-old girl disappear? We will investigate the matter very seriously”.

*Missing Christabel

PAGE 26 — SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

NASFAT, Ogun families in legal war for Lagos – Abeokuta Expressway land

By Olamilekan Ajulo

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prominent Islamic organisation, Nasrul-LahiIl- Fathi Society of Nigeria, NASFAT, has filed a notice of appeal against the judgment of the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State which vested the ownership of its vast praying ground located along LagosAbeokuta Express-way to some families in Ogun State.

In its motion on notice designated with No CA/IB/ M463/ 2014, the organisation is seeking the leave of the appellate court to appeal to the Supreme Court against its judgment delivered on July 9, 2014.

The three-man panel of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan had, in a unanimous judgment, dismissed the appeal filled by the society on the grounds that it lacked merit.

Meanwhile, a publication by the families who won the case, advertising the sale of the land, has led to a sharp criticism from NASFAT which issued a caveat, urging the public to disregard the call for buyers.

NASFAT submitted, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr. Banji Busari, cautioning the public that the land in question was validly allocated to Nasrul-Lahi-Il- Fathi Society of Nigeria, through Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC) via a letter with reference no S/EST/GEN/210/ 68, dated February 7, 2003.

It added: “The land is currently a subject of an appeal before the Supreme Court of Nigeria. As a result, we hereby advise members of the public to disregard the said publication in its entirety and avoid investing in litigation.”

In its motion on notice, dated September 22, 2014, NASFAT is praying the appellate court to grant it leave to appeal to the Supreme Court on grounds of law and facts.

In the motion, filed on its behalf by its solicitors, Citipoint Legal Practitioners, the appellant complaint against the decision of the appellate court on the grounds that its judgment was against the weight of evidence.

NASFAT submitted that the “lower court misdirected itself on the facts of the case when it held that the respondents were not caught by the doctrine of latches and acquiescence because the appellants entered the land Viet Armis.”

To this end, it was praying for an order of the apex court setting aside the judgment of the High Court of Ogun State as well as that of the Court of Appeal, Ibadan which affirmed it.

In a six-paragraph affidavit in support of motion on notice, deposed to by a legal practitioner, Mr Ayo Ademiluyi, it was averred that the applicant intends to approach the apex court on the grounds of law and facts which is predicated on the leave of the Court of Appeal.

It therefore prayed the court to C M Y K

*Muslim group seeks to appeal ruling

NASFAT members...lay claim to disputed site grant the leave in the interest of justice.

In its motion brought pursuant to Order 7 Rule 1 of the Court of Appeal Rules 2011, Section 15 of the Court of Appeal Act, they also prayed for an order of injunction restraining the Respondents from taking steps to actualise the declaratory reliefs awarded them by the trial court which was affirmed by the appellate court in its judgment pending the hearing and the determination of the appellant appeal to the Supreme Court.

Apart from this, the appellant urged the court to grant an order staying the execution of the judgment of the appellate court delivered on June 23, 2014 pending the hearing and determination of its appeal to the Supreme Court. It submitted that unless the court grant the order of injunction as well as the stay of execution pending the

determination of its appeal, the appeal will be rendered impotent.

The deponent stated : “Ï know as a fact that unless the respondents are restrained from taking steps in actualization of the declarations made in their favour the appeal of the appellant would be rendered nugatory as the respondents if not restrained, will take steps to sell the land and make it impossible or extremely difficult to restore the appellant to its previous position in case its appeal to the Supreme Court succeeds.”

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the motion.

It could be recalled in its appeal before the Court of Appeal, Ibadan, NASFAT had formulated 17 grounds of appeal asking the appellate Court to set aside the judgment of the high court which ceded ownership of the land to the claimants.

Arguing its case before the

appellate court, NASFAT had said it requested land from Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation, OPIC, for educational and other developmental purposes.

It claimed its request was granted by the government in a letter dated February 14, 2005 of 28 hectares of land.

However, to have peaceful and undisturbed possession of the land, it negotiated with various individuals and families, including the claimants in the suit.

In its judgment, the Court of Appeal upheld the judgment of the trial court.

In order to affirm the authenticity of its ownership of the land, NASFAT referred to some other judgments of the Ogun State High Court whereby it was declared as the bonafide owner of the parcel of land in dispute.

‘Our quest to raise a new generation of Christian, Muslim leaders’

BY CHRIS ONUOHA When the Action for Community Development, a West African Liberation Theology Project initiative based in Benin-city, Edo State, in collaboration with a nongovernmental organization from Europe, held an international conference on religion and politics, the issues discussed had to do with disconnection and distortion of the true essence of religious values . The well attended seminar attracted participants from across Nigeria and West Africa including Rev. Fr. John Damian Adizie of the Catholic Adoration in the Holy Spirit and Ekpoma, Edo State and Sam Ajufoh, CEO, Action for Community Development.

Ajufoh, the convener of the conference, in his presentation, harped on the Church, the state and politics. He said, “The essence of this project and the seminar in particular is to raise a new generation of Muslim and Christians leaders who will be free to correct the distortion that has affected the two religions.

In the case of Christianity, the distortion has been wrong preaching of prosperity message that has led to exploitations in virtually all over Africa while in the case of Islam; the distortion of wrong preaching of Jihad and martyrdom which has led to insecurity and insurgence in the country. This distortion needs to be corrected in other for religion to play a vital role in the 21 century.”

He explained that holding quality seminars on influence of religion and human behavior in Nigeria is one way to achieve peace, saying research showed that Nigerians appear religious but sadly not spiritual.

Speaking on the need for reversal of the trend, he said religion is no longer helping to raise positive values. “It is just thriving on prosperity,”he said. He lamented that the Church has become a voice for the rich upper class and used as a tool for political campaigns.

Ndokw ginalisation, sa Ndokwaa lament mar marginalisation, sayy they ma mayy not go vern Delt or 32yr govern Deltaa ffor 32yrss

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non-governmental group, Concerned Sons and Daughters of Ndokwa, has predicted that it will take more than 32 years for the people of Ndokwa to rule the state, as many other ethnic group will clamour for it after 2019.

The Convener, Mr Duke Daniel Chukwuma Ilome, made this statement in Kwale, at the inaugural meeting of the group .

According to Ilome, bad leadership has caused the Ndokwa continuous marginalisation in the face of development in the country.

He decried the attitude of other ethnic groups in Delta,

who find joy in making the Ndokwa people second class citizens in the state, as the cases of high profile appointments always elude the people.

“Ndokwa is the second largest ethnic nation in Delta… But we have not gotten the deserved attention, either from the federal or successive state governments”, Iloma said.

“This is a call to the consciousness of the Ndokwa people to arise and take our destiny in our hands, by fighting our way out of this apparent political disadvantage so as to enjoy the sitting of projects in our

communities like every other part of the state. There must be a deliberate plan by all to determine our place in Delta State politics in the dispensation as our decision today informs where we shall be politically both in 2019 and beyond”.

Addressing the gathering on the mission and vision of the group, Benedict Onyolu said the body is out to work toward the “Re-awaking of the p o l i t i c a l consciousness of every Ndokwa person irrespective of political affiliation, class status or gender, to forge a political

interest and to ensure the speedy attainment of political maturity of Ndokwa nation haven one voice and interest based on very flexible political reasoning”

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 27

WICKED THIEVES! ‘We stole old woman’s goat to make barbecue for birthday party’

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

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WO friends, Seun Agagu and Gbenga Adedipe, are cooling their feet at the Ondo State Police Command headquarters for allegedly stealing a goat to celebrate the birthday party of one of them.

It was supposed to be Gbenga’s twenty-third birthday bash but he allegedly confided in Seun that he had invited other friends and his girl friend to the party but had no money to buy a goat for roasted meat popularly called Asun (barbecue).

While still ruminating on who to approach to bail them out, an idea was said to have come that they could look for a straying goat and use it for the party. It was alleged that during the search, the friends, who live separately but were always together, discovered that an old woman was rearing a goat around Oda Road, Akure. A deal was allegedly sealed that Seun would sleep over in Gbenga’s house on the day of

the operation and, at about 3am, they would give salt to the goat so that it won’t cry to attract attention at that unholy hour.

They were said to have stolen the goat but while they thought the old woman would not notice the animal’s disappearance the next day, a situation that would have allowed them to ferry it to the butcher, they were surprised that, even before 7am, the neighbourhood was tensed with curses from the woman to whoever stole her only goat.

The action of the woman attracted neighbours who organised a search party for the goat.

The goat was allegedly found in the room of one of the suspects where it was hidden behind a standing hanger.

Sunday Vanguard gathered that the matter was immediately reported to officials of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ondo State Command (NSCDC).

The two suspects were arrested.

Sunday Vanguard learnt that the

suspected goat thieves reside at No. 49 Ijoka Road, Dafog, Akure and No 12 Arakale Street, Akure while they were arrested at No 2 Ijigba Street, Oda Road, Akure by officials of the Command.

One of the suspects, according to investigation, who allegedly confessed to the crime, said they wanted to celebrate the birthday of one of them, and that, that was why they committed the crime.

An official of the NSCDC said the boys laid ambush for the goat and stole it.

Confirming this incident, the commandant of the corps, Andrew Igwe Ugwumba, said the timely distress shout by the owner of the goat when she could not see it that morning saved the situation.

He said a search was conducted and the goat was seen where the suspects kept it for onward slaughtering the next day.

Ugwumba said the suspects would be charged to court after investigation.

In another development, Uhwumba said two suspects were arrested by his

RIL’s N1m for two entrepreneurs T wo young entrepreneurs and alumni of Resource Intermediaries Limited (RIL) Finishing School have received N.5m grants each to start their businesses.

The awardees were picked from several other entrants after a rigorous screening process.

At the award ceremony, held at Bistro 7, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Managing Director of RIL, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, encouraged the winners ‘to use the grant judiciously and become employees themselves as the grant was more than just giving them a means of self-employment.”

The winners, Oluyemi Gabriel Ogunnaike and Oluwatosin Mary Oguntuga, expressed their gratitude and promised to make the best use of the opportunity they have been given.

Mary, a graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University, runs Delight Kitchen, which provides homemade soup for as low as N300 in Ijebu Ode, with orders and payments made online. Gabriel runs an event management and rentals business.

Speaking about the event, Tutu Okunubi of RIL said, “The RIL Finishing School is for young graduates and school leavers, where we train them on how to be entrepreneurs, how to run their own businesses, and generally prepare them for the job market. It’s also called the entrepreneurs Skill Program. We give half a million naira grant to the person with the best business plan, twice a year.” A past winner of the

officials for offences ranging from collection of money from people under false pretence (419), to illegal dealing in adulterated petroleum products.

He gave the suspects names as Segun Olorunwemimo and Ogunlisa Ayo Igekele. Olorunwemimo, according to him, was arrested in Akure.

He was nabbed for allegedly collecting N2,050,000 from one Mr. Adeloye Jayeola from Owo under the pretext of helping him to buy a Mercedez Benz 911 tipper from Cotonou.

He reportedly collected the money through his cousin’s account.

Igbekele was arrested at Aye in Okitipupa local government.

He was apprehended in a Toyota car containing 32 kegs of 30 litres each filled with suspected adulterated diesel amounting to 960 litres.

The commandant assured the people of Ondo that the NSCDC would work with other security agencies to bring crime and criminality to the barest minimum in the state.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SKILL:

Nestle gives winner N3.3m

By Princewill Ekwujuru Nestle Nigeria Plc, under the instance of its NESCAFE youth entrepreneurship empowerment program has rewarded the winner with $20, 000 (N3.36million).

The winner Adamu Muazu, from Kogi state, developed what he called power optimizer, which was designed to help increase the output performance of generating sets, helping it to power more appliances without causing damage.

The beneficiaries receiving their prize money grant, Tosin Fagbola, speaking to the awardees, confessed that it had not been easy but encouraged them to put in their best and be ready to take risks.

Another past winner, Deborah

Akinoso of Fintex Multi, makers of household cleaning agents and air fresheners spoke on the need to always be aware of market needs and plan accordingly.

Jieawowrrar releases New Year Prediction Book

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th ctivities marking the 37 Annual Mount Jieawowrrar celebrations have commenced at Mount Jieawowrrar All Saints Church of Christ, Odogbolu, Ogun State with the ascension to the prayer mountain for 21 days seclusion for special prayers by the church’s General Overseer, Primate Samuel Bisi

Ademosu.

According to Ademosu, the seclusion on the prayer mount will be used for meditation and special prayers for the nation, individuals and families, while the church releases its 2015 edition of annual New Year Prediction Book today during the activities to mark the end of the seclusion prayer programme.

To arrive at the winner, the NESCAFE #GetstartedAfrica toured cities in central and West Africa to collect works of young Africans for the competition.

The Managing Director, Mr. Dharnesh Gordhon, represented by Head, Human Resources, Marie Owoniyi, said that because NESCAFE believes in the young people of Central and West Africa, who are full of dreams and are changing the status quo, overturning conventions and creating new things with every shift, twist and turn and because they rewriting the rules and setting a new agenda for the moved the company to embark on the competition.

It could be recalled that out of the three finalists Ghana’s Sam Mensa came third, while the runner up was Chidi Chukwuma from Nigeria and the winner who will be receiving $10,000 from Nigeria and another $10,000 from Ghana.

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PAGE 28— SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

DIASPORA

ITU Telecom World 2014: Invest in Nigeria’s ICT sector, Johnson urges delegates

Immigration as big issue in UK 2015 general elections (2)

By EMEKA AGINAM

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t the event, Johnson unveiled Nigeria to the global community as the most populous country and biggest economy in Africa currently taking steps to diversify her economy with clear results becoming noticeable in key non-oil sectors such as Agriculture, Power, Manufacturing and ICTs. She said that Nigeria remains one of the top three destinations for foreign direct investments (FDI) in Africa.

Between 2007 till 2013, according to her, Nigeria recorded more than 50% FDI capital invested into capital intensive resource sectors, while 50% of FDI projects are service oriented with the telecommunications sector experiencing strong growth attracting 24% of FDI projects.

ITU eulogizes Nigeria Broadband policy Excited by the Nigeria’s investment potentials, the newly elected Secretary General of the ITU, Mr Houlin Zhao who was on hand to support Nigeria, commended Nigeria’s ICT

MR FARAGE's NEW POLITICS igel Farage's "New Poli tics" will one day in the future become a subject of history taught to college students, but before that time he has a lot of groundwork to cover. While he may be "punching" one or two odd supporters of the Tories, majority still believe he cannot be trusted with policies he is pushing.

This is a man married to a German wife whom he employs as his secretary yet always screaming murder that EU citizens are taking British jobs. Ironic and classic politics!

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Omobola Johnson, Communications Minister sector growth.

Zhao eulogized Nigeria on its Broadband policy initiatives and successes recorded in the ICT sector.

He particularly singled out Nigeria deploying 4G for commercial services- a feat that he stressed had put the country ahead of much of Europe and China.

Similarly, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC,

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r Eugene Juwah while also highlighting Nigeria’s ICT growth reiterating that Nigeria has witnessed phenomenal growth in subscriber numbersachieving almost 100% teledensity ratio with active subscriber numbers exceeding 134 million.

Open access model He emphasized that President, Goodluck Jonathan has approved an inclusive national implementation plan to enable nationwide

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Y attaining active telephone line connectivity of over 134 million and a teledensity of 96 percent, Nigeria’s telecoms market has continued to become toast of international investors.

Just recently at the just concluded ITU Telecom World 2014 held in Doha, the Minister of Communication Technology, Dr Omobola Johnson who led the Nigerian delegation to the forum highlighted the potentials of the Nigeria’s ICT sector’s growth to international investors For Johnson , Nigeria presents a large market for discerning operators to come in to invest despite challenges.

Nigeria as veritable platform For one thing, the ITU Telecom World 2014 after four days of intensive debates, discussions and networking presented Nigeria with a veritable platform to highlight it’s strength despite its challenges as well as the phenomenal growth being recorded in the ICT sector.

Speaking to the the international audience, the Minister urged investors that are already cognisant of Nigeria’s ICT sector’s potentials to continue to invest and called on others still watching the investment climate to invest because they consider Nigeria to be unstable to invest.

Nigeria remains one of the top three destinations for FDI in Africa.

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pervasive broadband deployment. He added that the Open Access Model that is being adopted by the Nigerian Government allows for inclusive, fair and transparent licensing processes as well as incentives for investors in the ICT industry.

An Investment Forum was also held at the ITU to showcase Nigeria’s ICT growth and success stories of investors that are already

investing in Nigeria.

Johnson updated participants at the ITU Telecom World with the policies and initiatives that have been unveiled by the Ministry to accelerate Nigeria’s transformation into a digital economy leveraging ICTs. One of such is the National Broadband Plan which is currently being implemented with the goal of increasing broadband penetration rate from 6% to 30% by 2018.

Johnson in a panel session titled ‘’A Regulators Nightmare” emphasised the commitment of the Federal Government to providing an enabling environment that will transform Nigeria into a digital economy.

She informed other panelists and participants that there were four things that keep her team awake at night.

“One is the need to balance intervention with market forces, second-is trying to build a digital economy in a scenario where the telcos are currently only concentrating in the big cities and third- is achieving balance within all aspects of the spectrum, while the fourth – is deciding who is best placed to regulate mobile money / digital currency” she said.

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he emphasised that in addressing the ‘Regulators nightmare,’ Regulators need to participate in the entire ecosystem of the telecommunications industry, in order to keep up. This is crucial, especially in a telecoms environment where according to the ITU-market innovation is significantly outpacing policy creation- no doubt a recipe for the regulators Nightmare’.

The panelists in their different submissions agreed with Johnson that the solution to addressing the Regulators Nightmare is for the need have a balance between intervention and market forces.

WHAT IS WRONG WITH IMMIGRATION? To a British politician a year before the general elections, everything is wrong.

There is the sudden realisation that the country is populated by too many foreigners with laughable accents and hard to pronounce surnames.

If you ask why are the citizens so angry at immigrants from outside EU? There are no clear cut answers.

On a critical analysis of the issues we will discover it is not the African or Asian immigrants that "compete" with the "locals" to take the houses.

No. It is not the family from Africa or Asia that is on the "dole queue" for kids living in home countries.

No. It takes donkey years for most African immigrants to qualify for benefits, if they ever do with the new immigration policies.

And come to think of it, there are thousands of decent African immigrants who even though are qualified but choose to stay off the benefit systems.

Farage has brought the EU immigration costs, negatives, positives etc to the fore.

It might be too late to resolve the UK membership of the Union, but I, like many British-Africans are en-

joying the debate. The searchlight is now on EU immigration as the race for 10 Downing Street hots up.

COMING IN FROM THE COLD I am always amused when I watch the UK Prime Minister, David Cameron, trying to sound tough on immigration. He looks like someone who has just got his mojo back.

Fours years ago at the start of his tenure and the parliament, he talked so tough on immigration that even immigrants with well earned British citizenship became scared. He was all over the places on how he would bring down the net migration figure and also cut visas from Non-EU countries.

Almost at the end of the parliament, what has he done differently? Nothing! No, one thing. He succeeded in making the UK a number three choice for foreign students. Yet, he is still talking tough. Many think he should hold his hands up and accept failure, rather than the new "bold face" approach he is adopting.

IS ED KEEPING HIS HEAD? After surviving the "exit coup", the Labour leader, Ed Miliband,

Elections are supposed to engage lively debates, whereby candidates would tell the world how they will go about running the government

has been playing smart. He is keeping his cool. Not saying much on anything and particularly on the EU migration debate but insisting on his earlier stand that UK shall not dump the EU. A wise decision, if you ask me. This keeps voters wondering if the guy is really capable of taking charge.

Let's keep watching as the race hots up and Cameron steps up his "anger" on EU. But we pray, may the loudest not be the winner.

NIGERIA: THE AGENDA FOR 2015 AND BEYOND However, back home in Nigeria the 2015 General Elections is in focus too. The two major parties in the country recently conducted primaries and picked presidential candidates. Retired General Mohammed Buhari emerged as the flag bearer for the opposition party - All Progressives Congress (APC) while the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan is the anointed candidate for the largest political party in Africa - the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

Not devoid of the usual drama, there have been intrigues as the countdown to the General Elections begins. This is against the run of events in decent societies. Elections are supposed to engage lively debates, whereby candidates would tell the world how they will go about running the government.

Surprisingly, none of the political parties is pushing any agenda as the driving force for the elections. For an election holding in February, it is not out of place to expect these parties to be enlightening the public on their planned policies for education, health, security etc. rather what we are witnessing are petty and cheap blackmail, with both parties trying to "outshout" the other.

Will these be the winning strategies for the 2015 General Elections? We wait and see.

SUNDAY, Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 29

Panac he as A gberebi’s daught er w eds anache Agberebi’s daughter weds Koyi’s son

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The new couple; Mr And Mrs Ololade Oyindamola Koyi cutting their wedding cake.

L-R: Mrs Aisha E. Tosan-Agberebi, bride's mother, the couple, Mr and Mrs Ololade Oyindamola Koyi and bride's father, Akpoebi. E. Agberebi.

L-R: Mr Akpoebi. E .Agberebi, bride's father, Chief (Mrs) Aisha E.Tosan-Agberebi, bride's mother and High Chief Gabriel E. Umoden (MFR),Chairman of the occasion.

t was a roller-coaster of style, panache and splendour accentuated with high profile personage when Mr Akpoebi Agberebi walked his daughter, Cynthia Odiri down the aisle of Diocese of Lagos Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Our Saviour Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos penultimate Saturday to be handed in Holy wedlock to Ololade Oyindamola Koyi.

After the exchange of vows , the couple along with the bridal train and guests proceeded to Intercontinental Hotel Victoria Island Lagos for a deluxe reception.

Photos by Akeem Salau

L-R: Barrister[Mrs] Lauretta Koyi,Commissioner of Police (Rtd);groom's mother, the couple, Mr. & Mrs Ololade Oyindamola Koyi;and Mr Olubusola Koyi, representing groom's father.

L-R: Sir Uche Uduji, Sir Andrew I. Ogun and Chief Dipo Bailey.

Godwin Osagie (left) and Rotimi Oguneso (SAN) Mr Peter Arigbe (left) and Chief Sonny Okpuhie

Prof. and Barr. ( Mrs) Edward Ejiri Emimuyan

Gov Abiola Ajimobi celebrates 65 A thanksgiving service was held on Tuesday at the Oyo State Government House Chapel, Agodi, Ibadan to mark the 65th birthday of Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State. In attendance were members of his cabinet, Oyo State APC chieftains and his family. Photos by Sola Oyelese

L-R: Dep. Gov of Oyo State, Hon. Moses Alake Adeyemo, celebrant, Gov Abiola Ajimobi, his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Florence Ajimobi and former Dep. Gov of Oyo State, Barr. Iyiola Oladokun

L-R: Dep. Gov's wife, Mrs. Janet Alake Adeyemo, Speaker, House of Assembly, Hon. Mulikat Sumonu, Dep. Gov, Hon. Moses Alake Adeyemo, Abisola Ajimobi, Gov Abiola Ajimobi, his wife Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, their children and Chairman, Oyo APC, Chief Akin Oke

Ajimobi girls (L-R ): Abisola, Abimbola,Gov. Ajimobi, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, Ajibola and Ajijola

PAGE 30—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 31

PAGE 32—SUND AY 32—SUNDA

Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

BET WEEN THE KNO WN AND THE UNKNO WN BETWEEN KNOWN UNKNOWN

The odds against Jonathan and Buhari

zWhy presidential election will alter Nigeria’s destiny

General Muhammadu Buhari and President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

BY JIDE AJANI

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orthless! Very worthless pieces of paper are the things that would determine their fate! The presidential ambition of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and General Muhammadu Buhari would be determined by those pieces of paper that Nigerians would drop in the ballot boxes across the country on February 14, 2015.

But the irony is that just like the legal tender - money or treasury bills – a huge value addition is in place which makes what ordinarily should be just any other paper worth more than a note off the shelf.

By the same token, the immense powers inherent in a ballot paper, when polled across the country, imbue it with the enormous potency which determines the fate of individuals seeking an elective office.

That is what Nigerians would be required to use in determining who, between Jonathan and Buhari, is fit to occupy Aso Rock from May 29, 2015. But it is not going to be a choice that would be easy and clear cut. And whereas Nigerians would be putting

their trust and hopes in the hands of either of these two men, the fundamental, underlying raison d’etre for choosing one above the other is as foggy and unpredictable as the British weather.

For Jonathan, it is, perhaps, opportunities wasted! For Buhari, it could very well be hopes misplaced. And there is a plethora of reasons why some people would feel disappointed at the turn of events regarding the Jonathan presidency; just as those seeking change by rooting for Buhari, may be heading into the sphere of the unknown with their eyes closed or opened.

Doing a SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis on each of the candidates would show that Nigerians are in dire straits.

Being an incumbent comes with the benefits and advantages of having something to showcase. It provides an opportunity to make more promises of a better tomorrow.

Yet, the same incumbency factor opens the occupant of the office to a lot of criticisms about errors committed, things left undone or things that could have been done better.

For Jonathan, he came with a lot of promise. Even those who fought tooth and nail to enthrone the ‘doctrine of necessity’, an

For Jonathan, it is, perhaps, opportunities wasted! For Buhari, it could very well be hopes misplaced

innovation which saved him from the cabal which had treated him with scorn and brought him to power in 2009, soon began to pull away on grounds of a certain agreement that he would not seek to be elected in 2011. Whatever agreement may have been entered into but which violates Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution is nothing more than a joke. But then, Jonathan may not have found himself in a situation of struggling for reelection had he delivered well. He had all the opportunities but, if truth be told, he has delivered below par – and he has all the opportunities in the world to do better. All Jonathan needs is to be more presidential.

Take, for instance, two recent developments. The ground-breaking ceremony for an EPZ was called off by Jonathan because some people (of Ijaw stock, his own people) threatened that unless they were given a piece of the pie, there would be no peace, and Nigeria’s President buckled. Worse still, the people were being led by an individual whose criminal activities, robed in the guise of militancy, only recently enjoyed amnesty. The second, and, perhaps, more dangerous and disturbing development, is the alleged award of a contract by the DG of NIMASA, Ziakede Patrick Akpobolokemi, an Ijaw, to Global West Vessel Service, a private company believed to be controlled by one-time militant, Chief Ekpemupolo, a.k.a Tompolo, which enabled him add seven decommissioned

Norwegian battleships to its weaponry, for the monitoring and defence of Nigeria’s coastal area. The first question is, what is the job of the Nigerian Navy? Secondly, and for the sake of decency, which President does that? This is egregiously shambolic.

The Ijaw are not the only people from the South-South, much more the South of Nigeria.

Worse still for Jonathan, some leaders of his party are upset at the shambles that has been made of the primaries with discontent in most areas.

But that is as much of the known – a shambling and shambolic President.

Now, the unknown! Why should Nigerians entrust their destiny in the hands of a political party that has made spin its directive principle of party administration and policy? The All Progressives Congress, APC, of Buhari is so adept at saying the usually useful things but ends up doing the opposite such that it would only take the unperceptive to see through the ruse.

Although the party conducted a very free and fair presidential primary, Nigerians would still want to know why the candidate of northern extraction should be allowed to rule this country on the created premise that the North is born to rule? Good, very good at criticising the Federal Government without any serious alternative policy platforms, the APC has made itself much more unsellable.

But for the hues and cries about its proposition of a Muslim/Muslim presidential ticket, the party could have gone ahead to make the choice. Not that quality needed to be sacrificed on the altar of sentiment, such a choice at a time like this in Nigeria would have been unsellable.

The following interviews with presidential aide, Doyin Okupe; Ajumogobia, Coomassie and Shonibare, are all about the need to ensure that that ballot paper is used wisely by Nigerians to determine who should lead them as President next year.

But the dilemma confronting the Nigerian voter is the choice they must make between the shambolic that is known and the uncertainty that is to come.

No one can say for certain that Jonathan’s second coming would be better, nor can anyone declare that Buhari would not be another disaster waiting to happen – especially with the cobbled assemblage of politicians in the APC. Would Nigerians be better off continuing with Jonathan or risk another wave of militancy from the SouthSouth in the event that Jonathan’s Ijaw brothers believe that their man had been hounded out of office?

Would Buhari’s APC halt the slide into anarchy as a result of the activities of members of Boko Haram?

These are issues that a judicious use of the ballot papers can decide. But choosing a President via the ballot box does not guarantee a life more abundant.

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 33

By Bilesanmi Olalekan

A

lhaji Ibrahim Coomassie is a former Inspector General of Police. He became the Chairman of Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) some seven months back. In this interview, Coomassie says President Goodluck Jonathan would have been a hero if he had stepped down in 2011 after completing the term of his former boss, the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, but insists that the 2015 presidential election, if free and fair, will return power to the North. He also berates the Federal Government for the insecurity in the North.

We have not heard much about the ACF of late. What is happening to the group?

That means you have not been reading the papers. ACF is fully on the ground, very relevant as usual, more noticeable than before and contributing its quota to the unity and development of this country.

We have been in the news since I came on board.

When?

About seven months ago when I became the National Chairman of the Executive Council of the forum and Alhaji Waziri Fika became the Chairman of Board of Trustees. The moment we came on board, the first thing we did was to meet the Chief Servant of Niger State and Chairman of Northern Governors Forum, Alhaji Babangida Aliyu, to draw the attention of northern governors to the persistency of insurgency in the North which seems to be going on for nearly five years unchecked. He promised to take up the matter with his colleagues in the governors forum. After that, we went for the National Conference. I as Chairman of the ACF became the Chairman of the northern delegates forum co-chaired by Professor Jerry Gana from North- Central. We organized a retreat for the northern delegates, and discussed and perfected our participation at the conference. After the conference, we started the sensitization of our people. So, you can see that the ACF has been doing a lot. ACF is the umbrella for northern Nigeria, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political leaning. May be you want to ask how it came to be.

Please go on?

If you recall, we handed power over to an elected government in 1999. Immediately the then President Olusegun Obasanjo took over, there was some degree of insecurity in the country. There were blames being heaped on northern Nigeria for the state of decadence in the country. We had three groups representing northern Nigeria: The Turaki Committee led by former President Shehu Shagari, the Northern Elders Forum headed by Alhaji Abdulraman Okene, and another outfit led by Alhaji Waziri Sule Katagum, the erstwhile Chairman of Federal Public Service Commission. And they were all talking in response to the criticisms against northern Nigeria, differently. So the stakeholders in northern Nigeria thought it was high time we started responding with one voice. A meeting was held in Kaduna attended by traditional rulers, the clergy, technocrats, businessmen under the chairmanship of the late Sultan, Alhaji Muhammed Maccido.

After discussions, it was decided that a team be established. The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sule Gambari, a legal luminary, one time member of the Court of Appeal, suggested what we are now known as Arewa Consultative Forum and we began to speak with one voice.

The Tiv-Jukun crisis, we resolved it. Other things pertaining to northern Nigeria have always been the forum’s concern. We were not very active in politics, to the extent that when election comes up, we don’t participate in handpicking candidate. That is the prerogative of the different parties. That is the internal democracy of the different parties. But we did something in the ACF. We drew up criteria for quality leadership, from the councillor to the president. The criteria were reviewed by another committee and the Board of Trustees, the Central Working Committee, and the NEC before it was approved. We then sold it to all the political parties such that if you are

2015 BATTE FOR NIGERIA

The North ready to stop Jonathan — Coomassie, ACF Chairman

*’How Mr President missed being a hero in 2011' *On Boko Haram: More Muslims than Christians killed looking for people to occupy public offices through elections, look for people with these qualifications.

What are the criteria for the presidency?

Things like knowledge, courage, transparency, honesty, focus and foresight, dedication to one Nigeria.

If you say the ACF represents the interests of the North, why do you still have splinter groups here and there taking care of the interests of some political office holders of northern extraction?

When I was asking your question earlier, I didn’t say non-

Since the death of Muhammed Yusuf in 2009, insurgency has been aggravated and there doesn’t seem to be effective response from government

political. I said we are a partisan forum. I said earlier that the responsibility of producing any candidate for any office is solely that of the party.

