Saturday, may 5, 2016 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

Vol. 6 No. 10

Saturday, March 5, 2016

NEWS

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National Mirror Online

LIVING

Ibadan stands Man sells still for Olubadan’s son to fund smoking habit coronation

@NationalMirror

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NEWS

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Mayhem returns to •Ambode swings Mile 12 into action

Again, Dasuki loses bid to stop trial ...as Court refuses Badeh’s P. 10

bail application

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President Muhammadu Buhari (middle); Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (3rd left), and members of General Electric Group’s delegation, during their visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

Fuel Scarcity: Eight vessels of

PMS coming in —PPMC

Buhari greets Obasanjo at 79 Sealxk T

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Why do men love visual pleasure?

e i Ad n n Adu P.21 P. 34

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Nigeria records 40,000 maternal deaths yearly — US

he United States Ambassador to Nigeria, James Entwistle, on Friday said no fewer than 40,000 maternal deaths are recorded in Nigeria annually. Mr. Entwistle said in statement in Lagos that many pregnant women in Nigeria often delay in seeking health care until potentially life-threatening conditions arose. “There are 40,000 maternal deaths per year in Nigeria. We believe that no mother should die from preventable causes. “Unfortunately, the state of primary healthcare in Nigeria paints a dismal picture for the future of many children. “The excessively high maternal, neonatal and under-five death rates are reflections of inadequate availability and access to quality health services,” he said. He expressed his government’s readiness to partner General Electric (GE) in bringing quality health services to women and children in the country. The envoy also said his government, through USAID, had for many years been partnering Nigeria in improving health services as well as in educating Nigerians on the importance of health care. According to Entwistle, the partnership is in line with the US government’s commitment to engage in effective and innovative alliances with the private sector in supporting Nigeria’s critical development needs. “We look forward to continuing this partnership with the GE and the government of Nigeria. Every dollar invested in health multiplies the benefits for productive activities. “Together, we can support Nigeria’s efforts to be a stable and prosperous country, built by healthy and strong people,” he added.

NATIONAL NEWS

MARCH 5, 2016

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Fuel Scarcity: Eight vessels coming T in, PPMC assures

FG committed to meeting 2017 deadline for Digital Switch Over — Minister

ChIDI ugwu

he Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC) yesterday assured that the perennial scarcity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) other known as fuel will soon be a thing of the past as about eight vessels of the product are being expected to reach the country any time soon. The Managing Director of PPMC, Esther Nnamdi-Ogbue , who gave the hint in an interview with journalists in Abuja, said that each of the vessels

contain 30,000 tonnes of PMS.

“We have about eight vessels coming in, each of which ranges between 30 to 40 thousand metric tonnes capacity and these should be more than enough to ensure sufficiency. On Wednesday alone, over one thousand trucks were loaded and trucked out by the majors and PPMC. “We have about 400 intervention trucks being used right now so that we can service marketers that we need to ensure fuel supply in their filling stations, especially in Abuja and Lagos where they consume

about 60 per cent of daily national consumption figures. “We have people trucking out (fuel) from Port Harcourt, Warri, Ogarra, Calabar as alternative sources for Lagos. So, all efforts are being made to ensure that by weekend, all these would be a thing of the past. “ All efforts are being made, including fighting against every process being used to break the strong hold of corruption and all those engaged in sharp practices. Right now, more than 300 trucks should be arriving in Abuja and we are tracking

them to ensure that they duly arrive here. We have our staff all over, monitoring to make sure that the volumes brought in are actually discharged. “In most of the major or strategic stations, they are selling fuel twenty-four hours, which is throughout the day so that the situation is effectively brought to normalcy. “One of the things that we are doing is that we are working alongside the oil majors and other downstream firms to collaborate in making sure that fuel queues disappear. We are working with IPMAN,” the PPMC boss assured.

L-R: Chairman, Monler Construction Company, Sen. John Mbata; Speaker,Rivers House of Assembly,Mr. Dabotorudima Adams and Governor of Rivers, Nyesom Wike during the groundbreaking of Rumuoji mile one market phase 2 in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

Again, Dasuki loses bid to stop trial

Doosuur Iwambe ABUJA

he embattled immediate past National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki for the second time in one week lost his bid to stop his trial at Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja. The trial Judge, Justice Peter Affen dismissed an application brought before him by Dasuki seeking to stop his trial on grounds that it was lacking in merit. Dasuki had sought the court for an order prohibiting the Federal Government and any of its agencies from further prosecuting him on the alleged diversion of public

funds meant for the procurement of arms for the military or seeking any form of indulgence before any court in the country, until the order admitting him to bail was obeyed. An order discharging him of all the offences contained in the charge on ground that the charge cannot not lawfully be prosecuted by a government that is in brazen contempt of a lawful court order. Alternatively, Dasuki urged the court for an order staying further proceedings in the charge until he has exhausted the remedies available to him in law for the enforcement of his right to liberty as preserved by the bail order granted him.

However, at the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday, Justice Affen in his ruling on the application cited Section 221 and 396 (2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), noting that it is of common knowledge that Dasuki was re-arrested upon perfecting his bail condition. It will be recalled that Justice Yusuf Baba of another Federal High Court had also dismissed a similar application filed by Dasuki in which the court held that the Department of State Service (DSS) never disobeyed any court order in rearresting him. Similarly, Justice Affen opined that it is common knowledge that Dasuki

was rearrested upon perfecting his bail conditions, adding that even if the respondent (EFCC) was in contempt of court, it does give the court the power to discharge Dasuki of the criminal charges levelled against him. He held that the court did not make any order barring any other agency of government from arresting Dasuki for further investigation as regards the matter or any other one that might come up, to which the court averred that for the issue of contempt of court to be raised, there must be substantial evidence to proof that an order of the court has been disobeyed.

he Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has assured of the Federal Government’s commitment to meeting the June 2017 deadline for the country’s Digital Switch Over (DSO) in broadcasting. The Minister gave the assurance in Jos on Friday at a meeting with stakeholders in the DSO, preparatory to the launch of the pilot scheme in Plateau State. “After missing an earlier deadline for Digital Switch Over (DSO), Nigeria has committed to achieving DSO by June 2017. Let me state here, for the avoidance of doubt, that we will not miss that target. This is because missing the target will amount to delaying the huge benefits that will accrue to the nation from a successful DSO. More over if we do not meet this deadline all our channels will suffer from interference,” he said. Alhaji Mohammed said the Digital Switch Over is a unique opportunity for the country to increase the provision of television and radio channels and enhance the quality of signals as well as the local content, which in turn will contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. “Digital compression allows more channels to be transmitted with better image quality, good sound and improved interactive applications. I am informed that about eight times as many channels can be broadcast with the same amount of transmission capacity as is currently used for one analogue channel. “In addition, the switch off of the analogue signal will result in a large increase in the supply of television channels available to viewers, with viewers receiving 30+ digital channels instead of 4-5 analogue ones “Nigeria currently has 20 million TV households, and DSO will make the country the biggest free-toair market in Africa and indeed the world, and a host of value added services such as news, information and video on demand. Also, bandwidth will be freed up for other uses,” the Minister said.

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MARCH 5, 2015

NATIONAL NEWS

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Four killed, 54 arrested in renewed Mile 12 clash Patience OgbO

he deadly clash which erupted between Yoruba and Hausa youth at the Agiliti Mile 12 area of Lagos State on Thursday continued on Friday despite

a curfew imposed by the police. Saturday Mirror gathered that four persons were killed by Hausa boys assisted by security agencies, a report the police have denied. It was gathered that eight persons, including two policemen, were killed and

…As Lagos promises quick, effective solution to dispute

he Lagos State Government on Friday met with all the stakeholders from Mile 12 market, Agiliti community, Maidan and its environs aimed at finding a lasting solution to the violence that led to the closure of the Mile 12 market with a promise that a harmonious and effective solution would be put in place in the next few days. Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, who presided over the meeting held at the State Secretariat, Alausa, said that all the leaders agreed on the need to cohabit in peace irrespective of their religion, culture or tribes. Bello urged the leaders to go back and assure their people to maintain the peace, stating that the State Government would consider the inputs of all those present in arriving at a decision. Addressing the leaders which included those of the various sections of the Mile 12 market, traditional rulers from Agiliti, Maidan, leaders of the transport unions, commer-

cial motorcyclists, community development associations and leaders from the communities, Bello said leaders also agreed to go back to their communities and assure their people of government’s desire to ensure that lasting peace reigns in that community. The SSG who said the issue of disagreement is not new in the area said what is uppermost is that everybody should see the next person as his brother, hence everyone at the meeting must leave with an open mind of cohabiting peacefully with their neighbours and avoid bloodletting. He reiterated the directive of the State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode that the market remains closed and all trading activities be suspended to aid security agencies restore calm to the affected areas. He gave an assurance to the market leaders from Mile 12 that the State Government is studying the situation and would address all the issues that have arisen decisively with a view to ensuring that it does not recur again.

Fire guts police barracks in Lagos Patience OgbO

ive apartments in a police barracks at the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID) Panti, Yaba in Lagos were gutted by fire on Friday. Saturday Mirror gathered that although nobody died, the fire, which started about 2: 45pm affected five self-contained apartments on the topmost floor of a two storey block in the barracks.

It was gathered that the fire started from a power generating set belonging to one of the officers. The unnamed officer was said to have left his generator set to run for hours, which caused it to burst into flames. Rasaq Fadipe the Director State Fire Service, however, said the cause of the fire was yet unknown, adding that fire service personnel were deployed from Alausa, Ilupeju, Sari Iganmu, Yaba LCDA and the Federal Fire Service to stop the inferno.

property worth millions of naira were destroyed on Thursday. A police source said trouble started on Thursday when some Yoruba boys attempted to force an Hausa commercial bike rider to take a woman he ran over to the hospital. But the bike rider refused and started fighting NURTW members who held him to take responsibility for the injured woman. “The fight resulted to a free for all as more Hausa boys joined to rescue their fellow Hausa. Dangerous weapons were freely used for close to three hours before police came. The Hausa boys were said to have burnt several tyres, which caused a huge fire. More Hausa boys were mobilised from nearby communities and they beat up people and vandalised everything in sight. It was gathered that a team of policemen from the Rapid Response Squad led by ACP Olatunji Disu and

other police Divisions in the area were mobilised to the scene to restore peace and order. The Lagos State Police spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the clash, adding that the Commissioner of Police, CP Fatia Owoseni, has visited the scene and policemen assisted by the army have restored normalcy. However, despite the assurance by the police that normalcy has been restored to the area and a curfew imposed on the area by the Lagos State government, Saturday Mirror gathered that the boys went on rampage again and killed four persons and destroyed property on Friday. Saturday Mirror was also informed that journalists who visited the area on Friday were tear-gassed by the police, as residents accused security agencies of aiding the perpetrators of the violence. A resident said, “The

boys came out in the night to fight again. We could not come out of our houses but a police friend of ours from SARS told us that the boys killed four persons in the early hours of Friday and burnt a house. Policemen arrested about fifty two persons over the renewed fight and took them away in their van.” Kemi Osho, a trader, said, “I lost goods worth millions of naira. They brought my goods in a truck to be offloaded that Thursday morning before the fight started. I had to run for my life. The truck, along with all my bags of rice, beans and other foodstuff were destroyed.” A resident, who identified himself as Christian Morgan, said the police ignored signals that trouble was brewing in the area. He said, “My car was vandalised by the rampaging youth. I parked it by the road side but they broke the windscreen and

the mirrors. This is sad. There were signs that this fight will happen because of the manner the Yoruba boys were collecting illegal fees from the Hausa motorcycle riders. These Yoruba boys do not work and they force the Hausa boys to pay all sort of levies for plying the routes. They seize their bikes and collect money from Hausa porters and traders in Mile 12 market. The Hausa boys have been bearing this injustice for long time. I feel they saw an opportunity to vent their anger and they used it to engage in wanton destruction of lives and property. Government should look into all these issues to prevent future occurrence.” The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olabisi Kolawole, was contacted to find out if the police authority will send a crack team to Lagos to quell the violence but she did not answer calls and a text message to her got no response.

L-R: South West Chairman, Campaign for Democracy, Prince Goodluck Obi; lawyer to the victim of violent attack, Mr. Kolawole Love; President, Women Arise Initiative, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin; victim of violent attack by her husband, Gloria Izuakor and a member, Women Arise, Ayo Olohuntade, during the trial of Jude Izuakor over his violent attack on his wife Gloria, in Lagos. PHOTO: SAMUEL ADETIMEHIN

ROtimi Fadeyi

resident Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 79th birthday today. A statement issued yesterday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina said Buhari affirmed that the former president, who is approaching the octogenarian cycle, has contributed immensely to the institutionalization of

Buhari greets Obasanjo at 79 democracy in Nigeria and Africa through his personal sacrifice, extensive local and international networks, and God-given wisdom. The President believed that Obasanjo’s place in global history was assured for successfully handing over power to a civilian government in 1979 after serving as a military Head of State, and returning to power in 1999 through elections to stabilize the polity, during which he most

remarkably negotiated a debt relief for Nigeria. Buhari commended the former President’s vision and commitment to the growth of Nigeria and Africa, which translated into a historical growth rate of six percent for the Nigerian economy after a long period of slow growth, and also created a rippling effect that buoyed other African economies. As he turns 79, the President said Obasanjo’s regular shuttles across

Nigeria and Africa to counsel on economic, social and political issues, and his willingness to head election monitoring teams that have heralded smooth transitions in many countries are legacies which generations would remain grateful. Buhari prayed that God grants the Balogun of the Owu lineage, who is also theEkerin Balogun of the Egba clan, long life and strength to continue his service to humanity.

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NATIONAL NEWS

12 Court refuses Badeh’s bail application Doosuur Iwambe, ABUJA

ustice John Tsoho of the Federal High Couer sitting in Abuja yesterday refused to grant the bail application filed before him by the embattled former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh (rtd). The former Chief of Defence Staff who has been in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions (EFCC) since February 8, 2016, following his invited by the commission for interrogation had last week filed a motion on notice praying the court to admit him bail on self recognition or on such favourable and liberal terms as the court may deem fit. Badeh through his counsel Samuel Zibiri SAN brought the motion pursuant to Section 35(4) and Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 158, 162 and 165(1) (2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015. Delivering ruling on the application yesterday, the trial judge, Justice John Tsoho held that from depositions in the affidavit in support and against the application “it is clear that the applicant was actually granted bail by the EFCC” just as the court observed that Badeh could not meet up with the bail conditions. In addition, the court said from the counter-affidavit of the EFCC, Badeh could not perfect the bail conditions because they were stringent, pointing out that it was the failure of the applicant to have his bail condition varied that was responsible for his detention. Justice Tsoho equally noted that the real objective of Badeh’s

application “is for the court to vary his bail condition because it is obvious that the applicant could not meet with the bail terms. The court noted from the EFCC deposition in the affidavit in opposition to the bail application that “a new development was responsible for the applicant’s detention as his involvement in the alleged N1.8bn Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Management Agency (NIMASA) fraud led to his transfer to Lagos. Hence, “it will be absurd that the EFCC after granting administrative bail to the applicant will come and oppose his bail application. Justice Tsoho also stated that it was pursuant to the alleged NIMASA fraud that the EFCC got a remand order from a Chief Magistrate Court Lagos State to keep Bardeh pending investigations into the matter. “The applicant did not deny the respondent’s (EFCC) disclosure on the applicant’s link to the alleged NIMASA fraud. “By virtue of the remand order, the matter has assumed a different dimension beyond the issue of bail application. “The issue now is on the legality of the remand order; whether in view of the remand order, this court can grant bail application” the court said. “Granting bail violates a valid court order; in the circumstances, the applicant’s application for bail fails and it is struck out” Justice Tsoho ordered. Meanwhile, Badeh’s counsel, Mr. Henry Michael Ihunde, said he would consult with his client to see the possibility of filing an appeal against the ruling.

MARCH 5, 2016

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Boko Haram: Nigerian Army to sponsor education of deceased soldiers’ children

he Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has reiterated the pledge of the Nigerian Army to sponsor the education of children of army personnel who lost their lives during the counter-insurgency operations in the North East.

He made the pledge through the Chief of Administration of the Army, Adamu Abubakar, a Major General, during the presentation of the Group Life Assurance cheques to the next of kins of each of the bereaved families at the Army Headquarters

Friday in Abuja. Mr. Abubakar said the cheques were to provide succour to the bereaved families to cushion the economic impact caused by the loss of their bread winners. He also said that aside from the cheques, the Ni-

gerian Army would sponsor four children each of the bereaved families, from primary up to the tertiary level of education. The families present at the occasion were full of gratitude to the army for showing commitment in alleviating their plight.

Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi (right) presenting staff of office to the new Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, during the Oba’s coronation in Ibadan while Oba’s eldest wife, Alhaja Rafiat Adetunji looks on yesterday.

Buhari congratulates Olubadan on coronation rotImI FaDeyI

resident Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the new Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji Aje Ogungunniso 1 on his coronation. A statement issued yesterday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Pubicity, Mr. Femi Adesina said Buhari

joined the indigenes of Ibadan, the family of the new Olubadan, the government and people of Oyo State in celebrating Oba Adetunji’s ascension to the ancient throne of his forefathers. As he ascends the throne as the 41st Olubadan, Buhari urged Oba Adetunji to follow in the worthy and commendable footsteps of his

predecessors by working diligently for peace and development in Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria. The President called on Oba Adetunji to also do his utmost best, in his new role as the chief custodian of the traditions of his people, to preserve and propagate the admirable culture and customs of Ibadan. Buhari assured the

new Olubadan of the full support and cooperation of the Federal Government as he strives to lead his people forward and contribute meaningfully to the development of his domain, Oyo State and the nation. He prayed that Almighty God would grant Oba Adetunji long life, good health and the wisdom he needs for a successfully reign.

prosperity of Nigeria, including social justice, human rights and the war against corruption, Toyo has left a most worthy and commendable legacy for other patriotic Nigerians to build upon. The President said Toyo would be eternally honoured and celebrated for his life-long commitment to a better Nigeria and Africa, and as a foun-

tain of knowledge who was a great mentor and role model to his students and admirers. Buhari extended heartfelt condolences to Toyo’s family, the government and people of Akwa Ibom state. He prayed that God would grant Toyo’s soul eternal rest and comfort his family, friends and admirers.

… pays tribute to Toyo

resident Muhammadu Buhari has paid tribute to renowned scholar and elder statesman, Professor Eskor Toyo, describing him as a role model whose guiding principle was to live for the good of less privileged people. A statement issued yesterday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi

Adesina said as Toyo is laid to rest today, Buhari believed that he would long be remembered as a fearless advocate who never stopped confronting the problems of social injustice, discrimination and poverty in Nigeria. Buhari affirmed that with his tireless efforts and advocacy on many issues central to the

MARCH 5, 2016

POLITICS

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Saraki’s ‘timely’ letter to Obasanjo

Lekan adejuwon

t a time when it appears the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki had foreclosed any idea of replying former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s earlier letter to the National Assembly, criticizing it for embarking on the purchase of exotic cars, the Senate President during the week, made good his promise to reply the former leader. It would be recalled that Chief Obasanjo had in a damning letter dated January 13 and addressed to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, specifically accused the lawmakers of fixing and earning salaries and allowances far above what the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission approved for them. He also alleged that most of the 109 senators and 369 members of the House of Representatives were receiving constituency allowances without maintaining constituency offices as the laws required of them. Obasanjo, who was President between 1999 and 2007, had lamented that on a few occasion, both in and out of office as president, he had agonised over the massive corruption and lawlessness at the National Assembly and other arms and tiers of government. He said he had reflected and expressed his views on the practice in the National Assembly which according to him, detracts from “distinguishness” and honourability of both chambers because it is shrouded in opaqueness and absolute lack of transparency and could not be regarded as normal, good and decent practice in a democracy that is supposed to be exemplary.” Re-echoing the stark economic reality of the country Obasanjo said the present economic situation that the country has found itself is the climax of steady erosion of good financial and economic management which grew from bad to worse in the last six years or so. According to him, the executive and the legislative arms of government must accept and share responsibility in this regard and that if there will be a redress of the situation as early as possible, the two arms must also bear the responsibility proportionally. His words: “The two arms ran the affairs of the country unmindful of the rainy day. “The rainy day is now here. It would not work that the two arms should stand side by side with one arm pulling and without the support of the other one for good and efficient management of the economy.” The former president argued that the purpose of election into the Legislative Assembly particularly at the national level

Obasanjo

Saraki

was to give service to the nation and not for the personal service and interest of members at the expense of the nation which seemed to have been the the rule within the National Assembly since the beginning of this present democratic dispensation The former president had in his letter, addressed to Mr. Saraki and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, accused the lawmakers of fixing and earning salaries and allowances far above what the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission approved for them. He also alleged that most of the 109 senators and 369 members of the House of Representatives were receiving constituency allowances without maintaining constituency offices as the laws required of them. He faulted the plans by the lawmakers to acquire new exotic cars for themselves, saying, “Whatever name it is disguised as, it is unnecessary and insensitive. As would be expected, the former President’s letter sparked not a few controversies in the polity as some aggrieved lawmakers practically went for the jugular of the ex-president. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dino Melaye, who is a staunch supporter of the Senate President pointedly accused Obasanjo of introducing corruption into the legislature. He simply dismissed the letter while describing it as “a misplacement of anger”. The House of Representatives towed a softer path vowing not to take up issues with Obasanjo over the letter. The House said it believed that it was

not directed at it but at the 4th and 5th House that operated when Obasanjo was President between 1999 and 2007. According to House spokesman Abdulrazak Namdas; “We don’t want to join issues because we see the letter as a distraction. “Moreover, we don’t believe the letter is directed to this Assembly but to the 4th and 5th Asembly when he was the President” The Senate President who acknowledged the receipt of Obasanjo’s correspondence, however promised to reply the letter at the appropriate time But in a dramatic twist, Saraki while responding to journalists’ questions on the allegation of corruption levelled against the National Assembly in Obasanjo’s letter, had declared that all those who had served in government since 1999, had, one way or another , contributed to the socio- economic woes currently bedeviling the country. According to him, rather than trading blame on the woes afflicting the country now, what is needed from all stakeholders is a collective participation in the drive to find solutions to the problems. His words; ”We have all been here since 1999 up to the recent past when things were not done right. We are all part of it. I was there you were there, other political office holders in different capacities were there as well. Invariably, the Senate President during the week finally replied the former President in a letter dated february 29, where he responded to Obasanjo’s concern, saying

the 8th National Assembly under his leadership was already taking deliberate steps to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions and ensure prudent management of resources. “This is to ensure that we plug all leakages and minimize waste across our expenditure systems,” the Senate president said in the two-page letter. “Likewise, the 8th National Assembly has made the issue of plugging leakages and cutting wastages in our public expenditure system a major priority that should not be toyed with. This may have happened in the past but it will not happen with us.” But in his response, Saraki told the former president that the lawmakers were fully aware of the challenges the nation was facing, saying, “As leaders with a duty, we will not disappoint Nigerians in their yearnings for a more transparent public expenditure system.” On corruption, Saraki said the National Assembly was working with President Muhammadu Buhari to stem the menace in the country. According to him, the legislature was already overhauling its oversight functions to make it more effective in exposing corruption in federal ministries, departments and agencies. “We are hand in glove with the president on this matter and this is why we are overhauling our oversight functions to make it more effective in exposing corruption in the Ministries, Departments and Agencies,” the senate president said. “We recognize the hard work our anti-corruption agencies are putting into this fight. “The Senate is resolved to support them to perform their duty effectively by providing them with adequate funding where necessary, as their work in integral to our oversight responsibility.” But ironically too the widely publisized Saraki’s letter came on the heels of the delivery of the much more criticized exotic cars attached to his office even as the federal lawmakers were allegedly taking delivery of their cars for themselves against the accusation by Obasanjo that the nation’s monetisation policy forbids them from doing so. The acquisition of the cars was also done in disregard of the advice of the former president urging the lawmakers to discard the plan. The National Assembly in addition, is yet to make details of its 2016 budget public despite widespread calls on them to emulate the other arms of government – the executive and the judiciary. The question on te lips of many Nigerians is who is fooling who?

