African voice newspaper issue 484 by African Voice Newspapers UK

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

ISSUE 484

SINCE 2001

B R I TA I N ’ S N O . 1 A F R I C A N N E W S PA P E R Singing for Healthy Hearts

One week on, a shocked city wonders why

SEE PAGE 6

SEE PAGE 12

£1.00

Teenagers convicted of Negus McClean murder SEE PAGE 14

Doctors join visa reform furore By Ben Savill The UK government’s proposed changes to immigration rules have come under attack from associations representing British GPs and dental practitioners.

The British Dental Association (BDA) has joined the Royal College of General Practitioners in expressing concern that, under the new reforms, they are being expected to act as agents of the immigration services. On 8 May 2013, the UK’s Coalition government announced its intention to pass a law that would limit the access of recently arrived migrants to use the National Health Service (NHS). The government stated that its proposed law would require doctors and dentists to check that patients are eligible for free healthcare before treating them. The law would also require visitors to the UK to pay a contribution towards any NHS treatment. As it stands, some foreign nationals are already legally required to pay for their NHS treatment, though those who are currently entitled to free NHS care include:

• Those who are ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK • Most people who have resided legally in the UK for over 12 months • People who have come to the UK to work • People who are normally resident in the UK but have moved abroad for work reasons for less than ﬁve years However, Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt says that hospitals routinely fail to make patients who are legally obliged to pay for their treatment do so. Speaking to the BBC’s World at One programme, he stated that if hospitals “treat someone who is not entitled to NHS care – if they declare that person is a foreigner who is not entitled to that care, then they have the responsibility to collect the money from that person, whereas if they declare that person as a UK national then the money is paid for by the NHS”.

Continued on page 2

Dr Claire Gerarda says GPs are unhappy with the government’s proposed NHS reforms

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Have You GotNews For Us Newsdesk: 020 7274 3933

Email: africanvoicenews@gmail.com

British security firm illegally detains South African prisoners A confidential South African government report leaked to the Guardian has implicated Britishbased security firm G4S in the illegal isolation of 62 inmates in a prison run by the multinational in Bloemfontain.

G4S is headquartered in Crawley, Sussex, and is the third largest private sector company in the world. Lately it has courted much controversy. Last year the UK Chief Inspector of Prisons accused its treatment of detainees for the UK Border Agency as “simply not acceptable”, while its handling of the London 2012 Olympics security has been described by its own chief executive as a “humiliating shambles”. In Bloemfontain the firm has now been accused of holding prisoners in solitary confinement for up to three years, and withholding TB and HIV medication to some inmates. Since Apartheid the separation of prisoners as punishment has been illegal, but G4S has defended its actions as sanctioned by the Correctional Services Act as it deals with those posing a “security risk”.

Publisher and Editor-In-Chief Mike Abiola Editorial Board Adviser Dr Ola Ogunyemi News Editor Emmanuel Urhiofe Managing Editor Alan Oakley Sports Editor Abiodun Teriba Assist. Sports Editor Olubunmi Omoogun Arts Editor Golda John Columnists Ryan Holmes Ben Savill Photo Journalist Isaac Adegbite Graphic Designer Alvin Brown Legal Adviser Godwin Okri London Office: Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7AP

Tel: 020 7274 3933

Email: africanvoicenews@gmail.com

African Voice is published by African Voice UK.

News New THINK! road safety for teachers and parents Resource centre vows to bring together a wide range of materials on road safety that will hopefully continue to bring road accidents involving children and teenagers down, putting them all in one place. A brand new online resource was envisioned to help lend a hand to teachers in the fight to squash traffic accidents for those aged in between 3-18. This resource was launched 29 May 2013 and assists in allowing easily planning of road safety lessons for schoolchildren. The program was devised by Road Safety Minister Stephen Hammond, who believes that this issue despite lowering statistics is one not to be ignored. The THINK! resource centre brings to-

gether a wide range of road safety materials for children and teenagers and puts them all in one place. It will allow teachers, road safety officers and anyone teaching road safety to plan classes effortlessly and effectively. Stephen Hammond said: ‘Road deaths are at a record low and child casualties have fallen considerably in recent years, but we know there is room for improvement and I am determined to reduce casualties even further. THINK! education resources are already

Huge boost as £2million bursary for those looking to get a job in children’s early education.

highly regarded, but we wanted to make them much easier to use in road safety lessons. This new online resource will be used by teachers across the country to give children the skills and knowledge they need to stay safe on the roads.’ The materials are all organised into 25 easy-to-use themed lesson packs and are specifically aimed at all ages, which will optimistically continue to bring these accidents down. Each lesson pack is visibly categorised by Key Stage and includes a lesson plan and an array of teaching resources such as online games, posters, stories, films and ideas for activities both in and out of the classroom. The packs also include information and activities for parents and carers, to ensure children are taught consistently at school and at home.

Doctors join visa reform furore Continued from front page

More people will be helped and recruited to ease UK childcare issues. For those who have a keen interest in working in early education have been given a huge helping hand, as the government is set to donate a huge £2 million apprenticeship bursary to help with learning costs. This has been a huge boost for those who have keen desire to work within this area of education, which has seen the government jump into action. It will allow participants to apply for a bursary of up to £1500, with a further £300 being available for extra needed training. The bursary, which is hopefully going to come into affect in September, will be available for more than 1,000 people. The apprenticeship bursary will be a transitional scheme ahead of the early year’s educator qualifications in 2014. The apprenticeship bursary scheme will also seek to sustain the delivery of the early education places for 2-year-olds. This scheme rises from the ashes in the findings in the ‘More Great Childcare’ report, in which the government vowed to find a solution to the UK’s growing child-

care problem. ‘More Great Childcare’ is vital to ensuring we can compete in the global race, by helping parents get back into work and readying children for school and, eventually, employment. It also vows that the scheme can help build a stronger society, with more opportunities for women who want to work and raise children at the same time, and better life chances for children whatever their background. This apprenticeship bursary will be eligible to those who have secured placements within a nursery or other provision that delivers the early learning phases for toddlers. The apprentices must also have completed some basic education, as a grade C level at GCSE in both English and Maths is obligatory to become applicable. The scheme, which will be run by the National College for Teaching and Leadership, will be open to applications from this upcoming September. Apprenticeships are expected to last an average of 20 months. They will consist of employment and study to gain a recognised qualification through various routes, including further education colleges.

The details of what changes the government will introduce and how they would work have not been revealed but the Royal College of General Practitioners, the professional organisation for doctors working in ‘general practice’, immediately issued a statement saying that the proposals would turn them into “de facto border guards”. The College’s chairman Dr Clare Gerarda told The Daily Telegraph, “GPs must not be a new border agency in policing access to the NHS”. In previous interviews, Dr Gerarda described the NHS reform bill for England as “a complete and utter mess that needs stopping”. She said that GPs “do not want this bill”, and that it would not deliver what the government was planning. More recently, Dr Judith Husband of the BDA has insisted that “any decisions must be underpinned by the principle that clinicians’ obligations to treat patients requiring urgent care or who are not able to pay for it are not undermined.” She stated further that, if the government does intend to introduce this change, it must issue medical practitioners with guidelines to allow them to carry out their duties correctly. “It is important that clinicians are provided with clear guidance about what is required so that any policy changes can be understood, implemented and communicated clearly and that they are fully supported in introducing and enforcing any change.” UK government sources have said that the new law will not be in place until mid 2014 at the earliest. However, it is possible that the changes will not be introduced at all. Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt was unable to tell journalists how the proposed system of checks would work when asked. He has said that the government will announce the details “when the time is right”.

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Comment

New European Union Import Laws Hurt African Cocoa Exports

By Moki Kindzeka

frica’s cocoa producing countries stand to loose billions of euros in exports as the European Union tightens laws on the importation of cocoa beans. In April, Cameroon had their exports totally rejected. As the town crier beats his drum inviting the villages of Ntui, an area in the center region of Cameroon, to gather together local farmers are worried. Cameroonian villagers say local cocoa buyers are being told that their beans are being rejected by European markets. In the past, European importers purchase close to 95-percent of Ntui’s annual cocoa bean harvest. Kane Peter, a local farmer, told DW all farmers were worried by the situation since importation restrictions were tightened in April, 2013. “We feel terrible. If they continue to reject [the cocoa beans] like that, the price will automatically fall,” Peter lamented. Cameroon was the first African country to have its cocoa harvest rejected by the European Union, when 2,000 tonnes of beans failed to be certified in April. This, the EU said, was due to high levels of chemicals

found in the product which they considered to be harmful to human health. Cause and effect Mark Yonker, a regulatory manager at the food distribution company Cargill in Paris told DW, the sub-standard conservation methods which are used is what’s behind the problem. “The main problem is drying the cocoa artificially. When smoke comes in touch with cocoa beans, then you risk higher levels of what we call polycyclic aroma to hydrocarbons,” Yonker explained. “Since April 1, 2013, we have a limit in Europe.” The food regulatory manager said of the EU’s new importation laws. “Smoke is the main cause, drying cocoa on tarred roads is not part of good drying practices.” Cocoa farmers in Cameroon generally dry their cocoa beans on tarred roads or smoke the produce in traditional ovens. European buyers had previously warned Cameroon’s cocoa farmers that such practises could have a negative effects on the health of consumers. Chocolate, which is derived from cocoa

has become a multi-billion euro industry Farmer Kane Peter said it has been difficult for growers to abide with the new EU cocoa export legislation. “The farmers are in a hurry, they will not persevere enough to ferment [the cocoa beans]. They will just take every thing and pack in the oven for two days in order to be able to go and sell it.” Susan Ako, another farmer, added that poverty is to blame for their rush in wanting to get their cocoa harvest to the market. By so doing, they fail to observe the regulations. “You know that cocoa comes from the farm during the rainy season. So farmers don’t persevere to dry their cocoa, they need fast money so they dry it anywhere.” Threatened livelihoods Life has not been easy for the 600,000 farmers and some one million people who depend directly or indirectly on Cameroon’s cocoa production sector. Huge quantities of their produce now lie in villages across the country waiting to be quality controlled before being exported. Cameroonian authorities are cracking down

on sub standard cocoa processing practises too by confiscating poorly dried beans, especially those dried on tarred roads. Cameroon’s Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, told DW, that the government’s aim was not only to punish wrong doers, but to help the farmers too. “On all roads farmers use to dry cocoa beans, the government has to decided to distribute tarpaulins free of charge. And in the south-west where heavy rains make it difficult for cocoa to dry, the government has distributed ovens for drying cocoa.” EU Consumer Federation representative, Phil Sigley says Cameroon has no choice but to modernize its cocoa sector. “If they [farmers] produce good cocoa and it gets blended or mixed with bad cocoa, then that farmer may not be getting the best he deserves.” According to Sigley, better practises than those used nowadays have been observed over the years. “These practises need to be brought back.” Cocoa is Cameroon’s main export. A slump in commodity prices of the product in the mid 1980s is said to have caused a decade long recession in the country.