But what we did was to help by saying that if you want quality leadership, these are the things you should look out for. We are political because our politics is northern Nigeria, no doubt about it. Anything about the North, we are there to advance it, but within the context of one Nigeria. Concerning the splinter groups you are talking about, everybody has freedom of expression, association. You cannot stop people from having

an idea of their own. But all these splinter groups you are talking about, if you ask them, they will say they are members of ACF even if they are pursuing some other interests. We cannot, right from the beginning, when the whistle is blown for politics, to say we are supporting Olalekan. But at the end of the day, we have seen three or four aspirants vying for the presidency, all coming from the North. I think that is where we can now intervene because if we allow them to go the whole hog, we may lose it. So we can say ‘why can’t all of you concede it to one person so that the best among you to go for it and you can’t support him when he gets there’. If all of them vie for the position, there is the danger of losing the office. So what we are saying particularly to the northern delegates is to vote for whoever they consider the best among the aspirants and then the ACF will cast its vote for such candidate. These are some of the roles ACF plays. Others think, right from the beginning, we should align ourselves with a candidate, no, we would rather allow the due process to take its course. The party comes out with their candidates, then we support. I think that is why we have splinter groups and we have been working together.

Only recently, the ACF issued an open letter to Mr President over insurgency in the North, particularly in the North-East, in which we asked all the northern NGOs interested in advocating for a better northern Nigeria to come together and let us face the current issue which is lack of security. All we want is peace, unity and development of northern Nigeria. So it is better we put our hands together and see how best we can achieve this.

Would you say the Federal Government isn’t doing enough regarding the Boko Haram issue in the North -East as some have repeatedly said?

That is what we have been saying. It means you did not read our open letter to the President where we highlighted everything in the North-East and the North generally since 1999, even the attacks on individuals, the taking over of towns and hoisting of Boko Haram flags there. All these were enumerated in our open letter to the President.

What was the response of the President to the letter?

No response yet. I have not been told of any response. I signed the letter with my Secretary-General. All we hear is what you now called the splinter groups, Northern Elders Council responding on behalf of government or something and castigating us saying since I became the Chairman (of ACF) I have been anti-government. I have respect for the government.

It is God who makes people and leadership, whether good or bad.

We respect them, my religion teaches me to do that but it also allows me, including the Constitution, to criticize obvious shortcomings. Since the death of Muhammed Yusuf in 2009, insurgency has been aggravated and there doesn’t seem to be effective response from government. The purpose of

Continues on page 34

PAGE 34—SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

’How Mr President missed being a hero in 2011' Continued from Page 33 government, according to the Constitution, is security and welfare of the people. To that extent, the Constitution provides for social rights, economic rights. It goes further to identify areas of education, health facilities, employment and, of course, fundamental human rights. If you are abused, it is easier to get a lawyer to go to court but the others are not justiciable. In other words you cannot go to court and force that your child be given education.

That was one of our recommendations at the conference that social rights should be justiciable. We have poverty inspite of our wealth, it is so pronounced. Why? We still have, especially in this part of the country, children roaming the streets begging. Should that be in the 21st century? Shouldn’t it be the responsibility of government to provide education for all children in the country irrespective of where they come from, irrespective of where the revenue is coming from? These are some of the things that are pertinent in the development of this country and it has a lot to do with leadership and interest of individuals in government.

The Federal Government said they had reached a truce with Boko Haram only for the group’s head, Shekau, to show up in a video denying anything of such. Is government not taking the country for a ride as some have alleged?

Since insurgency became a threat in this country, people have been talking. There have been discussions on ceasefire, amnesty; there was even a group led by Dr. (Ahmed) Datti in Kano which offered to mediate but the whole thing fell apart.

Why did it fall apart?

I don’t know. There were accusations and counteraccusations on sincerity of purpose on the part of government,. But suddenly we became quiet again. We in the ACF recommended amnesty, because we thought it was a good carrot provided we know who the insurgents are. We even called on the leaders of Boko Haram to come out and told them that government would guarantee their safety. We wanted to talk so that we know what they are after but nothing came out. Then, suddenly, after five years going to six years, we read vaguely that there was a ceasefire. When I was asked about it, what I asked in return was, ‘who was brokering the ceasefire agreement?’ Who was on the side of government? Of course there was a time the Chief of the Defence Staff talked about it which made us to presume that it was true there was ceasefire, but who is talking on behalf of Boko Haram? We learnt two or three times that the leader was killed. But it was either Shekau was dead or later to say he was not. At a point they said the name was just a myth, that whoever assumes

leadership of the sect automatically takes up the name Shekau but it is neither here nor there. Things of international dimension like this, if indeed there was ceasefire, there must be an international person in it.

Who are these people, are they Nigerians? Is it a regional thing that we can easily see ECOWAS in it? Or is it continental that AU is part of? Or even international that UN can be part of? Who is brokering the ceasefire?

The only evidence we saw again was when our President visited President Derby in Niger Republic with somebody accused of connivance with the sect but there was nothing tangible official coming out from government regarding the peace deal; so the insurgency continued ferociously as it were. And, suddenly, Boko Haram came out to say there was nothing of such, that it never had any ceasefire with government. Why are we fooling ourselves? Are we not ridiculing ourselves? So our earlier suspicion is coming out to be correct.

Which is?

That there was no ceasefire in the first place. It was bunkum. Somebody was just trying to bring it out, for whatever reason I don’t know.

But what has Nigerians gained from it?

A prominent son of the North, Junaid Mohammed, said the Federal Government was playing political football with the lives of the Chibok girls. Do you agree?

Of course. I have said it too.

It is in the open letter. But they don’t seem to be doing anything. Should we allow people to be continued to be killed? Seven to nine traditional title holders, emirs and chiefs in the Northeast who abandoned their domains are now hiding somewhere in Abuja. Emir of Gwoza was killed by these people. His successor was pursued, he had to go into hiding. The late emir of Kano was attacked. Shehu of Borno was attacked. Should we continue to watch? Can’t we do something? What are the agencies responsible for internal security doing? What is the government doing?

There is more to it than meets the eye. The whole scenario seems to suggest there is a hidden agenda.

Which is?

I can’t say. I am not in government. All we want is restoration of peace. And elections are coming. Can we hold elections where there is no security? Can we ignore some parts of the country in the elections and think they will be credible? Or is it a ploy so that the elections will not hold and government can continue indefinitely; after all, there is provision in the Constitution to that effect.

There are more questions than answers regarding this insurgency issue. You know

*Commassie ...True Muslims won’t do what Boko Haram is doing

The North is saying it is their own time now for the presidency to shift. We in the ACF want the next President to come from the North

some countries offered to assist us in this matter but nobody knows the outcome.

Have we seen the impact?

Instead we have read reports in the media, saying the visitors were not getting cooperation from Nigerians.

Is that not what happened?

This is what I read in the papers and the reality is that things have not improved.

How true is the claim that the insurgency is a selfinflicted northern problem, after all some northern politicians allegedly said they will make the country ungovernable for the Jonathan administration?

That cannot be because at the time the President took over, the North supported him 100%. He was a Vice President. His President died.

The Constitution says for one reason or another, if the President cannot perform, his vice should take over. You can’t fault that. So the question of a ploy to make the country ungovernable because he is in the saddle is false. I think the question we should ask is why should the North make the country ungovernable? Again, I think at that stage when he completed the first tenure of the Umaru Yar’AduaJonathan ticket, what some stakeholders in the North thought he would do was to step aside and allow another northerner to come and complete the two terms of the presidency, because that was an agreement, whether written or not written, to concede power to the South and, eight years later, the North will also get it.

Obasanjo got it. Umaru later got it but he didn’t finish the eight years; so why not allow him and the North to complete the eight years? If Jonathan had stepped down, he would have become a hero in this country. Again, even in his government, they are saying he agreed to serve for just one term, or you are not aware of it?

Didn’t you read it? Then you are not in this country.

Is that not why the North is perceived to be doing

everything to make his government ungovernable?

But is it true? Who in particular is doing something to make his government impossible? You tell us. There must be an example. These insurgents are killing northerners, Muslims and Christians alike. There are more Muslim victims than Christians.

With the perceived nonchalant attitude of government to ending insurgency, is it still possible for the North to vote for the Jonathan administration in the coming elections?

If you go back to history and use it as a guide, I will say every Nigerian, irrespective of where he comes from, is entitled to contest for the office of the President; it is the electorate that will decide who they want.

The North is saying it is their own time now for the presidency to shift. We in the ACF want the next President to come from the North.

In 2015?

Of course. There is no question about it. And that is because of the arrangement laid down.

You see that happening?

Why not? Once the election is transparent and fair, they allow the electorate to exercise their voting right, it is very possible.

That is what some of the leading politicians are saying, ‘cast your vote and protect it’. Let me tell you. The polling units never favored us because we discovered that the so-called units are more favorable to other states than us even though we are more in number than the South.

How did you arrived at that?

It is the statistics.

Statistics that cannot be substantiated?

Why can’t it be substantiated?

How did they compile the statistics?

Boko Haram is Muslim.

No they are not. They are not true Muslims. True Muslims will not do what Boko Haram is doing. It is unislamic. You can’t be killing people and say you are a Muslim. Nobody has the right to take the life of another except you follow due process such that the person is convicted of a crime that is punishable by death. Under any guise, you have no right to kill a fellow human being. It is totally wrong.

Arms deal issue scandal issue.

There are procedures for everything. There are laws for everything. You needed the cooperation of South Africa agencies involved. You cannot go to the black market to purchase arms just like that.

Before you purchase arms and ammunition, there are some procedures internally in any country. I am telling you this authoritatively. I was an I. G.’s, except for the military, arms and ammunition purchased for agencies in this country are done through the I.G office, because there are documents to be prepared and you don’t take money there, cash and carry, like you go there, pay and take it. I think the issue should be properly investigated. What about the plane, is it not owned by the CAN President? Now it was involved in criminal activities. That should be an exhibit. That is the kind of decadence we are talking about.

For a government to go out to purchase arms in the black market, something is wrong.

What is happening is abnormal.

SUND AY SUNDA

Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 35

2015 BATTLE FOR NIGERIA

APC promoting Buhari’s candidature on faulty calculation

— Okupe, presidential aide *Says Tinubu does not control S/West politics

D

r Doyin Okupe is the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

Okupe, who was a guest at Vanguard corporate headquarters in Lagos, bares his mind on burning national issues including the decision by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to field General Muhammudu Buhari as its presidential standard bearer in 2015.

Excerpts:

By DAPO AKINREFON and CHARLES KUMOLU So, how is the President?

He is hale and hearty.

When is government finding the Chibok girls?

That is a very touchy issue, it is a very lamentable situation and an issue of profound national tragedy. It is not an issue of finding or when are we finding the girls. The media has gotten on the wrong side of it, it is not finding the Chibok girls. The real issue is that we are in a war situation and, at the beginning, I am not sure everybody accepted that situation.

Some people are waging a very serious war against Nigeria, nothing is worse than war. When you are in a war situation, anything happens.

Murder, cold blooded murder, wanton destruction of properties, kidnapping, rape, you can name it. Even the best armies in the world commit such terrible atrocities.

So a war situation is a bad situation, that is why I said that it is not about finding the girls.

When your are a war situation, all the things I have said can happen. The misfortune we have is that we had these girls taken away violently and it is extremely painful. A couple of days ago, I was reading that the American government made three attempts to rescue hostages and all without exception resulted in disaster, fatalities. The hostages were killed, the people that went to

rescue them, some were killed.

That is trying to rescue one hostage.

So, when you have over 200 hostages, it is bad business.

The hostages are not kept in one place, which makes it more profound, so do not let us go into the sentimentality of when government will bring the girls back. We are in a war situation, it is a very dastardly circumstance, but when you are talking of safety of lives, you cannot put tenure to what you must endure, and that is why we must stop counting. It is unnecessary, it does not help us, it does not help the girls. It only encourages the insurgents and I don’t think that is the intention of anybody anywhere.

So, we are in a war situation, the girls are kept as hostages.

The Nigerian Army does not lack the capacity to hit at a camp and destroy it. But then, you will be coming back with body bags of girls. Is that what you want?

If all these months and days, Boko Haram has not killed the girls and there is no information that the girls have been killed, it means there is a reason they are holding them.

We are not going to encourage them or create a situation where the girls are going to be killed.

That is why government took a lot of effort and took the bait when Chad offered an olive branch; unfortunately, nothing came out of it. That shows you that government is caring; this government, even at the risk of

•Okupe its reputation, is willing to do anything possible to release the girls but we are in a war situation.

When did the government realise that we are in a war situation?

We have always known that we are in a war situation.

General Buhari has emerged as the presidential candidate

So, the point I am trying to make is that theoretical calculation may be what has misled them into taking that decision; but it is unfortunate and regrettable and it is a fatal error

of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and PDP stalwarts have been saying they know how to defeat him.

There is also a contrary view that Buhari controls a formidable front. How do you see the Buhari challenge of President Jonathan in two months’ time?

Secondly, how do you react to the statement made by the APC Chairman that the party will form a parallel government if the election is rigged? How does the Presidency see that kind of threat?

The choice of APC or their decision to elect Buhari as their standard bearer, is a fatal error. I have been in this game for nearly 30 years or more. I understand this game of politics very well. Buhari is not a winner, will not win and has never won; and it is for a reason that he has never won.

The question you need to ask yourself and what APC should have asked themselves is that, why Buhari?.

Yes, the calculation that Buhari came with 12 million votes (in 2011) without other platforms; now, if you can deliver the entire of the Southwest, that is another 20 million votes, you add it and he is going to win. Politics is not mathematics. Yes, Buhari may have had 12 million votes in 2011. But the Bola Tinubus of this world, in the course of showing their capabilities, have been bruised, they do not

control the South-west and that is very clear. In actual fact, were it not because they have a lot of money, Buhari should have dumped them long ago because they cannot deliver. At the beginning of this year, maybe the calculation was still clear that they would deliver South-west.

Today, in the South-west, Ondo is not in the basket, Ekiti is not in the basket, Osun is neither here nor there, and I am saying that authoritatively.

PDP gubernatorial candidate Omisore may still be the governor of Osun; but even if he does not become the governor of Osun, we have seen the results of the last gubernatorial election in the state. If that is something to go by, it is topsy turvy.

In Lagos State, just as they (APC) are clamouring for change at the national level, people at the grassroots are saying they are fed up with the nonsensical things that APC has been doing in the state.

So, the point I am trying to make is that theoretical calculation may be what has misled them into taking that decision; but it is unfortunate and regrettable and it is a fatal error.

Buhari, to me, is a non-issue.

Buhari has only two things going for him. He has not improved himself since he left office; he has not added any value, personally to himself or to any political tendencies that he represents. He is a religious

Continues on page 36

PAGE 36—SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

`Nigerians won’t elect sectional president in 2015’ Continued from Page 35 bigot and there is nothing he can do about that. He is not even a nationalist.

Some few days ago, some people came out to say that Buhari is the northern candidate. So, who is the southern candidate? I was telling you that there are two things going for him: one is his purported integrity, the other is his supposed incorruptibility. None of them can stand the test of time and I don’t want to go into details.

If a man says he went to buy a N27m form with a loan from his bank and it was alleged that it was a former governor who wrote a cheque to the party for him to get the form, is that integrity? Why do you need to lie? Buhari is trying to make poverty a virtue, but poverty is not a virtue.

The fact that Buhari has left office for so long and he says he is so poor, is nothing to celebrate; it is indolence and shameful. Is that a role model? Is that who you will want your children to be, a poor man?

Indolence is not something we should celebrate. If a man like Buhari at his age says he is a poor person, that is too bad and it is also a deceit. That is not integrity.

Let me tell that the greatest problem this country has had is the military regime, so the representative of the things that we want to forget is the person you people are bringing back as president and you are saying you want change. Nigeria has not benefited from the past military regimes and one of the principal characters is Buhari. What change can he bring?

On APC’s threat of forming a parallel government That is absolutely irresponsible. There is no basis for it in law. How do you determine an election that is rigged or not rigged.

It is only a court of law that can pronounce that an election was rigged.

Preparing to form a parallel government before an election, should not be taken serious. The person who started the discussion was Amaechi (Rivers State governor) and that should not be taken serious. Amacehi first made that statement and the party adopted it. It is an irresponsible statement.

On the position of the Inspector General of Police on

*Okupe - Buhari is the representative of military regime the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, and Obasanjo’s position that President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration has not performed up to average What I said on Obasanjo’s assessment on Jonathan was that the former president’s position was not true. We published it in the newspapers.

That was all I did because I was employed to correct errors and misconceptions about the Presidency. I said that the statement was not true because it was not supported by facts. I was misunderstood on my position on the Speaker. What I said is that the duty of the police boss is to enforce the law.

We derive the law from our Constitution and the interpretation is done by the courts of law. In Plateau State, the Speaker of the House of Assembly and some people defected to another party and their seats were subsequently declared vacant by the court.

Therefore what I am saying is logical. If you change your party and someone goes to court, that shows that there is a problem. A section of the Constitution says that anybody who changes his party without evidence of crisis in that party, would lose his seat.

The courts have interpreted that law and have maintained the position of the law. The job of the police is to carry out their job to ensure the enforcement of that law. After that judgement, if such thing happens again, the police have the right to ensure that the seat is vacated. Tambuwal has violated the law.

Despite the trillions of Naira that has been invested into the military, hunters are helping them to recapture some lost territories to Boko Haram in the North-east. Also there is no news on the budget and it looks as if the government is preoccupied with politics.

What do you have to say?

The last time the military was kitted was during Shagari’s

era. During the time of Obasanjo, some efforts were made to bring some equipment from China but that did not work. The military deliberately underequipped its people because the military was preoccupied with its own security. It did not want its constituency to create problem. The last major procurement in the army was during Shagari’s era. A large part of the budget so far, is often dedicated to recurrent

Nigeria has not benefited from the past military regimes and one of the principal characters is Buhari. What change can he bring?

expenditure. Majority of the money you see in the budget, is for the upkeep of the personnel. Security agencies were the ones that acquired intelligence gadgets, it was not the military. We had challenges in the military and government is doing its best to overcome these challenges. It is not wholesomely correct to say hunters are leading the fight for the recapturing of lost territories. Majority of the soldiers don’t know the terrain, so the hunters assist them. The needed fire power still comes from the Nigerian Army. I don’t know why it is easier to believe that hunters who are using dane guns and arrows are the ones that are chasing the insurgents away. The military does not intend to take on anybody on this issue.

They are rejigging their arrangement. In the last four weeks, virtually all the places that the insurgents had put their flags, have been taken over by the military. Peace has returned and most of the areas have been recovered from the insurgents.

On the budget There is need to have some level of confidence in the government. There are many things that go on in government that is not available to the public. Oil is our major source of revenue and the prices are fluctuating almost on daily basis. Government can not budget on fluctuating price. It has to come to some reasonable figure which it will base the budget on. These are things that will take time.

We have crisis at hand now and it will be unfair to say government is only concentrating on politics.

On right of first refusal We are politicians and

we want to win elections.

Political parties are not formed for funfair. The majority in the party believe that Jonathan is the man that can win for us. It is our duty to tell the nation why we are backing the man.

We have things that guide what we do and our preoccupation is to win election. And we have no apology for putting forward the best candidate that can win election for us. The two people who picked forms are not the people who can win elections for the PDP. This is an enduring political party that has existed for 16 years with same ideology. The party has a pedigree and track record of wining elections. We don’t have time for charlatans.

When a sitting president anywhere in the world indicates interest in running for second term, the party has the right to sympathize with him.

Don’t you think that the state of Apapa/Oshodi Expressway is in conflict with the achievements that this government is laying claim to? There is also so much problem in the power sector inspite of government reforms to make electricity available to the people.

Apapa Oshodi Expressway is less than 22 kilometres and about 65 percent of the road has been completed.

The challenges being experienced by people now as a result of the ongoing construction is akin to sacrifice. Things will get better. The problem about power is that many things are not fully comprehended by people. Virtually the entire system has become archaic. Even if we were to generate more, we will not transmit effectively, because of distribution and transmission problems.

These problems have bedeviled us for 50 years and no government has attended to them. Now a gentleman has a road map to resolving the problem. It is inconceivable to expect a 50-year-old problem to be solved within four years. In four years, a lot has been achieved. One of the greatest achievements which is unsung, is the privatisation of the PHCN. If it was not privatised, there is no way the problem would have been solved because government does not have the requisite resources to fund it. All over the world, power is mainly distributed by the private sector. We have meticulously done things top ensure that the power sector works. That is why about 20 billion dollars has come into the sector. Now we are generating 4,800 megawatts from the 2,000 that we inherited.

The DISCOs (distribution companies) are doing all they could to ensure that the situation becomes normal.

Government has decided to pay the money that was being owed to the DISCOs. We are not where we were in 2007; we are not where we are supposed to be in 2014, but the advances that have been made in that sector are irreversible.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 37

2015: I am in court to help the PDP – Ajumogobia

H

on. Odein Ajumogobia, a former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and one-time Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Rivers State, emerged as one of the challengers to a former Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, in the race for the PDP ticket to contest the governorship of Rivers State in 2015.

However when it became obvious that the Wike campaign juggernaut hadgenerated overwhelming influence and control of the selection process, Ajumogobia went to court to attempt to halt the process. On the day that Wike was being endorsed in a primary contest that appeared skewed against other aspirants, Ajumogobia was appearing at a High Court in Abuja to seek the interpretation of major issues in the PDP Constitution. The case has been adjourned to be heard on January 15, 2015. Lindsay Barrettsought to know the background and the consequences of this circumstance from Ajumagobia.

What was your objective in going to court? y objective is twofold: firstly it is to seek the court’s interpretation of the power shift/ rotation /zoning articles of the PDP’s governing document - its 2012 Constitution (as amended) and whether these provisions in the party’s constitution, which all aspirants to the office of governor undertook by declaration on oath to abide by, are binding and enforceable amongst members of the PDP, its leadership and organs. This is not academic. It is a fundamental and far reaching legal issue. Directly stemming from the court’s answer to this threshold question is the related question of whether the relevant sections of the PDP Constitution have debarred any person of Ikwerre ethnic nationality from being an aspirant to contest the gubernatorial primary election and/ or a candidate in the general elections in Rivers State, to succeed an incumbent governor also of Ikwerre ethnic nationality, elected on the ticket of the PDP in Rivers State and who would have governed Rivers State for two terms of four years each by May 29, 2015. Secondly, I am challenging the process by which Chief Nyesom Wike emerged as the PDP flag bearer, whether or not the court were to find that he was an eligible contestant for the governorship of Rivers State under the PDP Constitution. This is on the basis that there was no properly authenticated or revalidated register of bona fide

M

members of PDP in Rivers State after the original party register became invalidated following the defection of the incumbent governor and also a large number of erstwhile PDP members to join the main opposition party - APC, because the pre-existingregister then comprised both remaining PDP and the newly admitted APC members. The new register created by the State party executive conveniently omitted my name, which was No. 001 in my original ward register, as I was then a serving Minister when a revalidation of members exercise took place sometime in 2009. The names of at least eleven other aspirants to the office of governor of the state and numerous other PDP members were similarly omitted in the newly created unauthenticated and contrived register of members. Without a valid register of members of PDP in Rivers State, legitimate ward congresses could not have been conducted or legally recognisable delegates selected.

S

ince the PDP in Rivers State claims to have conducted the gubernatorial primary in spite of protests by yourself and several other aspirants what do you intend to do now?

This is why I am in court. The fact that the suit that I filed was pending in court and the PDP, served with all the relevant court processes (including a motion applying to the court for an injunction to restrain the party from seeking to foist its will on the

*Ajumogobia ... PDP Constitution provides for power shift

court, pending the hearing of the case), and that the party was represented in court by a learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria on December 4, 2014, four days before the purported primary election was conducted is significant. Our Supreme Court has consistently ruled that in such circumstances, the court has the power to reverse whatever was done while the matter was already before the court. Indeed the learned judge in my case reminded parties of this hallowed principle that is backed by a long line of eloquent judicial pronouncements.

We, therefore, intend to proceed to present our case at the earliest opportunity afforded us by the court and will await the court’ s judgement on the important

questions that I have placed before it, which fortunately cannot be overreached.

W

ill the adjournment of your case affect the party’s fortunes in the race in any way?

Yes it could. This remains of great concern to me.

We sought an accelerated hearing of our very simple claim which would have been heard on December 8, 2014, but for the multiple applications for joinder by Chief Nyesom Wike and others. To my surprise, accelerated hearing was resisted by the party’s counsel as well as the three other SAN’s appearing for Chief Nyesom Wike and four others who had applied to be and were joined in the case without objection. They

The names of at least eleven other aspirants to the office of governor of the state and numerous other PDP members were similarly omitted in the newly created unauthenticated and contrived register of members.

asserted that there was no urgency. To my astonishment, the learned judge agreed that there was indeed no urgency! This was despite the fact that our case is essentially an election matter and the strict INEC timetable closes the door to substitution of party candidates within a predetermined and specific timeframe. The consequence of the unduly long adjournment to January 15, 2015 on account of the court’s Christmas vacation, commencing on Friday December 12, is the risk that if the court judgement is delivered any time after those strict timelines have expired, it is conceivable that the party may be unable to present a candidate for the election. The APC has made the argument for a riverine candidate a non-issue by selecting one. The challenge and the risk that the APC has presented in choosing Hon. Dakuku Peterside as its flag bearer is this: If riverine Rivers really wants to produce the next governor of the state, and then they will in all probability line up behind Peterside independent of his party affiliation, if Chief Nyesom Wike remains the PDP flag

•Continues on page 38

PAGE 38— SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

2015: I am in court to help the PDP – Ajumogobia •Continued from page 37 bearer. This is likely to substantially diminish the vote for the PDP governorship candidate and the president.

The leadership of the PDP, on the other hand, apparently believes that if it must reclaim Rivers State for the president, as indeed it must - then it must line up behind Wike independent of his ethnicity because of the supposedly significantly higher number of the voting population in the non-riverine parts of the state coupled with his formidable political structure. Therein lay the party’s dilemma but also the fallacy that Nyesom Wike, as a loyal PDP man, will agree to deploy his political structures only for himself as the flag bearer and for nobody else!

Surely that is fallacious. But more to the point, it would become moot if the court were to accept our submission that he is ineligible to contest under the 2012 PDP Constitution (as amended). So, yes, the long adjournment of my case could affect the party’s fortunes in the race.

With the tacit support of the party executive and even that of the president seeming to have been secured by Nyesom Wike, what purpose will be served by your continued challenge?

This case is not only about the governorship election in Rivers State even though that is my current interest and the central focus of my complaint. It is about sustaining our democracy and the rule of law on which it has to be founded. It is indeed primarily about the meaning and efficacy of our party Constitution. It is about my abhorrence of impunity and the negative impact of the absence of the rule of law and transparency on the fortunes of our country. It is a very important challenge which calls into question the credibility of established principles & processes together with the apparent absence of strict adherence to equity, justice and fairness. My dilemma however is that I am a loyal party member and I am therefore at the same time mindful of not pursuing any strategic intent that may adversely affect the fortunes of the party and the president - in Rivers State.

What are the most important issues that should be considered in seeking a solution to the situation created by the perceived hijacking of the process by Chief Nyesom Wike?

As I said to you when you first interviewed me on why I decided to throw my hat into the ring in the Rivers State governorship election, Nyesom Wike as Minister of State for Education was the arrowhead of the campaign to re-establish and reorganise the party in Rivers State following Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s defection to the APC. In openly campaigning to rally party members, long before INEC had sanctioned political campaigns and rallies, Chief Wike had a significant head start on every one of us. No one complained about this because it was ostensibly in defence of and for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Few people however would even remotely have contemplated then, that he would consider the governorship for himself given the geo-politics of Rivers State, and the time honoured zoning policy of the party.

Consequently, a great many of us, PDP members, contributed financially and otherwise to reestablish the PDP in the state under his acknowledged leadership. I personally contributed financially to Grassroots Democratic Initiative (GDI) which was the organisation Chief Wike floated as the vehicle for this very important and most successful campaign. My tacit support of and financial contribution to GDI is perhaps unknown even to Chief Wike himself...

Certainly all,or most, of the aspirants would have done the same and contributed to these efforts which undoubtedly and perhaps inevitably, were justifiably led by Wike as a serving Minister. The success of GDI was thus a collective effort to secure the substantial Rivers State vote for Mr President.

Those efforts would not have been as successful without the active and enthusiastic support of thousands of unnamed prominent and not so visible party men and women.

These are issues that should be considered when elders like Chief Ferdinand Anabraba suggested that Nyesom Wike singlehandedly re-established the PDP in the state and should therefore be ‘rewarded’ with the ticket of the party as the only person that can defeat the APC candidate in the next general election, even in violation of the clear expression of the party Constitution on zoning, power shift and rotation amongst the diverse peoples of Rivers State. It should be considered and recognised that our state is essentially a PDP state.

However on account of the geo politics of the state and the

well-established upland and riverine dichotomy, the party jettisons the policy of power shift and rotation, at great risk to its own fortunes during the coming elections in the state.

What is the most effective way to restore unity to the PDP in Rivers State?

I believe that by reversing the current outcome of the purported primary election, implementing the party’s zoning, power shift and rotation policies and creating a levelplaying field for an eligible aspirant to emerge as the party’s flag bearer, the party would restore unity which is founded on fairness, equity and justice. I am certain that Chief Nyesom Wike, as a senior lawyer himself, recognises this.

He must however be acknowledged and handsomely compensated for a job very well done in being the effective arrowhead of the enormously successful efforts to reposition PDP to retake Brick House from APC in the coming general elections.

Will you continue to participate in party activities in Rivers State if Nyesom Wike indeed becomes the governor?

Rivers state is my state. I love the State and its people. I lived with my maternal grandparentsRev. Canon A. M. Wokoma and Mrs M.A. Wokoma-in Buguma and Abonnema where they were stationed as clergy in the Anglican Communion during my formative years and have always been committed to the development of the state.

However, over 34 years ago, I chose to pursue my professional career in the private sector. Thus

I personally contributed financially to Grassroots Democratic Initiative (GDI) which was the organisation Chief Wike floated as the vehicle for this very important and most successful campaign

*Ajumogobia .. My case is about sustaining rule of law hitherto, other than during my time as Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the state between 2003 and 2007 and as a Minister representing Rivers State between 2007 and 2011, I did not actively participate in party activities. My action in court though clearly aimed at disqualifying Chief Nyesom Wike is not on account of any personal animosity towards him.

On the contrary, I greatly admire his tenacity and his formidable credentials as arguably the most influential politician in the state and an outstandingly effective grassroots mobilizer. I believe that there is mutual respect between us. Indeed I have issued a directive to my supporters to be respectful to all contestants in this race and that I will not tolerate any insults or disrespect towards Chief Wike in particular in the course of this campaign. So I intend to participate in party and political activities in Rivers State towards the development and betterment of the state and its people henceforth, regardless of who emerges as the governor of the state.

What role, if any, would you be willing to perform, and why, if you are asked to help restore the party’s credibility and ascendancy in Rivers State?

I would be willing to perform any role that is commensurate with my experience and standing. I believe that the state can do much better than it has done so far but it will take all hands to be on deck. Mine will

always be available. But at this time I seek to lead the effort to transform Rivers State as governor of the state.

The opposition party has appealed to disgruntled PDP members to join its ranks; will you consider this an option for yourself?

That is a highly unlikely option. I have a tendency towards brand loyalty! The PDP brand is solid and powerful. In spite of its real and perceived flaws, our party continues to evolve - developing, maturing and regenerating itself. I am indeed in this race to try and improve the PDP brand in Rivers State. But much in future depends on what the Courts will say about the meaning of our Constitution. I have to say that I would be a most reluctant member of a political party which endorses or entrenches ethnic dominance in the governance of my State or the country, especially in violation of the pronouncement of the Courts.

What is your message for the people of the state under the present circumstances?

I would ask them to remain stoic, patient and calm and let the judiciary perform the crucial role that was assigned to it in s.

