AFRICAN VOICE issue598 by African Voice Newspapers UK

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015 ISSUE 598

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 ‘Queen Flo’ is selected to take vacant GLA seat

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Nigerian student wins £70,000 scholarship to learn rugby

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SEE PAGE 2

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RACIST’S PETITION Xenophobes get their day while mercy waits its turn By Alan Oakley

Parliament is to spend time discussing a petition suggesting that Britain is being taken over by Muslims.

The move is in response to a Conservative Election Manifesto pledge to debate any petition signed by at least 100,000 people. A petition titled “Stop allowing immigrants into the UK,” on the official Commons petition website has been signed by 189,018 people as of Wednesday September 23rd and is on the increase by 50 signatures per hour, judging by movement during the time it has taken to write this article. The petition states: “The UK government need to prevent immigrants from entering the UK immediately! We MUST close all borders, and prevent more immigrants from entering Britain. Foreign citizens are taking all our benefits, costing the government millions! Many of them are trying to change UK into a Muslim country! “If the Government does not do anything, then Britain may take in 12 million more immigrants by 2060.

Continued on page 2

The British High Commissioner in Ghana,Jon Benjamin

Labour MP Steve McCabe has called plans to debate a clearly xenophobic petition “a licence for bigotry”

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

Have You News Got News Nigerian student wins £70,000 For Us scholarship to learn rugby Newsdesk: 020 3737 3077

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Foreign Secretary saddened by enormous loss of life in Mecca

The Foreign Secretary has expressed his condolences following the tragic events in Mecca, where more than 700 pilgrims have been killed.

Philip Hammond said: I was saddened to hear of the enormous loss of life in Mecca. My thoughts are with families and victims at this difficult time. Such a significant tragedy will affect Muslims across the world who take part in the Hajj pilgrimage. Our staff remain in close contact with the Saudi authorities and tour operators, and are checking hospitals and other locations to urgently gather information about British nationals who may require assistance. We are also deploying further staff from the region to bolster our response.

By Milton Tella

Michael Olorunlogbon, a 16 years old Nigerian student has been offered a life-changing Arnold Foundation scholarship to learn rugby.

Michael a keen footballer, who has never played rugby, won the £70,000 scholarship for his academic ability and outstanding performance at Hassenbrook Academy. The highly elated lad said: “I will enjoy playing rugby but football will be my main sport.” The award will transform Michael as he will start playing rugby on The Close, the school’s famous pitch where in 1823 William Webb Ellis first ran with the ball and invented the game. Michael is the 100th student to get Arnold Foundation which was launched in 2003 to provide bursaries for boarders at the Warwickshire school and he was put forward by the East Side Young Leaders’ Academy, set up to develop the leadership potential of African and Caribbean boys. Michael, who recently joined Rugby’s sixth form, will have all his fees and living costs of around £35,000 a year paid. The Headmaster, Peter Green said he hoped Michael and other Arnold Foundation scholars would have a “ripple effect” on

Michael Olorunlogbon (right)

their communities when they return home. Mr Green told the Evening Standard: “We might be able to be transformative and transform their lives. Then when they go to university, and after, they can start to transform their own local communities. It’s not about parachuting someone out of that. We want to keep their association with where they are from.” The Arnold Foundation was launched in 2003 to provide bursaries for boarders at the Warwickshire school and Michael was put forward by the East Side Young Leaders’

Academy, set up to develop the leadership potential of African and Caribbean boys. Before moving to Rugby, Michael lived with his mother, a maths teacher, near Arsenal’s Emirates stadium. His father lives in Nigeria and his older sister is studying at university. He got 10 GCSEs and is studying Alevels in history, maths, physics and economics. He said that when he walks into the school “I think ‘wow’...how many generations have walked down these corridors.”

Xenophobes get their day while mercy waits its turn

Publisher and Editor-In-Chief Mike Abiola Editorial Board Adviser Dr Ola Ogunyemi Managing Editor Alan Oakley News Editor Peter Olorunnisomo Sports Editor Abiodun Teriba Arts Editor Golda John Columnists Milton Tella Photo Journalist Isaac Adegbite Graphic Designer Edward Mirza Accountant Fanla Agboola Chief Correspondent, Nigeria Olubunmi Omoogun London Office: Unit 7 Holles House Overton Road London SW9 7AP

Tel: 020 3737 3077

Email: africanvoicenews@gmail.com

African Voice is published by African Voice UK.

