Sunday 16, September, 2012

Big g Read News

THE

Nigerian health facilities:

P. 3-6

Applause

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Why I quit the Vineyard

Sustained neglect over the years

–Queen Ure Okezie www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vol. 2 No. 40

N150

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Naira rain as Jonathan rewards Paralympians Gold, N5m; Silver, N3m; Bronze, N2m N1m for each Falconet; Coaches, N2.5m

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Ibori’s $15m bribery scandal: Achigbu regains freedom

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258 killed in factory fire accident

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L-R: Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State; former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Mr Steven Strauss of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC); Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State and Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State, at the Town Hall Meeting, organised by Business Hallmark Newspapers, at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, at the weekend.

Attacks on Telcos’ masts:

Terrorists paralyse Northern operations

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PDP govs shun Bamanga Tukur’s book launch News

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Portray Nigeria in good light, Akpabio urges journalists

Fuel scarcity hits Lagos, as NNPC allays fears

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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What’s new Interview

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Seven Days TALKING POINT OF THE PAST WEEK SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Governors undermine judiciary –CJN

Igbo’ll back Jonathan for second term –Mbadinuju Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju was governor of Anambra State from 1999 to 2003. In this interview, he bares his mind on burning national issues, including the politics of 2015.

Politics

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The Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, Justice Aloma Mukhtar, has raised the alarm that some governors treat the judiciary as an appendage of the executive.

She, therefore, warned that the development could affect justice delivery system in the country. Justice Mukhtar also deplored the current situation where the state judiciary relied heavily on the executive for the pro-

vision of infrastructure and welfare of judicial officers. She described as regrettable the practice where state chief executives were responsible for the welfare of magistrates and other lower courts’ judges.

The first female CJN raised these concerns at the swearing-in of 25 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SANs, at the Supreme Court in Abuja on Wednesday.

US ambassador killed in Libya Ogoni and the gains of self-rule agitation

Willie Workman Oga

MON

mission, RMAFC. Ajayi said that over half of the “surviving” firms had been classified as “ailing”, a situation, he said, posed a great threat to the survival of the manufacturing industry.

The NACCIMA president, who was represented at the event by the VicePresident of the association, Mrs. Mary Iyasere, described current government policies aimed at reviving the manufacturing 4 industry as inadequate.

When I wake up on Monday after my prayers, I do a little bit of jogging. I hit the road for work after listening to the news. Mondays are usually busy for me. I hold meetings with my members of staff where we postmortem of what we did the previous week, we also deliberate on what we are going to do during the week. And we take it off from there.

TUE

800 companies close shop in two years, says NACCIMA

FOUNDER ADVOCACY FOR WIDOWS EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION

Tuesdays, we do follow-ups of what I have done. For me, most of my Tuesdays, I’m always on the street, meeting one client or the other.

WED

met the minimum requirements prescribed in a new Competency Framework for the Nigerian Banking Industry.

CBN and the Bankers’ Committee had said in June that the recent global financial crisis had exposed the inadequacy of skills and dearth of executive capacity in the banking industry.

spend an average of N178 billion annually as cost of purchasing diesel to power their over 22, 000 BTS in the country due to the poor electricity supply in the nation.

The Federal Government has said that Nigerians would enjoy uninterrupted power supply by December when power generation would have been increased to 5,400 megawatts when 10 Independent Power Projects fully come on stream.

Wednesdays are same with Tuesdays. It’s like a routine all through the week. You know, Wednesdays are still the same thing, wake up go to work. Then later in the evening on Wednesday, I go for mid-week service in church.

THU

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A fresh shake-up appears imminent in the banking sector as the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has asked banks to submit details of their staff occupying sensitive positions for assessment. Those affected by the directive include board members and heads of key departments. The directive was to determine if they

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, NACCIMA, has said that about 800 companies closed shop between 2009 and 2011 due to harsh operating business environment in the country.

The question on the mind President of NACCIMA, of a woman who has had a Dr. Herbert Ajayi, gave the figure in Asaba while miscarriage is usually what presenting a paper at a could have caused it? Was workshop on economic diit my fault or did something versification organised by happen inside the womb to the Revenue Mobilization WE HAVE DEPLOYED D 20 BUSES SO FAR –MASSOB disrupt the growth of the baby?

Allocation and Fiscal Com-

Common causes of most miscarriages

Nigeria’s telecommunications companies are projected to save an estimated N178 billion in overhead costs being incurred annually on the purchase of diesel to run generators. The generating sets are installed to power their base transceiver stations, BTS, nationwide if the ongoing power reform by the Federal Government is successful.

According to investigations, telecoms companies currently

Well, Thursday for me is also the same. I’m out there working in the office. I receive clients and I attend to them.

FRI

Wellness

Power reforms: Telcos may save N178bn annually

Shake-up looms in banks …as FG blames sector for economic woes

Queen Ure Okezie who was a banker for more than one decade is an interesting personality. This diva, ex-pastor, celebrity, ex-wife of Soul-E, a musician whose marriage crashed after a few years, still remains a great beauty.

The report is to be presented to the House on or before its resumption from its two-month break on September 18.

The Speaker’s directive was contained in a letter dated September 10 and signed by the Deputy Leader, Leo Okuweh Ogor. In the letter, the Speaker directed that the report should be submitted to the House Leader, Mulikat Adeola- Akande.

My weekend starts from Friday. I’m always in a lighter mood on Fridays. Most times, I have events and I might have to be at the venues organising things and making sure that everything goes on well

SAT

Why I’m no more a pastor –Queen Ure Okezie

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night, shot at the building and threw home-made bombs into the compound.

Reports from Libya said Ambassador Stevens and his staff were reportedly trying to leave the consulate building for a safer location after it was attacked when the gunmen launched an intense attack, apparently forcing back security guards.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, on Tuesday ordered the 85 Standing Committees of the House to submit an implementation report on the 2012 budget.

This, according to him, is to allow the House decide on its earlier threat to impeach President Goodluck Jonathan over poor budget implementation.

I could be working and when I’m not at work, I take off time to be at home and read inspirational books

SUN

Applause

The United States Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, and three other embassy staff, were killed in an attack at the consular building in Benghazi, by militants denouncing a US-made film insulting Prophet Muhammed.

The unidentified armed men, who stormed the consulate on Tuesday

Impeachment move: Reps order committees to submit report on budget

I go to church and in the evening, if there is any event, I attend *By Adaeze Amos (0802 301 2293)

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE

Big Read SUNDAY SPECIAL INVESTIGATION

September 16, 2012

National Hospital, Abuja (Inset: Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu)

Nigerian health facilities:

Sustained neglect over the years It has been acknowledged in several quarters that Nigeria’s health sector is in shambles, and the issue of Dame Patience Jonathan’s wellbeing has again put the matter in public discourse. While many blame the situation on mismanagement of resources and a lack of prioritisation, others see the persistent shortage of basic medical supplies and outdated equipment as contributory to the problem that has become the drive for the worsening brain drain in that sector. Head, Special Investigations, Isioma Madike, looks at these issues

T

om Okeke was elderly, in his late 60’s. He fell sick at his house and could not breathe properly. He had a record of high blood pressure and diabetes, which he had been treating before the situation suddenly went bad. He was rushed to a private hospital in the estate where he stayed at Ojodu in Lagos. At the sickbay, his relatives were told that the hospital had only little oxygen left and could not last for more than 30 minutes. The family then pleaded, saying that all they needed was to re-stabilise him with the oxygen, pending the time they could get to the Agege General Hospital. But, the doctor in charge refused, insisting that the hospital ambulance was faulty and that it was improper to let them carry the oxygen without an ambulance and a doctor. The old man at the time was left gasping for salvation on the shoulder of one of his sons.

So, the family had to get a cab and off they went to the general hospital. But, they were even more shocked at the reception they got there. As soon as the nurse saw that the patient was not registered at the hospital, she told the family that the man would not be treated. Yet, they pleaded even as the old man was dying. They reminded the nurse that the case was an emergency and all they needed was to keep him alive with oxygen. In spite of all the pleas, the hospital refused to admit the man. The hospital could not have pity that a human life was gradually fading out. The traffic was terrible. Before they could get to Ikeja, the man was as good as gone; he was dead before they could get him to see a doctor.

That was on August 20.

In September, it was another drama. It started like mere speculation. But soon, the rumour turned into truth

‘GOVERNMENT IS NOT DOING ENOUGH TO STOP REFERRALS ABROAD’

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even as anxiety enveloped the nation. Though, the government gave what appeared like a feeble explanation on the reason the President’s wife was away from Nigeria, it became obvious afterwards that she had been hospitalised in a foreign land. The presidency kept the state of health of Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs Patience Jonathan, secret; reminiscent of the manner it handled the illness of the immediate past President, late Umaru Yar’Adua. But, by the end of last week, reports confirmed that indeed, Mrs. Goodluck Jonathan is being treated at a German hospital for a condition that remains deeply guarded and which has turned a subject of conjecture.

The confusion began on September 3, as President Jonathan reportedly made a hasty departure from Botswana, cutting short his state visit by one day, amid fears over his wife’s health. But, while some reports speculated that she was hospitalised for “sever bout” of food poisoning, other unconfirmed versions said she might have been operated upon for “ruptured appendicitis”. Yet, the condition, according to many, could have been treated in Nigeria, had the government not shown contempt for the country’s health system.

However, on-line reports on the health status of the First Lady indicated that her ailment, appendicitis or inflammation of the appendix, was not accurately diagnosed by doctors, who first examined and treated her before she was flown to the German hospital where she is CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

NIGERIA RANKS 187TH AMONG 191 NATIONS –WHO

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The Big Read

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘If services improve, foreign medical pilgrimages would also reduce’

Patience

LUTH, Idi-Araba, Lagos

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 now recuperating after surgery. The reports also referred to the steady deterioration of her health even after being attended to by Aso Villa physicians when she returned from Dubai where she was said to have been treated for “food poisoning”. All these were before the spokesperson of the Horst Schmidt Klinik hospital in Germany confirmed that the first lady had undergone surgery to remove poison from her intestine after her appendix ruptured. Medical sources attributed a ruptured appendix to delayed or incorrect diagnosis of appendicitis, which manifests in steady worsening of the patient’s condition with the ruptured appendix contents spilling into the intestines and the stomach.

Apart from Mrs. Jonathan, the influential Petroleum and Oil Resources Minister, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, was also speculated to be receiving medical treatment abroad, though, she had since denied the report as untrue. In spite of that, however, many are worried at the situation that sees government functionaries jetting out overseas at the slightest feeling of ill-health. This, they believe, makes mockery of the nation’s health system.

“Some of those cases could have been attended to here, had the officials not allowed the health system to rot away over the years. Incidentally, while the rich public officials embark on medical trips abroad, ordinary Nigerians are left to bear the brunt of the mess in our hospitals due to wanton neglect of the facilities,” said Dr. Nosakhare Bazuaye, a stem cell expert at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin.

Bazuaye is not alone on what many have described as the sincere assessment of the nation’s health sector. Dr Jimi Solapo, General Secretary of Association of Resident Doctors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) is also of the opinion that “most of our medical centres remain an eyesore with obsolete equipment, inadequate basic drugs and over-stretched personnel.” With this situation, hapless patients thus continue to die needlessly because of government’s neglect of the healthcare sector in the country. Solapo says the government routinely mouths its willingness to upgrade the health system,

Fawehinmi

but the high statistics of mortalities in the hospitals, especially resulting from minor illnesses, is proof that nothing concrete is being done to turn-around the situation.

“The billions of naira being spent on frivolities could have been better applied to upgrade our health facilities and reduce mortalities, especially in vulnerable groups as infants and pregnant women. Better attention needs also be devoted to our hospitals to curb the brain drain caused by our medical professionals dumping the country for better opportunities abroad. If services at our hospitals improve, the number of wealthy Nigerians going on foreign medical pilgrimages would be reduced, as their confidence in the local system would be boosted,” added Comrade Peter Esele, President, Trade Union Congress (TUC).

Incidentally, the rot in Nigeria’s health sector is countrywide. For instance, at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, dirt, debris, and infrastructural decay are some of the oddities that assault the eyes as one arrives at the premises of the 50-year-old multi-billion Naira hospital. And some of the facilities are as old as the hospital itself.

LUTH was, at inception, one of the best Teaching/Specialist Hospitals in the country. The hospital was at a time designated a center of excellence in Dentistry. A major breakthrough of the successful conception and delivery of the first authentic test tube (In-Vitro-Fertilization) baby in the country was also recorded at another time. In terms of physical facilities, LUTH has the Modular Theatre - the only one of its kind in black Africa. This theatre is said to have incorporated in it the most sophisticated intensive care unit. It also boasts of a comprehensive Diagnostic Centre and VIP Clinic, Laboratories, Radiodiagnosis, Radiotherapy and Renal Dialysis facilities. But today, most of these facilities are in a sorry state due to sustained neglect by successive Nigerian governments.

The health sector in Borno State is also in decrepit condition. Former governor Ali Modu Sheriff had, during his tenure, built an Ultra- Modern Hospital in Bulumkutu ward of the Maiduguri metropolis. The hospital has a capacity of about 300-bed-space and was named after

Professor Emeritus, Umaru Shehu, to complement and decongest the existing State Specialists Hospital. At present, the hospital lacks adequate health personnel with its facilities in terrible condition. The State Specialists Hospital, worth over N300 million, is no better. Apart from negligence to equip the hospital with laboratory machines and other health facilities, the poor working condition and infrastructural decay have worsened. For example, both the pediatric and genecology wards are in sorry state.

Sources also point to the massive exodus of state doctors to other federal health institutions that have better remuneration and superior facilities. In what could be described as a “systematic decay” in the state’s health sector, a Consultant, who worked at the State Specialists Hospital but spoke on conditions of anonymity, told Sunday Mirror that working under the Borno State Government as a Medical Doctor is not only a sacrifice, but frustrating, as the policy of the state government in paying lip service has forced many doctors to reject taking up appointment from the Borno State Civil Service.

He said, “almost 70 percent of the government hospitals across the state lack the required medical facilities. In most cases, common drugs are not available for patients to buy from the hospitals. Some hospitals do not even have a single medical doctor, and some of the few nurses available cannot cope with the modern day challenges experienced in the health system.” A patient at the male ward of the State Specialist Hospital, Mallam Abba Usman, also confirmed that the service delivery in the hospital is very poor. “The toilets are in bad shape; there is also lack of regular supply of electricity in the hospital. Here, relatives buy drugs from outside pharmaceutical shops, as there are no drugs in this hospital and there are cases of decomposing corpses at the mortuary,” Usman said.

The Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr. Salma Anas Kolo, has, while admitting that facilities at some of the health centers in the state are far from the best, said that plans have reached an advanced stage to expand the mortuary at the State Specialist Hospital and equip it.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The Big Read

Sunday, September 16, 2012

5

Government is not doing enough to stop referrals abroad –Dr. Obiesi ferral system, which has to do with some high technical services that, because of the place we are, we have not been able to get the facilities and manpower to deliver such services and in such circumstances we usually refer them abroad.

Dr. Chidi Obiesi is the Registrar, Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri and President, Association of Resident Doctors in that state. He insists, in this interview with Chris Njoku, that the Nigerian government must provide adequate medical facilities as well as look into the remuneration of doctors as a way out of the country’s medical dilemma.

What is the state of medical facilities at the Federal Medical Centres in Nigeria, particularly at the Owerri center?

To talk on a general point of view as a practising physician in this country, particularly at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, facilities as regards the medical care are not what it should be. Take for instance as a physician, I often come across patients that are comatose, we have to send them to either Enugu or Port-Harcourt for assessment on a Computerised Tomographic Scan machine (CTS); we are still waiting to have such equipment in my centre. I know that most other centres too apart from few teaching hospitals are also lacking such facilities. There are other problems of inadequate infrastructures, like where doctors consult, we find out that most often than not, we consult in an atmosphere not very conducive for doctors. Because of the general problems in the country, you have to sit down for hours seeing patients and sweating so much without fans or air conditioners. Such things make doctors to lose strength and make their job very unbearable.

Are there adequate medical personnel at the FMC? Well, concerning medical personnel, it is no longer news that it is far beyond what it should be. There was a statistic in 2009 by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) when we had a record of about 15,000 to 16,000 medical doctors in the country, of about 150 million people. There was this estimation that the ratio is one doctor to about 20,000 patients and that is enormous. It is so bad that even here in my centre you work so much that you have to sit down from 8 am to 8pm to see patients. But unfortunately most states and local governments are not doing well in terms of healthcare. So, you will find out that some of these federal health institutions are taking care of the whole masses in some particular states as it is the case here in Owerri. But,

Dr. Obiesi

this is bad and we believe that one of the things that could have caused it is not having a conducive environment for these medical personnel. Every day, medical personnel keep moving out of the country, looking for greener pasture abroad where doctors are treated very well in terms of remuneration, security and in appreciation; that’s even making it worse because as doctors keep leaving the shores of this country to other countries where they are appreciated, you will find out that the few ones that are remaining have to be burdened with so much load of patients. We have seen cases where doctors in the course of seeing patients got exhausted, collapsed and died.

How often are cases referred abroad?

In terms of the referral system, we from time to time as the need arises try to refer people in some centres abroad to be able get certain medical services that have gone beyond us. It is not really because of the expertise or because we don’t have doctors around that can do some of those things, but it still boils down to idea of facilities.

Some of our kidney failure patients at a stage when we are doing dialysis, we counsel them to look towards doing renal transplant and more often than not we try to ask them to make necessary contact in any part of the world where they want to do the transplant and when such contacts are made and those people need our referral notes we usually oblige them. So, that’s basically about the re-

How could this be corrected?

It is all-encompassing; a lot of things have rarely gone wrong just as it is happening in other sectors and not only in the health sector. But, since we are talking more of health, for us to really get back to the track; I strongly believe that government should start looking into the health policies. Just of recent a certain bill was passed by the senate and was not assented by the president. You know some of those things would bring the necessary change because we cannot continue like this. The only thing that is permanent in life is change; there must be a change because most of the doctors our people, unfortunately, go to meet abroad are also Nigerian-trained doctors, who are practicing in those countries. So, if we can make the environment suitable, bring the facilities and allocate the necessary budget recommended by the United Nations to health in Nigeria, I believe that things will start getting right.

Would that be all that is needed?

The authorities should also look into the remuneration of these doctors. I just told you how doctors suffer in this country, leave their families for 48 hours and at the end of the day go home with money that is just not enough to cater for the school fees of their children. If you go to some countries, doctors are paid a fortune such that you don’t even want to establish a private hospital; you just want to give the best to your country. I think that there is a whole lot of issues. The government has to look into the budgetary allocation to the health sector, revisit some of the policies that are not favourable and look at infrastructure and the way they disburse money for some of these infrastructures to follow it up and make sure that structures are erected properly. They have to look at the research and training of doctors too because medicine is all-evolving. Medicine of the 19th Century is not medicine of the 20th century; things are changing. Before, you would cut somebody’s body to perform certain operations, but now you can do operation successfully without cutting on anybody’s skin. I recommend that these actions are taken to make the health sector what it should be in this country.

Patients lament scarcity of essential items like syringes and drugs CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 “The state government under Governor Kashim Shettima places much attention to the health sector. In the year under review, the state government through the Ministry of Health came out with a programme aimed at equipping health facilities across all the existing health institutions in the state. Those that would benefit from this exercise include Bayo, Askira-Uba, Gudumbali, and Chibok General Hospitals.

This is in addition to the total renovation of Biu and Marte General Hospitals, which is ongoing. Eight brand new ambulances have been procured and distributed to Marama, Konduga, Biu, Gudumbali, and Askira-Uba among other general hospitals in the council areas,” the commissioner said.

It is the same story in Kaduna as the present condition at the 44 Nigeria Army Reference Hospital in the state remains pathetic. The former Chief of Army Staff, General Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), had initiated the upgrading of the hospital alongside other military hospitals across the country to a first class level capable of curtailing both civilians and military per-

44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna

sonnel trips abroad for medicare. It was designed to rank among the best in sub-Saharan Africa and the state-of-the-art facilities installed at the hospital then compared with the best around the world. It could handle most of the ailments that prompts Nigerians to seek for medication abroad.

Although, 44 Army Reference Hospital has quality medical personnel comprising of military and civilians, the project appears to have been abandoned at 80 per cent completion. “This hospital will be the best in West Africa when the project is completed because the medical equipments being

installed even surpass the ones in Teaching Hospitals. We are appealing for the completion of this project. For now, there is shortage of bed space in this hospital even though doctors are doing their best for us,” said a patient, Joseph Gwar.

Meanwhile, Barau Dikko Hospital has been overstretched with patients without enough health facilities to cater for the growing number. It is the largest Kaduna State public hospital with about 240-bed space. According to available information obtained by Sunday Mirror, Barau Dikko Specialist Hospital has a staff strength of 583 made of 29 doctors, including 13 consultants, 244 nursing staff while pharmacy staff are 31; 42 laboratory staff, apart from other 237 staff, including other professionals, administrative and clerical officers covering the various departments.

The Kaduna State government recently awarded a contract to upgrade it to the status of a teaching hospital.

There are similar problems too at the Federal Medical Centre, Katsina. Although, management of the Centre were reluctant to speak on the state of the hosCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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The Big Read

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria ranks 187th among 191 nations –WHO

Dr. Bazuaye Dr. Enabulele

Dr. Solapo

National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 pital or its facilities, health officials, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, said that the major problem has to do with lack of adequate manpower in most of its units.

They alleged that fewer hands were doing more work and that recruiting more doctors, nurses and administrator would have gone a long way in improving the situation.

Patients have also lamented the scarcity of such essentials items like syringes and drugs. “It is no secret that many health institutions in the country are short-staffed.

This centre’s staff is not commensurate with the number of patients coming for treatment. The absence of a strong primary healthcare system has made many patients to come from far and near to receive simple treatments even though the hospital is a referral or specialist institution. In every shift, we have just two nurses taking care of 28 patients, with over 20 patients to one doctor. Some of them are pushed to work in areas they were not necessarily qualified to do,” a medical doctor, who declined to give his name, said.

The doctor, however, recommends for the development of a strong primary healthcare system throughout the country in order, according to him, to give room for such Centres to enjoy specialisation and tertiary status. “I would also recommend the introduction of Computerised Tomography (CT) scan with a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine to complement other existing facilities,” he further suggested.

Time was also when the Igbinedion Hospital and Medical Research Centre situated at Okada, near Benin, was the talk of the town. The project was commissioned on May 4, 1993, by then President Ibrahim Babangida, who was represented by his late vice, Augustus Aikhomu. The ultra modern hospital comprised 600 beds including a 150 bed maternity ward, 80 V. I. P. suites and four presidential wards. The staff of the hospital ranked as some of the best trained in their respective fields anywhere in the world, while the medical research centre was adorned with comparable modern facilities to undertake a most up-to-date training for medical research

personnel. The centre had amenities for advanced diagnosis of various illnesses and lnvitro Fertilization Unit (IVF) where women go for the treatment of gynaecological cases. The unit was pioneered by a renowned Gynaecologist, Marcus Setchell, who was the personal Gynaecologist to the Royal House of Windsor. But, that is where the story ends. Today, not much is heard of that medical edifice.

For years, the country’s health sector has remained desolate and degenerates daily. The environment of most hospitals around the country is unkempt; damaged chairs and tables as well as rusty irons litter the floors of their buildings. Some of their building window louvers and doors are broken, others gone with the wind. The roofs have big holes, which allow rainwater to flood the hospitals. Yet, many were expectant, believing the promises by the authorities to recreate them anew. Sadly, the healthcare system in Nigeria has remained embarrassingly ramshackle like every other social service in the country, in spite of the abundant wealth of the nation.

The workers are often not paid their emoluments with inadequate functional facilities to work with. The working conditions are not only terrible but also hazardous. There is an increasing exodus of medical practitioners for greener pastures and enabling working conditions outside the country.

And many hospitals in Nigeria lack the necessary facilities to diagnose curable diseases like hepatitis at an early stage until it becomes terminal in form of cancer.

IN 2009, Chief Gani Fawehinmi died of cancer. According to his family, the human rights fighter could have lived longer had he not been wrongly diagnosed. A Nigerian hospital diagnosed him of having pneumonia. A year later, it turned out that Gani had cancer of the lungs after a London hospital re-examined him. The following year, a case of another victim of wrong diagnoses was reported in the media. Miss.

Mary Ogah was diagnosed with cancer after two laboratory tests conducted at different times. Latter, the laboratory result from abroad revealed that Ogah had no cancer. The two incidents among others characterised the state of Nigeria health

Esele

system. Death caused by wrong diagnoses is not uncommon in Nigeria. This is due to the failing diagnostic test capacity in the country. “Poor laboratory quality leads to misdiagnoses and mismanagement of clinical conditions”, says Prof. Innocent Ujah, Director General, Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos. The challenge, according to him, is often linked to the dearth of Nigerian scientists with knowledge and skills to conduct adequate surveillance on laboratory operations. This is said to be the reason why many Nigerian laboratories were not accredited by international bodies responsible for laboratory accreditation.

One of the major fall-outs of late President Umaru Yar’Adua’s prolonged absence from the country and his seeming “incarceration” in a Saudi Hospital has been the protest that if the Nigerian healthcare system were developed and well managed, Yar’Adua would not have cause to travel abroad for medical treatment. It has also been argued that if he had been in a Nigerian hospital receiving treatment, the noise about his health would have been less strident. But, Nigeria runs a healthcare system that is often described as worse than what obtains in most developing countries.

With lack of facilities and widespread poverty in Nigeria, the foreign medicare creates special difficulties, which has made many Nigerians patronise quacks, or make compromises with their health with tragic consequences. Even the educated, acting out of lack or expediency, most times make uninformed choices.

Indeed, the health indices of the nation are in a very bad state, according to reports from the World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and even local research institutions. In many places in Nigeria, hospitals, especially Primary Health Centres are far from where people live and some are loaded with expired drugs, dilapidated structures, covered with cobwebs and in many places, have become inhabitants of domestic animals. From investigations in some tertiary and secondary health centres, water supply is unavailable, patient relatives often resort to buying water in jerry cans and

health workers have to wait endlessly for essential drugs and disposable gloves; they also face irregular power supply. According to a 2003 National Demographic Health survey, immunisation coverage in the country was put at 13 per cent and that was believed to be part of the reasons why some Nigeria children are dying of preventable illness.

Also, the rate at which women are dying of preventable and avoidable complications of pregnancy and child birth across the nation is also alarming. Could these be part of the reasons Nigeria’s trained and qualified Doctors and Nurses are all eager to leave the country and travel abroad?

President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Osahon Enabulele, admitted that the Nigerian healthcare system is actually not the best one could be proud of; he attributed the malaise to long years of neglect, decay and poor governance that the country has witnessed. “Now, we cannot continually lament our fate, we cannot continually lament our situation. So, beyond lamentation, the NMA will organise itself in a way that it will become a major driver of the healthcare delivery system in partnership with the government of the day,” Enabulele promised.

Given the decay and gloomy picture of the Nigerian health sector, it is no surprise that in the WHO’s ranking of countries’ health indicators, Nigeria is coming up 187th among 191 member states, and only ahead of some war-ravaged and crisisladen countries like Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic and Sierra Leone. Overall, Nigeria’s health status is worse than the average for sub-Saharan Africa. Besides, the meagre character of budgetary allocations for health has been in progressive decline. The refusal of government to adequately fund the health sector from the enormous collectively-owned wealth of the country is an indication that for a pro-capitalist/pro-imperialist government in Nigeria, the interest of the poor populace ranks among the least on its priorities.

Additional reports from Aza Msue (Kaduna), Inusa Ndahi (Maiduguri) and James Danjuma (Katsina).

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NEWS

Sunday September 16, 2012

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PDP governors shun Bamanga Tukur’s book launch OBIORA IFOH

WITH AGENCY REPORT

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nly three out of the 23 Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governors graced the book launch of its national chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, in Abuja and no reason was given as to their absence. Also absent at the meeting were top government functionaries and leaders of the National Assembly.

The three governors include Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna, Theordore Orji of Abia and their counterpart from Bauchi State, Isa Yuguda.

Speaking on the occasion, President Goodluck Jonathan urged Tukur to support and mentor political leaders to bring out the best in them. The book launch was to mark Tukur’s 77th birthday celebration.

The book, titled, “The Global Villager, a biography of Tukur,” was writ-

ten by Mr Eddy Aderinokun.

“In this world, you have an opportunity to support and mentor the leaders of this country as one whom the leaders can see as a father. Although you are already standing as one of the most accomplished Nigerians of our time, you are called upon again as chairman of the ruling party to guide political office holders to serve this country in the interest of all,” Jonathan said.

He commended Tukur for his role in promoting African unity and PanAfrican business through the African Business Roundtable and for ensuring the stability of Nigeria in 1994 when it was in a political crisis.

He expressed gratitude to the author of the book, stressing that it was a great service to the country to produce a detailed account of Tukur for others to learn from.

Jonathan described Tukur as “a man with fantastic spirit, who symbolises the never-say-die spirit of Nigeria and the trade mark of perseverance in the midst of challenges and obstacles.

“We appreciate you, Mr Chairman, we thank God for your life and we thank your family for staying by you,” he said.

Earlier, Tukur said the occasion was not only significant but very memorable judging from the UN human development indices, which pegged life expectancy in Sub-Sahara Africa at 52 years.

“I am, therefore, very grateful to my creator and to all for honouring me by your presence. I give today’s glory to Allah for keeping all of us alive to witness the day,” Tukur said.

He said the book was an encapsulation of his life as a village boy through national limelight to the

global audience.

Tukur expressed gratitude to his family, teachers, friends and associates, who stood by him through the years and for their contributions in shaping his life.

He also thanked them for developing his thoughts on the society, nation and the environment and promised to continue to share his experiences with all to give back what the society had given him.

He prayed Allah to guide the country’s political leaders to effectively utilise its endowment for the basic needs of the people.

Tukur assured Nigerians that the philosophy of the PDP’s ongoing transformation agenda was in the interest of good governance and the people of Nigeria.

While presenting the book, former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, said the high-profile Nigerians that gathered

Ibori’s $15m bribery scandal: Achigbu regains freedom OLUFEMI ADEOSUN ABUJA

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suspect, Mr. Chibuike Achigbu, who was arrested for his involvement in the alleged $15m cash bribery scandal involving a former governor of Anambra State, Dr. Andy Uba, has been granted administrative bail.

Achigbu, a businessman, was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes (EFCC) operatives in Lagos on Thursday evening and subsequently taken to their Abuja office where he was drilled.

The $15m was allegedly offered by Delta State ex-governor, Chief James Ibori, to the pioneer EFCC boss, mallam Nuhu Ribadu, presumably to halt investigation into the alleged money laundering dangling on his head then.

Ibori has since been convicted by a London Crown court and is serving a jail term over similar case.

The Federal Government and the Delta State Government are currently engaged in a fierce legal battle for the money.

A reliable source at the commission told Sunday Mirror that Achigbu had been granted bail after fulfilling his bail conditions. ,”He perfected his bail this morning (yesterday) but it does not mean that he

L-R: Former Minister of Information and presenter of the book, Prof. Jerry Gana; President Goodluck Jonathan and Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, at a book presentation to mark Tukur’s PHOTO: NAN 77th birthday in Abuja, yesterday.

is off the hook. He still has a case to answer because investigation continues.”

The commission Spokesman, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, confirmed that Achigbu had been granted bail.

The businessman had on August 29, 2012, filed an application before an Abuja Federal High Court to claim the $15m, which had been kept in the strongroom of the Central Bank of Nigeria as unclaimed property since 2007.

He had claimed that, rather than bribe money

from Ibori, the sum was actually monetary donations ooled together by a group of unnamed businessmen to fund the campaign of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2007. He said he actually handed the $15m cash to Uba, then a presidential aide.

Although Achigbu had said in the now withdrawn application that Uba offered to depose to his claim to the $15m on oath before the court, the senator denied the claims and distanced from the suit.

An Abuja Chief Magistrate’s Court had ordered the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Muhammed Abubakar, to conduct an investigation on Uba and Achigbu over the money.

The order was made by Chief Magistrate Okagu, based on a Direct Criminal Complaint filed in the court by a legal practitioner, Keyamo, against Andy Uba and Chibuike Achigbu accusing them of conspiracy, abetment and bribery in respect of the $15m Ibori bribe.

at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hotel were there “to honour a man of excellence, pan African businessman, a colossus and the first Nigerian indigenous port manager.”

Gana described Tukur as “a tremendous man of courage” who took a lot of risk during the military era to join former vice president Alex Ekwueme, Chief Solomon Lar and others to form the G34, which eventually metamorphosed into the Peoples Democratic Party.

The former minister went down the memory lane to recall the role played by Tukur before the formation of PDP and how he was incarcerated by the military after the second republic was truncated through a military coup.

He noted that Tukur had always been an advocate of good governance and expressed confidence that Tukur and President Jona-

than would make a good team for the transformation of PDP and Nigeria.

While describing Tukur as “a builder of Nigeria”, Prof Gana said Tukur is a strong advocate for a united Nigeria and will stoutly oppose anything that would split the nation.

The book, which was unveiled by elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, was launched by business tycoon, Chief Arthur Eze with the sum of N10 million while members of the PDP National Working Committee, NWC, doled out N5 million for copies of the book.

Gov. Theodore Orji of Abia, on behalf of other PDP governors, picked 10 copies of the book for an undisclosed amount. The FCT Minister, Sen. Bala Mohammed, who represented other members of the Federal Executive Council, said that their loyalty to Tukur amounted to loyalty to the Presidency.

258 killed in factory fire accident

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olice in the Pakistani city of Karachi have opened a murder case against the owner of a garment factory where a fire killed more than 250 people this week, a senior police official said on Thursday.

Also under investigation are the two sons of the factory owner, whose name is Abdul Aziz; the managers of the factory; the shareholders of the factory; and any government official who failed to enforce safety regulations at the factory, said Amir Farooqi, a senior Karachi police official.

The announcement means police officers will investigate the fire - one of the worst industrial accidents in Pakistan’s history - gather evidence and submit their findings to prosecutors who will then decide whether to charge the individuals.

Farooqi said police have opened a murder case because the exit doors of this factory were locked, preventing many people from escaping the blaze that swept through the building during Tuesday night and continued to burn on Wednesday.

Nobody has been arrested in the case yet. Police officers

are still looking for Aziz and his sons, who are believed to be “hiding,” Farooqi said.

According to CNN, other charges in the case may eventually include causing bodily harm, negligence and destruction of property, he added.

At this phase in the investigation, police do not have to name all of the accused.

That’s why they’re not identifying any government officials or factory managers at this point.

Earlier on Thursday, Karachi authorities lowered the death toll from the blaze to 258 from 289 previously.

The higher toll reported on Wednesday became inaccurate because of the rapidly rising number of deaths and confusion amid multiple rescue and recovery operations, according to Karachi Fire Department Chief, Ehtesham Salim, and Shabih Saddiqi, a local government official.

Salim said the latest death toll is based on the number of bodies and remains recovered from the factory.

Several people are still missing and recovery crews are working to find them.

Salim said investigators are still trying to establish what caused the fire.

Ikeji Aro holds Sept 22

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ll roads - next weekend will lead to the historic town of Arochukwu in Abia State, specifically Amaikpe Square, as the people celebrate the annual New Yam Festival.

This year’s celebration will peak on Saturday - Eke Ekpe Day - which will be marked with fanfare amid performances by sundry traditional

dance groups and masquerades.

Already, the countdown has started with what the organisers describe as “Okpo na aza Awada”, which was observed on September 4.

The arena, where the festivities will be marked, is wearing a new look preparatory to receiving the august visitors.

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News

Sunday September 16, 2012

Naira rain for paralympians, Falconets •N5m for gold, N3m for silver, N2m for bronze medallists •NIm for each Falconet; coaches: N2.5m each

ROTIMI FADEYI

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resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday rewarded Team Nigeria Paralympics athletes as well as the U-20 female football team, the Falconets with cash gifts for their brilliant performance in the London Olympics and the World Female Football competition in Japan.

The six gold medalists in the Paralympics games are to receive N5million each; five silver medallists at the games are to get N3 million each while the other two Bronze medalists are to get N2 million each.

According to Jonathan, all the Paralypians who participated but could not win any medal are to re-

ceive N500, 000 and for the coaches and officials, it is N2.5million.

For the Falconets, Jonathan announced that all the members of the U-20 female Football Team would get N1millon each while their coaches and officials get N1.2 million each.

At the reception held for the Paralympians and the Falconets at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa yesterday, Jonathan noted that the both teams had made the country proud.

He commended their commitment and efforts of in ensuring that the flag of Nigeria was kept flying at the games.

Jonathan told the athletes and footballers not to rest on their oars but rather im-

prove on their performance.

“They have succeeded in putting smiles on our faces, don’t rest on your oars, you must move ahead and perform better”, Jonathan said.

The President promised that his administration would upgrade sporting facilities to enhance performance.

Also speaking on the occasion, Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi noted that the Paralympians and the Falconets were able to record outstanding performance because of their discipline and commitment.

He stated that government would ensure that adequate and early preparation for the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.

In his remarks, Governor Rotimi Amaechi of River State said that the

Paralympians and the Falconets have performed very well and made the country proud.

He appealed to the Federal Government to address the scourge of polio in the country.

Amaechi noted that out of 21 members of the Falconet, ten are from Rivers.

He stated that the country should not be hard on any team for not performing, stressing that no matter how good a team is, if there is no preparation, no medal can be won.

The Paralympians won six gold 5 silver and 2 bronze medals at the Paralympics games in London while the Falconets came fourth in the U-20 football competition in Japan.

Akpabio urges journalists to portray Nigeria in good light

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igerian journalists have been tasked to use their profession to portray the country in good light to the international community.

Akwa Ibom Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, who gave the charge on Friday during a banquet for the governors of Delta and Plateau states, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan and Jonah Yang, as well as members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors at Government Banquet Hall, Uyo, stressed the need for them like their foreign counterparts to always highlight the positive things and happenings in the country.

“Nigeria must not always be looked at from other countries in the negative angle. With this conference in Akwa Ibom State, journalists must always portray Nigeria in good light through their profession.

“When reporting news, positive things must be reported or written about our country. The conference is not only hosted to transform the state or country but also held to change the board of media houses. Whether Moslem

L-R: Deputy Senate Leader, Abdul Ningi; Special Adviser to the President on Amnesty, Mr. Kingsley Kuku; Deputy Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta, Sen. Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman, presenting commercial pilot licence certificate to an ex-Niger Delta militant, Mr. Bassey Henshaw, at an aviation school in South Africa, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

or Christian, I pray God to give you wisdom to carry out the good deeds of your profession. In your daily activities, allow God to go with you,” the governor remarked.

He described the conference in Akwa Ibom as an uncommon one, saying, “On the recent attacks of United States of America Embassy in Libya where an American ambassador was killed, I can say we

must sanitise and teach our Nigerian children that it is only God that fights His war. Whether we are Moslems or Christians, we must embrace peace”.

Akpabio described the Chariman of the Occasion, Aremo Segun Osoba, as a role model for every child to emulate and for the world to see Nigeria through him and thanked him for serving as a chairman of the occasion and

the Guild for bringing this year’s conference to Uyo. President of the Guild, Mr. Gbenga Adefaye, lauded Akpabio for his development strides and for his support to the conference.

At the ceremony, the Guild conferred fellowship award on some of its members, inducted 14 new members and conferred honorary fellowship award on Governor Akpabio.

Thierry Tanoh, who would take over from retiring Arnold Ekpe at the end of the year.

Others are Messrs Patrick Akinwuntan and Eddy Ogbogu as executive directors and Mr Dan Matjila, a nonexecutive director.

The release stated that Ogbogu was appointed as Group Executive, Operations and Technology, while Akinwuntan was appointed as Group Executive, Domestic Bank.

It said Matjila was appointed as Chief Investment Officer (CIO) and Executive Director of Public Investment Corporation.

The release said Mr Kolapo Lawson, Ecobank Group Chairman, hailed the appointments and described Matjila as one that would add perspectives to the bank’s strategic development.