MARCH 5, 2016

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14 TALKING POLITICS

‘Exotic cars for senators, completely unpatriotic, callous’ —Senator Femi Okurounmu

‘Purchase of exotic cars a waste’ —Former President Olusegun Obasanjo

“I

“T

f this is true, the action of the Senate is completely unpatriotic, callous and shows that they don’t care about the welfare of the Nigerians that they are supposed to be representing and they are only there to look after their own interests. They are selfish.”

‘It shows Senate lacks no sense of shame or restraint’ — Itse Sagay, Chairman Presidential Advisory Committee on Anti-Corruption

“I

t shows that we are dealing with a group of people that are totally incorrigible in their love for material things at the expense of Nigerians. ‘They have no limit and have no sense of shame or restraint. They will go all out and continue to live in luxury and obscenity until they can ground Nigeri. “These people are unfit to hold public office, they are a disgrace to this country and somehow, if it is possible I would want them to be shamed out of the National Assembly. They are unfit for that position and a disgrace to any civilised community.”

he waste that has gone into cars, furniture, housing and renovation in the past was mind boggling and these were veritable sources of waste and corruption. “That was why they were abolished. Bringing them back is inimical to the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians. “The way of proposing budget should be for the executive to discuss every detail of the budget, in preparation with different committees and sub-committees of the National Assembly and the National Assembly to discuss its budget with the Ministry of Finance.”

‘Senators action mindless’ “W — Balarabe Musa, former governor of old Kaduna State

ho authorised the purchase of the vehicles? The budget has not yet been approved, so where did they get the money to buy the vehicles? “Are they using the law which authorises the President to spend the equivalent of what was spent last year to buy the vehicles? “Besides the mindlessness of such an act in the face of the economic crisis why should lawmakers use their position to enrich themselves?” “Has the National Assembly allowed itself to be involved in illegality?”

‘Only one vehicle was added to Saraki’s convoy’ — Yusuph Olaniyonu, Special Adviser, Media to Senate President

“I

t is an obvious fact that the official and spare cars that the Senate President inherited and has been using, are old and have been malfunctioning. “There are instances like the day Saraki visited Keffi for the marriage of the daughter of Senator Abdullahi Adamu and another day at the Presidential wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport that the spare vehicle broke down. “In both instances, the spare vehicle did not return home with the convoy. The same vehicle had malfunctioned at the Presidential Villa and National Mosque on different occasions. “It is for this reason that the Senate President approved that instead of providing two vehicles for him as he is entitled, only one should be bought to replace the official vehicle while the old official car should be converted to spare car.

— Abubakar Tsav, retired Police Commissioner

“I

“Also, if the National Assembly Management chose to provide operational vehicles for security agencies should that be presented as if they are personal or official vehicles meant for the use of Dr Saraki? ‘These are vehicles that cannot be used for other purposes and by other people. The Senate President also has no control over the security vehicles. ”

‘Look beyond National Assembly’

— Yinka Odumakin, Spokesman of Afenifere

“I

do not think it is just about the Senate or the National Assembly, it is about the whole governance structure in Nigeria “Look at the budget for this year, every item on the budget has gone

‘Innoson should’ve been patronised’

on the increase. “I don’t think it is about the National Assembly, it is about the fact that we need to address serious governance architecture in Nigeria, and if we fail to address it, we are going nowhere.’’

don’t think the pattern of allowing people to go with their official cars is right. There should be a life span attached to such vehicles that were procured with public funds so that the country will not spend money quite often on cars. “However, it is sad that now that people are suffering as a result of the present economic crisis, our lawmakers are taking huge money abroad to buy exotic cars. “I think our lawmakers should be servants of the people and not to be served by the people. It is wrong to take delivery of the cars when we have the Innoson brand which I believe can boost the economy if supported.”

‘Economy cannot sustain frivolous spending on exotic cars’

— Dr Junaid Mohammed, Second Republic lawmaker

“I

can say with all sense of responsibility that there is a kind of hate relationship between the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and the Speaker, Dogara against the people of this country. “If not, they would not have been engaged in any frivolous spending at this time knowing fully well what the economic reality of the country is right now. “These two ambitious people have

come to do what they planned to do which is rubbish the institutions, rubbish the government and engage in frivolous payments and spending. “Nigerians need to rise and confront them, else we will know no peace in this country and what we regard as democracy would be a mirage. “Also Mr President must be ready to confront the National Assembly leadership over these issues.”

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

MARCH 5, 2016

PAGE

Rising cost of living:

Nigerians blame dollar exchange rate

The story making the rounds in town these days is far from palatable as prices of services, food items, beverages, utensils, cosmetics and whatever could be exchanged for money, have gone over the roof. The way things are going, there is nothing in sight to suggest that things are going to get better anytime soon everyone who offers one service or another has leaned on the dollar exchange rate to hoard goods, and where it is available, raise the price and blame the dollar. The common language at every transaction point is, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;You no no say dollar don go upâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. ERIC ELEZUO examines the trend.

xcept in the early days, during the oil boom, the naira has never been known to rub shoulders with the dollar. The closest being the naira exchanging N2 to $1 as far back as the early 70s. Since then, the exchange rate, as well as the gap between the two currencies continues to widen lopsidedly in favour of the dollar, berthing as at press time at N400 to $1. Following the trend, every sector of the economy has suddenly increased its price for whatever merchandise it is involved in, creating a situation where it seems inflation is about to set in. However, it has become increasingly difficult to continue to survive as usual because the average citizen is battling to live above board, considering the fact life had been difficult to

manage even before the dollar saga emerged. As a result, in every family across board, the process of tightening of belt has ensued even as what most people could hardly manage in the past is now the only thing to live with. Jonah kufre is a civil with the Information Ministry in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. He lamented the trend, saying that even in the midst of the near emergency situation, nothing new is coming from the government to alleviate or cushion the effect of the mass, impromptu and compulsory belt tightening. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This thing started as a joke, and today, see where we are. N400 to $1 is no small matter, and if the governCONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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MARCH 5, 2016

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‘Raise the price, blame the dollar’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 ment fails to do something urgently, there is going to be a total breakdown, and people will suffer more than they are suffering at the moment. Just imagine what is happening now; one can hardly touch anything in the market now. It is very sad,” he said. As every Nigerian braces up to the issue at hand, it is reported that the matter hotter than it seems. This is taking into cognizance that everyone who has something to exchange for money blames the so called rise in exchange rate for the hike in the price of his merchandise. Mrs. Abiola Ogunbola, a Lagos resident, who lives in the Alimosho area narrated her experience as she walked into a local beverage store to make her regular buys. “It was just like a normal day, only that I have not been priviledged to do some shopping in a couple of days. The first item I touched as I walked in was a cup of Peur Claire cream which I have been using for years, and to my surprise, the shop keeper told me it was N400 as against N280 I bought it the last time. I was yet to recover from the shock when he told that the sachet of paracetamol I just took was no more N20 but N30. To cut a long story short, I discovered after my shopping that I have spent over 100 percent of my estimated budget. When I asked the shop attendant, he told me that ‘dollar don go up’. I just don’t know if he understands what he was saying. And my brother since then the situation has remained like that. No change. Nothing is easy to buy these days,” she narrated. But it is not known why exactly the dollar keeps rising against the naira in the parallel market even as Presidency source has denied that President Mohammadu Buhari has not done anything to devalue the naira. “All these are just happening to discredit this administration as the President has maintained that he has not in any devalued the naira nor will he ever devalue the naira. The black market operators are the ones solely engineering and propagating the increase. The naira still exchange for N199 at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). It is only at the parallel market that this madness exists,” the source who pleaded anonymity explained. The explanation, notwithstanding, has not provided any cushioning effect for the average Nigerian; housewives especially, as the cost of ‘everyday’ products still remained untouchable as a result of the price. “We hardly enjoy the same level management we have been used to before now. It is appalling that before now, we were trying to manage to live. But now, I don’t just understand where we are heading to. The children cry each time they finish their meals because they are not satisfied, and there is nothing you can do because there is nothing you can possibly do. This

Before now, we were trying to manage to live. But now, i don’t just understand where we are heading to. the children cry each time they finish their meals Because they are not satisfied, and there is nothing you can do Because there is nothing you can possiBly do change is really change, butfor the wrong reasons,” Mr. Cosmos Azubuike, a resident of Iba Estate, Lagos, said. Saturday Mirror’s investigation in major markets of the metropolis revealed that the cost of food items such as rice, tomato, beverages, cosmetics and others have hit the roof top. A bag

of rice which hitherto sells for N9000 now sells for between N10, 000 and N11, 000 in the open market. And the same goes for the price of other things including clothing items. “It must be understood that the price of fuel still remains N86.50. However, I don’t understand why transport operators have to increase their fares

within the metropolis,” a commuter who shuttles between Iyana Isasi and the Island on a daily basis. In reaction, a danfo (commercial bus) driver, asked the correspondent in despondency if it is not the same market that transporters buy from, adding that if the price of commodities should increase, everyone who goes to the market will feel the pangs. “Oga, na the same market all of us dey buy from. As price has increased, it also affects us irrespective of the fact the price of fuel has not officially increased. But don’t forget that it is not the advertised price of N86.50 that we buy. There are so many things which not everybody knows,” the driver, who called himself Sule said. It is still not known if the free fall of the naira is responsible for the indiscriminate rise in the cost of living and price of consumables and others, but the people are groaning in pains, asking when the current situation is likely to come to pass. “It is even more surprising that the group of people that tells you this dollar thing when increasing the price of their products are the artisans, the stark illiterates who know next to nothing about the nation’s economy, not to talk of exchange of foreign currency,” said Kunle, a student of the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Ijanikin. However, a colleague of his countered him, reminding him that it is ‘still the illiterate abokis that are responsible for the so called exchange rates at their various corners’. A financial expert told Saturday Mirror that unless middlemen are expunged from chain of distribution and sale of foreign currency, the naira will continue its free fall, and the groaning of the people continue as well.

Entervaganza

The Saturday Mirror Magazine

Fashion Frenzy Coloured denim P.24

Relationships What if your partner is an introvert? P.34

Sex talk Why do men

love visual pleasure? P.34

Lucy

... sultry diva

c I don’t want PAGE

ELEBRITY ELEBRIT ELEBRI TY

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MARCH 5, 2016

to blow, I want to grow

—Tolulope Isaac Most Nigerian musicians, even the gospel ones, are most interested in becoming successful through their music. The term they use for their music success is that they’ve blown. Astonishingly, Tolulope Isaac, a gospel artist, tells OSEYIZA OOGBODO, among other amazing disclosures, that he’s not interested in blowing.

Can you introduce yourself? I’m Tolulope Isaac. I’m a gospel artist, youth advocate, motivational speaker and entrepreneur. I’m multitalented, I’ll use that word. How are you able to combine all these things? How do you get the time for them all? Well, I’ll say God, I’ll say planning. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from people, my mentors, like Tolucci, and other brothers who have been able to combine a lot of things together. I’ve been able to watch them what they do and how they do it and I’ve benefitted from it. They say Jack-of-all-trades and master of none. Don’t you feel that applies to you? Oh well, that’s a lie. It’s a lie. Sometimes, the idea you have in a trade is always needed and useful in one way or the other. It’s always good to have idea of everything. Nobody can be Jack-of-all-trades, but having idea of everything is an edge, because there’ll be a time the knowledge will be useful. In the church, I play the drums, bass guitar, keyboard. That’s almost like a Jack. But I can fit into almost all these instruments. If I say I want to just major and play the drums only, it’s good, but also disadvantageous. If someone else comes and is playing the drum set, I can shift to bass guitar, and if someone is also available for that, I can shift to another instrument and I’ll work fine. So it’s good to always have knowledge of everything so that at least you won’t be left out. Would you say music is the driving force of your many parts? Oh well, it’s passion. There’s nothing I can do about it. I can’t kill it. It’s a talent, it’s natural, I’m just trying to develop myself,

and it’s imbibed in me, so it’s the major. Everything I do now is just towards that end point: music. Everything I do now, working, so that people will not abuse you that who are you. I want to get to a level whereby I’ll go and minister in places and I’ll still contribute to their success. Yeah, I want to get to a level where people don’t need to start negotiating honorarium with me before I attend. Tell us what you’ve done so far in music. Well, I landed in the hands of Tolucci in Lagos in 2010. I’ve known him for a long time; since my secondary school days. He was the best in our state then. Osun State. He was everywhere, so I’d been following up on him, and I decided that if I get to meet him in Lagos, and coincidentally we were working in the same place and I was like ‘Wow, I’ve been following you for a long time.’ So I joined him in the studio and he put me through a lot. We go out for ministry and other programmes. The talent has always been there, but that was how I started in Lagos. That was the foundation of the music in Lagos. And I’ve since done some things on my own. I’ve released three singles now. I’m a member of different bands, organized concerts and all that. There’s been progress so far. Tell us about your singles. The first one was Jaburata. It was a song to thank God for His blessings. I didn’t even know the blessings were even coming more. The second is Thank You. That was at a point of my life when there was a drastic change: from zero to hero. The third one is O D’ayo. My ministry is just about thanking God. No matter the circumstances, or the problems, just thanking God, so whatever song I do is either admonishing people to thank God or I’m thanking God myself.

What do you want to actually achieve as a musician? Well, I want to get to a point where I’ll hold the mic, close my eyes and lead people to the presence of God and problems are solved. I envy, I covet the grace of people like Nathaniel Bassey and Efe Nathan. I’ve looked at their citations and it encourages me. I want to get to that level and surpass it. But I know it’s a gradual process. And through commitment and prayer to God Almighty every day, I’ll get there. What is your particular plan to get there? Is it by blowing from doing a monster hit song like Midnight Crew’s Igwe or Kefee’s Kokoroko? Sorry to disappoint you, but I don’t want to blow. I want to grow. There are steps and stages in life. Nathaniel Bassey has been there for years. Right now, he’s reaping the fruits of his sacrifices to God. So I’m taking it step by step. When the appropriate time comes, one single song I sing, maybe it’s even my 11th track, or the 10th, I don’t

know, but God will just say, Tolu, it’s time. So I’ll keep doing what I’m doing, keep dishing out my songs, and God will take me there. You’re speaking as if you’re not interested in money, which is what other gospel musicians are after? Well, I won’t say I’m not interested in money. But I’m not doing it for the money. I’m doing it for God, and for me, for the fulfillment of destiny. That’s why I work. I’ve businesses and investments. So even if I get out of full-time job right now, my businesses will sustain me. They see most of gospel artists as beggars. I want to change that perception. If you invite me to your church, and you say take this, God bless you, thank you very much. And if you say please you don’t have, why not? I cannot say because of that, I’m not coming to minister in your church. If you invite me, I’ll definitely come. If you give me something, glory be to God. If you don’t, glory be to God. Money will not determine where I go to.

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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s w ne MARCH 5, 2016

with

Oseyiza Oogbodo 08036961187 kingseiza@gmail.com

Seyi Shay returns with Phyno’s assistance

fter dominating last year with head head-line breaking feats and releasing her critically acclaimed début album, Seyi or Shay, raving songstress Seyi Shay releases the visuals to her latest single, Mary, featuring Phyno, and it’s her first video since the release of her album. She teams up with Phyno to create history in her new video directed by Meji Alabi for JM Films. The video shot in Lagos is coupled with amazing props and captivating scenes with a brilliant use of lights and effects. The song has an afro trap tune originating from the south side in America aka The Dirty South and it sees Shay serenade lis-

teners with her amazing vocals. Mary was the very last song to be recorded for the album and it almost did not make the cut. Phyno delivers playful lyrics which suit the occasion perfectly and adds more colour to the anticipated club banger. Both artists looked dapper and stole the show especially in closing scenes of the video. Shay once commented that “the song Mary was inspired by a friend of mine who always attracted major attention from everybody whenever they would enter a party or dance floor because of her bold personality and funky outfits.” Mary was produced by Otee Beats and co-written by Phame and Jade.

Selimax unveils viral dance video for Roma

ollowing the release of his Roma single to rave reviews, UK-based Nigerian afrobeat artist, Selimax, returns with a viral dance video for the fan favourite single. With critical acclaim and support for Roma coming from several leading online tastemakers and listeners in the last few weeks, it was only right that Selimax delivered with a fun dance video for his fans’ viewing pleasure. As he prepares for his first ever live performance alongside Wande Coal, Patoranking, Kiss Daniel and Maleek Berry among others at Smade’s Afrobeats Easter Festival on March 28, and right before he debuts the official music video for Roma, Selimax wants fans and audiences to get into the dance groove of his single!

Shay

Phyno

Zebe’s Train Music arrives with a bang

Selimax

4th Nigerian Entertainment Conference holds this April

Tee-A

he 4th edition of Nigerian Entertainment Conference, NECLive, is set to hold on the 20th of April 2016, at Landmark Event Centre, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos. Organised annually by Nigerian Entertainment Today, NET, this year’s conference is themed Entertainment Industry As Last Hope For Africa’s Largest Economy. At #NECLive4, some of Nigeria’s most important entertainment personalities and creative industry enthusiasts will provide genuine insight and share their best practices for the benefit of all.

Previous editions of #NECLive have immensely contributed to shaping the direction of the industry. The ultimate goal of this year’s conference is to do even more. Slated to be hosted by Nigerian comedian, Tee-A, for the fourth consecutive time, the conference will have in attendance all the major players in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, as in previous years. Speakers and special guests will be announced in the weeks leading up to the conference. Interested participants can however register for free at nec.ng.

Ezebe and the artists

ebe’s Train Music (ZTM) has signed four acts. They are Alvan Brown Eguavoen, Kanayo Paul, Chimaobi Ihekwumere and Hable Abraham Osemekhan. ZTM’s proprietor, Osagie Best Inegbenose, also known as Pa Ezebe, said his love for music informed his decision to float a label in March 2015. “I have a very special interest in the future of these artists,” he said, and promised to also do everything possible to ensure that their careers will blossom under his management’s guidance. Alvan, a reggae/dancehall artist who hails from Benin City, Edo State, started

music in the year 2013. Kanayo Paul Chiledo, popularly known as Cheezychi, is an afropop and R&B artist born and brought up in Benin City Edo state but hails from Imo State. Another R&B/afropop singer on the label, Chimaobi, is a native of Abia State, while Hable, aka Rolly Baba, is from Edo State. He is also an afropop act. And in order to elevate their music content and quality, ZTM also signed on Ogbodu Eseoghene Kingsley, aka Da Kinx, as the label’s producer-engineer, and Momoh Desmond Omokhagbo, aka Beat By TU2, as a producer also.

