Sunday, August 12, 2012 by GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LIMITED

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Ex-governors: Prosecution in limbo?

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Adebanjo slams Akande: You are a political neophyte Says ACN chairman was brought to political relevance by late Bola Ige www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vol. 2 No. 35

N150

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Forget 2015 presidency, Kaita, Tofa tell Ndigbo P. 7

We won’t compromise again – Northern leaders DEADLY DISCOVERIES

Arms, ammunition and army uniforms discovered by the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Kano yesterday.

Again, arms, explosives factory discovered

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10 feared dead, 100 houses destroyed in Benue communal clash P. 9

One killed, 200 houses ravaged in Plateau flood News

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Jonathan’s critics can’t perform any better – Prophet Samuel

153 die, 1300 injured as Earthquake hits Iran

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Sunday, August 12, 2012

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Big Read SUNDAY SPECIAL INVESTIGATION

AUGUST 12, 2012

Turaki

Odili

Kalu

Fayose

Adamu

Dariye

Ex-governors: Prosecution in limbo Ijaw leader and former Minister of Information, Chief Edwin Clark, stirred a hornet’s nest last week. It was at a lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) when he took on the anti-corruption agencies and the federal government on the fight against corruption. He wondered why there had not been any conclusion on the prosecution of ex-governors accused of misappropriating their people’s wealth. Head, Special Investigations, Isioma Madike, in this report, takes a look at the issue, the accusations and why it has been difficult to prosecute these former governors

t was on Wednesday, August1, that elder statesman and prominent Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, spoke what appears to be the mind of many Nigerians on the vexed issue of corruption and corrupt politician. Speaking as a guest lecturer at the 2nd State of the Federation lecture organised by the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) in

Abuja, Clark listed those he said must be prosecuted without further delay by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Relying on the EFCC statistics, Clark listed those he referred to as “big thieves” as James Ibori of Delta State, Senator Saminu Turaki, Jigawa, Dr. Peter Odili, Rivers, Joshua Dariye, Plateau, and Michael Botmang, who acted briefly as governor

PROSECUTION HAS TAKEN TOO LONG – YUSUF ALI, SAN

of Plateau State, Boni Haruna, Adamawa, and Rasheed Ladoja of Oyo State. Others are Jolly Nyame of Taraba, Attahiru Bafarawa, Sokoto, Adamu Abdullahi, Nasarawa, Lucky Igbinedion, Edo, Ayo Fayose, Ekiti, Chimaroke Nnamani, Enugu, and Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia State. The other two were former ministers of Aviation, Chief Femi FaniKayode and Babalola Borishade. They were the governors of the fourth Republic, who were in charge between 1999 and 2003 and were among the 52 politicians the EFCC said looted over N243bn during their tenure as governors of their respective states. Clark may not be alone in his observation of delayed justice as the EFCC zeal at prosecuting these politicians, in the eyes of many, appears to have died down. The commission, many believe, suddenly lost steam or so it seems, especially since Nuhu Ribadu, its erstwhile chairman, who instituted the cases against these govCONTINUED ON PAGE 4

‘PRESIDENT JONATHAN IS EVOLVING PLAN TO FIGHT CORRUPTION’

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Prosecution has taken too long – Yusuf Ali, SAN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 ernors was removed. This was to be expected. Ribadu’s appetite for hunting economic and financial criminals was large and so his obsession for their punishment. He retained this image of a dreaded enforcer till the end of his reign and made sure there was no safe haven for those he considered had looted the treasury of their states even as he breathed down heavily on them. According to a Lagos lawyer, Emeka Obi of Momah and Momah chambers in Ijaiye-Ogba, “it was easy to notice that Ribadu was working at crossroad; that was why the war against graft in the country lost bite after him.” Some informed opinions had before now insinuated also that the premature retirement of Ribadu was a calculated attempt by the powers that be to stall the high profile cases. An official of the anti-graft commission, who does not want his name mentioned, told this reporter that the government at the time took a decision to shield the former governors as well as high-ranking public official from the long arm of the law. This, the official said, angered Ribadu, who felt disappointed at the turn of events. He had made a promise to lay down his life to see through the cases of former governors already before the court even if he does not prosecute new ones. For him, all the work that he and his lieutenants did would come to naught if the commission fails to successfully prosecute the cases. Apart from the passion on pursuing the ex-governors’ cases to its logical conclusion, the evidence of the monumental looting they perpetuated and the impact such loot would have made on the states if they were recovered, would have been enormous. But, little did the anti-graft czar know that the orchestrated fight against corruption and corrupt politicians was all politics. A political scientist and public affairs commentator, Mallam Ahmed Jaji, alleges that the then government was more interested in making a show of the “thieving” politicians than recovering the money they stole or bringing them to justice. According to him, “the government was content at provoking the sensibility of Nigerians while it chased shadows. That is why we are where we are today.” However, the EFCC spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, in a telephone interview with Sunday Mirror claimed that those accusing the commission of abandoning the case files of corrupt politicians and governors do so out of ignorance. He said the anti-graft agency has done so much and had taken those high profile cases to court to determine. “It is difficult to say anything on cases that are being handled by courts of law; doing so will amount to undermining the powers of those courts. We are all aware that many of the cases have reached various stages at the courts of law and they are ongoing,” he stated, noting with sadness the slow pace at which some of the cases are being handled. He regretted that in spite of the commission’s efforts to change the mindset of Nigeria that culprits are gradually facing the law, corruption seems to pervade all facets of the economy. Uwujaren, however, assured that EFCC is working towards strengthening its fight. “You know EFCC is still very young. When you consider what we have been able to do over the years, you will know that we are really working. But, it is unfortunate that corruption is still a major problem in the country. We cannot fight this scourge alone; it requires the efforts of all members of the public. We are sincerely appealing to Nigerians to join in the fight and see that this problem is defeated,” he said. The EFCC spokesperson had earlier on Friday April 27, said that EFCC secured a landmark victory in its suit against Kalu at the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, when the panel of three justices led by Justice Ejembi Eko, struck out the appeal by the former governor and his company Slok Nigeria. The EFCC had arraigned Kalu before an Abuja High court on a 107-count charge of money laundering, official corruption and criminal diversion of public funds totaling over N5 billion on July 27, 2007. The appellants, Uwujaren said, had approached the appellate court to set aside

Clark

Ribadu

Aondoakaa

the ruling of the Federal High Court that the former governor had a case to answer. Some issues raised for determination by Kalu’s counsel, Awa Kalu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) included the declaration by the appeal court that the appellants were arraigned on non-existent law and that the proof of evidence did not disclose a prima facie case against the appellants. But, in a unanimous ruling read by Justice Eko on behalf of Justices Kayode Bada and Regina Nwodo, the appellate court resolved all the grounds of appeal in favour of the respondent and dismissed the appeal for lack of merit. Kalu was arrested soon after he returned from London to Abuja in 2007. He was scheduled to meet with Yar’Adua on the desire of his party, Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) to join the “Government of National Unity (GNU)” being put in place by the then President. He had, before then, gone to the Supreme Court to challenge the competence of the 107-count criminal charge preferred against him by the EFCC and got reprieve as it were. Kalu contended that the Abuja Division of the Appeal Court miscarried justice against him by giving the anti-graft agency the nod to prosecute him over allegations he said were baseless. In the case of former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, the commission had earlier on Wednesday, October 19, 2011, accused the ex-governor, who was supposed to be standing trial on an 80-count charge bordering on corruption and money laundering, of delayed tactics and antics to frustrate his trial. His refusal to allow trial to proceed owing to an application brought

before the court seeking the quashing of the charges preferred against his co-accused persons – Spotless Investment Limited, Fayerio Nigeria Limited and Hoff Concept Ltd was also seen as a deliberate attempt to perpetually prolong his trial. These antics have worked thus far as Fayose remains a free man till date. He was arraigned over diversion of N1.3billion meant for the state while he was in office. Kunle Kalejaiye, counsel to Fayose exploited some loopholes to make sure that the case with number, FHC/L/179c/2006, instituted before Justice Emmanuel Obile of the Federal High Court, Ado-Ekiti, died a natural death. Though five of his colleagues were charged with embezzlement as they lost immunity from prosecution when their terms ended in May, 2003, the case against Odili, former governor of Nigeria‘s richest oil state’s wealth and influence, made him an exceptionally big target. The Rivers State’s annual income had ballooned to well over $1 billion during his time in office because of the rising oil prices, yet human rights groups said the windfall was not benefited by the impoverished people who made up the majority of the population. “The former governor was buying time,” said James Binang, a lawyer who represented the EFCC. At the end of it all, Justice Ibrahim N. Buba of the Federal High Court judge in Port Harcourt gave a perpetual injunction stopping Nigerian security agencies including the EFCC from investigating Odili for corruption charges. The courts have also been blamed for fostering the impunity enjoyed by the political elite. “In the context CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The Big Read

Sunday, August 12, 2012

We are sad at the slow pace of prosecution – EFCC Wilson Uwujaren is the spokesperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He tells Correspondent, Marcus Fatunmole, in Abuja that the commission is resolute in ensuring that the scourge, corruption, is defeated in Nigeria, in spite of skepticisms. What would you say is responsible for the delay in the prosecution of corruption charges against ex-governors and other high placed politicians? The various case files are with the courts and it is difficult to say anything on cases that are being handled by courts of law; doing so will amount to undermining the powers of those courts. We are all aware that many of the cases have reached various stages at the courts of law and they are ongoing. However, the commission is sad over the slow pace at which some of the cases are being handled. Would it be right then to heap the blame on the country’s judicial system? I cannot comment on that. The media and the public have to provide answer to that. You go and find out what the courts are doing about the cases before them. Better still, ask the lawyers representing those their cases are in court. Does that mean the EFCC is subjected to undue pressure from power heavyweights, political associates and those with the wherewithal in the land to impede the commission’s drive for speedy prosecution of the suspects? Again, it is not for me to say. Nonetheless, the commission is resolute in

ensuring that the scourge, corruption, is defeated in Nigeria. You know the EFCC is still very young. When you consider what we have been able to do over the years, you will know that we are really working. Incidentally, corruption remains a major problem in the country. That is why we are calling on every Nigerians to join the band of fighters against corruption, which is increasing by the day. The war is not for EFCC alone; it is for everybody. We cannot fight this scourge alone; it requires the efforts of all members of the public. We are sincerely appealing to Nigerians to join in the fight and see that this problem is defeated. What are the commission’s operations like? The EFCC does not just descend on anyone and claims the person has engaged in one financial crime or the other. No! People could write petition to the commission and we could also find out individuals or association involved in a particular crime on our own. When any of these happen, the commission investigates immediately. At the end of the investigation, if there are genuine facts showing that crime was truly committed, we prosecute. The court attends to the cases based on the evidence

EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Larmode

presented before it. However, it has been observed that despite efforts by the commission to change the mindset of Nigeria and ensure culprits are brought to book, corruption seems to pervade all facets of the economy. But, the commission would strengthen up its fight.

What are the major challenges before the commission? Well, there is the problem of staff shortage; it is a major challenge to the EFCC. It might interest Nigerians to know that the commission has about 3000 staff and that is insufficient to cover over 150 million people.

Courts blamed for fostering impunity enjoyed by political elite

Ibori

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 of Nigerian law there is no basis for this sort of injunction. The Supreme Court had ruled that you cannot stop a law enforcement agency from investigating anybody,” said Lilian Ekeanyanwu of the Zero Corruption Coalition. Human Rights Watch said in a report that Rivers State under Odili had squandered its oil revenues. It cited the state budget for 2006, which provided $24 million to cover transport costs for the governor’s office alone as a case in point. Several other ex-governors had obtained similar court orders, which muddled and delayed trials. Turaki was not an exception. Many had thought, though erroneously that Turaki’s arrest marked the beginning of a serious clampdown on former governors, who engaged in the looting of their respective state treasuries. But, they were wrong. The former Jigawa State governor, after the arrest, went on to become a federal senator. He was alleged to have taken a $100m facility from Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) Plc, which was secured with ISPO against monthly allocation from federation account. He was said to have used the facility to finance the development of three oil fields allegedly given to him by a former president. He left behind debt obligations of $1b for Jigawa State. His investments are alleged to exist in countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Libya, Dubai and Singapore. Before becoming a governor and later sena-

tor, Turaki was also said to have been a money laundering front for former dictator, General Sani Abacha. Dariye is in that fashion too. He was charged by EFCC for a N700m Fraud, but went on a free man. Many, who thought that the charge would intensify efforts at bringing the former Plateau State Governor to book over alleged financial impropriety, were disappointed as nothing came out of the allegation till date. Ibori’s, case, which the anti-graft agency linked over $5 million in corruption proceeds to him, was more intriguing. He was set free in all charges in Nigeria until a 13-year jail term was handed down to the former Delta State governor by a Southwark Crown Court in London late last year. Many described his sentence in London as a big shame to EFCC for failing to prosecute him. Mrs. Farida Waziri, who succeeded Ribadu, had made a show of the arrests and trials of these governors when in July, 2009. She handed over to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), names of those alleged “thieves” she referred to as politically revered people in the international community. She called it the commission’s strategic partnership to intensify the fight against corruption in the country. According to her, “it was a way of reassuring Nigerians that the agency meant business. We would not leave any stone unturned at bringing those who had robbed the country of colossal sum to book.” The list contained names CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

The Big Read

Nyame

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Fani-Kayode

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Haruna

Amount ex-governors, others allegedly misappropriated Saminu Turaki

Borishade

N36 billion

Jigawa State

Rasheed Ladoja

N6 billion

Oyo State

Babalola Borishade

N5.6 billion

Minister of Aviation

Chimaroke Nnamani

N5.3 billion

Enugu State

Orji Uzor Kalu

N5 billion

Abia State

Michael Botmang

N1.5 billion

acting Gov (Plateau State)

Femi-Fani-Kayode

N250 million

Minister of Aviation

Jolly Nyame

N180 million

Taraba State

Boni Haruna

N93 million

Adamawa State

Joshua Dariye

(amount not stated)

Plateau State

Ayo Fayose

N1.2billion

Ekiti State

James Ibori

(over a billion dollars)

Delta State

Dr. Peter Odili

N100 billion

Rivers State

Adamu Abdullahi

(not stated)

Nasarawa State

Nnamani

‘President Jonathan is evolving plan to fight corruption’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 of well-known politicians, former governors, ministers, permanent secretaries, civil servants, chairmen and members of parastatals agencies, local government chairmen, members of the House of Representatives and senators. Tagged “ongoing high profile cases” by the commission, all the listed cases were said by Waziri to be in court in the different parts of the country. “While 11 were instituted and handed over by the former EFCC chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the commission commenced 22 of the cases. The 56 alleged looters were taken to court under 33 high-profile cases and 33 of them have been granted bail by the court under various circumstances, while 19 were remanded in prison custody. Two of them have been convicted; charges have been filed against one but the suspect has refused to put in appearance in court, while court judgment is currently under review in one of the cases,” she said. Incidentally, none was completed and no one jailed before she left the agency. But, no one was amused by her explanations and excuses. For instance, Nkereuwem Udofia Akpan, an Abuja-based constitutional Lawyer and Human/Gender Rights Activist believes that if the agency under Waziri was serious about getting these cases sorted out, it would have done that before leaving that office. He also noted that if Ribadu was allowed to finish what he started and government having the will to back him up, “this noise about corruption and corrupt politicians would have subsided by now. We would have gone a step further in winning the fight. If the EFCC is eager to fight this war, it should set example by jailing one or two former governors.” Yet, a legal luminary, Yusuf Ali, SAN lent his voice by stating that the apprehensions by the public over the faith of the cases in question are not misplaced because, according to him, the time frame for disposing of those cases has taken too long. “Though, I wouldn’t want to speculate but

clearly there are so many issues here. However, let’s look at two first: the court process in this part of the world and the seriousness of the anti-graft agency to follow up the cases logically. The questions one could ask here should be whether the EFCC has done its assignment properly. Has the agency appeared at every hearing and filed the charges properly? I am aware that the commission has taken some of these cases to court. If the agency has done the proper thing in court, then people should exercise patience,” he said. The peoples’ fear first manifested in the administration of late Umaru Yar’Adua administration. The then Attorney General of the Federation, Michael Aondoakaa, had stepped up what was seen by many as bizarre efforts to help former governors evade prosecution for their money laundering and other corrupt activities. Ibori was more prominent among them as well as Odili, who filed a suit on February 22, 2007 challenging the powers of the EFCC to probe his administration in Rivers State. The lawsuit, Number FHC/PH/CS/78/07 was akin to the one filed by the then Delta State government to protect Ibori. However, Odili’s suit took place quietly and was rarely reported by the media. Aondoakaa appeared ready to hand victory to Odili, using technical loopholes. While Odili’s case was filed against the office of the Attorney General as the first respondent, the EFCC was joined as second respondent. But, the Attorney General’s office refused to file any defense in court. “Aondoakaa’s refusal to file a defence is tantamount to telling the court that Odili’s prayers are not only legally sound but also unassailable and that the case was weak and wishy washy,” said a lawyer familiar with the case. As part of the deal, the attorney general allegedly advised the embattled former governors to shop for “soft” judges who could issue them injunctions and favorable judgments. He then pledged that he would use the injunctions as an excuse to frustrate their prosecution by claim-

ing that the administration was a respecter of the rule of law. Kalu, Ibori and Odili benefited from the deal. It was learnt that Aondoakaa acted under the direction of his principal to protect former governors accused of money laundering and graft. Odili, a physician by training, was accused of diverting billions of naira of Rivers State funds to his own use, according to investigatory reports issued by the EFCC. Meanwhile, investigation by our correspondent revealed that the more than 77 high-profile cases, including those of the ex-governors and two ministers, pending in various courts in the last four years, would soon be revisited. It was, however, learnt that the Federal Government, through the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, is proposing far-reaching judicial reforms on how to fast-track the trial of these ex-governors and other politically exposed persons. A reliable Presidency source, who spoke in confidence, said “President Goodluck Jonathan is evolving a grand plan to fight corruption. He has given directive to the relevant ministries and agencies in the executive arm to relate with the judiciary on how to fast-track the trial of all the ex-governors and former ministers already arraigned in court by the EFCC and Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC). Without interfering, the President is seeking judicial reforms that will ensure quick dispensation of justice. The coming judicial reforms will not only address the backlog of cases, but, a committee to look into the conduct and integrity of judges is under way. There is need to cleanse the judiciary too like the case with other sectors.” In all these, to say the ex-governors have disappointed their long-suffering people would be an understatement. When they were sworn-in, they promised heaven and earth. One wonders what became of these promises after their tenure. And as the situation stands today, it is unlikely that anything would come out of the allegations made against them.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NEWS

Sunday August 12, 2012

Forget 2015 presidency, Kaita, Tofa tell Ndigbo meetings both in the country and outside its shores, on how to ensure that the South East produces the nation’s president by 2015. Notable among such groups is Ohaneze Ndigbo, led by its President-General, Ambassador Ralph Uwechue. Others include Igbozurume, a socio-political organisation led by Col. Joe Achuzie (rtd), and another group, C-21, led by its president, Senator Annie Okonkwo. The agitation of the groups, among others, is that the South East geopolitical zone has not produced the nation’s president since the end of the civil war in 1971, despite its immense contribution to

he aspiration of the South East geo-political zone to produce the president in the country in 2015 might not be an easy task after all, going by statements emanating from leaders in the North. A former governor of old Kaduna State, Alhaji Lawan Kaita and Alhaji Bashir Tofa, former presidential candidate of the National Republican Convention (NRC) in the 1993 election and chieftain of All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) have dismissed the ambition of Ohaneze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo’s socio-political group,

describing it as “mere wishful thinking.” Kaita told Sunday Mirror in a telephone interview that the region would not be shortchanged again after what it passed through in 2011 election that produced President Goodluck Jonathan. The northern leader and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain is among notable elders in the region that are angered by the emergence of a southerner in the 2011 presidential race, as against the party’s zoning policy which, he said, should have favoured the North. Currently, notable Igbo political and socio-political groups have been holding

AYO ESAN

Adebanjo slams Akande

AUGUSTINE MADU, -WEST

chieftain of the panYoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has chastised the national chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) , Chief Bisi Akande, for calling him a fake Awoist, saying Akande is not in any way qualified to define who a true Awoist is. In a statement he issued in Lagos, a copy of which was made available to Sunday Mirror, Adebanjo said he would have ignored Akande if the latter had confined his criticism of him to the usual, “Adebanjo is not a political asset because I have never contested any election in this country.” He said he had chosen to ignore Akande for “the fact that he (Akande) is too junior to me politically.” I would have ignored him and would not have bothered to dignify his ignorance and ill-informed statement which has become his singsong criticism of me without any response”. He said he decided to respond “when he opened his mouth so wide to call me his political leader who was the chairman of the party AD (Alliance for Democracy) on whose platform he contested and won the election to become the governor of Osun State in 1999-2003 a fake Awoist. “The pastime criticism of me by Chief Bisi Akande is that I have no electoral value and that I have never contested and won an election. If this is the criteria of judging an “Awoist” from the eyes of Chief Bisi AKande , I plead I am happy to be in the

the socio-political development of the country. Last Thursday, former National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo, while canvassing for the emergence of a president from the South East in 2015, noted that no tribe has more justification than the Igbo to ask for the presidency in 2015, adding that Igbo have the qualification. He spoke at the meeting of Igbo leaders in Enugu. He equally revealed that an allIgbo political summit would hold in November to launch the campaign for a president from the South East. Also in one of the meetings of Ohanaeze in Enugu recently, Ezeife noted: “We have said that Igbo Nigerian president is important to

You are a political neophyte •Says ACN chairman was brought to political relevance by late Ige

us and we must pray to God to get it. Igbo should play a game of cooperation, not competition. We are super qualified for the presidency but we will be organised to achieve it.

“This time around, we are going to cooperate, all Igbo must go for campaign in all the tribes in the country to tell them what we want.’’ Echoing the ex-governor’s position, Achuzie last week disclosed, “It must be the turn of Igbo to occupy Aso Rock at the end of Jonathan’s tenure. Even though Jonathan still has the right to re-contest after 2015 by virtue of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ndigbo must not allow the chance to pass

Southern leaders spit fire over Kogi killings AYO ESAN (LAGOS) AND DENNIS AGBO (ENUGU)

Ambassador of South Korea to Nigeria, Mr Choi Jong Hyun; Minister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Ibukun Odusote, during the signing of agreement on Cultural and Educational Cooperation between Federal Republic of Nigeria and the GovernPHOTO:ROTIMI OSASONA ment of the Republic of South Korea, in Abuja yesterday

good company of past leaders of the party like Chief S.O Shonibare (one of the founders of the A.G) Chief Alfred Rewane, Chief S.O Lanlehin, Dr.J Akanni Doherty, Chief Ladipo Amose, all of blessed memory, who laboured faithfully to popularise the Action Group with the philosophy of Awoism and never contested election”, he said. “But let me state for the record and political education of political neophyte like Bisi Akande who was only brought to political relevance by the late Chief Bola Ige of blessed memory. I contested and won election to Ijebu-Ode Local Government from my ward in Ogbo/Okelamuran/Ikoto in 1976 under a zero party election following the ban of political parties by the military. The election was more on the candidate’s

individual popularity, since political party platform was banned. It was an election that did not allow an unpopular candidate to be elected under a popular political party platform. The late Chief Bisi Onabanjo of blessed memory also won in IjebuOde ward and was elected chairman of the council”, Adebanjo said. “In the first place where is Bisi Akande coming from to be qualified to define who is an “Awoist?” Because, Awoists have existed in the 50s, long before the late Chief Bola Ige recruited him from the NCNC into the UPN in 1979 and made him an emergency deputy governor to replace the late Chief Sunday Afolabi who had decamped from the party to join the NPN. “Bisi Akande was the beneficiary of the plum political office of deputy gov-

ernor because he comes from the same constituency as Chief Sunday Afolabi; otherwise, his senior members of the party like Senator Mojisola Akinfenwa, Hon. Lere Adebayo (and) Chief Abayomi Morakinyo who were already in Chief Bola Ige’s cabinet would have been considered. These gentlemen in spite of any political disagreement will not refer to me as a fake Awoist”. Defining Awoism, Adebanjo described it as the populist political philosophy of Chief Awolowo which encompasses welfare programmes, among which are free education, free medical services, integrated rural development and full employment with which he painstakingly administered the old western region from 1952-1959 and was acclaimed worldwide.

us by this time round, after his tenure,” he said in Aba, Abia State. Kaita, however, disagreed: “I disagree with the South East totally on this issue; we won’t compromise the next election, it won’t happen”. Alhaji Tofa,who spoke in the same vein, howeversaid the issue was strictly the responsibility of the ruling PDP to resolve. “They are the ones who know what to do in this regard in order to avoid conflict”, he said, adding, “It is left for the electorate to decide if the position is their birthright, since the opposition leaders are still naive and cannot unite to safeguard our nascent democracy”.

eaders of ethnic nationality groups in the southern part of the country have condemned the recent killings of worshippers at the Deeper Life Church in Kogi State. The leaders said the action was a device by the Boko Haram sect to test the waters in their bid to extend their attack to the South. They, however, warned the sect to restrict its activities to the North, as any attempt to come to the South would meet with dire consequences. National Coordinator of Oodua Peoples Congress, (OPC), Otunba Gani Adams, warned the insurgent members who claimed responsibility for the killing of scores of innocent lives in Kogi State last week not to extend their activities to the South West part of the country. While stating that a part of the affected state is dominated by the Yoruba, he stressed that there was no religious problem in the South West. Adams also advised the group, which claimed responsibility for the killing of about 20 people during Okene attack, that “they should not cause any problem here in the South West; they should restrict their activities to the northern part of the country because we don’t have any religious problem here. We regard ourselves as one despite the fact that we are adherents of different religions”. He said that the OPC had been meeting and strategising on how to tackle the men-

ace of the deadly Islamic sect if they tried to invade the South West. His words: “OPC is always prepared. We are holding our meetings and we are strategising but we cannot disclose our programme of action on the pages of newspapers. However, we are assuring all the Yoruba people that should the sect decide to invade the South West, we will be ready to defend their interest”. While also condemning the situation, the National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, urged the Federal Government to reorganise the security of the country. He said the organisation was of the view that the perpetrators of the heinous crime should be dealt with instantly, urging that government should not footdrag on their prosecution. Fasoranti noted that Afenifere realised the danger of the sect sneaking into the South West through Kogi State saying, “We have been meeting and we are going to use our own security outfit to curtail them. We are aware of the danger and we would not fold our arms”. He said the organisation would soon issue a statement on the insecurity in the land, noting that they (Boko Haram) would not be allowed to sneak into Ondo State through Kogi. Spokesperson of Movement for Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Uchenna Madu, said that any time Boko Haram enters the South East, the group would change tactics that could bring about quicker split of Nigeria.

News

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Insecurity: OPC cautions IBB, Clark AYO ESAN

ounder and President of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Dr Fredrick Fasehun, at the weekend warned on the recent altercation between former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida and a former Minister of Information and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark. Fasehun said the feud between them did not augur well for the unity of the country. Speaking with Sunday Mirror in Lagos, Fasehun said the two elder statesmen are respected opinion leaders who should be cautious of what they say, especially at a time the country was battling with problems of insecurity. He said the present untoward situation in Nigeria calls for the contribution of all patriotic citizens. “Babangida is not somebody whose voice we shouldn’t hear repeatedly in this nation like we have heard that of Edwin Clark. Both of them have duties to perform for this country and each of them should be seen as contrib-

uting to the procurement of peace and security of this country” “Edwin Clark has been in the system for decades, so he knows when the waters are rough and where you can sail smoothly. I don’t think it calls for altercations, rather it calls for understanding. If anybody accuses me of any suspicious act, I don’t need to reply in similar language or sentiment. I would explain, I will take time to persuade the people that I am not involved and that this and this are what I have been doing to

assuage the situation and ensure that peace reigns. Let nobody feel afflicted”, he said. On the call on President Goodluck Jonathan to resign from office, Fasehun said except the National Assembly, no group has the right to call on the President to resign as he was elected by Nigerians. “I don’t think the President should have even responded because no single group can force him to give up the presidency. Resignation from the presidency is a constitutional thing. There are constitu-

tional provisions. Only the National Assembly can recommend such to the President, and it would not even say it like that. It would have to go through various processes,” he said. He added, “I think the President gives too much recognition to something that doesn’t mean anything. Nobody has the right to ask him to resign like that. “If I were the President I wouldn’t have given it a thought and I wouldn’t have responded in anyway”.

L-R: Representative of Governor of Anambra State and Special Assistant to the Governor on Liason Matters, Lady Ucheoma Chukwuchim; author of the book, The Learned, Dr. Ikenna Ikejezie; Royal Father of the day, Eze Ndigbo of Lagos State, Eze Ohazulike, and wife of the author, Amaka, during the launch of the book, in PHOTO: OLUFEMI AJASA Lagos, yesterday.

‘Bayelsa Assembly can’t sack LG chairmen’ EMMA GBEMUDU, YENAGOA.

he sack of five council chairmen by the Bayelsa House of Assembly has been condemned by a rights activist and community leader, Chief Nengi James. According to him, the state House of Assembly lacked the constitutional powers to remove the local government chairmen. The council bosses were purportedly removed last Thursday from office following the outcome of an investigation into their financial transactions. James, who spoke in

wo strong earthquakes struck northwest Iran yesterday, killing 153 people and injuring more than 1,300 as buildings were reduced to rubble, Iranian officials said. Thousands fled their homes and remained outdoors as at least 20 aftershocks hit the area. Casualty numbers could well rise, Iranian officials feared, as some of the injured are in a critical

an interview with Sunday Mirror in Yenagoa, said the Assembly could only recommend the sacking of the chairmen going by the Constitution, stressing that due process was not followed in the removal of the chairmen. Investigations by our correspondent revealed that the sacked chairmen of Brass, Southern Ijaw, Ekeremor, Ogbia and Sagbama councils may soon institute legal proceedings to challenge their removal from office. Sunday Mirror learnt that they are being branded as loyalists of the former Governor of the state, Timipre Sylva.

While stating that he has been against the poor leadership of the councils in the state, James recalled that the chairmen of the local governments had been lamenting over illegal deductions from their monthly federal allocations by the state. He said: “The performance of the chairmen is not encouraging. We need to investigate into the deductions of the councils’ allocation. The Assembly should investigate it and that of the Joint Allocation Account of the state and local government councils.” The activist advocated that the House of Assem-

bly should also set up a committee to investigate the financial misappropriations of the councils, stressing that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) could be invited to conduct the assignment. According to James, if more investigations are properly conducted , heads might roll in the Ministry of Local Government and other sectors in the state. “However, I commend the governor and state government for conducting probes in some sectors of government to ensure accountability.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Oil theft: Merchant Navy indicts SGF’s office TORDUE SALEM ABUJA.

he Merchant Navy has in a petition to President Goodluck Jonathan implicated the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) in illegal bunkering activities. The illicit trade has since been reported to cost the country an average of $5 billion in revenue every year, as annual national budgets continue to suffer huge deficits as a result of such revenue leakages. One of the copies of the petition signed by the Commandant, Nigerian Merchant Navy Corps, Commodore Allen Benson Edema, would also be laid before the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum (upstream), currently probing the crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. Indicted in the petition made available to Sunday Mirror at the weekend, is a Deputy Director, Liaison, in the SGF’s office, Mrs. Yemisi Kefas. The petition against Mrs. Kefas alleges that the top government official used a Head of Service building in Lagos for the illegal oil bunkering business. The Merchant Navy, according to the petition, allegedly discovered that, “One Mr. Uba and others were using two of the office rooms at the back of the Head of Service building in Lagos for oil bunkering business, his warehouse and fuel storage store. “When he was interrogated, he said the oil bunkering business belongs to Mrs. Yemisi Kefas, while Mr. Uba is a distributor who supplied diesel and petrol oil to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF)”. In his petition to the Presidency, dated July 10, 2012, Commodore Edema also alleged that because of the oil bunkering charge, Mrs. Kefas led a team of armed

153 die as earthquakes hit Iran condition. Others are still trapped under the rubble and rescuers have yet to reach some of the affected villages. Iran is straddled by major fault lines and has suffered several devastating earthquakes in recent years, including a 6.6 magnitude quake in 2003 which turned the southeastern

historic city of Bam into dust and killed more than 25,000 people. The U.S. Geological Survey measured Saturday’s first quake at 6.4 magnitude and said it struck 60 km (37 miles) northeast of the city of Tabriz at a depth of 9.9 km (6.2 miles). A second quake measuring 6.3 struck 49 km (30 miles) northeast

of Tabriz 11 minutes later at a similar depth. Deputy Interior Minister Hassan Ghadami said 153 people had been killed and provincial official Khalil Sa’ie said some 1,300 had been injured, the semiofficial Fars news agency reported. The second quake struck near the town of Varza-

ghan. “The quake was so intense that people poured into the streets through fear,” Fars news agency said of the town. About 210 people in Varzaghan and Ahar have been rescued from under the rubble of collapsed buildings, the official IRNA news agency said, quoting a local official.

Naval officers and other security personnel to eject the Merchant Navy from their offices four years ago. His words: “On May 2008, the same Mrs. Yemisi Kefas personally led groups of Nigerian Navy officials headed by a commodore from the Nigerian Navy Base, NNS Beecroft Apapa. They came in two full HILUX vans boldly written ‘NAVAL POLICE’ and one 504 Peugeot car with registration number NN 275 AO2 and drove into the premises. “The officers and men were fully equipped and armed, while Mrs. Yemisi Kefas, Mr. Balogun and Mr. Salako came with one 406 car with registration number FG 163 AOZ and one black Toyota Camry car which two number plates were covered. “Mrs. Yemisi Kefas passed the instruction to evade the office and arrest all officers and ratings of the Nigerian Merchant Navy Seafarers Maritime & Petroleum Security and Safety Corps to the Navy Base, NNS Beecroft. They seized and confiscated all our property”. Edema also recalled that in 2008, Mrs. Kefas ordered security men to harass him when he earlier visited SGF’s office with the “facts” of his oil bunkering allegation. “Two days later (on May 8, 2008), I went to the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe. I was right in his waiting visitors’ room on the 7th floor, Federal Secretariat Complex, at about 10:30 a.m. when Mrs. Yemi Kefas came into the visiting room accompanied by one other woman. “As soon as she saw me, she immediately called on the policemen and the State Security Service (SSS) officials attached to the office of the SGF to bring me and other two officers out of the office and they accompanied me to the last floor of the complex,” he added. “So far 73 bodies from Varzaghan and Ahar have been handed over to the coroner’s office,” IRNA quoted Bahram Samadirad, a provincial official from the office, as saying. He added, “Since some people are in a critical condition and rescue workers are still trying to rescue people from under the rubble, unfortunately it is possible for the number of casualties to rise.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lesser Hajj: Med-View carrier concludes first phase of airlift OLUSEGUN KOIKI

ed-View carrier has concluded the first phase of airlifting pilgrims to this year’s lesser Hajj exercise to Mecca Saudi Arabia with the airlift of 2, 000 pilgrims yesterday.

The pilgrims were airlifted from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, Ilorin, Maiduguri and Abuja zones. The second phase of the exercise, which is the airlifting of the pilgrims back to the country would commence on the 19th August and hopes to be concluded by the end of the month. Speaking with journalists yesterday at the departure hall of MMIA, the General Manager, Med-View, Mr. David Babatunde, said that the lesser Hajj to Mecca was a prelude to the main Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia later in the year. Babatunde explained that the first phase of the exercise, which ended yesterday, was a successful exercise as all the pilgrims were transported to the Holy Land in Mecca without any major hitches. In a bid to effectively airlift the pilgrims, he said that the carrier deployed a Boeing 767-300 to the route and assured that the return leg would commence as planned without any major challenges. On intending pilgrims, who regularly use the avenue to run away from the country, Babatunde said that the management had devised many means to prevent this from happening and assured that the entire pilgrims airlifted to the holy land would return as scheduled.

NIGERIA IN Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) says the Church has foreign missions in 160 nations of the world. He disclosed this at the Special Holy Ghost Service which commenced on Friday night as part of activities marking the 60th Convention of the Church. Adeboye said that the Church opened branches in 13 countries in the last one year in addition to the exist-

News

Sunday August 12, 2012

Plateau:No plans 10 feared dead, 100 houses to remove the destroyed in Benue communal clash Speaker,says Majority Leader HENRY IYORKASE

ver 10 persons were reported to have lost their lives while more than 100 houses and property worth millions of naira were destroyed on Tuesday following a communal clash between Ojantele and Ijewu communities in Benue State. But for the prompt intervention of the Benue Police Command led by Commissioner Mr. Christopher Katso last Friday, the situation would have been worse; it was the presence of the police that helped restore normalcy. The clash, it was revealed, was as a result of land encroachment by some members of the communities, resulting in bad blood between these com-

munities that have lived in peace as neighbours from time immemorial. It was revealed that the land dispute between the two communities of Ojantele and Ijegwu has been a worrisome phenomenon for some time now, as each town is said to be laying claim to the disputed lands. However, all hell was let loose on last Tuesday when youths on both sides could no longer restrain themselves and took to arms, resulting in wanton destruction of lives and properties-such as yams, oranges and other farm produce with no fewer than 100 houses on both sides being destroyed in the fracas. It was reported that both villages are now ghost towns as surviving residents have fled to unknown destinations to seek refuge.

Speaking with Sunday Mirror on the development, the Commissioner of Finance in the state, Mr. Oklobia Omadachi, an indigene of one of the affected towns, said that two of his cousins were among those killed in the crisis. He, however, disclosed that normalcy was gradually returning to the disputed area as security men have done everything to bring the situation under control. Meanwhile the caretaker chairman of Obi Local Government, Hon. Moses Opila, in a brief chat with Sunday Mirror said efforts were being intensified to bring a lasting solution to the protracted land dispute. Though his Oturkpo counterpart, Hon. Olofu Gabriel, could not be reached, another superior officer, who craved ano-

nymity, said it was the desire of everybody to ensure an enduring solution to the impasse. On his part, Hon. Baba Ode, representing Otukpo/ Akpa constituency, said that he received a phone call on Tuesday night, intimating him that fighting had erupted between his constituents and the neighbouring Ijegwu community in Obi Local Government Area while his colleague in the House, Hon. Nick Eworo, who represents Obi constituency, regretted the incidence. When contacted, the Benue Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ezeala, said normalcy had since returned to the area adding that, to the best of his knowledge, only one person lost his life in the ensuing crisis.

NTI DG refutes corruption allegations

TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

he Director General of the National Teachers Institute (NTI), Dr. Aminu Ladan Sharehu, has refuted allegations of corruption levelled against him by some staff of the institute. The staff had a few days ago accused the DG of incompetence and corruption. They specifically accused the management of NTI of routinely conducting examinations without monitoring or supervision by staff, as several millions were squandered for the purpose. They also claimed that the payments to supervisors of the examinations were made in cash instead of e-payment and that the institute was not paying duty allowances. The aggrieved staff also accused the NTI DG of hoarding certificates of Post Graduate Diploma programme graduates from the institute, among other charges. But the DG in a re-

Vice President Namadi Sambo (left), and the Deputy Governor of Medina, Suleman El-Herash, during Sambo’s PHOTO: NAN visit to perform lesser hajj at Medina, yesterday.

sponse yesterday denied the charge against him, describing the NTI staff as “frustrated, backward in thinking and libellous.” The DG in his response through the Director of Field Operations at NTI, Mr. Idris Sule Mbaya, said “the staffs are aggrieved because the institute no longer handles cash due to the e-payment policy.” According to him, the

allegations of corruption against the leadership of NTI are “malicious allegations, because the NTI stopped handling cash since 2006”, and according to him, “this has not gone down well with a number of the staff because they have been cut off from handling cash.” He stressed that “it is a blatant misinformation to say that the NTI does

not pay promptly its duty allowances because as I speak to you right now, there is no single case of outstanding claims.” He also said, “it is also on record that it is this administration that blocked all the loopholes of siphoning money and this has reduced the amount used in conducting examinations from about N80 million to about N36 million.”

JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

he Plateau State House of Assembly yesterday denied any plans by some members to remove the Speaker, Hon John Clark Dabwan.

The Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Daniel Dem, while reacting yesterday to media reports that some aggrieved lawmakers were plotting to remove the Speaker over allegations of misrepresentation, but the executive arm of government said there was no time the House members ever questioned the modus operandi of the Speaker not to talk of removing him. Dem said: “Impeachment is not in our plans as members. What the lawmakers are preoccupied with for now is how to make laws that will better the lives of our people. What some people want is to see us fight. I don’t think we are helping the people who elected us if we do that. “I think we have gone beyond that level to understand that we must work together to ensure that we develop the state through acts of legislation. We may disagree on some issues; that is normal and that is not to say that we are plotting to remove the Speaker. So I can assure you that members of the House still have confidence in his ability to the lead the entire House.” Hon. Dem emerged recently as the new House Majority Leader to replace the Late Gyang Fulani, who died a month ago after being attacked by gunmen during a mass burial of victims of terrorist attacks in Barki Ladi Local Government Area. He added: “I am not excited about this elevation as the new House Majority Leader because the late Majority Leader was so close to me as an elder and intimate friend.

BRIEF

RCCG in 160 countries –Adeboye

ing 147 nations where the Church operated. The general overseer, however, said that the level of achievement in respect of the foreign missions was far from the mandate of the Church. According to him, God expects RCCG to be present in all nations of the world. He, however, expressed optimism that the goal would be achieved soon.

Adeboye, who announced that a total of 11,162 weddings were conducted by the Church in the last one year, added that 68 women were delivered of babies inside the camp ground, venue of the convention since Monday when the anniversary programmes started. Meanwhile, there was heavy traffic around the venue when the convention ended around 3 a.m.

because of the number of vehicles within the Redemption Camp and gridlock on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. The situation was compounded by the deplorable condition of the expressway and the lack of traffic officials to check the excesses of some commercial drivers who parked their vehicles along the road, thereby obstructing free flow of traffic.

Bakassi declaration: Civil rights groups want govt to dialogue with people

Civil rights groups in the country have urged the Federal Government to dialogue with the Bakassi people over their recent declaration of self independence. The groups, including the Pro National Conference Organisation (PRONACO) and the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) and Save Nigeria Group (SNG), made the call in separate interviews with the

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos. NAN reports that a group, Bakassi Self-Determination Front (BSDF), on Thursday declared self-independence, hoisted their official flag and launched a radio station. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) at The Hague, Netherlands, had in Oct. 2002, ruled that the oil-rich Bakassi Peninsula belonged to Cameroun.

SM Extra

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

STORIES THAT TOUCH YOU AUGUST 12, 2012

ECHOES OF KOGI DEEPER LIFE CHURCH KILLINGS

‘How I lost my wife, child and pastor’ W

hen members of the Deeper Life Bible Church at Ottite in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State woke up on Monday, August 6, 2012, none had any premonition that it was going to be a black day. They thought it would be the usual Bible study day, but it was not to be as evil men struck that night, visiting death on about 20 worshippers. The worshippers, drawn from various communities of the local government including students from the Federal College of Education, Okene as well as some lecturers from Osara Campus of the state polytechnic as well as natives were in attendance. The programme which was supposed to be brief stretched into the night due to church activities. Speaking from his hospital bed, one of the survivors, Samuel Ayodele, said he lost his wife and a son to the attack. He told journalists that the armed attackers struck when the church was about to close. He said immediately they came, they shut all the doors and other outlets leaving one entrance where they stood and started shooting at the helpless crowd of worshippers. Ayodele said the operation that lasted over 20 minutes left the pastor and many others dead, including his own wife and child. He said while he was lying in a pool of his own blood, writhing in pains, he now saw the lifeless body of his wife and tried to struggle to his feet only to discover that the men were still around in the dark, trying to ensure that all those in the church were dead. And administering what could be described as coup de grace to those still alive. Sunday Mirror investigations further revealed that over eight kids were killed by the gunmen while women were the highest hit.

Another victim of the attack, Mr. Lawal Yusuf Itokpa, said the worshippers were taken by surprise as there was no sign or premonition of an attack from any quarters since the church and its leadership had no friction with anybody or group. While the people of the state were trying to reconcile themselves with the reality of the deaths, another tragedy struck the following day, Tuesday at Okene, shortly after the state Governor, Captain Idris Wada and the security chiefs in the state arrived the town where they had gone to hold a meeting with the traditional rulers in the area over the issue. The governor was still on his way from the General Hospital, Okene where he had gone to visit the wounded members of the church, when the fresh killing occurred. Governor Wada, who promised that the state would off-set all medical expenses of the victims of gun shots, was jolted with the news of another attack in the area. In the fresh attack, two soldiers who were drafted to guard the Okene Central Mosque were killed by gunmen who came in a Toyota Hilux Van on the pretence that they had come to pray. The suspected terrorists wore white clothes and where chanting Islamic prayers, thereby deceiving the security men and onlookers before they struck. They lost one of their own but the attack aggravated the already tense situation in the state. Even before the governor and the members of his entourage departed Lokoja, the state capital, early on Tuesday morning for Ottite in Adavi Local Government, an explosive device was said to have been discovered in one of the churches in Lokoja, the state capital. The situation caused another panic as

The late Pastor Lambe, who was killed by the gunmen (right), his widow, Caroline, and son, Oluwatobi.

residents of Lokoja ran helter-skelter to escape the danger. Banks as well as government offices and business centres in the ancient city were hurriedly closed down as the staff of the establishment took to their heels. The governor’s convoy which was on its way out of the town ran into the gridlock caused by the panic over the rumoured explosives. Many people were injured in the process, until the police authorities which later dispatched the anti-bomb squad to the scene discovered it was a false alarm raised by passers-by around the church premises. Governor Wada, who was visibly troubled, quickly ordered a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Okene while movement of commercial motorcyclists was restricted to 6am to 6pm in Lokoja. He described the act as barbaric and uncalled for, adding that, “it is very sad that indigenes of the state who were worshipping in the church were brutally murdered by un-

known gunmen without truly understanding their motive especially since these people did not provoke them. Others who earlier reacted to the situation was the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Nurudeen Abatemi, followed by the Kogi State branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN. The senator condemned the act and called on the security agents to intensify their fight against terrorist activities in the country. In a statement by his media aide, Mr. Michael Jegede, Abatemi urged the citizens to be more vigilant and security conscious, to help weed out the perpetrators of evil in their communities. The state’s branch of the CAN, in a press conference on the third day after the incident, declared a three-day fasting and prayer to solicit divine intervention in the security situation of the country. Archbishop Emmanuel Egbunu, the state’s chairman of CAN, said while the attack was not an isolated one against Chris-

Man about to pay N15m ransom …when police rescued his abducted wife

TONY ANICHEBE UYO

Inspector General of Police, Muhammed Abubakar

he rapid response of the Anti-Kidnap Squad in Akwa Ibom State yesterday rescued the kidnapped pregnant wife of a former Special Adviser on Economic Development in Oron Local Government area of the state, Hon. Ben Uwe Esin. The wife, Agnes, was kidnapped by a notorious sixmember gang operating in the area. It was the gun duel between men of the rapid response squad and the hoodlums in the Uya-Oron mangrove forest where they had taken their victim hostage that led to the death of one of the criminals who has been identified as Bassey, also known as Carton, from Uya-Oron. Before his death, Bassey was a kerosene seller, who later went into gravel excavation business at the Micava River’s bank in Uya-Oron. But unknown to his people, he also belonged to a kidnappers’ gang. Narrating the family’s ordeal, Esin, husband of the victim, said they were awoken at mid-

night by a loud bang that sounded like an explosion. Before they could figure where the noise was coming from, the wall of their bedroom ripped open and they were faced with a large hole on the wall, directly opposite their bed and somebody pointed a gun at them through the hole, ordering them to open the main door or risk everyone in the house being killed. Frightened by the threat, the Esin’s wife quickly obeyed so as not to incur the wrath of the criminals. The assailants after inflicting series of injuries on Uwe, made away with his pregnant wife only to later slam a ransom of N15 million on him, for her freedom. According to Esin, some concerned friends, unknown to him, had gone to lodge reports at various security agencies. So, as he was busy trying to gather money to go and pay the kidnappers, he got a call that his wife had been rescued by men of the anti-kidnapping squad. Traumatised by what she went through while in the forest- starvation and having to sit under the rain for two days and even being inflicted with machete cuts despite the fact that she was heavily pregnant-the mother of twins

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SM Extra

Sunday, August 12, 2012

MURDER OF 70-YR-OLD WOMAN

Family, community disagree over autopsy report ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

A victim of the attack on hospital bed.

Scene of the attack: Deeper Life Church, Okene, Kogi State.

tians at worship centres in recent times, it was a new and dangerous dimension in Kogi. “Our hearts are heavy over the cold-blooded murder. This unprovoked attack against unarmed, innocent citizens right in the place of worship leaves us in no doubt that it was a premeditated, calculated and clearly targeted attack”, he said. He called on Christians to observe prayer and fast in their assemblies between Wednesday and Friday of this week for divine intervention in the nation and state. The CAN chairman reminded the perpetrators that “God will call everyone to account for every unprovoked bloodshed in times of peace and His justice cannot be escaped however long it takes”, he added. As the waiting game continued between the law enforcement agencies in the state and the suspect-

ed terrorists who had put the people in the state in a state of distress, the police authorities in the state later announced the arrest of three, in connection with the attack. The state Police Commissioner, Alhaji Muhammed Musa Katsina wwho paraded the three suspects before newsmen at the police headquarters in Lokoja, said his men apprehended the armed terrorists at Ibilo in Edo State, after a tip-off. Among the three suspects was a middle aged woman, whom the police said the preliminary investigation revealed was an accessory before the fact of crime. He disclosed that the woman assisted the wounded terrorists under the cover of darkness to Ibilo in Edo State after the exchange of fire with policemen, during the attack on the Deeper Life Church.

who could barely speak expressed gratitude to God for His mercies. She also thanked the men of anti-kidnapping squad for their dexterity, and the men of the Nigeria Police for working assiduously, to save her life. She added that if not for God, she would have been killed by her abductors, noting that they were intercepted by men of Anti-kidnapping Squad at the point Bassey (the dead gang member) had ordered her execution. In a chat with Sunday Mirror, the Divisional Police Officer, Oron Command, Mr. Ejike Ochiabutor, lauded the efforts of THE anti-kidnapping squad, while calling on the people of the community to assist the police by always giving useful information to senior police officers who could manage the information very well, so as to help the police apprehend criminals. On how the residents of Oron could help the police to close in on criminals in the community, the DPO said the people could complement the effort of the police by belonging to Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) and forming vigilance groups

in every street; this way, he said, are outlets through which the police could be assisted. He further called on members of the public to always give the police useful information that could lead to the arrest of cult members, adding that it was such information that the police needed in order to help them exterminate miscreants from the community. Meanwhile, the Chief Security Officer to Oron Local Government area, Hon. Murphy Esin, whose intelligence network made it possible for the rescue and subsequent arrest of the criminals, said the second kidnapper who had been arrested in Otiekeofi in Okobo Local Government area where he took refuge, was found with Hon Esin’s handset which they took from him on the night of the operation. The security chief, who expressed satisfaction with the feat accomplished by the security operatives, lauded the effort of the council chairman, Hon. Orman Esin, who dedicated time and energy to monitor the rescue operation from the first day of the incident.

s the dust raised by the death in June of 70-year-old Mrs. Rebecca Adewumi over allegations of witchcraft in Omuo, Ekiti State, has refused to settle, the town’s monarch, Oba Noah Omonigbehin, for the umpteenth time at the weekend, denied involvement of the town in the woman’s death. The monarch said autopsy report had confirmed that the woman was neither poisoned nor starved, nor beaten to death as her children and family had alleged. The deceased was allegedly tortured and beaten to death on June 30 by youths in the town over alleged possession of witchcraft powers and inflicting her step-son, Ola, with a strange illness. Ola had since died. Oba Omonigbehin and the Olomuoin-Council, represented by the Odofin of Omuo-Ekiti, High Chief Sunday Olonitoke, told journalists in Ado Ekiti at the weekend that the allegation that the late woman was humiliated and tortured to death by the people of the community was untrue. He said: “An autopsy had been carried out on the corpse of the deceased twice and it was reported that the deceased was neither poisoned, nor starved, nor beaten to death as claimed by her siblings. “The body of the deceased was physically examined and there was no proof that her fingers were cut, her hair shaved with broken bottles, body roasted, neither was she poisoned nor her body mutilated as a result of beating or application of any other thing for that matter, as claimed by the relations of the deceased.” This is contrary to the position of spokesman for the late woman’s family, Mr. Gabriel Omokanju, who had earlier rejected the autopsy report carried out on the corpse at the University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, saying the result was manipulated. Omokanju had told journalists that the medical experts that carried out the autopsy did not perform any critical exami-

Daughter of the deceased, Mrs Grace Smith who had initially raised the alarm over the death of her mother.

nation on the body “but they only observed her skin and found that there was no laceration on the body. The family spokesman, who expressed doubts at the “so-called autopsy,” said there was no extraction on the woman’s stomach to confirm that it was opened. “They said she was not poisoned to death but they found few grains of rice in her stomach 18 days after she had died. This woman did not eat until she gave up, so I didn’t know where and when she ate the rice,” he said. But the chief, who spoke on behalf of the community, said the corpse was physically examined by a pathologist in the presence of the deceased’s family members. He recalled that when the issue of the woman came up, the palace played its traditional role of protection and fair play to everybody concerned by inviting the accused to defend herself. While saying there was no threat to the lives of relatives of the deceased, Chief Olanitoke said the process of ensuring amicable resolution of the crisis in the community was being frustrated by the family of the late woman.

Boat mishap: Body of missing INEC ad hoc staff found

ndependent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Public Relations Officer, Mrs Sule Imondu, on Saturday said that the missing INEC ad hoc staff involved in a boat mishap during the July 14 governorship election had been found. Imondu said in Benin that the body of Mr Ekhator Iziegbe was found in Kolokolo village in Edo State. The accident, which claimed the lives of three policemen and one INEC

Prof. Attahiru Jega, INEC Chairman

ad hoc staff, took place in Ologbo River in Edo. She said, “the family of the deceased just called me to inform the commission that his body has been found in Kolokolo village. “The family said that the body has decomposed and cannot be taken to the village, hence he has been buried in Kolokolo.’’ Imondu said that INEC had been involved in the search for the body since July 14, “so, we sympathise with the family and pray that God gives them the fortitude to bear the loss.’’ Until his death, Iziegbe was a student of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo. Mr Anthony Airohuoyo, the Edo Police Public Relations Officer, had also confirmed the recovery of Iziegbe’s body at Kolokolo village.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

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Interview ENCOUNTER WITH A NEWS MAKER AUGUST 12, 2012

‘Opposition parties only unite after losing elections’ Barrister Dan Nwanyanwu is the Chairman of the Labour Party, LP. In this interview with Obiora Ifoh, he says alliance or merger talks by opposition parties almost always fail in Nigeria because their proponents do not unite towards winning elections but assemble after losing. He insists that the promoters are never altruistic as greed and deception propel their actions. Labour Party, LP, like some other opposition parties has not really made any significant impact outside its confine. It appears like, based on the outcome of recent elections, that your party is either too shy or weak to go beyond its domain to capture more areas. What is your position on this? No, that is not true. We were robbed in Plateau State governorship election. We were robbed in Adamawa. The same was the case in Enugu and Abia states. The Plateau case is very pathetic. It will move you close to tears. Mrs Pauline Taline had recorded almost 500,000 genuine votes that were denied her at the polls. However, this time that the President has taken a stand on one-man, one-vote, let me tell you, some of these parties we think are not doing well will move forward and pick up some more states. For LP, we have won State Assembly seats, Senate and House of Representatives in the last elections. We knew what happened in 2011 general election. Let us not cry over spilt milk. Our party has gone back to the drawing board. In the next two years during election in Osun and Anambra states, you will be able to test the popularity of LP. The party is strategising, getting ready for the future and we are the party to beat in the upcoming elections. Let me assure you that since the 2011 general elections, we had been working very hard to reposition the party. Our Anambra primary will take place early next year and if you go to that state now, you will discover that LP is now a party to watch. Do you think the issue of an opposition party alliance/merger will be a possibility before the 2015 elections? If you take a look at the history of political party alliances in the country, what is happening now is not new. It was there in the First Republic, it happened in the Second Republic, it happened again after 2003 general elections, when CNPP was formed. There was also effort at forming an alliance after 2007 elections, where you had CNPP, CPC and

other groups. The problem with the opposition in Nigeria is that they do not unite towards elections; they only unite after they had lost an election. Another problem is the greed of those that are involved in it. Some of them are looking for how to expand where they were. Some will attend such a meeting and what will be on their mind is selfish interest. Though I am not trying to write off the alliance plan, I know that some of the characters who are involved in this alliance/merger talks can never push it to the end. They are greedy, not ready to be objective and because they are considering their money which, of course, they cannot defend. When you are working with such characters and you are coming from a Labour Party that has no godfather or moneybag, you just look at them and laugh. You might refuse to attend the subsequent meetings. All that is propelling them is the money they have, they are bereft of ideas. They have no ideology, no mission and no vision. If the coming together of opposition political parties is just to push the PDP away, without thinking of what happened when they have succeeded, then it will fail. The only reason for coming together should not be to push somebody away. You must have an agenda, a programme. What is it they are doing that is wrong? We must settle it. But these characters will not go into these details, all they want is, “let them go, after their departure, we will discuss those things”. These are the characters that are talking about the alliance/merger. A party like the LP will first of all look at the problems and what we are starting with. We will like to begin by first looking at what will be the ideology of the new union. Do we believe that the poor must leave poverty? If the answer is yes, then we would have agreed on one policy. Do you agree that all those who have stolen Nigerian money must return same? They will not agree because they have also stolen Nigerian money. This is what a party like LP will be pushing for. Do we agree that all those that have stolen Nigerian money as presidents, governors,

Nwanyanwu

lawmakers, ministers or as board chairmen must return the loot to Nigeria? At that point, we will disagree with them. For us, the present talk on alliance is a marriage of convenience and of strange bedfellows. They do not want to discuss ideology, programme, all they are talking about is, let’s drive them away. LP will not be part of it. A lot of Nigerians, including the retired judges and senior civil servants are calling to tell us that they like what we are doing. It is only a matter of time and the whole country will come to understand what we stand for and all will be galvanised to achieve the desired change in the polity. Nigeria is currently through another round of constitutional amendment. What specific issues will LP be canvassing? If you ask me, honestly, I will say that the problem of Nigeria is not just constitutional amendment. Our problem is having the right calibre of people in the right places. Secondly, if elections are made to be free and fair, transparent and credible, with the right people chosen by the people, they will realise that they will not come back to office except with the vote of the people, they would work for the people. To govern this country is very simple because Nige-

rians do not expect so much from their leaders. Their demands are very minimal. We are in a society where both civil servants and those in government are not sincere about working for the welfare of the people. This is why everyday we go on tinkering with the constitution. Even with the present constitution and laws, it is possible for Nigeria to join the comity of developed nations. The problem is that most of the people are not interested; all they are interested in is how to steal money. The only aspect I will want the amendment to address is that of electoral law. We must always ensure free and transparent elections. A leader elected by the people will never forget them because they are those he will have to rely on if he hopes to remain in office. This is exactly what we need. It is not the number of amendments, conferences and seminars we have that will get us out of our problems. Nigeria’s problem is in the leadership, it is also in the people. The leadership I mean includes also board chairmen, members and officers in the ministries and agencies. What is the position of LP on the recent move by the House of Representatives to impeach President Goodluck Jonathan CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Interview

‘Opposition parties only unite after losing elections’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 on account of alleged poor implementation of the 2012 Budget? Let me put things right for you. Members of the PDP in the House of Representatives are the persons that are plotting to impeach the President. It has nothing to do with the opposition parties. You see, when they want something from the Presidency or they want to shake the President, they remember the opposition parties to come out with a motion or to resist a bill. Ordinarily, they would not do so as members of the ruling party. So the fact must be made very clear that the PDP members of the House should go to Wadata House, headquarters of the party, to solve their problems in the normal family manner. They should leave the opposition parties alone. Labour Party has directed its members in the House of Representatives to hands off and not to be part of any such discussion on impeachment because its intentions are not in the best interest of Nigeria. Why are we putting too much pressure on the President? We are saying the President has done exceedingly well, but the man has never really settled down to work before we had this security challenges. Shagari did not have it, Obasanjo did not, the little that came up during his regime, he crushed it. So what we are saying is that they did not do these things to the late President Umaru Yar’Adua. It was done to President Obasanjo. Why then are we putting all these pressures on President Jonathan, is it because he is from Otueke? The President must be left to work? We in opposition realise that once an election has been conducted, won and lost and a president is elected, everybody must leave him to work. If you want to challenge him constructively as it’s done in other advanced countries, you can have what is called a shadow government. In this regard, you appoint ministers to man the shadow cabinet, so that if the Minister of Agriculture is talking about cassava bread, you may now tell him no, that cassava is dangerous to health. What were the key resolutions adopted at your party’s recent NEC meeting in Abuja? The NEC meeting delved into a number of issues, including the security situation in the country. It appraised the conduct of the recent election in Edo State and was satisfied with the exercise. The party praised the efforts of the President in ensuring vote counts and that the entire exercise went through smoothly. The NEC had equally congratulated the President on approving the use of the military which complemented the job of the Police during the polls. The NEC in the same way called on the President to ensure that adequate security is also provided during the governorship election in Ondo. We are aware that desperate politicians are plotting CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

Sunday, August 12, 2012

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Constitution reform should be our focus, not election –Nyiam Col. Tony Nyiam, in this interview started last week, with News Editor, Muyiwa Oyinlola, speaks on the nation’s democracy, federalism and the need for a people-oriented constitution, among others.

on a good day, not with the fake figures we later saw. But to my shock, when I got to the field in my home state, Cross River, there was hardly any election. People came to me and said ‘Colonel, you said we should vote for Obasanjo, where do we vote?’ I went round and there were no polling booths. I later heard that thumb-printing was going on in a farm settlement, Onitsha farm, around my place. I drove to the place and I realised it was true; and people of the PDP then told me ‘Colonel, we’re trying to make things easy for you’. I went back to Abuja to report that some people were trying to do a disservice to my boss, President Obasanjo. As I was narrating this, I was told there in Lagacy House that that was how elections are done in the Third World. I said no, I don’t think this is the standard that Obasanjo expects and it would be a disservice to him. So, I decided to approach Obasanjo on this matter and, to my shock, I discovered that General Obasanjo was part of the whole thing. How did you know that? He confirmed to me that one consolation that he had was that General Buhari did not believe that he was part of the arrangement. That really shocked me and I developed malaria almost immediately; I almost died. I had to leave the country thereafter.

Nyiam

When you returned from exile did you make effort to go into politics like some others? When I came back in 2000, going by my military training, the first thing I did was to study the ground. Remember that I was in exile for 10 years, between 1990 and 2000. I was invited and I became part of the former President Olusegun Obasanjo think tank and a member of the campaign group, but when I saw that we were putting the cart before the horse, I was not attracted to go into politics? Can you elaborate on this? I was not impressed with the fact that a democratic government accepted a military decreed constitution hook, line and sinker, rather than improving on it. I realised at that time, and the same thing still obtains, that no matter how good you are, you cannot serve well in the context of this constitution. This is evident in why somebody like Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, is having problems. With all her wealth of experience, she’s not succeeding in Nigeria because the enabling structure is flawed. One example I will use is that if you put a gold fish in muddy water you will not see it. I saw it long before that I cannot play politics the way it is being played here. Politics, as we have now, is what the elderstatesman, Alhaji Shetima Monguno, has described as demo-corruption. It is no more what Fela called demo-crazy; it is now demo-corruption. To get to an elected office, from where I come from, you spend so much money, and when you

get there you want to repay your sponsors. This is a corrupt system and I don’t think I can function well in such a system. Let me illustrate this very well. If the likes of Barack Obama were to contest for a local government election in Nigeria, he would not win, Nigerians won’t give him a chance. But this African won the presidency of the greatest country in the world because the structures there are right. This explains why I have not gone into partisan politics, but I have not ceased to be a political resource to whoever I can help. You said earlier that you were disappointed in your attempt to work with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Can you explain this? When I came back and we started working with Obasanjo, I had thought that President Obasanjo having been given another chance by God to lead the country, and having been protected by God who did not allow him to be killed in incarceration and having declared himself to be a born-again Christian, would make a big difference. I expected a man who was born-again, an ex-Head of State and above all a man who was an officer-gentleman to be very honourable. I expected the 2003 elections to be free and fair. I was dispatched among others from the Legacy House of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to different parts of the country to mobilise support for Obasanjo. I had no doubt President Obasanjo would have won that election

Do you see General Buhari becoming President after three attempts? I have said that General Buhari is a honourable man. But let me say that I am unlike many people who are concerned about the next election. The fact is that we elect a government without seeing its benefits. What I’m focusing on now is why we continue to pay lip-service to restoring Nigeria to genuine democracy and true federalism. Hence, I’ve been doing some studies and I’ve just finished a write-up on what I call ‘A constitution maker’s aide memoir’, a kind of document that will remind our leaders about certain basics of governance. It is sad, with all humility that certain basics that one would have thought that our leaders know about governance, they do not seem to know. Even those who know do not bring them into actions. What are these basics? We take it for granted that we know what a government is about. A government is primarily to provide security for the people and provide for their welfare. To do this, two things are imperative: making laws and enforcing those laws. Any government that cannot make laws or is not in a position to implement the ones made is no government. Having said this, would you say that our states and local governments fall into this category? No, because state governments have no apparatus to enforce the law. The CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

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Politics PROVIDING FRESH PERSPECTIVES TO ISSUES

“IMPEACHMENT IS A DREADFUL WORD TO BE USED ONLY IN WE ARE JUST TALKING ABOUT INSECURITY IN OUR COUNTRY. THIS COUNTRY IS TOO HOT FOR NOW. WHY SHOULD ANYBODY WANT TO HEAT IT UP? IMPEACHMENT IS SOMETHING RESERVED FOR SPECIAL SERIOUS SITUATIONS.”

DREADFUL SITUATION.

–DR CHUKWUEMEKA EZEIFE

Aviation and the road show of controversy

Senate President, David Mark

GEORGE OJI

he motive behind the three nation aviation road show, which includes China, Canada and the United States of America, according to an aviation ministry source, is to woo foreign investment to the country and the aviation sector in particular. The road show is billed to last for 10 days. “We are to visit a few countries and meet some investors we have had contacts with. We are going to woo them and tell them that we are ready for their investment. There is no malicious intention about this trip at all. We are going on an investment drive,” was how the ministry official put it. The trip, the official further explained was supposed to be a follow-up to last month’s investment road show in Nigeria where the ministry opened a lot of opportunities for investors who visited the country to attend the African aviation development confer-

Aviation Minister, Stella Oduah

ence hosted by Nigeria. Incidentally, even officials of the ministry themselves doubt how a road show on the Nigerian aviation sector, with all the negative perceptions about the sector can attract foreign investment to Nigeria. Ironically too, even the so called foreign countries the road show was targeted at wooing appear to understand the sector more deeply than Nigerians to know that they, (foreign investors) ought to thread more cautiously with their investment when it comes to the nation’s aviation sector. Coming at a time when there is a big question mark and reservation about the way the sector is being run, experts believe that the trip is nothing short of mere distraction and unmitigated jamboree. Only recently, there was a national and global embarrassment occasioned by the June 3, 2012 Dana air mishap in Lagos, during which over 160 people lost their lives. That tragedy, according to revelations from the investigating au-

How far can Airhiavbere go? P. 40

AUGUST 12, 2012

2015: Again, Igbo presidency on the agenda P. 16, 41

Edo election petition:

thorities was caused largely by human error than anything else. In the last decade or so, the nation’s airspace has witnessed what experts describe as avoidable air disasters. For instance, in October 2005, the Bellview airline Boeing 737 witnessed a terrible crash in which 117 persons on board the aircraft lost their lives. Shortly after that in December of the same year, another airline, this time Sososliso, which was carrying mainly students of Loyola Jesuit secondary school, Abuja, who were Port Harcourt bound for holidays also got involved in a disastrous air mishap, in which all the students numbering about 103, including all crew members perished. Since the 2005 tragedy, records show that there has been over six other air mishaps recorded in Nigeria before the Dana air crash in which many prominent Nigerians, including His Eminence, the late Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Briefly Okene killings: ANPP condoles with Deeper Life

The All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) has expressed sympathy with Nigerians and the Deeper Life Bible Church over the “sordid loss of its members”. This was contained in a statement signed and issued yesterday by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Emma Uneukwu. “We express our profound concern over the deepening tragic trend of untamed bloodletting in our beloved nation. “For some time now, the country has been a victim of persistent religious aggression,” the statement read. It stated that the masterminds of religious violence were actually a threat to the entire country, even to every black man on the face of the earth. It urged the Federal Government to channel its efforts toward interfaith dialogue, considering the fact that some people now capitalise on religious sentiments to cause mayhem. The party commended the efforts of Muslim and Christian leaders who visited churches and mosques, with the aim of promoting peaceful coexistence among them. It also commended the African Independent Television (AIT) in its ongoing sponsored interfaith dialogue programme, and for its efforts to reconcile the differences between the two religions in the country. “We in ANPP believe that Nigeria will soon overcome the challenges facing it. “This is why we want the Federal Government to also include interfaith relations and interreligious peace building as part of its strategy to fight religious terrorism,” it said. The party commended the efforts of the Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) for fighting various societal challenges like climate change, girl-child education, polio and maternal mortality. “Every battle starts in the mind, and it is the mind of man that is the hardest to conquer. “Government should create a platform for Christians and Muslims alike to embrace each other and to resist any temptations to be the brother’s killer instead of his keeper,” it added.

Kwara governor’s wife donates food items to widows Wife of the Kwara State governor, Mrs Omolewa Ahmed, at weekend donated food items and beverages to 250 Muslim widows from the 16 local government areas of the state. The items, including rice, milk, sugar and wheat flour, were distributed by Mrs. Ahmed under the platform of her foundation, LEAH Charity Foundation, at the Government House, Ilorin. The action was part of activities lined up for widows during the month of Ramadan. “The gesture was to demonstrate love and care for our widows with a view to cushioning the effects of hardship they might be going through as a result of the death of their spouses,” she said. Represented by the administrator of the foundation, Mrs Bukola Akinleye, Mrs. Ahmed said her husband’s administration would continue to make life bearable for the people regardless of their religion or political affiliations. Ahmed assured the widows of continued support from the foundation, and called on wealthy individuals to come to the aid of widows and the less-privileged in the society.

Politics

Sunday, August 12, 2012

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2015: Again, Igbo presidency on the agenda MUYIWA OYINLOLA

erhaps, the greatest calculation of an average Igbo man and woman in the political permutation ahead of the next political dispensation is how somebody from the South East geo-political zone would succeed President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015. An indication to this position is the way and manner politicians and opinion moulders of Igbo extraction have been meeting and making utterances suggesting that the feat is nonnegotiable. In recent times, the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohaneze Ndigbo and a number of other pro-Igbo groups, including eminent personalities in the zone have been championing the course of an Igbo presidency in 2015. In May, some Igbo leaders organised a forum to discuss strategies to make the dream of Igbo presidency in 2015 a reality. The group met under the aegis of Igbo Unity Forum and the focus of discussion was entitled: “Ndigbo in the Geo-Politics of Nigeria, the way forward”. At the meeting held in Enugu, a former governor of Anambra State and member, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife and traditional rulers urged the Igbo to affirm their commitment in getting the presidency in 2015. Ezeife at the occasion noted that: “We have said that Igbo Nigerian president is important to us and we must pray to God to get it. Igbo should play a game of cooperation not competition. We are super qualified for the presidency but we will be organised to achieve it. “This time around, we are going to cooperate, all Igbo must go for campaign in all the tribes in the country to tell them what we want,’’ Ezeife said. Another who spoke at the meeting, Mr. Iga Igaliwe, who is the Deputy National President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, restated its commitment toward ensuring the sustainability of Igbo culture through its leaders. “We will create a platform for our leaders to come and air their views because we know

Uzodinma

that our problem is failure in leadership. We must strive to achieve success.’’ he said. Last week, another Igbo socio-political organisation, Igbozurume, restated the view of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, noting that Igbo presidency after the tenure of Jonathan, is not negotiable. According to its President-General Achuzie, Col. Joe Achuzie (Rtd), Igbozurume, was being repackaged to achieve the feat, stressing that it was the same group that helped Governor Rochas Okorocha to win the Imo State gubernatorial election in 2011. He also informed that this was also the resolution at the group’s third National Executive/ Steering Committee meeting held in Lagos in June, stressing that Igbo should have a shot at the presidency after Jonathan’s tenure. “It must be the turn of Igbo to occupy Aso Rock at the end of Jonathan’s tenure. “Even though Jonathan still has the right to re-contest after 2015 by virtue of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ndigbo must not allow the chance to pass us by this time around after his tenure,” he said in Aba, Abia State. Achuzie, who is also the Ikemba Ahaba, said that Ohanaeze, the apex Igbo socio-political group, has been in existence after the civil war, but as a socio-cultural group, it has been difficult for Ndigbo to come together to identify with one Igboman to be able to capture the presidency. He said that the Igbozurume members were organising themselves politically, culturally and socially to be their brothers’ keeper and to use the dynamic of ‘Igboism,’ which made Ndigbo the darling of others, who had ascended to the presidency, to get others support too. “We say enough is enough, we will not serve other people again, let other people reciprocate the actions and attempts we have made, let them show us that the help we gave them in the past was appreciated, by supporting an Igboman to become the president of Nigeria. “And we will gladly make those group to be the vice president,” he said. He stressed that Igbozurume, would not

engage in partisan party politics, but would relate with any political party that has a better chance for Ndigbo to actualise their presidential ambition. “Ndigbo must decide who goes for us and should not accept the imposition of Igbo candidates by other zones. “The zoning arrangement of PDP is an internal arrangement of PDP members only, and shall not disrupt our quest for Igbo presidency after the tenure of Jonathan,” he said. Another group championing the cause of Igbo Presidency 2015 is C-21, an Igbo socio-political group. Its president, Senator Annie Okonkwo in his contribution to the Igbo agenda has declared that for the much needed Igbo presidency to be a reality in the next dispensation, indigenes of the South East must quit being used to scuttle the common dreams of the region. He also noted that Igbo presidency remains the only untested option for the desired good governance in Nigeria. In a recent media chat in Lagos, Okonkwo noted that his group was poised, to revolutionise the quest for Igbo to occupy the mainstream of Nigerian politics. According to him, “a strategic and decisive pitch for the Nigerian Presidency of Igbo extraction should no longer be an issue for bedroom or lunch date sentimental posturing and lamentation, but rather the most singular defining redemption for Nigeria’s political and moral fairness as a corporate entity. This cannot be seen as a low hanging fruit without sacrificial selfless unity by the lgbo themselves.” He noted: “which of these zones have not had the opportunity of Nigeria’s presidency, it is the South East. Which of these zones have less number of states and local governments? Ironically, which of these zones have been more supportive developmentally and politically to others? Of course, the South East.” In addition, he said, “the time has come for us to come together, negotiate together and advance our views and arguments together, in the same resolute character that has inspired our successes as a blessed people. “The C21 will do all that can possibly be done to chart a course of sustainable politi-

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Maccido lost their lives. All of these accidents according to experts were the result of dereliction on the part of the ministry and its regulatory agencies to live up to their responsibilities. Aside from the ministry’s officials, members of the senate and House of Representatives committees on aviation were also billed to be on the three nation foreign road show. The aviation minister, Mrs. Stella Oduah was reported to have convinced President Goodluck Jonathan and got his approval, even though a source said the President reluctantly gave his approval for the trip. The president’s reluctance according to a presidency source was predicated on the financial implications such a tour would necessitate on the ministry and the national coffers. But somehow, the minister was said to have persuaded the President that some positive gains would be recorded from the trip. However, the first set of the advance team, who included mainly the ministry’s officials and a select number of journalists had hardly left the country at the weekend when the tour became an issue of national controversy. At a time when the House was still smarting from two recent national embarrassments involving the Capital Market probe and the fuel subsidy probe, members of the

cal unity and social harmony amongst our politically endangered people. No sacrifice will be too much and resource will be spared in this regard,” he said. Also on Thursday, former National Chairman of PDP, Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo while canvassing for the emergence of a president from the South East in 2015 noted that no tribe has more justification than the Igbo to ask for the presidency in 2015, adding that Igbo have the qualification. He spoke at the meeting of Igbo leaders in Enugu. He equally revealed that an all-Igbo political summit would hold in November to launch the campaign for a president from the South East. Also, a chieftain of the People Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Ezekiel Izuogu, is also of the view that Ndigbo are tired of supporting other parts of the country to occupy the presidency, saying 2015 would be the time for others to support a candidate of Igbo extraction. According to him, Igbo can only be convinced to be part of Nigeria when they are fully integrated through negotiated presidency, arguing that anything short of that in 2015, would undermine the “one Nigeria” project which the country had always made people to believe. The politician who said this recently in Abuja, at the presentation of a book titled “Ndigbo, the presidency and Nigeria power game”, said people of the South East zone of the country were no longer interested in “scratching other peoples back without having their own scratched”. “We cannot continue to scratch other people’s back. We have always been there for other people to have their way into the presidency of the country. This time around, we want these people to show that warm solidarity to us, the Ndigbo in our quest to occupy the presidency”, he insisted. But a major concern for the politician is the lack of unity in his people, hence, he expressed fear that the dream of occupying the presidency may not be realised if the easterners do not unite, and work together towards supporting a single candidate. While echoing Izuogu’s position, the author of the book, Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Udibe,

Controversial avi House of Representatives who were billed to be on board the trip thought it wise to turn down the offer to participate in the road show. But their counterparts from the senate felt differently and grabbed the offer to be on the trip. The bubble however bust following a very disgraceful conduct of one of the senators who was reported to have personally gone to the aviation ministry to scramble for his estacode for the trip. “It is shameful to see how one of our lawmakers, a senator scrambled to get his estacode from the aviation ministry. You ask yourself whether these persons ever learn from the mistakes of others,” one of the ministry’s officials was reported to have said. Continuing the official said, “Just last Wednesday, one of them (senator) practically spent the whole day trying to convince officials to hand over his Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) to him. It took the intervention of some directors to convince him to leave his bank account details so that the money could be paid.” Although the names of the senators who are involved are yet to be made known, one person whose identity has continued to be recurring is Senator Hope Uzodinma. Na-

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The Ogun LG elections T

he Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) swept the polls in the local government elections held late last month in Ogun State, winning 19 of the 20 chairmanship seats up for grabs as well as 217 out of the 236 councillorship seats contested for. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won eight councillorship seats and the Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN) got one (councillorship seat). The result for the Imeko Afon Local Government Council was withheld by the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) pending the determination of a court order against the election in the council area. There had been allegations of electoral malpractices and frauds against the ACN by opposition parties. It is alleged, for instance, that the OGSIEC, in obvious connivance with the ruling party in the state (the ACN), discarded the authentic voters’ register provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and used dubiously improvised ones to conduct the polls. There were also claims that the party, with the help of law enforcement agents, snatched ballot materials. In addition, the opposition alleged that the election results were not declared at the ward level as required by the electoral guidelines. The OGSIEC, the opposition claimed, declared fictitious results in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. A faction of the PDP in particular alleged that the local government election was characterised by mass rigging, ballot stuffing and other electoral irregularities. While violence at the polls was reportedly minimal, several voters were said to have been disenfranchised as a result of missing names on the voters’ register made available. The elections were likewise hindered in the hinterland and riverine communities by poor

logistics in the distribution of election materials. Again, the elections were characterised by low voters’ participation; which indicates that the elected officials may not be the true reflection of the preferences of the majority. Indeed, voters turnout in Ogun west, east and central were said to be exceptionally dismal, considering the small number of voters that earned the winning candidates victory at the polls. Of no less importance were claims by critics that the Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, jettisoned the initial list of ACN chairmanship and councillorship candidates for what was called ‘The Governor’s List’. The governor’s purported list substitution role was described in some quarters as a ‘positive intervention’ to ensure that knowledgeable, literate and competent candidates emerged. It may be said, however, that the governor’s alleged role, if really true, is despicable; having undermined the significance of party congresses to produce candidates for the elections. The party selection process in Nigeria has been patently faulty, undemocratic and less involving. The substitution of party congress with a kangaroo consensus or caucus selected candidates engenders god-father politics and makes it impossible for committed party members with integrity to occupy positions of trust in government. The rather authoritarian disposition of political leaders in the selection of candidates has often resulted in bitterness and rancour; and the emergence of factions and intra-party squabbles that often lead to the defection of members to other parties. It is crude politics when civilian leaders espouse democracy with the right hand, and with the left, perpetrate horrendous authoritarianism against

less privileged party members. We recall that former National Security Adviser (NSA) to President Goodluck Jonathan, Gen. Owoye Azazi (rtd), before he was booted out of office, blamed the current state of insecurity in the country, particularly the activities of the terrorist group, Boko Haram, on undemocratic practices by political parties, especially the ruling PDP, during elections. Instead of reflecting deeply on the problem and addressing same, the party’s bigwigs led the pressure on the Presidency that resulted in dropping Azazi as the NSA. The political class should heal itself of the chronic ailment of undemocratic and contentious selection of candidates for elections to help douse political tension and violence in the country. The prospect of consolidating democracy is slim if parties and their leaders remain primitively predisposed to anti-democratic dispositions. Besides, it has become a recurring pattern for ruling parties in most states to secure landslide victories at local government elections; often with the connivance of the so-called State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs). We implore the FG; particularly the National Assembly, to address the hypocrisy by rethinking the role and power of the SIECs. The sanctity of elections becomes worthless when the votes of the electorate do not count in the determination of election winners and losers. The SIECs, though largely compromised by state chief executives, should use legitimate and updated voters’ register for the conduct of LG elections. The INEC and SIECs, working in collaboration with other relevant agencies, should find solutions to the lingering problems of voter apathy and poor logistics in the distribution of election materials on election days.