“On behalf of the board, I welcome Thierry Tanoh to

the executive team at Ecobank and wish him every success both during his transitional period and in leading the continued development of the group in future,” Lawson emphasised.

He also said the appointments of Akinwuntan and Ogbogu were in recognition of their “significant contributions to the bank’s innovation and operational efficiency”.

Ecobank appoints four new directors

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cobank Transnational Incorporated has appointed four new members on its board of directors, a release from its headquarters in Lome said.

The release by the bank’s Head of Public Affairs, Mr Nabi Ouedraogo, was made available to the News agency of Nigeria in Abuja yesterday.

It said among the appointees was the Group Chief Executive Officer-designate, Mr

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Fuel scarcity hits Lagos UDEME AKPAN

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t last, the much speculated fuel shortage has hit Lagos. The shortage which became apparent yesterday afternoon was worsened last evening as many motorists virtually took over all available space at filling stations without seeing the product to buy.

A survey of the situation showed that many major marketers, including MRS and Oando did not have the fuel to sell to motorists and other users in Alapere area of Lagos. Total that had limited stock along Ikosi road could not contain with the pressure of several consumers who turned out to buy the product.

The survey showed that there were long queues in several other parts of Lagos, especially Ikorodu, Surulere, Maryland and Ikeja.

Authoritative sources close to major and independent marketers said they have no stocks of the product.

Officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said efforts were being made to address the situation. Fuel shortage had become imminent in Lagos and its environs this week as major marketers have depleted their stocks of the product which many consumers use both for the powering of automobiles and electricity generation.

Investigations at many filling stations showed that the companies, including Conoil Plc, Total Nigeria and Mobil Nigeria Plc have limited stocks of the product to sell to motorists and other consumers. Sunday Mirror learnt the commercial stocks these and other marketers had in the past have been depleted in the past few weeks, mainly as a result of lack of importation as well as continuous consumption.

The Executive Secretary of Major Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Mr. Timothy Ola-

wore who confirmed the development said it would be impossible for marketers to sustain supplies at the filling stations as available stocks have completely been exhausted in Lagos and its environs.

He said: “The major marketers have finished their stocks. As at today, there are no more stocks for major marketers to supply to filling stations. We will soon witness a major shortage if something drastic is not done to import fuel into the nation. It is sad. But the reality is that we are gradually getting to that point because there is no more fuel in Lagos and its environs.”

Other classes of marketers do not have commercial stocks as well. Investigations showed that although some independent and other marketers have before now placed order for about 99,000 tonnes of petrol from the international market, they have not yet received such supplies.

He said: “The marketers have placed order for importation of the fuel to boost supply in the country.

Unfortunately, this volume of the product which could have gone a long way boosting supplies have not yet arrived the shores of the nation.”

The Second National Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Mr. Mike Osatuyi who confirmed the development in a telephone interview said marketers have the capacity to sustain importation if government pays subsidy as and when due.

However, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said it has commercial stocks of various products in different parts of the nation.

Spokesman of the Corporation, Mr. Fidel Pepple said: “There is no need for consumers to panic. We have commercial stocks to meet demand.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Sunday, September 16, 2012

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Terrorists attack Telcos’ optic fibres, masts, paralyse Northern operations •Kaduna, Kano, Enugu, others affected •Gunmen, saboteurs blamed L ANRE OYETADE (L AGOS) AND A ZA MSUE (K ADUNA)

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n what appears to be a persisting and highly coordinated move against telecommunications companies in the country, terrorists have again launched fresh attacks on the global systems for mobile communications (GSM) companies in the country.

Our correspondents gathered that the main optic fibres belonging to MTN and responsible for relaying network services across the nation were attacked and vandalised mainly in the North while gunmen also attacked four telecommunication masts in Zaria, Kaduna State, on Friday.

A top source at MTN, who first hinted on the vandalism to the firm’s optic fibres, said the items were vandalised at highly strategic points such that the firm’s services in the North, especially in Kaduna and Kano and parts of the East, especially Enugu and its environs, were disrupted.

An optic fibre is a flexible, transparent fibre made of glass (silica) or plastic, slightly thicker than a human hair. It functions as a waveguide, or “light pipe”, and is widely used in fiberoptic communications, which permits transmission over long distances.

Our source, who pleaded anonymity, also pointed to the likelihood of sabotage in the MTN case, as he said

the optic fibres were reportedly damaged at very crucial points and that “only an insider such as an MTN contractor or operative could have had knowledge of and/or access to such points,” adding that this was suggestive of the terrorists having possibly gained an inroad into the fold of the concerned firms.

It will be recalled that the base stations of some telecommunication firms, especially in the North, were equally bombed and destroyed only recently, thereby necessitating a deployment of security agencies, both public and private, in many of the locations nationwide.

Witnesses to the Zaria

attacks said the incident happened at Dan Magaji and Kwarbaiareas along Zaria Road on Friday when some suspected gunmen set fire to the masts.

According to a source, the gunmen, who rode on motorcycles, were firing shots into the air to scare residents away as they set the communication masts on fire using petrol.

The Kaduna State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Mallam Aminu Lawan, in a telephone interview with our correspondent, confirmed the incident, saying, however, that the service providers had insisted their masts were not affected and that only facilities like diesel tanks and oth-

ers were damaged in the attack.

Similar attacks had been carried on MTN, Airtel and other service providers’ masts in Kano, Yobe, Bauchi and Borno states only recently, with the Boko Haram sect claiming responsibility and vowing to continue unless the telecommunication companies stopped assisting security agencies with information about its members.

When contacted concerning the vandalism of its optic fibres, MTN Nigeria’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Funmi Omogbenigun, confirmed the development, saying its impact had been felt even in other parts of the

Traffic law: Fashola urges voluntary compliance L agos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has continued his sensitisation campaign on the Lagos Road Traffic Law, with a restatement of his appeal for voluntary compliance from the people.

The governor, who spoke midweek at the Fs Club House in Yaba, said despite the several choices available before it, the state government had chosen advocacy as its strongest enforcement tool.

“I am enforcing the law as I stand here and that is why I am coming here to talk about the law, so that you can make choices to comply rather than being forced to comply,” the governor stated.

He added that what many people had failed to realise was that it took only a fraction of a second for an automobile disaster to happen and could leave in its wake damage of monumental proportion.

Fashola explained that through road mishaps, such as the one that recently occurred on the Benin Expressway, many people had unfortunately become widows, widowers and

Fashola

some could have even been turned orphans.

The governor reiterated that some people do unimaginable things on the road, especially when they are behind the steering wheels, which could cause distractions such as eating biscuits or counting money, adding that the law had taken cognisance of such infractions which could have disastrous consequences on the driver and other motorists.

Noting that the law was essentially meant to protect the people, the governor maintained that it was part of the safety objectives of the government that had made it enact the new law that has as part of its provisions that only registered and painted vehicles can operate as commercial vehicles and convey passengers.

He explained that what many people had failed to realise was that when an unsuspecting passenger boards an unregistered vehicle, he is risking the possibility of being abducted, robbed or even, in some instances, being killed without any trace because such a vehicle is not on the central data base of the state government.

The Lagos governor added that the law had also introduced some level of development which some people felt was never possible in Lagos but only overseas by introducing

the use of breathalyzers to test the level of alcohol and substance in the system of a driver.

He said the level of damage is better imagined when a driver, particularly a commercial driver, is under the influence of alcohol and drives passengers, adding that in many instances, the nation has been classified as a country with poor life expectancy largely because of the high fatality rate that the country records in road accidents.

He added that the state government on its part had also ensured the addition of 16,200 road signs round the State to complement the 10,000 that had already been installed before.

The governor said the government had also established five modern drivers’ institutes in the various divisions of the state to retrain and recertify all grades of drivers both private and commercial so that they can be kept abreast of modern and latest development in driving.

He expressed dismay that several unimaginable things are happening on the roads in the state, citing the prevalence of different trucks, wheel barrows and carts on the major roads such as Ikorodu Road.

He said that such contraptions had in many cases led to traffic mishaps and had been taken care of by the new law.

country.

According to her, “we confirm that MTN experienced a number of fibre cuts primarily in parts of the North, and the impact was felt in other parts of the country.”

She, however, added that, in the last few years, cuts to the firm’s fibre had been a regular thing in many parts of the country, “with approximately 70 fibre cuts a month (and) they are a contributory factor to the quality of service challenges sometimes experienced by our customers.”

She explained that MTN, and the other major Telcos, under the auspices of their umbrella body, ALTON, had drawn attention to this on numerous occasions in the past, while “these cuts have continued to occur unabated”.

L-R: Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang; Chairman of the session, Chief Segun Osoba; Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, and Rivers State Deputy Governor, Mr. Tele Ikuru, at the Guild of Editors PHOTO: NAN Conference in Uyo on Friday.

I will back Jonathan for second term –Mbadinuju

AYO ESAN

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he former governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, has thrown his weight behind President Goodluck Jonathan, saying if he decides to run for a second term in office come 2015, he would be back him.

Mbadinuju in an exclusive interview with the Sunday Mirror said “I will advise that the SouthEast should support him and that is what I will do.

Whether they will do it or not is another question.

But, for me as a politician, somebody who cares about justice and injustice, it would be unjust to deny the President a second term in office. Dr. Mbadinuju said it was unjust that they denied him a second term in office as governor and would, therefore, not wish the President were denied his if he sought for a second term.

His words: “I won’t support the denial of Jonathan his second term if he

declares. I don’t want that injustice to be meted out to anybody I know.”

“It is a most difficult situation which we are entering into and that is why everybody is forecasting that there will be crisis. This is because the decisions to be taken are difficult. But, if we want justice in all the things we say and do, and if the Constitution has granted the President option for a second term, and if Jonathan exercises that option and decides to run, I will support him.

“Be it as it may, Jonathan is the President and he is doing his first term and the Constitution says after your first term, you can, if you want to, do a second term. Now, it is up to the Igbo to discourage Jonathan from doing a second term? Now, it is up to President Jonathan to tell Nigerians, including the Igbo, whether he will do a second term or not, and that is what we are waiting for.”

The former Anambra governor said this is nec-

essary because politics is not the end of the world, recalling that the SouthEast gave Jonathan the largest number of votes in the last presidential poll.

“Now, that Jonathan has recently begun to do a few things that are very important for the zone, like the case of coming to Ojukwu’s burial, and recently, the oil and gas which he commissioned two weeks ago, making Anambra an oil-state, and the like. Though, he is still to succeed in the area of roads. So far, he has done so much for the South-East, do we then support him for a second term or do we oppose him?

Suppose he does a second term, he would win because I don’t see him losing. The Igbo want to be President in 2015, but it depends on many criteria, one of which is whether President Jonathan will want to do a second term or not,” he further said.

•See interview on Page 13.

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SM Extra

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

STORIES THAT TOUCH YOU SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Doctors said my blindness had no cure –Igboanusi, author of two books ONUKWUBE OFOELUE

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e is a bubbling middle-aged man, but he is blind, and has hearing challenges. At 59, he looks as strong as ever but is a rather sad man. However, he has been able to do something meaningful with his life by contributing to learning.

Remigius Ayochukwu Igboanusi is totally blind, but has written two books. The two books are textbooks, and while one was written for the blind, to assist those learning Braille learn faster, the other was borne out of his love for children, for it is a book of rhymes. One is titled ‘Honey Poems’, while the other is a text for studying Braille.

What happened to Remigius Igboanusi? He started out in life as a teacher, after studying Business Education in Alvan Ikoku College of Education, Owerri, Imo State. Obviously, he did not know he was going blind in the beginning, not until his elder brother told him he usually knocks things while on the move. Shocked, Igboanusi had objected very strongly, telling his brother it might have been a mistake; but the latter stuck to his gun, and advised they go to the hospital.

“I didn’t even notice it, as it was very subtle. It was just the fact that he was perceptive and loving that made him tell me. He noticed I was hitting tables on the way; twice, he drew my attention to it, but

I dismissed it by saying it may have been a mistake on my part. He took me to the hospital.”

He had seen it as a rude joke, when the doctor confirmed that something was wrong with his sight, not knowing how serious it was. But when in 1980, Igboanusi was told to ‘go get glasses and get ready for school’ after his entrance interview to Alvan Ikoku, he really felt alarmed. “When I got admission into Alvan Ikoku College of Education, the man that interviewed me called me at the end and said “you go and get your glasses and get ready for school”. That gave me inkling that it was more serious than I thought.” Igboanusi, who is married with two kids, told Sunday Mirror that he had done his youth service programme in Kano in 1986.

For 15 years, the cause remained obscure, until Professor Majekodunni at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH, said he was suffering from retinitis pigmentosa, an incurable eye complication that leads to blindness: “I was told it has no cure and has done everything humanly possible to cure it.”

When he finally realised he was going blind, he started battling to save his sight, but no matter how hard he tried, Igboanusi could not get a cure.

However, he continued working like a normal man, and between the 1980s when he first realized something was

wrong with his sight, and 1991, he could still see: “I didn’t believe them initially, and tried all I could to cure it. When they kept pointing it out, I went to Kano for an eye test, and when I wore a pair of corrective glasses, the difference in my eyesight was what made me cocksure that I wasn’t seeing well. The doctor then told me that the retrogression was very gradual and unnoticeable to the victim. That was what

happened to me; it was very unnoticeable, and I never felt I was going blind. So from the 80s till about 1991, I was using glasses, and I drove about.”

In a final leap to save his sight, he tried to go to Canada where he was to get treated. But the doctor informed him that they were only going to manage the situation and not cure it, and he decided there was no use going.

Writing Braille (Inset: One of his published books)

After killing two in bank raid, robbers meet •Son in court for attempting to stab dad

HENRY IYORKASE, MAKURDI

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Ammunition recovered from the robbers

or dare-devil armed robbers who invaded the Katsina-Ala branch of First Bank Plc in Benue State recently, last weekend was like judgement day. The Benue State Police Command, in its efforts to curb the menace of armed banditry in the state, had apprehended the gang of hoodlums, who during their raid reportedly stole millions of naira from the bank’s vault.

Giving an insight into the robbery incident at the weekend in Makurdi, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Christopher Katso, while briefing journalists at the state Command’s headquarters, said the robbers stormed the bank in the afternoon and shot two customers dead, carting away an undisclosed sum of money.

He said, “The information reached us through a Good Samaritan who called im-

mediately while the robbery operation was in progress that fateful day, and in an attempt to flee the bank premises with their loot, a customer who just drove in his vehicle was blocked by the robbers who killed him and snatched his vehicle.

“We then quickly mobilised the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) and operation ZENDA as well as the Divisional Police Officer at Katsina-Ala who promptly went into action and trailed the robbers near Tor Donga, towards Zaki Biam Road where there was a gun battle until three of the robbers were disarmed and arrested” Katso further intimated that subsequently, other four members of the gang who robbed the bank were picked up in another undisclosed location and brought to join the initial three suspects earlier arrested, making the total number of the gangsters in the police net at seven.

While parading the suspected robbers at the state headquarters, items recovered were a Honda accord car, an Isuzu bus and a Toyota Avalon car as well as sophisticat-

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By listening to the voice commands, Igboanusi is able to manipulate his laptop

However, in 2008, he went totally blind, and it was a very traumatic period in his life: “The moment I lost the ability to see, I was so confused, angry, in fact, it was only the grace of God that saw me through. The only consolation I had was that I knew how to type. When there was nothing else to do, and I could not read any paper, I simply spent my time praying and typing. I typed blindly on a typewriter, what I will never be able to read.

I made mistakes but there was no way I could correct them. My wife was the one who observed those mistakes and informed me.

All the mistakes are still there, and it was only after my rehabilitation in 2010 when I became computer literate that I began to type new things on the computer.”

That was how Igboanusi was forced to start writing. According to him, he had been writing since 1980, but had never taken it seriously as he was always too busy to focus.

But before that, Igboanusi could not the fact of his blindness. “It was impossible to imagine that I am blind, and I hoped it was a bad dream that would go away.” While his sight failed, his hear-

waterloo ed arms and several rounds of ammunition.

Meanwhile, in Lagos, the police have arraigned a son for allegedly attacking his father with a pair of scissors.

Evans Osewere, 28, was on Friday brought before an Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court in

Vehicles and arms recovered from the scene of robbery

SM Extra

Sunday, September 16, 2012

ing also began to fail, very gradually, and in 2006, someone decided to assist him: “a woman saw me in church and invited me to Agege for a meeting with Rev Kehinde, a physically challenged man of God who could not walk. The woman, an ophthalmological nurse, was sure I had lost my sight. When they gave me a cane, I refused to use it. I said, “God, why must I suffer this when I have not been able to do any of the things I planned to?”

‘It was a woman who saw me doing some things and she could not believe it. She went to inform her uncle who happened to be Wale Demo, of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN. He invited me, spoke with me and referred me to Mr. Oyinlola, an engineer who happened to be visually impaired too. Oyinlola volunteered to teach me Braille for me to continue writing. After consultations with many people, I agreed to go and enlist for rehabilitation. 2010, the year I got enrolled was a year of trouble for me. Because I could not accept blindness, I could not learn. I nearly left the centre and the training. It was too difficult for me to agree I am blind. It was a sermon that changed my approach. A pastor preached to us and said, “There is a reason for your situation”.

One other thing also stopped me. The principal came one morning and told us that his father was blind. He then told us that loss of sight is not loss of sense. Finally, when I was able to accept it, it took me just three weeks to know Braille. But one thing that baffled me was the speed I used to understand Braille.”

Continuing, he explained to Sunday Mirror that after studying Braille in so short a time, he decided to do a research to know why he could learn so easily a course that took people several years to master: “There were people who have been studying it for nine years unable to read it.

When I bent down to learn, I discovered it was not difficult, and I even liked the subject. When I passed out at the end of the day, I wrote a book on Braille. I also learnt the reason people find it hard to study Braille. There is what I call psychology of blindness.

“As a trained teacher, I looked at myself before the sight and during that training. I told myself that if I have to learn the basics of the Braille, then I must apply the elementary system of learning. All I needed was to focus, and study it like a child”, said Igboanusi, the blind man who wrote two books.

Lagos, charged with attempting to stab his father, Chief Kayode Osewere, with a pair of scissors.

Evans of Kayode Estate, Marine Beach, Apapa, Lagos, is facing a one-count charge of assault.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him The prosecutor, Inspector Clara Olagbayi, told the court that Evans allegedly threatened his father and brother, Lucky with a pair of scissors, following a disagreement.

She said that the offence was committed on August 28 at about 7 pm at the family’s residence in Apapa, Lagos.

The prosecutor said that the offence contravened Section 21 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2011.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs. Oluyemisi Adelaja, granted the accused bail in the sum of N100, 000 with one surety in like sum.

She also ruled that the surety must show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government and adjourned further hearing to September 19, this year.

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Two alleged fake doctors land in prison •Cleaner in $6,100 scam

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he Police at the weekend arraigned two alleged fake doctors, Victor Bakwasm, 50, and Solomon Iorhemba, 40, before the Karu Senior Magistrate’s Court, accusing them of joint act and impersonation.

The prosecutor, Glory Iheanacho, a Corporal, told the court that the case was reported at the Jikwoyi Police Station by Dr. Emmanuel Onyekele of Health Human Services Secretariat, Area 11, Abuja.

Iheanacho said that the complainant, during his routine inspection of private health facilities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on August 28, discovered that the two, who paraded themselves as medical doctors, were not.

She said the accused paraded themselves as medical doctors and carried out surgical operations on patients without having had any medical training.

The prosecutor said it was discovered during investigation that the accused were hired by Dr Nyam Terwase, 50, of Nyam Hospital, Kurudu, Abuja, as doctors in his hospital, ``knowing full well that they do not have any medical training’’.

She added that the offences contravened the provisions of Sections 79 and 179 of the Penal Code.

The presiding Senior Magistrate, Mrs. Nafisatu Buba, refused to grant the accused bail and ordered that their employer, Dr Nyam Terwase, should also be remanded in prison until the next adjourned date.

“This is a serious offence because it involves human lives, so granting them bail has to follow due procedure Also in Abuja, the Police on Friday arraigned Chioma Ndive, a 23-year-old cleaner, of New Karu, in Nasarawa State, before a Karu Upper Area Court, for alleged criminal breach of trust and theft.

The Prosecutor, Abiola Oyewusi, told the court that the case followed a petition by Mrs. Ngozi Ezeh of First City Monument Bank, Wuse 2, Abuja, to the state Criminal Investigation Department of the Police Command in the FCT, on August 1.

Oyewusi said the complainant gave the accused, a cleaner attached to the First City Monument Bank, the sum of $6,100 on July 30, belonging to one Adewale Olayinka, a customer of the bank, to deposit in his account.

He added that the complainant gave the accused the said money “to go downstairs in the same bank building and deposit it into Adewale’s account in the bank’’.

Oyewusi said Chioma made away with the money, an offence contrary to Sections 311 and 286 of the Penal Code, but the accused denied the allegations.

The prosecutor prayed for a date to enable him bring a witness to testify against the accused.

The presiding judge, Mr. Umar Kagarko, granted the accused bail in the sum of N1.1 million.

Kagarko also ordered the accused to provide a credible surety who must reside within the court’s jurisdiction, adding that two passport sized photographs of the surety must be made available.

He adjourned the case to November 7, for further hearing

IGP, Muhammed Abubakar

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Sunday, September 16, 2012

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Interview Igbo’ll back Jonathan for second term –Mbadinuju ENCOUNTER WITH A NEWS MAKER SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Dr. Mbadinuju

Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju was governor of Anambra State from 1999 to 2003. His desire for a second term was unsuccessful, as the intra-party squabbles that characterised the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the time scuttled his second term bid. In this interview with Emmanuel Onani, he bares his mind on burning national issues, including the politics of 2015. Excerpts: As a former governor of Anambra State, are you satisfied with the way the ship of the Nigerian state is sailing today?

Well, it depends on what level we are talking about. We are running a democracy, and based on that and according to our Constitution, we have levels of governance: president, governors and local government chairmen. There are some states that have done better than others and, in terms of the nation as it stands, we are all witnesses as to what has been, what is and, perhaps, where we are going. I must say that where we

are now is not where we ought to be or where we should have been, because of excessive politicking in the state.

Government and the opposition are doing what they should be doing; there is no democracy without opposition.

My only concern is that the opposition must give leeway to the government of the day to govern. What I noticed and what many have too is that the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, came in to do some job and he had an agenda – the Transformation Agenda – which he intends to transform or set aside those things that have not worked and then concentrate on the new things that

he wanted to replace them with. The Transformation Agenda is a good vision but to me, he has not been allowed or given sufficient time to do this job.

He has spent most of the time to make sure that Nigeria does nit disintegrate.

In-between, he has done some things in some areas like power generation, but not to the extent that people had expected. It’s not entirely his making; the times we are in are troublesome; all sorts of security problems tend to overwhelm the system and even the government and the people of Nigeria.

Soon after Jonathan won his election, he was told by the opposition that

they will make Nigeria ungovernable for him and we thought it was a joke, but the opposition parties began it in earnest and till today, there has been that instability, which nobody expected. I believe that there is no leader that will be elected either as president or governor that will not want to make an in-road in terms of achievements. It is not possible for an elected official not to mind the business of making sure that the ordinary Nigerian is made comfortable with the provision of basic necessities of life. When I was governor, my preoccupation was security CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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Interview

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 was the Bakassi Boys or Anambra Vigilante Services which I formed. The question that arose was, why did you do that if there was police, and I said well, if the police was there doing the job which everybody expected them to do, then I didn’t need to go and have my own equipped. Before President Jonathan, there was nothing like Boko Haram. As I said before, Boko Haram came in because somebody said or some people said that they will make this country ungovernable for Jonathan and before you know it, the country almost became ungovernable.

Are you saying you formed Bakassi Boys ostensibly owing to failure to provide security on the part of the police?

When I went to Anambra, there were these three communities (Umuleri, Aguleri and Umuobanam) that had been fighting for 50 years and they were burying dead bodies everyday and nobody had been able to stop them. When I got there in 1999, I vowed that I must do something about the killings, though I was told not to because the areas were mined and people get killed at random. I said to them that, well, I cannot share the Anambra State I’m supposed to govern with half of the people dying; armed robbers and kidnappers were having a field day. That was why I decided to establish the Anambra Vigilante Service, which they called Bakassi Boys. In fact, there was a law made by the state House of Assembly which I signed, and six months after that, Anambra became the most peaceful state. If the police were able to do this and give us peace, I would not have established the service or the Bakassi Boys. Anambra would not have gotten gold cup in a competition that included security and welfare held in Abuja for the 36 states, without what I did.

What is your relationship with Anambra Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, like?

It was turbulent at the beginning; I was denied pension and I could hardly visit the Government House where I was for four years. But, as of today, I would tell you that Peter Obi is about the best friend I have in Anambra State because things changed suddenly; whether by God’s intervention or change of heart by the governor or his advisers. Although, he agreed paying my pension, the civil servants who were supposed to implement it are not doing so, as I’m being paid half of the amount I’m supposed to earn as a pensioner.

What is your take on the clamour for a President of Igbo extraction come 2015?

It is one of the areas that should concern every well-meaning Nigerian. It is not just the presidential slot but also the fact of the number of states allotted to the South-East.

Dr. Mbadinuju

‘Unlike before, Peter Obi and I are now friends’ sary because politics is not the end of the world. Don’t forget that the South-East gave Jonathan the largest number of votes. Now, that Jonathan has recently begun to do a few things that are very important for the zone, like the case of coming to Ojukwu’s burial, and recently, the oil and gas which he commissioned two weeks ago, making Anambra an oil-state, and the like.

Though, he is still to succeed in the area of roads. So far, he has done so much for the South-East, do we then support him for a second term or do we oppose him?

Suppose he does a second term, he would win because I don’t see him losing. The Igbo want to be President in 2015, but it depends on many criteria, one of which is whether President Jonathan will want to do a second term or not.

Can you make a categorical statement on this matter, bearing in mind the fact that some prominent Igbo leaders have come out to express their views in very clear terms? Where do you stand?

I want to establish a trend here and that trend is that, the South-East, having five states, and all other zones having six except North-West with seven, Nigerians must do whatever is necessary to make sure that there are at least six in the region. There is need also to make sure that South-East produces the Presi- In the event that President Jonathan whom the Constident of this country. The problem is, if they must pro- tution guarantees a second term decides to run, havduce, should it be now or when? ing scaled all hurdles, would you urge the South-East to support him?

In your own thinking, when should that be?

I will advise that the South-East should support him Even if Nigerians allow the presidency to come to and that is what I will do. Whether they will do or not Igboland today, it is still late; it should have been done earlier than now. But, be it as it may, Jonathan is the VEN IF IGERIANS ALLOW President and he is doing his first term and the ConTHE PRESIDENCY TO COME TO stitution says after your first term, you can, if you want to, do a second term. Now, is it up to the Igbo to GBOLAND TODAY IT IS STILL discourage Jonathan from doing a second term? Now, LATE IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE it is up to President Jonathan to tell Nigerians, includEARLIER THAN NOW ing the Igbo, whether he will do a second term or not, and that is what we are waiting for. I think it is neces-

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is another question. But, for me as a politician, somebody who cares about justice and injustice, it would be unjust to deny President Jonathan a second term in office. Because, it was unjust that they denied me a second term in office and I don’t want that injustice to be meted out to anybody I know. It is a most difficult situation which we are entering into and that is why everybody is forecasting that there will be crisis.

This is because the decisions to be taken are difficult.

But, if we want justice in all the things we say and do, and if the Constitution has granted the President option for a second term, and if Jonathan exercises that option and decides to run, I will support him. While I cannot speak for all Igbo in terms of support or no support for Jonathan’s second term, my position is that I’ll vote where the Igbo vote and I believe Igbo will not forsake Jonathan.

In one sentence, what is the solution to the growing state of insecurity in the country?

Insecurity should be the concern of every Nigerian and I think it is. I don’t believe that the Federal Government alone will secure the whole country. I’m saying that the way I did in Anambra to secure my state should be the way any governor anywhere in the state should do to make sure that his state is safe. If the police can help him do it, let him engage the services of the police, if vigilance groups and services are needed (like in my own case) let them do it. The important thing is that people are dying unnecessarily, and let us stop these rampant deaths.

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Politics PROVIDING FRESH PERSPECTIVES TO ISSUES SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

“THE IGBO ARE IN THE BEST POSITION TO WIN THE PRESIDENCY IN NIGERIA. THEY HAVE THE GREAT SPREAD IN NIGERIA TODAY. FROM TIME IMMEMORIAL, THEY HAVE BEEN RESIDING IN ALL PARTS OF NIGERIA AND BECAUSE OF THAT, THEY HAVE BEEN MEETING ALL ETHNIC NATIONALITIES IN NIGERIA. IF A COMPETENT IGBO MAN THAT IS CREDIBLE COMES TO FIGHT FOR P. 16, 41 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, HE WILL WIN IT” –CHIEF VICTOR

Crisis rocks Ondo CPC over choice of guber candidate

Ogoni and the gains of self-rule agitation

Furore over Amosun’s N100bn bond

Briefly Ebonyi PDP’ll support Elechi’s choice of successor -Youth leader

The Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State, Mr Chinedu Ogah, has said that the youths would support any candidate endorsed by Gov. Martin Elechi, as his successor.

Ogah made this known in Abakaliki at the weekend He said that it was only Elechi that would nominate the candidate that the party would support in the 2015 gubernatorial elections.

“The governor has revolutionalised the state infrastructure and economy; it would be in the interest of the party if he nominates who will follow his footsteps on leaving office.

“He has presently as the governor repositioned the party, which has helped in actualising the ideals of its founders,” he said.

Ogah urged the party faithful to be conscious of the antics of some individuals, who would come to them, saying that the governor had endorsed them for the position.

“These people want to deceive party members and the people, as the governor has not nominated anybody for the position.

“As a founding father of the state, he will take his time to nominate who will succeed him to sustain the achievements of his government and predecessors.

“At the right time, we would support whoever the governor nominates, whether he is a cripple or a blind man.’’

He advised the people to continue to support Elechi’s administration to move the state forward.

Ogah said that the projects initiated by the state government were aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of the people.

Gulak assures of credible election in Ondo

Governor Amaechi

CHINEDUM EMEANA PORT HARCOURT

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t is no more news that in the first week of August 2012, Dr. Goodluck Diigbo, factional leader of the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP), announced a declaration, calling for self-government for Ogoni ethnic nationality via the international network from his base in Holland.

While the announcement was greeted with the tepidity that follows a rabble rouser’s action in Ogoni and in Rivers State, outside the state, the excitement that it generated more than made up for the disinterest that the venture garnered in the Niger Delta area.

Dr. Diigbo was former President of the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP), the youth wing of MOSOP, when the late Ken Saro-Wiwa was president of a

Dr. Diigbo

united MOSOP. According to him, he made the declaration in accordance with a UN General Assembly mandate. He claimed that the autonomy within Nigeria would secure indigenous rights for the Ogoni people, while enabling them meet their needs and interests as well as end what he described as internal colonialism.

However, that action has been dismissed by many stakeholders, within and outside Ogoni land. Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, expectedly, speaking at the Forum of the Federated Correspondents Chapel of Rivers NUJ, dismissed DIigbo and his declaration offhand, pointing out that the man had committed treasonable felony.

The Ogoni Youth Council has distanced itself from that declaration while Senator Magnus Abe, who also appeared at the Forum a couple of weeks later, gave the declaration short shrift by totally declining to answer questions on his views about the

whole declaration by Diigbo.

Apparently, like Mr. Tony Uranta, Executive Secretary of National Summit Group noted, the ‘Diigbo declaration is not the wish of all Ogoni people’. However, he stressed that he did not “begrudge” Diigbo his moves provided his actions remained within the bounds of the law and the constitution existing at the moment in Nigeria.

But he noted that the Diigbo unilateral declaration of autonomy for Ogoni was symptomatic of a bigger itch for dialogue on state, regional and national levels that needed to be attended to.

Ms. Annkio Briggs, a renowned Niger Delta rights activist, also stressed that Diigbo was well within his rights to make the declaration that he made.

Also the Provisional Council of MOSOP, (where Diigbo’s MOSOP broke away from) in a statement signed by its chairman, CONTINUED ON PAGE 41

P. 40

Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Alhaji Ahmed Gulak, has assured the people of Ondo that the October 20, 2012 governorship election in the state would be credible, free and fair.

He gave the assurance at the weekend in Abuja.

“It is going to be one-man one-vote, onewoman one-vote, one-youth one-vote in keeping with President Goodluck Jonathan’s democratic principle.

Gulak said all eligible voters would be allowed to elect the candidate of their choice, assuring that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as an impartial umpire would do its best to deliver both the sensitive and the non sensitive election materials on time to the designated places.

He explained that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) were trying their best to mobilise their people.

The President’s aide stressed the need for cooperation of the electorate and the political parties with INEC to enable the commission to deliver on its mandate.

According to him, there is no viable alternative to democracy and Nigerians should support its advancement in the country.

“Good governance begins from democracy, and I call on all Nigerians to really cherish and nourish our democracy,” Gulak noted.

He said a lot of people made sacrifices for this democracy to come into existence, as some lost their lives while others were in exile.

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Politics

Sunday, September 16, 2012

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Crisis rocks Ondo CPC over •No cause for alarm, National Vice-Chair assures

The Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Ondo State seems to have lost its peace since the emergence of Prince Soji Ehinlanwo as its standard-bearer in the October 20 governorship election.

But the party’s National Vice Chairman (South West), Hon Raszaq Muse, disputes the existence of a crisis in the state chapter of the party. Ojo Oyewamide reports:

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Major Gen. Buhari (rtd)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Professor Ben Naanen, and Secretary, Dr. Meshach Karanwi, said the declaration of autonomy went against the spirit and letter of the Ogoni Bill of Rights.

Even they were quick to stress that “Ogoni people are dissatisfied with their condition in our country, Nigeria. But they do not believe the sovereign option is the answer”.

Blessing Wikina, an Ogoni who was chief press secretary to Governor Amaechi, speaking also on the declaration said: “They have turned the entire Ogoni struggle into a thing of mockery. In fact, they have succeeded in reducing the intellectual fight started by the late Ken SaroWiwa into a gathering of clowns.”

Comrade Celestine Akpobari, coordinator of the Ogoni Solidarity Front (OSF), a pro-Ogoni civil society organization, said even though Diigbo’s declaration of Ogoni autonomy may be part of the struggle, it is “not the one widely anticipated by the entire Ogoni people”. However, he warned that even though it has not received the support of Ogoni people, it could be a signal of impending troubles that may be coming up from Ogoni axis either soon or in the future.

“But I must say that it was a mere internet declaration. But if it had gotten the support of the six kingdoms of Ogoniland, if it had gotten the support of the entire Ogoni people, by now the government of Nigeria and oil companies would be struggling on what action to take,” he said.

However, with the media blitz that the Diigbo internet declaration had generated and continued to generate, it appears that Ogoni people are not shy of strategically milking the unpopular autonomy declaration for dividends that would benefit the Ogoni cause in the medium and long term.

With the seeming intractable Boko Haram rebellion scorching the

he Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Ondo State seems to have lost its peace since the emergence of Prince Soji Ehinlanwo as its candidate in the October 20 governorship election in the state. Soji, who is a son of the former Senator representing Ondo Southern Senatorial District, Chief Hosea Ehinlanwo, defeated his opponent, Mr. Abiodun Iwatan, at the party’s primaries held at Solton Hotel, Akure.

The party also picked its former State Women Leader, Mrs. Daramola Oluyemi, as Ehinlanwo’s running mate. The event was witnessed by the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the police, the State Security Service (SSS) and the Nigerian Civil Defence.

But three days after the primaries, Iwatan rejected the candidature of Ehinlanwo, saying the process that led to his choice was faulty. According to him, none of the national executive members of the CPC designated to conduct the exercise was present. He also alleged that delegates from the 18 local government areas of the state were not allowed to participate in the primaries.

Despite the protest of Iwatan, the state chapter of the CPC submitted the name of Ehinlanwo to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as its flagbearer in the forthcoming governorship election. The action of the party must have informed the defection of Iwatan to the Labour Party (LP), less

than three months after he joined the CPC. With the defection of Iwatan, one would have thought the headache of the party had gone. But another trouble reared its head. Some members of the party, rising from a stakeholders meeting in Akure, rejected the candidature of Ehinlanwo, saying the state chapter of the party neither recognised nor endorsed Ehinlanwo as the candidate of the CPC in the forthcoming election in the state. Members of the State Executive of the party and all its 18 local government chairmen were said to have attended the meeting, which reportedly took place on September 7, 2012.

A communiqué issued at the end of the meeting signed by Prince Jayeoba Akingbade Francis, the factional State Publicity Secretary of the party, read: “We want to state categorically that the entire members in all the 18 local government areas did not take part in the kangaroo congress organised in the state where Mr. Soji Ehinlanwo was purportedly appointed as the party gubernatorial candidate to contest the forthcoming governorship election in Ondo State. This is to let the public know that the kangaroo congress was not attended

by CPC members in the state.

“To set the record straight, the party was not aware of the time Mr. Ehinlanwo joined the party. Just as it was informed of his membership through the newspapers, Obolo and his cohorts also succeeded at giving the CPC governorship ticket to Ehinlanwo on the pages of newspapers. This is not known to the party and therefore invalid, unconstitutional and a flagrant rape of democracy.

“We intend to inform the public that

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Ogoni and the gains of North of the country, it makes common political sense that President Goodluck Jonathan would want to do everything possible to appease aggrieved interests from his home turf, the Niger Delta, whose restiveness in the recent past cost Nigeria dearly in terms of shareable revenue.

Like Dr. Cyrus Nunieh, a second republic Senator, who is President of Bori State Movement, has noted, it is better to ensure that things don’t get out of control.

Even as he insisted that the Ogoni want a state of their own within Nigeria and not autonomy, he pointed out that it may be more beneficial for Nigeria to grant the Ogoni state request than allow the autonomy situation to spiral out of control and lead to a war nobody clearly wants.

“So if we don’t do anything, things can get out of control, and when things are out of control you cannot know what next will happen, and who will be a victim. So the best thing is to put things under control. We know that our people want a state,” Nunieh advised.

The Federal Government and its operatives may also be thinking along the same line and ensuring that this matter does not get out of control.

On Saturday, August 18, 16 days after Diigbo made the declaration that Ogoni had become an autonomous entity, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, who doubles as chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, initiated a programme of engagement and interaction with Niger Delta communities, with emphasis on the youths.

Of course, he met first with Ogoni stakeholders. He has not met with

other groups since then.

Even though at that meeting where young men and women, Kuku sought to did not provoke his ideas, it was appar needed to begin to provide answers to ru and other parts of the Niger Delta befo also provided a platform for Ogoni youth the Diigbo antics.

As to be expected, the Ogoni team cam Many of these requests, as usual, centred opportunities, and of course, action fro the UNEP Report, which confirmed the Ogoni as a direct consequence of oil exp They claimed that they have been ma programmes” of the Niger Delta Ministr ment Commission.

As a result, therefore, they wanted a years of neglect, through human cap equip the youths with requisite skills to industry. But these trainings and relate take place “outside the country”.

They also wanted the Federal Govern Report to promote a new skill-set among diate intensive training programme in techniques “preparatory to the remedia

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Tribute to Neil Armstrong

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eil Armstrong, the first man to walk in the moon died lately at 82. The American test pilot and astronaut, was born on August 5, 1930 in Wapakoneta, Ohio, in the United States. In July 1969, Armstrong landed on the surface of the moon via the space craft - Apollo XI. The astronaut’s often cited statement: “…that’s one step for man, one giant leap for mankind”, aptly captured the significance and consequences of his historic and pioneering feat in space exploits. In 1957, Armstrong was selected for the Man in the Space Soonest (MISS) programme. In September 1963, he was selected as the first American civilian to fly in space. In 1966, he flew on the ‘Gemini 8’ mission that was launched on March 16, serving as the command pilot, as well as served as the CAPCOM - the official that directly communicated with the astronauts during missions to space for ‘Gemini 11’.