Dear Mr. President, You Might Not Know Me

By Peter Olorunnisomo have never written you a letter before and so you might not know me. But the leader that you are makes everyone know you, so you are something of a star. That also means that whatever happens and whatever you do or do not do, a lot of people will notice. But then that is why you are Mr. President. So that all that you do or don’t do should be for all of us to see. Unfortunately not many people can help you in this job because of the qualification process. It is as daunting as trying to interpret the Constitution itself. You don’t think so? I remember some years back when the constitution was to be reviewed. It took over a hundred people to do, sitting day and night poring over issue upon issue. Look at all that manpower, those man-hours and all the resources that went into that exercise. Scariest to me was all that education in each and every one of them. These are learned men, opinion leaders, leaders of thought, community leaders, experienced ethnic representatives, philosophers of religion, etc. All the hours of educational training and experience shouldn’t be less than 15,768,000 at one sitting based on each person studying for 12 years for 6 hours a day! And yet the Constitution is not simple enough to be clear that only the rich can run to the courts to seek clarity while others must remain in ignorance as to what it says concerning them and their birth-land or simply resign themselves to fate looking up to God almighty whose constitution is totally at variance in context and principles to set a Legal Aid Council that all men may report to for active redress. 4

That, my dear Mr. President, does seem like the first sign of mutiny. Two separate constitutions or more and a national one; and the people are at liberty to follow any one that suits them or like my great grandfather, choose as many as suits him. He then appeases each one in season and expounds a different set of rules for each context. Are all gods equal? If the answer is yes, then all men are equal. But if the answer is no, then all men are not equal. Who then made men? And did He make them equal? Perhaps He made them equally as Men but endowed them differently. This sounds easy to believe. Animal Farm would say differently, not so? Perhaps that is why there are many constitutions in application. But the high point, sir, is that you are endowed with the responsibility of office just as you endow others who assist you. If we follow the capitalist theory, then those endowments are generated from democratic principles, implying that the people made everyone who they have in capacity and therefore need to return service to the people – that is trust pure and simple, chikena! Mr. President sir, I am truly worried about the people or should I say peoples. Because at one point everyone is called by the brand of their nationality. Sorry, I forget that no one is a commodity. But that is exactly what sociology would have us believe; and also market economics. While no one is a commodity, distinct identity traits, virtues or vices make us a brand that compels or repels. Mr. President, I am your brother and an original son of the soil. It would be absolutely catastrophic that any-

President Goodluck Jonathan body sees me the way I am not supposed to be. That is national disgrace and international disintegrity (sic). Pardon me sir, I know you are well read but perhaps I should beef up my grammatical muscles too. Who knows, I may be invited to the National Assembly to expostulate the concerns of my patriotic, ethnic, etymological, vocational, politicised adventurism, humanitarianistic and Nigerianistic fulcrum to the very best of my abilities and capabilities resonating from my medulla oblongata. Hia! What have I done? Pardonnez moi, your excellency. I was really carried away. I do not know if you have ever felt the betrayal of passion like I just did. But I guess you must have. As a President, you would have had too many betrayals. Wait a minute, sir; can you be betrayed? I don’t think so. You may have been disappointed, yes, perhaps several times. That is a luxury we, the people, on this side of that

political and administrative divide can’t afford. We must not be disappointed. The price of disappointment on our side is reckoned in millions – at least 150 million of us. Take a percentage, say 30% and reckon that disappointment translated to votes. The speed and gusto with which our brother politicians would mobilise to Okija to swear to us that they will deliver services to us would make church services look like a child’s dread going to the hospital for a malaria jab. Mr. President, you must know that we are not all privileged people and must look for a way to survive. But if we cannot ‘queue’ properly then WAI are we going to get the desired results that make us look as beautiful as we want to be. Mr. President, sir, I know you are a very busy man and hopefully you will read my letter soon, I am, however, not sure how soon you will be able to react to my letter. However, as they say that silence means consent, I take it that you will welcome my other letters then. Thank you so much sir for the privilege of reading my letter and kindly give my humble regards to Madam, other members of the family, and your worthy assistants. God bless you all.

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

News

British Heart Foundation launch gospel choir to help people improve their heart health

he British Heart Foundation (BHF) is revolutionising the way it helps people from African Caribbean communities by launching its first gospel choir. This is just the latest measure taken by the BHF, in their bid to reduce the risk of developing heart disease or even stroke.

It is no hidden secret that those from an African Caribbean decent are twice as likely to be susceptible to suffer from a stroke as those from a European origin. However, it is the most recent figures from the BHF that are most concerning, causing them to reevaluate their approach to spreading the message. The latest figures show that one in four African Caribbean adults in the UK, do not realise that their ethnicity makes them more vulnerable to high blood pressure and diabetes. This has huge knock on consequences; resulting in major risks such as a stroke and coronary heart disease. The choir, which had their inaugural

performance at the Jamaican Commission on May 29th, will use its performances to help communities understand that simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference. The message is clear and straightforward, as they show that even by doing small things like being more active and having a better diet you can seriously reduce your risk. The 20 members are all aged between 13 and 70 and were motivated to join the choir because of their own experiences of heart disease and stroke. Sharmen Robinson (44), a British Heart Foundation Gospel Choir member, said: “I was diagnosed with a serious heart defect two years ago, shortly after the birth of my second daughter. I had to undergo open heart surgery. It was a tough time for me and my family but it made me stronger and determined to help people better understand heart problems. I love singing and have always sung in a choir. So when I was presented with the opportunity to join the BHF Gospel Choir, I jumped at the chance. It was the perfect way to combine both my passions.”

Sharmen and Choir

It is this kind of positive and inspirational story the choir hopes to spread and replicate, as it looks to tackle the issue of heart disease and strokes head on.

This has been set up in partnership with RAFFA – a charity with expertise in working with African Caribbean communities to tackle health issues.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

News

Cloud of uncertainty casts shadow over Ghana poll

hana’s Supreme Court must decide in the coming months whether or not to overturn December elections that handed the presidency to John Mahama, in a rare case of African judicial vigour that has transfixed the country. Proceedings in a packed courtroom, where opposition leader Nana AkufoAddo is challenging the outcome of the 2012 poll, are broadcast live on the radio and blare from cars and buses as the population of 25 million tunes in for the latest developments. Legal experts say the verdict, expected some time between late June and August, is too close to call, and several believe there is a genuine chance the court could invalidate the victory of Mahama’s ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). “If it is proven beyond doubt this election was rigged and that the president is not supposed to be the president, the court will overturn it,” said Kofi Bentil, vice-president at the Imani Centre for Policy and Education in Ghana’s capital Accra. A senior banker who declined to be named said a verdict in favour of the ruling party looked likely, however, as the opposition had failed to make its argument effectively. If the vote was nullified, it would set a precedent on a continent where losing political parties frequently go to court to contest elections but rarely get the kind of exhaustive legal review the Supreme Court in Ghana is delivering. The opposition National Patriotic Party (NPP) claims the ruling NDC tampered with results to boost Mahama’s share of the vote to 50.7 percent, handing him a first-round victory. Akufo-Addo won 47.7 percent. GHANA GOING STRONG The case comes as Ghana’s $39 billion economy is powering ahead, growing 8 percent last year, after oil production began at Tullow’s Jubilee field in 2010. It is Africa’s number two gold miner and the world’s second-largest cocoa producer. Many investors, lured to the West African nation by a reputation for stable democracy in a region prone to coups, appear sanguine about uncertainties ahead, and see the court’s ruling as less important than how the losing side reacts. The prospect of violence is largely discounted, and the case has done little to dampen confidence in the Ghana stock exchange , which has jumped 55.6 percent this year. “If those parties accept the ruling of the Supreme Court, we think it will rather strengthen the confidence of investors in our market, both local and foreign, with

John Mahama’s December 2012 victory could be ruled invalid

some kind of democratic dividend,” said Daniel Tetteh, executive director at Databank. If the court rules for the opposition, it could declare the election invalid and order a runoff vote. Some legal experts say it could even anoint Akufo-Addo winner, while others argue it does not have the power to do so. That element of doubt is bothering some. “We are all uncertain about the outcome of the judgment,” said Accra businessman Clifford Bannerman-Lawson who runs a car rental company.

be invalidated because of irregularities. Those sheets represent 4 million votes which could swing the election in favour of Akufo-Addo, opposition lawyers say.

They point to evidence including duplicate sheets, over-voting at some polling stations and a failure by officials to sign some sheets correctly which could suggest fraud. “We are praying that John Mahama is removed and Akufo-Addo is installed based on the numbers. But we would not be surprised if the court decides that there has to be a run-off,” NPP spokesman Nana Akomea said in an interview. NDC lawyers say that minor errors by local officials do not amount to an attempt to subvert the vote and that the electoral law should be applied to protect the rights of the voter. “Even if there were (errors), they were administrative errors which cannot form the basis under which the Supreme Court should overturn the election,” Abraham Amaliba, a member of the NDC’s legal team, told Reuters. Ghana has held four peaceful elections since 2000, with both main parties calmly relinquishing power. December’s poll was the first in Africa using biometric data for voter registration.