6 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, in the case of H. Odein Ajumogobia v Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Nyesom Wike & others, and accept the ultimate outcome in good faith. I certainly will.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014-,PAGE 39 sam.eyoboka@gmail.com

08023145567 (sms only)

YULETIDE:

What's the significance of Boxing Day? By

I

SAM

EYOBOKA

T'S barely 96 hours to Christmas, the annual controversial festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed generally on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world. A feast central to the Christian liturgical year, it closes the Advent season and initiates the 12 days of Christmastide, which ends after the twelfth night.

Advent is a season observed in many Western Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. The term is an anglicized version of the Latin word adventus, meaning "coming".

Christmas is a public holiday in many of the world's nations, is celebrated culturally by a large number of nonChristians and is an integral part of the Christmas and holiday season. While the birth year of Jesus is estimated among modern historians to have been between 7 and 2 BC, the exact month and day of his birth are unknown, and are not the focus of the Church's Christmas celebration.

The celebratory customs associated in various countries with Christmas have a mix of pre-Christian, Christian, and secular themes and origins.

Popular modern customs of the feast include gift giving, completing an Advent calendar or Advent wreath, Christmas music and caroling, an exchange of Christmas cards, church services, a special meal, and the display of various Christmas decorations, including Christmas trees, Christmas lights, nativity scenes, garlands, wreaths, mistletoe, and holly.

In addition, several closely related and often interchangeable figures, known as Santa Claus, Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas, and Christkind, are

associated with bringing gifts to children during the Christmas season and have their own body of traditions and lore.

Because gift-giving and many other aspects of the Christmas festival involve heightened economic activity, the holiday has become a significant event and a key sales period for retailers and businesses. The economic impact of Christmas is a factor that has grown steadily over the past few centuries in many regions of the world.

Boxing Day, another holiday traditionally celebrated the day following Christmas, is when servants and tradespeople would receive gifts, known as a "Christmas box", from their bosses or employers, in the United Kingdom, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Kenya, South Africa, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and other Commonwealth nations, as well as Norway, the Netherlands and Sweden.

Today, Boxing Day is the bank holiday that generally takes place on December 26. In South Africa, Boxing Day was renamed Day of Goodwill in 1994.

Due to the Roman Catholic Church's liturgical calendar, the day is known as St. Stephen's Day to Catholics, and in Italy, Finland, and Alsace and Moselle in France.

It is also known as both St. Stephen's Day and the Day of the Wren or Wren's Day in the Republic of Ireland.

In many European countries, including notably Germany, Poland, the Netherlands and those in Scandinavia, 26 December is celebrated as the Second Christmas Day. Origins The exact etymology of the term "boxing day" is unclear. There are several competing theories, none of which is definitive. The European tradition, which has long included giving money and other gifts to those

I began to understand that it is a day where many things that went from Christmas day to the next day, you package. It’s a day of boxing things and giving to the less privileged who were needy and in service positions, has been dated to the Middle Ages, but the exact origin is unknown. It is believed to be in reference to the Alms Box placed in places of worship to collect donations to the poor.

Also, it may come from a custom in the late Roman/early Christian era, wherein metal boxes placed outside churches were used to collect special offerings tied to the Feast of Saint Stephen, which in the Western Church falls on the same day as Boxing Day. In Britain, it was a custom for tradespeople to collect "Christmas boxes" of money or presents on the first weekday after Christmas as thanks for good service throughout the year.

This is mentioned in Samuel Pepys' diary entry for 19 December 1663. This custom is linked to an older English tradition: since they would have to wait on their masters on Christmas Day, the servants of the wealthy were allowed the next day to visit their families. The employers would give each servant a box to take home containing gifts and bonuses, and maybe

sometimes leftover food.

It is in the Boxing Day spirit that the Word of Life Bible Church had set aside Boxing Day as a moment to reach out to the poor in the society. In the last eight years, the Warri-based church had given out several items including brand new cars, tricycles, motorcycles, sewing machines, grinding machines as well as phones complete with umbrellas.

From 2006 till date, the Word of Life Bible Church in conjunction with Eagle Flight Micro Finance Bank holds a poverty alleviation programme on December 26 of every year. At inception, the visioner, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor gave out one car and several motor bikes, grinding machines and sewing machines. But in the last three years, he stopped giving motor bikes but tricycles, brand new cars, grinding machines to the needy, irrespective of your tribe, religion or denomination, just to help the poor have a source of living.

So far, the Boxing Day programme has given out 350 motor bikes, 70 tri-cycles, 800 grinding machines, 15 brand new

cars and 600 sewing machines.

In a recent interview with the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor on the essense of Boxing Day, this s what he said: "December 26 of every year is an incredible day for me here. You know, I did not fully understand the meaning of the word ‘Boxing Day’. I didnt attach much importance to it but then, I began to understand that it is a day where many things that went from Christmas day to the next day, you package.

It’s a day of boxing things and giving to the less privileged. So we do that here every December 26; we give out cars, tricycles and all stuff like that. It gives me joy to do so every year.

Continuing, he said: "That is my life. The major thing that gives me joy in life is to give joy to other people.

When I have any opportunity to do that, I jump at it because it does something to me.

I feel fulfilled, I feel… yes, I’m a Christian, I’m going to heaven, I’m spiritual but I feel like a human being when I touch other

people. It reminds me of my own humanity; it reminds me that if not for God, I would not have been who I am and where I am today.

I can’t afford to lose that. So it’s a way of life for me.

"You saw a woman giving testimony during the service; she was just giving a testimony and she said she had stopp-ed doing business. I wasn’t even thinking, but, to me, I said: ‘my goodness, this thing stopped her from business, obviously stopped her from a livelihood.’ It just occurred to me there ‘ why don’t just help her? She’s healed, she’s happy but why not just take it a step further and help her to have a livelihood?’

"Now you could see her reaction when she was given the money to restart her business?

That gives me fulfillment.

"So, it is a way of life for me. I believe if Nigerians can… Look, I am a pastor, and how much do I have? What can I do? Just very little. But there are big, big businessmen, big companies… Look, if we all try to do a little, believe me, yes, govern-ment should do this, government should do that, everybody seem to berate the government and I am saying that too, yes, government should, but they can’t do everything.

"We can all do something. If I do a little thing and somebody else does, everybody else does, you will be surprised how many people we can take out of poverty, how many people we can actually put on their feet, they can stand on their own, fend for themselves and have a life. It will change this country, it will change Nigeria."

*SUPPORT THE PERSECUTED CHISTIANS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

PAGE 40—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

ADEBOYE'S VISIT TO VANGUARD:

Thrills, fun of the traffic snarl

By Bose Adelaja & Olayinka Latona ''WHAT is the essence of the Vanguard report of Tuesday, December 16, 2014 which assured of free-flow of traffic on Oshodi/Apapa expressway today?'' Alhaji Aborishade Akeem soliloquised last Thursday. is expectation was to arrive Tin Can Port as early as 8.00 a.m. to obtain a vital document sent by his uncle residing overseas but that was far from his expectation as he was among many others held up in the gridlock at Second Rainbow Bus Stop around 10.00 a.m.

As a result of the gridlock, he could not meet up with the appointment as his uncle called that he had another appointment at Epe area of Lagos.

Alhaji Aborishade was not the only one in similar dilemma as many members of the Vanguard Media Limited family suffered the same fate on Thursday December 18 when the Oshodi-Apapa gridlock was on stand still for hours. While some pointed accusing fingers on the slow pace of work on the road by construction giant, Julius Berger as well as traffic managers, others blamed the Petroleum Tanker Drivers who formed the bulk of vehicles snaking their way to the tank farms on the stretch ostensibly to load petroleum products.

Peoples' expectations were high and plans were in top gear for the end-of-the-year mid-morning praise/ thanksgiving service billed for Vanguard Media Limited that day featuring the much sought-after man of God and General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye amongst others.

The Nigeria Police, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, and Lagos State Transport Management Authority, LASTMA, had earlier pledged to ensure free-flow of traffic on the road. True to their words, as early as 7.00 a.m. the security/traffic management outfits had deployed

H

,

I could imagine you going through this traffic situation everyday.

Definitely you need prayers and I will increase my prayers for you

,

*After several hours on the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Pastor Enoch Adeboye finally makes the turn into Vanguard premises.

*From left Pastor Brown Oyitso, Mr. Mideno Bayagbon, Editor Vanguard Newspaper and Mr. Sam Eyoboka, Religion Editor at the 2014 Vanguard Media Christian Fellowship end-of-theyear on Thursday at Vanguard premises in Apapa.

PHOTO: KEHINDE GBADAMOSI operatives to manage the situation.

Slow pace of construction work on the road was a major source of concern to road users but the construction company had the previous day assured organisers of the programme of maximum cooperation, promising to remove all barricades on the road on Thursday morning. In To avoid hitches some senior members of the Fellowship stayed back in the office especially as the musical equipment and canopies were yet to arrive. All through the night they were monitoring and keeping tab on the various persons who were trapped in the traffic.

The gridlock had stretched from Second Rainbow to Coconut such that commuters either trekked long distances or decided to risk their lives by climbing banned okada on the expressway to arrive their various destinations. The man of God was not spared; as he spent over three hours between Second Rainbow and Vanguard premises.

Sharing his experience on the road, the ultra-busy Pastor Adeboye who had just concluded the Holy Ghost Congress, said he honoured the invitation due to his respect for Vanguard.

“I am here today because of the respect I have for Vanguard. I am supposed to rest after the congress. I could imagine you going through this traffic situation everyday.

Definitely you need prayers and I will increase my prayers for you. I appreciate the publisher, editors and all staff

of Vanguard Media Limited.

I thank the Almighty God for Vanguard...I pray there will be mighty testimonies next time we will be coming to this organisation.”

Asked to comment on the development, Religion Editor of Vanguard, Sam Eyoboka said the management of the organisation had made frantic efforts to ensure free flow of traffic on the day but it turned out to be a day that everything simply refused to cooperate.

"We got the assurances from LASTMA, Police, FRSC and the construction giant, Julius Berger but the operatives may have been overwhelmed.

They were on ground very earlier in the morning as promised but the situation was

*Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, General Overseer, RCCG on his knees praying during end-of-the-year thanksgiving service at Vanguard premises, Apapa.

PHOTO: AKEEM SALAU overwhelming, the intervention came to late, too little and was beyond control.

Daddy G.O., a sticker to time, was held up for three hours.'

"Did you also noticed that the equipment whih spent the entire night on the road also malfunctioned during Daddy's ministration; that he had move away from the pulpit, to the centre of the congregation?"

Mr. Eyoboka lamented, using the occasion to apologise to respected spiritual leader for the multiple embarrassment.

On its part, Petroleum Tanker Drivers, PTD, exonerated itself from blame, saying the gridlock was caused by Yuletide rush.

According to its Lagos State Public Relations Officer, Mr. Tayo Aboyeji, ''we put up various measures to ease the gridlock but all tankers in Nigeria came to lift fuel today as a result of Christmas rush.

As a matter of fact, containers blocked the access road and the tankers were seriously affected by the gridlock.''

Efforts to reach LASTMA Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Bola Ajao proved abortive as she did not respond to her calls.

A Vanguard staff, Barrister Donald Iyashere said, like many other members of staff, he arrived the premises on a motorcycle to avoid lateness. ''I joineda motorcycle from Second Rainbow to beat the gridlock, if not, I would have been trapped for hours," he noted.

'To Mr. Sunday Collins, the gridlock was something he never envisaged. ''My resumption time is 4.00 p.m. but I resumed around 12.00 p.m. to catch up with the programme. The gridlock was severe and I had to join a motorcycle.''

ATT: A life-saving Christmas gift

T

HE world is giving itself a kind of Christmas gift this year, a serious gift and one that is long-overdue.

On December 24, an international law to regulate the global trade in armaments and ammunition, the newly ratif-ied Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), enters into force.

Along with civil society groups and governments in every region of the world, World Council of Churches (WCC) member churches and partners in some 50 countries campaigned and lobbied for an ATT that would help save lives and protect communities at risk because lethal weap-ons can be traded with few re-strictions.

“Christmas is a season of gi-

ving. This new treaty gives states and societies a new in-strument to protect human lives and human dignity, which are among God’s great gifts to all people,” Rev. (Dr.) Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary of the WCC said of the ATT’s entry into force.

“Our prayer and expectation is that the ATT must become a treaty that no government and no arms dealer can ignore. The news reminds us almost daily of how many people need protection from armed violence, and it often involves illicit arms,” Tveit said.

The ATT sets new binding standards for the worldwide trade in arms, which is valued at nearly $100 billion per year.

Depending on how it is implemented, the ATT will save

some of the 1,000 lives and more which are lost each day to armed violence, for example, in deaths and injur-ies related to human rights abuse, repressive regimes and organized crime.

Reflecting church experien-ce in conflict-torn countries, the WCC-led AT T campaign concentrated on the criteria that the treaty sets for arms trading.

The result is that the treaty denies arms transfers where there is a serious risk of war crimes or widespread human rights violations or endemic genderbased armed violence. The WCC also back-ed the relatively successful demand that the ATT must cover all types of arms and ammunition.

Continued of Page 41

*SUPPORT THE PERSECUTED CHISTIANS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014-,PAGE 41

KARIS AWARD: Orji, Irukwu hail Okotie on Chibok girls

Presentation of Mrs. Ibeneme's post-humous Karis Award 2014 to her brother, Mr. Okebugwu. female police woman with enlistment Number 001, who rose from the rank of cadet to Woman Police Inspector. Mrs. Ibeneme passed on in 2007.

Being a post-humous award, it was received by her brother, Mr. Okebugwu.

As is customary, four charities namely; The Pacelli School for the Blind and Partially Sighted, The Spinal Cord Injuries Association of Nigeria,SCIAN, The Strong Tower Mission and The Sunshine Foundation were also recipients of cash awards. They were given cash donations of N1 million each to support their work.

In attendance at the event, amongst others, were last year ’s awardee, the first onestar general in the Nigerian Air force, Air Commordore Habiba Ruth Garba (Rtd), the families of previous awardees like Hajia Sawaba Gambo, Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi, Mallam Aminu Kano and Prof. Ishaya Audu etc.

Other major highlights include the selection of the church’s ambassador via the

prestigious Queen Esther costume pageant, which is a parade of some female members of the church clad in novelle costumes reminiscent of female biblical characters.

In the pageant, judges select a Queen, who becomes the face for the church’s benevolent activities for one year. The Queen Esther 2014 pageant was won by Michelle Isikalu who adopted the character of Jezebel, the notorious wife of King Ahab.

She beat 16 others to win the coveted crown and walked away with a cash prize of N1 million. She was crowned by the last Queen Esther, Becky Oyibo and the Centenary Queen, Amara Chantel Mba. The Centenary Queen was a pageant organized by the Federal Government to celebrate the country’s centenary.

The church presented her with a brand new Hyundai Elantra because of the failure of the Federal Government to redeem its pledge to give a car to the Centenary Pageant winner, who happens to be a member of Household of God.

Ikuforiji enjoins Christians to pray for betterment of Lagos

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By Bose Adelaja

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BIA State governor, Chief Theodore Orji and renowned legal luminary, educationist, author and former president of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Prof. Jo Ogbonnaya Irukwu last Sunday congratulated Rev. Chris Okotie and members of the Household of God Ministries for G.R.A.C.E. 2014 describing the programme as a brilliant concept.

Gov. Orji, Special Guest of Honour at the event, speaking in the lighter mood described Rev. Okotie as a visionary and perfectionist.

Prof. Irukwu, chairman, said this was the happiest event he had attended this year, and it was a departure from the current despondent mood of the nation, urging Rev. Okotie to keep up the work.

The church’s annual G.R.A.C.E event gives back to the society, and the Karis Award honours a Nigerian (living or dead) whose distinguished service to the nation has been un-heralded.

Last Sunday was the 24th anniversary of the G.R.A.C.E event and the 18th anniversary of the Karis Award of the church.

The flamboyant pastorpolitician, Rev. Okotie, celebrated the popular charity outreach programme this year, to remind us of the plight of the Chibok girls who have been in captivity for over 200 days.

Midway into the event, the lights of the auditorium were turned off, and hundreds of battery-powered lanterns were lit-up by the attendees as symbolic lights to search for the missing girls.

This year’s Karis Award went to late Mrs. Beatrice Ibeneme (nee Okebugwu), the first

Expect a better Nigeria, says Lagos Archbishop

PEAKER, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, during the annu al thanksgiving service of the House, enjoined Lagosians, especially Christians to continue praying for the betterment of the state, reports EBUN SESSOU. With the theme, “Greater Heights”, Ikuforiji stated that he was never tired of bringing positive change to the state through his legislative position and enjoined all to appreciate God for His mercies and protection over the years.

He recalled how he was discharged and acquitted by a Federal High Court over allegations of corruption by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), stating that it has been a challenging period for him and his family.

According to him, "God gave us this vision 12 years ago and it is our way of giving thanks to God. It started in 2003 with Pastor J.T. Kalejaiye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and its has entered its 12th year," he said.

The Speaker pledged his determination to take Lagos State House of Assembly to greater heights, noting "we are leaving behind well trained staffers and lawmakers. We now have the state assembly service commission with state of the art facilities and proper method of accounting."

While promising that the House will continue to go higher, he said the new blocks of building under construction would be inaugurated before the end of the 7th assembly in May 2015.

"We will continue to set the pace for other state houses of assembly," he said.

Quoting copiously from the Bible, especially Psalms 71:21 and 66:12, the Speaker and his wife, Mayowa sang praises to God and danced heartily with other lawmakers in attendance.

Guest speaker at the service was Bishop Francis Wale Oke of Sword of The Spirit Ministry, Ibadan, while sensational gospel artiste, Evangelist Tope Alabi was on the bandstand.

ESPITE the security challenges currently facing the nation, the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Adewale Martins, has expressed hope for a better Nigeria, stating that the difficult times will soon fade away because God is on the side of the nation.

The special guest at The Catholic Church of Assumption, Falomo, Lagos-venue of the 2014 Christmas dinner with the archbishop, packaged by the Directorate of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, also called on those in authority to cater for the well being of the nation.

Lamenting the increasing rate of poverty in Nigeria, Archbishop Martins called on political leaders to remember the poor just as he blamed their condition on unemployment in the country.

"This is an opportunity to tell those who have the opportunity to take care of our nation to do so as a matter of urgency because there is so much poverty in the country caused by joblessness," Martins said, adding that the programme was one of the activities of the Social Communications department to appreciate those who have contributed to the department as well as setting people on Christmas mood.

In his words, "this is a very difficult time in Nigeria, especially in terms of insecurity,

economic and regional welfare of people. Nigerians should not lose hope knowing that all these will pass away by the grace of God." The cleric also called on political leaders to use their offices in the right direction, “life is not all about politics but doing good to others and never expecting returns, rather, they should continue to make efforts to ensure that people get the benefits of good leadership."

Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of Social Communications, Msgr Gabriel Osu, said the event was packaged to thank God for His mercy over the church and to create time to unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday living.

"It is a known fact that many of us in this part of the world hardly find time to relax. Tonight offers a unique opportunity for us to get to know one another better in a very conducive atmosphere and to savour the joy and merriment that comes with the Yuletide," he noted.

The unveiled a CD from the last edition of the Lagos Archdiocesan Cultural and Drama Festival LACDRAFEST, where young talents of the church were discovered.

Osu hailed the efforts of the directorate towards building a viable entertainment culture for the Catholic Church through LACDRAFEST, which would thereafter be on sale at the various parishes in the Archdiocese and beyond.

ATT: A life-saving Christmas gift Continued from Page 40 Church advocates had a hand in securing the ratificat-ions, which are bringing the ATT into force in record time since it was signed in 2013, after nearly 10 years of pre-paratory talks and negotiat-ions.

To date, 60 states have ratif-ied the ATT, including large arms exporters like Germany, France

and the UK. One hundred and twenty-five states have signed the treaty, including the US, the world’s largest arms exporter.

One hundred and fifty-six states voted for the treaty.

States that abstained, including Russia, China and India, will come under pre-ssure to live up to the new common standards that the ATT finally sets.

L-R: Grace Irantiola, daughter; Rev. J.A. Okesiji and his wife, Sarah, at the 50th ordination anniversary thanksgiving of Rev. Okesiji held at First Baptist Church, Isokun, Oyo, where he was ordained in 1964.

Dividends of democracy: Akpobi assures Ethiope East

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chieftain and aspirant of the Labour Par ty, LP, Mr. Nyore Akpobi, has promised the people of Ethiope East local government area of Delta State, dividends of democracy if he elected as member representing the area at the Delta State House of Assembly.

Akpobi who was speaking to newsmen recently in Ovu, Ethiope East, said that his de-

sire to contest came from the fact that those that have represented the local government in the past have not given the people full representation, adding that his coming will change a lot of things in the area.

While assuring the people of

better things ahead, he said he will introduce policies that will affect the people positively, explaining that consistent meetings with the people at the grassroots will give room to knowing what is their feelings and their needs from time to time.

*SUPPORT THE PERSECUTED CHISTIANS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

PAGE 42—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

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ing bangers and fireworks; and sitting down to a sumptuous meal at lavish family dinner parties. It is the time when we go to church in our latest designer clothes and when we go back home to the village to declare a surplus and make a big impression.

It means if we don’t have any money, Christmas is a time of glum and gloom. At Christmas time, we are now forced to take stock of our financial situation and determine our life by what we have made in the preceding 12 months. This is contrary to the doctrine of Christ who says: “A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

(Luke 12:15). If we are short of cash, Christmas becomes a dry season which brings few tidings of comfort and joy.

First Christmas But in the beginning it was not so. In the beginning, Christmas was celebrated in a manger and not in a palace. The sign the angels gave for identifying the Messiah was not silks and satin, but swaddling clothes. Mary and Joseph were so poor; they could not even afford a lamb for the sacrifice on behalf of their new child,

TWOREM set for Christian festival

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HE Way of Reconciliation Evangelistic Ministries (TWOREM) a.k.a. Prophetic & Solution chapel, Lagos is set to hold its annual interdenominational last seven days end-of-the-year gathering of faithful members all over the world, of prophetic declarations and reformation programme of praises, preaching and prayer, from December 25 to December 31, 2014 by 10.00 p.m every night.

A statement from the convener/chief host, Rev. Oladipupo Funmilade-Joel (Baba Sekunderin) said the programme with the theme; “Manifestation of son of God” holds at the church headquarters, Sekunderin Miracle Prayer Mountain, Iyana Agbala Tuntun, Ibadan.

Ministering is Prophet Oladipupo Funmilade-Joel, other anointed men of God and seasoned gospel artistes like Evangelists Toyin Ilori, Timi Oshunkoya, Joy Oluwashina Osuba, Bukola Akinade and TWOREM Ibadan & Lagos Mass choirs.

according to the Law of Moses.

(Leviticus 12:8). Therefore, they had to make do with turtledoves and pigeons. (Luke 2:24).

At the first Christmas, the shepherds brought no gifts. There is actually no biblical record of three kings of the Orient. The bible does not say there were only three wise men; neither does it say they were kings. When they came from the east to Jerusalem, they did not come at Christmas. They came some two years after Jesus was born. (Matthew 2:16). The bible confirms that Jesus was then a young child and not a baby. (Matthew 2:11). Neither did they come bearing gifts for Mary and Joseph; they only brought gifts for the young Jesus.

The message of the birth of Christ was first brought to lowly shepherds, sleeping out of doors.

The angel said to them: “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11). However, Christmas is no longer good news for all people. It is now essentially good news for the rich.

Mercantile Christmas

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OUSING the palpable anxiety that has enveloped the Nigerian political horizon, the General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, Pastor Lazarus Muoka has assured Nigerians that God is set to work for the righteous.

Speaking at the last combined open meeting of the church through his spokesman, Pastor Chidi Louis, the man of God said iniquity has become fashionable so much that a holy walk is now regarded as a contemptible Puritanism while vice is now styled pleasure.

He said that the saints are now yearning for the presence and power of their God. In this generation particularly in this part of the world, men are making void the law of God by denying it by promulgating contrary commands and doctrines and by setting up tradition in its place, and disregarding and scorning the authority of the God. Pastor Muoka said the time has come when God would deliver His people because man’s extremity, whether of

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Christmas is now a time of high commerce. It is the time to spend and spend, and also to sell and sell. Printers make brisk business selling greeting cards. Toy-makers have a field day. Others make a fortune selling Christmas lights and decorations. If our house is not lit up, we feel left out.

Clothes sellers raise their prices.

Tailors smile all the way to the bank. Rice, turkeys and chickens flood the market. Mountains of flour disappear in ovens as we bake and consume cakes and puddings. Musicians release new songs, eager to capitalise on the lucrative Christmas market.

Policemen mount roadblocks to collect offerings. Kidnappers collect tithes. Armed robbers collect first-fruits. Booze is consumed to drunkenness. Illicit sexual dalliances gather pace. Road accidents reach new peak. The season is crowned with human sacrifices in pagan shrines. Where exactly is Christ now in all this?

Christmas roadblocks I was once stopped at a checkpoint around Christmas-time in Lagos. The policeman was pleased to find a video camera in my boot.

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"Emmanuel: God with us."

Dr. Sunday Oladejo, the church pastor says the annual programme is aimed at celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Christians are now a motley group of very strange bedfellows.

We are those who go to church on Sundays but also beat our wives on Mondays. We are those who go to prayer-meetings but also go to cult meetings. Today, virtually anybody can claim to be a Christian, and all of us celebrate Christmas.

But who exactly is a Christian when liars, cheats, fornicators, armed robbers and “pen-robbers” all claim to be Christians? What happens when extortionists “hark the herald angels sing;” adulterers come with “all ye faithful,” and fraudsters proclaim the “tidings of comfort and joy?”

Jesus warns: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21).

It's time for God to work, says Muoka need or sin, is God’s opportunity for intervention.

Continuing, Muoka said when the earth was without form and void, God sent His Spirit to move upon the face of the waters, asking should He not come when society is returning to a chaotic state?

Drawing inspiration from the Scripture, the man of God said when Israel was in Egypt and was reduced to the lowest point, it appeared that God was no longer ready to deliver them, then Moses appeared and wrought mighty miracles.

So, too, when the people of the world begin to extremely oppress the Children of God and deride the word of God, then the righteous will expect to see the hand of the Lord stretched out for the revival of their faith, defending the truth, and glorifying His divine name.

Pastor Muoka assured that God will this time deliver us from the clutches of wicked politicians, stressing that

Triumphant Baptist Church holds Messiah banquet RIUMPHANT Baptist Church, Holy Ghost Compound, Akowonjo will today hold its annual Messiah's banquet programme with the theme;

Christian fraudsters

It is also an avenue for the church to reach out to people in the society.

Rev. Timothy Jokotoye, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Ikotun will minister.

those that make void His law, God is set to confront them.

According to him, the church will raise fervent prayers against the politicians that do not have the fear of God in their forthcoming Christmas crusade entitled, ‘Is is time for God to work.'

He maintained that it's time for God "to do something to confound the wicked people, who have continuously trampled on the grace of God and silence those that set their mouth against His Church. It is not going to be easy for the wicked again.” The crusade holds on December 25 and 26.

CH R IS TM A S

Christmas is no longer about the birth of Christ. Jesus warns that the thief has come to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10).

Make no mistake about it, he has already stolen Christmas.

Many of the things now associated with Christmas have nothing to do with Jesus Christ or with Christianity. Indeed, there is no mention of the celebration of Christmas in the book of Acts.

The Christmas tree is a remnant of old Teutonic nature worship.

The giving of presents is a Roman and not a Christian practice.

Santa Claus or Father Christmas is more occultist than scriptural.

He is more in keeping with the witches and wizards of the books of J.K. Rowling than with the word of God. The God of the bible is definitely not a Father Christmas.

Christmas is now about glittering street and home decorations; giving and receiving presents; getting a new set of clothes; shoot-

What happens when extortionists “hark the herald angels sing;” adulterers come with “all ye faithful,” and fraudsters proclaim the “tidings of comfort and joy?”

“Where,” he asked, “is the receipt for this? How do I know it is not stolen?”

I stood there by the roadside not knowing exactly what to do. The policeman left to confer with his colleagues. After a while, another policeman came to see me. “Why are you wasting so much time?” he demanded. “I am sure you know what you have to do.”

“What do I have to do?” I asked sheepishly. The man was blunt and to the point. “You have to give us some money,” he said. “I’m afraid I cannot do that,” I replied. “Why not?” asked the policeman, somewhat taken aback. “You see,” I appealed to him, “I happen to be a Christian.”

The policeman burst out laughing. “My oga must hear this,” he said; hurrying away. Soon, the man who had earlier interrogated me returned. “What did you say to the officer?” he asked, frowning.

“Please sir, don’t be offended,” I pleaded. “I told him I am a Christian, so I cannot pay any bribe.”

“I am a Christian too,” said the officer unabashedly. “What has that got to do with it?”

M ER R Y

Counterfeit Christmas

CHRISTMAS WITHOUT JESUS CHRIST

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AVE you noticed that under certain circum stances it is necessary to be a Christian? Many people may not go to church all year but on Christmas day we feel the need to do so. We might not have gone to church for five years, but when we want to get married we feel it is necessary to do so in a church.

We may not have been going to church at all but now that we have a baby, we need a pastor to officiate at the naming ceremony and baptise the baby.

The church has become a commercial concern. When we have just bought a car, built a house or started a business, it is time to look for a pastor to bless it. When we have a naming ceremony, wedding or burial, it is time to rent a church to conduct the proceedings. For the price of a hefty offering, churches are open for business.

*SUPPORT THE PERSECUTED CHISTIANS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 43

Jonathan versus Buhari: A clear choice

2015: Nigerians should decide “You can fool some of the people all of the time,and all of the people some of the time,but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time”Abraham Lincoln e live in trying times and the coming year will test the resolve of most Nigerians. The choice would not be anyone’s liking but the situation is strongly driven by politicians and other stakeholders. The only constitutional obligation is vote with one’s conscience.

Last week’s primaries set the tempo for the political landscape of next year ’s election. The dust has hardly settled and people are pitching their tents to their favourite and choosing camps of whom they think should head Nigeria. So which way for ordinary Nigerians? What do people want if they put aside tribal, religious and political affiliations? What will become of our country and would we put nationhood first or revert to kinship and religion? If anyone dare think they can call it then they are more deluded than thought. Only time will tell and I do hope that people will show

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restraint and not create mayhem. Personally, I wouldn’t hold my breath as the Boat of restraint has sailed a long time ago especially when it comes to common sense and decency. The emotions, pride and dogged single mindedness has stopped people from making rational choices. For those with emperor complex only their way will do or not at all. Their delusion of grandeur has got in the way of compassion for fellow Nigerians. Somehow for the love of our nationhood, I sincerely hope majority of people will show restraint.

Only time will tell. We have neglected to build and are so hell bent on destroying what makes Nigeria unique: its diversity. I do understand the fear and trepidation that people have about the future. The choice of GEJ or GMB is terrifying. Soyinka this week sounded cautious and I do believe he is alluding to the fact that GMB was a military man and a Muslim. He vehemently does not endorse his candidacy.

Wole Soyinka said of the APC choice as “This is no time to go back to the

deserve.

By contrast, we now have a challenger, who was a former Minister for Petroleum Resources (he leased no jets) and a former Head of State (no Presidential Airways then). Yet, he could state, without fear of contradiction as follows: “While others who have

The fact that, today, the failure of a country which was more advanced than South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand, among others, in 1965, is unanimously attributed to the lack of purposeful leadership is an indictment of the leaders as well as the followers

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occupied those same positions have grown mysteriously rich, I still live on my army pension.

I own no foreign bank accounts, I own no companies profiting from government contracts.”

To me the difference is

states, formerly considered safe for his re-election bid, and handed them to the opposition. Akwa Ibom State is one of them.

For several months, I had warned the President that his second

military mafia and go back to our vomit” For those old enough to know, life under the military was driven and dictated by the Military. We had order but we’re restricted when it came to freedom of speech and expression. So far as we know, this is a different time and a different situation.

He is of the opinion that with GMB it is a step back in the wrong direction and he goes as far pitch his support with GEJ. Would there be unrest or we are going to return to the bad old days? Soyinka thinks so.