Reminiscences AUGUST 12 IN HISTORY 1944: Kennedy’s elder brother killed in England Joseph Patrick Kennedy Jr, the older brother of the future president of the United States, President John F. Kennedy, was killed with his copilot when 21,170 pounds of Torpex explosive in their aircraft exploded over England during World War II. 1955: US raises minimum hourly wage The minimum hourly wage was raised in the United States from 75 cents per hour to $1.00 per hour. 1961: Tunisia’s radical leader murdered The radical leader of Tunisia’s left-wing opposition party, Salah ben Youssef, was assassinated in Frankfurt, Germany. 1964: IOC bars South Africa from Olympics Following the International Olympic Committee’s, IOC, conditions, including dismantling its apartheid policies which South Africa refused, they are barred from the Olympic Games in Tokyo. South Africa was not allowed back into the Olympics in 1992 after 28 years suspension. 1985: Japan’s plane crashes, kills 505 passengers A Japan Airline Boeing 747 Flight 123 crashed into Mount Osutaka 32 minutes after take-off with the loss of 505 passengers and 15 crew members. 2000: Russian nuclear submarine sinks The Russian Oscar-II class nuclear submarine K-141 Kursk and its 118-man crew were lost during naval exercises in the Barents Sea. The cause was believed to have been an explosion on board the submarine which caused the sub to sink to the ocean depths. 2007: 8 million year-old cypress forest discovered in Hungary Archaeologists discovered an eight million-year-old cypress forest in Hungary. 16 preserved tree trunks were found in an open coal mine in Bukkabrany. Scientists hoped that studying these specimens could provide insight into the ancient climate in which they lived.

Opinion

Sunday August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ethnicity and power politics: From June 12 to Boko Haram Uncensored Unc

Sheriff S Folarin

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

his is not the first time Nigeria would be descending into anarchy in the face of latent and manifest power struggle between ethno-sectional groups. In January 1966 when a group of mid-level army officers, mostly Igbo, seized power in a revolution that upstaged the leadership that was predominantly Hausa-Fulani, hell was let loose on the state from the July 29 countercoup. Northern elements in both the army and civilian quarters embarked on a mass slaughter of Igbo people- first in the army barracks and subsequently in major Northern cities such as Kano, Bauchi and Kaduna. The events of 1966 to 1967, including arsons and murders, which constituted the infamous pogroms executed by the Northerners, opened the floodgate of ethnic cataclysms: mutual distrust, suspicion, hatred, tension and eventual mutual quest for schism. The Igbo, in the face of perdition and impending genocide, as well as their quest for survival, fled the North for their Eastern region. Now, what was their crime? Their “brothers” in the army had staged a movement that altered a political arrangement that was considered by the Hausa-Fulani oligarchy as divinely and uniquely designed to place, in perpetuity, Northerners in position of political authority. They were suffering the “sins” of their ignorant children whose ‘youthful exuberance’ had led them to attempt such a ‘despicable’ act. The Igbo youths had forgotten that it was when the Northerners wanted independence that the colonialists granted it; and same goes for political power, they alone can and must determine who gets what, when

DANLADI YAKUBU

or years, capital budget implementation has been a major failure of governance in the country. This is painful given that the percentage ratio of capital budget to recurrent has persistently been at a miserable 20:80 in the country. The twin evils of Nigeria’s low capital budget size and its subsequent non implementation take all the credit for the country’s phenomenal physical and social infrastructure deficit. But in spite of the din that has arisen following the conflicting claims from the legislature and the executive over this year’s capital budget performance, the will of government and its commitment to ensure a good implementation of the capital aspect of the 2012 Appropriation Act appears more discernible to perceptive watchers more than ever before with the previous budgets. Fact is that the current capital budget was only passed in April and invariably took off same month. The verdict of poor implementation by the House of Representatives just three months down the line, therefore, is hasty. If the truth must be told, a 36% performance of the budget, going by the reckoning of the House or 21% by the Senate within approximately two months into the life of the budget, hardly deserves the kind of acerbic reactions that have come from the legislature. Unless there are more to it than meets the eye, even a 21% within approximately two months of implementation

and how. No wonder, the leaders of the July 1966 counter-coup had reduced the January 1966 military actors to ordinary obstructionists whose ‘ethnic coup’ only required an ethnic counter-coup to restore the status quo. The ultimate end of all the chaos that followed was a Civil War that decimated not only the Igbo population, but also Nigeria, and the planting of the seed of permanent discord among the ethnic groups. The summary: the Hausa-Fulani lost power in January and did everything humanly and unimaginable possible too, to recover it. It did not matter what the process cost Nigeria. Power must, and it returned to the North, until an accident of history much later, placed the political destiny of the country in the hands of a Southerner. June 12, 1993. MKO Abiola, by known African election standards, won the presidential election fair and square! Running against unusual winds of Moslem-Moslem ticket, Southwestern geopolitical background, as well as a partisan military electoral umpire that was ill-disposed to his electoral success, Abiola trashed the Northern opposition led by Tofa, not only in his state, but also in his local government and electoral ward! But again, the dissent of the Hausa-Fulani towards the emergence of a Southerner was fully and vehemently expressed in the military high command and by their political counterparts of Northern extraction. The North-based Hotline magazine served the cause of Northern ethnic power supremacists whose rabid anti-South remarks bore emblems of a country heavily divided. Rather than have an elected popular candidate from the South who may obliterate the established political order, the entire electoral process had to be compromised and the nation turned upside down. Abiola never got declared. The elections were annulled; a Yoruba stooge was installed to create a smooth transition for the rulership of another Northerner; Abiola was later arrested and endlessly detained, until he died in very mysterious circumstances. It did not matter what the nation had to go through- arrest and detention of democrats, systematic elimination of opposition, buying ought of Abiola’s disciples, state-sponsored terrorism- power must not elude the Northern oligarchy. That another Yoruba (Egba) smelled

the presidency in 1999 was simply because of the attempt to placate the Yoruba people and re-establish relationship with the Western nations, which were supporting pro-democracy movements and mounting pressure on the General Abdusalami administration to ensure fair play, equity and social justice in the next political dispensation. Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration was the worst hit by Northern insurgency. He had barely settled down when President Obasanjo, a Southerner and a Christian, began to contend with the marauding advocates of Sharia Law in Northern states. Nigeria is, by law, a secular state and the Nigerian Constitution is uniform, universal and applicable to all 36 states and the capital, Abuja. So, declaring Sharia in a secular state as Nigeria was an aberration, and a death knell to what was remaining of Nigeria. The carnages following the pro-Sharia riots in Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Niger and even in relatively Christian states such as Plateau and Nassarawa, were similar to that of the 1966-1970 breakdown of inter-group relations. Southerners were the targets and victims of the attacks. In the end, the government of the day was destabilized, and it was not until Obasanjo, a retired and highly experienced military General, applied maximum force to pull down the rebellion. President Yar’Adua succeeded Obasanjo and there was relative peace in the North and by extension, the nation. After a brief spell with Niger Delta militants who were protesting degradation and dehumanization in the Delta area, as well as Islamic militants demanding Sharia Law for the North and the abolition of Western education, peace returned to Nigeria. Yar’Adua’s demise left a vacuum that found Jonathan almost schemed out by those who would not want another distortion of the political order. In the end, Jonathan not only became President, he also won the April 2011 elections. Since that electoral victory however, peace has eluded Nigeria. The group demanding abolition of Western education, suddenly reemerged to unleash the kind of terror Nigeria had never encountered in its political trajectories. Their targets were initially politicians in Bornu and Yobe states, then policemen, then banks, and then civilians of Southern

background, then Moslem leaders opposed to their cause, and now innocent Christian worshippers. The carnage so far is tragic and unquantifiable. There is a common thread running through these seasonal tragedies since independence. The pattern is that there is complete breakdown of law and order each time a Southerner emerges as President or Head of State. The Sharia agitations and Boko Harams in the North thus suggest that there is an ethno-political dimension to the anarchism. The political interregnum is infused in ethnic rivalry or ethnic power supremacy. After all, a prominent Northern leader, Yusuf Maitama Sule once stated the position of the Northern elite in very intelligible terms, viz: “Everyone has a gift from God. The Northerners are endowed by God with leadership qualities. The Yoruba man knows how to earn a living and has diplomatic qualities. The Igbo man is gifted in trade, commerce, and technological innovation.” This position, Northern leaders and groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and Northern Islamic bodies have successively and vigorously upheld. Nigeria’s descent to anarchy can thus logically be linked to ethnic discontents over the location of power. The fear and frustrations of the possible perpetual elusion of political power is what I sense as the cause of the terror. Any attempt to extricate the current happenings from the general historical patterns will amount to a mere scratching of the surface. It is however instructive to note that, no political leadership has ever spared any of those insurgencies meant to dismantle our nationhood. Gowon crushed the sectionalist movement. Obasanjo crushed the Islamist insurgents (and other ethnic-related movements). Even Abacha, who himself was an epitome of Hausa-Fulani hegemony, crushed the opposition who came in diverse forms. So, is Jonathan, in his own case, going to continue patting the rattle-snake on the head? I have always had a piece of advice for him. Like Hilary Clinton, the United States Secretary of State, recently charged him, President Jonathan must “take tough decisions”. •Dr. Folarin teaches Politics at Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria

Scourge of indiscipline in the PDP of a capital budget that would run till March next year should hardly elicit this kind of a gritty belligerence from the legislature. Judging from our past, the 21%, lowly as the senate desires it to be seen, is a marked improvement, and indeed a high mark in the record of the country’s budget performance, achieved in a record time of less than three months. It is a commendable outing that buttresses to a good extent, the position of the executive that the current bickering from the legislature is needless, and all the more uncalled for, hence both arms of government are evidently on the same page on the imperative of the budget implementation. Irrespective of whatever may be the undercurrent motivations of the lawmakers in the matter at hand, the legislature should be guided by the simple fact that it is a unit of the extant government. This oneness, rather than call for a cancelling out of each other by the legislature and the executive, makes unity of purpose all the more compelling between the two arms. While the legislature may still well understand the overriding need for symbiosis with the executive, the immoderate language that has characterized the utterances ascribed particularly to the House and its spokesman in stating its case in this matter is gravely belittling and prejudicial to the partnering spirit, sorely needed in the country’s political governance at the moment. There is bound to be frictions, but the

true essence of checks and balances does not reside in street fights, but in a capacity of the legislature to do this bit without constituting a peril to overall national stability. The case with the House of Representatives is remarkably bizarre, given that the action of the House members patently comes across as a conspiracy of its Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members, who constitute the leadership and the majority to impeach their own party leader and president of the country. It is rare in a presidential or parliamentary system to see legislators from the ruling party who also constitute majority in the legislature applaud a motion or amendment by an opposition member for the impeachment of the president, as it was on the floor of the House on July 19. The absurdity from the PDP House members mocks not just their party but also the House members’ understanding of the meaning of party loyalty and discipline. It was clear even to a casual observer that Femi Gbajabiamila, of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), who amended the “Non Implementation of 2012 budget”, sponsored by Albert Sam Tsokwa of PDP and 20 others with a suggestion of impeachment, was merely a hired hand in the hands of the PDP conspirators in the House. Again, it is a tragedy of a party that even when all the motions brought, do not include impeachment or even a threat of it, and the Gbajabiamila amendment, not included in the final motions read, Zakari Mohammed,

the House spokesman, from Kwara PDP, has to take it upon himself all along, to labour in the media in order to convince the public that watched the proceedings and even his own colleagues in the House that there was a resolution of the House that day to impeach the president. In the same breath, it is observable that the House leadership as symbolized by the Speaker Aminu Tambuwal by some queer calculations, elects to cast itself more as an opposition leadership, than that of the ruling party. The actions and body language of the Speaker have overtime, left some keen watchers to hazard that all that are playing out on the floor of the House might be a political game plan that is tied to 2015. Looking at the way and manner PDP House members regularly conduct themselves on the floor of the House, it often becomes difficult to accept that they are products of the party’s sponsorship at the polls. Regrettable also, is that such errant behaviours often find its way up to the party’s apparatchik, who ordinarily should know how not to defend the president before the media. What looms for the PDP with this inexorable meltdown is an implosion that will sure happen, unless Bamangar Tukur, the party’s national chairman steps in strongly with the holistic reforms he promised. If Tukur can instil party discipline in the PDP, he would have achieved everything. •Danladi Yakubu wrote from Kano

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Applause LIFESTYLE, FASHION & ENTERTAINMENT AUGUST 12,, 2 2012 0 2 01

They usually call me, ‘If you’ve got it, flaunt it’ –Ifeoma Okeke Multi-talented Nollywood star, Ifeoma Okeke, is the second child in a family of four. She studied Business Administration at the Lagos State University (LASU). Ify, as she is fondly called by her pals, also studied Nursing. She speaks on her passion for acting in this interview with Adaeze Amos. Apart from Business Administration, what else did you study? I also studied nursing, you won’t believe it. I’m a registered nurse apart from the fact that I’m well known as an actress. I hold a diploma in Theatre Arts, a diploma in Computer Science and a professional certificate from the Nigerian Institute of Marketing. When exactly did you take to acting? I started acting professionally in 1998 and have risen to the position of Chief of Staff of the Actors Guild of Nigeria. You brushed nursing aside. Are you not missing the hospital wards? I’m not missing the hospital wards, not even for once.

You already know that nursing is a humanitarian job and acting as well is humanitarian. I don’t like being caged, so I chose the profession where I come to your room directly and make you happy than just waiting for you to come to the hospital and be my patient. There is, however, a project I’m working on that would be bringing me closer to patients. The aim is to make pregnant and nursing mums happy. I did the unveiling some years back. I called it ‘Baby Shower’. I have started fully now. What precisely made you to consider this? I considered this because there are some pregnant women that you see and you get pissed off. Some women stop taking care of themselves when they are pregnant. This is wrong! The concept of ‘Baby Shower’ is to counsel them to still take care of themselves so that their

‘MARRIAGE IS NOT A DO-OR-DIE AFFAIR’

husbands would not stray during that period of their lives. They should still dress well. After all expectant and nursing mothers can still be fashionable. You feature mostly in comedy movies. Are there some challenges in such roles? Yes! The challenges are daunting. Comic roles are frightening and very tasking. You know I do mostly comic roles. You know when you are acting and some people are behind laughing and you are there doing what you are supposed to do without laughing, it’s tasking. But I love doing them. Are there some other tasking roles you have taken up? Apart from comic, I have taken up so many other

‘I LOVE WEARING SIMPLE, CLASSY OUTFITS’

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Applause

‘I dress the way I want, it’s my business’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE19 serious roles because an actor is not supposed to be stereotyped. That has added to my fame. And talking about fame, I cope well in it. I don’t allow fame to rule my world and make me arrogant. Humility is still my watchword. I’m Ifeoma anytime any day. If you come to FESTAC Town and ask of me, they would tell you that I’m humble. Nothing gets into my head, not even fame. Urchins in FESTAC junction know me. They hail me and call me ‘Mama’ each time they see me and I would hail them as well. They know my birthday, they come to my house, we parley and drink. On Sundays, they come to my house and I give them food. It’s all about being down to earth and being who you are. It’s not good to be arrogant. Most of us know where we are coming from so even when you are famous, don’t forget where you are coming from. Don’t forget your days of little beginning. Don’t let whatever you have get into your head. Don’t always forget that the ladder of fame can fall. But when you are loyal and friendly with your fans, even when your ladder of progress is threatening to fall, they would pray for God to show you mercy and possibly hold the ladder for you. What is your advice for your colleagues who are snobbish? Some of them carry their faces up. That’s not good. My advice to any fan is if an actor carries her face off even when you are greeting her, please carry your own face off too. I mean squeeze your own. There is nothing there. Do you see yourself as being trendy? I don’t go for trendy wears. I wear what fits my stature. I’m not a trends kind of person. I don’t follow style sheepishly. I don’t go for styles that are not good on me just because other people are opting for them. I wear the craziest things, I wear cleavage-revealing styles; it depends on my mood. Seven years back, I was really crazy for cleavage-flaunting tops. Then in the industry they used to call me ‘if you got it, flaunt it’. Because of that name, I was actually flaunting. But these days, I don’t flaunt that much. You know with time one grows and gets mature. I have lessened the flaunting of my cleavages, I now flaunt my downside because I’m tired of flaunting the upper side. I flaunt my legs so that they would know I have hot legs. I opt for minis now, after all plenty people don dey open their breasts now, so I want to look different. I don’t care what people say as long as I appear the way I want to. If they care to say it before me, I would give them the right answers because I love my boobs, I love myself. If you get your own, carry am out, if you no get go and rest. I have brothers. They are the first people that would talk and I would listen. I fight with my immediate younger brother everyday. There are some things I would wear and he would scream and ask me why I am bringing out all my boobs. If they don’t criticise me, I won’t give a damn what anybody says. What my family says about me bothers me because they are the people I protect their image. They are the people I bear their name. Maybe when I get married and have the tag Mrs, I will then care about my husband. I dress the way I want, it’s my business. What kind of people do you hate to associate with? I hate to associate with hypocrites. I hate hypocrites who criticise blindly, people who criticise me for flaunting the good parts of my body. If you are bold enough, stop me on the way and ask me questions.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘Marriage is not a do-or-die affair’ Ngozi Pamela Okoro, a supervisor and sales representative with a company that deals in paints, studied Pure Industrial Chemistry at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Besides saying that marriage is not a do-or-die affair, she urges women in this interview with Adaeze Amos never to allow their sex hinder them from succeeding in life. According to her, “success is not measured by gender but what you have in your brains”. What are some of the challenges you are confronted with in your career? The challenge I face in my job has to do with the marketing aspect of it. You know I studied pure Industrial Chemistry in the university, which has to do with the production of paints. But now, I’m also doing the marketing aspect of it because I’m determined to succeed. I’m not boxed into the laboratory alone, I now come out to meet with clients, talk them into using my product and making sure I deliver well. For one to succeed in this kind of marketing job, you need to be mindful of how you talk to your clients in order to convince them that you are equal to the task. Has there been a time you lost a job opportunity because you are a woman? Yes, it is one of the things one has to face in a society like ours which of course is male-dominated. I know I have been doing well on this job but I won’t say I have not experienced a situation where a client refused to give me job just because of my sex. One particular one I won’t forget easily was the one where I was interviewed. I was the only female and I was able to prove myself that I knew the job but because I was a lady, I lost it. The client was in a dilemma but he thought I wouldn’t be able to deliver because of my sex. He gave it to my male colleagues who couldn’t satisfy him at the end of the day. He regretted it. When he had another offer, he called me. When I was through with the painting job, he was impressed. Have you worked for corporate bodies before? Yes, most of my clients are corporate bodies, such as Union Bank, Spring Bank, FinBank, the Redeemed Church of God, to mention but a few. They are always impressed with what I do. Success has nothing to do with gender but what you have in your head. I have been able to overcome such a gender challenge I mentioned about by proving myself. And my advice to my fellow women in different walks of life is not to give up because of gender challenges. Though, such challenges would definitely come, let them keep their heads straight and never lose focus. Have such challenges not once made you regret being a woman? Never! God knows why He chose to make me a woman and honestly I have been excelling. Not only that, I come from a family where discrimination based on sex is inexistent. My father rates all his children equally. With that orientation I moved into the university and then to the labour market. My sex has never hindered me from aiming for the best. I always believe I can do my best, that I can deliver. Don’t look down on yourself because of your sex. Just be determined to succeed, and honestly you will. I believe that every woman should begin to thank God for making her one. The moment you begin to appreciate yourself, you will begin to do better in whatever you are doing career-wise. I say this because it is what is happening to me. I’m a woman and I have come to meet men where I do my work because my job is male-oriented. They are not doing better than me because I believe in myself. I never give my sex a thought that it would hinder me despite the challenges on the job. I have been excelling and you too as a woman can excel in your own career. If there is anything you have passion for or you have been longing to do or pursue and you are nursing some fears that you won’t do well, give it a trial and trust God, He would see you

through. When I left school, my rightful place was supposed to be the laboratory, producing paints. I had to also do the marketing aspect of it because it was the most available. Since I started, I have had no cause for regret. Some women have a burning desire to serve our country, but because of one fear or the other they have been shying away from politics. Can you reach out to such women? My fellow women, wake up! Jettison fear and forge ahead. Remember God has not given us the sprit of fear but that of boldness and sound mind. Why not make good use of your own sound mind that God has given to you? I realised most of us were complaining when the President gave women 35 per cent bench mark. We said it was not enough but the women did not even fill up that 35 per cent. Men came out and took theirs, which is 65 per cent. Why should it be so after all no man was born with politics in his blood stream? It is what you can develop if you have interest in it. So, if you are well read, capable and you know you can deliver, come out, show interest that you want to serve your country. Let’s make good use of our numerical strength. You know women are greater in number than men. Let’s teach men how to play clean politics. You can agree with me that whatever a woman is determined to do or achieve, she can do with all her mind. Most women are in hellish marriages where they are bruised and battered, what advice do you have for them? Marriage is not a do-or-die affair. It is not supposed to be endured but enjoyed. If you know it is not working for you, and you are being battered by your husband at the slightest provocation and you have weighed it very well that you are being abused unjustly, it is better you leave while you are alive. But before coming out, assess yourself thoroughly and see if you are not the cause of why you are always beaten. If there are some things you need to change about yourself, why not do them first? If, however, it is not your fault, come out and don’t give a hoot about what people would say. It is the same people who would ask why you didn’t leave if beaten to death. What of ladies who notice that their marriage might not work with their intending spouses? Don’t look at fire and walk into it. Don’t say you would pray for him to change. If your fiancé starts hitting you during courtship, he may not change even when he marries you. So think twice. If you have noticed he is into crime, call it quits with him. If he is not trustworthy, why continue with such a fellow? Leave him, another man would come who is better. I believe that for every woman, there is a rightful man. What is your worst fear in life? To lose focus. A man or woman without focus is like a dead wood. Being focus will help you to plan and forge ahead but the moment you lose it, you are doomed. What are the qualities of your ideal man? I believe so much in a responsible man. He may not be rich but he must have traces that he would make it in life. I like a man with good taste, someone who plans for the best in life: sending his children to the best of schools and working hard to achieve his dreams. My dream man must also be cute and preferably dark-complexioned.

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Cocktail Whispers

Stories by Olumide Segun-Oduntan

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

AUGUST 12, 2012

Uti Nwachukwu dazzles widows at birthday celebration

Uti Nwachukwu

or former Big Brother Africa winner, Uti Nwachukwu, turning 30 is not just about over-the-top partying with friends, family and sometimes ‘enemies’. It is a time to reflect on life and how difficult it is for others. This, he proved when he hosted 67 widows at the Calabar Hall at Surulere, Lagos recently. The celebrated star has arguably had a very good run of fame and fortune these past few years, especially after winning the very popular reality show, Big Brother Africa, a continental platform that brings some of the continent’s finest together under one roof for a period of 90 days with mouth-watering prize money to go with it. The celebrant showed up in no time to a resounding applause. Straightaway, he greeted his guests who were the widows and headed for the red carpet where the picture splash took place. He was also accompanied by his sister Onah, close friend, Alex Ekubo, actress Meg Otanwa and singer, Keffe, MC Ice Water, Michael Nwachukwu, the Aneke twins and others as they posed with the celebrant on the red carpet. The event started right on time and had in attendance the 67 widows, all dressed in branded polo shirts designed charitably by Thots On Tees, all bearing the name and picture of the celebrant. Coincidentally, the celebrant hosted 67 widows because his lovely mother happened to be 67 years old. He later cut his birthday cake with the widows and lots of gift items were presented to them at the end of the event, which included cookers, cartons of noodles, Ankara fabrics, bags of rice and bottles of oil. Uti summed up his birthday gesture this way: “There is need to recognise widows like these and give them all the support they need at all times. This is why I have allowed the press in, not just to announce it, but so that people who are bigger, richer and more influential than me will hopefully emulate this on a much bigger scale because some people have things to give but don’t know how to.”

Paddy Adenuga

At Paddy Adenuga’s favourite fun spot There is no doubt that the Group Executive Director of Globacom, Paddy Adenuga, loves to work. At least those who work closely with him would not hesitate to tell you that he has an eye for details and he is a stickler for doing it properly. And, perhaps, the fact that the company which he runs seems to be at the top of its game shows that Paddy Adenuga takes his job seriously. But for a man who works hard, the son of Chief Mike Adenuga seems to also take his stomach seriously. Yes, those who have seen Paddy Adenuga lately are likely to have noticed that he now has a favourite spot where he takes care of his belly. Well, if the feelers reaching Cocktail Whispers is anything to go by, Paddy Adenuga may have become a regular face at SIP restaurant and lounge. According to a source, the well-built Globacom’s Group Executive Director has been spotted at the restaurant several times in the last one month. This has made some people to conclude that the restaurant and lounge situated in Victoria Island, Lagos has probably become a favourite fun place of sort for the hardworking young Adenuga as he appears to have become a frequent customer of the restaurant.

Munachi Abii rubbishes boobs enlargement tale Is this the new Oby Edozien? She won the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria title in 2007 and has since maintained her beauty till date. Now the size of her breasts seems to be a thing of concern for many of her fans and ‘enemies’ alike as the rumour that she has enlarged her boobs has been milling around town. In fact, the thought that she may have tampered with her boobs has set tongues wagging. And while many people are of the opinion that she looks better now, others say that if the rumour is true, they would not be willing to support her. But celebrated singer, Munachi Abii, has hinted that the rumour that she had recently enlarged her boobs is anything but true. And as if to prove that she was not being economical with the truth about the state of her breasts, just recently the popular rapper was said to have invited a reporter to “come and check” if she had gone under the knife or not. While it is not yet clear whether the reporter conducted the check or not, those who saw Muna at recent public events are willing to bet that the sexy former beauty queen has had a boob’s job. The guess here is that the real truth of the matter shall be revealed someday soon.

Munachi

Those who have had dealings with her before she got married late last year will probably tell you that she was not known to tolerate shortcomings from anyone. In fact, some may even confess that in the days prior to her new marital status, she got angry easily. Astonishingly, however, many people who have come in contact with renowned actress, Oby Edozien, since she got married to former superstar singer, Alex O, say that her personality seems to have taken a new turn. Yes, in a positive way. According to some people who have encountered her lately, the hugely talented actress, whose wedding wowed everyone, since not many people got wind of it until it took place, now got a new trait. She is said to be calmer and better. Cocktail Whispers even learnt that Oby Edozien-Okorigwe now smiles often and accommodates people more. Of

Oby Edozien

course, it is doubtless that she is the same Oby, the popular movie star, but many cannot help but notice the change in her personality. This is why a few people and her fans have been wondering if this is the new Oby Edozien.

Movies & Music

Stories by Olumide Segun-Oduntan

Sunday, August 12, 2012

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

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Terry G, Eva set to share stag

At Maltina Dance All

Massive turnout elevates Abuja Maltina dance auditions

he popular family reality television show, Maltina Dance All (MDA), which enters its sixth season this year, has continued to attract value-added trappings to entertainment circles across many Nigerian cities. This year’s audition in Abuja assumed a carnival-like jamboree as thousands of contestants and their supporters, as early as 7.30 a.m., began converging on the prestigious NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, venue of the audition. Officials had a somewhat hectic time arranging and registering the enthusiastic crowd of contestants, eager to exhibit unique hip-hop styles on the dance floor, To the surprise of many, the dance performance during the Abuja auditions was highly entertaining and undeniably in line with this year’s Maltina Dance All theme, ‘The Most Spectacular’. Contestants across all ages displayed a high level of dance dexterity which made it pretty difficult for the judges to select the finalists. Indeed, the head of the panel of judges at the Abuja auditions, Muyiwa Osinaike, confessed that if it was possible, he would pick all the contestants into the Maltina Academy. He said he was truly enthralled by the presentations of contestants. In his words, “The competitiveness of the show has changed massively. Sometimes, it is even difficult for us to pick the winners. Even the 30 and above category that performed here in Abuja displayed great dance skills. The overall quality of dancers is near professional. The academy is already brewing with talents and the audience can bet that this season will indeed be the most spectacular Maltina Dance All”. The first day of the auditioning witnessed regional dancing competition among four different age groups - ages 5-12, 13-19, 20 -30 as well as 30 and above. Contestants in each group competed for a range of prizes that had items such as: brand new home theatres, flat screen television sets and generators. For the 5-12 year category; Zingfa Saleh, 12 years old, emerged overall winner carting home a giant generator. While 5-year-old Rita Oba and

10-year-old Wahid Adams were second and third respectively. Competition within The 13-19 year-old category was very strong. Promise Louis came tops while Imabong Rose Mbat and Peter Odizie, took the second and third positions respectively. For the 20-30-year-old category, Esther Monday emerged winner while Chibuzor Christopher Orji and Valentino Onuoha Ude were the first and second runners-up respectively. The 30 years and above category produced Mrs. Precious Udo Umekwe as the overall winner while Faith Ojei and TIti Sunday came the second and third respectively. The peak of the Abuja auditions was the second day, where participants engaged in an arduous and forceful dance battle to represent Abuja in the Maltina Dance All academy. At the end of this tight contest, the judges picked eight finalists for the ultimate battle in Lagos. They are Grace Emmanuel, Ayobami Atolagbe, Unique Oluwasegun, Victory Salami, Paul Eghosa Odigie, Precious Ugwuvany, Valentino Onuoha and Promise Louis. Since 2007 when Maltina Dance All, the foremost experiential and sponsorship platform of the brand was introduced, the programme has remained Nigeria’s first and only family dance TV show featuring families from various regions across the country. From the 2007 edition which produced the Onye family as winners, Maltina Dance All has gone through five successful seasons. In 2008, it was the Opuwari family that carted away the star prize; in 2009 the Ibiams were voted the nation’s best dance family. The Adejohs were champions in 2010 while in 2011; the Ekubos were crowned the best dance family. This year, the winning family, will get a whopping N6 million and drive home in a brand new car. The first and second runnersup will also get N1million and N500,000 respectively. The show will bring to the fore, the Nigerian essence and values of sharing, happiness, unity, cooperation, vitality and creativity which have set the show apart from others.

Banking on their crowd appeal and dexterity on stage, St. Eve Concepts has revealed that ‘Free Madness’ exponent, Terry G, and up-and-rising female rapper, Eva Alordiah, are two additional African acts that would be performing with internationally acclaimed rapper, Rick Ross, in the Summer Jam Fest concert. Also expected at the concert is Nigeria’s premium Disc Jockey, DJ Jimmy JATT, who is expected to be the DJ for the night. Terry G, Eva Alordiah and DJ Jimmy Jatt will be joining rave of the moment musician, Flavour N’Abania and Ghanaian Azonto crooner, Fuse ODG to wow guests at the Summer Jam Fest 2012 which will hold at the New Expo Hall, Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday. The addition of Terry G and Eva is expected to give the concert an all-round appeal and further give prospective guests an additional reason to attend the event. Terry G, who is known for his creative freestyle and weird lifestyle, is at the moment one of the hottest musicians in the country. His profile includes various production works for upand-coming acts and hit singles like ‘Akpako’, ‘Bad Belle’, ‘Free Madness’ and ‘Sangalo’. Female rapper, Eva, is a fast-rising act in the music industry; she has made her marks in songs like ‘Owo at Swagger’ remix, ‘I Don Did It’, ‘I No Send You’. Eva’s versatility is one attribute that draws her to her fans. Whether you are a lover of Jazz, Rap, Rock or R&B, Eva has

Rick Ross

something for Speaking o zine said, “Su annual conce year, we have have chosen m such a huge s For ‘Oyi’ cr Alade’s song, nity to wow h to be at his be Not afraid repute like R like, ‘Oyi’, ‘Nw mer Jam Fest Ghanaian f occasion, reve pected from h dance step, Az event. St Eve Con sic and enter Summer Jam The forthc cepts and Tra

Terry G

How entertainment personalities rocked It was a night of style, glamour and panache as the music group, Addiction, was unveiled to the public while their new music video ‘Who Be Dat’ was also officially released last Sunday at the upscale Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos. Addiction is a group of un-identical twins, Sharon and Aaron Igho, born in the United Kingdom and raised in Jos. Originally from Delta State, the duo studied at the University of Jos (UNIJOS) and obtained degrees in Psychology and Political Science respectively. They have three hit singles to their credit: ‘Who Be Dat’, ‘Down Low’ which featured Chocolate City act, Brymo, and ‘Show’. The duo has been ruling the Abuja entertainment scene for some time now and has now relocated to Lagos. Former Big Brother Africa housemate from Kenya, Millicent Mugadi, anchored the event, Ace Comedian; Julius Agwu, thrilled the guests and had one or two things to say about the duo. Addiction performed their hit track ‘Who be Sharon

Dat’ and the v guests applau performed an The manag come speech, troduced som Founder an of premium ban music c Soundcity, T Adepetu, wa present as th which was gether by his ny alongside Media and Z Records. Other gues former Big Africa hou Katung, Aki publisher of end relations wedding ma WED, actre model, Nsa N of the stars movie, Last to Abuja, A Monjaro; Eze; rapper, nine, some s Accenture, a ers.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

It’s your timee to recover all –Pastor Okereke

Praise Worship E-mail:richardeghaghe@yahoo.com

E-mail:titusanyanwu.2012@gmail.com

EDIFYING GOD

August 12, 2012

68 babies delivered at RCCG Convention

Briefly

…as Church ordains 9,654 clerics

Ahmed Kelly

Orphan raised by Mother Teresa competes in Paralympics An orphan raised by the Missionaries of Charity in Baghdad is to compete in a sprint swimming event at the London Paralympics. Ahmed Kelly, who grew up in Australia after being adopted aged nine, will race in the 50m breaststroke. He has already broken a world record twice at 100m. Kelly, who was born with severely underdeveloped arms and legs, was left outside the Sisters’ orphanage in Baghdad and raised there until he was adopted, along with his brother, by Moira Kelly, an Australian humanitarian worker. In Australia he had surgery on his legs and, fitted with prosthetic limbs, played Aussie rules football for his school and club before taking up swimming. Moira Kelly, who founded the Children First Foundation, was herself inspired by Mother Teresa to become an aid worker. Ahmed’s brother, Emmanuel, starred in the US version of The X Factor.

Joyous mothers, with their babies delivered at the Convention

RICHARD EGHAGHE

he 60th annual Convention of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), which ends today, resonated in joyous mood over the weekend, as the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, announced that 68 births were recorded during the programme.

Daddy G.O., as Adeboye is fondly called, announced on Friday night that at 6.25 p.m., the total number of deliveries at the Convention was put at 68. They were made up of 34 boys and 34 girls. “I told you the boys will catch up with the girls,” he said, teasing the congregation. He assured that “more are still on their way”. Pastor Adeboye was last year quoted as saying that God promised him 70,000 babies, for the church members, to mark his 70th birthday, which held on March 2, this year. At the flag-off of the week-long Convention, the man of God had announced that various miracles, which included uncomplicated child births, would take place at the Convention grounds before the end of the programme. According to a record of the Redemp-

Pastor Adeboye

tion Camp’s maternity, 17 babies were delivered on the opening day of the Convention on Monday. Ever since, the deliveries of babies had been on the increase As the Convention began, however, 7,000 deacons and deaconesses were ordained, followed by the ordination of a total of 2,654 Assistant Pastors. Pastor Adeboye performed their ordination with the spiritual declaration: “I ordain you in the name of God the Father, and of Jesus Christ and of the Holy Spirit. Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in Heaven….” The ceremony attracted a record crowd, mostly friends, family members and well wishers of the ordained Assistant Pastors. The mass choir was also on hand to render glorious songs and solemn hymns in line with the mood of the occasion. Pastor Joe Olaiya delivered brief sermon entitled; “Greater Anointing”. He enjoined the newly ordained assistant pastors to regard their new assignment as a calling from God to serve and not an opportunity to act otherwise. Day Three of the Convention also featured the graduation of students from the Bible College. On the occasion, Pastor Adeboye came hard on corrupt

‘YOUR ENEMIES SHALL WAIT IN VAIN’

Christians, warning that they could not inherit the Kingdom of God, except they changed their ways. “Except you restitute your way, that which you did is waiting for you in your future. If you think that what you have done, the evil you have done, the moneys you have stolen, the things you got by wrong means because nobody saw you, are gone and gone forever, think again! “If you love yourself, before the end of this week, restitute your ways, because if you did anything and you think nobody knows, God knows. If there is something that is not yours but is in your possession, for you to enjoy this year of jubilee, you must restitute your ways,” he warned. Meanwhile, the next Special Holy Ghost Service of the RCCG for the month of September, (holding on the first Friday of the month) has been dedicated to people trusting God for the fruit of the womb. This was announced by Pastor Adeboye on Friday. He said the Holy Ghost service is tagged: “Glorious Generation”, and that there would be no Shiloh Hour programme next month, but rather, the programme would hold next Monday. •More Stories on Page 29

Winners of August 5, 2012 Sunday Mirror/Babcock University Bible Quiz: •Margaret Eric (08185533185) •Osunyomi Akinola (08052236450) •Jonathan Ebiebi (08055454988) • Friday John (07032276360) • Gift Ogochukwu (08133961981) • Femi Ojetunji (08186353527) • Current and past winners can collect their prizes from the office of the Editor, Sunday Mirror, 151/161 Broad Street, Lagos anytime from Monday to Friday. Participants should always indicate their names when sending their entries.