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MARCH 5, 2016

Music is a soothing sound for the spirit —Gospel artiste Adejuwon osunnuyi

gospel artist, Daniel George, has described music as a soothing sound for the spirit that refreshes the soul and body. George, who recently launched his first complete album, titled The Greatest Name at the main auditorium of the Divine Glory Christian Church, Ikeja, said God has been faithful to him. According to the 2007 graduate from the University of Ibadan, he grew up in a music family, and as such he understands the impact of music in the society. “Music is beyond just the combination of sounds that are pleasing to the ears, it is beyond the rhymes and rhythm, better put, music is beyond the way the song sounds or singer is packaged; though that is equally very important. Music is a soothing sound for the spirit that refreshes the soul and body.” The talented singer said the 8-track album which included hit songs such as Greatest Name, Save Me, Jesus Come, Obarijima, Chineke Nna, Praise Your Name, Nigerian and Celebrate were all composed to give honour and glory to the one true God. Unveiling the 8-track album, Senior Pastor of Divine Glory Christian Church, Pastor Femi Fadeyi, who was elated by the wonderful works, said majority of gospel artistes in the country are actually into gospel music because of money. He said: “Some sing worship songs because of how much they will make, and not because they necessarily wanted to impact spiritual foods through their songs into the lives of the listeners.” Pastor Fadeyi however commended George for his commitment and dedication in the Lord’s vineyard, adding that every

George

Christian home needs the album to glorify God in their lives. “We need God. Most of us do not give God his preeminent place in our lives anymore. We have forgotten that he is the reason why we sing. We need Him in our lives. “Daniel has done the needful, and I pray he continues in the path. This is just the beginning of a successful career once he is faithful to God in all his dealings.”

DJ Jimmy Jatt , 9ice, others light up Edidot’s Fun Day Party

didot School, a private school tucked inside Badore Ajah area of Lagos State was creaked with excitement and fun last Saturday when the school had its annual party tagged Fun Day Party. It was an elaborate ceremony that had live performances of notable Nigerian artists such as DJ Jimmy Jatt, 9ice, Jaywon, Emma Nyra, Koffi among other stars. The cream of Lekki-Ajah community, top government officials, parents and guardians of large were also on ground to witness the glorious day of their children and wards. The party, which lasted for several hours, had a lineup of organized eventful activities ranging from swimming, comedy, bouncing castle, shopping, video games, drink train ride, movies and more. The children who had a fun-filled day couldn’t stop asking for more as all invited artists added fun and razzmatazz to the admiration of all parents with their electrifying performances. Edidot’s proprietress, Reverend Edith Okubanjo, thanked all parents who

Okubanjo and 9ice

supported the school in no small measure to ensure the success of the party and explained why Edidot organized the party and also brought in the celebrities to perform. “We will continue to do more,” she said. “Next year’s party will be even grander than this. We organize the party on annual basis so that students can relax as all work and no play makes Jack a dull

boy. But we’re not about partying alone. We’re committed to the development of life-long learning skills that motivate and enable the students to make positive contribution to the society and themselves. And that’s why we brought all these popular celebrities they know and hear about to mix with them and thereby inspire them to truly want to become leaders in the society themselves.”

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

CLASSICAL LYRICS

Owo Ni KoKo Artist: Davido Intro It’s J Fem Productions It’s J Fem Beats Baddest Chorus And if you dance like Jackson Omo iyen ko kan mi o And if you dance like Raymond Omo iyen ko kan wa o Owo ni koko Ma lo nogere Owo ni ko ko Ma lo suwegbe and if you dance like Jackson Omo iyen ko kan mi o And if you dance like Raymond Omo iyen ko kan wa o Owo ni ko ko Ma lo nogere Owo ni ko ko Ma lo suwegbe Verse 1 Omoge, baba mi lo ni konga Omoge, baba e lo ni konga Omoge, baba olowo ni mi o Omoge, olomi to ni ginger … eh eh And the way you be moving your body … o ti to Girl your body’s amazing and perfect And I don’t want to *** it, my baby no be so And I’m loving the way that you’re making your body go Chorus And if you dance like Jackson Omo iyen ko kan mi o And if you dance like Raymond Omo iyen ko kan wa o Owo ni ko ko Ma lo nogere Owo ni ko ko Ma lo suwegbe And if you dance like Jackson Omo iyen ko kan mi o And if you dance like Raymond Omo iyen ko kan wa o Owo ni ko ko Ma lo nogere Owo ni ko ko Ma lo suwegbe Verse 2 I never see this kind of girl before Them say na ko ko I never see this kind of girl before She say na **** Baby come close to me give me some real passion Come right here, let me give you this love potion Entertain me, I wanna see some action If you give me, I’mma give you the satisfaction No ****, no **** Come and seat in my money Go get down, go get down Cause I sing this song for you It’s that time, it’s that time And I trust you go follow To a place in the night time And I know say you go go Chorus And if you dance like Jackson oh Omo iyen ko kan mi oh And if you dance like Raymond oh Omo iyen ko kan wa oh Owo ni ko ko Ma lo nogere Owo ni ko ko Ma lo suwegbe And if you dance like Jackson oh Omo iyen ko kan mi oh And if you dance like Raymond oh Omo iyen ko kan wa oh Owo ni ko ko Ma lo nogere Owo ni ko ko Ma lo suwegbe Outro It’s J Fem Beats Thank you very much It’s over E be like say you want J Fem Productions

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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MARCH 5, 2016

Why I became a publicist — Cornell Udofia

ornell Udofia is one of the entertainment industry’s most riveting personalities. He isn’t an actor neither is he a singer. He’s however someone whom entertainers can’t do without. He’s a publicist, and a very successful one at that, having been a publicist for several big names that include Oge Okoye, Faze and Jim Iyke. And speaking with E-News recently on why he became a publicist, Udofia didn’t hold back. “I became a publicist because I was not happy with the level of publicity and projection artists were given by the press and media players so we decided to exploit the vacuum by going into it,” he explained.

“Moreover, the gladiators themselves were not helping matters either by not understanding the fact that without packaging, an artist is incomplete. Most of them find it very strange and uncalledfor to engage the services of a publicist, image maker, manager and even designer who should handle their affairs, thereby making them able to concentrate and focus on dropping good songs. I thank God we took the bull by the horns to actually pioneer the importance of artist being represented by publicists.” And on whom was his very first client, he said, “When we started then, we were not looking for money nor fame but to make a name believing that with good

Paul P-Square’s girl drops Special Driver

Udofia

delivery, money must surely come. Our first client we experimented with was Eedris Abdulkareem of Mr Lecturer fame. We publicised his activities so perfectly

well that Seye Kehinde, publisher of City People, was forced to look for me to arrange how Mr Lecturer would perform in City People Awards of Excellence of that year.”

Adunni Ade keeps stunning

dunni Ade is not only one of the hottest actresses in Nollywood, she’s also one of the most stunning. As a matter of fact, her Nollywood success is not unconnected to her stunning look. But while some ladies lose their attributes due to a variety of factors, Ade is not losing her stunning look but in fact, it’s getting more enhanced.

Ade

Green Me calls for entries for Lagos edition

S Lucy

all her Paul P-Square’s girl, and you are certainly not wrong, as that’s what the latest female entertainer in town, Lucy, is, as the first female artist signed to Paul’s label, Rudeboy Records. Since Paul unveiled her last week, there’s been a lot of talk about her and they’ve capitalised on the buzz to drop her debut single, Special Driver (Push It).

ince 2008, the Green Me Film Festival has offered a platform for the green film on the occasion of the Berlin International Film Festival. For the first time, though, GMFF is being brought to Nigeria and it will award the Green Me Film Award: a 5,000 euros award that focuses on the green film genre. This year theme is: Ocean/Life/Water; and interested Nigerian filmmakers can submit their long, short, feature or documentary films. Applications are not limited to films produced this year. Movies made in previous years that meet the award requirements are also allowed. Entry deadline is March 15th and more information can be found at www.greenme.de

Green Me Nigeria symbol

EVENTS

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MARCH 5, 2016

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Love Like A Movie rocks Lagos

Darey Art-Alade held the third edition of his Love Like A Movie concert last Sunday in Lagos, and like the previous editions, it was the talk-of-the-town, especially as it was headlined by American star, Ciara. Genevieve Nnaji, Rita Dominic and Ini Edo who also attended the high octane event.

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Banj

Darey

Genevieve Nnaji

Ini Edo

Vixen

Zaina

Rita Dominic

Osas Ighodaro

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

MARCH 5, 2016

le StyGlam and

with Yemisi Adeniran

(08037801158) ydiran@yahoo.com

Swee t y n o m r ha from

igerian fabrics are indeed very friendly. No wonder it is adaptable to almost all the fabrics from other worlds. This was what Eki Orleans, a Nigerian label, saw and seized as an opportunity as she comes out with this collection. A harmonious fusion, she tagged it, Hazel Aggrey-Orleans, the designer presents a sublime visual discourse on the African continent and its relationship with China. The collection, from a deep scrutiny, has been described as the labels reaction to the growing Chinese investment in Africa; a symbolic representation of the harmonious fusion between the two cultures. Fusing inspiration from both China and Africa, the collections pieces have prints inspired by African cultural imagery and the other prints with Chinese design elements. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the African-inspired print, I wanted a design that creates the illusion of rows and rows of market stalls and the resulting electricity and energy found in traditional African markets. With the Chinese-inspired print, I was drawn by the beauty of traditional Chinese floral vases,â&#x20AC;? explained the designer.

Style & Glam

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Style & Glam

MARCH 5, 2016

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Fashion f

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

MARCH 5, 2016

frenzy

Coloured

denim

f you love the bright and admirable look, the coloured denim trend is just a way to go. It is a big trend now especially if you can go the bright and pastel colour way. But if you want to try this look and you are worried you might look like a peacock, just adopt these suggestions. 1. We all know colour blocking is hot for now, so take out that colour wheel and match your bright jeans with a contrasting top. 2. Start with some bold colours like red, deep green and blue. You can then gradually ease into the lighter colours. Mind you, the brighter the colours, the more fun you add to this thriving trend. 3. Pair them with neutrals. Think a black blazer, white top, or a cream blouse 4. Make it pop with a pattern. Pick a leopard, stripes, florals, or polka dots, set off your jeans with a punchy print. If you shy away from tops, you can always opt for a patterned shoe. 5. Denim on denim. Along the same vein of the neutral tip, pair your hot jeans with a denim shirt. 6. To take an outstanding leap into this trend, add a bold shoe for extra flair. You will also need some brighter bags and jewelleries for a louder statement. The coloured denim trend is not just for the young but of course for the girlie at heart. If more celebs are catching fun with this trend, why not you?

Style & Glam

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MARCH 5, 2016

SOCIETY Mirror

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with Deola Adeoti. Tel: 07055695565, mofat07@yahoo.com

Joseph Yobo’s wife, Adaeze, feuds with mum N o one fights dirtier or more brutally than blood; only family knows its own weaknesses, the exact placement of the heart. This above sentiments better explains the ongoing drama unfolding between MBGN 2008, Adaeze Igwe and her mum. Earlier on Thursday, March 03, 2016, the ex-beauty queen called out her mum, Abigail for stalking her and her siblings on social media. The beautiful wife of former Nigerian skipper, Joseph Yobo came for her mum for

nosing into their affairs while disclosing that her other siblings are too scared to call her out. ‘Dear mother, it’s quite creepy when you stalk me on every social media. Wetin you wan see?’ She wrote on Instagram. While the mother is yet to react to her daughter’s public rant, let’s quickly remind you that not quite long Abigail suffered heartbreak when she called it quits with her estranged hubby, John Fashanu who is a former football star.

On what led to the breakup, Fashanu claimed that Abigail was threatening him with knives after she alleged him of sleeping with their maid. The former footballer turned fitness expert and trainer then sued for divorce with further claims that his life was being threatened. He went on to allege that Abigail committed adultery with another woman who she calls her ‘spiritual partner’. But the 48-year-old Abigail has denied these allegations, saying her ex-husband is ‘sick and needs help’.

High society honours City Rovers boss, Kunle Rasheed O n Sunday February 28, 2016, Lagos, the city of jollification, was awash with gaiety and delirium as celebrity writer and publisher of City Rovers Magazine, Kunle Rasheed rolled out the drums to celebrate the one year anniversary of his high-flying magazine. As expected, the event was filled to the brim as celebrities from various fields converged at R & A Hotel, off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos to celebrate the stylish writer and his ‘new baby.’ Anchored by smooth-talking creative comedian, Koffi, the night started with a short welcoming speech by the publisher who regaled the audience with

the story of how the magazine came to be. Following that was a light music from DJ Chascolee who took the guests back on a nostalgic music trip. The night, however, got to its climax when Lanre Teriba popularly known as Atorise and the king of Fuji music, Wasiu Ayinde better known as KWAM1 grabbed the microphone respectively and mesmerized the audience with their classis tunes. Apart from the lullabies, there were also plenty of victuals, ranging from champagne to assorted wines, local foods to intercontinental, they were all in surplus.

Honey boy set to shine at Omojesu’s comedy show

Secret no one would tell you about VP, Yemi Osinbajo revealed F

f there is any disease that Nigeria’s Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and his beautiful wife, Dolapo dread so much like no other, then it’s no other than cancer. Last year, it would be recalled that Mrs. Dolapo, together with some women, staged a walk against the terminal disease in Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital as a way of showing her concern for those who have cancer and to help with the awareness on cancer. And this year too, in a similar trend, the husband on Wednesday this week has fully come out to support the war against cancer. While this act is quite commendable, what many do not know is that cancer has really dealt a heavy blow on the family. For Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, cancer is a disease that afflicts him in horrific ways as it has claimed his mother-in-law and sister-in-law. The vice president disclosed this on Wednesday while given a speech at a conference on cancer in Abuja.

Having lost their beloved family members to cancer, sources claimed the number two family in the country is hell bent on supporting the war against cancer.

The high society and the entertainment industry were also represented as prominent celebrities set the ball aglow. Leading these arrays of socialites was Dr. Muiz Banire, the National Legal Adviser of the ruling party, and his beautiful wife. Others were Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon, Otunba Sesan Rufai, Gbenga Islander, Ade Lexus, Shina Peller, Demola Oyefeso, Lanre Aregbesola, Bashorun Nzeribe, Nollywood actors Hakeem Rahman, Remi Shitta-Bay, Funke Etti, Kemi Afolabi, Lepa Shandy, Sikiratu Sindodo, 9ice and a host of others.

ast-rising comedian, Ogunsola Adedoyin better known as Honey Boy would be the cynosure of all eyes tomorrow, Sunday March 6, 2016 at Daniel Isiwele a.k.a. Omojesu’s comedy show billed to hold at Jedaz’s place, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos. Honey Boy, alongside other comedy stars such as Gandoki, Omobaba, Koffi, Owen Gee, Helen Paul, Allicology, De Don and a host of others, would be cracking the ribs of comedy fans at the event and based on his impressive performance in recent times, many would be looking out for the talented budding comedian. The event tagged Omojesu’s Comedy Extravagant Project would also be witnessing performances from music stars which include Oritsefemi, Small Doctor, Joel, Klever Jay among others. Lately, Honey Boy has become the darling of comedy fans in the Lagos metropolis and beyond based on his hilarious jokes

and impactful delivery which has been likened to that of famous comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka. A graduate of Computer Science from Lagos State Polytechnic, it would be recalled that the stylish comedian started his career in Lagos three years ago when he performed to the delight of a waiting audience at the Globalnews Leadership Awards and from there he’s rose to become a household name.

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Fashion

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MARCH 5, 2016

Guest G

‘ Every fashionista Diets that work: 10 must be a bold things they all tell you dresser’

Damilola Oyekunle is not just the brain behind Damsel accessories, she is an epitome of beauty and talent. The Civil Engineer graduate spoke with YEMISI ADENIRAN on her candid view on beauty and style

ow would you describe your sojourn into the the beauty world especially with your background in Civil Engineering? There’s no one without a passion. I guess this is just mine and I am enjoying every bit of it. Engineers are maden to create, to make, remould and to form. This is exactly what I am doing with ethnic fabric. Mind you, the fact that I am an engineer does not mean that I cannot be fashionable. IAnd I am not just a fashionista, I am a player, a stakeholder in the industry. I plan to take the world I am in to a higher ground. What is style to you? It is anything that is cute, lovely and bold. Must every style be bold?

Yes. Every fashionista must be bold. Your boldness or my idea of being bold with your style means you must be expressive in whatever you wear. You must be saying something. That way, you are being confident. A fashionista is that lady or woman who is confident and expressive in whatever she put on. It may be in her accessories, dress, hair or whatever, you simply must be saying something and very boldly. How do you draw the line between a bold and a daring dresser? A bold dresser is sure and confident in her appearance while a daring dresser is also bold but can be weird in her appearance. When you are bold, you have decided on a particular choice of appearance which may not go overboard. But a daring dresser will go overboard and does not care or afraid of whatever or whoever is bothered.

1. They tell you to take it slow Good diets promote weight loss of no more than one to two pounds a week. If you lose more than two pounds per week after the second week of dieting, it’s likely that you’re actually losing muscle tissue. 2. They cut out sugar, not fat Many of the newer and better diets around advocate cutting down on sugar and starch rather than fat. Your body stores excess sugar – found in starchy carbohydrates like pasta and bread – as fat. But good fats help fill you up, and are essential for good health. A low fat diet, meanwhile, will leave you feeling tired, hungry and cranky, and won’t help you maintain weight loss. 3. They tell you to always eat breakfast A quality breakfast is vital for setting you up for the rest of the day. All good diets will suggest you start your day with quality protein, sufficient good fat and healthy carbohydrates. 4. They tell you to eat regularly All successful diets will promote regular, planned meals and snacks throughout the day. Some dieticians recommend five small meals a day. Eating small meals throughout the day keeps your metabolism running better. That way, you are burning what you should be burning! 5. They suggest permanent lifestyle changes Effective weight loss plans need to be realistic and encourage permanent lifestyle changes, rather than relying on fads, unrealistic formulas, diet pills and powders, or upon special foods or devices. A useful lifestyle change is portion control. Keeping your portions small helps you to reduce total calorie intake. 6. They tell you to always have protein

with carbohydrates The key to long-term weight loss is keeping your blood sugar low. If you eat protein with your carbohydrates, this will slow down the sugar. All good diets teach you to always add protein to carbohydrates for this reason. 7. They are nutritionally balanced In good diets, all food groups need to be represented. A balanced diet that includes a variety of foods is essential. Promoting the consumption of one particular “magic” food, or advocating the avoidance of specific foods, will lead to an unbalanced diet.’ 8. They don’t tell you to count calories Counting calories is a very outdated concept and has now been proven to be an ineffective way to lose weight. Consuming a low fat, low calorie meal will ultimately make you pack on more pounds than having some scrambled eggs with bacon and a cup of tea.’ 9. They tell you to get moving too Good diets will also advocate that you increase your physical activity to lose weight healthily. Weight gain is about balancing energy intake with energy output. If you are taking in more than you are chucking out, you definitely have a problem, which no magic pill, potion or fad can solve! 10. They tell you to avoid processed foods All good diets will tell you to avoid any food made in a factory. That means refined, processed food, which actually is not even food – just a cocktail of chemicals that never goes off. You should ask yourself whether you could make the product in your own kitchen. If you couldn’t make it in a regular kitchen, you shouldn’t be eating it!