PINK POLLING SHEETS DISPUTED Ghana’s detailed legal review stands in stark contrast with Kenya’s post-election challenge in March, when a court validated President Uhuru Kenyatta’s victory after two weeks of hearings, and could be held up as an example to other African nations. “When the court in Ghana rules ... it will invariably have a ripple effect on other African elections,” said Christopher Fomunyoh, senior associate for Africa at the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs in Washington. Both sides say they will accept the court’s judgment. “Kenya is no example for us,” Nana Ato Dadzie, a member of the NDC’s legal team, said pointedly. International electoral observers gave the December election a clean bill of health despite technical glitches with voting machines that forced voting to be extended into a second day. At the heart of the legal case, however, lies a battle over pink sheets containing data from polling stations. Opposition lawyers say 11,138 sheets from the total of more than 26,000 should 7

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Government acts to stop up to £900m tax claims by utility companies New legislation confirms gas and electricity distribution companies can’t claim tax relief for costs already paid for by business customers. New legislation set out by the government confirms tax rules prevent businesses claiming capital allowances for costs met by other businesses. The legislation, which comes into immediate effect, will prevent gas and electricity distribution companies in particular from making new claims for historic costs dating back decades that have already been paid by their business customers. These claims could result in up to £900m in tax lost to the Exchequer. The utility companies’ previous practice has been not to claim capital allowances for costs already covered by business customers. Recently, however, some gas and electricity distribution companies have attempted to change that and make

new claims for past expenditure, which if they succeed would generate large windfall tax repayments and reductions for the companies concerned. New legislation confirms that these claims cannot now be made. HMRC will be robust in challenging those claims that have already been submitted. Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne said: The government is committed to competitive taxes to support growth in the UK. But it is also only right that companies pay the tax they owe. It is completely unacceptable that utility companies think they can claim for huge amounts of money, that business customers have already covered the cost for. By legislating today, we will prevent utility companies from making these claims, ensuring fairness for British taxpayers.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne

Malawi gets $50million budget support from the World Bank The World Bank Board of Executive Directors approved a US$50 million grant to the Malawi Government for general budget support. This is the first in a programmatic series of three Economic Recovery Development Policy Operations (ERDPO). The focus of the series is to strengthen macroeconomic and finance management and lay foundation for stronger growth and protection of the poor. Each of the ERDPOs will be a single tranche operation. “Government has committed to stay the course of macroeconomic and structural reforms undertaken since May 2012 to support the recovery process. The Bank is therefore providing the much needed resources to help sustain these reforms and help ease the

emerging fiscal pressures.” says Sandra Bloemenkamp, Country Manager for Malawi. This Program also seeks to consolidate reforms supported by the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility. The budget support is in recognition of reforms to support the implementation of the Second Malawi Growth and Development Strategy and the Economic Recovery Program. Among the reforms to strengthen macro-economic and public finance management are the actions taken to strengthen fiscal discipline to entrench macro-stability through the development of a plan to clear domestic payment arrears and ensure no build-up of new arrears. To enhance efficiency and transparency of the public

Somalian recovery encourages East African investment The Somali Reconstruction and Investment Conference opened in Nairobi this week amid government drives to encourage economic development in the country as recovery gradually takes root. Prime Minister Shirdon stated that even the fact such an event could be organised – “unthinkable” a few years ago – “sends a very powerful message to the world that Somalia is back and we are open for business. 8

We welcome investors in all sectors of our economy.” Somali’s major investor is expected to be its neighbour Kenya, where companies have already been showing interest for some months. The Kenya-based Athi River Steel Plant has already committed to direct 10% of its monthly exports to Somalia in order to capitalise on the expected building boom.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Democracy Day: Nigerians urge FG to tackle corruption, insecurity, unemployment Nigerians have called on the Federal Government to tackle corruption, election malpractice and power outage to free the country from some of its current challenges.

Nigerians, who expressed their views on the anniversary of democracy in Nigeria, identiﬁed challenges militating against the development of the nation’s democracy. In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Jos, Lokoja, Abeokuta, Kano, Katsina, Ilorin, Eket, Jalingo and Osogbo, Nigerians noted that there were many things to celebrate in the nation’s 14th anniversary in spite of some challenges. Dr Lawal Abdurrasheed, a lecturer at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, said corruption and election malpractice were responsible for increasing poverty, unemployment and insecurity in the country. He stressed the need for stakeholders in the electoral process to ensure credible elections in line with the Federal Government’s agenda. Alhaji Mustpha Inuwa, a prominent politician in Katsina, also said that ‘’unless election malpractice was addressed, democracy in Nigeria might not progress’’. He urged electoral bodies and other stakeholders to ensure acceptable, free and fair elections for the development of democracy in the country. Mrs Julian Wogu, an educationist, told NAN in Port Harcourt that it was necessary to make adequate plans for youth empowerment for nation’s democracy to succeed. Wogu lauded the inception of democracy in the country since 1999, saying that

From left: wife of the vice-president, Hajiya Amina Sambo; vice-president Namadi Sambo; president Goodluck Jonathan; ﬁrst lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; Senate president David Mark; deputy speaker, house of representatives, Emeka Ihedioha and the chief justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mukhtar at the 2013 democracy day celebration in abuja

the journey from the military era to the current regime was a good thing that happened in the history of Nigeria. A cross section of others that spoke with NAN urged government to address the issues of youth empowerment, insecurity and poverty. However, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Osogbo expressed divergent views on the celebration of May 29, as Democracy Day in the country. Alhaji Ganiyu Ola-Oluwa, Chairman, Osun chapter of the PDP, who upheld May 29 date, said all Nigerians, regardless of political divides, should always strive to protect the nation’s democracy. ‘’The worst form of democracy is better than any military arrangement. Although Nigerians want more out of democracy,

Africa must check illicit fund flows – President Jonathan President Godluck Ebele Jonathan has said Africa must check the huge funds being illegally taken out of the continent while speaking to a delegation of the United Nations’ High Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa, at State House, Abuja. ‘The huge funds being illicitly taken out of Africa can solve our infrastructural and other problems, so we must look within and check this haemorrhage’, he stated. President Jonathan said Africa ‘needs robust assistance from the developed world’ to check this outflow, because ‘corruption would be minimized if there are no places to hide the illicit funds’. He challenged oil refineries worldwide to ask questions about the source of the crude they refine, and said the Administration

was taking deﬁnite steps to check the theft of crude oil from Nigeria. President Jonathan called on the Panel on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa to carry out an in-depth and comprehensive study of the issue and produce a template that will help the continent combat the menace. He directed all relevant ministries and agencies of government to cooperate fully with the panel. Earlier, Mr. Thabo Mbeki, former President of South Africa and Chairman of the UN High Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa, said the continent currently loses at least $50billion every year through illicit fund ﬂows, and the panel was determined to study the problem and propose solutions.

there is the need to appreciate the progress made so far,” Ola-Oluwa said. Mr Adesoji Masilo, state Financial Secretary of the Association for Collaborating Political Parties (ACPP) in Osun, also expressed support for Democracy Day in spite of challenges. “We have moved from the zero point. Nigerians have reasons to mark democracy day on May 29. “I only want to charge voters to always vote wisely, understanding the power in their vote,’’ Masilo said. In Laﬁa, a former member of the National Assembly representing Kefﬁ/Kokona federal constituency, Alhaji Ahmed Wadada, said the journey so far had been impressive. He said some milestone had been achieved in spite of the enormous chal-

lenges facing the system. Also, a senior lecturer in the department of Political Science, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Dr Collins Okafor, commended the Federal Government for its resolve to ensure that peace and security returned to all parts of the country. Okafor lauded the improvement in the budgetary allocation to the education sector. “Generally it has been a great democratic experience, despite the challenges, government has applied the best approach to peace process in the country,” he said. Alhaji Tahir Fadallah, Chairman of the Kano Lebanese Community, said various changes had occurred in Nigeria than expected, adding that Nigerians should exercise more patience with their leaders. He said that democracy strived in all ramiﬁcations, saying that programmes that would create more jobs for the youth would move the nation forward. In Jalingo, Akure, Laﬁa, Gombe, Bauchi, Makurdi, Birnin Kebbi, Port Harcourt and Awka, a number of Nigerians expressed the belief that standard of leaving had been raised across the country. Most respondents also urged the Federal Government to initiate more reforms that would assist to create more jobs for the youth and upgrade the nation’s infrastructure. Mrs Charity Green, Taraba Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, said democracy had led to the enactment of the child’s right law, seeking to improve the lives of our children. She said children were vital part of every society, hence the need to come up with policies and programmes to assist them grow as responsible future leaders. (NAN)

Nigeria and Kenya to collaborate against terrorism President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has told Kenya’s Deputy President and Special Envoy of President Uhuru Kenyatta, Mr. William Ruto, that Nigeria was concerned about the activities of terrorists in Somalia and other places in Africa, and the attendant negative effects on peace and development in the continent. ‘I have just declared a state of emergency in three states in our country, to check the havoc of terrorists’, he stated, ‘so I can appreciate the issues confronting Somalia and Kenya’. Receiving Mr Ruto in the Presidential Villa, on Friday, May 17, President Jonathan said Africa needs to ﬁnd a collective solution to the problem of Somalia, and suggested a meeting of leaders on the sidelines

of the African Union’s 50th Anniversary Summit, scheduled to hold next week. On the bilateral level, President Jonathan told the Kenyan Deputy President that Nigeria and Kenya have a lot to gain from stronger mutual relations, and assured him of necessary cooperation in this regard. Earlier, Mr. William Ruto told President Jonathan that President Kenyatta requested Nigeria’s intervention to help ﬁnd an African solution to the Somalia problem which had spilled into Kenya. ‘Nigeria plays a leadership role in Africa, and Kenya needs you to join other leaders for a framework to help resolve the Somalia problem’, he said, adding that President Jonathan’s personal intervention would help. 9

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Ooni, Alaafin, others laud Aregbesola’s landmark achievements