He argues that: “the scroll of faith becomes indistinguishable from the roll call of death and he warns that even moderate religious leaders may be “ vicariously liable” for sectarian violence in case they fail unequivocally to condemn it. He makes a lot sense to heed his observations that “the conflict between humanists and religionists had always been one between the touch of enlightenment and chains of enslavement” The invisible line has been crossed many times over the years by many. We have witnessed how it has turned our people against each other and they have become detached as wickedness ensues. We see this up and down the country. People try to justify their brand of cruelty and barbarity and no matter what, even when they hide behind be it religion, tribe or political party, these people are psychopaths and beastly. Terror has no religion or tribe. They have crossed the lines and

they are no longer rational and reasonable human beings. This sadly, is what is faced daily in Nigeria. If people tolerate violence regardless whether it was done to them or others, it is not acceptable and it should be repudiated strongly. People have tolerated such pernicious behaviours and crimes that they have become desensitised and the daily horrors no longer shock people, they simply shrug it off. Soyinka is right when he said of the terror “the chains are not merely visible, but cruelly palpable. All too often they lead directly to the gallows,

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Infrastructure”, fellow Nigerians had been involved in the deals.

Nobody alone can impose himself on a nation of 170 million people. As Joseph de Maistre, 1751-1820, in VBQ p. 80, has warned us, “Every country has the government it deserves.”

So if Nigeria, a potentially rich, but, actually poor country, has a government in which a Minister can purchase two bullet-proof cars, at inflated prices, that is what we deserve. If another Minister can spend billions of naira leasing a jet for her official use; and, then go to court to stop anyone from asking questions, because her “boss” never did, that is what we deserve too. If the BOSS himself runs a Presidential Airline with nine aircrafts, while the Presidents of France and Brazil and the Prime Ministers of Japan and Britain manage with one each, that is what we also

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“Once to everyman and nation comes the moment to decide; in the strife between truth with falsehood, for the good or the evil side.” J. R. Lowell, 1819-1891, (VANGUARD BOOK OF QUOTATIONS,VBQ, p 254). or great nations, the choice comes once or, at most, twice. For Nigeria, the choice had come several times. And, the fact that, today, the failure of a country which was more advanced than South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand, among others, in 1965, is unanimously attributed to the lack of purposeful leadership is an indictment of the leaders as well as the followers. To the best of my knowledge, nobody had been elected into office, either at the Federal, or State, level who had not enjoyed some significant measure of support. Even when the votes were supposed to have been rigged or bought, with “Stomach

clear; as clear as drinking tea or coffee with milk; or drinking mud water. Let those who had become mysteriously rich explain the source(s) of their wealth to Nigerians – including how much tax they paid on them….

IBIBIO LEADERS WALK AWAY FROM PDP… “If one had watched our kind of politics..one came to know that a nose for danger is something all the real performers had..” C.P. Snow. VBQ p 192.

Unfortunately, for President Jonathan, the “ nose for danger ” appears to be missing.

Hence, GEJ had almost single-handedly carved out large sections of

term ambition places him in a conflict of interest with his closest ally among the PDP governors – Godswill Akpabio. Because the point deserves to be repeated, permit me to summarise the situation – which is based on ethnic politics. Ibibios constitute close to sixtyeight (68) percent of the AKS population. Thus once substantially united, they will determine the outcome of any election in the state.

They had become substantially united in opposing any candidate Akpabio supports – and that might include the President; as long as he stands by Akpabio.

The outcome of the primaries for Governorship candidate, which purportedly was won by Akpabio’s nominee, had resulted in a two-prong attack by the Ibibios. Some had followed Umana O Umana (see last week’s article) to the All Progressive Congress, APC. Others stayed behind, in order to establish locus, to take legal action aimed at preventing the PDP from fielding a candidate in 2015. Failing that, I can state, authoritatively, that most of the rest will decamp to APC. Increasingly, Jonathan might find himself returning to Jerusalem to

offer just one prayer.

“God save me from my friends; I can take care of my enemies.”

NIGERIAN STROKE EXCHANGE “What does corrupting time not diminish?..

Horace, 65-8 BC. VBQ p 247.

Once upon a time, it seems so long ago, people invested in the Nigerian Stock Exchange to get rich. Since 2008, it has become the Nigerian Stroke Exchange. They take your money and the manipulators give you stroke. This time around, if you already have High Blood Pressure, HBP, or stroke, begin to say your last prayers.

The warning was given last year about imminent crash. It was ignored – as usual. The result is here. Need I say more?

CHEER UP The Minister of Finance says we are not broke. She also said that government has Plan B to avert economic disaster. If you believe that, you will believe anything.

But, cheer up; have a Merry Christmas; if you can. The worst is yet to come.

Visit: www.delesobowale.com or Visit: www.facebook.com/ biolasobowale or follow on twitter @DrDeleSobowale

ensured the audaciousness of these beastly creatures.

So what’s this got to do with presidency? Everything.

Whoever leads Nigeria come 2015, will and should deal decisively with the dismantling of these murderous psychopaths.

Sunday gone it was reported that the BH stormed a remote village in North-eastern Nigeria, killing at least 33 people and kidnapping at least over 100 men, women and children close to Chibok .

It took days for the news to emerge as the mobile communications was destroyed from last raid by the BH. There comes a time

On Wednesday a Nigerian court martial handed down death sentences to 54 soldiers who had refused to take part in an operation like as to August to recapture three towns overrun by BH. The soldiers have complained that they did not have the weapons needed to take on BH. This despite the fact that the government said that money has been pumped in to tackle the terrorists.

Regardless, this present government has been slow to act and had refused to acknowledge their failure and then refused outside help. This year alone over 2000 people have been killed by BH. While the world looks on in horror, the government repeatedly failed the people and in a country like ours that is so divisive some leaders don’t see this as a problem. This comes in the wake of the massacre in Pakistan killing over 145 school children. The reaction in Pakistan was that of solidarity and the steely determination to work together to destroy the terrorists. It will take a very determined leader of conviction to get rid of BH. No one person can clean up the mess that took decades.It will be a collective effort but with a a capable,conscious and committed leaders that we can eradicate the menace that is BH. I pray that peace and comfort to those who have suffered in the hands of these meanace and that security and compassion return to our land.

We have neglected to build and are so hell bent on destroying what makes Nigeria unique: its diversity. I do understand the fear and trepidation that people have about the future

beheadings, to death under a hail of stones”. It is happening regularly and many more murdered, kidnapped, maimed and displaced by the madness called Boko Haram. Since 2009 they have blighted some part of the country, left terror and mayhem in their wake. They have killed over 9000 people and countless others are displaced becoming refugees in the country of their birth. Many in the country feel that BH is a northern problem and that has been the problem, the lack lustre attitude in responding robustly and ill equipping the army has

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when condolences and commiserations is not enough and this is the time to act. The world shook and took notice when over 200 girls were abducted by BH. The #BringBackourGirls campaign raised the profile world wide of the tragedy that took place in Chibok.

Up on till now, the girls remain missing in spite of the government promising their safe return. The military has not been able to offer any protection, despite the deployment of soldiers supported by the air force. It is apparently clear that our army are underfunded and ill equipped to take on BH.

PAGE 44—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

attacking a prison and setting its inmates free is not in any way a difficult task; hence, a jailbreak in Konton-Karfe Medium Prison in Kogi State led to the escape of 144 of its 145 inmates meaning that only one prisoner chose to stay behind.

As usual, many analysts have adduced different reasons for the trend. While some say it is due to poor

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he grave impact which insurgency has had on the nation this year, may make many Nigerians think of nothing else that marks year 2014. But there are associated developments that would also go down in history as monumental.

Incessant jailbreaks across the country would no doubt be one of them. If we are lucky to have no new cases before the year runs out in a couple days, we can then say we had no less than 5 breaks during the year. In summary, there was the break at Kuje prison in which about 21 inmates escaped. We also had Bama prison in Borno State and Mubi prison in Adamawa State which saw the escape of about 200 inmates. Then there was the rather sensational break at the Ekiti prison when as a result of revolt by inmates, more than 200 escaped. Almost immediately another jailbreak was recorded at the Minna prisons in which about 277 inmates escaped.

It would appear that

Those in charge of our Prisons including their supervisors are fully aware of the challenges of the service which remain unaddressed

living conditions in the prisons manifesting in lack of water and electricity supply, inadequate medical facilities and archaic detention centres, others contend that congestion in the prisons is the main factor. Are the arguments justifiable? To start, with it is difficult to identify the part of Nigeria that has

PhD, Department of Philosophy, University of Lagos,

The trouble with Nigerians

E

VER since the deceased iconic novelist, Chinua Achebe, wrote the little monograph entitled The Trouble with Nigeria, it has become fashionable to blame Nigerian leaders for all the hydra-headed manmade problems of the country. Indeed, he was unsparing in his acerbic criticisms of respected politicians, including Nnamdi Azikiwe and Obafemi Awolowo, for errors of judgment as political leaders. Largely, Achebe was right: since independence, and more tellingly from 1970 onwards, soldiers and politicians with bulimic appetite for primitive accumulation have misgoverned Nigeria. It is estimated that the country has made up to half a trillion dollars from crude oil since it was discovered in Oloibiri in 1958.

Unfortunately, the bulk of the funds have been stolen, to the extent that official corruption is now a way of life among members of the ruling elite.

Still, I believe that “The Trouble with Nigerians” is a more apposite caption than the title chosen by Chinua Achebe because it makes the point immediately that Nigerians are the ones destroying the country. For Marxists, it is convenient to blame colonisation for the developmental problems facing African countries since independence. The

adequate water supply; even government departments do not have electricity supply. Again if our medical facilities were adequate Nigerians would not have scampering for treatment in India and other countries. In other words, the average prison is better than most Nigerian rural communities and urban slums. If so, a jail break

serious damage done to Africa by European powers through slavery, colonisation and neocolonisation has been masterfully explored by Walter Rodney in his thought-provoking book How Europe Underdeveloped Africa.

However, there is a counter argument that despite the inimical character of contact with Europe, after more than half a century when colonisation had ended in most parts of Africa, Nigeria and other richly endowed countries ought to have achieved a reasonable degree of economic and industrial development to compete effectively in a rapidly globalising world.

Because the character of leadership is critical in determining the developmental trajectory for a given country, scholars like George Ayittey, Jim Unah and Muyiwa Falaiye strongly believe that Africa’s problem is fundamentally that of incompetent leadership, as Achebe had argued so trenchantly.

Now, granted that good quality leadership is a necessary condition for positive social transformation, the quality of leaders that emerge in a given society at any point in time reflects the moral ecology of that society. In otherwords, if a society were in a state of moral degeneration, it would tend to spawn leaders lacking in

,

does not guarantee any escapee of a better location except he was an executive inmate. On the other hand, congestion alone cannot be used to explain jail breaks because only diehards can seek to sack the location of criminals or those awaiting prosecution. On this score, how do we rationalize the attempt by some detainees moral fibre needed for development. On the other hand, there is a greater probability that good leaders would emerge in societies dominated by morally elevated individuals.

Presently, despite the unprecedented expansion of Christianity and Islam in Nigeria, there is deepening crisis of values in the country. It is a matter for serious concern that, as Nigerians are becoming more religious there is a corresponding increase in moral deterioration.

Moreover, it seems that members of the clergy are conniving with political leaders to despoil the people, as is evident in the very wide gap between the opulent lifestyles of our prominent politicians and religious leaders, on one hand, and dehumanising poverty of the average Nigerian, on the other.

Unfortunately, gullible Nigerians still take religion seriously, still cling to the delusion that God will intervene at the appropriate time to solve all their existential problems.

The attitude of Nigerians to politics and politicians is a bundle of contradictions.

They believe that politics is “a dirty game” unworthy of decent people. Yet they also manifest exaggerated admiration for wealthy corrupt politicians doling out crumbs from the master ’s table. Failure to shun corrupt politicians encourages the latter to be more brazen in perpetrating corruption.

Consequently, in condemning corrupt politicians, it is important to recognise that Nigerians encourage them through inaction and willingness to

accomplices in jail” Painfully, he joyfully announced that “luckily only the section of the awaiting trial inmates was attacked” What a consolation!!

Of course Abba Moro is a lucky Minister. It was him it would be recalled that supervised the recruitment of workers for the Immigration Service where some fellow Nigerians died while struggling to partake in his convoluted recruitment process.

Nothing happened to the Minister, not even after he assaulted the sensibilities of Nigerians by blaming the dead for the calamity.

Rather than getting sacked on the basis of ‘Ministerial Responsibility ’ it is the Minister who is sacking officials ostensibly to give the impression that he is handling the situation, According to media reports, the reaction of the Minister to the jail break in Minna was to order the immediate suspension of Niger State Controller of Prisons, Musa Maiyaki as well as the Officer-inCharge, of the Prison Mohammed Buena and all officers who were on duty on December 6, 2014, when the jail break occurred.

Ordinarily there would have been nothing wrong with the suspension if it was to give way for a thorough investigation of the incident as claimed.

Unfortunately, history teaches us that our investigations always end up in nothing

Those in charge of our Prisons including their supervisors are fully aware of the challenges of the service which remain unaddressed. Shortage of staff is for instance a permanent challenge. But perhaps the greatest problem of the service and indeed of all federal agencies is the meddlesomeness of the political authority in the day to day running of the organizations. Abba Moro in particular has been accused of giving mundane directives to heads of agencies under his care. In the case of the Prisons, there was the laughable statement the other day by the Minister that “the federal government had through my office prohibited the use of mobile phones by both inmates and prison officials on duty in all the formations nationwide. I handed down 30 days ultimatum to the prisons authorities to immediately recover all handsets from inmates serving jail terms or awaiting trial, threatening to deal with the management if it failed to carry out the directive” The Minister could jolly well send a directive to all Prison officials asking all of them to note that today is Sunday!! If we want to be fair to all concerned such ‘zombies’ should not be made to take blame. The Minister and all those who appropriated their initiative are the ones to go on suspension.

accept bribes especially during elections. Added to all this is the pathetic inability or plain refusal of our people, even the highly educated ones, to transcend narrow ethnic thinking with respect to politics and leadership. Politicians know that the degree of national consciousness in Nigerians is very low, and that appeal to ethnic sentiments is very effective for getting votes. As a result, they deliberately befog issues of national importance by resorting to primordial ethnic fears and

an overpampered child given everything he needs to perform brilliantly in school but who, out of indolence and truancy, has been outperformed by children from more challenging family backgrounds. Countries that were either on the same level of economic and industrial development with Nigeria or slightly below her in the 1960s, such as Malaysia, Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore and so on, have leapfrogged ahead of her. What exactly is responsible for this state of affairs? Based on Achebe’s analysis, the quality of leadership made all the difference. While the countries mentioned above have managed to evolve effective leadership for quite some time, Nigerians have not been able to create systems capable of minimising the dangers of bad leadership. Consider the two main political parties in Nigeria now, the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). Naturally, leading members of the PDP are doing their best to ensure that the party maintains its stranglehold on power at the centre, whereas chieftains of APC are working tirelessly to wrest power from the PDP. Objectively speaking, there is no good reason to believe that the two parties are committed to genuine transformation of the country. First, neither PDP nor APC is ready for radical modification of the skewed federation in operation right now, which emasculates the federating units and gives too much power to the federal government.

Unless Nigeria implements a genuine federal system that gives considerable political

and fiscal autonomy to the geopolitical zones, the intractable economic and political bottlenecks hampering national development cannot be eliminated. Secondly, agbata ekee politicians preoccupied with the quest for primitive accumulation dominate top echelons of both parties. President Goodluck Jonathan and top members of the ruling party are far more interested in retaining power in 2015 than in addressing the genuine concerns of ordinary Nigerians. On the other side, Muhammadu Buhari, Bola Tinubu and other prominent APC members are desperate to dislodge PDP from office without offering innovative ideas and strategies to deal with the difficult challenges of national development. In this sense, there is little to choose between the PDP and APC: what we have is a lot of hot air from leaders of both parties, signifying that the outcome of next year ’s elections will not bring about real change which Nigerians really need.

But the question is, are Nigerians ready for change? How many of them are prepared for transformative intellectual and moral paradigm-shift?

Given the alacrity with which Nigerians resort to prayers for solutions to the challenges of life and their antipathy to rules and structures established to ensure meritocracy, it is safe to conclude that most people are not yet ready to change old thought habits and adopt more appropriate attitudes for national transformation.

That is the major trouble with Nigerians, leaders and followers alike.

,

Re-instate ‘sacked’ prisons officials

in the Department of State Security, in Abuja, to escape from custody half way through the year? Is the DSS detention centre, another word for prison also congested?

Judging by how the Minister of interior who supervises the Prison service explains the jailbreaks, those who ascribe the failure to his incompetence may have a point. For instance, speaking after 320 inmates were set free at the Federal Prison on Afao-Ekiti Road, Ado-Ekiti, the Minister, Comrade Abba Moro joyfully stated that “As I speak with you, a reasonable number of those inmates, about 46, have been recaptured and the search for others is ongoing”. If to recapture 46 out of 320 which is a success rate of less than 15% is by the Minister ’s standard reasonable, it is foolhardy to expect the service to do well. He actually confirmed this with the aspect of his statement which said: “”The attack on Ado Ekiti prison which was similar to that on Kontonkarfi in Kogi State, a couple of months back is the same pattern “ What this suggests is that the Prison Service and its supervisor cannot deal with even an established ‘modus operandi’. He then went on is as characteristic of many current leaders to pass the buck by blaming those he described as “desperate people outside who possibly have friends and

Neither PDP nor APC is ready for radical modification of the skewed federation in operation right now, which emasculates the federating units and gives too much power to the federal government

,

suspicion, rather than stating clearly the credentials that qualify them for the post they are seeking. Thus, in my opinion, inasmuch as one would agree that every ethnic nationality should be encouraged to produce Nigeria’s President as soon as practicable to promote a sense of belonging nationwide, Nigerians should start cultivating the attitude of putting meritocracy and excellence above ethnicity in making political choices.

In the last fifty-four years, Nigerian leaders have achieved little vis-a-vis the impressive quantum of human and material resources domiciled in the country. It can be plausibly argued that Nigeria is like

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 45

THE OMOTOLA AFFAIR

My wife is no flirt —Ekeinde, husband

L

et me start first by saying that I am humbled by the popularity of this column, only six weeks after it made its debut. I am told, and this has been verified by random Google search, that this column has been culled and appropriated by practically every social media platform including leading bloggers all over the world. One of such bloggers called me, to say she has been eagerly awaiting my column every Sunday, and updates on my blog, EkereteUdoh.com, so she would be the first to post my stories. I must say that I am flattered.

Last week, I published on this page, excerpts of an interview that Omotola Jalade Ekeinde granted my New York-based newspaper, The Diasporan Star, in December 2009, and also on my blog. The interview, though done some years ago, was still relevant. (the kind of interviews that have no timelimit or currency). The story has become a hit on social media and some other newspapers here. The popular blogger, BellaNaija, culled the story, and a day after, Omotola, through the same BellaNaija, denied ever granting the interview to Sunday Vanguard. She, however, did not deny that the said interview did take place and that some other excerpts of the same interview were published in The Diaspora Star, which she had read when it was first published.

Since her denial, there has been a feeding frenzy on the social media, with some misguided fellows thinking that the interview did not take place and I am offended by this. The notion that I, Ekerete Udoh, one of the pioneers of this genre of journalism in Nigeria, a man who God has used to promote and project Nigerian pop culture and its practitioners both in Nigeria and in the Diaspora, would publish an interview that was not properly conducted is, to say the least, stupid, puerile and utterly objectionable and I AM MAD AS HELL! Let me, for the records, state that the said interview took place in Omotola’s HOLIDAY INN, hotel room in Yonkers, New York. Since 2008, I have been the publisher of The Diasporan Star newspaper, easily and without sounding immodest, the most popular newspaper that projects and promotes Nigerian, nay African, pop culture, politics and our way of life in the United States. The newspaper, to the glory of God, has grown in stature and reviewed by such newspapers as The New York Daily News, Post, among others. In 2010, when the Queen of Daytime Television, Oprah Winfrey, did a segment on her show on Nollywood and Bollywood, and wanted background information on Nollywood and its stars, it was my newspaper - The Diasporan Star that she turned to. Her production outfit, HARPO, contacted us, and we provided the background information she used in the segment where Genevieve Nnaji was called ‘The Julia Roberts of Africa.’

Because of the impact my newspaper has made in the United States, I was honored by the New York State Senate in 2012 for ‘Outstanding Community Service’, an event where CNN’s Anderson Cooper was also honoured. I have been invited to address students on African pop culture and politics at many institutions in the United States among them the New School of Social Research in New York City, a top school that has as its president, the former Nebraska senator and former Democratic Party presidential aspirant, Bob Kerry. My newspaper has been media partners to a number of campaigns in the U.S, including the Obama/Biden Campaign Organisation, where we canvassed support for the African-Diaspora community for the ticket. Ours,

therefore, has been a credible medium, and I hold, very dearly, my over 20 years of storied journalism career.

Now, this is the fact of the story. I first met Omotola in 2008 or thereabout, when her then manager Jim Bass - asked me to help promote her in North America.

Omotola had a musical performance at Lehman College, the Bronx, as part of an event that was put together by former beauty queen and Nollywood actress, Regina Askia. Because I was her big fan and was proud of what she was doing, I agreed to help promote her in the media. Since then, Omotola and I struck a very professional relationship. In 2009, during another of her visits to New York for the premier of an HIV/AIDS movie produced by Nollywood actress and producer, Chisom, I helped alongside her then manager, Bass, to organise a meet-and-greet session for her at the popular Nigerian watering

’The key thing is that my wife respects her marital status, and in our 15-yearmarriage, she has been the best woman any man could aspire to have hole - Tropical Grill, a restaurant and lounge - located about ten minutes away from JFK Airport, and has played host to many prominent Nigerians including former President Obasanjo. My friend, Ms. Bola Jawo, the owner of that restaurant, agreed to give us the hall free, to host Omotola. Jawo can authenticate this.

Private life At the event, Omotola was so impressed by the huge turnout of fans and our friendship deepened. It was at that event that I asked her for an interview that was going to be different - where emphasis was going to be placed on her private life, her marriage and other angles that the media had not explored.

She told me exultantly, “Thank God, this is going to be different form all those generic questionnaires I have been used to, from Nigerian journalists”.

The next day, in the company of my two daughters, Ekaete Bukola and Uduak Temitope Udoh, respectively, (my daughters, Ekaete, who has already graduated from college and will be

Continues on page 46

Omotola

PAGE 46—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

I, the husband, the one that is lucky to have her as my wife, am so proud of her and I continue to thank God for bringing her into my life. I could never have asked for a better wife than her

Continued from page 45 starting her law school in the spring 2015, and Uduak, who is a freshman in college, are Omotola’s fans and had told me they will not forgive me if I didn’t take them along to see their idol). I drove to Yonkers - a distance of about 30 minutes from New York City - and the said interview took place right there in her room at the Holiday Inn. It was a meeting of two friends and I remember her even jokingly telling me not to take pictures because she just woke up and “looked a mess”. We all laughed and told her she was as beautiful as ever.

Since then, I have done other stories on Omotola and she has regularly sought my help to tamp down negative situations that arose about her.

When in 2011, a picture surfaced on the internet showing a man with his hands firmly grabbing her butt, and it sparked a media frenzy on the state of her marriage, with most accusing her of cheating on her husband, it was me and my news paper, that she ran to, to help debunk that story. Not only did she grant me an interview, she also made me speak with her husband, who had stoutly defended her. That interview finally put a lid on that brewing mess and it is all over the social media. I reproduce below, that interview and her confirmation of the initial 2009 interview that she purportedly denied was ever granted. The Diasporan Star edition of May 2011 reported the story.

“In our last edition, we did a cover story which was titled, `Omotola in the eye of the storm! Husband angry over buttgrabbing photo at the Grammys…Why she apologized.’

The story centered around the rumors then spreading all over the world about the state of marriage of Omotola - by far, one of the most visible and popular stars in the Nollywood firmament - following a buttgrabbing incident by her escort at the 2011 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, an event that had Omotola, as the first Nollywood star to ever walk the Red Carpet at the star-studded event.

The picture had elicited wild rumors and innuendoes – with some speculating that her relationship with the guy, whose hands was on her backside, had more to it than meets the eye.

Some had openly stated she was playing games with her marital vows.

We had reported in the same article our inability to get Omotola to state her own side of the story, since she was shooting a movie in Ghana. We had, however, relied on close sources to piece together our facts which provided the background to our story.

A few days after the story hit the newsstands, I received a call from Omotola, who expressed the desire to finally speak on the issue. “I am now going to use this platform to put this issue to rest once and for all”, she said.

Omotola went on to add: “People have insinuated all kinds of things and read numerous meaning to what was nothing but an innocuous picture taken of me and a member of my new

•Omotola and husband ... marital vows strong

My wife and the claim of infidelity – Ekeinde, Omotola's husband

management team at the Grammys. The picture was an innocent one, signifying nothing.

“I have been married to my husband for 15 years now, and I say this loud and clear that I have never cheated on him, and would never do so ever!

Remember I said in an interview I granted you in 2009, that yes, I have been tempted numerous times to violate my marital vows, but I have always resisted the temptation to do anything that would bring dishonor to my marriage and my children. If I told you – as a popular actress that we have not been tempted, I would be lying to you. But should one sacrifice all what one has built, nurtured and worked hard to establish just because you want to indulge in some illmotivated affair? No. I don’t believe in that. I count myself blessed to have married a perfect gentleman, a man who has supported me throughout my years in the industry, and is still there, as a rock of Gibraltar.

My husband is a rare find, and no amount of temptation will ever make me cheat on him.

“So the notion or the rumor that my haters and nay-sayers

have spread to the effect that the guy at the Grammys was my boyfriend, is ludicrous, to say the least! If I wanted to cheat on my husband, would I do that in the open? Would I advertise my boyfriend for everyone to see and at such a public function?

Just analyze that logically – would that be a commonsensical thing to do?

“This rumor is really a sick one and I’m offended. My husband is my soul-mate and I will never soil or put that trust in jeopardy – no matter what and the extent of the temptation. It is not worth it.” (At this point, she handed the phone to her husband).

My wife is no flirt – Husband It was obvious from the manner Mr. Ekeinde, pilot, sounded, that he was pained and frustrated by all the unfounded rumours about his wife’s glorious outing at the Grammys “My brother, I am very proud of my wife’s accomplishments and I join other well wishers and millions of her fans to toast her success. I’m a little surprised that instead of Nigerians celebrating her appearance at

the Grammys and her being the first Nollywood star to walk the red carpet, they are busy spreading tales and rumours that do not exist”’, he said.

“Truth be told, I was not angry with my wife when I saw the picture. Why should I be? I know who I married, how selfrespecting she is and also the nature of her industry. She is an actress for God’s sake, and it is not out of place for actresses to appear in scenes that may look a little out of place for a married person. ‘’The key thing is that my wife respects her marital status, and in our 15-year-marriage, she has been the best woman any man could aspire to have. In spite of her stardom, at home, she is my wife. She cooks for me, takes care of the home and, above all, is a great mother to our lovely children.

“I sincerely would implore her fans not to buy into rumours and speculations about her marital life, because I, the husband, the one that is lucky to have her as my wife, am so proud of her and I continue to thank God for bringing her into my life. I could never have asked for a better wife than her.”

Now, let me address the point she made that she did not grant an interview to Sunday Vanguard. About six weeks ago, I became a columnist in this newspaper.

And since one of the planks of this column rests on popular culture, I have been publishing AUTHENTIC AND CREDIBLE interviews that I have had with leading personalities over the years. There is no ethical kerfuffle involved with this practice. A writer or journalist who did an interview with a given subject can use same interview in any other credible media platform of his choosing, as long as the said INTERVIEW WAS PROPERLY CONDUCTED AND THE STORY IS REPORTED ACCURATELY. That was what I did, with the Omotola story. She granted me an interview, and I am now a columnist with Sunday Vanguard, a very credible and easily one of the leading mainstream newspapers in Nigeria, and I decided to use the story, with my byline boldly displayed, which should suffice.

Her story is not the first I had done along this line, which, I may add, is a universally adopted practice by journalists all over the world. Journalists are free to syndicate their stories in whatever medium or platform they deem fit. For three weeks, I ran an interview I did with Her Excellency, Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, the beautiful and erudite Nigerian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain last year in her home, in Enugu. When I did the interview, I was not yet a columnist with Sunday Vanguard, but I exercised my editorial judgment and used it to flag off this column.

Call from Bianca

When the interview ran in Sunday Vanguard, Her Excellency, Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, had called me, while I was on a quick trip to South Beach, Miami, Florida, about three weeks ago, to commend me on the interview and even told me she couldn’t get a copy of Sunday Vanguard in the entire eastern states because the paper sold out. She called me from New York where she had gone for a socio-cultural event and I told her that I was now doing a column in Sunday Vanguard and she wished me well. Mrs. Ojukwu did not deny the interview on the account that the said interview was not meant to have been published in this paper; she knew that the interview had the full complement of my integrity and professional bonafides, and was happy for me. In the weeks to come, I will use other exclusive interviews I did with other popular figures in our politics and pop culture worlds on these pages.

Omotola my friend Omotola is my friend and even at this very strange moment of our friendship, I will still count her as a good friend. She has been a great ambassador of our arts and a role model for millions of women and I will not excoriate or eviscerate her, even though I am so massively tempted to get REAL ANGRY and to use the American street slang “wild-out” but I will hold my fire for NOW. I count myself as one of the standard bearers of this genre of journalism and thus, acutely aware of ethical issues and concerns. I was trained at City University of New York, Queens College Department of Journalism by the same faculty members who taught students at the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism and my late Head of Journalism Department, Professor Judith Serrin, whose book: Muck-raking: The Journalism that Changed America” is used by almost all journalism schools in the United States, was a former Professor at the Columbia School of Journalism. Another professor who taught me broadcast media - Professor Solomon was the long time producer of CNN’s Larry King live. I have been hosted by New York’ Times Ombudsman at New York Times 43 Street, Manhattan office, and have been regularly invited by CUNY Graduate School of journalism to speak on the impact of ethnic media in America. So I take ethics and professional conduct very seriously. I have preached this to all the reporters and journalists who have passed through my tutelage and I will continue to hold aloft the ideals, values, ethos and ethics of our profession. Let me also add here that not only do I hold a bachelors degree in journalism, I also hold bachelors and masters degrees in political science, where I was the Best Overall Graduating student of my class of 2006, International Relations at the Brooklyn College of the City University of New York. Brooklyn College produced some of the leading lights in various areas of the Nigerian professional fields, among them, the late loadstar of Nigerian journalism - Dele Giwa, former Ogun State Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Alimi, Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi among others. I have an acute sense of right and wrong and have mentored hundreds of journalists who today, are publishers, editors, top op-ed writers, commissioners of information, special advisers and corporate affairs heads of several agencies. I will continue to do this, as long as the good Lord gives me the strength to do so!

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 47

STORIES THAT TOUCH THE HEART

One night of wrong judgment and one hell of painful experience… (part 2)

T

wo weeks ago, in keeping my promise to publish true life stories every other week, I bring you the part two of the above story.

The first part was published a forth night ago.

As we went back to our school, there was no denying the fact that Ken had realized he had not been completely accepted by my father, and he felt hurt and bruised. On my part, there was no doubt that I loved my father, and was, therefore, not willing to dismiss his concerns simply because I loved Ken, I was torn between two extremes.

Needless to say that our love, though still solid, was beginning to show signs of stress. It was during this time that, on a summer trip with my parents to Houston, Texas, I met a man who, six months later, would become my husband.

We had gone to have dinner at a popular restaurant in Houston, with my father and my siblings. I remember seeing him walk though the doors and what an imposing figure he cut ! I had never seen such a giant of a man at close range – save those basketball stars that you see on television.

He stood at about 6 feet 9 and was handsome without

description. I can still vividly recall the moment he walked into the restaurant that evening and arrested everyone’s attention. You could imagine the silence that fell over the cavernous restaurant as he walked in. I remember my heart beating at such a fast pace as he took a seat next to us and introduced himself as Tim. I can still recall the glint of excitement that danced around my father’s eyes after he introduced himself. It was obvious that the guy was from my father’s ethnic stock and he appeared to have known his family members. “My God!”, I remember my father exclaiming, “How long have you been here”?

