Sunday, March 10, 2013

Big Read News

THE

P. 3-6

Nigerian universities: Still flying at half mast

NEWS

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We’ve killed seven kidnapped foreign hostages –Boko Haram faction How Boko Haram can get amnesty –Yakasai, Kaita, others www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vol. 3 No. 13

N150

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Shame of a nation

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Balewa, late Nigeria’s first PM’s office, in ruins 2015: Whoever will emerge president must receive my blessing –IBB P. 8

Seven in race to become Iwo monarch Old cabinet office, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

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PHOTO: YINKA ADEPARUSI

Corruption in the judiciary

Fear grips judges as NJC considers fresh cases Council meets on March 13

News

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Slate petitions against two S’East judges for deliberation

Police arrest Yerima, ex-Zamfara governor ... over radio comment

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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What’s new Politics

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Seven Days TALKING POINTS OF THE PAST WEEK MARCH 10, 2013

No amnesty for Boko Haram, Fracas in Ogun Assembly as lawmakers break mace says Jonathan

Passion

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‘Growing up, I had no friends; my family decided for me’ Amina Atairu studied Law at the University of Benin. An actress, a model, TV presenter and media consultant, Atairu started acting professionally in 2008. She has featured in so many movies and TV series. Not only that, she also ventured into broadcasting and worked with DBN Television as presenter. In this interview, she tells her preference while acting out a romantic role.

mediately to redress the inherent injustice in the allocation of the oil facilities.

Some of them, however, threatened war if President Jonathan failed to accede to their demand. But the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, demanded the setting up of a commission of enquiry into the allegation.

Newswatch: Again, Ekpu, Agbese, others lose in court

For the second time within a space of two months and from two different federal high courts sitting separately, the former directors/minority shareholders of Newswatch magazine suffered another major judicial defeat yesterday as a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos struck out their application to stop the suit instituted by the Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim-led management.

The presiding judge, Justice Okon Abang, struck out the application on all grounds, stressing that it was lacking in merit. The court also awarded

the sum of N15,000 in favour of the plaintiff against the defendants.

The Newswatch Communications Limited (NCL), (publishers of Newswatch magazine), Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim and Global Media Mirror Ltd, have brought the substantive suit praying the court to declare that the four former directors of Newswatch magazine, Messrs Ray Ekpu, Dan Agbese, Yakubu Mohammed and Soji Akinrinade, have since ceased to be directors and, therefore, could not legally do anything on behalf of the company.

Nigeria’s oil output drops by 140,000 bpd The nation’s oil output has dropped by about 140,000 barrels per day as a result of the shutdown of Nembe Creek trunk line in Bayelsa State that delivers crude oil from Shell’s producing fields to Bonny ex-

port terminal.

Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, which accounts for half of Nigeria’ oil production, said in a statement that it had declared force majeure on Bonny Light export programme.

Gwange ward of Maiduguri metropolis, Borno State, was killed in the attack.

The slain commandant, 45, according to an eyewitness, was shot at his Lagos Bridge residence on Sunday evening by three armed men in a tricycle. The attackers later fled towards Bama Road where they also shot a traffic warden at his duty post.

Azeezat Allen MUSICIAN

MON

The nation was startled by the recent revelation in the Senate that 83 per cent of the oil blocs in the country belong to northerners. This has since elicited agitations in some quarters, particularly in the South-South. Former Senate President, Barrister Ameh Ebute, in this interview, says the agitations are justified. He also spoke about why President Goodluck Jonathan should be allowed to run for another term in office.

Anger reigned in the Niger Delta, hours after the revelation that northerners owned 83 per cent of oil wells not in control of the international companies.

Consequently, leaders of the oil-rich region have demanded that President Goodluck Jonathan revoke the controversial oil blocs owned by northerners im-

Barely 24 hours after the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Chinweike Asadu, was killed by gunmen in his home town, Amorji-Nike, Enugu State, suspected members of the Boko Haram Islamic sect shot dead the Commandant of the Police Mobile Training Camp in Borno State, Mr. Umaru Ali Jenga. Also, a traffic warden in

My Mondays are usually light. In fact, I try to relax as much as possible on Mondays because weekend ar tight and very busy for me.

On Mondays, I try to see that I get a good rest try as much as I can to relax. But sometimes, I like to treat my last week’s appointments that had been shifted from on Monday. Once I know that I have postponed some things, I like to okay or meet up with them. On Mondays, I do attend to appointments that had been fixed before.

TUE

Anger in N’Delta over 83% oil blocs to northerners

Again, gunmen kill MOPOL commander

On Tuesday, the work starts. Anything I could not do on Monday, I start doing on Tuesday. This is usually the beginning of the week for me. Like now, I have gone back into the industry fully. Everything that it takes, most importantly, when I have sessions, I work in the studio but when I don’t, I do a lot of stuff on the internet. The truth about me is that my week or my life is not stereotyped. I do things when I need to do them. Most of the time when I did not sleep well at night, I try to sleep in the afternoon. I love working at night. It is my day actually.

WED

Agitations in South over North’s dominance of oil sector justifiable –Ebute, ex-Senate president

At the plenary, the Speaker recalled an alleged unruly behaviour of four lawmakers during the previous sitting. Adekunbi noted that four members - Hon. Job Akintan (Egbado North II); Hon. Remmy Hazzan (Odogbolu); Hon. Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo (Ifo II); and Hon. John Obafemi (Remo North), all walked out on other members without taking a bow at the previous sitting.

Wednesdays are for outing or field work. If I book appointment on Tuesdays, it would be official but Wednesdays are for outside service like interviews, locations, shooting videos and stuffs like that.

THU

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There was pandemonium in the hallow chamber of the Ogun State House of Assembly on Tuesday following attempts by the Speaker, Hon. Suraj Ishola Adekunbi, to suspend four members for allegedly infringing on the House rules.

The uproar witnessed on the floor of the House, which resulted in the breaking of the mace, was as a result of the crisis rocking the Assembly over the composition of members of the tenders’ board.

Thursdays are for getting ready for the weekend. If I can rest on Thursday, I would do it in order to get ready for the weekend.

FRI

Interview

cally like the Niger Delta militants?” he asked. The President stated this on Thursday at an interactive session with Yobe Stakeholders/Elders in Damaturu during his two-day working visit to Yobe and Borno states.

The visit was seen as an attempt by the President to silence critics, including opposition governors, who have been accusing him of not visiting the two volatile states and epicentre of Boko Haram’s activities.

SUN SAT

Orji vs Kalu: Politics of vendetta takes over in Abia

President Goodluck Jonathan has turned down the request by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III to declare an amnesty for members of the deadly Boko Haram Islamic sect.

The President said in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, that the clamour to grant amnesty to the group at this moment was not possible.

“How can a government grant amnesty to a faceless group or ghosts who refused to show themselves physi-

I go out on this fifth working day of the week.

Of course, I go out.

Same also happens on Sundays. I go out for events. *By Adaeze Amos (0802 301 2293)

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE

Big Read SUNDAY SPECIAL INVESTIGATION March 10, 2013

Okogie

Kaduna State University main gate

Nigerian universities: Still flying at half mast The proliferation of universities appears to have given rise to less than standard institutions, which go by the hallowed name of university, especially those privately established. The government-established ones have not also fared better either as they are faced with several academic challenges; from infrastructure to manpower, which have led to a sharp decline in scholarship in the nation’s ivory towers. Lecturer to student ratio has also worsened, making the universities increasingly dependent on visiting lecturers. Head, Special Investigations, Isioma Madike’s investigation reveals the rot in the higher institutions of learning

B

lacksmith University, Awka in Anambra State is anything but a university in the strict sense of the word. It is a two-storey building housing offices for the director of administration and publication, heads of departments, both academic and non-academic staff, students and their union. Tucked also in the far end of the premises are ascetic library and two classrooms with seats for about 35 students each.

The main administrative and registration offices speak volume about this “citadel” of learning. It is a small shop turned into offices by the right side of the two-storey building institution. To make it look like an office, the shop is partitioned to create space for reception. By this arrangement, visitors would meet a secretary before seeing the registrar.

The secretary’s office is equipped with an old computer PC, a standing fan and a number of bound academic works. The compound has no venue or space for matriculation and con-

vocation ceremonies. Yet, the university, sources claim, have satellite campuses in several locations within the state. It is also said to be an affiliate of an American University and offers courses in Arts, Social Sciences, Administration and Computer Science. But, Sunday Mirror findings revealed that Blacksmith is among those listed as illegal universities operating in the country by the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC).

Incidentally, the institution does not operate in isolation. There are about 51 of such universities awarding all sorts of degrees and certificates in Nigeria. According to the weekly news bulletin of NUC, eight of such universities had been taken to court, while some are currently undergoing investigations. The illegal universities, either in court or currently being investigated, the Executive Secretary of NUC, Julius Okojie, says are National University of Nigeria, Keffi, Nasarawa State, North Central University,

ILLEGAL OPERATORS PERSIST DESPITE WARNING –NUC

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Oturkpo, Benue State and Christ Alive Christian Seminary and University, Enugu State.

Others are Richmond Open University, Arochukwu, Abia State, West Coast University, Umuahia, Abia State, St. Clements University, Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, Volta University College, Aba, Abia State as well as illegal satellite campuses of Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma in Edo State. The list of the remaining illegal universities include, Christian of Charity American University, Science and Technology University, Nkpor, Anambra State, University of Industry, Yaba, University of Applied Science and Management, Lagos, Volta University College and Royal University, Abakaliki, Atlanta University, Kogi, and Sunday Adokpela University, Oturkpo.

There are also United Christian University, Imo State, United Nigerian University College, Anambra State, Samuel Ahmadu University, Benue, St Augustine University of Technology, Jos International University, Kano and Lagos Columbus University. Tiu International University, Pebbles University, London External Studies, Pilgrims University and Lobi Business School, all in Benue State, West African Christian University, and Bolta University College, Aba. Other fake universities, according to NUC, include JBC Seminary Inc, Kaduna State, Westland University, Kwara State, EC Council University, Ikeja, Atlas University, Akwa Ibom, Coocept College/University, Ilorin, Halifat Gateway University, Ikeja, Kingdom of Christ University, Abuja, Acada University, Oyo State, Fifom University in Imo State, Houdegbe North American University satellite campuses in Nigeria, Atlantic International University, Okija, and Open International University, Akure.

Also identified among the illegal universities are Middle Belt University, Oturkpo, Leeway University, Ugheli, CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

‘UNIVERSITY HAD 300-LEVEL STUDENTS WITHIN TWO YEARS OF EXISTENCE’

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The Big Read

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Illegal operators persist despite warning –NUC

Lecturers’ offices, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Metro University Bwari, Abuja, Southend University, River State, Olympic University, Nsukka, Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Abuja, Temple University, Abuja, Irish University Business School, London, Nigeria and National University of Technology, Lafia, Nasarawa State.

Okojie said that the universities were closed down for lack of minimum Academic Standards and the violation of Universities Act CAP E3, Law of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. The NUC boss said the reason for going to court was to ensure the prosecution of the proprietors of these universities, and warn the public who had been patronising the institutions. He warned that no certificate received from any of these institutions would be recognised for either employment or otherwise. “We do not call them degree awarding institutions; we call them degree mills and we have been warning the public against patronising them because whoever does that does it at his or her own risk’, he said, adding, “the list was not exhaustive. The proprietors of these illegal universities had continued to operate underground, deceiving the ignorant citizens and collecting their hard earned money.”

In most of these universities, their makeshift premises serve as their administrative blocks. The short stretches of blocks usually behind the major building, houses the classrooms that hardly pass for poultry shed. With no libraries, most of their owners would, however, brag that their institutions enjoy the approval of affiliate foreign institutions, especially the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK). They usually boast of large number of students and such students need not labour for qualifying examinations as “anything goes” provided one is able to pay their exorbitant fees. But, a professor at the University of Lagos, who prefers anonymity, says that it has not been the practice in the academic community for a university to be affiliated to another. “This issues you raised is strange.

I have never in my 26 years as a lecturer heard of such a practice,” the don affirmed.

Investigations by Sunday Mirror revealed that most of these schools work in two streams; full time studies, which engages students from Monday to Friday and the part-time students, termed sandwich studies for mature workers and those who are under employment. Their lecture periods are Fridays, Saturday and Sundays. They mostly rely on hand-outs. Fees charged are in the range of N250, 000 and N500, 000 per semester and buying of hand-outs and books published by the lecturers of the schools is compulsory.

Meanwhile, officials of the United States Information Services (USIS), Lagos denied claims that most of those institutions are subsidiaries of American institutions. A source at USIS told Sunday Mirror that the USIS does not keep records of such schools. “That is purely a business matter. We don’t have any information about such institutions,” the source added. Close watchers of the institutions tend to conclude that the products from such universities are half-baked. Other critics are of the view that most of the products of these institutions do not speak good English.

Apart from these mushroom universities, however, the NUC has not been happy as well with some older institutions still running substandard part-time programmes.

Front view of University of Abuja, Gwagwalada campus

Egboka

Rufa’i

In November, 2012, it shut down an illegal part-time programme allegedly operated by the Imo State University in Abuja and summoned its Vice-Chancellor to explain the rationale behind that. The illegal programme, which is operated at the Junior Secondary School, Area 10, Abuja, was sealed on Saturday, November 12, 2012 with the help of armed policemen, who accompanied the NUC Committee on Closure of Illegal Universities to the venue. The police arrested the Coordinator of the Part-Time programme, A. C. Odunze, who tried to run away when he saw the policemen and NUC officials. Also, One Concept College London situated in Gwarinpa area in Abuja, was shut down by NUC for illegal activities and the coordinator, Marcel Ezenwoye, was handed over to the police for appropriate action.

A visiting Professor to the NUC and Chairman of the Committee on Closure of Illegal Universities, Adebisi Balogun, who was part of the sealing, said “on many occasions, the NUC has placed advertorials on illegal part-time programmes and some of the universities that are running those programmes, the NUC had talked to them. But unfortunately, the illegality still persists and this is one of the illegal outfits. There are regulations governing the establishment of part-time and affiliated programmes. And they are running so many programmes here that have not been approved by the NUC. The type of environment where they carry out the illegality is not conducive for learning. We once met the coordinator and told him that the programme had been abolished. But the information we had still showed that they were running the part-time programme.”

Balogun said the authorities of the illegal university had assured the students that the programmes they were running were legal; unfortunately, “it is a way of defrauding members of the public. They have been able to deceive many people, collected money from them. That is what the NUC has been saying, if you go and patronise an illegal outfit, your certificate is illegal, because at the end of the day, this certificate will still be verified by the NUC. And if NUC cannot verify your certificate, even after spending five to six years for a programme, then of course there is a

problem. You can never use that certificate,” Balogun said.

Yet, some legally established universities in the country have also been source of worry to not only the Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai, but other stakeholders in the sector. For instance, the University of Abuja, situated in the nation’s Federal Capital, has been in the news lately, particularly about the situation at its Gwagwalada campus. The institution is said to be replete with sub-standard infrastructural facilities, complaints emerging from the administrative style and poor academic programmes offered by it. These, the minister had on various occasion said is partly the reason the school has continued to churn out poor quality of graduates. About 24 years after its establishment, some of the faculties are still domiciled at the Pilot Science Primary School, Gwagwalada, owing to the slow pace of work going on at its permanent site. There have been reports of gross inadequacy of staff, lecture halls/ theatres, learning resources, hostel accommodation, library and laboratory equipment, which the school is said to have ignored for long.

The Presidential visitation panel to the institution discovered the rot and described the university as worse than a glorified secondary school. The report said many students of the institution graduated without completing the requirements, citing the case of 31 students in the English Department, who graduated despite having some courses in the 2003/2004 academic session. The report further stated that many students admitted in the school do not meet Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) or postJAMB requirements, and added that records keeping on examinations are poor, making it impossible to compute student Grade Point Average (GPA) and Cumulative Grade Point (CGPA). For instance, Jane Enemona, a biology student of the University was supposed to have graduated two years ago, but owing to the peculiar problems of the institution, she is still a student because results of some of the courses she sat for are missing. She revealed that she was already preparing for the national youth service proCONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The Big Read

Sunday, March 10, 2013

5

‘UNIABUJA runs as a private business’

Senate building of UMYU, Katsina

Fosudo

Imo State University Satelite campus, Abuja

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 gramme, when she was told she had a carryover course to retake in her first semester.

The Prof. D. A. Guobadia-led federal government’s panel report also indicted the Vice Chancellor, Prof. James Adelabu, of corruption and gross maladministration. The report averred that this has led to the lowering academic standards and infrastructural decay in the institution. “The VC on assumption of office in 2009, dissolved statutory committees, replaced them with ad-hoc committees ” revealing that the school was run as a private business and activities of the governing councils were put at abeyance. It also observed that the VC chose unqualified, non-professors as Deans and Heads of Departments (HODs), against the university laws that stipulate that Deans must be professors.

One of the strange discoveries of the panel was also that, the Deans of Postgraduate and Medical schools of the university are not professors, while the institution grossly lacks qualified academic staff but has excess of non academic staff. Findings by the committee also led to the suspension of three major programmes, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Engineering by Prof. Rufa’i. And the quality of buildings and equipment in the school is another concern as the panel described them as below standard, and concluded that the school is not fit to be a university.

With a student population of about 60,000, the school can only boast of a mini library with an insignificant number of books. “So worrisome is that in this 21st century (jet age), the university of Abuja exists without internet facilities, staff and student are totally excommunicated from the global academic community,” the report added. Showing concern on the future of unsuspecting innocent students, the panel lamented the non-accreditation of virtually all the science related programmes - Agriculture, Medicine and Engineering, stressing that the future of the students enrolled in these programmes is being jeopardised. On the infrastructural decay, the panel was not satisfied with the quality of work done, especially the Central Administration and the Faculty of Arts building.

Also in January, 2011, NUC closed down the postgraduate school and the faculty of law of Lead City University, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The university had graduated students from the now proscribed faculty of law and the postgraduate school and had, in its December 23, 2010, convocation, awarded eight PhDs. The director, Academic Standards at the NUC, Alhassan Bichi, explained that several directives had been given to the management of the institution to close down the School of Postgraduate Studies and the Law Faculty since 2008. The directive was informed by the report of a special monitoring team which visited the university in 2007. The team reported that the university had students in the College of Law at 300 levels within two years of its existence, and that the postgraduate programmes commenced without the approval of the NUC and the university’s Senate. These, according to the NUC, contravened two conditions of the licensing of the university.

The university was approved on condition that the start-up colleges will comprise Management Sciences, Information and Communication Technology and some departments in the College of Humanities. The Postgraduate School was to commence in the third phase while the Faculty of Law was to be deferred. The operational licence also contains a clause, which states that, “Admission of students on transfer and direct entry in the first two sessions after take-off is unacceptable. But the university had defied those directives and had gone ahead to graduate students from the two streams,” he said.

Based on the above contravention of the clauses in the instrument approving the university, the NUC declared the certificates acquired by students from the two programmes illegal. They are not to be recognised for the purpose of employment or further studies. It advised students undertaking courses in the affected arms of the institutions to withdraw from the programmes. A notice to that effect was communicated to JAMB, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Federal Ministry of Education. But, the authorities of Lead City University had argued that the programmes have been approved by the NUC. They also

claimed that the institution has facilities that compare favourably with other law faculties and postgraduate schools to offer the programmes. They claimed that Okojie bore a grudge against the university and had placed barriers in its path in the past.

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in Anambra State has its own challenges as well. The university, with a combined student’s population of about 30,000 spread across 98 departments and 14 faculties, according to the Registrar, Barrister C. C Okeke, is seriously grappling with the problem of lack of fund. He said most of the structures in the school at present were built by private individuals and groups. The likes of Chike Okoli Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies and the Multi Disciplinary Research Centre were donated by Mrs Stella Okoli of Emzor Pharmaceutical and former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme. Others include, the Post Graduate School building donated by the former MD of Intercontinental Bank PLC, the Department of Economics building

by Alhaji Ishaku Umar from Kano State and the Mass Communication building, which was the handiwork of Senator Andy Uba. The English Department building was built by Chief G.U O Okeke while the standard water borehole on the campus was donated by Engr. Arthur Eze Okeke told Sunday Mirror that the university is in dire need of more hostels as the present ones, some of which were provided by private individuals, have been inadequate. He said the university receives capital allocations from NUC but that such allocations came in bits and was not enough to put up structures that are befitting of a Federal University. Also, the Kaduna State University (KASU), which was established in 2004 with seven faculties, is struggling with accreditation challenges as many of its courses are yet to be accredited after nine years of its existence.

Some of the courses that have been denied accreditation include medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, biochemistry, agriculture, and environmental science such as architectural and quantity survey. But, the school’s bulletin obtained by Sunday Mirror paints a different picture, stating that many of the courses denied accreditation had scaled through with nine receiving interim accreditation, leaving out only Mathematics.

Though, the medical faculty is yet to have its own teaching hospital as one of the requirements for accrediting it.

Some of the students, who spoke to Sunday Mirror blamed the state government for what they perceived as its failure to properly fund the university. When contacted, the chairman of KASU Central Accreditation Committee, Dr A. k Babajo, said “we have done our home work now. We are waiting and hoping that the remaining courses would scale through this time around. We had done all that was humanly possible as guided by the NUC requirements to get the best accreditation for these programmes.”

The Niger Delta University (NDU), Amassoma in SouthCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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The Big Read

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘University had 300-level students within two years of existence’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 ern Ijaw local government area of Bayelsa State also has partial accreditation for most of its courses, except Accountancy, which was denied. According to the acting Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Humphrey Ogoni, “most of our staff are from the older universities. Staff strength in academic is okay, but some are lacking in specific areas.

Some lecturers are on sabbatical, some on contract, while some are full staff. It is a dynamic system; you cannot precisely say this is the number of lecturers. We have done relatively well in providing enabling infrastructure,” Ogoni explained.

In the state-owned Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina, the Law faculty, which was denied accreditation, would have to go through about three accreditation processes before becoming operational, according to the school’s spokesperson, Muazu Abdullahi. He said that most of the courses being offered were Sciences and Art-based while those in social sciences and humanity, law and medicine would be introduced to flag off the beginning of second stage of the university’s infrastructural development.

The University of Jos is another in need of a turn-around. Since it was established in 1975, the institution is still struggling to have its fortunes changed for the better. It operates in three campuses in different locations of the state, which many see as not conducive for learning. The inability of the university to move to its permanent site, 38 years after its establishment is also compounding its woes.

With over 14,000 student population, more than 90 per cent of the students are suffering due to lack of hostel accommodation. A visit to the permanent site of the institution reveals many uncompleted building projects begging for attention. A 300-Level student, who gave her name as Mercy Ejeh, says that accommodation remains the biggest problem of the school. “If you see how students are usually crowded during lectures, you will understand the import of inadequate facilities in the university,’’ she said. But, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Hayward Mafuyai, has blamed the situation on non release of take off grants for the institution since inception.

“We need fund to put up the structures effectively; to buy modern equipment for research in all disciplines,” he added.

University education in Nigeria dates back to 1948, when the University College, Ibadan was established. It remained the premier university in Nigeria for more than a decade before laws were enacted to produce the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in Eastern Nigeria in 1955. Five decades down the line, there have emerged more than 124 Federal and State universities in the country, with most of them acknowledged for producing the manpower for the nation’s development till date. Each year, thousands of applicants sit for JAMB examination and less than 20 per cent on the average gained admission into the universities. Apart from this gross inadequacy, the carrying capacities of the existing higher institutions are low. These make competitions to be keen, stressful and frustrating to many youth desirous of intellectual pursuant.

However, this protracted difficulty in admission has provided opportunities to some Nigerians to establish some private institutions of higher learning, especially when the policy of private participation

JAMB candidates in an exam hall

in higher education became pronounced.

In 1999, the first Private University Education kicked off in Nigeria under the President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

Since then, many private universities had been established. Today, there are more private ownership of tertiary institutions than there are those belonging to governments at the federal as well as the states levels. Incidentally, many of these private tertiary institutions are established without due process. They exist and operate without legal authorisation. These institutions spring up in different locations in Nigeria. And there is hardly any state that is exempted from this practice.

The establishments of some of these institutions are illegal because no permission is sought from the government or the bodies that are responsible for the establishment or registration of such private higher institutions in the country. The National Policy on Education makes reference to minimum standards in connection with the establishment of universities by nongovernmental organisations. These standards are disregarded in open deviance and candidates who seek admissions to these institutions are exploited because of their ignorance. The proprietors of these institutions are mostly university graduates that probably stayed unemployed for some years. As a way of meeting their need for employment and to also generate income, they resort to establishing these schools with little or no start-up capital. Some of these institutions operate under trees or in uncompleted residential buildings. This makes serious academic programmes almost impossible under this kind of settings. Their efforts would have been commendable if the said institutions were not to be a mockery of the entire education system. It is profit motivated with no little intention for quality training in view of the features that characterise their operations.

Characteristics of Illegal universities include lack of infrastructural amenities, use of rented residential buildings within the community. Some of them operate in structures that belong to public primary schools.

Admissions are not through JAMB as the body that is saddled with the responsibility of screening candidates seeking admissions

to higher institutions of learning in Nigeria.

They employ few teachers and these teachers are made to teach more than one subject, their areas of specialisation notwithstanding. Teachers work on part time, and have other official engagements; as a result, there is the problem of commitment or divided loyalty. The few that are hired from tertiary institutions around their places of operations are either friends to the proprietors or those known to be financially greedy and are most times prepared to trade their integrity for money. Students’ population is explosive because standard demanded for admission by accredited institutions are grossly lowered or even ignored. Since it is profit-oriented, the more the number of students’ enrolment, the greater the revenue that accrue to the proprietors.

In September, 2011, an international online Universities and Colleges ranking directory (www.4icu.org) published its top 100 Universities and Colleges in Africa. The top 10 on the list are universities in South Africa and Egypt while other universities from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Morocco and even Sudan lead favourably against six Nigerian universities that appear on the directory’s ranking. The six Nigerian Universities that appear in the top 100 are the University of Ibadan at 32nd position, University of Ilorin 34th, University of Benin 40th, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife 44th, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria 62nd and University of Jos at 70 position. No Nigeria private university made the list.

Internally, NUC has had to deny accreditation status to a number of Nigerian University Programmes over time. At present, many students of universities across the country are gripped by fears over the fate of their studies as NUC will soon begin a clampdown on their institutions over unaccredited courses once again. While the NUC has already wielded the axe against some universities, more courses may lose accreditation when the regulatory authority begins a fresh round of visits to the institution. Among the universities, which have lost accreditation of courses before now are: Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), University of Benin, Igbinedion University, Madonna University, University of Abuja, Lead City Uni-

versity and Lagos State University (LASU).

Parents are worried. Students are panicky as hope of scheduled graduation gradually ebbs away in the face of the uncertainty that has pervaded how long it could take to resolve the accreditation crisis while authorities of the affected institutions are running around to find a way out.

The situation has led to a bout of recriminations between students and their school authorities on one hand and the NUC on the other hand. The students and the authorities are accusing the regulatory authority of high handedness. Amid the trading of blame, the NUC has absolved itself of any guilt in the crisis. Its spokesman, Ibrahim Usman Yakassai, said that it was only students whose schools started their programmes without interim approval that would have lost everything. According to him, there should have been no problem with universities if they follow NUC regulations, which require interim approval for a course, before they admit students. By NUC regulations, if there is a problem with a course with an interim approval, the students will be allowed to finish their academic pursuit while the institution will be ordered to stop further admission to the course.

Yakassai said students who were admitted to courses without interim approval would have to hold the authorities of their universities responsible as the NUC, as a quality assurance body, would not be held responsible for their fate. For Dr. Sola Fosudo, a lecturer at LASU, “the universities in Nigeria (federal and state) have for years been starved of funds for effective teaching and learning. And the good teachers, who teach from the heart, are profoundly disgusted and discouraged for lack of motivation to perform their duties leading to the dangerous ‘brain drain’ phenomenon in the society and the ‘half-baked’ graduates they churn out each year. This is the crux of the matter; every other thing revolves round this.”

Additional reports from Emmanuel Gbemudu (Yenagoa), Aza Msue (Kaduna), James Abraham (Jos), Ijeoma Ezike (Abuja), Tony Anichebe (Uyo), Priscilla Dennis (Minna), Adeolu Adeyemo (Osogbo), James Danjuma (Katsina) and Charles Okeke (Awka).

SHAME OF A NATION

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

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Balewa, Nigeria’s first PM’s office in ruins TAI ANYANWU

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n what can be considered an irony and poor sense of history an ironic twist, the old cabinet office building, which lies between Strachan and Moloney Streets in Lagos and once served as office of Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, is now in ruins, Sunday Mirror investigations have revealed.

The now dilapidated and apparently abandoned building also served as offices to the Prime Minister’s cabinet members, in the early 60s.

The three-storey structure is not only dwarfed by the sprawling pavilions of the Tafawa Balewa Square Complex that overlooks what used to be the PM’s office in the First Republic.

The ex-cabinet office lies desolate and it is a shadow of its old self.

Though a section of the premises presently houses Nigeria’s Defence Ministry Liaison 0ffice, the premises have been overtaken by weeds and shrubs, as

residents expressed the belief that the place now harbours dangerous reptiles and rodents.

Depicting its state of abandonment, Chief Imam at Central Mosque at the Trade Fair Complex, Lagos, Alhaji Taofeek Sanni, lamented: “It is shameful that the Cabinet Office, which housed the old offices of the late Prime Minister, Alhaji (Sir) Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, lies desolate and in waste at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.”

A section of the building has no rooftops, and the coatings have peeled off the walls.

The cleric noted that it is a shame that such a historical monument had got to such a sorry state.

He remarked; “Like many other national Institutions, this edifice now belongs to a faded past.

“We have no sense of history, in allowing the office of our only Prime Minister reduced to rubble. It is a national disgrace. Yet, we proceed to celebrate 100 years of amalgamation. He who does not learn from history is doomed to relive it,” the

cleric complained.

Another concerned Nigerian who spoke on condition of anonymity described the old cabinet office as an eye-sore and a disgrace to the nation.

“The old cabinet office should be a national monument. It is a shame that it has been left to rot away. It would have been better if we maintained it at least for our children to see. It is not supposed to be like this. It shows that we lack maintenance culture,” he added.

On his part, Pa Akinsola Saint Mathew Daniel told Sunday Mirror that the old cabinet office used to be a wonderful place.

His words: “I was born and brought up here on Strachan Street. My father owns almost the whole houses on this street. This is where I was born and bred. I was a boy when Alhaji Tafawa Balewa reigned from this premises.

“Until the Second Republic, the old cabinet building still played prominent role in governance. But its relevance began to diminish after the seat of government was moved to Abuja.”

We’ve killed seven kidnapped foreign hostages –Boko Haram faction MUYIWA OYINLOLA WITH AGENCY REPORTS

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splinter group of the dreaded Boko Haram group, Ansaru, yesterday said it had killed seven foreign hostages seized last month from a construction firm’s compound in northern Nigeria, where Islamist insurgents have killed hundreds over the past two years.

But Nigerian authorities said they had no information on any such killing, and doubted the veracity of the statement.

In a statement released on an Islamist website, the Ansaru group said it had killed the hostages in response to attempts by Britain and Nigeria to free them, SITE Monitoring Service reported.

Ansaru is one of several Islamist groups that have become the main security threat in Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer. The al Qaeda-aligned group blasted into the compound of Setraco, a Lebanese construction company, on February 7, abducting a Briton, an Italian, a Greek and four Lebanese workers.

According to Reuters, the statement issued in Arabic and English on an affiliate of the Sinam alIslam network was accompanied by screen shots of a video purporting to show the dead hostages, SITE said.

One shot showed a man with gun standing above several figures lying on the ground. The image was not clear enough to see if they were dead or much detail about them.

The hostage-taking,

NIGERIA IN BRIEF

Baba Aladura Akinde for burial April 20

The remains of the Supreme Head of the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim, His Most Eminence Baba Aladura Amos Akinsanya Akinde will be buried on Saturday April 20, this year at Ojokoro Mercy land, Lagos State.

Pa Akinde died on February 23, 2013 at the age of 83.

Meanwhile the conference board of the Holy Order has ratified the presentation of His Eminence Vice Baba Aladura Michael Ebahor as Baba

Aladura-elect of the Holy Order.

In a statement signed by the General Secretary of the church, Senior Superintendent Apostle Kola Odunsi the conference board held an emergency meeting at Ojokoro Mercy Land on March 2, 2013 where the board members unanimously ratified Ebahor to occupy the office according to the constitution of the Holy Order. He said the date for the induction of Ebahor as Baba Aladura will be announced later.

in the remote town of Jama’are in Bauchi state, was the biggest number of foreigners seized in the mostly Muslim north since the Islamist insurgency there intensified two years ago.

“As far as I’m concerned, and to the best of my knowledge, nothing like that has happened,” Bauchi Police Commissioner Mohammed Ladan told Reuters when asked about the online statement.

An intelligence official in the north also said he doubted the report, although he said some suspects linked to the kidnapping had been arrested last week.

Lebanese officials said they were checking the reports. Italy’s foreign ministry also said it was checking. Britain did not officially comment.

Pa Daniel, who is described as ‘Father’ on Strachan Street, however recalled that its descent into dilapidation began in the early hours of one morning, between 4.30 and 5 o’clock, about five years ago.

“We saw fire billowing out of the Cabinet Office building; and since then, nothing has been done to rebuild it. Things have been going bad,” he explained.

“We don’t know where Nigeria is heading to. They just grabbed everything; and put fire in the once appealing building. The country is just in a big mess. Since then, nothing has been done. See the outside; see trees growing on top of the building. They are supposed to have done something. Because they have a lot of such buildings in government and as personal possession, they don’t care about buildings

like this,” he complained.

He further noted that by virtue of the historical significance of the building, it was supposed to be a national monument.

“It is in a big mess but it seems as they are not worried. The country is careless; when something gets spoilt, they will just abandon it and take on another one without repairing the former. Not quite long ago, the LAPAL House got burnt too,” Pa Daniel lamented.

L-R: Immediate past Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ebonyi, Enugu and Anambra States, Dr. Chike Obidigbo; Anambra State Governor Peter Obi; representative of Enugu State Government, Dr. Jude Akubuilo and Chairman, MAN, Chief Azubuike Okafor, at the closing session of MAN 25th Annual PHOTO: NAN General Meeting in Awka on Friday.

Jonathan congratulates Kenyatta on his election ROTIMI FADEYI ABUJA

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onathan congratulates Kenyatta, applauds Odinga’s call for calm, adherence to rule of law President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta on his victory in Monday’s presidential election in Kenya declared yesterday in Nairobi by the country’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President urged Kenyatta to rededicate himself to carrying forward the process of national healing and reconciliation.

Jonathan noted that Kenyatta would assume office later this month as the first Kenyan president

to come into office under the country’s new constitution which was adopted after the crisis that followed its 2007 elections.

He called on the Kenyan president-elect to do his best to foster greater peace, unity and progress in the country by forming a truly national administration that would meet the yearnings and aspirations of all Kenyans, including his opponents and their supporters.

Jonathan commended the call by Kenyatta’s closest rival in the election, Prime Minister Raila Odinga, for his supporters to remain calm and eschew violence while he takes his complaints about the election results to the Kenyan Supreme Court.

The President also noted Odinga’s expression of confidence in the court

and his pledge to adhere to the rule of law and accept the court’s verdict on the elections in good faith.

He commended the ordinary people of Kenya who showed their undying faith in democratic governance by turning out in their millions to set a new voter turnout record of 86 per cent in Monday’s elections and assured Kenyans the best wishes of the government and people of Nigeria.

Our error On the Passion section of Sunday Mirror of March 3, 2013, the name of President of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ibinabo Fiberesima, was wrongly spelt. Incidentally, Fiberesima had granted us a personality interview in the section. This was not intended to embarrass her or our cherished readers, as it was caused by the printer’s devil. The error is regretted.

– Editor

Abuja Airport to experience power outage

Adelola re-appointed Ondo SSG

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has alerted users of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja that of a brief interruption of power supply to the airport today between 10.00am and 10.30am.

The temporary disconnection of power supply according to a statement signed by its GM (Corporate Communications), Yakubu Dati is to “enable our engineers switch over to a new and improved source of power supply to the airport, as part of the power

The Ondo state governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko yesterday announced the re-appointment of Aderotimi Adelola as the Secretary to the State Government.

Announcing Adelola appointment in a statement issued and signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Eni Akinsola who said the appointment takes immediate effect.

Adelola who was re- appointed by the state governor returns to his duty post two weeks after the Executive Council in which

improvement project for the airport. It is expected that the new source of power supply will drastically reduce the incidents of power outage and thereby enhance service delivery at the airport. “ The power improvement project, which is taking place simultaneously in major airports across the country, is designed by the Federal Government to improve electric power supply at all airports, as part of the Transformation Agenda in the aviation industry”.

he served was dissolved at the expiration of Mimiko’s first term.

Adelola, a doctoral degree holder in Organisational Psychology and also a management consultant, has stints in financial services and in the oil and gas sector.

He received strategic management training at the IDI Dublin Ireland, London Management School, Lagos Business School and the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA.

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Sunday March 10, 2013

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2015: Whoever will emerge president must receive my blessing –IBB AZA MSUE KADUNA

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ormer military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida yesterday said any 2015 presidential candidate would have to receive his blessings before emerging president of the country.

Gen. Babangida also explained how former President Olusegun Obasanjo was installed in 1999 as president, saying he was the best candidate at the time to fix the nation.

Babangida, featuring on ‘Guest of the Week’ on Liber-

ty Radio (91.7), Kaduna said, he was the founding father of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and he would never disown the party.

He further commended the emergence of the All Progressives Congress, APC, pointing out that the merger was good for the polity and the unity of the country.

His words: “I will belong to those who will choose a credible candidate, a candidate that can lead this country. It is not difficult to find.