...Continued from front page There is footage of foreigners destroying British soldiers [sic] graves, which is a huge disrespect to us. Sign this petition to show the government what they need to do!” Honouring its pledge, the Government response on its website says simply: “Parliament will debate this petition.” Steve McCabe, Labour MP for Selly Oak, Birmingham – home to a large and established south Asian and West Indian community, has reacted angrily, fuming: “I’m in favour of discussing immigration but I don’t think we should dignify the views of total bigots with a Commons debate.” Curiously, a separate petition titled: “Accept more asylum seekers and increase support for refugee migrants in the UK”, which has 439,926 signatures as of September 23rd has received the less committed response: “Parliament will consider this for a debate.” Nobody from the Government has been forthcoming as to why the latter and larger petition has failed to automatically trigger a Commons debate. The House of Commons Petitions Committee has scheduled the debate of the

racist petition for October 19th in Westminster Hall, a debating chamber of the Commons which is less well-known than the main Chamber with its famous green benches. However, debates held here officially have the same status as those in the main Chamber. Mr McCabe told the Birmingham Mail: “This highlights the problem with saying that if you have enough signatures on a petition then it will be debated (…) It is a licence for bigotry, and that is what we are witnessing here. “I have spent a lot of time in recent years consulting my constituents about immigration.” The debate will be led by Conservative MP Paul Scully who represents Sutton and Cheam in Greater London. African Voice should express here and now, however, that leading the debate is no indication of whether he will speak in favour of the views expressed in the petition being discussed. There will be a speech from a Government Minister, from a Labour front-bench spokesperson and also from a spokesperson for the SNP, which is now the third largest party in the House of Commons.

There will also be speeches from as many backbench MPs as time permits in the three-hour debate. The Home Office has confirmed that an initial group of Syrian refugees has arrived, marking the first step to fulfilling Prime Minister David Cameron’s promise to resettle 20,000 over the next four-anda-half years by expanding the vulnerable persons resettlement (VPR) scheme. They arrive in the UK as the European Union voted by majority to back a plan to relocate 120,000 refugees across the continent through a quota scheme which Britain will not take part in. A Home Office spokeswoman said: “We are working closely with the UNHCR (the UN’s refugee agency) and local authorities to make sure we are ready to welcome more Syrians who desperately need our assistance. “As the Prime Minister announced earlier this month, we will resettle 20,000 Syrians over the course of this Parliament through this scheme.” The Home Office said they will not be telling the public how many refugees are coming into the UK each time they arrive.

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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News ‘Queen Flo’ is selected to take vacant GLA seat British-Nigerian ‘ Queen Flo’ is beth & Southwark!” Meanwhile, Prem Goyal OBE has deselected to take vacant Lambeth scribed the selection as another victory for and Southwark GLA seat.

Councillor Florence Nosegbe has been selected as the Labour candidate to take on the Tories in defending the seat vacated by Valerie Shawcross in the Greater London Assembly. The former Lambeth Cabinet member for Culture, Sport and the Olympic received 1,580 number of the vote, trumping her main rival, Dora Dixon - Fyle as the candidate to represent Lambeth and Southwark, should she win the May 2016 elections. Cllr Florence, a popular Brixton Hill Councillor of Nigerian descent who was first elected in 2006, tweeted her joy at being selected for her “home seat of Lambeth &Southwark.” She has received the support of the Mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan and many others from the party. Using his tweeter handle @SadiqKhan, the Tooting MP said he was “looking forward to joining our new GLA candidate @ FloNosegbe on the campaign trail in Lam-

equality at the top. Prem said, “I congratulate Sadiq Khan and Florence Nosegbe on their respective selections as Labour’s London Mayor Candidate and Labour’s Lambeth and Southwark GLA Candidate. It is another victory for equality at the top and cause for quiet celebration among those of us who are fighting for talented minorities to reach the highest levels of UK politics. Labour supporters and members twice put talent first and ensured it triumphed both times. To me it represents the change that is now clearly inevitable: the best people, from whatever backgrounds, cannot be held back from attaining the top positions in politics forever. In a city that is 40% made up of people not born in the UK, this means in time 40% of the top jobs in politics will be held by talented minorities. Southwark however, still languishes behind the curve. Four of Southwark’s council cabinet positions are occupied by yes-men whose credentials are totally in-

Councillor Florence Nosegbe

adequate for the responsibilities entrusted to them. Southwark is being let down every day as a result. Do Southwark’s residents not deserve better than this? I hope Labour in Southwark will embrace equality at the top by selecting at least three talented minorities in Southwark’s Council Cabinet and selecting a

talented minority candidate to be elected in Parliament by 2020. We would be willing and indeed proud to work with any party to make it happen. Southwark deserves a more representative and talented political leadership at the top. It needs to happen. It will happen. Let’s start now.”

New applications for training grants open

The Cabinet Office at 70 Whitehall

The programme, worth £100,000, is seeking to appoint between 1 and 3 training providers to help charities to fundraise more effectively.