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WOMAN

I believe in the power of women –Oyagbola Mrs. Amina Oyagbola is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women In Successful Career (WISCAR). In this interview with YEMISI ADENIRAN, the ADENIRAN Kogi State born beauty speaks about the activities of her foundation in curtailing the challenges facing career women in Nigeria. Excerpts:

rom the law firm to the bank, Shell and MTN, how would you describe the experiences? All have made me stronger, they have given me a handful of experiences on those different fields. All have come to be useful to me today in one way or the other. How were you able to combine all with your duties as a wife and mother? I thank God for His help and support all those while and even till today. I thank God for the kind of husband I have. He was especially pushful and supportive,

particularly at those times. He stood by me, so, I could take all those giant strides. Above all, I could combine all successfully because I made up my mind not to be a failure. I made up my mind to be successful; I decided not to make any of my pregnancies, I had three in all, an excuse while I was in the period of childbirth. I did all I was expected to do despite the hiccups. You know women always had it tough at such periods. Pregnancy is not any joke even when you are a full time housewife, least of all a career woman in such demanding positions I held. But I saw myself as my male contemporaries and got

my mind determined not to make my gender a barrier to good and enviable posts. I decided not to let those who entrusted the posts into my hands down. On the other hand, I made up my mind not to do all these at the expense of my home. If I am blessed with a supportive husband, I shouldn’t let him down or make him a laughing stock of his friends and others who were likely waiting for me to grow wings and get uncontrollable because of the success I have made with my career. It’s a lot of work but with a determined mind and God on my side, I am able to tell a good story after all. I remember a time when I

was with Shell and I had to move to Port Harcourt; it was not a decision that would favour my family and I was not very excited about it. I prayed about it right in my office and I got a call from MTN to occupy its Human Resource Executive Office. It demanded an update of my Curriculum Vitae and I did and I did not have to go to Port Harcourt again. Like I said, it’s a lot of hard work, determined-mind and a clear vision on what one wants to be and achieve. I never saw my family outside my career and I never saw my success outside my family either. They both go together and one would not be at the expense of

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the other. Was this what prompted WISCAR? Yes. In my course of findings and exposure, I have found out that a lot of women especially in Africa are unable to achieve their goals in life due to the challenges of either their jobs or their homes. I want to use the medium to assure and mentor them to combining both favourably. This is what WISCAR stands for. It is to mentor women to know what to do at a particular time when they are faced with any challenge. Many young women in career today find it hard to combine their career with their homes which shouldn’t be a problem. What they need to do may be to upgrade their qualifications or change their jobs should there be a fuss that points towards that direction. WISCAR is a body that stands to provide guidance and strategic support to professional women in Africa generally and Nigeria particularly to access higher places of excellence in their chosen careers. We help to make a healthy balance between the home and their careers. We assist with tangible suggestions that will accelerate their upward move in their professions and help them achieve their goals generally. At WISCAR, we basically motivate professional women to better navigate their different career pathways. How would you access Nigerian women without WISCAR? Whether anyone likes it or not, Nigerian women from all indications are strong. They are multi-tasked yet have the ability to focus. They always want to excel, they believe in their husbands, families and will always go the extra mile to take care of their children and all that are theirs. But I would say they need to do more. They are well-mentored, so, they tend to worry about everything except themselves. This is not good enough. We need to develop ourselves personally, we need to review it often and know where and when to improve on it. In managing our career, we need to work on having a good impression of ourselves. We need steady mentors who can give honest ideas to us from time to time to make us operate and compete favourably in our environments and worlds as the case may be. We must be prepared to do our homework on whatever endeavour we find ourselves and make use of opportunities that come our ways as we explore them. .And we must be diligent, effective and trustworthy in whichever positions they find themselves. We must erase that notion that we are the weaker sex because we are definitely not. Women are not the weaker sex. Just look at all that we do at a time and compare it with what our male

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Men are coMfortable with coMpeting with

one another, but not saMe with

woMen.

i believe

that everyone has unique gifts.

Just

Keeping ABREAST

Company gives women ‘period leave’ to make them more productive

Period pain might not be going anywhere anytime soon, but one company in Bristol is hoping more flexibility can help

look at all that we do at a tiMe and coMpare it with what our Male

counterparts do, you will agree with Me that we are not the weaker sex; we are the stronger sex.

counterparts do, you will agree with me that we are not the weaker sex; we are the stronger sex. All we need do is to be dependable as a woman. We must try to manage our challenges and find a way that it doesn’t affect our job. There is always a way around it. Men are comfortable with competing with one another, but not same with women. I believe in the power of women, I believe that everyone has unique gifts; but I also believe women are specially gifted. It takes only a woman to carry a baby in the womb, give birth to them at different times and as many times as we get pregnant. Women are strong and confident and they are indeed a blessing to the world. How would you describe your growing up years? It was fun, adventurous and quite eventful. I am from Okenne in Kogi State of Nigeria but I was born in Lagos. My parents were in the Foreign Service, so, they travelled a lot. That also gave me the opportunity to travel to places too. I attended Kent College in the United Kingdom for my ‘A’ and ‘O’ levels. I came back home on the insistence of my father who wanted me to have a feel of my origin. As far as he was concerned, it is not good for one to lose contact with one’s root no matter how better a foreign land is. A foreigner is a foreigner any day no matter how long he or she spends in that land. So, I came back and was admitted into Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, where I had my first degree in Law. Generally, I would say my growing up was very interesting. I had a lot of expository experience that built me into what I am today.

Women experience varying degrees of period pain

company has introduced a “period policy” in an effort to give women more flexibility and “create a happier and healthier working environment”. Coexist, a community interest firm in Bristol, has a largely female workforce and believes tapping into employees’ natural cycles will benefit everyone. It hopes to tackle the taboo of menstruation by becoming the first company in the UK to introduce a policy to allow women leave if they are suffering. Bex Baxter, a director at Coexist, said: “As a manager of staff I have seen women really suffer with their periods and I have found them doubled over in a lot of pain. “They feel guilty and ashamed for taking time off and often sit at their desks in silence not wanting to acknowledge it. “It started from there and we thought we had to see what we could do about it and try and break the last great taboo. “Nothing like this has been done in the UK before, we believe, and if it has, it has been very small.” According to the NHS, studies suggest 90 per cent of women experience period pain. Around 20 per cent describe their pain as moderate, while two per cent say it is severe. Another study, it says, claims 14 per cent of women are frequently unable to work because of the pain. Miss Baxter believes the scheme will increase productivity and hopes other firms will follow the lead of global sportswear giant Nike and introduce similar policies. Nike introduced menstrual leave in 2007 and makes business partners sign a memorandum of understanding to ensure they main-

tain the company’s standards. Miss Baxter said: ““Many companies are male-dominated and encourage long hours but there is a misconception that taking time off makes a business unproductive,” she said. “This is not about employees taking more time off but working more flexibly and efficiently around their menstrual cycle and encouraging a work-life balance.” The issue of menstruation leave has previously divided opinion, with some saying it is discriminatory or even sexist to allow women extra time off, while others argue it is a medical necessity. Miss Baxter said: “When women are having their periods they are in a winter state, when they need to regroup, keep warm and nourish their bodies. “The spring section of the cycle, immediately after a period, is a time when women are actually three times as productive as usual.” The policy has been created as part of the ‘Pioneering Period Policy: Valuing Natural Cycles in the Workplace’ seminar which will take place on March 15 at Hamilton House in Stokes Croft. It is based on the work of Alexandra Pope, the founder and creator of women’s leadership programme, Red School. The school teaches “a radical new approach to woman’s health and wellbeing; creativity and leadership; and spiritual life based on the power of our menstruality consciousness.” Ms Baxter added: “It seemed a great opportunity to host an event for other businesses which can launch their own conversation about it.”

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Parenting

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Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression

I don’t know how I got to Kano, I just followed Yinusa –Ese Oruru

ow did you meet Yinusa? We sell food in Bayelsa; so they, Yellow and his other people, used to come and buy food from us. What does Yinusa do in Bayelsa? He came to Bayelsa to look for money. People say Inuwa is your boyfriend. Is this true? No, he is not my boyfriend. Like I told you, we sell food in Bayelsa, and so, he used to come and buy food from us. He is not the only one; they are many and I used to play with all of them like my own brothers because they buy food from us. I sell food to them just like that. Can you remember the day he took you from Bayelsa to Kano? How did it happen? I don’t know. Did he tell you that you were traveling to Kano? No. We didn’t go with his Keke (tricycle). His keke, is at home. Did he come to the house to carry you? No. So, how did you travel to Kano? I just followed him. I don’t know how I followed him. People believe that you decided to run away with him because you love him and want to marry him at all cost. I know that we used to play with all of them, our customers that come to buy food from our shop. There is nobody that is different. I sell food to all of them and I laugh with all of them. So, how did you know you were in Kano since you didn’t know how you got there? I saw that the place was different and the people there are people that I didn’t know. So, I knew it was his place because I did not know anybody there, but only him. We went to their house first. So, what did you do? I did not do anything. What did you tell him? I did not tell him anything. So, you just started staying with him like that? We travelled to Kura the next day with one man like that. He is the chief of the town. When we got there, they took me to one place and there they gave me hijab; they put it on me. And after that, they took me to one house in Kura. And from there on Monday, in the morning, we went back to the Emir’s Palace in Kano; then in the afternoon, we travelled back to Kura, to stay in the house. What did you all go to do at the Emir’s Palace? At the Emir’s Palace, they were asking him questions. They did not talk to me. They did not ask me anything, but they were asking him. Then they were speaking in Hausa language and I did not understand the language very well that time; so I didn’t understand what they were saying. Was it at the Emir’s Palace that you

first saw your mother? Yes. I saw her, but I was not able to talk to her. I was just looking at her and she was crying. I just looked at her. I did not know her and I did not talk to her. Did you recognise her as your mother? I don’t know. I looked at her and she was crying. But when you saw her on Tuesday at the Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, did you recognise her as your mother? Yes. While you were away in Kano, they said you got married. Is this true? No. Was there any marriage ceremony? No, I did not get married to anybody. But did they convert you to a Muslim? Yes. How did that happen? They took me to one place. Before they took me from the house to Kura, they put me in hijab, then we went to Kura. When we got there, they went to one place, and one old man came there and he would say something and they would say I should repeat. Then I would repeat. If the man said something again, they would say I should repeat and I would repeat just like that. So, that was how you got converted? Yes. There is also this rumour that it was one old man that actually married you and not Inuwa. Is this true? I did not get married to anybody. While you were there in Kano, did you ever fall sick? I don’t know. What kind of medical attention did you get? Did they give you any injection? No, I don’t know. But they did not give me because I don’t like taking injections and I will not take injection when I am sick. It was only when they arrested me on Monday in Kano that they took me to the hospital. And when we got here in Abuja, they took me to the hospital again yesterday, Tuesday. Those are the only two occasions that I have gone to the hospital. Did they give you any medicine? Medicine? I don’t know. But if they put it in water or food… They used to give me something, but I don’t know if it is water they used to prepare it. But if I am not well, they would buy medicine for me and I would take. But it was not those types of native medicine. It was from the pharmacy. Are you happy reuniting with your family? Yes, I am happy to go back to my family. How do you feel now? I don’t know how I feel, but I just look calm. I don’t know what to do. Do you regret what has happened to you?

Yes. How? I don’t know, but I have caused my mother a lot of trouble and put her into problem. If you see Yinusa now, what would you tell him? I tell you I’m confused. I don’t know what to do (then she started crying). What were you doing when you were in Kano? Nothing. You mean you just stayed in the house from morning till night? Yes. I did not do anything. I can see that you now speak Hausa language very well. Yes. I can speak Hausa very, very well. Were you speaking Hausa before you left for Kano? No. So, how did you come about it? Did they teach you? No. It is because the people there speak only Hausa. They don’t understand English. And when they spoke, I didn’t understand; so I tried and struggled so I could understand what they were saying and communicate with them. That was how I learnt the language. They call you Aisha. Didn’t you tell them that’s not your name? I answered it like that. What’s your real name? Rita. How would you relate with your other siblings when you get back home? I don’t even know. I have a feeling that they would do something to me for this thing that has happened. Like what? I don’t know if my mother will beat me when we get home for what has happened because she may think that I know everything that happened to me. I don’t think she would do that, considering all the efforts she put to get you back home. (Then the mother assured her that she would do no such thing, saying she was filled with gladness for seeing her alive). How old are you? There has been a

controversy about your age. I am 14 years old. When were you born? I was born in February 2002. What is your favourite subject in school? Mathematics. And what do you hope to become in future? I hope to go back to school and become a nurse in the future. Your brother said you are a good Christian and member of the Scripture Union in your school and that you used to preach to people. Is this true? (Smiles) Yes. Tell me about it. Yes, I am in the SU, but they took it to the senior students and the senior students started misbehaving. So, we in the junior class took our own to a different level to sanitise the whole thing. We hold our fellowship in our class and go out for evangelism. What is your advice to young girls like you out there, considering what you have gone through? They should be careful. How? They should be careful with the people they play with or talk with, because it’s not everybody that is good. What is your appeal to your parents since you are afraid they are going to beat you? I don’t know what to do. I am confused. I don’t know what really happened to me and I don’t even know where I am. But I know that she is my mother. What did you miss most while in Kano? I missed my mother’s cooking. She used to cook sweet food for me; so I missed good food. Does it mean you were not eating good food? Yes, I was only eating rice and bread. What would you want your mother to cook for you when you get home? Banga soup and starch.

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MARCH 5, 2016

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Man sells baby to fund smoking habit •He is a drunk and a chain smoker –Wife. By Patience OgBO

middle age man Daniel Njoku has been arrested by the police attached to the FESTAC Police station Lagos State police Command for allegedly selling his nine months old baby boy for N250,000 . It was gathered that the police also arrested a lady identified as Ekah Gift ,one Pastor Sammy and one Alhaji Sunkanmi Adamu, 35 the manager of Love Orphanage for allegedly buying the baby boy from the the suspect. Ijeoma Njoku, 28, the mother of the boy it was learnt exposed her husband to the police . She said “ three months ago, He ( Daniel) said he didn’t have money to take care of me and our baby, but he had money to buy cigarettes and smoke. I always asked him why he had money to buy smoke, but can’t bring out N150 to buy pampers for our baby. Even if I want to take our baby to hospital, I would have to borrow it. He’ll promised to give me whenever they paid him. This is how I had been managing. In fact, some of our neighbours are people who used to give me money to take care of this baby. He used to get drunk and vomit. When I complained, he would bring out iron rod and hit it on my head. I fell down. I tried to go and open the door, but he dragged me back. It’s a lie! I didn’t abandon my baby. He said he wanted to hand the baby over to his aunt, to care for. I said it was okay since his aunt was now in Nigeria. I said it will give me opportunity to look for a job and support the family. I didn’t know his plan was to sell our baby. I said I wanted to see his aunt. He said if the aunt knows that I’m around, she wouldn’t collect the baby. He asked me if I wanted the baby to die, I said no. I told him if he didn’t want me to see his aunt, he should give me her phone number. I called the number several times, but it wasn’t going through. I confronted him one day that the number wasn’t his aunt, he said his aunt had just travelled outside country, why I couldn’t get her. One night, he came with my baby. He said his aunt travelled, when she returns, he would go and give her the baby back. I said okay, but I had made up my mind that I wouldn’t give her the baby unless I see her face to face. And since Daniel had been complaining that they didn’t pay him salary, I told him that I would take my baby to his madam, so that she would give us at least half of Daniel’s salary. He said if I go , I would create more problems for him. One Sunday, we were going to church, when a woman in a Jeep gave us lift. She was his boss. I told Daniel, that I must to go and see her, but he said no. I told Daniel’s friend. I tried to trace the woman’s address, but Daniel’s friend said I shouldn’t go to meet the woman. He said I should contact her through her fliers. He said I should search

Daniel’s bag, that I’ll see the flyer. I saw one and contacted her. She told me where to meet her and I went there. She told me that Daniel was planning to sell my son for N150,000. She said that Daniel said after selling the baby, he would leave for Ghana. I didn’t believe her. The woman said I should come back around 4pm, so that I would hear the story from some of her assistants. I told Daniel’s friend. He doubted the story too, so hecfollowed me. It was right in his presence that the woman told us everything. She said she became curious and concerned after she

noticed Daniel was always with the baby. When she asked, Daniel told her that I abandoned the baby and ran away. She asked for my number, so that she could speak to me, but Daniel refused. That was when she knew Daniel was hiding something” ‘”I told her that Daniel told me that the baby was with his aunt. She said that was part of the reason she withheld his salary. The friend said we should go to police station. When I got home, I told Daniel what his madam said, his friend also confirmed it. Daniel ran away. He ran away in November, but we used to speak on phone.

He said He wanted to Hand tHe baby over to His aunt, to care for. i said it was okay since His aunt was now in

nigeria. i said it will give me

opportunity to look for a job and support tHe family.

i didn’t know His plan was to sell our baby

I told him to send us money. On January 18, Daniel sent N5000. I immediately used the money to take my sick baby to the hospital. The money wasn’t enough. I called and told him that the money wasn’t enough. When he ran away, I started keeping my baby in day-care centre, where I pay N500 daily. I leave him there to go and hawk’” Narrating how her husband tricked her and ran away with thier baby, Stella said ‘’On January, 29, Daniel called around 2pm. He said he was calling from Port Harcourt. He said he wanted to come and see his baby. He later came. We went to where I used to keep my baby. He went ahead, while I packed my wares. When I got home, our neighbour were happy for me; they said Daniel was back. They said I shouldn’t quarrel with him. They said I should forgive and forget. Daniel gave me money. He said that I should go and buy things for the baby, I said we should wait until Monday. He said we should go together. I said okay. I strapped the baby to my back, but Daniel said no. He said he would carry the baby. It was almost as if we were struggling over the baby. And we were outside. People were looking at us. I allowed Daniel to CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

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MARCH 5, 2016

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I wanted to make the baby my own – Childless woman CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 have his way. We mounted the same bike. He said I should go and buy milk for the baby. I got down from the motorbike, I didn’t see when Daniel left with my baby. I searched for him and called him. He switched off his phone. Everyone started calling him. When we finally got him, he said he was in Anambra State. I said it was a lie. He couldn’t be in Anambra state around after 11pm, with my baby. He said if I wanted to see my son, I should come to PH. I said okay. When I got to park, I called him to give me address, that I was at the park, about to board bus going to PH. He said he would call me when he’s ready. He tried to call him, but he had switched off. I called his father, he said he hadn’t seen Daniel. On February, 9, I called Daniel, he said I shouldn’t ever call him again. I called 15 times and when he finally picked, he placed the phone next to a radio. I was speaking to a radio or television. I went back to the police station that I had earlier reported the matter” The suspect Daniel however denied allegations he sold his baby . He said “ I met my wifev in Imo State. Her name is Oluchi. I went with her to her parents for introduction before she came to Lagos with me. She got pregnant, delivered the baby and ran away. She ran away when she child was less than a month old. She didn’t breastfeed for up to a month. She said her breast will fall. We had a quarrel and she ran away, leaving the child. I woke up around 5am and she had gone. We went to welfare centre at Jakande, Ajah. Anytime we had a quarrel, we’ll go to welfare centre. I don’t hit her, but we had series of problems. She ran away, I went to Welfare centre, they came, picked the baby and we went to Alausa. They said government would take over caring for the baby. They said I wouldn’t be able to come to visit him. I rejected the idea. Why wouldn’t I visit my baby? I told them that I would find somebody to take care of the child. They called Oluchi on phone, but she refused to come. Her parents even said I should collect my baby and allow their child to come back to them. I later begged her come back. She did, but after two months, she sent us away. She said she wanted to live her life. I went to an orphanage home, I wanted them to be taking care of him, while I would be working and coming over to check on him. They told me that once I keep him, I wouldn’t be allowed to see or visit him. When I was leaving, this guy called me. He said that I wouldn’t be able to take care of the baby alone. He said he would get someone to care for the child for me. I said okay. I couldn’t take care of the child alone, I had to call Oluchi. I told her that she should take care of the child, that I would ensure that I send money every month. She was there with the child and I came to this Mile 2. Every month, I used to send her money. I’m hair stylist. After three months, I said let me go and check her and the kids at Ajah. The baby is today nine months. The baby was lean and sick. The baby was bleeding through the nostrils. He

couldn’t cry and eyes were white. I feared for the baby. I called the orphanage guy and he said he had found someone who would take care of the baby. If I tell her, she wouldn’t accept. I knew it. I told her that we go to the market to buy things for the baby. I told her to be at the front. I left with the baby. I went and gave him to the guy. I gave the baby to him; I know him. I know where I can get him. He gave me money. He said the woman gave me. She said I should start a business with it. She gave N250, 000. I gave the orphanage guy N20, 000 and pastor Sammy N30, 000. My wife started calling me. I told her to wait until I collect salary. That when I collect salary, I would take to where the baby, so that she can see him. I told her I would never leave the baby with her. She now went to report to the police, they arrest me, I went to call the orphanage guy and the orphanage guy called Sammy and Sammy took police to the woman’s home” EKAH 43 however said she was tricked into buying the baby as she thought the baby was adopted for her by her pastor she identified as Sammy. She said “I have a friend, Pastor Sammy. I have known him for eight years. I told him that I wanted to have a baby of my own. That I wanted to adopt. No, I’m not married. I asked him if he knew any orphanage home. He said there was a guy that worked in an orphanage. I met Sammy in satellite. He said he would ask him how to go about it. He asked the guy; he said he had contacted the guy, that he would give the guy my number so that we would be discussing. Towards November ending, the orphanage guy called me. He said there was a baby for an adoption. He said the father of the baby was a Liberia. That he wanted to give the baby out and travel. Liberia guy said he was living at Ajah. I went over there to see him. He said he would collect money from me, but that he would be coming from time to time to check on the baby. He asked for N250, 000, I gave him and he handed the baby over to me. He gave me the baby last month of January. It was a baby boy. The day before yesterday, (Friday), evening, 12. My phone rang. It was Pastor Sammy. He said owners of the baby wanted their baby back. The transaction and handing over of the baby took place in front of the orphanage home. He gave me the baby and collected the money and left. I said it was okay. The policemen came with Sammy to my place. He called, but I was upstairs. I didn’t know he was with the police. I brought the baby. It was at my place at Satellite. After handing over the baby, I wanted to leave, but they said I should follow them. Although, I’m still waiting upon God, believing that God will still bless me with my own baby, I wanted to adopt a baby, train and have it. To make the baby my own. I haven’t given up on having a child of my own. Yes, I’m not married. Up to this age, a husband hadn’t come and no baby. I said okay, let me adopt a child and train it. Maybe husband and baby will come later. I didn’t know the procedure of adoption. That was why I called Pastor Sammy.