Out of one hundred and seventy million people, there

must be a candidate, that is what the constitution provides. If the party is silly and chooses the wrong candidate, the ordinary person is not silly. He knows ‘this man cannot lead me’, so he won’t vote for him. If you choose a wrong candidate, he stands the chance of losing.”

“The emergence of Obasanjo came about as a result of what happened in the country. The country was in a very serious crises and we had to find the solution to these problems. Therefore, we needed a leader, that leader who is known in the

country. We did not believe in foisting somebody who is not known, so we looked for a man who had been involved in the affairs of this country, who held position either in the military or in the cabinet who had certain beliefs about Nigeria. All of us that were trained in the armed forces, there is one belief that you cannot take away from us; we believe in this country because this is part of our training. We fought for this country, so when you have a situation like hast, you need a leader that has all these attributes,

and quite frankly, he quickly came to mind, Babangida explained.”

The former military president maintained: “If Buhari and Jonathan become candidates, both of them will have to sell their ideas to us, the ordinary people, we (the voters) and they have not done that. I have enough time to think and I am thinking and they will be anxious to come and see me. They will visit me or any other person. This is what I intend to do. We are talking about a new and emergent scenario, so I will wait and see.”

How Boko Haram can get amnesty –Yakassai, Kaita, others AUGUSTINE MADUWEST, K ANO AND PRISCILLA DENNIS, MINNA.

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s the declaration by President Goodluck Jonathan foreclosing amnesty for Boko Haram sect members over their failure to embrace dialogue continues to generate mixed reactions in the North, some leaders of the region have agreed with the position of President Goodluck Jonathan that it would be difficult to grant state pardon to a faceless group.

The leaders, who spoke in an interview with our correspondent in reaction to the President’s declaration in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, include ex-President Shehu Shagari’s Adviser on National Assembly Matters, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, and onetime governor of old Kaduna State, Alhaji Lawal Kaita.

They all agreed that amnesty to the sect was inevitable if the raging gun conflict fostered by them would come to an end, but insisted that there must be physical contact between the government and the sect leadership that would pave the way for dialogue, leading to possible amnesty.

Alhaji Yakasai said in as much as he believed in dilalogue as the only way out of this problem, Boko Haram sect should show willingness to embrace dialogue while the government should also grab such opportunity for the stability of the country.

His words: “Government cannot grant amnesty to a faceless group because for dialogue to take place, there must be contact between the two, as was the case in Niger Delta during the late President Umaru Yar’Adua’s tenure.

“The Niger Delta militants showed up and demonstrated readiness to dialogue with the government and this action paved way for the amnesty granted them. I ex-

pect the Boko Haram group to embrace dialogue if the government shows willingness in that direction.”

On the request that the President should order the withdrawal of the military from the streets of Maiduguri, Yakasai insisted that it was only the governor of the state who can make such request in writing since he demanded the deployment of troops in his state when the police were overwhelmed by the militants.

“Since the governor of that state requested the Federal Government’s intervention with troop deployment, he should be the one to reverse the situation and also be ready to solely and wholly bear the consequences of his action,” Yakasai stated.

He added that it was obvious that all over the world the police are not trained to combat terrorism.

“It is the job of the military; therefore, if he wants the soldiers out of the street, the governor should make a formal request.”

In the view of Lili Gabari, Kano City Counselor in 1953, “We believe that dialogue is the only way out and we pray fervently that sooner or later, we would be vindicated but to grant amnesty to a faceless group is not foreseeable.

There must be a round table discussion that will open up opportunities for both parties to weigh certain options arising from such dialogue but I believe we need dialogue to end this madness tearing the region apart,” he explained.

Former Kaduna Governor, Kaita, in his brief telephone chat said northern leaders would continue to pray for God’s intervention in this matter so that the pride of the region would be restored and amnesty granted the sect with positive dialogue.

However, Chairman of the 2011 post-violence election, Sheik Ahmed Lemu, said he had never been in support of dialoguing with criminals,

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio, welcoming the Vice-President, Alhaji Nnamadi Sambo to the inaugural ceremony of the distribution of instructional materials for Basic Education Schools in Nigeria, at the weekend

especially when they are not doing the right thing.

He urged President Jonathan to be consistent and do to the members of the Boko Haram what the late President Umaru Yar’Adua did to the Niger Delta youths by granting them amnesty that turned out positively at the end during his tenure.

According to him, “I was never comfortable with dialoguing with criminals when the Federal Government decided to dialogue with the Niger Delta militants, but government took the risk and did so. It arranged for their economic empowerment and it turned out positively.

“Therefore, what happened with the Niger Delta militants should be repeated.

It will be better for government to also give amnesty to this people, since they are ready for amnesty, whether faceless or not to defuse the present danger we find ourselves in view of what happened in the Niger Delta.”

Lemu cited the United States of America and the battle with the Al Quaeda group that it has not been able to defeat, adding that from what is happening, the Boko Haram sect is every-

where, especially with the support they get from even politicians in the country.

The Islamic scholar added: “Initially, the Federal Government agreed to dialogue with this people, and now that they are asking for amnesty, it should be given to them. Remember the US, and the Al Quaeda. US has not been able to defeat them till today because of the connection they have, so also Boko Haram is everywhere, plus the support they get from politicians.”

Also, Alhaji Jibrin Bala Jos, a former political Adviser to Niger State governor, during the Second Republic, and a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said, “If government can give amnesty to militants in Rivers State then I don’t see why they cannot give to the Boko Haram sect. I don’t think it is the right thing to do, it is a miscalculation.”

According to him, the Federal Government did not need to identify the Boko Haram members in order to grant them pardon, as long as there are people and elders in the state that know, insisting that now was the right time to consider recon-

ciliation for peace to reign.

“Another reason the Federal Government should consider to put to an end the challenges caused by their activities, he noted, was that the amount of funds spent on security was telling on the nations’ economy, adding that rather than treating the effect of Boko Haram, we should consider treating the cause by digging deep down.”

However, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, a chieftain of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, sees the refusal of President Jonathan differently.

He said, “To be honest, I reason with Mr. President.

The Niger Delta militants identified themselves before they were granted amnesty.”

He queried, “How can you give amnesty to somebody you don’t know? Let’s tell ourselves the truth. We want to know what their mission is so that we can discuss and leave in peace. I queue behind Jonathan that they are ghosts, and their sponsors.”

Vatsa stressed that as the situation stands now, even the soldiers fighting them are fighting enemies they don’t know, arguing that, “we are eating and sleeping with our enemies”.

Police arrest Yerima, ex-Zamfara gov AZA MSUE KADUNA

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ormer Governor of Zamfara State and a staunch member of the newly formed All Progressives Congress, APC, Senator Ahmed Sani Yerima, was yesterday arrested by armed policemen at the premises of the Radio Nigeria, Kaduna. Yerima, who was the guest of Radio Nigeria Hausa programme, ‘Hannu da Yawa’, was whisked away immediately after the programme by a team of police operatives led by the Kaduna State Police Commissioner, Olufemi Adenaike.

Following the presence of surging Yerima’s supporters, the CP left him off the hook but prevailed on him to report to the police headquarters to avert a possible breakdown of law and order.

However, after the programme, Yerima, although driven in his own car and escorted by four police vans, left for the police headquarters.

After four hours interrogation, the former governor was released by the police.

Answering questions from journalists at the police headquarters, Yerima said he still stood by his statement that if there was any attempt by anybody in any quarter to refuse APC registration, “we can go as far as having peaceful protest in Eagle Square.

“We will stay there for 24 hours throughout the day until our demands are met.

That is what I said. I also said that General Buhari, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and others will be at Eagle Square should they deny us registration to stage a peaceful protest as done in Egypt. I know they will not deny us because I know the INEC chairman very well. The police commissioner asked me to explain what I meant by the statement, and I did,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna Police Commissioner has denied arresting the senator but said he was only invited to answer questions over his comments on a radio programme.

Adenaike added, “All I did was to go to the radio station and meet the senator. I told him, please, I want to know what you said. He said no problem; that I should let him finish. But I’m surprised that people are saying so many things that the senator was under arrest. I want to clear that the senator was not under arrest.

“At the station, all we did was to find out what he said and he said they would be going on a peaceful demonstration. I asked him to define what he meant by that, considering the fact that Kaduna is a volatile state and he explained. I’m fully satisfied with what he said and he is free to go,” he said.

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Gay controversy: British activist flays Primate Okoh …Says Church should leave homosexuals alone RICHARD EGHAGHE

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ritish human rights campaigner, Peter Tatchell, has criticised the Primate, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communiun, Most Rev. Nicholas Okoh, for “stirring up prejudice against gay people in Nigeria.”

Okoh had spoken recently during the ordination of three Anglican Bishops - James Olusola Odedeji (Bishop of Lagos West), Simeon Oluwole Borokini (Bishop of Akure) and Geoffrey Enyinnaya Okorafor (Bishop of Egbu)

at the Cathedral of St. Jude Ebute Metta, where he condemned homosexuality and gay marriage.

He said, “The basics of Christian marriage is between man and woman and the church will not depart from it.” He urged the bishops neither to condone nor allowe homosexual lifestyle in the church.

Responding to the Nigerian Primate’s comments, Peter Tatchell, who is Director of the London-based human rights organisation, the Peter Tatchell Foundation, reacted, “Nicholas Okoh is preaching a false, unchristian gospel. Jesus

Christ condemned many sins but he never once condemned homosexuality.

The Christian gospel is one of love and compassion. It is not consistent with homophobic prejudice.

“The Primate supports Nigeria’s discriminatory anti-gay laws. Discrimination is not a Christian value,” he said, adding, “If Rev. Okoh supports love and marriage, surely he should welcome the fact that Nigerian gay couples love each other and want to get married. Their love is just as real as the love of husbands and wives. I know gay couples who have

L-R: Otunba Johnson Fasawe, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Corps Marshal of Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, when the former president came to the FRSC office in Abuja to renew his driver’s licence, at the weekend.

Katsina spends N300m on Almajiri programme JAMES DANJUMA KATSINA

stayed together for 20, 30 and 50 years. To deny them the right to marry is cruel and heartless.

“The Anglican Church of Nigeria should welcome loving, committed samesex couples into its communion. It should cease supporting the persecution of gay people in Nigeria,” Tatchell averred.

It will be recalled that in November, 2011, the Senate passed a bill making homosexual practice a criminal offence and that gays are liable to a 14-year jail term.

Under the bill, persons who witness, aid or abet the solemnisation of a same -ex union or support the registration, operation of gay clubs in the country risk a jail term of 10 years.

The Senate’s action had come against the backdrop of United Kingdom’s threat to withhold financial assistance from any country that legislates against gay marriage.

But the Senate President, Senator David Mark, in calling the bluff of the UK threat, said: “Our values are our values. If there is any country that does not want to give us aid or assistance, just because we hold on very firmly to our values, that country can keep their assistance. No country has a right to interfere in the way we make our own laws.”

Parties’ de-registration: NCP heads for Appeal Court T

he National Conscience Party (NCP) yesterday said it has filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal against a court ruling which backed a recent decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister political parties that failed to meet certain electoral requirement.

A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos had on Wednesday dismissed a

suit filed by the NCP challenging the constitutionality of the power of the INEC to deregister political parties.

The court ruled that the INEC has valid power to de-register political parties which failed to meet specified requirements.

One of the grounds the INEC had used to determine political parties that deserved de-registration

was a failure to win a presidential or governorship election as well as inability to have members at the National Assembly.

But at a press briefing yesterday, the NCP’s chairman, Yunusa Tanko, rejected the ruling by Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, which held that INEC had the power to de-register political parties that had failed to win previous

elections.

Although the NCP had not been de-registered by INEC, the party said it felt it was necessary to challenge the electoral body’s exercise of the provisions of Section 78 (7) (ii) of the Electoral Act 2010.

The party’s spokesman said his fellow members feared that INEC’s exercise of the powers to deregister might eventually affect the NCP itself.

NIGERIA IN BRIEF

Adebajo set to lead Ikeja Golden Club “Lion’ Dr. (Mrs) Christine Olufunke Adebajo has been unanimously endorsed as the most eligible choice for the enviable and exalted position of Second Vice District 404B Governor,” a statement said yesterday.

A prominent World Health Organisation (WHO) consultant and

past president, Ikeja Golden Club, Adebajo is entrusted with the task of taking the club to its Olympian heights.

Her campaign officially kicked off last Sunday , March 3, 2013 at the club House, Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos.

The national convention is slated for May this year in Osogbo.

Cleric urges Nigerians to rededicate lives

Nigerians , irrespective of their political , religious or tribal leanings, have been charged to dutifully enthrone God in their lives , as a way of gainfully repositioning the fortunes of the society and the nation back to its gtheir very much desired and deserved glorious destiny and goals.

Speaking at this year’s Biennial National Convention tagged “Emmanuel 2013” , the General Overseer of Christ Healing Evangelical Church, Pastor Samuel

Babatunde Ogunfowokan, also enjoined Nigerians to lead in crusade for God in all spheres of their respective callings, for Him to “still their tides” at all times.

Berating the present unfortunate situation in the countr , the General Overseer reiterated the need for absolute obedience to the dictates of God as well as expand His horizon through continued effective crusades , thus winning souls for God as well as expand the church.

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s a way of addressing the problem of street begging, a sum of N300 million has so far been spent on the welfare of Almajiris in the 34 council areas of Katsina State.

The amount entails food, clothing and vocational skills acquisition for more than 17, 000 Almajiris as well as allowances for their religious and vocational teachers.

Speaking over the weekend during the distribution of food items to Almajirai schools under Katsina zone, Senior Special Assistant to the state Governor on Almajirai, Lawal Gambarawa, said the amount was expended within the last one year.

Gambarawa said the amount was expended on Almajiris selected from 70 Almajiri schools and that government resolved to introduce such a programme

to improve the welfare of these less-privileged youths.

He said the programme would be sustained and extended to cover all Almajirai schools in the state.

Gambarawa said the state government recently introduced mobile ambulances for the Almajiris, and that such ambulances had since begun rendering services to beneficiaries.

While commending the state government for setting aside money for the Almajiri programme in the 2013 budget, Gambarawa, however, appealed to wealthy individuals to complement government’s efforts in that direction.

Head-teacher of one of the Almajirai schools in Danmusa Local Government area, Zakariya Yantumaki, commended the initiative and assured of judicious use of money disbursed for the programme, to improve on the living condition of the Almajiris.

Kenyatta wins Kenyan election, as Odinga kicks

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enya’s deputy Prime Minister, Mr Uhuru Kenyatta, has won Kenya’s presidential election. He won with a tiny margin of 50.03 percent with a turnout of 86%, provisional results showed yesterday.

The poll result has thus made the country to avoid a run-off after a race that has divided the nation along tribal lines.

Kenyatta won 6,173,433 votes out of a total of 12,330,028. His main rival, PM Raila Odinga, alleged voting irregularities and is expected to file a challenge.

According to reports, Kenyatta, the son of Kenya’s founding president, faces trial after the disputed 2007 presidential vote that unleashed a wave of tribal blood-letting.

With the 51-year-old in the top job, Kenya will be-

come the second African country after Sudan to have a sitting president indicted by the International Criminal Court.

Many in the election centre cheered, although celebrations started in the early hours of yesterday after provisional results showed Kenyatta’s victory.

Supporters thronged the streets of Nairobi and his tribal strongholds, lighting fluorescent flares and waving tree branches and chanting “Uhuru, Uhuru.”

The mood was tense but calm in the heartlands of Kenyatta’s rival, Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who also lost in the disputed 2007 vote and trailed this time with 43.3 per cent.

“No Raila, no peace,” Odinga supporters chanted as security forces stood by in Kisumu, a city where violence flared in 2007.

First Holy Mass: Lagos Catholics mark 150th anniversary Catholics in Lagos yesterday celebrated the 150 years anniversary of the first holy mass in Nigeria.

The event, which took place at St. Leo Catholic Church, Ikeja, was attended by hundreds of Catholics.

The Society of African Missions conferred honorary membership on Anthony Cardinal Okogie, the Emeritus Archbishop of Lagos Archdiocese, at the occasion.

In an address, Archbishop Adewale Martins, the Archbishop of Lagos Archdiocese, said the first mass marked the beginning of the establishment of Catholic faith in the country.

“This celebration is most topical, now that we are in the year of faith. We are faced with the challenges of a secular, humanistic and materialistic culture that seeks to put the e message o of Christ in the backstage. ckstage.

“Let the courage age and sacrifice of those e who allowed the Spirit rit to permeate them so that we can enjoy the e graces of God today to be our hope and strength.”

Bishop Martins

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

10

Man in the News MARCH 10, 2013

Okei-Odumakin: Valued at home, honoured abroad AYO ESAN

D

r. Josephine Okei-Odumakin who has over 25 years experience in human rights work in Nigeria is the President of Campaign for Democracy, a human rights group which was at the forefront of enthroning democratic rule in Nigeria.

She is also the president of Women Arise for Change Initiative; which was established in 2003 to work for the women folk. The group aims at breaking the culture of silence and finding expressions for women by encouraging them to come together and stand up against misuse and abuse, by the male-dominated society.

Last Friday, Okei-Odumakin alongside nine other “extra-ordinary women”, gained global recognition for their untiring efforts in the United States of America. They were presented with the Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award by the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, on an occasion attended by First Lady Michelle Obama in the Dean Acheson Auditorium of the U.S. Department of State.

The Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award recognises annually, women around the globe who have shown exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for w women’s rights and empowerment, often at great personal risk.

Since the inception of this a award in 2007, the Department of S State has 4 differhonored 67 women from 45 ent countries. wom The other nine women honOkeioured alongside Joe Okei-OdumaBahadu First kin are Malalai Bahaduri, Nationa InterSergeant, Afghan National diction Unit (Afghanistan); Samira Ibrahim, Co-coordinator, Kn Know Your Rights (Egypt); Julieta Cast Castellanos, Rector, National Autonomous UniverEl sity of Honduras (Honduras); Elena Milashina, journalist, human rights activist Executiv Direc(Russia); Fartuun Adan, Executive tor, Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre (We Se), Ti(Somalia); Tsering Woeser (Wei betan author, poet, blogger (China); Razan Zeitunah, human rights lawyer and Founder, L Local Coordination Committe Committees (Syria); Ta Phong Tan, blogger (Vietnam) ; Nirbhay Nirbhaya ‘Fearless’ of Champion for Justice (India).

The hono honorees began their visi visit to the United States in Pittsburgh, whe where they participate participated in an open-to-th open-to-the-press forum at Chatham University la last Sunday March 4, as well as in meetin ings with organi s at i o n s su such as Wo m e n and Girls Foun Foundation and Gwen’s Girls. T They arrived in Washington on March 6, 2012 for m meetings with Department of State

and White House officials, Congress, and NGO leaders leaders. officials members of Congress Following the award ceremony, the honorees will travel separately to cities across the United States to engage with the American people through an International Visitor Leadership Programme. Places that they will visit include Indianapolis, Jackson Hole, Portland, San Francisco, and Tampa. The women will reconvene in San Diego to reflect on their visit and discuss ways to work together to improve the lives of women and girls around the world.

Before last Friday, Okei-Odumakin had received numerous awards at the national and international levels and these include, the United Nations of Youth Nigeria which in 2007 gave her an award as the “Hero of Democracy and Good Governance”. In October 2007, she was given an award by Development Issues Initiatives Association (DINA) for her contribution to national development and human rights. The same October, she was given an award by Human Rights Now as “The Defender of Women”.

In September 2007, the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Oyo State Chapter gave her an award as “The Hero of Democracy”.

The CD President also in 2008 received an award in Imo State of Nigeria as “The Defender of Women’s Rights” during the commemoration of Aba Women Riot.

In August 19, 2008, she was authorised and commissioned to serve as an ambassador of goodwill from Arkansas to the people of nations beyond the borders of the United States or wherever this Ambassador of Arkansas may hereafter travel or reside.

In March, 2010 ‘Rebrand Nigeria’ gave her an award as the “Hero of Democracy”. In May, CEPAN recognised her as an “Advocate for Good Governance”. In September 2010, the Priceless Jewels Initiative gave her an award as the “Champion of Women Empowerment”, October 2010 “Beacon of Hope Award” given by Empower Africa for Change.

February 2011, Change Nigeria Today honoured her as Amazon of Democracy.

In April, 2011, Women Democratic Frontiers recognised her as champion of Women Cause. In June, 2011, History and International Relations Students, of the Lagos State University (LASU) gave her an award as Icon of Democracy. In August 2011, Priceless Jewels Initiative honoured her as Hero of Democracy Also on March 28, 2012, the National Union of Textile Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NUTGTWN) gave her an Appreciation Award for her contribution to workers’ education in Nigeria.

Joe, as she is popularly called in the human rights circles, traversed courageously where even men folks feared to tread. She has remained consistent and resolute in upholding the human rights crusade without minding the hazards to her person in a society where critical voices are loathed by unjust system which rewards the crooks and punishes the just.

Joe was born in Zaria on July 4, 1966 and grew up in Ilorin where she started her early education at St. Barnabas Primary School, Ilorin and obtained the first school leaving certificate. She thereafter moved to Queen Elizabeth Secondary School, Ilorin where she passed her West Africa School Certificate. She pursued her ‘A’ levels at the School of Basic Studies, Kwara State Polytechnic.

She later proceeded to the University of Ilorin where she got a BA.ED English and Education in 1987. She returned to the same university and bagged her M.Ed in Guidance and Counseling and her PhD (History and Policy of Education) in 1996.

She cut her teeth in activism as the Secretary of Women in Nigeria (WIN), Kwara State, from 1988 – 1991 and the Coordinator of Women in Nigeria (WIN), Kwara State branch 1991 – 1996; Chairperson, Rethink Nigeria (1987 – 1992) and Chairperson, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Kwara State branch (1990 – 1996).

The time she made a foray into human rights activism was a period when the Babangida dictatorship was baring its fangs and incarcerating those perceived as radicals.

Thus she became one of the prime targets of the administration as she was arrested and detained for no fewer than17 times at different locations. But as a true Amazon, she was undaunted and her spirit remained unbroken. She became the Assistant General Secretary of Campaign for Democracy (CD) in 1994 at a time the battle against the annulment of June 12, 1993 presidential election had become so fierce.

She was the General-Secretary of the body from March 1996 to July 29, 2006 and she became the President on July 29, 2006.

Okei-Odumakin is also the Executive Director of the Institute of Human Rights and Democratic Studies; Chairman, Task Force of the Citizens Forum; Spokesperson, Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, and President, Centre for Change in Community Development and Public Awareness(CDP).

Her consistency and unwavering determination for survival of democracy in Nigeria made Professor Wole Soyinka describe her as follows on 4th July 2006.

“I present to you a tireless fighter whose frail bearing bellies an inner strength and resilient purpose, a veteran of affirmative marches, of crude arrests and detentions, baton charges and tear-gas, who has lent luster to the struggle for justice and human dignity, who remains an inspiration to men and women, old and young”.

And at the celebration of Ambassador Walter Carrington’s 80th birthday commemoration in Lagos, the Ambassador in recognition of her efforts in sustaining democracy in Nigeria, described her as “a fearless, fiery champion of democracy and human rights”.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

11

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Politics PROVIDING FRESH PERSPECTIVES TO ISSUES MARCH 10, 2013

Stormy times for Imo deputy governor P 12

Orji

EVEN IF IT REMAINS THE LAST BREATH IN ME, I WILL WORK, PRESERVE AND PROMOTE THE UNITY AND PROGRESS OF NIGERIA. I WILL WORK FOR AFRICA’S DEVELOPMENT AND INDEED PROMOTE HUMANITY –CHIEF OLUSEGUN OBASANJO

Kalu

Orji vs Kalu: Politics of vendetta takes over in Abia AYO ESAN

F

rom all indications, the alleged attack by ‘unknown gunmen’ on the country home of the former Abia State governor, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, might have reinforced the thinking in political circles that these are certainly not the best of times in Abia State.

Recent reports said the Igbere, Abia State residence of the former governor was attacked by hoodlums believed to be political assassins.

According to the reports, the former Abia governor’s aide was said to have escaped death by a whisker when a bus in which he was in was shot several times at the gate of the ex-governor’s residence.

This incident is coming a few days after the Abia State University said it had withdrawn the degree certificate it awarded to Kalu.

In withdrawing the certificate, the university in a statement by its Registrar, O. E. Onuoha, said the decision was taken after an emergency meeting of the university senate which considered the recommendations of a panel which investigated the allegations levelled against the former governor.

Onuoha said, “On the strength of the findings and recommendations of an in-

vestigative panel into allegations of breach of the extant academic regulations of Abia State University, in the process of the admission and graduation of Kalu Orji Uzor in the discipline of Government and Public Administration, of matriculation number 00/42226, the Senate of the university at its resumed 69th extraordinary meeting of March 1, 2013 and by a vote of 88 against three dissenting voices only, approved the cancellation and withdrawal of the degree, result and certificate awarded to him.

“The decision of Senate was based on the following grounds among others: The violation of the academic regulations of the university on Admission-by-Transfer, which rendered the offer irregular, ab initio and the non-completion of the mandatory six semesters (i.e. three academic years of study), before he was awarded a degree of the university. He spent only two semesters in all.

“The university Senate maintained that its action, aforesaid, derived from the exercise of its onerous statutory responsibility to guard and maintain, at all times, the academic regulations of the university, its hard-earned reputation and the credibility of the certificates it awards.”

After the former governor had left the University of Maiduguri, he re-enrolled at the Abia State University while he was governor of the state.

As the visitor to the university at the time, there were allegations that he was an absentee student.

The admission and graduation of Kalu, the university stated, made mockery of its academic rules and regulations.

However, to the ex-governor and his many supporters, the withdrawal of his degree certificate was orchestrated by the incumbent governor of Abia State and former godson of the ex-governor.

Before the withdrawal of the certificate, Chief Orji Kalu had alleged that Governor Theodore Orji was behind the plot just as he described him as a political neophyte.

Kalu, in a statement said the move by Orji to revoke his Bachelor’s degree certificate earned at the state varsity was just the latest in the failed attempts by Orji to silence him.

In a statement by his Special Adviser, Oyekunle Oyewumi, the former governor said Orji’s intimidation of the university Senate to purportedly withdraw his certificate did not invalidate the authenticity of the certificate.

Rather, he said the move had only put to test the pedigree of the men and women who make up the Senate of the university, the credibility of the certificates issued by the school and brought to the fore the warped nature of the incumbent governor.

The statement read in part: “What the Senate of ABSU has done amounts to shifting the goal post after the goal has been CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Abandoned projects: Senate, Presidency unite to probe NDDC

P 13, 14

Briefly Uduaghan urges Army to support democracy Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State at the weekend in Asaba urged the Nigerian Army to give their support to the country’s democracy to enable it succeed.

He said the country’s democracy could only be strong if the Army and other security agencies gave their support.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Prof.

Amos Utuama, made the call when the General Commanding Officer (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigeria Army, Major-Gen. Ahmed Jibrin, paid a courtesy visit in Asaba.

“As long as the Nigerian Army and other security agencies support democracy, democrats will continue to deliver the dividends of democracy and democracy will continue to make progress in the country.

“The loyalty of the military to the country since 1999 has ensured a smooth democratic running of the affairs of the nation; the military is one of the backbones of unity in the country.

“It is one institution that cuts across everyone, state and cultural background of the country.

“Therefore, the military personnel are good reflection of the unity of the nation, and as long as they continue to support democracy, the unity of the country will be stronger.”

The governor expressed satisfaction on the commitment of the military and other security agencies’ support for the unity of the country and in dealing with security challenges in the state.

He lauded Jibrin for embarking on the familiarisation visit to different formations under the 2 Division to identify with their operations, challenges and proffer ways for effective discharge of their duties.

Uduaghan said the Army and other security agencies were very important in enhancing the peace and security agenda of his administration’s three-point agenda.

Uduaghan

Okorocha canvasses collaboration of women groups The Imo governor’s wife, Mrs Nkechi Okorocha, at the weekend called for collaboration of all women groups in the country to successfully pursue the course of womanhood.

Okorocha made the call at the 2013 International Women’s Day Celebration held at the Ahiajioku Lecture Hall in Owerri.

The theme of the celebration is ``The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum”, organised by the office of the governor’s wife in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Okorocha said that Nigerian women could make more impact if groups such as the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), and others could come together and enhance themselves.

She said that there was need for women to take their rightful positions in the scheme of things, adding that this could be achieved through having and pursuing the same purpose. ``Women have what it takes to make the difference. Re-positioning ourselves is the key and the importance of re-positioning cannot be overemphasised.

12

Politics

Agbaso

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Okorocha

Stormy times for Imo deputy governor CHRIS NJOKU OWERR

I

T

he recent face-off between Imo State Deputy Governor, Sir Jude Agbaso, and members of the state’s House of Assembly over contract scam goes to show that all is not well in the administration of Governor Rochas Okorocha, especially his relationship with his deputy governor.

Although the governor on several occasions has told Imo State citizens that all is well between him and his deputy, and they even appear in public functions clinking glasses to show that both enjoy cordial relationship, events have however proved that all had not been rosy.

The latest bubble burst when some road contractors demonstrated at Onuimo Local Government area of the state. They accused the deputy governor of asking and receiving financial gratifications from them before contractual agreements are signed. The contractors accused the deputy governor of using his position as the Commissioner for Works which offered him the privilege of awarding, negotiating and facilitating payment to some contractors handling government major projects to allegedly shortchange them.

Apart from the issue of kickback, Agbaso, who was de facto Commissioner for Works before the minor cabinet reshuffle two weeks ago was allegedly fingered in some contract scams running into N460 million. He was accused of using his position to award some juicy road contracts to his elder brother, Chief Martin Agbaso.

All these allegations jolted the House which immediately set up a six-man committee headed by Hon. Simeon Iwunze to commence investigation. The committee met the deputy governor three times and on the three occa-

sions, he denied the allegations.

However, the Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee on Works, Hon. Iwunze, who was mandated to investigate the committee’s report, insisted that the deputy governor had a case to answer. This is despite the initial hitches the committee faced in summoning the chairman of the contractors association in the state, Mr. Kenneth Oguenyi, who allegedly led the protest against the deputy governor. Even, some top government officials who watched the video tape concluded that with what they had seen, it would be difficult for the deputy governor to wriggle out.

Despite pleading his innocence, the findings alleged that Sir Agbaso during his days as Commissioner for Works allegedly paid about N1, 035,000,000, being 100 per cent of the total contract money to a construction firm, Jepros International Nig. Ltd. for the construction of a warehouse at Orlu Road junction, Odunze Aba Road, Amaigbo Street to Old Nekede Road and the dualization of Orlu main town. Jepros Nig. Ltd’s chairman claimed that he was in London when he received the alert for full payment and that he promptly paid N458 million into an account in one of the prominent banks in the state.

It was learnt that the N458 million was to enable Jepros

ANY PERSON WHO ENMESHED HIMSELF IN CORRUPTION

SHOULD BE PROSECUTED, NO MATTER HOW HIGHLY PLACED IN THE GOVERNMENT OR ANY OFFICE

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nig Ltd get more contracts from the state, but the owner of the account where the N458 million was paid is the source of worry to the investigating team as the deputy governor has denied knowledge of its ownership.

Another worrisome development that the committee investigated was the allegation that two construction companies, Timik and Godson allegedly paid N80 million and N150 million respectively to the deputy governor as kickbacks for road construction; but the deputy governor, while denying the allegations, claimed that he knew of the payment only four months after.

However, the House was not satisfied with the deputy governor’s denial and decided that “the denial was premediated and was intended to cover up any behind-thescene transaction with the contractor arising from payments made to the contractor.”

The committee having weighed the evidence before it last Thursday recommended that “a vote of no confidence be passed on the deputy governor for act unbecoming of his person and office.”

In view of the above, opinions are divided on whether the deputy governor’s travails are not just calling the dog a bad name to hang it. While some believe that the deputy governor is being unjustly persecuted due mainly to his uncompromising attitude on certain issues bothering on governance, others say that Agbaso should be prosecuted if found guilty since he is part of the zero corruption administration of Okorocha.

Clems Onyali, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) described the allegation as funny. “We know that the deputy governor never awarded contracts. Contracts are awarded by Governor Okorocha and the Speaker of the House, Hon. Benjamin Uwajumogu.

Onyali’s disagreement is hinged on the fact that the deputy governor has for long been stripped of his portfolio as works commissioner many months before the recent cabinet reshuffle.

The portfolio has been given to the Speaker since last year, though the Speaker’s aide, Samuelson Iwuala, told Sunday Mirror that inspection of road projects in the state was part of the Speaker’s oversight functions.

Onyali disagrees, saying that the vote of no confidence had been planned long ago. “I think it was a planned deal to remove the deputy governor. And this did not just start.”

A reliable source hinted that the feud started when the governor signified his intention to run for the second tenure therefore reneging the agreement of a single tenure which the governor is said to have signed with the apex leader of APGA in the state, Chief Martin Agbaso.

In spite of that, the governor was said to have agreed to award major contracts to the deputy governor’s elder brother, but failed to live up to expectation and this resulted in the latest quarrel.

The source went further to add that the few contracts which were awarded to the apex APGA leader have not been fully paid for as he is now on the neck of Okorocha to fulfill his promise or face his wrath. Governor Okorocha who is worried about the situation, it would seems wants no other option than to drop his deputy, whose allegiance he has long suspected.

Due to this lack of trust, frontline politicians in Orlu and Okigwe Zones have also advised Okorocha to drop his deputy, and replace him with another humble person from Owerri zone who will work harmoniously with him.

According to Onyali, the only way to remove a sitting deputy governor is through impeachment. “This is why they are bringing up the allegations to have impeachment offences that will assist them to nail him. But Governor Okorocha is fast losing his supporters and it is not a good sign for him. If he comes to contest any election, he will see that he has lost majority of his supporters.”

However, a political analyst, Vincent Ikoku, said there should be no sentiment in governance. “Any person who enmeshed himself in corruption should be prosecuted, no matter how highly placed in the government or any office.”

He added that, “If you take a critical look at the committee’s report, the deputy governor is supposed to face EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission)”, adding that other principal officers involved in the deal should be punished.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Sunday, March 10, 2013

13

Abandoned projects: Senate, Presidency unite to probe NDDC

Mark

CHIDI UGWU ABUJA

U

nlike in the budget issue, both the Senate and the Presidency were in agreement in condemning the abysmal performance of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) since inception in 2001. This became so, following the submission of the report of Chief Isaac Jemide-led Presidential Monitoring Committee.

The revelation in the report, that over 46 per cent of projects floated by the commission had been abandoned, no doubt drew the ire of President Goodluck Jonathan who vowed to take a decisive action on the matter.

The 2005 to 2011 report of the committee revealed that the commission abandoned 285 projects across the oilproducing region while choosing to be funding the renovation of a privately owned club in Port Harcourt.

The Senate Committee on Niger Delta, as a result, charged the NDDC to brace up and give more commitment to the development of the oil region.

The committee chairman, Senator James Manager, who spoke at a meeting of the committee and leadership of the NDDC and FCC, a group of contractors handling a road project in the region, warned the Managing Director of NDDC, Chris Oboh, to stop the habit of only inspecting projects and familiarising himself with the commission’s contractors whenever the committee visits the region to inspect projects.

He told Oboh that if he failed to do his job, the committee would be left with no option than to take over the commission’s responsibility.

“Mr. MD, it is not only when Senate Committee is inspecting projects that you should just accompany us.

You must be able to tell us the state of the projects. You must be in a position to know those working for your commission. You must know the character of their companies.

“Some of the contractors, you must do within your limits, to ensure they do what is right. You must threaten them; you must revoke the licences of those who are not doing well. You must invite them to meetings and ensure that the chairman is in attendance.

“If you don’t do it, we’ll do it for you here in the Senate. It is only when you have naughty issues that you should come here. You must be in contact with the chief executive officers and those who work for you,” Manager said. The senator’s hard stance came on the heels of submissions made at the session by representatives of FCC. The company is alleged to have abandoned a road

Jonathan

Oboh

THE PANEL ALSO RAISED SERIOUS ISSUES OVER THE DELIBERATE EXCLUSION OF SOME PROJECTS FROM THE LIST OF PROJECTS SUBMITTED

NDDC TO THE PRESIDENTIAL MONITORING COMMITTEE FOR EVALUATION,

BY THE

SAYING THAT MOST OF THE WATER PROJECTS EMBARKED

UPON WERE NON-FUNCTIONAL. project – Eket-Ibeno Road in Akwa Ibom State.

According to the committee’s report, in all 609 projects undertaken by the commission and inspected, 222 have been completed; 102 are on-going and 285 have been abandoned.

The report also revealed that the commission has awarded a contract for the renovation of a privately owned club in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, among other anomalies.

The presidential committee further indicted the NDDC for abandoning a large number of projects and its refusal to address the issue of abandoned projects with no evidence of any attempt to recover the funds, using appropriate government agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and other offences Commission (ICPC).

President Jonathan, who is from the Niger Delta region, appeared very dissatisfied with the report, saying that there were issues the NDDC would have to resolve.

Such issues tend to defeat the purpose for which the commission was set up, he intoned.

He also decried the unjustifiable introduction of astronomical variations on the contract sum of most projects awarded by the NDDC over short periods of time, promising to look into how some of these variations were concocted, prior to project commencement. He also promised to take a look at the controversial contract for the renovation a privately owned club in Rivers State.

The Presidential Monitoring’s report covered projects awarded in three states of Cross River, Edo and Rivers States, between 2005 and 2011. The committee was mandated to look into the financial management of the commission within the period as well, and how contracts were procured.

Monitoring of 1,510 projects for the period 2005 to 2011 in the remaining six NNDC states is said to have also been completed and the reports are being compiled for submission to the President in the near future.