QUOTE

There are some men who some women should never move close to in their lives. If they move close to them, they cut their lives short. –Pastor Olukoya

‘WHEN YOU WANT YOUR HUSBAND TO CHANGE’

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Jonathan’s critics can’t perform better –Prophet Samuel Prophet Duromola Adedayo Samuel is the General Overseer, Christ Worshippers Church, Effurun, Warri, Delta State. The cleric who had once predicted the emergence of President Goodluck Jonathan, in this interview with Sina Fadare, says the political tension and crisis in the country would not lead to disintegration. Excerpts: As a social crusader and an advocate of justice and good governance, why have you been silent about the state of the nation in the recent time? The most important fact of it is that the Bible states that there is time to talk and there is time not to talk. Most of the things happening since the inception of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s administration had been predicted several years ago. Many Journalists are aware of this fact and even got them published in some dailies. The records are there. It is not that it is because Mr. President is my spiritual son. It is because there is no need to continue repeating what has been said. The Bible says that the whole world shall pass away but the word of God shall not pass away unfulfilled. That is why I am not too bothered with the current happenings. God has spoken through me about all the current happenings such as the security crisis, oil subsidy crisis and others several years back but people were not listening to the word of wisdom from the lonely voice in the wilderness. I thank God that they have been fulfilled but I pray to God to be merciful, not minding whether they (the people) listened or not. America has predicted that Nigeria may break up by 2015. With the Boko Haram sect insurgency in some parts of the country, do you share the belief that Nigeria could break up? American government are not Nostradamus, neither are they prophets. They are only talking about the social or economic situations that they know about Nigeria. Let me tell you something; what God has joined together, let no man put asunder. Nobody can break up Nigeria. Nigeria in the year 2015 will still be Nigeria. There is nothing that can separate Nigeria for now. I will continue to be an apostle of a united Nigeria. I will continue to advocate for one Nigeria. This is because united we stand and divided we fall. We will become an envy of other nations because of our population, resources that we have been endowed with by God. As a result, many countries are not favourably disposed to Nigeria. When America say Nigeria may break up, I don’t think they are sincere. To me, that is what a man says and not what God says. Most of what you predicted in the past have come to reality; what is the way out for Nigeria? I have said it several times; the way out is for President Jonathan to come and kneel down before the God of worshippers. I have said it several times that until the country recognises Jehovah God, until we leave our idolatry ways and forsake all the evils that we are doing...Most of the prob-

lems in Nigeria emanate from leaders today still worshiping idols. Until we forsake our evil ways and do the right things, the problem would still continue to hunt us. I have never been to Aso Rock to meet the President. I have been invited several times but I have refused to go. I don’t go to any Government House to meet any Governor. All that matters to me is for them to listen to the voice of reasoning, the lonely voice in the wilderness. What I am saying is that until we all believe the God of worshippers, until we worship God in truth and in spirit according to the book of John 4:23 and forsake our evil ways, we may not get our bearing. Corruption has become an epidemic that is endemic in Nigeria. Authorities are perverted but I pray that God would put an end to all these. What is your take on the ongoing oil subsidy probe and what does it portend for the country? Corruption in Nigeria is not just a matter of Otedola and Farouk alone; it has eaten deep into the fabric of every Nigerian. In every sector, there is corruption. Everywhere, even in the civil service, there is offering and collection of bribes. They are no more talking about millions but billions of Naira. There is the need to punish some as scapegoats before this can be stopped. Let them jail culprits for 30-40 years in order to stop the menace. Until some people are caught and sent to jail, indiscipline and corruption would continue. No matter the position attained, either as bank manager, local government chairman, state governor or even President, once the culprit is caught, he should be disciplined and then, there would be an end in sight. The way forward is to ensure quick dispensation of justice. Justice delayed is justice denied. The offenders should know that they cannot go unpunished. With the calibre of those who were arraigned on the subsidy scam, do you think there can be justice in the end? It is shameful that all the prominent Nigerian sons like Arisekola, Ahmadu Alli and Bamanga Tukur are on the list of those standing trial. Their parents are now denying them, that they are adults; therefore, they should be answerable for their deeds. However, they have used their fathers’ names to get those favours. Their fathers should have been arrested for complicity. The fact is; some few cabals have taken over this country. As long as this continues, the problem continues. Forget about Boko Haram. ..They are a faceless group. I don’t like faceless group. When you are fighting, you must be able to come out openly. When you are fighting, you must be seen to be

Prophet Samuel fighting for a cause; I don’t like people saying that they are jihadists. Let me tell you; sinners would not go unpunished. You remember, some people have promised to make the country ungovernable if they lose election. One of these days, nemesis would catch up with them and all these people would be exposed. Some people are just using them. The government should invite their fathers and let them tell Nigerians the source of their livelihood and how they got involved. You may discover that all these people may not have worked to earn any salary in their lives. Is it not the influence of their fathers that they are using? Nigerians are becoming wiser now. A time would come when the poor people would rise to demand for their own benefit. This is because many are flaunting their ill-gotten wealth before the poor. Kidnapping is now taking place. They don’t kidnap poor people but the rich. Boko Harams are attacking those in government and the super rich in the society. I have told you, laws being enacted by the government are not meant to favour the poor masses but the rich. There is revolution in the offing. I don’t pray for bloody revolution. The so-called big men ruling us are careless about the people’s welfare. Imaging some of the past governors who have one case or the other with the EFCC are now in the National Assembly.

of government which ought to work with the principles of separation of power. This arrangement is meant to check the abuse of power and share the duties and responsibilities of the government to the populace. However, in Nigeria today, it has been tilted. You find out that most of the local government councils are no longer functioning. The states are usurping the powers and functions of the local governments. The governors illegally covet the money meant for the local government under the pretext of Joint State/ Local Government Account. This is fraudulent. Let the local governments in the country collect their funds directly from the Federal Government.

Do you think the creation of state police will solve the problem of security challenges in the country? State police will be abused by the governors and other state government functionaries. That is my fear. Even without the state police, the state governments have started using the vigilance groups during politics, to attack oppositions. Nigeria is not ripe for a state police. Let us shelve it for future consideration. The governors can use them to manipulate and punish their opponents. How are we going to manage the conflicts that will be arising any time there is a clash between the state and the federal police? Let the Federal Government provide an enabling environment in terms of taking adequate care of the needs of the The National Assembly is embark- average policeman; by so doing, they (the ing on constitutional review with a police) will give their best and the country promise to create additional states in will be better for it. Nigeria. Do you subscribe to this? The question is how many of the states, You have often referred to the inapart from Lagos, are viable? Why do they surgents as terrorists; how best do you want to create more states? Instead of think it can be tackled? creating more states, we should run a corActually, they are not terrorists but rupt-free government in the country. They agents of terrorists. They are a bunch of must remember that we have three arms CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

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Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

Why church attendance is declining in UK –Rev Marsh ONUKWUBE OFOELUE

he Reverend Vernon Marsh, chair of the Sheffield District, Methodist Church in the United Kingdom has cleared the air concerning the issue of atheism and poor church attendance in Europe and the UK in particular. He told Sunday Mirror that what actually went wrong is that majority of the older churches and chapels no longer have young members, as the youths are uncomfortable with the old methods of the churches’ worship.

Reverend Marsh was speaking in an exclusive interview at

the presentation of certificate to 153 priests of the Methodist Church at the graduation ceremony held at the Methodist Training Institute in Sagamu, Ogun State, last week. He added that some of the young, active church members had equally established several churches where they could worship in their own modern methods. “I think what is happening in the UK is that there are a lot of people who now say that they don’t believe in God. But all the surveys show that a large majority of people say they do believe in God. The Methodist Church is reducing in numbers, as are

most of our denominations in the UK. But it is a complex picture we have in the Methodist Church. “For example, I serve the Sheffield District of the church in Yorkshire, and we have got quite a lot of churches and chapels, where there is a small number of elderly people, and they look like they are going to close. But then, there are a lot of other churches where they have got a lot of young people, where things are growing. We are in the middle of a time where we are experiencing decline and growth simultaneously. “What I think happened is that,

some congregations become so elderly that it is almost impossible for young people to join, so seeking where they belong, people are beginning to raise youth churches, churches for young families and children, that accept more informal ways of services. So, we have a lot of decline, but we also have got a lot of new growth all at the same time.” When asked whether the clergy viewed the situation as a problem, he responded that it would have been much better if there was only growth instead of growth and decline at the same time. “But we are not finished yet. We are still working on it, for the growth to be every-

‘People’s revolution is imminent’ CONTINUED FROM Page 24 criminals. These people cannot give lives, why are they taking lives? Anybody that takes lives wilfully is a criminal. On the judgment day, God would destroy that person. The Quran and Bible do not support taking lives. They are hiding under different pretext to commit crimes. What is your reaction to Boko Haram’s demand from President Jonathan to change to Muslim before they can lay down their arms? You know that I have told you that they are a faceless organisation without a concrete reason for fighting. Can they fight for God? If God wants the whole world to be Muslims or Christians, what does it cost him? If they are not born as Muslims, are they sure that they would be one? They are destroyers. They are in fact ignorant. The two religions co-exist in Saudi Arabia and the State of Israel where they originated. What is their stress in Nigeria? Do you see President Jonathan overcoming the security challenges confronting Nigeria currently? The Goodluck Jonathan that I know very well in my church cannot hurt a fly. He is passionate; perseverance is there for him and he is calculative. That is why you can see him being quiet. We need someone who is calculative and firm. We need someone whose yes would be yes and no would be no. He has the fear of God. If you ask me well, President Jonathan ought to be a pastor and not a politician. Most of his critics cannot perform better than him if they are given the opportunity to be president. How many of them have been able to manage their affairs well? Even the leadership of the National Assembly; how many of their probes have yielded results? The National Assembly did not know that the people are laughing at them. What is your take about the threat to impeach President Jonathan by the National Assembly over budget implementation? The impeachment threat is a joke. It is the greatest joke of the year. For your information, I have said it before; nobody can impeach President Jonathan. Impeaching him is like telling South-South people to go away. President Jonathan will complete his tenure, go and write it down. I know what is happening in the Niger Delta region. I

have lived with them for many years. They are just wasting their time. Even the Action Congress of Nigeria legislator that moved the motion is just joking. They alleged that the budget is not fully implemented. Nigerians should ask them, what has been happening to all the probes that the National Assembly has been doing since 1999? They said that they want 100 per cent implementation of the budget, what happen to their probes without end? People alleged that their probes end in money sharing. How can the Presidency perform when the National Assembly approved and passed budget in April? They want the executives to perform wonder with 100 per cent implementation and execution of budgetary provisions in September. Is President Jonathan a magician? They should go and put their own House in order. Somebody referred to them as rogues, crooks, armed robbers, they cannot do anything to him. If they are not thieves, why can’t they reply former President Olusegun Obasanjo? By leaving Obasanjo alone shows that they accepted. Is Obasanjo bigger than Nigeria? They are looking, they cannot defend themselves. They should cover their faces in shame. They are now threatening to impeach President Jonathan on budgetary implementation. Who caused it in the first place? Why do they approve the budget late? For the period that they have been in the National Assembly, how many of them remember their constituencies? They should tell the public what they have done in their constituencies. If they don’t want to put Nigeria on fire, they should keep quiet on the matter. You once said that poverty is the root cause of madness, can you expatiate on this? Poverty is so endemic in Nigeria today that you will see some people just walking and talking on the streets, absent-minded. There are two types of madness now. When somebody is so poor that he cannot feed himself, feed the children, it inflicts madness. There is another form of madness: when somebody has too much money. Many of the rich men in Nigeria are mad people. When somebody have billions of Naira in his account and people around him are suffering, is that not madness? They keep so many foreign accounts. The real madmen in Nigeria are the richest people in the country that are looting billions of naira and stashing it in different banks all over the world. They are the ones inflicting madness on the poor masses.

That is why when you cure a madman, you must bless him with money. Look, the rate of mad people in Nigeria has escalated. Before, you may not see more than one or two mad people in a day but, today, they can be five, six or seven. Sixty percent of Nigerians are mad. A man beats up his wife, is that not madness? A wife abuses the husband, is it not madness too? This is because of the economic situation of the country. Is it not madness for somebody to steal billions while many cannot afford two meals a day? Is it not madness for many people to be in darkness while some enjoy 24 hours electricity generated by their generators? Our leaders stay in Aso Rock and Government Houses where generator is supplying light and they don’t know if Power Holdings Company of Nigeria is supplying us light or keeping the masses in darkness. Are they not also mad? Some pastors are equally mad. When they are expecting money from members and it is not forthcoming, they start abusing their members. Is that not madness? A bishop slaps a member, is that not madness? A man of God divorces the wife frequently, is that not madness? How many times did Jesus or Paul marry? The first divorce we say is a mistake but with the second, it has become a habit. For another one to equate himself with God, is that not madness? You have been in Warri in the last three decades; will you say the oil money has transformed the city? I have stayed in Warri for the past 35 years. There is no street that I don’t know in Warri. I got married to a Warri woman in Warri. There have been no changes in Warri. The Marine Quarters has remained a slum. At the mechanic village, every face you see there looks like one that is tired of life. The only change or difference is that people are now building houses. When you go to other states, you see the changes. For example, Akure has been transformed lately as Warri remains its old self. Take a visit to the Chevron city in Lekki, Lagos and see what they have turned Warri’s money to there. Visit Abuja and other places. However, we thank God for the establishment of the Niger Delta Ministry that has tried to bring some succour On the international scene, you once predicted the success of Bill Clinton as American President, it came to pass. Who wins in the next America Presiden-

where”. On her part, Dr Mrs. Carol Jackson, wife of the Reverend Richard Jackson, who is International coordinator of the programme, expressed concern on the increasing problem of atheism among Europeans these days, stating that although a large majority of people still believe in God, many of them rejecting Jesus as the saviour. Her words: “A large percentage of people in UK believe in God, but they don’t believe in Jesus Christ. They don’t actually believe in Christianity. They don’t act on it, and they don’t go to church”, she stated.

Prophet Samuel tial election? Is it Barack Obama of the Democratic Party or Mitt Romney of the Republican Party? If you follow the tradition and pattern of American politics, each ruling party spends eight years before the change of baton. Obama is more American than AfroAmerican, there is nothing beneficial for African countries in his foreign policy. Kenya, his root, has nothing to show talk less of Nigeria which is the most populous country in Africa. The most painful aspect of Obama’s Presidency is the legal recognition of gay marriage. What is the secret for the recent rapid expansion of Christ Worshippers’ Church? The secret is the truth. Christ worshippers’ Church is a church where you cannot tell lies. We have our branches now at Warri, Ifon, Owo, Akure, Otumewho, Owian, Sapele, Abraka, Bayelsa, SierraLeone (two branches) with our international headquarters at Osubi, Effurrun Warri. At our international headquarters, we have an Administrator, Pastor Moses Oludipe. He is coordinating all the activities well.

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

It’s your time to recover all –Pastor Okereke (2) General Overseer of Global Success Ministry, Pastor (Dr.) Chima Okereke, in this series, digs deep into the word of God to convince you that you can recover all that you have lost to the devil. Richard Eghaghe presents excerpts of the exhortation:

here are several examples in the Bible of people that lost various things in their lives but the Almighty God gave all back to them. Last week, we saw how David recovered all in 1 Samuel 30:1-8. Recovery of all lost blessings brings joy. In the name that is above every other name, I command you to enter into the joy of total recovery in Jesus’ name. In Genesis 14:13-24, we were told a great story on how Abram recovered all his lost goods, including his brother that was taken captive. There is something interesting in that story; the Bible said that Abram pursued the enemies with 318 of his trained servants; these servants were trained in his house. Likewise, David, before he recovered all, some men went with him. So, you also need assistance of someone to recover all. It could be your brothers, sisters or friends. But whoever that will help you must have the backing of God. The Almighty may use me to recover all your lost blessings, including the ones the enemies had delayed from reaching you. This is your time. In Jesus’ name, I declare that you’ll begin to recover all from this month. You can say to that enemy, ‘enough is enough.’ You must stop accommodating enemies that cause pains; you need to rise up to the challenge. When God is with you, no one can be against you. Who will say ‘it will come to pass’, when the Lord had not spoken? In Isaiah 7: 7, it is written, “Thus saith the Lord God, it shall not stand neither shall it come to pass.” All evil plans against your great testimonies this year shall not stand in Jesus’ name. What surprises me sometimes is that even some believers do not know their right and the power they possess and they are also subjected to high level of poverty, deprivation, lack, and are confused. Arise and shine for thy light is come; the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. That enemy is a liar; God has spoken well concerning you. Begin to speak it; be prayerful and do not give up. If you need assistance from the Almighty God, He can use me; all you need to do is just to send text messages to the phone numbers on this page. Your belief is very important. If you feel that you are not part of those who will experience the riches of redemption in Christ Jesus, there is nothing anybody can do for you. Success is your birthright as a child of God. Psalm 24:1 states, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” You have a father who owns the earth and yet

you are lacking. The son of Nigerian President can never be hungry in this country, how much you the son and daughter of the President General of the whole world, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. In Jeremiah 29:11, he says, “For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” So what is delaying your expected end? Even if you have sinned, come back to Him like the prodigal son. In Isaiah 59: 1-2 “ Behold the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ears heavy, that it can not hear; but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” But come back to Him. Jesus is telling you that He will in no wise cast you out. In Matthew 11:28; “Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” This is your time to recover all; lifestyle that gives you no peace; to recover from serious financial challenges in your life and family; recover from sicknesses or diseases for those who are experiencing such; recover from barrenness for those who needed children; recover your lost position. If the joy that was once in your family is no more there, you need to recover all. Many are in debt and it is giving them sleepless nights; recover all in Jesus’ name. The Bible tells us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever; what he did in those days, he is still doing them today; last Friday vigil, a man who was totally paralysed, being carried by four men; two were carrying his legs and two carrying his head region; then he was placed on the floor. I offered a simple prayer in the name of Jesus Christ and he rose up to the surprise of the multitude and there was wild jubilation. I am believing God for you also that from today, you shall begin to recover all in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. In john 5: 1-9; the Bible tells us a story of a man who had been paralysed for 38 years but that day, he saw Jesus, he recovered all. Ecclesiastes 3:1-10 says there is time to all specific events; this is your own time: Isaiah 10:27 states, “it shall come to pass in that day…” That is today for you. Just believe in what Jesus shall do in your life and you will testify in Jesus name. •For enquiries and counseling, please send text messages only through the following numbers: 08067802407, 07038638984, for prompt attention.

Briefly Global Success Convention begins

Pastor Okereke

All hands are now on deck in preparation for the sixth international crusade of the Global Success Ministry for the year, entitled: “Behold, I will do a new thing” (Isaiah 43:19). The event, which is celebrated as the Holy Ghost Convention of the church, commences from Wednesday, August 15 and ends on Sunday, 19th August, 2012 According to a release by the spokesman of the church, Brother Ogochuckwu, the convention kicks off on

Wednesday the 15th of August from 5:00p.m. On Thursday and Friday, the event will hold by 5.30pm, while on Saturday, the 18th of August, the crusade will be flagged off by 9:00a.m. Sunday, the 19th August will feature two services. The first service holds between 6.30a.m and 11.30a.m while the second service starts by 11.30a.m and ends by 1:30p.m. The monthly international crusade affords people in dire need of deliverance, healing, breakthrough, salvation, fruitful-

ness and any form of miracle, the ample opportunity to seek the face of God. According to Ogochuckwu, all are invited to benefit from the crusade. He pointed out that “anyone who attends will never return home the same as the Holy Ghost fire is bound to fall through the power of God, issued through the anointing of the General Overseer, Dr Chima Okereke, and the blessing of God will come mightily upon the people to deliver and to save”.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

‘Your enemies shall wait in vain’ Why a Christian should be this message, Pastor Lai Bamidele of Christ Glorious End-Time generous –Pastor Oloruntimilehin InEvangelical Church teaches that God is a good investor, who Founder of Omnipotence Mission of God, Pastor Joshua Oloruntimilehin Daramola, wants people to be generous. He says, “A generous person is like an inventor who will always be remembered for the work of his hands.” Excerpts of his message as presented by Tai Anyanwu:

n this fateful day, a member of our church walked up to me, and wanted to know why I gave a gift to another ministry (church). I decided to take time to explain the reason behind my action to him. I said to him that I would always acknowledge, recognise and encourage anyone who finds a space in his or her heart to render help to the needy; or contribute to the development of the ministry of Jesus Christ. While we were yet discussing, another member of our congregation walked in and joined in the discourse. Incidentally, he mentioned that the person in question deserved the gift because he had touched the lives of some of our needy members. It is imperative to talk and mention what people do and their positive contributions, so that others can learn and emulate them. My desire is that people should do well, because there is a reward for doing well. I also implore people doing bad things to desist; if they refuse to refrain from doing evil, then they would definitely reap its reward. It is just like how every inventor is never forgotten; whether a person does good or bad, he or she will be remembered in due time. The Bible tells us about a woman who was very generous to the needy in her world, in Act 9 verse36-42. It says, “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!” “Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially

the widows, and presented her to them alive. 42 This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord. Dorcas was filled with good deeds. But many people did not know she was doing good things. So, as a minister of God, I will always recognise people who lend a helping hand to the less-privileged ones in the household of God. More so because the help rendered in the house of God automatically means that they are helping me to make the people stay in the church for God to glorify Himself in the peoples’ lives. What am I saying here brethren? We are created to help the needy among us. Whoever helps the needy does well and it won’t be out of place to acknowledged or recognised people who do well. I am imploring every parent to teach their children to have generous heart of giving to people they know that require assistance. Do not teach the children to be callous and reproach the needy. The woman, Dorcas, was remembered both in life and death. She was so compassionate and merciful that she was taken care of when she became ill, by the widows in Joppa. Her death was so devastating to the widows that they started wailing and mourning uncontrollably. The widows in Joppa realised that all the help they used to get from Dorcas would stop and that suffering would set into their lives. They sent for Peter to see if Dorcas could be brought back to life. Thus the widows helped to revive Dorcas through Apostle Peter. Dorcas, eventually, got her reward for the good things she did for the widows. A person can be brought back to life through the people he or she had helped. Likewise, some will die and people will be thanking God that he or she is no more. When some people are at home, the home will become quiet, almost like a graveyard. If some people are not at home there will be happiness and rejoicing around because their absence is a welcome relief; the person has not imparted anything good to the lives of the people around. Mark 12 verse 41-44 says “…But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins worth only a fraction of a penny…but she, out of her poverty, put in everything-all she had to live on”. Generosity may not be in form of money or material things but it can be through utterances. People can use their utterances to settle a quarrel between husband and wife and restore peace to the home. If a person shows goodness or wickedness to children of another parent, the same will be done to the person’s children. So brethren, as long as people live, they will be rewarded and mentioned for whatever they do, both in life and death. •For counseling, contact Pastor Oloruntimilehin Joshua Daramola (JP), founder of Omnipotence Mission of God, on 08023002834.

Pastor Daramola

has created man in His likeness and image and would not allow the devil to destroy His image. But he says a life of holiness is required of God’s people to enable them overcome enemies. Tai Anyanwu brings excerpts of the exhortation:

e will never allow the enemy to destroy His image that is why if we want God to always be our defence, we must live a life that is absolutely in accordance with God’s will. We must strive to live holy because God is holy. Once we are living a holy life, if our lives please God, our enemies shall be in peace with us. I always believe one thing: once we are living to please God, the enemy might strike but they cannot overcome us. Proverbs 10:28 states, “The hope of the righteous shall be gladness, but the expectation of the wicked shall perish in Jesus’ name. Let them be ashamed and confounded; together, they seek after my soul to destroy it. Let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.” Everybody that wishes you evil shall be pushed backward in Jesus’ name. Let me tell you; we are serving a living God. He said He is a man of war; and He is always there to defend us. I stand to tell you that once you are walking in the will of God, the Lord is always there to defend you. No power can overcome you. Every expectation of the wicked cannot come to pass. Before, I used to be very scared. When I hear about evil activities of witches and wizards, I shiver. But the day I discovered myself in the Lord, then I knew that I had authorities over those forces. God gave me a revelation in the book of Jeremiah 15: 20-21, which states, “And I will make thee onto these people a brazen wall and they shall fight against thee but they shall not prevail against thee for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, says the Lord. I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible.” Can you see that? He said that ‘I shall make you a brazen wall.’ If God makes you a brazen wall, who is that person, that will attack you? I want you to know one thing my brethren; our God is a good investor; he has created us in His likeness and His image; we are the image of our God. He will never allow the enemy to destroy His image; that is why if we want God to always be our defence, we must live a life that is absolutely in accordance with God’s will. We must strive to live holy because God is holy. Once we are living a holy life, if our lives please God, our enemies shall be in peace with us. I always believe one thing; once we are living to please God, the enemies strike but might cannot overthey come us. I want you to open the book of Psalm 119: 67. It states, “Before I was afflicted, I went astray but now I ke pt

Pastor Bamidele Bamidele Pastor

thy word.” Let me tell you; affliction cannot come without you going astray. I am not the one saying it; it is there in the Bible. “I was afflicted when I went astray.” I want us to always be conscious who we are in the Lord, because the Lord is there to defend us. He is our shield and buckler. Every enemy waiting for evil to happen to you shall wait in vain in Jesus’ name. It surprises me that in the church of God, some people are even digging pits, graves for the men of God. I am here to tell you today, repent because the Bible tells me, “You who dug a pit shall fall in there.”That word is definite. Today, I just want to open our minds that once we are living right, no evil shall overcome us. But I want you to bear in mind today that there are some few things as Christians that we are supposed to carry out, that will make our enemies wait in vain. We will see the first of such things in second Chronicle 20: 20-22. We want to praise God, because our Daddy has declared today as day of praise and worship unto the Lord. Because when you praise the Lord, when you worship the Lord, the Lord will defend you. That place in second Chronicle, when Jehoshaphat and his people praised and worshipped God, the enemies that were waiting to destroy them, God destroyed them. Jehoshaphat and his people did not even need to shoot an arrow, their enemies were destroyed. The second thing is making a prayer of intercession. Most of us like praying for ourselves, but I discovered one thing, that when I am praying for other people God will hear my own prayers too. We can see that one in the book of Acts 12: 1- 11. When Herod killed James, he pleased the people and they were making oration unto Herod; and the next thing he did is that he took Peter. He wanted to kill Peter too before dawn but the church of God prayed earnestly for Peter. And God intervened; the angel of the Lord appeared in the night and delivered Peter. The angel of the Lord will deliver you today in the name of Jesus. The third one is prayer and fasting, and we find that in the book of Esther; it is a story that is familiar all of us. Herman died in the gallows that he prepared for Mordecai. But before that happened, Esther declared one thing: “Let us fast and pray, if I perish I perish.” But did Esther or the Jews perish? It was Herman that was waiting for Mordachai to die that perish. Every enemy waiting for you to be destroyed, they shall be destroyed in Jesus name. The last but not the list thing you will do for your enemies to perish in your stead is the word of God. King David said, Thy word is a light unto my part. I want to you to know one thing today, those few steps I have thought us today, let us put them to practice in our lives, because I am supposed to limit myself to praise and worship this morning but the spirit of God took me further. I am charging you today to prepare your mind to dance to the Lord and that mountain you are looking shall become plain in Jesus name. •For counselling contact: pst_lai@yahoo.com, phone08074484415, 08027502864 and 08161285586

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

RCCG Convention: Nigeria will ‘come up higher’, says Pastor Adeboye

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Briefly

Pastor Adeboye

Adeboye in search of 2,000 dormitories

RCCG Pastors at the Convention

RICHARD EGHAGHE

s the 60th annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) finally comes to an end today at the Redemption Camp, Kilometre 46, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Mowe in Ogun State, participants are of the high hope that the convention will not only turn the fortune of Nigeria around but will also lift the country higher in the comity of nations.

Declaring the seven-day convention open last Monday, the General Overseer and host minister, Pastor Adejare Enoch Adeboye, extended a hand of fellowship of the church to all and sundry to ‘Come Up Higher’ in the series of life-changing programmes for the convention. “It is with great joy and gladness of heart that we welcome you to the 60th annual convention of this glorious mission. The Lord has indeed been very gracious to us, showing us great mercies, miracles, deliverance, victories and provision. “We also bless the name of the Lord for keeping you alive in his mercy, since last time we gathered here. This convention is an invitation of our heavenly father to behold the King, His power and His greatness. He is asking us to ‘come up higher’ through the high way of holiness, increased faith, purity, enlarged vision and an ever-increasing greatness unto glorious expectations.” Daddy G.O., as Adeboye is fondly called, noted that “And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not journey on it; it will be for those who walk in that Way; wicked fools will not go about on it.” (Isaiah 35: 8). He pointed out that there was a place specially prepared for those who yield

to the invitation to come up higher. “…A position of higher level of power, grace, glory, mercy, joy, total victory, success, prosperity and deliverance. This is why you have come; be prepared to receive LIFE in its fullness!” he urged. The renowned clergyman also encouraged everyone to avail themselves of the various seminars and plenary sessions and to “prayerfully commit yourself and your future to deep intimacy with Jesus Christ. Drink in deeply, of his presence and do not allow yourself to be distracted. It is our desire that the power of the Holy Spirit may arise within you and cause you to long for more of Him daily from now till you are filled to overflowing. There is room at the top for you,” he concluded. Many of the participants, who spoke after listening to the message, expressed the belief that God had indeed spoken through the G.O. They maintained that God spoke at various times through Pastor Adeboye, that in spite of the threat against the unity of this nation, Nigeria would remain one, an indivisible entity. Adequate security measure for both lives and properties were put in place. Also, the Holy Spirit was believed to have taken absolute control at the convention grounds as no security threat was reported in any form all through the convention. The clerics on the occasion enthused that God took charge of the security situation at the camp. A participant from Borno State declared at the event that “churches in Nigeria are not tired of calling on God for divine intervention in any situation.

Seminars and Plenary sessions

The massively graced convention witnessed series of divinely induced seminars and plenary sessions. Well researched topics like “Out of the Miry Clay”, “That I May Know Him”, “The Upward Way”,

“Divine Commandoes”, “The Purpose of Victory”, as well as “There Is Room At The Top”, “Don’t Settle For Less”, “Come Up Higher”, “Superior Power”, and “Another Home In View”, among others, were expertly delivered during the convention. At the group stages of the seminars, the ‘Youth One’ group tackled such topics as “Bone To Shine”, just as the ‘Youth Two’ class treated the topic, “A Family Tradition of Total Dedication to God”. The ‘Elders Forum’ treated “Heavenly Focus” while the children /teenagers group picked on “Growing Up In The Lord”. The ‘Good Women Fellowship’ at the convention, had series of special activities.

Give back to your community, Adeboye urges church

Pastor Adeboye has mandated all provinces of the Church to impact visibly on their host communities; not only spiritually, but also developmentally. He gave the directive through one of his special advisers, Joseph Obayemi, during the commissioning of various projects to mark the 60th annual Convention in Lagos. He explained that the projects, which ranged from construction of boreholes, maternity, renovation of existing schools to building of new ones in the community, were parts of the corporate social responsibility of the RCCG. According to Pastor Obayemi, “The G.O. has mandated each region to impact positively on their host communities and this has motivated us to embark on projects like constructing boreholes, building structures and renovating maternity and schools. These projects are being commissioned globally, as a way of giving back to host communities where RCCG is located. We believe government cannot do everything alone. Instead of complaining, let us stand up as a mission to assist the government and the communities,” he said.

The minister of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, last Friday at the Holy Ghost Service of the 60th Convention of the RCCG, lamented over the huge number of people sleeping in the auditorium at the convention. “Each time we come to the convention and I see so many people sleeping in the auditorium, my heart bleeds. Yes, I know that the auditorium is a good place to sleep. If you would allow me, I will come and sleep here, because anointing is here, the amount of prayer prayed here, every bit of the soil, is charged with prayer; but at the same time, if there can be rooms for people to sleep in, it will be good. But I know that is impossible, considering the crowd. “… We wish for 2, 000-room dormitory to be added to the ones we have here. Not only that, people could sleep during convention; but any time we have a programme here, if you would love to help in that regard, please do something about it. Just write a cheque in the name of Redeemed Christian Church of God and call it ‘dormitory project’. Any amount is okay. No matter how little, as far as it could buy a block,” he urged He also cautioned people against giving out dud cheque “It is not good. How can you give God Cheque that will be returned?”

Sanitation contest in the camp Cleanness, they say, is next to godliness. At the 60th Convention, sanitation was given very high premium. The G.O. even made it a priority to broadcast performances by the various provinces of the church in keeping their hostels clean during programmes, on daily basis. By the last count on Friday night, during the Holy Ghost Service of the Convention, Abia State provinces I -3 were announced to be the cleanest, followed by provinces in Lagos and Delta states respectively. Osun Provinces 1 and 2 came last in the rating. As at Wednesday evening, Pastor Adeboye said Lagos Province 28 was leading the pack of the neatest provinces. It was followed by Abia Provinces 1, 2 and 3 and Lagos Province 13. Among the dirtiest provinces are Kwara Province 2 and Kwara Province 1. Pastor Adeboye however pleaded with the people to “Please go and tidy up their hostels “so that we can get good report about you tomorrow.”

‘God replaced my fallopian tubes’

A young woman from Delta State, Mrs. Josephine Oghenetejiri, gave a testimony of how God performed a miracle where doctors had written her off that she could not have a baby because she had no fallopian tubes. Mrs. Oghenetejiri, who belongs to Delta Province, said she turned to God for help and her pastor assured her that God could replace any part damaged in her and that after a short while, she became pregnant. She came with two tots to reinforce her testimony.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

Worshippers during a prayer session at Lord’s Chosen retreat.

Pastor Muoka

That Pharaoh must die, says Pastor Muoka The weekly deliverance services of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries which hold every Thursday at the Church’s headquarters, Ijesha, Lagos have become mini-crusade of sort, considering the crowd that grace the deliverance service. Last week’s edition witnessed a great revival. Below is the message entitled, ‘That Pharaoh must die’, delivered by the General Overseer, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, during the service. Richard Eghaghe provides excerpts:

xodus 5:1-2 states, “And afterward, Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness. And Pharaoh said, Who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go”.

Exodus 14:1-4 also states, “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they turn and encamp before Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, over against Baal-zephon: before it shall ye encamp by the sea. For Pharaoh will say of the children of Israel, They are entangled in the land, the wilderness hath shut them in. And I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, that he shall follow after them; and I will be honoured upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host; that the Egyptians may know that I am the LORD. And they did so.” The significance of a Pharaoh from the Biblical context is, an unrepentant and diehard enemy; one who could do everything within his reach to ruin another person, such as manifesting self as witches and wizards, agents of the devil or sickness of any kind and other problems. It could also mean an adverse situation or affliction that defies solution and which prevents its victims from achieving the purpose of their creation. Whenever Pharaoh, an enemy, is alive and active in the life of the victim, the latter’s life will continue to suffer from the torment occasioned by the activities of this enemy in one way or the other. It is, therefore, expedient that the best option is for the enemy to be killed at the slightest opportunity; hence the essence of this message. We should know that the devil, Satan, who is the architect of all the problems of human beings, especially of the

‘THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A PHARAOH FROM THE BIBLICAL CONTEXT IS, AN UNREPENTANT AND DIEHARD ENEMY; ONE WHO COULD DO EVERY-

THING WITHIN HIS REACH TO RUIN ANOTHER PERSON, SUCH AS MANIFESTING SELF AS WITCHES

AND WIZARDS, AGENTS OF THE DEVIL OR SICKNESS OF ANY KIND AND OTHER PROBLEMS.’

Christians’, is the only enemy. He makes himself manifest in sickness and other afflictions. He does not wish us good; hence, we the children of God must ensure that no breathing space is given to him to operate. The refusal of Pharaoh in the Bible to allow the Israelites leave the country made God to draw a battle line against him and his people, which resulted in the death of many Egyptians. Everything that opposes the will of God in our lives is regarded as an enemy and must not be allowed to exist. Ezekiel 30:19 states, “Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: and they shall know that I am the LORD”. There may be many Pharaohs like problems that may have trailed you over the years, which have refused to leave or allow you to rest. You may have gone to places, fasted and prayed, yet nothing seems to happen. Sometimes, you may tend to have some kind of temporal relief only for the whole problem to resurface with greater force. The situation may have made you to cry and may even make you wonder whether that is how it will continue to be. You may be disappointed, disen-

chanted and give up hope or it could be that you are even considering going back to the world because you have prayed for many years and nothing seems to be happening. But pay attention now. Whatever constitutes that problem must meet its end today. That Pharaoh must die! Exdous 14:13-14 states, “And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no mor, forever. The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace”. Where is that problem confronting you that has defied solution and made people to ask: where is your God? Today, my God will answer them and the enemy you see today, shall be no more in the name of Jesus!

God’s plan and the ignorant Israelites

I want you to understand that God Almighty has the master plan of your life. And since He began His project in your life, He will finish it. The Lord has no record of any abandoned project and whenever He begins a thing, He brings it to accomplishment. 1st Samuel 3:12(b) states,

“When I begin, I will also make an end”. Whatever the Lord has started in your life will be finished. Romans 9:28 has a similar message: For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. Brethren, you have suffered enough and the Lord will cause all your sufferings to come to an end today, no matter how long it has tarried, in Jesus’ name! There is no record of any being or spirit that has challenged or fought the Almighty God and survived. Pharaoh, his armies and magicians put up a great fight against the God of Israel, but could not prevail. God is not a man, yet a man like Pharaoh rose up to challenge the Lord God, even to the extent of countering all that He did through the hand of Moses in signs and wonders, to a point they could no longer do so. It was a great fight they put up to the extent that Pharaoh refused to allow the Israelites go. But when God decided to kill the entire first born in Egypt, beginning from the house of Pharaoh, the Egyptians then realised themselves and drove away the Israelites from their land in a hurry. Not only were they allowed to leave but they even asked the Israelites to bless them because they could now see the hand of God on the people. After Moses blessed them, they parted ways. Remember, that what ended the confrontation between Pharaoh and the Israelites was the killing of the entire first born of the Egyptians. The reason everything that represents Pharaoh and its attendant problems must die is that if they are allowed to live, then people will tend to praise Pharaoh and God at the same time.