This is to provide expert training to small charities with an annual income of up to £1 million. It will help these charities to generate more income to support their vital work. The programme will subsidise the cost of training, allowing small charities who may not normally have the resources to pay for these courses to participate. Training will include advice to help increase the fundraising capability of small charities. This follows on from a successful programme worth £100,000 that the Cabinet 4

Office funded in 2013 to 2014. This provided over 700 training opportunities for more than 300 charities. Minister for Civil Society, Rob Wilson, said: Small charities can often struggle to access the resources they need and yet many are doing fantastic work supporting their local communities. We need a confident and capable sector, armed with the skills to meet the challenges ahead. This programme will enable small charities to fundraise responsibly and sustainably, helping us build a stronger society with compassion at its heart. Applicants must have fundraising expertise and the capacity to provide training to small charities between mid-February and June 2016. We are inviting applications for grants between £25,000 and £100,000.

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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Health News

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

New oral health survey of children in special schools Children in special support schools have slightly lower levels of tooth decay than children in mainstream schools but are more likely to have their teeth extracted, according to according to a new survey by Public Health England (PHE).

The first national survey of oral health in special schools for children with severe special education needs and disabilities (SEND) also show that those who experienced decay have more teeth affected and their oral hygiene is poorer. The number of children in special support schools with a substantial amount of plaque is double that of those attending mainstream schools (4% and 2% respectively for 5 year olds and 20% and 10% respectively for 12 year olds). Tooth decay is a lifestyle disease caused by consuming sugary foods and drinks too frequently. It can be prevented by reducing sugar in the diet and brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily. The survey, broken down by region, shows wide variation in tooth decay prevalence and severity ranging from 10% to 33% for 5 year olds and 22% to 41% for 12 year olds. The North West region

has the poorest dental health for both age groups in special support schools. Dr Sandra White, Director of Dental Public Health at PHE, said: Tooth decay

is caused by too much sugar in the diet and children currently consume 3 times as much sugar than official recommendations. Thankfully tooth decay can be prevented

by not giving children sugary foods and drinks and brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth comes into the mouth. It’s also important to visit the dentist as early as possible to receive advice on good oral hygiene and to have free preventative treatment like fluoride varnish. Despite children in special support schools having slightly lower levels of tooth decay than children in mainstream schools, they are still very high so we must not be complacent. Children in special support schools are particularly vulnerable so they require an additional package of support to prevent and treat tooth decay. Local authorities and NHS England should take it upon themselves to provide dental services with specially trained staff who can cater for the multiple complex needs of these children. As in mainstream schools, deprivation has an impact on tooth decay levels among special support school pupils; those from the poorest households have the highest levels of tooth decay. The regional differences found in the survey were consistent between special support and mainstream schools; therefore a continued focus on tackling wider inequalities is needed.

Help is at Hand for anyone bereaved by suicide People who have been bereaved by suicide have used their experiences to lead the revision of a support guide to help others affected by someone taking their own life. Help is at hand provides people affected by suicide with both emotional and practical support. The most recent official figures reveal 6,233 suicides of people aged 15 and over were registered in the UK in 2013 and suicide has far-reaching effects among friends, family, colleagues, and the wider community. Those bereaved by a suicide are at increased risk of mental health and emotional problems and may be at higher risk of suicide themselves, so receiving the right support is essential. For the first time, individuals who have been bereaved by suicide have been the principal authors of the guide, with support from experts at Public Health England (PHE). Amy Meadows, who project managed the revised guide said: I lost my mum to suicide 6 years ago and at the time my family didn’t get any information to explain what to expect or advice about where to turn for help. That’s why I want to make sure that other people don’t feel isolated and alone like we did. Everyone’s grief is unique, but people do not have to tackle the journey by 6

themselves. I hope that by reading about others’ experiences in ‘Help is at Hand’ and seeing the specialist support that is available, newly bereaved people will get some comfort and reassurance that they are not alone, that they should talk about what has happened and that there is support available when they need it. The guide is designed to be given out by bereavement support organisations and by those who are likely to be first on the scene after a suspected suicide, including police and ambulance staff. It will also be widely promoted online through partnerships with coroners, funeral directors, police, doctors and bereavement counselling and support organisations. The redevelopment of the guide follows a cross-governmental strategy that called on a wide range of groups to work together to achieve a reduction in the suicide rate in England and to better support those bereaved or affected by suicide Community and Social Care Minister Alistair Burt MP said: For too long, speaking about suicide has been seen as taboo, making sure people can get the support they need is one of the reasons this guide is so important. Sometimes just the reassurance that you’re not alone is so important and it’s extremely brave of those who have been bereaved to help others in a similar situation by putting this guide together.