The Jemide-led presidential committee which submitted its report to Jonathan last Tuesday also noted uncooperative attitude of the NDDC management with the committee by refusing to provide records of some critical financial transactions of the commission such as the bank statements, payment vouchers, and their supporting documents. The stores records as well as accounting records and records of beneficiaries of mass transit boat and bus scheme embarked upon since 2004 were also hoarded, the committee complained.

The panel also raised serious issues over the deliberate exclusion of some projects from the list of projects submitted by the NDDC to the Presidential Monitoring Committee for evaluation, saying that most of the water projects embarked upon were non-functional.

NDDC was also indicted by the presidential committee for the approval and execution of some projects that are completely outside the statutory operational scope of the renovation of Port Harcourt Club and another project which is, ‘study on the generation of electric power from gully erosion sites’, among others.

The committee thus urged President Jonathan to implement its recommendations in order to facilitate the realisation of the commission’s mandate of ensuring a principled, coordinated and focused development in the Niger Delta region.

While receiving the report, Jonathan promised to carefully consider it in detail, implement the recommendations and take decisive action in order to realise the purpose for which the NDDC was established.

“What it means is that we have issues in the NDDC. NDDC is a body that must be properly focused. The NDDC was set up because of the militancy in the Niger Delta, the feeling that the youths in the Niger Delta feel aggrieved. Some are on developmental issues which led to formation of the NDDC”, he said.

The President noted that the NDDC must be properly focused to address developmental issues and for efficient management of fund, saying that if things are not done that way, the purpose of setting up the NDDC would not be realised.

Politics

14

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Fear grips judges as NJC considers fresh cases EMMANUEL ONANI

P

alpable fear has gripped some judges over possible sanctions by the National Judicial Council, NJC, Sunday Mirror authoritatively gathered over the week-

end.

Exclusive findings from the NJC indicate that judges, especially those with pending petitions against them before the council, were losing sleep over the outcome of the cases, against the backdrop of the avowed determination of the Chairman of the NJC and Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Mariam Aloma Mukhtar, to rid the judiciary of corruption and associated vices.

Sunday Mirror learnt that more judges may be swept off by what a competent NJC source described as “Hurricane Mukhtar”.

Asked to name those judicial officers with pending queries, the dependable source, who chose to remain anonymous, said, “You know it’s not my practice to offer you such details, more so that council business is conducted with utmost diligence and a high sense of responsibility.”

When our correspondent prodded further, the source disclosed, albeit reluctantly, “To the best of my knowledge, there are yet-to-be determined petitions against a resourceful female judge and a male judge from the SouthEast.”

Meanwhile, NJC’s “Fact-Finding Committee” commissioned to investigate allegations against a Federal Capital Territory High Court, FCT, Judge, Justice AbubakarTalba, in respect of his January 28 judgement against a pension fund thief, was said to have held its inaugural sitting.

It will be recalled that the council had at its emergency meeting of February 20, set up a panel to probe Justice Talba’s decision to sentence Mr. John Yakubu Yusufu to two years imprisonment, with an option of fine of N750, 000.

Yusufu’s conviction bothered on an “illegal act” of

stealing pension funds meant for police retirees.

The convict specifically pleaded guilty to counts 18, 19 and 20, where he was alleged to have connived with others still standing trial to convert the sums of N24.2 billion, N1.3 billion and N1.7 billion respectively.

Interestingly, five days after, the highest judicial body recommended the compulsory retirement (alongside suspension) of Justices Charles Archibong of the Federal High Court, Lagos and Thomas Naron of the Plateau State judiciary, to President Goodluck Jonathan as well as Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau state, for sack.

A February 25 statement by NJC’s Acting Director of Information, Mr. Soji Oye read: “President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, has approved the compulsory retirement of Hon. Justice Charles Efanga Archibong of the Federal High Court, Lagos Division with immediate effect.

“The approval is sequel to the recommendation of the National Judicial Council at its Emergency Meeting which was held on Wednesday 20th February, 2013 under the Chairmanship of the Hon. Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, GCON. “The President has also on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council, approved the extension of the appointment of the Acting President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Zainab Adamu Bulkachuwa, OFR, pursuant to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.”

According to the NJC, “Hon. Justice Archibong was recommended for compulsory retirement to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, pursuant to the ‘findings” by the Council on the following complaints levelled against him:“That the Judge dismissed the grievous charges against an accused without taking his plea.

“That he refused to release the certified true copy of his ruling to the lawyers.

“That the Judge issued a bench warrant on some officials of Peoples Democratic Party for contempt even when the counsel who was directed by the court to serve them

filed an affidavit that he had not been able to serve the contempt application.

“That he made unfounded and caustic remarks on professional competence of some Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

“That there were glaring procedural irregularities which showed that Hon. Justice Archibong did not have a full grasp of the law and procedure of the court; and “That he granted the leave sought for in the originating summons that had no written address of the parties and without hearing both parties in the originating summons after he had earlier on overruled the preliminary objection.”

Justifying the sack of Naron, the council revealed that, “Hon. Justice T. D. Naron of High Court of Justice, Plateau State, was recommended for compulsory retirement to Governor David Jonah Jang sequel to the ‘findings’ by the Council that there were constant and regular voice calls and exchange of mms and sms (text) messages between Hon. Justice Naron and one of the lead counsel for one of the parties to the suit in the Osun State Gubernatorial Election Tribunal, contrary to the Code of Conduct for judicial officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria vide Section 292(1((b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.”

Aloma

Abia engulfed in politics of vendetta CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 scored.

“No one can deny the fact that Kalu was in ABSU for lectures and examinations.

“And how do you withdraw a degree that has been duly awarded?

“And to think it is the same Senate that awarded it that is withdrawing it.

“It is obvious where the drummer is playing for the Senate to dance from.

“Must the academic community allow politics and politicians to influence its decision?”

The former governor said the incumbent was looking for any straw to hold on to after his failed bid to nail him with trumped up charges of corruption, to prevent him from returning to the Peoples Democratic Party and to run him out of Abia State completely.

However, the state government has denied being involved in the certificate withdrawal saga. The incumbent governor who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Ugo Emezue, said the former governor was attempting to evade a scandal he brought upon himself. He denied instigating the decision to strip Mr. Kalu of the degree.

“We are hesitant to react because that is pure blackmail. Abia State University is a full-fledged institution and its senate has the right to decide anything it likes,” the governor’s spokesperson said on the phone.

“Truth is that Abia State Government has nothing to do with that. He should face

his certificate scandal alone.”

Despite the denial by Orji as having nothing to do with the former governor’s certificate withdrawal,many view the decision of the university as the climax of the political confrontation between the two former allies. Governor Theodore Orji was Chief Orji Kalu’s Chief of Staff for eight years during the latter’s tenure as governor.

In what looks like a move and ploy to pay him back for dumping the party he formed and registered, the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), the party has praised the decision of Abia State University to revoke the degree it awarded the ex-governor.

The sour relationship between Chief Kalu and his successor has been in the news for quite some time. It came to the fore in January this year when the former governor dumped the PPA and returned to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He had re-registered in Igbere, Bende Local Government area of Abia State.

However, his return to the PDP was rebuffed by the incumbent and his loyalists who protested against his return. Orji, the three senators and House of Representatives members from the state kicked against the planned return of the former governor. He led the federal lawmakers and other party stakeholders in the state in a protest to the national secretariat of the PDP in Abuja. They warned the party leadership against the consequences of readmitting the former governor into the party.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

A protest letter by the group, under the banner of Abia PDP Stakeholders, was submitted to the party National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.

The lawmakers and stakeholders further explained why Kalu should not be allowed back into the party.

According to them, they do not oppose defectors returning to the party for a level-playing field but there is a unanimity that readmitting any former member whose presence would cause disaffection or battles would be resisted.

The statement added: “On the strength of our usually reliable intelligence gathering from his (Kalu’s) loyalists, his sole objective in seeking to rejoin the party is to use its platform to pursue his presidential ambition. It is a ploy that will escalate tension within the ranks of the party; he is coming not to build but to destabilise.

“If Chief Kalu were allowed to return, he would do so with his loyalists in the Progressive Peoples Alliance. Where and how will they be accommodated? If they attempt to dislodge the existing structures, which are a product of a harmonised agreement among major interest groups and prominent individuals in the state, a violent struggle for power will ensue.

“It was a similar struggle which caused the rift in Enugu State and eventually set the stage for the unceremonial exit of Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo as national chairman.”

Speaking on the development in an interview with Sunday Mirror recently, the

former governor said the reaction of the governor and his supporters to his readmission into the PDP of which he was one of the founding members shows the type of people they are.

On the purported rift between him and his former aide and successor, Kalu said he didn’t have any personal quarrel with the governor.

“No matter what I have done to this man, for what I did for him, I expect him to find a forgiving heart to me.

“To me I don’t know what I have done to the governor and if I have done anything to him, he should throw it open to the Nigerian people and let them judge.

“In my conscience, my last discussion with the governor was that he had not done anything for the people and that he should not run for a second term. That is the truth and I have no regret in telling him that because it is the right thing to do,” Chief Kalu emphasised.

However, during Kalu’s tenure as governor of Abia State, Orji, who was a Chief of Staff to the governor and the PPA governorship candidate for the 2007 poll, was enmeshed in fraud allegations and was remanded in prison custody. But Kalu pushed ahead with Orji’s campaigns and he ensured that he won the election.

The ex-governor reportedly facilitated the release of Orji from prison, to make him take his oath as governor.

“And to many, that singular act is enough for the governor to overlook any offence the former governor could have committed. Governor Orji’s action is like biting the finger that fed him,” the source said.

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Interview ENCOUNTER WITH A NEWS MAKER MARCH 10, 2013

Agitations in South over North’s dominance of oil sector justifiable –Ebute, ex-Senate president The nation was startled by the recent revelation in the Senate that 83 per cent of the oil blocs in the country belong to northerners. This has since elicited agitations in some quarters, particularly in the South-South. Former Senate President, Barrister Ameh Ebute, in this interview with Obiora Ifoh, says the agitations are justified. He also spoke about why President Goodluck Jonathan should be allowed to run for another term in office.

Excerpts.

w were out of government for a long time; there is n no personality that has been in government except P President Goodluck Jonathan. That is why I am one o of the people that are campaigning for the continuiity of the Jonathan presidency. I do not think that e eight years will be too much for somebody from the S South-South to occupy the office of president. The w whole country has been relying on the oil resource es from their area and the only way we can pacify tthem is by voting for President Jonathan.

Are you saying that power should not return to the North in 2015?

With this 83 per cent of oil wells being owned by northerners, where do you think power resides now? Power is already in the North, though not in all the North. For instance, I am a northerner with a question mark; I am a middle-belter. I am not the type of northerner that will say that there should be no justice. I am a northern who believes in equity, fairness, that all Nigerians must be treated equally, that everyone must have a fair share of the resources in this country. I am not such a northerner that is interested in dominating the affairs of this country in perpetuity.

Close to two years into his government, most Nigerians are yet to feel the impact of President Jonathan’s administration. Why do you still want him to continue in government?

The impact of his administration is there but most Nigerians always do not want to believe the facts. You cannot come to office as president immediately and people begin to see the impact of your administration. You have to give them time, at least three to four years. After that you begin to see the impact because all the projects that have just been awarded are yet to be seen by Nigerians. Projects like roads, electricity and rail transport, among others have been awarded and impacts will be seen in years to come. It is after this time, if we do not see anything that we can now accuse the government of ineptitude.

Ebute

The angst out there is that 83 per cent of Nigeria’s oil blocs have been cornered by the North; as a northerner, would that imply that the economy of Nigeria is squarely with the North?

I am surprised to read about this allegation. I call it allegations because I do not have proofs yet but I am sure that the allegations are not far from the truth because, as the saying goes, there is no smoke without fire. But I want to state that these northerners that have benefitted from these oil wells do not include middle-belters in the North. That is why we are complaining that we are only northerners when it comes to election purposes, and that we are no longer going to be such northerners anymore.

Apart from General Danjuma, I am not aware of any other middle-belter who must have been given oil well in this country. Danjuma must have used his position when he was Chief of Army Staff to help himself.

Now that there is agitation in the South, do you think that the oil blocs should be revoked?

I am not blaming the indigenes of the SouthSouth who are bitter. You know if you have something at the back of your house and someone from the outside comes to completely monopolise or take the major share of that resource, you will not be happy. I will not blame them, the reason is that they

But security challenges have gone from bad to worse under this administration?

Was it Jonathan’s presidency that created this violence? The Boko Haram insurgency surfaced because of those who felt that they should always inherit the presidency; that they are naturally entitled to the presidency of this country. They were not happy about Jonathan being the president.

Even before Jonathan became president, they made statements that they will make Nigeria ungovernable for him, and they are acting their script; that is what is happening. People that are not happy with the emergence of Jonathan as the president are the people that are behind the insecurity situation in Nigeria. Jonathan is such a person that does not want blood in his hand. If I were the President, I CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

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Interview

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I AM NOT AWARE OF ANY OTHER MIDDLE-BELTER WHO MUST HAVE BEEN GIVEN

OIL WELL IN THIS COUNTRY.

DANJUMA MUST HAVE USED HIS POSITION WHEN HE WAS

CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF TO HELP HIMSELF

Ebute

Ebute

‘President Jonathan should take corruption in judiciary seriously’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

would have arrested all these people; they will either be in jail or be given the Abacha treatment.

The delay in the budget assent by the presidency is one example of a frosty relationship between the executive and the legislature; how do you think such friction can be minimised?

I do not believe that there is any frosty relationship between the executive and the legislature. The delay in the passage of the budget is as a result of the members of the National Assembly trying to protect their own interest by inserting some expenditure items in the interest of their constituency.

Such things are done even in America. If you are in the Congress, you try to protect the interest of the constituency that elected you. Some members of the National Assembly must have inserted some items in the budget in the interest of their individual constituencies and these did not go down very well with the presidency.

Whose constitutional right is it to insert constituency projects in the budget?

Constituency budget is to be proposed by members of the National Assembly in the interest of their own constituency. The executive will now cooperate with them to sign. The executive has its own capital projects which it uses to patronise all Nigerians. Members of the National Assembly are also part of the government, the legislative arm of the government. They should protect the interest of their constituency by some items voted in the national budget. The executive should not have the whole project, or what are the legislators here for?

If they are not to protect the interest of their constituencies, what are they in the National Assembly for?

The emergence of All Progressive Congress, APC, in the political firmament has been causing scare in the camp of the PDP; what do you make of that?

That goes to tell well of democracy in the country.

If there is no effective opposition against any government, such government tends to be excessive in its activities; the stronger the opposition, the better for democracy in this country. So as many political parties as possible that can come together, we congratulate them provided we will have the wherewithal and the capacity to displace the ruling party.

General Buhari and a few other Nigerians have expressed worries over the ability of the present INEC to conduct a free and fair election in 2015; do you

share the same fears?

That is a very wrong assumption. Who are we going to bring? A foreigner to conduct election in Nigeria? The very last election conducted in 2011 was largely free and fair. The problem with Nigeria is that anybody who loses will complain that the election was not free and fair. Once one fails to win election, that election becomes rigged. Assuming that APC wins election in 2015, PDP that has been in power will shout that the election has been rigged

by APC. That is the natural reactions of Nigerians who lose elections. I praise INEC headed by Prof.

Jega and I want Nigerians to give them the opportunity to improve. You cannot come to office immediately and do everything 100 per cent. You must learn on the job. The mistakes made in the field during election have to be studied by INEC personnel over a given time. They will continue to improve until they have a perfect situation.

Are you satisfied with the current leadership of the PDP, particularly with Tukur and Anenih in the saddle?

I am very satisfied with the leadership of the party. I am happy with the election of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur as the national chairman and I am also happy with the election of my leader, Chief Tony Anenih who was with me in politics in the second republic, and was instrumental to my election as the Senate president in 1993. I am still loyal to him because I know his ability. I know he can keep the PDP members together. I have absolute confidence in the leadership of PDP as of today.

With election drawing closer, do you think PDP,

I DO NOT THINK THAT EIGHT YEARS WILL BE TOO MUCH FOR SOMEBODY FROM THE

SOUTH-

SOUTH TO OCCUPY THE OFFICE OF PRESIDENT. THE WHOLE COUNTRY HAS BEEN RELYING ON THE OIL RESOURCES FROM THEIR AREA AND THE ONLY WAY WE CAN PACIFY THEM IS

BY VOTING FOR

PRESIDENT

JONATHAN

in spite of apparent division within, will be united enough to confront the opposition?

When a house is big, there is bound to be quarrels; there could be misunderstanding among the members. The problem you see is all about power: who controls power. Is it the governors that should be allowed to control, the party machinery or the national secretariat?

The national chairman should also have some measure of control of the party. That is all that is playing out. Once the party decides that power should not reside with the governors alone but that the national secretariat, headed by the national chairman, should have a large measure of power within the party, then the problem will be over. After all, the governors are members of the PDP and should take orders from PDP; that is my own understanding of party administration. In United States which system we are experimenting on, you do not even hear of the governors trying to control all the powers in the system. But here, the governors want to dictate who comes to Abuja as a delegate; they want to dictate to all the policies of government. It is not fair. In addition to controlling the machinery of power in their own states, they now want to have unlimited power at the centre.

The money they are using to control everybody belongs to the people but instead of using the money to develop their own state, they are using it to control the people.

Do you think that the Nigerian legal system is equipped to fight corruption?

We have appropriate machinery on ground to fight corruption but the problem is that the machinery or personnel that are supposed to fight corruption are corrupt themselves. That is the problem we have. We have the EFCC but the powerful members of the society now use the commission to terrorise the weaker members of the society through frivolous petitions, whereas the high profile petitions against the governors and powerful members of the society are ignored by EFCC. The machinery to curb corruption is on the ground but the people who are in charge of the machinery, the police, judiciary, EFCC, ICPC have been compromised. The way out is that the head should stand up to wipe out everybody he thinks that is corrupt. There is corruption everywhere in the land now and President Jonathan should take the case seriously and push the head of the judiciary on line, ensure that corrupt law officers are shown the way out. The EFCC now leaves high profile corrupt cases to go and settle quarrels between husband and wife. Is it why EFCC was created? The solution lies before the president.

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HEAD, GRAPHICS

Illegal armoury behind Nigerian Army in Kaduna

T

he shock find, Wednesday, by the Nigerian Army, of an unlawful armoury with an extensive cache of arms, allegedly in a house owned by a notable Abuja-based politician, just a shouting distance from the back of the Nigerian Army 1 Mechanised Division Headquarters, Kaduna, seems a distressing development. The discovery demands closer scrutiny by the Federal Government in its bid to unravel the myth behind the festering campaign of violence up North, and take decisive steps to halt the carnage.

The Commander of 1 Mechanised Division’s Internal Security Force, Brig.-Gen. Tagbo Chuks Ude, who briefed newsmen on the scandalous arms depot, said the affected politician; two women and five children in the building were arrested during the operation. Six AK 47 rifles, one light machine gun, 27 loaded, 17 empty AK 47 magazines and 58 rounds of 9mm ammunition were recovered from the house. The rest were 275 rounds of 7.62 mm NATO ammunition, one loaded light machine gun, nine prepared cans of improvised explosive devices, one reel of firing cord and 125 detonators. The Army commander generously commended members of the public that gave the information which led to the successful operation.

Naturally, widespread public suspicion has been that the illegal armoury must have something to do with the Boko Haram insurgent group. Otherwise, what would bombs (Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs), AK 47 rifles, as well as bomb-making and detonating accessories be doing in the politician’s house? The recurring involvement of the names of some prominent politicians in parts of the North in the activities of the insurgent group appears a strong indication that the providers of lifeline to the ongoing campaign of violence in that part of the country are very much within. Worse still, they

might be in power or very close to the corridors of power. President Goodluck Jonathan said as much early last year when he publicly expressed his strong suspicion that members of the violent Islamist sect were in his government. It is obvious, too, that such cruel crooks are not in a hurry to let go of their inhuman trade except something drastic is done to fish out and punish them, especially as 2015, an election year that will offer them the opportunity to commit worse atrocities, is fast approaching.

Now that it has become visibly clear that nobody is safe, the Federal Government should explore all available options to end the Boko Haram scourge before preparations for the 2015 polls are in full gear.

President Jonathan, apparently in response to calls by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and some northern governors, that members of the sect be granted unconditional amnesty as the surest way to bringing the violence to an end, declared in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital during his official visit to the state, Thursday, that amnesty would not be extended to members of the sect. “How can a government grant amnesty to a faceless group or ghosts who refused to show themselves physically like the Niger Delta militants?”

Jonathan asked. But despite the president’s position and swelling opposition against the amnesty idea, we believe the Federal Government would give the option a shot, considering the realities on ground, once the insurgents come out physically and properly identify themselves.

Consequently, should the government decide to consider amnesty for members of the sect at any point in time, we recommend that it should not just be cautious in so doing, but should first accord recognition to members truly desirous of laying down arms, totally repenting

and are ready to embrace rehabilitation. Such amnesty beneficiaries should likewise be prepared to volunteer vital information that could assist the Federal Government in tracking down the faceless sponsors and sustainers of violence in the North for appropriate disciplinary actions and punishment to forestall a recurrence. On the contrary, the government should persist in hounding and haunting other recalcitrant groups or members to submission or insignificance.

To be noted significantly, in addition, is Brig. Gen. Ude’s special commendation of members of the public that gave the Army the tipoff which eventually yielded the discovery of the illegal armoury.

Since it has become quite obvious that the nation’s security agencies are no crime bursting magicians, all Nigerians should be vigilant and watchful, and report every suspicious movement to them. Besides, the public is hopeful that those arrested would be diligently investigated and brought to justice if found culpable. Ultimately, however, reducing insurgency and crime to the barest minimum requires that drastic and urgent steps be taken to possibly eliminate poverty, destitution and idleness, all of which contribute in large measures to diverting the attention of Nigerian youths to all manner of criminal activities. The Federal Government, states and local governments have paid enough of lip service to poverty eradication and getting people to work and earn decent and legitimate living. Without addressing these problems most sincerely and with uncommon determination, dozens of more idle youths will continue to end up in the devil’s workshop; and the insecurity situation of today will become a child’s play compared to the monstrous levels of strife, lawlessness and crime imminent in the nearest future.

Reminiscences MARCH 10, IN HISTORY 1929: Women granted divorce rights in Egypt Egyptian women were granted (limited) divorce rights by the national government.

1943: WWII: Gen Rommel loses battle for North Africa General Erwin Rommel lost the battle for North Africa and, under the guise of sick leave, departed from Tunisia.

1945: Allied planes bomb Tokyo B-29 fighter planes firebombed Tokyo 1969: Luther King’s killer jailed 99 years The verdict was decided and James Earl Ray pleaded guilty of the crime of assassinating Martin Luther King, Jr., a major civil rights leader of the times.

King was killed in Memphis Tennessee on April 4, 1968. Ray was sentenced 99 years in prison.

1973: British governor shot in Bermuda The British governor and his assistant were assassinated in Bermuda.

1990: Iraqi court sentences British journalist A court in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, imposed the death sentence on The Observer journalist, Farzad Bazoft.

2002: Israeli planes destroy Arafat’s office Israeli helicopters attacked and destroyed Palestinian leader, Yasser Arafat’s, office in Gaza City.

2008: Obama refutes Clinton as a running mate Barack Obama implored voters to discount the political chatter about him joining the Hillary Clinton’s presidential ticket. ‘I don’t know how somebody who’s in second place can offer the vice-presidency to someone who’s in first place,’ he said. In a Mississippi town meeting he said that ‘I’ve won twice as many states as Senator Clinton’ and ‘I have more delegates than Senator Clinton.’

2012: U.S. – Coke, Pepsi alter soda formulas Coke and Pepsi altered their formulas slightly in order to avoid having to place a cancer warning label on bottles of their products. The companies changed the way that they make the caramel colouring in the drinks by adding less 4-MEI, the carcinogen in question.

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Opinion

Sunday March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The North, oil blocs and the N/Delta struggle Uncensored U nc

Sheriff S Folarin

E-mail: sheffie2004@yahoo.co.uk 08094217972 (SMS only)

T

he age-long saying of “monkey dey work, baboon dey chop” aptly fits into the context of the shocking revelation that 83% of the Nigerian oil wells, situated in the Niger Delta, is owned by Northern aristocrats. The local Nigerian pidgin maxim literally means: while some are tilling the soil and sowing the seed, the idlers end up reaping the harvest. With the recent revelation by the Nigerian Senate that Northerners have the lion share of the oil wells, it is now becoming clearer why the North would seek to cling on to political power, as it also gives us an idea of how it hurts so badly to be out of the mainstream in power equation for some time. With oil money flowing ceaselessly into their coffers by reason of manipulating the state instruments for so long until now, who would want to say final goodbyes to political power? Power, being a means to an end, when lost, gets one off-balance and frightened, because of the political economy of losing it.

In the course of the legislative debate on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), Senator Ita Enang who is the Chairman

of the Senate Committee on Business and Rules made the disclosure, which came as a rude shock to most Nigerians.

Among the Northerners are Alhaji Mai Deribe from the Northeast who makes about N4bn monthly from his oil wells; Prince Lamido Sanusi, who controls the Asuokpu/Umutu marginal field; General T.Y. Danjuma, who controls oil wells which he runs with the South Atlantic Petroleum Limited (SAPETRO), ENI Nigeria Limited, Total Upstream Nigeria Limited (TUPNI), and Brasoil Oil Services Company Nigeria Limited; and Colonel Sani Bello, who owns AMNI International Petroleum and Development Company.

Other in the roll-call of Northern oil wells’ owners include, Professor Rilwanu Lukman, a former Oil Minister; Alhaji Indimi; Alhaji Aminu Dantata; Alhaji Saleh Mohammed Gambo; Alhaji Abubakar Atiku; late General Musa Yar’Adua; and Alhaji Ado Bayero. It is an exhaustive list of Northern powerbrokers and kingmakers. With 83% Northerners, the Southwest and Southeast, like dogs struggling over dry bones, should be scrambling for the paltry 27% of oil blocs.

By the knowledge of this obvious inequality and crass injustice, one does not have to be an indigene of any of the Niger Delta states to get really upset about the Northern domination of the Southern resources and total control of the commonwealth. Even a saint would naturally flare up at hearing that some powerful forces of Northern Nigeria, a place that produces little in terms of natural resources to contribute meaningfully to the commonwealth, are in the majority in resource control. Imagine this ugly contradiction:

the tenant smiles to the banks to scoop oil revenue; the landlord becomes the thief, vandalizing the pipes, stealing oil and building crude refineries to make eke out a living! This is the proverbial “monkey dey work, baboon dey chop” scenario we were talking about.

Development is so far from the Niger Delta people: the intra-city and inter-state roads are the worst in the country; their youths are largely uneducated and unemployed; there are no potable water and adequate supply of electricity; and to worsen matters, oil spills and gas flaring have destroyed their vegetation and marine life, which are the main sources of livelihood.

The Niger Delta has become the striking example of underdevelopment, squalor and infrastructural abandonment in political economy classes. In Literature, the region has been likened to an ocean with so much water but with nothing drinkable about it!

How else can one describe the stories of oil theft and illegal refineries by some people of the Niger Delta? What can better justify endless struggles in a state where the thief encounters the owner with brazen act of affront? This is how best to describe the irony of oil bloc ownership.

My question is that with all this lopsidedness in oil wealth control and national development as the only legacies the North has left behind after 39 years of holding on to power (Balewa-6 years; Gowon-9 years; Murtala-less than a year; Shagari-4 years; Buhari-about 2 years; Babangida-8 years; Abacha-5 years; Abdusalami-1 year; Yar’Adua-3 years), does it deserve another shot at power?

Does the North honestly deserve to lead

Nigeria? Based on all the monopolization of the commonwealth, impoverishment of the erstwhile rich and productive South, fraudulent use of Federal Character to cheat other regions and level up undeservedly, is it ethical to demand and destabilize Nigeria just to wrest power again.

One can tell from the statistics of blocs’ ownership that the true owners of the oilrich land, the Niger Delta people, may not have up to 5% of the wells on their land. It is thus human to get angry. One can only appeal to the unjustly treated people of the region to, for the sake of peace and avoidance of further damage to the already pulverized security situation, allow peace to reign. But such appeal must go pari passu with physical development, economic empowerment of the Niger Delta people, and of course revocation of such oil licenses. It is only when these are done simultaneously with plea for perseverance that peace can be guaranteed.

My take is informed by a deep sense of history. It is unfair and greedy to have the lion share of political power and yet possess the lion share of the nation’s wealth; ungodly to enjoy 39 years of ruling in sectional Northern elite’s interest and yet demand more years when there are many others, who have sparingly been in control even as they pretend to be in control in the remaining 14 years of national existence; and criminal to use the instrument of terrorism and other forms of subterfuge to get that power and attention.

•Dr. Folarin is a Senior Lecturer and Head of Department, Political Science/International Relations, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria

Containing the high cost of governance JANE ASUQUO

T

he high cost of governance, as Pastorpolitician, Rev Chris Okotie, said recently in his syndicated column, is one of the many hurdles the governments, of the federation would have to cross to move this nation forward. But, so far, this critical problem is proving a very hard nut to crack for our elected officials.

From over 70 percent of budget in 2010, the Jonathan administration has reduced the recurrent expenditure to 68 percent in 2013 budget, according to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mrs Ngozi Okonjo Iweala. It is progress, obviously, but that token merely scratches the surface. There’s still a very long way to go before we achieve equilibrium.

There’re more fundamental issues identified by Rev Okotie like the high cost of elections, the bloated civil service and wastage issues which the President has not found the courage to deal with. In his article, “Democracy And the Spirit of Laws,” the Pastor-politician made these important observations: “Since we adopted the Presidential System of government we haven’t embraced its ethos; its traditions of the rule of law and separation of powers etc. Also, the astronomically high cost of running government and the elections are some of the downsides of our democracy, which even in America, is now at the centre of very sharp disagreement

between the two main parties over what to do to scale down “big government”.

“However, Nigeria does not know what to do with its unbearably high cost of government because, as the Jonathan Administration has found out, any attempt to prune the wage bill which constitutes the major component of the high recurrent expenditures would require massive retrenchments in the federal civil service.

That may pose a grave danger of a political backlash which a sitting president can ill afford. As for the high cost of elections the President has not found the grit to implement the recommendations of the Uwais Report which was set up to address that thorny issue.”

Those issues are not just thorny but tricky. There’s always the tendency for politicians to place politics above economics because of the dire implications that hard decisions could have on future elections. But at some, the ruling PDP, so enamoured of power, must have to deal with daunting challenges of prudential economic management, if it is to perform its statutory responsibilities efficiently.

In Nigeria where everything is politicised, it takes a President of a sterner stuff to attempt any significant downsizing of the civil service to reduce the high wage bill and implement the Uwais Report on electoral Reforms which point to a reduction of the high cost of elections.

However, as the federal government has found out, many things are easier said than done. What is economically

expedient may not be politically correct.

Mr Jonathan must find courage to do certain things his advisers and party big wigs may consider impolitic if his drive towards a slim but nimble bureaucracy is not to remain an illusion, like his Transformation Agenda appears to be turning out.

No government ever achieves progress by avoiding a fire fight because there is no royal road to success. The federal government must apply the knife and cut down on the spiralling cost of administration as a first clear indication that it means business beyond the symbolic gestures it is making in cost cutting.

The bigger factor in the road to slim government is how to block the wide open leakages, the wastages, open looting of the treasury, and unethical fiscal management practices which have reached an alarming proportion in Jonathan’s government, so much so that due process seems not to have meaning again in Nigeria.

All of these combine to make budget implementation so difficult. If the federal government has one single clog in the wheel of progress, it is the growing corruption that is now being perpetrated with impunity by top government officials at all levels of governance under Jonathan’s watch. No matter how his aides try to defend it, corruption is festering like an infected sore under this administration.

Therefore, to contain the scourge of big government, the war against corruption is the starting point, as Rev.

Okotie stated in his insightful write-up.

A group of unpatriotic Nigerians cannot continue to loot our oil wealth in the face of grinding poverty and deprivation of the majority of our country men and women.

It is really sad that since Mr. Jonathan came to power almost three years ago, no single high profile conviction of corruption officials has taken place, even when we have a record of the most rampant and blatant cases of corruption ever. If corruption is not tamed, nothing will work in Nigeria. It is therefore, the litmus test of Mr. President’s commitment to transparent governance.

If he fails to pass this test, he’d find it difficult to justify his election as President; let alone, his veiled quest for another term. Meanwhile, many state governors are more preoccupied now with how to get re-elected in 2015 instead focusing on the delivery of democracy dividend they promised the electorate in 2011.

Many discerning observers are asking: is this democracy simply about power mongering by the few venal rich or about the creation of a just, egalitarian society? In reality, for the ruling elite, democracy has a different, subjective interpretation; it is an opportunity for personal aggrandizement and perpetuation of their hold on power. Certainly, that is not what majority of Nigerians expected when they chased the Army out of power in 1999.

•Asuquo wrote from Lagos.

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Praise Worship E-mail:richardeghaghe@yahoo.com

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QUOTE What guarantees God’s blessing is strategic wisdom rooted in divine will of God. –Bishop Enakirerhi

EDIFYING GOD Sunday, March 10, 2013

Briefly

Pastor Nkiruka

Cardinals arriving for the Conclave at the weekend

New Pope may emerge this week …as Cardinals begin voting

RICHARD EGHAGHE WITH AGENCY REPORT

O

n the fifth straight day of deliberations, the Vatican said at the weekend that the cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church would hold a secret papal ballot “in the first days of next week” (this week) on a successor to Benedict XVI, who retired abruptly last month, citing old age and advancing infirmity.

At a news conference, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, said the cardinals would vote on the exact schedule at discussions lasting into the early evening on Friday and their decision would be made known to journalists.

The announcement of a date for the papal election would set a firm timetable for the vote within the Christian ecclesiastical calendar. Holy Week begins this year on March 24, Palm Sunday, followed

by Easter Sunday on March 31.

Father Lombardi said the conclave would be “in the first days of next week.”

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were all possible but “it could also be Thursday. Nothing is stopping them.”

Six days before his resignation took effect on February 28, Benedict issued an

To translate the Bible, you’ll need at least N30m –Rev. Odutola 20

order to the cardinals that they need not wait the traditional 15 to 20 days after the death of a pope to begin the secret balloting process, known as a conclave, a word derived from Latin denoting a lockable room and reflecting the closed and secretive nature of the ballot.

Since Monday, 115 cardinals under age 80 — those who are eligible to participate in the papal balloting — have converged here to prepare for the moment when they enter the Sistine Chapel to begin the conclave.

Despite expectations among Vatican watchers that the cardinals would set the date earlier in the week, the prelates had proceeded cautiously and with deliberation, joining with older cardinals to debate a wide range of issues about the papacy and the challenges facing the church without resolving the question of a date.

The cardinals have been meeting behind closed doors in the Paul VI Hall every day this week, their utterances regarded as potential auditions for those among them regarded as “papabile,” or candidates for pope.

While they have been talking, outsiders have been seized by speculation about the main challengers to succeed Benedict.

Political alliances, not the way out, – Rev. Adesina 23

There are no clear front-runners, but cardinals hinted earlier in the week that they believe the church needs a compelling communicator who wins souls through his words and his holy bearing, and a fearless sheriff who can tackle the disarray and scandal in the Vatican.

The lag in scheduling the conclave indicated that the cardinals were still at the stage of assessing one another’s personalities, records and ideas, said Father Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, in an earlier news briefing on Thursday, indicating that some preliminary maneuvers were already under way in advance of the formal papal ballot.

The Vatican has well-honed procedures for the conclave, which usually opens with a single round of balloting on its first day after a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.

Voting then proceeds — two rounds in the morning and two in the afternoon — until a two-thirds majority of 77 cardinals agree on the new leader for the world’s 1.2 billion Roman Catholics.

Benedict, 85 when he retired, was elected on the fourth round of voting in 2005 — a day after the conclave began — while his predecessor, John Paul II, emerged as pope after a conclave lasting from Oct. 14 to 16, 1978. No conclave since the early 20th century has lasted more than five days.

Mount Zion Ministry turns seven It was four days of praise, worship and ministration of the word by prominent ministers of God as the Mount Zion Foundation Ministry, Ojodu, celebrated its 7th year anniversary with the theme, “Divine Release, ”extracted from the book of Det. 15:1.

The event which also featured special deliverance services, healing, losing of bonds as well as breakthrough and special anointing service wa,s according to the Founder and General Overseer of the church, Pastor Paul Nkiruka, remarkable because seven years in the life of any ministry marks the beginning of another God’s supernatural blessing.

“The more reason I titled the main sermon for the celebration ‘Another Seven Years’. We have just gone past the first seven years of establishment and consolidation. God has been so wonderful in growing the church and multiplying the flock. Now we are entering another seven years of divine release of abundant blessing from the Lord,” he said.

Among top ministers of God that graced the event were Pastor Phillip Iberi, Felix Nwachukwu, Gilbert Beye, Chucks Godsword amongst others.

Sunday Mirror/Babcock University Bible Quiz: Winner Feb. 23, 2013 • Ellis Femi Olamiwe (08058230334)

Winners March 3, 2013 • Taju Osi (8033378004) • Albert Umeh (08087514822) • Current and past winners can collect their prizes from the office of the Editor, Sunday Mirror, 151/161 Broad Street, Lagos anytime from Monday to Friday.

Participants should always indicate their names when sending their entries.

Dress code for mutual marital relationship

–Pastor Amaefula

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Praise & Worship

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

To translate the Bible, you’ll need at least N30m –Rev. Odutola Reverend (Dr.) Fred Odutola, General Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), is versed in Bible knowledge. He has presided over the translation of the Bible into so many Nigerian languages. Rev. Odutola in this exclusive interview with Richard Eghaghe speaks on the spiritualism of the Bible and the Founder’s day lecture being planned by BSN.Excerpts: What’s the Founder’s Day all about?