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

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The congregation at the service

His Eminence Segun Osinowo, President and Founder

Apostle Soyebo (right) and His Eminence, Segun Osinowo

Prophetess Dupe Osikomaiyi

Prophet Osikomaiya to Nigerians: There is hope in the horizon RICHARD EGHAGHE

he Glory Star Church of Christ Inc; Nigeria and Oversees, last weekend had a glorious all-night celebration at its Osigbose Osikomaiya Memorial Cathedral, Akute, in Ogun State, to mark the 2012 edition of its annual ‘Kinni Oolese?’ programme, with the theme: A Shield For Me, My Glory and The Lifter Of My Head. (Psalm 3:3). The event, which coincided with the 60th memorial service of the church founder, Baba Egbe Osikomaiya, was presided over by His Grace, Prophet Osinowo Osikomaiya and his wife, the prophetess. It attracted highly anointed ministers of God from various church denominations, other Christian faithful and non-Christians alike. It also witnessed powerful ministration of the word of God, anointing service, praise and worship, deliverance, healing, salvation, fruitfulness, breakthrough, miracles, and gospel drama presentation and awards programme. In a special homily, titled, “Success is a journey, not a destination”, the chief host and president cum founder of the church, His Grace, Prophet Osinowo Osikomaiya, observed that we are all attached to making it quickly in life. “We want everything right now. We make plans and schedule what we want and how it will come. When things do not go our way, we consider it a failure. No matter how hard you push, or insist or demand, everything happens when it is supposed to happen: everything comes in time. “We really are not in control of the universe. It is much bigger than we are. Our ego tells us to take control of our time. But what we really do is create confusion and stress. We cannot rush our victory: we cannot cut short our pains. Everything happens when it needs to happen; everyone is always where they need to be. You will never miss out on what is meant for you, even

if it has to come to you in a roundabout way. When we relax and follow our inner guidance, everything we should have is all that we get. When we rush around trying to make it, disappointment may be all we get”, he stated. The man of God also offered a special prayer ministration. Speaking on the successful hosting of this year’s edition of ‘Kinni Oolese, the prophetess and wife of Prophet Osikomaiya, expressed tremendous joy for the shower of blessing by the Almighty God upon the church and its members over the years. “I am so happy about this year’s celebration. Really, I was wondering how it was going to turn out when we were praying and working towards it. First, I was thinking about the rain. You know the rain has been falling for about a month or two now. But I thank God today that the event held and turned out a huge success. There was no single drop of the rain and it was well attended with abundant blessing to the glory of God. Highlighting the theme of the celebration, the prophetess revealed that it was divinely chosen through the inspiration of the Holy Ghost and very relevant to happenings in the society today. “Don’t forget that there is great economic and financial crunch ravaging nations across the world today. I think that was why the Holy Spirit ministered to us to adopt the theme in ministering to the people and reassure them that there is light at the end of the tunnel. It is a message of hope and we shall all live to celebrate and glorify His holy name in the end. “You also know there are some people in the society today. They think their head cannot be raised again because they have fallen below the poverty level. They have become frustrated to an extent and kept asking themselves: Can I still make it in life again? Even with what we are experiencing in the country; where prices of goods and services has sky rocketed and even gone beyond the reach of the common man; where power supply has become epi-

leptic and good job difficult to come by, so, like the theme we adopted for this year’s celebration we have been able to minister and encourage the people not to give up. We have been able to assure people that God is our shield, our supporter and provider and that He is the only one that can restore our glory and when God gives, He never asks for anything in return other than to be diligent in His work and glorify His mighty name. He is the one that can lift each and everyone’s head up. He is the Almighty. He is able to do all things in our lives.” Also glorifying God for all the wonderful works, the Prophetess recalled: “You know in His word, He said: ‘His glory, He will never share with anyone.” Actually, we went through thick and thin in putting the event together, but we glorify God for all His blessing. Last year, the floor of the Cathedral had no tiles, it is tied now and the church is taking a beautiful new look. “What we think we cannot achieve in six months, God did it for us within two weeks. I really thank God. We have some people in our church; like the pregnant women and some members that have been waiting on the Lord for the fruit of the womb. I thank God for answering their prayers. They were able to produce and bring their babies to this year’s celebration of Kinni Oolese? “For some of our bachelors and spinsters, praying for a good wife and husband, I thank God for providing them wives and husbands of their choice. For our youths, God has been wonderful; some of them graduated from the university and the rest excelled in their various fields of endeavour. Personally, there are lots of good that the Lord has done in my life. I particularly thank Him for sparing the life of my husband till this day and making Him healthier and stronger to do His work. I also thank God for the protection over our members and for the large turn-out for this year’s ‘Kinni Oolese?’ “Indeed, the Lord has been good and

generous in answering our prayers in this church. What shall we render other than to praise and uplift His mighty name in this our annual programme: ‘Kinni Oolese?’ Prophetess Osikomaiya also thanked everyone for their contribution to make this year’s celebration of the event a remarkable success. “I thank our children for their understanding and cooperation towards the event, each and every member of the church and everyone who has come to celebrate with us. I believe the almighty God who started a good job in this ministry will not stop until He finishes it.”

Roll call of ministers at the event

•Most Senior Apostle S. O. Esan •Special Apostle T. Adebowale •Supt. Apostle S. A. Bolajoko •Snr. Apostle A. A. Oyebo (J.P) •Supt. Apostle Taiwo Soyebo •Supt Apostle C. A. Fajemisin (J.P) •Rev. Prophet Dr. Olasoga •Apostle Prophet Bolaji Adewuni •His Supreme Prophet Dr. Olusegun Ola •Prophet Tunde Adegun •Pastor Segun Adewunmi (Special Apostle) •Supt. Apostle Prophet Ayo Omele •Rev. Emmanuel O. Ajake •Pastor Samson O. Olasupo (who delivered a lecture on the theme: A Shield For Me, My Glory & The Lifter Of My Head.) •Apostle Prophet Dr. Akingboye •Gen. Mother Prophetess Funmi Lifan •Snr. Rev. Apostolic Mother Dupe Soyebo •Rev. Apostle Prophetess Ronke Fashina •Mother in Israel Ololade •Mother in Israel Funmi •Rev. Mother Prophetess Lizzy Osunkoya •Rev. Mother Funmi Soyebo •Apostolic Evang. Yinka Alabi •Lady Evang. Toyin Kareem •Dr. Segun Olugbile •Rev. Mother Dr. F. Adewunmi •Deaconess Kehinde Olugbile •Prophet Ibijoke Atewogbile •Mrs. Iyabo Ogunaike •Rev. Apostle Prophet Dr. J. O. Oluwemimo (J.P)

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Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

Pastor Olukoya: Ancestral sins, root causes of many problems Dr. Daniel Olukoya, General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), in this message, warns that the sinful conducts of forebears should not be glossed over, as they still haunt their descendants. According to him, there are hurdles to cross, if Christians must become what God wants them to be. Tai Anyanwu brings excerpts from the message:

he book of Lamentations 5:7 states, “Our fathers have sinned, and are no more; and we have borne their iniquities.” The result of their sins now follows.

In verse 8-17: “Servants have ruled over us: there is none that doth deliver us out of their hands. We get our bead with the peril of our lives because of the sword of the wilderness. Our skin was black like an oven because of the terrible famine. They ravished the women of Zion, and maids in the cities of Judah. Princes are hanged up by their hand: the faces of elders were not honoured. They took the young men to grind, and the children fell under the wood. The elders have ceased from the gate, the young men from their music. The joy of our heart is ceased; our dance is turned into mourning. The crown is fallen from our head: woe unto us that we have sinned! For our heart is faint; for these things our eyes are deemed.” All these because of the first phrase: “Our fathers have sinned, and are not.” It is possible that you don’t know your grandfather or great-grandfather. There is no one alive now who knows their great, great, great, grandfather; unless the person has familiar spirit or is a witch or wizard. Yet their (the forebears’) actions in the past seem to have strange consequences on us. If God delivers you from the sins of your ancestors, that is a great deliverance indeed. The scripture in the forgoing established the basis of root battles.

What is root? A root means the source or origin of a thing. It is the beginning, foundation, fountain, nucleus or starting point of a thing.

Consequences of the sins of our fathers •Servants are now ruling us: Those who are supposed to serve us are now ruling us. Many who are supposed to build houses and rent them out to tenants are now tenants themselves. You look at a person calling himself the landlord of a house and you discover that, you, the tenant, are more intelligent, bright than him, and here you are; a common tenant. Why? “Our fathers have sinned.” That is why

servants are ruling over us. What we are supposed to have dominion over, are now dominating us. What we are supposed to control, are now controlling us. Today, sickness, poverty, non-achievement, disgrace and shame have become our lot because “Our fathers have sinned.” If not because of the sins of our fathers, many people who claim to be prophets on the streets would die of hunger because there will be nothing that will drive anybody to them. We go for deliverance sometimes but we do not know that we are battling against stubborn roots. • Deliverance failure: Many people go for deliverance several times but it is not effective. As soon as they finish the deliverance, the powers come back in the dream and say, “You think we have gone, we are still here.” Some people see palm oil in their dreams and pray for deliverance and they get delivered. But after the deliverance, they now show them water melon which is equally red in colour. So, the same problem continues. Why? “Our fathers have sinned.” • Struggle for our daily bread: Some people make so much effort to put food on the table yet they are complaining that the food is not enough, because “Our fathers have sinned.” All that some people can achieve in life is to provide food for themselves and their families, nothing more. • Our skin has changed to black: For some people the texture of their skin has turned losing every sheen; all because of hardship • Women are losing the honour of women: Young girls are sexually violated. They are forced into prostitution owing to poverty, because “our fathers have sinned.’ The family members of a certain sister called a meeting concerning her. They said, “Look at you, beautiful girl, you have front, waist, back, leg and yet you say you are poor. We your parents are hungry and you have capacity to make money but you are not bringing money home. You pray and go to church all the time while girls who are not as beautiful as you are bring money home and look after their parents. Use what you have to get what you need.” What an abomination! When a lady’s parents are the ones pushing her into prosti-

Pastor Olukoya

tution, it is a serious matter. Many women’s lives have been cut short as a result of this. There are some men who some women should never move close to in their lives. If they move close to them, they cut their lives short. Many women are dying like houseflies without fulfilling their purpose. HIV/AIDS is raging everywhere through the sin of immorality as a consequence of “Our fathers have sinned.” Many young girls in tertiary institutions and secondary schools are academic prostitutes. Many of them are practising prostitution to cater for themselves. They do not understand what is happening. I got a letter threat sometimes last year. Those who wrote it signed as “Lagos big boys.” They said, Dr. Olukoya, be very careful. You have spoiled our business in University of Lagos. Before you brought your so-called Youth Church there, sometimes, we gathered them 32and take them out for the weekend but right now, we hardly get 10. You have to be very careful. Leave the campus alone and face your church.” We have this type of situation because “Our fathers have sinned.” • Our princes’ hands are tied: Our youths with great talents and potentials are roaming around the streets. In the western world, when you get out of the

university with a first class, quickly, you are placed in a position where you can advance the lot of people. There are a lot of white people in Africa but the intelligent ones do not leave their countries; they are in laboratories working. It is only in black Africa that you see someone with a First Class degree roaming the streets because “Our fathers have sinned.” We have talents everywhere wasting away. The enemy has used the iniquity of their fathers to repackage their destinies. Their destiny has been tampered with and they have now become armed robbers and street people because the sins of their fathers have affected their lives. This is very sad. It is lamentable that many young people would die without fulfilling their destinies and their talents wasted unless they cry out in prayer.

Take this prayer points with understanding: •Powers in my root attacking my star die in the name of Jesus. • Every yoke from my foundation gener ating problems for me, die in the name of Jesus • Let the demonic current that is run ning from my family to my life be cut off by fire, in the name of Jesus. • Agenda of my father’s house to waste my life, die, in the name of Jesus.

Praise & Worship

Sunday August 12, 2012

It is possible

Text Only: 08037188392

Divine Message with Special Apostle James

Akinadewo E-mail: molailatugrow@hotmail.com

popular saying goes – When there is life, there is hope. The Bible also says our tomorrow shall be better and God will continually honour His word more than His name. It is a decree from Heaven.

Welcome aboard. It is well. No matter your level now, your need matters. Anything you desire, you can get it. Your plans and aspirations can come to pass. Your dream can be fulfilled. Where you are aiming at, you can get there. Nothing on earth has power to stop you, you are too loaded to be frustrated. I believe you can do it. If God can create the whole world in six days, I mean six days and He created you to become creative and a co-creator with Him, I believe you can. It brought to fore our teaching today – It is possible.

Sure word And the whole world was of one language, and of one speech. And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the East, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar and they dwelt there. And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly, and they had brick for stone, and slime had they for mortar. And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach into heaven, and let us make a name, lest

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we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men built. And the Lord said, Behold! The people is one, and they have all one language, and this they begin to do, and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. [Genesis 11 verses 1-6]

Propeller God saw their determination and declared that nothing can stop them from achieving their goals because they have a propeller – determination. There is nothing impossible for a strong, desired and determined man who has God by his side>. [Baba Omo Jesu, 1975, Ibadan, Nigeria] They were determined, focused, resolute, purposeful and united in their pursuit – they did not waver for a second. What a keen resolve. Every January, millions of people have new year resolutions but only few achieve theirs at the end. Why? Thousands bend the rules midway and the results stare them in the face – sulking while the determined rejoice. If you lack determination, nothing can be possible for you. With God’s backing and determination, your goals will be achieved because with God everything is possible.

Focus Stage One – The Chairman of the Spiritual Workers Union[Alaga Ojise Olorun] of The Sacred Cherubim and Seraphim Church Worldwide in the then Western Region, Saint Benjamen Ad-

ekahunsi, believed church without education is not complete, hence the establishment of missions schools. With his determination, villages were saturated with schools and missionaries were educated. Those schools have produced millions of achievers today. What a determined mind. With your determination, it is possible, you can go places and you will get there. They that trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever>. [Psalm 125 verse 1] • Trust in the Lord – Divine backing. •Cannot be removed – Determination. A determined mind will see opportunities and possibilities while a wavering heart sees impossibilities all-year round. Shake that negative spirit off and possess your world. Stop being counted with the rest, break loose and come out of your shell, the world is waiting for your manifestation as a child of God. Stage Two – When Bishop David Oyedepo conceived the idea of building world’s biggest church auditorium, many believed he was day dreaming. With determination and God’s backing, he completed the architectural masterpiece and the world marveled at his exploits. This singular feat earned him honours in the Guinness Book of World Record for leading a massive congregation in building a 50,000 seater church building. With a positive mind and divine backing, it is possible.

Posers

bring it out, it is possible. • Refresh your mind, your problem is not money, it is lack of good ideas. •What people say should not bother you, it is your conclusion that matters. • Don’t give up, the game has not ended until the final whistle. •Though the beginning may be rough and tough, where you are headed will surprise your enemies. •Your own is not different. Many achievers today got their own trials and passed through that journey, you will soon join their list. •It is not over until it is over and it is not over until you win. • From ages till now, nobody can stop the sun from shinning, devil cannot stop your march to greatness in life unless you stop yourself. •After surgery, with his determination, Kanu Nwankwo still played football and shone in the world of soccer. This is your own surgery time, you are coming out better and will be celebrated in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. •Arise and shine, it is your time and turn to flourish. As he thinketh, so shall it be…It is possible.

Charger Don’t forget that at the tower of Babel, they were stopped midway. Who is resisting you? Every other human factor you can overcome but the God factor is beyond you. You must be His child to enjoy His blessing. Nigeria has a brighter and rewarding future. It is well. Run from sin. Jesus loves you and I believe you have been blessed.

• That proposal that is gathering dust,

Manifestation of mercy (2) Moment of Blessing with Pastor Taiye

Olayemi Email: taiye_olayemi@yahoo.co.uk Phone: 08037229730

Psalm 18:15-35 No matter the intensity of your suffering, there is a glory in you that is yet to manifest (Rom. 8:18). As a matter of fact, a lot of us are stagnated because of this. Sometimes, these sufferings occur as a result of the choices and decisions we make; it takes the mercy of God to come out from such situations. Like every genuine child of God according to (1Peter 2:9), David was peculiar, but his manifestation came as a result of God manifesting His mercy in his life (Ps. 18:35). The life of David was constituted with surprises. By this he broke the principles of several laws which no one violates and goes scot free. But for the mercy of God, he was preserved. Without the mercy of God, some of us would never have amounted to anything in life because it takes one to prevail over a contending power to ex-

hibit the next level of his life. No one can attain this without engaging in a battle. This is not a literal battle, but a battle of life which of course varies as the case may be with individuals, and it takes one to be anointed to fight and prevail over such battles. As it is written, the weapons of our warfare are not physical, but are mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds. Therefore, it is evident that we are fighting not against physical beings made of flesh and blood, but against what the Bible calls principalities, powers, rulers of the dark paths of this world and wickedness in high places (2 Corinth. 10:4, Eph. 6:12). Therefore to prevail against such classes of battles in life, you must encounter the mercy of God for you to possess the anointing to contend and prevail. David’s life was characterized with such great amazement because of the mercy of God. Not that he was a perfect man, but because he was a man of mercy, God showed him mercy (Matt. 5:7). He enjoyed mercy from God because God’s sovereign will was also at work in his life (Ps.115:3). Whenever God works by His sovereign will, He sets aside His principle that attributes Him as God. See

THE SOVEREIGN WILL OF GOD IS EXHIBITED IN US NOT FOR THE

PURPOSE OF PROMOT-

ING SIN, BUT TO BRING ABOUT THE WILL OF

GOD OVER A PARTICULAR ISSUE. (Rom.9:15-19). The sovereign will of God is exhibited in us not for the purpose of promoting sin, but to bring about the will of God over a particular issue. An example is the case of the daughters of Zelophehad. According to the law God gave to Moses, they were not to be given the rights of their fathers since they were women, but they presented their case, stating that though their father died in the wilderness, but he was not in the company of Korah, his name should not be done away with because he had no son, but as long as they were alive, they need their father’s portion of land in Israel. When Moses took the case to God, God said they were right therefore; they

should be given a possession of inheritance from their family. And this became a law from that day (Num. 27:1-9). David enjoyed the mercy of God because his ways provoked God to show him mercy (Ps. 18:21). Any man that takes it upon himself to pursue God’s purpose in bringing about fairness will never be deprived of God’s mercy (Micah 6:8). For you to enjoy mercy, you must be able to say thank you at every class of your transactions with people, no matter who they are to you. Prayer: • Father, I present myself for mercy, show me mercy to prevail in life in Jesus name. • Every power in me, working to draw me away from your mercy, die in Jesus name. •Father, by your mercy, I overcome every power working agains my greatness in life in Jesus name. • Let the door of mercy open unto me this year in Jesus name. •For prayers and counselling, call 08037229730 or send email to taiye_olayemi@yahoo.co.uk

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Praise & Worship 33

Sunday August 12, 2012

Destroying evil altars Shepherd Life with Bishop Kingsley

Enakirerhi

here are many believers in life today who are struggling with life and their Christian faith. They have tried all they can and yet they find themselves where they never expected. This could be traced to evil altars that are speaking against them. Until those evil altars are destroyed, they will never become what God want them to be.

In Judges 6:25-26, God told Gideon “… take thy father’s young bullock, even the second bullock of seven years old, and throw down the altar that thy father hath, and cut down the grove that is by it: and build an altar unto the Lord thy God upon the top of this rock…” Here, God was telling Gideon, ‘though you are a man of valour, until you break and destroy the altar that your father has, you will never fulfill your destiny because that altar will always draw you back and hinder you.’ For us to move forward in life, we must deal with our foundations. In Psalm 11:3, the scripture states, “If the foundation be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” Many ancestors of believers today were involved in occult practices and idol worship which involved the building of altars in their homes or communities. Some even went to a distant land to purchase “juju” for their families’ protection. These parents died long ago and today there is no one servicing those altars by

pouring libations or slaughtering animals to them. In the course of bringing these idols, covenants were entered into and the entire family dedicated to them. Someone may want to say “I was not born then, so it cannot affect me”. In Hebrews 7:9-10, the Bible records, “And as I may so say, Levi also who receiveth tithes, paid tithes in Abraham. For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchizedec met him”. Here, we see Levi who was not yet born as at when Abraham paid tithe to Melchizedec being recorded as paying tithe to Melchizedec, because he is of the lineage of Abraham. So also, our ancestors bound us to those idols when they dedicated their families and generations unborn to those idols. Today, white believers from the United States and Britain are not struggling to serve God. They don’t fast as much as we do before they see results. This is because for many generations back, their

SOMETIMES WHEN YOU PASS A ‘T’ JUNCTIONS OR CROSSROADS, YOU SEE ITEMS SUCH AS COWRIES, CANDLES OR FOOD PLACED ALONG WITH MAYBE WHITE OR RED CLOTH.

THESE ARE

EVIL ALTARS

forefathers have turned to God and have nothing to do with idols. Beloved, we must deal with those evil altars that our fathers raised if we must make it. A pastor whose father was a chief priest in their village did not understand this fact; so he never bothered to deal with the idol of his father. He struggled in the ministry until eventually he folded up his ministry and went back to the village. Today, he is serving the father’s idol. It is my prayer that such a situation will not befall you in Jesus’ name. It is necessary at this stage to define what an altar is. An altar is a place where divinity meets with humanity; where the spiritual meets with the natural; the invisible with the visible or the supernatural with the natural. Every altar is built by someone for a particular purpose. It could be for worship, for protection or for the purpose of projecting evil such as sickness poverty, failure, etc against another person. In Numbers 23, Balaam told Balak to build seven altars from which he intended to place a curse on the Israelites. It took the intervention of God for the Israelites to be delivered from the hand of Balaam and Balak. The same way today many evil people raise evil altars daily just to place curses on people and destroy lives. You must have heard people say that accidents always occur at a particular spot. Such fatal accidents are the products of evil altars raised in such places. Sometimes when you pass a ‘T’ junctions or crossroads, you see items such as cowries, candles or food placed along with maybe white or red cloth. These are evil altars. Beloved, because of our fetish past, many of us have been entangled in

so many ways. There is the need to deal with those evil altars. It is only then we are completely free that we can become what God has ordained us to be. In order to deal with these evil altars, we must genuinely repent from our sins and the sins of our ancestors. In Ezra 9, Ezra and the congregation of Israel wept before the Lord and confessed their sins and the sins of their fathers after which, in Chapter 10, they entered into a covenant to serve the Lord. In true repentance, there must be a turning away from every sinful way because sin is one of those things that give power to evil altars. This is why during pagan feasts, immorality is encouraged and is a free-for-all affair. This gives power to the evil altars. The same way, holiness gives power to the Christian’s covenant with God. Whenever we are separated from iniquity, God is always there to defend and fight for us. In order to deal with evil altars, we must revolt against them and address them in the place of prayers. Where it is possible to physically destroy them, we should do so. But where it is not possible to destroy them physically, then we must destroy them in the place of aggressive prayers. Ephesians 6:12 says that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers. Since they are spiritual, we must address them spiritually. I will also encourage you to attend a school of deliverance being conducted by a pastor gifted in that area. Be rest assured that your victory is certain because we are told in Isaiah 49: 25 that even the lawful captive shall be delivered and the prey of the terrible shall be taken away.

When you want your husband to change Christian Relationship with Taiwo

Odubiyi

E-mail: info@pastortaiwoodubiyi.org.uk

ost women go into marriage with love, romance and thoughts of ‘living happily ever after’, in their minds. They have seen the good sides of the man, and they believe things will remain that way. They have an idea of what a good marriage should be and what the man should do in marriage. When eventually married, they are shocked to discover some other sides of the man and his habits. They are shocked further still when they realise that their men have their own ideas about how to run the home, what marriage should be and how their wives should behave. So, the women begin to pray and wish the men would change while the men are doing the same. Most of the time, the women have good reasons for wanting the man to change. It may be that he disappoints, lies, cheats, gambles, does not keep promises, does not dress well, and it may be about his anger or unhealthy eating habits. In the novel, ‘Love Fever’, I wrote: Tosin sighed. She wasn’t happy. Her husband, Ladi, simply refused to understand her, always telling her he knew bet-

ter than her. She had been telling him for three years now of her need for a house help but he had been insisting he didn’t want a stranger in his house. He told her at a time that his father whom he and his sister lived with after the death of their mother brought them up without a maid. And his father coped well; he had not forgotten to add. He and his sister would stay with a family when they returned from school until evening when their father arrived from work. Their father did the cooking, ironing of their clothes and other household chores. He even brushed and decorated Ladi’s sister’s hair whenever she was going out. Ladi had told Tosin that he was willing to assist her with the house chores but he had not done anything. He was giving her stress. If only he would change, she thought with another sigh. As I wrote in ’30 things wives do that hurt their husbands’, the truth is that we may not be able to change some things about our husbands, only God can. Husbands are who they are! Another truth is that, you must have noticed some of these behavioural patterns before you got married to him but you married him anyway because (most likely) you loved him. We should rather focus more on being happy with them. People don’t usually see why they need to change, they believe they are doing what is right and

are having fun, enjoying themselves. Your husband’s undesirable behaviour could be a habit he probably had engaged in for years. To know what to do and how to handle the situation, the woman needs to know what she is dealing with; that is to identify the issues. Some issues can kill the marriage while some others cannot. A wife was concerned about her husband’s eating habit; she wanted him to eat more healthy foods. The woman should realise that this habit cannot kill the marriage. In her case, she began to correct him by trying to force him to eat certain foods but he was unyielding and it was becoming a problem. For the ones that cannot kill the marriage, some of them can be overlooked, tolerated and lived with especially where they won’t affect anyone’s life adversely, while you are trusting God for a change. For example, the way he handles toothpaste or the way he dresses. If you don’t like what he wears, rather than quarrel and get upset, you may choose to buy the kind of clothes you want to see him wear. He will wear them. Some other habits will have to be dealt with in a loving and careful way, while in the case of others, they just have to go, so that things don’t get out of hand. But if the issues are such that can kill the marriage, then you need to go for counselling as soon as possible to know

what to do, all the while praying.

Some of the things you can do In the case of habits or issues that cannot kill the marriage, here are some of the things you should do as a wife. • To change your husband, change yourself and your attitude first. Wives who want to change their husbands usually become upset, frustrated and angry. This anger will affect your behaviour and the way you relate with your husband. They say nasty things, criticise, insult, abuse, nag, send text messages to say ‘I hate you!’ they shout, scream at him and weep. Along the line, the women stop doing what they should be doing, and become uninteresting. These things will upset the man as well, and rather than change, he is more determined not to change. And what happens? Both of them are unhappy in the marriage. The solution is for you to work on yourself and change. “For this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith, virtue; to virtue, knowledge; to knowledge, self control; to self control, perseverance and godliness; to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness, love. •Realise that the habit or situation developed over time. •Don’t force your opinion on him, and don’t insist on changing him. • Love him and trust God for the necessary change.

Praise & Worship

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday August 12, 2012

Broken, not destroyed! Down but not out! Footprints with Dr. Tunde

Ojewole

Email: ojewolea@babcockuni.edu.ng Phone: 08058299434

t was the legendary music icon, Bongos Ikwue, who sang in “Eche Une” that the world is like a stage where each player mounts the rostrum and plays, stage acts or demonstrates his or her intrinsic features. The peculiar characteristics of each player on the stage called “earth” are typical of the pendulum which swings back and forth, as described by Galileo Galileo around 1602. The human life is akin to the pendulum. It swings back and forth. The initial push everyone has got on the world stage is the breath of life that justifies our individuality.

In the course of our activities on earth, we later discover that more than the pendulum; life is actually a battle field with wars that we must conquer individually. Aside battling the wars around us, we also have to battle the war within. Everyone desires to win over the battles of life and possibly halt the backward swing of the pendulum. That is, we want an upward leap/swing only. Thus the pursuit of those things that our human calculations perceive would ensure our victory with every fibre of our being. The truth about victorious and successful living is: there are only two ways: man’s way and God’s way. The clear difference between both is that God’s way leads to real peace, joy and eternal wealth (Phil 4:7). God loves us the way we are, in spite of our many failures, but He does not want us to remain failures. He desires to remove the pain of defeat from our lives. He is concerned when we are bitten by uphill, challenge or problem of life, but ensures that we are not battered. As a Christian, no one wakes

Holy Inquiry with Pastor Paul

Nkirukah E-mail: pstpaul11@yahoo.com

Dear Pastor, Can God tempt His people with evil? If yes, why will God do such a thing when people are always saying that God is a good God? Moses Onyekachi, Delta State.

Dear reader, The answer is capital No. Of a truth, our God cannot tempt anybody or His children with evil, that I can prove beyond reasonable doubt in the word of God. There are so many places in the word of God to prove that what you were told is not the truth. God cannot tempt His children with evil. Of a truth, God is a good God. To be convinced beyond reasonable doubt, let us take a look at the word of God below. In the book of James 1: 13 to 15, verse

in the morning expecting that life would throw the toughest challenge at him or her, but it is seemingly unavoidable occasionally. God wants to give us a life filled with victory, joy and the peace that this world cannot give us. Even if we have failed in times past He can change us victorious again. He wants us to be over comers. No wonder Proverbs 24:16 states: “the righteous man may fall seven times and rise again, but the wicked shall fall by calamity.” “Jehovah Nissi” means “God is my banner.” He is all sufficient to lead and provide for you and make you victorious above all situations, because He is the victor Himself. If we choose to face life through His way, then the promise of winning will always be enjoyed by us. That God promised us victory in all situations of life does not mean there won’t be tough times. If we deny our challenges or give in to anger, bitterness or blame others for our negative situations, we will miss the lessons God intends to teach us through them. The way you respond to the trials of life reveals a great deal about the strength of your Christian faith. It is maturity to confidently say: “I believe God has allowed this challenge for my good and His glory.” Our attitude at such moments will determine the distance we will go with God. In Corinthians 4:8-9, Paul makes

four significant statements that describe how Christians should respond to the tricks of life. “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” These statements describe the true condition of believers in the world with varying individual experiences. If not always, we are often pressured and perplexed, more often than we imagine. Opposition looms at us at times. None is exempt from these life vagaries. Pressure will not defeat us “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed”- verse 8a. The word “pressed” may denote a movement into a position of contact with an object by exerting continuous physical force. We may apply it to the grapes in a winepress where pressure is applied to extract juice. The pressures of life which is akin to the foregoing may squeeze you, but not utterly crush you in Jesus’ name! According to a Bible rendition, “we catch it from every direction, but we don’t let them squeeze the life out of us.” NEB Bible translates this statement as: “hard pressed on every side, we are never hemmed in.” Confusion will not discourage us We are “perplexed, but not in despair” – verse 8b. Sometimes, we just don’t know which way to go. Life has a way

Answer these questions and win a prize 1.

How many children had Abraham? Name them.

How old was Abraham at death? Locate the passage.

Who buried Abraham and where? Include the scripture.

•Please, be informed that the first correct entry via text message wins the prize. See next week’s column for answers to the quiz. Send your answers with your names to 08054238905. Gifts: courtesy Babcock University.

of throwing at us a curve ball intermittently. Sometimes we face situations that are so confusing that we honestly do not know what we need or what we want or what will be best. There have been times when I have said, “Oh God, am I sure your hand is in this my condition? It is a tall order for me Lord, but show me the way out.” I perceive Paul was in such a situation when he wrote to the Romans in chapter 8 verse 28 that sometimes we do not know how to pray. There are moments the pressure is so great that we are so tired and worn out and life becomes so confusing. We honestly don’t know what to say either to the Lord or to people. Fatigue wears us all down sometimes. I have found in those moments that if all I can do is to cry out like blind Bartimaeus; “Lord, have mercy on me!” – then it will suffice. The Lord who knows all things can fill in the details. People sometimes ask for more information so they can pray more intelligently. I am all for that, but it is not like the Lord needs more information from us or that better information will somehow make our prayers better with the Lord. When we are confused, Jesus is not. Trust Him with that situation and carry a smile, all the daylong and it shall be well! • To be continued •Tunde Ojewole, PhD, is the University Pastor and Associate Vice-President for Spiritual Life, Babcock University. For enquiries: ojewolea@babcock.edu. ng; 08058299434/08060376577

Answers to August 5, 2012 Quiz 1. 2. 3.

Vashti- Esther 1:12 Faith- Hab 2:4 Jeroboam- 1 kings 11:40

Can God tempt His people with evil? DON’T HAVE TO BE AFRAID OF TEMPTATION

BECAUSE, TEMPTATION BRINGS PROMOTION.

TEMPTATION IS JUST LIKE EXAMINATION. UNTIL YOU PASS YOUR EXAMINATION, YOU CANNOT BE PROMOTED TO THE HIGHER CLASS 13, the Bible states, “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God, for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempted he any man. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin, and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Moreover, let’s see the book of Luke 4: 1 to 13. “And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost retuned from Jordan, and was led by the spirit into the wilderness; being forty days, he was tempted of the devil. And those days, he did eat nothing and when they were ended, he afterward hungered. (Verses 1-2). Verse 13: And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season. Furthermore, the Bible warns in the

book of 1 Corinthians 7: 4 to 5 that “the wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body but the wife. Defraud ye not one another, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer, and come together again that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.” In addition, in 1Corinthians 10: 13, the Bible states, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man, but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” My dear, you can now see that in all the scriptures above, there is no place that the scripture recognises or mentions God as

the tempter, but the devil. So, it is evident and very obvious that Satan is the tempter and not God. In the book of 1 Corinthians 10: 13 stated above, it is clearly understood that though the devil is the tempter, God will not allow him to tempt you above your capacity; instead, God creates or rather, has already prepared a way for you to escape the temptation. However, you don’t have to be afraid of temptation because, temptation brings promotion. Temptation is just like examination. Until you pass your examination, you cannot be promoted to the higher class In conclusion, of a truth, it is your lust that leads you to be tempted by the devil, but God is the one that delivers you from the evil temptation of the devil. Thus the Bible states in the book of Matthew 6: 13, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and power, and glory, forever, Amen.” You heard it all, that God does not lead into evil temptation but delivers from evil temptations. I pray that the devil will never tempt you more than you can bear, but for any temptation you may be faced with by the devil, let it be your instrument of promotion.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Movies & Music

Sunday, August 12, 2012

ge with Rick Ross Gospel star, Anny, shoots Happy Day film

r you. on the concert, a representative of St. Eve magaummer Jam Fest 2012 is geared to set the tone for an ert to promote health and proper lifestyle, and this carefully selected the hottest West African acts. We musicians that we know can hold the same stage as star as Rick Ross.” rooner, Flavour, who recently featured in Darey Art ‘Sisi Eko’, Summer Jam Fest is another opportuis already swollen array of fans as he has promised est at the event. of sharing the stage with a rapper of international Rick Ross, Flavour would be reeling out hit songs wa Baby’, and ‘Ebezina’, among others at the Sumt 2012 Concert. fast-rising act, Fuse ODG, who will also grace the ealed that nothing less than the best should be exhim at the concert. Already, followers of the popular zonto, have also been promised a groovy time at the

ncepts aims to promote healthy living through murtainment which is one of the motives behind the m Fest 2012 event. oming gig is a collaborative effort of St. Eve Conace Urban.

Eva

Addiction unveiling party

video for the song was also unveiled, which got the uding and dancing to the song. Thereafter, the duo nother track from their promotional CD. ger of the group, James Olanipekun, gave the wel, the CEO of Bigsam Media, Samuel Olatunji, inme of the guests. nd CEO m urchannel, Tajudeen as also he event put tos compaBigsam Zakudia

sts were Brother usemate, in Eso; f highship and agazine, ss and tuk; one of the Flight Anthony Chelsea Modestaff of and othAaron

Anny

Multiple awards winning Gospel singer, Anne Emmanuel, popularly known as Anny has shot a new video to her previously released hit single, ‘Happy Day’, which featured rapper, Freestyle. The Video was shot on locations in Lagos and was directed by Nodash, winner of The Most Promising Music Video Director category at the Nigerian Music Video Awards (NMVA) in 2011 and the costumes were provided by the House of Urban Denim. The theme of the upbeat dance single, which is off her third album, and has the production imprints of Mekoyo, is to let go of all the troubles of this world and getting lost in the joy that comes from praises. This is another way the singer is redefining gospel music in Nigeria and giving more life to it. Speaking concerning the new video, Anny said, “The success of the song and how much it is inspiring a lot of people led to the shoot of the video. “Besides, good songs move and penetrate faster with good video. As the saying goes, what you see sticks more with you for a long time to come.” Anny released her first album, ‘Your Mercy’ in 2009. She is a recipient of several awards, including Best Gospel Artiste of the Year 2009 at the Appreciation of Women in Entertainment and Art in London. As a gifted gospel artiste, she has performed on the same platforms around the world and in Nigeria with prominent international and local gospel artistes.

Morell shut down Deuces Nite Club for music video shoot The upscale Island club, Deuces, known for hosting only the crème de la crème was virtually shut down a few days ago from 4 p.m. up until after midnight for the Bento Recordz recording artiste, Morell. The rising musician, whose first music video “Oxygen”, was directed by Mark Hoffmyer in South Africa, decided to work with the gifted Nigerian music video director, Patrick Elis, this time after seeing the wonders the visual whizz-kid did with Shank’s ‘Ghetto’ video. Industry personalities and stars like Gabriel Afolayan, Praiz, Rayce, 5 Mics, Dammy Krane, Uche, Crozz, and Dipp made celebrity guest appearances on set, in special cameo roles for the video shoot of Morell’s ‘Ko Si Pressure’. The premium African music channel, Soundcity, was also on location to observe and report from behind the scenes, while the maverick publicist and documentary filmmaker, James Amuta, was commissioned by Bento Recordz to produce the official behind-the-scenes documentary. The pristine white environment of Deuces Nite Club and the extraordinarily gorgeous models on the set are clear indications that this video would be something to look forward to. Filmed with the RED Epic, the producers are positive the image quality of the videotape would be top notch, since a very few music video directors have dared to use this highly expensive professional digital cinema camera to produce a music video.

Morell

Patrick Elis definitely brought his A-game to the table, while Morell and Bento Recordz seem to be saying to the industry that being relatively fresh in the game is not excuse to settle for anything but the best – always.