Neil Armstrong made his strongest impact on space exploration at the commencement of the Apollo programme. Of utmost significance is the fact that the space scientist made two trips to space. His first in 1966 when he was the commander of the Gemini 8 mission nearly ended in disaster. But his second in July 1969 with fellow astronauts, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins, was a nearly 250, 000-mile journey to the moon, a trip still being cited as the most historic moment in human history. In 1970, Armstrong retired as an astronaut though he remained with the National Space Agency (NASA) in the US, serving as the Deputy Associate Administrator for Aeronautics till 1971. After leaving NASA, he joined the University of Cincinnati as a Professor of Aerospace Engineering, and was there for eight

years. In the subsequent years, he was still committed to space science.

In 2010, Armstrong conveyed his concerns for changes in the US space programme and testified against President Barack Obama’s decision to cancel funding for the ‘constellation program’, a new mission to the moon. He was an outspoken critic of NASA’s space exploration strategies.

Armstrong’s space exploits coincided with the military and ideological rivalry between the defunct Soviet Union and the US. The end of the Second World War was characterised by cold war politics between the then world super powers - US and Soviet Union. The capitalist and socialist ideologies contested for the global space; and military rivalry was replicated through space explorations by American and Soviet Union’s space scientists. Armstrong’s space explorations were precursors to the US star war programmes otherwise described as the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI).

The SDI was America’s strategic defensive mechanism against the probability of Soviet Union’s missile attacks. The initiative attracted several billions of American dollars and increased defence budget. But with the collapse of the cold war, the Star War Programme suffered poor attention while greater emphasis was laid on space exploration for development purposes.

The development of the website, internet facilities, and the consequent revolutionary strides in global communication are linked with space technology and advancement.

The space-based communication tools have contributed in no small measure to the internationalisation of states and societies at the global level. The revolution in communi-

cation has bridged barriers and enhanced international co-operation to a great extent.

The Chinese government had joined the ‘space struggle’ with two successful launches of orbits into space. The Chinese success had signalled its emergence as a global economic power and major contributor to space technology. It is noteworthy that China has displaced Japan as the second largest economy behind the US. The country is also a major regional power in Asia and the Pacific.

Nigeria, on the other hand, recently had orbit launch into space in China with a view to impacting on space technology and harnessing its gains. However, the said launch made possible by Chinese scientists had been dogged by controversies.

Consequently, the Federal Government should recreate and reposition its space administration agency to play more strategic and meaningful roles in Nigeria’s space exploits. The FG should harness the vast array of Nigerian scientists and intellectuals to develop a space system that draws largely from local expertise as against external dependence. This way, the country would enhance its autonomy as a sovereign state and gain leverage by way of more respect in the comity of nations.

The country needs to rethink its science policy to act as a catalyst to inventions, production and development. There is, indeed, a science imperative at the global level which Nigeria should respond to and reflect in its day-to-day endeavours. Therefore, the education policy should be better synchronised with a re-articulated science policy that is capable of giving the country better leverage in real development terms.

Reminiscences SEPTEMBER 16 IN HISTORY 1920: Wall Street bombing kills 38, injures 400 A bomb believed to be planted by radical anarchists rocked Wall Street killing 38 people and wounded over 400. It was was widely attributed to radical anarchists.

1932: Mahatma Gandhi begins hunger strike Mahatma Gandhi began his hunger strike in opposition to Britain new Caste Separation Laws.

1940: WW2: Italian forces enter North Africa Italian forces of the North Africa Supreme Command occupied Sidi Barrani, approximately 85 kilometers from the border with Libya. Effectively stalled by the British who were fighting a delaying action, the Italians dug in and built a series of fortified camps.

1975: Women offered Rhodes scholarships After decades of inherent sexism, Rhodes Scholarships were made available to women.

1986: Fire kills 175 South African miners During a fire at the gold mine in Kinross mine in the Eastern Transvaal, South Africa, many miners were killed. This followed a major underground fire. They were trapped as poisonous gas spread rapidly through the shafts and tunnels of the mine, killing the men almost instantly where they stood.

1997: Steve Jobs returns to Apple Computers Steve Jobs returned to Apple Computers which he had founded to temporarily run the company during a search for a permanent leader.

2002: Annan speaks on return of Iraq weapons inspectors The United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, announced that Iraq had unconditionally accepted the return of UN weapons inspectors.

2011: Denmark elects first female prime minister After elections in Denmark ended, the centre-left bloc led by the Social Democrats won a narrow majority, making their leader Helle Thorning-Schmidt, the country’s first female prime minister. ThorningSchmidt ran on a platform of increased taxes, increased government spending, and a strange proposal to have workers add 12 minutes to their workdays in order to increase productivity.

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Opinion

Sunday September 16, 2012

Uncensored U nc

Sheriff S Folarin

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

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he killing of the American Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, and three other top diplomatic staff of the United States Consulate in Benghazi, is a sore point and a new twist to the Arab Spring. Protesting a new movie, Innocence of Moslems, which purportedly denigrates the person of their Prophet Mohammed, the Moslem world erupted in total violence. The video, partly released on YouTube, was produced in the United States by a 52 year-old Egyptian-American, Sam Bacile (real name, Nakoula Basseley Nakoula) . In the film, the character of the Moslem leader and founder of Islam, Prophet Mohammed was allegedly derided and aped.

This opened the floodgate of the rage in the Islamic world that has left in its trail, killings, arson, and destruction in an unprecedented manner.

This new wave of Arab Spring began in Cairo, Egypt, with protesters throwing missiles and burning tyres by the US Embassy. This soon resonated in Libya with irate youths converging on the Consulate where the Ambassador Stevens was visiting, attempting to forcefully gain entrance. When the crowd left the scene, some gunmen arrived and began to sporadically fire rockets right into the Consulate, in the direction of the Ambassador and his staff, culminating in their being killed. After the tragic death of the Americans, other countries, including Tunisia, Yemen, Sudan, Kenya joined in

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

A dumb movie and a baseless outrage! the upsurge and laid siege to American embassies and in some cases other NATO embassies, to cause mayhem.

The making of such provocative film and the violent reactions in the Moslem world is a case of two wrongs that can right nothing. It can only wrought destruction, charge up the social atmosphere, deepen hatred and result in more divisions in the world. It may be a free world in which persons can express their thoughts the way they wish, in writing, speaking, music, film, and even dressing; it is however incumbent on people to consider the tempers and emotions of others before acting. While film-making is now at a stage of experimenting with just anything that could appeal to the global viewers that seek newer different storylines each passing day, making of films ought to be also responsibly done; it should take into cognizance the feelings of others.

It is even more instructive that in this age of social instability and political unrest in the Middle East where tempers fly easily for just any touchy issue, making such a film as the Innocence of Moslems is ill-informed. What was the movie meant to achieve? Make the hard-lining Moslem faithful change their ways or throw tantrums at them? While the title of the movie sounds very appealing, the visual content was inflammatory for an average fanatic. The title was crafted to have global appeal and attract more Moslem viewers.

But that is a booby trap to make the heap of insults packaged a must-see for them. It is a dumb act which would expectedly lead to what we now see. Sam Bacile and company were so insensitive to the global and local problems of Islamic fundamentalism that we are still grappling with. They simply and cheaply brought this rage upon the world and leave us in Nigeria with the apprehension and at the mercy again of some bigots in the North, where violence

at every provocation is always more aggravated than even in the Middle East where Islam originated.

I wonder sometimes why people forget easily, unpopular acts of the past that exacerbated world tension. How could the filmmakers have forgotten so easily two incidents in world history that nearly erupted in global breakdown of law and order? Satanic Verses, a 1988 novel purportedly claiming that Islam is a vicious faith and authored by Salman Rushdie, a British Indian, brought world outrage and a death sentence on Rushdie by the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khomeini. In 2005, a Danish newspaper ignited violent protests across the Moslem world when it printed cartoons depicting the Islamic prophet wearing bombs in his turban, apparently referring to the escalation of terrorism led by left-wing Moslem faithful. Those images touched off riots across the world. Nigeria was not left out. About 50 persons lost their lives in Northern Nigeria. What of the case of Gideon Akaluka, a Kano-based Igbo trader who, pressed to heed nature’s call, desperately searched for what to use to clean up after defecating in a bush and found a book which happened to be a Koran from which he tore out a few pages to help himself ? Moslems caught up with him, beat him, severed his head and hung it on a stick, went on rampage in Kano and neighbouring Moslem cities and forcefully opened prison gates and committed multiple acts of murder and arson. So, Bacile and his fellow filmmakers should not have made that film when they knew the doom that could spell for the rest of the world.

In the same vein, the outrage was totally unnecessary. It smacked of intolerance, immaturity and a sense of social insecurity. How could an ordinary film, like a novel or cartoon in any way, demean

the personality of someone who is their hero? Such things as videos or writings can be overlooked. They are just the perspective of a very few; in some cases, just one man. They do not represent the views of the entire world. Moreover, why should America be at the receiving end when it was not the US Government that made the film? I have seen materials by Louis Farrakhan and Ahmed Deedat and other fanatical Moslems that have blasphemed Christian Holy Prophets and denigrated our religion several times; Moslems (such as in Somalia, Kenya, Yemen, Nigeria, Sudan, Afghanistan) have even invaded and desecrated holy Christian worship centres and killed people. It has never sparked off global violence.

Moreover, it is from the same America that it is rumoured that a blasphemous movie, Corpus Kristi, is coming. If what we hear is true, that film will be the most despicable thing about our Lord that has ever been made. Yet, we have not gone to the streets, let alone destroy or kill people around. We take it in good faith and leave the heathen message and the message bearers before the court of the true God of Judgment. We do not fight for God, His Son or His Holy Prophets.

God fights for us (1 Kings 18). We do not help God. No, we do not have such capacity (see the story of Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6.1-7 and 1 Chronicles 13.9-12). God helps us. God and Jesus are too great, far too important and awe-inspiring, for our sense of reverence to be beclouded by some mere misrepresentations of the ignorant few or malicious fellows. I want to beg the indulgence of our Moslem brothers to take a cue from this and please give peace a chance.

•Dr. Folarin is the Chairman, Local Organising Committee of the 11th Fulbright Alumni Conference.

Nsima Ekere: The loyal, patient deputy governor EKPENYONG WILSON

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o say that Akwa Ibom is one of the very few states in Nigeria blessed with abundant material and human recourses, given the historic, economic and socio-political developments and empowerment of the people in that entity since Governor Godswiil Akpabio took over the reins of power in 2007, is stating the obvious.

Without any equivocation, most patriotic Akwa-Ibomites have come to the consensus that the coming of Akpabio as their political leader in the state is God’s uncommon intervention in internal affairs of The Land of Promise. Thus, in spite of constant anti-Akpabio media campaigns by the opposition, majority of citizens of the state whose lives and living conditions have been positively touched in many astounding ways by the actualisation of the great vision of Governor Akpabio, vis-a-vis the mission of his administration, will remain indebted in appreciation for generations yet unborn.

However, in all public discourse about the uncommon transformation in Akwa Ibom-by way of massive social and infrastructural development plus unprecedented human capacity building, which has continued to make the state the cynosure of eyes both in and outside Nigeria, a fact usually overlooked is the choice of Obong Nsima Udoh Ekere as deputy by Governor

Akpabio as well as his (Nsima) golden place in the history of the once-in-lifetime social experience being appreciatively and admiringly enjoyed by the people of the state.

And, quite frankly, this seeming general oversight is nothing very serious to the majority of Akwa Ibomites, especially those of us who know and appreciate the humane background of the Deputy Governor, his legendary humility and large-heartedness; his unalloyed support for all that Governor Akpabio stands for in the state and national firmament and political sagacity, which has become his patent attribute since he emerged as a leader of note in Akwa Ibom and Nigeria in 1997.

A cursory look at the 15-year-old political career of Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor shows he is an embodiment of patience, perseverance, assiduity, self-restraint, steadfastness, loyalty and doggedness, which are timeless attributes of a great leader. Suffice to state here that the dearth of these qualities has continued to be the bane of politics in Nigeria.

As it is common in Nigeria, not many politicians would remain patient and steadfast when their interests are been threatened by political expediency. In the political sphere in Nigeria, events have proved beyond reasonable doubts that the spirit of sacrifice for the common good has been buried in the rubbles of political merchandising. This explains the constant defection of politicians from one party to the other.

These politicians often have a defense: In

politics, there are no permanent friends and permanent enemies but permanent interests: But Nsima is an exemption of all this!

Nsima has been active in Akwa Ibom politics since December 1997 when he won election to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly during the Abacha transition programme. Ten years later, specifically in 2007, he has become a force to be reckoned with in the state’s political calculus and was nominated for the same position he’s currently occupying but was dropped in less than two weeks. Two speculated federal appointments also failed to come his way.

But he remained patient and steadfast.

He was also tipped to become a Minister and later a Special Adviser to the President: Of course, none of these exalted political positions came his way. Many observers of the unfolding political horizon in the country will agree that there have been very few politicians who lost out this way and not revolt or joined the oppositions, which always look for politicians cross-carpeting from other parties. He had stoically stood by Governor Akpabio. Thus, after he conceded the post of the deputy governor in order to avoid internal crisis that capable of undermining the electoral prospects of his party, PDP, he accepted the appointment of Board Chairman of both the Akwa Ibom Industrial and Investment Promotion Council (AKIIPOC) and the Ibom Power Plant and worked assiduously towards the success that the two parastatals have

become in the anal of political history of Nigeria today.

Since he assumed office as the deputy governor of Akwa Ibom State, the IkotAbasi born politician has proven on all occasions that he’s a dependable ally and deputy to Governor Akpabio’s vision of the uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom State. The symbiotic relationship between the two leaders is legendary.

This can be deduced from the admiring manner he has continued to represent the governor in events both home and abroad. As a matter of fact, it is a thing of joy and our pride in Akwa Ibom that this inimitable symbiotic relationship has become an object of national discourse. One can only further advance this relationship by urging all politicians in the country to key into this perfect working relationship, which has greatly catalyzed the uncommon infrastructural cum socio-political transformation of Akwa Ibom State.

Indeed, one is proud to allude to the now popular view that it is the uncommon symbiotic relationship between the governor and his deputy vis-a-vis the untainted twoway sincerity of purpose between them, which has made party politics, especially within the rank and file of the PDP in the state, be devoid of the acrimonious, and sometimes, fratricidal bickering, found in many other states of the federation.

Dr. Wilson is a Chicago-based medical practitioner and public commentator

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Applause LIFESTYLE, FASHION & ENTERTAINMENT

Why I’m no more a pastor –Queen Ure Okezie SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Queen Ure Okezie, who was a banker for more than a decade, is an interesting personality. This diva, ex-pastor, celebrity, ex-wife of Soul-E, a musician, whose marriage crashed after a few years, is a great beauty. In this interview with Adaeze Amos, she reveals why she stopped being a pastor and how she regained her composure when her marriage crashed.

Please, tell us a little about your growing up Growing up was awesome. I have a beautiful family. I was born in the 1970s. My late father used to be in government; he was a minister twice - the Minister of Agriculture and then Minister of Health. I’m the only girl and the last born. I was pampered, loved but not spoilt. I attended Federal Government Girls’ College, Owerri, Imo State. My dad started giving us books to read very early in life.

Were you then born with a silver spoon?

I would say I was born with a silver spoon. My father wasn’t just a government person, he was a medical doctor. He owned his own hospital, a big central hospital and most people from Umuahia, where I come from, were coming there. My dad was their family doctor. He practised for 50 years. He became a doctor when he was 25 and died at the age of 77, still practising. My dad was a disciplinarian, an academic. Having a doctor as a father entailed a lot of reading.

How about your mum?

Oh yeah, she is a female activist. At the moment, she is the special adviser to Abia state governor on human mobilization. She is still strong, she is less than 70 and she is even lighter in complexion than I am. I have a very wonderful mum. She is a fashionista too.

What’s your discipline in the university?

I studied Physics at the University of Jos. I’m a scientist and I’m abreast with all the scientific new findings. When people learn that I studied Physics, they usually tell me that I look like someone who studied Theatre Arts. My best subject, growing up in school, was Mathematics. I enjoyed studying Physics too.

You were once in the banking sector; what were some challenges that confronted you then?

Well, I was in the industry for over a decade. Immediately after my youth service, I got into the Diamond Bank, then Zenith Bank, after that Platinum Bank. That was before it became Bank PHB, after that Fin Bank. It was wonderful, no regrets at all. The corporate world would give you that proper foundation of discipline, of being goaloriented. It would give you the experience of being a subordinate and a supervisor. You would learn how to work with people and it would increase your interpersonal relationship skill. You would have knowledge of how to run your own company or organisation when you want to. Waking up early and going home late just became part of my lifestyle. You start doing something and you

‘I USED TO BREAK MEN’S HEARTS, BUT NOW I’VE CHANGED’

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get used to it. At 4 a.m., your alarm rings and you are not getting home until 10 p.m. I knew that it wasn’t something I would keep doing for a long time, until retirement. I knew it was strenuous and it was something I would just do for a while and let go. But it was good while I was there.

How did you develop the passion for music having studied Physics and worked in the banking sector for over a decade?

Music has always been part of me right from childhood. My mother is a great singer but she would just sing in the shower and then in the church. Music is something in our family. I have been writing songs but hardly ever publicised them. I had a music group on campus known as Rubies. Basically, I have been into music, although I have been doing other things. But now, I want to face it squarely.

You were a pastor, why did you step out from pastoral work?

Most of last year, I was out of the country and I handed the ministry over to someone. You know how it is when you are not the one there, they had some challenges and they couldn’t continue. I still go to church every Sunday. I have gone back to my former church which is Household of God Church, owned by Pastor Chris Okotie.

Is that why people are insinuating that you have an intimate relationship with Pastor Chris Okotie; is it true?

Well, I think that both of us (Pastor Chris and myself) are two people who God’s hand is upon. So, in our lives, only the counsel of God will stand. I’m in Household to worship. I have been a householder for years. Pastor Chris is a man of God that I hold in high esteem and I respect him a lot.

When you are down, what do you do to derive your inspiration?

I can’t be down for five minutes, it is not possible. I mean why should I be down in this beautiful world?

Don’t you cry?

I cry sometimes. I can’t sit down for five minutes brooding.

Five minutes is too long for me to be down. If there is anything, maybe it would just hit me that moment and then I remind myself that I’m here on earth to enjoy and not to cry. Crying doesn’t change anything. I don’t stay down.

What do you do when you are heartbroken?

Why should people be heartbroken? Is it that you are in a relationship and the person walks out or when a person is not getting enough attention from the person she loves? Well, you are bound to feel bad for a while. I don’t think it is right to desire to be with someone who doesn’t want to be with you. It doesn’t even make sense to begin to cry over someone. There are over a billion people on earth and then you choose one person and begin to cry over the person, it doesn’t make sense.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

MY EYES ARE UNIQUE SELLING POINTS –TOLULOPE

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Applause

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘I used to break men’s hearts, but now I’ve changed’ Annette Cookey is an actress, a make-up artiste and a physiologist who graduated from the University of Port Harcourt. She was the fourth runner-up in the MTN Project Fame. Annette loves fashion with a passion hence her choice of modelling as a career. She has tried to correct the impression people have about models in this interview with Adaeze Amos.

How are you able to do a whole lot at the same time?

Yes, because I have passion for a whole lot. First of all, I studied Physiology at the University of Port Harcourt. When I graduated, I started as a make-up artiste because I had and still have passion for make-up.

Later, I switched over to modelling. My statistics are superb for that and modelling has always been what I had longed for right from when I was a child. I wasn’t just satisfied with that. I later became a singer and an actress. I have performed in many music shows and featured in several movies.

It hurts me that modelling is not yet organized. For now, there is nothing like having a president in the modelling world. Models have not organised their sector just like musicians and actors have done. This does not make me happy at all because that is why till date, models are not taken seriously. If we can tidy this industry, we would go places.

You called it an industry?

Yes, it is. Is it because some girls who are not groomed would wake up one day and say they are models? It is of course an industry. When you travel abroad, you would bear with me that it is an industry where it is divided into different sections. For instance, there are runway models, lifestyle models, nail polish models, foot models, portrait models, just name it. Models capitalise on their strong points. But it’s a pity that in Nigeria, it is not like that for now. There is even no proper orientation for the modelling industry. No proper infrastructure to groom models. Most models don’t even know how to treat themselves with respect.

Some don’t know what to do to look good. Others are not aware that modelling is not only meant for skinny girls. There are some jobs and styles that plump models are expected to do.

As a model who had toured several continents what, in your views, do our youths stand to benefit from modelling as a career?

Modelling has created jobs for youths. Good looks and good body frame have been put to good use. It has given rise to modelling agencies who make efforts to train their models and go the extra miles to get jobs for them. That was what my modelling agency did for me.

I must give kudos to them because it is exceptional.

The boss of this agency, Ken Kool, is vast and he cares for his models and ensures they deliver.

Also, modelling aids photography. We have professional photographers who are good in taking hot shots for models. There are also costumiers, make-up artistes and a whole lot of them where jobs are created as a result of modelling. Indeed, it has created jobs for youths. You don’t have to sit idle, all hands are on deck and there is no room for joblessness in the modelling world.

What inspires your style?

What I bear in mind when dressing. What I understand style to mean is what fits your body frame, bearing in mind the weather. What I mean is that it is not

good to cover up too much when the weather is hot. I don’t show too much of flesh.

I don’t dress provocatively.

It’s true that I’m busty but I try to dress well.

Some people think most models are prostitutes, how right is this?

Wrong! Models are not prostitutes; we don’t sleep around. Rather, models are open to new trends, they are stylish and modest. Models are the most self-confident set of human beings. They hold their shoulders high. In auditions, for instance, you see every model holding her shoulders high. Nobody wants to be intimidated by the next model. They don’t fool around and they can’t be seen sleeping around. Most importantly, models keep to time.

They are time-conscious. Just call them for auditions, no matter the distance or the location, they will be there at the right time.

I’m talking about professional models.

Is your mum in support of your modelling career?

Oh sure! My mum is a fashionista. I was raised by my mum who is a single parent, and she has always been supportive of my modelling career. She encourages me a whole lot. There was a time she encouraged me to enrol in Big Brother Africa.

What are your beauty rituals?

I drink a lot of water. Water is life. I eat right and I don’t joke with my exercises. I don’t relent on my situps and I have never tried sleeping with my make-up on. I can’t step out without my sun screen.

What do you do to unwind?

I read books. I love to sleep. I eat in bits. I listen to music, basically Nigerian music.

What are the qualities of your ideal man?

He must be tall, dark and handsome. He has to be supportive, caring, God-fearing and soft - soft because I’m hard, troublesome and heady. My ideal man has to be the opposite, and thank God I have one already.

The first time you had a heart break, how did you wriggle out of it?

Thank God I have never experienced it before. I’m fortunate. I used to break men’s hearts but now I have changed. I’m more mature.

‘I was born with a silver spoon’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 Haven’t you been heartbroken before?

I have but I didn’t get heartbroken for long because I’m a wonderful person, I’m a loving person, I’m fun to be with and anyone who has me is blessed. That is the way I look at it. Someone should know your value and if the person doesn’t know, it is his loss. Women should begin to value themselves and you should be a woman that a man would need, not a woman that needs a man. That doesn’t mean I can’t fall in love and I’m like, ‘oh my God I would like to be with this person’. I’m a very open person; if I like you, I would tell you I like you and the whole world would know I like you. I’m not someone who hides my feelings. But if you didn’t feel the same way, before you know what is going on, I’m done with you.

When your marriage with Soul-E crashed, all sorts of things were written about you and…

I didn’t even let that bother me (cuts in). Yes, if you meet a million people, they would have a million opinions about you. And those opinions have nothing to do with who you are. From my early childhood, I grew not to bother about what people think of me because time would eventually unfold who you truly are.

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cocktail Whispers

Stories by Olumide Segun-Oduntan

0818 941 8761 e-mail: lumidezy@yahoo.com

SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Between Nike OshinowoSoleye and her detractors Popular socialite, Nike Oshinowo-Soleye, is not likely to be in the best of moods right now. In fact, the truth is that she is very angry with some people at the moment.

You may want to know the reason for her being angry. Well, it seems that some people are bent on tarnishing her image. And if you have been about town lately then you may have heard the rumour making the rounds that the very beautiful Nike was recently spotted at a gig in Spain hugging and kissing Prince Tokunbo Sijuade, first son of Ooni of Ife. But Mrs. Soleye is not only angry at those who have started the rumour, she has come out to say that she is not romantically involved with anyone except her husband, Dr. Tunde Soleye and that her marriage to him is still very much intact.

Just so you know, the party in question was staged in Spain recently by General Theophilus Danjuma and his wife, Senator Daisy, for her 60th birthday.

According to latest feelers reaching Cocktail Whispers, the very gorgeous Mrs. Soleye was said to have been stunned by the rumour that she was kissing and hugging Prince Sijuade at the party.

In fact, the celebrated business woman is said to be very angry at the people that cooked up the story.

While she admitted being a guest of the Danjumas at the bash, she has stated that there was no way she could have been hugging and kissing the prince when there were other socialites at the party. Besides, Prince Sijuade was said to have attended the gig with a female friend.

But not a few minds have been wondering why Nike’s ‘detractors’ would dish out such a story if it was unfounded. Well, maybe the end of this story is somewhere in the future, so watch this space.

It’s a baby girl for Obiora Obiwon and wife If you are one of those that witnessed their wedding and wished them early delivery of the fruit of the womb, then you need to hit the dance floor on their behalf as your prayer has just been answered.

Yes, Nigerian celebrated soul singer, Obiora Obiwon and his beautiful wife, Nkechi, have welcomed the birth of their first child. Cocktail Whispers gathered that Nkechi delivered the couple’s bundle of joy, a pretty baby girl, just a few days ago.

If you are not aware, Obiora Obiwon and Nkechi Ezeife were joyously joined as husband and wife in the traditional way in Igbo-Ukwu in Anambra State last year. And their white wedding followed thereafter.

According to the gist at Cocktail Whispers’ disposal, the couple is currently in a very feel-good moment with the birth of their baby girl.

Of course the singer and his pretty wife are not alone in the joy following the addition to their family. It was learnt that their friends and Obiora’s fans are equally elated and have been sending congratulatory messages to them online.

About Davido’s million naira jewelry collection Without a doubt, his hit track, ‘Dami Duro’, brought him fame and fortune.

But it seems that celebrated singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has a huge affection for jewelry.

The crooner has been generating a lot of attention through his collection of jewelry.

According to those who have seen the fast-rising music star lately, he seems to have taken a fancy to collecting exotic jewelry. In fact, Cocktail Whispers learnt that Davido spent a huge sum of money acquiring several chains not long ago.

Though at that time, many thought it was a publicity stunt for the young singer, little did they know that the lyricist actually has a passion for gold.

Now it seems that Davido has added yet more gold to his already swelling box of jewelry. The popular musician admitted this much on his twitter handle recently. In his word: “Had to add some more jewels! I love my gold.”

Interestingly, Cocktail Whispers gathered that Davido’s latest jewelry acquisition has made whoever traded with him richer by the millions. Whether this is true or not, the talented singer obviously has a thing for ‘bling’.

Anita Iseghohi expecting third child If the latest information made available to Cocktail Whispers is to be believed, then it appears that former Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Anita Uwagbale Iseghohi, is expecting her third child.

Well, Cocktail Whispers learnt that friends of the very beautiful Mrs. Iseghohi held a baby shower for her a few days ago. It was gathered that the guests came with lots of gifts for the expectant mother.

Just so you know, Anita was crowned Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria in 2004 and she was later named African Continental Queen of Beauty in that year’s Miss World beauty pageant.

The very gorgeous Anita is married to businessman, Tom Iseghohi, and they already have two handsome boys.

It would also interest you to know that Anita, who is now expecting her third bundle of joy, is the CEO of motherhood retail chain, The Baby Store.

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Movies & Music

Stories by Olumide Segun-Oduntan

Sunday, September 16, 2012

0818 941 8761 e-mail: lumidezy@yahoo.com

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Bimbo Akintola talks up her role in Hoodrush One of the most consistent Nollywood actresses in over a decade, the delectable and talented Bimbo Akintola, has come out to expressly talk about her role in the yet-to-bepremiered musical flick, Hoodrush.

‘Hoodrush’ is a musical movie which tells the story of two brothers, Shez (O.C Ukeje) and Tavier (Gabriel Afolayan), the struggles they face and surmount before they rose to prominence.

The movie features Bimbo Akintola, O.C Ukeje, Gabriel Afolayan, Bolanle Ninalowo, Ifeoma Agu, Lee Byoma and others. The captivating flick was directed and produced by Dimeji Ajibola, the technical director at Flipsyde Studios.

Bimbo Akintola is not a stranger to acting and Nollywood as a whole. The talented actress came into public consciousness after starring in ‘Owo Blow’, ‘Out of Bounds’ where she starred alongside prolific actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and ‘The Mourning After’, a movie that sheds light on the pains of widowhood.

“For those of you who haven’t heard me sing before, you will see a bit of that in ‘Hoodrush’. Also, I think O.C Ukeje is such a brilliant actor, I think he is going places so people should watch out for him and my ‘fake’ daughter, Chelsea Eze , she is such a talented actress too; my role in Hoodrush is certainly different from the other flicks I have done,” Bimbo enthused.

Speaking more on the movie, the amiable actress said: “It was great working with Dimeji, the producer of ‘Hoodrush’ because he is the kind of producer that listens and when you listen to people you work with, you will go places.

“I am saying this because I have come across many producers who are not good at what they do. They just assume everything would sort itself out as soon as they get on set and things are not done that way. There are some that send you scripts and you can’t even read the first page. I have about 15 scripts like that in my apartment. This is so because the producers weren’t professional enough in the way they do things.”

When asked if she has friends in the industry, the sexy actress said: “I pick my friends from the heart. I have actors who have been my friends for 20 years and we are still going strong. It is like marriage, if you don’t have the right partner, there would be trouble. If you have wrong friends, they would never tell you when you are going wrong.

“I love Tonto Dike; I met her once and I think she is a good person. I love Omotola too; I would say she is my friend, we don’t see or talk everyday but when we do see and talk, it’s a moment to treasure. Stella, Keppy are also my friends among others.”

Bimbo Akintola

Last Flight to Abuja grosses N20m at cinemas Mero returns with

Obi Emelonye

Movie buffs will be glad to know that the producer and director of new movie, Last Flight to Abuja, Obi Emelonye, a few days ago appeared on CNN for an exclusive interview on the segment, African Voices, to talk about his life so far, achievements and his projects; Mirror Boy and Last Flight to Abuja.

According to Emelonye, Last Flight to Abuja has made N20 million at the cinemas in just four weeks of showing, a feat that surpassed the cinema sales of his previous work, the award-winning Mirror Boy which made a total of N18 million at the cinemas.

During the widely publicised interview on CNN, the presenter asked Obi Emelonye how he got the passion for filmmaking.

He answered smilingly, “I remember vividly when I was like seven or eight years old, my father asked my brothers and I to draw a goat, and there was so much fuss about my drawing, and I didn’t understand it. “He said I was able to capture not just a goat standing or in motion, but that I also was able to capture the emotion of the goat in motion, which was the first time; it really hit me that I could have an artistic gene.”

The University of Nigeria graduate of Theatre Arts was also asked how he got into mainstream filmmaking and he said: “As I said, I studied Theatre Arts at the University of Nigeria and it was mainly stage craft that we learnt. I started writing scripts in my second year and almost became very renowned in my university for my writing skills.

“So when I left university, I knew that the world was going digital and I had to be a part of that, so I bought a camera and made my first film. I was the writer, producer, costumier, make-up artiste, all of the above. I learnt my lessons anyway. After that, I went to different film schools in London.

Afro-beats single

UK-based Afro-beats artiste, Mero, has returned t scene with an exciting new single titled ‘Me & My F perbly produced by 2Kriss of Big Boyz Entertainmen Backed by lush drum patterns and keyboard i Friends’ sees Mero in flying form as he rides the A perfection with an exciting and infectious flow alon that you will not be able to forget.

On the visual front, music video director of the mo shows exactly why he is one of the most sought after m in 2012 on the accompanying visuals for ‘Me & My Fr Fresh from directing ‘Get Down Tonight’ by Banky and Wande Coal’s ‘Go Low”’, Moe Musa strikes gold ly captures the essence of this feel-good track with a house party sequence featuring cameo appearance Kudz, Wale P and DL of Smade Music, among others It will interest music fans to know that Mero - re Adeniyi - with his distinct artistic talents and perfor linked to fast-rising record label, UNG Music, Yemi UK-based rap Born and Mero moved dom to pur counting bu been his firs young up-an has come to he just cann any other thi While wor assistant, M and compos songs and th his first reco 2010 with N and the relea 2011.

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Love is what will last forever, says Pastor Okereke’ 29 Fear of deportation

Praise Worship E-mail:richardeghaghe@yahoo.com

E-mail:titusanyanwu.2012@gmail.com

EDIFYING GOD September 16, 2012

Two Nigerian students take refuge in Canadian church

RICHARD EGHAGHE WITH AGENCY REPORT

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wo Nigerian students at the University of Regina, Canada, have been hiding in a church for months to avoid deportation for unwittingly working at Wal-Mart, a store, without proper permits.

Ihuoma Amadi, 21, and Victoria Ordu, 20, have attended the school for three years on a scholarship. Last year, the pair worked at the store for two weeks, but according to Citizenship and Immigration Canada, international students can’t be employed off campus without a work permit.

“It was an honest mistake. They want a second chance. There are better measures that could have been used rather than the ultimate punishment, which is deportation,” said Kay Adebogun, vice-president of the Canadian Association of Immigration Consultants, who is representing them pro bono.

The students said they quit immediately when university staff told them the rules. Later, Canadian Border Services Agency’s officers arrested them and they were scheduled to be deported June 19.

It is unclear how the women ended up getting hired without the appropriate work permits.

Wal-Mart said it was investigating the matter and declined to go into detail.

“We have a process in place to ensure associates have appropriate documentation to work in Canada,” the statement said.

Desperate, the women said they sought sanctuary at an undisclosed church in Regina nearly three months ago in hopes that immigration officials would show “mercy”

for them.

“At times, we stay for days without eating because we don’t go outside,” Amadi said at the weekend, at the church where they slept on the floor.

Amadi and Ordu have both written to Immigration Minister, Jason Kenney, to ask for a pardon, and they are trying to get temporary residence permits.

“We acknowledge everything happened out of ignorance. If we had known, why would we take that risk when our education is much more important?” Ordu asked rhetorically.

The University of Regina is supportive of the women’s plight and wants them to return to classes to get their degrees in theatre and international studies.

Barbara Pollock, a spokeswoman at the university, said the school sent a letter to the minister to ask him to reconsider the deportation on humanitarian grounds.

“We feel that the punishment is disproportionate to the wrongdoing,” Pollock said.

Remi Lariviere, spokesman for Citizenship and Immigration Canada, said in an email, Thursday, that Kenney didn’t have the authority to reverse deportation orders under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Lariviere declined to answer further questions for privacy reasons.

For now, all the students can do is, wait. “It’s given the wrong impression of Canada,” Ordu said.

rchbishop Anthony Obinna of the Owerri Catholic Ecclesiastical Province, Imo State, at the weekend said the emphasis on Igbo language for evangelisation within his province was to ensure solid rooting of the Christian faith.

Obinna spoke, while addressing Catholic faithful during a reception organised for him and the bishops of Ilorin, Jalingo and Aba dioceses, by the Mater Dei Catholic Parish, Umuahia, Abia State.

It was observed that members of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria currently meeting in Umuahia split into groups to visit selected parish-

Court remands cleric, wife over missing children An Agege Customary Court in Lagos has remanded a cleric and his wife over their inability to produce two children kept in their custody.

The court’s president, Mr. Emmanuel Shokunle, remanded Pastor Isaac Komolafe and his wife, Olasunkanmi, in Kirikiri Prisons for failing to produce their friend’s children in their care since September, 2010.

Shokunle said that the couple would remain in prison custody until they produced a man who, they claimed, took the children away. The remand of the couple followed a petition by the children’s father, Mr. Salimon Ogunyemi, after the couple said that they no longer knew the whereabouts of the children.

Ogunyemi told the court that he left the children in the custody of the couple after his wife travelled abroad.

“My wife, being a friend of the pastor’s wife, entrusted the two children in her care.

C & S Church holds anniversary The Disciples of Christ Ministry branch of Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, Surulere sub-eadquarters, otherwise known as AYO NI O, in Lagos are to hold a week-long seventh Harvest/Anniversary Thanksgiving from September 30 to October 7. The theme of the programme is ‘Perfect Covenant, Perfect Time’.

The programme will kick off with ‘Special prayers for families and Success of Anniversary/Harvest events’ on Monday, October 1. The theme is ‘Seminar on Economic Advancement’ to be handled by motivational speaker and radio presenter, Mr. Muyiwa Afolabi. A free medical check-up is to be conducted by the health corps of the church on the same day.

Sunday Mirror/Babcock University Bible Quiz:

To our readers

Ihuoma Amadi, 21, left, and Victoria Ordu, 20, students of University of Regina, Canada, are pictured at an undisclosed church at the weekend.

Why I preach in Igbo language –Archbishop Obinna A

Briefly

es, as part of their seven-day programme. ``Experience shows that evangelisation of any religion is better achieved when the native language of the people is used to preach, rather than a foreign language. ``In North Africa, if you visit the areas where Saint Augustine came from, you will notice that Christian faith is fast fading away. ``This is because the early Christians there used Latin for evangelisation and not the native language of the people,” the cleric added.

Obinna said Catholic Church would survive vari-

ous challenges if the believers internalised the doctrine and teachings of the church in their local languages. ``When you listen to songs and gospel messages in Igbo, they convey better meanings to you than when foreign language is used as a medium for a similar massage,’’ he said.

Contributing, Bishop Charles Hamawa of Jalingo Diocese said the promotion of Ecumenism by the church in recent time was to encourage inter-religious harmony among different Christian believers.

According to Hamawa, under the new order, Catholic

‘ YOUR DESIRE DETERMINES YOUR STATUS’

faithful are allowed to interact with members of other Christian denominations, but not to form prayer groups with such people. ``The motive of Ecumenism is not for a Catholic to jettison his Catholic faith or doctrine, but to attend such religious invitations like child dedication, weddings and thanksgiving and not to form prayer groups,’’ he said.

NAN reports that the reception attended by Bishops Vincent Ezeonyia and Ayo Maria of Aba and Ilorin Dioceses respectively, was also witnessed by many priests, the religious and other Catholic faithful.

It has come to the attention of the management of Global Media Mirror, publisher of National Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Saturday Mirror that some people have been making phone calls to our readers to inform them that they have won some prizes in the Sunday Mirror/Babcock University Bible Quiz competition.

Please ignore such message(s) as we do not call any winner of the quiz on phone. We only publish names in our newspapers.

–Editor • 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.

27 HOW WILL GOD JUDGE ERRANT PASTORS?

QUOTE Love should exist among men of God, churches, Christians and Muslims who are from the same father, Abraham.

–Pastor Okekere

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Praise & Worship

Sunday September 16, 2012,

Sunday y Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

When deceivers pose as children of God, by Rev Chidi End-Time minister, Rev. Chidi Anthony of Kings in Christ Ministries warns against nst compromises in the church of Christ, pointing out that the Lord’s anger is reserved erved for sinners pretending to be Christians. Excerpts of the exhortation as presented by Tai Anyanwu: What kind of life are you living? I was invited to preach in a church. a motor-bike came up and on n seeing me, shouted, ‘Eh! The host pastor asked the church choir to usher in the visiting pastor Daddy, daddy, daddy, don’t worry rry, I will fix it for you.’ I was (me) with songs. The choir mistress was impeccable; she commanded very happy; I said ‘God, thank k you very much, even in this the choir without flaw. And the choir sang with angelic mien. They strange land you have brought ht a brother to rescue me.’ sang so gloriously that one could feel their song had touched heaven; I was ready to even hand overr the vehicle’s key to him. The brother came over and after looking and God’s presence was felt inside the church.

The glory of God fell upon the congregation so much that the choir through, he said, ‘Oh, it is a small thing. mistress could not withstand the power of God. She fell under the I said, ‘What is it?’ He said, d, ‘timing anointing and crashed on her chair. The impact of the crash sent the chain.’ Can you fix it? He said, id, ‘yes.’