Over 50 royal fathers from various Yoruba-speaking communities and cities across Africa converged on Osogbo, the Osun State capital, for a unique celebration of the maiden Oodua World Children’s Day. The Oodua World Children’s Day is Osun State’s initiative aimed at bringing together children from Yoruba-speaking communities to revive the cultural values of the Yoruba race in the youths. Governor Rauf Aregbesola said the Yoruba cultural integration can only be meaningful if children, who will carry on the culture, are properly socialised into it with the right inculcation of values. His address, entitled: Towards Global Yoruba Integration, was delivered at the Osogbo City Stadium, the state capital, where the colourful event was held. The event, which was to commemorate Children’s Day, was attended by eminent Yoruba personalities and selected children from Ekiti (100), Ondo (83), Ogun (100), Oyo (100), Lagos (100), Kwara (50), Kogi (50) and Edo (25). Delta State as well as other West African countries of Benin,

Togo, Ghana and Sierra Leone; South American countries of Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Cuba; the Caribbean and the United States were well represented. Aregbesola explained that the promotion of the Omoluabi ethos in Osun State is aimed at re-awakening the cultural and value consciousness of the people to make them realise the beauty of Yoruba virtues and give them a sense of pride in their culture. He said: “We are of the conviction that the realisation of the socio-cultural and economic integration of the Yoruba race can be greatly enhanced by imparting that vision into our children. “Indeed, such a cultural renaissance agenda cannot succeed without including the children, for they are a key factor in its success.” The governor stressed that the Yoruba race constitutes a signiﬁcant part of the global population, with civilised and dynamic culture as well as the potential to become a powerful force in the world, if it gets its acts together and forge a common and united front.

Governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and his Deputy, Otunba Titi Laoye- Tomori in an ecstatic move during the ofﬁcial inspection of on-going rehabilitation of Nigerian Railway Corporation, Old-Garage, Osogbo

Photos: Taofeeq Adejare

L-R the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade, Governor, State of Osun, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, his wife, Sherifat and the Alaaﬁn of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi at the ﬁrst oodua world children’s Day at City Stadium, Osogbo

FROM RIGHT – Vice Chairman, Nasrul – Lahi –Il-Fathi Society of Nigeria [NASFAT], Osogbo Branch, Mr. Yinka Anjous, Governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Chief of Staff to the Governor, State of Osun, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barrister Kolapo Alimi and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Sikiru Ayedun during the special prayers marking Aregbesola’s 56th Birthday Anniversary organized by the members of NASFAT, Osogbo Branch 10

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Baby survives being flushed down toilet

Hapless car thieves handed stiff sentence

China

Poland

Doctors free the abandoned baby after painstakingly cutting away at the soil pipe Firefighters in Jinhua have had to be side the pipe. Once there, doctors carefully called in to rescue a newborn baby stuck cut the pipe open to release him and have inside a sewage pipe after neighbours since pronounced him “stable”. heard its anguished cries. Police have identified the mother as a Chinese social media sites were inun22 year-old restaurant worker who lives dated with calls for the baby’s mother to in the apartment block in which the baby be found and severely punished after footwas found. Police became suspicious when age of the two-hour rescue was broadcast they discovered baby toys in the childless on state TV. One comment on Sina Weibo, woman’s apartment. The unnamed mother China’s answer to Twitter, reads: “The parhad kept the pregnancy secret from her ents who did this have hearts even filthier family and claims she tried to deliver the than that sewage pipe.” baby on her own over a squat toilet when it There are frequent reports in Chinese slipped from her grasp. Unsure what to do media of babies being abandoned, often next, she decided to attempt to cover her shortly after birth, a problem attributed tracks. variously to young mothers unaware they Reports suggest the mother had been were pregnant, the birth of an unwanted present during the rescue, although she did girl in a society which puts greater value not make herself known to police in attendon boys or China’s strict family planning ance. Police believe that she may initially rules. In this latest case, the baby, a boy, have raised the alarm. had to be taken to hospital still lodged in-

Saudi Arabia

The cofﬁns had been ofﬂoaded in a remote wooded area

Three car thieves who stole a van in Germany and drove it across the border to Poland received the shock of their lives when they checked the cargo it had been transporting. The van contained twelve corpses being taken to a crematorium.

The three were found guilty of stealing the vehicle in October from a suburb in Berlin. The 12 bodies, in their cofﬁns, were discovered more than a week later in a wooded area near Poznan, Poland. The three men, aged between 23 and 27, contested the verdict, saying that they had been hired to transport cars across the border without knowing they were moving stolen vehicles. A polish court sentenced them to between two and four years in

prison each. The sentences all related to the auto theft and were in line with the sentencing request made by prosecutors. There were no charges related to disturbing bodies. Each man has also been ordered to compensate the funeral home to the tune of 16,000 zloty (about £3,300). They have a week to appeal. The disappearance of the corpse-filled vehicle hit headlines in both Germany and Poland last year, as relatives of the deceased worried about the final disposition of their loved ones’ remains. The search stretched to the Lithuanian border. A search is still on for the alleged ringleader of the group. A fifth accomplice, who pleaded guilty, was already serving an 11-month sentence.

Mixed terraces soon for soccer-mad Saudis

The head of the Saudi Football Federation, Ahmed Eid Alharbi, recently announced that Saudi Arabia will create separate sections for women inside sports stadiums so that they can attend soccer matches, according to a report in the Turkish Hurriyet Daily News on Monday.

Economic considerations may be part of the reasoning behind the decision, as it is estimated that the new sections in the stadiums will increase capacity by 15 percent. Women in Saudi Arabia are under many restrictions, such as being barred from driving, but last month women were given the right to ride bikes and motorcycles on the condition that they are dressed properly and are accompanied by a male relative. In the 2012 Olympics, the country allowed women to participate for the ﬁrst time. In an apparent expression of resistance to reforms in the status of women, the Saudi Grand Mufti said allowing women to drive would lead to more accidents and is not in their best interests, according to a post by Ahmed Al Omran on his Riyadh Bureau

Jafar Panahi’s 2006 ﬁlm ‘Offside’, in which female Iranian football fans dress as boys in a vain effort to fool armed guards into letting them watch a World Cup qualiﬁer in Tehran, highlights a vexing issue in the region

blog quoting local news website An7a. “Women driving would lead to more accidents. When women are in danger, they don’t know how to act. How are they going to deal with accidents?” said Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Alsheikh. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Princess Ameerah al-Taweel, said during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum in Jordan that advancing women’s rights in Saudi Arabia is being held back because of

conservative men. “The most daunting challenge is not only the legislation but it is the concept, the mentality [of Saudis], because we know our society is very conservative and is very private and it’s very difﬁcult to change concepts in Saudi Arabia to support women in the workplace or to have a larger contribution [in society],” the princess said. She added that many conservative men do not want women to work because

they want to maintain the dignity of these women, but she rejected this reasoning. “I think the main reason is fear from women and not for women, because they are afraid of women. We know that women are stronger than men in our society because they’re a minority and the minority usually wants to prove itself,” said Taweel, noting that 85% of Saudi Arabia’s unemployed are women.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

News

One week on, a shocked city wonders why

By Ryan Holmes

he family of one of the men suspected of killing a British soldier in Woolwich last week have made a statement calling the event ‘senseless’, firmly distancing themselves from the attack. The incident caused a significant number of anti-Muslim protests across the UK, with groups such as the EDL coming out in full force to show their disgust at the attack. Lee Rigby, who was a returning veteran from the Afghanistan war, was aged 25 when he was brutally murdered by two men who claimed they were killing in the name of Islam. The men were also captured on camera phone videos making various religious pronouncements, further inciting religious and racial tensions. In their first comments to the press since the murder, relatives of Michael Adebolajo, who is a British-born Nigerian convert to Islam from Christianity, have told of their horror and shame regarding his actions. “Nothing we say can undo the events of last week,” the family said in a statement.

“However, as a family, we wish to share with others our horror at the senseless killing of Lee Rigby and express our profound shame and distress that this has brought on our family.” The attack does not to appear to have been as random as first thought. The security services have been under intense scrutiny, as MI5 were said to have been fully aware of Adebolajo and his extreme beliefs. Also, recent information has shed light revealing that security forces had known of a 2010 arrest in Kenya, on suspicion of training with Al Qaeda in Somalia. Many are questioning whether more could have been done by Britain’s spy agencies to prevent the attack. Police have now arrested a total of ten people in connection with last Tuesday’s incident, with half being released on bail and two others released without charge, though it would appear investigations are far from over as police continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward.

Families from across London come to pay their respects

Lee Rigby, the soldier murdered in the May 25 attack

The family home of Michael Adebolajo

An example of some of the anti-Islam material prominent in protests up and down the country.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

News

Woolwich suspect Michael Adebowale appears in court

Michael Adebowale arriving at Westminster Magistrates’ Court

Adebowale is confronted by a shocked onlooker

A post-mortem has confirmed that Drummer Lee Rigby died at the hands of his weapon wielding attackers

One of the two suspects in last week’s Woolwich slaying appeared in court this week to be charged with the murder of soldier Lee Rigby and the possession of a firearm.

Michael Adebowale, 22, arrived at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning, handcuffed and under heavy police escort. Dressed in a green sweater and baggy white trousers, and cradling his bandaged right arm, he listened to the charges apparently without emotion. The suspect had been discharged from hospital and brought into police custody only the day before, having been shot at the scene of his arrest by police alongside his fellow suspect, Michael Adebalajo, As a result of his weak health, he was given permission to sit as the charges were being read.