I hope this is widely used by health professionals and others to help ensure that no one has to go through this incredibly difficult experience alone. Dr Annmarie Connolly, Deputy Director, Health Equity and Mental Health, PHE said: Dealing with suicide of a loved one is a traumatic experience for anyone and dealing with the consequences of a suicide can be an isolating experience, with people feeling uncomfortable talking about it. By working with people bereaved by suicide we have learnt that there are a vast number of reactions and emotions experienced, which have now been reflected in the guide. The value of working in collaboration with people who have first-hand experience, means that the

support and resources offered are more effective. Hamish Elvidge of the Matthew Elvidge Trust, and NSPA Co-Chair, said: It is essential that anyone bereaved by suicide receives help and support during this extremely difficult and challenging time. Professionals, including the police, coroners and coroners’ officers, GPs, social workers and NHS staff will play a vital role in ensuring that this guide reaches all those people, who need emotional and practical support. Help is at Hand is being launched at Manchester Suicide Bereavement Conference at the University of Manchester on Thursday 24 September 2015.

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

News

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

Entrepreneurs would be boosted by Start-Up Loan Allowance - Lib Dems A government scheme which gives thousands of BAME entrepreneur’s access to their first loan would be boosted by an allowance fund under plans announced by the Liberal Democrats.

Speaking at the party’s Autumn Conference in Bournemouth, Liberal Democrat Leader Tim Farron stated the party would enhance the support for new small businesses by providing entrepreneurs with a Start-Up Allowance worth £100 a week over the first six months after they set up their new business. Anyone starting up a new business with funds from the start-up loans scheme would be eligible to receive the Start-Up Allowance. The scheme was launched by former Liberal Democrat Business Secretary Vince Cable. Figures show that a third of all entrepreneurs benefiting from this

scheme in the last Parliament were from ethnic minorities. Tim Farron MP said: “Those who take the chance to set out on their own and create a business should be celebrated and supported. “While Labour have said they now want to strip Government support for businesses and the Tories focus on giving tax cuts to giant corporations, we want to focus on entrepreneurs and small business seeking to grow.” Cost Based on the Start Up Loans fund’s current annual projections of 10,000 loans a year by 2020, the cost would be £26m per year. How would this be paid for? We have already opposed the cut in Corporation Tax, which primarily benefits the very largest corporations, which will cost £2.5bn a year by 2020. We would reverse this change and use part of the revenues raised to introduce

Tim Farron MP

this Start Up Allowance.The fund is run as part of the British Business Bank. The processes for accessing a loan through the fund requires an online application to be submitted. At this point an adviser is appointed to work with the applicant and help them prepare a business case. This businesses case is then submitted to the Fund and, with one of their lending partners, a decision is made on whether access to a loan should be granted.

The fund is only available to new businesses or those operating for under 24 months. An applicant can only get one loan from the fund, so cannot repeat the process multiple times. In total the fund has supported 32,007 business since it started in September 2012, at a rate of 29 per day. It has so far lent around £170,399,474 to businesses; 46% of those applying for a loan had been unemployed at the time of their application.

Business backed by new Enterprise Bill The government publishes an Enterprise Bill that backs business to drive growth, create jobs and ensure economic security for all. These are new measures aim to speed up insurance payments to business and give further powers to government for broadband investment, Small Business Commissioner will help small businesses resolve payment disputes with larger firms and regulators will contribute to ambitious £10 billion cutting red tape target

The government publishes an Enterprise Bill that backs business to drive growth, create jobs and ensure economic security for all. The bill will help tackle the scandal of late payments holding back many small businesses, ensure high quality apprenticeships, and make further cuts to burdensome red tape for the first time including the actions of regulators. The Enterprise Bill will set up a Small Business Commissioner to help small firms handle disputes with larger businesses over issues like late payment, which costs small firms £26.8 billion. The bill will also allow the government’s ambitious £10 billion cutting red tape target to be extended to include the actions of regulators for the first time. 8

Encouraging businesses to invest in the skills of their staff is a vital part of the government’s plan to boost productivity in the UK. The Enterprise Bill includes a measure to prevent people passing off poor quality training schemes as ‘apprenticeships’ and will set targets for the number of apprentices taken on by public bodies. This will ensure the public sector leads by example and invests in a highly-skilled workforce. Business Secretary Sajid Javid said: The government is committed to making sure the UK continues to be the best place in Europe to do business. The Enterprise Bill will help do just that with measures to cut red tape, protect high-quality apprenticeships and deal with unfair payment practices hitting small firms. I firmly believe that to reap rewards for working people across the country we need to get behind our great British businesses. Small Business, Industry and Enterprise Minister Anna Soubry said: Our Enterprise Bill will help tackle some of the biggest issues facing business today. Overzealous regulation and unacceptable late payments are just some of the issues targeted in a comprehensive package of measures designed to give a boost to the UK economy. This is about letting businesses get on with what they do best, while taking sensible action to support those that need it.