The idea of the founder’s day lecture is that we want to arouse the interest of the general public and look at the topic that is of national interest, away from the Bible and Bible publishing because you know, the Bible cannot be promoted in isolation of the community or in isolation of the sociological happenings in the nation.

So we think we should be able to do something like, at least, let there be a talk relating to the environment, to happenings in Nigeria generally.

This is the fifth one we are having.

It was started in April 1966; so it is exactly on April 8, commemorating the day we were founded and this year, we are having as guest lecturer, Professor Pat Utomi

How do you view Christians’ diverse perceptions of the Bible?

Well, I think the Bible is still regarded as the word of God; 66 books, 40 authors under one inspiration. And when you look at the 66 books of the Bible, you will see that the old testament is a prediction of the new testament. The new testament is a fulfillment of the old testament and a new order which took us from one dispensation to another dispensation. That is the Bible as it is. So in Nigeria, different people perceive the Bible in different ways. Because of our fetish background, some people believe that if you put Bible under your pillow, it will ward off evil spirit; you will not see the cows chasing you in your dream again. Sometimes, faith helps them, sometimes, when they have new born baby, when they sleep, they open the Bible on the bed. When I just came in as officer in-charge of Lagos State in November, 1982, a man came to me and asked: can I have four copies of white Yoruba Bible? I said ‘no, but we have other Yoruba Bibles.’

He said ‘no, no, I want four copies of white Yoruba Bibles because I want it to be on the foundation of my house.’ I said ‘no, no, no, you don’t use Bible as a talisman. You don’t need to bury Bible under the four corners of your house.’ So we have to correct that impression. It is also very common to see some people put Bible in the front of their car when they are driving because they believe that they are protected. It is not like that. The idea of the Bible is to be read, understood and digested. The word of Christ within you is the source of the spirit. It is not the one you hang as a charm.

Then what is the idea of people swearing with the Bible when taking oath?

In court, they ask you: are you a Christian, Muslim or Pagan? If you are a Christian, they give you the Bible to swear with, that ‘all I am going to say is the truth and nothing but the truth.’ If you say you are a Muslim, they give you

the Holy Quran to swear with and if you are a pagan, they either give you an iron or stone to swear with.

Even, President Obama swore with the Bible used by Abraham Lincoln when he came into office. When you look at the act of the covenant in the old testaments, they were the tablets of the Ten Commandments written by God and given to Moses on Mount Sinai and there are a lot of attachments to them. So people should reduce the physical attachments for spiritual attachment.

If you are having trouble in your dream, it is not the Bible you put under your pillow that you would use. It is the word of God that you have digested and is in you that you use. After all, Jesus Christ did not hang any Bible when he met the devil. You notice that the devil even knows the Bible. He was quoting Psalm 91 for Jesus: “They will hold you in your hand…” and Jesus Christ answered that it is the truth but ‘thou shall not tempt the Lord, your God…’ So, these are the things we are emphasising. During Sunday school when we were growing up, there is a song we used to sing: Read your Bible, pray every day, pray every day, pray every day…You see, people don’t read their Bible. They prefer to use it as talisman and that is not going to work. We want people to read the Bible because the word of God is so powerful. Sometimes you are reading it; you feel the presence of the Lord within you. It gives life; the word of God is life. When I gave a copy of the Bible to the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, on his birthday, I told him: Your Excellency, prayerfully read Joshua 1, 8 and 9 which say “the word of the Lord shall not depart from you.

You shall meditate on it day and night.” Then it will make your way prosperous and have good success.

I think that is the challenge that I have for Nigerians. Everybody who says he is a Christian should read the Bible, pray every day, digest it, use it and don’t use it as charm by putting it under your pillow or in your car or anywhere like the foundation of your house, instead of reading and digesting the book.

Do you see the Bible as a literature book?

I am a writer and I write literature book. Literature books are something spontaneous; like poetry which is a continuous flow of emotion. It just goes and you express it on paper. But, when you read the Bible and digest it, you will see the difference between literature book and the word of God. You will see the myth that surrounds the word of God. You will see that when you are reading it, power is coming out from it. Sometimes when you are reading it, the power leaves the Bible unto you and you see God in different ways and you also see yourself in different ways. The Bible says: He sent

its word and it heals them. So, literature is for enjoyment while the word of God is a serious business.

So, it is not the same thing.

What is BSN doing to harmonise the differences between the various versions of the Bible?

What we do is give out the complete 66 books of the Bible as it is or if you are a Catholic, we put them between the old and the new testament. Remember the first version of the Bible was in Hebrews and Aramaic; old testament and new testament are Greek. There are three languages of the Bible; Hebrews, Aramaic (old testament) and Greek (new Testament). So, if you want people to read the Bible in the original language, then go and read Hebrew and Greek and Aramaic. Jesus Himself did not speak Hebrew, He spoke Aramaic and the only time Jesus spoke Aramaic in the Bible was when He was on the cross and God disappeared. Then he said: “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” That is, “My God, why have thou forsaken me?

Which is Aramaic, Jesus’ mother tongue. That is why translations came in. The first most widely accepted version of the Bible is the King James version, the best seller Bible in the world today with sales of over three billion copies. Even in the King James version, the English has even changed now.

Again, we have the good news Bible- dynamic in commercial translation from Hebrew and Greek to English. It was not taken to any other language before that.

I came from a Pentecostal background and I didn’t like the Good News Bible because it is like they watered the English down. But my first son when he was eight years old in 1990 asked me: when we say “our father, who hath in Heaven, hallow be thy name,” are we saying hello to God? I said ‘no, we are giving reverence to God. He said ‘no, is God a Reverend?’ Then I said check your Good News Bible. Then he said, ‘Oh! It says may your holy name be honoured. That was when I started reading Good News Bible myself. Those were the things we crammed in school those days and we don’t even know the meaning.

The King James version is there for the Pentecostal churches and those who believe in it and the RSV version is for the schools and the Good News Bible is there for those young people who want modern English and then we even have the Contemporary English Version (CEV).

We have the amplified Bible which is paraphrased and then the Message. It is always good that as Christians, you want to have versions other than the KJV. But make sure that the KJV is there. I was in a programme and somebody said: they said God is omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent? I said yes. He said if God is omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent, the Bible said he made heaven and

Odutola

earth in six days and on the seventh day, He rested. If He was not tired, why did he rest? I said ‘Whao! let’s look at what the Hebrew says: we went to the Hebrew and it says ‘God created everything in six days and on the seventh day, God stopped working.’ So in the Hebrews, God stopped working on his own volition but the King James versions says; He rested, because the ‘oyinbo’ believes that when you are not working, you are resting. When we are to do translation of the Bible, we use the Hebrews, Aramaic and Greek, the original language.

How long does it take you to do the translation?

It takes about five years for new testament, and seven years for old testament and the cost is over N30 million. We have about 505 languages in Nigeria, and we have done the complete Bible in 20 Nigerian languages, the New Testament in 60 Nigerian languages and one book to another in 98 Nigerian languages. We are so lucky that our lingua franca is English. So anybody who has gone to school can speak a little English language. Then we have a lady, Dr. Yetunde Ofulue whom we sponsored her PhD in pidgin English; she is the associate professor of English with the Open University now. There is a pidgin Bible in Cameroun and we are still going to work on a pidgin Bible here in Nigeria which will be very much welcome in the Niger Delta.

What in your opinion are the missing links between the Bible and the Quran?

It pains me that when there is any problem in Israel, people begin to burn churches here in Nigeria.

Most of the Jews are not Christians.

The Israelites don’t accept Christ as lord and saviour. If I show you the Jewish Bible, it is from Genesis to Malachi. No new testament. When somebody tells you I am Jewish, know that he is not a Christian.

These are the people that Prophet Mohammed referred to as people of the book. Luckily, Prophet Mohammed, when he was in Israel, had contact with both the Jews and the early Christians. Even you will see in the Quran, the divine birth of Jesus which is not in the Hebrew Bible. They don’t even want to mention the name of Jesus. So when Israel has problem and they are burning things here, I just reason they are punishing us for what we don’t know because these people are not Christians. Our Christ is our Lord and saviour while they are still waiting for their own messiah.

The normal Bible we have is Genesis to Malachi (old testament) and Mathew to Revelation (New Testament). That is 39 books in old testament and 27 books in New testament. That is the complete Bible we are doing. Then the Holy Quran has 60 suras (chapters) and if you look at the Quran, you will see that some of the miracles of Jesus that are not even in the Bible are in the Quran. The only place where we differ is that the Muslims believe that Jesus was soul divine and shouldn’t have died on the cross; That when it was time for Him to die, God replaced Him with somebody else. If you look at the Dome and the Rock, the former place where the temple was, they have the Mosque of Omar there. That was where Prophet Mohammed received the H o l y Quran from Allah in Jerusalem. So after Mecca and Medina, the third most Holy place to a Muslim is Jerusalem.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

TAI ANYANWU

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igerians have been told that nothing but a conscious attempt to embrace truth and mercy would bring about a miraculous turnaround for the nation in these trying moments of our national life.

This counsel was given by Dr. Kunle Adesina, a pharmacist and General Overseer of Jubilee Christian Centre International (JCCI).

He was speaking exclusively to Sunday Mirror as part of activities marking the church’s 21st anniversary celebrations, which comes up on March 15.

Adesina noted that a lot of havoc, ranging from religious violence, corruption in high places, impoverishment of the masses and outright neglect of election promises, had been unleashed on the people.

“A lot of innocent souls have been sent to early graves. A lot of blood has been shed that if God should take these into consideration, there would be serious problem because righteousness is what exalts a nation. Sin is a reproach.”

But when we work in truth in this nation and do the truth, Jesus said thy word is the truth. When we work in the word of God, love, obedience to Him, in His fear; God can have mercy on Nigeria and things will go well in this nation. Nigeria can be far better,” he stated.

The servant of God stressed that a lot of people move from mountain to mountain looking for miracles and solutions to their needs without realising that God does nothing except on the platform of His mercy.

“If he is going to answer anybody’s prayers, it will be only on the platform of His mercy. The reason for that is this; we do not have any right to go before God outside the platform of the foundation of what Jesus has done on the cross, the sacrifice of Christ.

“That means, one way or the other, nobody is perfect. Even if by omission, we sometimes err against God. If God were to take all these into consideration, he won’t even answer anyone. So mercy will take care of that. The other side is the aspect of the truth. The Bible says you shall know the truth and the truth you know shall set you free,” Adesina emphasised.

He added that the theme of the anniversary celebration: ‘The Wonders of Mercy and Truth Coming Together’ was given through a revelation from God, and pointed out that when God has mercy on someone and one is working in truth, miracle would happen.

Adesina lampooned political leaders who thought that forging new political alliances would save Nigeria from what he saw as her present political quagmire.

“Nigeria can be far better. I am one of those who believe that Nigeria is destined to be like America in Africa. We have all the resources, both human and material.

“But the only problem is that we don’t have good leadership. Our leaders do not have the fear of God. Corruption is so much but with more prayers and the mercy of God, I believe things will change for the better,” he observed.

“To me, what this nation needs is not alliances or which zone gets or does not get there. A lot of Nigerians are suffering.

Most of these people are ready to kill and destroy the nation because they want to get there and are not interested in people.

“They are not talking about how to transform the nation; they are only talking about how to get to power. That is not what we need,” he advised.

He insisted that the problem of the nation is leadership, adding, “We need visionary leaders; people that will fear God,

Praise & Worship

Sunday March 10, 2013

Political alliances, not the way out – Rev. Adesina

Pastor Adesina

shun corruption and do something that will make people happy,” the cleric added.

He regretted that the problem of the country was getting compounded because of the monster called corruption.

“Corruption breeds corruption. It induces a lot of other crimes. The Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil. A lot of the people you see doing armed robbery are youths. Many of them are fed up because they cannot rise up to the challenge of life. They will actually want to achieve their aim at all costs because they can’t get a good job when they come out of school.

“They are frustrated and this is because of corruption now forcing them to go into corruption. At least, if you can’t beat them, you join them. It is a terrible thing,” he bemoaned.

Adesina noted that if the nation’s leaders would be visionary, fear God, they would deal with the monster called corruption.

“If they go out and do what is right in terms of developing the nation, getting jobs for those who are looking for jobs, I believe we won’t need to struggle for power.

People will be the ones saying that this is the people we want. Rather than to keep themselves there at all costs, people will be running after them; they will be begging them to come and lead because they’ll see them doing something good and differ-

ent,” he stated.

Meanwhile, a lot of preparations had been going on in view of the anniversary celebration.

According to the servant of God, a lot of publicity had been going on, round-theclock prayer had been and people have been mobilised to invite others.

Ahead of the convention, motorcade rally where people go round the town and give out fliers had been staged in the past one week.

“Guest ministers from different parts of the country have been invited.

“A lot of music ministers will be coming such as Ayan Jesu, the Dentins from Ibadan, Opelope Anointing, Pastor Chris Morgan from Abuja, Evangelist Olumide Sobowale, and several others.”

Sunday Mirror reliably learnt that the praise night would likely pull the greatest crowd because, according to Adesina, “The praise night usually records peak attendance, filled to capacity and people from all parts of the world, Europe, USA, S/Africa, Jamaica, , Ghana, Togo, because we have churches in all these countries and they come with their choir and their people for the convention.”

He urged all to come and be part of the jubilation slated at the imposingly JCCI edifice located at the hilly terrain of Isalake area of Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

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Preacher, 89, marks 45 years on pulpit •Warns against faithlessness TAI ANYANWU

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eteran preacher, Abel Babtunde Durojaiye, Baba Aladura of Melotola Church of Zion, who clocked 45 years in the Lord’s vineyard last Friday, has expressed serious concern over what he described as faithlessness in the country.

Speaking with newsmen at his Papa Ajao headquarters in Mushin area of Lagos State, the cleric bemoaned the sufferings and confusion prevalent in the country.

He attributed the situation to declining faith in God and the penchant of people to rush into ungodly behaviour.

His words: “There is no more faith today. At the time I started ministry, everything was done free. Now, if you don’t have money, you are not there. Nobody will listen to you and nobody will pray for you. It should not be so,” he lamented.

Baba Adura disclosed that he learnt from his own father in the Lord, Most Rev Elisha Ogunyemi, founder of Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Igbo Nla in Ondo State, not to take money for any service he rendered in his capacity as a servant of God or to get into occult practices. He added that till date he did not collect money to pray for people.

He however regretted that the present crop of Christians and Nigerians in general are quick to rush into evil practices.

He recalled that one day he was led in the spirit and he saw two buildings. One, he explained, had doors and windows and the other had only one door and no window.

“What surprised me is that as I watched, I saw that people were entering the house without windows and shunned the one with normal doors and window. This is how you can depict the penchant of this present crop of Nigerians to go into wicked habits,” he said.

The Baba Adura therefore advised Nigerians to desist from ungodliness and learn to do the will of God. He also urged the nation’s leaders to turn to God and do His will, adding that all would be well if they do.

The cleric, who appeared hale and hearty, said he was sure he would live up to 125 years.

Durojaiye

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Sunday March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Inside the Lord’s Chosen Cathedral

Lord’s Chosen dedicates Cathedral Penultimate week, an event that will remain indelible in the minds of members and non-members of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement, worldwide, was witnessed in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The event was initially planned to be a low-key Christian service. But it turned out to be a full-blown crusade. Richard Eghaghe reports:

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eople came from far and near, and with the gladness of heart to partake in the dedication of the ultramodern Abuja state Headquarters of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Church, located along Solomon Lar Avenue, Jabi District, Abuja. The anointed minister of God on hand to dedicate the church cathedral to the glory of God, was the founder and General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen, Pastor Lazarus Muoka.

The event was scheduled to begin at 8am but the excited and anxious worshippers started trooping into the large auditorium of the church as early as 5. 30 am. Before the commencement of ministration by 8.15am, every available space in the auditorium had been filled up. Even movement from one spot to the other was very difficult. Those that brought their sick and afflicted people after the commencement of ministration could no longer find space inside the auditorium or even close to the towering church building. Still holding on to faith, they hung outside for their miracle, a scene reminiscent of what happened in the Bible days when Jesus entered into a house in Capernaum.

After He healed a leper, the latter went and began to publish the marvellous work to the whole community, and as the news went round about what Jesus did, multitudes besieged the neighbourhood, seeking Jesus. The Scripture says that as soon as it was heard that He has entered the city, throng of people went after Him insomuch that neither the house, nor hardly the streets, could contain them. And when four friends that brought their colleague suffering from paralysis could not get inside where Je-

sus was. They eventually uncovered an opening in the roof, and from where they let the bed down the sick man into the room where Christ was.

Mark 2: 1- 4 says, “And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. 2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. 3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. 4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay” As soon as the invitation card for the dedication of the building was issued out to the invitees, news spread beyond Abuja that the Man of God Pastor Lazarus Muoka was coming to dedicate the Church. And as a result many people that needed the blessing of God, miracle and divine touch kept the date on their chest. They came in great expectation, both the young and old. And none was disappointed. They were all glad to see the house of God built; the project that started more than four years ago was completed at last. They may have been worried over the delay in completing the house but the ceremony went with demonstrations of the liveliest joy an indication they believed that when God begins, He will make an end.

As soon as Pastor mounted the golden-like pulpit and made a declaration of freedom for everybody that was in the crowd, what followed was great miracles

in greater dimension from people that had one problem or the other.

The cleric in his ministration said that the house of God is where we have God present with us, hear His word and call upon His holy name, in order to receive help and succour in our necessity. He said, that God who will hear our prayer in this house is holy, thus he admonishes us to be holy so that our supplication could be granted. “God is holy, and He calls upon all who come to Him to imitate His holiness; and the reason why they should be holy is, that God who has called them is holy. They must abstain from pollutions and be zeal to partake of His holiness, because our God is the fountain of holiness, being holy in every essence” He averred.

Quoting and making decree from the Book of 2 Chron.7: 13-14 which says, “13 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; 14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Pastor Muoka said that God will establish all the promises He made in the above verses to the letter in the house that is been dedicated.

The house is indeed a glorious house of three-storey building that could accommodate about 70,000 worshippers in a sitting. The interior which was designed with emerald is beautiful and magnificent. The highlight of the programme was the dedication of the children.

Pastor Muoka

PASSION A Lifestyle Magazine

Sunday March 10, 2013

I told a popular artiste to autograph on my boobs –Tokunbo Odedina >>42

‘Growing up, I had no friends; my family decided for me’

‘You can be elegant without revealing all’ >>27

African hairdos back in vogue

>>34

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Passion

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘Growing up, I had no friends, my family decided for me’ Amina Atairu studied Law at the University of Benin. An actress, a model, TV presenter and media consultant, Atairu started acting professionally in 2008. She has featured in so many movies and TV series. Not only that, she also ventured into broadcasting and worked with DBN Television as presenter. She tells Adaeze Amos in this interview her preference while acting out a romantic role. Excerpts: What are some of the movies you had featured in?

They include ‘100 days in the Jungle’, by Chico Ejiro; ‘Lust for Money’, directed by Charles Inojie; ‘The Unwritten,’ by Dip Pictures entertainment and a few others. For TV series, they are ‘Spider by Apreel Ventures’; ‘Disclosure in Lekki Wives’, by Blessing Effiom Egbe; ‘The smoke’,

by Omotola Jalade; ‘Treasures’, by Chico Ejiro. I also ventured into broadcasting. I worked with DBN Television as their entertainment presenter. Also in NN24, I was weather anchor (weather girl). For two years, I was in broadcasting and I am now back fully into movies.

What is your most challenging role?

Acting itself is challenging. Portraying oneself as another person is challenging. So, every movie has been a challenge.

What has acting taken away from you?

Acting has given me a lot. It has not taken anything from me; rather, it has added more value to my life. It has made me see life from different angles.

What exactly makes you happy about acting?

A whole lot. When it comes to being an actor, travelling round and meeting different people make me happy. These make me appreciate life and nature because I’m quite adventurous and outgoing.

If you weren’t acting, what would you have been doing?

If I wasn’t acting, I would have been in a court room, definitely, defending the innocent.

Can you take up romantic roles?

Sure, acting romantic roles is part of my career but nudity, I won’t do.

If given a choice to play a romantic role, which actor would you prefer to do it with?

That would be John Dumelo or Brad Pitt.

Who are they?

John Dumelo is the tall, dark Ghanaian actor while Brad Pitt is a Hollywood celebrity.

Are you married?

For now, there’s no ring on my finger.

Can you relive your childhood experience?

I used to have very strict dad whom I thought hated me and a wonderful, supportive mum who always stood by me, including iron protective brothers. I barely went out. It was from school and back home. I had no friends. My family chose my friends for me because I always got into trouble! If I talk about my childhood, trust me, your whole page would be filled. But one thing about my childhood I will never forget was when I won a trophy in a debate competition on disabled people being given an opportunity in the country. That was in Edo State and my dad looked at CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Applause

Sunday, March 10, 2013

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You can still be elegant without revealing all –Stephanie Okeke Stephanie Okeke is the Creative Director of Sally Intiego, a fashion outfit that also designs for models. What thrills her most about life is her journey in the fashion world. She says she is yet to reach the apogee but has high hope of getting there soon. In this interview with Adaeze Amos, she tells ladies that they can still be fashionable without dressing half nude.

Stephanie Okeke did her primary school education in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Her secondary education was at Clapton Girls Technology College in London before returning to White-plains British school, Jabi in Abuja. She later enrolled in Fashion University, United Kingdom.

Stephanie, as her admirers call her, could have chosen another course or discipline but fashion designing has a fascination for her. “I decided to be a fashion designer because it has always been a big part of me since I was a little girl. I loved mixing and matching pieces together and making clothes for my dolls as a little girl. I still do this till date but I don’t mix and match for dolls but human beings. I knew that if I had decided to be something else or opted for another profession, I wouldn’t have loved it as much as I love fashion.”

She reveals that she has a lot of new trends she is hoping to introduce into the fashion world. Although it is a world that is already saturated with mind-blowing styles yet, according to her, hers would stand out. “Yes, the fashion world is already saturated but my designs still make a lot of difference. They stand out. They are elegant, classy, fun and sophisticated. I love creating a trend out of trends.

What inspires my designs is my style really…that inner girlie-girl inside of me.”

Stephanie tries to imagine what life would have look like without fashion and creativity. “No, I honestly can’t imagine life and the world without fashion. The world and life as a whole would be boring without fashion and creativity.”

As a fashionista, she has a lot to teach up-and-coming fashionistas who are aspiring to keep the fashion flag flying. “I want to teach ladies that they can look elegant, beautiful, classy and sophisticated without showing off their assets or their vital parts. It is high time fashionistas realised that when their vitals are on display, they reduce their worth as ladies.”

Apart from wearing revealing dresses, this iron lady in the fashion circle who dressed models up for photo shoot during this year’s Nigerian Next Super Model unveiled another common fashion blunder in the society. “The most common fashion mistake I must say something about is the cleavage-revealing wears and dresses with long slits that some ladies wear. I honestly think the cleavage showing is not as modest as it should be and the slits take all the attention away from what you are wearing. That notwith-

Stephanie Okeke

standing, I must not forget to give kudos to Nigerian women and their dress sense. They have an amazing fashion sense really. They know how to make anything work. That is why I take delight in taking shots of different unique styles I see every day.”

What is Stephanie’s personal style? That, according to her, is unpredictable. “My style is, honestly, unpredictable.

It’s hard to define. I guess my mood affects my style and my colours. That reminds me, the colour-blocking trend that is in vogue now thrills me. I think it is really cool. I love it,” she said with a warm, friendly smile.

Does she see herself as a successful fashion designer?

“Yes I see myself as a successful fashion designer, I’m not doing badly. But I’m not yet where I want to be. There is still a lot of work to be done and I love the journey that I have embarked upon,” she grinned, pleased.

For ladies who dress leaving their bra straps on display, Stephanie has some words. “Well, let me believe that most times it is not an intentional act but it must be stated that no lady in her right senses should dress to show off her underwear. Your bra is one of your underwears and should not be displayed,” she advised.

‘If I wasn’t acting, I would have been in the court room defending the innocent’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 me for the first time and managed a smile.

How was your first love?

There was nothing interesting about it because I was hiding.

How about your first kiss?

Oh my God, this was interesting. It was quite crazy because all my friends were clapping. It was a game called ‘Devil’s Mail

Bag’ at a birthday. I will spare you the detail.

optimistic.

Any hope of settling down soon or are you too busy for that?

Of course, I will settle down! God said go into the world and multiply. Definitely, a guy must put the ring and we will make fine, intelligent kids.

What guys put you off?

A guy that has inferiority complex or somebody that nags is a turn off for me.

Who is your ideal guy?

He has to be God-fearing and must like me a bit. He has to be very intellectual and

Are there habits you are trying to stop?

One habit of mine that I’m struggling to drop is control over my weakness.

What is your weakness?

My heart is my weakness.

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Faces & Events

L-R: Senator Oluremi Tunubu; Co-Author, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President/CEO Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote at the launch

L-R:The Authors, Ambassador Brian Browne; Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu and Chief Launcher, Mr. Jim Ovia.

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L-R: Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha; Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola; Book Reviewer, Prof. Osaghae Egosa and Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

L-R: Co-Author, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria, Chief Bisi Akande; Edo State Governor Adam Oshiomole and Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

L-R: Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola; Co-Author, Ambassador Brian Browne; Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola;Co- Author, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha.

L-R: Chairman, Action Congress of Nigeria, Chief Bisi Akande; CoAuthor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Chief Launcher, Mr. Jim Ovia; Edo State Governor Adam Oshiomole and Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

…As Tinubu, Browne present book

T

Former Lagos State Governor, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande; his wife Abimbola and Action Congress Chieftain, Alhaji Busura Alebiosu.

he attendance was a list of who’s who in the country on Thursday, March 7, 2013 when former Lagos State governor, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former United States Consul General in Nigeria, Mr. Brian Browne launched a book they both co-authored.

The book entitled, Financialism: Water from empty well, was presented in a ceremony which had in attendance all the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) controlled-state governors, Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha, former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Business man Alhaji Aliko Dangote, chairman of ACN, Chief Bisi Akande, former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Chief Audu Ogbeh, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, chairman, Visafone and former Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Mr. Jim Ovia, who was the chief launcher. Other attendees include former and serving lawmakers, business men and traditional rulers.

Chief Kalu Idika Kalu was the chairman at the event.

Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi (left) and Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi.

L-R: Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye and Senator Gbenga Kaka

L-R: Senator Ganiu Solomon; Senator Gbenga Asafa; General Manager, Lagos Water Corporation, Mrs Dele Fatusin and former Information Commissioner, Mr. Dele Alake.

L-R: Ambassador Brian Browne and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

L-R: Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to Lagos State Governor, Hon. Michael Akindele; NADECO Chieftain, Dr. Amos Akingba and Prof.

L-R: NADECO Chieftain, Mr. Ayo Opadokun; Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu and Dr. Lekan Kassim.

L-R: Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji ; his Deputy, Hon Taiwo Kolawole and Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora.

L-R: Former National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, Chief Audu Ogbeh and former Kaduna State Governor, Balarabe Musa.

Former Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Alhaji Nuhu Ribadu

L-R: Chief (Mrs) Abba Folawiyo; Alhaja Fatima Tinubu and former MinisPHOTOS: ADEMOLA AKINLABI ter, Mr. Ademola Seriki.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Dude’s Style

Look dapper in contemporary outfits

Naughtiest Thing The naughtiest thing I’ve ever done

ANGELA DAVIES

A

fter wearing English outfits all through the working days, it will be worthwhile to look different at the weekend, especially if you have an event to attend.

Wearing a fusion of the African and Western style would give you that contemporary edge, thus making people give you a second glance, especially when it is well tailored, stylish and fitted.

Why not try out some contemporary designs and stand out at that event!

Designs: Vans Kere

I told a popular artiste to autograph on my boobs –Tokunbo Odedina That fateful day, I had an important event to attend.

Of course, it was going to be a gathering of who-is-who O iin the entertainment industry. As usual, one has to look exceptionally elegant, particularly for the red carpet. I e knew I had to look beautiful and glamorous to pose for k tthe cameras from various photojournalists and cameramen from different media houses and magazines. m You would be surprised at the calibre of important personalities you could bump into on the red carpet, and p ssometimes as friends, colleagues, role models or fans you would want to take photographs with them, and also y grant interviews as well. g Thus, that fateful day, I knew I had to look very well dressed for the occasion. I would say I was looking hot d and sexy in my outfit. As I got to the venue, I walked up a sstraight to a popular artiste on the red carpet and told him I liked him and would like him for a night using the h ‘‘F” word directly and also told him to please autograph on my boobs. “I offered him to autograph on the top of o my boobs but his words were, ‘Ah don’t let me go that m ffar’. He signed on his CD instead and included his phone number. He then handed me his phone to type in my n phone number which I gladly did. And I said to myself, p “Yeah, I got you man!” “ After that, I grabbed his hand to feel my bum bum not minding the people around. He quickly took the chance m and grabbed one part of my bum. “Damn!” I quickly a whispered into his ear, “Hmmm! I can see you are game too.” I bit his ear to tickle him, winked at him and just walked straight into the hall.

When I looked back, he just stood there stunned, smiling and looking at me while I walked away. The next day, I got a call from him and that was it. We are still friends till date. When I look back and remember the whole scenario, I can’t help but laugh over and over again.

Tokunbo Odedina is a top model and Nollywood actress.

Interview by Angela Davies

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&

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Weddings Engagements CELEBRATING THE JOY IN MARITAL BLISS MARCH 10, 2013

Tosin Alakija, Dotun Akinbode’s splendid wedding T

osin Alakija and Dotun Akinbode met when they were still in the university. Tosin was walking to the car park when Dotun walked up to her and introduced himself. Apparently, he had spotted her quite a number of times before that day. They got talking, became friends and that was the beginning of their marital journey.

How did he propose to Tosin? The proposal was quite romantic and dramatic. They went on a dinner date even though, at first, Tosin didn’t want to go. But on his insistence,

she gave in when he told her he had made reservations. On getting there, they had their main course when she noticed Dotun was a bit nervous but then she dismissed it. After placing an order for her dessert, she made a quick dash to the ladies.

When she got back to the table, she noticed that there was something under the table’s napkin. Given that it was bulging, she tried to remove the “item” under. There it was – the cutest little box ever.

Secondly, she was clueless when she saw Dotun on one knee. It then dawned on her that her lover was about to propose! She heard him say ‘how he would love to spend the rest of his life with me’ but didn’t get to hear every other thing he had said because she was in tears and excited.

However, she managed to hear the part where he popped the question, “Will you marry me?” She responded in affirmative. The rest, as they say, is now history.

The solemnisation took place at Williams’ Memorial Methodist Church, Yaba in the presence of their family members, friends and well-wishers recently. Tosin looked splendid in her wedding dress which had silk tulle illusion neckline, embroidered bodice, drop waist ball gown silhouette and tiered asymmetric layers. She completed her look with a matching lace, embroidered chapel-length veil, sparkly drop earrings and a marigold, green and ivory bouquet of fresh flowers. Dotun looked superb in his tailored, black tuxedo paired with a white bow-tie, matching pocket square and an ivory and marigold boutonnière.

At their reception which held at KFA Events Centre, Lekki, Lagos, from their first dance to the cutting of their four-tier crystal and lace detail wedding cake, it was fun all the way.

As the reception kicked further into party mode, pretty Tosin changed into a vintage-inspired tea-length, strapless wedding dress. The couple couldn’t take their eyes off each other even as they were surrounded by their family members and loved ones.

You have a story to tell us about your wedding/engagement, or your new born baby.

You can call this line 08051980588

BABIES OF THE WEEK

Rahmat Titilayo Adebola Olayiwola was born at Muslim Hospital, Ede, Osun State to Taofeeq and Khadijat Olayiwola. She was delivered at 4:05 p.m. and weighed 2.8kg.

What did Khadijat crave for during the pregnancy?

“I craved for a variety of fruits, but I ate more of watermelon, apple and oranges,” she revealed.

On her physical body changes, Khadijat said, “My stomach was very large that we thought we were expecting twins.”

She emphasised that she was irritated by fumes from petrol during the pregnancy.

What do they love about Rahmat? “We love everything about our beautiful angel. She hardly cries and she sleeps well, especially after eating,” noted Khadijat.

What do they want her to become in future? “We wish she will become a medical practitioner,” said Taofeeq.

What is the meaning of her name? “Rahmatullahi means blessing from Allah,” Taofeeq explained.

Her charming looks, cheerful smiles attracted me –Olatunji

I

t was dream d come true t for f Treasure T Kalu K l and d Abimbola Abi b l OlaOl tunji as they were declared husband and wife at the altar of the Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, at Iyana-Ipaja area of Lagos recently.

Beautiful and hardworking Treasure, a broadcast journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Lagos Channel 10, and her good-looking accountant-turned communication-engineer husband, were surrounded on this occasion by family members, friends, colleagues and well-wishers who came to celebrate with them.

While Treasure is from Abia State, Abimbola hails from Osun State. They believe that marriage should only be built on the fear of God coupled with love, tolerance, understanding and not ethnic or cultural affinity.

As for Abimbola, his bride is his ordained soul mate, which cannot be compared to any woman on earth, noting that they both met for the first time at his friend’s office somewhere in Lagos early last

year.

“The first attraction which I could not resist was her charming look coupled with her cheerful smiles and with time, other things followed. As we moved closer to each other, the more I discovered some virtues in her that convinced me that she would be a good material for wife,” he added.

For Treasure, Abimbola is not only her dream man, but the best gift from God to her. “Although, I did not give a yes answer immediately he proposed to me for a relationship, not that this action was from the mind, I just needed to prove to him that getting a wife was not on a platter of gold.

Therefore, I had inner conviction that he was the right man for me,” Treasure said, adding: “Abimbola is an ideal man; he is humble, disciplined, caring, loving and above all, he has the fear of God in his heart. As a matter of fact, we have many common virtues which I believe will help us greatly in our journey in life.”

Their courtship, according to Treasure, lasted only for about 10 months.

Khadijat Busari was born at Jon-Ken Hospital, Akoka, Lagos to Mutiu and Hawau Busari. She was delivered at 2:12 p.m. and weighed 3.7 kg.

“During the pregnancy, I craved for fruits like watermelon, pineapple and oranges,” Hawau said.

Were there obvious physical body changes?

Hawau disclosed that during pregnancy, she had swollen face besides her bulging stomach. “Well, aside from my bulging stomach, my face was swollen.”

What do they love about Khadijat? “She hardly disturbs and sleeps peacefully,” Hawau said.

What do they want her to become in future?

“We want her to become successful in any career of her choice, however, as her parents we will support her,” Hauwa added.

What is the meaning of Khadijat? “It means one of the four greatest women on earth,” Hawau stated.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, March 10, 2013

extensions r personality

re popular hairpiece days for different erent occasions. For ifficult to grow their ng hair extensions to ecome a blessing. m to make dramatic special occasions. eason for buying a e sure you choose a weave that matches ality. hair extensions and ar them.

Perfect Cut

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ethnic Look MARCH 10, 2013

African hairdos back in vogue VANESSA OKWARA

I

f you think weaving your natural hair in styles like Didi or twisting is only meant for grandmas or those living in the village, then you are wrong as these hairstyles have a way of bringing out your natural beauty. Weaving with natural hair always has a way of bringing out the alluring beauty that is inert in every African man or woman. Check out these hairstyles and go natural!

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Pregnancy Talk with

Adaeze Amos

Single’s Bliss with

Akpomiemie …a peep into the world of a seriously searching sister!

Simisola and I fight over Alex!

Forceps vaginal-assisted delivery: What you must know

A

pregnant woman’s interest is always centred on the safe delivery of her baby. Her prayer point, ideally, is the nine-month journey through pregnancy and for God to grant her safe delivery. This is normal, especially with women experiencing pregnancy for the first time. If the pregnancy is long overdue for delivery or beyond 42 weeks of gestation, such expectant mother would be worried. Because health experts have unveiled the dangers such a foetus is bound to face. This was the topic treated in this column last week. But in case you missed it, the fact still remains that such a pregnancy which in the medical parlance is known as prolonged pregnancy or post-term pregnancy can affect the foetus or unborn baby. Did you ask how? Health experts affirmed that this affects the foetus negatively. “The foetus (unborn baby) can begin to suffer from malnutrition. After the 42 weeks of gestation, the placenta which supplies the baby with nutrients and oxygen from the mother starts aging and will eventually fall off. And if the foetus passes faecal matter which is not typical until after birth, and the child breathes it in, then the baby could become sick with pneumonia.”

That was a bombshell, right? No woman would pray for such to happen to the bundle of joy she has been carrying for months. Doctors attested that such babies do have similar features when they are born. Babies who stayed beyond 42 weeks in the tummy have similar features. The most common symptoms are dry skin, overgrown nails, creases on the baby’s palms and soles of their feet, minimal fat, a lot of hair on their head and either a brown, green or yellow discoloration of their skin.

It is this condition of pregnancy staying beyond 42 weeks that can lead to “forceps assisted delivery or vacuum assisted delivery or even Caesarean birth.”

To some expectant moms, forceps delivery may sound Greek. Let’s start from the word forceps. “These are surgical instruments that resemble a pair of

tongs or two large salad spoons and can be used in surgery for grabbing, maneouvering, or removing various things within or from the body. They can be used to assist the delivery of a baby.”

Doctors use them to guide the baby’s head out of the birth canal, while vacuum extraction is a method whereby a soft plastic cup is applied to the baby’s head and stays in place by suction. There is a handle on the cup that allows the doctor to use this to assist with delivery through the birth canal.

Hey, which one do you prefer? Normal vaginal birth, right? Oh well, the choice between using forceps or a vacuum extractor is usually made by the doctor.

They are both assisted vaginal delivery anyway. But most importantly, the method used in delivering your baby doesn’t matter at all. What matters is your safety and the safety of your baby. Period!