Shine’s Celebrity Pool Rave hots up

Brainy, sexy and weird best describes her personality and it’s unarguable that Cool 96.9 FM’s ace presenter, Shine Bhego, shines on in the trade that has gotten her on the fastest lane to fame. While the first episode of her much talked about event tagged ‘Shine With Stars’, left those who attended with sweet memories, the daring belle is set for the bigger and better second edition tagged Celebrity Pool Rave. Shine with the Stars is an event where fans are given the opportunity to rave with one of the finest celebrity radio presenters, Shine, together with other celebrities. A mini concert that also gives everyone an avenue to unwind, creating a suitable environment for Connecting with major players in the entertainment industry musicians, actors, producers, directors, bloggers, models, and comedians, as well as Radio and TV personalities and the likes. Shine With The Stars is a bi-monthly gig that also roams with themes. Surprisingly, for this edition, Shine is taking her fan, friends and fun seekers out of the regular dancing hall to the swimming pool, as she

presents the first ever ‘Celebrity Pool Rave’. The event scheduled for August 25, at Hotel Bonvoyag in Lagos, is for party rockers and will also serve as an avenue for fans to network with top showbiz personalities. According to a source, Shine’s ‘Celebrity Pool Rave’ will parade Eldee tha don and the Trybes record crew, Alibaba, Ay, Headmaster, CEO Swanky signature designs, Illbiss, Nomorloss and DJ Jimmy JATT. Others are HansMills, DJ Shy Shy, DJ Neptune, Chidnma, Monica, Iyanya, Illryhmes, Morachi, Uzi, TillaMan and Ruggedman, among other music and comedy stars, Red carpet reception for the event presented by Millz Group starts by 8 p.m. and it would be anchored by the duo of Steve of Nigezie TV and SAY of Gameduptv. Speaking on the event, Shine said, “I want to create that bond between fans and their favourite celebs. These fans see the stars only on TV or on stage during a concert but can’t go close to them and there are some fans who are talented and all they need is just an advice from their icon and together we all would have made a legend bloom. Meanwhile, for some people, just

one night of partying with their icon will complete the puzzle in their life. “People should come looking hot in their comfy outfits and they should not forget to bring their swimsuits because we are swimming and partying till dawn. There will be loads of daring and crazy games to be played and freebies to be won,” Shine hinted. Shine is 96.9 Cool FM celebrity radio presenter and she has been in the entertainment industry since 2007. Shine, who now shines as radio presenter cum compeer extraordinaire, actually started as a television presenter before she moved to radio but still does a bit of television when she is needed.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Connecting

Vanessa with

Vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com

Exposed! What a woman really wants from her man

he-age old question men have asked for as long as creation can remember is, “What do women really want from us?” To even compound the enigma surrounding women is this old saying that a woman always says NO when she actually means YES; confounding men the more! In fact, a lot of men go around thinking ALL that women want from them is just money, flashy cars and shopping sprees, but that is not exactly true. Have you ever wondered why a man will spend a fortune on a girl he truly loves, sees her through school and probably takes care of her aged parents in the village and yet the minute she gets the chance, this same girl runs off with a young school boyfriend who does not even know how to wipe the nose off his face much less having enough money to put food on her table; yet she seems very happy and content just to be with him? Well, the thing is that, this boyfriend discovered what makes his woman tick. He understood the right button to press that will make that woman swoon in his arms and beg to stay with him forever. I know there are lots of women out there with different notions and desires of what they truly want form their man. Guy, if you have a girlfriend that Models goes straight for your trouser pocket or ATM card alone, I’m sorry to inform you that you’ve got yourself hooked up with a gold digger. That lady is not out for a lasting relationship but for fun and games. So before I go any further, I’ll like to state categorically here that I’m just a mouthpiece for women who are real and seeking for true love and not just for material gains. A real woman craves for something more than just financial security, but if money comes with the package, the more blessed she feels. She looks out for the inherent qualities that make up his character and not basically his bank account. I can hear someone reading this piece say,” Abeg, Nigerian women don’t think like that, all they want is money, money, money!” Well, you could be right in some cases, but the fact still remains that every woman needs to be loved, cared for and admired. I guess it’s the way the creator wired the emotional circuits in women. Even the so-called “high-maintenance women” or “gold diggers” would, honestly, appreciate some love. Once this basic need is satisfied by her significant other, every other thing has a way of falling into place. A friend of mine once told me that he believes a man’s mandate should be to love, cherish and pamper the woman he loves because there’s no woman you will put the sugar of love in her mouth and she spits it out. Rather, she will go ahead to give

you love in return and I completely agree with him. So this is straight talk from me to as many men that desire to love and be loved in return: make sure you win the heart of your woman by discovering her love fantasies. Feed those fantasies with a lot of love and care and soon you will have her eating out of your palms for life. Words of caution though to all those casanovas and players; do not awaken love in the heart of a real woman if you do not really mean it. Do not send out love vibes just to get her to sleep with you and then dump her for the next girl that catches your fancy. You may only end up incurring the wrath of a wounded woman that will plague on your conscience all through your lifetime. Here are a few tips topping the desires of most women who want a lasting relationship with their men: • T e l l her you love her……. And mean it! • R e main faithful and loyal to your woman and you’ll have her love for life. • Never lie to your woman else you will lose her trust and confidence. She will find it difficult to ever believe you. • Don’t make promises you can’t keep and do not cheat on her with another woman or you may end up losing her. • Be generous and caring. A man who shares and gives easily to others with nothing expected in return is a definite turn-on for real women. Also be generous with praise and acknowledgements. • Listen to her, hear her out, and give her your full attention always • She wants a man who is God-fearing and has a genuine relationship with his creator • Be compassionate and understanding. A woman likes a man who genuinely cares for her. She wants a man who is not violent or quick to anger. • Real women are romantic by nature. Feed her romantic fantasies; cuddle her at every chance you get. Show that you desire her physically. Take her out to dinner, movies and fun places. • Give her thoughtful gifts - women love surprises. Gifts don’t always need to be expensive, but always from the heart. It’s the thoughts behind it that matter. • Make that commitment she longs for from you. Don’t keep the woman you love guessing whether you want to marry her or not. Let her know there’s no other person in the world you’d rather be with. (And if you have to lie to say this, you’re not really in love with her!)

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Weddings Engagements CELEBRATING THE JOY IN MARITAL BLISS AUGUST 12, 2012

Excitement as Eric proposes to Davina on stage ANGELA DAVIES

t was just like one of those Nollywood movies when Eric Nwadunobi, in the full glare of everyone present, proposed to Patience Achema, popularly known as Davina, his girlfriend of three years on Saturday, July 28. The proposal came as a surprise to Davina. Immediately after she finished performing, Eric stepped on the stage with a ring, grabbed the microphone and said that that night was a special day to him and he would only ask for one thing from Davina. Eric said, “We have known each other for almost three years now and I love everything about you. Please, will you marry me?” Davina was dumbfounded as she covered her face as tears of joy flowed. The entire crowd went wild

with excitement as a tearful Davina said a big “Yes”. He then gave her the ring as a mark of his love and commitment to marry her with everyone watching. The romantic proposal took place at the first year anniversary of Entertainment Express which held at the Night Shift Coliseum, Opebi, Lagos. Eric is an actor and audio visual artist while the Kogi Stateborn Davina is a singer and jeweler. A few years ago, she rocked major concerts the Nigerian Breweries hosted across the country, especially the Star Mega Jam which held in different states. Some celebrities who witnessed the romantic proposal include Stephanie OkerekeIdahosa, Victor Osuagwu, Cynthia Agholor, and Zik Zulu, AY, among others.

‘Love for God, beauty, intellect endeared her to me’ OLUWASEGUN IJABIKEN

ll roads led to the Cathedral of St. Peter, Abeokuta, Ogun State, recently as Emmanuel Oke and his heartthrob, Olayinka Ogun, were joined in holy matrimony. The groom appeared cute in a grey suit, white shirt and an orange bow tie while his bride, Olayinka, stepped out in the full splendour and elegance of a sparkling white angelic gown, designed with a combination of bridal lace and organza fabric. She enhanced her beautiful look with earrings and hair accessories. After the church blessing, guests moved to Bishop’s Court, Onikolobo for the stylish reception. The colours of the day, orange and gold, were flamboyantly exhibited in the hall drapes, cake, groom and bridal train accessories, and also the aso-ebi. The overwhelming joy of the day was largely cherished by the couple, as they both danced glamorously to the melodious tunes rendered by Zion Music. The love birds who are both indigenes of Ogun State had been members of the Scripture Union from childhood until Emmanuel started having a special interest in Olayinka, as ‘led by the Holy Spirit’. He took the bold step of informing her of his feelings through a text message in January 2009. Initially, Olayinka did not give him a positive response until September 11, 2010 after continued persistence, visits, calls and disturbances from Emmanuel. As they say, the rest is now history. According to Emmanuel, the major attraction that endeared him to Olayinka is her love for God, her beauty and intellect. “She has all that is needed in a typical wife,” the exuberant groom added. For Olayinka, she appreciates the fact that Emmanuel is God-fearing, humble, patient, respectful, considerate thus meeting her criteria for an ideal husband. The reception hall was filled to the brim with guests who

included past and present members of the Nigeria Christian Corpers Fellowship (NCCF) and Scripture Union members, among others. The couple had their traditional wedding the day before the church marriage. Emmanuel is an accountant while Olayinka is a lawyer.

Emmanuel and Olayinka

You have a story to tell us about your wedding/engagement, or your new born baby. Please call this line: 08051980588

BABIES OF THE WEEK

Naheema Olayinka Adisa was born at Gloryland Hospital, Osogbo to Mikhail and Shakirat Adisa. She was delivered at 12:30 p.m. and weighed 3.00kg. What did Shakirat crave for during the pregnancy? “I craved for fruits, especially watermelon, oranges and apples,” she said. Speaking on her physical body changes, Shakirat revealed that, “I did not experience any swollen feet, face, nose or face. Instead, I looked more glowing.” What irritated her during the pregnancy? “Nothing irritated me during the pregnancy,” Shakirat stressed. What does Naheema’s mother love about her? “She is a beautiful little girl,” she said. What do her parents want her to become in future? “We want her to become a successful medical doctor so that she can help save lives.” What is the meaning of Naheema? “It stand for the blessing of God. We gave her the name because she is indeed a blessing from God,” csaid Mikhail. Muhammed Abdul-hman was born at 445 NAF Hospital, Air Force Base, Ikeja to Musa and Sefiat Abdulrahman. He was delivered at 3:30 a.m. and weighed 3kg. According to Sefiat, “I craved for different fruits during the pregnancy. I also did a lot of exercises.” What do Muhammed’s parents love about him? “We love his smiles and he is hairy too. He is not a crying baby.” What do they want Muhammed to become in future? “We want him to become a medical doctor.” What is the meaning of Muhammed? “Muhammed means one who praises God,” the mother explained.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

A Fashionista’s

World AUGUST 12, 2012

‘I love wearing simple, classy outfits’ Glory John Otumu is the Chief Executive Officer, Glowree Jawn Couture. The ex-model and lawyer-turned fashion designer is a great beauty. She told Angela Davies, among other things, that her style is simple and sophisticated. Tell us a little about yourself I am from Edo State. I am an ex-model and a lawyer. I graduated from Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma. However, because of my passion for fashion, I went to Needlekraft Fashion School and I graduated recently. Did you have any bad experience when you were still a model? I don’t think I really had much of a bad experience as regard modelling. Things happened once in a while but they were things I could handle. How did your passion for fashion come? I have always loved fashion designing. I have always loved clothes, shoes, bags, in fact, anything that has to do with fashion basically and I sketch very well. I sketch for my designers most of the outfits they make for me. I said to myself, since I can sketch well, why not go to a fashion school and become a professional designer. And here I am today. As a fashion designer, what does fashion mean to you? Fashion is life. Everyday you see fashion and it is what you wear. Anything one wears has one thing or the other to do with fashion. What is your kind of style? My own style is simple and sophisticated. I try to incorporate the western designs into our own ethnic culture that reflects our moral values. What kind of outfits do you love to wear? I love wearing simple outfits just like what I am wearing. The outfit I wear also depends on the occasion I am going for. But I love wearing simple, edgy and classy outfits. Do you follow fashion? I follow fashion but I am not a fashion freak. If you have to show off your body, what part would it be? Well, all parts of my body are actually flauntable. But my eyes are mostly my selling point because I have Chinese eyes. I really love my eyes but every part of my body is good. What is that fashion item you cannot do without as a woman? That will be my earrings. Earring brings out the sophistication in a woman. It makes you look more feminine and without it, you just go bare. It is also a great accessory for any

kind of outfit even if you are not wearing bangles or necklace; it is a very simple accessory that goes with anything you wear. Are you a jewelry person? I am a jewelry person. Jewelry has to do with fashion so they are more like your accessories or embellishment and therefore cannot stand in isolation. In as much as jewelry goes with fashion, then definitely, I love jewelry. What kind of shoes do you love to wear? I love wearing stilettoes, wedge and pimp toes. I don’t really have preference when it comes to shoes; it depends on my outfit. I wear shoes that will go perfectly well with what I am putting on. How do you wear your make-up? I love it simple but then I will also say it also depends on the event. If I am going to a club, my make-up has to be a little bit loud. If I am going for a red carpet event, it would be edgy and classy. If I am on the runway, it has to be wild or mild depending on the outfit I am showcasing. But, I really love simple make-up on a normal day. How do you love to carry your hair? I love side bangs because my face is round, so it goes very well for me. Also, centre parts suit my face too. If you have to change anything about yourself, what would that be? I wouldn’t change anything about myself; trust me. I really love my life the way I am. Everyone has one fear or the other. What is your greatest fear in life? My greatest fear is not making heaven. That is because you don’t know the things you do wrong everyday. When you are praying for forgiveness of sin, you pray for things you do consciously and unconsciously. You don’t know the unconscious things that you have done that may not be a sin to you but in God’s eyes, it may be a sin. So, one way or the other, you just keep praying that you do the right thing so that you can make heaven. What do you tell God when you pray? That is personal. That is between my God and me. How do you keep fit? I dance a lot. I make sure I dance everyday; it makes me sweat. Dancing is my exercise.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Opinion

Sunday August 12, 2012

Jonathan and the bay of insurgents

ne of Yoruba’s cultural swag, the egungun festival, a pristine masquerade show ennobled in the dance-full itinerancy of the man behind the mask, was late last year dragged through the mud, in a descript Lagos location. While I was trudging along a boisterously crowded street, a masquerade, leading a three-man team, of which the two others were mere mortals, accosted me. Not bothering to taunt with a cane he brandished, the masquerade went straight to business: “Kay, I’m Segun, your neighbour; don’t disgrace me. Find me some money.” It was akin to a thunderbolt, as I quaked in disbelief. For, elsewhere, especially in villages and some towns in the backwater settings, a masquerade is known only for its mask and other cultural costumes and is never to be identified in person. It would never be imagined too, that the supposed creature from the ethereal spirit cult would descend so low as to give away his mortal identity. But now, as the world is spherical, rotating around its axis, so is the conduct of humans. This allegory can simply be applied in the story of President Goodluck Jonathan, who last week, replied to taunts from the Boko Haram group. The group had asked him to resign or, being a Christian, convert to Islam as a pre-condition for peace talks. Like the egungun whose persona is not supposed to be known, it is also deemed as patently sacrilegious, for a President, as in the case of two counter-taunting tots, to reply a group it

has taken as faceless. Otherwise, we are left to believe National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, who barely one week in office, gingerly displayed the sleuth in him, by saying he had secured the phone contacts of Boko Haram top-notchers. In tow, he would have linked his boss, the President, with the group’s leaders; and so, for Jonathan to reply the Boko Haram leaders in the open, should not surprise anyone, much less stupefy or elicit undue outrage. What may, however, befuddle the unwary is possibly the extent of talks that has not yielded results of at least, getting temporary ceasefire, needed to cool off a foreboded heat certain to generate at a dream roundtable forum. While it is said that it is better to jawjaw than to war-war, it is also noteworthy that a war-war situation still precedes a jaw-jaw’s and for the jaw-jaw to be meaningful, there must be cessation of war-war. This thus brings to a sobering dimension, the two strikes of the insurgents that shook the ancient community of Okene to its foundations, last week. Though bedewed in hallowed hue of worship to their creator, an assemblage of Deeper Life Bible Church members on a retreat, were holed up by gunmen who killed in one fell swoop, 20 of them, while several others sustained injuries. Not done, another explosion boomed at a local mosque in the same town, killing two soldiers and leaving scores maimed. In Sokoto too, attackers invaded a police station and reduced buildings and vehicles

to rubble, while hare-heeled policemen on duty reportedly ran for dear life. Yet, amid the flux of unrestrained attacks came a soothing drift in Kaduna, where the state government lifted a duskto-dawn curfew it imposed on this northern cities’ flagship. Could it have been that Governor Patrick Yakowa had broken the Kolanut of fruitful negotiations with the insurgents in his backyards or that it all boiled down to the triumph of security surveillance over belligerent strikes from those in the land of the shadows? The fresh breeze of seeming truce from Kaduna, curiously came after insurgents, who usually are standard suicide bombers, launched attacks on the Kaduna home of Vice-President Namadi Sambo, killing at least one person, and leaving the V-P’s edifice a shadow of its old self. What is also worth an engagement of the dialectics is the fact that the malignancy in the spread of terrorist attacks in the North, which calibration was last week’s extension to the North Central zone, tells of a group with expansionist policy. Recall that the bombing and gun attacks brouhaha first took roots in North Eastern states of Borno and Bauchi before it moved steadily to the North West’s Kano, Kaduna and Sokoto, apart from pockets of bombing cases in adjourning states within the same region. Indubitably, the closest states to the South-West, from the northern flank, are Kogi and Kwara, thus making last week’s incident in Kogi a recapitulation of the wisecrack that a fore-drummed war

Kayode Fasua

kayodefasua@nationalmirroronline.net (08034101207; SMS only, pls)

should have no cause to consume a wise cripple. But of great importance is the Federal Government’s manner of grip over the security of this country, which if not firm enough, will naturally result in complications overtime, to the extent that the nation’s economy could be grounded. Though we could sanctimoniously echo ‘God forbid’, the gale of bombings and other killings that have all resonated in mass slaughter in the profile of this country, are concomitant with a whirl, which can be curtailed if the leadership is decisive on its line of action. But the problem will only gain strength, if this festival of clownish procrastination from the Federal Government festers. And in the week ahead, who knows when, where and how the bomb may boom, and their continuous booms are dooms for a country that has all it takes to bloom. Ignore the accompanying alliteration. It is more of a case of an errant child dancing and mouthing jabbers on a cliff-hanger, despite repeated warning. It is a sad story.

APGA crisis and Governor Obi BY AMANZE UBOCHI

riting in his most famous book in 1961 – The Wretched of the Earth – Frantz Fanon said: “Each generation shall, out of relative obscurity, discover its past, fulfill it or betray it.” Though writing specifically about developments in Algeria, the above quotation can be applied to other nations and peoples desirous of helping themselves out of peculiar situations. Today, there is no doubt a peculiar situation in the party believed to be associated with the Igbo of South Eastern Nigeria–The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). In the June 10, 2012 edition of this weekly under the headline – Obi, Umeh, APGA and South East –, I acknowledged that crisis in political parties does not necessarily mean a death sentence if only the actors in the party in question possess the necessary competences to turn around the so-called weakness into strength. I did say that APGA’s journey has been tortuous, even from the time Chekwas Okorie was the National Chairman, and that for any one to think there would not be intra and inter-party crisis means the person is bereft completely of the knowledge of how political parties function. I have not forgotten that I postulated that the so-called crisis within the APGA family is being orchestrated by unseen hands poised to alter the template with which Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State used to make a difference in the governance of his people for nearly seven years now he has been in the saddle with the total support of the APGA National Chairman, Victor Umeh. My conclusion in that essay was that Obi and Umeh and by extension Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State should, once

more, rise to the challenge of rescuing the party from the hands of killjoys who want to see the party dead. ”This is not the time to recall who did or did not do what. The issue at hand now should be how to tell those who have been striving to kill APGA that they have met another brick wall,” I had advised. If recent developments in APGA are anything to go by, then, some of my fears are fast becoming real. The coming into being of APGA in the first place as a political party did not go down well with those who thought the Igbo had finished as far as having a party the people could look up to in the entity called Nigeria was concerned. The notion was, and still is, that the Igbo lack the capacity to organise themselves into one common umbrella for the purpose of furthering their interest. And as God would have it, APGA, despite the thought of men, flowered and made tremendous impact that most ethnic nationalities in the country have, today, come to see the party as the face of the Igbo should there be nothing like Nigeria now, that the sermon on regionalism and effective fiscal federalism are beginning to gain monumental ground and occupying the centre piece of national discourses. We will talk about all that some other day. Let us start with the purported sacking of Umeh and his Secretary, Alhaji Sani Shinkafi from the National Working Committee (NWC) of APGA without recourse to the constitution of the party and the coming into being of characters like Alhaji Sadeeq Masaala and Dr. Ifedi A. Okwenna who volunteered themselves to be used by those unseen hands that have refused to come to the open. Is it therefore a surprise that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) came out to put them where they belong by

calling them political jobbers without their knowing it? Any one who has been following events as they unfold in the APGA would shudder at the rate of desperation in the fellows who are out to destroy the party. After the Masaala saga came the Jude Okoli Enugu High Court matter where a man said to have long seized being an APGA member went to court, asking that Umeh be restrained from functioning in his capacity as the Chairman by not conducting either the national, state or local government functions. Of course, the idea of the same unseen hands was to stop Umeh and his National Executive Committee (NEC) from holding the meeting they called for August 1. And in this era when judges are being told to be painstaking in granting injunctions, the Enugu State Chief Judge, Innocent Umezuruike, on July 26 granted the prayers of the said Okoli, and those who were in Awka Government House said the place erupted in jubilation when the news filtered into the place. And what does that tell you, other than that they are winning the war against Umeh. But are they? Where I come from, there is a popular saying that it is not the man that calls the police for his opponent who always wins in a case. For Umezuruike’s ruling on July 31, on Umeh’s application for the court to vacate the injunction placed on his NWC, I see it as a temporary set back and in the fullness of time the God of justice will manifest himself. Many, both the Igbo and non-Igbo have often wondered whether Obi is working to build or destroy APGA. Those who have little sympathy for Umeh in the unfolding drama in today’s APGA do so because they felt he supported Obi to remove Okorie. What it means, however, is that there

were so many things Obi kept from Umeh and it is only now that the latter is appreciating the true colour of the man he served from the depth of his heart. It pains that most of those who are today trying to demonise Umeh are those who, yesterday, were blaming Obi for not doing enough to grow APGA, not even in the state he governs. For the avoidance of doubt, Obi almost lost his re-election but for Umeh’s political deftness and zest. He not only acknowleged that, the late Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumugwu Ojukwu also did. All those who are today beating the ‘Umeh must go drum’ with Obi also acknowledged that fact. Truth be told, Obi has demonstrated the highest level of ingratitude to Umeh if he could orchestrate issues around the APGA National Chairman, simply because he has his eyes on the PDP. By the way, is Obi the only governor of the opposition party that is close to President Goodluck Jonathan? Who told him he is close to Jonathan more that Adams Oshiomhole, Babatunde Fashola or even Olusegun Mimiko? What even makes him think Jonathan loves and respects him more than those other governors in the opposition? Who does not know that Obi’s spirit had long deserted APGA for PDP and that he wants his tenure to run out fast so that he can formally declare for PDP? After all, he demonstrated his ‘membership’ of PDP in 2011 when Jonathan was running for the presidency by the number of times he attended the PDP rallies with the President. Which other opposition party governor could have behaved that way and still retain his office much less of being in the same party and calling the shots?

•Ubochi, a political analyst, lives in Owerri.

Politics

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

EDO ELECTION PETITION

How far can Airhiavbere go? SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN

he candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Edo State governorship election of Saturday, July 14, 2012, Major-General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere (rtd), on Wednesday confirmed that he had decided to pursue the petition he filed penultimate week at the Election Petition Tribunal for Edo State. Airhiavbere filed a petition against the victory of the winner and re-elected Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole. Airhiavbere, who lost the governorship election by 144, 235 votes to Oshiomhole’s 477, 478 overwhelming votes, said he would pursue his petition at the tribunal in contrast of his party’s directive. He spoke on his mobile telephone a day after obtaining the backing of some PDP chieftains in Edo South District, who met at the home of the former Edo South District chairman, Owere Disckson Imasogie and resolved to back him. He said he was still in the governorship race to win. “I have decided to pursue the petition. It is not over yet,” he said. According to Edo PDP’s Director of Publicity and a spokesman of the Charles Airhiavbere Campaign Organization (CACO), Mr. Okharedia Ehimekpen, Airhiavbere’s petition was based on the following grounds: “That Governor Adams Oshiomhole was invalidly returned by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (Edo State) as duly elected, despite the fact that the election not having been conducted in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended); That the Returning Officer for Edo State Governorship election wrongly proceeded to declare Adams Oshiomhole winner of the election by issuing him Form EC8E on the 15th day of July, 2012; That the Resident Electoral Commissioner (Edo State), also subsequently and wrongfully issued Adams Oshiomhole with the Certificate of Return on behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).” “That Adams Oshiomhole was purportedly returned as the winner of the said election as he was not qualified to contest the said election for the office of the Governor of Edo State even as the party said that despite the non-revision and non-amendment of the voters’ register, amended and criminally altered, the voters’ register were used in various wards and polling units in the three Senatorial districts.” “That we are also contesting the relevant academic qualifications of the ACN candidate, Adams Oshiomhole. He only tendered a Modern School Leaving Certificate without a Primary School Certificate which by the Constitution does not qualify him to contest the election. Secondly, even the Modern School Certificate he presented on oath to INEC had also been found to be fake. These are the issues we have taken to the election petition tribunal.” But the state party leadership stunned the candidate last week when it said it was going to accept the result of the election in spite of what it described as the Action Congress of Nigeria’s intimidation during the election. In a press release made available by Edo PDP Chairman, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, the party dissociated itself from the petition that Airhiavbere submitted on penultimate Thursday. However, the party boss demanded an apology from Oshiomhole for allegedly wrongly accusing leaders of the party of complicity in both the murder of the governor’s Principal Private Secretary Olaitan Oyerinde and the convoy accident that killed three journalists. Orbih said, “With the above assessment of the results, PDP is aware of the divergent views and expressions by the public. PDP is also aware of the legal options. However, PDP has fully consulted the leadership of the party both within and outside the state. During these consultations, legal opinions were sought and it is the conclusion of the party that while we appreciate the ef-

Oshiomhole

fects the results declared by INEC will have on our teeming members, we are also mindful of the consequences which the state may run into with protracted litigation. Consequently, though painful, for now, PDP has decided not to file any petition before the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in the interest of the state.” “We in PDP in Edo State should continue to remain steadfast and not be discouraged by setbacks as this election defeat may just be a stepping stone to future victory. In every election, we have always prepared ourselves for either of two outcomes. And now that ACN has taken the king’s trumpet, the task should be left with Governor Adams Oshiomhole to find a place to blow it.” Demanding an unreserved apology from the governor on his linkage of Anenih to the death of Oyerinde, Orbih added, “Few months ago, the Private Secretary of the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Olaitan Oyerinde was murdered. The Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole went to town and led demonstrations accusing the PDP and its leaders of being responsible... As a matter of fact, the Governor even went as far as renaming Delta Crescent, the Street where Chief Tony Anenih lives, as Olaitan Oyerinde Street. Since then, Chief Tony Anenih has not made any attempt on both cases. The truth in both cases has come out. What has the Governor got to say now? Has he any conscience? Edo people can now judge the character of their Governor.” While the tribunal, according to the Secretary, Mrs. Josephine Aliu, stated during the week that it was going ahead to still consider the PDP as a party to the petition, the PDP, followed up its statement on Friday by formally approaching the tribunal with a motion on notice to strike out its name from the petition. Filed on behalf of the party by Mr. K.O Obamogie, the motion specifically sought: “An order granting leave to the second petitioner to argue this motion outside the pre-hearing session and “An order striking out the name of the second petitioner from the instant (that it) is not desirous of prosecuting and/or the maintaining said petition.” In a written address supporting the motion, the party’s lawyer stated that, “On the 2nd of august 2012, the petitioner filled petition No EPT/ED/G/01/2012 at this honorable tribunal against respondents seeking relief with respect to the governorship election held in Edo State on 14 July 2012. The second petitioner has now brought a motion seeking an order of this tribunal striking out its name from the petition.” On the basis of this latest action of the political party that sponsored Airhiavbere for the governorship election, some political experts have asked, rhetorically, how far the candidate can go with the pursuit

Airhiavbere

of his petition in view of the withdrawal of his party. Some have also argued whether Airhiavbere’s decision to damn the directive of his party does not amount to an anti-party activity. The question on the lips of all is: how far can Airhiavbere go with his petition? Speaking on the legal impacts of Airhiavbere’s decision, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Olisa Agbakoba, stated that nothing is wrong if Airhiavbere decides to pursue his petition alone. But the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) added, however, that “the fact that his party has pulled out of the pursuit of the petition is not a good sign for him. It is a bad omen for him.” Agbakoba explained, “Airhiavbere is entitled to pursue his petition alone should he decide to do just that. The petition is in relation to the election he contested; it is not related to the sponsorship of candidacy by his party. Whether the petition succeeds or not is not the issue. Airhiavbere is the petitioner. PDP is not the petitioner because Airhiavbere is the candidate. But you must understand that in law, not all petitions can be brought by a party. Some petitions can be pursued by the candidate alone.” Also speaking on the crisis, the PDP leaders in Edo State reiterated that the decision to withdraw the petition was taken by the party’s national leadership. Following Airhiavbere’s suit, the party’s leadership in Edo South District declared the meeting that was convened by Imasogie, as “illegal, unholy, inconsequential, and null and void,” and thereafter, joined the state and national PDP leadership in congratulating Oshiomhole for his emphatic victory. According to the Edo South District PDP Chairman and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Imasuen, Imasogie does not have the right and authority to convene such a meeting neither was he instructed to do so by the party and thereafter declared it as a “clandestine meeting.” He reaffirmed that the governorship election was “well-conducted, most-organized and free from all forms of electoral manipulations and violence.” Imasuen added, “Edo South PDP wishes to join the PDP state chapter, and the Federal Government to congratulate Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole for his well-deserved landslide victory” before concluding, “However, all party members and the general public are hereby advised to disregard any form of information arising from such illegal and unholy meeting. Consequent upon this, the senatorial district declares such act by Imasogie and his cohorts as indiscipline, antiparty and general gross misconduct. Moreover, a disciplinary committee will be put in place to check their excesses in due course.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Nwosu

in his remark, said the philosophy behind the book was to “re-instate the dignity of the Igbo nation and the battered psychology of the Igbo people in the quest for the presidency of Nigeria”. “It is an attempt to lay the foundation for Igbo to have the courage to ask boldly for his or her constitutional rights without fear of victimisation in the Nigerian project or fear of total exclusion in the power circles controlled by the North, the South-West and now, the South South,” Udibe said. Prof. A.B.C Nwosu, former Minister of Health and chieftain of PDP, is another major force in the quest for an Igbo Presidency in 2015. In a recent interview, he regretted that while he is working with a number of people from the zone to realise the agenda, “the Bible also says that where there is no vision, the people perish, I weep for the South East and beyond, I won’t say more”. His reason: “There are people who promised the Ohanaeze leadership that power will go to South East in unbroken succession in 2015 from the South South, that was their sol-

Ezeife

emn word and that was what the Ohanaeze leadership told Ndigbo last year. “So, we must hold them to their words if not, and the people should disgrace them thoroughly, because if we don’t disgrace them, another set will come up again. When a leadership says this is what they will deliver and they don’t deliver it, the followership should sanction them. He recalled that the Igbo got the first Presidency of Nigeria which was a ceremonial president during the time of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. It has not always been like this with the Igbo. “After independence, it was Azikiwe until 1966. The situation changed when we had the executive president in 1979, after the civil war had intervened. “There is a school of thought that believes that the Igbo, having fought the civil war, should never be allowed to be President again until centuries have passed. There is also another school of thought that says ‘no, the Igbo have paid their dues and are entitled to the exercise of their full citizenship rights, including the Presidency’. “The Igbo believed they must produce the

ation road show tional Assembly watchers believe that being the Chairman of the senate committee on aviation, there is no way he would not be in the know about such a trip, particularly given his overhearing presence as well as the way he superintends over the committee and conducts the affairs of the committee like a one man show. Obviously very displeased with the conduct of the lawmaker, the ministry official decided to leak the information to the media, who consequently made a mince meat of it. Throughout last week, the media was awash with the report. An obviously enraged Senate President David Mark on reading about the incident was said to have furious and unable to contain his anger. Mark, who saw the incident as an embarrassment and dent on the integrity of the senate was said to have directed all those involved in the trip to quickly refund the money so collected and never make the trip. Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Paul Mumeh, in a statement a day after the incident became public and following inquiries by newsmen, Mumeh wrote, “The Senate President did not give any approval

President and in 1979, they came near it with Chief Alex Ekwueme as Vice President. Perhaps, if the military hadn’t intervened in 1983, Ekwueme might have become the President at the end of Shagari’s second term, but the military intervened and later there was June 12 presidential election, which was won by the late Chief MKO Abiola. Because of that, in 1999, it had to be exclusively Southwest issue. “Now, the Igbo are saying that they also need to become part of the equation and they reached an agreement with the Southwest, South-south in 2007 that the we didn’t mind if a South South was, that was why some of us gave Dr. Peter Odili our best support in his presidential quest in 2007. “Now that the South South has produced the President, the only people who have not produced the president is Southeast and we are saying we should produce. We are not anti-anybody, we are just pro-Igbo. While commending the Yoruba and the people of the south South geo-political zone for the way they fought to achieve presidency, he stated that “my heart bleeds when

for any senator to travel abroad because none applied for request to travel abroad.” Continuing he said, “The senate standing rules is clear on this that senators must seek the senate president’s approval before embarking on any foreign trip.” Mark, it was further gathered threatened to mete out serious sanctions against any senator that embarked on the road show tour with officials of the aviation ministry. Besides returning the estacode, which National Mirror gathered amounted to about seven thousand United States dollars, the Senate President was said to have threatened that the leadership of the senate would consider further sanctions against any of the affected senators. Sunday Mirror further gathered that the Senate President’s major concerns was the embarrassment the unfolding scenario brought to the leadership of the senate, particularly now that the National Assembly members are having issues with the executives over the slow pace of implementation of the 2012 appropriation act. Reacting to the furore generated by the trip, the actions of the National Assembly, particularly the decision of the House members that turned down the offer to be on the trip, Joe Obi, the minister’s Special Adviser on Media said, “There is no malicious intent about this trip at all. We are going an investment drive. We had investment road show where we opened up a basket of opportunities

it comes to the Igbo, and then I weep again for the late Ikemba Odimegwu Ojukwu. And I ask, when will some leaders emerge from Igbo and say, ‘this is us, we mean no harm, but we are citizens of Nigeria and are entitled to full citizenship as a right?’ While expressing his objection to the way and manner his people are going about the project, he noted for instance that, “I needed a tranquilizer when I saw the president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo presenting a proposal to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. “I have four issues with that; if you are presenting a proposal on my behalf, at least, I ought to know what it is, it was in the pages of the newspapers that I heard that it was a six-year single term and I know it flies in the face of what Ndigbo have been asking for. “My first quarrel was: why don’t they let our people see what they are submitting on their behalf ? How did they arrive at the decision? They can’t just wake up and begin to act as if nothing else occurred before now? I saw the one submitted by Delta State which was published in the newspaper. It was specific that Federal powers must be devolved to the states and it quoted specific sections of the constitution that they want amended. “I am not saying that they shouldn’t do it, but it will be easier if they carry everybody along and publish the proposal on the pages of the newspaper. Nothing will be lost because this thing is not a secret document. The Igbo people are not seeking something that is anti-Nigeria”. But for the Igbo presidency to become a reality, the zone has to contend with the agitation of the North. To politicians from Northern Nigeria, 2015 should be the year for the zone to present the president of the country having lost their chance of two terms tenure with the death of President Umar Yar’Adua. Another factor the South East must contend with is the possibility of President Jonathan going for a second term. Though the president has not signified his intention, his body language and utterances from his supporters and South South political leaders indicate this to be a possibility. Another major problem of the South East which must be tackled is their past. It has always been a major issue the zone to seek a common front to actualise the zone’s ambition. Would it be different this time around? Only time will tell.

for investors whom we are going to meet during the tour.” Continuing Obi said, “We intend to visit a few countries and meet some investors we have contact with. We are going to woo them that we are ready for their investment.” Regarding the issue of the lawmakers, the minister’s spokes person said, “The lawmakers have always been part of our programmes. They participated in our recent conference on aviation development in Africa. We need to carry them along so that if we come back to Nigeria, they will be in the full picture of the investments we have attracted and assist us with the appropriate legal framework.” Sunday Mirror gathered that the news of the controversy being generated in Nigeria by the foreign trip immediately threw the advance team, who also includes the aviation minister into a quagmire of sort. There was initial confusion on how to respond to the development. While some of the officials contemplated cancelling the trip and hurriedly returning home, others favoured a continuation of the tour. At the end, it was gathered that a decision was taken to go ahead and complete the tour, with a determination to come home and stage spirited media campaign to showcase the success of the trip. Cancelling the tour midway, it was argued, would only give credence to the perception that the trip was intended to be a jamboree, ab initio.

422

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, August 12, 2012

GROWING UP with

Aunty Angela growingup5@yahoo.com

Hello children, How are you? I hope you are enjoying your holidays? Please, do not forget to do your homework. The best way to enjoy your vacation is to first complete all your assignments. After that, you can watch your favourite cartoons, play and even visit places of interest. Enjoy our interesting and educative articles for the week. I wish you a wonderful week.

JOKES

The coin toss

By the time Joshua arrived at his friend, Mike’s house on Sunday evening, the football game had already started. Then the following conversation followed. Mike: “Joshua, why are you so late for the game?” Joshua: “I could not decide between going to church and coming to watch the football game. So I tossed a coin.” Mike: “But tossing a coin should not have taken too long.” Joshua: “Yes, I know but well, I had to toss it 35 times to make my decision.”

HOLIDAY TIPS

Best ways to utilise your long vacation

ong vacation is the time when children don’t like to study any more. They like to enjoy this holiday in different ways like playing, watching movies and cartoons, visiting places and playing video games. However, parents have to provide proper opportunities for their children to learn some new and useful things in their life during this vacation which may be useful in their future. There is a wide selection of interesting things the children can easily do. Swimming: Swimming is the best hobby that a child can learn during this vacation. They see swimming as fun as well as entertainment to them. But to learn swimming, the child will need a good coaching. Swimming will help the child to develop good posture, build good physique and stamina. Learn Fine Arts: Many children love and enjoy arts like painting, drawing, music, acting and even dancing. This is the best time for them to learn them. Summer camps conducted in some schools during this time will help the children to learn any of the above interested fine arts at an affordable fee. Play Mind Games: Children could spend some time in solving puzzles like word puzzles, Sudoku and mathematics puzzles to sharpen their brains in order to improve their thinking power. Visit interesting places: Parents should take their children to visit historic or interesting places. If possible

WHO INVENTED WHAT

Adolphe Sax T

he saxophone is known as a reed musical instrument that is popular in jazz bands. Considered to be newer than other musical instruments in terms of its music history, the saxophone was invented by Antoine-Joseph (Adolphe) Sax. Adolphe Sax was born on November 6, 1814 in Dinant, Belgium and was known as an instrument-maker, flautist, and clarinetist working in Paris. His father’s passion for creating musical instruments influenced him greatly and he began plans of improving the tone of the bass clarinet. What he came up with was a single-reed instrument constructed from metal that has a conical bore and overblows at the octave. The saxophone is made of brass, and is the only woodwind that has never been made of wood. It has a single reed mouthpiece. It is made of a long, bent tube with holes in it, which are covered by pads called keys. The saxophone has three parts: the body, the neck and the mouthpiece. Soprano saxophones are straight, whereas deeper-toned saxophones have a bent crook and an upturned bell. Since saxophones and clarinets are similar, many clarinetists, in their

ANIMAL FACTS: allow your children to go on school tour if it is arranged by the school. This would help them to learn so many things that they won’t learn in their class room. Read story books: Most children are fond of reading story books. So, parents should buy some interesting story books and encourage them to read now. This would help the children learn good morals, pick up their reading abilities and improve their vocabulary. It would also help them to read fast along with good understanding of the content. Also as they read, encourage them to look out for new words and also check the dictionary for their mean-

ing. If possible, make sentences with each of the word. Learn basics of computer courses: Parents should provide an opportunity for their children to learn some basic courses in computer to know how to operate them, how to use internet facility, how to type a document, and so on. Join summer camps conducted at schools: Summer camps engage children in whole lot of things along with providing food. They make the children play, learn drawing, painting, dancing, singing and so much more. They arrange these activities in a play way to entice children just to get interested in going to such camps.

BRAIN TEASERS You are a cyclist in a cross-country race. Just before the crossing finish line you overtake the person in second place. What place did you finish in? Answer: Second place. If you pass the person in second, then, you take second place, and that person becomes third. Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Answer: The egg. Dinosaurs laid eggs far before there were chickens.