I was happy and we left the vehicle chair and her bag flying across the floor; and behold, three packets of and took another vehicle to Owerri condoms fell out of the choir mistress’ handbag. werri Right inside the church, I said ‘O God, what is wrong with this gen- to buy the faulty spare-part. t. We eration? Oh God have mercy.’ A girl can sleep with six different men entered some parts shop, but what in one day just to obtain money to buy Blackberry phone, so that she baffled me is that I don’t know can be pinging. The anger of God on the last day will be furious. What whether the brother used nose, kind of life are you living? Check your life; you can deceive anybody ear or eye to signal to the parts’ seller to hike his price. Eventually but you cannot deceive God. ually, This money we are all chasing after, one day, we shall die; what will the dealer said the part which h usuhappen to the money we have accumulated, we will not know. You may ally sells for N400 would cost st me have witnessed a burial ceremony. Immediately the corpse is buried, N1, 400.

I told the youth, relations, friends and d my GIRL CAN SLEEP WITH SIX brother let us other associates of the diseased go to another swill begin to demand for rice, other DIFFERENT MEN IN ONE DAY shop, but drinks and entertainment that he said,, ‘No will gratify their own souls. The JUST TO OBTAIN MONEY TO BUY Daddy, pay. dead is hardly allowed to settle in the grave.

LACKBERRY PHONE SO THAT This one is Japan; The truth is that the dead, n; I don’t just like we all are doing to’t SHE CAN BE PINGING HE AN want you day, might have taken series of ou trouble and thoughts to make uy GER OF OD ON THE LAST DAY to buy Taiwan.’ his money. It is possible that .’

WILL BE FURIOUS When he had intimidated someone to m make money or even betrayed, y killed, kidnapped or looted to make all that money that people are brother said ‘pay, it is the now scrambling to feast on. But he is now six feet down the bowel original, who am I to say I will not pay?’ I put my handss of the earth.

Just think about it. May God have mercy on us. In Ajao Estate in the pocket to bring outt here (in Lagos), young girls hang on the roadsides at night, waiting money to pay. After all, what at for men to pick them for a ‘quick one’ or ‘one night stand’. Imag- I need is a Japanese product, ct, ine the risk the girls take when they allow a man, whose address or I don’t need Taiwan products. cts. the spirit ruling him they don’t know, to carry them and sleep with. As I was about to pay, behold hold What if in the night he rises and kills the girl involved in this dan- another brother opposite the gerous lifestyle? Some banks are even sending pretty young girls shop said, ‘Is that not Rev. Chidi into prostitution under the guise of giving them employment. They Anthony? Hey daddy, daddy y, daddy, give high target, to win account holders running into several mil- you came into Aba; please come ome and lions of naira in a quarter. Other girls sleep with Managing Direc- lay your hand on me and pray ay for me.’ tors (MDs) of companies and men old enough to be their fathers or I said ‘I will pray for you. Let et me fingrandfather, just to get contracts. What after the illicit relationship ish buying what I want to buy y.’ He said what do you want to buy?’ I said ‘timyou die, where will you be?

Brethren, I am not afraid of the flesh; but I am afraid of anything that ing.’ He said, ‘And you are counting unting all will kill the flesh and also kill the spirit. What kind of life are you living? this money?’ I said, ‘I want a Japanese The Bible says ‘seek ye the Lord, oh ye meek of the earth; seek product, I don’t want Taiwan.’ n.’

He said ‘what is Japan and his righteousness. It may be that you may be hid in the day of the d Taiwan?’

Lord’s anger. Seek his righteousness.” Today there are many wolves I said ‘don’t confuse me, I will ill pray for in sheep garment right inside the church of God. Can you imagine you after; and I continued to o count my money.’ The brother said, “Daddy that one of them was not even afraid to attempt to dupe me?

Daddy come He came to this church claiming he works in the South African and lay your hand on me, let me give Embassy. He had targeted some people he spotted the day he came to it to you; I have it in abundance. ance. Daddy the church. That day, he came into my office to dupe me; I looked at this thing is N400.’ ‘Four hundred ndred what?’ him and said to myself; that if this person has a chance, he will even I said, ‘No, your own may be Taiwan. I dupe God. You can imagine how desperate he is; after he had wit- need Japan, I don’t need Taiwan. iwan. He said nessed what the power of God is doing in this ministry, he still had ‘Daddy, it is N400. I was mad.. I looked at the the courage to attempt to dupe me. Many of them actually believe other dealers and asked, ‘have ave I done a bad that the church is the best place to carrying out their dubious deals. thing to come to buy something thing from your You must be very careful, because there are many of these dubious shop? You did not look at N100, 00, N200, N300 or N400 price hike; you went for people inside the church today. or a whole N1000.

Hear me; if there is an altar call for donations in the church, be care- The young man saw my countenance ntenance and said, ful how you rush out or respond. There are many thieves in the church; ‘please it is not me; it is that at brother who acthey are targeting you to make easy prey. Immediately after the church companied you to my shop.’ I shouted, ‘hey, my service, they will be the first to come to you and say, “Brother, you are brother; you that I can even give my life to hold highly lifted. I hope you are tremendously blessed by today’s message? for me. Because of a few hundreds ndreds of naira, he I was going back after a programme I attended in Inyisi, in South decided to compromise his position osition as a trusted Eastern Nigeria, and my car developed fault on the road. I was con- brother in the church of Christ. ist. We have a lot of fused because I didn’t know what to do. Then a young man who rode thieves in the church of God.

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Pastor Chidi

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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he Bible says, God is a spirit and this spirit worked through Peter, Paul, Silas and the rest of the apostles (except Judas that was controlled by some other spirit) and also in the life of all believers today. However, the great hinderer, Satan, is also a spirit and as God uses people, the spirit of the great hinderer is also using people. We should ask ourselves: is the spirit in me the right spirit? Am I hindering anyone? Or, am I the helper of the great hinderer, Satan? If Jesus should come now for the final judgement, will you be without excuse? But woe unto you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men! For ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in (Matt.23:13).

How are you helping the devil? Does your action and evil character hinder people from following God? In what way have you discouraged someone from entering the house of God? The evil can manipulate anyone at any time, no matter how religious you might think you are.

Peter was used by the great hinderer, to try to hinder our Lord Jesus. Matt.16: 21-23 states, ‘From that time forth began Jesus to show unto his disciples, how he must go unto Jerusalem and suffer many things of the Elders and Chief Priest and Scribes, and be killed, and be raised again on the third day. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, be it far from the Lord: this shall not be unto thee but he turned, and said unto Peter, get thee behind me, Satan, thou art an offence unto me, for thou savourest not things that be of God, but those that be of man. Jesus said, ‘Get behind me, Satan.’ Now, he was directly rebuking the spirit of the great hinderer that was controlling Peter at that particular minute. John 13:5-8: We will also hear how the devil used Peter the second time.

It states, “After that, he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with towel, wherewith he was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter and Peter said unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, ‘what I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter said unto him, ‘thou shalt never wash my feet’. Jesus answered, ‘If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.”

Peter was like trying to show respect but did not know he was hindering the work of God. If God should ask each hindered one, who did hinder you? Is your conscience sure that your name will escape mentioning? Luke 11:52 states, “Woe unto you, lawyers: For ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves and them that were entering in, ye hinder.” If the devil had used you to hinder someone or send anyone away from God’s presence, the Bible says woe unto you, because it took God a lot to bring the person you have hindered to the church.

You’re not living a Christian life; it can be a hindrance to many. The way you speak - sometimes you criticise, judge, make jokes, make jest, talk foolishly; all these can send many away from the presence of God, as the Bible says in Eph. 5:4. Your be-

Praise & Worship

Sunday September 16, 2012

Dealing with the great hinderer, by Apostle Utibe-Abasi General Overseer of The Rock of Salvation Church Ministries, Iju, Lagos, Apostle Utibe-Abasi Emmanuel, this time, dwells on the havoc which a hinderer can wreak in the life of a Christian. He says it is not only satan that hinders, but that your close-knit friend or family member can also serve as a stumbling block in your advancement. Excerpts:

Apostle Utibe-Abasi

haviour with your co-tenant, at your work or business place (bad behaviour) can discourage and hinder many. Your mode of dressing (seductive dressing) which many churches are encouraging, makes it difficult to differentiate a believer from a nonbeliever. They say God searches the heart.

Outwardly, it doesn’t matter what you put on. Jer.17: 9 states, “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it?” If your dressing is an abomination and your heart is desperately wicked, what else do you have to present

to God? A lady once asked me, “Why is it that Nigerians always go to church but outside the church, they are worse than the devil himself ?” Matt. 5:20 states, “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Most people only profess to be Christians, when they are not; their lives are disgusting, putting the name of God to shame. God says woe unto you. 1 Peter 4:11a states, “If any man speaks, let him speak as an oracle of

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God.” When you open your mouth to say anything, allow the spirit of God to direct you; so you don’t make statements that will destroy others.

My children, do not allow yourselves to be hindered. Gal. 5:7 says, “Ye did run well, who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?” Why did you allow the hinderer to have dominion over you? Jesus rebukes the hinderer. James 4:7b says, “resist the devil, and he shall flee from you.” Paul was hindered. 1 Thes. 2:18 states, “Wherefore we would have come unto you even I Paul, once and again, but Satan hindered us.”

If Paul who was one of the greatest in the ministry could be hindered, it means there is no one the devil cannot tempt; so you have to be very watchful. When you hear “the great hinderer” (devil) he will not come to you as a beast or ghost (for you to see and run away), he could be your closest person, your family, your church member, your best friend or it could even be your minister. Matt. 10:36 states, “And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.

David said in Ps. 55:12-14; “For if it was not an enemy that reproached me, then I could have borne it, neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me, then I would have hid myself from him.

But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance. We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.”

You will hear someone say “I won’t go to that church anymore, they talk too much.”

Who are you referring to? Someone who doesn’t know you cannot talk about you; because he or she knows nothing about you. It’s only those that know you well that can gossip about you. David said, “If it was an enemy that reproached me, then I could have borne it, but it was the same person he conversed with, go to church together, it was his friend.” Only those that know you can hinder you, so be careful how you relate your personal matter, with friend and family because one day, they will use it against you. Also, false prophets can hinder you from the love of God. When you go to church expecting magic instead of miracle (magic is something that can happen immediately while miracle is something you achieve through faith), if you go to church expecting magic, you end up in the hands of a false prophets that will lead you astray or even destroy you.

In Ezekiel 31:1-16, the Bible makes us to know that most prophets are used by the devil to hinder people from coming to God. Vs. 3 says, “Woe unto the foolish prophets that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing.” Vs. 10 says “They say peace and there was no peace.” If you are being used by the devil to hinder the growth of the ministry, the Bible says in Ezekiel 13:21; “your handkerchiefs also will I tear and deliver my people out of your hand, and they shall be no more in your hand to be hunted, and ye shall know that I am the Lord.” You shall not help the devil in any level, follow peace with all men and bring them to God, for anything outside this, there is a woe.

•Be sure you are not a hinderer.

08037187775

Anglican Church to reduce powers of Archbishop of Canterbury

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utgoing Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, has said plans are being drawn up for a role to oversee the dayto-day running of the Anglican church.

Williams’ tenure as Archbishop has been marked by a war between liberals and traditionalists in the Church of England.

The Anglican Church is planning to hand over some of the

global duties of the Archbishop of Canterbury to a “presidential” figure, it has been reported.

Williams said plans were being drawn up for a role to oversee the day-to-day running of the Anglican communion and its 77 million members, leaving the archbishop free to concentrate on leading the Church of England.

The tenure of the archbishop, who steps down after 10 years

in December, has been marked by a war between liberals and traditionalists in the Church of England and the wider Anglican communion over the issue of homosexuality, including the ordination of gay bishops. There has also been a row over female clergy.

Admitting he might not have got it right, he said the top job might better be done by two

people. “I don’t think I’ve got it right over the last 10 years, it might have helped a lot if I’d gone sooner to the United States when things began to get difficult about the ordination of gay bishops, and engaged more directly. I know that I’ve, at various points, disappointed both conservatives and liberals. Most of them are quite willing to say so, quite loudly.”

Of the new role, he said: “It would be a very different communion, because the history is just bound up with that place, that office [archbishop]. So there may be more of a sense of a primacy of honour, and less a sense that the archbishop is expected to sort everything.”

The role would be for a “presidential figure who can travel more readily”.

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Praise & Worship

Sunday September 16, 2012,

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Love is what will last forever, says Pastor Okereke The General Overseer of Global Success Ministry (GSM), Dr. Chima Okereke, in continuation of his exhortation, expatiates that love is the strongest tool to make the world go round, especially as it relates to the gospel of Christ. Excerpts by Richard Eghaghe:

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hree things will last forever- faith, hope and love. The greatest of them all, is love. In Hebrews 11:6, the Bible told us that it is impossible to please God without faith; but here is something bigger and greater than faith and it is called ‘love’ because in Matthew 22: 37-40, “Jesus said unto him, thou shall love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and prophets”.

It is interesting to know that from the beginning of all law and prophets to the coming of Jesus Christ and to the present age, the greatest requirement from God is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind and soul and to love our neighbour as ourselves.

How can you know if you truly love God or not? The Bible told us in 1 John 4:20, “if a man says that I love God and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” Let me show you some examples of hatred to your brother; James 2: 15-16 states, “if a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; not withstanding, ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?”

Your brother or sister is not only your church member.

Even many people, including some clerics, do not usually get involved in this greatest commandment. Some may preach about holiness which is good, healing which is good, and other important topics; but the practice of love is greater as Jesus said it is the end of all commandments. Holiness without love is not complete. If a Christian is holy but speaks evil of other Christians because they are not members of his or her church, then there shall be a lot of questions and answers reserved for the judgment day.

Even Jesus showed love to sinners in order to win their souls; he even ate with them just to draw them close to him and win their souls to God. Matthew 9: 10-13 states, “And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, why eateth your master with publicans and sinners? But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, they that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth; I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the

righteous, but sinners to repentance”.

The first love you show to a sinner or anyone is to preach Christ to them in obedience to the royal command. Mark 16: 15; “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” This is love of wanting them (sinners) to be saved; and could be proved real, when you go further to ensure that you really care, as Christ would have done, not just that you are looking for people in order to collect tithes and offerings but to really touch their lives positively. Then if they are bringing tithes and offerings, it will be in obedience to God’s command, according to the book of Malachi 3:8 & 10: Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Verse 10 says, “ Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it”. Obedience to the above command is very good but it must not form the basis for your evangelism.

Love should exist among men of God, churches and Christians and Muslims who are from the same Father Abraham.

Those of us in authority, whether religious or political, should remember that we have a master in heaven and must render accounts of our stewardship. No matter how hardened you claim to be.

What shall it profit you to gain the whole world and lose your soul or what will you give in exchange for your soul? Let our politicians show real love to the people that first showed them love and voted them into power; but if they are not sure of the people, they should show love because of God who showed them mercy to remain in that office till now.

Some have died in exalted offices in Nigeria and around the world, some were sent out by a competent court of law, some lost a second chance of being re-elected and so on. It is now your turn to be wise and show love by using the power of your office to bring Joy to the lives of those you rule; so that you also will end up in Joy. Let every man help people in one way or the other in their own capacity. There is nothing wrong in buying something good for yourself with your money, own lots of properties, Cars and whatever you desire but how many lives have you touched positively. Love is the greatest and let love reign all over the world in Jesus name.

•For enquiries and counselling, please send text messages only through the following numbers: 08067802407, 07038638984, for prompt attention.

Dr. Okereke

Briefly Wednesday, Sunday programme turns a crusade The ongoing 12 Wednesdays and Sundays special programme at the Global Success Ministries auditorium at Plot 34 Global Success, Street by Festac Link Bridge, Alao Bus stop, Amuwo-Odofin, tagged ‘Rain of Favour’, has become a mini-crusade of sort to fortune, prosperity, breakthrough, and miracle seekers, The programme which holds respectively on Wednesdays by 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; and on Sundays from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. with Pastor (Dr.) Chima Emmanuel Okereke, the General Overseer ministering, now attracts very large audience on each session as the divine manifestation of God’s will for participants

has become a festival of testimonies.

Our correspondent who covered a session of the programme last Wednesday reports that there was a large gathering of participants, both Christians and nonChristians.

Before the resumption of the programme by 7am last Wednesday, a capacity crowd already took over the main auditorium of the church, with sonorous gospel tunes from the church choir group, to usher them in and motivate all in attendance.

It was also a testimony time and people that had attended previous editions of the programme started giving jaw-dropping testimonies of how God has surprisingly blessed them after the programme.

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Praise & Worship

Sunday September 16, 2012,

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Beware of rulers of this world –Pastor Oloruntimilehin Pastor Daramola Joshua Oloruntimilehin of Omnipotence Mission of God, in this exhortation, stresses that to enjoy God’s blessings in full, you must respect people and fear the Almighty. He underscores the fact that there are powers controlling this world, of which God himself is aware.

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here are two things people must strive to enjoy in life. The first is the favour of God and the second is the blessing from fellow man. The favour of God upon a man’s life attracts blessings from other people.

Some times when God blesses someone, evil men can decide that it will not get to the person and it will not. This can be seen in the same context as what happened when Daniel prayed for God’s intervention when the children of Israel were in captivity in Babylon.

The Bible records that the Prince of Persia (i.e. Satanic power or territorial power controlling that spiritual region), withheld the answer which God dispatched to the people in captivity as promptly as Daniel began to pray. In the same manner, God’s package of blessings to a man can be prevented from getting to its destination by evil personalities.

People should pray that God and man should show them favour. An instance suffices in the Bible: If I should see favour from my Master and God, things will be smooth for me”. Most people are deceiving themselves that nobody can do it for them except God and nobody, except those that are helping them. God exists and man is there for man. God created man to have dominion over other creatures and coordinate the affairs of the world.

Therefore, whatever a man does is done because God has given him the authority to do it. When God created man the sixth day, He empowered man with the power of the world. It is in this world that we see electricity, clothes we wear and other things invented by man. You may say these things are made possible by God. But they belong to the world.

Hear me; God told Satan that Job was in his care and he could collect whatever he wanted from Job because everything Job possessed belonged to Satan except his life which was God’s. That was why Satan was able to destroy all he had. Worldly things belong to the world and heavenly things belong to the heavenly. It is God that gave the world the power and the people controlling the affairs of the world are exercising this power.

The Bible says that Daniel requested from God understanding and humility but the grant was withheld alongside the angel God sent to deliver the message to Daniel, for 21 days, until Angel Michael came to the rescue of the angel in captivity.

The principalities of the world felt that their consent should have been sought before delivering the grant to Daniel. In fact, the angel was refused to pass through the cosmic level to meet Daniel (Daniel 10 verse 12-13).

In the same vein, both the federal and state governments make plans for the betterment of Nigerians but some powerful and influential people will prevent other Nigerians from receiving the benefits. And it is a pity those in authority will not call them to order.

Brethren, do not say everything must be done by God. Jesus was given both the worldly and heavenly power that made it possible for him to heal the blind man from birth and the cripple. In this world, many things are blocked or prevented to manifest but many men of God are unblocking these things because they were given the knowledge of worldly powers. What they need to do is to connect with God to enable them carry out the work. So, the grace of

the world and heaven are powerful; just as the blessings of the world and heaven are powerful. Respect your father as well as your mother because they brought you to this world.

Many people say that they fear God alone and have no fear of man. Let me tell you, such people might not be lucky always when they step on dangerous toes. They will not enjoy the privilege of fulfilling their appointed day on earth but may be killed suddenly by people whom they have offended.

My prayer is that we will learn and be wise and avoid the pitfalls of the world, in Jesus’ name. Many people will claim they have God alone and nothing can happen to them. Yes, but God will be watching when the principalities and rulers of the world are inflicting pains and suffering on you.

God will not intervene because He had established a boundary between the heaven and the world. Imagine the suffering to which rulers of the world subjected Jesus, who had both the worldly and heavenly powers.

It was the suffering and torture that led to his premature death. God refused to intervene in Jesus’ plight until he voiced that ‘father, why have thou forsaken me. Jesus knew that all powers belong to God. Even when Pilate told Jesus that he had the power to set him free, he agreed that Pilate would not have power over him if it was not given to him from above (John 19 verse 10-11).

God refused to intervene because he had given the rulers of the world power and they were exercising the power at that moment. It is in heaven that God will judge all that happened. What about you? How

Pastor Oloruntimilehin

friendly are you with God? Are principalities and rulers of the world punishing you and you are saying you are a child of God? I want to draw your attention to this mystery. It is my responsibility to teach people this mystery that the world has its own blessings and that there are also the blessings from heaven. You must work wisely with God to enjoy heavenly favour and blessings and be careful not to antagonise or underestimate the rulers and principalities of the world; they can be destructive. My prayer is that God in His infinite mercy, give everyone the anointing to overcome worldly powers and make heaven.

•For counseling, contact Pastor Oloruntimilehin Joshua Daramola (JP), founder of Omnipotence Mission of God, on 08023002834.

Your desire determines your status, says Pastor Bamidele A man’s status begins to change when the man changes the desire of his heart, says Pastor Lai Bamidele of Christ Glorious End-Time Evangelical Ministries. He dwells on the power of your desire in this exhortation, and its excerpts are presented by Tai Anyanwu.

Every earthly problem has a heavenly solution. Whatever man cannot repair, God will replace. If you look at the book of Psalms 145: 15-16, the Bible emphasises the power of desire. Doctors are ‘human mechanics’ and whatever they cannot repair, God will replace.

Jesus is the ultimate doctor in every situation of life. What has no solution with human beings has solution with God. And that is why medical reports can condemn some people’s cases, but we serve a God who can rebuild what the devil has destroyed. That is also why I don’t believe some doctor’s reports at times. That is why, many a time, such reports become rubbish when it comes to the Kingdom of God. I have seen cases where doctors declare that a woman has fibroid and a word of dropped after a proven time and I told God, “Lord, turn fibroid to fine boy.” And the following year, she came back with a bouncing baby boy. I have seen a case of another woman that doctors said she could not give birth to a baby in life. She came to me and after I prayed with her, she took in and gave birth to twins.

It is not as if the doctors are not doing the right thing. Scientifically, they have done their own work; but spiritually

what doctors have closed, God can open.

The level of one’s desire determines the measure of the blessings the person attains. It is important that in anything one is doing, he or she must have a desire.

In the book of Proverbs 10: 24 says, “The fear of the wicked shall come upon him, but the desire of the righteous shall be granted. So, in the journey of the life of a man, one must desire something.

I like to encourage someone that after reading this message, you need to pray a prayer about one desire that you want God to grant to you before the end of the year. You must have a desire or your pursuit in life.

The man called Lazarus desired crumbs. The rich man desired riches and he became rich; but Lazarus desired crumbs and he ate crumbs. I pray someone will not eat crumbs. In the book of Mark 11: 25, the Bible makes us to understand that your desire precedes your prayer. Before you pray, there must be a desire in place. When you pray without a desire, you are praying amiss. Your prayer must have a direction of what you want, what you need and what you desire.

I want to encourage anyone that is reading this message that he or she must have a particular thing that you desire, most

importantly, you must have long term plans for your future.

When you are praying without a desire, you are like a man on hunger strike or a man without a direction and a man without vision. That person can be likened to a man who does not know what he is up to, a man who has no place to go. If you look at the book of Luke 16: 19-26, “There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and feared sumptuously everyday; and there was a certain beggar named Lazarus which was laid at his gate, full of sores; and desiring to be fed of crumbs which from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass that the beggar died and was carried by the angels…”

Now what I am saying is that, the rich man desired to be rich and he became rich. But Lazarus desired crumbs and he ate crumbs. From being a poor man to a rich man, the rich man is feeding well while Lazarus desired crumbs and he ate crumbs. I pray someone will not eat crumbs in the journey of his own life, in Jesus’ name.

You are never disappointed by your own desire. You don’t have to be disappointed by the desire you have or over what you are pursuing. Your change of status begins

Pastor Bamidele

with the change of your desire. A man’s status begins to change when the man changes the desire of his heart.

That is why I want you now to make a prophetic declaration upon yourselves: I am tired of lack; I am tired of suffering; I am tired of sickness, affliction, failure and generational curses. You must desire something new. You must desire something great and you must have a vision.

You must have a purpose of why God created you. And once purpose comes, then desire follows. When desire is in place it, shows in your accom

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Sunday September 16, 2012,

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Pastor Muoka to Christians: Know your rights As a disciple of Christ, there are some inalienable rights which you are entitled to. In this admonition by the General Overseer of Lord Chosen Charismatic Renewal Ministry, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, it is laid bare that most Christians are ignorant of their entitlements in the Kingdom of God. Richard Eghaghe presents excerpts from the sermon:

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Pastor Muoka

elievers, those who accept as true that the Bible is the word of God and that Jesus was born, crucified for our sin, was buried and on the third day resurrected for our justification and now at the right hand of God, have the right to the great reward at the end of life.

All those who forsake their all for Christ shall have wonderful and everlasting packages in this present world and in the world to come. This is the promise of God Almighty to all that are regenerated, all that have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal saviour. Every child of God that is truly born again is in God’s miniature kingdom already here on earth and as long he is into that kingdom (family of God), he has inalienable rights to all the blessings of the kingdom.

Luke 18: 28- 30 states, “Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. 29; And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake, 30; Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come, life everlasting”.

Therefore, every true child of God must endeavour to get the awareness of his/her rights in the kingdom. The reason being that in the absence of the knowledge of these rights, such a person will of truth be in many sorrows.

That is why the Bible says in Hosea 4:6, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children”.

The people referred above that are wallowing in ignorance are not unbelievers but the known people of God, believers who are supposed to educate others about the benefit of the Kingdom; are even ignorant of the treasures of the Kingdom. What makes so many people to be in continuous sorrow and pains is the lack of the knowledge of their rights as believers. And seeing that it is never the will of God for any of His children to suffer, He has decided to unveil the kingdom’s privileges to us and as we know and take advantages of them, it shall be well with us in Jesus’ name.

Daniel 11:32 says, “And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits”.

If you know what belongs to God and which by extension what belongs to you, then you will do much exploits.

John 13:17 says, “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them”. If you know what belongs to you and begin to lay claims to them, you will be a happy individual. So there is the need for knowledge in following the Lord; there is the need to know of the things that belong to you and there is the need to know the things that belong to God and by extension, which are also yours.

Claim them and God Almighty shall bring them to pass in your life for it is not His will that believers should suffer and perish.

Therefore, when you go before the Lord in prayers with the knowledge of the things that belong to you, He will remove every problem in your life. You should always prepare your minds and be ready to know and possess your kingdom benefits in Jesus’ name.

Our rights in the kingdom explained All true children of God have the right to all the blessings of God. All who are genuinely born again, who are living right, whose names are in the book of life and living to please God have the rights and all God’s blessings belong to them.

1st Cor. 3:21 says, “Therefore, let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; As long as you are born again, all things are yours. You have all things, including the good of all things. The comfort of life is yours, and the end of life is yours, with the true use of it because the sincere Christian lives in the glory of God, his father, which secures his salvation. That which is in itself so terrible is for the believer’s advantage, their friend, their privilege, their passage

to heaven and their deliverer from sin. All these are covenant blessings, which are dispensed in love to us.

Christ’s death was the death of death and by this exercise, He has disarmed death of its sting, thus the believer fears not its dart. It does no longer hurt, but now a healing serpent. There is no venom or malignity in it again. Behold, all things are yours, life or death, things present and things to come.

Many who do not know about their rights in the kingdom are crying, begging from people, going to different hospitals, wasting their hard earned resources and time, and in the process may have received all sorts of insults and harassments. Those who are unaware of their rights in Christ Jesus tend to bring reproach upon themselves and cause unbelievers to mock God owing to their begging and sickly lifestyles despite owning all things, as it were. Those who do not know their God and their rights in the kingdom always murmur are always angry, always complain and cry, asking all the time, of their portions in the Lord.

The children of God who do not know of the things that belong to them murmur, complain and become angry because they lack this knowledge as typified by this ‘son’. All things that belong to God also belong to those who are truly born again.

So if you are included in this group of people and you are reading this message, God has brought this to open your eyes and cause you to know your rights in Him so that you can ask for them in prayer and they shall be given to you in the name of Jesus!

John 16:24 says, “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full”. My beloved, ask from God, your rights in His kingdom, so you can begin to rejoice in full.

You may have some things now but before God, those things are nothing, ask from Him and you will receive full measure from Him. I pray that you change your mind in the positive manner regarding the way you seek God and continue to do more than you think you are already doing for Him and He will not fail to locate you, to bring about astounding blessings upon your life and family in Jesus’ name.

Matt. 7:7-8 says, “Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you: 8 for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened”. Everyone that asks from God receives and I pray that you ask so that your joy may be full.

Beloved, ask and it shall be well for you.

The reason for this message and our response God has made it clear that it is never His will for any soul to perish and that being the case, He will never allow hunger or problems to cause you to murmur and perish and go to hell. God does not want anyone to go to hell. The Lord will take away all your problems, hunger, diseases, etc, so that you do not sin against Him and go to hell in Jesus’ name.

God loves you, desire your freedom, and embrace Him so you can live with Him forever, being the purpose you have been created by Him. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life”.

Little wonder then He sent our Lord Jesus Christ to release us from the works of the devil.

The reason Jesus came into this world is to put an end to all the works of Satan. God loves us and has made everything available for us through His son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Matt. 11:28 says, “All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest”. The Lord knows about all what you are going through and He is prepared to deliver and provide you rest from all those trauma of life.

This invitation is for you, will you then come to the Lord? When you come unto Jesus, He will satisfy you.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday September 16, 2012,

Praise & Worship

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n Genesis 50:15-18, “When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “Perhaps, Joseph will hate us, and may actually repay us for all the evil which we did to him.” So they sent messengers to him, saying, “Before your father died he commanded, saying, Thus you shall say to Joseph: I beg you, please forgive the trespass of your brothers and their sin; for they did evil to you.” Now, please, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of your father.” And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Then his brothers also went and fell down before his face, and they said, “Behold, we are your servants.”

Today we want to talk about dreams, the reason why your dream must not die. God is faithful. Whenever God gives a dream, He will bring that dream to pass. Lamentation 3:22-23 tells us that great is the faithfulness of God. Several years before this passage that we read, God gave through dream to Joseph in Genesis 37:5-11; he had the first dream. He saw his brothers bowing down before him.

He had the second dream, it was even bigger.

This time, it is not just his brothers, even his parents were bowing down before him and the brothers hated him. They thought that that dream will never come to pass.

Almost everyone of us, at one time or the other, has had a dream - the dream of greatness, the dream of success, the dream of doing mighty things for God. I have come to encourage you, if God gave you the dream, it shall come to pass. No matter how impossible it might appear to you; at that time, or even now, it will surely come to pass. I want to encourage you by telling you one or two stories, I am sure you know. In 1981 when I became General Overseer and I find myself living in a room in Mushin after living in a mansion in Ilorin, I was praying to the Almighty God that my wife and children are coming to join me. I am not asking for a big house, just a boy’s quarter, a place where I can have for me and my wife, a room for the children, and maybe a room for visitors. And God spoke to me, loud and clear: Son, don’t ask me for a house. I have decided to build you a city. It did not make sense because I said to God: ‘city, are you going to drive the people of Lagos out for me or where?’

Today, we haven’t got a city yet, but we have something close it. Even if we call it a camp, it is a very special kind of camp. It has its own water system, it has its own electricity system, it has its own university, it has its own clinic, it has its own post office, and there is nobody who can convince me to come and live in Ikoyi, rather than live in the camp because with all the insecurities in the nation, you can still go out at night, 2:00 a.m.; 3:00 a.m.; and walk up and down in the camp praying and talking to the Almighty God. And when I am walking in the camp at 3:00 a.m.; 4:00 a.m.; if I hear any footstep behind me, it must be somebody who wants to come and steal a prayer, and not somebody who wants to kidnap. I think somebody should shout Halleluiah.

When He gives you a dream, He will fulfil it. I will tell you another story. Some of you know the story. It is way back in 1952. I was in the primary school. At that time in my village, only two lorries come in a day. One is a Bedford, the order is an Austin. We can tell by the sound of their engine when they are close to the town. At that time, I think there were about five people, I know, had shoes: I know the Kabiyesi had one, I think the Reverend, he wasn’t even a pastor, he was a catchiest. I think he had one, the headmaster had one and one or two others. So the Bishop of Ibadan at that time, who was in charge of the Anglican Church in my village then was visiting and he came in a car - beautiful, gleaming, black car. And you know the Bishop’s robe? Beautiful thing. The shoes, whaoo, it is not like any of those I mentioned earlier on. We were the pupils in one of the two primary schools in the village. As he was coming, people were singing. I still remember the song up till today because it was imprinted in my brain. Bishop alase, kabo…. That was the song, 1952. I saw him in his gleaming car

Keep your dreams alive, says Pastor Adeboye Pastor Adeboye and wife, Foluke

Last Sunday, Daddy G.O, as Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), is fondly called, got everyone present at the Headquarters’ Church, Throne of Grace Parish, Ebute-Metta, confounded as he delivered the sermon, ‘Your Dream Must Not Die’, during a special prayer programme for the nation and the citizens.

Extracts by Richard Eghaghe when he was coming. I looked at his shoes.

And then when it was time for him to go, all the farmers were bringing yams, eggs and chicken and… my mouth was open. When I returned home that day, I told my mother that when I grew up, I would be a Bishop. I think it was in 1951 or 1952. Years past, as soon as I got to secondary, I went away from home and stopped going to church.

By the time I got to the university, my education got into my head. I joined those who were making fun of Jesus Christ. I was as far away from fulfilling that dream as anyone could think. Somewere along the line, Jesus saved my soul. One way or the other, he worked it out. And came 1981, as General Overseer, I was visiting the few churches that we had then and it was time to visit Ifewara, the little church there. As I was approaching the town, I saw the pupils line the route.

I saw them singing as I drove in. My car was new. My shoes were well polished. As I was about to come out, at the very spot where that Bishop came out, I remembered 30 years ago.

I am prophesying to someone, your dream shall come to pass. But you must beware of dream killers.

In Genesis 37:18-20, the brothers of Joseph saw him coming and they said, behold the dreamer cometh, let us kill him and see what becomes of his dreams. There will always be dream killers. Those who see your dream and they want to kill you, or kill your dreams.

Many of them will be members of your household. Matthew 10:36, Jesus Christ said, “And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household”. It is the brothers of Joseph who said, we will kill him, and kill his dreams. So,

what do we do? The majority of the enemies who would not want you to reach your goal are your own relatives, your own brothers, your own sisters. You can’t pray and say God kill them, because they are your relatives. I can tell you a lot of stories of people who will want to kill you, who are your relatives.

I was very young in my little village.

There was this girl who was probably the fastest little girl in Nigeria at that time. She would run a race and win every race in Ifewara and then move to Ilesha, ran against all the other people and defeat them, then move to Oyo province.

As it was called then, ran the race and then beat everybody. All of a sudden, we heard that she died. Ha! What happened?

And then the news came: the father said she was becoming more popular than himself. Oh, yes, your greatest enemy might be inside your house. I will tell you another story: one young brother, confronted his younger brother, when he heard that the elder brother was planning with killers to come and kill him. Fortunately, he escaped.

Then he said: brother, why? Everything you asked for, I gave you. Even things you didn’t ask for, I gave you. I am taking care of you.

The brother said: that is the trouble. I am your elder brother; I am supposed to be taking care of you. In other words, even where you are doing good to your elder can create a problem. He can look round and say ‘if I cannot be the one providing for this fellow, let’s kill him. I pray for you today that all those enemies, known and unknown, who are trying to kill your dream, the Almighty God will settle them. But the best way for

you to deal with this situation, since we can’t pray and say God kill my brother or sister or mother or father, the best thing is to win them to Jesus When you read John 1:40-42, it tells us that as soon as Andrew found Jesus Christ, the first person he spoke to was Peter, his own brother. He said: ‘Come, come, I have found the Messiah, you too, come and meet him.

Let me tell you brethren, until every member of your family is born-again, you are not safe. Until every member of your family is in Christ, there is the possibility of the devil using anyone of them to kill your dream. That is why you must not relax. Until you have won all of them to Jesus Christ. Coming to say that: ‘but I have witnessed to them, they don’t want to listen’ should not be an excuse.

That is the reason you must intensify your effort. You must win all of them because if they don’t want to listen to Christ, they will listen to the devil.

The elders have a saying: you cannot put fire on your roof and then go to bed. You must do everything you can to see that every member of your family is born-again and are constantly attending churches with you because if they are not attending churches with you, if they are not congregating with the saints of God, they might be congregating with agents of the devil and you might be their number one target. Don’t forget that people who are into secret society might from time to time be told to bring a member of their family. This is truth. Bitter as it may be. So, don’t allow any member of your family stay unconverted. Go all the way to make sure they are all in Christ.

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Praise & Worship

Sunday September 16, 2012,

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria’s Onyekuru becomes first priest in Atlanta, USA Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory recently named Father Michael Onyekuru as the pastor of St. John the Evangelist Church, Hapeville. In 2000, Father Onyekuru was ordained by the late Archbishop John F. Donoghue as the first Nigerian Catholic priest for the Atlanta Archdiocese.

During his time in the Atlanta Archdiocese, Father Onyekuru served as parochial vicar at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Decatur; All Saints Church, Dunwoody; the Cathedral of Christ the King, Atlanta; and Good Shepherd Church, Cumming. He has also served at the Metropolitan Tribunal as an auditor, advocate and defender of the bond, beginning in 1999. He has been a judge for over 11 years and has been serving as the adjutant judicial vicar for the past six years. He continues to do part-time ministry for the tribunal as a judge and counselor in addition to his pastoral duties.

A native of Owerri, Nigeria, Father Onyekuru began his training at the St. Peter Claver Minor Seminary in Owerri and attended a communication course in England.

He also attended the University of West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica, and the Pontifical Universities of Sts. Thomas Aquinas and John Lateran in Rome, Italy, where he earned licentiate of canon law and doctor of canon law degrees. He also earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Brenau University, Gainesville.

During his training, Father Onyekuru served parishes in Nigeria, Cameroon, Jamaica, England and Italy. His new appointment at St. John the Evangelist is his first pastorate.

With education and ministry experiences throughout the world, Father Onyekuru brings a multicultural background to the diverse Catholic population of North Georgia. Father Onyekuru discussed his position as a first-time pastor via email with The Georgia Bulletin: What does being a pastor mean to you?

When I reflect on the word “pastor,” what comes to mind is the daily role of an ordinary shepherd. A shepherd is one who is responsible to care for the flock, every member of the flock, the sheep and lambs.

He ensures that they are led to good pastures, are nourished daily, cleansed when soiled, cared for when hurting and sick, guided when they need direction, encouraged on the journey, taught how to stay together, admonished when necessary, protected, comforted when dying and buried at the end of their earthly existence.

For me, my service as a pastor is like that of a shepherd. It is a great privilege with serious responsibilities. It is a privilege because I believe that the Lord has chosen me at this particular time, to serve a small number of his flock in St. John the Evangelist Parish, which is a special part of the Lord’s vineyard.

I am pastor; I am a priest. The priesthood in our Catholic tradition is a special gift from God, through which we participate in the priesthood of Jesus Christ, the high priest. I feel privileged to share in the priesthood of Christ and to be able to celebrate the sacraments with his people. Of paramount importance is my duty as a pas-

Day CPM dazzled Christian youths in Lagos TAI ANYANWU

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he second edition of Christian Pentecostal Mission (CPM) National Youth Convention, just concluded at the Ajao Estate headquarters of the church, featured a beehive of activities.

But in the main, the convention dubbed ‘The Mission is Possible’ was an occasion for repositioning outpouring of fresh anointing on the future generation of the church. The five-day event kicked off on a very warm note.

“We are glad that you have come together again for a fresh anointing to pursue this great vision placed in your hands. For this vision of bringing deliverance to the captives, creating awareness of the second coming of Christ and preparing the saints for rapture not to be miscarried, there is the need for continuous re-tooling and refining,” declared Rev. Dr. Obiorah Ezekiel, CPM Patriarch.