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

Theatre, Shows and Musicals

Arts Culture

By Edward Mirza

MEMPHIS Now – Oct 18th

The producers of hit Broadway musical MEMPHIS are delighted to officially announce that multi award-winning recording artist Beverley Knight will star as club singer ‘Felicia Farrell’ when the show comes to London’s West End this autumn. MEMPHIS, winner of four 2010 Tony Awards® including Best Musical has Grammy® Award-winning original score by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan and book by Joe DiPietro. Inspired by true events from the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, MEMPHIS follows the fame and forbidden love of a radio DJ who wants to change the world and a club singer who is ready for her big break. “David Bryan evokes the powerhouse funk of James Brown, the hot guitar riffs of Chuck Berry, the smooth harmonies of the Temptations and the silken, bouncy pop of the great girl groups of the period” Charles Isleworth, New York Times. Directed by Christopher Ashley and with Choreography by Sergio Trujillo, MEMPHIS has Scenic Design by David Gallo, Costume Design by Paul Tazewell, and Lighting Design by Howell Binkley. Shaftsbury Avenue Theatre, 210 Shaftesbury Avenue London WC2H 8DP

OCTAGON, BY KRISTIANA RAECOLÓN Now - Oct 17

‘Some poems are better written in flesh...’ After Wall Street and Tahrir Square, after ISIS and the NSA, after Ferguson and Eric Garner: here come the poets. In a downtown poetry slam with a place on the team to be won, eight young poets prepare to do battle. But backstage it’s all kicking off with love triangles, families to feed and wounds to rip open. And in the end, is it about winning – or finding the words that need to be said? Director Nadia Latif reunites with American playwright Kristiana Colón for the follow-up to their acclaimed 2012 Arcola sell-out but i cd only whisper. Arcola Theatre, 24 Ashwin Street, London E8 3DL

MACBETH, TARA ARTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH QUEEN’S HALL ARTS & BLACK THEATRE LIVE Now- Oct 31st

Macbeth is the first production from Black Theatre Live, a pioneering consortium of 8 regional theatres committed to increasing the amount of Black and Ethnic Minority theatre on the touring circuit. Spun together with a blend of Indian music and movement, this brand new production from one of the UK’s leading cross-cultural theatre companies sees Shakespeare’s tragedy reimagined in a contemporary context, as a brew of treachery and ambition sets an Asian family on a road to destruction. The production sees the engineers of Macbeth’s downfall depicted as three Hijras. A strand of Indian society little-known in the west, Hijras are a centuries-old “third gender” community (including transsexuals, transgender people, eunuchs and crossdressers). Tara Arts Artistic Director Jatinder Verma, who will direct Macbeth said “Spirits in Indian traditions combine vivacity with viciousness. By casting the Witches in Macbeth as provocative Bollywood queens, I aim to explore the dangerously vain ambition driving Macbeth.” For information on Black Theatre Live: www.blacktheatrelive.co.uk | For information on Tara Arts: www.tara-arts.com .

‘Octagon’ at the Arcola Theatre

13TH LONDON AFRICAN MUSIC FESITVAL THE ETIENNE SISTERS 18 Sept - 27 Sept The 2015 London African Music FestiBY CHÉ WALKER val will run for 10 days under the direction Sept 10 - Oct 3 ‘I can’t believe my own sister would come with this thievery and anarchy to my door...’ Tree and Ree Etienne are laying their mother to rest when an unwelcome arrival at the graveside intrudes on their grief. It’s Bo, their troublesome estranged half-sister. To comfort her sisters Bo moves in for a while and things begin to look up. But can a leopard ever change her spots? Cracks appear as childhood memories, deep resentments and long put away dreams come to the fore. Tensions build before erupting in a confrontation during which harsh truths are said that cannot be unsaid. Will the sisters destroy all that is left of their family and each other? This thought-provoking and honest is new play is written by Chè Walker with songs by Anouskha Lucas (Klook’s Last Stand). Set to a contemporary soulful jazz soundtrack, The Etienne Sisters explores what it means to be part of a family today. By Chè Walker, with songs by Anoushka Lucas Additional songs by Sheila Atim Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, London E15 1BN

Joyful Noise founder, Biyi Adepegba. 2015 line-up: living legends EBO TAYLOR (Ghana), JOYCE MOHOLOAGAE South Africa), MOSE FAN FAN (Congo), PAUL LUNGA (Zimbabwe) and ED BENTLEY (UK). We also have London debuts for three new divas in SUZANNA LUBRANO (Cape Verde), OUM (Morocco) and YINKA DAVIES (Nigeria). Suzanna Lubrano creates a musical world that is between zouk and R&B. Oum is something special. Her performances show a singer who knows her musical history and adds something new to it. SANDRA NKAKE is the most explosive of the new singers coming from West Africa with a root in popular African cultures and the urban sharpness of her roots in France. Yinka Davies’s position as a judge on Nigerian Idol gives her a weekly exposure to Nigerian homes. The festival will take place at verious locations. Please visit: www.joyfulnoise. co.uk