In the next 10 minutes, my father and Tim were engaged in animated discussion. Tim, a pharmacist who had played college basketball and had dreams of a career in the NBA, but which had floundered, was a successful professional. At 29, he had everything a woman would desire in a man: good and stable job, never been married and no children, highly educated and dropdead gorgeous and, to put an icing on the cake – from my ethnic stock – all key ingredients that my father desired in a son-in-law.

By the time we left the restaurant, the one recurring topic of discussion now was Tim. “Don’t you find him extremely handsome”,my father had asked obviously trying to draw me out. “I think he looks good”, I had affirmed. “That’s my daughter”, my father had exclaimed. There was no denying the fact that my father wanted me to date Tim and he left

me in no doubt as to where his mind was! The thing he didn’t know was that the appeal that Tim had on us was mutual. I liked him and was open to dating him. By the time my father gave me his number, I was already overwhelmingly affected emotionally by Tim. I began to romanticize our future together – waking up and going to bed while lying on his imposing and huge shoulders. When I eventually called him after endless prodding from my father, it was as if he had been waiting anxiously for my call. “Oh it’s so great to hear your voice”. Tim had enthused. “Hope you are enjoying Texas and if you don’t mind, may I have the honor of taking you out for dinner whenever you are free,.” Tim had requested – an offer I quickly accepted.

I can still remember how Tim dwarfed me when he came to pick me up that Thursday evening. With a bouquet of flower in tow, he was the very definition of a suave and dapper gentleman. I remember being so enthralled to be in his presence that I may have exposed my emotional vulnerabilities. The dinner was great and we had such wonderful time and great conversation.

Tim was not seeing anyone, he had told me, having just broken up with a long time girlfriend, whom he said had moved to another state and was now in another relationship. My coming into his life, he said, was, therefore, a blessing and he looked forward to celebrating this new found love and affection with me.

By the time he took me home that night, there was no denying that I had been sold on Tim’s charms and was ready to dump Ken and that was exactly what I did. It was not an issue

for debate– I knew that my heart belonged to Tim and it had nothing to do with his accomplishments, because I, also, did not lack anything, as my father was wealthy enough to accommodate all my desires.

By the time we returned to Nigeria, Tim and I had become an item and we were essentially inseparable and there was no way I was going to continue seeing Ken, even though I loved him dearly. Ken took the news of my break-up with him real hard and he didn’t want to rationalize the fact that my father, as he had witnessed, would never accept him as his son-in-law, and that I, also, was not willing to defy my father.

There was no need for us to live a lie, because that would be what our relationship would amount to, if we had continued and Tim had, by now, told me he was determined to have me as a major part of his future-a desire that also found expression in me. Three weeks later, I was back in Houston, Texas, to work out the schedule for our wedding. Ken will never forgive me for this, and he started plotting a way to get back at me.

TO BE CONTINUED

PAGE 48—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

Nigeria on the verge of a failed state — Shonibare

*’Our third force response to rescue nation’

BY BILESANMI OLALEKAN

Chief Supo Shonibare is a lawyer. He was an active member of the defunct National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, which challenged the military administration of the late General Sani Abacha. He was a chieftain of the Alliance for Democracy, AD. He is presently the force behind the newly registered Social Democratic Party, SDP, in Lagos State. He explains, in this interview, why the SDP is the only party that can take the country out of the woods.

OU were in the SDMP, but now in SDP. Why SDP? We thought of a name for a political vehicle that would not be labeled as regional but having an ideological direction that is consistent about our view of an egalitarian society, and we played with several names until we reached a conclusion on a name that is generic, that is not derived from any zone of the federation and not coined by any Nigerian. So we thought Social Democratic Party rightly describes our ethos and vision of a fairer society. SDP was not coined by the Babangida regime, it’s a generic name that has existed as a descriptive name used in labeling those people who believe in social democratic transformation of the society, and since we believe in the social upliftmen of the society, SDP perfectly fits into our political philosophy.

One of the criticisms against the SDP leadership is that it is bereft of ideas, otherwise, it would not have picked a used name?

There is a misconception about the name as to whether the name is new or old. As I said earlier, it is a generic name. It is like if you think bearing the name Joseph best describes you and your values. Meanwhile the name Joseph has been in use for over 2000 years. So, those who are saying that do not really understand because the name SDP was never coined by the Babangida regime. SDP is a name to describe social democrats. And if one feels that his ideology is that of socialist democratic construction of the society, should he now go and coin a name that does not describe him? It is a name that best describes us. Really, an ideology is cast in gold in a fairer society. The idea about evolving society goes on from time to time depending on the exigency as the need of a particular society. I think those who are saying otherwise probably don’t know what politics is about.

Many people say most of your members are aggrieved members of a current political

Y

Chief Supo Shonibare....

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99% of Nigerians are not part of governance, from the federal to the state level. And watching the way the politics and the direction the Nigerian polity is going, the travel direction appears to be very destructive on both sides

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party. How time is the nation?

That cannot be right. The initial promoters of the SDP were Chief Falae, Dr Ezeife, Dr. Sadik Abubakar, Alhaji Sule Kumo.

How about Chief Osoba?

Chief Osoba and some members of APC in Ogun State have decided to be part of SDP and the rationale is that they see a platform firmly in place which is consistent with their political roots. Osoba has always been in the progressive fold in this country and was active in Afenifere. It was when Alliance for Democracy, A.D, which was the platform the Afenifere floated at that time, broke into two factions, and one faction was recognized by INEC and he was an elected governor, that they took the pragmatic decision to be part of the recognized A.D faction. So, where they are now is consistent with their political

beginning. No, they are not coming to join SDP because they were dissatisfied with the APC. They could have gone to some other party, after all, there are several parties in the land. But they chose the group that is consistent with their political ideology.

Critics of the SDP say its promoters are spent forces.

What do you have to say to them?

I look at the SDP as a new platform, the leaders you are referring to are leaders who are not competing for anything in this country.

May be that is why they are spent forces Who is a force? Forces refer to the people who steal. So, how are they forces? Yes, we know the predatory nature of those leading us. I agree that those who are predatory can convince people to come and take from what they have stolen from the system, but then, does that benefit the majority of us? And if the majority of us feel we are contented with people who convert the treasury of a state to themselves, then they should be happy with the PDP and APC. But if they think they need a platform that would make a difference in their lives, then they should come and be part of SDP. SDP does not have any godfather, no relationship whatsoever, it is just a platform for those who think there should be a change in this county. It is a platform that can be taken over by the majority of Nigerians if they can see what we see which is that the ruling parties, the two leading parties do not have any intention of representing our best interest in government.

And the only way they can check that is to look at what has happened since 1999. If you people think they are contented with what has been happening, then you vote for these two parties. But if you think your life has not improved, even if you don’t want to contest, you should encourage other people to be part of the third force in the SDP which has no godfathers. The direction can be determined by the majority of people who become part of it. We hope that the majority of the people, who will be part of this third force, will be those who have not been the leading actors in the other two parties so that it can actually represent a different true face to Nigerians.

Why now, barely two months to general elections?

You think you can make impact?

That is left to Nigerians because 99% of Nigerians are not part of governance , from the federal to the state level.

And watching the way the politics and the direction the Nigerian polity is going, the travel direction appears to be very destructive on both sides. And if these people are bent on pushing the country to the precipe, irrespective of the fact that they are only a minority part of us, if the

majority elects that they should continue, then the majority should not complain that another platform has not been provided.

But why this late?

Talking about why now, I ask, why is it too late to rescue yourself? When you are at the point of death and someone is offering you assistance, do you tell him he is coming late to offer you medication? It is obvious the way the country is going, these two political parties will push the country to the precipe, we are almost at the point of being a failed state. So, if the two cannot be corrective regimes in averting the country being a failed state and someone is coming to offer an option, why should that be a question of time? A week is a long time in politics, how much more months. Two months, I think is eternity. It is never too late to do what is right. It is only late when the horse bolted, it can only be late if the election is over. It is never late.

Are you fielding a candidate in the presidential election?

My duty is to present a platform that can present an ideological selfless direction for governance to Nigerians.

The function of individuals who will be candidates of the party at all levels will be determined by the people who subscribe to the idea of the party. This is a new idea we are floating. Our ability to present a candidate will depend on those who are not tainted, who subscribe to the ethos and ideology of evolving an egalitarian society. So, whoever becomes the candidates of the party cannot be determined by me. It can only be determined by the members.

The party, some have said, is opportunistic, that is, capitalizing on the misfortunes of other parties.

If you say we are opportunistic, seeing that the country is gradually becoming a failed state and we are cashing in on that to rescue the country, yes, we are opportunistic. If it is opportunistic to want to better your society, then we are.

If it is opportunistic if, after watching since 1999, the power- brokers among these leading parties do not really believe in a selfless government, and we are saying we are a better option, yes, we are opportunistic. If it is opportunistic in saying those who have been ruling us for years have not had the answers to our problems and they are looking more of their own interest, yes we are opportunistic.

Some of these power- brokers in government used to or are still your friends.

Friends. Yes I have good friends in the two political parties. I can say that a lot of people who are participating in politics now became politicians fictitiously. They are not people who, 20,30 years ago, contributed to the struggle for democracy. They just happen to see an opportunity to be in politics and see it as job for the boys; with that mindset, such people are not likely to have any right or left ideology.

Most of the politicians of today see politics as business, not a means of evolving a fairer society. And if you don’t evolve a fairer society, the consequence of that is what we are witnessing in North-east Nigeria today. Education is critical in enlightening the populace , in knowing their rights, and not being susceptible to religious or even confused political beliefs. So, education enables one to be discerning, to be able to make proper judgment, to do what is in your best interest, because it is foolish for one to accept N2000 to go and vote a candidate when, after the election, he will be struggling to send his child to school. But, if someone is properly educated, he will surely refuse the N2000 for a party offering policies that will alleviate and assist the person financially in terms of paying less for medical, education.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 49

a brick wall in Ugbome who received the endorsement of majority of the leaders. Momoh is seen by many as one who is driven by ambition following the way he defects from parties.

It is even being rumoured that the lawmaker and his supporters are on their way to the SDP to achieve his ambition.

By Simon Ebegbulem, Benin City

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HE primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State and those of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were marked with surprises as seven sitting National Assembly members lost their bids to return to the National Assembly. The members include the senator representing Edo Central, Senator Odion Ugbesia, who lost to Engr. Clifford Ordia.

Patrick Ikhariele representing Esan Centrai/EsanWest/Igueben Federal Constituency lost to Mr Joe Edionwere while Mr. Friday Itulah, the Chairman, House Committee of Power, lost to Sergius Oguns. Another House of Representatives member, representing Etsako Federal Constituency, Abubakar Momoh, who defected from the APC to the PDP, was defeated in the PDP senatorial contest in Edo North by . Paschal Ugbome.

The APC House of Reps member in Ovia Federal Constituency, Engr Isaac Osahon, lost to Charity Amanyaenvbo, while Rasaq Bello Osagie lost to the incumbent Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Uyi Igbe.

Anyone who has been following the politics of Edo since 1999 will observe that, for the first time, the primaries of the parties represented the voice of the majority of the members. PDP held sway in state since 1999 till the coming of Governor Adams Oshiomhole in 2012, but it hardly conducted free primaries following the belief that whoever emerges will be fixed into power by all means. But when Oshiomhole came to change the political dynamics of the state, defeating the PDP in many elections, it started occurring to the PDP that the only way to stand a chance was to embrace internal democracy. The signals came when some APC leaders, led by Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, dumped the APC for the PDP. Ize-Iyamu joined the PDP with four APC lawmakers namely: Jude Ise-Idehen, Patrick Osayimwen, Friday Ogierakhi and Rasaq Momoh. And among them, two were gunning for the House of Representatives ticket: Ise-Idehen and Osayimwen.

There was this rumour then that all defected APC lawmakers had been given automatic ticket by the leadership of the PDP. But some PDP leaders said there was nothing like that, that those who defected must face the rigours of the primaries. Those who had been angling for ticket in the PDP stood their ground and insisted that they will slug it out at the primaries, that the issue of endorsement did not exist. The old PDP aspirants matched their words with action by actually ensuring that these aspirants were defeated. IseIdehen, who participated in the House of Representatives PDP primaries for Ikpoba Okhai Federal Constituency, was defeated by EJ Agbonayinma while Osayimwen, who participated in the House of Reps primaries for Oredo under the PDP, was defeated by Ogbeide Ihama. Momoh, who wanted to go back to the House of Assembly to represent the people of Etsako West Constituency 1, was equally C M Y K

•Ugbesia

•Osahon

•Momoh

•Itulah

Three friends For the APC in Edo North, it was a contest of three friends: Incumbent Senator Domingo Obende; a former Secretary to Edo State Government, Prof.

Julius Ihonvbere; and Chief Francis Alimekhena. Before the contest, Alimekhena was the dark horse but he became the winner following the intrigues that played out 24 hours before the primaries. Alimekhena, from the same Etsako with Oshiomhole, polled 831 votes to defeat Ihonvbere who polled 815 while Obende polled 198.

Ihonvbere and Domingo’s sin was that they failed to ensure the emergence of two House of Assembly members from their domains even after the governor pleaded with them for helpsince the lawmakers stood by him in the crisis between the PDP and APC lawmakers in the state House of Assembly. Their defence was that the lawmakers

How Edo APC, PDP primaries were won and lost •As leaders eye 2016 guber after February defeated by Dada Abubakar Zuberu.

Of the four, only Oguerhaki narrowly clinched the return ticket of his new party to run for the Orhiomwon South Constituency in the state House of Assembly. Unfortunately for these former APC lawmakers, they decided to go to the PDP thinking that they will receive the endorsement of their new party to achieve their ambition.

But the leadership of the PDP in the state, led by Chief Dan Orbih, allowed internal democracy to triumph and the people made their choice. The agitation by a section of the leaders of the party to get automatic ticket for the lawmakers was shot down.

Similarly, in Edo Central,the third term agitation of the trio of Senator Ugbesia and two House of Reps members Itulah and Ikhariele, was punctured by the PDP delegates in that zone. Chairman, Board of Trustees of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, the Leader, allowed the popular voice of the people to prevail to avoid defeat in 2015.

PDP senatorial candidate in Edo Central, Ordia, will face Chief Francis Inegbeneki, the candidate of the APC at the polls. Inegbeneki defeated Prince Joe Okojie and Theophilus Okoh to pick the APC ticket. His emergence did not come as a surprise because it was obvious to majority of the APC leaders in the area that for them to stand a chance against the PDP, they need Inegbeneki who was Anenih’s footsoldier when he was in the PDP. He has the youths behind him and

capable of picking votes even from PDP members from that zone.

While the result of the PDP senatorial ptimary in Edo North did not come as a surprise, that of the APC was shocking. In the PDP, Ugbome defeated Momoh. Others who lost to Ominimini, as Ugbome is popular called, include Chief Richard Lamai and Bobby Ikhazobor. Sadly for Momoh, who got to the House of Representatives under the APC ticket, he dumped the party for the PDP when it was clear to him that he will not get a return ticket under the APC, following the feeling that he will get the ticket under the PDP. But he met

What will determine the outcome of the results between the PDP and the APC in the coming elections will be how the APC is able to reconcile aggrieved members before the polls

were unpopular and therefore difficult products to market. But the argument from Oshiomohole’s camp was that it would be wrong to say the lawmakers were unpopular since it was a mere party primary, adding that the same lawmakers defeated their PDP counterparts in the last general elections, wondering where the argument of not being popular came from. It was learnt that what also angered the governor’s camp was that the duo allegedly used their resources to work against the lawmakers after they were briefed on the need to ensure their return to the House. But Ihonvbere debunked the allegation insisting that he did his best, but the delegates voted for the candidate they felt was more popular and capable of defeating the PDP candidate.

It was learnt that Ihonvbere was coasting to victory but Oshiomhole’s field soldiers convinced delegates to vote Alimekhena. Angered by the situation, Ihonvbere threatened resignation and it was immediately accepted by the governor even before receiving the hard copy from him. With the emergence of Alimekhena, the Edo North senatorial contest became an Etsako affair and Alimekhena will be banking on Oshiomhole’s influence in the area to defeat Ugbome. But it appears the APC will be in trouble in Akoko Edo in particular.

Chances In Edo South, the heartbeat of the state. Matthew Urhoghide

emerged as the PDP candidate after defeating West EhiogeIdahosa, Victor Ebomoyi and Isaiah Osifo. It was not surprising because, prior to the contest, Urhoghide enjoyed the support of majority of the leaders of the PDP in the South.

The argument in the party was that West-Idahosa and Osifo were new entrants, so they need to queue behind others. But very sadly, West-Idahosa lost his nephew 48 hours before the contest and, there is no doubt, that also affected his chances.

His nephew and a police orderly were shot dead after they went to the bank to withdraw some money believed to be part of the money the aspirant intended to use for the primary election. Urhoghide polled 127 polls against 102 scored by Idahosa.

Urhoghide will slug it out with the Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie, who defeated the Chief of Staff to the governor, Patrick Obahiagbon (Igodomigodo), with 1120 against 894 polled by Obahiagbon. A member of the House of Reps, Jim Adun, polled 162. The Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Igbe, picked the House of Representatives ticket for Oredo Federal Constituency after defeating the incumbent, Rasaq Bello-Osagie. But Bello-Osagie was not defeated because he was hated or did not perform.

Igbe was preferred ahead of him due to his loyalty to the cause of the APC administration in the House of Assembly. Igbe exhibited bravery throughout the battle for the soul of the House and that endeared him to Oshiomhole and the APC leaders in Oredo. Majority Leader of the House Philip Shaibu defeated his fellow House of Assembly member Johnson Oghuma to pick the House of Reps ticket in Etsako.

Shaibu is loved by his people due to his numerous constituency projects scattered all over the area and he is expected to triumphant in the general elections.

Credible primaries What will determine the outcome of the results between the PDP and the APC in the coming elections will be how the APC is able to reconcile aggrieved members before the polls to avoid protest votes which is what the PDP will bank on in many parts of the state. The two parties were able to conduct credible primaries to an extent that it is now left for the electorate to elect the best. And what the parties will all be eyeing is the 2016 governorship election and the results of the National and state Assembly elections in 2015 will determine who carries the day in 2016.Oshiomhole, speaking on the conduct of the primaries in his party, stated: “I will be surprised if anybody who had participated in this transparent election decides to leave simply because he didn’t win. If such people want to leave, we will escort them out because it means they cannot fit into the logic and philosophy of ‘Change’. The ‘Change’ we talk about is not just to change and replace the Federal Government of PDP, we also want to change the habit, the language of our political design and practice whereby people use guns rather than ballot papers.”

PAGE 50—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

By Hugo Odiogor

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HE battle to pick the governorship ticket of the PDP in Delta State may have ended but the knotty issue of who becomes the running mate on the ticket took the centre stage for the greater part of last week as the power gladiators move from Asaba to Abuja in search of solution.

It was as intriguing and contentious as grabbing the governorship, given the sensitive nature of Delta where the act of balancing the ethnic equation can be a nerve wrecking exercise/ The leading contenders for the office presently occupied

by Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan are Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a medical doctor and senator representing Delta North; Olorogun O’tega Emehror, a banker and businessman, flying the flag of All Progressives Congress (APC), while Chief Great Ogboru is the candidate of the Labour Party (LP).

Delta Central is presenting two candidates: Emehror and Ogboru, to demonstrate its resolve to grab the governorship seat regardless of the state wide demand for equity, fairness and justice, by the other ethnic nationalities in the state.

Okowa’s dilemma Okowa’s strength in the PDP primary election shows that he has a state wide grassroots support. He draws strength from Isoko leaders namely: Hon. Ross Uredi, Chief Emmanuel Ogidi and Chief Mallam Obi. The same is the case in Delta Central with the likes of Chief Monday Igbuya, Chief Ighoyota Amori, Prof Sam Oyovbaire, a former Minster of Information; Mrs Evelyn Oboro; Miss Erhiatake Ibori; Chief Olori Magege, among others who allegedly disregarded the directives of UPU to vote for Olorogun Davide Edevbie as the preferred candidate of the UPU. Balance of power Delta South, comprising of the Ijaw, the Isoko and the Itsekiri, holds the balance of power in the unfolding democratic reality in Delta.

The zone is taking over from Delta North in this respect, since the latter has its son as one of the contestants, That task of find a favourable hunting ground for votes is as crucial as ever. Consequently the interest of every segment of the state is important.

Many watchers of the Okowa emergence as the PDP candidate believe that Delta South should produce the deputy governor in acknowledgement of the role delegates from the area played at the December 8, 2014, but, more importantly, to cement the political relationship that is needed in the general elections.

In this case, the battle is between the Ijaw and the Isoko. The Ijaw are claiming that they were more forth coming in their support for Okowa’s candidacy and C M Y K

Delta: Knotty issues in Okowa’s choice of deputy horse trading going on in Asaba and Abuja believe that Okowa’s choice of his deputy will set the tone and character of his campaign as he needs the full support of Delta South and push to make substantial gains in Delta Central.

A crack in his support base in Delta South will provide the APC the opportunity to consolidate its penetration in Isoko land while the Labour Party takes its battle to Ndokwa land where Ogboru is expected to exploit the gains he made in 2011, by picking his own running mate from Ndokwa land. This development will open up three horse race in the state.

•Okowa would want to be rewarded with the office of the deputy governor. On the other hand, the Isoko are arguing that the the Ijaw will be violating the spirit of equity driving the Okowa campaign if the two elective positions in the zone are taken up by the Ijaw alone.

Chief Gab Awodeha said: “Giving the deputy governor position and the Senate seat to the Ijaw does not support the case for equity and fairness because the Isoko are the largest single ethnic nationality in Delta South and they were equally strong advocates of the Delta North governorship bid”.

Since Chief James Manager has already taken the ticket to return to the Senate for a record fourth term, the Isoko believed that they are the most qualified to hold the office of deputy governor.

Their case was championed by the Isoko Development

Many watchers of the Okowa emergence as the PDP candidate believe that Delta South should produce the deputy governor

Union under the leadership of General Paul Omu whose wife, Stella, left the Senate in 2003 for Chief Manager.

Omu issued a statement on Thursday where the IDU said “the Isoko have not been fairly treated in the distribution of political offices in Delta.”

The retired general stated that the Isoko were demanding for the office of the deputy governor.

Isoko South seems to have become a fertile hunting ground for the APC. Okowa must win handsomely in Delta South to stand any chance of the gang up by some people in the zone opposed to power shift to Delta North.

There is also a persuasive argument from Delta Central that they deserve a handsome reward in the distribution of positions in the PDP on the basis of equity and fairness.

The zone produced Prof Amos Utuama as deputy to Uduaghan. Delta Central is not interested in another four years in the same office.

Watchers of the unfolding

Dramatic events Sunday Vanguard learnt that the idea of Okowa picking an Ijaw man as his running mate came before the dramatic events that led to the unceremonious exit of Uduaghan from the senatorial contest and subsequent withdrawal of his support for Sir Tony Obuh.

While the game lasted, the Uduaghan political strategists had equally pencilled down an Ijaw person to be Obuh’s deputy. But the Uduaghan game plan was said to have been frustrated by forces linked to a former governor whose idea was that Okowa should succeed Uduaghan in keeping with an alleged gentleman’s agreement of 2007.

Okowa who benefited from the drama in the Uduaghan camp had equally set his eyes on picking an Ijaw man as his running mate when picking the PDP ticket became a battle to save his political career. For some inexplicable reasons, Delta South has become the bride of the 2015 contest.

The exit of Uduaghan from the Senate race gave Manager the opportunity to return to the Senate. Now the Ijaw want to hold on to the Senate seat and the office of the deputy governor at the expense of the Isoko. Even at that, there is a fierce battle between Tompolo’s and Edwin Clark’s camps on who should produce the running mate to Okowa.

Betrayal The Chairman of Anioma Agenda, Alex Onwuadiamu, said “the challenge facing Okowa now is how to build a pan-Deltan agenda which will require sacrifices from all the stakeholders in the Okowa project.” According to Onwuadiamu, “this is not going to be an easy task because every section of the state wants to be represented and to be relevant in the new political dispensation.”

The concerns of the Isoko are as important as those of the Delta Central, the Ndokwa and Oshimili/ Aniocha areas.

But Delta Central may settle for the office of the Speaker since the outgoing deputy governor came from that zone. The Office of Secretary to State Government is open to either Ndokwa or Isoko, depending on the strength of their bargaining.

For the Oshimili and Aniocha, their primary concern now is to realise the goal of an Anioma son in power. But this disposition will cost them the office of the Speaker.

Ogbueshi Philip Ibonye said” the first thing is to appreciate the contributions of all the ethnic nationalities that delivered the ticket and the thank them.”

“The next level is to look at the sacrifices every group will make in actualising the dream of pushing back the born to rule ideology of Delta Central, before bickering on the distribution of offices,” he added.

He stated that the Ijaw should recognise that every segment of the state should be carried along to avoid creating ill feelings for the Okowa which has a stiff battle ahead.

The Okowa campaign team has been working together with all the former aspirants to boost the chance of winning the February 21, 2014 governorship election.

The Secretary General of Anioma Congress, Sir Dan Okenyi, said: “The composition of the campaign with all the former aspirants being brought on board is a good thing.

“This will give Dr. Okowa the opportunity to tap into the wisdom and vision of the aspirants who were equally capable in their own right.

“It is through this that he can he can integrate some of their ideas to build a better Delta State.”

A dispassionate account of Okowa’s victory

By Michael Chiejine

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HE surprise emergence of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as the PDP flagbearer for the Delta state governorship election has continued to generate attention. Okowa, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, shocked political pundits when he beat 14 other contestants with 406 votes out of a total of 1,074 votes.

Regarded by many as an underdog in the race, not a few were caught napping by

Okowa’s wide margin of victory given the odds against him, prompting all manner of theories and wild conjectures from political analysts, Facebook politicians and political theoreticians in the media. However, one question people have failed to ask is this: why did Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan suddenly switch support from Obuh to Edevbie less than 48 hours to the primary election?

The answer to that question holds the key to understanding the drama that

unfolded at the Delta PDP primary election.

It is not true as has been canvassed by some aggrieved supporters of Obuh that it was a move meant to spite Delta North and deny them a chance at the governorship.

They have been saying that Obuh was just a smokescreen for the governor’s hidden agenda to give the governorship to the Urhobo.

Those who believe the governor acted in bad faith point to the fact that he could •Continues on Page 51

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 51

By Chinweoke Akoma

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HAT is your honest assessment of the current administration in Enugu State ?

A. Something beautiful has happened in Enugu in the past seven years and is continuing. The man in the saddle, undoubtedly, has brought the actual delivery of democratic dividends, home, to the constituent parts of Enugu, a clear departure from the frenzied rhetorics of yesterday. This is a natural progression in the growth process of our democratic practice and the people of Enugu are glowing with joy, especially, the ordinary man.

I remember the enthusiasm in the voice of a commercial cab operator I boarded while on a private visit to Enugu sometime ago.

“Anyi eji gi kwe Governor Anyi achi” (we revere our governor highly), he enthused. Upon further enquiry on why they hold him so dear as to bring out a unique ring of passion in his voice, he explained that the people of his states never realized governance has the capacity to undertake transformational infrastructural developments as witnessed since the coming of Sullivan Chime’s administration.

Enugu State now is beautiful. The evenness of the distribution of infrastructure and the rapidity of focused completion recommend Enugu as first among equals in that top class of four performing states. What accentuates the rarity is that the Enugu government is quiet about these positive developments, rather directing its steam on target completion dates for more and more projects for public good.

I call this the Enugu example. It is shinning for all

‘Chime is an asset to Enugu’ Kieran Gozie Enechi is the legal adviser to Lagos-based Adada Media Forum, a collection of media professionals of Enugu extraction with a commitment and drive to cross fertilize experience and exposure in order to meaningfully contribute to the social, political and economic advancement of Enugu State and her people. He speaks on issues of interest in the state. Excerpts:

•Enechi

to see upon a passing visit.

Expectedly, the mind behind this unique kind of leadership direction will necessarily be imbued with a keen sense of fairness and good conscience. A fallout of this mature approach from leadership heights was the pronouncement on zoning and rotation of elective positions. As you know, this was widely received by a grateful and overwhelming majority of Enugu people across the state but not so for a few with certain interest.

We can safely situate the current political developments in Enugu against this backdrop

especially after the emergence of the obvious popular candidacy of Hon. Ngwuanyi as the PDP consensus candidate and inevitable possessor of the onerous, challenging legacies of the Chime administration.

Another springboard for the current developments was the governor’s wise decision to yield to the yearnings of his constituents to be of further good use to the people of Enugu in a strategic electable platform in the coming dispensation.

Since then, the few, who felt threatened, have made all manner of desperate moves, including character smearing

in an opposition newspaper.

The trend is not just sad but tragic. Sullivan Chime is unarguably PDP’s poster person for the successful delivery of dividends and a ready electoral asset in all the composite parts of Enugu today.

How do you look at the attendant positioning of Nsukka people in the emerging scenario?

The zoning of the gubernational slot to Nsukka zone to contribute its quota in the concerted efforts towards sustainable up-building in Enugu is in harmony with the notion of equity and good conscience. Simply put, it is the right thing at the right time. No rational Enugu person will have issues with this except out ignorance of our geo-political dynamics.

On the flip side is this serious duty imposed on Nsukka to raise the bar of excellence set by the sterling performance of the current administration. This is an onerous duty that Nsukka people must discharge.

What is the position of Adada Media Forum on the current happenings in Enugu State?

Adada Media Forum is a collective of media professionals of common Enugu extraction with a commitment and drive to cross fertilize experience and exposure in order to meaningfully contribute to the social, political and economic advancement of “Enugu anyi” and her people

especially, the generations closely following us.

Therefore, as a stakeholder, the Adada Media Forum has taken a well considered position in the unfolding events in Enugu. It is only natural that the weight of the forum’s full support will be behind the governor’s breathtaking transformational strides in infrastructural developments and provision of amenities. The Forum also calls on all well meaning Enugu indigenes to massively support, with votes and voice, the governor’s transparent bid to enthrone equity and fairness through the constitutionally entrenched principles of rotation and zoning entrenched in the PDP constitution, entrenched in the Nigeria constitution.

The inner maturity, transparency and integrity which Chime has brought to governance in Enugu eminently presents the state as the next destination for any meaningful field study of the modern benefits of ideal philosophic statesmanship.

As a body, Adada Media Forum joins all other well meaning stakeholders in Enugu to send out loving prayerful thoughts for this phenomenal governor, and pray that the right of divine grace may bring him creative solutions to all emerging situations and produce benevolent outcomes for him and the state.

A dispassionate account of Okowa’s victory •Continued from Page 50

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have chosen any of the other Delta North aspirants if for any reason he thought the Obuh project was doomed.

Whilst Obuh’s supporters have every right to feel aggrieved, it is both unfair and unkind to insinuate that the governor was using him as a pawn. Nothing could be further from the truth. It goes without saying that Uduaghan was all for the governorship moving to Delta North in line with the party’s zoning principle. The governor courageously shrugged off pressure from the Joe Omene-led Urhobo Progressive Union, stuck to his guns, and did everything to rally support for Obuh. So why then did he opt for an Urhobo candidate after resisting the campaign of calumny mounted against him by the UPU? Sources within the party hierarchy revealed that the pattern of results of the primary elections for the State

house of Assembly and National Assembly forced the governor to come up with a new game plan. Most of Okowa’s allies reportedly clinched their tickets for the state and national assemblies, and usually with wide margins. In fact, Obuh’s candidate for the state legislature was defeated while some key candidates for the House of Representatives, who ostensibly enjoyed official backing, lost their bids.

According to an official, the results also showed that none of the contestants from Delta North stood a chance of winning against Okowa.

“From the way things were going,” said a party official, “Okowa was very confident of a landslide victory against Obuh. Since the votes from Delta North were expected to be split among the various contestants from the zone, he was relying on massive support from Delta Central and South where he had a very strong support base to

clinch victory.” .