The elderly servant of God, who has remained committed to

the vision for many decades, explained that the Lord had promised that there would be an outpouring of knowledge.

He reckoned that knowledge would flow like a river into the lives of the participating youths during the conference, adding that God was set to do great and mighty things in the last day.

Dr. Ezekiel, therefore, urged the youths to open their spiritual eyes to see, their ears to hear and their hearts to receive and to be imparted because all speakers were ready, God himself was ready and His ministering angels at alert to dispatch miracles and minister grace and life to believer.

On that note, resource persons invited to bless the youngsters unleashed a wealth of knowledge in their respective areas of competence, and according to a pre-arranged timetable for the convention.

Prominent among the speakers are Rev. Dr. Ezekiel, founder of CPM; Dr, Mrs. Mercy Ezekiel, National and international Coordinator CPM worldwide, deputy president of PFN & executive member of CAN; Dr. Paul

tor, to feed the flock with the Eucharist, the experience of heaven on earth. …

I count on the Lord to teach and help me to become a pastor, a priest, after his own heart.

What is the most exciting thing about being a pastor?

The most exciting at this time is the realization that Christ has entrusted his flock, my parishioners, to me, to look after them for Christ and bring them closer to him.

Along with that is the newness of the experience and the encounter with different groups of parishioners, getting to know them, listening to their sharing and witnessing their zeal to build Church together.

What is the most challenging thing about being a pastor?

What I find most challenging is that most of my parishioners live in communities that are distant from the parish church. It makes home visitation and the formation of a close-knit parish community a bit more demanding. Management and administration issues also pose a challenge sometimes.

When did you first discern a vocation to the priesthood?

I first thought of the priesthood at a very young age. I was an altar server, serving at Masses in my parish regularly with the Holy Ghost Fathers. I was impressed by their way of life and wanted to be like them.

They spoke to me about the priesthood, and l felt the call to follow Christ that way. I later

Onyekuru

attended the Minor Seminary where I had the opportunity to participate in a number of spiritual activities, which included daily prayer and reflection, daily spiritual reading, discernment retreat, monthly recollection and spiritual direction.

My family also played an important part in my call. I come from a very Catholic family in which I witnessed my uncle, cousins, and two brothers’ response to the Lord’s call to the priesthood. I was inspired by their love for God and service of others. All I desired was to do the same.

L-R: Mr Nonso Emmanuel, youth president (CPM) Anambara State; Mr Peter Duruobioma, lmo State youth president; Mr Iboro Cornelius, national youth coordinator; Mrs Ogechi Ezekiel, youth president, Rivers State; Mr Segun Adeyemi, and Cross River State president, Mr Obioma Onyenma, at the National Youth Conference held at the CPM headquarters in Lagos recently.

Eneche, founder of Dunamis International Gospel Centre and Pastor Chido Onuoha of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM).

The convention featured lectures, exhortation, drama, music, march pass, cooking, sport and entertainment.

Ogechi Mercy Ezekiel, National Youth Coordinator, observed that events worldwide showed that young people are truly taking over the stage.

“I am a firm believer that God would use this generation of young people to bring about the

much desired positive change in all rears of our lives.

“However, that desired change cannot come except our young ones are adequately positioned and equipped. For this reason, Ogechi said; “we made sure that our content is rich.”

She quoted Psalm 127:3-5 laboriously, to set the high point of the convention message, “Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from Him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one’s youth.

Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be

put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.

She urged the youths to abide in faith by observing and building upon the ancient landmarks of laid by fathers of the faith.

In his parting message, Rev. Ezekiel pointed out that a young that will remain relevant in the three cardinal vision of bringing deliverance to the captives, creating awareness for the second coming of Christ and preparing the saints for rapture must have a heart of God, be full of the Spirit, grace, wisdom and active in building the house of God.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Text Only: 08037188392

Divine Message with Special Apostle James

Akinadewo E-mail: molailatugrow@hotmail.com

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elcome to the world of companionship. Best of friendship. Bed of roses. Atmosphere of love. Ocean of soul mates, and joy of marriage.

Wishing the married daily flow of love and unending happiness. God Almighty (author of love) will bless our marriage in Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.

It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard that went down to the skirts of his garments.

As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion, for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore (Psalm 133 verses 1-end)

Divine order The heartbeat of God is a joyful marriage. Marriage is to be enjoyed, not to be permanently endured. To have a blissful marriage and enjoy conjugal blessings, some steps need to be taken. Let’s examine the Biblical words mentioned earlier –Precious ointment upon the head –Marriage is valuable in God’s sight, anything precious has great value. As it

Praise & Worship

Sunday September 16, 2012,

How to experience marital bliss (1) flows from the head, it touches the feet.

The aura of a good marriage permeates and touches high heavens.

Commanded the blessing – Every divinely ordained marriage is a blessed one. Showers of blessing will flow daily on such home and God Almighty will be glorified forever.

Plan of God Marriage involves a man and a woman. God made Adam and gave him Eve as wife (divine arrangement). To enjoy the institution called marriage, husband and wife must work for its success. It is a collective responsibility for both – marriage is the only institution where you collect your certificate before examination.

Our focus today is the role of the husband towards a successful marriage.

Sure word Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loves the church, and gave himself for it.

That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word (Ephesians 5 verses 25-26) As a married man, the first thing you must understand is that your wife is from a different background, training and upbringing. Time of courtship will not reveal everything about your wife – character, disposition, likes, dislikes – you immediately become a manager after your wedding by training, moulding and brushing her to your taste, it is then you are playing one of your major roles

as the head of the house.

•Love your wife – Undiluted love must be shown to your wife as Christ loved the church. Your love must bring out her beauty and glory by giving her the best treatment financially, morally, physically, educationally[if she’s of low level] and spiritually.

If your wife is glowing and presentable, it is to the glory of God but the honour comes to you. Brush her up with total positive cleansing; transform that mediocre thinker to an enlightened one.

•Protect her and the children – Sarah in the Bible always say ‘my Lord’ when addressing Abraham. Simply showed that the husband is the representative of God Almighty in the home. As ambassadors of the most high God, are you protecting your home?

A man who is a party freak and habitual night crawler is not playing his role well. No one prays for any bad occurrence but what if something negative happen while you are in your night parties – think well, what account will you render to God. •Family Altar – Pray for your wife and children daily and commit her ways to God, no one is perfect, prayer will change her in becoming better. You must also create time in ‘correcting her in love’ and counsel her – No matter how intelligent and educated a woman is, the husband still has higher grace above her.

•Lead by example – If you want your wife to learn from you, lead by example.

Do things that will challenge her to see you as a good leader, eat, bath and enjoy

New N5,000 note will reduce tithes –Survey TAI ANYANWU

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everal thousands of worshippers, who pay tithe with denominations lower than N50 may be denied the opportunity to surrender the 10 per cent of their earnings to God, should the introduction of N5, 000 notes being proposed by the Central Bank of Nigeria sail through.

It is believed that the conversion of N20, N10 and N5 notes to coins, and their inevitable disappearance from circulation will disqualify those whose tithes come as N20, N10 and N5.

A recent survey by Sunday Mirror revealed that a great percentage of church goers are actually petty business people whose tithes are equally meager and most often paid with lower currency of the Naira.

A section of the less-privileged worshippers from different churches within the Lagos metropolis told our reporter that some pastors boldly tell their congregation not to offer coins in the house of God. This situation would be aggravated as worshippers who can’t afford to dole out higher currency denominations as either tithe or offering might be compelled not to give their widow’s mite.

Brother Paul Akinlade of True Covenant Church noted that if the CBN’s proposed introduction of N5,000 notes should see the light of day, currencies

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below N50 would become coins, making it more difficult for Christians who cannot give offering and tithes above N50 to do the spiritual exercise.

Pastor Isaac Adelugba of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries and chartered accountant, contended that Nigerians show strong apathy against the coins, adding that introduction of N5, 000 in the nation’s economy would definitely reinforce the reluctance of Nigerians to carry coins about.

“There is no way you can introduce N5, 000 notes without bringing about inflation. Let me tell you something; the moment you change to N5.00 coin or N10.00 coin, you will discover that some of the items people are selling for N5.00 or N10.00 will not be sold at the prices again.

“Whatever affects the society will definitely affect the church; those who pay tithes with less than N50 denominations for example will be affected,” he added.

Adelugba explained that Nigeria has a peculiar problem because lack of adequate infrastructure pushes up costs and prices.

For this reason, he contended that no matter how right the nation’s monetary policy formulators get it, it would be difficult to tame the monster of inflation if the infrastructural issue was not addressed.

“There is no way in this country that

yourselves together.

Go out together occasionally wearing same type of dress –what God has joined together, let nothing put asunder.

Your wife is the most beautiful woman in your life, don’t like another woman more than her, run from sin, avoid fornication and adultery, sin will sink you.

To have a balanced home, you need a woman. God gave Eve to Adam because he was not complete and to live happily with a woman, you need the spirit of God and power of endurance.

Some women are the ‘nagging type’ – divine wisdom is needed to transform them positively.

Pause and think – women respect responsible men.

Are you a responsible husband and father?

Is the lady living with you legally married to you or your sleeping partner?

Have you gone to her family to seek her hand in marriage?

Are you providing for your house by feeding them or they starve daily?

Provide answers to those posers.

You are a kidnapper if you are living with a woman not legally married to you – go to her parents and perform your duties now. Till next week, keep flowing in undiluted love.

God bless Nigeria. Jesus loves you. It is well.

•For enquires, text 08037188392 or send e-mail to Motailatugrow@hotmail.com.

Clergyman urges unity among Christians

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Adelugba

you can introduce N5, 000 notes without causing inflation. We are living witnesses to what happened in the past. People normally have the apathy of going about with coins,” he said.

he National President of The Apostolic Church, Pastor Gabriel Olutola, has emphasised the need for unity among Christians to bring about the needed peace in the country.

The cleric made the call at the weekend during his first official visit to The Apostolic Church, Nigeria, FCT Field.

Olutola, who was accompanied on the visit by members of the national reconciliation committee of the church, said unity of the church would reposition it and draw members closer to God. ``Unity is paramount to growth and development of the church and the nation at large,’’ he said.

Speaking on the topic, ``The Nine Ingredients of The Apostolic Church’’, Olutola said they were steadfastness, oneness, knowledge, fellowship, prayer, togetherness, centralisation, praises and evangelism.

“All these nine ingredients are absent in our worship and that is why there is division, hatred and all sorts of vices in the church.

“The Apostolic Church is built on unity and centralisation. It is with our togetherness, oneness, unity and centralisation that we will bring strength to the church.

“With this, Satan and all his agents will be pushed out of the church and the church will grow in God’s glory,’’ he said.

He said the visit to the FCT field was God’s injunction that was waiting for fulfilment at the appointed time.

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Christian Relationship with Taiwo

Odubiyi

E-mail: info@pastortaiwoodubiyi.org.uk

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n ‘To Love Again’, one of my novels, Pete, a widower told his fiancée, Bibi, “In recent times, all my buried feelings have come alive again … I’m beginning to miss regular physical intimacy. I want us to marry as soon as possible. My feelings for you are strong and I don’t know if I can hold on much longer. I mean, seeing you and not being able to do anything is driving me nuts.”

Bibi didn’t talk as she had been thinking and feeling some things herself. Later on, she told her sister, Tolu, and her husband, Ben, “Pete wants us to get married in November because he is tired of waiting, he wants physical intimacy.”

Tolu and Ben laughed.

When their laughter subsided, Tolu told Bibi, “I will suggest you wait until January if it’s possible so that you can have more time to know each other well, He has waited for over three years, let him wait the few months till January.”

“But Pete has a point.” Ben said.

“Yes he does.”Tolu answered. He has a good point and it’s better for them to marry if he can’t control his feelings than to fall into the error of premarital sex.”

Ben spoke again, “In Pete’s case, it’s not as if he’s never been married. He was married and enjoyed the pleasures of sex in marriage on a regular basis and – suddenly, that stopped.”

“I know. As a matter of fact, I respect him. Some men would have had girlfriends to satisfy them while waiting to remarry,”

Sunday September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

How to avoid premarital sex when love takes over Tolu said. “If he can control the urge and wait until you marry in January, it will be good.”

“He’s beginning to find it difficult to wait and for me, it’s not been easy because I love him.” Bibi said and smiled.

“It’s okay to have those feelings especially when you are in love but as Christians, you should not give in to the feelings. What you need to do is put some precautionary measures in place,” Tolu told her sister.

(Excerpts from ‘To Love Again’) Premarital sex is sex before marriage and for many engaged couples, it’s an issue and they are struggling but as the Bible says, the people who know God will be strong and do exploits. Many people are messing up their lives for lack of knowledge. Sex was God’s idea and He ordained it for pleasure, intimacy and procreation in marriage. His will is clear, “Flee from sexual immorality … honour God with your bodies.” (1Corinthians 6:18, 20 NIV).

Don’t have sex with someone you are not married to. Awake to righteousness and do not sin. Your body belongs to God. Tips on how to avoid premarital sex Some people actually know that they should avoid premarital sex but they don’t know how. If you are in a relationship, here are 11 of the things you need to know and put in place to avoid premarital sex.

They are what the Bible calls ‘the way of escape’ from temptations in 1Corinthians 10:13.

1.

As mentioned in the novel ‘To Love Again’, avoid being alone in a bedroom or a place where you can easily do what you shouldn’t do.

•As Tolu told Bibi, another way out is for the couple to get married. Marriage is the cure for sex. Once married, sex becomes right.

Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.

But if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. (1Corinthians 7: 2, 9) •When the lady goes to the man’s house, she should stay in the living room and as much as possible, she should not stay long.

•They should avoid unnecessary touching and closeness that can set their feelings on fire.

• When you are experiencing those feelings, get up and get busy. Look for something to do or go out and walk it off as Ben did in the novel ‘In Love For Us’.

• Discuss and agree with your partner ahead of time that you will not engage in sex until you get married.

Can two walk together, unless they are agreed? (Amos 3:3) Mary told Mike in ‘Shadows From The Past’, “I’ve been celibate since I gave my life to Jesus and I intend to remain that way until I marry. I’d like to know your opinion about that.”

Mike laughed and said, “That’s okay with me. It’s the right thing for us as Christians. I don’t have any problem with it. I’m surprised you’re asking for my opinion.”

• As I have said several times, there is nothing we cannot pray about. Pray and ask God to help you keep your feelings in check until you get married. Jesus advised His disciples to watch and pray so as not to

fall into temptation.

Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26:41) •They should avoid dwelling on sex-related issues, and suggestive books, magazines and TV programmes that will arouse their passion.

• Many people are not spiritually strong.

If they will be strong in the Lord and do exploits, there will be fewer casualties.

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11. Put on the whole armour of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:10-11) •Ladies should be careful of what they wear and do. In ‘Love On the Pulpit’, Dave told Teni, “One of the things I like about you is that you don’t put pressure on me, you don’t seduce me. That would have made things pretty difficult for me. Ladies don’t know what they do to men when they dress or behave in a suggestive manner.”

Some ladies tease, tempting men by the way they sit and conduct themselves. This is not right. And of course, the lady should not pass the night in the man’s house. Some ladies including those who are supposed to be Christians do this. This is wrong. Also, ladies should be able to say no, and prevent the man if he wants sex.

• Don’t be in a relationship with someone who has no regard for the will and word of God. If you are a Christian, you cannot be in a relationship with someone who is not, and if you fear God, your partner must fear Him too. Sin is contagious, and as the saying goes, if you lie down with dogs, you will get up with fleas.

Laying up treasures in heaven Shepherd Life with Bishop Kingsley

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Enakirerhi

he world in which we live today is one which applauds and glorifies earthly possessions. Success is measured by how much money you have in your bank account, how many buildings you have, or the kind of cars you drive. In this country, you are no longer considered to be very rich unless you have property overseas. This is the reason politicians are hell-bent on stealing public funds. Is it not sheer madness that politicians and public servants steal in billions and no longer in millions?

This craze for earthly possession has also crept into the church, so much that young men are now coming into the ministry simply because they feel it is a quick way to make money instead of a means of service to mankind. No wonder, they go to any length just to have crowds of whom they make merchandise of. May God save His church!

I want to state very clearly that I am not against worldly possession or wealth acquired by genuine and honest means.

In fact, without money, it will be difficult to spread the gospel of Christ. It takes money to run a satellite television, open

branches, hold crusades or even make Christian publications. However, we must not compromise our faith just because we want to do all these things. The owner of the Church (God) knows how to provide for His church.

It must be stated here that everything we possess here on earth will one day perish. In 2 Peter 3:10-11 the Bible states, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens shall pass away with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness?”

Since we know that our earthly possessions will one day be destroyed, what are we expected to do, as believers? It is time we started implementing the advice of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, in Matthew 6:19-20. Jesus said, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal”.

Beloved, it is time for us to start laying up treasures in heaven; for according to 1 Timothy 6:7, we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we shall carry nothing out of it. The rich fool in Luke 12:18-21 enjoyed so much wealth on earth but in eternity he was suffering in the lake of

fire. He never carried any of his earthly goods to comfort himself. He definitely lost all.

How do we then lay treasures in heaven?

It is simply by investing in God’s kingdom.

To invest in God’s kingdom is to render services or sow seeds that have eternal rewards. There are several scriptural references which show that we shall be rewarded in God’s kingdom when we have passed from this earth. In Matthew 5:12, Jesus said, “Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven…”

In Revelation 22:12 Jesus said also, “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” One of the ways we can lay up treasures in heaven is when we win souls for Christ. Every soul winner will be greatly rewarded in God’s kingdom because soul-winning is the heartbeat of God. In Daniel 12:2, the Bible records, “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever”.

Another way we can lay up treasures in heaven is when we invest our money in God’s work. This we can do when we give our offerings, tithes, build or participate in building the house of God. Anyone who gives towards God’s work with a pure motive will definitely have a great reward waiting for him in eternity. Do you think those who give huge sums of money for church building projects or for the hosting

of camp meetings or crusades will have nothing in heaven for their sacrifice? Indeed, they will be greatly rewarded.

We can also lay up treasures in heaven when we provide for the poor, the widows and orphans. Whosoever meets the needs of these categories of people touches the heart of God. In Matthew 25:34-40, we read of the account of how God would reward those who ministered to the poor, the sick and those who were imprisoned.

Beloved, life is more than just ourselves.

Until we learn to look beyond ourselves, we shall not find joy in life. It is when we touch the lives of others positively that we can be said to be rich. To me, wealth is about how many lives you have positively impacted.

We can also lay up treasures in heaven when we provide for ministers of the gospel and their families. Gospel preachers occupy a special place in the heart of God. Whenever we give to ministers of the gospel, our heavenly account is being credited (Matthew 10:41-42).

Whenever we engage in any work for the purpose of furthering the work of Christ, we should know that God is aware and He is not unrighteous to forget our labour of love. Whatever sacrifices we make for God, are not in vain. We must look beyond the physical people who stand before us and look unto God who is too faithful to fail and too rich to owe anyone. It is time to start laying up treasures in heaven. Start doing so today.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship 33

Sunday September 16, 2012

Do not walk away...

Footprints with Dr. Tunde

Ojewole Email: ojewolea@babcockuni.edu.ng Phone: 08058299434

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f all the stories of the gospel, one that is most pathetic is found in Matthew 19:16-23. It states: “Now someone approached him and said, “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?” He answered him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” … The young man said to him, “All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to [the] poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the Youngman heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

What do we make of this statement? In this reading from Matthew’s Gospel, we see the rich young man approaches Jesus and asks what he must do to gain eternal life. Like we expect from Jesus, He tells him to obey His commandments, to abide by the Law, to follow the Golden Rule. The young man responds, “All of these I have observed.” Like so many of us, this young man has sought to seek God, follow His faith, and observe the Mosaic Law. Perhaps many of us, including myself fall within this category of near perfection in our spiritual devotion just like this young man. He has been a devout Jew, followed God’s commandments, and now in sincerity; unlike the Pharisees and the scribes to know the requirements for his salvation. In all modesty, the master’s answer to this genuine seeker was harsh- “sell what you have.” Start all over.

To the young man, to this religious young man, to this virtuous young man, this command to strip himself of all his worldly possessions proves too difficult.

As one might presume from his thorough commitment to the other teachings, he

seems hardworking, dedicated to improving himself, and resolute to achieve the best in this world, and the next. Such pursuits reasonably yielded to him great rewards. In terms of character, this man represents one of the most respectable people that have approached Jesus thus far in the Bible. Irrespective of whether it is a product of his labor or his birth, this young man is rich, and he seems to have succeeded in this world. He seems to be doing all right or more than all right in many of our judgments; especially in our modern world where religious devotion and worldly success are not mutually exclusive. This man seems to be the paragon of devotion, dedicated to his religion as he follows the commandments.

Perhaps, like many of us, he attends weekly church services, and respects God the Almighty. To us, he seems as close to the image of success as we can imagine, because he does not allow worldly possessions to blur his religion; yet he can provide himself with a comfortable life, with riches. He seems almost perfect. However, the command persists: “sell what you have.” These words prove too hard for the young man to endure. The young man “went away sad, for he had so many possessions.” After all his commitment to Jesus’ teachings, this final request proved too difficult, “for he had so many possessions.”

What are we to make of this encounter? How are we to interpret this story?

We do not want to have to choose between financial successes, or other worldly respects, and our salvation. Understandably, we want the best of both worlds.

However, there comes a time when we are forced to choose between Heaven and Earth; Jesus and Jewels; God and Money; eternal and temporal; the gift and the Giver; God’s hand and God’s heart. That is when we know who really possesses your heart. Anything you think you own that you cannot give to God, actually owns you, you don’t own it!

Do not walk away!!!!! The rich young ruler went away from Jesus in the dark history. No record is given of whether he ever made the change and followed Jesus. He made his eternal decision. He went away from peace into perdition. He gave up what will never end in order to keep what is for a while. He gave up his spot in the eternal kingdom for earthly convenience! Some of you my readers have also walked away from sacrificial living for Christ. Your religion is superficial and show-off. No heart religion.

You are fake. Worse than Pharisees and Sadducees. You have walked away from devotional life and have less time for God since your promotion or since you got your dream job!

He “went away sorrowful.” People always undergo great agony of mind while they are in suspense between the love of the world and the love of their souls. The world only offers factitious rest through a false peace. Only Jesus gives true tranquility of mind, through that peace of God that passes knowledge. Sorrow is the portion of those who live double lives.

“There is no peace for the wicked,” says Isaiah 48:22; 57:21. He had made an idol of his gifts, talents, position and possessions. Alas, how many lovely and amiable

Answer these questions and win a prize 1.

Name the mother of Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Isacchar, Zebulun & Dinah.

2.

“Did our hearts not burn within us while He talked with us?”- (NIV). Who made the statement and on the way to where?

3.

This 18-letter word … is the longest in the Bible. Quote the passage?

•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 08066011075. Gifts: courtesy Babcock University.

young people follow his example!

Mark’s gospel (10:21) adds: “then Jesus beholding him loved him!” This specific comment is unique in the gospels.

Jesus loves you too. He has been wooing you for so long. Stop breaking His heart of love. Stop running from the only One who can help you liberally and without reproach (James 1:5). Stop! Do not walk away! You have been running for long.

You may run, but you cannot hide! He knows all your failed dreams and disappointed hopes. You have suffered in the hands of many men. Run to Jesus, right now! Don’t walk away.

Meditate on the words of this hymn written by Elisha A. Hoffman in the year 1900: You have longed for sweet peace, And for faith to increase, And have earnestly, fervently prayed; But you cannot have rest, Or be perfectly blest, Until all on the altar is laid. o Refrain: Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?

Your heart does the Spirit control?

You can only be blest, And have peace and sweet rest, As you yield Him your body and soul.

Would you walk with the Lord, In the light of His word, And have peace and contentment always?

You must do His sweet will; To be free from all ill, On the altar your all you must lay.

Who can tell all the love He will send from above, And how happy our hearts will be made; Of the fellowship sweet We shall share at His feet, When our all on the altar is laid.

•Tunde Ojewole, PhD., is the University Pastor and Associate Vice-President for Spiritual Life, Babcock University.

For enquiries: ojewolea@babcock.edu.ng; 08058299434/08060376577

Answers to September 9, 2012 Quiz 1.

2.

3.

Revelation 1:10 13 15

How will God judge errant pastors?

Holy Inquiry with Pastor Paul

Nkirukah E-mail: pstpaul11@yahoo.com

Many things are happening in the church these days. Some pastors and even General Overseers are not left out. Their activities are now evocative of what Jesus said in the Bible, that, ‘my house of worship has been turned to a den of thieves.’ It is as if ‘419’ operators now rule most of our new miracle-believing churches. You hear gory stories about them as each day passes. How is God going to punish these evildoers in His vineyard?

Kwee, Accra, Ghana Dear reader, So many preachers are preaching the word of God as if they will be saved with what they preach. But any preacher that does not do or practise the things he or she preaches, no matter how sweet and con-

vincing the message may be, will be classified with the sinners, i.e., they will never enter into the kingdom of God. Of course, you know where the sinners will be spending the rest of their life-hell fire.

But do you know why I call them preachers? It is because many people think that because they are well educated and can read the Bible through and through, and rake in money, that is all about the gospel.

Some also think that attending one of the best Bible schools qualified them to be pastors or is enough justification to claim that they have been called by God to be a pastor. Brethren, let me tell you one secret: it will be very difficult for a man of God that had an encounter with God (calling) and is convinced that God truly called him, to disobey God. So, getting the call of God to do His work is very key in this case.

How God will punish erring ministers?

I think that does not in actual fact concern you or anybody. What you are supposed to be worried about is what you can do to merit the kingdom of God. It is God that called them, it is God that will judge and only Him knows how to deal with them at the end. Remember that they are only called to preach to you, the word of God but not

to do the word for you. Provided they have preached the truth, it is for you to act according to the word. The truth of the word of God should concern the preacher. Whatsoever you do with the word after, is your own cup of tea. The Bible already warned you that false prophets will rise and they shall come in different garbs. The Bible also reveal to you how to know them.

Let’s carefully examine the word of God together for more understanding: Matthew 7: 13 – 23 reads, “Enter ye in at the strait gate, for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in there at, 14; Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it, 15; Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves, 16; Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

17; Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit, 18; A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit, 19; Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into fire, 20; Wherefore, by their fruits

ye shall know them, 21; Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my father which is in heaven, 22; Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name?

And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works?

23; And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you, depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

From these scriptures, it is very evident that every false prophet will bring forth false people; according to verse 17 of the cited scriptures.

Another truth remains that people do not love the truth, and these false prophets are now catching in on the situation and are determined to be feeding people with what they want to hear and do, provided at the end of the day, that they get fat offerings and tithes from them. Who cares?

But only God will judge them at the end.

My advice is that, do not judge anybody because the person you called ‘419’ today can repent tomorrow before you know it.

We are all working towards perfection. So, leave judgement for God, because only God knows the hearts of all men.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

34

Lessons of Life

ANGELA DAVIES lessonsoflife2@yahoo.com 08023342083

TRUE LIFE STORY ON MATTERS OF THE HEART SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

‘I married a man old enough to be my father, now I’m in love with his son’

M

y friend Grace and I had arranged to meet at an eatery during her lunch break one Tuesday afternoon but she didn’t show up. After waiting for almost an hour, she finally called, apologising that she was at Victoria Island, Lagos for an important official assignment. She however pleaded that the meeting should be rescheduled for the next day. This made me feel so dejected.

The purpose of the meeting was for Grace to introduce me to her Managing Director who she said was in urgent need of a Personal Assistant. The truth is that I had been out of job for almost four months after I willingly resigned from my former employment because of the frequent sexual harassments from my immediate boss.

I urgently needed a job because as the eldest of three children all the responsibili-

ties rest on me. Our father is late and my mother is just a petty trader.

Immediately I hung up and was about to leave the eatery, I noticed this well-dressed elderly man around his 60s sitting at a corner and quietly having his lunch staring at me. Just as I was about to walk out through the door, he walked up to me and said, “Hello, pretty lady, you don’t look too happy. What is the problem?” “Nothing is the matter sir. I am fine,” I replied. “Something is wrong because you look bothered.

Please, come over to my table, you can talk to me,” he suggested. I went with him and explained how my friend didn’t show up for our appointment and how I was in dire need of a job.

He shook his head and asked, “What is your name?” “Sir, my name is Phina,” I replied. “Phina my dear please, you don’t

have to look so dejected. What did you study?” he asked. “Sir, I studied Accountancy,” I said. “Alright, take my complimentary card and make sure you see me in my office unfailingly tomorrow at 10:00 a.m.,” he emphasised. I took the card and thanked him. He wanted me to have lunch with him but I thanked him and left. On my way, I brought out the complimentary card to have a second look at it and discovered that his name is Mr. William and he is the Chairman of a well-known construction company.

The next morning, I got to his office at about 9:30 a.m. and at exactly 10:00 a.m., Mr. William sent for me. He went through my resume and interviewed me immediately. At the end, he employed me as the new Assistant Accountant of the company. According to him, the position had been vacant for about two months and I was lucky to be the one to fill the position.

“Phina, I gave you this job because the few minutes I had spent with you, you appear to me like a very hard working and determined young lady. However, I want you to promise me that I will not regret this act,” he stressed. “Sir, I promise you that I will not let you down,” I promised.

Three months later, Mr. William commended me for my hard work and dedication to duty. After that day, he would want me to be present at every major staff meeting. Also, before taking any major financial decision, he must ask for my opinion or even criticism. To be honest, I saw Mr. William more like a father than a boss because he kept encouraging me a lot. A year later, I was made the Chief Accountant of the company and this made me really excited. However, two months after the promotion, Mr. William asked for my hand in marriage.

I was reliably informed that he lost his wife almost 17 years ago. However, he refused to remarry hence he got deeply involved in developing and running his construction company. Mr. William has a 28-year-old son, Morgan, an architect, who lives in Canada.

Seriously speaking, Mr. William is a multi billionaire with properties scattered all over the globe.

He proposed to me after he insisted I

had dinner with him in his house. Candidly, his proposal actually came to me as surprise. “Phina, from the first day I saw you at that eatery, I liked you so much and wished you will be my wife. That is why I made sure you get involved in everything I do. Please marry me and make me a happy man again,” he pleaded. “Sir, please this is too sudden. Can you give me some time to think about it?” I pleaded. “Alright dear, take all the time you need. I know your problem is that you think I am too old for you. I am only 62 but age really does not matter to me because I have come to love you very much,” he revealed.

I am young, sexy, intelligent, beautiful and above all successful, how can I marry a man old enough to be my father? The truth is that I had never thought of falling in love with him much less of marrying him. In fact, there was a time most of the staff thought Mr. William and I were dating because he does not hide his affections for me. This spread like wildfire. I was however not bothered because I knew it was not true.

Nonetheless, after thinking about his proposal, I told myself that although I do not love him, I love his money and the respect he commands everywhere he goes. I therefore decided I was going to accept his proposal just to command respect for myself by bearing his name and also enriching myself and my family financially.

When I told my mother about my decision to marry Mr. William, she frowned at it, reminding me that he was old enough to be my father. She advised that I looked for a much younger man to marry. She revealed that at his age he may die any time soon and make me a widow at an early age. But when I insisted, she and my two younger siblings gave us their blessings, especially when he splashed so much money and gifts on them. We got married weeks later at the Registry and I was so excited to become his wife. When we returned from our honeymoon, he made me the Managing Director of the company.

To be continued next week.

Please send your advice to the phone number or e-mail address above. No calls, please.

RESPONSES

Re: ‘My husband filed for divorce because I carried him’ Dear Victoria, Are you sure this is your first time of doing this? If yes, seek the help of some of George’s friends but if he ignores the pleas from his friends, do sign the divorce papers. I am sure he will come back for you when he must have learnt his lessons of intolerance.

Emmanuel, Akure – 07032245252 You have not committed any offence. If he does not accept your appeals, he sincerely does not deserve you. You can sign the divorce papers.

Frank, Jos – 08023555138 I would advise you to report the matter to your parents and family members and your Pastor (if any). If he refuses to accept, allow him to carry out his divorce threat, provided he settles you substantially and takes adequate care of the children, financially and educationally. You will surely get another loving and caring husband, who will not lead you into jeopardy.

Patrick, Adiasor, Surulere - 08033452087

I will advise you to remain faithful to him and also continue in prayer for God to change his heart. But if he marries another woman in your place, then sign the divorce papers and move on with your life. You and your children are very important.

Evangelist Edet Asukwo, 08023015843 This shows that your husband has an elephant size complex.

Put it to God in prayer, Oyin, Lagos -07064420108

Re: ‘Help, my mother is dating my best friend’

Dear Patrick, Your mother has derailed from being a woman of integrity and repute; she has stooped so low to date your best friend. Take your case to God as she needs marathon deliverance and a follow up. What is happening to her is not ordinary. Leo will receive his punishment for all he has done.

Ogbonna Iwuagwu, Awka – 08037437011

surely dump your mother for a young lady. She may be in love now but she will live to regret it.

–08034798127

Please make sure that you hold the finances of the company firmly or else the company will fold up before you know it. Leo will

You should figure out a way of driving Leo out of your house and also let people know what happened.

I will advise you to collect your inheritance from your mother and start a business of your own before it is too late.

–07087072079

–08033803812

Your friend Leo is intentionally mischievous and fooling with your mother. Send him out of your house or he will ruin both of you and the company.

Apeji Onesi, Lagos –08060504740 My advice is that you should let them be and pray to God to deliver your mother.

Anita Chioma, Surulere –08062594629

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

new

to the Nigerian music Friends’, which is sunt. injections, ‘Me & My Afro-beats backdrop to ng with a catchy hook

oment, Mr. Moe Musa, music video directors riends’. y W, Wizkid and Skales d again as he smootha fun and enthralling es from 2Kriss, Kida as its main feature. eal names Adebunmi rmance flair, is closely Rush and high flying pper, Kida Kudz. d raised in Ibadan, d to the United Kingrsue a career in Acut music has always st love and finally, the nd-coming music star o the realisation that not see himself doing ing apart from music. rking as an accounts Mero began to write se his first original his eventually led to ord deal in December Neaubreed Production ase of ‘This Party’ in

Movies & Music

Sunday, September 16, 2012

35

Yeka Onka comes Life Is Beautiful for star singer, Geniuzz with banging new single She has been christened ‘Whitney’ by the judges, and she shows why in this new track - soaring high with the high notes. M&M can reveal that the very first Nigerian Idol, Yeka Onka, is back with ‘Ewa Ba Mi Jo’.

The song gives you a feeling of dancing in different parts of the world. From Kenya to Jamaica and to the pubs in London, she delivers party pleasers and sure club bangers. Produced by Micworks, Yeka’s energy is raw and the combination is a perfect blend.

Her first official performance of ‘E Wa Ba Mi Jo’ took place at Industry Nite recently. It was electrifying set along with her team, ‘Dance Na The Main Thing’, and dance coach/Performance Director, Jeffery Daniel.

Yeka Onka wowed fans with the eclectic mix of catchy lyrics in English and Yoruba.

“It’s been an incredible few months working on the songs on the album coming soon,” Yeka said.

“But it’s been very rewarding. This album has different shades of me but the voice will be the thread all through and to keep my fans happy. I have particularly been blessed with a fantastic team and they have worked extremely hard to ensure that this album will blow you away.”

Yeka, who has shared the stage with Les Nubians, Shalamar, Timi Dakolo, Yinka Davies, Capita FEMI, among others, is set to define her space in the country’s entertainment industry. She made her debut with ‘Follow Me’ after winning on Nigerian Idol in 2010.

One artiste under Republiq Record that is hitting the airwaves with his brand of music is Geniuzz.

Born Manji Zakka Deyin in Jos, Geniuzz has been making music for a few years within the J-Town entertainment circles, working alongside artistes such as Ucee-Black, Jammal, G.R.I.P, The Faculty and Kahli Abdu, among others.

His musical style, self-dubbed as a multicultural fusion of “FunkSoul” which inevitably contains a distinct Afro-flavour, is fed by his musical influences, ranging from Hip-Hop to Reggae, R & B and Rock among other genres provided by his musical favourites Andre 3000, Buju Banton, Lauryn Hill and Wyclef, among others.

On his new single, Life Is Beautiful, which was released recently, Geniuzz featured the singer, Jammal, and provided music lovers with a highly positive, up-tempo track determined to get them up on their feet.

Up-and-coming Mr. Val showcases Pangolo Love Cross River State-born Valentine Bahgong Inyang is musically known as Mr. Val. The hip-hop and R&B singer grew up in music while listening to some of the greatest musicians like R. Kelly, Chris Brown and 2face Idibia, which he said added more value to his singing career.

Mr. Val is a unique and versatile artiste whose style of music singled and differentiates him from many. He is an artiste with good lyrical content and vocal ability. He has the ability to send an audience asking for more as he dishes out exciting performance.

Being one of the artistes that the industry would not want to do without, he is full of originality, can make music in English, Yoruba, Pigin, French, and his local dialect, which according to him will make him one of Nigerian and African representatives in the world music scene.

The arrival of this young talent would definitely contribute to the development of African music and also promote its culture in other countries of the world. Mr. Val believes that the dance orientation and

style of most Nigerian artistes without minding the lyrical content of their songs has to be eradicated.

“It is high time we encouraged music with good content. Even though the people have to dance, we shouldn’t forget the fact that music is the food for the soul,” he said.

Mr. Val has a new hit single titled ‘Pangolo Love’, which is already gaining recognition on daily basis as it has been receiving massive airplay on several radio stations.

‘Pangolo Love’ is no doubt a song for all and sundry because of its simplicity and its lovely, good lyrical content. It is a song that can be played anywhere at any time and the beat is also danceable and pleasant to the ear.

The young dude who is signed to one of the country’s fast-rising record labels, Big Dreams Entertainment, is indeed a blessing to the industry because of his originality.

Excitement as Heroes and Zeros hits the big screen

Movie premiering in Nigeria took an upward turn recently as celebrities, politicians and the Nigerian media stormed the Silverbird Galleria for the premiere of one of the most anticipated movies of the year, ‘Heroes and Zeros’.

From the red carpet event which saw A-list actors like Nadia Buari, Bimbo Akintola, Yomi Fash Lanso, Nobert Young, amiable politician, Mr. Obanikoro, strut the red carpet to the showing of the movie through the materials given as souvenirs, the premiere of ‘Heroes and Zeros’ will go down in the annals of movie premieres history as one of the most successful movie premieres of the year.

Kicking off at about 6 p.m. with the interviews of the celebrities and VIPs in attendance by top media houses like Soundcity, guests let loose their guards as they interacted freely with the press.

After the paparazzi have taken their shots, guests had drank to their satisfaction, they were soon ushered into the hall to watch one of the most intriguing movies of their lives, ‘Heroes and Zeros’.

The actors, director, writer and producer of the movie did not disappoint as a brilliant treatment of the topical subject matter of the suspense-soaked movie evoked pity and got many of the guests emotional at the rise and fall of the main hero of the movie and was received with a thunderous applause at the end of the viewing.

“Movie premiering in Nigeria is beginning to take shape and look like what is obtained in the advanced nations, the

producers are now mindful of excellence and success in their premieres as this sometimes go a long way in the success of the movies at the cinemas. ‘Heroes and Zeros’ has further raised the stake, everything was on point. I will score the premiere eight over 10 if asked to rate this premiere” Ms. Ajayi, a guest at the premiere, said.

Directed by ace director, Niji Akanni, the brain behind brilliant Nollywood flicks like ‘Aramotu’ and scores of television commercials, ‘Heroes and Zeros’ tells the story of the destructive pursuance of Tonia (Nadia Buari) by Amos Fele (Bimbo Manuel). Fele was a wealthy celebrity director in the Nigerian film industry.

Now he lives in a ramshackle flat, doing occasional low-paying TV commercials for nameless products. He’s a daily comic relief on the local soccer practice pitch: because though he’s already 45 years old, he nurses a new, insane dream of making it into the dollar-soaked world of international soccer! His joyless marriage to Tinuke (Tina Mba), a junior bank worker, is crumbling fast, especially after the death of their only child.