QUOTE

A child can ask questions that a wise man cannot answer. Children, you can send your contributions and pictures through this email address growingup5@yahoo.com or call telephone number: 0805 198 0588

–Author Unknown

Kangaroo • Kangaroos are marsupial animals that are found in Australia as well as New Guinea. • There are four different kangaroo species namely the red, eastern grey, western grey and antilopine. • They have large, powerful hind legs, large feet adapted for leaping, a long muscular tail for balance, and a small head. • Kangaroos can hop around quickly on two legs or walk around slowly on all four. • Kangaroos can’t walk backwards.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Growing Up

Sunday, August 12, 2012

AT…?

made the saxophone spare time, also play the saxophone. There are at least six different types of saxophones in use today, the most popular being the alto sax. The saxophone is used more in jazz and military bands. For 15 years, he did not receive his patent

for this instrument. He manufactured these saxophones in almost all sizes and finally received his licence on June 28, 1846. After Adolphe’s death in 1894, the saxophone proceeded to undergo changes. Books for the saxophone were published and composers/musicians continued to include the sax in their performances. To this day many manufacturers of musical instruments create their own line of saxophones and it continues to enjoy a prominent position in jazz bands.

DID YOU KNOW?

Dolphins sleep with one eye open

olphins allow one half of their brain sleep at a time. This allows them to keep one eye open to watch out for potential predators and danger. They can

also surface to get air, which they cannot do if they were all the way asleep. So they must stay somewhat conscious and sleep with the proverbial one eye open.

RIDDLES

TONGUE TWISTERS

What has a neck but no head, and wears a cap? Answer: A bottle. What is easy to get into, but hard to get out of? Answer: trouble. What is black when it is clean and white when it is dirty? Answer: A blackboard. What kind of dress can never be worn? Answer: An address. What starts with an ‘E’, ends with an ‘E’, and only has a letter in it? Answer: An envelope.

Trees

Fresh fried fish, Fish fresh fried, Fried fish fresh, Fish fried fresh. A big bug bit the little beetle but the little beetle bit the big bug back.

POEM EM

The Oak is called the king of trees, The Aspen quivers in the breeze, The Poplar grows up straight and tall, The Peach tree spreads along the wall, The Sycamore gives pleasant shade, The Willow droops in watery glade, The Fir tree useful in timber gives, The Beech amid the forest lives. –Sarah Coleridge

POP

os • Kangaroos can jump very high, sometimes three times their own height. • Kangaroos can swim. • Because of its grazing, the kangaroo has developed specialised teeth. Its incisors are able to crop grass close to the ground, and its molars chop and grind the grass. • Baby kangaroos are known as joeys. • Female kangaroos have a pouch called a marsupium in which joeys complete post-

natal development. • A group of kangaroos is called a mob, troop or court. • They are the only large animals to use hopping as a means of locomotion • The average life expectancy of a kangaroo is about four to six years, with some living until they are about 23. • There are more than 50 different kinds of kangaroos

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Lessons of Life

ANGELA DAVIES lessonsoflife2@yahoo.com 08023342083

TRUE LIFE STORY ON MATTERS OF THE HEART AUGUST 12, 2012

‘Help, my mother is dating my best friend!’

y mother is very industrious and brilliant. She has been in charge of my father’s business since he died some years ago. Interestingly, I have never known her to have an affair with any other man since my father died, although she has close friends and their relationship is strictly business related. She is also a beautiful and sophisticated woman in her 40s. She loves to dress well but never wears cleavage revealing nor skimpy clothes. And that is one of things I admire about her. In fact when she sees young girls dressed with their cleavage exposed, she would get so irritated and react thus: “Youths of these days just wear whatever they like and leave their houses. Didn’t their mothers see them? Thank God I don’t have a daughter because I will kill her if she leaves the house dressed this way.” The few female friends I have are skeptical whenever they have to visit me because my mother scrutinises their outfits and this makes them very uncomfortable. For that, they know that if they must visit me at home, they must be well dressed. But recently, I noticed that my mother dresses superfluously, more like a prostitute at home. In fact, she pays special attention to her mode of dressing, make-up and hairstyles these days. She wears shorts, skimpy outfits and cleavage-revealing tops as well. I find this really uncomfortable, especially now that my friend, Leo, just came in from Ghana to stay with us. I was so shocked one morning as I came out of my room to go to work; my mother was dressed in a tight-fitted miniskirt with a transparent top revealing her bra, talking with Leo in the dining area. The few minutes I stood watching them as they talked I observed that Leo was trying so hard not to look straight at her. “Good morning mum, can I talk to you in your bedroom for a minute, please?” I asked. “Alright son, let’s go,” she replied. I allowed her walk in front of me to see her closely. When we got to her room, I said, “Mum, what are you wearing? The

mum I have always known will never dress this way? When did you start dressing like this mum?” Her reply, “Patrick, my son, I dress this way to make me feel young again.” “But mum don’t you think what you are wearing is too tight and transparent?” I questioned. “Well, actually these outfits have been in my wardrobe for some time now and as you know I have gained some weight. But I know I look good even if you don’t like it,” she said. I shook my head and walked away after making her realise that I was not pleased with her new mode of dressing. Leo and I became good friends in our secondary school days. We used to be seat mates in our junior secondary school and our friendship bond grew from there. During the holidays, we spent time playing games and also visiting places of in-

terest. We introduced ourselves as best friends to anybody that cared to listen. However, after our final exams in secondary school, his parents wanted him to further his education in Ghana. He left for that country and gained admission into the University of Legon to study while I gained admission into the University of Lagos. My parents wanted me close to them as the only child. Leo and I still kept in touch and he visited Nigeria whenever he was on holiday. About two years later, his whole family moved over to Ghana and, somehow, we lost contact. In my second year in the university, my father was involved in a car accident and died on the spot. My mother and I were really devastated but after the burial, she had to put her acts together and take over the running of his compa-

ny. She promised to hand over the business once I graduated from the university. I have been running my father’s construction group for four years now. My mother only comes to the office when there is an important meeting. Some months ago, I received a phone call from Leo telling me that he was in the country and that we needed to see. I was so happy to hear from him and eager to see him. We met two days later and we had to catch up on old times. Leo informed me that he was back in Nigeria to stay but needed somewhere to stay temporarily so that he could organise his life. “I have stayed in a hotel for two days now. I need somewhere to stay so that I can put my life in order. After that, I need to look for a job,” he disclosed. “Leo, you have no problem at all. You can stay in my house. Just give me some few minutes to inform my mother,” I urged him. I called my mother and informed her about my decision about Leo coming to stay with us for some time. She didn’t like the idea as I had expected. However, I managed to convince her and she reluctantly agreed. “Alright your friend can stay with us but he must leave within three months,” she said. We went home together that evening and I made sure he was comfortable. Some days later, I suggested to my mother that Leo should work in the company. She said she will need to think about it. Whenever I brought up the issue, her answer was always the same. They were always at home alone and it was during this period that I noticed that her mode of dressing had changed. But I never thought that she was doing all these because of Leo. I also noticed that Leo had stopped talking about getting a job. To be continued next week.

Please send your advice to the phone number or email address above. No calls, please.

RESPONSES

Re: ‘Franca, forgive me, I have offended you’ Dear Festus, The dilemma you found yourself may have been borne out of human weakness. Your immediate concern now should be how best you can manage and make good the situation as a polygamous husband and father. You must earnestly ask for forgiveness from Franca whom you deeply love because she is the source of your emotional balance. You must be steadfast in care and concern for Claudia because she is the source of your economic balance. Finally, you must beg God for wisdom and strength to unite and lead your family to true and enduring happiness. –Victor Osabuohien – 07066940674.

I will advise Franca to continue to love Festus. It is the Lord’s doing that she is pregnant. I pray you deliver like the Hebrew woman. –08027475553. By marrying a woman based on her father’s wealth and support, your life span has been halved. As for Franca, you must make peace with her. –Mike, Lagos, 07062027253. Biblically, Franca is your real wife. You only married Claudia because of worldly attraction. You should send her away

so that you can have your peace. –Pastor Goke Anyigba, 08035775228. You are a greedy and selfish husband. Franca should not forgive you. –Kefas Narayim, Kaduna, 08133069973. You betrayed the trust and oath of holy matrimony. Your wife is a woman of wisdom. You should be afraid of your new in-law because he has done so much for you and so could ask you to do even more to hurt your wife. However, keep begging Franca because with time, she will overcome, although trust between you two is gone forever. Also, ask God for help. –Momo, Surulere, 08125416877.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wellness YOUR HEALTH AND HEALTH RELATED ISSUES AUGUST 12, 2012

Causes and prevention of urinary tract infections Facts

Most urinary tract infections (UTIs) arise from one type of bacteria, Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally lives in the bowel The most common symptoms of urinary infection are frequent and intense urge to urinate and a painful, burning feeling in the bladder or urethra during urination UTIs are treated with bacteria-fighting medications called antibiotics and a change in lifestyle and personal hygiene.

Escherichia coli (E. coli): The bacteria causing urinary tract infection

VANESSA OKWARA

ave you ever experienced a burning sensation in your private part while urinating? Most of the time the pain lingers all through the day and disappears; while some take a longer time to stop. These are subtle signs indicating that your urinary tract may have been infected one way or the other. The urinary tract is the body’s drainage system for removing wastes and extra water. It includes two kidneys, two ureters, a bladder, and a urethra. A urinary tract infection or UTI is an infection that can happen anywhere along the urinary tract. According to medical research, urinary tract infections have different names, depending on what part of the organ is infected. • Bladder -- an infection in the bladder is also called cystitis or a bladder infection • Kidneys -- an infection of one or both kidneys is called pyelonephritis or a kidney infection • Ureters -- the tubes that take urine from each kidney to the bladder are only rarely the site of infection • Urethra -- an infection of the tube that empties urine from the bladder to the outside is called urethritis Various medical studies have indicated that urinary tract infections are the second most common type of illness in the body, accounting for about 8.1 million visits to the hospital each year. Women are especially prone to UTIs for anatomical reasons. One factor is that a woman’s urethra is shorter, allowing bacteria quicker access to the bladder. Also, a woman’s urethral opening is near sources of bacteria from the anus and vagina. For women, the lifetime risk of having a UTI is greater

Urinary tract infection causes pain while urinating

than 50 per cent. UTIs in men are not as common as in women but can be serious when they occur. The medical studies also illuminated that UTIs are uncommon in children younger than three to five years of age. They are much more common in girls as a result of a shorter urinary tract. Uncircumcised males are more likely to develop UTI than the circumcised. Children with a complete or partial blockage in the urinary tract are more likely to develop UTI. What exactly causes urinary tract infection? Dr Azuka Moghalu, the medical Director of Open Doors Medical Services, in Isolo area of Lagos State explained this in an interview with Sunday Mirror. “Urinary tract infections are caused by germs, usually bacteria that enter the urethra and then the bladder. This bacterium is called Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, which normally lives in the colon. An infection occurs when microor-

Poor nutrition, cause of under-five mortality –Paediatrician A paediatrician, Dr Manuel Oyinbo, said at the weekend that poor nutrition caused 50 per cent death of children less than five years of age. Speaking recently in Abuja, he said parents were neglecting the best

food for the children under six months old thus worsening malnutrition cases in infants. “Our rate of exclusive breastfeeding is now seven per cent from the initial 13 per cent and most children that die,

half of them, are malnourished. “Lack of knowledge is the major hindrance to exclusive breastfeeding because many women do not know the benefits of exclusive breast-feeding,” he lamented.

ganisms, usually bacteria from the digestive tract, cling to the opening of the urethra, the hollow tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, and begin to multiply. This can lead to infection, most commonly in the bladder itself, which can then spread to the kidneys. Most of the time, your body can get rid of these bacteria. However, certain conditions increase the risk of having UTIs,’’ he explained Dr Moghalu further clarified those risk factors that predispose a person to have infection in the urinary tract. “Although everyone has some risk, some people are more prone to getting UTIs than others. Women tend to get them more often because of their body structure. As a result of this, women are more likely to get an infection after sexual activity, after using the toilet or when using a diaphragm for birth control. Menopause CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

HEALTH NEWS Psychiatrist attributes surge in depression cases to societal changes A Consultant Psychiatrist with the Jos University Teaching Hospital, Dr Moses Audu, has attributed the rise in depression cases to rapid societal changes, job pressures and insecurity. Audu told reporters in Jos recently that the relatively younger generation appeared more prone to depression

because the society was changing ‘very, very fast’. “People have to meet with all kinds of demands - time, uncertain future, insecurity and the collapse of the extended family system that had left many fending for themselves. All these factors increase depression cases,” he said.

According to the physician, the turnout of patients who come to the hospital with depression cases have doubled in the last two years. He listed other factors responsible for depression cases to include substances abuse – alcohol or hard drugs, as well as family histories.

Wellness

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Your

Know your organs

BONE

The Pancreas

he pancreas is a fish-shaped spongy grayishpink organ about six inches (15 cm) long that stretches across the back of the abdomen, behind the stomach. The head of the pancreas is on the right side of the abdomen and is connected to the duodenum (the first section of the small intestine). The narrow end of the pancreas, called the tail, extends to the left side of the body. Its functions The pancreas makes pancreatic juices and hormones, including insulin. The pancreatic juices are enzymes that help digest food in the small intestine. Insulin controls the amount of sugar in the blood. The pancreas has digestive and hormonal functions: The enzymes secreted by the exocrine gland in the pancreas help break down carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and acids in the duodenum. These enzymes travel down the pancreatic duct into the bile duct in an inactive form. When they enter the duodenum, they are activated. The exocrine tissue also secretes bicarbonate to neutralise stomach acid in the duodenum. The hormones secreted by the endocrine gland in the pancreas are insulin and glucagon (which regulate the level of glucose in the blood), and somatostatin (which prevents the release of the other two hormones). As pancreatic juices are made, they flow into the main pancreatic duct. This duct joins the common bile duct, which connects the pancreas to the liver and the gallbladder. The common bile duct, which

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carries bile, a fluid that helps digest fat, connects to the small intestine near the stomach. Its feature The pancreas is known as a compound gland. It is “compound” in the sense that it is composed of both exocrine and endocrine tissues. The exocrine function of the pancreas involves the synthesis and secretion of pancreatic juices. The endocrine function resides in the million or so cellular islands (the islets of Langerhans) embedded between the exocrine units of the pancreas. Beta cells of the islands secrete insulin, which helps control carbohydrate metabolism. Alpha cells of the islets secrete glucagon that counters the action of insulin. Because the pancreas is a storage depot for digestive enzymes, injury to the pancreas is potentially very dangerous. A puncture of the pancreas generally requires prompt and experienced medical intervention. Pancreatic cancers Pancreatitis, a condition causing inflammation of the pancreas, can come on suddenly and without warning. Your stomach may become swollen and tender. It is common to experience nausea and vomiting. It is also likely that you will run a fever, a sign that your body is trying to heal itself. Pancreatic cancers, particularly cancer of the exocrine pancreas, remain one of the most deadly cancers, and the mortality rate is very high. Cause of diabetes Diabetes mellitus type 1 is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the insulin-secreting cells in the pancreas. One cause of diabetes mellitus is insufficient insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. In some people these insulin-producing cells die off for no apparent reason. In other cases, the pancreas produces sufficient quantities of insulin but the body seems unable to actually use the insulin. In both cases, the body is not able to process glucose properly. This is what causes diabetes.

Health

with Dr. Olatunji Idowu

Ankle injuries (Fractures and sprains) [7]

Can ankle injuries be prevented? The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends the following steps for reducing your risk of an ankle injury: •

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• • •

Avoid exercising or playing sports when you are tired or in pain. Keep muscles strong by eating a well-balanced diet. Maintain a healthy weight. Try to avoid falling. Wear shoes that fit

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If you have any problem or question about your musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles) do send me a mail at tunjiidowu@live. com for advice. Meanwhile, your comments and feedback on the issues discussed are highly welcomed.

‘Urinary infections are more common in women’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45 also increases the risk of a UTI,” he emphasised. Dr Azuka also confirmed that many women suffer from frequent UTIs. About 20 per cent of young women with a first UTI will have a recurrent infection. With each UTI, the risk that a woman will continue having recurrent UTIs increases. Some women have three or more UTIs a year. UTIs are not sexually transmitted infections (STIs) but irritation from having sex can sometimes trigger a UTI. For the men, UTIs are far less common than in women, and need investigating to find an underlying cause such as a previous sexually transmitted disease, a bladder stone or a problem with the prostate gland The medical expert said the symptoms of a UTI vary by age and gender. Among young women, UTI symptoms typically include a frequent and intense urge to urinate and a painful, burning feeling in the bladder or urethra during urination. In younger kids and infants, the symptoms may be very general. The child may seem irritable, begin to feed poorly, or vomit. Sometimes the only symptom is a fever that seems to appear for no reason and doesn’t go away. Symptoms of a UTI in adults generally may include the following: • A frequent and intense urge to urinate • A painful, burning feeling in the bladder or urethra during urination

• • • •

well and that are appropriate for the activity you are doing. Don’t wear shoes that have heels worn down on one side. Exercise every day. Maintain the proper conditioning for whatever sport you are playing. Warm up and stretch before exercising or playing a sport. Wear the proper equipment for whatever sport you play. Run on flat surfaces.

Feeling tired, shaky and weak Muscle aches Abdominal pain Only small amounts of urine passed, despite a strong urge to urinate • Cloudy, dark, bloody urine or urine that has a foul smell • Pain in the back or side below the ribs • Nausea and vomiting • Fever may indicate a kidney or prostate infection. Dr Azuka said if you notice that you have a urinary infection, it is important you consult your doctor, especially if it does not relieve you within a day or two. “UTIs are treated with antibiotics. The type of antibiotic used and how long it must be taken will depend on the type of bacteria that is causing the infection and how severe it is. After several days of antibiotics, your doctor may repeat the urine tests to confirm that the infection is gone. It’s important to make sure the disease is cleared because an incompletely treated UTI can recur or spread,’’ he stressed. Prevention, they say, is always the best option when it comes to contracting bacterial infections. What is the best way to avoid contracting urinary infection? Dr Moghalu explained: Changing some daily habits may help a person prevent recurrent UTIs. The changes have to be in the area of personal hygiene, clothing, eat-

ing and nutritional diet. Drinking lots of fluid can help flush bacteria from the system. Water is the best remedy in flushing the body system of microorganisms. People should drink six to eight, 8-ounce glasses a day. Others include: • Choose sanitary pads instead of tampons, which some medical experts believe make infections more likely. Change the pad each time you use the bathroom. • Keep your genital area clean. Clean your genital and anal areas before and after sexual activity. • Urinate before and after sexual activity. • Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. • Avoid tight-fitting pants. Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes should be worn, so air can keep the area around the urethra dry. The following may help to prevent your child from developing urinary tract infections: • In infants and toddlers, frequent diaper changes can help prevent the spread of bacteria that cause UTIs. • Instruct your child to urinate when he/she has the urge and not to resist. • After every bowel movement, girls should remember to wipe from front to rear — not rear to front — to prevent germs from spreading from the rectum to the urethra.

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Business FRESH BUSINESS NEWS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS August 12, 2012 ing enterprises so that customers will not be short-changed and in order to avoid sharp practices of allowing government money be filtered away by the some individuals in the state.

Ebonyi State has viable programmes for SMEs –Commissioner Dr. Ifeanyi Ike is the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Ebonyi, State. In this interview with Stanley Ihedigbo, he spoke on the activities of his ministry, the state’s programmes for small and medium scale firms and its stance on the economic integration of the South East region, among sundry issues. Excerpts:

Dr. Ifeanyi Ike

What are your experiences in the one year in office and the impact your ministry has made toward contributing to the economy growth of the state? When I came on board, I observed a lot of challenges in the ministry. I started from the scratch to elevate it to the present status. I started with the workforce through the concept of attitudinal change, for them to have a change in attitude, which is referred to as rebranding at the Federal level. Because our problem is that nobody cares for government’s things. They believe in making their money and destroying the system. Also what I met on ground is that some people were using the edge of being contractors to rip-off the state government in haulage collections. You know our state has stones and the government makes money

by selling it to constructions companies. A place that is supposed to generate not less than N40 million to the coffers, what I saw was not up to N2 million; people were just eating the money in connivance with people in the government. I dissolved the contract and used direct labour to do the collection and the haulage, and within five months we was able to generate N14 million. Later, I decided to engage agents and at the end of last year being 2011, we clocked nearly N40 million in revenue. Again I moved to business premises, I called the people that are in-charge and gave them targets and within three months, our IGR through business premises rose from N1 million to N6 million. Apart from that, the state government was able to put in place a weigh bridge worth N30 million for the stones crush-

NIGERIA STILL INVESTORS’ HAVEN

Many states have been accused of not developing natural resources in their states. What is your state doing in this regard? Ebonyi State should be exonerated because if you come to the state, you will see that all our mineral endowments by nature are being harnessed and wealth is being created. We are exploiting them using the artisans’ miners to process our solid minerals in various locations. Also, a lot of companies have been attracted to the state because of our natural resources. Our stones and other available materials are being exploited, and we are still calling on more investors to come to the state because we have a lot of potentials. In the area of rice production, which the state is known for, it may interest you to know that our government sent graduates of agriculture to Songhai in Benin Republic to learn more on rice production and when they came back, the government gave them a soft loan of N2 million to N3 million to start rice production. What is the situation of the Nigerian Cement Company in your state? We met a pathetic situation on ground when the present administration came on board; the cement company was almost gone, it was privatized and given to Eastern Bulkecem Company, and they were not able to do anything tangible with the company. Instead, they were looting the equipment and the place was turned to a warehouse for importation of cement, and the state government was not happy about the development because the Nigerian Cement Company was the pride of the Eastern region and the first cement factory in this country. We set up an enquiry to look into the situation, and the company was not happy about it. The firm sued the state government and now, we are waiting for the outcome of the case. Also, the state government has set up a cement production and mineral department. We are try to set up a cement plant, because our limestone, which is the raw materials for cement production, is more than enough for cement production in this country . The state is partnering with a company called Califco Group from United States of America for the development of the cement industry. What is the relationship between your ministry and the Organized Private Sector (OPS) in the state, especially concerning their agitation for various state governments to encourage its parastatals to patronise made-in-Nigeria products? For Ebonyi State, there is no way we can discourage made-in-Nigeria products because most of our products are made in the state; our rice is from the state, our cassava is from the state, patronized by the people of the state so, our local content is very important to us. That is why our rice is going to be called Ebonyi

48 THE PLACE OF LUCK

World Rice, and we are building a repackaging industry under my ministry worth N200 million to produce bags for rice production, bags for cement production, and sundry uses. We discovered that our rice is taken out of the state and comes back with another identity after being polished. They bring it back as foreign rice to the same state that produced the rice! So we want our rice to have an identity and that is why the Poly Propylene (PP bag), through a public private partnership, is on the project. How is the state planning to take a cue from the Federal Government’s industrial revolution plan? Our state already stated something on this even before the Federal Government started theirs; for us to have created industrial parks and estates shows that we are already ahead of time. We are encouraging investors; we have brought in an uncountable number of investors and we are assisting them by giving them a soft landing, providing an enabling environment, participating in negotiations between the firms and the host communities to avoid misunderstandings that can bring about hostilities. What tangible steps is your government taking to promote small businesses in the state? We have funds for small businesses, like the Funds for Small Scale Industries (FUSSI) loan, which is a revolving loan from the state government to support the people and this year it was upgraded from N10 million to N15 million. Over 300 people have benefited, and after a period of time, they will return the money to government, and the money will then be given to another set of people. We do that in agriculture too, the state created a department of economic empowerment that gives loans and support to the industrialist and micro small enterprises. We use government support to boost industry and employment in the state by linking them to the Bank of Industry for them to secure huge loans, and recently, we are beginning to link them to the Dangote Funds through the Bank of Industry too. What is the position of the state in the South East economic integration plan? Our state has been accused of being the stumbling block in the economic integration development of the South East region, which is not true. We commended the good idea, but there are a lot of things to be done for our state to catch up in term of infrastructure. We are backward; the state was the last state created. There are a lot of challenges facing the state, including attitudinal changes, civil services reform, and infrastructure development. Our position is that they should set up a committee to do an appraisal to know how best to bring about integration, not just people coming from nowhere to say that they want something to be organized without planning for it. The European Union didn’t start that way. So we need to plan well and bring the necessary perimeters, which will ensure that the integration will succeed before you can move for such a union.

Business

Sunday August 12, 2012

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Nigeria still investors’ haven –Akpabio Property Watch •For Lagos area as at Friday August 10, 2012 A. Building materials Cement: Dangote Cement per bag of 50 kg.......N1,900 Burham Cement per bag of 50kg.......N1,900 Elephant Cement…………………N1,850 Sandcrete blocks 6 inches sandcrete block ..........N120 9 inches sandcrete block ..........N140 Sand Sand per tipper load .......... N12,000 Sharp sand (double) ..........N22,000 Gravel (single) ...................N18,000 Gravel (double) ..................N22,000 Granite ...............................N165,000 Reinforcement 8mm(153) pieces per ton (N125,000 10mm (153) pieces per ton .......... N135,000 12mm ............................................N161,000 16mm ........................................N172,000 20mm (53) pieces ....................N122,000

JOHNSON OKANLAWON

overnor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio, has said that foreign investors are still very enthusiastic in investing in the Nigerian economy despite the security challenge that the country is going through. Akpabio, who spoke on his arrival to the country from the Akwa Ibom State Economic Summit and Investment expo in Houston, United States, said the summit brought together many foreign companies who are very desirous of investing in the country. According to him, the investors have the confidence in the

Nigerian economy and the ability of President Goodluck Jonathan in steering the ship of state. He said, “Of course, they know that in Nigeria, there is a high return on investment and if they invest in the economy they will have a high return on their investment like the companies that invested in the telecoms sector. So they are very enthusiastic.” The governor listed investment opportunities in the state such as aviation, maritime, tourism, oil and gas and small and medium scale industries and expressed the hope that the state would attract the muchneeded foreign investment because of the excellent state of infrastructure.

On the insecurity in the country, the governor described the Boko Haram members as a faceless set of people, who indulged in mischief under the guise of religion. He said he was satisfied with measures put in place by the President to tackle the crisis. He noted that the group would soon surrender their arms because as Nigerians, they also want to witness peace. “Who are the members of the Boko Haram? When we see Boko Haram members, we will discuss with them because as far as I am concerned, we still have a lot of people masquerading under Boko Haram to send a lot of mischief text messages and information, among oth-

Shareholders approve Fidson’s 10 kobo dividend JOHNSON OKANLAWON

Wood Timber (hard) 1x1x12 ..........N1,000 Timber (hard) 2x2x12 ..........N600 Timber (hard) 2x4x12 ..........N700

Soft wood 2x2x12 ..........N250 2x3x12 ..........N300 Plywood 3x3x6-----------------N3,500 2x4x8-----------------N2,400 Roofing Sheet Corrugated iron sheet per bundle ...N10,000 Asbestos 4x8 per piece ..................N1,600 Asbestos (solo) ............................N1,100 B. Landed property 1. Four-bedroom semi detached house with boys’ quarters (BQ) at Lekki Phase 1-- N85m Estimated value in 5 years: N125m 2. Five-bedroom detached house with BQ in Lekki Phase 1-------------------------------N110m Estimated value in 5 years: N160m 3. Parcel of land measuring 581 metres square at Badore-Ajah----------------------------N5m Estimated value in 5 years: N8m 4. Three-bedroom flat in Prime Water View Estate, Lekki------------------------------------N35m Estimated value in 5 years: N50m 5. 1,750 metres square piece of land in Central Business District, Lekki Phase 1 -----N220m Estimated value in 5 years: N300m 6. Two nos of 5-bedroom fully-detached house 1,000 sqm at NICON Town Estate, Lekki- N225m each Estimated value in 5 years: N300m 7. Plots of land measuring 675sqm at Mayfair Garden, Lekki---------------N17m each Estimated value in 5 years: N25m 8. Five bedroom semi-detached house at Carton Gate Estate, Lekki------------------N90m Estimated value in 5 years: N130m 9. Land measuring 100 hectares at Ibeju Lekki----------------------------------N3m per plot Estimated value in 5 years: N5m 10. Three units of 4-bedroom detached house at Ikate Elegunshi, lekki---------N58m Estimated value in 5 years: N80m •Compiled by Dayo Ayeyemi, 08033312578.

ers. Mr. President has the apparatus of government to know truly who is a Boko Haram member and who is not. “I am sure that he is taking the right security steps to address their feelings and I am very sure that very soon, Boko Haram will lay down their arms because they are Nigerians and they would like to see peace,” he said. The governor added that the rumour about Islamisation of the country is being orchestrated by people who are hiding under Boko Haram to cause crisis, adding, “It happened in the Niger Delta when we had militants and all sorts of people claiming to be Boyloaf, Tompolo and others.”

Maltina Dance All Judge, Muyiwa Osinaike, presenting a new generating set to the winner of the 13 to 19-year-old category, Hassan Oluwadamilola, at the Lagos audition of the competition, recently.

Industrial action cripples business activities at PHCN office Business activities were on Friday crippled at the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), Enugu office, following the industrial action embarked upon by staff members of the company. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent, who monitored activities at the Enugu business office, reports that some customers that visited the complex for business transactions were stranded as nobody attended to them. Some of the customers who spoke to NAN described the strike as “uncalled-for and a punishment for innocent citizens.” Miss Chinyere Aka, a customer who came to recharge her card, said the management of PHCN should have considered their customers’ interest by providing staff members that would attend to customers

before embarking on strike. She called on the government to look into the issues that led the workers to embark on the industrial action in the interest of the people. Mr. James Philips, another customer, said the strike was unnecessary especially now that Nigeria was confronted with security challenges and other economic hardship. Philips, who said that the strike would make life uncomfortable for the masses, urged the PHCN to make the interest and comfort of its customers its first priority. “PHCN should always consider the interest of its customers as well as the economic loss its action will have on the masses. We, the customers provide the money PHCN workers enjoy as salary, so we deserve the best,” he said. A top official of the com-

pany, who spoke to NAN on conditions of anonymity, said the strike was due to the privatisation of the PHCN. “The privatisation will cause a lot of problems for us the old staff as we are yet to know our fate under the new owners of the company. “If the situation is not well managed by government, the experience of former NITEL staff will be a child’s play to our situation. How can the government privatise a company without considering the interest of the staff members; as I am talking to you now, we have not received our July salary,” he lamented. When contacted on telephone, the Public Relations Officer of PHCN, Mr. Eseme Udoh, who declined comment on the strike, however, said that normal activities were going on at the complex.

hareholders of Fidson Healthcare Plc have approved the company’s 10 kobo cash dividend, even as they lauded the board for being prudent in the operation of the company considering the harsh economic challenges in the country. According to them, while other companies were shying away from dividend payment, the company still appreciated shareholders with the current cash payout. Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman, Mr. Felix Ohiwerei, assured shareholders that the company’s drive of becoming one of the top three Pharmaceutical companies in the country will be achieved in the future due to its investment in a BioTech plant. Ohiwerei said that as soon as the plant comes on stream, it will positively affect the company’s bottom-line and return on investments. On the increase of the company’s cost of operations, he explained that the rise in the indices was occasioned due to the 18-months accounts being considered for the 2011 financial year. He assured that the company will continue to explore cheap sources of financing in its operation of long-term projects, so as to mitigate the current high cost being incurred with local financing institutions. A review of the company’s financial position showed profit before tax of N472 million in the review period, an increase by 26 per cent when compared to N642 million recorded in the same period of 2010. Profit after tax dropped from N465 million in 2010 to N312 million in 2011, while the turnover increased from N5.1 billion in 2010 to N7.1 billion in the 18 month audited period.

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Business

Sunday August 12, 2012

The place of luck Inspirati with Lanre

Oyetade

NMMA Capital Market Award Winner 2004, 2005 E-mail: lanreoyetade@gmail.com, 08039428648

e have in the past, talked about luck as part of the phenomena that some people are wont to place so much emphasis on in the quest towards successful achievement. So what really is luck and what role does it play in aiding you to achievement and wealth? This week, we examine this topic in some detail.

The new Webster’s dictionary defines luck as ‘chance, good fortune, success due to chance or the tendency for a person to be persistently fortunate (or unfortunate)’. Luck, according to Fred Siegel, is blind chance, a total accident that happens to you for no reason.

LUCK

IS PREPARATION MEETING OPPORTUNITY

and even people who inherit money end up back where they started. Money obtained without effort seldom changes your life. Using George Classon’s classical work as a basis, Siegel defines luck as ‘preparation meeting opportunities’.

Classons/Siegel on luck

While Classons believes that good luck is actually made up mostly of one taking prompt advantage of opportunities, which do present themselves once in a while, Siegel goes a little further to say that the things you do to prepare yourself and to go looking for opportunities will bring you more luck. He agrees however that exactly which opportunities you find may be based on blind chance (which is the pure luck aspect).

Hard work, procrastination and luck

Luck…from where?

Some believe that luck comes from God. Others have more ‘New Age’ beliefs that luck is a matter of positive thinking – If you put out ‘good vibrations’ they tend to come back to you. “The saying, ‘what goes around comes around’ reflects this,” explains Siegel. Gambling is the purest case where ‘luck’ can be observed. It is exciting to win occasionally, but the laws of probability say that in the long-term, the house will win and you will lose. Even if heads come up ten times in a row, blind chance is still determining the outcome of each toss. While it is true that some people win at gambling, it is hard to point out anyone who obtained money that way and used it as the basis for a fortune. Research shows that not only do such ‘winners’ not build fortunes but also within a few years, most lottery winners

While hard work appears to enhance luck, procrastination kills it. Through the years, many people have commented about the relationship between hard work and luck. People who are consistently lucky in business seem to be the ones who work the hardest both in preparation and in looking for opportunities. We are all exposed to opportunities, but most people don’t act on them. Or they don’t prepare themselves or put themselves in situations where they can meet extra opportunities. It is (thus) their own shortcomings that cause them not to be ‘lucky’. With regards to money, there is never a perfect time to save money and invest, but you must start anyway. That puts you on the path to making your own luck and building an estate and particularly taking advantage of good investment opportunities when they do appear (as they

– FRED SIEGEL

are sure to appear). If you procrastinate, you are rejecting opportunity. When you feel that an opportunity is a good one, act promptly. If you make a few mistakes, it is your tuition in the school of making your own luck, learn from it and move on. Many people hope that ‘good luck’ will find them without any effort on their part. They may never have thought about taking action. Or they may have been afraid of failure. Or they may have fallen into the bad habit of procrastination, thereby missing their opportunities.

Opportunities come from time to time

Take the investment world for instance: Opportunities for part ownership of some corporations came during the era of indigenization in Nigeria, and also in the spate of privatization. They were here again through the instrumentality of banks’ and insurance companies’ consolidation. Opportunities will also present themselves in other forms of asset ownership, such as entrepreneurship and real estate businesses. But you need to have prepared yourself by making some savings in the past in order to buy up some of these opportunities. And opportunities will keep presenting themselves as the economy continues to witness cycles, which come naturally. So improve your skills and save up to take better advantage of opportunities. And then get more exposure to the outside world to network and expand your coast of opportunities and TAKE ACTION when opportunities present themselves, as that is the basic means of conquering the fear of failure and grasping opportunity and ‘luck’.

Wealth Nuggets ‘Top 10’ A minute’s success pays the failures of years –Robert Browning

Adversity is the touchstone of virtue –Latin proverb

For gold is tried in the fire and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity –Sirach

When you are losing, wear a winning face –French proverb

Success grows out of struggles to overcome difficulties – Sidney Newton Bremer

Preparation for adversity is the best way to prosperity –Welsh proverb

Many men owe the grandeur of their lives to their tremendous difficulties – Spurgeon

and to ask for advice from a well-connected person like you. I run an educative and social magazine with two friends of mine and I’ll appreciate it very much if you can advise us on how to be more relevant in the system and Your money questions Y ti answered how we can get advertisements from compaE-mail: lanreoyetade@gmail.com, 08039428648 nies because that is the most important thing Concerning forex trading in this business, and how we can go about it Dear Lanre, sir. To be successful in life, one needs to associPlease I read your column in the Sunday ate with successful people like you. I am also a Mirror about money matters (Money Consult). model and I’ll appreciate it very much if you I currently want to go into forex trading. I can help in linking me with your friends that I would therefore like to know if you know any- can model for their products. I’ll be glad to read thing about how to trade in forex. Let me hear from you sir. Yours faithfully, from you soon. Thanks. Kola A., “sulaiman Alimi” sulaija79@yaReader, 08165089713. hoo.com.

M Money Consult C

Dear Reader, The fact is that I am not really into forex trading and therefore have limited knowledge about it. However, there are quite a number of firms that undertake training in forex trading all over the country. What I will advise is that you locate any good one with good referrals from some of their past students, and then start a training session with them. It is usually not for too long a period and also not so expensive. It is my opinion that a good training will stand you in good stead in undertaking a successful forex trading business. Best wishes.

Dear Kola, There is no magic to getting adverts than making yourself known and relevant to prospective advertisers for your kind of magazine. You will do well to spread free copies of your magazine among such people and firms on a regular basis, making sure of course that the stories and materials you publish are relevant to their needs. You will then do follow-up calls to these entities. Another way is to offer to do supplements for their group or industry, which will serve people and firms in the group such as one titled ‘The 20 most outstanding/successful secondary schools in XYZ area’. You may also wish to employ Advice on our operations advert canvassers for your magazine either Dear Lanre, on full-time or part-time commissioned baHello Sir, I was just going through your sis, as your budget permits, whose primary cherished write up and I decided to say hello duty will be to get adverts for your magazine.

Please consider the foregoing and expand it by doing some native thinking yourself. You have my best wishes.

How do I convince him?

Dear Lanre, Hello sir. I am one of the readers of your portion in the Sunday Mirror based on investment and financial advice, etc. Now, I have this particular issue at hand. We are to have a computer training centre and the systems have been put in place; what is left now is the publicity, the software installation, the gadgets, the e-books and some other things, but my boss/dad says he is not ready to drop any penny until he sees at least a student who has registered. Though, I have those that are ready, but they need that convincing now. Please sir, I need your assistance. THANK YOU. EMMA, “emmanuel james” emmjimmy@ yahoo.com Dear Emma, It is just possible that your dad/boss does not have a total picture of what the centre requires and stands to bring in upon completion, and this may have been caused by the possibility that you did not give him a feasibility study/business plan for the centre, which would have let him realise the total necessary inputs and estimated earnings from the venture. I will advise that you endeavour to get these prepared and seek a professional’s advice and persuasion for your dad. Even though this is not the stage to have introduced this, it is yet not too late.

There is no water so troubled that doesn’t end by becoming clear –Belgian proverb

Let bygones be bygones –Scotch proverb

Nature, when she adds difficulties, adds brains –Emerson

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘Alliance/merger by opposition parties is difficult’ Rivers reassures on

quality education

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 to invade the state with thugs, hoodlums and mercenaries. This is why we are calling the President to extend the same security arrangement that was put in place in Edo to Ondo. If it is possible for him to increase the number of soldiers to 5,000 or more, labour party will support that. At the same time, the party considered the turbulent security situation in the country, corruption and other societal ills that needed to be addressed for Nigeria to be peaceful. NEC agreed that Nigeria should remain an indivisible country and one family. We want everybody to ensure that this country does not split. Who are these godfathers you talk about? Do you know how godfathers in Nigeria operate? They do not have an office and they are not into any form of productive venture. All they do is to impose a candidate on the people, use their wherewithal to get him into office and put the person on monthly subventions. For example, if the person is a governor and he collects about N4 billion or N5 billion in a month as revenue accruing to the state, half of such money goes to the godfather and by the time you (the other half) plan to pay salaries of workers, you have nothing left for development. That is why you see most governors in this country not performing because a large chunk of the money meant for the development of the state goes to the godfathers. If you take a look at those that have performed, like Governor Adams Oshiomhole, he has no godfather and that was why he was able to change the face of Edo State. In Ondo State, Governor Mimiko has no godfather and so all the funds and allocations were being used to develop the state. He has nothing to pay to any godfather. A situation where a godfather who is not from the state will endorse and impose a candidate and wants to get him into power at all costs is sending the hand of the clock backwards. So as we joined hands to kill godfathers in Edo State, that will

Nwanyanwu

be how some political parties will collaborate to send it packing in Ondo as well. Anybody who is participating in the election and has a tag of being sponsored by a godfather, that person has already lost the election because the people of Onco State are the only voters that would determine who should be their governor. Can you confirm whether LP is into any form of alliance with other political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the October 20 governorship poll in Ondo State? Yes, some politicians of the progressive camp may have decided to back Mimiko in the election, of their own volition notwithstanding party affiliation. You see, when you enter a farm, you know a ripe corn when you see it and you do not have to pinch it, you pluck it. Probably, these people have seen the transformation and development that have taken place in Ondo State and that it will be difficult for any political party, without sounding immodest, to pick more than 10 per cent of the votes in the exercise. They are not people you can throw money at and they will follow you, they understand what real development is. So the people cannot leave the angle they know and go for the one they do not know.

ivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi has reiterated the commitment of his administration to providing quality education for the people of the state. This is contained in a statement issued by Mr. David Iyofor, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor at the weekend. The statement said Amaechi gave the assurance in Port Harcourt while inaugurating the reconstituted governing board of the State University of Science and Technology.