Adebowale, who confirmed his address as Thames Street, Greenwich, will be tried on two counts: for the murder of the 25 year-old Drummer Rigby near the Royal Artillery Barracks on 22 May, and also for his possession of a 9.4mm KNIL Model 91 revolver with intent to cause others to believe that violence would be used. A day before the hearing, the official post-mortem examination of Rigby confirmed that his death had been caused by “multiple incised wounds”, ruling out that he had died when hit by a car moments before his assault with weapons. The Chief Magistrate, Senior District Judge Howard Riddle, stated that the case would be transferred to the crown court immediately on account of its magnitude. Adebowale will receive a bail hearing at the Old Bailey on Monday (June 3) and the trial will

begin on June 28. The prosecuting lawyer, Bethan David of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) counter-terrorism division, stated further that the charges fell under the jurisdiction of terrorist legislation according to section 30 of the Terrorism Act. Adebalajo, the second suspect, remains in hospital under police guard and is yet to be taken into formal custody. Nonetheless he has been at the centre of media interest since the arrest, as it emerged that he had complained last year to the human rights group Cageprisoners that he was being “harassed” by British security services, who were allegedly asking him to work for them. Earlier in 2010, he had been arrested in Kenya under suspicion of preparing to join the militant group al-Shabaab, and was subsequently deported back to the

UK. Both men are understood to be Britons of Nigerian origin, and converts to Islam. There have also been further arrests. At the time of Adebowale’s court appearance, eight other people had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation, of whom two had been released without charge and the remaining eight bailed. CPS, working alongside Terrorist Command, is said to be continuing to advise police in relation to these arrests. Regarding future proceedings, Sue Hemming of CPS insisted that, now Adebowale has been charged, “he has the right to a fair trial”. She also warned against media intrusion and misrepresentation, saying: “It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice this trial.” 13

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

CRIME

Three found guilty of firing a gun at police officers Three men have been found guilty on Tuesday 28 May of firing a gun at police officers following an incident in 2012.

Ricardo Miles, 21 of Casimir Road, E5, Adebola Alimi, 22 of Beecholme Estate, E5 and Daniel Ikumelo, 21 of Kenninghall Road, E5 were all found guilty of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, namely a .45 calibre handgun, and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a knife, following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court. On 10 January 2012 officers had been monitoring CCTV in Mandeville Street, Clapton at 23:30hrs when they noticed three men on bicycles acting suspiciously. As an unmarked patrol car was approached the men, Miles fired a single shot in the direction of the vehicle. The shot hit the road in front of the car. A second attempt to fire the gun was made but the gun jammed and was discarded. The three then abandoned their bicycles and made off across a nearby footbridge. The firearm was later recovered at the

Adebola Alimi scene along with a knife which had also been dropped during the pursuit. The three men were known gang members who were in dispute with rivals from the area. On the night in question, they were riding around looking to cause harm to rival gang members. DNA recovered from the bicycles and the knife was attributed to both Alimi and

Daniel Ikumelo Ikumelo. Detective Inspector Neil Bradburn, from Trident North East Shootings Team, said: “Today’s result is the culmination of a great deal of hard work by Trident which has lead to the conviction of three dangerous offenders. “More than 1,000 London gang members are now either locked up or subject

Ricardo Miles to legal restrictions as a result of activity by the Met’s Trident Gang Crime Command. “This investigation clearly demonstrates that tackling gang-related violence remains a key priority for The Met and we will continue to target and convict those who choose to carry weapons and cause harm in London’s communities.”

Teenagers convicted of Negus McClean murder

Billal Lariba

Four teenagers have been convicted and sentenced at the Old Bailey on 28 May of murdering a schoolboy as he cycled to a friends’ home with his younger brother.

Negus Mclean, 15, was attacked by the gang in Edmonton on 10 April 2011. The jury heard that he was assaulted so viciously that the blade of the knife they were using snapped off in the teenager’s body. Billal Lariba 18) of Mayall Close, Enﬁeld was sentenced to 16 ½ years imprisonment Brandon Hamilton, 18, of Broad Oak Avenue, Enﬁeld was sentenced to 19 years imprisonment for murder and 5 years imprisonment for assault to run concurrently Tershan Edwards, 19 of St Albans was sentenced to 17 years imprisonment and 14

Brandon Hamilton Travis Bowman, 16 from Enﬁeld was sentenced to 12 ½ years imprisonment Yasmin Latif, 17, of Enﬁeld was found guilty of perverting the course of justice and was sentenced to a 12 months detention and training order. The court heard how Negus and his 13-year-old brother were riding their bikes along Bounces Road and Hertford Road in Edmonton at 19:25hrs when they were spotted by a group of teenagers and chased. The pair were followed into Westminster Road and as Negus was circled he shouted to his brother to escape. The group, who all wore masks and hooded tops, beat Negus with metal poles before stabbing him in the chest and thigh. The assault only ended when the knife blade snapped and became embedded in Negus’s leg. Detectives from the Homicide and Seri-

Tershan Edwards ous Crime Command (HSCC) conducted a meticulous investigation and initially arrested 18 people in connection with the case. Detective Inspector Julian Tree, from the HSCC, said: “Negus was a young man with a promising future ahead of him. He was cycling to see a friend when he was hunted down and killed for simply being friends with schoolboys from a different post-code to his attackers. Trying to explain to Negus’ family and friends that he was brutally killed for something so utterly trivial was simply heart-breaking. “My team has worked tirelessly to bring those responsible for Negus’s death to justice. As a result of their hard work those who attacked Negus are now facing a signiﬁcant amount of time in prison. “We can only hope that others realise what a dreadful mistake it is to join a so-

Travis Bowman call gang and carry a weapon. Gangs offer no hope to those choosing to join them or the communities they blight.”

Masked robbers jailed

Two youths were sentenced on, 21 May 2013, for their part in an armed robbery at a convenience store in Sanderstead earlier this year.

A 17 year-old youth was sentenced at Croydon Crown Court to 30 months imprisonment and his accomplice, Derron Brown of Harewood Gardens, South Croydon was sentenced to 42 months imprisonment after they both robbed a Londis shop in Limpsﬁeld Road on 31 January 2013.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Sounds of Diaspora People of America

Debt-ridden Real Deal may lose driving privileges

Revitalised George pitches for Usher collaboration Usher.

Holyfield lost his home last year

Former world heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield is under threat of having his driving licence suspended if he does not pay back child support of $328,000.

Holyfield owes the money to Georgia Department of Human Services, which has been added to the ex- champion’s list of debtors for reportedly attempting to collect child support payments for months now. Holyfield was reportedly ordered by the courts to pay more than $500,000 for one of his daughters. The courts placed him on a monthly payment plan of $2,950 in order to satisfy the child support demand, and although he whittled away at the whopping grand total, he still reportedly owes an exorbitant amount. Now a Georgia judge has given the agency the go-ahead to begin the process of suspending Holyfield’s driver’s licence

in an effort to motivate him to pay his child support debt. A hearing has been set for August to check on Holyfield’s progress in satisfying the support payments. The five-time heavyweight champion, who earned a staggering $250 million through boxing, had his palatial 54,000square-foot home in Georgia repossessed last year because he was in debt to the tune of $14 million. He was then forced to auction off his memorabilia and precious keepsakes in order to keep himself out of his financial hole, which consists of child support debts for some of his 11 children, delinquent taxes, unsettled lawsuits, divorce, and poor money management. According to BoxingScene, Holyfield (44-10-2, 29 KOs) may face heavyweight prospect Krzysztof Zimnoch (14-0-1, 11 KOs) in November. The fighter dubbed ‘Real Deal’ will be 51 on October 19th and hasn’t fought since May 2011.

Speaking to a packed press conference as part of the Mawazine Festival in Morocco on Saturday, Benson said he is fond of the OMG pop star. “He is someone I would like to work with,” he said. “He is versatile, sophisticated and has a good mind.” Benson also said the jazz and pop world is rapidly changing, with more female talent on offer. “I am telling you, man, the ladies are taking over,” he said. “There are so many beautiful voices coming up now and it is good to have that balance.” The Jazz-Funk legend is currently in the UK promoting a tribute album of Nat King Cole songs. Benson cites pianist and George Benson has just released Inspiration: baritone Cole, who died in A Tribute to Nat King Cole 1965 and Italian-American Legendary singer and guitarist tenor Mario Lanza, who George Benson has said he wants died in 1959, as artists he would have to collaborate with “that kid” loved the opportunity to sing with.

No good deed goes unpunished

Walter M Kimbrough is president of a historically black Louisiana arts college

A philanthropic gift by a hip-hop icon has led to controversy.

Walter M. Kimbrough, president of Dillard University, has asked in the Los Angeles Times why the money was not given to a struggling black college. Dr. Dre, real name Andre Young, recently donated $70 million to the University Of Southern California (USC) to create a new blended arts and business degree. Dre himself did not go on to formal higher education. Dr. Kimbrough says: “A hip-hop icon is now the new black

higher-ed philanthropy king. We’ve never seen a donation to rival this from any black celebrity — musician, athlete or actor — and that fact must be celebrated. “But as the president of a black college, it pains me as well. I can’t help but wish that Dre’s wealth, generated as it was by his largely black hip-hop fans, was coming back to support that community. “USC is a great institution, no question. But it has a $3.5-billion endowment, the 21st largest in the nation and much more than every black college — combined. Less than 20% of USC’s student body qualifies for federal Pell Grants, given to students from low-income families, compared with two-thirds of those enrolled at black colleges. USC has also seen a steady decrease in black student enrolment, which is now below 5%. “A new report on black male athletes and racial inequities shows that only 2.2% of USC undergrads are black men, compared with 56% of its football and basketball teams, one of the largest disparities in the nation. And given USC’s $45,602 tuition next year, I’m confident Dre could have sponsored multiple full-ride scholarships to private black colleges for the cost of one at USC.” 15

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Gospel

By Michael Adekoya

JESUS IS INVITING YOU TODAY “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.” Acts 4:13.

ll Peter and John did was to heal a lame man on their way to a prayer meeting (Acts 3:1-10) and they landed in prison. Typical! Isn’t it? My friend, is that where you are today? Confined by circumstances? Mistreated by people? It is a norm for every followers of Jesus! To these New Testament Christians, salvation of souls, healing, miracle or deliverance wasn’t a language, it wasn’t an occasional thing, it was a lifestyle! It is the act of the Holy Spirit through them. They didn’t have to wait for a special meeting, crusade or conference before they demonstrate the presence and power of God in them. It happened everywhere, even on the streets. No prior advertisement for it. It is a day-to-day occurrence…a lifestyle! They were ordinary and uneducated but there is something special about them…They all had been with Jesus. They acted like Him and they did the works He did, even greater (John 14:12). These disciples were humble men who were opened for the Holy Spirit to incubate them. They were “infected, affected and impacted,” not with intellectual knowledge but with spiritual knowledge of the Word of God and the presence of God. The anointing of Jesus changed these illiterate into experts in the Word. They never did anything unless they heard from God. Daniel said, “The people that do know their God shall be strong and do exploits.” Dan 11:32. They were bold and fearless. They knew their God and always in His presence. You may ask, “Writer, what does it mean to know God?” My

The Gospel of Light Choir friend, it means to have intimate relationship with Him. It means to know His Word and what He has to say on every subject of life. It means to know His character, because that never changes. It means being in close communion and communication with Him in prayer for divine directives. It means obeying Him at every level. It means totally surrendering to Him. It means to know who you are in Christ and your authority as a believer, because you are living in fellowship with the One who gave it to you. It means to know Jesus, the Truth, and live a life of liberty in Christ. My friend, I don’t know about you. I don’t want to just know information about God, I’m passionate finding and doing the will of God. I want to know Him intimately and demonstrate the authority I have in Him. This is my passion and heart cry everyday. Jesus Christ is the pillar that holds my life. He is the pattern, the purpose and power of my life. Jesus says, “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and

Are you looking for a church?