A boost to his sagging spirit comes when a big-budget French-Nigerian film project appoints him as director. Suddenly, the press begins to (re)celebrate him. Top actors and producers begin to call him up. To his wife’s distress, Fele also quickly re-establishes his wane reputation as a first-class womaniser.

Fele becomes obsessed with Tonia, a ravishing beauty and lead actress of the Nigerian-French film project.

36

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Connecting

Vanessa with

Vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com

Ways great relationships have been destroyed

you have taken time to build over the years. Some of these characters are like worms that eat into the fabrics of your love and before you know it, your relationship with your spouse nose-dives into a place where you barely tolerate each other. Is that what you want? I think not. It will do you good to watch out for the following pitfalls you must have exhibited at one time or the other in your relationship and learn to avoid repeating them. Stop doing things that will make your relationship turn awry and start doing more of the things that will make it work. Below are instances of pitfalls in a relationship:

Models

H

ave you ever sat to watch a small boy playing happily with his building block toys?

He will sit down patiently for hours, constructing a tall building with the blocks, only to gleefully tear it down again with just one stroke of one of those blocks and the building will come crashing down. He will continue to build and destroy and as time passes by, he will lose all the building blocks in the packet they bought for him.

This is what happens metaphorically when you see a great relationship between couples crumbling. You see two people who are obviously in love with each other take a trip to the altar, to put a seal to that love and also make a solemn promise to love one another forever. Then six or seven years down the lane, when you meet that couple again, you will be wondering how their steaming hot love affair suddenly turned cold.

For one, you will notice that the affectionate appellations such as ‘sweetie’ and ‘my love’ will be replaced with ‘’Baba Tunde and Mama Tunde ’’ or something even more repulsive!

It is so easy to bring down what has taken years to build. All you need to do is to employ the technique of the little boy described above. My question is: Why do you infuse so much love and care during your courtship which helped you to build a great bond between you and your partner, only to remove those blocks that helped to form a strong foundation in your relationship?

This is one of the pitfalls of great relationships.

Just as the little boy built colourful skyscrappers with his building blocks only to tear it down with his own hands, the same thing goes when you see a wonderful love turn to hate. Little by little, it is either a party, or both of you begin to introduce some certain characters or mannerisms that are capable of tearing to pieces the solid relationship

Being abusive: this is the type of behaviour predominantly witnessed in this part of the world; where abusive words are part of our language vocabulary. It baffles me at times when I hear horrible words falling torrentially from the mouths of couples when they are quarrelling. I’m not just talking about extreme physical or emotional abuse alone. I’m also including milder forms of abuse, such as daily put-downs, sarcastic remarks, negative comments, withholding affection, refusing to talk and the rest. This should not be so. Learn to withhold abusive words when speaking with your partner, no matter the level of provocation. Hurtful words are not easily erased from the memory.

Being critical: While occasional criticism and constructive reprimand is healthy in relationships, too much of either can be very damaging. If you are constantly complaining or pointing out flaws in your partner’s behaviour, this can become annoying and unattractive. Women are easily prone to this kind of behaviour. No man likes a nagging woman. Too much of it can drive your man away into the arms of another woman. So beware!

Being selfish: thinking only of your own needs and never that of your partner is one way of putting your teeth into your relationship and tearing it down. Love is never selfish. Don’t always seek to have it your own way all the time. Thinking only of your own wants, needs and desires is a veritable way of destroying any type of relationship.

Being dishonest and unfaithful: breaking your promise or marriage vows to be faithful to your partner is one of the biggest ways you can destroy a budding relationship. Nobody likes to be cheated on.

Being right all the time: Always claiming you are right in everything is not a desirable trait. It’s almost always wiser to let other people be right and have their way as much as possible. Obviously, you may not want to compromise on things that are extremely important to you, but 90% of the time, it will make very little difference, one way or the other.

Being too possessive and dictatorial: Keeping very close tabs on your partner at all times and monitoring their every move is a sure way of losing the confidence they have in you. Using intimidation to keep them from behaving in ways you don’t approve is not the way to get the best out the person you love. Making your spouse fearful of crossing you or offending you by always responding with hostility and rage is an ‘excellent’ way to bring romantic relationships to an end. This should not be so if you desire the kind of relationship that is filled with warmth and laughter.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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I am Sunday Olufemi a.k.a. Sunny P. I want a lady under 25 years old. I am a musician –07084395249.

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I am Bode, 5.6ft tall, a Christian and cool-headed. I need an interesting lady, between 20- and 35 years old, a working- class –08138405370, 08090689396.

I am Adewale by name, 31 years old. I am chocolate in complexion and a Muslim. I need a Muslim lady who is ready for a serious relationship –07056824342.

My name is Pam. I am 28 years old, living in Jos. I need a God-fearing lady, between 20 and 22 years old and above, for marriage –08036338826.

Tunde is my name; I’m 26 years old I’m looking for a caring, loving and God-fearing lady for a serious relationship –08032898208, 07059569271.

My name is Olabode Cyrius, 32 years old. I am chocolate in complexion, vibrant, romantic and a Christian. I need a mature, working-class lady, between 21 and 37 years old for wife. Religion and tribe are no barrier –08028709724.

I am Stephen Okoro, 45 years old, 6.1 ft tall and a businessman from Abia State. I need a God-fearing woman of between 40 and 45 years old for a serious relationship –08130172211.

In need of a sugar mummy/daddy I am Folashade. I am in my early twenties, and I live in Lagos. I am looking for a sugar daddy that is rich, caring, loving and can meet my needs –08174721935.

My name is Moses. I am 25 years old. I am from Kogi State but live in Lagos. I need a sugar mummy who will assist me in my education, from any part of the country –08169481178, 07088782481.

My name is Abel. I am 28 years old. I need an understanding and caring sugar mummy who is ready to support me in my music career –0802733960.

I am Yinka by name, tall, slim. I need a 35 to 50-year-old sugar mummy from Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. She must be rich and caring. I will make her happy –08097438188, 08055945076.

Jidees is my name. I am above 50 years old. I need a beautiful, active sugar mummy, between 45 and 55 years old, who is a teacher and likes the rural setting of Abeokuta for a relationship –08098244008.

I am Abiodun, 37 years old. I am a handsome guy and I need a sugar mummy who is sexy and caring –08030528610.

Ola is my name. I am 26 years old and very healthy. I need a sugar mummy for satisfaction and help –08093191464.

I am Stan D. I am 30 years old. I am 6.5ft tall, based in Lagos. I need a 35 to 50-year-old sugar mummy living in Abuja, Lagos or Port Harcourt –08156922467.

I am Charles. 30 years old. I want a beautiful sugar mummy from Ondo State –07062375161.

Adewale 32 years old, nice and good looking, self employed. I am from Ibadan, I need a sugar mummy within Lagos and Ibadan, between 40 and 50 years. –08028708799 NOTICE: Please note that we don’t do personal connections outside this column. Calls to connect privately are not allowed. Just send an SMS or email and we’ll get your request published. The request is published on first come first served basis. Thank you!

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

37

&

Weddings Engagements CELEBRATING THE JOY IN MARITAL BLISS SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Felix Okoye marries sweetheart, Wonu Odunsi

F

amily members, friends and loved ones of Felix Okoye and Wonu Odunsi recently rejoiced with them as they took the giant step into holy matrimony.

The traditional wedding took place on Thursday, August 30 at the KFA

event Centre while the church wedding held on Saturday September 1.

Felix took the first step by proposing to Wonu his girlfriend for many years in April and she delightfully said yes.

It was an event marked with sophistication and lovely display of ro-

mance from the couple. Pretty Wonu dazzled everyone in her simple, yet striking wedding gown. Her bridal dress was designed with tulle fabric.

She kept her bridal look really simple but eye-catching. She paired a turquoise shoe and earrings in the same shade. Fair-complexioned Felix appeared dapper in his blue suit, which he matched with a white shirt and blue tie. The couple carried themselves gracefully in their outfits.

Guests at the event were all gorgeously dressed in different colours and styles of outfits. This added colour to the event. It was, indeed, an event to be remembered. There was so much to eat and drink. Also, guests went home with different types of souvenirs.

Okoye is a popular businessman and one of the brothers behind SHAQ 24/7, while the gorgeous and delectable bride, Wonu, is the co-owner of L’ Espace and partner at the regular Le’ Petit Marche, the end of the month bazaar-like fair.

In attendance were many lovely friends of the groom and bride from far and near. Prominent colours of the day were silver, turquoise and yellow. There were enough assorted wines, drinks and food for everyone.

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

Please call this line: 08051980588

BABIES OF THE WEEK

Chiagoziem Mbagwu was born at St. Emmanuel Hospital, Isolo, to Obinna and Nonye Mbagwu. He was delivered at 12:16 p.m. and weighed 3.5kg.

“During the pregnancy, I craved for Sharwama. I also ate roasted yam with palm oil and I drank a lot of water,” revealed Nonye.

Were there obvious physical changes? “My physical features were normal. I had no swollen feet, nose, or face. However, I looked much prettier during the pregnancy. The only obvious change was my bulging tummy,” Nonye disclosed.

What irritated her during the pregnancy? Nonye said, “Really, nothing irritated me,” What does she like about Chiagoziem? “Aside from the fact that he is cute, he is very peaceful and hardly cries.”

What does she want him to become in future? “I want him to become a footballer,” she emphasised.

What is the meaning of his name? “Chiagoziem means God has blessed me,” Nonye explained.

Mr. and Mrs odunsi

Thrills for Oludare, as daughters wed

A

fter about three decades of medical practice, Dr. Dele Oludare of the Oludare Hospitals in Akure, Ondo State has had cause to yank off his stethoscope and syringe, twice within two months, as he gave two of his daughters out in marriage. In the same vein, his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Omolade Oludare, a school principal, glowed in the midst of her friends who came to rejoice with the family.

The first of such holy matrimony to take place was that of former Miss Yemi Oludare, who was taken to the altar penultimate week by her darling dude, Totulope Akinwale, an Ibadan, Oyo Statebased civil engineer.

The solemnization, which took place at the St. Louis Catholic Church, Akure was a one-stop event, which virtually put the state capital in a standstill. Oludare, the Oka-Akoko-born medic, particularly gathered the crème de la crème in the medical profession across the country, to witness the event.

Yemi, the bride, graduated from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, where she studied Animal Science. She recalled that she met Tolulope, her man, in Ibadan, during her national youth service programme. “He is cool-headed, understanding and loving; those qualities are rare to come by these days,” Yemi said of her heartthrob.

“Also, Yemi is very intelligent, hardworking and proactive,” declared Tolulope, of his sweetheart.

Tolulope Akinwale and his wife, former Miss Yemi Oludare

Kamsiyochukwu Chimdi Emuka was born at Funmbi Medical Centre, Alagbado, Lagos to Marlyn and Eucharia Emuka. She was delivered at 9:35am and weighed 3.55kg.

Eucharia revealed that, “during the pregnancy, I enjoyed chewing Ijebu garri, I also craved for mangoes, chilled coke and Malta Guinness. I fell also in love with the smell of cement and whenever I am passing by the block industry near my residence, I deliberately wasted time to get enough smell.”

Speaking on her physical body changes, Eucharia stressed that, “During the first and second trimester, I looked more beautiful but towards the later stages, my nose, lips and face grew bigger.”

What irritated her during pregnancy? “I got irritated by smell of perfumes,” Eucharia said.

What do Kamsiyochukwu’s parents love about her? “We love her looks. She is also very active and she eats well,” said Marlyn.

What do they want her to become in future?

“We would like her to choose whatever profession she wants. We as her parents will support her. But if we are to decide for her, we would like her to become a medical doctor,” Marlyn emphasised.

What is the meaning of her names? “Kamsiyochukwu means ‘as I ask God.’ Chimdi means my God lives. Her names were carefully given to reflect our thoughts and expectations; they also give a glimpse of our God-given victory over the report of man or science,” Marlyn noted.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

38

A Fashionista’s

World SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

My eyes are unique selling points –Tolulope

Pretty Tolulope Adeyemi is a model. In this interview with Angela Davies, the Ogun State-born damsel takes a retrospective look at her early life where under the roof of dad and mum, she nearly became a recluse. But today that both parents are separated, she has gained some breather, living with her mum. She also reveals that she likes to dress sexy, in a mature way. Excerpts: What inspired you into modelling?

At first, I didn’t know I could be a model. It was someone who saw me and I guess because of my height, she said to me, ‘you can be a model.’ She used to be a model agent back then. So, I started modeling and since then, it has been a whole lot of fun.

How long have you been modelling?

I started modeling in 2006. But that was the grooming stage, in preparation for professional modelling. So, professionally, I started modelling in 2008.

How was growing up for you?

I wouldn’t say growing up was fun; it was just okay because we were all girls and there were a lot of restrictions from my dad. But now, my parents are separated; I stay with my mum, so it’s not like we are so free now but it’s cool. It is quite better compared to back then when I didn’t even know the bus-stop to my house, even after secondary school.

What do you understand by style?

Style, to me, is any individual’s particular way of looking, dressing or appearing, basically.

So, define your style.

I will say I like to dress sexy in a matured way.

What do you mean by that?

I mean not exposing any part of my body but looking sexy in whatever outfit I wear.

What kind of clothes do you love to wear?

Basically, I dress for the occasion. But I love to wear fitted clothes. I am still a young lady; so basically, I go with the trend.

So that makes you a fashion freak?

I wouldn’t say I am a fashion freak. I just love to look good.

I love to be on point. My friends always say they love the way I dress.

What is that fashion item you cannot do without as a woman?

That will be my makeup and that is because I know I have to look good all the time. Believe it or not, makeup adds beauty to the beauty of a woman.

If you are to flaunt any part of your body, where will that be?

The part I am already flaunting are my eyes.

I like my eyes and everybody loves them as well.

My eyes are my Unique Selling Point (USP).

Since everyone can see them, I will flaunt my legs too, because they are long.

What kind of jewelries do you love?

I am not a jewelry person; I just wear something simple that will complement my outfit.

When it comes to fashion, who is your role model?

I don’t have a fashion role model but my role model is Oprah Winfrey. She is always looking good, so I could say she is my fashion role model.

She is my role model because I love presenting as well. I really hope to have my own show someday.

In the past, people believed that most of the models are dropouts. Do you believe that?

No, I don’t. A lot of my model friends are all graduates while some are still in school. I don’t think I have any friend who is a model that is either not in the university or is already a graduate.

What kind of hairdo do you like to spot?

I love very long hairdos because they suit my face structure.

How do you want your makeup?

My makeup is usually simple.

How do you relax?

I hardly have time for relaxation.

What are your hobbies?

I love travelling, to explore, meet people and see new places. And I love taking pictures too.

You said you love travelling. What is that your onedream destination?

I have not been to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirate. I will like to visit there.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

L

Opinion

Sunday September 16, 2012

39

A look at the impeachment threat

ast Friday’s ruling of the Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja, which threw overboard, the request that the House of Representatives be prevented from commencing impeachment procedures against President Goodluck Jonathan, is largely a ricochet of time-worn, yet pristine precedent. While that judgement is not a triumph for the lawmakers, it cannot also be classified as defeat for the Jonathan camp.

In the riveting suit, National Chairman of African Liberation Party and serial presidential contestant, Emmanuel Okereke, had asked the court to stop the House of Representatives from commencing impeachment procedure against President Jonathan. Till date, the President is on the spot, as the lawmakers are at his jugular over accusation that he had come short of reasonably implementing the 2012 budget.

The Appropriation Act, the Reps members contended, must be implemented 100 percent before the House resumes on Tuesday; else, Jonathan risked being impeached from office, which if upheld by the Senate, confers on him the immediate status of ex-President.

But in determining the matter, the presiding judge, Justice Gabriel Kolawole, held inter alia, that it must be very certain that the impeachment proceedings had begun and was on course before the court could entertain the suit, so as not to interfere with the responsibilities of the legislative arm of government. In essence, therefore, if the motion for the President’s impeachment is eventually moved, Okereke can go back to the court to re-make his prayers.

But talking from the sideline, it is all

amusement in this jungle of a country to see how a sitting President would sit by and allow pesky lawmakers ‘put sandsand in his garri’. Such an instance is described in Professor Chukwuemeka Ike’s novel, ‘The Chicken Chasers’, as ‘No man will preside over his own liquidation.’

For being the President of Nigeria, the most populous black nation on earth, Jonathan cannot be short of antidotes in his pouch, against a legislative arm determined to cut short his reign, when indeed, well-wishers of the President are already gung-ho that their principal must re-taste the Presidency come 2015.

If high pitch lobbying cannot work, then, placating the bellicose Reps through indoor talks that should calibrate in lined pockets and stuffed head-caps should be experimented. But the latter option may be unattractive, in view of a recent sour incident that nearly stained the sparkling white garment of the lawmakers.

A leeway, perhaps, would be for the haunted President to stave off attacks by buying choice properties in Lagos and Abuja for his legislative traducers, which if sold, could make real the dream gratification of peace talks, outside the prying eyes of those who might draw the attention of anti-graft bodies.

Should all these measures fail to gel, bare-face intimidation or the remembrance of individuals’ old skeletons inside some supposed cupboards should assail, in whipping the President’s enemies back to line.

Jocosity aside, it is important to know why the President has dithered in seeing to the full implementation of the budget, which he himself had drawn

up and the legislators had adjusted all for the common good. Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who had earlier appeared before the Senate to defend the performance of the 2012 capital budget, put the performance index of the capital votes at 14 percent, with a scant assurance that the N1.3 trillion budgets would be implemented fully, before the end of the year. According to her, 56 per cent of cash-backed releases, amounting to N184 billion, had been utilised. Okonjo-Iweala disagreed with the submissions of some of the senators that the country was broke, saying the measure adopted was only a regulatory one to make the budget an all-year round thing, rather than having to implement a new budget in maybe, March, next year.

Though senators who listened as the Finance Minister rhapsodised on the budget performance might have been mesmerised unto conviction, it is still doubtful if the hungry man in the street would have the strength to clap, in appreciation of Okonjo-Iweala’s academic wizardry and flaunted altruism.

It is worth saying, however, that while belt-tightening is desirable to enhance government’s liquidity base, it can only come as cosmetics in the face of economic stagnation; the type the country is currently witnessing.

Failing to implement capital projections to time, especially on productive ventures needed to drive the economy would only reflect the economists’ ‘stability of the graveyard.’ While claiming to have met all recurrent expenditures, the Minister also merrily announced that capital spending had only been achieved

Kayode Fasua

kayodefasua@nationalmirroronline.net (08034101207; SMS only, pls)

at a 14 percent rate, which to her, signified prudence and improvement. So, indubitably, achieving industrial targets and agricultural revolution, among other lofty objectives, would only remain as dreams, whereas the country’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP) ratio has never added up to deserve global mention.

While the Presidency insisted that full implementation of the capital budget is impossible this month as the former is not a magician, it nonetheless promised to meet the target before December. But would this, if achieved, not turn the government to a sorcerer?

Besides, a look needs be taken at the accusation against the lawmakers; that monies appropriated for the National Assembly, from which they can play ‘big man’, have been badly cut under Federal Government’s regime of economic belt-tightening. Those who advanced this theory said the lawmakers are largely selfish, as full restoration of their grants would chummily resonate in the impeachment threat dying a natural death.

While this can either be true or be a mere blackmail, what is certain is that, as the lawmakers are probably not well fed, the masses barely have any food to eat.

For Suswam, it’s honour well deserved CONRAD WERGBA The fact that a labourer is entitled to his wages has been acknowledged by the Holy Scriptures and is also universally accepted as a principle that should apply in all situations.

This explains why employers of labor usually accept the responsibility to pay their workers just as groups, communities and governments introduce policies that acknowledge and reward those who make contributions to the progress of society.

In Nigeria, one of the ways through which the Federal Government acknowledges and rewards citizens and friends of the country who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the nation has been the conferment of the Nigerian National Honours Award.

The awards are a set of orders and decorations instituted by the National Orders Act Number Five of 1964 which are conferred yearly.

In 2012 President Goodluck Jonathan would confer the awards on 149 recipients tomorrow at the International Conference Center, in Abuja. One of the recipients whose award this year will attract public ovation for justifiable reasons would be the Governor of Benue State, Dr. Gabriel Suswam.

Dr. Suswam is one of four serving Governors who are among recipients of the prestigious award of Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON. Born on 15th November, 1964 to the royal family of Chief Suswam and Chief Mrs. Ashiawua Tingir of Anyiin in Logo local government area of Benue State, Dr Suswam, a lawyer who was

called to the Nigerian Bar in 1990, holds a doctorate degree in Law from the University of Jos. Before becoming the Governor of Benue State in 2007, Dr Suswam had demonstrated his capabilities as a visionary, courageous and patriotic Nigerian whose commitment to the unity and progress of the nation was easily discernible.

While serving in the National Assembly where he represented Katsina-Ala/Ukum/ Logo Federal Constituency for two terms between 1999 and 2007 he played critical roles in the House of Representatives which brought him to limelight.

Dr Suswam discharged this mandate creditably and the people renewed it in last year’s general election.

During his tenure in the House of Representatives, Governor Suswam delivered several democracy dividends to the people including over 300 motorized and hand pump boreholes, electrification of several communities and provision of scholarship awards that were not limited to only his constituency but cut across the entire state.

As Governor, he has over the past five years given such a massive facelift to all sectors such that he is easily referred to across the country as Mr. Infrastructure given the manner he has rebuilt dilapidated infrastructure in the state.

For instance, his urban renewal scheme has positively affected major towns in the state such as Makurdi, Gboko, Otukpo, and Katsina-Ala, hitherto considered as glorified villages but at present enjoying the status of towns that residents are proud of.

Movement from the rural to urban centers has also been made easy particularly for the predominantly agrarian population

through the construction of rural roads.

Some of these roads include the OtukpoOweto road, Otukpo-Utonkon-Okpoga road, Orokam-Owukpa-Okpoga road, Eke Elengbecho-Ugbokolo-Otukpa-Orokam road, Adikpo-Ikyogen-Jato-Aka road, Amaafu-Ugba-Anyiin road, and Ge-IkyoboAgbeede-Anshagba road among others.

Apart from roads the Governor has invested heavily in the provision of massive rural electrification for over 200 communities across the state as well as provision of major new water works including the Greater Makurdi Water Works, and those in Katsina-Ala, Otobi, Anyiin and Otukpa.

Apart from transforming the old Government House into a befitting Governor’s office, Dr Suswam initiated and completed a multi-billion naira ultra-modern Governor’s Lodge with guest houses, sporting facilities, a world class swimming pool as well as banquet hall with 1000 guest capacity.

He has also successfully completed the Benue State University Teaching Hospital for which contract was awarded by the previous administration and the Hospital is today fully operational.

A good number of the aforementioned projects, particularly the Greater Makurdi Water Works, the Governor`s Lodge, the Teaching Hospital and some of the rural roads were inaugurated by president Goodluck Jonathan during his two-day visit to Benue State in March this year.

The state also enjoys a good governmentlabor relationship owing to the Suswam administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers as demonstrated in numerous workers’ incentives as well as the early payment of one of the best packages nationwide of the new minimum

wage.

The drive for his public private partnership vision for the industrialization of the state has started yielding results with the reactivation of the Ben fruit Juice Factory taken over by Transcorps and the hitherto moribund Taraku Mills Limited undergoing turn around maintenance while the Makurdi Sheraton has also been leased out.

In the area of health care delivery a lot has been achieved with most of the general hospitals in the state given comprehensive renovation, equipped with modern facilities and stocked with drugs.

According to a state government policy all pregnant mothers receive free treatment in public hospitals.

The education sector has also received attention with a good number of primary schools spread across the three senatorial districts having been renovated and furnished in addition to the construction of new classrooms and provision of learning equipment.

Tertiary institutions such as the Benue State University, College of Advanced and Professional Studies, Makurdi, as well as the Colleges of Education at Katsina-Ala and Oju have their structures rehabilitated or new ones constructed. This attention has also reflected in the accreditation of courses at the respective tertiary institutions.

From the foregoing and many more reasons which time and space limit enumeration Governor Gabriel Suswam richly deserves this national honour and we join thousands of his admirers all over the world in congratulating him on this great achievement.

•Mr. Wergba is the Benue State Commissioner for Information and Orientation.

40

Politics

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Furore over Amosun’s N100bn bond

FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

O

gun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, is presently facing one of the challenges of governance going by the controversies trailing his plan to access a N100 billion bond to develop the state.

Upon assumption of office on May 29, 2011, the state governor had promised the people that he was on a mission to re-build the state and shortly after taking the oath of office and the oath of allegiance, he came up with a five-cardinal programme of action plan which he said his administration would pursue vigorously as part of his efforts to re-build the state.

But against the backdrop of the sorry financial situation of the state, Amosun decided that accessing loan in whatever name; be it Bond, Treasury bill or Contract Financing Arrangement responsibly remains the only solution to guarantee a convenient and steady re-building process towards taking the state to the height of his dream.

While some have argued that the governor strives to outplay the achievement of his predecessor, Gbenga Daniel, whose achievement within his first two years in office earned him the best governor in Nigeria, others believed that Amosun’s passion for the development of the state is the driving force.

This perhaps, explained why the governor now deemed it fit to raise loan to finance some of the projects in the state 16 months after assumption of office. Consequently, the governor put up an Executive Bill to the state House of Assembly (OGHA) seeking approval of members to raise bond from the capital market anytime he so wishes.

The bill, “a bill for a law to provide for raising of loans through issuance of Bond, notes, and other securities and connected purposes”, which did not specify the exact amount being sought by the governor has however, sparked up criticisms among many people, who considered the governor’s request for what they referred to as “a blank cheque approval” as they said it was outrageous.

But the state chapter of PDP in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Bidemi Osunbiyi, warned the governor to desist from the ´orchestrated plan to mortgage the future of the state´ through the bond.

The party in the statement recalled that Amosun was one of the prominent Nigerians who called for massive ac-

Governor Amosun

Daniel

tion against his predecessor in office, Daniel, for wanting to do the same.

The bill has also generated heated arguments among the state lawmakers as members of the opposition party are opposed to it. The lawmakers, however, resolved to set up a five-man committee to assess the desirability of the bond and make recommendations.

Sunday Mirror also recalled that the 6th Legislative Assembly also rejected the bid to raise bond by the state government under Daniel, though at the twilight of his administration.

It will also be recalled that shortly after his swearing in, it was touted that Amosun’s administration would not be able to pay the salary of the state’s workforce if it refused to take a loan. Towards this, many stakeholders called on the governor to go for loan and that if need be the bond.

In an interview with one of the lawmakers who is among the five-man committee set up by the House to assess the desirability of the bond and make recommendations, Remmy Hazzan, he said the 6th Legislative Assembly in the state was not against Daniel’s administration accessing the bond but only that the lawmakers requested for the debt profile of the state.

Hazzan, a third term member and former Deputy

Speaker of the House further explained that Daniel’s administration could not obtain the bond because he failed to submit the Statement of Account as well as the debt profile of the state when the House requested for such.

Despite the controversies generated by the proposed bond, the bill has, as at the last sitting on Tuesday, scaled through the second reading and it has been sent to the committee for deliberation and recommendation.

Debunking allegations that the governor had applied for the bond, the state government, through the Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun while briefing the press, explained that the bill sent to the House was not to raise bond, but rather trying to repeal the existing Bond law which had been in existence since 1988.

The Commissioner reiterated that the state’s financial status as at present does not favour accessing Bond to finance any project in the state.

Speaking further, Adeosun said the state has subscribed to the Fiscal Responsibility Act, “a framework which provides for a legal backing for any debt issuance that you issue. All that the bonds, promissory notes and treasury notes law is doing is an enabling law so that if we choose to issue any of those instrument, then there is legal backing”.

2015: Igbo and fallout of Jonathan’s endorsement mid discordant tunes that have trailed the pronouncement of Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, as well as some other influential persons from the state on the endorsement of President Goodluck Jonathan for re-election in 2015, are the criticisms of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Chief Victor Umeh, who participated actively in endorsing the latter by both the party and Ndigbo in last year’s presidential election.

Umeh is of the opinion that the proclamation of Obi and Prince Arthur Eze was rather too hasty given the fact

that Jonathan is not yet up to two years in office. Umeh, like most other Igbo people feel that it is important that the statement made on behalf of Ndigbo be discussed.

They say it is not that the Igboman would want to stand in the way of another man but that people must distil issues before arriving at any decision, adding that there was really no need to be hasty about the endorsement.

Even if the President has an ambition for a second term and the north wants power back, should Igbos not have an ambition? Why should the Igbo ambition be treated as a third figure; that the most important thing to listen to is Jonathan’s second term ambition or that the north wants power back?

Governor Obi

President Jonathan

DENNIS AGBO

A

“So what do the Igbo want? In the last election, we supported our president, he had the highest votes in Igboland because we believed in the agenda and we supported him,” said former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national chairman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo.

Founding member of APGA and national Chairman of Citizens Popular Party (CPP), Mr. Maxi Okwu is unhappy with the Anambra elite branding them as a bond of perennial influence peddlers whose job according to him is to portray themselves as Igbo leaders in a bid to curry favour from the ruling party ostensibly to line their personal pockets. He therefore urged Igbo to jettison such call.

The Igbo want Jonathan to deliver on the pact he entered with them during his electioneering campaign when he promised among other things to build Akanu-Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, construct the second Niger Bridge, fix the Enugu-Port Harcourt Road that has collapsed among other infrastructure decay in the war ravaged Igboland.

Maxi said “I am calling on Igbo wherever they are to be vigilante. We should come together in unison to chart a way forwards targeted at claiming our presidential mandate come 2015.”

Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha is presently seen as the new Igbo spirit that can perform the magic. He has come of age in national politics, cut his teeth in the north and exudes passion for Igbo cause.

Just recently, he commissioned the Ikemba Odumegwu-Ojukwu centre in Owerri where the Igbo intelligentsias were gathered as board members of the centre.

Rochas even mesmerizes the other governors of the zone, last weekend, when he landed at the Enugu security meeting with helicopter. He was just ahead of the others at the event and the cloud is gathering in the zone with possibility of regional integration.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Sunday, September 16, 2012

41

choice of guber candidate

the so called governorship candidate was handpicked by some disgruntled elements in the party, headed by the past nterim chairman, Mr. Lekan Obolo, and his cohorts for their selfish interest. We re stating categorically that Mr. Ehinanwo does not possess the party memership card and he is not a registered member of the party in Ward 2, Ilaje Loal Government Area, which he claims s his ward.”

Not only that the stakeholders rejectd the candidature of Ehinlanwo, they lso announced the removal of the state hairman of the party, Mr. Lekan Obolo, eplacing him with Mr. Jimoh Amodu.

“It will be noted that the entire 18 loal government chairmen, as a result f this act of disloyalty to the rules and onstitution of our great party, have assed a vote of no confidence on Mr. Obolo-led interim committee and unanimously appointed Mr. Jimoh Amodu s the new acting chairman of CPC in Ondo State. The appointment of the new cting chairman took effect on August , 2012 pending the time the party will hold its congress to elect new leaders in he state.

“We want to make it clear that our deision is to let the people of Ondo state know that CPC, Ondo state chapter, does not have any governorship flag bearer n the state. But very soon, we shall let he public know the candidate the party will support as we await directive from Mr. Jimoh Amodu, the new caretaker hairman of our great party,” they said.

However, the National Vice-Chairman f the CPC (South West), Hon. Raszaq Muse, has said there was no crisis in the Ondo State chapter of the party. Accordng to him, Ehinlanwo is the recognised andidate of the CPC in the October 20 overnorship election in the state. Muse

said Jayeola, who was parading himself as the state Publicity Secretary of the CPC, was unknown to the leadership of the party.

In a press statement issued in Akure, the Vice-Chairman stated that the emergence of the candidate of the party in the forthcoming governorship election followed a due process. He also said delegates from all the 18 local government areas of the state participated in the exercise.

According to Muse, “At the time the party congresses and governorship primaries were held between July 30th and August 2nd, 2012, the general public was put on notice, and all relevant agencies (INEC, Police, Civil Defence and SSS) were in attendance, as well as National Officers of the party.”

“The duo of Prince Soji Ehinlanwo, a vibrant young man who until recently was a consultant with the European Commission and Mrs. Damilola Oluyemi emerged as governorship and deputy governorship candidates respectively. Their candidature has since been affirmed and widely published by INEC.” Muse said the national leader of the party, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.), recognized Ehinlanwo as the governorship candidate of CPC, adding that it was the reason why the former Head of State warmly received the party flag bearer in his home last week. He described Ehinlanwo as a credible young man who understands all that the party stands for and who has all it takes to positively transform Ondo state.

The Vice Chairman, who said the purported acting state chairman of the party had been suspended from CPC because of the criminal case he has at the Magistrate’s Court, Oke-eda, Akure, de-

Ehinlanwo

scribed him and other members of his faction as “unscrupulous and demented impostors.”

He accused the ruling Labour Party (LP) in the state of a plot to destabilize the state chapter of the CPC because of the rising profile of the party.

“We are not unaware, however, of the plot orchestrated by the ruling Labour Party to sponsor dubious characters and moles in a bid to destabilize our great party. We are aware that the financier of these miscreants only recently returned back to his paymasters in the Labour

self-rule agitation

re the participants were largely o act as if the autonomy thing did t that the Presidency felt it needmbling agitations from Ogoni and there is any boiling over. It also to dissociate themselves from the

came with a long list of requests. red on empowerment, opening up from the Federal Government on he environmental degradation of xploration and production. marginalised “in all projects and stry and the Niger Delta Develop-

d actions to compensate for these city development projects to equip elevant in the oil and gas industry. ssional courses should take place

ernment to leverage on the UNEP ng the Ogoni by providing immein oil spill clean-up and response diation exercise of the devastated

The request document was signed by Comrade Marvin Yorbana, President of Ogoni Youth Council, and youth leaders of four Ogoni LGAs in Rivers State, including Comrade Isaac Lale Obe (Eleme); Comrade Ngbihoro Friday (Tai); Comrade Vopnu Le-Eerebari Rogers (Gokana) and Comrade Sunny Bekanwah, youth leader of Khana.

Mr. Legborsi Esaen, communication officer of MOSOP (not the Goodluck Diigbo faction), added: “In order to encourage peace in the Niger Delta and the country at large, the Federal Government should adequately address the plight of Ogonis who have continued to make their demands non-violently”.

He said this move was imperative so that the system would not communicate the wrong message to the youths that either the government did not care about them or that they needed to carry arms before they got the attention of the Federal Government.

The Diigbo declaration that has been disparaged roundly by the Ogoni recently also provided a platform for Ogoni traditional and political leaders, led by Senator Magnus Abe, to have an audience with Mr. President. This is ostensibly to denounce the Diigbo announcement of political autonomy for Ogoni within Nigeria.

The Diigbo autonomy declaration in absentia may be something that serious Ogoni stakeholders are quick to criticise and give a wide berth.

Coming, however, at a time like this when the polity is being charged unduly by different political and parochial interests, it seems that it would create an opportunity for benefits for all Ogoni as events from Abuja have started to show.

Governor Dickson

Party. We know as a fact that they are only being scared of the growing acceptance and popularity of CPC in Ondo state, and indeed the South West Zone,” Muse said.

Observers are of the view that since Iwatan, who was the only person who contested the ticket of the party against Ehinlanwo has defected to another party, there was no basis for the latest opposition to the candidature of Ehinlanwo.

They argue that some interests must have been behind the group who are trying to fuel crisis in the party.

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Sunday, September 16, 2012

GROWING UP with

Aunty Angela growingup5@yahoo.com

Hello children, How did you spend your week? I believe that you have completed all your assignments or homework and ready to resume after your holidays. I hope you are all looking forward to resuming in your new classes, meeting and making new friends too. I wish you a wonderful week.

IT’S STORY TIME …

The Grasshopper and the Ants O

But the ants went on their way and continued their hard work.

The weather soon turned cold. All the ne day in a field during the summer, a grasshopper was hopping about, food lying in the field was covered with chirping and singing happily. Then, a thick, white blanket of snow that even a group of ants walked by, grunting as the grasshopper could not dig through.

Soon the grasshopper found itself dying they struggled to carry plump kernels of of hunger. corn.

He staggered to the anthill and saw “Where are you going with those heavy things?” asked the grasshopper. them handing out corn from the stores Without stopping, the first ant replied, they had collected in the summer. He “To our anthill. This is the third kernel I begged them for something to eat.

“What!” cried the ants in surprise and will be delivering today.”

“Why not come and sing with me in- they asked, “Didn’t you store any food for stead of working so hard?” teased the the winter? What in the world were you grasshopper. “Well, we are helping to doing throughout the summer?”

“I did not have the time to store any store food for the winter and I think you food. I was so busy playing music that should do the same,” said the ant.

“Why bother about winter? We have before I knew it the summer was gone,” got plenty of food at present. In fact win- revealed the grasshopper.

The ants shook their heads in disgust, ter is still far away and today is a glorious day to sing,” said the grasshopper. turned their backs on the grasshopper and went on with their work.

Moral: Don’t forget, there is a time for work and a time for play.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

DID YOU KNOW?

An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain

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CHILDREN AND LAW

Laws protecting children in Nigeria Right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, Section 38 Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees the child’s right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. Therefore a child is entitled to change his/her religion or belief and he/she is free to manifest and propagate his religion or belief in worship, teaching, practice or observance.

Parents and guardians have a duty to direct their children in the exercise of this right.

Under this right a child is entitled to assemble freely and to associate with other persons for the protection of his/ her interest. The only exception is that a child cannot be a member of a political party.

L

Right to freedom of expression, Section 39 Children also have a right to freely express their views and opinions without fear. However, such a right should be exercised under the proper guidance of adults.

Right to peaceful assembly and association, Section 37

POEM

If I were God

If I were God I wouldn’t let it rain.

The snow would fall in summer when it’s hot.

If I were God there’d be No school ever Chocolate forever And teeth that never rot If I were God - but I’m not.

JOKES Afraid of the Dark

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The mother smiled reassuringly at her son. “You don’t have to be afraid of the dark,” she said. “God is out there. He’ll look after you and protect you.”

The little boy looked at his mother and asked, “Are you sure he’s out there?”

“Yes, I’m sure. He is everywhere, and he is always ready to help you when you need him,” she said.

The little boy thought about that for a minute and then went to the back door and cracked it a little. Peering out into the darkness, he called, “God, if you’re out there, would you please hand me the broom?”

Children, you can send your contributions and pictures through this email address growingup5@yahoo.com or call telephone number: 0805 198 0588

Ladisla

n ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain The eye of the ostrich is bigger than its brain.

The brain is actually very small in proportion to the size of the bird. Its eye is as big as a table tennis ball. However, the brain is smaller in size.

The eye measures about five centimetres and it is the largest of any land animal. In comparison, the average human eye is about 2.4 cm in diameter.

TONGUE TWISTER

little boy was afraid of the dark. One night his mother told him to go out to the back porch and bring her the broom. The little boy turned to his mother and said, “Mama, I don’t want to go out there. It’s dark.”

WHO INV

Purple Paper People, Purple Paper People, Purple Paper People If two witches were watching two watches, which witch would watch which watch?

QUOTE

Always end the name of your child with a vowel, so that when you yell the name will carry.

– Bill Cosby

adislas Biro, a per editor, has man who inve 1935 he was edit per when he beca amount of time h fountain pens and pages and the sha pen often scratch newsprint.

Bíró noticed newspaper prin leaving the pap

Fruits

Find and circ in any directi A

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What can go up a chimney down, but can’t go down a chimney up?

Answer: An umbrella

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What is it that goes up and goes down but does not move?

Answer: The temperature.

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RIDDLES

What has four legs but only one foot?

Answer: A bed

Cherries, Mango, Lime, Kiwi,

Ba O Le Fi

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Growing Up

Sunday, September 16, 2012

VENTED WHAT…?

as Biro: Created the ball point pen

a Hungarian newspas been credited as the ented the ball pen. In ting a small newspaame frustrated by the he wasted in filling up d cleaning up smudged arp tip of his fountain h or tore through the

that inks used in nting dried quickly, er dry and smudge

free. He decided to create a pen using the same type of ink. So, determined to develop a better pen, Ladislas and Georg, his brother who was a chemist, set about making models of new designs and formulating better inks to use in them.