Oh, let us not forget another assisted method which of course is Caesarean Section . This is well known although some women still dread this method. But technology has improved so much that fears about this method of delivery is fast reducing.

Hence, my candid advice is that pregnant moms should listen and adhere to their doctors’ advice and counselling.

You have no right to refuse any method your doctor chose for you. Don’t be like some women who insist on delivering like Hebrew women even when your health and that of your unborn baby need assistance. You need to be alive to deliver like Hebrew women in your next pregnancy. Be wise!

You see, ladies could be very mean especially when they have something up their sleeves and bottled up their throat! I thought asking Simisola if a prayer mountain was located in Victoria Island and slamming the toilet door on her face would work, but na lie o! Hell knows no worse fury like a suspicious desperate sister!

Immediately I slammed the door, walked up to the toilet seat and picked Alex’s call, you won’t believe it, Simisola also walked into the toilet! I was prepared to give it to her and if need be, beat her blue black and silly.

I did as if I didn’t see her since I had picked Alex’s call. At the other end, my lover boy Alex was already using the husky version of his voice to plead! Who do I answer?

The jealous overdue sister standing with arms akimbo in my front or my ATM who was singing over the phone with a sweet baritone how sorry he was. Well, I opted for my momentary provider o! After all, what Alex can do, legions of Simisola cannot attempt. I guess I wasn’t wrong with that decision.

I immediately told him not to worry; we would discuss when we see. And he immediately said he was coming to pick me up. How elated I was but all the glee was cut short when I saw the atutupiyoyo standing in front of me and giving me this familiar bitchy look! Alex was coming for me in the next 20 minutes and I had to do everything to send Simisola out of my apartment, at least, she shouldn’t know anything yet about my rollicking with her crush until he has handed me the keys to the brand new car. At least, I worked for it!

Trust me naa. I coded my response to Alex by simply saying “it’s okay” while he excitedly said “see you soonest”. No matter how intelligent Simisola is, at least she can’t easily decode what all that meant.

Well, I wanted to pass by her to go start getting dressed when she blocked my way.

You can’t believe it’s this same person who was speaking in tongues a few minutes ago.

“And where do you think you are going to”? She asked, adding “I hope it isn’t my boss who has been calling you during prayers and you hurriedly ended the prayers to pick his call”.

Trust Warri pikin like me! I didn’t grow up in Effurun for nothing! I immediately chipped in “Is there something I’m supposed to know which I’m not being told? “ At this point, I used part of my mass defense to push her off my way. She almost landed on the floor. It isn’t my fault for being blessed with such African backside! I was already at my dressing table picking the jewelry and combining makeup to go with them when Simisola surfaced again o! This time, she was making for my phone which I left close by on the table. I immediately snatched it and asked what all that rubbish was about. You needed to have seen how she was spitting red with jealousy, envy and something that seemed like hatred! The whole drama happened without an initial red flag!

“You think I don’t know that it’s Alex who called you? You think I don’t know that you spent Friday and a major part of today with him?”

I kept her mute. She continued. “Let me tell you, you can’t take him away me you slut! If it is because of the big things in your front and back that are deceiving you, I’ll show you that I’m smarter than you”.

I still kept her mute. And she continued. “You wicked thing, if only I knew you came to my office for the cheque just to entice and snatch my boss, I wouldn’t have allowed you to come. For your information you lying thing, you have drawn a battle line. You think I don’t know that you weren’t at any prayer mountain?”

Yet, I kept quiet! At this point I had worn my mini flare gown and was applying my lipstick. There was general silence and I’m certain if a needle had dropped on the ground, even the deaf would have heard it. I simply carried on with my artistic work while she stood still, eyeing me. I remained quiet.

I carried on with my looking good business. Added serum to my Peruvian weaves, and started combing with my big toothed comb. I was set for my date while my yeye friend was hatching her next plan over a married man ! Shame! If she hadn’t become dusty on singlehood shelve, she wouldn’t be putting up these entire scene. Well, it’s not my fault that men don’t turn their heads whenever she passes!

I had worn my Christian Louboutin shoes, picked my designer bag to match and was about leaving the room when Simisola blocked my way again! “Where do you think you are going to?” she queried.

I didn’t answer her. I simply tried passing by her side and the tiny thing tried blocking me again. “You are forming deaf ehn? You know you’re guilty that’s why you are putting up cowardly silence. If you know I am not telling the truth, debunk it, you whore!” she added.

My phone which was already in vibration started beeping. I knew it was Alex. I needed to do something fast, at least to prevent Simisola from ruining this special moment which could make or mar the possibility of my getting that brand new car! till next week

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Connecting

Vanessa with

Vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com

Tasting the forbidden love W hen you think of love, what colour comes to your mind? Is it red or blue? Whatever colour you may have chosen, I’m sure it can be found in the spectrum of the rainbow colours. This is because love indeed is a splendid array of colours and patterns just like the rainbow.

At other times in life, true love may not come in the brightest colours of the rainbow. It may come in an infusion of black and white; bursting grey right in your face! This often happens when you fall in love with someone not meant for you or who belongs to someone else.

If you can be honest with me for a minute, I’m sure in your lifetime, you may have once come to a crossroad where you were at a dilemma whether to pursue a forbidden love or not. How did you handle it? Did you give in to the feelings flooding your heart or did you back off from the temptation? For some people, the battle of wills is fierce and the feelings raging inside their heart overwhelm the voice of reason that they succumb to that forbidden love even when it is against their own moral etiquette.

This is exactly what happened to Ufuoma who fell madly in love with a married man and had a brief affair with him. She sent me an email detailing her sizzling love affair with a married man and I’ll like to share it with you. Perhaps someone out there also experienced a forbidden love such as this and can identify with it. Please feel free to send a message or leave a comment for Ufuoma about the forbidden love she has tasted.

Dear Vanessa, I’ve always been an ardent reader of your column and I must say that I’ve taken you as a friend and confidant even though I’ve never met you before.

Vanessa, I am a lady in my mid thirties and I have always considered myself as someone with good moral upbringing. I’ll like to share something I’ve never told anyone before. I fell in love with a married man!

Shocking isn’t it? I know there is no moral justification for what I’m about to tell you and I’m not also asking you to support me since I know your views about such things having read a lot of your articles.

All the same, I’m also not the type that usually goes into casual affairs. In fact it has been up to three years since the last time I fell in love. So you can imagine what it was like for me to discover that I’ve fallen in love again, but with a married man this time. Let me briefly tell you our story.

Nosa and I met at an event hosted by a mutual friend and we started chatting almost immediately like we’ve known each other for ages. In the course of our discussion, he told me he was married. I was disappointed at first since we both felt a strong attraction towards each other and I told him our friendship can only be platonic and nothing more. He agreed and that was how our friendship spanned for over three years with no strings attached.

For the first two years, we tried to keep romance

out of our friendship. We’ll only call up each other once in a while and basically keep in touch. As time went by, without any of us realizing it, we fell madly in love with each other. Honestly, it was not something we consciously planned for, but we just discovered we had a Models deep connection that goes beyond words. I understand his deepest desires and what makes him happy and he also has a way of bringing out the best in me. I’m usually the reserved type and hardly share my innermost feelings with anyone, but Nosa has a way of drawing me out to express my feelings without any reservation. The love we both feel is real and true and something we have never felt for anyone before.

As each day passes by, the love bond between us strengthened. We would stay for hours on the phone just talking and expressing how we felt about each other. I know if the situation was reversed Nosa would have proposed marriage to me in a second but he was already married with two kids and I don’t really see myself as a home breaker nor do I expect him to leave his marriage for me. What we felt for each other was pure love that only wants the good of the other person and does not wish to harm.

One day, we both decided to put a seal to our love by spending a weekend together. I knew it was wrong for me to agree to this plan, but the desire to be with Nosa overruled my sense of what is right or wrong.

I just wanted to experience this rare love that I have found with him.

So we took off to an exclusive hotel where we spent three magical nights together. It was the most amazing time of our lives. The kisses and smooching was something out of the movies and we both wished we could take this passion into the real world and live happily ever after. We both knew this love cannot be taken any further than we have gone already. We were just eager to take the little bit that fate allowed us to enjoy, tuck it into a little corner in our hearts where it would be cherished forever.

Vanessa, being in love with a married man is truly not the best for any single lady, yet I am glad life gave me the privilege to know the kind of love Nosa brought into my life. People may not approve of my story but in life there are times when right gets infused into wrong and everything gets jumbled up into gibberish that is without understanding. No one will truly understand how this forbidden love feels like unless you had once been entangled in its web before. Please do not judge me, only understand that I’m a woman who found love in the arms of an amazing man ( even if he was married) and just needed to experience what it would’ve been like to be loved by him.

I am glad I was able to share this with you and get the load off my chest. I wish you a great week ahead.

Keep up the good work you are doing.

God bless Yours sincerely, Ufuoma

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

& ovies Music M Stories by Olumide Segun-Oduntan 08189418761 e-mail: lumidezy@yahoo.com

Nigerian Idol top eight: Is it a two-horse race?

Another Sunday night, and another fantastic episode of the smash reality television show, Nigerian Idol.

The show sheds two contestants every week, and last week saw Joe Emmal and Amara join Vicci and Immaculate Victoria as this season’s former contestants.

On this show, the contestants took on golden oldies and modern classics from the greatest groups of all time, and it looked like it was a two-horse race, with Moses and Abasiakan (strangely enough, the two guys with the most feminine vocal ranges) leaving the other contestants eating their dust.

Abasiakan got one of the strongest reviews of the night when he tried on Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes’ classic, If You Don’t Know Me by Now. Sasha told him, “You seemed to enjoy your performance and I connected with it.” Femi Kuti

looks like the men might be stealing the spotlight, and a guy just might take away the big money offered at the end of the show.

From the judges’ remarks, none of the women performing got all full marks when it came to their performances, and it seems that they just could not get it right. The theme for the night was ‘Songs from the Greatest Groups of All Time’, but it seems that Kome, Sefeeyat, and Efezino could not quite get it right, with only Debbie Rise earning full marks from the judges at the end of the show.

was equally effusive, telling him, “You have range and your tuning is perfect.”

Moses sang She Will be Loved by Maroon 5 and had the crowd roaring with approval. After a rough night the week before, he staged a comeback and the crowd and the judges were duly impressed. Sasha P told him, “For the first time this evening, I have no ‘but’.” And Jeffrey Daniel was also full of praise, saying, “You take us on a journey every time you sing!”

The other contestants got mostly the equivalent of “maybe” from the judges, so it is hard to see who can break out and join these two leading men in the finale. But, fans of the reality television show have until April to see who can make it — it still could be anybody’s race.

However, last Sunday night was definitely not a hot one for the ladies of Nigerian Idol. More and more, it

Julius Agwu takes Laff 4 Christ Sake to Port Harcourt A fe few days few days after da aft fter er staging sta tagi ging ing a superlative sup uper erlla er lative lat Festival of Love Valentine show in Abuja, one of Nigeria’s most resourceful comedians, Julius Agwu, is gearing up for the Port Harcourt edition of Laff 4 Christ Sake, another popular event brand from his stable.

Having held in London and Lagos, this is the first time Laff 4 Christ Sake will be holding in Port Harcourt.

Billed to hold on March 29 at Aztech Arcum, the event will feature talented gospel acts like Frank Edwards, Tim Godfrey & D Extreme Crew, Afy Douglas and Freke Umoh. Top comic acts like MC Abbey, Owen Gee, Dan D’Humorous,

and Senator and Buchi will be knotting an unknotting the guests intestines with ribcracking jokes.

Speaking about the event, Agwu said this was another opportunity for him to thank God for his talents. “I want to use this event to say a big thank you to Almighty God who gave me the talent, nurtured it and led me from Port Harcourt to Lagos where my career grew globally. So I want Rivers and the entire South-South people to join me in thanksgiving to God who oils my wheel of creativity and ingenuity, as I also thank Him as I celebrate my 40 years on earth.

The Abuja Young Entrepreneurs Awards returns in style If the maiden edition of the Abuja Young Entrepreneurs Awards (AYE Awards) exceeded expectations, then prepare for a show-stopping second edition of the outstanding award ceremony tagged A night of Glamour and Entertainment as promised by the organisers of the awards billed to take place on April 19 at the Abuja International Conference Centre. The AYE Awards is designed to celebrate the raw ingenuity, drive and staying power of young entrepreneurs in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja. It is to drive the younger generation into productivity that would in turn bring about the eagerly anticipated positive change and growth in the Nigerian economy.

According to the organisers, the 2013 edition will feature award presentations in 13 categories and honorary award presentations interspersed with music, comedy and fashion by top Nigerian acts. CEO of Fusion and Lifestyle Limited, Dr Samiah Oyekan-Ahmed speaking on the reason and long term objective of the awards said, “The purpose of the awards is to shine some light upon the young business owners of Abuja who have not only taken the bold and risky step towards self-sustenance, but are doing so in an outstanding manner and inadvertently driving the economy and employing labour”

Yemi Sax unveils multi-million naira studios Sax Records Entertainment and Over The Top Promotions has combined resources, time, and content to provide a befitting environment where Nigeria music could best be planned, made and be presented to the whole universe.

The Sax Records Entertainment company led by the sensational saxophonist/ music producer, Adeyemi Adeosun, a.k.a.

No.1 Sax-Boss Yemi Sax, took pride in unveiling a state of the art multimedia professional recording studio, music rehearsal and video studio.

The new studio is located in a creative and relaxing atmosphere with a team of skilled en-

gineers and producers that will create a perfect blend between logic and creativity.

According to the CEO, Sax Records Entertainment, Yemi Sax, “the insight and experience we have garnered over the years as a performer and observer enabled us to coordinate, plan and administer a cool music house where lasting solutions to music problems and challenges could be found.”

The music/video recording studio’s strength and facilities includes a Digital/ Analogue recording studio, rehearsal studio, video/photography studio, equipment rentals, production and promotions.

The multi million Naira worth studios is situated in the business district of Surulere and equipped with the best of sound and music equipment to meet the sophisticated needs of the Nigeria music industry.

Apart from the studios, the sax oracle, Yemi Sax, also officially inaugurated his record label, Sax Records, the record label that held the contract to one of Nigeria’s greatest performing artistes on and off the stage, The National Ambassador to NDLEA, Olayinka Lawanson a.k.a. Lamboginny, the youngest Saxophonist, TJ Sax Xclaim and the Love Wan Tintin crooner, Oyinkansola.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

39

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Uche Jombo, Tonto Dikeh, others storm premiere of My Life, My Damage The E centre was abuzz with glam as A-list actors bombarded the Ozone Cinemas for the premiere of the long anticipated movie by Uche Jombo; My Life, My Damage. It was a night of glitz and glamour as the stars strutted the red carpet.

It had the likes of Tonto Dikeh, Uche Jombo and her husband, Kenny Rodriguez, Rita Dominic, Chidi Mokeme, Desmond Elliott, AGN president Ibinabo Fiberisima and Ufuoma Ejenobor. Others include Stephanie Okereke, Rukky Sanda, Monalisa Chinda, Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha, AY, Clint the Drunk, Munachi Abii, Yvonne ‘Vixen’ Ekwere of Silverbird TV, Emem Isong, Sexy Steel, Keira Hewatch and a host of others.

One of the highlights of the event was the special appearance of Kenny Rodriguez, Uche Jombo’s husband who flew in from the

United States on the eve of the premiere to rally a robust support for his delectable wife.

My Life, My Damage is a story of a young Nigerian girl with big dreams of becoming a seasoned doctor abroad and her struggles with drugs and the harsh reality of living with HIV/AIDS. Tonto Dikeh played the lead role as Dora the antagonist in the movie which is her cinema debut, and thus places her in the ranks of bankable Nollywood actors. She has featured in over 50 movies.

The movie is one of the many produced by the multi award-winning actress and producer, Uche Jombo Rodriguez. The delectable script writer who has been on fans’ screens for a long time now has featured in many movies like Girls Cot, Games Men Play, The Celebrity, Damage, Unguarded and so many others.

Flower Girl prepares for Ghana premiere Movie buffs would be glad to know that Flower Girl, a romantic comedy starring Ekwu Edewor, Damilola Adegbite, Chucks Chukwujekwu, Chris Attoh, Bikiya GrahamDouglas and other amazing actors, was premiered at the Silverbird Galleria in Lagos recently with over 200 people in attendance. Those who graced the premiere of Flower Girl include Ekwu Edewor, Damilola Adegbite, Chris Attoh, Bikiya Graham-Douglas and Chucks Chukwujekwu.

Others are celebrities from the entertainment industry, the media, sponsors of the movie premiere, friends, colleagues and family of producer.

Just so you know, Flower Girl is a romantic comedy that involves the life of a shy florist (Kemi) who is desperate to tie the knot with her long-time boyfriend (Umar). In a desperate bid to make him jealous, she teams up with a most unlikely ally (Tunde), a famous Nollywood star.

The comedy flick was directed by Michelle Bello (Small Boy) and co-produced by Michelle Dede (Big Brother Nigeria). Other production crews include Art Director, Bola Bello (AMAA award winner for Direction: Small Boy), awardwinning screenwriter, Jigi Bello (Shooter, The Waiting Room) and Director of Photography, James Costello (2011 African & Nigerian Critics Award winner for Cinematography: Inale, and Director of Photography of Last Flight to Abuja and Black November).

Praiz blends vocals with Seyi Shay on mid-tempo highlife With the Valentine’s Season already celebrated, love is definitely in the air as usual and as music fans are still in a period for sharing love gifts, Superstar and X3M Music recording artiste, Praiz, has two special gifts, especially for his fans and music lovers this year.

First is the R&B/Soul leading man’s excellent duet with the hugely talented and beautiful Seyi Shay titled, For You, produced by Dekumzy. Together, the duo seamlessly blends their vocals on the mid-tempo highlife beat to give it a touch of sensuality.

The second musical gift from Praiz to fans and listeners is the Wilson J’adore Joel-produced R&B/soul cut titled I Miss You, which is arguably Praiz’s best vocal performance yet.

This year, the talented singer - who is signed to X3M Music - will be releasing his highly anticipated debut album which features some of the biggest Nigerian musicians with production from Cobhams Asuquo, Tee-Y Mix,Wole Oni and Praiz himself, among others.

Nuella Njubigbo exposes Nollywood in New Movie, Jujuwood What would you do to make it in Nollywood? How far are you willing to go to become an A-list actor? Would you take each day as it comes and pray to God it becomes better or play dirty and visit a nat ive doctor (popularly called babalawo)?

Actress Nuella Njubigbo unravels the mystery behind the quest for stardom in her new movie, Jujuwood, directed by Tchidi Chikere. In this flick, the journey to stardom is filled with intense drama and competition. It is a controversial exploration of bitter truths.

Jujuwood is a movie about girls in the entertainment world; their lusts for fame and the lengths they are willing to go to be famous. With a celebrated cast which has the likes of Nuella Njubigbo, Funke ‘Jenifa’ Akindele, Halima Abubakar and Ruth Kadiri, the movie will surely get its own share of attention.

It promises to take you through the hassles of being an up-and-coming act in Nollywood and also tells the untold secret of how low some starlets will stoop just to achieve their big dreams of being celebrities. It is an exposé on the thrills and ills of the movie industry. It is a satire that is comically told but filled with lessons for those whose eyes are fixed on stardom.

Afro-pop newcomer, KIN, comes with new single Recently premiered on Rhythm FM Abuja and Jaguda.com, here is introducing exciting new Afrobeats/Afro-Pop artiste, KIN - real name Kevwe Isaac Nikoro - with his stunning debut single titled She’s Calling for your listening pleasure.

Starting off as a freestyle recording while in Lagos for Christmas last year, the song was further brought to life by the very prolific Warri-based producer, Citizen, who has previously worked with the likes ofYung6 and Meshack, to serve as KIN’s debut solo single.

Combining to create an enthralling and pulsating four minutes of stellar music, KIN - with his addic-

tive flow and witty wordplay - and Citizen - with his superior use of lush and varied drum patterns fused in with bass-heavy synths have not only put together one of the most captivating songs out now but also one of the best Pop records of the year.

Currently based in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom and a former member of Hip-Hop/R&B trio A-Team who released two hit singles in 2012, KIN is finally ready for his close-up as a solo artiste and is poised for massive notoriety in 2013 for his ability to churn out massive club bangers and radio hits - the first of which is She’s Calling.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

40

Lessons of Life

ANGELA DAVIES lessonsoflife2@yahoo.com 08023342083

TRUE LIFE STORY ON MATTERS OF THE HEART MARCH 10, 2013

How identical twin brothers impregnated twin sisters

R

ight from our childhood days, my twin sister and I are used to playing pranks on people; our parents are no exception, especially our father. The interesting thing about us is that it is only our mother who can tell us apart. Most times, we play pranks on him that gets him really infuriated but we see it as fun. However, it is unfortunate that I have to bear the consequences of what Franca does because I am Francisca.

As identical twins, we wear the same clothes, talk and walk the same way, wear the same hairstyle; in fact we do everything together both planned and unplanned. I could remember once when Franca disobeyed our class teacher in our days in secondary school and I was punished. The teacher asked Franca to help her bring her teaching note which she forgot in the class where she had just finished teaching. Instead of helping the teacher, she went to play with her friends.

The next day, while I was passing by the staff room, my class teacher saw me

and said, “You come here. Where is the teaching note I asked you to bring for me yesterday?” Looking lost, I said, “Ma, I am sure it was my twin sister, Franca and not me.” “Shut up. I am sure if I call your twin sister she will tell me the same thing,” she said angrily. All my explanation fell on deaf ears as she ordered me to kneel down and raise up my hands in front of the staff room for almost an hour before she set me free.

When I got to the classroom and narrated what happened to Franca, she laughed and said, “Sorry Franca, I just couldn’t walk down to that class in that hot sun so I went to play with my friends. Sorry for being punished on my behalf.” Even in our university days, many people could not tell us apart so Franca and I continued to deceive and play pranks on our friends and lecturers because we studied the same course, English and Literature.

When it comes to men, all we do is just enjoy their gifts and money and once we feel we have had enough fun, we bid them

goodbye and move on to the next guy. By the time they discover that we are identical twins, they get confused because they won’t know who to confront and that will be the end of the ‘supposed affair’.

Some time back, I was sitting by the swimming pool in one of this big hotel when this handsome dude walked up to me and introduced himself as Dele. I looked at him from head to toe and told him to get lost. Instead of quietly walking away, he pulled a chair and sat down. Shocked, I said, “Don’t you have any shame? I asked you to get lost and you sit down?” He smiled and said, “I like tough ladies like you. You have just won my heart. So what is that beautiful name of yours?” Funnily, instead of getting angry, I burst into laughter and said, “My name is Francisca and I am pleased to meet you.” We talked for a while, exchanged phone numbers and Blackberry pins. He promised to give me a call later that evening and left.

Immediately I got home, I told Franca about Dele. As weeks passed by, Dele and I became close friends, and then Franca suggested that we play pranks on him since I didn’t tell him I was a twin. However, we agreed that we would not fall in love with him, not in the least, going to bed with him. Dele invited me out on a dinner date, when I got there I had to record all our conversation so that Franca will not get things mixed up since she will be going on the next date with him. Once I got home, we listened to the recording over and over again because we have to play our game well. Dele looked very smart compared to all the other guys we had met. There was a day I mistakenly had a scratch on my right hand. Surprisingly, Francisca too had an injury in exactly that portion on her body. We made sure that whenever he visited our home, he would see only one of us. Of course, Franca had once visited him at home too, pretending to be me.

For me, I realised that at a point I started falling in love with Dele. He is a very likeable, caring and understanding person. He spoilt me with gifts and cash.

Aside from that, he is domesticated and this really thrilled me. I like men who can do what women can do, in terms of house chores and cooking. I guess these attributes drew us closer to Dele. When I told Franca about my feelings for him, she confessed that she too felt the same way.

She however warned that we must stay focused on just fooling him but at the same time have fun. Once we have had our fill, we would walk away just like we had always done.

This charade went on for about six months until the day I told Franca that I was pregnant. “How can you be pregnant Francisca. This was not part of the plan.

I am disappointed in you. How do you think our parents will feel?” she scolded me. While we were contemplating whether I should have an abortion or tell Dele so that we would know what next to do, Franca also discovered she was pregnant.

“God, how can two sisters be pregnant for the same man?” I asked. Francisca looked at me and suggested that we should go and see Dele and tell him the truth. I told her it would be wise for me to talk with him first once he gets back from his trip to Ibadan.

Somehow, my mother found out that we were both pregnant. She asked us who was responsible for our pregnancy as abortion was out of the way. I could not tell her the whole truth but promised to take her to the house of the man responsible.

A week later, our mother, Franca and I went to visit Dele, but we received the shock of our lives. Dele, too, had an identical twin brother, Wale. Their parents were at home as well so my mother disclosed our reason for coming. “Dele and Wale, what do you guys have to say?” asked their father. “To tell you the truth, we never knew that Dele too had a twin brother,” Francisca confessed. “What? So you girls played your usual pranks and got pregnant for twin brothers? You girls took it too far this time round,” screamed my mother.

At first, I didn’t know you had a twin, you didn’t even tell me. I saw you and your twin sister at the supermarket and had this hunch that you girls were playing pranks on me, so I and my twin brother, Wale, had to play along,” Dele said.

“My daughters cannot have an abortion. Your sons must have to marry my daughters, if not their father will kill them,” pleaded my mother. “Madam, we have to talk to our sons and ask them what they really want,” said Dele’s father. “Father, Wale and I have already decided that we will marry Franca and her twin sister if they can prove which of us impregnated each of them. I must say we have come to like them a lot but they think they are smart,” Dele emphasised.

We never suspected that Dele had a twin brother too. The question now is, which of them actually impregnated Franca and I? Who actually deceived whom? Dele and Wale still visit us at home to know how we are doing but they don’t ever talk about marriage. What should we do as our father is on the verge of throwing us out of his house. According to him, it is a taboo in his family for women to give birth outside marriage.

Please send your advice to the phone number or e-mail address above. No calls, please.

RESPONSES

Re: ‘See how alms-giving has ruined my chances of getting married’

Dear Veronica, It is unfortunate that your good gesture has turned out to be a great pain to you. But that should not stop you from helping those in need of your help.

I think you need to go for a serious deliverance prayer session to break that bond that has tied you to this man I suspect to be a spiritual husband. I know God will deliver you and you will be free.

Ngozi, Kaduna – 08034079550.

See a deliverance pastor, your case is

not irredeemable.

-08136055938

You need serious deliverance so look for a better church and do deliverance.

Have faith in God. You will marry this year, in Jesus’ name.

-08131061163 There is nothing God cannot do. I think what you need now is nothing but serious prayers and fasting.

Eunice, Kaduna – 08185496529 Even the Bible says giving is living,

don’t ever regret giving. What has happened has happened but affliction shall not rise up again the second time. I understand how you feel but, nevertheless, you need to be delivered from that spirit husband blocking your way. Please, have it in mind that there is nothing our Lord Jesus cannot do. Just believe that you have a God that can never fail.

-Jane, 08038422156.

I will advise that you look for a genuine deliverance church to go for deliverance just to make sure you are delivered

from this demonic act.

-07067842395.

You need urgent deliverance through a real man of God. The beggar is from the world of darkness. God will see you through.

-08038559310.

This is unfortunate but I will advise that you give your life to God and go for deliverance.

Kunle, Lagos – 08023358434.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship

Sunday March 10, 2013

41

Holy Ghost baptism: How to know a genuine one, by Pastor Samuel Pastor Samuel Daniel of Global Grace Church, in this message, distinguishes between having anointing and Holy Ghost baptism, and warns on the dangers of running the Christian race without Holy Ghost empowerment. Excerpts:

B

rethren, I want to appreciate many of you that have been following our articles in Sunday Mirror Newspaper. As you keep following, it shall be well with you in the mighty name of Jesus. The Bible states that ‘faith cometh by hearing the word of God.’ I want to tell you to keep hearing the word; one day, your faith will rise to receive the Holy Ghost.

I am continuing our discussion of last week on the necessity of having baptism of the Holy Ghost and Fire. Why? Because Holy Ghost baptism and the story about the Holy Ghost are the reasons Jesus came to die for us. Others are in addition. That is why the Bible states, “Seek you first the kingdom of God and its righteousness and any other thing shall be added unto you.”

The righteousness of God is the Holy Ghost. If you have not got the Holy Ghost, know that you have not got the righteousness of God. Any other thing you are doing is man-made righteousness, because true righteousness is in the Holy Ghost.

Many people think that they have received the Holy Ghost; but they do not have. The truth is; you may receive the sensation of the word of God and you will be moved by the spirit of the message yet you have not got the Spirit behind it.

How do you know that? In the book of Acts, you’ll see when Phillip preached in Samaria. The Bible says that Phillip preached in Samaria and there was revival for many days. Many days may be two months, three months, four months; we don’t know how long. But there was revival in the land. Yet the people have no Holy Ghost and there was revival. From this you can know that revival can happen yet Holy Ghost will be absent. May be the man knows how to speak good grammar and that is what is stirring the people. That is good and fine. But are you sure that Holy Ghost is behind the revival.

Apostle Phillip, knowing the truth that these people have received the word of God but have not yet received the real purpose of God, which is the Holy Ghost, immediately sent for Apostle Peter and James.

They came and laid hands upon them and they received the Holy Ghost and Fire.

Now, it is not every man that can lay hands and people will receive the Holy Ghost and fire. Despite how anointed Phillip was, he could not minister the Holy Spirit unto the people of Samaria. The people had already repented; the people had heard and received the word; but the people were already energised by the message they received, yet under his ministration, he could not lay hands or speak the Holy Ghost into their lives.

That is another aspect. Not every man of God, despite how great he may be, that has the authority to lay hand on people will receive Holy Ghost. It is a special commission for some people. On that aspect, Apostle James has the gift to lay hand and minister the Holy Ghost, Apostle Peter, has the gift and Apostle Paul also has the gift.

The Bible says that after Appolous and his followers had received the true meaning of

what you must do to receive the Holy Ghost immediately he lay upon them.

The Bible says in Act 19:6, “And he laid hands on them and they were filled with the Holy Ghost and they began to prophesy. Which means that before, they were using ordinary man’s head knowledge?

You may be a good orator; and because of your oratory, you are preaching and people are feeling the power in your message, yet there is no Holy Ghost behind what you are preaching. But there is another man who doesn’t know grammar, yet if he releases one word, the spirit of God behind that one word he spoke will be present in the life of the people.

Do you see the difference between the two preachers? Alexander was one of such people. He was an orator, a good preacher but had no power of Holy Ghost until he had an encounter with Apostle Paul and then received the Holy Ghost. Now many people have been reacting based on our last Message: “Sir, how can one receive the Holy Ghost? They ask. This is what we shall dwell on today.

There are only three ways to receive Holy Ghost. Number one, the Bible says, “While Peter yet spoke, the Holy Ghost came upon Collanius and his household.”

Why? Because faith cometh by hearing and hearing the word of God. They were attentive to listen to what Apostle Peter was teaching them in the house of Collanius.

And while he was yet speaking the power behind what he was speaking struck upon the whole house and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and prophesied.

Immediately, Apostle said all, were baptized that night to remit their sins so that if anything happened that moment they can go to heaven. That is another topic we are going to treat after now. True baptism, because many people have been wrongly baptised and that is why they did not receive the Holy Ghost. There is no way you can receive Holy Ghost without God directing you to have a true water baptism. Immediately you have a true Holy Ghost baptism, He will lead to where you will taught how to have a true baptism. It is in the Bible that you can receive Holy Ghost before you receive true baptism. At the same time, if you baptise correctly, you are obligated to be filled with Holy Ghost.

I will tell you the two instances; number one is that Apostle Paul met the house of Barnabas and when God led Barnabas to go and pray for Paul after he was struck

by God, Barnabas said “I had been sent to you to pray and restored your sight and be filled with Holy Ghost. Did you see it now?

First to restore his sight and secondly to be filled with Holy Ghost; immediately Barnabas laid hand on Apostle Paul, his sight was restored and he also received the Holy Ghost. When Barnabas saw that Paul had received his sight and receive the Holy Ghost; he said now what confound you that you will not be baptized? Paul said I confirm not flesh and blood and he was baptized calling on that name.

Some people have been baptized in the

Samuel

name of the father, the son and the Holy Ghost. That is not what I want to teach you today; but let me correct you that if you have been baptized in the name of the father, the son and the Holy Ghost, it is an error. You have to get it correctly. Until you baptize in name, your sin is still remaining. There is only one name that is given on earth that man shall be saved. And that name is the name is Jesus Christ. In Act 2:38 the people asked; “What must we do to escape the judgment that is coming?

Peter said, “I you want to escape God’s wrought, you must repent and be baptized, then you will receive the Holy Ghost we are talking about.” Have you seen it? But if you baptize, correctly the next thing is that you will receive the Holy Ghost How can one receive the Holy Ghost?

Number one, while Peter yet spoke, the Holy Ghost came upon the people. As you are listening to me now, your faith may come up even now with the spirit of God, you will receive the sensation of the spirit you will receive it and Holy Ghost will instantly be given to you because you have heard and risen to the climax of receiving.

That is to say, if you listen to the word of God constantly one day the Holy Ghost will come upon you.

Number two is by laying of hand. The bible says Philip preached and after that, called Peter and James to come and lay hands and the people received the Holy Ghost. Timothy was a good example.

Number three is Act 19: 6, Apostle Paul

laid hand on them and they received Holy Ghost. That is to say you can receive Holy Ghost by laying of hand, but you must be careful about who is laying hand on you.

Because if an occultic man lays hand on you if you have a little light in you, he will take it away. Be careful where you go so that the man that is laying hand on you is a genuine man. If a fornicator lays hand on you, he will transfer his fornicating spirit into you. Fornication will begin to hound you. Spirit is transferable. Or an armed robber lays hand upon you; spirit of stealing will follow you about or a ‘419’ spirit.

Even many servants of God who charge money in the church to minister their gifts to the people and using the gifts for merchandise; they would say, “God told me if you want to become a millionaire, come and touch my shoes with one millionaire and tomorrow you will become a millionaire.” It is a lie. Don’t allow men to deceive you. They are out there to deceive and extort money from people. I want to let you know that you are to receive the Holy Ghost; if you don’t receive the Holy Ghost, you cannot make heaven. Holy Ghost is the visa to heaven. If you want to know more, you can visit us; we will enlighten you.

God bless you.

•For counseling contact Pastor Samuel Daniel via email globalgracechurch@ ymail.com , www.globalgracechurch.org or phone:08060143296, 08164392405

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Dress code for mutual marital relationship Family FORA wit Pastor N. C with

Amaefula

E-mail: familyfora@yahoo.com Phone:08060315052,

“P

ut on, therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering; forbearing one another and forgiving one another, if any man has a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do you. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” Col. 3:12-14 Every profession or vocation has a dress code. This is a function of the nature of such a profession. A right dress sense influences the effectiveness and efficiency of anyone practising the vocation. On the other hand, wrong dressing disqualifies the general acceptance of such profession hence its competence may be contestable.

Consequent upon the above, one’s dress addresses one without much explanation.

In the same vein, God who is the originator of the marriage institution has approved a dress code for any marriage that needs to succeed. Just like a doctor can never part

with his Stethoscope because it introduces him at first sight to the patient and builds a level of trust between them, so would any couple who intends to live out their usefulness in the union of marriage ensure a strict compliance to this divine dress sense.

This is the determining factor for effectiveness and efficiency of their marital relationship. It is ideal apparel for an assuring happy marriage adjustment, no matter how different the partners may be in their ideas and individual lives. The dress code will be looked upon here as a complete pack. No one of it is used in isolation of the others.

In the 21st century, many people hardly put on dresses that are not customised.

In other words, they tend to identify with great designers of our time. It will also interest you to note that God himself identifies with the trend of time. This is why the Holy Spirit, who is the greatest teacher of our time, is the Designer. (Romans 8:8) Furthermore, there is a specification size for this dress. It can only fit those partners and spouses who have sold out themselves to the Holy Spirit’s control. (Romans 8:9) If we can reflect a spirit controlled life at home, we can reflect it anywhere. The reason is that who we are at home is who we really are.

One of the attires for mutual marital relationship is Compassion. When a couple put on compassion as a lifestyle in their

marital union, each one will be tender hearted one to another. (Colossians 3:12, 1 Peter 3:7-8) It is easier to live and cope with a partner who is merciful and sensitive to one’s needs than a harsh and cruel partner.

This virtue is not really easy to imbibe judging from the enormity of wrongs we commit one against another. However, it is a supernatural trait that comes with total submission to the person of the Holy Spirit. Compassion naturally breeds forgiveness and does not keep record of offences.

As a spouse, consider the fact that you do not always do things right even when you plan to and yet you will forgive yourself and push on with life and activities.

In the same way, you as a partner in relationship of marriage union must find a space in your heart to let go the faults of your spouse and move on without making quick references to those past issues.

Every husband should have this tip that it is the dream of every woman to marry a man who is tender-hearted. She will want to marry him again and again.

Another important dress code in marriage is Kindness (Galatians 5:22). This is a reflection or show of benevolence to one who is undeserving and possibly unreceptive. By the human nature, man (woman inclusive) is not necessarily kind. So this virtue must be learned under the tutelage of the Master Teacher, the Holy Spirit.

Kindness is the opposite of selfishness and you will agree with me that every hu-

man being has a level of selfish tendencies.

However, it not an over-statement to say that some are more self-centred than others. You as a spouse must not belong to the latter otherwise things will not work the way you planned for a successful marital life. This virtue goes along with being thoughtful and serving the needs of others, your wife and children at the topmost list. It is a strong tool for adjustment to the opposite nature of your spouse. Furthermore, it discourages a partner from looking for opportunities to take advantage of his/her partner.