Not settled in any particular congregation? Perhaps now is the time to pray about it If you are not yet saved try one of the following: Jubilee International Churchmeets at 2,30pm on Sundays at Kings Avenue, school, park hill. London SW4. Part of Jubilee International Churches worldwide. For information, you may call (020)8697 3354 New Wine Christian Church- 11am holds meeting at Ringcross Tennants club, Lough Road, Holloway, N7. a member of the Icthus fellowship

worldwide. For more information call 020 7609 959 or 07957 757 663. Praise Tabernacle- 10:30am holds meetings at 620 Western Avenue (A40), park royal Business centre, opposite Warner Bros. Cinema Complex, W3. part of The Redeemed Christian Church of God. For information you may call 020 8993 3010 New Life Christian Centre 10.30am & 6.00pm. meetings at Cairo New Road, Croydon. The church has

nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Luke 10:19. Paul said we should “reign in life” through Jesus Christ. (Rom 5:17). These disciples were not waiting to reign; they were demonstrating the Kingdom of God everywhere they went, preaching the Gospel, saving souls, healing the sick, releasing the oppressed and taking territories. God used them to heal a man who has been paralyzed for many years. When 3000 men gave their lives to Christ in a single service and 5000 men were won to Christ in another service, the rulers of the people, the government of the day, the elders of Israel and the religious authorities feared them. But, the people loved them and everywhere they went, they brought the presence of God. You may ask, “What was their secret?” My friend, it is only one thing…they had been with Jesus! Today, make that the prayer and the passion of your life. They walked with Him, had fellowship with Him and they learnt from the Saviour and Master. They live a life of constant prayer and fasting! My friend, the next move of God is not going to be manifested by great men and women but by insignificant people. These disciples that Jesus used to start the Church were men without name, fame or identity. Peter was an insignificant fisherman, Mathew was a tax collector, James and John were employees in their father’s business and they were not successful at that, Nathaniel was a doubter. They were ordinary people, not the intellectuals of the day. Listen! Those that will close the chapter of the church are going to be ordinary people a bible school, primary, is involved in extensive mission work in Eastern Europe, Italy and India. For information you may call 020 8680 7671 Ruach Ministries - holds meeting at 9am, 11am and 6pm. For information you may call 020 8678 6888 International Central Gospel church - Battersea chapel, holds meetings on Sundays from 2.00pm. . For information you may call 020 8684 4934 Jesus Arena International- Sunday service at 11.00am at Broadwater farm centre, Adams road N17 The Bible Life Church UK- They meet on Sunday mornings at 2.30pm at St Giles Centre, Camberwell

with extraordinary God. God is going back to the original plan. He is moving us to the old religion! Are you going to be part of these? My friend, there is a shift going on in the spirit realm. We have now entered into the Season of God’s Power when the Church (you and I and other believers) will rule and reign in the midst of our enemies. We are now in the era of dominion, when mortal men and women will walk like angels carrying the presence and message of God everywhere. Insignificant and unpopular but redeemed men and women will become spiritual squad missiles on every street in the nations of the earth, devastating the enemy’s camp. The Bible says, “The whole earth (all creation) is groaning, waiting for the manifestation of the sons (and daughters) of God” Rom 8:19. Listen, God has an agenda to make His people take charge of the entire earth. This is the era! The Kingdom of God is not a kingdom of theology and entertainment, but a kingdom of power (1 Cor 4:20). The eyes of your spirit will be opened to see beyond what your physical eyes could see. Christianity will no longer be mistaken for religion, as there will be clear manifestations of the supernatural through ordinary people who gave their life to Jesus and have been with Him. That era is here! Intimacy with God is a mountain which we will climb. Moses climbed it. Lord Jesus, help us to hear Your invitation into Your presence, so that Your ways can become our ways, and Your thoughts can become our thoughts, and people around us will know that we have Church Street, London SE5 Christ Apostolic church (Full Gospel & Pentecostal) Surrey Docks District 163 Ilderton Rd South Bermondsey London SE16 2UT. Tel. 020 7252 2086. Time of worship: Sunday English service 9- 11.30am. Yoruba service 11.30 -2.30pm. Prophetic counselling: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 12noon- 5pm, Saturday only 5- 7pm. Holy Cross Church InternationalSunday 10.am- 1 pm at Crown House 71-73 Nathan way London SE28 0BQ Tel: 07904 234 126, 07809 381 886 Times of service:Bible study: Thursdays 8pm. Night Vigil: Friday Forthnightly 12am

been with You. Amen. My friend, have you given your life to Jesus. Have you believed in your heart and confess with your mouth that He is your Saviour? If your answer is no, then, do it today. Jesus is waiting for you and me in the secret place. We need to set aside time to be alone with Him. He wants to have relationship and fellowship with us, change us, refresh us, speak with us, teach us, guide us, instruct us, direct us, show us things, take away our burdens, revive us, restore us, give us His peace, work in us, work for us and work through us. Millions of people are on their way to hell. Jesus wants to use you to intercept them and bring them to God. You’ll lay hands on the sick and they will recover. Many people around you are sick emotionally and physically. He wants to heal them through you. There are people who are in bondage of all kinds. He wants to use you as an instrument of His deliverance. The Bible says, “But upon mount Zion (the Church), there shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions.” Oba. 1:17. This is the era of holiness and wealth transfer! My friend, watch out! Things are going to be happening on their own accord. Your mourning will turn to joy if you are a true child of God. Your loved ones will be saved and God will use you. You need to surrender your life totally to God and let Him be in charge. You need to connect with God on daily basis through heart-felt and sincere prayer. Remain blessed!

Sunday Service: Sundays 10am - 1pm Winners Chapel London- part of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, at Unit B1 Galleywall Trading Estate, South Bermondsey, London SE16 3PB meets Sunday 7am & 9am and 11am and Wednesdays at 7pm. For details call 020 7237 7894 CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH GRAVESEND, ST. AIDAIN’S CHURCH, ST. AIDAN’S WAY, GRAVESEND, KENT, DA12 4AG TEL. 01474 355 841, 07956 38 38 70 TIME OF WORSHIP: Wednesday Bible Study: 7:30pm to 9:00pm Friday, Night Vigil: 9pm to 11pm Sunday Worship: 12:30pm to 3:00pm

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Africa

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

Newsround

Uganda

Police teargas and arrest journalists in media crackdown Ugandan authorities ﬁred teargas on a peaceful sit-down protest by a group of journalists in the country’s capital Kampala this week, following the government-enforced closure of a number of national news outlets on May 20.

Protestors assemble outside the Daily Monitor ofﬁces in Kampala

Ethiopia

Blue Nile to be diverted for dam Ethiopia began work this week on a diversion of the Blue Nile – one of the Nile’s major tributaries – as part of an £8 billion plan to harness the river’s hydroelectric potential. The centrepiece of the state-sponsored project will be the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, its 6,000 megawatt capacity the equivalent of six nuclear power plants. Complications of engineering mean that the river must ﬁrst be diverted a few metres

in order for construction to continue more easily. The plan, however, is a controversial one, not least for Egypt and Sudan, who are dependent on the river’s water supply and thus wary about any possible disruption to its ﬂow, either by the diversion or the dam itself. Ethiopia is thought to be the source of 85% of the River Nile’s total water supply, yet Egypt and Sudan claim 90% of its water through a colonial-era agreement.

Somalia

US drone reportedly shot down Somalian militant group alShabaab are claiming on Twitter to have shot down a US military drone in the country’s Lower Shabelle region, posting photos of the purported wreckage as evidence.

The US government is known to be supporting the African Union and Somalian government against the alShabaab group, who control most of rural south and central Somalia. Although it has been widely suspected of making drone attacks in the region since 2010, it only admitted their use in July last year. On Twitter, alShabaab claimed they were keeping the drone’s wreckage in “a safe location”. The US is yet to conﬁrm the event.