Bíró created a pen with a tiny ball in its tip that was free to turn in a socket. As the pen moved along the paper, the ball rotated, picking up ink from the ink cartridge and leaving it on the paper. Bíró filed a British pat-

ent on June 15, 1938. He also acquired a patent for the ball point pen in Argentina in 1940. They were marketed by the British as the Biro and used

by RAF aircrew as they worked much better than fountain pens at high altitude.

Whilst Bíró’s is recognised as the inventor of the ball point pen, various models were in use before his was marketed.

László Bíró was born in Budapest on September 29, 1899. He died in Buenos Aires in October 1985, aged 86 years and one month.

WORD SEARCH I

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anana, range, emon, g,

Peach, Apple, Grapefruit, Pawpaw,

Watermelon, Avocado, Grape, Pear,

MY STORY

I lied about my homework

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wo weeks into the start of the long holiday, my father announced that I and my two siblings will be spending the holiday with my aunt who lives in Lekki with her family. We were all very excited. However, my father warned that we must first complete our holiday assignments before leaving.

Although I was happy that I will be spending some time with my cousins, however, I was not ready to do any assignment. All I wanted to do was just go there, play video games and also go to the cinemas and watch the latest children cartoons and movies. Well, for two days, I pretended that I was seriously working hard to complete my assignments. But in the real sense, I was doing a haphazard job. In almost all the subjects, I just answered questions, I knew the answers or had a faint idea, while for other subjects, I wrote whatever came to my head just to show that I was doing something. But all I was thinking about was how I was going to enjoy myself with my cousins.

On the day we were supposed to leave for Lekki, my mother flipped through our assignments, called my father and informed him that we had all completed our home work. He then ordered that my mother took us to Lekki.

My aunt is a full-time housewife, so she had all the time to take us anywhere we wanted. We went to the cinema to watch movies almost every day.

However, my enjoyment only lasted for a week and half as my father discovered that I only lied and deceived them about completing my homework.

My father came with all the assignments I had claimed to complete and told my aunt that I must return home to properly do and complete all my assignments. He said that was my punishment for lying and deceiving everybody. I had to go home with him feeling sad because of all the fun I would be missing. But I guess I deserved it. If only I had done the proper thing at the right time, my holiday fun and enjoyment would not have been cut short.

James Obong

Do you have a personal story to share with us?

Then, send it to us and it will be published.

POP

cle all the fruits you can see. They could be found on.

Guava Apricot Pineapple, Plum

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Chuckles

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

45

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wellness YOUR HEALTH AND HEALTH RELATED ISSUES SEPTEMBER 16, 2012

Common causes of most miscarriages Facts

VANESSA OKWARA

M

rs. Bisola Ojo (real names withheld), is a woman in her mid-thirties and has given birth to a son some three years back. She has been trying to get pregnant again since then, but has not been lucky. Suddenly she realised she has missed her period for close to two months now. When she went for a pregnancy test, it was discovered she was pregnant. Her joy knew no bounds as she blissfully went home to share the good news with her husband. The couple was overjoyed and quickly began to make plans on how to welcome their next bundle of joy.

It was quite a shock for her to notice a few days later that there are specks of blood on her underwear. Initially she did not allow that to worry her, but when it began to come with heavy cramps and abdominal pain, she had cause to worry. Two hours later she started bleeding profusely and was rushed to the hospital where it was discovered she had lost the baby through a miscarriage.

Bisolas’ anguish was so acute that even her husband failed to console her at that time. The doctor assured them that she will get pregnant again but that she should ensure she never puts any more strain on her body again when she gets pregnant.

Just like Bisola, a lot of women in our society have experienced miscarriage at one time or the other during their child-bearing age. Some have had repeated cases of miscarriages in their bid to get pregnant.

The question on the mind of a woman who has had a miscarriage is usually what could have caused it? Was it my fault or did something happen inside the womb to disrupt the growth of the baby?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) studies reveal that miscarriage is

Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy that ends spontaneously before the foetus can survive.

Causes of miscarriage include genetic abnormalities, infection, medications, hormonal problems and immune abnormalities.

After a miscarriage, the chance of having a normal pregnancy in the future is high. It is not a sign of infertility as some people believe.

the most common type of pregnancy loss. According to them, Spontaneous Abortion (SAB) or miscarriage, is the term used for a pregnancy that ends on its own, within the first 20 weeks of gestation. It occurs in about 15-20 per cent of all recognised pregnancies, and usually occurs during the first 13th week of pregnancy. The actual percentage of miscarriages is estimated to be as high as 50 per cent of all pregnancies, since many miscarriages occur without the woman ever knowing she was pregnant.

Medical experts agree that early pregnancy loss is so common and considered a normal part of reproduction. Even at that, it does not make the loss any easier.

This is because at any stage the miscarriage occurs, it is an emotional experience, which is sometimes heightened by the fact that there is seldom any explanation for why they happened. Therefore, it is beneficial to be informed about miscarriage and its causes, in the unfortunate event that you find yourself or someone you know faced with one and be able to proffer possible solution to the problem.

Dr (Mrs.) Nkeiruka Onya, a gynaecologist and medi-

cal director of St Theresa Hospital in Lagos State, explained what actually happens during a miscarriage.

“Depending on the medical situation, the physical process of losing a pregnancy can vary from person to person. Some women will start to have bleeding and cramping, which is caused by contractions that are working to expel the contents of the uterus, and may pass large blood clots and tissue. If it happens rapidly, the miscarriage is usually completed by the body without complications. In the case of a missed miscarriage, that is a situation when a woman has no symptoms and her body has essentially “missed” the occurrence of fetal disruption, a drug can be given to stimulate these contractions.’’

Some of the symptoms a woman notices when a miscarriage is about to occur according to experts include: bleeding which progresses from light to heavy; cramps; abdominal pain; fever; weakness; vomiting and back pain; loss of pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting; white-pink mucus and passing tissue or clotlike material from the vagina. If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above, it is important you consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Who are those most likely to be at risk of having miscarriages? Studies reveal that for women in their childbearing years, the chances of having a miscarriage can range from 10-25 per cent and in most healthy women the average is about a 15-20 per cent chance and they include: • An increase in maternal age affects the chances of miscarriage • Women under the age of 35 years old have about a 15per cent chance of miscarriage • Women who are 35-45 years old have 20-35 per cent chance of miscarriage • Women over the age of 45 can have up to 50 per cent CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

HEALTH NEWS

Lack of awareness blamed for wide polio virus Paediatrician cautions on effects of smoking Executive Director, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Ado Mohammed, says the Federal Government would spend N1.6 billion on the MenAfriVac immunisation campaign.

Mohammed said this in Abuja recently during a

stakeholder’s conference on MenAfriVac, an antimeasles vaccine.

He said that the money would be used to procure vaccination cards, vaccines, injection materials, waste disposal materials and procurement of Adverse Events Following

Immunisation (AEFI) kit.

“In 1996, Nigeria had 15,000 death cases from meningitis; in 1999, 25,000 cases while in 2011, 1,000 cases were recorded, proving the fact that epidemics of meningitis has reduced rapidly in the country.

Women of child-bearing age, who are in the habit of smoking, have been advised to desist from such act as they and their children could suffer from life threatening ailments.

A Consultant Paediatrician in Zankli Hospital, Abuja, Dr Olufunke Lawson, made this call in an interview with

newsmen.

She said although most people were aware that smoking was unhealthy, yet most of them did not know the long term effects that could arise from such act.

Lawson said that women of child-bearing age who smoke should stop before conception, as it could cause

low birth weight and child obesity as a result of a large appetite for food, among others.

She said that educating children about smoking should start at an early stage, stressing that this would help them have a better knowledge of its health implications and live a better life.

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Wellness

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Know your organs

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The Gall Bladder

he gall bladder is a small pear-shaped muscular sack that acts as a storage tank for bile. It is a small non-vital organ that aids in the digestive process and stores bile produced in the liver.

It is a hollow organ that sits in a concavity of the liver known as the gallbladder fossa. In adults, the gall bladder measures approximately 8 cm in length and 4 cm in diameter when fully distended. It is divided into three sections: fundus, body, and neck.

The bile is made in the liver by liver cells and is sent through tiny ducts or canals to the duodenum (small intestine) and to the gallbladder.

The gallbladder stores the bile to have it available in larger quantities for secretion when a meal is eaten. The ingestion of food and especially fats cause the release of a hormone, cholecystokinin, (CCK) which in turn signals the relaxation of the valve at the end of the common bile duct (the sphincter of oddi) which lets the bile enter the small intestine. It also signals the contraction of the gall bladder which squirts the concentrated liquid bile into the small intestine where it helps with the emulsification or breakdown of fats in the meal.

The duct, small intestine and the gall bladder The gall bladder is located behind the liver on the right side of the rib cage. It hits up against the under surface of the liver. There is a duct from the liver to the small intestine which is joined by a duct from and to the gall bladder. Bile moves in both directions into and out of it through the cystic duct. This latter duct joins with a duct from the pancreas on its

way to the small intestine carrying pancreatic enzymes also used for digestion. The main duct is called the common bile duct. It is common to the liver, gall bladder and farther down line, to the pancreas as well.

Bile is continually being made and secreted by the liver into bile ducts in varying amounts.

Some of it goes directly into the small intestine and some into the gall bladder. The gall bladder stores the bile to be squirted down the ducts into the small intestine to help to break down the fats when you eat a meal that contains fats.

It also acts as a reservoir that uptakes excess bile when there is pressure in the bile ducts.

Bile is a bitter, yellow fluid. It can consist of cholesterol, lecithin, calcium, bile salts, acids and waste materials among other things.

Danger of gallstone formation in gall bladder Sometimes the substances contained in bile crystallise in the gall bladder, forming gallstones. These small, hard concretions are more common in persons over 40, especially in women and the obese. They can cause inflammation of the gall bladder, a disorder that produces symptoms similar to those of indigestion, especially after a fatty meal is consumed. If a stone becomes lodged in the bile duct, it produces severe pain.

Surgical removing of the gall bladder Gallstones may pass out of the body spontaneously; however, serious blockage is treated by removing the gall bladder surgically.

In some cases, it must be removed. The surgery its removal is called a cholecystectomy (pronounced co-lee-sist-eck-toe-mee). In a cholecystectomy, the gall bladder is removed through a 5- to 8-inch long cut in the abdomen.

Once the gall bladder is removed, bile is delivered directly from the liver ducts to the upper part of the intestine.

Other ailments that can result as a result of an infection in the gall bladder include: Chronic cholecystitis (biliary colic); Acute cholecystitis (acute inflammation or infection of the gall bladder) and Jaundice (yellow discolouration of the skin and whites of eyes).

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Your What is a fractured rib? BONE Health

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rib fracture is a crack or break in one of the bones of the rib cage.

A break in the thick tissue (cartilage) that connects the ribs to the breastbone may also be called a fractured rib, even if the bone itself is not broken.

The most common cause of a fractured rib is a direct blow to the chest, often from a car accident or a fall. Coughing hard can also fracture a rib. This is more likely to happen if you have a disease that has made your bones weak, such as osteoporosis or cancer.

It is important to see a doctor after a rib injury. A blow that is hard enough to fracture a rib could also injure the lungs, spleen, blood vessels, or other parts of your body.

What happens when you break a rib?

The rib cage has two main jobs: • They protect the organs in the chest.

• They help in breathing by keeping space open inside the chest while the muscles used to breathe squeeze in, or contract. This leaves plenty of space for the lungs to fill up with air.

The muscles used for breathing pull on the ribs, so breathing may be very painful when a fractured rib occurs.

Flail chest is a serious problem that happens when three or more ribs are broken in more than one place. When flail chest occurs, the broken area can’t hold its shape when a breath is taken. This leaves less space in the

with Dr. Olatunji Idowu

chest for the lungs to open and air to flow in. It also makes it harder for the muscles to work well, so it’s harder to take a breath.

What are the symptoms?

A fractured rib may cause: • Mild to severe pain in the injured area.

• Pain when breathing.

• Pain around the fracture when someone pushes on the breastbone.

If one cannot breathe normally because of pain or flail chest, one may: • Feel short of breath.

• Feel anxious, restless, or scared.

• Have a headache.

• Feel dizzy, tired, or sleepy.

How is a fractured rib diagnosed?

The doctor will ask questions about the injury and do a physical exam.

The doctor may: • Push on the chest to find out where it hurt.

• Watch the patient breathe and listen to the lungs to make sure air is moving in and out normally.

• Listen to the heart.

• Check the head, neck, spine, and belly to make sure there are no other injuries.

• An X-ray or other imaging test will be done if the doctor isn’t sure about the symptoms. But rib fractures don’t always show up on X-rays.

So one may be treated as though there are fractured ribs even if an X-ray doesn’t show any broken bones.

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.

‘Uncontrolled diabetes can cause miscarriage’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45 chance of miscarriage • A woman who has had a previous miscarriage has 25 per cent chance of having another (only a slightly elevated risk than for someone who has not had a previous miscarriage).

Dr Onya articulated some of the medical abnormalities that could make a woman to miscarry her baby.

Some of them are: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Women with PCOS have too-high levels of the male hormone testosterone which, among other things, causes irregular ovulation and menstruation. Even in women who don’t have diabetes, PCOS causes insulin resistance, which prevents the endometrial lining from maturing properly.

Untreated illnesses such as thyroid problems and uncontrolled diabetes Thyroid conditions and uncontrolled diabetes are both associated with unfavourable uterine environments. The effects of these conditions make it difficult for the embryo to survive. Diabetes can be well managed during pregnancy, if a woman and her doctor work closely together. However, if the diabetes is insuf-

ficiently controlled, not only is the risk of miscarriages higher, but the baby can have major birth defects. Other problems can also occur in relation to diabetes during pregnancy. Good control of blood sugars during pregnancy is very important.

Uterine abnormalities and incompetent cervixes If you have a uterus that is “abnormally” shaped or divided - called uterine septum - miscarriage occurs because the embryo either can’t implant or once it does implant, can’t get the nourishment it needs to survive.

Uterine anomalies account for about 10 per cent of miscarriages. A weakened or incompetent cervix is another problem that can lead to miscarriage, because toward the end of the first trimester, the foetus has grown large enough that the cervix starts to bulge. If the cervix is weakened, it can’t hold the foetus in. In cases like this the doctor may not discover this problem until you have had recurrent miscarriages, or until your pregnancy is well under way.

Chromosomal problems During the first trimester, the most common cause of miscarriage is chromosomal abnormality - meaning that something is not correct with the baby’s chromo-

somes. Most chromosomal abnormalities are the cause of a damaged egg or sperm cell or due to a problem at the time that the zygote went through the division process. Sometimes the two sets of chromosomes from the egg and the sperm don’t line up right at the moment of conception. It doesn’t mean that anything is wrong with the mother or father - or that it will necessarily happen the next time. Chromosomal abnormalities become more common with aging, and women over age 35 have a higher rate of miscarriage than younger women Other causes include: • Hormonal problems, infections • Chronic maternal health problems • Lifestyle (i.e. smoking, drug use, malnutrition, excessive caffeine and exposure to radiation or toxic substances) • Implantation of the egg into the uterine lining does not occur properly • Maternal age • Maternal trauma Dr Onya advises that if you have noticed one or various causes associated with miscarriage, you should consult your doctor before getting pregnant o avoid the possibility of miscarrying your baby.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

47

Business FRESH BUSINESS NEWS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS September 16, 2012

Still on NIPOST’s hike in fees •Faceoff imminent as courier operators kick

Stanley Ihedigbo reports that stakeholders in the country’s courier industry have kicked against the recent increase of operators’ registration and renewal fees, and introduction of minimum tariffs by the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) through its Courier Regulatory Department (CRD).

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Omobola Johnson

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he Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), through its unit, the Courier Regulatory Department (CRD), a while ago, sent letters of fees increment and minimum tariffs to courier operators nationwide.

The fees were reviewed from N1 million to N10 million for initial registration and yearly renewal from N250, 000 to N2.5 million, for the courier companies that operate internationally, while the national or domestic operators are expected to pay N3 million for registration and N750, 000 against the previous N1 million and N250, 000, respectively. Also, there was the introduction of minimum tariffs for the industry, implying that the agency now intends to determine and control the charges of the operators.

According to a document made available to Sunday Mirror, dated July 31, 2012 and signed by the Assistant Post Master General, Dr. Simon Emeje, the body has approved a new tariff regime for courier companies operating in Nigeria effective from January 1, 2013.

Incidentally, NIPOST is not only the

regulator but also a player in the industry, a development that has been criticised by various operators in the country.

While speaking with Sunday Mirror, the operators expressed their worries, even as they cautioned the organisation to be careful while handling matters relating to the issuing and renewal of licenses in the industry, which “if is not handled properly, may make 75 per cent of the over 200 courier companies in the country close shop.”

They noted that the industry had contributed much to the nation’s economy through job creation and revenue generation to the various tiers of government, adding that the recent National Bureau of Statistics report on the sectoral contributions to Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of 2012, located the industry within the telecommunication and postal services industry, which accounted for 7.29 per cent of the nation’s GDP. Reacting to the development of the fees increases and tariff fixing, the Secretary General, Association of Nigerian Courier

MAINSTREET BANK AT 1

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Operators (ANCO), Mr. Siyanbola Oladapo, said that the association’s position was that the authorities of the Nigerian Postal Service were not in possession of the requisite facts and figures concerning the industry before taking the step to increase license fees and introduce tariffs.

He added that NIPOST might have its own reason to increase the fees but that the statistics they have as a group on the revenue that had been generated by the industry does not show any justification for any increment for now.

He said, “ANCO has written to the Post Master General, who has a listening ear, to dialogue with the agency. Our position is that the increases will not stand, because most of the courier companies will close down.”

According to Oladapo, if the agency is claiming an attempt at sanitising the industry, there is a better way to do that than thinking of increasing the fees, adding that the development would encourage some courier companies to cut corners and engage in various illegal ac-

THE POWER OF AUDIBLE AUTOSUGGESTION

tivities that would destroy the image of the sector.

On the minimum tariff, he said that in a free market country like Nigeria, the authority does not determine or control prices of services or goods, as many factors contribute to the charges by the operators.

He further added that the industry operators already had challenges facing them from the burden of multiples taxes, the activities of the local governments attacking their delivery vehicles, especially outside Lagos, the issues of foreign exchange since most of the materials used are imported them, and minimum wage agitations by workers.

He lamented that with the capital market crash, technological developments and other developments as challenges facing the courier industry, which otherwise requires government supporting the sector, the fees increases should be the last thing the industry will be contending with now if the sector is to move forward.

Lending his voice, a courier operator, who pleaded anonymity, attributed the fees increases to the agency’s plan to break the courier operators’ wings following their agitation for an independent commission, which would be supervising both the NIPOST and private sector.

He added that all steps by the former Minister of Communication, Prof. Dora Akunyili, in trying to see the bill of independent commission passed was frustrated by the agency before she left office.

However, an economist, Mr. Steve Ilo, threw his weight behind the increment, saying that, if a critical analysis is observed, some of the claimed courier operators should not be in the business, as many of them don’t have an office and the working tools for the job.

He added that some of them are like middle men, who collect business from organisations, and give same out to other courier companies to do for them, “which should not be allowed, rather the main operators that have the necessary wherewithal to pay the money and do the job should be permitted to do it.”

He said that if the ‘almighty banks’ in country could be forced to merger, so also should the courier operators consider coming together, pulling their funds together and forming bigger entities for the business, where indigenous operators will be competing with other foreign companies in the country.

He stated that unlicensed operators in the market were a threat to the growth of the industry, adding that the agency should, as matter of urgency, intensify its effort to ‘war’ against them.

When NIPOST was contacted to comment, the Assistant Post Master General, Dr. Simon Emeje, who had signed the letter, declined to speak on the development. He told our correspondent that whosoever needed clarification on the development “should go to Abuja”.

The battle line appears drawn and it is seems a matter of who blinks first on this vital issue.

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Business

Sunday September 16, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Mainstreet Bank at 1

Property Watch •For Lagos area as at Friday Sept. 14, 2012 A. Building materials Cement: Dangote Cement per bag of 50 kg.......N1,800 Burham Cement per bag of 50kg.......N1,800 Elephant Cement…………………N1,800 Sandcrete blocks 6 inches sandcrete block ..........N130 9 inches sandcrete block ..........N150 Sand Sand per tipper load .......... N12,000 Sharp sand (double) ..........N22,000 Gravel (single) ...................N18,000 Gravel (double) ..................N23,000 Granite ...............................N120,000 Reinforcement 8mm(153) pieces per ton (N125,000 10mm (153) pieces per ton .......... N135,000 12mm ............................................N161,000 16mm ........................................N172,000 20mm (53) pieces ....................N122,000 Wood Timber (hard) 1x1x12 ..........N1,000 Timber (hard) 2x2x12 ..........N600 Timber (hard) 2x4x12 ..........N700 Soft wood 2x2x12 ..........N250 2x3x12 ..........N300 Plywood 3x3x6-----------------N3,500 2x4x8-----------------N2,400 Roofing Sheet Corrugated iron sheet per bundle ...N10,000 Asbestos 4x8 per piece ..................N1,600 Asbestos (solo) ............................N1,100

Transformation, traction and turnaround ONUKWUBE OFOELUE

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ollowing the revocation of the banking license of Afribank Plc due to its inability to meet the recapitalization deadline, its assets and liabilities were transferred to the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), which thereafter bestowed a banking license on Mainstreet Bank Ltd to enable it operate as a Bridge Bank, for the purpose of acquiring the assets and some liabilities of the defunct Afribank Nigeria Plc. Mainstreet Bank assumed all the assets and some of the liabilities of the defunct Afribank Plc based on a Purchase and Assumption Agreement it entered, as a Bridge Bank, with NDIC, as statutory transferor of the assets and liabilities. Afribank Plc was subsequently liquidated and gazetted, and AMCON subsequently acquired a majority of Mainstreet Bank’s shares, thus making AMCON the owner of the bank.

In order to turn the fortunes of the bank around, AMCON’s primary objectives were to stabilize the bank, provide greater focus, win confidence of the customers, achieve greater buy-in from the workforce and return the bank to profitability.

According to the bank’s new management, “it was quite a challenge resuming duty in a bank which had no clear strategy, had diffused market focus and consistently returned losses for many years. Over 90% of the branches had been reporting losses for a long time.”

The new owners inherited an aged workforce with huge skill gaps, epileptic information technology infrastructure, poorly implemented organizational model, high cost to income ratio, weak policies and processes, poor expense management, high non-performing loans (NPLs) and poor performance management impeding accountability and ownership.

To address some of these issues, members of staff were engaged through various Town Hall meetings to douse the tension by assuring them of job security and the need to work together as a team to rebuild the institution. In doing this, all staffs of the legacy bank were absorbed to avoid labour issues by issuing them new employment offer letters with terms and conditions which included a six-month probationary period. This was to create a workforce with an imbibed loyalty culture and commitment to the organization.

In contrast to the defunct Afribank, policies and processes

have been reviewed and revalidated for the bank to compete favourably in the market. Mainstreet is also following this up by applying new technologies to simplify its processes and support stakeholders’ expectations while combating fraud and being competitive in the E-Banking space.

In the last one year, the new management has stabilized the bank, while regaining the confidence of stakeholders, including customers, staff, shareholders and regulators.

It has also rekindled the spirit of performance and accountability in staff, improved customer service delivery and instituted a strong Internal Control framework geared towards eliminating fraud in the bank.

Following the restructuring of the organization, Mainstreet has recorded an improved level of performance considering that the bank was making monthly losses of about N2.5 billion because the branches were unable to cover their operational costs. Cost-saving initiatives have been introduced, drastically reducing overheads, which were hitherto eroding the bottom-line of the bank.

It has been able to bring down the Non-Performing Loans ratio from over 50% to just below4%, which is within the regulatory benchmark. It has also achieved

Interbank rates climb as NNPC, forex drain cash

B. Landed property Focus area: Lagos Mainland 1. Four bedroom detached house with BQ at Omole Phase 11, Kosofe -----N40m Estimated price in 5 years--------------N60m

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2. 800 square metres at block 47 at Isheri North Estate, Lagos ---------- N6m Estimated price in 5 years----------------N15m 3. 6 bedroom wing of duplex plus BQ at Adeniyi Jones off Opebi, Lagos------- N55m Estimated price in 5 years----------------N100m 4. A land measuring 5.081 square metre at Ajasa, Ipaja, Lagos------------------------------N25m Estimated price in 5 years-----------------N50m 5. 2 nos bungalows on 800 square metres along Oba Akran, Lagos----------------N150m Estimated price in 5 years-----------------N250m 6. 1.12 acres of land with uncompleted building at Marwa Road, Satellite Town, Lagos---------------------------------------------------N1,5bn Estimated price in 5 years------------------N2bn 7. Uncompleted block of flats at Isheri -Osun, Lagos--------------------------------------------------N15m Estimated price in 5 years--------------N20m 8. Four bedroom duplex at Gbagada------N18m Estimated price in 5 years--------------------N30m 9. 8 nos of 3bedroom flats with BQ at Surulere, Lagos---------------------------------N80m Estimated price in 5 years--------------N100m 10. A detached house at Oke Ira, Ogba, Lagos--------------------------------------------------N22m Estimated price in 5 years--------------N35m •Compiled by Dayo Ayeyemi, E-mail: dayoayeyemi@yahoo.com

liquidity and other ratios that meet CBN’s prescribed limits.

Our balance sheet has become robust and efficient.

At the moment, the bank is making marginal profit on a monthly basis and plan to improve on its profitability by increasing the number of branches that make profit.

Mainstreet Bank Ltd is now fully capitalized with the injection of over N318 billion by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and with strong liquidity (Liquidity Ratio of 41.4 per cent).

Remarkably, the bank returned to profitability after January 2012 and has sustained the tempo with a yearto-date group profit of N3 billion in the first five months of Year 2012. Consequently, the capital adequacy ratio is positive of 27% (over and above the regulatory minimum of 10% and better that the top 4/ Tier 1 banks in the industry) as against the erstwhile negative capital adequacy ratio of negative 70% and the liquidity ratio is above 90% as we hold most of our assets in fixed-income liquid assets.

With the foregoing, the bank’s new management is certain that there is only one direction the bank can possibly travel in terms of its performance indices, and that is northward.

L-R: Representative of First Bank, Mrs. Folashade Femi–Lawal; Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Steven Evans and Executive Director, Personal and Business Banking, Stanbic IBTC, Mr. Obinnia Abajue, at the launch of Etisalat EasyWallet in Lagos on Thursday.

ICT: Osun boosts IGR by 100% to N600m monthly KUNLE A ZEEZ

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ith proactive investment directed at the deployment of necessary Information and Communication Technology to drive government activities, the current administration in Osun State said it has boosted its Internally-Generated Revenue by 100 per cent from N300 million to N600 million monthly.

The governor of the state, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, disclosed this during this year’s edition of the Nigerian Tele-

coms Awards where he was conferred with the ICT Governor of the Year in recognition for the various ICT initiatives being implemented in the state.

Speaking on ongoing ICT initiatives in the state, Aregbesola said one of the many areas where ICT had been deployed to drive government services delivery in the state was in tax administration.

According to him, “We have stopped the old practice of tax collection by travelling clerks.

Rather, all taxes, rates and levies payable in the state are now done through the banks and

paid directly into the accounts of the government.

“With this technological innovation alone, we have blocked loopholes and have been able to double the internally generated revenue of the government from N300 million to N600 million monthly.”

The governor said the state’s decision to proactively deploy ICT to deliver government function was borne out of the realisation that technology, just like time, waits for nobody and, as part of Nigeria’s aspirations to become one of the top 20 economies in the 2020.

he country’s interbank lending rates climbed to an average of 16.33 per cent on Friday, compared with 13.5 per cent the previous week, on the back of cash withdrawals by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and foreign exchange purchases.

The market opened with a negative balance of N42 billion ($266.08 million) on Friday, after the NNPC recalled a portion of its deposits with some lenders, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) debited the accounts of banks for foreign exchange purchased at a Wednesday auction.

The NNPC supplies the bulk of dollars traded on the interbank foreign exchange market and usually withdraws a portion of the naira proceeds to its account with the central bank to fund its obligations to the government. It sold about $450 million to some banks the previous week.

The secured Open Buy Back (OBB) rose to 15.75 per cent last week, compared with 12 per cent the previous week, 3.75 percentage points above the central bank’s 12 percent benchmark rate, and 5.75 percentage points above the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Inspirati with Lanre

Oyetade

NMMA Capital Market Award Winner 2004, 2005 E-mail: lanreoyetade@gmail.com, 08039428648

T

he concept of audible autosuggestion is in line with what we have been discussing over time aimed towards bringing out the most in all readers, mentally and materially, and we shall, God willing, continue in this line of espousing concepts that will see us become the best we can.

The concept of autosuggestion

Autosuggestion is a ‘combination’ of two words; ‘auto’, which means self and ‘suggestion’, which implies a thought or an expression. Autosuggestion thereby means a thought or expression, which is from inside the person, as opposed to that which he receives from outside.

Specifically, the principle of autosuggestion simply means that an individual uses his own thought or spoken words to stimulate and bring about those conditions and circumstances he desires in life, and is a principle that has been used for ages by men with discerning minds.

Particularly, King David and the Lord Jesus Christ employed this principle extensively in the course of their earthly lives.

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want,” David was quoted as saying. And the Lord Jesus Christ several times exhorted his followers to note that ‘you end up getting what you confess in faith’. These

Money Consult Your money questions Y t answered E-mail: lanreoyetade@gmail.com, 08039428648

‘Musical’ doctor needs sponsor

Dear Lanre, I am a medical doctor aged 34. I dream of taking the Nigerian music scene by storm and have a large repertoire of original gospel and secular songs. I have written over the past 18 years. My work is currently in the studios limited by circumstances and I need sponsors who will help me do something unprecedented – a debut of excellence – an album containing three dozen songs in one or two parts.

Dr. Irikefe Ikie, 08027284578, 08061583738.

I want to be a shareholder

Dear Lanre, I read your article in the Sunday Mirror.

I intend to be a shareholder too but I am still a student from an average family, but I would save everything I have. Love you.

Reader, 08039245320.

Dear Reader, Being a student from an ‘average’ family should in no way deter you from becoming a shareholder. So was the late Asiwaju Akintunde Asalu of the Nigerian Shareholders’ Solidarity Association fame; just go ahead, pool some money together and buy shares with good fundamentals.

All about shares, please

Business

Sunday September 16, 2012

Dear Lanre, Please tell me the profit of shares; give me the example of the benefit i.e. tell me

49

The power of audible autosuggestion YOU

ULTIMATELY BECOME WHAT YOU CONFESS –ANONYMOUS

are examples of the principle of autosuggestion.

And this principle corroborates or is a corollary to the art of developing the right mental attitude and thoughts, for you cannot declare what you have not thought first. So to declare the positive in words, you must first think the positive.

According to my Mentor-On-Paper, Sidney Newton Bremer, reflecting the thoughts of Herman Randall, “We can create the thought, we can produce the impression, we can lodge in the subconscious mind the suggestion that will work out within ourselves, physical health, material wealth, mental power and moral strength.”

And these thoughts are best given the most effective expression through our spoken words. Thus both the mental thought and the consequently spoken word form part of autosuggestion.

Of audible autosuggestion

As an extension of the concept of autosuggestion, we can actually speak the words to ourselves in what is referred to as audible autosuggestion; we can keep reaffirming what we desire to our own loud hearing in our moments of devotion and meditation until the subconscious mind catches the message and influences conscious actions and efforts on a continuous basis.

According to Randall, “few people re-

alise the tremendous creative power in stout self-assertion; in the vigorous affirmation of the ego, the ‘I’, the ‘I am’. But those who have once properly put it in practice never again doubt its efficacy.”

Audible autosuggestion, which is merely a continuation or extension of the affirmation principle, is one of the greatest aids to self-development. The very act of talking to oneself vigorously and earnestly seems to arouse the sleeping forces in the subconscious self even more effectually than just thinking the same thing.

There is indeed a force in words spoken aloud to oneself. They send a strong message to the subconscious, which in itself cannot ‘see’ the surface circumstances, which the conscious can, but only receives instructions from the conscious realm, as is given by thoughts and the spoken word.

Randall likens the subconscious to brave men down in the hold of a warship, who keep the engines going, but who have no eyes or ears for what is going on above.

It is therefore for the conscious self to send messages to the brave ‘men’ below who take the action necessary to keep the system in good working order. One of such powerful means of doing this is through audible autosuggestion.

Think about it!

In the meantime, stay inspired in His presence, and make the most of your life!

Wealth Nuggets ‘Top 10’ It’s repeat business that makes the profit –Anonymous See what can be; not just what is –Sidney Newton Bremer The price tag the world puts on us is just about identical to the one we put on ourselves – David J. Schwartz Man belongs where man wants to go – Dr. von Braun If you want it done, give it to a busy man – David J. Schwartz Big people monopolise the

how it yields, total explanation on share buying; I don’t understand it.

Tessy, 08033522722.

Dear Tessy, Income is earned from shares in three ways; dividends, bonus issues and capital appreciation. Dividends are the part of a company’s profit that is shared out to shareholders on the basis of shares they hold; bonus can be referred to as ‘free’ gifts of extra units of shares to existing investors also based on the units of shares they hold while capital appreciation is represented by the rise in the price of shares from the time they are bought to the time they are disposed off by the investor. Dividends are usually declared per annum, while bonus shares are issued from time to time. These are, however, not mandatory on the company concerned. You can buy shares from either the primary market or the secondary market; the primary market is the forum from which you buy public offers, while the secondary market is the forum from which you can buy shares already listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange through stockbrokers.

On becoming a stockbroker

the 10th floor of the CSS Bookshop House, 50/52, Broad Street, Lagos. After this, you will be required to sit for examinations in two levels and then be attached to both a stockbroker and the Nigerian Stock Exchange for a period of time for practical training. Finally you go for an interview with the Council of the Exchange and you then become a registered stockbroker.

Public Offer vs. Rights Issue

Dear Lanre, Please give me more information on Rights Issues and Public Offers; the differences and other details. Thanks.

Abioye K., Offa, Kwara state.

Dear Abioye, Public offers are offers to sell shares made open to the public (i.e. both existing and new shareholders of the issuing company) while a Rights Issue is offered to already existing shareholders of a company only to encourage them to buy more shares of the company usually at a lower price than the Public Offer i.e. only existing shareholders can take up their rights by buying of the rights issue. They may, however, decide not to take up their rights, and rather trade same.

Dear Lanre, Good day. I am a reader of your column; it is so wonderful; more grace to your power. Please what does it take to become a stockbroker? Thanks.

Eedris Salaudeen, 08053511650.

I am impressed

Dear Eedris, You need to be a graduate of any of the recognised higher institutions in Nigeria with a minimum of either HND or BSc. Next step is to collect the forms of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), which you can do at their office on

Dear Elisha, You can get education on stocks by reading books, by attending seminars, by reading financial sections of newspapers and by viewing financial television programmes. You could also have someone to tutor you on the subject for a while.

Dear Lanre, I am impressed at your Sunday column.

I want to invest in shares. Please I want education on it.

Elisha, Benin, 08053614637.

listening; small people monopolise the talking –David J. Schwartz To sell John Brown what John Brown buys, you’ve got to see things through John Brown’s eyes –Anonymous Talk and teach; listen and learn –Lanre Oyetade People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care – Rev. Tope Popoola Success without successors is the progenitor of failure –Anonymous

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Zonal News

Sunday September 16, 2012

NORTH EAST

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Gombe to exploit mineral deposits

ombe State Governmentat the weekend in Gombe said it would harness the abundant mineral resources in the state to ensure development of the area.

Alhaji Babawuro Yahaya, the Commissioner for Science and Mineral Development said that the ministry was committed to developing the mineral sector and harnessing the science potentials in the state.

According to him, there are gypsum in Dukku and Nafada local government areas, coal in Akko and Kwami local governments, iron ore in Tula village of Kaltungo local government area.

``Mineral development is a long-term investment but I assure you very soon we will commence geological survey which is very tedious and money consuming exercise. ``Gov. Ibrahim Dankwambo has assured us that this will be done in due course.”

Yahaya said the survey would help in generating data as well as help to plan and have a solid foundation for tapping the mineral resources of the state.

The commissioner said that the state had acknowledged various investors that were willing to come and invest in the energy and mineral sec-

tors.

He said that to ensure the success of the projects, the ministry had started to sensitise the people in the mineral-bearing areas to cooperate with government and the investors.

Yahaya said the exercise was to let them appreciate and be ready to enjoy the benefits of the mineral deposits in their areas. ``It will bring a lot of changes such as employment opportunities as once the youth are employed, they will take care of their families as supposed to be. ``There will be a lot of physical developments as well as social security.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Jonathan sets up committee on flood assessment OMEIZA AJAYI

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resident Goodluck Jonathan has set up a five-member committee to assess the impact of the recent wave of floods across some states in the country which left a lot of devastation in its wake.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, the Technical Committee is to assess and determine the extent of damage caused by recent flooding occurrences in some states of the federation, particularly

Plateau, Jigawa, Adamawa, Benue and Kogi.

Anyim listed the Minister of Environment, Hajia Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafia as chairman of the committee.

According to the statement, the Minister of Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe; Minister of Works, Mike Onolememe, and the Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office, are to serve as members, while the Director General, National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Alhaji Muhammad Sani-Sidi, is to provide the Secretariat.

The statement added that the committee, which

NORTH CENTRAL

has already swung into action, has four days to submit an interim report to the President.

Since July, flooding across the country has killed at least 137 people and displaced more than 35,000, according to the Red Cross. Fearing that the River Niger might overflow its bank, the government has urged mass evacuations along the river even as heavy rainfall in two northern states has spilled contaminants into drinking wells, leading to a cholera outbreak that has reportedly killed at least eight and left many others hospitalised.

Floods sack 89 schools, delay resumption

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he Adamawa State Government has extended resumption of schools by two weeks following the submerging of 89 schools in floods, Mr. Gabriel Hamman-Adama, the Commissioner for Education, has said.

The Commissioner added that 45 other schools had been converted to camps for people displaced by the flood.

He said in Yola that the schools were earlier scheduled to resume on

Monday. ``About 89 primary and secondary schools are seriously submerged in the flood to the extent that you cannot get to these schools as at now,” Hamman-Adama said.

The commissioner explained that the development had forced the ministry to shift the Monday resumption date for government schools by two weeks. ``We have held a meeting with stakeholders and resolved that the initial

resumption date of Sept.

17 be shifted to Oct. 2. ``If the flood water did not recede in October, we would be forced to merge students whose schools were submerged and those whose schools were converted to camps with schools that were not affected by the flood,’’ he said.

The annual flooding in Adamawa became worse this year because of the release of water from Lagdo Dam in neighboring Cameroon.

Adamawa reiterates commitment to education

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hairman, Adamawa Universal Basic Education Board (ADSUBEB), Dr Halilu Hamman, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to boost education for the development of the citizenry.

Hamman spoke when he received the UNICEF Evaluation Specialist, Ms Kathleen Letshaso, who paid him a courtesy visit in Yola over the weekend.

The ADSUBEB boss told the UNICEF representative that the state government was committed to ensuring the provision of basic education to all the state’s school-going pupils. ``In line with the state government’s effort to

provide basic education for all across the state in the last four years, education sector received the lion share from the state’s annual revenue. ``And about 1,700 primary schools were established between 2009 to date, under the government education policy, and more than 5,000 primary school pupils were provided with free uniforms,’’ Hamman said.

He said that the bilateral education collaboration between the state government and UNICEF was recommendable and successful, adding that the government would continue to give maximum support to the organisa-

tion.

Earlier, Kathleen said she was on a working visit to evaluate the UNICEF education project introduced for nomadic teachers in the state.

“Currently, the Commonwealth of learning under UNESCO is running a similar project in more than 100 countries and the project is centred on child-friendly schools, whereby community, government and teachers are involved,” she said.

She called on the state government to ensure the sustainability of the ongoing UNESCO programme in the state, considering its benefit to children among others.