Political analysts agree that the choice of Edevbie was a political master stroke to appeal to Urhobo sentiments and actualise the governor’s dream of determining his successor. A source with inside knowledge of the situation said the governor opted for Edevbie because he was “the least antagonistic of the Urhobo aspirants.” The official backing of Edevbie changed political calculations and heralded a flurry of activities and horse-trading.

In the new arrangement, Delta North was to produce the deputy governor while the Speaker of the state House of Assembly was zoned to Delta South. The UPU quickly directed all delegates from Delta Central to vote for Edevbie and requested all aspirants from the zone to step down from the race. In addition, they mobilised the traditional rulers in the area to direct their delegates to heed this directive or face sanctions. .

Moreover, the dumping of Obuh by Uduaghan and the offer of the position of deputy governor to him angered his supporters in Delta North.

Realising that the governorship was slipping away from their hands, many delegates from Anioma nation gave their votes to Okowa in protest.. Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, the PDP South South chairman, who hails from Ika South Local government as Obuh, collapsed his structure and asked the delegates to vote for Okowa. This has raised hope of a possible reconciliation between Ojougboh and Okowa who had been long-time political opponents.

The deciding factor in the election was Delta South comprising the Itsekiris, Ijaws and Isokos. Expecting that Delta North will rally behind Okowa, the UPU reached out to political leaders in the south, notably Senator James Manager, and asked for their support in exchange for the Urhobo to

support President Goodluck Jonathan, an Ijaw. However, they met stiff resistance in the zone as many of the delegates explained that they were committed to the party’s principle of zoning for the purposes of “equity, fairness, and justice.” Comrade Paul Bebenimibo, an Ijaw leader, explained that the Ijaw “worked for Okowa because we know he is the leader that Delta State needs now.”

Finally, Okowa’s triumph is a victory for a united Delta.

Despite the fact that the governorship was in principle zoned to Delta North, Okowa never ran as an Anioma candidate. He consistently based his campaign on the argument that he was the best candidate to succeed Uduaghan. His pan-Delta disposition and approach, and the network of relationships he had built across the three senatorial zones over the years are things other politicians can learn from.

PAGE 52—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

How to keep wrong candidates out of 2015 polls — Comrade Adewale * Says youths are yet in position to govern

BY OLAYINKA AJAYI

Comrade Temitope Adewale is the President, Young Achievers Campaign Organisation of Nigeria, YACOON. In this encounter, he bares his mind on what is required of youths ahead of the 2015 elections. Excerpts:

W

hat is your opinion on youths participa tion in politics?

In 1967, military coups made a 29 year old Nigerian the Head of State. That was young General Gowon who was not prepared for such position and lacked the experience to run a complex country like Nigeria. But circumstance made him leader of Nigeria at her tender age of seven years.

Notwithstanding his mistakes, General Gowon is a man I deeply respect, not only for his role in ensuring the unity of this country but also for his willingness to take such enormous responsibilities. He will always be remembered for his statement that Nigeria’s problem is not money but how to spend it. He helped introduce ‘spending’ and not ‘thinking’ as our national problem. To-

day, most Nigerians are eager to spend without understanding how to generate money.

But he did not have the luxury of Nigeria’s history to learn from as most of our youths have today. Youths of today, who have both the lessons of today and the experiences of the over 50-year-old nation, will not get the same sympathy from me as the youths of the seven-year-old Nigeria.

Why are you particular about youths?

Most Nigerian youths interested in politics lack basic understanding of the constitution. How can you be running for a legislative or an elective position without an in-depth understanding of the constitution? It’s better to enter university without a complete result,than risk the lives of millions of people you seek to represent as a result of your poor preparation and lack of understanding of both the Nigerian constitution and the party constitution which happens to be your platform. Nigeria is yet to recover from the mistakes of General Gowon and others, I doubt if Nigeria is ready to survive a generation of unprepared youths so desperate for power.

Comrade Adewale But many youths are of the opinion that the elders won’t give them a chance to contest?

The number of youths who have spoken to me about their ambitions and interest in politics but who have in one way or the other lost interest saying the leaders of their party are not carrying them along or giving them the necessary access to reach their goals is quite enormous. But in fairness to the leaders, they have made everything available to those they have identified serious and ready to go into the race. Recently, I enlightened and listened to many contesting youths and I must say only

a few of them understand what really happens in the House of either Representatives or Assembly. Many of them do not even understand governance. Speaking with Hon. Jimi Benson, a trained lawyer and aspirant for the Ikorodu Constituency in Lagos, gave me Joy and confidence that the youths of this nation are preparing. Also Jide Obanikoro, Dammola Kasunmu, Sola Giwa, Ladi Ajomale, Ayodeji Joseph, Moyo Ogunlewe and many others. These are youths who are prepared to take the mantle of power un-like the so-called Facebook politicians.

What are your expectations from youths in government?

Youths should speak up in one voice, standing up for good governance and saying no to being used as tools for electoral violence. If they say you should pick up arms, tell them to pick it up themselves.

Sooner, we shall get there and we will change this nation. It baffles me that the likes of Debola Williams, Chude Jidenwo, Toyosi Akerele, Tosin Ashafa, Sola Adewunmi, Bisoye Cooker, Ismail Ahmed and many other strong, politically inclined and governance-

driven youths are not yet in position to govern, it hurts to know that the ones vying for these positions are the ones yet to either read the constitution or understand the meaning of governance. For some reasons are in power either by influence from parents or by political compensations. The reason bad people are in governance is because the good people have failed to perform the civic rights by voting in the good ones.

What will be your advice for potential candidates vying for key offices in the 2015 elections?

Candidates that are not youth oriented, should forget about contesting at the Nationals, States, Local governments, House of assembly and Representatives. What we are asking for and anything short of that is a waste of time. All parties should be free and fair in the electing candidates to govern us. Proper, free and fair primaries should be conducted; proper debates should be held, there should be free and fair judgement by votes. The 2015 elections will be peculiar especially in Lagos State as it has produced outstanding candidates from all parties who have expressed their interest. It will be disastrous if the wrong candidates are elected. As we approach the 2015 elections,We want our leaders to know we are fully aware and we will take what is rightfully ours.

2015: ‘Deltans will back Jonathan, Okowa’ Mr. Smart Asekutu, President, Delta Ijaw Peace Movement (DIPM) and a top brass of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, in this interview, speaks about the 2015 elections, especially the chances of President Goodluck Jonathan and the emergence of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as the gubernatorial candidate of PDP in the state, among other issues.

Excerpts: re you in the vanguard of those canvassing for the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 election?

Yes. Jonathan as president of this country and from where he came from in mind, people really don’t expect so much because generally they assumed that he would not be able to perform but between you and I, today in the area of power, road and infrastructure, even in terms of our economy, he has done wonderfully well. To this end, if somebody is performing or he has performed beyond our imagination, I don’t see any reason he should not continue. So, I am very much in support of President Jonathan coming back come 2015 to continue the good works that we all know that he is doing.

Let us narrow it down to the Niger Delta. How has he done well for your people?

If you look at Niger Delta today, you will discover that the issues of insecurity and militancy have become a thing of the past because Jonathan initiated pro-

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cesses that guarantee peace and security in the region though we still have pockets of kidnapping here and there but the militancy in the region had been put under control such that today, the oil companies are operating unhindered and oil production is increasing. Today, look at the East/ West Road, though there were a lot of issues but in recent time they already positioned contractors so that by 2015 they will commission this road. We have a maritime school in Okerenkoko in Delta State and the EPZ project is also underway in Delta state.

These are major projects that will at the end of the day provide jobs to people.

What is your reaction to the emergence of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State?

His emergence as PDP’s flag bearer is a welcome development and this calls for celebration because Okowa is a man that can be trusted with the resources of the state and he is a man that has worked with those in power today. He has moved progressively in his political career, regardless of the opposition. Even in the contest for the ticket of the PDP, he was opposed in a manner that ordinarily nobody wants to think that he would win the primary.

He is a man that we are very sure of, that he can deliver if given the opportunity to serve as governor.

He was a one time commissioner, SSG and now a senator and delegates decided to vote according to their conscience because of his track record of public ser-

,

BY LEKAN BILESANMI

Mr. Smart Asekutu vice. He has done so many things that could speak for him as a man to be trusted. He was not backed by any godfather but the grassroots decided he should be the candidate of the ruling party in the state and that is why every member of PDP in Delta is very happy that Okowa is the flag bearer of the party.

Do you think Okowa can confront the candidates of the opposition parties, especially those of APC and Labour Party (LP)?

People believe that things should be done fairly and that things should be shared equally.

The other day Chief Edwin Clark said that this time around whoever that would become governor should come from the Delta North because they believe that it is the time for a Deltan of the Delta North extraction to become governor. Yes, we heard some people complaining here and there but genuine people of Delta know that this time it is the time of Delta North to produce the governor and so, today,

If somebody is performing or he has performed beyond our imagination, I don’t see any reason he should not continue.

So, I am very much in support of President Jonathan coming back come 2015 to continue the good works that we all know that he is doing

,

Okowa is from that region and I would think that every wellmeaning Deltan would give him their support, they will do what is right by voting for Okowa because all other candidates are not from that region. When you are trying to do something against what we think it is the right thing, to start with, it does not show that you are a good leader because when you cannot stay and work for what people believe is right, I don’t know where we are going with that kind of person.

Are you aware of the protests by some sections of the Urhobo and Isoko against what they termed betrayal by the Ijaw of Delta South?

We have been reading some text messages by some faceless persons concerning that, we don’t know who are behind that action.

It is not out of place for people to complain but I want to mention

here that we need to be careful.

You don’t just complain because what you desire is not in place or that you don’t get what you wanted, therefore, the best thing is to destroy. It is not good enough.

Today, the Ijaw, the Urhobo, the Isoko, we are one. We need each other to succeed in everything we have to do and so we cannot go to the extreme because you wanted something and you did not get it and then you condemn a whole tribe. The Urhobo have produced governors. After the tenure of Okowa, we will always have this kind of moment. So, you cannot just sit back and say because it did not happen the way you wanted it, then you started calling people wrong names.

Specifically, how do you react to the name calling against the person of Chief Government Ekpemukpolo, alias Tompolo?

It is so worrisome. A lot of people may not have known who Tompolo is. One thing I will say for sure here, the kind of struggle Tompolo was in, in the Niger Delta region, if he is a wicked man, he will not even survive a day; if he is a man that is tribalistic, he will not even survive one day. This is one man, who lives a very upright life even at a time he was a militant leader in the Niger Delta and today why are people respecting him all round the Niger Delta and beyond? It is because this man does not represent one ethnic group but the Niger Delta region. All that he was trying to do is to ensure that there is good life for the people of the Niger Delta region. We should stop insulting people who have worked hard to make life meaningful for us.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 53

‘No need to panic over Naira devaluation’ STORIES BY UDEME CLEMENT

A

S controversy continues to trail Nigeria’s economy following the devaluation of the Naira by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), from the official exchange rate of N155 to N168 per dollar, entrepreneurs and investors doing business in the country have been advised to focus more on exploring new investment windows to boost economic growth, rather than causing panic in the system.

The chief executive officer, ECN Limited, and Public Relations Officer, NdigboAmaka Group, an umbrella body of over 58 major market associations and medium enterprises operating in Lagos, Prince Chidi Nwafor, made this known in a chat with Sunday Vanguard, at the market summit organised by the group in Lagos, stressing

that this is the time for Nigerians to replace expensive imports with locally made goods, which are more affordable.

He said, “There is no need for investors to panic or start speculating, because speculation could even bring about a black market situation.

Instead, patronising goods that are manufactured in the country would automatically reduce the demand for foreign exchange in the economy. It would even boost productivity in the manufacturing sector of our economy for industries to thrive. Though the naira devaluation has its economic implication, the reality is that Nigeria would survive without crude oil. I think the measure taken by the apex bank was to maintain price stability and the increase in Marginal Policy Rate (MPR) would enhance capital flow in the economy” .

Speaking on the significance of the market summit for

*Chinedu Ukatu entrepreneurs in Lagos, the Chairman, publicity committee of the group, also Chairman of Somboiz Motors, Comrade Chinedu Ukatu, explained that the summit became imperative, especially following the trend of events in the economic front recently.

He said, “We have many markets as well as industries in Lagos and entrepreneurs play a key role in economic growth and development. At

this point, we need economic and political leaders who would formulate good economic policies to move Nigeria forward. We must ensure prudent utilisation of all resources within our disposal. Entrepreneurs must also be concerned about the political fairs of the country.

“The purpose of the summit was also to sensitise market associations and entrepreneurs on the need to participate fully in voting for credible leaders capable of managing our economy for optimum productivity, like what obtains in advanced countries.

Government policies play important roles in regulating our businesses, as such, we must be part of the process of electing those making policies that affect our industries and the economy at large. We organised similar summit recently for other groups and even held a roadshow to create awareness for

our people to exercise their civil responsibility. Also, the market associations are made up of different industries doing business in Lagos and across the country, so, we must vote wisely for leaders who would transform our economy for rapid development”.

Those that turned out for the summit include Mandilas Traders Association, Progressive Motor Dealers Forum, Auto Dealers, Fish Dealers Union, Alaba Industrial Market, Ladipo Main Market Traders, Association of Fashion Dealers, Balogun Business Association and Amalgamated Computer Station, Tools and Hardware Dealers Association.

Also in attendance were Oshodi Electronic Market, Industrial Market Association, General Electrical Dealers Association (GEDA), Fancy and Furniture Dealers Association (FFDA).

Customs steps up security checks at Idiroko border

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s the festive period approaches, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Idiroko Command has rejiged its operations to prevent smuggling of arms and ammunition into the country through the border region. The Command introduced 24 hours border patrol with officers on alert to ensure that offensive items are not smuggled into Nigeria either through the forest or any unapproved route to the detriment of local industries.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Command, Comptroller Haruna Mamudu, disclosed this at Idiroko, sounding a note of warning for smugglers in the region to renounce their business or risk arrest and prosecution.

“We are alert at every border point, working with the Police, Army and other security agencies in the Command to ensure that ammunition are not smuggled into the country, especially as the election period approaches”, he stressed.

Sunday Vanguard observed that while one side of the premises of the Command was filled with seizures of Tokunbo vehicles, rice and other items, the Controller ’s premises was filled with seizures of motor cycles (Okada), used for conveyance of smuggled items.

He said, “The Command is working diligently towards achieving the mandate given it. For anti-smuggling, the Command recorded 1,482 seizures from December 2013 to November 2014, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over N1.5billion, as against 1,226 seizures with DPV of

*Some of the seizures displayed by the Ogun Command N1.1billion, realised in the same period in 2013. The huge success is attributed to reforms embarked upon by the Comptroller General of Customs, Dikko Abdullahi Inde, on ECOWAS Protocol on Transit goods, which led to the quantum leap of imported vehicles on, which duties were paid, which hitherto

were smuggled into the country without payment of import duties and taxes.”

He continued, “The unscrupulous importers are now reconditioned by the effective anti-smuggling campaign since I took over the affairs of the Command in December 2013. This has forced the smugglers to resort

to lawful declaration of up to 200 vehicles coming into imports and subsequent duty the car park daily and there payment instead of risking is no case of vandalism or seizure of their goods. In stolen vehicle since the scheme was introduced.” reviewing the activities of the Command from December 2013 to November 2014, we collected over N6.4billion as against N5.3 billion revenue recorded the same period the previous year. This shows a difference of over N1billion, which is remarkable as this mark of revenue has never been attained in the Command.

“Nigeria/Benin relationship is going on smoothly because Benin is not happy that people go through un-approved routes within their border, so they are cooperating with the import scheme. *Seized motorcycles allegedly used Sometimes we record for smuggling at the border

BURNT HOUSE

Customs officer accuses insurance firm of avoiding claims payment

BY GODWIN ORITSE A Customs officer, Mrs Morenike Oladunni-Omorodion, is accusing an insurance firm (names withheld) of failing to pay claims over the loss of her insured home to a fire outbreak.

Oladunni-Omorodion said she had made efforts to make the said insurance firm to come to her aid as the property was badly damaged by fire.

She explained that she had to

foot the hospital bill of some her relatives and staff injured in the accident, adding that the insurance company had not deemed fit to visit or assuage her plight.

She said the firm had been looking for loopholes to avoid payment of claims.

The property, according to her, got burnt in July.

She said she had lost confidence in the insurance industry in Nigeria adding that since the incident occurred, the insurance

firm has been insensitive to her plight.

She said, “The house was insured but the insurance company is trying to play funny. Up till now, the only thing I know is that one or two teams of underwriters have visited the house like three or four times. I am not particularly an insurance literate persons. But I have been privileged to speak with the Managing Directors of three insurance companies after this incident and they expressed shock

at the attitude of this particular insurance firm. Maybe I insured with the wrong company from the vibes I am getting but I do not want to absolutely believe that yet. But there is nothing the insurance company has done to show that insurance is worth the while.

“One thing that has shocked me so far is that a highly rated bank in Nigeria could be doing business with this particular insurance firm.

“If the need arises, I will take the matter up with them”.

PAGE 54—SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014

Financial Products

REVIEW

with Dave Baro-Thomas

davebaro_thomas@yahoo.com 08023405055

Microsoft Increases Hybrid Capacity, Launches Nokia Lumia 730 "

By Emmanuel Ajibulu

I

M P R E S S I V E LY , the postof acqui sition Nokia’s cellphone division by Microsoft is increasingly yielding many milestones. Latest reactions to the launch of Nokia Lumia 730 by numerous lovers of Nokia products in Nigeria are a testimony to this success story.

Lumia730 dual-SIM is conside red a unique device that guarantees its owner value for money. It comes with a larger screen and it is positioned as the ultimate selfie phone with a wide-angle 5 megapixels front facing camera that makes image capturing an excellent experience.

Nokia Lumia 730 comes in familiar Lumia white, bright green, bright orange, and dark grey polycarbonate shells.

Anyone in a quest for

a branded smartphone at a reasonable price, Nokia Lumia 730 made of sleek design is a good option. This device is in the class of Windows Phone 8.1, powered by a 1.2GHz quad-core processor with 1 GB of RAM and support for up to 128GB microSD card, just like other hybrid Lumia series. It also retains the 6.7 megapixels rear camera, improved with better photos in low light and now with full HD (1080p HD).

The five megapixels front facing camera is the talking point in the camera department. It produces wide-angle shots which ensure that more of one’s friends or love ones can be captured in a selfie or allows the whole family to engage in a Skype call. It can also record full HD videos (1080p HD). The quality of the

display is great with good color reproduction and wide viewing angles that come with distinct readjustment capabilities.

In the aspect of design, the product gives room for exchangeable shell, solid colour polycarbonate. Other user interface features are double-tap to wake, glance screen, vibrating alerts, voice commands, customizable home screen, high contrast, speakerphone, speed dial, voice recognition, word flow keyboard, inbuilt FM radio etc.

The height of the device is 134.7 mm, whilst the width is 68.5 mm, thickness 8.7 mm and it’s weighing 130.4 g.

Another distinct value ascribed to Lumia 730 is its email features which can conveniently accommodate viewing and editing of email attachments, multiple

email accounts, HTML emails, inbox filtering, text-to-speech message reader, conversational view on email, linked inboxes, etc.

Similarly, Lumia 730 data call features (text messaging) can carry out automatic resizing of images for MMS, distribution lists for messaging, multimedia m e s s a g i n g , conversational chat style SMS, unified inbox for SMS and MMS, concatenated SMS for long messages, integrated text messaging and chat, number screening for messaging and text-tospeech message reader.

LASAA, APB set to abolish unauthorized posters

NCC battles violators of copyright laws

By Princewill Ekwujuru

I

N its battle to curb the rising level of commercial piracy of Pay TV channels, the Nigeria Copyright Commission (NCC) in pursuant to a complaint from MultiChoice, Nigeria’s leading provider of premium pay entertainment, embarked on an audit of the copyright compliance level of 10 commercial viewing centers in Surulere, Lagos State.

Speaking on the compliance inspection exercise which took place over the weekend, the Assistant Director, Prosecutions, NCC, Mrs. Lynda Alphaeus, representing the DG NCC said the aim of the inspection exercise was to sensitize business outfits (hotels, pubs, restaurants etc) utilising Pay TV services on the need to comply with the copyright laws regulating their operations and regularise their TV licence.

Mrs Alphaeus expressed dissatisfaction that 90 per cent of commercial viewing centers in Surulere are yet to comply with the authorized DStv commercial bouquet for viewing centres. She categorically stated that the NCC will not relent in its effort to ensure a greater percentage of viewing center owners convert to commercial

bouquets accepted for commercial viewing.

According to the Assistant Director, Prosecutions, copyright laws outlines the following as acts of piracy; Cable Piracy, Rebroadcasting Piracy, Commercial Piracy, and Circumvention Piracy.

She explained on why the NCC inspectors embarked on visit of viewing centres. “The visual inspection was to check on the level of compliance of the DStv

commercial licence at viewing centres in Lawanson, Surulere environs” She remarked.

It would be recalled that in the course of the year, the NCC raided locations in Abuja FCT and Benin for illegal distribution of DStv signal and it also raided 14 hotels in Lagos for commercial piracy and the hotel owners have responded positively by complying with the commercial bouquet option.

FBN Capital emerges best fund manager

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BN Capital Asset Management has emerged the best Asset Manager in Nigeria at the Africa Banking Awards 2014 organized by EMEA Finance Magazine, which took place at the Law Society in London, United Kingdom.

As the asset management division of FBN Capital, a fully owned subsidiary of FBN Holdings, the company was recognised for its impressive performance in the period under review where assets under management experienced a double digit increase. According to EMEA Finance Magazine, “This award is in recognition of the milestones and accomplishments recorded by the company within the review period. What is particularly impressive is the 200 percent growth rate in Assets under

Management (AUM) across the mutual funds.”

Speaking on the award, the Managing Director of FBN Capital Asset Management, Mr. Michael Oyebola, said, “We are indeed pleased to have been selected to receive this award which serves not only as a recognition of our efforts, but as a motivation to achieve even greater results in the coming year.”

He added that the award is evidence of the skill and expertise which characterises the personnel within FBN Capital Asset Management and other subsidiaries within the Group.

According to the Managing Director of FBN Capital, Mr. Kayode Akinkugbe, “This is a landmark achievement which demonstrates the hard work of the team in FBN Capital Asset Management.

L

agos State Signage a nd Advertising

Agency, (LASAA) recently inaugurated the Association of Posters Distributors of Lagos.

This was done in the bid to encourage businesses and churches to advertise through the association, thereby discouraging the placement of posters that are being used in defacing the state.

The Chairman of Association of Poster Distributors, (APD), Mr. Tony Idemudian Oyakhire, provided an insight into how the association was born. He commended the MD of LASAA for collaborating with the members of the association and making the business more formal because before the arrival of Noah pasting of posters was abolished.

Oyakhire stated that “The new administration in LASAA in its wisdom allocated the pedestrian bridges as well as designated platforms along major streets in the Lagos metropolis where it can now officially paste posters. This has not only created more businesses for members of the association, it has also provided an affordable platform for all businesses,, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to advertise their products and services at minimal cost”.

MANSARD EduPlan

If we want to invest in the prosperity of our nation, we must invest in the education of our children so that their talents may be fully employed." - President Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the United States. At another occasion, a convocation to be precise, Clinton said, I paraphrase, what will separate those that will prosper from those that will not in the emerging world economy order will be a function of their level of education. So without belabouring the issue, education is a must to survive in today's knowledge driven economy.

Having said that, the key word here is qualitative education on the one hand a n d sustenance/ continuity on the other. For some of us, our parents told us how their educational pursuit was truncated due to their parents' inability to fund their education or due to untimely death of the breadwinner. The implications of these scenarios on many families and the nation today, are unquantifiable hence we cannot allow history to repeat itself.

Against this backdrop, the MANSARD EduPlan seems somewhat a handy product for discerning parents who place top priority on their children's education. Uncertainties due to loss of employment, accident resulting into permanent disabilities or demise of fee paying parents/ guardian could abruptly end the educational aspiration of a child hence the need to provide against these become imperative.

The Mansard EduPlan is designed to guarantee a child’s education even when their parents/ guardian are no longer around or unable to pay their school fees. From our findings, the thrust of the product is to ensure that the insured child/ ward completes his/her education without any interruption even in the worse possible scenario, the fee is paid directly to the school until the sum assured is exhausted or on completion of the

child’s education, whichever is earlier.

In addition, the package also entails medical expense cover up to the tune of N50, 000 per annum for injuries sustained by the child whilst engaged in school related activities on the school premises.

That is indeed a step further compared to some similar products.

It also worthy of mention that besides the payment of school fees and medical expenses, Mansard EduPlan extends its scope to cover other educational requirements and such benefit is paid directly to the school. While these

benefits are tax free, t h e premiums are tax deductible.

With the harsh economic realities today, the Mansard EduPlan is structured in a way that accommodates installment premium payment giving parents/ guardians some leverage to structure their highly competitive disposal income.

However, subscribers may choose to adopt the single premium plan where a one-off premium payment is made till the tenor of the policy elapse or a fixed sum assured or fixed premium which entails that a certain sum of assured or premium is agreed on right from the start of the policy. While the sum assured is determined by the customers, the premium is calculated and determined by the insurer (Mansard) The implication of the above structure actually is that, no matter one’s class or social status, one can reach out to the Mansard EduPlan to secure the future of our children/ wards today.

“If you think education is expensive try ignorance.” – African Proverb

FEEDBACK Please are you sure the Skye Global account is effective, transparent and COT free as published in Sunday Vanguard (page 8). Please, Head of Marketing Management, give more details to this number (08073999931). From- TEIWEI, BSc. MSc. NIM, CIB, Academic Staff.

SUNDAY VANGUARD, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 55

Why businesses can’t run away from ICT-CEO, Cornfield Transnational

By Emmanuel Ajibulu

I

NFORMATION technology is embraced virtually in every aspect of human endeavors.

No serious minded organizations can escape its positive effects.

More pointedly, information technology broadly encompasses the information that businesses create as well as a wide spectrum of linked technologies that process the information. This is in addition to computers, data recognition equipment, communications technologies, factory automation with other hardware and services that are involved.

This evolving revolution is positively driving the ways organizations operate in their respective businesses without stress or regrets. Consequently, it is reshaping the product or services itself, the entire package of physical goods, services, and information organizations provide so as to create value and convenience for their teeming target audience.

Cornfield Transnational Limited, a parent company to Media Concept International and Botosoft Technologies, is leaving no stone unturned to remain a virile and veritable stakeholder that can offer solutions capable of combating many societal challenges through the use of information technology.

In the last few years, numerous milestones had been recorded by this company.

The CEO of the conglomerate, Babatope Agbeyo, gave credence to this when he said: “In 2011 Cornfield Transnational Limited recorded a milestone when our information and technology concepts for the Police Biometrics Central Motor Registry was approved by the Nigeria Police Force and a 25-year Public Private Partnership MOU was signed with Media Concepts, a member of Cornfield Transnational LLC. The company ’s info-tech department developed and deployed the application.

In December 2011, the project was launched and commissioned

by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. The successful launching of the project is a result of excellent co-operation between partners and associate consultants to Cornfield Transnational Limited under the platform of Media Concepts International Limited. Besides, our company through its well experienced and professional team has the capacity to handle complex processes of producing commercials, editing, incorporation and 3D animations, making the client’s project a masterpiece by our unmatched artistic perception through the use of contemporary technology. We are also known for producing high caliber interactive CDs ranging from single to multilingual.”

Babatope equally spoke on the company ’s relationship with National Examinations Council, NECO. “Our esteemed organization has a success story to share on NECO examination ethics, which is on video compact

disc, this is a production showing all the rules and regulation that guides the conduct of the examination right from the point of registration till the release of results. It’s a way of ensuring that candidates are well educated and well informed about the rules and regulations of the examination body before they sit for exam,” he said In 2009, the West African Examination Council (WAEC), the foremost and largest examination body in Africa Commissioned Media Concepts under the management of Cornfield Transnational Limited to produce its e-brochure on video compact discs for all candidates sitting for its examinations. As a result of our professional commitment and adherence to quality with primary value in excellent customer satisfaction, the company has been able to maintain its clientele since 2005 till date.”

“I am glad to also inform you that in 2009, Cornfield introduced the production and supply of customized of examination materials like the calculators to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, the Examination body responsible for the conduct of entrance examination to all tertiary institution in Nigeria. Millions of these were produced and supplied by Cornfield to the body within three months of its commissioning.”

It would be recalled that WAEC’s Head of National Office (HNO),

•Babatope Agbeyo Mr. Charles Eguridu, once informed the media about Candidates Identity Verification, Attendance, Malpractice and Post Examinations Management Systems (CIVAMPEMS) innovated by Cornfield Transnational Limited. The device is primarily meant to check exam malpractice, saying that the measures were approved by the Nigeria Examinations Committee (NEC). Worried by the continuous increase in examination malpractice in both the school and private candidates’ exams, WAEC NEC approved the introduction of the ICT device to curb the menace and give credibility to examinations being conducted by the council. And already, WAEC management has test-run the device.

According to Eguridu, the ICT tool was used for the first time during the May/June 2014 WASSCE, describing the device as a timely approach to a more effective administration of exam

APC Warri North chairmen petition Uduaghan

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hairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Warri North local government area of Delta State, Ward 10 have appealed to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, to advise the state Electoral Commission, DELSIEC, to conduct fresh local government election in the area.

They stated that election into the local government council did not take place in Warri due to the deprivation of APC members from participating and an outright disruption of the exercise by acts of thuggery and violence.

The chairmen from the Ijaw, Itsekiri, made up of Ogheye, Gbokoda, Ebrohimi, Eghoro, Koko, Abigborodo, Opuama, Ts e k e l e w u / P o l o b u b o u , Ogbonbiri, and Ogbudugbudu wards, maintained that the local government election of October 25, 2014 was characterized by violence and deprivation of APC members from the exercise with the help of the police and law enforcement agents.

The party executive, during a press briefing, stated that the governor could not close his eyes to the electoral fraud that

took place on the day of the exercise.

They stated, “In the eyes of all, election materials were hijacked to an undisclosed venue and hidden from the opposition parties while the APC office, opposite the police station in Koko, was attacked and, in the process, vehicles belonging to APC members were vandalized while office valuables as well as personal effects, including GSM-handsets, wrist watches, money were stolen from the office.

According to the petition endorsed by Albert Fregeneward1, Sunny Omokparugieward 2, Samuel Ewaramiward3, Adeyemi Adoyeward4, Godwin Okome-ward 5, APC, “ we are using the medium to appeal to the Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to urgently arrange another date for the election into Warri North local government council and also investigate what transpired as a matter of urgency.”

The ward chairmen used the medium to congratulate the

Roadshow in Aba

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s part of its management philosophy to ensure carpenters and builders are continuously brought to date in knowledge application in the building and construction industry, Eternit Limited recently organized a training workshop for carpenters/builders in the commercial city of Aba to boost their skill and knowledge acquisition The training which attracted over 40 participants was conducted by experts drawn locally and internationally to fill in the knowledge gaps and also expose the trainees to modern day technology in the building

and construction industry.

Commenting on the training workshop, Mr. Godwin F. Ejobona, Field sales manager of the company, described the exercise as most timely and crucial especially for carpenters and builders who are based in Aba..

“The great commercial city of Aba is famous for the business ingenuity and creativity that is so evidently displayed here once you set your foot in this town.

Therefore, the need to also train carpenters/builders in this town has become very imperative as it will further boost the level of business activities here”, Mr. Ejobona said.

party on its choice of a credible, tried and trusted presidential candidate, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.), Barr Prince Temisan

day process. WAEC posited that the innovation would seek to address and record real timeexamination-day processes, capturing and recording events/ occurrences as they happen, with the ability to report them in a timely manner, availing users of the system access, reliable data and post examinations reports.

The ICT-driven device enables supervisors and staff of the council on duty, to address and record the processes in real time on the day of the examination.

These include identity verification, capturing and recording occurrences as they happen, such as candidates’ attendance and examination malpractice and transmit same to council’s data base. With this, the council is able to generate valid examination reports for each examination centre.

The ICT tool seamlessly works using the mobile, hand-held terminal; REFID Smartcards and UV torch light.