Kindness is a motivating force to do good to your partner. One of the important things to note in the act of kindness is that no temperament is naturally disposed to its practice. The Sanguines bestow it to gain approval or friendship. Melancholies offer it when in the right mood. The Phlegmatic do it under compulsion showing they can decide to opt out.

Finally, the Choleric view it as an act of weakness so they are bent on showing their strength. So when you see a partner who is kind, thoughtful and having a tendency to continually serve others, you are looking at a miracle of God and a spiritcontrolled life. Dare to be one.

•For Counseling and Prayers: Email: nneomamaefula@yahoo.com or call +2348060315052, +2348187464031, +2348052157173

Issus on sexual perversion (2 ) –Rev. Izuchukwu Reverend Chukwudebelu Izuchukwu of Assemblies of God Church, FESTAC (II), teaches about sex, emphasising that research has proved that most children who cry a lot derive the habit from unhappy parents. Excerpts:

Y

ou can call it anything you like ‘scientific discharge’, ‘modern device for Self sex’, ‘personalised Sexual Gratification’ or ‘sex without phobia for sexual.’

But truth is, there is no happy masturbator anywhere. What we have are victims who are ‘suffering and smiling’. Rev. Chukwudebelu Izuchukwu of Assemblies of God Church, FESTAC (ii), explains more in these excerpts: In my growing up days as a teen, a man greatly respected by my fellow boys lured me into his room and before I could say Jack Robinson, he started fondling me and eventually discharged in between my lap.

It was unthinkable and unimaginable that such a man highly regarded in my area then could descend to low. This was a man that my cousin introduced me to when I was barely 12 years.

He was more than he bargained because I went out and disclosed the incident to my mates in that area. Consequent upon experience gained in my field of assignment, it is not an overstatement to state that some seemingly committed members’ in the church are homosexuals and lesbians. The annoying aspect of it is the involvement of adults. It is gradually becoming a norm among the adolescents, so we may not be perturbed by their alarming involvement.

Sometime in 2007, the marriage of two gospel celebrities broke up and they unearthed a can of worms against themselves. The man asked his wife on the pages of newspaper to explain to the world what she was doing with another female gospel artist when he caught both of them nude in the bathroom. Likewise, a lady was brought to me by her mother and older female sibling for being at home with women instead of men.

She wept bitterly in the course of ministration but refused to give up lesbianism.

Friend, there is no justifiable reason for

the acceptance of these perversions. Most of these developments are products of western civilization that has rendered us more uncivilized before God. May you not be caught in the web of sexual perversion?

Masturbation

For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet.

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents. Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Rom. 1:26-32.

It has several nicknames such as ‘Scientific Discharge, ‘Modern Device For Self Sex’, ‘Personalized Sexual Gratification’, ‘Sex without Phobia for Sexual Transmitted Diseases’, ‘Sinless without Bodily Exercise’; ‘Exclusive Sex’ and the likes. However from the scriptural and right point of view, it is actually satanic bondage. I was there for 17 years.

In 1983 to be precise, I came out to visit the convenience at about 1:00am and saw a group of compound boys surrounding the well of water, naked and armed with

soap. In my quest to know what that was all about, I was introduced into it. One of them vividly said, ‘Hey Izu, this is the best way to have sex. No more going to beg girls and spending money on them. Just get a toiletry and that is all you need to spend and enjoy sex to the fullest.’

That was the genesis of my journey into the wilderness of masturbation. Though I got born again four years afters, married ten years later, and embarked on full time gospel ministry afterward; I remained in its bondage as a helpless victim until the message of faith came alive in my spirit seventeen years after that, before I secure my release. Friend, only a prodigal generation toys with the voice of experience.

Beloved, no sex is left out. As an ungodly boy then, I sought help from a female cousin of mine putting up with us. Surprisingly, she was the worst hit. She said, ‘I am equally in the same pit looking for a redeemer, but all to no avail. Whenever I spend more time in convenience, just know it is exactly what keeps me longer’. According to her, she was in it for a long time because she saw it as more enjoyable and safer.

Incidentally, till date she is not born again so the tendency of carrying the evil addiction on even as a married woman is very likely. There is no happy masturbator anywhere. What we have are victims who are ‘suffering and smiling’. In my view, anyone in the coven of masturbation is seriously and dangerously possessed. A stronger presence of the power of God is required for one to secure a release.

New Year resolution does not work here.

It takes more than mere resolve. A man’s tripartiteness is needed in this battle to secure his release. The spirit behind it is such that takes pleasure in perversion.

With benefit of experience as a deliverance minister, even married people are altogether held by this wicked spirit.

Izuchukwu

I handled almost a hopeless case in the recent past, a married man who was into masturbation for about 25 years running.

The spirit has so taken over him that he saw nothing good anymore in relating with his wife, sexually. It was so bad that he could sneak out of the bedroom in the night into the convenience primarily to masturbate. To keep himself often stimulated, he resorted to viewing pornographic films.

That made his case so bad, but thank God for His power that is ever unfailing and unflinching. This is nothing but living in bondage according to Andy Okonkwo of the in-famous ‘living in bondage’. The greatest evil of masturbation is that it gradually leads to addiction, then obsession which eventually graduates into a mania; finally a hellish candidate.

•Presiding Minister, Assemblies of God FESTAC 2, Plot 268A&B, 4th Avenue, FESTAC Town, Lagos. izuchukwudebelu@yahoo.com +2348028390885, +2348056027044, +234704414424.

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Praise & Worship

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Understanding the root of financial fortune! (2) T The Voice o of wisdom

with Dr. David

Oyedepo E-mail: bishop@davidoyedepoministries.org Phone: 7747546-8

L

ast week, I taught on the reality of economic crunch and financial fortune. I showed you how your case is different, and what to do to escape the horrible economic season.

This week, I will show you how to connect to the covenant channels of blessings and why God wants you to prosper.

How to connect to the covenant channels of blessings:

• Tithing: This is a command from God. It is the master key to enjoying financial miracles. It is the tenth part of whatever increase you enjoy. It does not belong to you; it belongs to God. God’s Word says: And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD’s: it is holy unto the LORD(Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 3:6-10).

Tithe as the anchor term of the covenant delivers the following blessings: • It averts the curse of poverty.

• It stops the devourers from molesting your resources.

• It opens to you the windows of heaven, for blessings to pour unhindered.

You have been building houses, but God is saying, “I’m going to begin to raise city builders by the anointing for wealth, which will be provoked through covenant practices, tithing being the anchor law.”

• Offering: - This is all about not going to God’s house or presence empty-handed (Deuteronomy 16:16-17). We are not to appear before God empty. We are to give our offerings according to the level of blessings on our lives. That’s what makes it honourable.

Why Does God want you to Prosper?

• To establish His covenant: God is not a seed consumer, He is a seed multiplier. He multiplies the seed sown (Deuteronomy 8:18; 2 Corinthians 9:9-10). That is His covenant.

• So you can enjoy abundant life: How many want their children to enjoy here?

Is there anybody who wants their children to suffer? Even ordinary men desire the best for their kids, how much more God. He said: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly(John 10:10; 1 Tim. 6:17-19).

• To promote His Kingdom through you: God wants you to prosper because He wants you to promote His Kingdom (Zechariah 1:17; Deuteronomy 26:20-26).

• To bless humanity through you: God wants to bless humanity through you. He wants you to clothe the naked, feed the hungry and to provide shelter to the homeless. God wants you to be a blessing to your world; that is why He wants you blessed (Genesis 12:3; Genesis 22:17-18).

Covenant pathway to financial fortune

• God’s Word -- Every blessing of God is ordained to reach us through God’s Word.

He said He has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness, but delivered through the knowledge of Him, who has called us unto glory and virtue (2 Peter 1:3.

Therefore, the knowledge of the Word is

the gateway to our inheritance in Christ (Acts 20:32).

Financial fortune is part of our inheritance in Christ because,He was made poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). But this will only come our way through the applied knowledge of the truth.

As I said earlier, economic downturn is no news, but covenant exemption is your portion! However, there are a few things you must note: • Don’t ever mistake your condition for your portion, otherwise, you will never access your portion; your condition is because you are yet to discover what will give you access to your portion. Your portion in Christ is financial fortune. He was made poor that we through His poverty might be made rich (2 Cor. 8:9).

• As a seed of Abraham, you are not a burden, but a blessing. Redemption defines your portion in Christ. It is also further defined by your connection to the Abrahamic covenant, which Jesus died to connect you to (Genesis 12:3;Galatians 3:13-14, 29).

• The church of the end-time shall become a voice. It takes wealth to have a voice. He said, the voice of a poor man is not heard; his wisdom is despised. So, if the church must become a voice, then, she must command wealth (Isa. 2:1-5).

• We are not serving a poor God, we don’t have a poor Father. We have a superwealthy Father. His Name is Jehovah Jireh!

So, in spite of the economic meltdown, it is your time of shinning forth! (Exodus 9:1-7).

• Financial game is a disqualifier for financial fortune. If you are involved in any financial game of any sort, you are disqualified from access to financial fortune

with God. That’s why true prosperity in the Kingdom has its root in your spirituality. No wonder, God said: I wish above all things, that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth (3 John 2).

• Money in the hand is a blessing, but when it gets to the heart, it becomes a poison.That’s why supernatural blessings demand a walk of integrity.

• The prophecies you don’t reckon with are never fulfilled in your life.So, in a prophetic movement, everyone that wants to see prophecies fulfilled must take heed to them. Don’t just document them; be committed to them (2 Peter 1:19; Luke 1:45).

Friend, for God to prosper you, you must be born again. You get born again by confessing your sins and accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour. If you are set for it, please say this prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You, for saving me! Now I know, I am born again! To be continued next week.

Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, please get my books — Understanding Financial Prosperity and Breaking Financial Hardship.

I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota. We have three services on Sundays, holding at 6.30 a.m, 9.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m. respectively.

• I know this teaching has blessed you.

Write and share your testimony with us through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 7747546-8; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

Winning mentality

What a wonderful time in His presence.

We cannot stop appreciating God for the wonderful things He has done in our lives.

Thank God for the testimonies. I charge you to keep on glowing in His presence.

As we grow daily, we are wired to face battles and challenges but the solutions are always there.

There are battles of life we must face to become who God wants and steps must be taken (I mean the right steps) to get to our destination of glory.

To succeed, you must employ survival strategies and skills to win the battles and mind you, inside that battle is your promotion and testimonies – without tribulation, there is no promotion.

Either physical or spiritual, you need to take some steps according to the principles of Heaven – order is the first thing in Heaven. That informed our teaching today – winning the battles of life.

of life and how to overcome them.

The first African woman Bishop who was a warrior for Christ in the then Western Region, Bishop Christianah Olatunrinle, was fond of using this song in her evangelistic journey across Africa, preaching powerfully on the need to believe there is a testimony inside that tribulation.

Without examination, there is no promotion. The examinations are the battles you face daily, with your persistence and obedience to divine principles; you overcome them and move to the next level in life.

Brethren, you have no problem. What you are facing are challenges, without those challenges, you cannot be celebrated.

Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown of achievement. Before you got to that level, you knew what you passed through and without those challenges, do you think you will be known today?

Ask that woman the pains and joy of her nine months course before carrying her baby and you will have a complete book to write. No matter what you are passing through now, don’t look back, it is for your betterment, your miracle is on the way.

To be a winner, follow these steps and it shall be well with you.

Inspiration

Positive mind

In the Hymn book of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church founded by Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase, a song titled Jesu ni Balogun oko, e mase je ka foya (Jesus is the captain of the ship, let us not be afraid), dwells extensively on the battles

Winning the battles of life starts from your inner mind. You must possess a positive mind to excel in life.

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he. Eat and drink, saith he to thee, but his heart is not with thee.” (Proverb 23 verse 7)

You must do something about the way you think. The word of God is direct, active and punchy. As he thinketh – if you think success, you get it and if it is negative, you equally get it.

Before you can travel on the outside, you must first travel in the inside of your life. You cannot be thinking like a chicken and fly like an eagle.

The scripture says you cannot rise above your thinking. What you think, you become. Someone with a slave mentality will never become a President. A winning mentality will produce a winner while a loser thinker will produce a failure.

Jesus Christ never believed in impossibility. God Almighty created the world (everything, including man) in six days.

I mean six days – what a positive mind.

You were created in the image of God, not of locomotive, why the negative thinking?

Shake off that negativity, it is of the devil and come out of your shell, you are the next person to be celebrated in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.

Right thinker

You must win your battle. It is your cross and your victory will be earthshaking. Know very well that the battle is either won or lost in the mind.

Spiritual controls the physical. The moment it is won in your mind, the job is 90 percent completed. The rest 10 percent is just the move you make in the physical and success is yours.

Miracle of Damman

A world record was set in 1989 in Dam-

man, Saudi Arabia by Nigeria’s Flying Eagles at the World Youth Championship when the team came from four goal down to defeat Russia in the quarter final which is still known till today as the Miracle of Damman.

The team, coached by Tunde Disu, was down with four goals and with 15 minutes left, equalized and won the match in the ensuing penalty shootout.

Their morale was down after the first 45 minutes but the coach gave them words of encouragement, telling them they can do it, it is possible.

Charged and inspired, the team led by the enigmatic Bawa Abdulahi ably supported by the like of Christopher Ohenhen, Christopher Nwosu, Dimeji Lawal, Mutiu Adepoju, Phillip Osondu and Samuel Elijah fought like wounded lions, scoring 1, 2, 3 goals within five minutes.

When Nduka Ugbade scored the fourth goal, the referee ran 100 metres round the stadium in ecstasy because it was unbelievable and unheard of in world soccer but it became real and happened live.

Why? – The boys won the match in their mind before entering the soccer field for the second half and it became a reality. Whatever you can conceive, you can become. They did it and their names entered Soccer Hall of Fame.

Nobody can help you beyond your mind level. Your mind controls you. What you think about yourself is what controls you, not what people say. I see you becoming a winner but change the way you think. Like begets like.

Run from sin. Jesus loves you. See you at the top and God bless Nigeria.

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Sunday March 10, 2013

Praise & Worship 45

Five reasons to respect your husband Christian Relationship with Taiwo

Odubiyi

E-mail: info@pastortaiwoodubiyi.org.uk

I

n my book ‘30 Things Wives Do That Hurt Their Husbands’, I made a list of the things some wives do that husbands don’t like. The four that top the list of most of the men I discussed with while writing the book are – Respect, Submission, Sex, and Nagging. One would have thought that sex would come first with the way some men engage in and talk about it. A man said if he were dying but could be stabilised, he would be good to go, ready to have sex.

But respect and submission from wife take priority for the majority of men. Sex is very important to men as well and it actually made the ‘Top Four Things’ list.

That husbands demand respect and submission from their wives should not be surprising though. Even Paul reminded wives in the Bible to do so.

Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. (Ephesians 5:22-24 KJV) This reveals that there may be the tendency for some wives to forget or not to give enough respect and submission to their husbands. There are wives who misbehave toward their husbands. Some hit their husbands, abuse and even curse them. And surprisingly, they treat strangers better than they do their husbands.

These demeaning treatments are not right.

Yes, your husband might have offended you but when he does, it goes to show his imperfection just as no one is perfect.

There are better ways to handle offences.

Women need to realise that Satan will try to attack their marriages to upset and rob them of joy, peace and fulfilment.

But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. (1Peter 5:10 KJV)

What is respect?

To respect is to esteem, show admiration, value, honour, reverence, regard.

A woman who respects her husband (i.e esteems, admires, values, honours, reverences and regards him) is wise because by so doing, she builds her home.

Respect is one of the virtues every marriage needs. It brings acceptance. In Genesis 4:4, because God had respect to Abel and his offering, He accepted Abel’s offering.

Five reasons why you should respect your husband

•If there is no acceptance, there cannot be a lasting relationship. A wife who respects her husband also accepts him. She honours him and does his wish. Lack of respect brings anger and trouble.

And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering, But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. (Genesis 4: 3-5 KJV) In my novel ‘Tears On My Pillow’, Moni wasn’t showing respect to her husband, Fred, and there was trouble.

There was a day Fred wanted the househelp, Ufuoma to get something for him but Moni didn’t want it. Fred pointed a finger at his wife and said, “Moni, this has nothing to do with you and you know it! You can’t dictate to me what I should or should not give my friends!” He looked back at Ufuoma and repeated, “Please come.”

Moni stood up, “Ufuoma, stay!” She said defiantly. She would not allow it. Enough was enough. Ufuoma looked worried and perplexed. She glanced at Moni, appealing to her to let her go with Fred.

Fred almost couldn’t believe what Moni had just said. “Ufuoma, come!” He repeated firmly, daring Moni.

“Ufuoma, stay!” She said, equally firmly. She was ready for him.

At another time in the novel, the couple was having a misunderstanding. Fred pushed open the bedroom door, entered and blurted out, “Look, Moni, don’t ever pull my shirt again or else you will regret it!” He barked.

She looked up at him, surprised. Her eyes were red from crying. “What will you do if I pull your shirt, beat me up?” She challenged.

“The day you try it again, you won’t like yourself !” He said, his eyes blazing.

“If it’s necessary, I will do it again!” She informed him.

“Just try!” He dared her.

“Fred, you should be ashamed of yourself -” She began.

“And watch your words to me! If your parents didn’t bring you up properly -” She stood up, pointing a finger at him as a warning, “Don’t mention my parents, Fred! Don’t go near them at all!”

He continued, “They obviously didn’t raise you up well!”

She turned on him, “Oh, that’s okay but it’s more than I can say of you!” She looked at him with disdain, “Where are your own

parents? Where is your mother? You grew up unloved, a product of a broken home … with a broken life -” “Moni -” She wasn’t finished, “a wretched soul, from -” His hand shot out and hit her hard across the face, twice.

Moni staggered backward, a little. She held her face, staring at him with disbelief.

“You slapped me, Fred?”

They eventually had to go for counseling. Fred later told her, “I really felt unloved. I was like ... since you were not ready to meet my needs, why should I meet yours? … You also resisted my authority … It was as if you didn’t love me, you didn’t care … I know I’m not perfect, I messed up a lot but you could still love me … it was difficult for me to feel your love. I wanted you to love me, to be patient with me, to try to know what I needed.”

• Respecting your husband makes him appreciate you much more.

• Respect him because you are married to him. You might say, “He does not deserve my respect because of what he does.” Yet, you should give it to him because he is your husband.

• God wants you to respect your husband.

• Respect him because you promised on your wedding day to honour, respect and cherish him till death do you part. If you find these difficult to do, pray for the grace to do the right thing even if it seems difficult.

Never stop remembering that he is your husband. This will make you respond the right way. Do not wait until he changes before you start respecting him, start now.

Doing the right thing first could make the other person change for better.

Proverbs 18:22 tells us, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favour from the Lord.”

Blessing of God in the time of famine Shepherd Life with Bishop Kingsley

Enakirerhi

G

od is God of abundance and supplies.

His warehouse of blessing is constantly filled for the enjoyment and satisfaction of His children who are working in line with His directions. (Deuteronomy 30:9).

You must understand that we all are lying on a brink of adverse economic condition. The world has reached an absorbing climax where conditions of individuals are becoming unbearable. The days that burn as an oven is here, according to Malachi 4:1.

The predicted famine that will swallow up the earth is here: no one should expect something better; no one should proffer future economic stability, because the word of God can never be broken. In Matthew 24:7 the scripture says, “for nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines and pestilences, and earthquakes, in diversE places.

“For there shall be famines and pestilences and natural disaster” in how many places? … all over the world!”

The recent development in the history

of the world has shown the absolute fulfillment of the following scripture. Ranging from the Tsunami and earthquake in Japan to the recent crisis in the middleEast, this has offered great tribulation and adverse condition in the life of displaced millions.

The United Nations (UN) from time to time has brought out endless programmes to put an end to the rising food crisis in the world, wars and natural disaster, but their efforts have proved abortive. Solution can never come from them .Things will grow worse, according to God’s word.

The basic truth is that amidst these economic woes, there lies the possibility of obtaining God’s abundant riches and wealth (blessings).

You can live a life that is not dictated by the economic standard of your environment. That is the very purpose of this; go through it slowly and most understandably and you will discover the truth that will lead you to obtain the blessings of God in the time of famines.

When the richest man from the east, Job said “at destruction and famines, thou shall laugh …” (Job 5:22), he was not talking about sitting down hoping to reap abundantly in where you did not sow .

Laughing in the time of destruction and famine is borrowing out to people when money in scarce and hard to get. Embarking on mind-blowing projects when companies and firms are closing up. Employing more workers in the period of economic

meltdown when others are retrenching.

These successes don’t just come, but they respond to some certain principles, carefully carried out with a conscious strategy.

In Genesis 41:56, despite the annoying famine spreading all over the earth, Egypt was able to sustain her citizens, not only that, she was also selling out to neighbouring countries in her own controlled and dictated price. Going to church alone does not guarantee God’s blessing. You may shout the greatest halleluyah, and say the strongest Amen, but it will take you no where. You can only end up with a strong headache.

What guarantees God’s blessing is strategic wisdom rooted in divine will of God. The kingdom of Egypt operated with this and they got the result. We all have been given the grace, but the basic truth about grace is that it increases with your performance. Pharaoh needed to interpret the future economic conditions of his people and this is where divinity merged with earthly circumstance. Joseph showed up and fulfilled the mandate of Jacob living in abundance in the time of famine. Many people are too noisy and busy to think and peep into the condition of tomorrow .As a child of God, until you are ready and able to proffer solution to real life problems, heaven will not respond to your endless call. There is something that attracts celestial attention in planning.

You cannot say there is a lifting up when people are lamenting, saying there is

a casting down unless you apply this strategic wisdom. God is a God of orderliness, strategies and perfect executor. He sees the end from the beginning.

This “Strategic wisdom” entails many practices of which I have mentioned one Ability to interpret future economic conditions. Those who are doing well today are doing so, and are reaping the fruits of their vision. Interpret the future now, and lay out unfailing strategic steps to achieve it.

Joseph did not only interpret the dreams of Pharoah, he also suggested plans on how to come over it. Hear this my brother; the blessings of God are wrapped with principles. Until you break into these principles, the flood gates of heaven will remain closed. Joseph saw that hunger and famine is coming and he said: “Let Pharoah do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years”. Gen. 41:34.

Nigeria may seem to be enjoying oil boom now, but your ability to read the economic hand writing on the wall will make the difference in the time of famine. The government has decided to increase the price of fuel. I want you to know that your source is God and not the economy. If the heathen can survive it, how much more you that are connected to the creator of the universe. You are too connected to be stranded in life. Remain connected to God by seeking Him first and He will add every other thing that you need to you.

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Praise & Worship

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday March 10, 2013

Remember

Human beings are forgetful by nature.

Six thousand years of sin did not only dwarf our capabilities, but also weakened and almost deadened our memories.

Someone remarked: “to err is human; to forget, routine!” People need to be reminded more often than they need to be instructed. Let us consider today some things that God enjoins us to “remember” in Scriptures.

The first firm command to remember was voiced by Moses to his fellow Israelites in connection with their divine deliverance from the land of slavery. “Remember this day, in which you came out from Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the LORD brought you out from this place” (Exod 13:3). They were servants in the land of Egypt when the Lord brought them out “through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm” (Deut 5:15; see Deut 7:18; 16:12). “Wherefore remember, that in times past, you were Gentiles in the flesh, who are called uncircumcision . . . in the flesh” (Eph 2:11). “Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead” (2 Tim 2:8). This is a call instructing you never to forget where the Lord found and took you from! Remember where and how you first met the Lord. Remember what He delivered you from, lest you wander back into captivity with your eyes wide open!

The composer, Andre Crouch sang: “Take me back, take me back, dear Lord: to the place where I first received you.

Take me back, dear Lord to where I first believed!” Moses warns: “beware, lest you forget the LORD who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage” (Deut 6:12; see also Deut 24:18, 22). He reiterates: “only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the

Holy Inquiry with Pastor Paul

Nkirukah E-mail: pstpaul11@yahoo.com

Dear Man of God, God bless you for the truth you are telling the world. But there is one thing that bothers me. The way some of the so-called pastors, bishops or men of God behave as if they are God. The question now is; are bishops higher than every other man of God? Thanks, Godspower Dear reader, Thank God that there is also some one that is bothered the way I’m. Why I am particularly thanking God is that you have given me the opportunity to tell those socalled bishops what they refuse to know.

But before I can say anything, we have to first of all hear from God who has the true answer to the question through the scriptures, for a convincing and a clear understanding.

1 Timothy 1 : 1 – 13 reads, “This is a

things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren” (Deut 4:9). This means that we must remember to lead our children and grandchildren to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

As Israel journeyed towards the Promised Land, God magnified and manifested Himself all through. God punished their disobedience and the wickedness of nations that they encountered on the way.

God said repeatedly: “remember, and forget not” (Deut 9:7; 24:9). “And you shall remember all the way which the LORD your God led you these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you, and to prove you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments, or not (Deut 8:2; see Num 15:40). Obedience to all of God’s commandments is a must!

“Beware that you do not forget the LORD your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgments, and His statutes” (Deut 8:11).

We must hang God’s words, precepts, and instructions on memory lane! The Psalmist exuberates: “I will delight myself in your statutes; I will not forget your word.” (Ps 119:16). “I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life” (Ps 119:93). Even in the midst of troubles and trials, we must never let go of God’s law or forget His precepts. Your unpleasant circumstances are no excuse for disobedience or lowering God’s standards.

Stand your ground, nonetheless, and declare with the Psalmist: “yet I do not forget

your law” (Ps 119:83, 109, 141). Remember the covenant you have made with your God (Deut 4:23).

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits!” (Ps 103:2). Many count their blessing with their fingers and count their troubles with a calculator! We are sinfully forgetful! People usually credit themselves for their successes and God for their failures. “Remember His marvelous works that He has done, His wonders” (1 Chron 16:12). “Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask your father, and he will show you; your elders, and they will tell you” (Deut 32:7).

If we do not remember God’s leading in our past, we are ingrates; and are bound to repeat mistakes of history. Ellen G. White noted: “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us and His teaching in our past history.”

We must always remember that it is God who gives us the “power to get wealth” (Deut 8:18). All things come from Him (1 Chron 29:14). Hence, “do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels” (Heb 13:2 ). Furthermore, “do not forget to do well (good) and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Heb 13:16). Concerning those who nurture your spiritual growth, Paul writes: “remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day” (1Thess 2:9).

Remember them and be generous to them (2 Cor 8:1-7).

“Some people remember a lie in ten

Answer these questions and win a prize 1.

Rome, Berea and Athens were cities Paul visited for missionary activities. Put them in the order he visited them.

2.

What book describes King Solomon as “coming up from the desert like a smoke?”

3.

When did David move to Hebron?

•Please, be informed that the first correct entry via text message wins the prize.

See next week’s column for answers to the quiz. Send your answers with your names to 08054238905. Gifts: courtesy Babcock University.

years but forget the truth in ten minutes.”

Jesus warned concerning these last days: “Remember Lot’s wife!” (Luke 17:32). Mrs. Lot left her earthly possessions behind in Sodom but those possessions held her mind captive enough for her to flout the angels’ instruction not to look back! She did! She became a pillar of salt: an emblem of looking back! What a price to pay for disobedience! Jesus continues: “no man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). Thomas Kempis comments: “if Jesus crucified were often in our hearts and in our memory, we should soon be learned in all things that are necessary for us.” Following Jesus, we must not look back into the pleasures of sin.

Escape for your dear life! Remember Lot’s wife! Never forget this!

Jesus prepares us for the opposition from unbelievers with these words: “remember the word that I said to you, ‘a servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will keep yours also” (John 15:20). Do not seek to please people by diluting the truth of God. Do not compromise with the world.

If the world hates you because of Christ, blessed are you! If the world hates Christ because of you, check yourself !

Soon and very soon, Jesus will appear a second time. “Do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day” (2 Pet 3:8). Hold on to His promises and He will hold on to you. REMEMBER HIS PROMISES! Tunde Ojewole, Ph.D., is the University Pastor and Associate Vice-President for Spiritual Life, Babcock University.

For enquiries: ojewolea@babcock.edu.ng; 08058299434/08060376577

Answers to March 3, 2013 Quiz 1.

Sabbath- Exodus 20: 8-11.

2.

Saturday.

3.

True- Luke 22:64.

Is Bishop superior to Pastor? true saying; if a man desires the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work, 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach, 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre, but patient in all gravity, 5 For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God. 6 not novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil, 7 Moreover, he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil 8 likewise must the deacons be grave, not double tongued , not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre, 9 Holding the mystery of faith in pure conscience, 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.”

I want you to carefully study the above scriptures and see whether there is any difference between the office of deacons and bishops. If there is no difference, you know that deacons and bishops are of the same categories. Let me also bring to your notice that ‘bishop’ is not a call. How do I mean? I mean that ‘bishop’ is not among the five-fold ministry. To prove this beyond

all reasonable doubt, let us quickly take a good look at the scripture below for a better understanding.

Ephesians 4: 10 - 12 reads, “He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things, 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers, 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for edifying of the body of Christ.”

My dear, if the above scripture be the word of God, then it is very obvious and evident that being a bishop is not anything compared to the five-fold ministry given by God. Let’s understand clearly one simple thing: The five-fold ministries, that is, apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers are all God’s gifts, but ‘bishop’ is a desired opportunity given by oneself. I think you can now understand the difference between ‘bishop’ and the fivefold ministry.

Let me also correct one impression or error, and that is, it is unbiblical for a bishop to ordain anybody as a pastor or apostle. It is a pastor or an apostle that is supposed to ordain bishops and deacons However, a pastor or an apostle and so on may desire to be called a bishop, but let

a pastor or an apostle and a prophet know that he has demoted himself, because it is a pastor that is supposed to ordain bishops and deacons. Yes, according to the word of God above in 1Timothy 1, bishops and deacons are of the same rank or degree.

To confirm it all, let us take a closer look at the scriptures in Philippians 1: 1 which reads, “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.

Taking a very deep thought on the above scripture, you will not have any further question nor be in confusion; let me explain briefly. Apostle Paul started this way: I Paul and Timothy the servants of Jesus Christ, after that, the end of the statement, he now said with the bishops and deacons; this statement shows that bishops and deacons are ordained by apostles and pastors in order to help them in the affairs of the ministry.

Brethren, understand that it is a mistake or rather ignorant for God-ordained servant to stoop or descend so low to desire a gift given by man.

A President cannot desire the office of a Governor. Remain blessed.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Opinion

Sunday March 10, 2013

47

Learning from Russia’s fall of fire

F

ecund meteorologists the world over have scurried to their laboratories, propped by the awe-striking descent of some balls of fire, real fire, from the sky. They rolled down from above in the image of rocks. However pedestrian one may sound, the objects, it can be said, came pounding humans’ earth as rocks of fire. They call the burning particles, ‘meteorite’, a riotous assemblage of bits of rock from the asteroid. Experts described it as a meteorite explosion in the stratosphere. That place so described, upon further research, is “the region of the earth’s atmosphere between the troposphere and mesosphere, from 10 kilometers per six minutes to 50 kilometres per 30 minutes, above the earth’s level.”

The stratosphere, we are further told, has no clouds and is marked by gradual temperature increase.

And so, on February 15, this year, the Russia’s Urals, that is, the mountainous region of that country, got some baptism of fire as nature experienced such intriguing drift.

The objects had exploded over the city of Chelyabinsk and more than 100 fragments of them were later found to be the glistering, ghoulishly dark, rocky materials, widely described as space rocks.

Not too long after the incident, scientists from Russia’s Urals Federal University also stumbled on the biggest chunk of the meteorite fragments, which weighed more than one kilogramme. The impact of the fall of the particles or rocks of fire from the sky, it was learnt, was so devastating it

damaged several buildings and rendered many persons injured. Unconfirmed, local sources, however, said some deaths were recorded in the aftermath.

While many are quick to draw a nexus between the Russian incident and the global concern over the depletion of the ozone layer, which has resonated in unstoppable global warming or what is euphemistically described as climate change, the truth is, we are all headed for a world of uncertainties.

Take for instance, the astounding Tsunami of wave cum earthquake that upturned Japan’s Kesennuma City in Miyagi Prefecture, in the north-eastern part of that country, in March 2011. Though there were some lame warnings of possible earthquakes and water surge, none of the meteorologists could predict the period, much less the time, that the havoc would be wrecked. In the last count, close to 3, 000 persons died in Japan’s mass destruction.

The import of the reference to this gale of disasters sweeping across climes globally but against which we seem to be immune, is that Nigeria as a nation has shown that it is incapable of managing emergencies. A recent test case, besides recent years’ litany of woes, was the massive flood that sacked many communities in states like Delta, Anambra, Bayelsa and Kogi. Though relief camps were provided as many virtually turned to vagrants in their fatherland, the various camps in

which surging crowds were cramped, belied the huge funds said to have been variously voted to provide succour to victims of the flood.

In the same vein, cases of sharp practices were recorded, in which food items, raiment and other utilities provided for those in distress by donor agencies and companies were reportedly pilfered by eggregious officials, who simply displayed to the whole world that, ‘This is Nigeria.’

But beyond the fact that the masses suffered from nature and from government, how about the root cause of last year’s flooding, against the backdrop of meteorologists’ ongoing forewarn that it would recur this time round?

Another saddening point of reference in the country’s effeteness in emergency response was the June 3, 2012 Dana plane crash in Iju, a Lagos suburb, in which all 153 persons on board died. All that would have been required when the plane crashed into the residential buildings without catching fire would have been to see how fire outbreak could be forestalled.

The easiest way out in such a densely populated area would have been to deploy fire service helicopters known as helitankers, which would aerially fleet foammix on the crashed plane, to foreclose fire and allow for rescue operation. But do we even have anything of the sort?

Assuredly, if the Tsunami of the magnitude of what ravaged Japan had befallen Nigeria, no fewer than 20,000

Kayode de Fasua ua

kayodefasua@nationalmirroronline.net (07043855192; SMS only, pls)

souls would have been wiped off in what will be a pogrom of negligence and lack of administrative foresight. As the ocean surge was being angrily propped by the impact of undersea earthquakes, uprooting buildings and tossing vehicles as toys, Japanese emergency officials and other rescue workers, at the risk of being rolled along one way or the other, were on hand, airlifting as many humans as could be sighted alive.

Also, as the balls of fire descended in Russia, a 20,000-strong rescue and cleanup team was deployed in the Ural Mountains by the Russian authorities, determined to save the lives of hapless citizens.

Therefore, the time has come for government at all levels to strengthen the country’s emergency networks through the instrumentalities of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), their clones in respective states, as well as the Red Cross Society.

While praying against natural disasters in Nigeria, working to forestall them or manage them if they occur is the best method of keeping our population alive and bubbly, in this world of dangers.

Of renewable energy sources and development CECILIA OLOGUNAGBA

A

s a result of the danger posed to the environment by fossil fuels, the world is shifting towards low-carbon energy to be powered by new energy sources.

These new sources range from cleaner fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Fossil fuels are high-carbon sources of fuel like oil, gas and coal which form the bulk of energy consumption worldwide.

Renewable energy comprises energy mix of wind, bio-mass, solar, hydro and geothermal. It is low in carbon, cheaper and environment-friendly, experts say.

Mr Henner Weithoner, Chief Editor of Renewable Energy Journal based in Germany, notes that some companies and countries will source for alternative energy because fossil fuels will be difficult to maintain because of Kyoto Protocol. ``Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that sets binding obligations on industrialised countries to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. ``Most countries did not carry out the agreement arrived at during the Copenhagen conference as regards reduction of carbon dioxide emission. ``Lack of commitment on the part of those countries has increased the cost of achieving the carbon dioxide goal and it has made it less likely to happen, unless commitments are fully imple-

mented by 2020. ``Renewable energies are entering the mainstream but we need longer-term support to boost their competitiveness,’’ he says.

Available statistics show that more than 80 per cent of the energy consumption in the world is still fossil fuels while renewable energy is put at 20 per cent.

Nigeria is one of the countries that relies heavily on fossil fuel, especially oil and gas to meet its energy needs.

The Nigerian Energy Policy Report estimates that less than 40 per cent of the population is connected to the National Grid.

The report says the grid is powered by hydro and thermal, which itself comprises of fossil fuels which are capable of emitting carbon dioxide.

Nigeria is faced with the challenge of increasing energy production to meet its local demand and probably for export.

The country is also faced with the challenge to develop technologies to open new sources of oil and natural gas that will be environment-friendly and emit less carbon dioxide.

A German solar consultant, Dr Klaus Heidler, says for Nigeria to address these challenges, it must develop its hydro potential by fully utilising its dams and rivers for hydro-power.

Heidler says it is dangerous for a

country to rely solely on one source of energy, but that it is always good to combine it with at least four types of renewable energy. ``Hydro-power does not supply much electricity during dry season because of low level of water in dams; so there is the need to generate other sources to augment hydro source. ``Solar set can generate and store power during the day while wind energy generates power more in the night. ``It will take at least four mix renewable energies for sustainability in case of crisis situation.’’

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo who agrees with Heidler, says that ``Africa must not be de-linked from the renewable energy revolution.’’

According to him,``renewable energy holds the promise for Africa’s energy self-sufficiency and availability.’’

Mr Imo Ekpo, a dam and energy expert, says for Nigeria to overcome its electricity problem, it must utilise its renewable energy potential effectively.

Ekpo urges the government to take drastic action that will ensure reliable and sustainable power supply.

He, however, attributed the low development of renewable energy in Africa to paucity of funds to develop the sector.

He identifies other factors responsible for the under-utilisation of hydro and renewable energy potential to include inadequate manpower, inconsistent policy and political instability on

the continent.

In order to harness its renewable energy potential, Nigeria in 2007 launched the Renewable Energy Master Plan.