NINE LIVES BY ZODWA NYONI NATIONAL TOUR Now - Jan 2016 Presented by Leeds Studio in association with West Yorkshire Playhouse

Performed by Lladel Bryant Directed by Alex Chisholm Fleeing from his home in Zimbabwe where a fresh wave of homophobia threatens his life, Ishmael has sought sanctuary in the UK. Dispersed to Leeds, Ishmael waits to hear his fate, he waits for a new life to begin amongst strangers. Strangers who don’t trust him and don’t want him there. But not everyone is bad… can he find a place to call home again? Some of us wanted to stop being afraid. Some of us wanted to find ourselves. Some of us wanted to belong. Zodwa Nyoni (West Yorkshire Playhouse/ Channel 4 Writer in Residence 2014) threads together humour and humanity to tell the real personal story behind asylum headlines. 25 September 2015 Taliesin, Swansea 26 September 2015 Wakefield Lit Festival, Wakefield 28-29 September 2015 Oxford Playhouse, Oxford 12 October 2015 The Bikeshed Exeter, Exeter 17 October 2015 Trinity Bristol, Bristol 23 October 2015 The Cube, Malvern 06 November 2015 Upstairs at Western, Leicester 12 November 2015 Cast, Doncaster 16 November 2015 Waterside Arts Centre, Trafford 19 November 2015 Arc Stockton, Stockton on Tees 10 December 2015 Brighton, Brighton January 2016 9

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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Opinion

The agonising wait for Buhari Ministers By Emmanuel Asiwe Over 100 days after President Buhari took office, Nigerians are still waiting for him to name his full cabinet. Despite the President’s promise to do so this September, the wait continues, engendering a palpable impatience with the long agonizing wait. Given that the cabinet is the starting point of good governance, few Nigerians fault the delay as they concede to the president the time to scout only the best hands. But Nigeria has an abundance of men of integrity and unimpeachable character; and the long delay has inadvertently advertise the President as someone who had no plans before assuming office, and does not really know too many people to the extent that he is cocooned in a little ethnic box. The fact is that Buhari understood the expectations of Nigerians; knew the rules of engagement, and accepted to be president. So, it is not about patience, it is about expectations being met, about doing things differently and better. Nigerians have given him the benefit of the doubt, but the enormity of the challenges facing the nation fuel a sense of urgency and Buhari must not lose this momentum to inertia.

Meanwhile, the president has been on a shuttle diplomacy to neighboring countries to rally support against Boko Haram. He attended the G-7 summit in Germany where he won the hearts of many leaders. He has visited Britain, USA and recently, France, where he discussed defence, security and economic relations with French authorities. In point of fact though, Buhari has made some key appointments, including: the armed services’ chiefs, Chief of Staff, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Comptroller-Generals of Customs and Immigration Services. He has also repositioned key government institutions, such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS); the return to the statutory Treasury Single Account (TSA), the setting up of anti-graft committees and 10

relocation of the military high command to Maiduguri. Apart from these appointments, the president has not named the key members of his regular cabinet. This delay has, of course, exposed Buhari to charges of unpreparedness for an office he tenaciously sought for 12 years before eventually getting it. The president’s recourse to quibble and attribute the delay to his desire to get things right, is hardly convincing anymore. He ought to have appointed some strategic members of his cabinet like the Minister of Finance, Attorney General of the Federation and a Foreign Minister to guide him, as he engages in international relations. Competent candidates should have been shortlisted for these high level positions even before the elections. That would have indicated a preparedness of an APC government to hit the ground running. During his trip to France, Buhari met French President Francois Hollande, and other French Ministers, including: JeanYves Le Drian (Defence); Michel Sapin (Finance & Public Accounts); Emmanuel Macron (Economy & Industry) and Laurent Fabius (Foreign Affairs and International Development). Buhari was accompanied by National Security Adviser, Maj-Gen Babagana Monguno, the Permanent Secretaries in the Ministries of Defence, Finance, Agriculture, Foreign Affairs, Industry, Trade & Investment as well as the Chief

Executive Officers of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. But, who were the experts that articulated Nigeria’s foreign policy to Buhari? This is where a first-rate diplomat and foreign minister would have proven very useful to the president. Nigerians cannot afford to continue watching helplessly while he runs the country with permanent secretaries, who cannot perform the full function of a Minister of the republic. In fact, the President needs to be told that the permanent secretaries are part of the problems of the country as they have been addicted to government corruption. It is a constitutional requirement per Section 148 (2) (a-c), that, an elected President must appoint ministers of the government of the Federation to assist in the running of government business. But this aside, a President cannot possibly effectively govern alone. The pressures of the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria were enormous to overwhelm and render a younger Goodluck Jonathan clueless; it must be even more so for a 72-year-old Buhari. It is precisely for reason of his age vis-à-vis the quantum of the work to be done that Buhari should appoint Ministers to take some pressure off him. Buhari urgently needs the right people around him to effectively pilot the affairs of the nation and cannot settle on ad