Omatseye, Senate; Barr Omasan Agbajoh, House of Rep.; and Delta State Governorship flag bearer Chief Otega Emerhor as well as Warri North’s choice at the House of Assembly, Deacon Daniel Odonghanro.

Daubry commended over constituency projects

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member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, representing Burutu State constituency ll, at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Kennedy Daubry, has been applauded over his constituency projects in the area.

While inspecting the constituency projects in Burutu Constituency II area, Chief Edwin Clark’s political aide, Mr. Emmanuel Eyarefe Okorodudu, commended him over completed and ongoing projects, adding that the projects are landmark that has proved Daubry as a worthy servant and representative.

Okorodudu, who inspected all the projects in the riverine area, said that the member representing Burutu State Constituency II has shown to the people of his proficiency through the landmark projects

in every part of the Burutu area, saying that the projects speak volume of his quality representation.

Among the projects he executed are: Six Classrooms Block in Keniyinbo Primary School with 500 KVA Generating set, Five Classrooms Block with 500 KVA generating set for Founkoro Primary School and Borehole project at Amanaidum quarter of Torugbene.

Others include Public Library, Health Centre (Maternity ward), Staff Quarters, Corpers Lodge, Six Classroom Block at Gbessa Grammar School while in Tuomo community, he has also built Six Classrooms Block and Solar Street Lights at Ekogbene town among other ongoing projects.

Page 56 — SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

VIEWPOINT

BY MUSTAPHA ABDULRAMAN

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

The APC presidential primary in retrospect

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HANTS of ‘Kwankwasi yya’ rented the sultry Lagos air as Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s final vote tally blared through the loudspeakers at the venue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) convention which had, as its main sauce, the election of a presidential candidate for the 2015 general elections.

“Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso…974 votes”, the electoral officer announced again for emphasis.

For many inside the main bowl of the Teslim Balogun Stadium on the day, the real winner of the APC presidential primary election wasn’t General Muhammadu Buhari who nicked the ticket with an unassailable 3,430 votes. It was Kwankwaso, who surpassed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s 954 votes.

“Atiku Abubakar had been in the race for as long as anyone can remember ”, Alhaji Usman, a Kwankwaso supporter shouted above the din in the background.

“For Kwankwaso to beat Atiku

Kwankwaso’s new odyssey and for Kwankwaso to garner the number of votes he did, placing him second behind the winner of the ticket, tells you how much the man is loved across Nigeria”, Usman added, a red cap symbolizing the ‘Kwankwasiyya’ philosophy perched firmly on his head.

The same lines were belted by several ‘Kwankwasiyya’ devotees on the ground on the day. They spoke of his tenacity, his integrity and his appealing brand of politics. One fellow spoke of how Kwankwaso would have emerged the eventual winner of the primary election if the state delegates were not coerced by their respective governors to vote for Buhari in line with the general agreement of the party hierarchy.

“We are proud of our showing here today”, said Suleimon Abdullahi as he wiped a stream of sweat from his brow. “The Nigerian polity should watch out for this man, Kwankwaso. His developmental strides in Kano State and his doggedness in the political space are endearing him to a new set of fans. Kwankwasiyya is here to stay”, Abdullahi added.

Kwankwaso has always been

known for his doggedness and tenacity. In 2003, he lost his governorship re-election bid to Malam Ibrahim Shekarau and was denied the chance to contest for the same office by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2007.

Undaunted, Kwankwaso ran for governor again in 2011 and defeated his closest challenger with over 63,000 votes. While his first term as governor provided a steep learning curve for him, he used the opportunity afforded by his reelection at the third time of asking to implement a slew of infrastructural, educational and healthcare projects across Kano State that have now given rise to the ‘Kwankwasiyya’ philosophy all over Kano.

In four years, Kwankwaso has rid Kano State of street begging by kids (Almajiri), education across the State is free at all levels, model classrooms are now a feature in most schools across the State to encourage learning and improve school enrolment rates, the North-West University in Kano is nearing completion, road networks have been opened up and flyovers dot the Kano landscape. Affordable housing units

with the trademark ‘Kwankwasiyya’ seal of quality are now ready for occupation. The Ma’aha Sports Complex and the Amana city are also some of the Kwankwaso legacy in Kano.

“It is just unfortunate that some persons have spoiled the meaning of the word ‘transformation”, Governor Kwankwaso said as he reeled out his achievements to a crop of bloggers and journalists last November. “Kano State is today the cleanest State in Nigeria and the street lights you see all over Kano are powered by the State’s Independent Power Plants (IPPs). We intend to increase the megawatts from the IPP before I leave office. When I assumed office as Governor, Kano State had an Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of 400 million naira per month. Today, the State generates 2 billion naira every month. All over Kano, you can see a different level of transformation going on. And let me say, all the projects my administration has commenced we will finish before I leave government House”, Kwankwaso added with a steely resolve.

It is that steely resolve that had

Understanding the new Head of Service in Delta VIEWPOINT

BY MICHAEL TIDI VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

Putting the government’s machinery in safe hand The public jubilation that greeted the appointment of Sir Patrick Oyambevwe Origho as the Head of the Civil Service in Delta State re-enforces the high fidelity and depth of the Uduaghan vision in a revolutionary process never before witnessed in the annals of the state that prides itself as the finger of God. Origho, an undisputed credit to good governance and accomplished administrator, is no stranger to potholes and smooth paths in the interplay of forces underpinning social engineering.

Untirelessly vigorous in his approach to issues and scrupulous in the performance of duties assigned to him, he has actually come a long way to prove that hard work and

VIEWPOINT

BY OLUFEMI LAWSON

VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF

The dynamics of a senatorial race

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HIS may as well be a new beginning in Ogun State where politics of bitterness and winner takes all is commonplace.

Prince Dapo Abiodun is setting a precedent in the aftermath of the party primaries to elect candidates for the 2015 general elections which, if emulated by our politicians, will set the state and indeed our country on the path of political peace permanently. Abiodun is preaching reconciliation with political foes in a manner that, left to him, the 2015 elections in Ogun will be a clear departure from our acrimonious politics. Now, what do I mean by our acrimonious politics? Our acrimonious politics is ugly. It does not give room for decorum. It does not think about how the opposition feels after losing election. It promotes do-ordie politics because it is all about

loyalty can never go unearned.

The singular revelation that runs through the many tributes that had been paid to him since his appointment is clear: robust and inspiring manifestation of the high esteem he is held in the state.

There is no doubt that Delta, today, is passing through a revolutionary process. It is not a bloody revolution. The revolutionary ferment in Delta today is multi-dimensional. It is a revolution in the art of governance; a revolution in public attitudes and a revolution in the choice and selection of hands and brains manning departments and governments.

The articulator and champion of this new ideological wave and social order is the highly energetic Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, who, despite dwindling oil fortunes has injected vibrancy and life into a state that hitherto depended solely on oil revenue.

The performing Governor knows

that for him to succeed in his quest of diversifying the state economy; he would need to surround himself with ‘men that are fat’. What the writer meant by men that are fat, are men who understand Uduaghan’s vision of Delta beyond Oil, and are ready and have the verve to be part of it. Men, whose loyalty and commitment to his vision cannot be doubted. And of course, they must be men of courage, boldness, intellectual depth, honesty, managerial capability and experience.

Indeed, it is upon that inspiration that history stands to applaud Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for appointing Origho as the new Head of the Delta State Civil Service.

Origho’s years in service have heartened him with edifying and enriching experience. They have brought him many wonderful acquaintances and deep understanding of power scenarios, which are now among his cherished possessions.Having served the state

in various capacities where he left behind indelible footprints, there is no doubt that his present appointment to a higher phase of service will be effectively deployed in the overriding interest of the public good.

Origho hails from Usiefun in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. He was born on June 13, 1956 to the family of late Chief and Mrs. Pius N. Origho.

His mother was late Mrs. Lydia Origho (nee Siakpere) both of Ughelli South Local Government Area of the State. In his quest for higher academic laurel, he proceeded to Nigeria’s premier University of Ibadan, where he bagged a B.sc (Hons) Political Science in 1979. He also holds a Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Administration from the University of Benin in 1984.

In his insatiable appetite for academic excellence and knowledge, he enrolled as a pioneer Law Stu-

OGUN-EAST: Dapo Abiodun’s redefinition of politics oneself- that is, selfish. In essence, it encourages violence because that is about the only tool - even if it is infamous - to guarantee success in the political contest. But Abiodun is saying enough of that ugly politics. We must move forward. And the best way to move forward is to adopt his brand of politics of reconciliation after an election; to heal the wounds the loser has incurred. Before I go further, let me unveil this Iperu, Ikenne local government born prince. He is apparently not new in Ogun State where he is a household name because of his robust political antecedents. He started out as a senatorial hopeful under the Abacha transition program when he sought to represent his people on the platform of the defunct UNCP before the death of the then Head of State ended that programme. He indeed won that election and was given a certificate of return by the nation elec-

toral body then. Unfortunately, before those who won elections then were sworn in, the Abacha’s death truncated the process. But his passion to serve his people did not end there. Abiodun joined the PDP under the current political dispensation and wanted to positively affect the lives of Ogun people through the office of governor. That was some eleven and a half years ago. But that was not to be. He returned to his business which he has used to empower his people and several hundreds of Nigerians. Abiodun is highly successful in the oil industry where he operates in the upstream segment. As the chief executive of Heyden Petroleum Limited, he is shy about shouting about the high net worth of the firm, but sources say it is a multi-billion dollar company. The success of Heyden brought out the philanthropy in him, not only to his immediate Ijebu -Remo people of Ogun but also to people across the country.

Those close to him talk about his passionate support for the current administration in the state after he switched from the PDP to APC out of his conviction in the philosophy of the latter and competence of Governor Ibikunle Amosun who fortuitously has not disappointed the people in terms of delivery of democracy dividends. Dapo Abiodun’s support for the giant strides of the Amosun administration and his philanthropy combined to force his Ijebu-Remo people of Ogun East to prevail on him to represent them in the Senate via the 2015 polls. He has won the primary of the APC to vie in the election. But the innovation he has brought into the process is a recipe for political peace. He is reconciling with those who vied for the APC ticket in the senatorial district in a manner that shows that the winner should not take all in an electoral contest. Beside offering to refund some of the ex-

seen him pass the test as Nigeria’s Minister of Defense in 2003 as well; against all the odds at the time and it is that tenacity that will keep him as a recurring decimal in the nation’s political space for a long time yet. And with the ‘Kwankwasiyya’ philosophy now ingrained in the locals, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso may have left an indelible imprint in Kano State.

“Kwankwasiyya means integrity….it means when the government hands out one naira contract, the governor wants to see one naira worth of work on the ground. Kwankwaso runs the State with prudence and integrity and that is why we have all become converts of the Kwankwasiyya revolution sweeping across Kano”, said Ogunyemi Nelson who works for an Insurance firm, just outside the Grand Central Hotel in Kano last November.

For Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the APC convention may just signal the beginning of another exciting odyssey for a fast rising star in Nigeria’s political firmament. *Abdulraman lives in Abuja. dent at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).

In the course of his career, he held various managerial positions, served in key committees in the state and was engaged in the services of some professional bodies. Origho is a Fellow of Nigerian Institute of Management and also a Paul Harris Fellow.

From the foregoing, one could state with near certainty that, Origho has a clear vision of the role the Civil Service is expected to play in the Uduaghan – led administration. Perhaps, of all his attributes and character traits as a career civil servant, one that towers above all others is his integrity, not to mention his well-known detribalized and objective posture in handling matters of public policy. His sagacity, maturity and capacity to manage people are second to none. I am convinced; he will advance the achievement of his predecessor. I wish our new Head of Service the very best in his new assignment.

•Tidi, a principal investigator in political fact-finding forum, lives in Warri. penses his co-contestants and other aspirants incurred in the course of the primary election in a bid to cushion the effect of campaign expenditures on their finances and complement similar efforts by Governor Amosun, the Ogun East APC senatorial candidate is involving them in his campaign.

There cannot be a better way to remove whatever bad blood the primary election would have engendered, ensure peace in the party in the period leading to the elections and even after the polls- and ultimately guarantee delivery of democracy dividends through quality representation at the Senate. By this redefinition of politics, Dapo Abiodun is laying an example that may sooner or later extinct politics of bitterness and winner takes all as our democratic experiment grows to maturity. Ogun East, Ogun State and the country at large need this rare politician in the Senate to deepen this brand of politics. * Lawson, a lawyer and APC chieftain, is resident Ikenne, Ogun State

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014,

VIEWPOINT

By Sufuyan Ojeifo & Uche Ugboajah VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF Dressing a presidential aspirant in borrowed robes

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ORMER Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari, turned 72 on December 17.

But it is not the matter of Buhari’s birthday that is trending, as it were, in the media. The buzz around the ageing general is certainly about his emergence as the presidential candidate of the main opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Nigerian voters are now used to seeing Buhari’s name on the presidential ballot, every four years, starting with his first outing in 2003. This is in spite of the fact that the former military dictator, who is rightly or wrongly credited with high integrity, had promised that the 2011 election would be his last contest. But to the shock of many of his admirers, Buhari reversed himself by caving in apparently to pressures by some politicians who, although see him as unelectable as president, yet a sure ladder to climb to achieve their own selfish political interests.

While it is indeed true that many politicians have climbed the back of Buhari using his cult-like following in a certain section of the country to achieve their own selfish electoral ends, their scheming can be seen to have bedded well with Buhari’s own growing desperation to be elected president. It is not a crime for

The joke is not on General Buhari the former military dictator to seek to be president through the ballot box; though the jury is still out on whether a man who truncated a democratically elected government and did not have any thoughts whatsoever for a plan for democratic transition during his dictatorship deserves to benefit from a democratic process.

Even then, Buhari’s desperation has clearly shown in his running from pillar to post and dealing with all manner of characters, including those he would have shot on the stakes during his jackboot regime. He has had to move from one party to another since 2003 when he was imposed on the members of the now defunct ANPP as their presidential candidate. In 2011, he ran on the platform of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and in 2015, he will run on the platform of yet another different party, the APC. In all these failed attempts, Buhari has equally displayed an unstable persona, perhaps putting a lie to all the claims of his being strong-willed, which his admirers hitherto ascribed to him. In 2003, his running mate was the late Chuba Okadigbo. In 2007, he ran with the late Edwin Ume-Ezeoke. In 2011, Buhari’s running mate was the fiery preacher, Tunde Bakare.

And in 2015 a new face, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, is Buhari’s running mate. And it could have been Bola Ahmed

Tinubu! Does this inconsistency agree with the stern portrait of firmness and consistency painted of Buhari? Your guess is just as good as ours!

Even in the choice of his current running mate, Osinbajo, Buhari was derelict. First, it was reported that he had ceded that decision to Tinubu, his new political godfather. But Buhari wants to be president at all costs even if, in doing that, he throws away all his

Even in the choice of his current running mate, Osinbajo, Buhari was derelict

Tinubu: Putting issues in perspective VIEWPOINT

BY HAKEEM ADISA VIEWPOINT IN BRIEF In defence of the APC national leader

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RIC Arthur Blair (1903 – 1950), an English novelist, essayist, journalist and critic, is globally known under the pen name George Orwell.

His works, usually laced with lucid prose, are particularly geared towards creating awareness about social injustice, totalitarianism, and the need to promote democratic socialism. Pundits ranked him as one of the most influential English writers of the 20th century, and one of the most important chroniclers of English culture of his generation.

Sometime in his life time, while on service at the Spanish war front, this author of the master piece: ‘Animal Farm,’ realised the speciousness of political propaganda when he declared: ‘Political language... is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respectable, and to give an appearance of solidity to pure wind.’ This statement truly applies to the moves by some political defiant and their cronies to seize any opportunity to demonise Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State.

Page 57

The just concluded presidential primary of All Progressives Congress (APC) and the process leading to the nomination of deputy to General Mohammadu Buhari, presidential flag bearer of the party, curiously offered envious pathological haters of the Tinubu political giant strides to go to town with propaganda which, according to Orwell, is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respecta-

The truth is that Tinubu remains yet unsung by political adversaries and envious folks despite his rare political sacrifice to the nation and humanity

ble, and to give an appearance of solidity to pure wind.

It is ironic that those opposed to Tinubu will read meanings into each of his political moves even when propelled by altruistic motive.

This is pardonable because we live in a world where finding fault in others seems to be the favorite sport which has long been the basis of political campaign strategy that has not done our political clime any good.

The issues in the nomination of deputy to Buhari in the aftermath of the presidential primary were: Was Tinubu voluntarily offered the vice-presidential slot through the South-west by Buhari? If yes, why then the hue and cries.

Can anyone question Tinubu’s constitutional eligibility for the position? Didn’t he have the right to aspire to such position during the negotiation period especially when such is offered his geo-political area?

What is selfish about aspiration for a political position where one’s invaluable contributions are seriously craved?

Despite the fact that Tinubu could have gone ahead and ensured, at any cost, that he got the post, he allowed the statesmanship in him, as always, to overshadow personal aspiration by conceding the post to one of the most brilliant

seemingly defining values for which some Nigerians have been rightly or wrongly attracted to his person.

Buhari, who has been accusing President Goodluck Jonathan of not showing firmness in dealing with insecurity, finds it extremely difficult and unable to choose who will be his own vice president.

Thus for about a week, Tinubu and the other dominant forces in the APC, led by the governors that defected from the ruling PDP, bickered and blackmailed one another over a choice that naturally ought to be Buhari’s. Of course, what could the old soldier have done? He is simply a pawn in this chess game.

In the end, Tinubu chose his own boy, Osinbajo, for Buhari as his running mate when it became clear that Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who has burnt all the bridges linking him with his people in the South-south and who possibly has realised that the VP slot might be his last opportunity to save his dying political career, was already throwing the kitchen sink to stop him (Tinubu) from emerging as Buhari’s running mate.

So, when Buhari raised the hand of Osinbajo, and started heaping praises on the man he hardly knows, and presenting him to Nigerians as his running mate in the 2015 presidential election, he must be told that Nigerians are increasingly seeing him as a joklegal minds from the Southwest-Professor Yemi Osinbajo.

He is used to identifying skills/ talents with brains wherever they are and deploying them for public good.

Tinubu puts it more succinctly while debunking speculations, especially from the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) that he has turned APC into his personal fiefdom and wanted the post badly; he said: “I am contented being the National Leader of the party…I am a Nigerian who loves my country. I am hopeful about what it can become.

I have seen and conducted myself as a patriot long before I thought of myself as a politician. I shall always walk this line and no other…After all the political calculations are made and the dust of competition has settled, it must be this nation and its people who stand first and foremost. The question becomes whether we stand strong, able to shape ourselves into our best future or will we stand frail and trembling, burdened by the abject failure to surmount the multiple problems confronting us. The PDP and other interests have stoked fear of a Muslim/Muslim ticket.”

As Lagos State governor, his cabinet had champions in different fields like Osinbajo, Wale Edu, Yemi Cardoso, Dele Alake, Tunji Bello, Leke Pitan and Babatunde Raji Fashola, now governor amongst oth-

er. The PDP did not have to raise the matter for, it is, indeed, too clear for Nigerians and interested watchers of our politics to see that Osinbajo is not Buhari’s choice; he is Tinubu’s choice!

And his response to a simple question in a newspaper interview on how he was going to run the Nigerian economy if elected was most laughable. For those who missed the report, the old general argued that he was going to use the navy and the air force to revamp the economy.

And in the attempt to cover this very visible fact that Buhari is not abreast with global issues of today and tomorrow, his minders have resorted to the disingenuous strategy of dressing him up in European suits and presenting him as secularist, amiable and compassionate, which the general himself knows he is not. As the election draws nearer, Buhari is getting faker and faker by the day. His last running mate was a pastor in Latter Rain Assembly, his latest running mate is said to be a pastor from a bigger church. As Buhari continues to transform like a chameleon just to win an election, the joke is, however, not on Buhari, but on those dressing him up in borrowed robes, robes he is not in the least comfortable in!

•Messrs Ojeifo and Ugboajah sent this piece from Abuja via ojwonderngr@yahoo.com

ers that are still reference points in the nation’s public affairs. Tinubu identified and deployed these distinguished Nigerians to the service of humanity.

It was the bid to fill avoidable leadership gap especially at the national level that led Tinubu to inspire others from his clan and top shots from the remaining geo-political zones/ party platforms to rally together and form a mega-party that has come to be known as APC. In his untiring discerning eyes, he has also identified another distinguished professional and accomplished technocrat, Akinwunmi Ambode to take over from Fashola come 2015 after having won in the APC free and fair transparent governorship primaries early this month. And also Osinbajo, who is now the running mate of Buhari.

The truth is that Tinubu remains yet unsung by political adversaries and envious folks despite his rare political sacrifice to the nation and humanity. He is being maligned in his pursuits of the long desired political change from PDP’s tyranny come 2015. The wind of change has become inevitable with his deft management of APC from its enemies predicted implosion. The imminent change is just a matter of time.

•Adisa is a public commentator based in Lagos.

PAGE 58—SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014 japhdave@yahoo.com 08066625505

Emenike’s book on entrepreneurship tackles unemployment

By PRISCA SAM-DURU PRESENTATION

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IGERIANS desiring to beat challenges of unemployment and become self reliant in a poor economy, can now heave a sigh of relieve as the book, “Entrepreneurial Spirits Through the Seventeen Success Principles of Napoleon Hill”, has been launched. The book written by renowned businessman and philanthropist, Chief Poly Ike Emenike (MON and Odenigbo Nanka), the Managing Director, NEROS Pharmaceuticals Limited, was penultimate week at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos, presented to the public.

The book which was published

by Napoleon Hill Foundation, Wise, Virginia USA, is aimed at teaching individuals how to be successful entrepreneurs.

And to ensure the book gets to the largest number of targeted audience, it has been highly subsidised by the Foundation; a copy sells for just 500 naira.

Chief Emenike said that “Entrepreneurial Spirits Through the Seventeen Success Principles of Napoleon Hill” was written in a bid to further propagate the ‘Gospels’ contained in the various writings of Dr Hill, while enjoining eminent Nigerian leaders in various sectors, to endeavour to document their experiences in writing for prosperity. The book which is made up of 19 chapters he stressed, “Represents my humble contribution towards the expansion of the frontiers of knowledge through writing.

It is the story of how I climbed from the very bottom to the pinnacle of the success ladder.”

book is a lucid exposition of the fact that Dr. Hill’s success principles can work for people in Nigeria, nay Africa just in the same manner as it has continued to work for people in Europe, the Americas and indeed the world over.” He expressed optimism that his partnership with Napoleon Hill Foundation will lead to establishment of Napoleon Hill

The book represents my humble contribution towards the expansion of the frontiers of knowledge through writing

•The author Chief Poly Emenike(2nd left) with other dignitaries during the presentation Business School to transform into a private UniversityNapoleon Hill University, Nigeria.

The reviewer, a professor of Orthodontics, Michael Isiekwe noted that the book encapsulates the author ’s experiences culminating in his success in the business world.

Prof Isiekwe described the

former Group Managing Director of Diamond Bank, Mr. Emeka Onwuka described Chief Emenike as a “Philanthropist who lived a life of determination and self discipline. He gave assurance that the book which is a must read for people aspiring to be successful will mark a turning point in the life of readers.

Phyno, Sound Sultan rock fans at Pepsi Trace Urban party supporting the music industry and hoped the company continues doing so while encouraging others to emulate the brand.

By JAPHET ALAKAM MUSIC

H

ead of Marketing, Seven-up Bottling Company, Norden Thurston, said: “When it comes to youth and talents, Pepsi is committed to supporting platforms that enable gifted young men and women to achieve their dreams in life.

Pepsi has credible platforms like Nigerian Idol, Pepsi Top 10 Music Chart, Rhythm Unplugged and many others for music, Pepsi Football Academy, Pepsi Street Cup

Business successes In terms of business and educational achievements, Poly Emenike who is a self-made man stated that his business successes not withstanding, he was humble enough to enrol in a PhD programme at the International School of Management in Paris, France.

His PhD thesis is currently undergoing external examination.

The author is revered for his immense contributions in business and humanitarian endeavours, community development as well as in the promotion of sports in Anambra State and Nigeria.

Chief Emenike who is the fourth person and indeed the first non-US citizen in the over 50 year history of the Foundation to be honoured with the Humanitarian Gold Medal Award, stated that “The

author as a philanthropist per excellence and a successful entrepreneur who is generous to a fault. He said the book is an error free material which is capable of moulding successful entrepreneurs across the globe if the guidelines documented in it are followed.

The chairman of the occasion

R-L: Head of Marketing, Seven-up Bottling Company, Norden Thurston, ace musician, Sound Sultan and Commercial and Sponsorship Manager, Trace Urban, Bassey Aniefiok, at the Pepsi Trace Urban Party held at the weekend.

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he crème de la crème of Nigerian entertainment industry, at the weekend thronged Tilt House, Lekki for the Pepsi Trace Urban party, to have fun and be in the mood for Christmas. The event was refreshed by Pepsi.

Everyone at the party held a brand from the stable of Pepsi as they danced to the sonorous music from DJ Neptune and DJ Spinall.

Both DJ’s thrilled the guests with old and new school, foreign and local music mixes that pulled people to

the dance floor.

Leading the pack of top celebrities that graced the event was Pepsi brand ambassador, Lynxxx, Sound Sultan, rap duo of Phyno and Olamide. Both excited other guests as they trooped in with a combined large entourage. Presh, former member of the group, “KC Presh” and Praiz, the “Rich and Famous” crooner were also in attendance.

Olamide and Phyno, called on other brands to think “youth” like Pepsi because the youths are the future of any nation. They thanked Pepsi for

Tournament and COPA Lagos are some of the sports platforms used to meet the passion point of youths.”

“We intend to continue supporting the youth through these platforms and Trace Urban Party is definitely a good platform that we appreciate and the youths appreciate as well as you can see from the large turnout at the party.” Thurston said Pepsi brand’s support for Trace Urban Party is one of the many ways it appreciates the brands teeming consumers who have been loyal over the years, giving them reasons to be happy and “live for now”.

Saro the musical 2 live in Lagos

•A scene from the highly acclaimed musical dance drama, SARO The Musical . This and other performances are what viewers will see when the play will be staged at the Shell hall , MUSON centre, Onikan from December 23rd to 28th, 2014

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 59 japhdave@yahoo.com 08066625505 ByCHRIS ONUOHA BOOK REVIEW

T

he Greek philosopher Soc rates once declared that the unexamined life is not worth living. By this avowal, one is bound to look back and forth to ascertain the meaning of his existence on earth, the worth and the expectations.

The uniqueness of man as a sapient, different from the imbecilic nature of animal stands him out as specie created to coexist with one another and bring about meaningful produce for his existence. However, on no account should man call himself a failure considering his sagacious nature, unless unprecedented inferiority set in which may emanate from his inability to discern his quality and attributes.

Against this background, comes this earnest reawakening spirited call by a veteran journalist Peter Anosike to his fellow brethren, the Igbos, to wake up, in a thought provoking and incisive book titled ‘100 years of Amalgamation: Igbos, What Hope in Nigeria?’

The 189 pages book segmented into eleven chapters with forward

by Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former Governor of Ananmbra State, addresses critical issues concerning the Igbos like; “Who are the Igbos, the Igbo Can Do Spirit, Igbo and the Media, The Need for Re-Orientation, The charade called Nigeria’s Census and others, with the last chapter, Reconciling Nigerians: needs for Sovereign National Conference”

By PRISCA SAM-DURU REVIEW

I

T is unthinkable that Africans would at any given time, prefer to spend time in foreign prisons to being subjected to harsh economic realities of the time especially with the high level of insecurity, lack of social amenities, high crime rate, etc.

The crushing poverty currently ravaging most African countries which is largely blamed on bad leadership sadly, has sent many, especially youths, to early graves while enroute foreign countries.

Most of these emigrants transit to the next life through the Sahara desert, in the sea or suffocate in containers while some who were lucky to have crossed over, ended up as prisoners. These survivors face stiff immigration laws which of course turn them into prisoners of some sort and in their quest for Permanent Resident Permit, get involved in sham marriages which most often, mark the beginning of their fatal end.

These and more are issues that Ndubuisi George sets out to address in his latest thoughtprovoking literary work titled, Woes of Ikenga, published by Kraft Books Limited.

The book which is made up of 17 chapters and 325 interesting pages, is George’s modest literary offering towards sensitising Nigerians and Africans in general, on the need to avoid being lured into abandoning their home countries in search of illusive greener

Where are the Igbos? and three structured appendixes that talked about attempt made by conscious Igbo citizens for Igbo Unity and the formation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a sociopolitical group that is championing the course of Ndi Igbo.

Looking at the title of the book, one may be pricked to ask if the author is calling for a revolution, but the spirit behind the rhetorical question is a straightforward ponder and demand for the Igbos and alike to re-examine themselves, where they are coming from, their travail and the way forward with attentions to those things that would make them a great nation.

In a nutshell, the book according to the author is not a praise song for the Igbos and the Igbo nation.

He noted, how they have done well in some areas, failed in some, but the irony to a large extent points that the entity itself are part of their problems. It is a kind of mixed bag, applauding the great deeds on one hand, chastising and calling for attitudinal change on the other hand.

The first chapter is a narrative section of the origin of the Igbo tribe. By drawing attention from a discovery by an Anglican Missionary, G.T. Baseden, who was of the view that word Igbo came from Hebrew word, Heebo twisted to sound Ibo or Igbo.

These tribes have a custom and etymological semblance between

them which points to Igbos as descent from Jews: their itinerant nature, resilience, creative instinct, courage and self confidence which are the factors behind their successes in many spheres today. hese amazing attributes leads to his second chapter that dealt with “The Igbo ‘Can Do’ Spirit”. Obviously the most persuasive argument here is that the enterprising spirit of an average Igbo man did not develop after the civil war. It is simply part of their make-up and not something borne out of desperation as can be seen from their dominant role in governance before and after independence. As the author proceed from describing a typical Igbo man, he went further by pinpointing how they got it all

T

The book is a masterpiece and a tool of change through soul searching and unanswered questions about the Igbo

wrong: The lack of interest

by Igbos in utilizing the m e d i a extensively,The negative and s e l f i s h approach towards politics of national interest in the country and others.

Pe r h a p s , chapter five is a respite with the title, ‘the need for reorientation’.

When a man retrieves his s t e p s backwards and 100 Years of Amalgamation: Igbos, What find where he Hope in Nigeria?; Peter Anosike; Prime Sage faulted, the International, Lagos; 2014;PP.189 option left is formation of the Ohanaeze solution to move forward. Ndigbo Forum, the Aka-Ikenga Although, for them to achieve this, and other groups that have been unity and harmony is important, working hard for the but the fact remains that other repositioning of the Igbo race in tribes who feels that the Igbos are the nation and diaspora. the black leg of Nigeria or have he book, in its simplified mentally naturalized in another English and devoid of ethnic group should re-educate voluminous words is a themselves to realize that they are masterpiece and a tool of change leaving gold for bronze. through soul searching and As he progressed with other unanswered questions of who facts in other chapters concerning Igbo are and also a window of the wellbeing of an Igbo race, untapped opportunities towards perhaps the most important is the repositioning.

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Chronicles of Ikenga pastures in foreign countries.

The name, Ikenga in the title, is symbolic of an Igbo deity but on a first look, tempts readers into thinking the story is about certain traditional beliefs but the picture of a man and his reflection checking out, gives a hint about the main thrust of the novel.

Cultural background Woes of Ikenga is an intense moving narrative exposing the level at which Africans struggle for survival in foreign countries, through engaging in demeaning jobs which they never bargained for. It sends a stern warning to any Nigerian and indeed, African who believes that it is better to reign in hell than to serve in heaven, to count the cost before intending to emigrate.

The author spends time in the first chapter, with historical and cultural background of the protagonist, Ikenga, a twin boy whose name symbolises “place of strength”, given to him after the horned deity known for its resilience, strength and purity in an imaginary community, Umuafor, where the story is partly set.