The Kenyan owned Daily Monitor, Uganda’s best selling independent newspaper, along with the Red Pepper and two associated radio stations have faced censure by the authorities since they reportedly printed internal government rumours of a plot to assassinate those who opposed the succession of President Museveni’s son. Since then, the premises of these agencies have been under police occupation, and their printing presses disabled. They have been forcibly prohibited from continuing operations until they hand over the evidence for their claims, supposedly an internal security letter by one of the country’s top generals. The situation escalated on Tuesday when police were confronted at the premises of

the Daily Monitor by a crowd of around 100 journalists protesting the closure and its infringement of free speech. Organised by the Ugandan Human Rights Network for Journalists, they denounced the clampdown as a “violation of media freedom and economic sabotage.” Yet despite the apparently peaceful nature of their protest, it is reported that police opened fire with tear gas on around 20 of the journalists, confiscating cameras, beating some with batons, and arresting two. A police spokesman, although confirming this, insisted that they had only opened fire after being provoked, and that those arrested were later released. Although the newspapers remain closed, the Daily Monitor has maintained its online presence. In a statement on the paper’s website, Managing Director Alex Asiimwe has urged his staff to remain calm, yet remains defiant: “We’ll continue to engage the authorities at all levels… It’s moments like these that refine a business, removing impurities and making us all better”

Kenya

MPs increase their pay to 130 times average wage Kenyan MPs have deﬁed presidential plans for spending reforms by voting to increase their own salaries to 851,000 shillings (£6,630) per month, in a country where the average monthly wage is only 6,498 shillings (£50). The motion appears to have been a protest by both sides of the house against the policies of the newly elected President Kenyatta, who came to power in March promising to stimulate economic growth by slashing public sector salaries and reducing the size of government. Yet the MPs’ moves are themselves already meeting with resistance. There have been a number of street demonstrations, while civic rights groups such as the Law

Society of Kenya may challenge the legality of their decision in the courts. For MPs, however, opposing the presidential cuts is a matter of self respect. “They have taken away our dignity and we must reclaim it” said one.

Kenyan Parliament in session

The photo of the alleged drone wreckage posted on Twitter 17

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday,6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

African Fashion

N’kya Designs

stablished in 2007 by Miss Sheila Boateng, N’kya Designs (pronounced NE KA YA) is a fashion house that specialises in merging two very different cultures to create an explosion of unique style and colour. N’kya Designs combines the colourful and self-expressive approach to life of the people in West Africa, with the contemporary forms of the western world, thus creating a very expressive style that simultaneously embodies the bravery of being yourself and the values of tradition. Based in Accra, Ghana, N’kya Designs prides itself on being able to create pieces that are unanticipated and exciting. Thanks to our unique and ever changing collection of exquisite materials everyone will ﬁnd the clothes that ﬁt his or her personality. N’kya Designs is a movement that is set on painting the world in a kaleidoscope of bold, vibrant colour combinations and dazzling patterns. Everything that has the N’kya label exudes not just quality but Sassiness, Sexiness and Style.

Sheila Boateng

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

African Fashion

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday,6 June 2013

Jessique Designs

essique is focused on providing exquisite African print textiles in contemporary glamour and retro classics - for a conﬁdent and uncompromising woman of today. With a variety of glamorous distinctive clothing we’re sure you’ll be happy with our collections. At Jessique our philosophy is to create and provide beautifully designed, quality garments for the special times in your life. Everything we do has that attention to detail, from our designs and the fabric we use. Our aim is for our collections are elegant, beautiful and exclusive. The Jessique journey has began.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Arts

Four Nigerians hit Caine-prize shortlist

Chinelo Okparanta

he shortlist for the 2013 Caine Prize for African Writing was recently announced and among the five stories chosen are an unprecedented four Nigerian entries.

The 2013 shortlist comprises: Elnathan John (Nigeria) ‘Bayan Layi’, Tope Folarin (Nigeria) ‘Miracle’ from Transition, Pede Hollist (Sierra Leone) ‘Foreign Aid’ from Journal of Progressive Human Services, Vol. 23.3 Abubakar Adam Ibrahim (Nigeria) ‘The Whispering Trees’ from The

Abubakar Adam Ibrahim

Whispering Trees, Chinelo Okparanta (Nigeria) ‘America’. The Chair of judges, art historian and broadcaster, Gus Casely-Hayford said, “The shortlist was selected from 96 entries from 16 African countries. They are all outstanding African stories that were drawn from an extraordinary body of high quality submissions.” Gus described the shortlist saying, “The five contrasting titles interrogate aspects of things that we might feel we know of Africa – violence, religion, corruption, family, community – but these are subjects

Funmi lauches Poetry Book launch Funmi Ajewole, poet, dancer, actor, and lecturer, launches her collection of poetry, Sea Salt in the City, Thursday, 20th June, 2013 from 7pm (doors open at 6.30pm) at The gallery Café, St Margret’s House, 21 Old Ford Road, London E2 9PL, Bethnal Green. It is important to reserve your space by calling the venue on 02089833624.

You may all call the author on 07788516480 or e-mail Funmi_dance@ yahoo.co.uk for further details.

It promises to be a great event enabled for an evening of relaxation and performance. Shouldn’t miss it.

Elnathan John

that are deconstructed and beautifully remade. These are challenging, arresting, provocative stories of a continent and its descendants captured at a time of burgeoning change.” Alongside Gus on the panel of judges this year are award-winning Nigerianborn artist, Sokari Douglas Camp; author, columnist and Lord Northcliffe Emeritus Professor at UCL, John Sutherland; Assistant Professor at Georgetown University, Nathan Hensley and the winner of the Caine Prize in its inaugural year, Leila Aboulela. Once again, the winner of the

Pede Hollist

£10,000 Caine Prize will be given the opportunity of taking up a month’s residence at Georgetown University, as a Writer-inResidence at the Lannan Center for Poetics and Social Practice. The award will cover all travel and living expenses. The winner will also be invited to take part in the Open Book Festival in Cape Town in September 2013 The winner of the £10,000 prize is to be announced at a celebratory dinner at the Bodleian Library, Oxford, on Monday 8 July.

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Change of Name I formerly known and addressed as Benedict Jojnson now wish to be known and addressed as Benedict Bryan Johnson. All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice. I formerly known and addressed as Vicoria Modupe now wish to be known and addressed as Victoria Ademodupe. All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice. I formerly known and addressed as Adamu Belo now wish to be known and addressed as Adamu Belo Aliyu main valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice.

I formerly known as Bashiru Ahmed, date of birth 11th January 1976 now wish to be known and addressed as Beshiru Ahmed, date of birth 11th January 1968. All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigerian Embassy, London should please take note.

I formerly known and addressed as Obum Tobi Uche now wish to be known and addressed as Obum Uche All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice.

I formerly known and addressed as lailat Muhamad now wish to be known and addressed as Leyla Mohamed. All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice.

I formerly known and addressed as Chukwu Biola now wish to be known and addressed as Chukwu Abiola. All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice.

I formerly known and addressed as Emeka Chukwu now wish to be known and addressed as Amaka cukwu All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please

AfricanVoice

take notice.

I formerly known as Hafisat jimi now wish to be known and addressed as Hafsa Ogujimi . All former documents remain valid. Members of the public, Home Office and Nigeria High Commission, London should please take notice. I formerly known as Ebuka Adewale now wish to be known and addressed as Ebuka Odeniwale. Former documents remain valid. Members of the public, the Home Office and Nigeria High Commission please take note I formerly known as Mariam Chinodim Ebuka now wish to be known and addressed as Mariam Chinodim. Former documents remain valid. Nigeria High Commission, Home office and the general public should please take note.

TODAY

£100 FOR 1 YEAR £100 FOR 1 YEAR £100 FOR 1 YEAR lnclu P&Pz

A WEEKLY NEWSPAPER OUT EVERY FRIDAY! Name: Full Address: Post Code:

Tel No: I wish to subscribe to AfricanVoice

1 Year:

£100

I enclose a cheque/postal order for £

made payable to: AfricanVoice.

Please invoice me/my company Pls make a cheque of £100 payable to African Voice. Mail to Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7JN 21

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Senegal lead African charge

est Africa continued their domination of the African beach soccer scene as Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire booked their tickets for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Tahiti later this year. The two secured their participation on the global stage by qualifying for the final of the CAF qualifying competition, which was held at El Jadida in Morocco over the past week. There was disappointment though for north African teams as - even though they were represented in the semi-finals for the fourth time in a row - they failed to take the final hurdle that would have given them a place at the finals in Tahiti. With the Senegalese and Ivorians joining the 13 other qualified teams at the finals, only one place remains - from OFC - to be filled for the finals. FIFA.com reviews the African qualifiers.

The qualifiers

Having won the African qualifiers in Morocco two years ago, the Senegalese were again one of the favourites going into this year’s tournament and Amadou Diop’s side did not disappoint as they started their campaign quickly by outplaying their opponents in the group phase. They scored a record 21 goals, with captain Ngalla Sylla marshalling the defence. In the semi-finals they faced four-time finalists Nigeria, and, after getting off to a slow start, they outlasted their rivals by a final score of 9-8, with Nigeria maintaining hope until the end. In the final, which was played in windy conditions, Senegal outplayed Côte d’Ivoire as Pape Jean Koukpaki, Sylla and Ibrahima Balde gave them a three-goal lead. After goalkeeper Armand Kouadio missed a penalty which would have reduced the deficit, there was no coming back for the Ivorians as Senegal ran out 4-1 winners. Coach Diop said that their main goal had been to

qualify for the World Cup. “But once that mission was accomplished, we refocused on the tournament. We wanted to get the cup to satisfy the Senegalese people, who gave us such strong support. The players, who worked hard to achieve their success, strongly believed in themselves.” After receiving their trophy, the Senegalese players started an impromptu dance around the cup, which they had placed on the ground in front of their fans. After celebrating with them, they ran a lap of honour around the pitch, enjoying their second victory in the African tournament. In contrast, the Ivorians had to fight for their second appearance on the global stage. After winning their opening match against Egypt 4-1, they struggled in their second as Libya raced to a 3-0 lead. Daniel Kouatssitchi pulled one back, but Mohaned Erryimed gave the Libyans a threegoal lead again. Anniced-Gildas Dago, Moustapha Sakanoko with two and Ludovic Ehounou turned things around and gave the Ivorians an important win. In the final group match they faced Nigeria and needed a last-gasp Kouatssitchi goal to win the group and avoid Senegal in the semi-

Chelsea youth team captain Pappoe trains with Black Stars Chelsea U21 captain Danny Pappoe has been handed a shock call-up to train with the Black Stars for next month’s 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The 19-year-old arrived in Accra on Monday night to join the country’s U20 team prepare for the FIFA World Youth Championship in Turkey next month. Pappoe was not named in the 25-man squad released by head coach Kwesi Appiah for the matches against Sudan and Lesotho. He trained with 14 other players at the Accra Sports Stadium but there is no communication whether he will be part of the team’s trip to Ethiopia on Thursday for camping. 22

The budding defender adapted quickly alongside established players Sulley Muntari, Kwadwo Asamoah, Samuel Inkoom and Asamoah Gyan. Pappoe was born in Accra but left for England as a child and was spotted by Chelsea.