hoc arrangements. So, there must be ministers. Without ministers, official decisions and actions in the ministries can only be taken at limited level of authority. Another danger of the long delay is seen in the shoddiness that has characterized the few appointments Buhari has made; in a manner that speaks more than a little presidential confusion. The appointments sparked off a controversy as they were perceived as weighted against southerners. It is, therefore, imperative to remind the president that it is too simplistic to dismiss such complaints as nothing more than the rantings of ethnic jingoists. Buhari’s appointments should unify the country; his cabinet should reflect his inaugural promise as a man who belongs to nobody and belongs to all. Having witnessed the way ministers operated in the last administration, it would be no exaggeration to say that many of Jonathan’s problems were created by his ministers. But of course, the buck stopped at his desk for he appointed them and he was duty bound to keep them in check. He didn’t. The hope now is that Buhari will break this cycle of perfidious leadership by appointing men and women with the right qualities to fulfill the desire of Nigerians for a just, equitable country; Ministers propelled by a vision to make Nigeria the best place for its citizens. The APC government is expected by the electorate that put it in power to do things differently. Of course only the ready, the willing, and the able can do this. No one in recent times has sought the presidency more tenaciously, more determinedly, than Muhammadu Buhari. Nigerians voted more for him than for his party. Now that he is fourth time lucky, the President must not lose the momentum of the change that the people yearned for, that his party promised, and that Nigerians await with great expectation. Only the best and trustworthy can help Buhari fulfill those many campaign promises. Nigeria needs ministers who would look beyond here and now and offer a new direction; ministers who make huge sacrifices to develop the country, propelled by the knowledge that leadership is for service. They may not have all the answers but do not lack the will to dream big dreams as well as the wisdom to galvanize the nation to dream with them. But they must be appointed without delay. President Buhari is duty bound to show both motion and movement because the country can no longer afford to settle into the usual debilitating inertia.

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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Entertainment News

Nigerian Ladies Have Natural Bums - Dollarsgirl By Olu Omoolu Billy Tracy, aka Dollarsgirl is an up and coming music star in Nigeria. Africanvoice caught up with her after her recent ‘Flete’album launch. She gave her views on the music industry in country, the interests she gets from male fans and the craze for big bums in the entertainment circle.

Q: Tell us how you got into music. What made you choose music? A: Actually it’s the other way around. Music choose me. It what’s love at first sight for us. (Smiles) Q: You have featured with some heavyweights, Olamide, Timaya, Harry Song, how was it doing songs with them? A: I’ve not really been in a studio session with them, hopefully, that will come soon. But I’ve shared a stage with the likes of Olamide, Timaya, Harrysong and more. I’ve worked with Dezign Collins, B-wise, Samphils and some other great artists. I think getting on stage with these heavyweights has helped shaped my music outlook. Q: We just heard ‘My Back’ just now. Heavy song. What prompted it? A: I would say it’s nature. I’m naturally endowed, so everybody wants to holla at me. They see me on the road and kind of make reference to my bum. (Laughs). Somehow the idea came and I had to drop it. Q: And there seems to be a big craze for big bums recently. Is it a ‘fashion’ thing or is the Kim Kadashian fever suddenly sweeping across Nigeria? A: It’s 100%nature down here. Our ladies have it natural. So we flaunt what we have so it has nothing to do with Kim. We have always had it even before we knew anyone like that.

Q: How was your new album launch? What was the highlight? A: The performances were out of this world. Nice turn out of crowd for the launch itself. I am glad people spoke well about it. If people can dance to your music, and be happy, then it’s good. All that happened, and I am glad. There were other talents at the launch. I must confess Nigeria has real raw talents, and we can only hope people like you can help bring them out for the world to see. Q: Have you had any ‘eager’ fan pull a stunt on you before? You spoke of how people (males) see you on the streets and holla at you. I mean, we see female fans throwing their undies to male star. Have you ever had anything weird like that from a male fan? A: Yeah a couple of times. I do get fans stepping up to rock me on stage. But it’s all part of the love for us, and of course, showbiz. Sometimes it gets out of hand. Q: And your response? Do you just get on with it? A: Thank God for my team. They are always there to control the madness, if it gets to that. Q: Back to music - what has been the high point of your career so far? Where do you see the Dollarsgirl in five years? A: My high point would be my album launch party I must say there was much love from everywhere. And also when I did my first tour around Nigeria. I don’t just see Dollarsgirl a musician. I see it as a brand - a top one in years to come. I see myself giving back to the society. That’s the dream, and with hard work, its achievable Q: if you have to categorize your music, what genre would you term it? A: Afro-pop and dance hall. Q: And the biggest challenge so far? A: First I would say being accepted by the people is not very easy.... You must give them the best there is. And also the male fans they are always on my neck!