Driven by acute poverty in his wartorn land Umuafor and loss of mother at a tender age, Ikenga begins nursing the desire to travel outside Nigeria for better opportunities. At 19, after a short working experience at a foreign company based in Port Harcourt,

Woes of Ikenga; Ndubuisi George, Kraft Books Limited 2014, PP. 325 and an aborted attempt to make fortune out of statues he steals from Ogwugwu shrine, Ikenga embarks on a suicidal journey to Germany. He encounters several near-death situations in the Sahara Desert and the sea while in transit. Once in Germany, Ikenga peddles drugs as a means of survival and also marries a German, Vanessa so as to obtain the much needed Resident Permit. Not even his relationship with Vanessa that begets Ahamefuna is able to aid the realisation of his dream especially with his refusal to bow to indoctrination of the whiteman’s culture. His woes, however,

degenerate into several prison experiences and the rest is better read than imagined. On page 298, “Life in Balthazar was far better than being free men in their own countries,” is used to portray the height of frustrations Africans face in foreign countries.

Ikenga’s is such a pathetic narrative that captures in vivid terms, the scary nature of life of Africans in host and hostile countries. Readers cannot help but feel the pains these unfortunate hustlers feel during struggle for survival.

George's book critically examines the sanity in leaving one’s home country regardless of how perilous times have become, only to face constant police surveillance and harassment, engage in demeaning jobs for survival, become drug addicts and or drug peddlers, engage in sham marriages which most often, end up in frustration, imprisonment, loss of life and deportation.

The author meticulously exposes diverse conditions of diaspora citizens which portray “obvious symptoms of emotional and mental breakdown and degeneration.”

The author in this lifechanging book, not only succeeds in compiling an expose on life of diaspora citizens but critically portrays the place of literature as an important tool for social, economic, political etc, change in a society.

The Agulu, Anambra State born novelist through the intense yet amusing narrative, offers readers a window into what life in Europe and other Western countries is like, with the aim of discouraging individuals who erroneously believe those countries hold solution to their hardship.

Although the author failed to satisfy his non-Igbo language users with a glossary of words, he must be given thumbs up for display of vastness in traditions and culture as appropriately represented with the right words as well as rich proverbs.

Woes of Ikenga is indeed a priceless reference material that stimulates intellectual curiosity. It makes an interesting read for students, teachers and lecturers in the continent and most importantly, parents and guardians who should begin early to disabuse the minds of their children/wards from nursing the desire to travel abroad to reside.

The narrative technique, plot and choice of words are incredibly amazing and showcase the author as either a master-story teller or he actually narrated his own story.

Just as Ikenga’s factual tale is able to bring Umuaforians into realisation that what people go in search of in Sokoto is actually in their sokoto, it is expected that intending travellers to foreign lands in search of an illusive greener pasture will be sensitive enough to discover the gold mine just around their compounds.

This is a must read reference material for all!

PAGE 60—SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014 japhdave@yahoo.com 08066625505

BY FEMI ADESINA BOOK REVIEW

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HIS 200-page book, The Golden Years, dedicated to the Ibikunle Amosun years as governor of Ogun State, in the words of Barrister Taiwo Adeoluwa, Secretary to the Ogun State government, has made “serious study into the epoch-making period of the state in terms of the impact of the Amosun years on the system, process of governance and its response to the diverse challenges of administering a state.”

The Golden Years is actually a selection of published articles in leading Nigerian newspapers on the administration of Senator Ibikunle Amosun in the last three years. The articles were written by Soyombo Opeyemi, who was a member of the Editorial Board of The I n d e p e n d e n t Newspapers, before he joined the media team of the Ogun State governor.

This book is divided into 10 parts, with each focusing on different areas of public life and gover nance. Part 1 examines topics around education, Part 2 dwells on our Federalism and its spin-offs, Part 3 on Agriculture, while Part 4 is on strides taken in the area of infrastructure.

Parts 5 to 10 focus on diverse issues like land matters, healthcare, democracy, and landmark achievements of the Amosun administration.

In Part 1, which focuses largely on education, there are six chapters, dedicated to examining free education, public schools, academic excellence, mission schools, education and religion.

In these chapters, the author tries to articulate the thrust of the education policy of the Amosun administration.

In Part 2, there are four chapters, all looking at our federal structure, visa-vis the Ogun State experience. The first chapter is on Federalism and Regional Integration, where the author submits: “Indeed, I find it very odd, just like Senator Amosun, a revenue allocation formula that gives 52 per cent to the Federal Government, 26 per cent to the 36 states, and 20 per cent to the local councils. What this means is that each of the 36 states collects 0.7 per cent from the Federal Account, while one Federal Government collects a whopping 52 per cent. Haba! Is this federalism or unitarism?”

,

The governor has made a difference in the physical outlook of the state, which is quite commendable. But has the same impact been made on the stomachs of the populace in these days of emphasis on stomach infrastructure?

,

This line of reasoning is further amplified in other chapters, with topics like ‘South-West Governors on Federal Constitution,’ ‘Federal Roads,’ and ‘Between Abeokuta and Abuja.’

The old Western Region made fortunes from Agriculture. And it is not surprising that Part 3 of the book is dedicated to thoughts on a g r i c u l t u r a l development. And the battle cry is: “Tebi ba kuro ninu ise, ise buse (once hunger is out of the way, poverty is drastically reduced).” Ver y well said, in a country that spends about N1 billion daily on the importation of rice from Asia.

There are three chapters in Part 4. And they dwell on strides in infrastructure, which makes the author dub Gov Amosun ‘The M o d e r n i z e r . ’ Achievements in urban renewal and rural development are chronicled here.

Part 5 has three chapters, while Part 6 has four. These x-ray politics and actions of the Amosun administration in the areas of land policies, and the restoration of hope to the people.

Let’s take portions of the chapter headlined ‘The Ogun Standard’ in Part 8. “If Ibara-Totoro road is the first of its kind by any state government

in Ogun State, the Ibara flyover u n d e r construction is also the first by any state government in the annals of the state.

What about the o n g o i n g footbridge that sits above the I b a r a - To t o r o road? It is to be fitted with an air conditioner – that is, replicating in Ogun the modern facilities we see abroad; it is the first of such in Nigeria.

“All these have set benchmarks below which no future government in Ogun must fall. You can perform better but you are not permitted to fall below this standard that has been set by Amosun.

That is the concept of the Ogun Standard.”

A great standard to emulate, I must say. If the Ogun Standard is about quality, about integrity, about the ideal, then it is something to recommend to the rest of the country.

We must equally have the Nigerian Standard.

In other chapters, the author sheds light on government policies that appear hazy, or controversial. A chapter is dedicated to Income Tax, and another to Homeowners’ Charter.

Surely, a good way to promote the activities and policies of a government!

And fittingly, the last chapter chronicles the landmark achievements of the Amosun administration.

Is this neatly edited and well-produced book a perfect work? Not so.

There are a few grammatical and spelling errors. However, they by no means detract from the overall quality, which is very high.

Again, I believe that too much space has been devoted to excoriating the immediate past administration in Ogun State, and comparing it with the current one. The former administration has come and gone, and it should be left for posterity to judge.

By and large, however, I’ll agree that the Amosun years so far in Ogun State can truly be declared as golden. The governor has made a difference in the physical outlook of the state, which is quite commendable. But has the same impact been made on the stomachs of the populace in these days of emphasis on stomach infrastructure?

The book is a good resource material for anyone conducting a research on the Amosun administration.

PDP ko, APC ni

N

IGERIANS want change.

They d e s i r e fundamental changes to the way things are currently in their lives at the visceral level. The trouble is that Nigerians themselves don’t seem to have decided or even determined what kind of change they wish for themselves.

Change for what and to what? Here is a very basic question: what do Nigerians actually mean by “change?”

What does the “change” they seek look like? I think the idea of change in Nigeria has something of the Elephant and the blind men scenario to it. The difficulty with creating transformational change in Nigeriahas much to do, in other words, with the very fact that “change” means 170 million things in Nigeria. That is, every single person in this country has a notion of the change that maters to them. In this election cycle, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari will once again embody people’s desire for change. Now, for some, Nigeria will need to change the Jonathan presidency for a Buhari presidency, because to these Nigerian supporters of Buhari, “Jonathan is weak and colourless,” as I’ve heard his critics say. He does not have the carriage of a president, nor the menacing aura or oomph! of power around him, and so he has proved too malleable; incapable of dealing with critical national issues of corruption or Nigeria’s security challenges.

Jonathan’s image of a “ weak, corrupt, and inefficient manager” is now the foil for Buhari’s promoters, who sell his image as a former “military strongman” who could get things done quite summarily. The image of a disciplined, incorruptible, and efficient manager with a wealth of experience tucked in his beltmight yet prove more intoxicating than “Sapele Water ” for voters in this election.

Suppose, as it might likely happen, Nigerians elect Mr. Muhammadu Buhari as the next president, what does he bring to the table?

Realistically? Late 20 th century ideas of doing things.

The world has moved on to imponderable things since 1975, when Muhammadu Buhari was first made governor, after Brigadier Musa Usman, of the then North-Eastern State, with its headquarters in Maiduguri under the Federal Military Government led by the late General Murtala Muhammed. Buhari was governor over what has now become the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency, that vast area almost larger than Great Britain, stretching from Lake Chad to the Adamawa straits that once covered what is now the contemporary Borno, Bauchi, Adamawa, Gombe, Yobe and Taraba States of Nigeria. Buhari governed North Eastern Nigeria as a

young man in his 30s, and now in his 70s, his age presents a national security concern. Why? Because at 73, Buhari’s mental faculties are far slower, more ponderous, subject to slips, memory loss, manipulation, and to the general laws of thermodynamics.

No matter how anyone cuts it, the Buhari of 19751985, is mentally and physically, not the Buhari of 2014/5. Yet of course, there are those who will argue, and they ’ll have a great point nonetheless, that experience – the kind of solid experience that Buhari brings to the table – ought to count for something. Indeed it does count, particularly given the fact that Buhari, as Minister of Petroleum and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) from 1976-1979, brings with him a very crucial knowledge of the boardroom intrigues and the politics of the

,

Worth its weight in gold

But Nigerians may actually be suffering from the Stockholm syndrome, in wishing the return of Buhari, because they are yet to witness in Jonathan, a saving grace

,

international oil business.

Obasanjo ran the Petroleum Ministry like a personal fiefdom. Since then, the NNPC and the Ministry of Petroleum, has been run literally like a nation within a nation: it is a power unto itself; powerful beyond measure, and not subject even to legal or parliamentary sanction. It has been made above the law.

The Minister of oil in Nigeria could literally raise and fund a private Army of mercenaries and military contractors from anywhere in the world, that can overthrow Nigeria’s government and countermand its clearly illequipped, poorly staffed, and badly managed Armed and Police Services. So, if Buhari’s mission is to restore Nigeria’s national sovereign integrity, he has a powerful resume, but otherwise, he also comes with the kind of insider knowledge that can further compound Nigeria’s woes.

But above all in this equation is a fundamental problem that most Nigerians have yet to fathom: Muhammadu Buhari as Head of State functioned under a different ethos: it was a military system based on fiats and decrees, and their enforcements were brutal and extra-legal. Under a democracy, the president is guided and circumscribed by a set of laws that limit

his power to issues Decrees and insist on immediate action. But Nigerians may actually be suffering from the Stockholm syndrome, in wishing the return of Buhari, because they are yet to witness in Jonathan, a saving grace. Nigerians long for the “olden days” of brutal military efficiency.

Which brings me to the crucial question: what do Nigerians really want from a president in a Federal Republic under a constitutional rule?

First, we must bear in mind that under the rule of law, the President cannot go beyond his constitutional authority, otherwise he might himself be subject to legal scrutiny and sanction.

The president of Nigeria cannot or should in fact not have the power to recruit, discipline, or sack any officer of the Civil service, for instance, even though the Civil Service reports to him. Such a power is conferred by parliament on the Civil Service Commission. In other words, the powers of the executive president may be enormous but theyare contained by the Acts of Parliament that establishes the Executive branch, serviced by an independent Civil Service which every president inherits.

So, my argument is quite simple: it does not matter which party is elected to the Presidency of Nigeria in February 2015, until Nigerians learn the ways that the democratic system works, change will not come. In fact, neither the PDP nor the APC has clearly articulated any broad framework for refocusing Nigeria. All we have are broad indistinct talking points about corruption, the economy, national security, and how two individuals – Buhari or Jonathan – are expected to perform the kind of magic needed to save a country.

None of these men, I’m afraid to say is a magician.

They cannot act beyond the structures available to them: no president has the mandate to arrest or prosecute anyone for corruption, for instance. It is the job of the police to investigate, arrest, prosecute criminals, and even stop crime before it is commissioned by using embedded tactics. It is not the job of the president to run sting operations; just as it is not under his powers to establish a police system. It is the job of the National Assembly. What the President does is to recommend for appointment of the Head of the Nigerian Police to Parliament, who thereafter reports directly to the president, although in a more coherent system, the Head of the National Police Services should report to the President through the Attorney-General under whose office, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, a National Law Enforcement system should be properly established by an act of Parliament.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 61

Ekpoikong, Ikegbunam brothers rule Benin Chess tourney

My wife’s like my manager W

EST Brom striker Brown Ideye says he is usually rated by his wife and questioned by his son after every game for The Baggies.

The Nigeria international has been under pressure from the fans to justify the £10million transfer fee West Brom paid to acquire him from Dynamo Kiev this summer.

“My wife is like one of my managers. She is a really keen football fan, and she knew lots

E

KPOIKONG Unwa na Eugene has emerged champion of the just concluded 2nd Benin Chess tournament. He emerged champion in the masters series,without losing a game after seven rounds. He won the event with a total of six and half points, carting home the star prize of N80, 000 and a trophy while the second position was jointly won by the trio of Balogun Oluwafemi, Anwuh Daniel and Igubor Micah having recorded five and half points after same number of rounds. They shared the sum of N75, 000 being the prize money for second, third and fourth placed players. Emuakpeje Ochuko received sum of N10, 000 for placing fifth at the event.

In the same vein, Nwachukwu Julius who won the open category got N40, 000 prize money and trophy after he distinguished himself from other contenders, numbering about fifty in the seven round . with He gathered six and half points just as his rival, Akagha Tochukwu could only settle for second position.

about the game before we met and got married.

“She is always telling me how I performed and stuff like that after a match.

“My son also asks if I have scored after every game. My family want me to do well every time I play,”said Brown Ideye to the official website, wba.co.uk After six games , the 26 - year - old is yet to open his goalscoring account in the Premier League.

2015 Women’s World Cup: Falcons can get to the semis — Ikhana

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ORMER Super Fal cons coach, Kadiri Ikhana has disclosed that the success of the Super Falcons at the 2015 Fifa Women’s World Cup Canada is hinged on the support they get from the Nigeria Football Federation.

Ikhana, who led the Super Falcons to a fourth place finish at the 2012 African Women’s Championship in Equatorial Guinea, also tipped Nigeria and USA to advance from the group that has Australia and Sweden.

He backed the girls to do well just as he thinks exposure to top quality friendly games will help the team to, at least, get to the quarter-final stage when the competition begins.

“I have no doubt at all about the chances of the group stage. The draw is tough, but I expect the Super Falcons and the USA to qualify from the group,” Ikhana said.

“I am optimistic that if the Falcons get adequate preparations, they will go as far as the semi finals,” he said.

“The NFF should arrange some top quality friendly matches with countries like China, France, Norway and Japan or even England,” he continued.

“Sweden and Australia C M Y K

from that group will not be pushovers but the experience and quality of USA and Nigeria will overpower them.

“The NFF should also support the coaches to improve on the game ahead,” he concluded.

Nigeria will begin their campaign to better their best-ever outing at USA 1999 where they reached the quarter finals, when the 7th edition of the Fifa Women’s World Cup kicks off against Sweden on June 8 in Winnipeg.

•Amadu

•Ideye

Football devt: Return to Academicals — Uzokwe tells NFF

By Eddie Akalonu

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X-INTERNATION AL Evans Uzokwe has tasked the Nigeria

Football Federation to strengthen the mechanism for development of players at the grassroots level in order to make the national team have more players from home. He specifically wants academicals football to be made a top priority. He said academicals football must not be reduced to something that gets mere mention once in a year as the case is right now. He recalled that football used to be vibrant in schools across the country because there was a strong competition for academicals.

Speaking to our correspondent, Uzokwe, who played for Vasco da Gama of Enugu, Imo State, Spartans FC Owerri and Niger Tornadoes of Minna lamented that defending

champion, Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the African Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea is proof that football in the country has drifted away from the sound foundation and concept of how the game had developed over the years. “We believe so much in miracles. Now that is clear that miracles no longer happen in football, the Nigeria Football Federation must take us back in time to the concept of how football was developed. We must restore Academicals football in schools and states as nucleus of development and as channels for talent hunt, talent development on a consistent basis. It would help the country nurture talents along the line of our brand of football.”

He said gifted players would continually be re-

cruited into clubs until they were ripe for international assignment.

“These Days there is so much talk about football academies but we have no mechanism in place to monitor and control these to ensure what happens inside them are relevant to our needs.

“However, with Academicals football in place as in the 1970’s the rivalry between states produced most of the players that made the national teams., the sky is the limit because within the time that players passed through tests and competitions of varying degrees and categories, those with rare qualities would emerge once more for the national teams such as under-20 when it was introduced and the senior team.”

PAGE 62, SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

Walcott face fitness test for trip to Liverpool

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Mainz bemoan 'tragic' loss to Bayern M

AINZ was left devas tated after giving up a last-minute goal to Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich to lose 2-1 on Friday.

Arjen Robben struck in the 90th minute for Bayern to break the home side’s collective heart, which extended Mainz’s winless streak to nine matches.

While Bayern - typically had 65 per cent possession, they only managed four shots for the match with the hosts producing three, and Mainz general manager Christian Heidel could not believe the home side ended the game without a point.

“It was a nice evening until the last minute. That was tragic,” Heidel said, according to Bayern’s website.

“No criticism of the team, they threw everything they had into it.

“Bayern have rarely been kept so far from the danger zone as today. The ball somehow slithered through at the end.”

Coach Kasper Hjulmand explained he “tried everything” to spring a surprise, telling Mainz’s website: “We started with a high pressing, with an early attack.

“Then we changed a bit, stood a little deeper, defended well."

Van Gaal in Carrick captaincy mix-up

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ANCHESTER United manager Louis van Gaal has said Michael Carrick has usurped Darren Fletcher as the club’s vice-captain.

Van Gaal named Wayne Rooney as skipper ahead of the current Premier League season, with Fletcher as No.2 as he continues his recovery from ulcerative colitis.

Carrick missed the first nine matches of the campaign through injury but United have won six of the seven games he has played since his return to the line-up, while Fletcher has managed just 23 minutes since September 17.

During his press conference on Friday, Van Gaal twice referred to Carrick as “my captain”, before the club’s press officer interjected.

“He is my captain so he brings a lot of experience but also a lot of composure,” Van Gaal said.

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IVERPOOL are awaiting a late assessment on defender Dejan Lovren’s groin injury ahead of today’s visit of Arsenal.

The centre-back was forced off during Wednesday ’s Capital One Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth and should he not be fit manager Brendan Rodgers can recall Mamadou Sakho or revert to a flat-back four.

Midfielder Joe Allen missed the trip the south coast but could return to the squad but striker Mario Balotelli is suspended.

Arsenal’s Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (both groin) and Nacho Monreal (ankle) face fitness tests to determine if they can play in today ’s Barclays Premier League clash at Liverpool.

Manager Arsene Wenger fears midfielder Aaron Ramsey will miss the hectic festive fixture schedule with his hamstring problem, but has Calum Chambers back from suspension.

Amuneke Continues from backpage

•Bayern's Arjen Robben (l) is challenged by a Mainz defender.

Lukaku: I'm still 21 R

OMELU Lukaku has asked for more patience from pundits and fans, claiming he is treated differently to Everton team-mate Ross Barkley.

This season is Lukaku’s fourth in the Premier League and second with Everton, having joined the Merseyside club permanently from Chelsea in the off-season, but there has been a sense the Belgium international has yet to live up to his reputation with just six goals in 16 league games.

Having broken through as a professional in the 2009-10 season with Anderlecht scoring 15 goals in 33 league matches - Lukaku has been well known in European football for six seasons but remains just 21.

•Mancini

•Lukaku

Mancini: Inter can finish third

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NTER coach Roberto Man cini remains confident his side can secure third spot in Serie A despite their rocky recent form.

Inter, who host fourth-placed Lazio today, have won just two out of six matches in all competitions since Mancini returned to San Siro last month and sit 11th in Serie A. However, the former Manchester City boss has not given up hope of achieving a lofty position.

“The lads are looking good, we just have to make sure we

keep improving. It’s always better after a win,” explained the Italian, a former player and coach with Lazio.

“We’ve lost two games so I can’t be happy. I’m pleased with the atmosphere around the team. There’s still a long way to go in the league. I think we’ll be in the mix for third place.

“We mustn’t look at the table for now, just keep on putting points on the board. All the sides above us are battling for third place. We need to put together a run of good results.

says going into the championship as world champions is an added burden because every team will be interested in defeating the team.

To this effect, the coach has declared that he is still ready to accommodate any good player within the age bracket that can add value to what he is doing because his team is still work in progress..

He added that to make sure that the team was adequately prepared for the continental championship which will equally serve as qualifying series for the next edition of the FIFA world cadet championship, the camp of the team which reopened last week in Abuja has screened some new players.

Amuneke told Sports Vanguard in Abuja that “at this stage we call it work in progress and most of us who are privileged to serve this country owe her the debt of speaking the truth and that is that if we see any player that can add value to what we are doing we will bring him in”.

The former African Footballer of the Year also revealed that because the Golden Eaglets are the world champions, it has made the task of qualifying for the 2015 edition of the world championship more difficult as everybody will be interested in beating them.

“Yes we have been able to do the first thing by qualifying for the African championship taking place in Niger next year. We took a break after our last game against Gabon and now we have resumed for the task ahead of us. I have told my players that nobody is going to do us any favours and as the defending champions, it is even more difficult and more challenging because the rest of the world will want to take our crown"

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014, PAGE 63

Keshi deserves a second chance — Adebiyi

By Eddie Akalonu

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ORMER Nigeria Football Association vice chairman and chairman technical committee, Brigadier General Gregory Adebiyi (rtd) has said it will be in the interest of the Nigeria Football Federation to stick with Stephen Keshi than recruiting another coach.

Speaking to our correspondent, he said, since they decided to have an indigenous coach and hired Keshi, they should work with him to move Nigeria football forward.

“He has done well by winning the Nations Cup in 2013. But we made a mistake of looking ahead towards defending the title without first thinking about qualifying for the competition where that title has to be defended, the fault is ours.

“Spain went to the World Cup as holders and left after the group stage. But we went to the World Cup and made it to round two. For the AFCON, we failed to qualify to defend the title. These are two different situations.

“The similarity is that like Spain, we depended on stars and they failed us. However we should emulate Spain that has realized that it will take at least ten years to build another generation of players and are onto it already by not changing the

coach.”

Adebiyi, who was a former Armed Forces director of Health and Physical Education, warned that the country against frequent firing of coaches because it has consequences. “I am of the view that they should work with Keshi to regenerate the national team because if they do away with him now, where are they going to get another good local coach who is as good? To me, Keshi remains far ahead of other local coaches around and I think they should not make the mistake of replacing him now to avoid creating more problems,” he stated.

•Keshi

100 players make Eaglets pool A

FTER a massive turnout by budding youngsters at the camp of the Golden Eaglets for the open screening, one hundred players have been identified as potential players by the technical crew of the national U/17 led by Emmanuel Amuneke.

An average of 300 players were screened daily and national team handlers have been able to separate the grain from the chaff from what is just the first stage of a tedious process for a place in the squad.

“We thank everyone that had come and the one-week open screening has reinforced our belief that there is abundance of talents in Nigeria,” Amuneke said.

It was gathered that

Doping, a threat to athletics — WADA boss W

ORLD Anti-Doping Authority vice-chairman Arne Ljungqvist says that the credibility of elite sport is in danger of being lost altogether if it does not deal with a historic acceptance of doping in some quarters.

Ljungqvist was speaking in the wake of a recent German TV documentary alleging systematic doping and cover-ups among Russian track and field athletes, and said that such reports had not surprised him in the slightest.

“I’m not surprised by anything any more,” Ljungqvist said in an interview. “But I evaluate what I hear, and this is something I recognise

from before.

“We have seen this before, and I know the people who made the documentary well. They usually have a good foundation before they go out with these kinds of things.”

Ljungqvist said that he had not seen the documentary, entitled “Secret Doping Dossier: How Russia Produces Its Winners” and broadcast by ZDF/ARD at the beginning of December, but that the allegations within it followed a familiar pattern.

“I remember when I was medical officer for the IOC (International Olympic Committee) and the anti-doping efforts before

the Beijing Olympics.

“I had identified a number of Russian women who had in some way ‘dribbled’ with doping questions and tests. They were suspended and never got to Beijing,” he said.

“I held a press conference on the subject where I stated that it smelled of organised doping, so it’s nothing new,” he recalled of the run-up to the 2008 Olympic Games.

“The following year there was a similar story with Russian biathletes suspended before a world championship in Pyeongchang in South Korea.”

Since competing in the high jump for Sweden at the 1952 Olympics the 83-year-old has spent almost half his life battling

doping, holding positions in Wada, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and the IOC. The IAAF, Wada and Russian anti-doping agency RUSADA have all said they will investigate the claims contained in the documentary, but the film was described as lies

by Russia’s athletics federation president Valentin Balakhnichev.

Ljungqvist believes that the problems outlined in the film stem from a historic habit of doping that existed before the fall of the Iron Curtain in the late 1980s.

“My feeling is that cultures remain in the old so-called Eastern Bloc, and we have seen that at the big international exercises,” he said.

this is only the first stage of the exercise which is squarely based on the innate quality of the players as well as right disposition during the screening .Officials informed that the players so selected would be further scrutinized to authenticate their document before undergoing the mandatory Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Test.

“The whole idea of this screening is to have a pool of players that can be good additional to the squad even after the African Championship in Niger,” reasoned Amuneke.

“This team is work in progress and by the grace of God, we shall pack the plane successfully after Chile in 2015.”

Meanwhile, the Golden Eaglets would continue their build up towards the continental cadet championship at the NFF/FIFA Goal Project in Abuja tomorrow.

According to the team’s administrator, Tayo Egbaiyelo, the team would only break from their routine training session on designated public holidays during the festive period in view of the short time before Niger 2015 slated for February 15 to March 1st.

Incidentally, draws for the competition would be held at the CAF Headquarters in Cairo, Egypt on Sunday with the eight qualifiers including defending champions, Cote d’Ivoire, Niger (hosts), Cameroon, Guinea, Mali, South Africa, Zambia and Nigeria drawn into two halves of four teams each.

Olam restates commitment to football tourney O

DOPING DEVELOPMENT...A German television documentary purports to show undercover video of Russian Olympic gold medalist Maria Savinova admitting to the use of oxandrolone.

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LAM Nigeria Limited has restated its commitment to he sponsorship of the Olam-All football tournament after its team won this year ’s final held weekend at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium, Lagos.

Olam defeated Crown Floor Mills 5-3 in a pulsating final match watched by a horde of fans, comprising the firm’s management and

work force.

Speaking to reporters, Olam’s Head, Corporate and Government Relation, Ade Adefeko said that the tournament was meant to bring together all the staffs of the company as sports is a unifying factor in the country. He said it would help promote friendship and good health among the workers.

He said the company was happy that the tournament has

engendered good relationship within its workforce, noting that the competition was not a do or die affair and congratulated Olam for winning the event.

Adefeko also noted that the event would not only become an annual one in the calendar of the company, assuring also that it would become enduring, just the same way it has done business in Nigeria for 25 years.

SUNDAY Vanguard, DECEMBER 21, 2014

As world champions our task is more difficult — Amuneke

By Jude Opara, Abuja

A

HEAD of the 2015 African cadet championship coming up in Niger Republic,

Chief Coach of the national U17 team, Emmanuel Amuneke

Continues on page 62

FIFA rankings: Falcons shame Eagles •Remain Africa’s best

Silva, Toure shoot City level with Chelsea

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NLIKE their male coun terparts, the Super Eagles who have been toppled by less fancied African teams in FIFA and CAF rankings, African women champions, the Super Falcons of Nigeria, have climbed three places in the year end Fifa ranking for women.

The Nigerian women are in the 32nd position in the global ranking compared to the last quarter that they occupied the 35th position.

Conversely, the Eagles that were in 42 in November, dropped to 43 in the latest year end FIFA rankings thus ending the year outside the top 40 teams in the world.

The Falcons who are World Cup bound, are the top team in Africa followed by Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and South Africa in that order.

Nigeria’s rivals at the Women’s World Cup - United States, Sweden and Australia - are ranked 2nd, 5th and 10th respectively.

Germany, USA, France, Japan and Sweden, who will all feature at next year’s tournament in Canada, are the top five countries in the world.

The next world ranking will be published by the official website of Fifa, fifa.com, on 27 March 2015.

W

AFRICAN CHAMPIONS: Super Falcons face a tough challenge at the 2015 World Cup in Canada

HO needs a centre-for ward when you’ve got David Silva? The little Spaniard rescued strikerless Manchester City on Saturday as Manuel Pellegrini’s men made light of their injury crisis to make it eight wins in a row to join Chelsea at the top of the Premier League.

It was James Milner who was given the false No9 role because of injuries to Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko and Stevan Jovetic, but Silva who ultimately provided the knockout punch with two quickfire goals after 49 and 61 minutes following a stalemate first half.

Yaya Toure added a cracking third late on and City are now level on points with Chelsea and only one behind on goal difference, with Jose Mourinho’s due to play Stoke on Monday.

After trying and testing different things in training all week, City boss Pellegrini opted for Milner as his furthest man forward to cover the lack of a fit and available senior striker.

Don’t repeat Eguaveon’s mistake, Amadu warns Siasia

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tion campaign for the Rio 2016 Olympics, a mistake, which caused the ‘Olympic Eagles’ the chance of playing in the London 2012 Games.

Siasia who led the same team

IGERIA Football Federa tion secretary-general, Musa Amadu has warned coach of the nation’s Under-23 team not to rely on foreign based players for his qualifica-

CROSS WORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1.Nobel-winning Archbishop (7-4) 5.Sailor (3) 7.Consumed (5) 8.Domesticates (5) 9.Ovum (3) 10.Electricity counting gadgets (6) 13.Highlander (4) 15.Poem (3) 17.One that contests (9) 20.Nigerian tribe (5) 22.Cereal (5) 24.Demoted (9) 27.Pig’s pen (3) 29.No one (4) 30.Sulks (6) 33.Away (3) 35.Presses (5) 36.Till (5) 37. Swine (3) 38. “The Man Who Saw Tomorrow” (11)

•Amuneke

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DOWN 1.Sleeping vision (5) 2.Possessor (5) 3.Tax (4) 4.Depressing (9) 5.Argentinian dance (5) 6.Wash lightly (5) 11.Greek letter (3) 12.Distress call (1-1-1) 14.English boy’s name (5) 16.Obstacle (3) 17.Bovine animal (3) 18.Mindfulness (9) 19.Alarm (5) 21.Help (3) 23.Village house (3) 25.Gnome (3) 26.Vast age (3) 27.Condescend (5) 28.Youthful (5) 31.Circular (5) 32.Trades (5) 34.Old Russian King (4)

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to a silver at Beijing 2008 was recently appointed coach of the Under-23 team and he voiced his frustration at getting European clubs to release some of the players he invited for the games ahead. “ Siasia must learn from the mistakes of Austin Eguavoen the last time. He depended too much on the overseas based players and when they didn’t show up, it became a problem because the competition didn’t fall into any of the FIFA free windows.

“But I’m happy Siasia has

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started working with the home based lads and we will do everything possible to provide all the support he needs.

•Siasia

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Newcastle Liverpool

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Sunderland Arsenal

2:30pm 5:00pm

R E S U LT S

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Man City Aston Villa Hull QPR Southampton Tottenham West Ham

3 Crystal Palace 1 Man Utd 0 Swansea 3 West Brom 3EPL RESULTS Everton 2 Burnley 2 Leicester

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