Njoku and his pregnant wife I’m a trader. I sell wrappers. This mistake will not come again. I will follow the right way” Narrating his role in the baby sale drama, Pastor Sammy (Samuel Osavitu) 41 an assistant pastor in Holy Fire Evangelical Ministry also denied the allegations as he stated that he was only helping a needy woman to have a child. He said “ Police are accusing me of stealing a baby. I was trying to help the barren woman. I also believed that along the line, God used me to save the life of that baby. The orphanage guy is Mr. Sunkanmi. I have known for almost nine years now. He’s a good man. He’s manager at the orphanage. I used to go to the orphanage to preach there. She was with a man, but the man left her because of the child issue. She told me her problem. I told her to have faith in God. About a year ago, she called and told me she had stopped mensuration. She went to went hospitals, but no solution. She said she would want to adopt. I told her that I have a friend who works in an orphanage, I promised to introduce them. Alhaji Sunkanmi said there was no child on ground yet, that he would alert if there was. He said other people were even waiting on a queue. I didn’t want anything to stain the name of the God I’m serving. I don’t want a situation where people would start saying 419 pastor. When this baby came, he said I should call the woman. I did and they discussed. When the woman called, I was in the church. I handed the woman over to Alhaji. They did the transaction. I wasn’t there. She didn’t tell her initially that Alhaji asked her to bring money. She told me after the transaction. I

asked if there was any document or written notes, she said no. I said I would go to Alhaji, to ask for the documents, I will call her to come and sign. We were still on it when police came” . On his own part, Alhaji Sunkanmi Adamu the manager of , Love Orphanage blamed the devil for his alleged involvement in the crime. He said “ This is first time I would partake in this sort of transaction. I told Nathaniel to take the child to his parents, to take care of the baby. He came to our orphanage several times. He said he hadn’t any parents here to care for the kid. He said his family was in Liberia. He said someone used to care for the baby, but the person has now stopped. He said he couldn’t be taking the baby to work. The idea is to give the woman the baby, but not forever. She may be caring for the baby and God will bless her with her own baby. She said for us to know that she was serious, she would come with money. I didn’t demand for any money. The father didn’t ask for money. I didn’t even know that he used to see the mother of the baby. I was embarrassed on the day I was arrested. But I thank God that we saved the life of the baby. We never thought the baby would survive. If the baby was going to be given to the woman for life, I would have suggested the woman go to Alausa. She was just to take the baby for a little while. But Daniel wasn’t straight forward with me. He always told me that his wife was in Imo State. I didn’t know that he used to speak with his wife. When I see a young man, holding baby every morning, I feel sorry for him”

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MARCH 5, 2016

Crime Watch Police arrest 51 cultists over attack on Lagos community

...as residents storm command to identify suspects Patience OgbO

olicemen attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) have arrested Fifty one members of a deadly cult gang called the Awawa boys in Lagos state. The RRS commander Olatunji Disu stated that the suspected cultists were arrested at different locations in the state following complaints from residents of Agege and Ikeja areas of the state . The police following the complaints arrested a fair -skinned lady identified as Mariam Adesola, a 20-year-old hairdressing apprentice in Agege over allegations that she was a girlfriend to one of the leaders of the gang and a spy for the gang . Adesola was among the suspects recently paraded by the Lagos State police command along side other male gang members but she wept profusely as she informed journalists that she is not a spy and attributed her arrest to the tatoo on her body. despite her denial of being a member of the gang, the Lagos state commissioner of police Mr. Fatia Owoseni stated that police investigations show that the gang has a special tatoo all members are made to wear to identify themselves . He said “ You can see that all of them that we arrested have a unique teardrop tattoo beside their left eyes.That specific tattoo is the identity of members of the Awawa gang based in Agege area of Lagos. Those we have arrested confessed that the teardrop tattoo is the mark by which they identify their members. The police is concerned that the gang have added armed robbery and mayhem to their operation and we cannot allow such to continue” The RRS ACP Commander Olatunji Disu said 46 other members of the gang were arrested by the RRS operatives along Agindigbi Road, Ikeja and Agege, in an operation that lasted about three hours. “Apart from incessant complaints from the residents alleging that some group of young boys and girls aged between 15 and 22, were making lives difficult for residents, they equally rape, loot, snatch and dispossess law-abiding citizens of their belongings. “During their recent attack along Agidingbi Road, we were able to arrest 46 of them, including six female, while others manage to escape. Before we made the arrests, they engaged us in a fight, throwing stones and broken bottles at us. “On arrival at the RRS Headquarters, the suspects were still raging, saying no one can arrest them and go scot free. They threatened that if we do not let them go, their colleagues who are yet to be arrested, would besiege our base the following day and set them free.” Meanwhile, some of them said they were lured into the dreaded cult group through peer group influence, with one of them saying “I was forced to join them with a promise that I would be very powerful among my peers. They promised me that I would have

Suspected ‘Awawa’ gang free access to girls, who are members of the group.” Lukmon Arowoseni, one of the arrested suspects said: “One thing is certain, once you join the group, it would be very difficult to dissociate yourself again. And you must also be part of their proceedings and operations any time they are set to go out. “We loot, rape and rob innocent members of public each and every time we are operating. We do not fear anybody, even police, because we are always in hundreds.” Saturday Mirror investigations revealed that the gang are usually between the age of 15-32

A police source said “Awawa translated as ‘we are alive’ is a ruthless band of robbers, who unleash mayhem, loot shops and attack residents at gunpoint in Agege area of Lagos. Thier parents are aware of their involvement and they encourage them. No young person can live in the community without joining this gang” Following the arrest of the gang members, residents who have been attacked stormed the police command at Ikeja to identify the suspects. A woman who simply identified herself as Mama Tawa said “ These children(sus-

pects) can lie and tell you journalists that they are not cultists and thieves but they cannot deceive me because they came to our house in January to rob all the residents in the building. They stole phones, money, and other valuables. They wore mask that day . They beat up my younger sister when they learnt that she does not have money or a good phone to steal from her . They stole my Techno phone . I identify them by the clothes they wore to attack us . it is the same clothes they are wearing so they cannot deceive me “

Police arraign woman for pouring hot water on neighbour

olicemen attached to the Alakuko Division in Lagos have arrested a housewife, one Mrs Titilola Obanla for allegedly pouring hot water on her husband’s mistress. It was gathered that the suspect had laid ambush for the victim, one Kemi Adisa at the Alakuko area of the state and poured the hot water on the victim whom she claimed is her rival. The incident, our reporter gathered took place at their residence at Number 10, Oluwaseyi Street, Abule Tutun, Alakuko, a suburb of Lagos State. Kemi Adisa who is presently being treated in the Intensive Care Unit, Oke-Odo General hospital at Agege area in the state, spoke from her sick bed. She said, “She came to call me on that day that she wanted to tell me something in my friend‘s room, Iya Wunmi, so I followed her and sat on the chair while she stood by the door.

“Then she accused my friend of giving me to her husband to sleep with. She said she was accusing me because I’m a single mother of 3 and she has not seen me with any other man before. “As I tried to reply her, she called her younger sister to bring the hot water she was boiling. I thought she was joking, when the sister brought the water, it was my face she wanted to pour the hot water but I quickly turned my face away and she poured it on my body. I ran out of the house and shouted for help. The hot water peeled my breasts, my arms , leg and face. I was in great pain and was screaming for help . Passersby saw me groaning and took me to the Alakuko police station, from there, I was rushed to the hospital,” Adisa explained. An eyewitness, Komolafe Joshua said, “I was going to work when I saw her writhing in pains. She was half

naked and her body had burnt wound. We took her to the police and then to the General hospital. It is a sad incident and wicked for a human being to cause such harm to another person no matter the provocation.” When our reporter visited Alakuko Police station, the Divisional Police Officer, DPO in-charge of the sation, Mr. Ajayi Abayomi, a Superintendent of Police, SP, declined to speak on the incident, claiming that he has already sent situation report (SITREP) to the Lagos State Police Spokesperson, Dolapo Badmos. The Police Image Maker confirmed to our reporter that Titilola Obanla has been arraigned in court and was remanded in prison custody. The police source stated that the suspect was issued a five count charge bordering on assault and wilful bodily harm. The accused, however, blamed the devil for the offence.

Do you have a story for us? Contact 08138773277 or crimewatchmirror@yahoo.com

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MARCH 5, 2016

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Jide animashaun 08034710902

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Angle

What if your partne F

No cause for alarm

or most people, introverts can be really strange people since they are very reserved and quite hard to understand. In truth it does not mean they are bad people or anything like that. It is just the way they are because they love their privacy and value it way more than an extrovert would. Coping with and living with someone like this can be very difficult but not impossible. A different style of communication is the most striking and significant thing about dating an introverted partner. In most cases when your man isn’t asking you questions or isn’t joking or a bit gregarious, the chances are high that he is probably not interested in you as a woman or in a long lasting relationship with you. With introverted men, it’s absolutely different. They talk less, but whenever they say something it’s really important to them. Introverts simply don’t waste time on silly talk all in the name of trying to get to know their partner better. This behaviour cuts across both gender and for a lot of people who cannot understand why someone else can be like this, it’s a panacea for a relationship to go downhill fast enough. There is this common mistake most people make when dealing with introverts. They think they can change their orientation and temperament. You can’t change their temperament and it’s no use struggling with their personality. Being pushy is indeed the worst strategy you can choose. You won’t stir up your partner by asking him thousands of questions or telling jokes. Most probably your partner will retreat more into their shell to save his or her sanity. You shouldn’t urge your partner to do anything or embarrass him, especially in public. It’s very hard to change yourself and it’s almost impossible to change another person. Please remember this because being different is good, and appreciating how your partner differs from you can add a richness to your life you don’t have on your own. Rather than working to change the other person, it’s important to realize how your mate is changing you simply by being part of your life. Once you know where your mate

is coming from, you can much more easily travel down life’s road together. On one hand, the thing is, most relationship experts and unwanted advice givers will tell you that there is no such thing as a flawless pairing and I cannot say that I do not agree. But in truth, one can still minimize points of conflicts if one works hard at it. Conflicts in any relationship is inevitable and we will only be deluding ourselves to be thinking otherwise. It is no fun and nobody looks forward to it, but chances are pretty good that if there’s never any conflict in your relationship, it’s because one or both of you are avoiding it and in the long run, it’s simply a latent volcano awaiting to erupt at any time. It does indeed become daunting for two opposites to work well together even if the popular believe is that opposites always attract, but on the other hand, once you understand it’s not all about you but about both of you working together, it makes it easier to manage conflicts that may arise from being opposites in character and less of a personal attack on differences of opinion and lifestyles. In fact, once you start noticing your partner’s energy levels and how they recharge, you’ll want to encourage what they need so you can have more of them at their best. It’s important to note here that being introverted and extroverted are not just synonyms for being shy and being outgoing, because there can be outgoing introverts and shy extroverts. The main difference between these two temperaments that people do not realize comes down to how emotional energy is gained. Introverts gain energy and recharge by spending time alone, while extroverts gain energy by surrounding themselves with others. Therefore, in spite of their differences, introverts and extroverts can make great romantic partners. For it can be a case of opposites attracting. What one partner lacks, the other more than makes up for. They balance each other out. So if your partner is an introvert and you are not, there shouldn’t be cause for alarm.

SEX TALK

This column is x-rated

Why do men love visual pleasure? W

hat’s with men and their porn addiction? Are you a woman who wonders why men watch porn the way they do? Well, here’s an explanation that’ll put your mind at ease.

Most women have a problem with men and their interest in pornography. Somehow, realising that their man ogles other women in the nude seems to piss them off. Well, any normal woman would be pretty pissed off by this. While men think porn is sexy, women think it’s obscene and tacky. Men think porn is a way to see many more naked women without really being unfaithful. Women think watching porn is infidelity! Now, not all men and women feel this way. But certainly, most of them do. Why can’t a man just watch his woman in bed? A man could sit up in bed and stare at the beautiful woman sleeping in bed with him, and he may do that too. But he could do that anytime he wants, so really, where’s the novelty in that? Women should know that most men don’t watch porn every single night. They do it now and then, most often when they’re feeling bored. And even when they watch naked

women online or in tapes, they don’t always see the same girls again and again. Why do men like porn? Men like porn for a lot of reasons. Here are a few that could help you understand his interest in all things naked. He gets to see more boobs A man can never see enough of boobs. All breasts may seem like the same for women, but those subtle dissimilarities between one pair and another make the men want to see all of them. He gets to learn new things in bed Most of the time, men watch porn only to satisfy themselves. But every now and then, men watch porn because it’s funny or completely unique. It’s a fun pastime that men enjoy. He thinks it adds to the pleasure of masturbation Almost all men have spent a big part of their single life with the little boy in their pants. And every now and then, he misses the times he’s spent with the little guy. Hanging out with his hands in his shorts can at times, even feel a lot better than sex. There’s no stress, and the fun time can stretch on for hours. And the best part, he gets to see so

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MARCH 5, 2016

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YEMISI ADENIRAN 08029894772 email: ydiran@yahoo.com

er is an introvert? F

This column is x-rated many naked women while having fun at the same time. He is curious Every time a man sees an attractive and desirable woman, one of the first things he does is wonder how she looks beneath her clothes. With so much curiosity, it’s easy to imagine why men can’t wait to see and learn about different women’s body parts. Will your guy watching porn affect your relationship? No. His interest in watching porn has nothing to do with the relationship status. To a man, porn isn’t his way of cheating on you or fantasising about other women. It’s just one of his favorite pastimes when he’s feeling restless or bored. But will he ever compare you to a porn star he likes? It’s obvious he will. Has he ever asked you to try something new or kinky in bed all of a sudden? It’s probably an inspiration from pornography. But whether he compares you or not, a man’s mind is developed enough to realise that what he sees in porn isn’t real, at least to him. It’s just a fantasy girl stripping herself off and moaning at everything she sees. And men like it! Will he love you less because he sees other naked women? No. Somehow, watching porn doesn’t seem to affect most men, unless they’re addicted to it and can’t live without it. No research or scientist has been able to conclusively prove the real reason behind

This column is x-rated why men like porn just yet. Perhaps, it’s just his desire to see more naked women and feel good about it. After all, no man is ever satisfied with the number of naked women he sees in his lifetime. Should a woman be bothered by his curiosity? Don’t be. Men hardly ever think their interest in porn qualifies as cheating. Instead, cuddle up with him and watch a few movies yourself. Think of it this way: A woman watches romantic movies all the time. And she would definitely be able to relate to the feelings of love and affection the actors share on screen. A woman may enjoy the movie, but does that mean she’s falling for the actor in the movie because she felt all those emotions? She may even wish her man was more like the romantic actor in the movie. But does that really change anything in real life? No! And that’s the same thing with men and porn. They may watch women flaunting their assets in pornography, but they soon forget all about it. Now that you know why men watch porn, relax and stop worrying about it. It’s just a movie and those boobs are just another pair of several breasts that he’ll admire in his lifetime. At the end of the day, you’re the beautiful woman he sleeps with and he likes his life just the way it is! Well…hopefully!

Tolerance please!

rankly speaking, dating an extrovert, definitely, is more fun than dating an introvert. Extroverts are livelier and ready to ignite life into your world. Introverts, on the other hand, are reserved, sometimes strange and hard to understand. They tend to keep things away from you and want you to go the extra mile to make the relationship interesting. It’s a lot of work having to date them and if care is not taken, they can bore one to death. However, if one will resolve to take him the way he is, dating him can be advantageous. One would only ned to know how to go about coping with them. One major thing to do is to over look his silence. A different style of communication is the most striking and significant thing about dating an introvert. Though it can be boring to be in a company of a lover who hardly talks, you need to get used to it. When your man isn’t asking you questions or isn’t joking, you are pushed to easily conclude that he is most probably not interested in you as a woman. This, however, is not so with an introvert. It’s absolutely different. They talk less, but whenever they say something it’s really important to them. It is not as if they are not interested in you, they simply don’t waste time on silly talk. Just try and draw them into sensible talks. If you’re dating an introvert, you will rarely have severe conflicts and fights. Introverts never act and speak rashly. They need a lot of time to reflect on things; therefore their responses are deliberate. Chances are you’ll forget about the argument, but your sweetheart can start talking about it in several days. When you really want to settle a conflict, adopt a patient behaviour. An excessive pressure will only lead to distrust and resentment. Their style will end up rubbing off on you even if you are the violent type. Because he is not the partying type; so, it’s just a given that he will be withdrawn at that your party. Introverts don’t lack communication skills and they aren’t anti-social; they just need less time socialising. You should also be ready to spend a great amount of time at home watching films or reading. Spontaneous and unplanned events are highly stressful and unwelcome for introverted people. You won’t go out every day, but if your leisure time is properly planned, your guy will be more confident and comfortable. What many do not know is that introverts, with time, can be converted into an extroverted nature. But being pushy

is indeed the worst strategy you can choose. You won’t stir up your partner by asking him thousand questions or telling jokes. Most probably, your partner will retreat to save his sanity. You shouldn’t urge your partner to do anything or embarrass him, especially in public. Just as it is very hard to change yourself and it’s almost impossible to change another person. Remember it. But if you will gradually and patiently deal with him, you will eventually drag him or her out of his or shell and right on your side. Introverts need more time to recharge their strength and energy. Stillness and solitude are essential things they will always need. Thus, don’t minimise the importance of time and try not to take it personally. If you aren’t able to adjust to this need, your relationship would be rather disastrous. While extroverts are often superficial and pretending, introverts say and do exactly what they mean. In other words, you stand to enjoy honesty all through your time with introverts. Introverts are always honest about their feelings and thoughts. They focus their attention on people they are interested in. If you’re dating an introvert, you can be sure you’re the only one in his life. Moreover, introverts tend to stay in long-lasting relationships since they’re very picky when choosing a girlfriend. No doubt, it’s awfully hard to accept his strangeness and those odd traits. For instance, when you want to go to a party, he wants to stay at home. Or, you’re overflowed with emotions and your partner just can’t take it. An introvert’s ways are most times 100 per cent poles apart from yours. Most times, they are moody because they are utterly introspective and sensitive to their feelings. You should give them a lot of time to process. Remember that a compromise is a pledge of any healthy and long-lasting relationship. Try to be tolerant and overlook what you consider as his errors because, he will get better with time. The fun of any relationship rests firmly on the quality of efforts, great work and compromise devoted by its players to make it worthwhile. Just a little understanding and sacrifice will help your relationship flourish and work out. Don’t forget that love is about accepting but not changing a person. It’s up to you to create a wonderful world with your peculiar partner. A little bit of tolerance, indulgence, commitment and indifference are all that you need.

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MARCH 5, 2016

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divorce court

‘She is too aggressive’

• My wife gets provoked at a very slightest provocation and fond of transferring aggression to everyone around her. I want an end to this marriage because I’m tired of her trouble and hot temperament —Husband • My husband always provokes me with the way he accused me falsely at times —Wife

‘I can’t stop cheating on my wife’

• My wife refuses me sex; she always tells me that she is too old for sex. So, I do not have an option other than to bring other women into our matrimonial home. Anytime she sees me with a woman in my room, she fights me, I love sex because my life has just begun at 70 —Husband • My husband comes home with different women and they sleep on our matrimonial bed, and he will tell me to excuse them by relocating to the guest room. When I reported him to his family, he told them that he could not change his lifestyle as he could not do without sex —Wife StorieS by Muda oyeniran

n Igando Customary Court in Lagos has saved a 40-year marriage between Mrs Margret Kehinde, 60, and her septuagenarian husband, Francis Kehinde, over alleged infidelity. The Court President, Mr Adegboyega Omilola, after several adjournments and interventions, successfully resolved the marital differences between the couple. Omilola admonished the respondent to turn a new leaf and he urged the couple to maintain peace. “I urged both of you to go home and continue to love each other and live in peace.” he said. Mrs Margret Kehinde, 60 and a trader, had pleaded with the court to end her 40-year-old marriage over her husband’s infidel-

ity. The petitioner said that her 70-year-old husband, Francis, for whom she bore four children, was fond of bringing several women into their matrimony home. “My husband comes home with different women and they sleep on our matrimonial bedroom, and he will tell me to excuse them by relocating to the guest room. “There was a day he came home with a girl, I wanted to force myself inside the room, but he beat me up till I became unconscious for three days. “When I reported him to his family, he told them that he could not change his lifestyle as he could not do without sex.” she said. The mother of four, therefore, urged the court to dissolve the 40-year-old marriage, that she could no longer cope with her husband’s infidelity and the beat-

ing was unbearable. Similarly, Mr Francis Kehinde, 70, a bread seller, in his testimony said he had no regrets for bringing other women to his matrimonial home. “My wife refuses me sex; she always tells me that she is too old for sex. So, I do not have an option other than to bring other women into our matrimonial home. “Anytime she sees me with a woman in my room, she fights me, I love sex because my life has just begun at 70,” he told the court. The respondent also accused his wife of infidelity; saying “Margret also brings her boyfriend to the house. “She brings her boyfriend home; she will even bring his clothes to the house to wash.” Francis alleged. Kehinde, however, did not object to the dissolution of the marriage, saying, “I am also fed up with the union.’’

40-year-old husband, Gani Sule of Adewole Area, Ilorin has told an Ilorin Area Court that his wife, Rukayat, was aggressive. Mr. Sule, who urged the court to dissolve his three-year-old marriage to Rukayat, said her aggressiveness and behavior had made life difficult for him. My wife gets provoked at a very slightest provocation and fond of transferring aggression to everyone around her,” he said. According to him, their marriage was contracted in 2010 and had produced one male child, Fatahi. “I want an end to this mar-

riage because I’m tired of her trouble and hot temperament,” he said. Rukayat objected to the prayer of her husband, saying she was still interested in the marriage. “My husband always provokes me with the way he accused me falsely at times,” she said. She promised to change and control her aggression and prayed the court for an adjournment for her to make a reconciliatory move. The presiding Judge, Yusuf Abdulkareem, adjourned the case for a report of settlement or continuation of hearing.