The Council for Renewable Energy in Nigeria (CREN), says the renewable energy plan includes short, medium and long-term targets for a comprehensive renewable energy development. ``The successful implementation will result in the installation of 2,945 mega watts of wind, solar photo voltaic, solar thermal, small-scale hydro and bio-mass by 2025, roughly equivalent of the entire capacity of energy used in Nigeria today.’’

The council also states that renewable energy has the potential to boost the economy by generating 500,000 jobs in the next 10 years. ``The injection of 2,945 mega watts of renewable energy will address the issue of estimated $1 billion lost yearly by manufacturers due to unstable power supply,’’ CREN says.

With all the benefits that renewable energy has over fossil fuels, experts want the government to intensify efforts to harness the renewable energy potential of the country.

They say if necessary actions are taken to develop the sector, Nigeria will overcome its energy challenge very soon.

•Ologunagba is of News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

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Sunday, March 10, 2013

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51

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Wellness YOUR HEALTH AND HEALTH RELATED ISSUES MARCH 10, 2013

‘All you need to know about Deep Vein Thrombosis’ Travelling long distances without any form of leg exercise may lead to sudden death if the person has a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis. In this interview with Vanessa Okwara, Dr Akinbami, a Consultant Haematologist and head of the Haematology Department of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital and also a lecturer at the College of Medicine speaks extensively about this ailment and how you can prevent it from occurring. Excerpts Someone slumped and died after travelling a long distance and there were a lot of speculations that it was caused by an ailment called Deep Vein Thrombosis. Can you enlighten us about it?

Deep Vein Thrombosis otherwise called DVT is diagnoses that have to do with blood clots in the deep vein of the legs. Ordinarily, when someone is in good health, the blood is in a fluid state and moves from one part of the body to the other. There shouldn’t have to be any clot whatsoever. By clot we mean if it hardens or becomes congealed. There are many mechanisms God has provided to make sure that the blood does not congeal while someone is alive. If it becomes solidified, it can cause an obstruction in the tiny blood vessels anywhere in the body. What happens in Deep Vein Thrombosis is that there has been a predisposing or risk factors that made the blood to clot or solidify and this is mainly found in the deep vein of the legs.

How does DVT threaten the life of an individual?

The life threatening condition of DVT is not that you have a clot or solid blood obstructing the vein, but the problem is if that clot is dislodged from the deep veins.

When it happens, it moves up towards the heart and probably gets stuck where you have reduction in the size of the veins such as the lungs, because the vessels of the lungs are very tiny unlike the kind of veins we have in the legs.

This is going to obstruct the communication of oxygenation and de-oxygenation. This has a choking effect and that is exactly what causes sudden death of the patient.

The medical term we use for clots is thrombus. It is not expected that there should be clots in life, it only happens after someone dies. You can then imagine what it’s like for a person who is alive to have clots in the veins. When it is still attached to the site of the clot, it is a thrombus but when it is dislodged from the veins, it is called an em-

Dr Akinbami

bulous. Where this clot usually terminates when it travels upwards is the lungs. It will go there and act as if it is choking the person. It is actually the pulmonary embolism which causes death. Someone can have DVT and live with it for years. Instant death can only occur when that clot is dislodged from the veins and terminates at the lung which in medical term is called Pulmonary Embolus. Sudden death can only happen when that clot is dislodged and travels to the heart What are those predisposing factors that could make someone develop DVT? A man called Rudolf Virchow as far back as the 15th century discovered that there are three main reasons why an individual can develop a thrombus or clot in the blood.

As I said, this can only occur after death. But what could make someone develop it while still alive? He talked about three things that could be responsible for developing clots in life: when you have damage to the vessels; stasis which happens when the person is stationed at a place for too long such as travelling or an obese person and factors that will encourage blood clot which is medically called hypercoagulability. This is the tendency of having blood clot in the vein. All these can be inherited factors and can also be acquired. That is why an obese person is strongly pre-

Nigeria considers drug administration on HIV babies at birth Against the backdrop of a baby `cured’ of HIV in the U.S., Nigeria mulls the administration of anti-retroviral drugs on HIV-positive babies at birth, according to NACA. “The lesson we have learnt from this is that maybe we should start

treating children as soon as we know that they are HIV positive without waiting,’’ the Director-General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Prof. John Idoko, told newsmen in Abuja.

It would be recalled that on March 3, it was reported that a Mississippi baby

born with HIV more than two years ago appears to have been cured of the virus, following the administration of drugs 30 hours after birth.

“Expectedly, this will help to reduce infant, child mortality, the global burden of HIV and AIDS,” he noted.

disposed to have DVT. An obese person hardly moves but stays in one place so the blood can easily clot and travel from the legs to the lungs.

From what you have said, DVT can occur when someone travels or sits at a place for a very long time?

When travelling long distances, you are sitting at one place and not moving for up to 12 hours nonstop. If the person has inherited the predisposing factors that could make a person to have this disease they may develop DVT. I also want to correct an impression that it is only people who travel in the air that can have DVT. But I’m telling you that it does not have to be when you fly in the air alone. Going from Lagos to Maiduguri and sitting or squatting for a long time without any stopover can cause DVT. It does not have to be when you travel from Lagos to Los Angeles. As a doctor, I strongly advise people who travel long distances not to sit on their chair for long be it in the air or on the road. Please exercise your legs, don’t sit in one place for a long time. Even if you want to sleep; after a while get up and do some little walking around.

What are the signs and symptoms of this disease?

When you have clots of solid blood, or congealed blood CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

HEALTH NEWS

‘4,500 pregnant women die annually from malaria’ Country Director, Jhpiego, an international NGO, Dr Emmanuel Otolorin, recently said that more than 4, 500 pregnant women died yearly from malaria.

Otolorin said this in Abuja at the dissemination of findings of Community Directed Intervention for the Preven-

tion of Malaria in Pregnancy and in Children carried out in Akwa Ibom State.

He explained that malaria was also the leading cause of under-five deaths. ``Malaria is highly endemic in Nigeria and poses a major challenge, as it impedes human develop-

ment, causing about 4,500 deaths in pregnant women yearly.

He disclosed that it was saddening that Nigeria depended on donor funding for health, adding that philanthropists could invest in health development in the country.

52

Wellness

Know your organs

I

n size and in shape the heart resembles a closed fist.

Each day the heart, a marvel of efficiency and dependability, pumps nearly 2,000 gallons of blood usually with no maintenance beyond a sensible diet and lifestyle.

The heart is a hollow muscular organ, which receives blood from the veins and propels it into the arteries. It has four cavities - two receiving chambers (atria) and two ejecting chambers (ventricles). The left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs and delivers the blood to the left ventricle. The left ventricle (the heart’s main pumping chamber) forces the blood via the aorta (the body’s main artery) through the arterial system to the capillaries. As blood flows through the capillaries, oxygen and nutrients are exchanged for waste and carbon dioxide in body tissue. The capillaries drain into the veins and the oxygen-depleted blood flows from the network of veins to the right atrium of the heart.

Passing blood from the veins The right atrium passes blood from the veins to the right ventricle, which then pumps blood into the lungs to be oxygenated.

Four major valves, functioning like one way doors, keep blood flowing in one direction. Blood enters the right ventricle from the right atrium through the right atrioventricular (tricuspid) valve and leaves through the pulmonary valve. Blood enters the left ventricle from the left atrium through the left atrioventricular (mitral) valve and leaves to the aorta through the aortic valve.

The heart as a working muscle requires a constant supply of nutrient blood. The left and right coronary arteries, which emerge from the aorta, carry oxygen rich blood to the heart itself. The left main coronary artery divides into the left anterior descending artery, which travels down the front of the heart, and the left circumflex artery that circle around the left side and back of the heart. The right coronary artery travels to the right side and back of the heart.

Sunday, March 10, 2013

The Heart The heart is a pump The heart is, in the simplest terms, a pump made up of muscle tissue. Like all pumps, the heart requires a source of energy and oxygen in order to function. The heart’s pumping action is regulated by an electrical conduction system that coordinates the contraction of the various chambers of the heart.

An electrical stimulus is generated by the heart’s natural pacemaker, the SA node. Sinus node (also called the sinoatrial node, or SA node) is a small mass of specialised tissue located in the right atrium (right upper chamber) of the heart. The sinus node generates an electrical stimulus regularly (60-100 times per minute under normal conditions).

This electrical stimulus travels down through the conduction pathways (similar to the way electricity flows through power lines from the power plant to your house) and causes the heart’s lower chambers to contract and pump out blood. The right and left atria (the two upper chambers of the heart) are stimulated first and contract a short period of time before the right and left ventricles (the two lower chambers of the heart).

Movement of the electrical impulses The electrical impulse travels from the sinus node to the atrioventricular node (also called AV node), where impulses are slowed down for a very short period, then continue down the conduction pathway via the bundle of His into the ventricles. The bundle of His divides into right and left pathways to provide electrical stimulation to the right and left ventricles.

Normally at rest, as the electrical impulse moves through the heart, the heart contracts about 60 to 140 times a minute, depending on a person’s age. Each contraction of the ventricles represents one heartbeat. The atria contract a fraction of a second before the ventricles so their blood empties into the ventricles before the ventricles contract.

The electrical activity of the heart can be detected by doing an ‘electrocardiogram’ (also called an ECG).

‘Predisposing factors make blood to clot, solidify in deep vein’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51 in the vein of the leg, it will be painful. That is one of the signs and symptoms of the condition. It is also possible to cause a swelling of that particular leg. This is because the drainage system has been impaired and blood will be moving to the tissue and muscles causing a one-leg swelling. Usually, it is one leg at a time, rarely does it affect the two legs, but it is possible.

You mentioned damage to the vessels as one of the predisposing factors of DVT. What can lead to the damage of the vessels of the body?

When it comes to vascular damage, there are conditions that could damage the vessels. Nature deposited natural substances that prevent blood to clot in the veins while a person is still alive. When the veins are damaged, the reverse is the case. Such conditions that could cause damage to the vessels are diabetes, hypertension, smoking and pregnancy.

How can a pregnant woman develop DVT? In pregnancy, the position of the tummy obstructs the upward flow of blood from the legs to the heart. The baby is lying on the vessels and not allowing free flow of blood from the legs to the heart. This particularly happens when the woman lies down with her back. A pregnant woman is always advised not to lie down facing up but to lie on her sides; that way the baby will not lie on the veins and cause a thrombus. DVT is common in pregnancy. That is why

you may see a seven-month pregnant woman cry of a sudden sharp chest pain, slump and die. Most times in our African setting it will be attributed to be a mother-in-law or a witch that caused it but the truth is that the woman may have been complaining of pain in the leg but nobody took time to find out if she had clot in the deep vein of her legs.

How do you confirm that someone has DVT? We do blood analysis and do history taking where we rule out a lot of things such as inherited factors or acquired factors like diabetes, hypertension or smoking.

When we rule it then we do a confirmatory test that we call Doppler test. The reason for the confirmatory test is because the drugs for treating DVT are dangerous pills.

How long does it take for the sickness to be treated?

It takes about six months to do the treatment but first of all we stabilise the patient to be sure the clot does not dislodge from the vein by administering what we call anti-coagulant treatment. Then you confirm your diagnosis with the test.

What is your advice for people who had experienced the symptoms of DVT, especially when they must have travelled for a long journey?

The person should see a doctor and request to see a haematologist. The reason is that most doctors are not yet conversant about this ailment. If it is not in their area, they should please refer the patient to the proper channel than administering drugs they are not familiar with.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Your

BONE Health

with Dr. Olatunji Idowu

De-Quervain Tenosynovitis (2) Complications If de Quervain’s tenosynovitis is left untreated, it may be hard to use your hand and wrist properly. If the affected tendons are no longer able to slide within their tunnel, you may develop a limited range of motion.

Tests and diagnoses Finkelstein test To diagnose de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, your doctor will examine your hand to see if you feel pain when pressure is applied on the thumb side of the wrist.

Your doctor will also perform a test called the Finkelstein test. In a Finkelstein test, you bend your thumb across the palm of your hand and bend your fingers down over your thumb.

Then you bend your wrist toward your little finger. If this causes pain on the thumb side of your wrist, you likely have de Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays, generally aren’t needed to diagnose de Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

Treatments and drugs Treatment for de Quervain’s tenosynovitis may include medications, physical or occupational therapy, or surgery. Treatment is generally successful if begun early on, though the pain may recur if you can’t discontinue the repetitive motions that aggravate your condition.

If you start treatment early on, your symptoms of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis should generally improve within four to six weeks. When de Quervain’s tenosynovitis starts during pregnancy, symptoms usually get better around the end of pregnancy or when breast-feeding stops.

Medications To reduce pain and swelling, your doctor may recommend using NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen Your doctor may also recommend injections of corticosteroid medications into the tendon sheath to reduce swelling. If treatment begins within the first six months of symptoms, most people recover completely after receiving corticosteroid injections, often after just one injection.

Therapy Initial treatment of de Quervain’s tenosynovitis may include: * Immobilizing your thumb and wrist, keeping them straight with a splint or brace to help rest your tendons * Avoiding repetitive thumb movements whenever possible * Avoiding pinching with your thumb when moving your wrist from side to side.

If you have any problem or question about your musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles) do send me a mail at tunjiidowu@live.com for advice. Meanwhile, your comments and feedback on the issues discussed are highly welcomed.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

55

Sunday, March 10, 2013

STORIES THAT TOUCH YOU MARCH 10, 2013

Kwara CP murder: Amorji-Nike turns pilgrimage centre

Mourners at the residence of the late CP Asadu at Amaorji-Nike, Enugu at the weekend. (Inset: Son of the late CP)

The late Commissioner of Police, Asadu

DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

A

morji-Nike is one of the numerous sleepy communities in Enugu State that are fast developing to the status of a township. Situated in the north-east of Enugu, the community has not made news in recent times except when tragedy struck there on the night of Saturday, March 2.

Close to the popular Nike Lake Resort Hotel, people have of recent been attracted to buying lands in the Amorji community for residential purposes. That was where the late Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Chinwike Asadu, bought a plot of land and erected his Enugu residence.

Ever since the assassination of CP Asadu, residents of the area have been inundated with all manner of high profile visitors that have thronged the residence of the late CP for condolences. The roll call includes Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu; Governor Abdul Fatah Ahmed of Kwara State; the immediate past Inspector General of Police, Ogbonna Onovo; Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Emeka Sibudu; senators Gil Nnaji and Ayogu Eze; police officers from Kwara, Enugu and other states, among many other dignitaries that have registered their presence in the late CP’s residence. The Inspector General of Police, MD Abubakar, is expected at the same venue tomorrow.

Wishing the murdered CP a rest in peace, Onovo said that the police force would not rest until justice was done on the gruesome murder. He insisted that the killers must pay for the dastardly act.

“It is a challenge to the NPF. Rest in peace in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ,” the former IGP wished his fallen colleague.

Governor Ahmed noted that the late Asadu lived a fulfilled life and made an indelible mark in the heart of all. He prayed

God to grant the family, left behind, the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

On his own account, Sibudu, who is an in-law of the late CP, blamed the rising spate of crime on unemployment but he however noted that unemployment was no excuse for crime.

Senator Gil Nnaji in whose Enugu East Senatorial District constituency the tragedy occurred, regretted that the only police commissioner from Enugu State was assassinated. He said he and his colleagues in the National Assembly had charged the IGP to ensure that the culprits are brought to book.

Senator Eze, who led a caucus of the Enugu North Senatorial District in the National Assembly to empathise with the bereaved, promised that they would not only participate in the burial activities but would also be involved in the processes that would lead to the capture of the assassins.

Wife and children of the late CP look traumatised as they declined to speak to the press. The relations as well said it’s not yet time for them to speak as they only stayed to receive sympathisers. An extended family relation of the late CP, Callistus Ugwuanyi, however, said his community of Ihenowerri-Nru, Nsukka had been devastated over the death. He said the late CP was kind-hearted and did not have problems with anyone in his native Nsukka community and wondered why he should be assassinated.

Ugwuanyi said that as a commissioner in the anti-fraud unit of the Police Force, Asadu distinguished himself creditably and wondered what would have gone wrong to warrant his murder.

“He was a very wonderful man, ever smiling and very close to the family. He was a fine gentleman; it’s only when you see him in uniform that you would know he was a force man. I was even surprised that he was assassinated. He related very well with people in the village and only

last year, the Nsukka people held a reception in his honour. They were overjoyed that their son had arrived as a commissioner, so you can see the level of relationship he had with his people; if he had not been nice, we wouldn’t hold a reception in his honour. Everybody is feeling bad about it in the village,” lamented Ugwuanyi.

A resident of Amorji-Nike, who leaves close to the spot of the assassination, said he had noticed an unusual police presence in a Nissan jeep and another Hilux van in the evening of that Saturday before the attack took place. He said he suspected that something was amiss and that when on Sunday morning he heard about Asadu’s killing, his mind went back to the men he saw in that Amorji area who, he claimed, two wore police uniforms.

The CP’s orderly and driver that are still receiving treatment were identified as Aloh Olaniyi and Oliver Omeh respectively. They reportedly sustained serious injuries. The assassins were said to have shot sporadically. They reportedly took away the rifle of the orderly who was badly wounded. The orderly was shot in the chest, stomach, hands and leg while the driver was shot in his legs.

“The gunmen shot him twice and came back to make sure he was dead before they ran away in their bus, and this was before the CP’s escort team that was inside his compound noticed what was happening.

When the escort team and sympathisers rushed to the scene, they met CP Asadu and his orderlies in a pool of blood. They were rushed to the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu where doctors confirmed the CP dead. The other two policemen are now on admission at the hospital,” he said.

The new Police Commissioner in Enugu State, Mr. Tonye Ebitibituwa, was said to have directed his men to conduct a manhunt for the gunmen within and outside the state capital in order to track them down, without delay.

Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime, after commiserating with the family, placed a N10 million reward for anyone who could give a clue to the arrest of the assassins. The governor disclosed that there had been recent upsurge in crime in the state that had peculiar trait of the criminals retrieving guns from their victims after assassination. It would be

recalled that a police orderly to the governor’s son, Nnamdi, was reportedly assassinated recently in Enugu and his gun removed from him.

He said: “Well I agree with you, this particular crime, the trend is most embarrassing, not just to the police, but to the nation.

For a CP to be killed in such a manner, to me, is quite unfortunate and the state government has decided to show the seriousness of what has happened; it has followed a pattern. What they do now is to follow and kill people with escorts; they kill and collect the gun. I think it has taken a pattern. So we are paying a ransom of N10 million to anybody that will give us information that will lead to the arrest f the culprits to show the seriousness. It’s quite embarrassing.”

Chime said his government had acquired patrol vehicles now being fitted with other security gadgets. Four days after the incident, police in Enugu had embarked on random arrests of suspected criminals in the state. The state Commissioner of Police, Tonye Ebitibituwa, in a news conference confirmed the arrest of suspected criminals from different hideouts but insisted that he would not disclose the number so far made.

Sunday Mirror however learnt that over 200 suspects are already in different police cells in the state going through interrogation. It was learnt that the Abakpa police cell in the state was already filled up while transfers are being made to the state police headquarters for alternative accommodation of the suspects. The state police commissioner equally refused to disclose the identity of the calibre of persons arrested, noting however that no innocent person would be intimidated. “It is a random arrest from criminal domains.

We will let you know as soon as it is possible,” he said.

Ebitibituwa also stated that from what the command had so far, it was difficult to explain the motive behind the assassination of the Kwara CP, adding that the driver and orderly who survived the attack are in intensive hospital care “and we’ve been talking with them to put pieces together. We don’t want to speculate yet and we don’t want to jump the gun. We have made arrests and we are intensifying,” the commissioner stated.

56

SM Extra

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

ABIODUN NEJO

Church at war over Fayemi’s donation

Q

•Members battle bishop, threaten to pull out •I have no regrets –sacked vicar

ADO EKITI

uestions are still being asked in Ekiti State and elsewhere on why what could ordinarily be settled amicably in the house of God was allowed to degenerate into protests, drumbeats of war and eventually throwing out a cleric out of service.

While some people are of the opinion that forgiveness, which is a nature of God, should have come into play in the matter, others ask whether the vicar who has taken such liberty with church funds in the interest of his congregation despite and against “official position of the bishop” deserves such high-handed treatment.

The vicar of St Paul’s Millennium Anglican Church, Odo-Owa Ekiti in the Ijero council area of Ekiti State, Rev Michael Ogunniyi, was on March 1 asked to proceed on compulsory retirement following the matters that arose from the disbursement of the N5,000,000 that Ekiti State Governor, Dr KayodeFayemi, donated to his church.

The vicar’s forcible retirement was the climax of the long drawn battle between the vicar with members of the Odo-Owa Church on one side and the Bishop of Ekiti West Anglican Diocese, Most Rev Oludare Oke, on the other.

Members of the church had, while protesting the earlier demotion of the vicar from Archdeacon to Canon over the matter, sealed off their church and prevented anybody from worshipping there as they marched to neighbouring Ijero Ekiti, the seat of the Bishop, calling on him to restore the rank of their venerable.

While it took the intervention of the Owa Ajero of Ijero to calm the frayed nerves of the church members, their leadership, under the aegis of the Provincial Church Council (PCC), had said the refusal of the bishop to restore Rev Ogunniyi’s rank would compel them to take him to court, in addition to the threat to pull out of the Ekiti-West Diocese.

Governor Fayemi, no doubt, had the interest of the growth of St Paul’s Millennium Anglican Church, OdoOwa Ekiti and the Ekiti West Anglican Diocese on mind when he donated five million to the church “for its upkeep and the promotion of the work of evangelism”.

The donation was made in January during the burial service for the former Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev Abiodun Adetiloye, in the church in the presence of eminent Nigerians, leaders of the church, including its Primate, Most Rev Nicholas Okoh, and other faithful. But little did anyone envisage that the fund would be the beginning of rumpus in the house of God as the dust raised by the fallout of the manner it was disbursed is yet to settle.

The Bishop of Ekiti West, Most Rev Oludare Oke, whose base is the Cathedral at Ijero Ekiti, had taken a position which was against the wish and aspiration of leaders and members of the Odo-Owa church when he told the vicar of the church, Rev Ogunniyi, that the donation was an endowment fund which should be kept in a fixed account and not for the church alone.

Ogunniyi, however, yielded to the position of the PCC that the fund was donated specifically for the church and should be used for its needs such as bus for evangelism and renovation of the church. The church consequently bought a new bus at the cost of N3 million, expended N1 million on renovation of the church and the remaining N1 million was kept in its account.

However, the bishop was pissed off by what the Diocesan Communicator, Emeritus Dr Kunle Olasope, and Diocesan Communicator, Prince Sola Adetule, termed “the unilateral decision of the vicar” which they said constituted disobedience to the bishop’s order. This, they said, amounted to “violation of the diocesan policy/regulation that no archdeaconry or church should incur expenses in excess of one million naira without reference and approval from the bishop”.

The contention was the purpose for which the governor gave the money to the church. While the diocese said the fund was an endowment in the name of the late Primate, the church said it was released in the name of the church, for its upkeep and evangelism. Consequent upon expending the fund by the Odo-Owa church, the

Millennium Anglican Church, Odo Owa, Ekiti

The contentious bus

bishop demoted the vicar from Archdeacon to Canon.

But church members, angered by the demotion of their vicar over working in the interest of the church, protested and sealed off the church to prevent service from holding.

The PCC members, who had said the bishop was not willing to restore the vicar’s rank despite entreaties, lamented that the demotion of the vicar had damaging effect on the status of the church because the church would no longer be regarded as the seat of archdeaconry. According to them, “the venerable did not decide what we used the money for. The governor announced the donation to St Paul Millennium Church in the presence of everyone during the burial of the late Archbishop Adetiloye. Primate Nicholas Okoh and others were there, it was not done in the secret.

“The cheque was written in the name of St Paul’s Millennium Church and it was written at the back of the cheque that it was to be used for evangelism,“ they said, adding that the money was spent for the purpose for which it was meant and that the bishop had no justification to demote the vicar.

But while the hues and cries were ongoing, the bishop alongside the board of the diocese resolved to retire the 68-year-old Rev Ogunniyi, who would have naturally retired in 2017.

According to Olasope and Adetule in a statement entitled, “N5m Governor Fayemi’s Gift – The Official Side”, the bishop had on March 1 at the Diocesan Board meeting at Ipoti Ekiti, handed over a letter of compulsory retirement with six months’ notice to the cleric.

The diocesan spokesmen had stated: “The question of Vicar Ogunniyi is strictly a matter of discipline which must be maintained if the person, position and authority of the bishop are not to be rubbished and dragged in the mud”.

Fayemi

The diocese also allayed the fear of demotion of the Odo-Owa church over the archdeaconry seat as it announced the Dean of the Cathedral, Very Rev Julius Olaosebikan, as supervisor of the church until Rev Ogunniyi would bow out.

According to the spokesmen, the diocesean board had passed vote of confidence in the bishop “for the effective way he had run the affairs of the diocese”, adding: “As for those who threaten court action at Odo-Owa, they are entitled to their rights, but the diocese will not be deterred”.

However, the embattled cleric has left no one in doubt about his loyalty to the Body of Christ and not to any mortal when he said; “My loyalty is to the church and not to the bishop. I have no regret over what happened”.

Rev Ogunniyi, while tracing the situation to the purchase of the bus, said he was compelled to expend part of the money on the purchase of the bus by the conviction that that had been the need of the church for the past 15 years.

The embattled cleric advised members of the church, who had been protesting the treatment meted out to him, to sheathe their swords, embrace peace and allow the work of evangelism continue.

Meanwhile, sources in the Odo-Owa church, who prefer anonymity, said at the weekend that members have vowed to reject the appointment of a supervisor for them in place of their vicar.

But the diocese dismissed it with a wave of the hand, saying even the vicar had accepted his fate on realising that he was wrong to have disobeyed the extant rules and regulations of the diocese.

However, events of the next few days will show whether peace had been murdered or restored in the embattled St Paul’s Millennium Anglican Church, OdoOwa Ekiti and the Ekiti West Anglican Diocese.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SOUTH SOUTH

Zonal News

Sunday March 10, 2013

‘FG Spent N10bn on schools’ instructional Nigeria, a huge potential, says US envoy materials in 2012’

IJEOMA EZEIKE UYO

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan has reiterated the commitment of his administration in providing solid and quality basic education for the Nigerian citizenry.

He spoke just as the Minister of Education, Professor Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i, disclosed that the Federal Government has in 2012 alone, invested over N10 billion in the provision of books and related instructional materials for primary and junior secondary schools.

According to her, this was to supplement similar investments directed at enhancing the quality of education in the country.

President Jonathan, who flagged off the 2013 nationwide distribution of instructional materials for Basic Education Schools in Nigeria at a ceremony

in Akwa Ibom State yesterday, said his administration would continue to accord high priority to the development education sector.

Jonathan, who was represented by the Vice President, Arc. Namadi Sambo, stressed that the issue of basic education would be addressed holistically in order to ensure that the goal of Education For All (EFA) and provisions at other levels of education are met.

He said the supply of textbooks and other instructional materials has received increasing prominence in basic education delivery approaches.

This according to him, was in line with “our effort towards quality intervention in order to achieve acceptable standard of basic education output in our dear nation”.

Jonathan said the FGN/ UBEC initiative at the basic education commenced

in 2009, and till date over 96 million books including Mathematics, English Language,Basic Science and Technology, science studies and library resource materials for junior secondary schools have been procured and distributed to public basic education institutions across the country.

He said: “The goal of this exercise is to attain the pupil to book ratio Of 1:1 in all subjects, I have been informed that with the current procurement and distribution of current materials. This ratio is been attained in the core subjects areas at the primary school level and many states of the federation.

“Our effort at national transformation will achieve the desired result only if the are predicted on the providing quality education at all levels and for the development of abundant human resources in the country.

DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

T

he United States of America (USA) has described Nigeria as a country with great potentials, one capable of becoming a great nation despite its present challenges.

Speaking during the opening of the ‘American Corner’ in Enugu, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Terence McCulley, extolled the commitment and determination of Nigerians not to be cowed by the obvious challenges facing them but resolved to explore grounds of combating the challenges.

USA, he said, believes that Nigeria’s greatest

DENNIS AGBO ENUGU

enator Gil Nnaji representing Enugu-East senatorial district, the constituency where the slain Kwara State Police Commissioner Chinwike Asadu came from, has tasked the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, to fish out the killers of Asadu “as quickly as possible.”

Nnaji who expressed dismay over the gruesome murder of Asadu said it was important that the police devise fresh methods to tame the growing rate of insecurity in the country.

Nnaji, however, ex-

pressed optimism on the ability of the police to track down the killers of the deceased Kwara CP. Nnaji’s concern came even as the members of the National Assembly from Enugu North senatorial zone who include Senator Ayogu Eze, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Hon. Patrick Asadu, lamented the killing of the CP, asking the security operatives to fish out those behind the dastardly act.

Speaking when he visited the family of the slain police commissioner at their Amorji Nike residence, less than 100 metres away from where the CP

Anambra to demolish Kidney patients seeks FG’s subsidy illegal structures

K

idney patients awaiting treatment at the dialysis unit of University of Uyo Teaching Hospital at the weekend appealed to the Federal Government to further subsidise the cost of treatment at the centre.

The patients made the appeal in Uyo when the National Good Governance Tour team visited the hospital in continuation of the tour of projects in Akwa Ibom.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Federal Ministry of Health recently reduced the cost of kidney dialysis at the hospi-

tal from N25, 000 to N15, 000 per session.

The Chief Nursing Officer at the unit, Mrs Nyeneime Ibanga, said on behalf of the patients that many still found it difficult to pay for dialysis at the hospital.

The patients said that the state and the Federal Government should collaborate to make the treatment free as obtained in some states of the federation.

In his response, the Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku, said the Federal Government had done a lot to subsidise treatments

in its health care facilities.

He assured the patients that the Good Governance team would take the message to the Federal Ministry of Health for consideration.

Maku said that the Federal Government was committed to the development of health care delivery system and would always provide for the needs of the people.

He announced that the hospital was among health institutions that would benefit from the Federal Government’s 2013 programme on upgrading of tertiary health institutions.

SOUTH EAST

very delighted to be in Enugu; we are very happy to have re-opened American Corner in Enugu State in the south-East. It’s very important for America to have a venue like this, where people can come and learn about the Americans; where there can be exchanges, where students can come and learn how to study in the United States.

“As I said earlier, Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people, diversity, energy, the vitality of Nigerians who are anxious to deepen and broaden their relationship with the United States. Nigeria should know that they have a great friend and partner in the United States.

Asadu: Sen Nnaji tasks IGP to fish out killers S

L-R: Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bassey Antai; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Umana Okon Umana and Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, at a 290-bed specialist hospital under construction in Ekit-Itam 1, New Uyo, during the Good Governance Tour of Akwa Ibom State on Friday.

PHOTO: NAN

asset was not just about its abundant mineral resources, precisely oil deposits, but also its diversity, its population as well as the energy and vitality of the people of the country.

It said that if Nigeria is able to surmount its prevailing challenges, “it will rock the world.”

He reaffirmed the commitment of the US government to broadening its relationship with Nigeria in several ways, noting that the establishment of 11 American corners across various geopolitical zones of the country was a significant signal to show US’ engagement and commitment to the Nigerian people.

McCulley said: “I am

57

T

he Anambra State Government is to commence demolition of parimeter fencing and other illegal structures obstructing the on-going construction of Sacamori Drains at Housing Estate, Fegge, Onitsha.

Governor Peter Obi who announced this when he accompanied the President’s Technical Team on Ecological Projects in the SouthEast, Engr Emeka Ezeh, on inspection of the project, said the exercise would start after one week’s grace beginning from tomorrow.

Governor Obi who was

speaking at Boundary Road Housing Estate, regretted that the entire water channel had been blocked with structures, resulting in persistent flooding of the area.

He explained that removing the illegal structures would pave the way for proper reconstruction of the drain and provision of adequate setback tracks to protect the project.

The governor who interacted with some of the residents of the area during the exercise, directed the Transition Committee Chairman, Onitsha South, Mr. Ugochukwu

was assassinated last Saturday, Nnaji who is also the chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications said already, the National Assembly has asked the Police IG to find the CP’s killers.

He said that though the country had been experiencing some level of insecurity occasioned by the activities of the Boko Haram Islamic group in some parts of the North, and that of kidnappers in some parts of the South-East and South-South zones, the killing of the CP clearly showed that the situation was assuming a more frightening dimension.

Ezeani, to give them written notice, stressing that government was taking all necessary measures to protect Onitsha from being flooded.

At Silas Works, the governor ordered a work-stop on a petrol filling station under construction and directed its removal from the area as it imposes serious environmental hazards.

He regretted that after government had expanded huge resources to recover the area from water and waste, people have now started activities that are posing threats to lives.

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Zonal News

SOUTH WEST

Sunday March 10, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Graft: Melaye gives Reps Seven in race to 14- day ultimatum to become Iwo monarch probe Orubebe

ADEOLU ADEYEMO OSOGBO

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wo weeks after the late Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Ashiru Olatunbosun gave up the ghost; about seven princes from three different ruling houses in the town have signified their intention to occupy the vacant stool.

Sunday Mirror investigations revealed that the said princes who are keenly interested in the vacant seat are now going round the nooks and crannies of the state and outside to influence their occupancy of the position.

It was gathered that these princes have sent emissaries to those who are in good relationship with the kingmakers of the town while efforts are also being intensified to reach who-is-who in the state to make them occupy the vacant seat.

They have already followed some processes expected of them as they have signified their intention through written documents submitted to the head of their ruling houses while other traditional rules to follow by them were said to have been observed.

Sources at the Oluwo palace disclosed that “the contestants for the stool of Oluwo from the Adagunodo ruling house include Princes Adio Azees Moranroola, an industrialist based in Lagos and Isiaka Azees, an Account Officer with the Local Government Service Commission. The Ogunmakinde ruling house has Princes Lekan Lamuye, a retired secondary School teacher, jabar Kola, former Bursar of the state Polytechnic, Iree and Gbolagade Alagbe, the Provost College of Science and Engineering

of the state University, Osogbo”.

Meanwhile, a group of Iwo indigenes under the aegis of Iwo Elites have been agitating for the choice of the candidature of Professor Gbolagade.

According to them, he is a straightforward person, an embodiment of humility, and has leadership quality.

“The choice of Gbolagade is also born out of his genuine love for the town and his contributions to the growth and physical development of the town.

“Prince Gbolagade Alagbe, who is a Professor of Mathematics at UNIOSUN, is the favourite of all the elite and people in the town considering his status as a university professor and a community leader, who has contributed significantly to the development of the town,” the group said.

OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

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group under the aegis of Anti-Corruption Network on Saturday issued a 14day ultimatum to the House of Representatives to begin investigation into the alleged corruption made against the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godson Orubebe.

The civil rights group also threatened legal action should the House refuse to act on it.

It will be recalled that the House of Representatives had on November 29, 2012 ordered an investigation into a “multibillion naira” mansion allegedly belong to Orubebe.

The property, located at Mabushi in the Federal Capital Territory, was said to have been built for the minister by a construction firm, SETRACO. The committees on AntiCorruption, Drugs/Narcotics/Financial Crimes and Justice were directed to conduct the investigation within 21 days and produce a report.

However, in a statement issued by the Executive Secretary of Anti-Corruption Network, Mr. Dino Melaye, the group regretted that almost four months after the expiration of the timeframe for the commencement of investigation; nothing had been done, fueling speculations that the legislators may have been compromised.

“We are surprised that despite all evidence and exposition of the corruption perpetrated by Diezani Alison Madueke and Godson Orubebe, Ministers of Petroleum Resources and Niger Delta Affairs respectively, it is a shame that these two and many more still sit comfortably every Wednesday at the Federal Executive Council Meetings under the watchful eyes of an unperturbed President Goodluck Jonathan.

“We recall that the House of Representatives over four months ago passed a resolution to investigate the corruption charges on Godson

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Orubebe. The House went further to set up a Committee to probe these corruption allegations against him. Surprisingly, the said Committees-Petroleum Downstream and Anti-Corruption in the House are yet to either sit or invite Orubebe.

“We see this as a serious compromise against the spirit of that resolution as deposited in the vote and proceedings of the House. We are therefore calling on the House of Representatives and indeed, the Committees to, within 14 days invite Orubebe and other stakeholders in this matter or face a legal action from the Anti-Corruption Network.

“We also use this opportunity to once again tell Mr. President that the continuous stay as Ministers of both Alison-Madueke and Orubebe, is not only a disgrace to the government and people of Nigeria but also a confirmation that Mr. President condoles corruption,” he said.

Lagosians express joy over Saturday operation

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L-R: Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti; Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Najeem Salam; Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Taiwo Kolawole; Sen. Mudashir Hussain and others, during the 10th Edition of Walk to Live Exercise for Heathly Living in Ede zone, yesterday.

Ekiti ALGON assures Fayemi of loyalty F ollowing the inauguration of the new leadership of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) in Ekiti State, the chairman of the newly inaugurated association, Dr Adio Folayan, who is also the chairman of Efon Alaaye Local Government, has promised “100 percent loyalty” of the new leadership of the ALGON to Governor Kayode Fayemi.

The new ALGON chairman in a statement signed by the Special Assistant on ALGON Affairs to the

governor, Mr Gbenga Sodeinde, expressed appreciation to the governor for approving the new leadership of the association, saying the eight-point agenda of the state government would be the priority of the association.

“We know that the local government is closer to the people and that is where poverty is biting the people; we are assuring Mr. Governor that we will do everything not to disappoint him and we will join hands with him to develop the state,” Dr

Afolayan assured.

Earlier, the state’s Commissioner for Local Government, Mr Paul Omotosho, had charged the new ALGON executive members to shun actions that are contrary to the principles of transparency and accountability of the Fayemi administration, saying the governor must have seen some good leadership qualities in them before approving their appointment.

He urged them to strive and use their new offices to deepen the credibility of the administration.

or the second Saturday running, more residents of Lagos yesterday came out to enjoy the services being provided by four pilot agencies of the State Government, with many of them expressing their appreciation to the state government for the novel initiative.