L-R: Communication Officer, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Mr. Shola Idris; Secretary, Brothers Across Nigeria, Kubwa chapter, Abuja, Barr. Tony Mozie; Zonal Secretary, Mr. Amah Iyke, and President, Mr. Cyril Uduehi, during an HIV/AIDS awareness and free testing in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA

PDP shifts LG primaries in Benue The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) local government primaries scheduled for yesterday across Benue has been shifted to today, Sunday.

This is contained in a statement by the state Chairman of the party, Dr Emmanuel Agbo, in Makurdi yesterday.

According to the statement, the postponement is

necessary to tackle logistic issues which are capable of preventing the smooth conduct of the polls.

It further assured members of the party that their wishes as would be expressed by their votes would be respected, noting that candidates would not be imposed on them.

The statement also advised delegates to be law

abiding and conduct themselves in accordance with the laid down rules governing the party primaries.

It, therefore, enjoined the aspirants to accept the outcome of the primaries in good faith and stressed that the contest which was ``just a test of their popularity, should never be viewed as a do or die affair’’.

Wada cautions community on oil well K ogi State Governor Idris Wada yesterday warned people of Ibaji Local Government from taking laws into their hands over agitation on oil well in the community.

Wada in a press statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Jacob Edi, warned members of the Ibaji community not to take laws into their hands.

The statement urged

them to protect the installations and assets of the Orient Petroleum Oil facilities in the community.

According to the statement, Kogi and Anambra have the same status with the oil company concerning the oil well. ``The two states are both investors,’’ it stated.

It urged the people to ignore all provocative pronouncements or actions from any quarter.

The statement said

that Wada appealed to them to be law-abiding as all matters concerning the oil well had been reported to the appropriate quarters.

It restated the state government’s confidence in the ability of the Federal Government to resolve the issues. ``There is no need for anyone to resort to acrimonious language or violence on the matter,” the statement urged.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SOUTH WEST

Protests in Ogun as police kill driver

FEMI OYEWESO ABEOKUTA

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gun state Police Commissioner, Ikhemefuna Okoye yesterday in Iperu-Remo, assured the family of the commercial driver, Friday Sunday who was gunned down by the police patrol team at the Sapade axis of Lagos/Ibadan Expressway that justice would take its course.

Okoye gave the assurance yesterday at the residence of the deceased driver in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government area of the state when he paid a condolence visit to the family which had in attendance, the aged mother of the deceased, stressing that his death would not be in vain.

“Be assured that we have taken up the matter; justice

will be done, and the officer in question will appear in court at the end of the investigation; kindly accept the condolence of the state police command,” he commiserated.

Violence had erupted in Iperu last Thursday night following the killing of a commercial driver who was gunned down by a police corporal who alleged that the commercial driver flouted the flagging down order of the police patrol team at Sapade axis of the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.

Sunday Mirror gathered that the commercial driver was conveying bags of garri foodstuff in a Mazda bus marked KSF 432 XZ and refused to stop when flagged down, which prompted the overzealous policeman to shoot at the bus which

eventually left the driver dead.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, told Sunday Mirror that the driver did not only disobey the flagging down order but also hit the police patrol vehicle before running away.

The death of Sunday however elicited a violent protest in Iperu as his colleagues went on the rampage last Friday, leading to the burning of the vehicle belonging to a patrol team of the police in the area.

Police personnel on patrol were equally brutalised by the angry youths who joined the protest and the driver of the police patrol van identified as Jegede Ayodele was given the beating of his life. He was afterwards hospitalised.

The Ataoja of Osogboland, Alhaji Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, Larooye II exchanging plesantries with the Alaafin of Oyo, HRM Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, with the Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi, watching at the maiden Oranyan Festival at Aafin, Oyo yesterday.

‘Beautification law not meant to victimise house owners’

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agos State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, yesterday said the recently introduced Lagos State Parks and Garden Law was not aimed at victimising house owners.

Ipaye, who made the statement in Ikeja, said the law was aimed at improving the environment and well-being of residents of the metropolis.

The new law makes it mandatory for occupiers of houses in the state to beautify the perimeter areas of their buildings.

The law stipulates a fine of N250, 000 or six months imprisonment or other non-custodian sentence for violators.

Zonal News

Sunday September 16, 2012

Ipaye explained that the law would complement the beautification efforts of the state government geared toward making Lagos one of the most beautiful megacities in the world.

“This law is not aimed at victimising house owners; it simply means that if you have a house, you must ensure that the lawns are well kept.

“If there is a gutter in front of the house, it should not become a dumpsite for refuse, which is the practice in some houses now.

“As a responsible government, we will not fold our hands to watch our people being killed as a result of malaria, cholera, diarrhoea and other diseases associat-

ed with living in an unclean environment,” he said.

The attorney-general explained that the penalty imposed on offenders was not harsh as being claimed by some critics of the law.

He said “the N250, 000 fine was the maximum amount an offender could be fined for violating the law.

“This simply means that the judge or magistrate can fine the person any amount within that range. ``The same applies for the six months imprisonment but it is only those who are planning to violate the law that should be worried because we are not going to victimise anybody,” t he commissioner said.

Expert lauds Obi for returning schools to Missions

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he handover of schools

by Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, to the missions has been described as a worthwhile initiative that will ultimately produce the right results.

Paul Collier, a Professor of Economics and Director for the Centre for the Study of African Economies at the University of Oxford, who disclosed this, lauded Obi for not only handing over the schools to the missions but also taking care of their teachers’ emoluments.

This, he said, had made the teachers’ positions safe and secure as well as not al-

tering their financial incentives despite the handover.

Collier said this development would make an important difference in the education sector as the school management put in place by the churches would emphasise commitment.

‘Teachers are encouraged to refresh their sense of duty and stewardship towards the children for whom they are responsible,’ Collier pointed out.

He further stated that the management which was connected through the local church would not only be more motivated than many

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SOUTH EAST

bureaucracies, but would be more readily connected to parents whose attitudes and support were also important in bringing the best out of the children.

Collier stated that a synchronised large scale change of management as Gov Obi had done could achieve a quantum improvement as everyone involved could reasonably expect the future to be different.

‘What is needed is a range of such experiments.

Some will work better than others but if combined, Nigerians can learn what works best,’ Collier said.

Ebonyi reaffirms commitment to tertiary education

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he Commissioner for education in Ebonyi State, Mr. Ndubuisi Agbo, has reaffirmed the resolve of the state government to build a strong and viable tertiary education.

Agbo said in Abakaliki at the weekend that the government was determined to reposition the state-owned tertiary institutions to yield the desired result.

According to the commissioner, the transformation agenda of the government would be a mirage if emphasis was not laid on a strong and viable tertiary education.

He said the government would ensure that adequate facilities were put in place to provide functional and qualitative higher education.

Agbo said the government was particularly concerned

about the quality of graduates produced in the stateowned university and its college of education at Ikwo.

“Our desire is to build tertiary institutions that will produce world-acclaimed academics.

“In doing this, we are making sure that we introduce policies that will enable the government to actualise its dreams on higher education.

“If we do not get it right in our higher education, then the much-talked about transformation agenda will be a tall order,’’ Agbo said.

He said the on-going restructuring in the Ebonyi State University was to make it meet international standards.

Agbo restated the government’s resolve to down-size

the faculties and departments in the university to entrench efficiency in the system.

He said the government could not afford to run faculties and departments that were not viable and would not contribute to the manpower needs of the state.

“We are working out a roadmap that will ensure that the courses offered in our university reflect the manpower needs of our state.

“The number of faculties and departments in the university are quite too many and most of them do not have enough qualified manpower to handle them,’’ the commissioner said.

He said the government was interested in the overall development of the state, adding that no sector would be left out.

Ohafia farmers complain of poor yields F armers in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia have complained of low crop yields due to the lack of fertilizer.

The area produces major staples such as melon, cassava, maize and yam in the South East geopolitical zone.

Speaking with journalists in Ebem Ohafia yesterday, the farmers said that all their crops failed.

Mrs. Glory Okorie, a farmer in Ebem Ohafia, described the 2012 farming season as a ``complete disaster’’, adding: ``all our crops failed.

“You cannot point at any single farmer that his crops

did well this year and this has raised some concerns on the availability of seedlings next year.”

Similarly, Mrs. Onyekachi Kalu, another farmer, said: “We waited to be supplied with fertiliser to no avail and this may have accounted for the low crop yield this year.”

She said that the low crop yield mostly affected those who could not apply fertiliser to their crops “but more than two-thirds of farmers were affected.

“We tried to procure fertiliser but the prices were too much for us.’’

However, Mr. Dunlop

Okoro, the Chairman, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Abia chapter, said that the low crop yield could be peculiar to Ohafia local government area.

“In certain areas of the state, some farmers are talking of good harvest, but generally we have the problem of fertiliser.

“Most farmers could not get fertiliser this year because the arrangement to supply us with some fertilisers did not work.”

He said that officials of AFAN would do everything possible to address the cause of the low crop yield in parts of the state.

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Zonal News

Sunday September 16, 2012

SOUTH SOUTH

Bayelsa worried over insecurity in waterways EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

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he rising incidents of insecurity in the waterways across Bayelsa State are giving much concern to the state executive council headed by Governor Seriake Dickson.

To this end, the state government said it would soon implement appropriate steps aimed at curtailing the ugly situation to ensure the safety of lives and property in all parts of the state.

Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Markson Fefegha, who disclosed this to journalists yesterday in Yenagoa, said this was part of the state executive council decision at its 10th session presided over by the Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd).

Sea piracy activities have

taken a toll in the waterways leading to loss of lives ,money and valuables of commuters and boat operators plying the area.

Fefegha further said the state government had approved the award of contract for the clearing of the site for the proposed state airport project located along Amassoma /Tombia Road.

It would be recalled that Governor Timipre Sylva three years ago, approved the clearing of an airport site at Zarama by the East-West road with over N800m,but the project was abandoned by the previous administration due to cash crunch.

The Commissioner informed that the state executive council also approved contracts for the construction of an access road to Boro town in Kolokuma/ Opokuma local government ,sand filling and recla-

mation of the beach annex at the proposed golf course located at Government House extension.

He said a bridge and access road would also be constructed to the tourist island in the state capital and announced the arrival of the ‘restoration buses for the state transport scheme.

Continuing, he said“ To ensure an effective management and operation of the scheme, government has concluded plans to map out routes for the restoration cabs and the new buses to alleviate the sufferings of commuters across the state.

Government noted with dismay the indiscriminate parking of vehicles on both sides of roads in the state capital, which has been largely responsible for several hold-ups being experienced within Yenagoa and its environs.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Military, police take over Kano streets over anti-Islam film protests AUGUSTINE MADU-WEST KANO

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ollowing the pervading mood of fear in the city of Kano over the antiIslam film that sparked off protests in some northern states, police and military men still patrol the troubled town.

This is as the police authorities have outlawed all forms of demonstrations and processions in the state till further notice, according to Police Spokesman, ASP Majiya Magaji.

He warned that any person or group caught violating the order would be penalised.

Magaji said the action is part of the proactive

measures taken to prevent violent protests in the city on account of the offending film.

Anxiety was high in Kano on Friday following rumours that Muslim youths had planned mass protests after jumats congregational service. .Panic-stricken non-indigenous businessmen and women, particularly those who run shops and business centres, consequently shut their premises for greater part of the day.

Security was beefed up in the commercial city, with the deployment of more armed personnel in the streets of Kano in apparent response to the uneasy calm.

NORTH WEST

Since news of violent protests over the alleged blasphemy of Prophet Mohammed spread, more soldiers were seen in strategic locations in patrol vehicles and combat outfit.

The Anti-Riot Police Unit of the Kano State Police Command doubled its personnel on surveillance and vehicular patrol in the city to improve security.

This is in addition to the already huge security build-up in the town following the state of insecurity caused by the activities of local terrorists.

It was gathered that the apprehension over the development was more pronounced among non-natives and non-Muslims.

CNPP tasks Akpabio on industrialisation T he Chairman, Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP) in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Linus Udofia, has tasked Governor Godswill Akpabio to focus on industrialising the state with his final court victory.

Udofia made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) while congratulating the governor on his Federal High Court victory in Uyo yesterday.

“The CNPP pleads with all those who were involved in the litigation to team up with the governor to indus-

trialise the state as he had promised to fulfill his campaign promises.

“The governor during his electioneering campaign assured the people that he was in a hurry to industrialise the state and that he will build one industry per local government,” he said.

The chairman said that for that to happen, there should be peace and cooperation among indigenes of the state.

He said the state was in dire need of industrialisation to create employment for the teeming youths, add-

ing that such would help to curb the security challenges facing the nation.

He appealed to the governor to forgive all those that took him to court having won the victory.

Udofia called on every Akwa Ibom person irrespective of political affiliation to join hands with the governor to build the state.

NAN recalls that the Federal High Court in Abuja had on Sept. 14, dismissed a suit challenging Akpabio’s nomination as the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship candidate.

Kebbi State Governor, Saidu Dakingari, voting during the state’s Local Government Elections at Abubakar Kigo Central Primary School, in Dakingari, yesterday.

PHOTO: NAN

Fresh oil spill ravages Bayelsa communities Fuel scarcity abates in Kano fresh oil spill has oc- our correspondent , a local Gas Committee of Nembe

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curred at the Obama flow station trunk line belonging to the Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC), polluting the creeks and waterways of Nembe in Bayelsa State and also disrupting fishing expeditions by local fishermen and women in the locality.

Sunday Mirror investigations revealed that the spill which was discovered last Wednesday was spreading at a high speed ,occasioned by the currents of the tide flowing into the creeks of IgbetaEwoama,Iwokiri,Sabatoru and other fishing settlements and communities in Nembe.

In an interview with

fisherman in the area, Isaac Igbeta, who spotted the leakage last Wednesday night, lamented that the spill had spread towards to the neighbouring communities of Nembe.

Igbeta urged the state government to prevail on the management of NAOC to ensure the leakage was stopped and mopped up to avoid further spread to the rivers and creeks.

The indigenes of Nembe had alleged the NAOC officials failed to repair a similar leak of the trunk line that generated huge oil spill in July this year.

The Chairman, Oil and

kingdom, Chief Nengi James, in an interview confirmed the spill ,regretted the poor response towards spill by multinational oil firms ,especially in Nembe kingdom, describing it as pathetic.

He said:”An urgent attention is needed for the oil company to change the trunk line rather than doing shabby repairs to make quick returns. Oil companies operating in the Niger Delta, Nigeria territorial waters are now using harmful chemicals to suppress and induce oil spill into the waters which is injurious to both sea foods, living organism and human beings”.

AUGUSTINE MADU-WEST KANO

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he week-long fuel scarcity that hit Kano last week is easing with the availability of the product in a number of fuel stations, unlike the previous week’s.

For seven days running, Kano city was hit by acute fuel scarcity with virtually all the fuel stations in the commercial town shut following the non-availability of the product.

The scarcity which began early last week worsened as the black market remained the only source of supply, though at exorbi-

tant cost.

As a result of the harsh fuel situation in the town, according to our findings, most motorists, particularly private car owners abandoned the comfort of their vehicles, preferring to ride on motorbikes or trek to their places of work.

As the situation prompted the unofficial hike in fuel prices by black market operators, it was also learnt that the illegal fuel dealers bought fuel at bulk purchase the at fuel stations and moved them to unauthorised to sell at exhorbitant rates.

Almost all the filling sta-

tions belonging to major and independent marketers had been out of business in the last one week in the state capital while the black market boomed with the scarce product.

For instance, a 25-litter jerry can of fuel hitherto sold for N2, 500 now sold for N4,000 while a five-litter can which used to cost N600 at the black market moved to N800.

The Kano office of the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) could not be reached by our correspondent to ascertain the cause of the scarcity which tookits toll on commercial activities.

53

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

King makes case for P. 54 Enyeama

Sport

Pacquiao, Marquez to fight December 8

KEEPING YOU ABREAST OF SPORTING NEWS

P. 54

September 16, 2012

Imo powerlifting team set for world tourney CHRIS NJOKU OWERRI

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Terrific! Paul Scholes (right) celebrates after scoring against Wigan yesterday at Old Trafford.

Glorious Gunners demolish Saints, as Scholes inspires Red Devils to sink Wigan

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ervinho struck twice as Arsenal continued their unbeaten start to the season with a 6-1 demolition of Premier League new boys Southampton yesterday at the Emirates Stadium.

The visitors resembled a rabbit in the headlights for most of the first half as they failed to deal with Arsenal’s pace and directness - epitomised as early as the 11th minute as Jos Hooiveld accidentally put into his own net.

Lukas Podolski bent in a 25yard free-kick as the onslaught continued, before Gervinho rifled home and Nathaniel Clyne netted an own goal to make it 4-0 inside 37 minutes.

Wojciech Szczesny’s clanger denied the north Londoners a fourth successive clean sheet to start the season as the returning Poland international flapped at

a cross late in the first half and Danny Fox lashed home.

It proved a mere consolation, though, as Gervinho and former Southampton winger Theo Walcott netted in a more even second period to condemn Nigel Adkins’ side to a fourth league defeat.

Arsenal made three changes coming into the game, with Szczesny the standout returnee after missing recent matches following a rib injury.

Saints were stuck with the same starting team that fell to a harsh 3-2 defeat to Manchester United before the international break, while new signings Gaston Ramirez and Maya Yoshida were named on the bench.

The latter was brought in to shore up a weak Southampton defence that found itself under pressure from the outset in north London.

PSG ready for Champions League, says Ancelotti P. 55

Podolski tested Kelvin Davis with a stinging effort inside three minutes, before former Southampton winger Alex OxladeChamberlain’s dangerous cross was inexplicably scooped over the bar by Santi Cazorla.

The early pressure continued as Southampton regularly gave away possession as they failed in their attempts to get a foothold on proceedings.

Arsenal capitalised on the visitors’ early ineptitude as Podolski took possession in the middle and played through Kieran Gibbs, whose low effort squirmed through Davis’ legs and was inadvertently turned home by Hooiveld.

Cazorla, impressing once again in midfield, played through substitute Aaron Ramsey, whose exquisite turn was followed up by a shot that came back off the post for

Gervinho to tap home.

Davis was forced into a fine save to prevent former teammate Oxlade-Chamberlain netting, before substitute Walcott capped a fine day for Arsenal by netting late on after the Saints goalkeeper parried to bring final scores to 6-1 in Arsenal’s favour.

Meanwhile, Paul Scholes celebrated another landmark in his glittering career by scoring the opening goal as Manchester United coasted to a resounding 4-0 victory over Wigan at Old Trafford on Saturday.

The 37-year-old, making his 700th appearance for United, tapped in from close range six minutes into the second half to inspire a victory that lifts his side in to second place in the Premier League table, a point behind leaders Chelsea.

Rodgers warns Sterling’s agent P. 55

mo State powerlifting team has assured the people of the state that the team will come back home with more than 50 gold medals on the forthcoming world powerlifting championship slated for the United Kingdom.

Prince Kennedy China Nwamkpa, the captain of the team told journalists during their preparation for the World Championship at Dan Anyiam stadium, Owerri, that the team has selected 22 lifters that would make Nigeria proud.

“I want to let the nation know that we are preparing very well to compete with other lifters from other countries in this event coming up very soon. We also have another world championship in power lifting championship in Las Vegas, United States America which we hope to do well,” Nwamkpa said.

Bodybuilding ch’ship: Athletes scramble for N2.5m prize money IFEANYI EDUZOR

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ver N2.5m including fabulous consolation prizes would be won as national and world athletes try each other for size for ‘Mr Flex Nigeria’ Bodybuilding Championship.

The second edition of the tourney, which comes up on October 13 at Rockview Hotels, Apapa, Lagos, organizers said, would attract a star prize of a Power Bike which is valued at thousands of naira.

According to the President of Steco Productions (a sport promotional outfit), Stephen OkolieOdene, and organizers of the event, athletes are expected to participate in different categories which include the lightweight, light heavyweight, heavyweight among others.

Mancini angry at Aguero’s call-up P. 55

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Sunday September 16, 2012

King makes case for Enyeama SAYO OGUNDEJI

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espite Vincent Enyeama’s howler, which cost the Super Eagles team the full maximum points against the Lone Stars of Liberia in the first leg of the final round of the 2013 Nations Cup qualifier, an ex-international, Raymond King, has thrown his weight behind the faltering goaltender.

The Coach Stephen Keshi-led side were on course for a three maximum points having led the encounter with goals from

Ikechukwu Uche and Nosa Igiebor who was making a return to the team but a mistake from the former Enyimba of Aba keeper allowed the host a share of the points.

But King, a retired goalkeeper, believes Enyeama remains the best goalkeeper the country can boast of and must not be crucified over his recent mistake.

“It is unfortunate the team failed to get away with three points due to a late mistake by the goalkeeper but the entire team must share part of the blame because football is a

team game.

“Enyeama has done his best for this country and personally, I believe he is still the safest hand the country can boast of at the moment and all we need as a nation is to come round him during this low moment so that he can get back to his best,” King said.

The former Abiola Babes goalkeeper however called on the whole team to approach the return leg with all seriousness, adding that the Liberians would be coming to the country with a mind of picking a favourable result.

Flying Eagles battle Benin U-20 team in Cotonou

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he national U-20 men’s football team, the Flying Eagles, will today take on their Benin Republic counterparts in an international friendly match, an official disclosed on Friday in Abuja.

The match was part of the team’s build-up for their Sept. 22 assignment.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Flying Eagles will take on South Africa in the African Youth Championship (AYC) qualifiers in Johannesburg, South Africa on Sept. 22.

The match is the first leg fixture in the final round of the qualification competition, with the second leg slated for Ilorin between Oct. 5, and Oct. 7.

Nigeria beat Tanzania on a 4-1

aggregate in the qualifiers’ second round, while South Africa beat Congo on the away goals rule after a 2-2 draw.

The winner on aggregate will join six other winners and hosts Algeria for the 2013 African Youth Championship, already slated for 16th – 30th March, 2013.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football has appointed Namibian referees to handle the match between Flying Eagles and the Amajita. Rainhard Shikongo will be centre referee, with David Shanika the 1st Assistant and H. Simson Shahungu the 2nd Assistant. The Reserve Referee is Andreas Helmut.

Mr. Bibi Georges from Seychelles will be the Match Commissioner.

with

Ajose promises come back A

Enyeama

El Dakhleya’s head coach tips Aneke for greatness

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fter inspecting facilities in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital ahead of the forthcoming National School Sports Festival to be hosted by the state, president of the National School Sports Federation (NSSF), Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed, has revealed that he is impressed with what he saw in the Garden City, but expressed concern in the area of lack of a single committee in place to drive the festival to fruition.

He told Sunday Mirror that the state is ready to host the event that will see the convergence of students from the 36 states of the federation including the FCT compete from October 11 to 21, but decried the inability of the Rivers State Sports

fter failing in his attempt to be crowned the WBC interim Light Welterweight champion, Nigerian-born Segun Ajose has promised his fans that he would soon bounce back to reckoning.

Segun Ajose last Saturday in the United States of America lost to Lucas Martin Matthysse of Argentina by a technical knockout in the 10th round of their scheduled 12-round encounter. By this win, Matthysse who is arguably the best 140lbs fighter will now get a world title shot against the winner of Danny Garcia/ Erik Morales fight.

In an interview with our correspondent, Ajose stated he would not allow the loss to affect his dream of winning a world title for the country.

“It is unfortunate that I lost the fight because I prepared very well for the bout, but unfortunately my opponent had the day.

“You know that this is my first loss in the paid ranks and I will not allow it to affect my future plans of winning a world title for my country.

“I want my fans not to be discouraged by the temporary setback because I will bounce back soon,” he said.

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l Dakhleya head coach Alaa Abd Al Aal is confident that the Nigerian attacker Jude Aneke will be one of the best attackers in the next season.

Abd Al Aal told supersport.com that the top scorer of the Nigerian League has all the specifications of a real attacker and that he can’t wait to unleash him.

“Only fate brought Jude to our team. An Al Masry official called me and asked me if I wanted Jude and I told him let me see him first. He then came to the club and simply blew us all away and I said yes I need him. ”Right now he is in a special preparation programme with some of his teammates and soon will be ready to dress and play in our friendly matches. I hope to make him the top scorer in Egypt, ” Abd Al Aal said.

Considering the success of other Nigerian scorers in the Egyptian league like Zamalek’s legend Emmanuel Amuneke and Al Isamily’s “Mars man” John Utaka it is not far imagined for Aneke.

NSSF raises concern over lack of coordinating committee Commissioner, Hon Fred Igwe, to put in place a working committee to ensure the success of the festival.

“School sports the world over is the bedrock for grassroots sports development. I have gone round the facilities earmarked for the festival and I want to say I am very impressed with what I have seen.

“The newly constructed Adokie Amasiemaka Sports Complex which also hosted the last National Sports Festival is world class and I want to commend the Rivers State government for putting in place such structure for posterity. The Civic Centre and Liberation Stadium where the opening and closing ceremony will take place are also okay.

“Between eight to ten thousand athletes and officials are expected to partici-

Knockout IFEANYI Eduzor 08055829770 ifeduz24@yahoo.com

School Sports Festival 2012 ANDREW EKEJIUBA

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Matthysse (left) punishing Segun Ajose during the fight.

…As Okorodudu charges him to remain focused

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x-Olympian, Jeremiah Okorodudu, has advised Segun Ajose to put his recent loss behind him and remain focused for him to bounce back.

Segun Ajose last Saturday failed in his bid to be crowned WBC interim Light weight champion when he lost to Argentinean, Lucas Mathysee in the 10th of their scheduled 12-round encounter.

According to Okorodudu,

Pacquiao, Marquez to fight December 8

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NSSF president, Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed (left) with Rivers State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Fred Igwe, inspecting facilities to be used for the National School Sports Festival at the Adokie Amasiemaka Sports Complex in Port Harcourt.

pate in 22 events comprising 17 scoring and 5 demonstration events.

“But I am not too impressed that I did not meet any committee in place to ensure the success of the festival. There should be accommodation, security, logistics etc but none is in place at the moment.

I also noticed that there is no harmony yet between the ministry of sports and education for the success of

the festival and advice that there is need for both to work together for the sake of the children,” Mohammed said with a tinge of regret.

He said the federation set the date deliberately close to the National Sports Festival coming up in Lagos in November because authorities like the National Sports Commission can tap into it to send coaches to discover new talents that can be exposed at the national festival.

despite the loss, Ajose is still one of the best boxers in the Light Welterweight division, positing that he still posses the strength and technical capability to emerge a world champion in future.

Okorodudu noted that, the WBC mandatory challenger should improve on those areas he was deficient in his last bout to enable him maintain his unbeaten run before the last fight.

op rank boxing promoter, Bob Arum, is close to putting finishing touches on a fourth fight between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez. The bout will take place on December 8, in Las Vegas for a still-yet to be determined pay per view asking price.

Arum said in a recent interview, “We’re having a meeting about Manny’s next fight and to get it finalized.

My goal is to finalize the Marquez fight, but I have to discuss with the camps of

both boxers.”

Meanwhile, Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach is not happy about Pacquiao fighting Marquez again, saying “I don’t like that fight. It’s a very difficult fight. I think after fighting Marquez for three times, we have to look for other challengers.”

It would be recalled that Pacquiao won two controversial decisions over Marquez which prompted boxing fans to call for another fight amongst them to finally settle their differences.

Manuel Marquez (right) pounding Manny Pacquio during their last encounter.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday September 16, 2012

Martins excited over Levante move Mancini angry

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bafemi Martins says he was instantly sold on the idea of joining Levante after holding discussions with sporting director Manolo Salvador.

The 27-year-old will ply his trade at the Ciutat de Valencia for the next two seasons with the option of a third, following his release from Rubin Kazan.

He had previously enjoyed

spells in Italy, England, Germany and Russia with mixed success, but is now ready to reboot his career in Spain with last year’s surprise packages.

“The team’s doing well and I hope to play with my new colleagues,” Martins said. “I’m here now and I hope to score many goals.

“I spoke with Manolo Salvador,

and since then I’ve always wanted to come here, so I must thank him.”

Martins is expected to fill the void left by 2011/12 top goalscorer Arouna Kone, who left Levante in August to sign for Premier League outfit Wigan.

Levante have four points from their first three matches in La Liga and are placed 11th ahead of today’s trip to Malaga.

PSG ready for Champions League, says Ancelotti P aris Saint-Germain coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team are ready for their return to the Champions League after beating Toulouse.

Goals from Javier Pastore and Zlatan Ibrahimovic proved to be enough for the capital club to follow up their victory against Lille before the international break with a 2-0 win in Ligue 1.

Ancelotti has promised his side’s performances will improve going into their first continental fixture of the season, against Dynamo Kiev in Paris.

“The first victory here at Parc des Princes is important. We had a good match.

“It wasn’t easy because Toulouse play attacking football and are well-organised. Defensively, we played well and we didn’t concede any goals. Going forward, we linked up well to score.

It’s a great victory and a good performance which allows us to follow up our win against Lille.

“We will improve and I think that we’re ready for the Champions League,” the 53-year-old said.

Ancelotti

Rodgers warns Di Matteo explains Malouda’s demotion Sterling’s agent C

Sterling

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iverpool manager Brendan Rodgers says he has already told Raheem Sterling’s agent not to expect a bumper new contract after he was called into the England squad.

The 17-year-old has emerged as a first-team regular under Brendan Rodgers this term and his progress was rewarded with a call-up to the senior England squad earlier this month.

But Rodgers has been quick to insist that the club will not be rushing through a big new long-term contract for the Jamaican-born winger.

“After I spoke to Roy Hodgson and Raheem, my next call was to his agent.

“I wanted him to be aware that this news was coming out and that, when it did, he wasn’t jumping in the car up to Liverpool to have a chat with me.

“He is only 17 and doesn’t turn 18 until December. But I have seen it so much with young players,” Rodgers said.

helsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has defended the decision to force France international Florent Malouda to train with the club’s Under-21 side.

Malouda, who has won five major trophies during his time at Stamford Bridge, failed to find a new club after he was given permission to leave Chelsea during the summer and now finds himself in limbo, with his prospects of a return to Di Matteo’s first team looking bleak.

However, the Chelsea boss makes no excuses for the move to exile the experienced winger and insists the rest of his first team have accepted Malouda’s removal from the senior set-up.

“The players have accepted the decision with Malouda and they

are just going to focus on their targets for this season,” he told reporters. “In recent times, there has been an expression from the players that he wants to part company with Chelsea, but it hasn’t happened.

“Meanwhile, we have brought in other players and they are the ones we’re going to work with this season. It was a combined decision between the club and myself to ask him to work with the younger players and that’s it.

“It’s obviously not a positive message or decision from his perspective, but we have to look after our own interests and that’s the decision we have taken. The transfer window will open again in January and we will see what we can do about this situation then,” Di Matteo said.

at Aguero’s call-up M

Barton

M

arseille forward Andre Ayew believes English midfielder Joey Barton will prove to be a valuable addition to the

EURO BRIEFS Wright wants Drogba at Arsenal

F

anchester City manager Roberto Mancini has reacted with anger at Argentina’s call-up of Sergio Aguero, despite him being injured.

Aguero has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury in City’s opening Premier League game against Southampton four weeks ago.

Despite the 24-year-old being ruled out at least until this weekend, that did not stop Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella naming him in his squad for this month’s World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru.

“If we had a player who is injured for two weeks it is better he stays here,” Mancini fumed.

Mancini accepts Argentina had a right to call up the player to conduct their own medical assessment under the rules of the world governing body, but does not think it helped his recovery.

When asked if Aguero had remained in Manchester during the past fortnight, Mancini said: “No, because his manager wanted him there.

“He went there for five days, he worked with the physio. The Argentina manager wanted him there.

ormer Arsenal forward Ian Wright says he would relish the opportunity for Didier Drogba to sign for the north London club. The Ivory Coast international has been linked with a move away from Shanghai Shenhua amid issues revolving around the club’s boardroom.

Drogba

Suarez: I´ll reward Rodgers with goals

L

iverpool forward Luis Suarez insists he is ready to be a lone striker for Brendan Rodgers’ side after the club allowed Andy Carroll to leave. The 25-year-old striker is determined to impress Rodgers and build upon the one goal he has scored so far this season.

Effenberg tips Bayern for Euro glory

F

ormer Germany star Stefan Effenberg says Bayern Munich have what it takes to go all the way in the Champions League this season. The Bavarians made it to the final of European club football’s elite competition last term, where they were beaten by Chelsea on penalties.

Klose desperate for silverware with Lazio

L

azio striker Miroslav Klose has set his sights on winning silverware and is eager to succeed sooner rather than later. The Germany international joined Lazio from Bayern Munich in 2011 and has since developed into a key player at the Serie A outfit.

PREMIERSHIP TABLE TEAM

P

GD

PTS

1. Chelsea

4

6

10

2. Man Utd

4

5

9

3. Arsenal

4

7

8

4. Man City

4

3

8

5. Swansea

4

6

7

Aguero

6. West Brom

4

2

7

Ayew said.

“He is feeling better and better. He worked a lot. He had no preparation so we need to be patient with him. Moreover, he is going to miss a few games. So, we should not ask a lot from him at the beginning.

“But little by little, he is getting better physically and emotionally. I think he will be very valuable for this team. He is a player with character, and I hope he will be able to bring this to Marseille.”

7. West Ham

4

1

7

8. Fulham

4

4

6

9. Everton

3

1

6

10. Stoke

4

0

4

Ayew praises Marseille signing Barton Ligue 1 side.

Barton joined the French club on a season-long loan in August from English Premier League side Queens Park Rangers.

The troubled midfielder will miss the next nine league matches due to a domestic ban but could make his debut against Fenerbahce in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday.

Marseille have enjoyed a strong start to their season, and top the table having conceded just once in four straight wins.

Ellie Baup’s men will be looking to make it five out of five when they travel to Nancy today.

“When Joey arrived we immediately had a good feeling,”

55

11. Aston Villa

4

-1

4

12. Newcastle

3

-1

4

13. Wigan

4

-4

4

14. Sunderland

3

0

3

15. Norwich

4

-5

3

16. Tottenham

3

-1

2

17. Liverpool

4

-5

2

18. QPR

4

-7

2

19. Reading

2

-2

1

20. Southampton

4

-9

0

N I G E R I A

$41.167

Vol. 2 No. 40

Sunday, September 16, 2012

www.nationalmirroronline.net

N150

I N

F I G U R E S

$1.1b

bn, amount the n, sum the Senior CBN posted on its Special Assistance to website as Nigeria’s external reserves Finance Minister, Paul Nwabuikwu, said as at September 10.

FG obtained as loan from EXIM bank.

Pharisees in PHCN, and everywhere

Back Page

Comment

E-mail: nwaunah@yahoo.com Unah is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lagos

with Jim Unah

I

n his time, Jesus of Nazareth had issues and confrontations with the Pharisees of his day; who not only rejected the idea of heavenly existence, but sought to prevent others from trying to attain it. Everyone in Nigeria seem to have an idea of how to get things done perfectly; without an iota of passion and commitment required to get things done effectively, and post the desired result. The Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) with its numerous incompetent, corrupt and mischievous workers have presented a huge obstacle to government’s effort to unbundle the company, privatize a host of its operations and throw the electricity service industry open to willing and able investors; with a view to ending the several decades of epileptic electricity supply to consumers.

Professor Barth Nnaji had exposed and sacked three directors of the PHCN caught deliberately sabotaging the Power Ministry’s effort to complete the privatization process of the behemoth electricity company to pave the way for efficient electricity service to the

Nigerian public; and had also deployed security forces to power installations to check further sabotage by PHCN foot soldiers who would rather politic, indulge in frivolity and fraud than work devotedly for efficient power generation and distribution to consumers both in private homes and in industry for the creation of jobs and wealth to boost economic activities.

Sadly, the Barth Nnaji effort in the power sector which was nearing a triumphant climax suffered a setback with his coerced resignation on trumped up charges of divided interest, on account of which he was appointed in the first instance. Needless to say, the Barth Nnaji experience in the Ministry of Power has shown beyond doubt that there are still too many pharisees and publicans -- tariff or tax collectors -- in the PHCN. And the Federal Government with all its might appears hopelessly incapable of uprooting them and restoring the economic health of the nation, with its frightening army of jobless youths.

The power sector holds the key to the revamping of industrial activities and the further development of other requisite infrastructure to stimulate growth, meaningful growth, in the real sector.

It is surprising that the political actors have not deemed it fit to cooperate in power sector investment as a matter of national priority. I do not see why any State Government would not see power

projects as a priority. Or is success in that arena only a Goodluck Jonathan success? Only last week, the telecoms sector disclosed that it would save an estimated overhead cost of N178billion which it incurs annually on the purchase of diesel to operate generators that power their base transceiver stations nationwide. Plot the graph for all the producing and manufacturing concerns in the country, and see the trillions of Naira lost and millions of jobs not created because of the Pharisees and publicans in the PHCN. The time has come for the Jonathan government that has made the power project its political career preoccupation to rise, after the Barth Nnaji exit, to complete the privatization process of the PHCN; before its shameless locusts devour the gains already made in the power sector this past year. People have watched with utter dismay as the PHCN workers, already driven to the wall by the Barth Nnaji reform machine, jubilating and threatening that no one would coerce them anymore to accept the privatization package of the Federal Government, immediately after the Barth Nnaji exit. Which is to say that the Pharisees and the publicans in the PHCN are warming their way back to the regime of darkness and destruction.

The Nigerian people have suffered this far and for so long because there are Pharisees and publicans every-

Oyedeji eyes continental crown before retirement

O

lumide Oyedeji, the captain of Nigeria’s male national basketball team, D’Tigers, said that he was aspiring to win the FIBA African Basketball Cup of Nations before retiring from the game.

He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Friday that it would be a great honour to retire as an African championship winner.

NAN recalls that Oyedeji had promised to retire from the dunking and slamming game when Nigeria was seeking a ticket to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

He said he decided to stay one more year to achieve his dream of being crowned as an African champion.

Olumide Oyedeji (left), celebrates with teammate Derrick Obasohan after D’Tigers defeated Dominican Republic 88-73 in Caracas, Venezuela, to qualify for the London 2012 Olympics.

“I would have loved to retire from playing even at this moment; but I would be more fulfilled if I

bring home the Africa Nations Cup, otherwise called ‘Afrobasket’.

“That is why I have decided to stay in the game until the 2013 African Championships, which is held every two years,” he said.

Oyedeji was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the 1997 Nigerian Basketball Premier League and was twotime German league slam dunk contest champion in 1998 and 1999.

Oyedeji was also the 2000 German League All-Star Game winner and the MVP at the 2007 Korean league All-Star Game; he has played for over 12 different basketball teams. He organises the annual Olumide Oyedeji Basketball Camp for children.

where in the Nigerian State; people who do not have the vision and capacity to achieve anything, but who, nevertheless, conspire to ascend public office only for the sole purpose of self-enrichment through the looting and pillaging of public treasury. A nation cannot survive for too long if it goes the way the Nigerian State is going or the way the Nigerian State is run by its political actors. If the reform process of the Nigerian State continues to linger endlessly; and industry and commerce cannot be propelled to responsible action and productive result for youth empowerment and capacity development; if the state attempts to correct the problems of ailing and failed infrastructure continue to defy peaceful resolution and change, the state may break under its weight; by a painful and regrettable revolution, the shape and direction it may take, no one can predict.

It is the duty of those who wield state power to muster the will to get done what it proposes to do, for the benefit and survival of the nation and its people. One way to do this quickly is to get the Pharisees, the tax and tariff collectors, who exploit and extort tolls from the poor out of public office, so that individuals with vision and passion to get things done may ascend the high magistracies of the state and create adequate opportunities for human achievements of all sorts.

Glorious Gunners demolish Saints, as Scholes inspires Red Devils to sink Wigan P. 53 PREMIERSHIP RESULTS Norwich City 0 - 0 West Ham Arsenal 6 - 1 Southampton Aston Villa 2 - 0 Swansea Fulham 3 - 0 West Brom Manchester Utd 4 – 0 Wigan QPR 0 - 0 Chelsea Stoke 1 - 1 Manchester City Sunderland 1 - 1 Liverpool PREMIERSHIP FIXTURES Today’s Match Reading v Tottenham 16:00 Monday, September 17, 2012 Everton v Newcastle 20:00

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