‘My husband went to my mother’s room naked’

• He was naked in front of our children and went to meet my mum in her room stark naked. My mother had to cover her eyes —Wife • I had to show my mother-in-law what her daughter normally does to me whenever I tell her there is no money. She usually strips me naked. That was why I went to her room naked —Husband

39-year-old school proprietor, Hassana Yusuf has told an Igando Customary Court that her husband, Adisa, once entered her mother’s room stark naked. The complainant in the case is seeking the dissolution of her 11year marriage to Adisa Yusuf. At the resumed hearing of the case on Thursday, Hassana accused her estranged husband of battering, lack of care for her and her children, threat to life, blackmail and absence of love. “When our third born was sick, he wanted to go out and I refused to allow him. I said that our child must not die, but the next thing I saw was that he stripped himself naked. “He was naked in front of our children and went to meet my mum in her room stark naked. My mother had to cover her eyes. “If I agree to keep providing for the family, there won’t be any problem, provided he would be nice to me and the children But since I have refused to keep shouldering his responsibilities, he became a demon. “He said he will kill me and take over what we both laboured for; he boasts that nobody will question him,’’ she said. The complainant also told the court that her husband was in the habit of accusing her of infidelity. “My husband is suspicious of my moves; every man I talk to is my boyfriend. He has no trust, whatsoever, in me.

“There was a day we fought and he hit me with a nail on my head,’’ she said. Hassana also said that her husband does not show her any care during pregnancy. “I have nursed every pregnancy myself, as if I impregnated myself. I do the naming ceremony myself. It is only our second daughter that he footed her bill. “On more than three occasions in 2012, he abandoned me and the children. He once left the house for a year,’’she said. The respondent, however, denied all the allegations. “I had to show my mother-inlaw what her daughter normally does to me whenever I tell her there is no money. She usually strips me naked. “That was why I went to her room naked. “I earn N30, 000 every month and I give her everything. Does that not show my love for her and the children?’ he told the court. Adisa accused his wife of unfaithfulness. “She has so many boyfriends, I have evidence to show that she is unfaithful, my fellow landlords are her boyfriends.’’ The respondent said that he doubts the paternity of their last child The court President, Adegboyega Omilola, ordered the couple to attend another Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) meeting. The case was then adjourned for judgment.

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‘He abandoned his home for another woman’s abode’ A n Akure Customary Court has dissolved a 22-year-old marriage between a cleric, Oluwasesan Olasehinde, and his wife, Seri, over alleged threat to life. The President of the court, Mrs Victoria Oriowo, said the court had observed that the marriage had broken down irredeemably. Oriowo said the petitioner’s insistence on the dissolution could not be reversed, adding that the court had no option than to dissolve the union. She awarded custody of the two children to the respondent, adding that the petitioner should pay N5, 000 monthly allowances for the children’s upkeep. She ordered that the money should be paid to the court’s registry.

divorce court

MARCH 5, 2016

The court held that the children’s education should be financed by both parties, said that the petitioner should have free access to the children. She advised both parties to maintain law and order and that they had a right to appeal the verdict. Oluwasesan, 60, had asked the court to dissolve his marriage for alleged threat to his life and inability of the respondent to take care of the family. He said that there was no more love in the marriage. But, Seri, who denied the allegations, accused the petitioner of being promiscuous and irresponsible. Seri, a mother of two, said her husband abandoned his home for another woman’s place of abode.

59-year- old engineer, Joseph Adunwo, has sought dissolution of his marriage to his wife, Rachael, over alleged frequent fighting. The complainant told an Igando customary court that Rachael, women leader of a Redeemed Church Parish, had the habit of causing him public embarrassment. The couple got married in 2006 after the demise of Joseph’s first wife. The union with Rachel is

blessed with a child. Joseph said that Rachel always fought his older children from his first marriage and himself. “She can fight from morning till evening if she wants to; she fights with neighbours and my children from my late wife. “Look at my body, she gave me all these injuries, is it a crime to marry someone you love? My older children are under her constant criticism; she embarrasses me publicly.

‘I beg my wife for sex as if she is my girlfriend’

• She plays all sorts of unimaginable pranks to escape having sex with me. She only comes to me for sex when she feels like and not the other way round. When I complaint to her sister, she told her that he have a disease that’s why she stopped having sex with me. I’m fed up, I can’t continue this way —Husband

‘She can fight from morning till evening’ A

• She fights with neighbours and my children from my late wife. Look at my body, she gave me all these injuries. Is it a crime to marry someone you love? —Husband

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middle-aged man, Dare Falana has told an Igando Customary Court that he caught his wife, Ganiyat, eating “Tantalizer” take-away with her boyfriend in his living room. Dare had urged the court to dissolve his marriage blessed with three children because of his wife’s infidelity, sex starvation and frequent fighting. “Usually I come home late at night, but on this faithful day I decided to come home early, only for me to meet her with her boyfriend eating Tantalizers in our home. “I was too shocked to say anything; I left them there and went out but by the time I came back the man had left. “There was a time I went to Abuja before I came back she got into a fight and was arrested. I spent the N40, 000 I brought from Abuja on that case.” He told the court that “my wife

starves me of sex whenever I demanded for it. “I have to beg my wife for sex as if she is still my girlfriend. She plays all sorts of unimaginable pranks to escape having sex with me. “She only comes to me for sex when she feels like and not the other way round. “When I complaint to her sister, she told her that he have a disease that’s why she stopped having sex with me. “I’m fed up, I can’t continue this way,” he said. The respondent denied allegations of infidelity, but admitted that she usually starve her husband of sex. “He married me a virgin, how can I be so bold and bring my supposed boyfriend to my husband’s house, the supposed boyfriend is my distance relative. “I called my distant cousin, and told him I was hungry and that my children don’t have food

to eat when they return from school. “I specifically told him to get food for me and my children from the eatery. “My husband’s ways are questionable, he acts and talks desperately about making money at all cost. “He keeps comparing me to his friend’s wife. “My husband told me that his friend’s wife is an ogbanje (witch) and she uses that to bring goodluck to her husband, that I should be doing same for him, which I refused. “He beats me up, but in spite of this I still love my husband,” Ganiyat said. The court President, Adegboyega Omilola, ordered the couple to attend an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) on March 17. He adjourned the case till March 29 for hearing.

‘I can’t endure with a woman that can’t conceive’ T he two years marriage between Wahab Idowu and his wife Munirat has been dissolved by an Ilorin Area Court over lack of a child in the union. Munirat, 28, a resident of Ipata area of Ilorin, had prayed the court to dissolve her marriage to Wahab due to the absence of a child in

• My husband and his relatives had threatened to divorce me if our marriage does not produce a child. My Lord, I want an end to this marriage because I am fed up with my husband’s constant threats —Wife

the marriage. Munirat has told the court that her husband and his relatives were in the habit of blaming her for the inability to bear a child. “My husband and his relatives had threatened to divorce

me if the marriage did not produce a child,’’ she said. According to Munirat, she married Wahab in 2011 and till date, the union was yet to produce any child. “My Lord, I want an end to this marriage because I am fed

up with my husband’s constant threats,’’ she said. Wahab did not object to the prayer of his wife, saying she was free to go as it pleased her. “I see no reason in enduring with a woman who can-

not conceive in her marital home,’’ he said. He prayed the court to grant the prayer of his wife without any claim. The presiding judge, Mr Yusuf Abdulkareem, dissolved the marriage and issued a certificate of divorce to the plaintiff. (NAN)

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MARCH 5, 2016

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Ese Oruru: …and the health risks of the girl child

ew days ago, news broke that a now 14 yr old girl was whisked away from the comfort of her home in Bayelsa, sometimes in August last year, straight to Kano by a man known as Yinusa, without the knowledge of her parents. The purpose? First, to convert her to Islam and then to ‘marry’ her subsequently. Nigerians were justifiably incensed! Where on earth do they do that? Even in primitive societies where anything supposedly goes, there are still minimum standards; and taking someone’s child to ‘marry’ without the consent of either of the parents is far below that standard. But a new low is reached when the police, who are the recognized law enforcers, watch lamely while the innocent girl languishes in the kidnappers den. Even if there are parallel laws in the land, shouldn’t the police, especially the number one man in the force be schooled enough to know that the laws written in the Nigerian constitution are by far superior to any other laws? That aside, the response of the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, is desultory and highly disappointing to say the least. Especially from a man previously held in high esteem by all and sundry for his forthrightness. The assumption is that when any Nigerian gets to know that an underage girl has been abducted and forcefully married off to another Nigerian, no rhetorics are needed. According to the dictates of the law, both individuals should simply have been handed over to the police. Ese for onward transmission to her parents and Yinusa who goes by the sobriquet ‘Yellow’ to the courts or jail as the case may be. Anything to the contrary is an indication that the nation is not healthy!

I am happy Ese was freed few days after the initial outcry, but how healthy is she to continue living her normal life? More so, the fate that befell Ese is not one in isolation. Many girls in her age bracket have suffered, are suffering and might suffer similar fate if nothing definite is done to rescue them and forestall future occurrence. Their cases bring to fore issues like gender inequality, violence against women, child marriage and other issues that ultimately border on these girls’ health. Macon Phillips of the US department of state while quoting UN Women said ‘’violence against women causes more death and dis-

ability for women and girls between the ages of 15 and 44 than do cancer, traffic accidents, malaria and war combined’’ Going by the provisions of the United Nations convention on elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (CEDAW), Ese has been denied amongst other things her marital rights, right to bodily integrity and autonomy, and possibly her right to be free of rape. Girls in Ese’s category are at risk of a number of medical conditions like a) Sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B

,Gonorrhea, Cervical Cancer etc Complications of early marriage such as Vesico Vaginal Fistula, and recurrent miscarriages Complications related to a child giving birth to another child such as, prematurity, and stillbirth. Complications associated with lack of education: If a girl’s education is disrupted, she is likely to be unemployed, least likely to plan her family, at greater risk of maternal mortality and more likely to raise a malnourished child and God forbid! raise a son like Yinusa! Psychological trauma: when a child goes through a situation where she is suddenly separated from her parents and thrown amongst total strangers who do not speak her language, she is bound to suffer a degree of psychological torment. When in this environment, she experiences sexual molestation and forced to play the role of a wife which she is least prepared for, she might break down psychologically. She might go through for example, post traumatic stress disorder. This problem which may manifest immediately or later in future is characterized by flash backs and night mares about the

ugly event. Other symptoms may include: 1) Negative feeling about oneself and emotional numbness 2) Feeling of hopelessness about the future 3) Relationship problems and persistent sense of guilt 4) Being easily irritated, startled or frightened And 5) May exhibit suicidal tendencies in extreme cases Conclusion: Everyone involved should ensure Ese reunite with her family and get her life back from Kano where some wicked guys contrary to constitutional provisions or even Islamic injunctions snatched it from her temporarily. It is necessary she goes through physical and mental medical examinations to be appropriately diagnosed. This should be followed by the necessary therapy that will return her life back to normal. Let Ese grow like every girl her age anywhere in the world, with the love of their parents, and the support of every adult surrounding them. While at it, it wouldn’t be out of place for Yinusa aka ‘yellow’ to learn that Nigeria is not a lawless country afterall. And most importantly, let every ‘Ese’ and their parents speak up so that they can be liberated, even if it is only for the health benefits! You can chat with a doctor FREE at www.prettyhealthcare.com.ng. Every Wednesdays and Fridays (48pm)

Sport

Ladipo backs Siasia to succeed with Super Eagles …tips Amao for success with U-23 team

IfeanyI eduzor

ollowing the recent appointment of Coach Samson Siasia as interim coach of the Super Eagles, President General of Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Rafiu Ladipo has commended Nigeria Football Federation for the decision saying that Siasia has what it takes to not only qualify Nigeria for AFCON 2017 but is capable of taking the country’s football to greater height. Siasia was last Friday alongside Emmanuel Amuneke, Salisu Yusuf and Aloy Agu appointed caretaker coaches of the Super Eagles by the Nigeria Football Federation following the sudden resignation of Sunday Oliseh as the Super Eagles gaffer. Ladipo told Saturday Mirror that Siasia is an experienced coach who understands the terrain very well as well as the psychology of the players which is keen to success in any assignment. “I must have to commend the NFF for taking such a decision because Siasia has been there before and will use his wealth of experience to rebuild the team and get the maximum points against Egypt in the back to back AFCON qualifiers later in the month. “Nigerians should remember that Siasia has a very rich resume having coached both the U-20 and U-23 teams where he took them to the finals of the junior World Cup and the Olympics respectively as well as once served as national team coach. When reminded that Siasia was fired in 2011 for failing to qualify for the 2012 African Nations Cup in Gabon/ Equatorial Guinea, Ladipo stated that the situation on ground now is quite different from what it was five years ago with assurance that Siasia

has improved technically and now more matured since that sad incident. On the forthcoming make or mar AFCON qualifier against Pharaohs of Egypt, Ladipo advised the Super Eagles helmsman to select the best players who can deliver against the highly rated North Africans as that is the only way to survive them in Kaduna on March 25 and four days later in Cairo, Egypt. “The forthcoming match against Egypt is a very crucial one because the Pharaohs are the most successful national team in the continent, having won AFCON a record seven times. Apart from this, the team has character and boosts of quality players who understands themselves very well. “To defeat a team like Egypt, you must be at your best and that is what I want Siasia and his technical crew to do. He must choose the best players and ensure there are no distractions to enable the Super Eagles get good result from their North African opponents and brighten the chances of Nigeria being in Gabon in 2017”, he stressed. Ladipo also expressed the hope that Coach Fatai Amao who was handed over the U-23 job is capable of taking the team to glory in Brazil just as he commended the Amaju Pinnick led NFF for taking such a wise decision. “Fatai Amao is highly qualified for the U-23 job because he has been in the scene for a long time having coached Shooting Stars and Sunshine FC as well as served as assistant coach of the Super Eagles and the U-23 team before his recent elevation. “The experiences he has garnered over the years cannot be quantified and as such he is the right person to take the Olympic team to Brazil and I have no doubt in my mind that he is capable of posting a good result with the team at the Olympics”, Ladipo concluded.

Siasia

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MARCH 5, 2016

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MARCH 5, 2016

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Masters glory more important than Olympics —Mcllroy

orld number 2, Rory Mcllroy says he would prefer winning “The masters” than Olympic gold this year. Four-time Major champ McIlroy threw away the chance for a first Green Jacket in 2011 when he collapsed on the back nine after entering the final round with a four-shot lead. And, speaking at an exhibition

McIlroy

in Abu Dhabi, he said: “I would definitely wait another four years for the Olympics if I could get a real shot at “The Masters.” McIlroy’s best finish since his horror show was fourth place last year as American prodigy Jordan Spieth roared to his first Major title. The 26 year old had faced a storm over which country he would represent at this summer’s Games, eventually picking Ireland over Great Britain. But he again made it clear he is aiming for personal glory after outlining his season’s goals at the Abu Dhabi Championship two weeks ago. Last month he insisted: “I’ll be remembered for my Major championships. “I never dreamed of competing in the Olympics or winning an Olympic medal.”

Fanning shortlisted for Laureus award

ick Fanning’s year from hell could earn him two Laureus World Sports awards. The surfer and fellow Australian Jason Day have been short-listed as finalists for the prestigious annual awards, with winners of the 17th edition to be announced on 18 April in Berlin. Three-time world champion Fanning is nominated in the action sportsperson category; however it is the comeback of the year category that appears most likely to secure him an award. The comeback category is usually the domain of those who have returned from retirement or significant injury. But Fanning’s return to competition after fighting off a great white shark in the final of the Jeffreys Bay event in South Africa last July garnered worldwide attention and could put him ahead of a field that

includes swimming’s Michael Phelps, rugby’s Dan Carter and skiing’s Lyndsey Vonn. Fanning returned to the world tour in the next event at Tahiti, and almost claimed the world title in Hawaii last December, in the same week his brother Peter died. He will again go head to head with American world No1 golfer Jordan Spieth when the world breakthrough of the year award is decided. The 28-year-old Australian won his first major championship; the US PGA Championship last August with a record score of 20-under-par. He also won the Canadian Open, The Barclays and BMW Championship and bagged the world No1 ranking before losing it again to Spieth who bagged his first two majors; the Masters and US Open among his wins last year.

I don’t know when to be back, says Woods

iger Woods has reported a dramatic improvement in physical condition since December but admitted he is still to play a full hole, or hit stronger than a nine-iron, during recovery from a third back surgery. Speaking at the Hero World Challenge at the end of last year, Woods offered a gloomy outlook as to any return. On Wednesday in Texas, at the Bluejack National venue he designed, the 40-yearold’s demeanor was notably improved but the “no timetable” prognosis for reappearance in competition remains. “It is a heck of a lot better than it was then,” Woods said of his outlook. “During December I wasn’t feeling very good and you could see that all over me. I couldn’t play with my kids, I wasn’t able to throw and play catch with my son. What father and son don’t play catch? These were things that I couldn’t do. “Can I do them now? Yes. I can’t do it all. They are out

running and I can’t keep up with them but I am getting there. Part of that is playing golf; I have been chipping and putting with Charlie.” Pressed on whether he could possibly reappear before or at the Masters, which is at best highly unlikely, Woods added: “I would love to say yes but I don’t know. It would be awesome to say I am playing and know when I will be playing but I don’t.

Woods

Lukmon Lawal of Nigeria (L) in action with Ihab Aimatboudi of Jordan at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

NBF shortlists 10 boxers for Olympic qualifier he Nigeria Boxing Federation has selected ten boxers that will represent Nigeria at the forthcoming Rio 2016. Olympic Games qualifiers in Cameroun just as it decamped 12 out of the 22 boxers that were earlier invited to camp. Made up of 7 men and 3 women boxers selected includes 3 of the 2015 Congo Brazzaville All Africa Games gold medalist and 2 Silver medalists. These includes; Efe Ajagba (Gold medalist), Efetobor Apochi (Silver medalist), Korede Adeniji,

Kazeem Soyoye, Muyideen Oyakojo and two new surprise entrants that defeated champions of their weight categories, Sadiq Umar based in the United Kingdom who defeated both Ayodele Mike and Danuloko Ekele and Abua Christian that made nonsense of 2015 All Africa Games gold medalist, Femi Oyeleye whom he turned into a punching bag during their consistent internal trials in camp. In the women category are 2015 All Africa Games gold medalist, Edith Agu- Ogoke and her two Nigerian Army counterparts, Kehinde Obareh (Gold medalist) and Caroline Linus (Silver medalist). Secretary General of Nigeria

rganisers of the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola maiden U-20 football championship has announced that the competition will kick off on May 13, 2016 at the Campus Mini Stadium with not less than 50 players jostling for the coveted trophy and prize money. Initiator of the competition, Afolabi Onanaike popularly known as Afo Guarantor stated that the championship tagged “Afo Football Championship” which is expected to be rounded up on June 12 is aimed at commemorating the late Pillar of Sports, Chief MKO Abiola who single handedly sponsored clubs and promoted grassroots

football in the country just as he announced that form for the tournament is free while entry closes on April 30. “I’m highly inspired by the great deeds of the late business mogul who used his resources to promote sports in the country, hence the need to immortalize him by using the competition to discover talents “The final of this championship would be played every year. And it is dedicated to Abiola the Pillar of Sports. “The competition is strictly for U20, we will not allow over aged or professional players because

IfeanyI eduzor

Boxing Federation, Olusola Luke who disclosed this also informed that Damola Azeez, Oladosu Rilwan,Ademuyiwa Kehinde, Danuloko Ekele, Gabriel Francis, Belgium based Kenneth Roland and Femi Oyeleye, the 2015 All Africa Games gold medalist were the boxers decamped. Vice President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation Ibrahim Suleiman Zango said decamping the boxers became necessary so as to allow the coaches concentrate fully on those going to Cameroun and also to protect and save the real potentials from unnecessary harm by the decampees.

Abiola U-20 tourney gets date the essence is to discover players young. “Abiola means a lot to us. He was the father of sports. He was the one that built our local league. We cannot forget somebody like Abiola and that is why we are calling on the Lagos State Government and the Abiola family to support us. “Ambode is a Governor who loves youths and like he said in his campaign, he would support anything that is grassroots-based because it is a way of empowering the youth”, he concluded.

Oil Games: Onyiriuka applauds NNPC management IfeanyI eduzor

hief Coach of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Football Club, Frank Onyiriuka has expressed gratitude to management of NNPC for motivating their delegation ahead of the ongoing Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games in Lagos. Onyiriuka particularly commended Director Executive Services, Hipolite Amadi, Head Human Resources, Imokhai Andrew and Engr. Adewale Ladenegan, Acting Managing Director of Warri Refinery and Petroleum Company for adequate camping and timely release of staff to feature in the bi-annual games that would be ending today at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

The former player of defunct ITT, Stationary Stores of Lagos, Ranchers Bees of Kaduna and NNPC (Oil Boys) of Warri said the football team camped in Mosimi, Ogun State has vowed to reciprocate the good gesture of the management by defeating Shell F.C in today’s final of the football event at Teslim Balogun Stadium. Onyiriuka promised that NNPC F.C that won gold medal by defeating chevron 2-0 in the 2014 edition is poised to defend the title by outclassing Shell in today’s cracker. According to him, besides the total mobilisation and motivation by NNPC management, the entire football team captained by Charles Uyi is technically and tactically fit to outwit Shell F.C in today’s all important finals.