Danny Pappoe

finals. In the last four they faced the hosts Morocco and again had to work hard for their third 5-4 victory of the tournament. Kouatssitchi and Sakanoko were the outstanding players in Jean Soro’s side and shared 17 of the teams’ 20 goals between them. Soro said that even though they had lost the final, they had achieved their main target, which was to qualify for the World Cup. “Respect is due to the players, they showed great fighting spirit and commitment for the jersey of their country. They deserve all the honour. As a coach, I am more than satisfied.”

The other pretenders

Hosts Morocco came within two goals of finally breaking the west African stranglehold on the qualifiers. Led by inspirational striker Nassim El Hadaoui, who won the most valuable player award, the north Africans finished second in their group behind Senegal after beating Madagascar and Libya. They faced Côte d’Ivoire in the semi-finals, knowing that a place at Tahiti 2013 was at stake. Evenly poised after the second period, Morocco had a chance, but two goals for the Ivorians ended that dream

and although Abdelkabir Moufakir pulled one back late in the game, it was a case of too little, too late. The other team to lose in the semi-finals was Nigeria, who started the tournament as one of the main favourites. They won their two opening matches against Libya and Egypt 8-4, but then came unstuck against the Ivorians in their third, conceding a late goal. This saw the Super Sand Eagles face Senegal in the round of the last four and after going behind the Nigerian side had to play catch-up for the rest of the match, and they never quite managed - losing 9-8 in the end. In Group A, rookies Ghana were given a rude welcome onto the continental stage as Morocco won 9-2 in their opening game, and Senegal beat them by an 11-3 scoreline. The final group game saw the two pointless teams - Ghana and Madagascar - face each other and the islanders, who made the semi-finals last time around, ran out comfortable 10-3 winners with Tianasoa Raseasimbola enjoying a wonderful five-goal run. The goals took the midfielder’s tally to eight from just three matches and saw him finish in joint fourth in the scorers’ chart. A similar constellation occurred in Group B, where the final group match between Egypt and Libya had no bearing on the top two places. The Egyptians won the bragging rights with an 8-3 victory, with their top scorer Aly Elbarbary and Ahmed Mohamed Abouserie scoring three apiece. Final standings 1 Senegal * 2 Côte d’Ivoire * 3 Morocco 4 Nigeria 5 Madagascar 6 Egypt 7 Libya 8 Ghana

Promoted Palace want Odemwingie Newly promoted EPL side Crystal Palace are considering making a second bid for West Bromwich Albion striker Peter Odemwingie.

The Nigeria star has been tipped to leave ‘The Baggies’ this summer following a series of high-profile clashes with the club after they had refused to allow him to join Queens Park Rangers in January. Crystal Palace made a move for the 31year-old around that time, but he didn’t want to drop down to the Championship. However, following their promotion to the Premier League, Palace are contemplating renewing their interest from the winter, according to the Express and Star.

It is also believed that Hull City are monitoring the situation of the 4 million poundsrated Nigeria international.

Peter Odemwingie

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

Mikel says he’s out of Mexico clash

Chelsea star John Mikel Obi has confirmed he will not feature for Nigeria in a May 31 friendly against Mexico.

African champions Nigeria face Mexico in Houston, Texas, to prepare for two World Cup qualifiers as well as the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil. “It’s also true that I would so much have loved to play in the friendly match against Mexico in America, but circumstances and logistics have made this impossible. I love to represent my country,” Mikel informed Eagles official Enebi Achor. However, the midfielder said he will star for the Super Eagles in World Cup qualifiers in Kenya and Namibia as well as the Confederations Cup. “I wish to confirm that I will be in Kenya and Namibia for the World Cup qualifying games and will also be in Brazil for the Confederations Cup,” said the top star, who has an appointment with the Brazil embassy in London on Monday in respect of an entry visa application. Mikel will join the Eagles in Frankfurt, Germany, on their return from USA and fly with the contingent to Nairobi aboard a Lufthansa Airline flight in the early hours of Tuesday, June 4. The player has had a magnificent past year, winning the UEFA Champions League and then the UEFA Europa League trophies with Chelsea and the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria. He was very much in the thick of the action when the Eagles overpowered the Kenyans 3-2 in Nairobi on November 14, 2009, in their final match of

SuperSport United defender Edwin Gyimah was named Matsatsantsa’s player of the season at the club’s annual awards dinner on Monday evening. The Ghanaian centre back who joined the club as a midfielder had a stellar season at the heart of the defence, receiving heaps of praise and consequently being called up to the Black Stars’ 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying squad in the process. Gyimah, who was also nominated for a Nedbank Cup award, said that he has been pleased with his performances adding that it was a great honour to be part of the Premier Soccer League awards as well. “It has been a great season and I am very pleased with my performances,” he said. “It is a nice experience like on Sunday when I went to the Premier Soccer League awards - it felt really good. “I’m very, very happy for winning this award [SuperSport United Player of the season] and so excited about it,” said Gyimah.

Award winners: Special award: Bafana Dlamini Best Supporter award: Aunty Olla

John Mikel Obi & Christopher Samba the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying series, to send Nigeria to the finals in South Africa.

The match on Wednesday, June 5, will take place at the same venue – Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

Cash boost for Kenya ahead of Nigeria tie The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is taking nothing to chance as they have increased allowances for players and the technical staff ahead of the crucial 2014 World Cup qualifier against Nigeria. Sam Nyamweya, the FA President said on Monday that the increase by over 100 percent is aimed at motivating the team for the June 5 home game against the African champions. “The players have been earning Kshs 3,000 per day (US$35.30) and now the increase to Kshs 10,000 per day (US$117.65) should motivate the team better to be able to beat Nigeria,” said Nyamweya. The Harambee Stars of Kenya will host Nigeria at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani. The home side will have to be at their best to revive their hopes of making it to the next round of the qualifiers. Kenya are bottom of Group F, a point behind Namibia while Nigeria are joint top with Malawi on five points.

Gyimah is SuperSport United’s best

Thomas Madigage Godfrey Mosoetsa

award:

Moment of the Year award: Mor Diouf’s long range goal vs Mamelodi Sundowns Coaches’ award: Innocent Mdledle Chairman’s award: Ronwen Williams Young Player award: Thabo Moloi Golden Boot: Kermit Erasmus and Sibusiso Zuma

Harambee Stars team will host Nigeria on June 5

Nyamweya has also requested the government to announce June 5 a public holiday to allow Kenyans to watch their national team in the stadium and TV. “I kindly request the President and his Deputy to make this great day a public

holiday so that Kenyans can get time to throng into Kasarani Stadium and see for themselves our boys taking on the African champions, because it’s another chance for Kenya to qualify for the World Cup,” said Nyamweya.

Player’s Player award: Ronwen Williams Player of the year award: Edwin Gyimah

Friday, 31 May 2013 – Thursday, 6 June 2013

WWW.AFRICANVOICEONLINE.CO.UK

ISSUE 484

Promoted Palace want Osaze

SEE PAGE 22

Mutesi beats poverty to play Kasparov

Phiona Mutesi challenges Gary Kasparov By Peter Olorunnisomo The bible tells the story of Samson killing a lion and bringing out honey from the carcass. If that was the unbelievable, then this story may as well help clear the doubts that it may, indeed, have happened. Katwe, arguably the biggest slum in Uganda, has produced a world star prodigy in Phiona Mutesi.

At the age of nine, Phiona was a just another child doing what the slums have children do to get a meal the honest way – scrounge for it. She went the way of missionary attraction to church not because she was bent in displaying affection for God but the attraction that a free meal of porridge had was irresistible. She was dirty and went about bare-feet like any other child there but through the Sports Outreach Institute (a Christian

mission) run by Robert Katende she was always able to go back there for a cup of porridge; and that was where she saw the game of chess for the first time. The institute has a chess programme which was run and exposed to the children that were under Robert’s christian tending. From there onwards the lull of porridge encouraged the love of chess. How she then became so good is now history but the impact the young Ugandan lady has made has proven no easy track to follow. From being champs at local levels in Uganda, she graduated to being the youngest female member of the Ugandan female team that went to the 40th World Chess Olympiad in Istanbul, Turkey in August, 2012 where she, at least, claimed a scalp, defeating Fiji. The star in her caught the attention of Russian world champion Gary Kasparov, who agreed to a match with her. Gary

arrived late and went straight to business. Teenage Phiona got up and welcomed him with a handshake before the match started. She had become the first Ugandan chess player to play a world champion. At the end of the match, Gary gave her a copy of his book, Kasparov vs Kasparov, which contained the world champion’s greatest matches and as well would reveal a health bunch of tips to Phiona. Kasparov was reported as remarking that; “It is quite impressive that a person who never had a professional chess lesson is such a solid player.” From 2009 when Phiona represented Uganda in the children’s international chess competition in Juba, South Sudan, and won a gold medal, she had become established as a sports personality waiting to be celebrated. For a girl who lost her her father to AIDS at the age of three and raised by a

single mother with two other siblings in the suburb of Kampala, a lot was yet to happen and a lot had happened sending her towards fame and glory. By the second week of April, 2013, she had met the American legend, Oprah Winfrey and was in the United States where she was invited to speak at the Women in the World Summit in New York at which event the opportunity of a tete-a-tete with Hilary Clinton, the former US Secretary of State was cream.

African Voice Newspaper is published by African Voice Communications. Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7AP. Tel: 020 7274 3933 Registered at the British Library as a newspaper. ISSN 1475-2166.Email: africanvoicenews@googlemail.com