Speaking with newsmen at the Vehicle Inspection Service office at Ojodu where he had come to collect the new number plate for his wife’s vehicle, Barrister Oyewole Olorode said he is impressed with the development which will allow his wife take her new vehicle to church on Sunday.

He added that he applied for a new number plate from the Motor Vehicle Administration on Thursday and was told that it would be ready after 48 hours, adding that when he learnt that some agencies do operate on Saturday, he decided to try his luck and was very happy to discover that not only were staff at their duty posts, the number plate was ready for collection.

Also speaking with newsmen after being attended to at the Directorate of Lands Regularisation at the Lands Bureau, one Bar-

rister Morenikeji Saliu said he was there to follow up on an application for consent by his client. He explained that on learning of the new development on Thursday, he immediately called the officer in charge to confirm if he would indeed be at work on Saturday who answered in the affirmative.

According to Barrister Saliu, the provision of Saturday skeletal work by the agencies is commendable because it would afford opportunity for several people who could not find the time during the week to enjoy the services of the state government. Several other people who spoke to newsmen including Mr Abdulazeez Adebayo who was waiting for his driver who was arrested on Friday for not obtaining the new drivers license and currently undergoing training test, commended the State Government for providing the people with the Saturday option.

Mr Adebayo who admitted that from what he has observed, it is better for anyone seeking to obtain the drivers license to go through the normal channel, gave kudos to the State Government for the initiative.

At the Electronic Cer-

tificate of Occupancy processing desk at the Lands Bureau, the State Government monitoring team led by the Head of Service, Prince Adesegun Ogunlewe and Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Lateef Ibirogba and including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Mr Hakeem Bello and Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mr Fariudeen Akodu was told by one of the officers at work, Mrs Idayat Egbeyemi that several applications have been verified for the Electronic C of Os and inputted.

At the Vehicle Inspection Service Office at Ojodu, Engineer Johnson Akinola who conducted the team around said a large number of people have also come around to undergo the drivers license tests which include both sight test and written test for drivers.One of the drivers who was undertaking the written test for obtaining the new drivers license, Mr Tiamiyu Musibau while speaking with newsmen, expressed his delight that the VIS office was opened on Saturday, saying it would also quicken the process of obtaining drivers licence.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Sunday March 10, 2013

Maternal mortality rate has dropped, says NAFDAC seeks govt’s support at grassroots Minister

he Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, has said that the maternal mortality rate in Nigeria dropped from 704 per 100,000 live births in 1990 to 487 per 100,000 live births in 2011.

The minister spoke in Sokoto at the weekend during the inauguration of Kwannawa Primary Health Centre (PHC) to symbolise the inauguration of 230 such projects executed by Sokoto State Government.

The minister said there was also a decline in the mortality rate of children aged below five years to 141 per 1000 in 2011.

He said that the progress toward improving ma-

ternal and child health in realisation of MDGs 4 and 5 could not be sustained without giving primary healthcare the attention it deserved.

“Although we have made remarkable progress towards improving our maternal and child health indices, more still needs to be done to ensure the achievement of the MDGs by 2015,” Chukwu said.

The minister said that routine immunization, attendance at birth and antenatal care were major interventions necessary for improving maternal and child survival.

He said that the PHCs would bring healthcare

closer to the people.

The minister used the occasion to launch the use of 56,823 doses of Chlorhexidine gluconate and 56,832 doses of Misoprostol for infant and maternal care.

Chlorhexidine protects newborns from cord-related infections, while Misoprostol prevents postpartum hemorrhage after birth.

In his address, Gov. Aliyu Wamakko said that the centres had been fully equipped, staffed and provided drugs to function effectively, adding that each would be provided an ambulance.

He said communitybased committees were set up to run the affairs of the 230 health centres.

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he National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has called on state governments to support its effort at policing the grassroots to curtail the sale of unwholesome products.

This is contained in a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja.

The statement said that the agency’s Director General, Dr Paul Orhii, made the call at a one-day stakeholders meeting in Gombe.

It did not say when the meeting took place.

Orhii called on state governments across the federation to support the agency’s effort by estab-

lishing NAFDAC local government desks.

He commended the Gombe State Government for establishing NAFDAC desks in eight of its local government areas and urged the administration to do same in the remaining three local government areas.

“The agency is desirous of ensuring that Gombe State enjoys wholesome food and drugs,” he said, and called on the government and individuals in the state to set up industries under NAFDAC guidance.

The statement quoted the Gombe State Deputy Governor, Mr Tha’anda Rubainu, as commending the agency’s effort in policing food and

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drug markets in the state.

Rubainu called on the Federal Government to partner with manufacturers to ensure that basic products were genuinely produced in the country under NAFDAC’s supervisor.

The statement said that stakeholders at the meeting commended the agency’s efforts at nurturing businesses to ensure that standards were maintained.

Present at the meeting were representatives of the Association of Master Bakers, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Standard Organisation of Nigeria.

27 Kano prison inmates receive training

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he Legal Aid Council, Kano State Office, and Northern Nigeria Flour Mills have sponsored skills training for 27 inmates of Kano Prison preparatory to their release.

The Kano State Coordinator of the council, Alhaji Abubakar Umar, said in Kano yesterday that the inmates were trained in baking and textile technology, known as tie and dye. ‘’We are trying to make

sure that inmates are trained in various trades to enable them be self-reliant after reuniting with their families. ‘’The council is also making effort to see that the state government gives the trainees capital to start their own businesses when they return home,’’ Umar He said that the council was collaborating with Nigeria Bar Association, Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria and other

NGOs, to effect release of inmates, who had stayed many years in prison without trial.

He said the collaboration was also aimed at improving the condition of prisoners in addition to decongesting the prisons. ‘’We pay frequent visits to prisons in the state and this is giving us the opportunity to discuss with inmates and see their conditions,’’ Umar said.

‘There’ll be no more quack teachers in five years’

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he Registrar, Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), Prof.

Addison-Mark Wokocha at the weekend said that the problem of quacks and unqualified teachers in the country would be tackled within the next five years.

Wokocha made said this during the closing ceremony of the two-week training programme for science and mathematics teachers organised by the National Teachers’s Institute (NTI), in Kaduna.

He said that the continued engagement of unqualified teachers had impacted negatively on the education sector and needed to be addressed urgently.

The registrar, represented by the TRC Director of

Professional Operations, Dr. Steven Nwokeocha, said the council had adopted measures to ensure that only licenced teachers were allowed to teach.

“We are looking at the next five years, you will not see any teacher that has left the teacher training institutions without been registratered or inducted directly into the TRCN. ``That will foreclose the possibility of quacks.”

He said part of the measures adopted was the sensitisation of stakeholders on the dangers of employing unqualified teachers.

Wakocha added that the council had also expanded access to professional training for teachers through capacity building programmes, as well as

the accreditation of teachers programmes in educational institutions. “ We have written to all teacher training institutions that they must work with us before they graduate any teacher, because any teacher that is not sent to us directly from the institution will have difficulty in registration.” ``Those that had already graduated before we started professional qualifying examinations will show us their certificates, undergo serious screening and sit for an examination before we register them.”

He disclosed that over 50 per cent of the 55,000 teachers that sat for the professional examination conducted by the TRC in 2008 failed.

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan; Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima; elder statesman, Alhaji Shettima Ali Monguno; former Governor, Sen. Ali Modu Sherif; Deputy Governor, Alhaji Zanna Mustapha; Minister of State for Agriculture, Alhaji Bukar Tijani and Minister of State for Finance, Alhaji Yerima Ngama, at a town hall meeting during the visit of President Goodluck Jonathan in Maiduguri on Friday. PHOTO: NAN

Bauchi evolves new health policy B

auchi state commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Abubakar has said that the state would soon come out with a comprehensive staff development programme which is not only implementable but that could be improved upon.

Bauchi state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Abubakar Malami has revealed that there are today 826 young men and women on the payroll of the state government who are undergoing training in various medical fields in institutions of learning both within and outside the country.

Dr. Sami Malami expressed optimism that the young men and women would after graduation from their various institutions return home and join

the state health system.

The Commissioner was speaking at a reception for 30 Bauchi state indigenous medical doctors who graduated from various institutions of learning who were back home to join the health sector of the state.

Malami told the medical doctors whose reception he personally organised that their appointment into the health services of the state government is automatic, as staff development programme which has been stagnated will now be reinvigorated.

He explained that the Ministry of Health in the state would soon come out with a comprehensive staff development programme which is not only implementable but that could be improved upon.

Dr. Sani Malami who warned the newly graduated doctors against indiscipline in the system, noted that indiscipline has permeated into almost all strata of the Nigerian society.

“This is a nation where doctors are indiscipline, teachers are indiscipline, police are indiscipline, farmers are indiscipline, nurses are indiscipline, solders are indiscipline, even the cooks in your own house are indiscipline, our demands are indiscipline, what kind of nation is this”, he queried.

Malami, while noticing that the level of indiscipline in the country has reached an unacceptable level, said that the nation will not reach its heights if doctors continued on the path of destruction.

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Zonal News

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Emenogu set to P. 61 defend title in Nigeria

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KEEPING YOU ABREAST OF SPORTING NEWS

AYAC: AFN invites 80 athletes for camping P. 61

March 10, 2013

FA Cup

EURO BRIEFS Neymar is Barca bound – Carlos

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ormer Brazil international Roberto Carlos believes Santos star Neymar is destined to join Barcelona at some point in the future. He however dismissed suggestions that Neymar who has a contract with Santos until the summer of 2014 is compatible with Lionel Messi.

Neymar

Milner misses Balotelli’s madness

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Chelsea FC line up before a match.

Ivanovic demands improvement against Red Devils

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helsea defender Branislav Ivanovic admits he and his team-mates need to take a ‘look in the mirror’ and realise they are not doing their jobs, and subsequently had demanded the improvement of the team as they confront Manchester United in today’s FA Cup cracker.

The Serb has pulled no punches in his analysis of Chelsea’s season so far, which is in danger of floundering.

The Blues, who have dropped to fourth in the Premier League, were the first holders ever to go out in the group stages of the Champions League and their campaign is showing few signs of improvement.

They lost at Steaua Bucharest in the opening leg of their Europa League clash on Thursday, and as they travel to Manchester United in the last eight of the FA Cup today - Ivanovic says a big improvement is needed.

Ivanovic said: “We have to be honest with each other.

We have to look in the mirror. A lot of things are not going how we would like.

“We are not playing at the level we know we can.

If we are realistic this has become normal. We have to change it quickly, because games are passing us by.

“Time is running out.

And if we want to change things we have to show more character and fight-

Eagles’ invitation excites Ogu P. 61

ing spirit.

“This team was in the same situation last year and we finished well. We have to be strong, stay together and try to finish the season at the highest level because from now on

Balotelli

Nasri to fight for future

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every game is going to be harder and harder.

“There are a lot of reasons why things have gone wrong but now is not the time to work out why, not the time to look behind us.

We have to look forward.”

amir Nasri’s agent insists that he will fight for his future at Manchester City. The 25-year-old French international has been far from his best this season and has started just half of City’s Premier League games.

aris Saint-Germain president Nasser al-Khelaifi expects Coach Carlo Ancelotti and sporting director Leonardo to remain at the club next season after praising the work of both men.

Speculation continues around the big-spending Ligue 1 leaders with the likes of Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger linked to the club, while Leonardo was tipped to head back to Italy after reports claimed the Qatari ownership were happy to see him go.

But the club’s president said the owners were happy with the progress they have seen.

Asked about Ancelotti’s future, he said: “If he wants to stay, he will still be here.

He has done an excellent job.

This has sometimes been difficult because he is under pressure, as in all professions, but he is doing well.

“Carlo is one of the best coaches in the world, if not the best. I think he will continue, but at the end of the season we will assess everything.”

Football, my life!

P. 62, 63

Nasri

Montolivo relishing Barca Test

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PSG president hails Ancelotti

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anchester City midfielder James Milner has revealed that he misses former team-mate Mario Balotelli’s presence at the club. The 22-yearold brought an end to his headline-grabbing stint in the Premier League in January by sealing a 22 million-pound return to his homeland with AC Milan.

Montolivo

C Milan midfielder Riccardo Montolivo is eagerly anticipating Tuesday’s Champions League round-of-16 second leg game against Barcelona. The Serie A giants recorded a 2-0 win in the first leg at San Siro, but the midfielder is not convinced that his side have one foot in the quarter-finals.

Redknapp: No financial crisis in QPR

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ueens Park Rangers boss Harry Redknapp insists that there will be no financial meltdown at the club, even if they are relegated. QPR’s owners have splashed the cash in a bid to stay among the elite yet have spent the majority of the club’s return to the top-flight looking up from the bottom of the league.

Redknapp

Laudrup commits to Swansea

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Laudrup

ichael Laudrup has signed a one-year contract extension that will keep him at Swansea until the summer of 2015. Laudrup has made a huge impact since taking over the reins at the Liberty Stadium in the summer.

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Knockout IFEANYI Eduzor with

08055829770 ifeduz24@yahoo.com

Emenogu set to defend title in Nigeria W BO International light middleweight champion, King Davidson Emenogu says he is planning to stage his next title defense in Nigeria to enable his fans have an opportunity of watching him display his boxing prowess.

Emenogu last Saturday defeated Russia’s Andrejs Iodinovs by knockout in the fifth round to retain his World Boxing Organization (WBO) International light middleweight title in Southampton, London.

According to him, staging his next fight in his native country, Nigeria, will give him an opportunity of showcasing his talents to his country men who have not had the

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Sunday March 10, 2013

opportunity of watching a world title fight for many years now.

“I have always been staging my fights outside Nigeria since I turned professional.

“I had represented Nigeria at the amateur level and as we all know, there is no place like home. So I am working towards having my next fight in Nigeria later in the year,” the Australianbased boxer said.

Aside the WBO title, Emenogu also holds other titles which includes the IBF, Pan Pacific Youth Light-middleweight, Australian Lightmiddleweight, and Pan Asia Boxing Association titles.

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Eagles’ invitation excites Ogu SAYO OGUNDEJI

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cadémica de Coimbra of Portugal midfielder and new Super Eagles invitee, John Ogu, has expressed his happiness over his invitation to the national senior team led

by Coach Stephen Keshi.

Keshi had on Thursday released the names of foreign professionals to join the home-based players who are expected to hit camp today ahead of the important world cup qualifier against Kenya slated for Calabar on March 23.

Surprisingly, Keshi handed the former Starlet FC of Lagos his first international call up and the 24-year-old midfielder

promises to deliver when given the opportunity.

“It has been my dream to play for my country and I am excited to have been given the honour to be part of the national team. I hope to do my best to justify the confidence reposed in me by the coach of the team,” the lanky midfielder said.

Meanwhile, Flying Eagles striker, Christian Pyagbara says his intention is to help the team retain this year’s Africa Youth Championship (AYC) in Algeria, adding that winning the top scorers’ award will make him a fulfilled player.

The Flying Eagles are in Group B alongside Mali, Congo DR and Gabon and will kick start their title defence against Mali on March 17.

Ogu

Boamah rues Oyo Bankers Cup final loss AYAC: AFN A E invites 80 athletes for camping NDREW

KEJIUBA

A Emenogu

Babalola calls for regular boxing tourneys A boxing coach, Abiodun Babalola has advised Nigeria Amateur Boxing Federation to organize regular boxing championships to keep pugilists in shape ahead of the next Commonwealth Games scheduled for Glasgow, Scotland in 2014.

In an interview with our correspondent, he noted that early preparation of pugilists will enable the country avoid the misfortune of London 2012 Olympics

where the country’s fighters failed to go beyond the first stage of the competition.

“There is no way the country’s boxers can post a good performance at the international level when regular tournaments are not organized to keep them in shape ahead of such championships.

“Regular tournaments are necessary because through them, new champions can emerge while hidden talents could also be discovered,” he said.

Sangotokun wants overseas training for boxing refs, judges

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boxing referee, Joseph Sangotokun, has advocated for the exposure of referees and judges to overseas training to improve their standard of officiating.

Sangotokun made the recommendation in Lagos against the backdrop of complaints of bad officiating in boxing bouts.

He noted that there had been occasions when bad officiating created acrimony at boxing bouts, adding that knowing the rules would guide referees and make the job less cumbersome.

According to Sangotokun,

who is also the Chairman, Lagos State Chapter of Nigeria Boxing Referees and Judges Association, referees often take vital decisions during boxing bouts.

He said the rules of boxing were not static, adding that training would help referees and judges to update their knowledge of current trends in the sport.

“Understanding the rules of boxing is key to the development of the sport, especially foreign training that will enable them to gain more experience to improve officiating in the sport,” Sangotokun said.

yodele Boamah the second son of former Shooting Stars Ghanaian player and Coach, Philip Boamah, who captained Guaranty Trust Bank to win silver at the recently concluded Oyo State Bankers’ Invitational Soccer Tourney, has commended the fighting spirit displayed by members of his team in the final match where they lost on penalty to Skye Bank.

Boamah who attributed their loss to ill-luck said his team came into the game with determination to lift the trophy, but the penalty shootout that earned them a final berth against UBA in their semifinal match was not favorable to them in the final.

He however, congratulated the Skye Warriors for winning the cup backto-back but warned them to prepare for a stiffer challenge when the 2013 edition gets underway.

Speaking to Sunday

Mirror after the game, General Manager Southwest of Skye Bank, Ayodele Abina, described the victory as heart-warming.

“Skye Bank victory today is not surprising from the fact that the boys were highly motivated and were determined to lift the cup again. “ The managing Director of the Bank is fully aware of this victory and I promise the boys will be highly rewarded for this victory,” Abina said.

Oduduru wins 100m at Olukoya meet D ivine Oduduru, the 100m event champion at the Dr D. K. Olukoya U-18 Athletics Championships in Lagos, has expressed his willingness to represent the country in international meets.

Oduduru, who is from Delta, stated this in an interview at the end of the championship yesterday.

The champion won the event at 10:51 sec to beat Ismaila Yusuf from Ekiti State to the second position at 10:61sec and Charles Okezie, from Delta, to the third position at 10:83sec.

According to Oduduru, the championship had opened his eyes for future challenges and had also improved his desire to represent the country at international events.

In the female category, Cecilia Francis of G-TO club

was first at 11:87sec, Brume Eze of Delta, second at 11:96sec and Oluwatobi Amusan of Buka Club at 12:02sec.

In the 800m male, Obinna Ukaegbu, from Abia, was first at 1:59:35sec while Saka Sanusi came second at 2:00:17sec.

IDFA to organise grassroots football tourney IFEANYI EDUZOR

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rrangements have been concluded by the Ikeja Divisional Football Association of Lagos State to commence a monthly grassroots football development programme aimed at discovering talents in the state.

According to a statement by the organizers of the programme, signed by its secretary, Akeem Okikiopusu, and made available to our correspondent, the programme is slated to kick off on March

15- April 15, in all the 23 council areas under its jurisdiction, even as it noted that only players born after March, 15, 2000 are eligible to participate in the month long programme.

The organizers however appealed to corporate organizations and public spirited individuals to partner it in developing grassroots football in Ikeja division. They noted that the month- long cadet soccer tournament will be held at Opebi Primary School, along Allen Avenue, Ikeja.

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he Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) says it will invite no fewer than 80 athletes to camp for the African Athletic Youth Championships (AYAC).

Navy Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, AFN technical director, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Nesiama said that the AYAC would be hosted by Nigeria in Warri, Delta, from March 27 to April 3 and added that the camp would open on March 12 at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers.

“We will be calling 80 athletes comprising 40 males and 40 females.

“The invited athletes will resume camping by March 12 at the High Performance Centre at the University of Port Harcourt,” he said.

He said the talents would be invited from the Olukoya championships and two other previously held tournaments.

The others, he said, were the just-ended Premier Lotto Athletics Secondary School Championships and the recently-held All Nigeria Secondary School Championships n Lagos.

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Football, my life!

•Former Lagos State FA boss opens up on his football career

Hon. Taiwo Afinnih was a former player with the National Bank FC and Stationary Stores Football Club of Lagos before hanging his boots. He later became the chairman of Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State, as well as former chairman of the Lagos State Football Association. Presently he is the chairman of Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter.

In this interview with IFEANYI EDUZOR, he recalls his experiences as an ex-footballer, his plans for Lagos State YSFON. Excerpts:

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an you tell us how you became a footballer and share with us your experiences while playing the

game?

I started playing football as an under-13 footballer in 1973, and represented Lagos in the first ever National Sports Festival that was organized in this country. The event was hosted by Lagos State in 1973.

Later in life, I became chairman of Lagos State Football Association where I left a laudable mark and from there I became the chairman of Ajeromi/Ifelodun Local Government Area.

During my tenure as the Local Government chairman, I changed the name of Ajegunle to “Jolly City”, because I embarked on a lot grassroots football development in the area as well as initiated and completed some laudable projects that changed the face of the town.

Having said this, when I was growing up as a child, there was a playing field opposite my parent’s house known as Obalande Playing Ground where we do play football and it is still there till today. Although some people have turned it into a motor park, but Lagos State Government is trying to make it a recreational centre.

When I was attending Ansar-Ud-Deen Primary School, we often branch into some small outlets to play football. Sometimes, we use our school uniforms, bags and sandals as goal posts and my parents will beat me at home, but that did not prevent me from going back there the next minute to play football. I thank God that today the game gave me fame and respect all over the country and even beyond.

You played for Stationary Stores of Lagos and many other great teams in the country, can you recall some of your experiences as a player of the once Lagos darling club?

Playing for Stationary Stores was a dream come true for any Lagosian because apart from the club being a household name in the country, it had a large followership in the state. Before I joined Stores, I was playing for National Bank Football Club of Lagos, however, your question made me remember a lot of good things that happened when I was playing for the team. Prior to that time, I had to play a match against Stores and Pe-

ter Rufai was in goal for the team. It was a great experience for me because, I scored against him. As at that time, many Lagos fans believed that Rufai was invincible in goal and that once he is manning the post, you can’t score him and I did the magic for National Bank and it was a fantastic game played on a beautiful afternoon in Lagos. I believe that achievement contributed to the management of Stationary Stores wooing me to the club and I have no regrets playing for such a big team.

Which of your matches do you still regard as you’re most memorable as a player?

One of the most memorable matches I ever played in my life was a match against Stationary Stores which was an Oba Cup encounter. As at that time, Stores boosts of so many great players like Haruna Ilerika, Yomi Peters and so many others with Peter Fregene as their goal keeper.

National Bank were a young side comprising of myself and other great players such as the Olukanmi brothers; Segun and Femi, Paul Okoku and a lot of other young stars. It will interest you to know that we were in school as at that time. In fact we were drafted from school to play for National Bank. So, it was a fantastic game that day with the stadium full to capacity. I scored the first goal in that match which has remained indelible in my life.

As at that time, we use to wear a sporting outfit called “Jug Star”, and that was what I was putting on that day. Immediately, I scored the goal, I had to pull down my pant with all the fans laughing and hailing me because it was a fantastic goal coupled with the fact that it was not easy to score against Stores in Lagos. The goal made me to be very happy and each time I remember it, I feel fulfilled.

Casting your mind back to your playing days, can you remember some of the great players you played along with?

Well, I have just mentioned some few names like the late Haruna Ilerika, Yomi Peters, Paul Okoku, Gbenga Akinlotan, Peter Fregene, Segun and Femi Olukanmi , Godwin Odiye and a host of others whom I cannot remember all their names now.

You know as at that time there were

Afinnih

MY ADVICE TO YOUNG FOOTBALLERS IS THAT THEY SHOULD TAKE THEIR TRAINING SERIOUS AND AVOID THOSE VICES LIKE DRINKING AND SMOKING, ESPECIAL-

LY INDIAN HEMP BECAUSE IT IS CAPABLE OF AFFECTING THEIR PERFORMANCE AND EVEN CUTTING SHORT THEIR PLAYING LIFE. a lot of young stars who made the Nigerian league to look tough. We also had great players in such club sides like IICC Shooting Stars of Ibadan, Rangers International of Enugu, New Nigerian Bank of Benin, P&T Vasco Dagama of Enugu, Raccah Rovers of Kano, Mighty Jets of Jos, Rovers of Calabar, Sharks of Port Harcourt, Water Corporation of Akure and a host of others.

During your playing days, Nigerian league attracted a lot of followership, but suddenly the reverse became the case; what do you think contributed to the present situation?

The first thing I have to tell you is that the present players are not giving their best to the spectators, unlike in our days when you have numerous names that were toasts of the fans. As at that time, before a fan comes to the stadium, he will be boosting that he wants to go and watch Taiwo Afinnih, Segun Olukanmi, Godwin Odiye and others. Then there were a lot of names that you want to go to the stadium to watch, and by the time you leave the stadium, you will be satisfied that those players gave a good account of themselves. But unfortunately, now the names are no longer there.

You should also remember that as at that time, a lot of us were still students and playing for Division 1 club sides and then our commitment was 100%. We really enjoyed football as at that time, though we were not being paid salaries.

As the former chairman of Lagos State Football Association can you share with us the most challenging problem you experienced during your tenure?

I must confess to you that finance was the greatest challenge we faced as board members of Lagos FA. Also the needed cooperation of Lagos state Government was not there as at that time.

You are quite aware that football development requires a lot of funding and without adequate funding, there is little you can do and this served as the greatest challenge we faced during my tenure.

With your experience as a former FA chairman in Lagos, what do you think contributed to Lagos State not having any team in the Nigeria Premier League as against the past when clubs flourished here?

You are correct to say that Lagos was formerly leading other states in the number of teams at the elite division. I could remember in those days when we had such teams as Stationary Stores, Julius Berger, ACB, NEPA and Niger Dock, all in the elite league. But now the environment is no longer conducive for such.

When you go to teams in Lagos advising them on what to do to regain their lost glory, they will tell you they do not have the money to buy quality players or even take care of the welfare of the few players in their fold and that the state government should bankroll them.

The state government on the other CONTINUED ON PAGE 63

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday March 10, 2013

Football, my life!

CONTINUED FROM 62 hand, will tell them to source for funds elsewhere. Corporate organisations that do their business in Lagos State are also not helping matters because in other countries of the world most club sides are being sponsored by corporate organizations. So, these are some of the challenges we are having in the state and I think something serious should be done urgently about the ugly situation to make football take its rightful position, not only in Lagos but the entire country.

During your tenure as Lagos FA chairman, there were a lot of in-fighting among the board members. What led to the ugly situation and how were you able to manage the situation?

I played the game at the highest level, administered it and understand a lot of antics in the game, but the most important thing is that when you bring in people that are not interested in developing the game, it becomes a problem.

Aside the aforementioned, this category of people will be doing everything not only to pull you down, but to tarnish your image. Having said this, I am grateful to God that with the assistance of many Lagosians, I was able to achieve a lot as Lagos FA chairman.

You are now the chairman of Lagos State Chapter of the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria, can you tell us some of the programmes you have in place to reposition the association?

Everybody in this country knows that YSFON is a very good organisation and the pioneer grassroots football development agency in this country. When you look at the number of players that has been produced through the numerous YSFON-organised tournaments, you will have no option than to appreciate the organisation.

Having said this I want to tell you that Lagos State YSFON is starting from the scratch. As I am talking to you now, the Federation does not have any money, but

by God’s grace we are going to surmount the problem.

Presently we have started the process of reviving some competitions that made Lagos YSFON thick and in order to achieve positive results, we are also reaching out to some corporate organisations and philanthropic individuals on the need to revive the Federation. I want to use this opportunity to appeal to corporate Lagos to partner with Lagos YSFON and sponsor some of their tournaments to enable us achieve the dream of re-positioning Lagos YSFON. When we talk of reviving YSFON, we are not talking of football alone because we are for all sports. As the name connotes, it is Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria and not Youth Football Federation of Nigeria. We are for the development of all sports, be it football, athletics, tennis, table tennis, swimming, basketball or squash.

In doing this, we are going to concentrate on athletes whose ages falls within 12 and 18 years for both boys and girls because that is where you can catch them young.

So, I am appealing to corporate organiza-

I PLAYED THE GAME AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL, ADMINISTERED IT AND UNDERSTAND A LOT OF ANTICS IN THE GAME, BUT THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS THAT WHEN YOU BRING IN PEOPLE THAT ARE NOT INTERESTED IN DEVELOPING THE GAME, IT BECOMES A PROBLEM. tions in Lagos State, Lagos State Government and all the Local Government Areas to help YSFON financially in this regard.

What efforts is your Federation making to discourage age cheats in your competitions?

Like I said earlier, I started as an U-13 player which helped me a lot in life. I will never encourage cheating in anything I do for Lagos YSFON or in Nigeria generally. Cheating or age falsification has created a lot of problems for our players.

It is morally wrong for you to allow an 18-year-old man to play in U-13, 14 or 15 championships because by the time he is expected to be at his peak, he will be worn out and will not get to the pinnacle of his profession. So, the best thing for every coach or manager is to make sure their players understand that they are not helping their career by cheating.

Always ensure you use the normal age because if you do otherwise, it will later boomerang and that is what YSFON is trying to avoid in all their tournaments.

The Oba Cup will be coming up very soon in Benin City, what efforts is Lagos YSFON making to ensure the state is fully represented at that tournament?

We at Lagos State YSFON have started work in earnest to ensure we present a formidable team to represent the state in that tournament which is organized annually to honour the Oba of Benin. We will soon start our competition in Lagos to select the best team that will represent the state. The whole process will be transparent and we will be very strict on the screening of the players because we want to present a formidable team in Benin City.

As a former footballer, what is your take on the issue of hiring a foreign technical

adviser by the NFF? Firstly, I would like to congratulate Coach Stephen Keshi for making local coaches proud by winning the last Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa after 19 years of waiting to lift the trophy. I feel great about his achievement because Keshi happens to be a colleague of mine, although I was a bit older than him, but we started together as members of Lagos academicals.

He is a fantastic coach who knows his job and that was why he is progressing.

Having said this, I want to tell you that as a local coach, I do not think that what the NFF is trying to do is good for the country’s football development. We are all witnesses to the magic Keshi has done with the Super Eagles in South Africa especially when nobody gave him the chance to even get to the semi- finals of the competition.

I expect the NFF instead of distracting him with the appointment of a foreign technical adviser especially now that we have a world cup qualifier at hand, they should encourage him and create the enabling environment for him to succeed.

Keshi knows what it takes to be at the FIFA World Cup. It is high time those managing the country’s football learn how to celebrate what we have because he is an international coach and as such should be given a free hand to operate. By God’s grace Keshi will continue to record success to shame his detractors.

What advice do you have for Keshi, as the Super Eagles prepare for their world cup qualifying game against the Harambe Stars of Kenya in Calabar?

There is the need for the technical crew of the team to look back at what they have been able to achieve and consolidate on that. They should not underrate their

63

opponents, but rather the technical crew should tell the players that this is another big assignment, they should go ahead to plan their strategies well and continue with what they are doing with the local players, as that is the only way they can consolidate on their AFCON success.

With your experience as an ex- footballer what advice would you give to aspiring footballers in the country?

My advice to young footballers is that they should take their training serious and avoid those vices like drinking and smoking, especially Indian hemp because it is capable of affecting their performance and even cutting short their playing life.

There is also need for them to take their education serious so that when they retire from sports, they can see something to fall back on. The issue of education is so important because experience in the past has shown that most Nigerian players signed ridiculous contracts because they were not educated and could not even read or understand what they signed for.

How would you like Nigerian sports to be repositioned?

When you carry out a survey in this country, you will discover that there are a lot of sports enthusiasts in Nigeria and even business men who are ready to invest in sports, but we need to do the right thing so that these people can put their money in sports.

Look at the last Nations Cup, Keshi did the right thing by selecting the right players and they did not disappoint.

It is high time we tell ourselves the truth and allow credible people to manage our sports as that’s the only way we can move forward. I also want to use this opportunity to appeal to corporate organisations to invest in sports because government cannot do it alone. They should also assist Lagos YSFON in its drive to bring back the glory of grassroots football development in the country.

Can you tell us how you relax after a hard day’s job?

I am a member of Lagos Island Club and I go there sometimes to relax and unwind. My advice to Nigerians is that they must make out time to relax and avoid such sicknesses as heart attack, hypertension and such related sicknesses.

Hon. Taiwo Afinnih (3rd from left) with YSFON National President, Dr. Yusuf Gawuna (4th from the left) during the inauguration of Lagos State chapter of YSFON.

N I G E R I A

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Amnesty alibi

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Comment

E-mail: nwaunah@yahoo.com Unah is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lagos

with Jim Unah

A

n alibi is a proof that someone was in respectable company at the material time that a crime was committed; a piece of evidence that somebody being arraigned for an offence was not on the scene when the offence was committed, and so, could not have committed the crime. But an alibi is no proof that someone who is trying to exonerate himself from a crime could not have been privy to or could not have aided and abetted the crime surreptitiously. Thus, in an alibi, you could have a situation in which the voice is Jacob’s but the hand definitely Esau’s. Another meaning of alibi is an excuse offered for something you have failed to do right or something you have done wrong deliberately or inadvertently.

Amnesty, on the other hand, is a reprieve granted to a person or group of persons as a gesture of goodwill from the state or community or a liberation from a state of oppression or for injuries or hurt suffered on account of the activities of others. Amnesty may also be regarded as an action of government acquitting a person or group of persons of an unlaw-

ful act in return for a promise of good conduct on the part of the acquitted persons; a symbolism that the pardoned persons have accepted to go home freely but to sin no more.

Now, under what conditions should amnesty be granted to ensure that it would be taken in good faith and not provoke serious repercussions for the state?

First, the state of affairs that gave rise to the unlawful behaviour must be abolished; and must not be allowed to resurface again. Secondly, amnesty should be granted in such a way that it would not be construed as capitulation by the state.

Thirdly, and this follows from the last, the state should not allow a deplorable condition of affairs to subsist which might warrant the exploitation of the amnesty process for the commission of more heinous crimes against the state.

No less a potentate than the Sultan of Sokoto has recently called for the granting of amnesty to the Boko Haram Islamic fundamentalist sect as a carrot to dissuade them from carrying on further terrorist acts against the Nigerian State. Since that call was made tongues have been wagging and insinuations of unimaginable proportions have been made with reckless abandon. The question people should ask is whether the call has any merit at all and whether the circumstances of the Boko Haram sect merit the granting of amnesty by the Federal Government.

Already, amnesty has been granted by

the Federal Government to the Niger Delta militants who used the strategy of hostage taking to call attention to all manner of injuries inflicted on the people of the area by oil exploration activities with the full cognisance and connivance of the Nigerian State. This sort of amnesty is more of a reprieve for the people of the region for the devastation and pollution of their environment and sources of livelihood than an acquittal for notorious criminal acts against the state. And concerted effort, I suppose, is being made by the different levels of government connected to the Niger Delta problem to ensure that the situation of crisis resolved by the amnesty programme never resurfaces again; even though some militants late in disclosing their identity after the shutdown of the amnesty largesse have been causing trouble and threatening to resume militancy.

This goes to say that any form of amnesty granted to people for acts of illegality perpetrated in defiance of the state, even for justifiable reasons, in a country such as Nigeria, where state actors have failed to provide basic development infrastructure and deliver social goods to the people is politically and socially very dangerous. There shall soon emerge associations of kidnappers, hackers, prostitutes and armed robbers blackmailing the state to grant all manners of outrageous reprieves. And once you grant one, you would be constrained to grant the other until society is turned into a repub-

Tunisia’94 AFCON: Oliha begs FG to fulfil promise T

hompson Oliha, a former Super Eagles midfielder, yesterday appealed to the Federal Government to fulfill its promise to the team after it won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia.

Oliha told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on telephone that he had yet to receive the house promised by government.

“I beg the Federal Government to fulfill its promise of giving every player in the team a house for our victory in the 1994 AFCON. “I am yet to receive my own house which the government promised me 19 years ago; my great country has disgraced me and some members of the victorious team,” Oliha said.

He urged those in charge

lic of rogues; and without industry and thriving commerce, the life of every man will become nasty, brutish and short.

The Sultan’s call for granting of amnesty to the Boko Haram is not entirely without merit. The Federal Government claims that it is using the stick and carrot approach to handle the Boko Haram menace. There is an undercurrent of political cheating of the North, rightly or wrongly, that the Jonathan government has not been able to discountenance. The internal rotational Presidency arrangement of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has become an incubus and an albatross on the Nigerian State. How a political party could concoct such an arrangement in a political society with many political parties where a candidate’s charisma and pedigree could be more winsome to the electorate than his party defies every sound logic.

The Sultan’s call is legitimised by the waywardness of the ruling party; and the fact that he is a grassroots man with ears fully glued to the ground. He is not one to make flippant statements; except that his call has a capacity to be misconstrued and could trigger an endless daisy chain of strident calls for amnesty by virtually all traumatised and disgruntled Nigerians only if they could summon the courage to unleash violence on their fatherland.

And why not? Where state actors have refused to institute real governance, and failed to deliver service to the people, amnesty becomes an alibi.

FA Cup: Ivanovic demands improvement against P. 60 Red Devils NPFL FIXTURES Today’s Matches Heartland v Nembe City Nasarawa Utd v El Kanemi Akwa United v Dolphin Sharks v Warri Wolves Wikki Tourists v Kano Pillars Sunshine Stars v Kaduna Utd

Thompson Oliha in action for the Super Eagles at the USA’94 FIFA World Cup.

of allocating the promised houses to members of the team to release them.

“The people in charge of the allocation should please come out of their shells and give us our rightful posses-

sions,” he said.

According to Oliha, players that chose Lagos for their own houses were allocated houses while he and the rest who picked Abuja are yet to get their allocation.

Bayelsa United v Lobi Stars 3SC v Gombe United ABS v Kwara United

NPFL RESULT Rangers 1-0 Enyimba

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