Onyiriuka

NNPC defeated Petroleum Training Institute and Chevron Football Clubs in recent playoff before qualifying for the final.

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Cech to be out for four weeks

rsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech will be out for three to four weeks with a calf injury, says manager Arsene Wenger. The 33-year-old is likely to miss at least four league games, plus the Champions League trip to Barcelona and FA Cup replay against Hull. He was injured when he ran back to his area after going up for a corner in Wednesday’s 2-1 home defeat by Swansea. The Gunners are third in the table, six points adrift of leaders Leicester, and three behind second-placed Tottenham.

Arsenal, who are trying to win a first Premier League title since 2004, visit north London rivals Spurs today.

Cech

ssistant coach of Nigeria Professional League side, Mountain of Fire Ministry Fc, Suleiman Ali Obinna says that his team is not afraid of fellow premiership contenders Ikorodu United who they are billed to meet on Sunday. Speaking ahead of the local derby involving the two teams at match day 5 clash at the Onikan Stadium, Lagos, he noted that although their opponents are a good side with quality players but his team is going to grab the three points available in the match. According to him, his team’s good run in the League which saw them winning their midweek match against Sunshine

Stars of Akure 2-1 will be reenacted when they face Ikorodu United. “We have already started preparations against our neighbours, IKorodu United and I am assuring our fans that we have what it takes to defeat them on Sunday. “My team is not afraid of them because we played them during the pre- season and we know their strength and weak points which we hope to capitalize on when they host us at the Onikan Stadium. According to him, nothing short of the three points at stake will satisfy him even as he stated that he will be counting on strikers; Numan Musa and Stephen Odeh, scorers of their two goals against Sunshine Stars to deliver the goals on Sunday.

ITF/CAT Junior tourney: S/Africa embassy denies Nigerian players visas IfeanyI eduzor

n an apparent setback for the quest to excel at the forthcoming ITF/CAT African Junior Championship holding from March 9-18 in Pretoria, South Africa, Team Nigeria were on Friday denied visas by the South African embassy in Abuja. National junior tennis head coach, Mohammed Ubale expressed frustration at the development saying it’s a big blow to the country’s preparation. “The South African Embassy took us by surprise this morning (Friday) by denying visas to five out of the six players that are going for the AJC. “We have submitted our passports since ten days ago and they keep requesting for one thing or the other which we presented to them before they gave us appointment to come and collect it yesterday which was why we fixed our departure for today because our plan was to travel earlier,” Ubale, who alongside Marylove Edwards were the only two of the seven-man contingent that were granted visas for the tour-

nament billed for the ITF High Performance Centre, Pretoria, said. He added: “What annoyed me most is the fact that they granted visas to only two of us when we are all covered by one letter which the organisers sent to them in the course of seeking clarifications.” NTF president, Engr Sani Ndanusa as at yesterday’s afternoon was making efforts to make sure that the whole team was eventually granted visas as he made several calls to the International Tennis Federation headquarters in London as well as the Confederation of African Tennis in Tunis for intervention. “It’s very frustrating because virtually all the countries were scheduled to arrive the venue on today but from what is on ground the earliest we can be in South Africa is Monday. The most annoying part of it is that all the players have travelled several times to various parts of the continent and even beyond for tournaments” he said. Those that were denied visas are Angel McLeod, Christopher Itodo, Christopher Bulus, Gabriel Friday and Michael Osewa.

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AFCON Qualifier: Iwobi rallies support for Super Eagles

NPFL: We’re not afraid of Ikorodu United — Suleiman IfeanyI eduzor

MIRROR SPORT

MARCH 5, 2016

rsenal’s midfielder, Alex Iwobi has asked Nigeria fans to remain hopeful and continue to show their love for the Super Eagles ahead of this month’s crucial pair of Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Egypt. The Eagles trail the Pharaohs by two points in Group G and need at least four points over two legs to ensure they keep alive their hopes of reaching Gabon 2017. The fast emerging Arsenal star expressed his happiness at making interim coach Samson

Siasia’s squad. “I call on all Nigerians to rally round the Super Eagles in the two crucial matches against Egypt. I am aware that historically matches between Egypt and Nigeria are very competitive, however, with the caliber of players invited for the match, I am confident we shall triumph against a very difficult opponent,” Iwobi said. “I feel honoured each time I wear the green and white colours of Nigeria and I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the country of my birth. I pledge to do

my best to make a valuable contribution to the Super Eagles.” Alex is making remarkable progress at Arsenal this season and is working hard to secure a regular place in the first team. Since switching allegiance from England, the 19-year-old has represented Nigeria in two friendly matches against Cameroon and DR Congo and is looking forward to his first appearance in a competitive match. He was also called up to the Nigeria U-23 side that will play Brazil U-23 in a friendly match on March 24.

Super Eagles players celebrate after scoring a goal

ITTF Championship: Nigeria, Egypt fail to gain promotion

frica’s best teams; Nigeria and Egypt were beaten by India at the ongoing ITTF World Team Championship to miss out from gaining promotion to the Championship Division of the tournament. Nigeria and Egypt were unbeaten in the group stages winning all their five matches to top Group F and H respectively to make it the quarter-final stage. But the two teams were beaten by India in the quarter-final and semi-final stages of the competition. Despite beating India 3-0 in the group stage, Nigeria met a strong Indian team in the quarter-final as Nigeria’s trio of Aruna Quadri, Segun Toriola and Bode Abiodun met a formidable Asian side led by their talisman,

Sharath Achanta. After losing the first two games against Gosh Soumyajit, Aruna Quadri leveled up to win 3-2 and this gave Nigeria a 1-0 lead but Achanta restored parity with a 3-0 win over Segun Toriola. Bode Abiodun put Nigeria ahead again with a 3-1 win over Harmeet Desai to put the encounter at 2-1 in favour of Nigeria. The battle for supremacy now turned to Achanta and Aruna Quadri but experienced prevailed over youthfulness as Achanta defeated Quadri 3-1 to put the match at 2-2. However, youthfulness overcame experience when Gosh Soumyajit and Segun Toriola clashed in the fifth match with Gosh Soumyajit winning 3-0 to give India the unexpected victory against Nigeria.

Quadri Unlike the difficulties they faced to beat Nigeria 3-2, India had an easy win over Egypt in the semi-final with Achanta being the architect of the victory. Congo Brazzaville failed to gain promotion to division two which means they will campaign in same division in 2018 while Togo and Tunisia still maintained their status in division four.

Goal line technology for Champions League final

oal line technology will be used at this season’s Champions League and Europa League finals. In January Europe’s football governing body announced the technology would be used in next season’s Champions League and at Euro 2016. Goal line technology was introduced in the Premier League for the 2013-14 season and Fifa

used it at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The Champions League final is in Milan on 28 May, with the Europa League final on 18 May. Meanwhile, Uefa have announced that Theodore Theodoridis will take over as acting General Secretary to replace Gianni Infantino, who was elected as Fifa president

last Friday. There will be no Uefa presidential elections until a decision has been made by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Michel Platini’s appeal. The Uefa president was suspended by Fifa’s ethics committee in December along with its former president Sepp Blatter.

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LEISURE

MARCH 5, 2016

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

badan, the Oyo State capital, came alive yesterday as Governor Abiola Ajimobi, presented the staff of office to the 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso 1. The governor who charged the monarch at the colourful ceremony held at the ancient Mapo Hall, to live above board during his reign, also promised to overhaul the chieftaincy institution in Ibadanland. Present at the coronation include the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC); Osun State gov-

MARCH 5, 2016

ll efforts made by the Lagos State government to arraign the embattled Registered trustees of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) along side two engineers that built the collapsed guest house which left about 116 people dead was yesterday proved abortive by the defence counsels. At the resume hearing of the matter on Friday, SCOAN through their counsel Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) withdrew their applications seeking to stay proceedings of the charges preferred against them by the state government. Also, counsels to 3rd and 5th defendants, Mrs. Titilola Akinlawon (SAN) and the fourth defendant’s counsel, Olalekan Ojo said in view of the ruling of the Court of Appeal, they

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Ibadan stands still for new Olubadan …..as Oba Adetunji gets staff of office

ernor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, his counterparts, Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos); Ayodele Fayose (Ekiti); Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun);

Synagogue: Defense counsels stall arraignment

matthew irinOye

SOUTH WEST

were constrained to withdraw their application for stay of proceedings dated February 18, 2015. This was sequel to the ruling of the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos which dismissed their appeal to stay their trial before Justice Lateef Lawal-Akapo of a Lagos High court, Ikeja. It would be recalled that the state government had filed 110 count charge bordering on involuntary manslaughter against the Registered Trustees of the Church and two of its engineers over the September 12, 2014 collapsed of its six storey guest house. The lawyers however informed the court of another application seeking to quash the charges preferred against them by the state dated March 3, 2015. The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Mrs. Idowu Alakija, in her response, told the court that they were served on Thursday.

Rochas Okorocha (Imo); Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu; former governors of Oyo State, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo; Senator Rasheed Ladoja and his wife, Mutiat and Otunba Adebayo Alao Akala; former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly Hon. Najeem Salam and Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Mukthar Abimbola. Royal fathers present were the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar 111: Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi 111; Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Sulu Gambari; Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Abdulganiyu Ologunebi, Ajinase 1, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi and Ayangbunrin of Ikorodu. The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Division, Ibadan, Major General Laz Iloh, Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Leye

Oyebade; MD of First Bank, Dr. Sola Adeduntan and the Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan, Prof. Idowu Olayinka, were also present at the occasion. Ajimobi urged Oba Adetunji to use all what he has as a successful businessman and custodian of tradition in the ancient city to protect the interest of his subjects. He urged him to work towards sustenance of the prevailing peace and tranquility in the city and the state at large. According to the governor, the review of the chieftaincy institution will ensure speedy completion of appointment procedures and also ensure the insulation of high chiefs from partisan politics as the father of all. He said since royalty is service, the “Oba is expected to be above board and ralying point of all citizens. He is the ruler of Ibadanland and symbol of Unity

and final say on customary matters. The Olubadan is faced with the task of building peace”. Ajimobi stated further that nobody can be qualified to be Olubadan if he is found to suffer from physical infirmity or declared to be a lunatic or unsound mind. The governor, apparently speaking on the legal tussle by the Seriki Chiefs, said the Chiefs Law regulating the succession to the stool of Olubadan recognizes rotation to the stool between the Otun and Balogun lines, noting that the ascension to the throne is “stricly rotational”. He said, “The choice of the new Olubadan from the Balogun line is customary, traditional, legal and satisfied all legal provisions without legal incumberances. The council having presented him, I now approve this appointment. He is now the 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland. He is a famous

business tycoon and music recording guru discovering many talents sent across the world”. Oba Adetunji in his speech, said his priority is to ensure the actualization of Ibadan State which he insisted the city truly deserved. He also said part of his vision is to ensure that Ibadan Airport is giving a facelift to international standard. He said, “I give thanks to Almighty Allah, the government and the entire people of Ibadanland for crowning me as the 41st Olubadan of Ibadanland 40 years after I assumed the leadership of my clan and immediate environment as Mogaji. “My first promotion which made today possible came in 1978, when I was appointed Jagun Balogun. And I will do my utmost best for the peace, progress and development of Ibadanland and Nigeria in general.

Aregbesola to complete all ongoing road projects —PS BOladale BamigBOla OSOGBO.

espite experiencing dwindling revenue, Osun state governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola has allayed fear over many ongoing road projects his administration initiated. This was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary, state Ministry of Works, Mr. Nuru Adeagbo, after inspecting roads being constructed under Osun Rural Access and Mobility Project, O’RAMP. Adeagbo, who spoke in Osogbo yesterday while briefing journalists after inspecting all roads under construction through the programme, said Governor Aregbesola is working towards completing all projects his administration initiated, and even initiate new ones.

The Permanent Secretary, who is the chairman of the Osun Project Monitoring Committee, OSPMC, explained that 225kilometers rural road projects in Iwo and Ilesa regions of the state were inspected. Giving the breakdown of the projects, Adeagbo said 9 roads in Iwo, as well as 6 roads in Ilesa region were inspected, expressing satisfaction at the level of work done so far. He lauded the governor for allowing the World Bank to partner with Osun Rural Access and Mobility Project, O’RAMP, in the development of the rural roads. In his remarks, the coordinator for the project, Engr. Adelere Oriolowo, explained that work commenced on the roads in 2015 in rural areas across the state to enable farmers transport their farm produce without stress.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd left), with the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III; All Progressives Congress National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I and Minister of Communication, Alhaji Adebayo Shittu during the Coronation of the new Olubadan of Ibadanland , Oba Saliu Adetunji at the Mapo Hall, Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday, March 04, 2016.

Oyo NURTW boss reads riot act to commercial drivers Kemi Olaitan IBADAN

larmed by the rampant cases of kidnapping and criminal activities involving taxi cabs in Oyo State, the state Chairman of National Union of Road Transport Workers(NURTW), Alhaji Taofeek Ayorinde, has warned that it is now an offence for a motorist to use vehicle for commercial purposes without due registration or painting in

official colour as directed by the state government He gave the order while speaking with journalists shortly after a meeting he had with members of the road transport workers in the state, held at the state Secretariat, Olomi, Ibadan. He said reports of kidnapping by drivers for theft and rituals has reached the state executive of the union and that it is poised to rid itself of criminal elements. He said people in the state should look out for commercial vehicles with

official painting of white with blue stripes and as well report any suspicious activities to the police. According to him, though complaints are mostly on mini taxis commonly called Micra but attention of the union is also towards other vehicles especially those used for inter-state transport. He added that the new directives are in line with the effort of the state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, to rid the state of all criminal activities

in order to make peace reign. Oyerinde stated that official painting of commercial vehicles in the state enables the union to identify perpetrators of criminal acts and those coming from other states in the country. The NURTW boss maintained that the decision is already yielding positive results as a task force has so far arrested some defiant drivers who have been handed over to the state police command.

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NORTH

MARCH 5, 2016

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Don’t allow politicians meddle in creation of Nigerian Muslim chiefdoms, districts, Group cautions Lalong Forum in J a UK donates S books to UNIMAID ames JOS

Inusa ndahI MAIDUGURI

igerian Muslim Forum (NMF) in the United Kingdom has donated medical books and Journals to the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) to assist medical students and practitioners in their research and general pursuit of knowledge. The donation was done yesterday through Mohammed Bashir Shuwa a Trustee of the Forum at the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Professor Haruna Godowoli. Speaking at the occasion, Mohammed Bashir Shuwa said that Nigerian Muslims in the UK have made several donations of drugs to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) through the Support for Widows, Orphans and Tsangaya (SWOT) Foundation and other bodies that cater for the needy in the state. The Trustee also stated that the Forum, which comprises medical practitioners and students, have made donations of these books and journals that are very costly and not easily accessible to other institutions of learning across the country, and expressed the hope that more of such donations will be made in the future. Responding while receiving the books, Professor Godowoli expressed the gratitude of the University of Maiduguri, stressing that “this is the best thing that has happened to the University this week”. He said that as a former student in the United Kingdom, he knows what it means to make this great sacrifice of such valuable books which are very costly, and not easily accessible to Nigerian students. The Deputy Vice Chancellor also said that he was looking forward to receiving more of such assistance, pointing out that the donation is a great testimony to the concern which Nigerian Muslims in the UK has for their brothers at home.

braham

ocio-cultural organisations in Plateau State, Berom Educational and Cultural Organisation (BECO), and Anaguta Development Association, have lauded the efforts of Governor Simon Lalong in creating new chiefdoms, districts in the state. The groups however, urged the governor to be wary of the activities of self-seeking politicians, who they alleged want to capitalize on the exercise to cause confusion in the state. In a joint press statement signed by the President, Berom Educational and Cultural Organisation

(BECO), Da Ericson Fom and President, Anaguta Development Association, Mr. Yakubu Kankanni, and made available to journalists in Jos, after a stakeholders meeting of Anaguta and Berom in the state, the stakeholders condemned the call for the creation of an exclusive district in Jos for the benefit of the Hausas by a section of self-seeking politicians. According to the statement, the stakeholders said their attention has been drawn to a recent statement credited to one Alhaji Yahaya Kwande, who hails from Kwande District in Quan’Pan Local Government Area, allegedly clamouring for the creation of an exclusive district in Jos for the benefit

of the Hausa. The stakeholders view such a call as entirely unnecessary, given the fact that a government committee is already in place, adding that such zealous statements in their view can easily serve as gunpowder to the Hausa who may be seeking extra governmental means of achieving a long held dream. Parts of the statement reads: “What could be firing the interest of Alhaji Yahaya Kwande, who ordinarily should be concerned with pursuing his unrealized ambition of becoming the Long-kwo? From the cultural and traditional standpoint, Alhaji Kwande has no locus standi to make such a call.

“We appreciate that government is well aware that for the delineation of territories, creation of chiefdoms, districts and villages, land ownership and history have no substitutes. We believe in the capacity and impartiality of the committee to carry out its assignment, and should be allowed to carry it out to a logical conclusion. “It is in the candid opinion and advice of the Anaguta and Berom stakeholders that the relative peace currently being enjoyed in Jos should not be ruptured by reckless statements of individuals or groups, no matter how highly placed,” the statement reads.

L-R: General Manager, Kaduna State Urban Development Property Agency, Mrs Saratu Haruna; Director General, Kaduna Geographic Information System, Alhaji Ibrahim Hussaini and Special Assistant Onmedia and Publicity to the Governor of Kaduna State, Mr Ismaila Aruwa, during the Kaduna Geographic Information System News Conference on Government Land, in Kaduna , on Thursday.

Boko Haram: Channel North East rebuilding funds to NASENI, stakeholders tell Buhari Aza Msue, Kaduna Stakeholders have called on the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to channel North East funds to the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for rebuilding of the region. The call was part of the outcome of a roundtable discussion by The New Initiative for Credible Leadership and other NGOs in Kaduna to discuss ways of boosting economic development

in the north of the country as a way of growing the national economy. Speaking on the outcome of the roundtable meeting, the Executive Director of the organisation, Patriot Aminu Atonu urged President Muhammadu Buhari to use NASENI, which he said has now been properly upgraded by its current management, as a veritable tool in the rebuilding process of the North-east region that has been ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgency. Atonu said: “It is a good thing that the government

is thinking of winding down the training of ex-agitators abroad. The funds to be saved from winding down the Presidential Amnesty Programme should be channeled towards strengthening an agency like NASENI. “From the contributions of various speakers at the roundtable, we discovered that using such fund in NASENI can grow it into a world class institution for infrastructure that will convert what we presently see as our economic woes into Eldorado,’ he said. Atonu commended Pres-

ident Muhammadu Buhari over his decision to look inwards in solving the Boko Haram crisis, but said the decision can be further consolidated by gainfully employing youths into various manufacturing plants built around the products developed and promoted by NASENI. The workshop also called on the governments of northern states to see where they can key into Federal Government initiatives towards using employment creation as a tool for reducing the capacity of Boko Haram to get new recruits.

Court remands two suspected kidnappers in Kogi Wale IbrahIm LOKOJA

Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Lokoja has yesterday remanded a Fulani herdsman, Gambo Haruna, and a farmer, Hussaini Yahaya, in State Security Service (SSS) detention facilities over alleged theft, kidnap and collection of N7 million ransom. The Chief Magistrate, Alhassan Husaini, ordered the suspects to be remanded in his ruling on arraignment of the accused, one of whom also stole electronic appliances, and meat from a pot of stew. The prosecuting counsel, Mohammed Abaji, the accused along with others still at large allegedly kidnapped one Alhaji Wadere Jeje, a Fulani man in Obajana, and collected a ransom of N3 million in 2014 for his release. Abaji told the court that the gang equally kidnapped one Danfulani, a Security Guard at Federal University main site at Crusher, Lokoja, in 2015 and collected a N2 million ransom. The gang also allegedly kidnapped one Alhaji Habu from Gegu-Achara village, Koton-Karfe in Kogi Local Government Area of the state in December, 2015 and collected N2 million ransom. Abaji stated that luck ran out on the duo when the first accused, Gambo Haruna of Kasuwan-Ruwa, Nataco area of Lokoja broke into the shop of one Mrs. Balogun Olayinka at Oworo Estate, and was arrested by members of the vigilance group in the area. He was alleged to have stolen a half bag of rice, a VCD player and cooked meat inside the pot of soup from the shop, and was about to escape with the loot when the vigilance group apprehended him. According to the prosecution, investigation linked him with the second accused and the gang of kidnappers. They were charged with Criminal Conspiracy, Theft and Kidnapping contrary to sections 97(1), 287 of the Penal Code and Section 3 of Kogi State Kidnapping, Thuggery and other related offences (Prohibition) Law 2010. The prosecuting counsel said investigation into the case was in progress, and applied for another date for mention. Husaini, in his ruling ordered that the accused be remanded at the SSS detention facility in Lokoja and adjourned the matter to March 24, for further mention.