Represented by the Secretary to the state government, Mr. Feyi George, the governor said his administration was committed to the development of education. “We have done a lot in this direction, we are committed to do more and all that is possible to ensure that quality education is guaranteed. “What we mean is the quality of education that will enable our citizens to compete anywhere in the world,’’ he said. The governor urged

How do we achieve these as a nation? We need to have a national dialogue through which the people’s approved, democratic and federal constitution

would emerge. The significance of this cannot be overemphasised. This should have been a priority since 1999.

But can this be possible with the National Assembly in place? What the Senate is now embarking on in the review of the Constitution is very important. But as usual, we are not paying enough attention to it. People are rather worrying about the next election, and that is why I am saying this now. I may not agree with members of the National Assembly arrogating power to themselves to rewrite the Constitution, or to carry our major reform on the Constitution because what they want to do now is not a mere review but a reform, if you look at the list of items they are considering.

the new governing board to strife for greater heights for the institution by encouraging sound learning and good morals. Speaking on behalf of the board, the Pro-Chancellor, Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte (Rtd), pledged that the board would collaborate with other stakeholders to uplift the status of the university. “It is a duty we owe this state. We will do our best; our children need to have good education,’’ he said.

L-R: Wife of the President, Dame Patience Jonathan; Mrs. Roli and her husband, Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, during the funeral service of the governor’s mother-in-law, Madam Rebecca Ayonmike, in Warri, Delta State on Friday.

Dickson’s 350 aides hard to identify –Investigation EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA.

Constitution reform imperative –Nyiam O CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 same goes for our local governments. You only have our state governments in names not in action. And we carry on as if we have a government. Rather than democracy, what we have in place is government of the oligarchs, government of cash and carry; government of the highest bidder. The same thing goes for federalism. We only have federalism in name again. We lack a political order which gives rise to, and nurtures institutions that will facilitate genuine democracy and true federalism.

SOUTH SOUTH

ver 350 political aides of Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, are battling security personnel over identity crises. This is because it has been difficult for security personnel to identify them at state events. Worried by the development, Dickson was said to have directed that the aides obtain identity cards from the office of the Secretary to the State Government to check the embarrassing situation. Investigations by Sunday Mirror revealed that some of the Governor’s aides which included Commissioners, Special

Dickson

Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, among others, had been engaged in quarrels with security personnel over claims and counterclaims of recognizing their status. It was gathered that a similar incident occurred last Tuesday at the swear-

ing-in of a Commissioner, Mrs. Didi Walson –Jack and Chairmen and members of statutory boards at the gate of Government House banquet hall. It was learnt that few aides of the governor reportedly engaged some security personnel in quarrels at the gate as they were barred from entering the venue. Te security personnel had insisted that they should properly identify themselves with their identity cards which they failed to produce. The intervention of one of the commissioners who observed the bitter quarrels and personally identified the aides saved the situation.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Zonal News

Sunday August 12, 2012

NORTH CENTRAL

NORTH WEST

JTF discovers bomb factory in Kano AUGUSTINE MADU WEST KANO

en of the Kano State military-led Joint Task Force in an early morning raid yesterday in a Kano suburb of Tamburawa town, discovered a bomb-making factory. Three suspects were also arrested by the military men who also uncovered assorted dangerous weapons in the arms factory which were later demolished by the JTF.

Spokesman for the 3 Mechanized Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Kano, Lt. Chukudike Iweha, said some of the items recovered were, 15 AK 47magazines, 20 gas cylinders, seven bags of fertilizer, army uniforms, bombmaking equipment and large quantities of live ammunition. A statement from the JTF spokesman read: “At about 0600hrs this morning (yesterday) a combined team of our troop and SSS (State Security Service)

personnel raided terrorists’ hideout at Tudun Bayero in Tamburawa, along Kano -Zaria Road. “Items recovered were also eight AK 47 magazines. Three FN magazines, one SMG magazine, one SMG rifle, one G3 rifle and two pump action rifles. “Others are four smoke guns, 60 rounds of 7.62 NATO.65 rounds of 9mm, 438 rounds of seven, bags ammonium sulphate fertilizer and two multi-metres volt battery, all with the three suspects arrested.”

Yakowa tasks doctors on professionalism G overnor Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna State yesterday charged medical doctors in the country to exhibit a high degree of professionalism in the discharge of their duties. Yakowa made the plea in Kaduna at the opening of the two-day annual general meeting of the state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association. The governor also urged the medical doctors to im-

prove upon their attitude to work, in order to enhance service delivery and reduce the high mortality rate in the country. He reiterated the commitment of his administration to the restoration of peace and unity in the state and pledged to provide adequate security for residents of the Kaduna metropolis. Yakowa said that other priorities of his administra-

Plateau: Flood kills one, destroys 200 houses JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

t least one person was confirmed dead yesterday and over 200 houses destroyed following another flood disaster which ravaged some communities in Kanam Local Government area of Plateau State. The Kanam flood came barely three weeks after over 45 people were killed and several others declared missing a similar flood that swept through some communities in Jos, ,the state capital. In the latest flood in Kanam, Sunday Mirror

learnt that it was caused by heavy rainfall which began on Wednesday and continued up to Friday, causing many rivers to overflow their banks. One of the villagers, Musa Ibrahim, whose house was destroyed by the flood, said, ‘’The situation is bad; many people have been rendered homeless.’’ The flood, which destroyed farmlands and some bridges linking the villages, also killed a lady whose identity could not be immediately ascertained at the time of filing this report. The flood also rendered

many roads in the area unpassable. A member representing Kantana Constituency in the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon Sadat Garga, who confirmed the incident to Sunday Mirror yesterday described it as unfortunate. He said:’’ yes, it is true that flood has wrecked havoc in the state, this time in my constituency. One person died in the unfortunate incident .The victim, a lady was carried away by the flood while she was trying to cross over to the other side.

tion were the provision of social infrastructure, qualitative education, health service and the development of the agricultural sector. While pledging to work closely with the association to improve the health sector, Yakowa announced the approval of this year’s medical festival, which he said was targeted at offering medical services to indigent patients.

Prisons controller commends Zuru emir

he Controller of Prisons in Kebbi, Alhaji Othman Musa, has commended the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sani Sami, for assisting in the reformation of minor offenders to be good members of society. Musa, who gave the commendation in Birnin Kebbi in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), urged members of the public to emulate the Emir to ensure that prison inmates came out as better citizens. He said the nation’s pris-

ons were facing the challenge of blending their inmates to fit into the society after their jail terms, considering that some of them felt abandoned by relatives and the society. ``We would strive to erase the stigma placed on the inmates by the society to prevent them from transforming into hardened criminals, deviants and social misfits. ``The people need to emulate the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Sani Sami, who had facili-

tated the release of minor offenders as well as assisted them with tools to learn skills that would enable them blend into society.” Musa, however, commended other individuals who facilitated the release of minor offenders, stressing that 25 inmates had benefited from the goodwill of the people. The controller also identified inadequate water supply as the major problem facing the prisons.

‘Farming in residential areas breeds insecurity’

he Kaduna State Government on Saturday warned against farming in residential areas, saying ``such farms are often used as hideouts for evil perpetrators and breed insecurity.’’ The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr Zakariah Shamaki, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna. He said the ministry would allow every farmer to harvest whatever he or

she planted for this season ``but as from next year, permission must be obtained before engaging in farming in residential areas.’’ Shamaki said the Kaduna State Government had received flood alerts from the Federal Ministry of Environment due to torrential rainfall predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET). He urged people living in flood-prone areas to temporary relocate to avert any calamity, adding that the ministry had em-

barked on early warning campaigns to prevent flood disasters across the state. He added that the NIMET forecast showed there would be downpour, which might cause extreme flooding and landslides. ``Communities like the Tudun Hilu, Jema’a, Lere and Rigachikun have been experiencing flood since June and the report has been forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Environment to enable the state to access the Ecological Funds for prompt response.’’

Emir of Borgu Kindgom, Sen. Haliru Dantoro (right), welcoming the Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, to his palace at New Bussa, Niger State, yesterday.

Benue explains delay in workers’ salaries ONUKWUBE OFOELUE

he Benue State Government has explained why salaries in some departments of the state have been delayed. A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Conrad Wergba explained that the delays were caused by the recent introduction of payment of salaries through the use of biometric data, which is being perfected. It also urged the general

public to disregard media reports that the state’s Finance and Economic Development Commissioner, Mr. Omadachi Oklobia, was summoned before the House to explain the state of affairs with regard to the finances of the state government. The government, however, assured all its workers and other relevant stakeholders that it would always live up to its fiscal responsibilities. The statement explained that such clarification became necessary in order to set the records straight by

informing members of the public and those with whom the state government does business that the Benue State Government was up to date with the payment of salaries and other financial obligations. It further stated that four out of the 30 members of the State House of Assembly affected by the delay in salaries had since been paid through supplementary vouchers. “The delay was caused by their failure to present themselves for biometric data,” the statement clarified.

Ahmed for telecom development lecture ONUKWUBE OFOELUE

he Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, has been picked as lead speaker in this year’s Nigerian Telecom Development lecture. The revelation was contained in a release by the organising company, Logica

Media Group and signed by the Managing Director, Mrs. Yinka Oguntoyinbo, over the weekend. The release further stated the importance and history of the lecture: “The lecture started in 2006 when the then president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, at the awards programme, challenged the organisers to establish an

awards institution in telecommunications that could bridge the gap between business and politics”. The Nigeria Telecom Development Lecture, which will hold on September 7 at the Lagoon Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos, will be chaired by Deacon Gamaliel Onosode, former chairman of Zain, now Airtel.

Zonal News

Sunday August 12, 2012

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SOUTH WEST

NORTH EAST

‘Lagos rehabilitated 5,080 Adamawa officials bicker over official cars schools in five years’ MURITALA AYINLA

he Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) yesterday said his administration had renovated no fewer than 5080 primary and secondary schools across the state in the last five years. He also re-affirmed his commitment to better the lot of Lagosians through provision of amenities and policies. The governor made the disclosure during the occasion of 1,900 days of his administration in office held in three senatorial districts across the state simultaneously. Speaking on occasion at the Lagos West Senatorial District, which held in Alimosho Local Government Secretariat in Ikotun, Fashola said he remained resolute to fulfilling his electoral promises to Lagosians. Fashola, who was represented in the district by the Commissioner for the Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, also said the government had constructed no fewer than 3,052 classroom blocks within the same period. He said: “We have also installed 170 science laborato-

ries in 170 schools, while 120 laboratories have been provided in 120 schools across the state. “Besides, the state government has provided no fewer than 119,837 pieces of furniture in primary and secondary schools. “The whole idea of all of these interventions is to enhance the standard of teaching and learning with a view to boosting students’ academic performance. “And the improved performance of our students in the last WAEC examination clearly shows that all out interventions in the education sector have not been in vain,” the governor disclosed. To make teaching more effective, Fashola said the government had recruited no fewer than 2,051 teachers within the period. He added that the state government had implemented a number of initiatives in order to take the state`s education sector to a greater heights, urging the residents to support the state government in its efforts at further transforming the sector by voluntarily and promptly paying their taxes. Explaining the rationale for the marking of 100 days’ account of stewardship, Bello said the state government

decided to organise the 1,900 days commemoration of the present administration in office to evaluate the impact of government’s projects and policies on the populace, through a feedback mechanism. His words: “Organising this occasion simultaneously at the three senatorial districts of the state, and not the traditional venue of the state secretariat, is in line with the government`s belief that when we move closer to you, we will understand you better. The governor is committed to delivering more dividends of democracy to you the masses that voted overwhelmingly for us. We want to listen to you and serve you better and that is why we are here. Present at the occasion were the Head of Service Prince Adesegun Ogunlewe; Commissioner for Rural and Infrastructural Development, Cornelius Ojelabi, his counterpart in Science and Technology Ministry, Mr. Fatai Mabadeje; Special Adviser to Governor Fashola on Information and Strategy, Lateef Raji; his Works and Infrastructure counterpart, Engr. Ganiyu, Permanent Secretaries of various ministries, among others.

he Adamawa State Government has intervened in the dispute between the newly appointed 35 development area administrators with their predecessors over who has the right to official cars. There was a running battle between the newly appointed administrators, who insisted in having the official cars from their predecessors. However, their predecessors were bent on keeping their respective official

cars based on the monetisation policy. While some of the new administrators had taken over the cars from their predecessors, others were denied the cars. Declaring government’s position to newsmen on the development, the Chief of Staff to Gov. Murtala Nyako, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abba, said the outgoing administrators were the rightful owners of the cars, which he confirmed had been monetised.

Abba, who is also the acting Commissioner for Information, said the state government had directed the new administrators who had confiscated the cars from their predecessors to return them. He said that the government had also directed those still hunting their predecessors to desist forthwith. The chief of staff said, ``with this development, the matter has been settled for good.’’

Arms and ammunition recovered by Joint Task Force, during a raid in Maiduguri metropolis, displayed at the JTF headquarters at Pompomari, yesterday. PHOTO: NAN

‘Insecurity crashes prices of property in Damaturu’ Ondo: PDP’ll be faithful to its candidate –OBJ P HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

ormer President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has reiterated that the national body of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will not abandon its governorship candidate to support any other candidate from another party in the October 20 Ondo governorship election. Obasanjo stated this yesterday in Akure, the Ondo state capital during the of-

ficial flag-off of the campaigns of the governorship candidate of the PDP, Chief Olusola Oke. He described the rumour about the party supporting another candidate as “immoral, which is capable of destroying the party” and said it could be described as an “anti-party activity” He called on the people of the state to troop out en-masse and vote for the party’s candidate for the people to witness a new

dawn in the state, urging them to defend their votes to the last minute. He also urged the people not to be intimidated by the presence of security agents, saying the security agents would only be on ground to make sure that the election was free and fear. “We have a credible candidate and a dependable deputy, who we can trust; so there is no point supporting candidates of other parties.”

Rep assures on social amenities

he member representing Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency 1 of Lagos in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon Moruf Akinderu Fatai, has promised to continue championing the cause of provision of basic amenities in his constituency when the new legislative year resumes. He also promised to pres-

ent bills that will impact positively on the electorate. He stated this, during a “Town Hall” meeting organised by his constituency at the Ikeja Grammar School, Oshodi. According to him, his first year in the National Assembly had impacted positively on his constituency through the provision of IT training for the youths, provision of

transformers, sinking of bore-holes, youth empowerment programmes, promotion of sporting activities, provision of free bus services and payment of monthly stipend to widows. He assured that the effort would be intensified to enable people of the constituency enjoy the dividends of democracy.

rices of landed property have crumbled in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, following relocation by residents to their villages and other states due to prevailing security challenges. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) checks at weekend revealed that some property owners were desperately looking for buyers to raise money to build houses in their villages. Alhaji Babagana Mo-

hammed, an estate agent, told NAN: ``we have many properties lined up for sale because, people are relocating out of the state capital. “Since the November 2011 attack, many people who left have disposed their properties while those who delayed for a while are now selling their houses.” Mohammed explained that a house which was initially offered for N4 million, now sell for N3 million, “yet,

there are no buyers.” A house owner, who pleaded for anonymity, said: “My house was initially bargained for N3.5 million but I refused, insisting for N4 million, now I am willing to take N3 million, but the buyer is no longer there. “My neighbour was looking for N2 .5 million, but with no prospective customer in sight, he reduced the price to N1.8 million and yet nobody turned up.”

Jigawa committed to peaceful coexistence –Lamido G overnor Sule Lamido of Jigawa State says his government is committed to ensuring peaceful coexistence among various ethnic, religious and political groups in the state. Lamido made the statement in Dutse over the wekend at a Ramadan breakfast with members and leaders of trade unions

and lawmakers. The governor emphasised that he had no grudges against any individual or group in the state. He said that nothing would deter him from embarking on projects that would uplift the living standards of the people. “It is your right and it is incumbent on me to

provide social amenities such as roads, water, electricity, schools, and hospitals among others for the people. “So if anybody abuses me because of political, religious and ethnic differences, that would not deter me from embarking on programmes that would spur development in the state.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kirdyapkin walks off with gold P. 55

Sport

Madness on stage as curtain falls on London Olympics P. 55 KEEPING YOU ABREAST OF SPORTING NEWS August 12, 2012

CAF Champions League

XXXTH OLYMPIC SUMMER GAMES

London 2012

EVEREST ONYEWUCHI REPORTING

July 27 - August 12, 2012

Ali blames frequent changes in leadership for poor outing

Chika Yagazie Chukwumerije of Nigeria (blue) competes against Robelis Despaigne of Cuba (red) during the Men’s +80kg Taekwondo Preliminary Round on Day 15 of the London 2012 Olympic Games on August 11, 2012 in London, England.

Chukwumerije out of contention for taekwondo gold medal

hika Chukwumerije on Saturday at the 2012 Olympic Games in London lost in the race for the gold medal in the men’s +80 kg taekwondo event. He lost 0-1 to Cuba’s Robelis Despaigne through an offensive point his opponent gained after about 90 seconds in the third and final period of their fight.

Both fighters in the contest at the Excel-South Arena 1 had failed to secure any point in the first two periods of their fight. The preliminary round fight was looking deadlocked before the Cuban, who was the event’s number four seed, struck. However, Chukwumerije is still in with a chance of getting a bronze medal in the event

My goals will lift Genclerbirligi –Ehiosun P. 54

through the ‘repechage’. In each weight category of the sport, the competition consists of a single elimination tournament. The winners of each contest qualify for the next round, with the two finalists going head-tohead in the gold medal contest. But all competitors who lose to one of the finalists at any

stage of the competition will enter the repechage. The two semi-final losers meet the winners of the two repechage pools and these matches determine the winners of the two bronze medals. The 28-year-old Nigerian was a bronze medallist in the event at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

Go for victory against Tanzania, Glo urges Flying Eagles P. 54

ational long jump coach, Yusuf Ali, on Saturday blamed frequent changes in the leadership of sports in the country for Nigeria’s poor outing at the ongoing London 2012 Olympic Games, which ends today. Ali, a 1990 Commonwealth Games long jump gold medallist, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on telephone from London that such changes had also led to changes in policies for sports development. “Changes in the leadership of sports as far as I am concerned, affect sports development because it affects everything that concerns sports,” he said. Ali said the current Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, had a vision that could take sports to a high level, if allowed to do his job. “The minister has a direction to take sports to a greater height. I say this with all sincerity, he has the vision but he should be supported and left alone to do his job,” Ali said. Ali said that though Nigerian sprinters at the Games may not have taken any medal, they did well to the best of their abilities. Team Nigeria is expected back from the Games on Monday.

Bayelsa, Ebonyi win Milo Sec. Sch. Basketball P. 54 Championship

Sport

Sunday August 12, 2012

FEATURE

T.B Joshua and Davidson’s world title dream ANDREW EKEJIUBA

t was a labour of love. In the rough-and-tumble Bauchi neighbourhood of his youth, men went out brawling as casually and cheerfully as the rich went out for an afternoon of golf. There were free-for-all street fights and struggle for survival, but for Davidson Udodirigi Emenogu, a bloodynosed boxing aficionado, the street brawls were not enough as he nursed the ambition of hitting it big as a professional fighter. The ghetto-like ambience of his birthplace never deterred him; rather it spurred him, as he started boxing in the amateur ranks, representing various states of Nigeria in the National Sports Festival where he was spotted by the Nigerian boxing officials. Watching Emenogu dismantle his opponents with pinpoint precision convinced the selectors of the national team that a world beater had emerged. The Imo State-born pugilist repaid the confidence bestowed on him by landing the gold medal at the All Africa Games in 2003. Today, he has set his sights on fulfilling his ambition of stepping into the shoes left by late Dick Tiger Ihetu, who incidentally comes from the same state (Imo). King Davidson (as he is known in professional boxing circles relocated to Australia when the opportunity came. Smarting from a second round destruction of Ghana’s Joseph Lamptey in Southampton, England, on June 30, the renowned WBO International light middle weight boxing champion is set to be rewarded with a training tour of Germany and USA as compensation for proving his mettle in the rings courtesy of the founder and general overseer of The Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) Prophet T.B Joshua who has thrown his weight behind the pound-for-pound exponent. The tour, which is earmarked to help the boxer finetune his strategy for an upcoming world title fight is expected to run into hundreds of thousands of dollars. Aside picking up the bill for the tour, boxing fans worldwide are set to witness an unprecedented turn-around of the game as the televangelist is also mooting the idea of setting up a boxing academy in Nigeria in partnership with King Davidson and his foreign technical partners. This gesture, coming at a time Nigeria’s boxing is undergoing an unprecedented decay, (as exemplified by the disgraceful outing of our country’s boxing contingent at the London Olympic Games) calls for celebration. Followers of the sport will recall that the man of God has been very supportive in his zeal to ensure that the Ngor Okpala-born pugilist realises his life ambition which King Davidson acknowledges. “He is the pillar behind my exploits. He has been my source of hope, inspiration and strength. I owe him a lot and lack words to express my appreciation for his outstanding contribution to my career,” stated the All Africa Games gold medallist. Apart from being the financial backbone of the hard-hitting fighter, Prophet T.B Joshua has also been there spiritually. The ‘King’ recalls: “He calls me five minutes before every fight and stays with me in spirit (prayerfully) all through.” While ‘King’ is sweating it out at his base in Southampton in order to prove his critics wrong and bring glory to his mentor and spiritual father, Prophet T.B Joshua is hatching a plan to bring the world title fight to Nigeria, where he hopes to sit at the ring side, and watch his ‘son’ do what he knows how to do best.

King Davidson

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

My goals will lift Genclerbirligi –Ehiosun SAYO OGUNDEJI

igeria international and Genclerbirligi of Turkey striker, Ekigho Ehiosun, has promised to set the Turkish league aglow with goals, saying he is determined to help the club win the league again. Ehiosun spent last season on loan with Samsunspor but has now signed a three

year contract with the Turkish top side Genclerbirligi. The former Warri Wolves hit man whose nine goals in his debut season failed to save the now relegated Samsunspor expressed his delight at joining the former champions, adding that he will do his best to ensure the club return to winning ways. “I am extremely happy to be joining a great club

Ehiosun

like Genclerbirligi as this is a good development for my career and I just want to do my best to make sure the team wins trophies this coming season. “It was unfortunate that my former club got rel-

egated but I have to move on and I hope joining this club will help bring the best out of my game as I want to score more goals to help the team to achieve success this term,” the Super Eagles striker said.

Go for victory against Tanzania, Glo urges Flying Eagles

Akiga turns 50, as he shoots for Christ

eading Telecommunications operator, Globacom has advised the U-20 National team, Flying Eagles to work towards victory in their African Youth Championship qualifying match against Ngorongoro Heroes of Tanzania in Ilorin today. A statement from Globacom on Friday exhorted the Flying Eagles to go for outright victory to boost their chances of qualifying for the next African Youth Championship. “The match is a mustwin for Nigeria,” the company said, adding that their victory over the Tanzanians would bring smiles on the faces of Ni-

gerians, particularly at this period when Nigeria has of recent recorded a string of losses in competitive sports. Globacom also commended the team for their outstanding performance during the first leg, in which they defeated the Tanzanians by 2-1 in Dar es salam. The statement encouraged the John Obuh-led coaching crew to correct the lapses noticed in the Dar es salam encounter as they prepare for the last hurdle. The Sunday match is the return leg of a second round fixture. The winner of the encounter will slug it out with the winner of

Flying Eagles coach, John Obuh.

the match between South Africa and Congo Brazzaville for a place at the eight-nation African Youth Championship scheduled for Algeria in March 2013.

ormer proprietor of the now defunct Gboko Giants and, later, Gboko Heats Basketball Club, Felix Akiga, is back to hug the headlines though not with the game of basketball, but this time to serve God as he marks his birthday. Akiga, who pioneered the top league side in the Savannah and Atlantic conferences of the Nigeria Premier Basketball League, turned 50 on August 7, and is set to mark the birthday with a litany of activities which the high point is the launching of the Felix Akiga Foundation, which would be primarily for outreach and preaching of the holy gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Bayelsa, Ebonyi win Milo Sec. Sch. Basketball Championship ANDREW EKEJIUBA

t. Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Amarata, Bayelsa State and St. Augustine Seminary, Ezzangbo have emerged champions of the female and male categories of the 2012 Nestle Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championship which was concluded yesterday at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos. St. Judes defeated Asaba Girls Grammer School, Asaba, Delta State by 26-21 in the female category, while St. Augustine defeated Ahmadiyya College, Kano by 59-48 in the male category in two explo-

sive encounters. The competition was organised for the male and female categories under the auspices of the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF) and sponsored by Nestle Milo Nigeria PLC. In his welcome speech at the grand finale of the competition, the Business Executive Manager, Milo, Mr. Daniel Yapobi revealed that this year’s edition of the championship recorded impressive growth in the number of participating schools with about 5,000 students competing for the coveted trophy and reaffirmed the company’s resolve to remain committed to the development of sports at the grassroots. He

Action recorded when St Augustine Seminary, Ezzamgbo, Ebonyi (on wine coloured shirt) clashed with Government Secondary School, Ilorin, Kwara (on red shirt) at the Milo Sec. Schools Basketball Championship.

also donated a portable synthetic basketball court on behalf of the company. “In furtherance of the brand’s commitment towards basketball development, we are pleased to provide a new world class Nestle Milo portable synthetic basketball court.

This replaces the previous court that has now been donated to Nigeria Basketball Federation,” he said. The first place winners received a sum of N150, 000; the second place teams got N120, 000, while the third place teams were rewarded with N100, 000.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

XXXTH OLYMPIC SUMMER GAMES

London 2012

EVEREST ONYEWUCHI REPORTING

July 27 - August 12, 2012

LETTER FROM LONDON

ndy, you know that everything which has a beginning also has an end. It is time to say goodbye to Londoners, who have hosted remarkably and successfully, the Summer Games of the 30th Olympiad. What will now follow is the Paralympic Games, in which expectedly, Nigeria would win medals, after failing miserably here. As part of my preparations to board the elegant and efficient Air Bus of the Air Nigeria Development Company Limited in a couple of days and return to Naija, I’ve already visited a barbing salon and had a £10 (about N2,600) hair cut. Phew! Since I arrived here in the morning of July 25, I’ve seen and appreciated more the difference between development and under-development, buoyant economy and dying one, good and responsible government/governance and bad one, bad citizens/followership and good/responsible ones, science and technology and lack of it. The differences in these my observations are what played out on the pitches, tracks, courts, swimming pools and other venues where the competitions of the London 2012 Olympic Games were decided. You can’t put something on nothing! Nigeria and its governments at all levels must know today that the world cannot wait for us. Take a look at the medals table of the London Games, names of the so-called tiny countries are in it; where is Team Nigeria? Look at Jamaica and Kenya! I have not heard or read President Goodluck Jonathan, Vice President Namadi Sambo or the Senate President, David Mark, say anything on Nigeria’s failure here. But mark my words, once the physically challenged athletes win some medals in the Paralympic Games later this month, officialdom will start celebrating our “giantness.” It’s a shame, Andy! We must play less politics in our country and work hard sincerely and faithfully, to begin to learn to walk. True, we’ve not even started to crawl. Nigeria and its government owe the aged and old a debt and the youth a legacy. See you in Lagos!

Kirdyapkin walks off with gold

ussia’s Sergey Kirdyapkin yesterday won the gold medal in the men’s 50km Race Walk in an Olympic record time. The former world champion finished in 3:35:59, almost a minute clear of Australia’s Jared Tallent, who took silver for the second Games in succession, with China’s Si Tianfeng claiming bronze. Ireland’s Robert Hef-

Sport

Sunday August 12, 2012

fernan was fourth in a national record of 3:37.54, just holding off Russia’s Igor Erokhin on the line as both athletes were given the same time. Si looked on course for victory when he wiped out a 20-second deficit and went clear of the field at the 35km mark, but when he faded Kirdyapkin took over at the front and was never in danger of being caught.

Madness on stage as curtain falls on London Olympics

he 30th Summer Olympic Games hosted by London will end today, with another razzmatazz reminiscent of the opening ceremony witnessed inside the Olympic Stadium in Stratford on July 27. According to the organisers of the London 2012 Olympic Games, the closing ceremony will be a musical funfair that will focus on London as against the wider ‘Isles of Wonder’ theme of Danny Boyle’s opening ceremony. Particularly, a band, Madness, is top of the bill for tonight’s event beginning at 9pm. The group and former Kinks front man, Ray Davies, are the latest acts to be confirmed for the three-and-half hour programme that will be a symphony of British music. Madness is expected to follow up their rooftop Queen’s Diamond Jubilee show by taking a starring role in the London Olympics closing ceremony. According to the Evening

Standard, the band that performed ‘Our House’ on top of Buckingham Palace for the royal celebration in June is expected to play their hit ‘Baggy Trousers’ tonight at the Olympic Stadium. The song became part of London 2012 history when it rang out in the stadium at the climax of the penultimate Saturday’s clean sweep of medals by the Team GB, especially after Somali-born Mohammed Farah won the first 10,000m gold for the Great Britain. George Michael is also expected to appear in his first live performance in a year, as well as 21-year-old chart topper, Ed Sheeran and Muse, whose song ‘Survival’ is the official track for the London Games. Other musicians lined up for the night include Spice Girls, Jesse J, the Who and Emeli Sande, whose moving rendition of ‘Abide with Me’ in honour of the 7/7 victims was one of the highlights of the opening ceremony.

Phelps signs off in typical style

he end of Swimming in the pool saw the exit of arguably the greatest Olympian in history as Michael Phelps bowed out of the sport having collected 18 gold medals and 22 overall. The 27-year-old started his Olympic Swimming career as a 15-year-old in Sydney in 2000, where the youngster was fifth in the 200m Butterfly. Six gold and two bronze medals followed in Athens four years later before his historic eight gold medals in Beijing in 2008. His Games in London did not start off so well with fourth place in the 400m Individual Medley his worst result since Sydney - and he was shocked into second by Chad le Clos in the 200m Butterfly.

However, the Baltimore swimmer won the 100m Butterfly and 200m Individual Medley - where he outgunned team-mate Ryan Lochte - as well as taking the titles in the 4 x 200m Freestyle and Medley Relay and silver in the 4 x 100m Freestyle. At a packed press conference afterwards, Phelps revealed what he had said to Bob Bowman, who had coached him since the age of 11, when he completed his final warm-up. Phelps told Bowman: “I have looked up to Michael Jordan all my life. He became the best Basketball player there ever was. I’ve been able to become the best swimmer of all time, we got here together. Thank you.”

British musical band, Madness.

security at the 3 Mills Studio in Bow and Dagenham, according to Evening Standard. Traditionally, the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games celebrates achievements of the athletes and also mark the handover to the next host city; this time, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the world would gather again in 2016.

The full line-up is a guarded secret by the organisers, but the show will be directed by Kim Gavin, who rallied the 2007 ‘Concert for Diana’ as well as ‘Take that’s Circus’ tour in 2009. Rehearsals for the closing ceremony, which will feature a cast of 4,100 performers, have been holding since last week amid tight

LONDON 2012 MEDALS TABLE Country

Gold

Silver

Bronze

Total

1. United States of America

100

2. People’s Rep. of China

3. Great Britain

4. Russian Federation

5. Republic of Korea

6. Germany

7. France

8. Hungary

9. Australia

10. Italy

11. Netherlands

12. Kazakhstan

13. Japan

14. New Zealand

15. Islamic Republic of Iran

16. Jamaica

17. Ukraine

18. People’s Rep. of Korea

19. Spain

20. Belarus

Bresset seals victory in cycling A Sergey Kirdyapkin of Russia crosses the line to win gold in the men’s 50km Race Walk.

dominant performance saw Julie Bresset of France win the women’s Cross-country Mountain Bike event at Hadleigh Farm on Saturday. World Under-23 cham-

pion Bresset led from the gun and triumphed in 1:30.52. The Beijing 2008 champion Sabine Spitz of Germany was second, 1:02 behind, with Georgia Gould

of the USA third, six seconds further adrift. Spitz and Bresset were in the front group as the Frenchwoman went through the start-finish line with a lead of four

seconds with three laps to go. Spitz went over her handlebars on a steep rocky section known as Deane’s Drop as Bresset went further clear.

N3 Vol. 2 No. 35

Sunday, August 12, 2012

www.nationalmirroronline.net

N150

N I G E R I A

I N

F I G U R E S

N34

bn, amount the Federal .89trn, value of cheques the Government approved to MD/CEO of Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), Adebi- offset the outstanding accrued rights si Shonubi, said was processed in the of retirees and death benefits of deceased employees. country by NIBSS as at June 2012.

Root causes of social decay and discontent in mass societies

Back Page

Comment

E-mail: nwaunah@yahoo.com Unah is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lagos

with Jim Unah

ncremental neglect of what government should have done right that it did not do or chose to look the other way because it found it convenient to do so, is at the root of the social malaise that are plaguing many societies today. One year after the UK riots that shattered the peace of the British society and created a culture of fear and panic in the streets of London and environs for almost two weeks, the government of Prime Minister David Cameron, having dealt swiftly with the crisis and put it firmly under control with the aid of the Metropolitan Police and the British Courts last year, has gone deep down to revisit the root causes of the social discontent that breached the peace of one of the world’s busiest communities. David Cameron’s government found out that its country’s social welfare policy for immigrant British nationals has destroyed family bonds, encouraged conjugal disruptions, and incrementally created a culture of violence and fear in a section of the British society, where some people, curiously, have been made to think that society owes them a favour. The people apprehended in the UK riots, largely disgruntled youths, were mainly children of broken homes that the British government aided and supported; but who

having lost the father figure and role model in their broken families, whose mothers were sided by government in family quarrels and initially supported by the state by way of welfare allowances, grew into gangsters, brigands and arsonists; causing fear and violence in the streets. Recently, Mr. Cameron’s government announced a cut in the allowances paid to mothers who had declared their husbands undesirable elements over minor family quarrels and have opted to have custody of children of the relationship; instead of sorting out the problem with their husbands and remaining as man and wife to build their homes. The point here is that if a woman feels that she should have custody of children of a relationship that she has asked to pack up, she should take responsibility of the children’s upkeep; expecting only token support from the state. I do not think that a debate of what is fair or what is not fair in the change in welfare policy towards immigrant nationals by the British government is the point in issue here. I think that the government has found out that it has helped to destroy the father image in the homes of these people, and the backlash is now felt, not only by the affected immigrant families, but by the whole of the British society. The way to correct the mistake is to discourage families from breaking up at the slightest provocation, especially where children are already in the relationship. The government has found out that there is need to encourage family ties and bonding, so that

children could be brought up and socialised properly with the active cooperation of both parents. Children have a lot to gain by such cooperation between husband and wife; it socialises children properly, and it helps society to stabilise and achieve social peace. This brings me to the point of the root cause of social malaise in Nigeria. The neglect of other people’s children – children of the poor and underprivileged – has joined forces with other factors to breed the Amajiri phenomenon in the northern part of the country. That created its crisis against authority and the Nigerian state in the past, especially in the 1980s, when the crisis came to a head in Shagari’s government, and a drastic law was enacted to arrest the situation. But the crisis did not end. It continued to make a showing from time to time until it graduated into the Boko Haram terrorist phenomenon. It is now not only a northern Nigerian affair. It is the affair and concern of the whole country and, indeed, a global concern. The Americans and the British are concerned about it as it affects their business and political interests in the country. In the southern part of the country, politicians have used the children of the poor and underprivileged to rig themselves into political office, and have abandoned them perilously to their own devices. These have graduated into daredevil armed robbers, hostage takers, and kidnappers. There is also a large population of unemployed youths growing by the day; and the politicians who run the

affairs of state are at daggers drawn with one another over who gets the most of oil money by corrupt enrichment; rather than embark on massive infrastructure development to galvanise job creation to absorb the teeming population of Nigerian youths. The politicians see these people as other people’s children, not their own concern. But when the problem of mass unemployment gets out of hand as sure it will someday, it will become more than everybody’s problem. The Fashola government of Lagos State is making concerted effort to deal squarely with the problem, not only of mass unemployment, but also of social miscreancy and impunity. The new law checking the activities of the Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), and restricting their activities to their offices, thus preventing them from molesting commuters and passengers, is an effort in the right direction. But it needs to go beyond that to include the illegal activities of the band of lawless youths who go about extorting money from developers and skilled workmen in building construction sites, who go by the name of “omoniles”; and who may soon graduate into armed banditry if not quickly checked. Apart from checking the illegal activities of the “omoniles” and bringing such activities to a halt before their victims begin to resort to self-help, the Lagos State Government needs to compulsorily enrol them in its open apprenticeship scheme to make them useful to themselves and society.

out Team Nigeria strikes over allowances, as Mexico stun Brazil Chukwumerije of contention for P. 53 EVEREST ONYEWUCHI LONDON

he bottled anger in Team Nigeria’s camp over welfare issues exploded on Friday evening as the athletes embarked on a strike action, refusing to compete in their remaining events of the London Olympic Games that ends tonight. Sunday Mirror learnt from sources inside the Games Village that the athletes protested against the non-payment of their daily camp allowances. The athletes said since they did not win any medals and were not paid the various amounts promised for gold, silver and bronze medallists

before they left Nigeria, the Leader of Delegation, Minister Bolaji Abdullahi and Chef de Mission, Chief Patrick Ekeji, had no reason not to pay their camp allowances. Specifically, the women 4x100m relay team comprising Christy Udoh, Gloria Asumnu, Osayomi Oluwadamola and Blessing Okagbare, refused to leave the camp for the nearby Olympic Stadium for the final of the event. The wrestlers and taekwondoists, whose events had not been completed, also joined the strike, vowing not to take to the mats. It took the pleadings and promises of top officials of the Nigeria Olympic Commit-

tee (NOC) that the allowances would be paid before the athletes depart London, for the relay team to change their stance. They eventually ran the 4x100m final and finished fourth. Contacted after the race, President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Solomon Ogba, confirmed that the athletes embarked on a strike. The AFN boss added, “They will be paid: somebody has left for Abuja to bring money.” Meanwhile, Mexico secured arguably the greatest triumph in their history by winning the Olympic men’s soccer gold with a 2-1 victory over Brazil yesterday.

taekwondo gold medal

OLYMPICS 2012 MEN’S FOOTBALL FINAL Brazil 1 - 2 Mexico INTERNATIONAL CLUB FRIENDLY RESULT Werder Bremen 3 - 3 Aston Villa ITALY - SUPER CUP RESULT Juventus 4 – 2 Napoli

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