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

MARCH 5, 2016

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SOUTH EAST

Ebonyi declares Murder: Imo traditional ruler health emergency abandons palace, rules from exile after 3 Lassa fever deaths T Chris Njoku OWERRI

bonyi State Governor, David Umahi, has declared a state of emergency in the state’s health sector following a fresh outbreak of Lassa Fever in the state. The Secretary to the State Government, Ben Odoh, stated this at the end of a meeting of a special committee set up by the governor to combat the rampaging disease. The disease, it said, has so far claimed three lives out of the five confirmed cases. Also, the state has recorded 49 other suspected cases. Mr. Odoh said the state government was building

a diagnostic centre in the state to help in speedy response to cases. “Before now, samples were taken to Edo State for tests, but the governor has directed that we build a centre here at the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, and work has already started on the building. In fact, work is going on there day and night, and it should be ready in three weeks,” said Mr. Odoh. The SSG noted that a subcommittee had been mandated to source and procure all the equipment needed to get the centre up and running immediately the building is completed.

EFCC arrests Ebonyi Speaker for alleged N60 million fraud

he Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Ogbonnaya Francis Nwaifuru. Mr. Nwaifuru was picked up at about 11a.m. Friday at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, by operatives of the commission, after he ignored two previous invitations by the agency, the EFCC said in a statement. The EFCC said Mr. Nwaifuru was first invited on October 20, 2015 to appear before the Enugu zonal office of the commission, but did not respond to the invitation. A reminder letter was sent to him on November 19, 2015, which he also failed to respond to. The lawmaker, who is

representing Izzi West State Constituency in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, allegedly diverted and misappropriated N60 million constituency project fund before his emergence as speaker. As at press time, the speaker was still being grilled by operatives of the commission. As speaker, Mr. Nwaifuru has no constitutional immunity against prosecution under the Nigerian Constitution. His arrest came two days after operatives of the EFCC arrested three top officials of Imo State government for allegedly diverting N2 billion bailout fund given to the state by the Federal Government for payment of salary arrears of the state’s civil servants.

he traditional ruler of Umuapu Autonomous community, Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, HRH Eze Boniface Ihueze has abandoned his kingdom to self-exile following the murder of his brother, Joseph Ihueze. Although the traditional ruler has denied involvement in the killing of Joseph Ihueze, who was beaten to death last week Friday by angry mob for allegedly having hand in the sickness that plagued a Lagos-based businessman and a kinsman, Robert Ihueze, the deceased’s family members insisted that the royal father and ex-lawmaker, Hon. Luke Chukwu, have a case to answer in the gruesome murder. Narrating his experience, Eze Ihueze, who now rules his subjects from a hideout outside Imo State, said he abandoned his palace for fear of being killed as his life is now under serious threat following constant harassments by the deceased’s family. According to him, a team of armed men in army uniform stormed his palace last week

Friday, shot sporadically, and in the process killed two people and wounded one person before whisking two of his daughters away while he narrowly escaped through the back door. “I saw three cars with soldiers drove into my compound, and started shooting killing two people and wounding one person. They captured two of my daughters and drove out. I managed to escape to my in-law’s house to hide, and up till now, they are still looking for me,” he lamented. He disclosed that it was later he discovered that the deceased’s son, Kenneth Ihueze, hired the armed men to assassinate him. The Eze denied ever having a hand in the death of the deceased explaining that the late Joseph was killed as a result of mob action after being implicated through divination that he caused the sickness of Robert Ihueze, who was inflicted with strange swollen legs and protruded stomach. Robert Ihueze, he explained, who returned home for the Christmas period had promised to send some jobless youths abroad unaware that such moves did not go down well

with some of his kinsmen. “Two days later, Robert was down with strange illness of swollen legs and stomach. This angered the villagers, particularly the youths, who decided to consult Obiukwu, an oracle, to know what led to such sickness. Consequently, the deceased was implicated.” He said that late Joseph did not tell his children the truth, and pretended he was innocent, adding that the son therefore, went to Obiukwu to summon the villagers to exonerate his late father. “It was at the gathering that their father confessed of inflicting the disease on Robert.” Without listening to the Eze’s pleading, the youths marched to the late Joseph’s house burnt it down before stoning him to death. While maintaining his innocence, the royal father disclosed that before the unfortunate incident, he had written to the state government, security agencies including the Community Liaison Officer, CLO and ex lawmaker, Hon. Luke Chukwu, who incidentally is the Eze’s in-law for their intervention. He accused the deceased’s son, Kenneth Ihueze, and other

family members of plotting to eliminate him. “I do not have a hand in the death of their father,” he swore. But the deceased’s son, Kenneth Ihueze, accused the traditional ruler and the ex-lawmaker of conspiring to cause the event that led to the gruesome murder of his father. He said while in the ex- legislator’s house with the Eze, they tricked him and his siblings into believing that nothing would happen to their father being summoned on that fateful day before the youths of Umuapu by the Council of Elders over allegations of inflicting a kin’s man, Robert Ihueze. However, Kenneth alleged that while leaving the ex-lawmaker’s compound, he overheard the traditional ruler telling the youth leader to ensure that the “job is perfected” not knowing perfecting the job was killing of his father. But the ex-lawmaker, like the traditional ruler denied involvement in the murder saga, saying that his sin was that the traditional ruler ran into his house for safety, and he invited Kenneth to his house to ask him why he asked Obiukwu, the chief priest to summon the villagers.

L-R: The Managing Director, CAP Plc., Mrs. Omolara Elemide; The Vice-Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Mr. Rogba Orimalade; The President, Dulux Decorators Club (DDC), Mr. Sam Unwene and The Marketing Manager, CAP Plc., Mr. Dominic Oladeji during the Special Briefing of Professional Bodies on the 2016 Dulux Colour of the Year (Monarch Gold) held at the CAP Plc recently

Alleged diversion of bailout fund: Imo govt appointees on the run …As EFCC invites Okorocha

Chris Njoku OWERRI

mo State Governor, Rocha Okorocha, was yesterday summoned to Abuja by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the arrest of three principal officers of his government, who allegedly diverted N2 billion bailout fund given to the state by the Federal Government for payment of workers’ salary arrears. Sources close to Government House said the governor’s movement from Abuja

was not unconnected with the arrest of his aides. He disclosed that the alleged arrest “is creating tension in government circle.” The suspects arrested on Wednesday were: Principal Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Obi Paschal Chigozie, Director of Finance, Uzoho Casmir, and Treasurer, Iheoma Kenneth. The arrest is causing uneasy calm in the Government House as staff were seen in groups yesterday discussing the development. It was gathered that some top officials particularly in the office of the

Chief of Staff to the Governor, who feared they may be named in the deal are on the run. According to report, the suspects were arrested following investigations into the alleged diversion of the said money, which revealed that, the cashier had made cash withdrawal of N456.532 million between September 3, 2015 and October 10, 2015 from the Government House account domiciled in Zenith Bank. However, it was revealed that the said amount was given to an aide of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, follow-

ing approval and directive by the Principal Secretary to the Governor. Reacting, Commissioner for Information, Chidi Ibe, said the arrest was a rumour perpetrated by “enemies of the government.” Saturday Mirror recalls that last year, the sum of N4 million dollars, part of the bailout fund, was said to have been allegedly stolen by a Togolese housemaid in one of the governor’s aides’ apartment even though the state government denied it ever happened.

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FG projects 5,000 beneficiaries in Presidential Amnesty Programme

etired Brig.-Gen. Paul Boroh, the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, said on Friday in Warri that the Federal Government projected that 5,000 would benefit from the programme by the end of 2016. Boroh spoke during the official handing over of starter-packs to more than 70 beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Boroh said that more than 3,500 delegates had already benefited from the programme, adding that the development had saved the Federal Government over N3.5 billion. He commended President Muhammadu Buhari for sustaining the Programme and also allowed the phase-winding down of the programme, initiated by late President Umaru Yar’adua. `Ì feel accomplished to personally undertake this symbolic flagging off and implementation of the exit plan of beneficiaries from the Programme. `Às at today, over 3,500 trained delegates have exited the Programme, saving over N3.5 billion for the Federal Government. ``We shall continue with the exit Programme with projected figure of 5,000 beneficiaries by the close of the year,’’ he said. Boroh said the amnesty programme had substantially brought peace and stability to the Niger Delta region. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the 70 beneficiaries were given various items including generating sets, pieces of iron rods , paints, and bags of nails. Others were: PVC’s, binding wires, roofing sheets, head pans, wheel barrows, bags of cement, among others. Boroh who said they would be assisted to rent shops and enjoy taxi holidays, advised the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the items and to be agents of change. `Ì urged you to contribute to the commerce and wealth creation in the Niger Delta region,’’ he advised. Boroh commended Mr Samson Fetimi, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Glsssfa Continental Ltd for partnering the Federal Government in the vocational training programme, empowerment and business set-up.

SOUTH SOUTH

MARCH 5, 2016

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Rivers re-run: wike urges political leaders to resist arrest Dennis naku

PORT HARCOURT

head of the March 19 re-run elections for the State and National Assembly elections in Rivers State, Governor, Nyesom Wike has again alleged plans to arrest some of his appointees and political leaders. Others penciled for arrest according to the Governor include caretaker committee chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state, as well as top government functionaries. Wike however urged them to resist arrest on trump up charges from security agents allegedly detailed to destabilize the PDP before the elections. A statement issued by Simeon Nwakaudu, Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor on Electronic Media said his principal (Wike) got wind of security reports on the plot. The statement said, “The security information which revealed a directive by the Director General of the Department of State Service, DSS, to one Abdullah in the Rivers State Command to summarily

and illegally arrest PDP leaders, council Chairmen, political appointees and candidates of the PDP for the rerun elections. “The governor specifically directed that the mentioned party leaders,

political appointees and PDP candidates should not follow operatives of the DSS and other security agents to their offices under any guise. The statement added that the current security clamp down on Rivers

State was part of the plot to rig the forthcoming rerun elections which he said will fail. The governor directed all PDP leaders, Caretaker Committee Chairmen, political appointees and candidates for the rerun elec-

tions to remain vigilant in the days ahead as security agencies will be used to intimidate them. He said the people of Rivers State will not allow anyone to use the security agencies under any guise to rig the forthcoming rerun elections in the state.

Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson (centre), briefing a cross section of Journalists, shortly after meeting with 14 yearold Ese Oruru, who was abducted in Yenagoa 6 months ago and taken to Kano and her Parents, Mrs Rose Oruru and her husband, Mr. Oruru (right), on Ese’s return to Yenagoa, at Government House,Yenagoa on Thursday.

‘We will swim and sink with Ayade and PDP’ RichaRD nDoma CALABAR

embers of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Utugwang North Ward of Obudu Local government Area of Cross River state have pledged their unalloyed and un-deviated support and commitment to the pragmatic leadership of the Governor of the state, Senator Prof. Benedict Benyaushuye Ayade. Arising from the well-attended stakeholders Ward meeting of February 13, 2016, at Ukwutia, Utugwang North, coordinated by a onetime Vice Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon Eliom G. Ushie the party members asserted that the their loyalty is 100 percent for the visionary gover-

nor of the state, Governor Ayade and strongly vowed that they will float safely, swim against the tides and even sink if it come to that point with Ayade and the People’s Democratic party (PDP). The stakeholders meeting also felicitates Governor Ayade on his victory at the polls and their profound gratitude to the governor for appointing sons of the Ward, Hon. Patrick Achu, Commissioner, State Civil Service commission, Mr. Ebe Idagwu, Board member 1, State Secondary Education Board, Mr. Rufus Awu, Member, State Commercial Regulatory Agency and Solomon Asha, Media Aide to Governor Ayade. In the same vein, the Utugwang North Ward members assured that

the Ward was intact for Ayade and PDP while asking for more appointment slots to be given to sons and daughters of the ward. “The overwhelming victory and popular mandate given to you is a clear mark of your acceptability by the good people of Cross river sate. We have equally watched with keen interest that in less than one year in office, you have left indelible footprints as the people’s governor through your people-oriented policies, projects and programmes”. “Within eight months in office, you have proven to all Cross Riverians that you came to office with an unquenchable vision and desire to transform the state economically and industrially and place economic pow-

ers in the hands of Cross Riverians. This clearly shown by the very ambitious, mind-bulking but realistic ongoing projects including the signature projects (the deep seaport and the super highway), pharmaceutical company, Rice city, haulage city, other planned projects such as transforming waste to wealth initiative, attraction of investors and foreign funds to the state and prompt payment of workers’ salaries among others”, The PDP stakeholders, Utugwang North were unanimous in their stand to remain committed in support of PDP and in their resolve to deliver the ward to PDP in subsequent elections. They also congratulate the Governor on his 48th Birth Day and prayed God to favour him with many more de-

cades of robust health, knowledge, wisdom and understand to continue to provide good governance to the people of Cross River state in the present responsibility and in the future. The Utugwang North PDP stakeholders meeting coordinated by Eliom G. Ushie also included other ward figures such as Hon. Mrs. Josephine Banku Ushie, Vice Chairman, Obudu, Hon. Lady Cecilia Ally, former Elected Chairman, Obudu, Hon. Denis Etionbie, Councilor, Utugwang North, Hon. Sunday Atadu Inyali, former Ward Councilor, Hon. Odey Michael Akobi, Former Councilor, Hon. Elimebe Achichie, the Former Supervisor for education, and Mr. Adah Peter Adah, PDP Ward Secretary, among others.

Saturday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

MARCH 5, 2016

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

PAGE

Zimbabwe’s Mugabe won’t pick successor, wants to live to 100

imbabwe’s President, Robert Mugabe, says his successor must be chosen democratically and that his wife would not automatically inherit the role. He said on Monday in Harare that this was a serious warning to feuding members of the ZANU-PF party and that he was still in charge after 36 years in power. “Why successor, I am still there. Why do you want a successor, I did not say I am a candidate to retire. Leaders were elected not appointed. “In a democratic party, you don’t want leaders appointed that way to lead the party. They have to be appointed properly by the people, at a gathering of the people, at a congress,” he said. Mugabe said he was not behind his wife Grace’s quick rise within ZANU-PF, which has led to reports that she has plans to succeed her husband. “Others say the president wants to leave the throne for his wife. Where have you ever seen that, even in our own culture, where a wife inherits from her husband? The former liberation fighter was chosen in 2014 to lead his party for another five years, automatically becoming the ZANU-PF presidential candidate for Zimbabwe’s 2018 presidential vote. He will be 99 if he wins and completes that term, his last under a new constitution. Mugabe said he wanted to live to 100, and that he was fit and still did daily morning exercises. “I am happy because I am about to reach the age I want. You know the age I want to reach – 100 years. So only eight years remaining. Zimbabweans follow his health with keen interest and some fear

the government could be paralysed and the country raven by instability, if he dies with-

out resolving the succession issue. Fighting over leadership of a post-Mug-

abe ZANU-PF, has intensified since late 2014, when Mugabe accused his deputy, Joice

Mugabe said MujuMujuru, of plotting to ru’s party was doomed oust him and fired her. to fail and that ZAMujuru is expected NU-PF was still intact. to launch a new political party this week.

Mugabe

Pope answers gang member’s letter

onvicted juvenile Carlos Adrian Vazquez Jr. lost the will to live at age 16 as he began serving an 11-year sentence for involuntary manslaughter. Then he wrote a letter to Pope Francis. “I asked for forgiveness for what I did,” Vazquez told CNN en Español in an interview inside juvenile jail. To his surprise, the Pontiff wrote back. “Dear Carlos,” the Pope wrote, “May the peace of Jesus Christ be with you! I was pleased to receive your recent letter. ...” The youth was stunned. “I couldn’t believe it. I didn’t think the Pope would write to someone who’s behind bars,” said Vazquez, now 18. The Pope’s letter continued. He spoke of “a Holy Door to Mercy” being opened at the juvenile jail, in a ceremony led by the Los Angeles archbishop. “I pray that as you and your fellow residents celebrate the opening of

the Holy Door, you may receive these gifts and be filled with peace and hope,” the Pope wrote. “Know that the Holy Father is thinking of you and praying for you. And please remember to pray for me, because I greatly need your prayers.” The exchange of letters is the latest example of the Pope’s new mission of mercy. He has been reaching out to juvenile and adult inmates as part of his Jubilee of Mercy this year.

Francis also demonstrated such compassion with inmates during his recent trip to Mexico, where one prisoner in Ciudad Juarez gave him a wooden carving of the crucifixion. In 2013, Francis also washed the feet of prisoners, including women, in Rome and urged worshipers “to take the first steps towards ... those who are farthest from us, those who are forgotten, those who need understanding, consolation and assis-

tance.” Deeply touched by the Pope’s January 21 letter, Vazquez no longer wants to end his life, he says. “It gave me a lot of hope knowing that there are people like the Pope who still have not given up on us. I know I’ve made mistakes and have hurt people, but what I learned in my two years and five months I’ve been imprisoned, I didn’t know I was hurting people and that I was hurting myself, too,” Vazquez said. He expressed regret for

his crime. “Yes, because of the people I hurt, but I have to fall to learn how to get up,” he said. He also wrote a letter to the slain victim’s family. “I ask them to forgive me and told them no words would ever give them back the life I destroyed, but I hope one day they can forgive me for my actions and now I just ask for forgiveness and I want to live the life that my victim didn’t have a chance to live and be good,” he said.

Drugs, near-drowning led to Bobbi Kristina Brown’s death

rug intoxication and immersion in a bathtub of water led to Bobbi Kristina Brown’s death months later from pneumonia and brain damage, a Georgia medical examiner said Friday after a judge allowed him to release the findings. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office said it could not say whether the 2015 death of pop icon Whitney Houston’s daughter was

an accident - or something else.. Emergency crews found Brown unresponsive in her suburban Atlanta home in January 2015, and she died at a hospice in July at age 22, having never regained consciousness. The medical examiner’s office said it found several drugs in Brown’s system, including marijuana, alcohol, a cocaine byproduct, medications that sedate people and

treat anxiety and morphine. The office said it couldn’t tell whether the morphine was a sign of heroin use. Heroin metabolizes to morphine. The findings -- released on what would have been her 23rd birthday -- strengthen an eerie link between the deaths of Brown and her pop icon mother three years earlier. Whitney Houston, in 2012, was found dead face-down in a tub of water -- a death ruled

as an accidental drowning, complicated by cocaine use. Brown’s father, singer Bobby Brown, expressed displeasure at Friday’s release of his daughter’s autopsy information. “First and foremost, 23 years ago today, Bobbi Kristina was born. Krissy will always live in my heart and soul,” Bobby Brown said in a statement released by his lawyer. “I love my baby girl.

BACK “The action of Yunusa is a criminal offence. So, he must be prosecuted in accordance PAGE with the law of the land..”— Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone I,

Quote of the day

Kano, Shuaibu Gambo, while reacting to the abduction saga of Ese Oruru who was abducted by Yunusa Yello.

Saturday, March 5, 2016. www.nationnationalmirroronline.net

Nigeria and collapse of Pyramid of Trust

ho can be trusted in Nigeria? Do the people trust the government? And does the government trust the people to perform their civic responsibilities? Where is trust? When did we lose it? And when will it come back to our national lives? Can the electorate trust the politicians and can the politicians trust the electorate for one more vote? Can the private sector trust the government and can the government trust the private sector? Do workers trust their employers and do employers trust their workers? Can the church trust their members to be Christ-like? Can church members be trusted with issues of praxis of behaviour and holiness? And do members trust the church? Can they trust that there is any benefit in giving their tithes and offerings? Even in matrimonial issues, trust plays high. The pertinent question here is: Can spouses trust one another in their agreed covenant of holy matrimony? Does the wife trust the husband or is she just playing along? And can the husband trust the wife? Who can say with certainty that all is well with trust? What is trust? Certainly an expected, irretraceable commitment between two people to the performance of an act. Trust flows from the people to the government, such that men and women who constitute gov-

CFR

TrusT flows from The people To The governmenT, such ThaT men and women who consTiTuTe governmenT can be TrusTed To use The Tax paid by ciTizens To provide social service aT all levels ernment can be trusted to use the tax paid by citizens to provide social service delivery at all levels. Commitment flows from government to the people that government will protect them in peace and in crises. Commitment flows from the employee to the employer that, for instance, if I work for you until the age of retirement, and I so work faithfully without stealing, you are committed to the payment of my pension continuously and forever. The question is: Who is working faithfully without taking bribe and stealing in Nigeria today? Who is working without

making provision for his tomorrow as if the pension will not come? If you are not working faithfully, then you need no reward! There may be reason why you are not working faithfully, but you have paid yourself by breaching the trust, the commitment. The pyramid of trust flows from people to authority, and where there is no trust, there is no law. Government spends a lot of time and resources on enforcement of laws which ordinarily should be voluntarily complied with. In such situation, the judiciary will work more and the

prison will demand more resources to feed convicted persons. What developed countries enjoy today is that high level of trust from the citizen. When the government is not performing, there are established limitations to non compliance with laws and non implementation of the commitment to trust. Developing countries can only make impact if governments start to work on how to bring back the lost trust between citizens and government. For how much can anyone trust government on wicked problems such as lack of employment, deficit balance of payment, insurgency, respect for rule of law, and protection of citizens and their properties? The level of loyalty that government expects from us is measured by how much we can trust government. And without citizen loyalty, government has no place to draw down legitimacy, especially in times of need. What went wrong is the collapse of the pyramid of trust. No one trusts the other. This needs to be arrested immediately if we are to move the nation forward. We must borrow from the Swedish government before things go irredeemably bad! There is clear evidence that it is not only individuals that can fail. Nations do fail! Now, who is that individual that can succeed in a failed nation?

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