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

News

Burkina Faso

Ousted interim leader resumes office Burkina Faso’s interim president is declaring he is once again in charge of the country a week after General Gilbert Diendere and his supporters overthrew him and his transitional government.

Interim President Michel Kafando, who had been arrested by members of the presidential guard a week ago, has sought refuge at the residence of the French ambassador. In recent days, Burkina Faso’s army sent troops into the capital to pressure Diendere and his soldiers to cede power. The military threatened to disarm them by force if necessary. A regional bloc, the Economic Community of West African States, also called on the junta to lay down its arms.

“During this ordeal we have fought together and in freedom we triumph together,” Kafando said in a declaration to the nation as presidents of neighbouring countries arrived in Burkina Faso. “We are proud of the intrepidity of the Burkinabe people, in particular its youth,” he added. Kafando’s return caps a tumultuous week in Burkina Faso, where Diendere and his supporters seized power a month before an election was due. The vote was organized after longtime leader Blaise Compaore was ousted in October in a popular uprising. The transitional government led by Kafando was to be charge until that vote. The military said on Wednesday that it had reached an agreement with other members of Diendere’s guard overnight.

Interim president Michel Kafando

Top R&B guitarist dies in car accident UK to ‘break chains of dependency’ for women in Ghana

Don Griffin International Development Secretary Justine Greening

The UK will launch a new drive to tear down the barriers stopping women in the world’s poorest countries from getting jobs, helping thousands to lift themselves out of poverty.

At a major UN Summit in New York, International Development Secretary Justine Greening will announce new funding to help women in Nepal get jobs and combat violence against teenage girls in Ghana, as well as new work to help rip up laws that discriminate against women across the developing world. Many girls and women in the developing world are denied the opportunity to get a job or face the daily threat of violence. In 18 nations husbands can legally prevent their wives from working. In addition to law reform, the new package of support will see thousands of new construction jobs given to the poorest women in Nepal, lifting 30,000 families 12

out of poverty by 2019. It will also give thousands of Ghanaian girls a safe space to escape violence. Justine Greening said: “For far too long girls and women have been invisible outside of the home. They have been excluded not just from the jobs market but from owning land, from registering a business and from accessing a bank account. “If we can break these chains of dependency, independent women will seize the opportunity to support themselves through the dignity of work, to control their own future and have their own voice. “I firmly believe that improving the lives of girls and women is one of the smartest investments we can make, which is why Britain will continue to lead from the front on this. “We will help tear down the barriers stopping women across the world from lifting themselves out of poverty, whether these are discriminatory laws, poor infrastructure or the threat of violence.”

Don Griffin, a guitarist for the Miracles who also played with Anita Baker and had a significant role in the music of the ‘70s and ‘80s was killed in a car crash in Denver, Colorado earlier this month.

Don, whose brother Billy Griffin was the Miracles’ post-Smokey Robinson lead singer, was born in Baltimore and attended The Peabody Conservatory of Music at age 17. After William “Smokey” Robinson left the Miracles, the group recruited Billy Griffin to be its lead singer, according to Rockhall.com. Don Griffin joined the Miracles to play the lead and rhythm guitars in 1974 and aided the group as it revamped its sound to correspond more closely with the new and contemporary dance/R&B style, according to Billboard. Don’s playing was featured in the group’s hit single, “Love Machine,” as well as on the Miracles’ double-platinumselling album, “City of Angels.”

After the Miracles disbanded in the late ‘70s, Don and Billy continued to write songs together as Don worked alongside his brother on Billy’s Columbia solo albums throughout the ‘80s. During this time, Don also signed on with Madagascar, a disco group, as it put out its 1981 album, “Spirit of the Street.” Clive Davis also signed Madagascar to Arista Records for the single hit, “Baby Not Tonight” in 1981. As Don and Billy continued to collaborate on Billy’s solo projects, the two worked together on the platinum single,” Hold Me Tighter in the Rain,” as well. Anita Baker also snatched up Don’s talents in 1986, recruiting him as her rhythm guitarist for her album, “Rapture”. After these hits, Don Griffin continued to successfully play and collaborate with other artists throughout the next decades, working with artists including Donna Summer, Lalah Hathaway, and Earl Klugh, while writing and recording his own music, most notably smooth jazz solo projects right up until his tragic death.

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

USA

‘Hoax bomb’ student arrest was not the ﬁrst Following news that Ahmed Mohamed, the 14-year-old Muslim student arrested in Texas for making a “hoax bomb” a fortnight ago, has been released without charge, a 19-year-old Florida student is wondering, “how could this happen again?”

Like Ahmed, Kiera Wilmot was arrested and handcuffed when, back in 2013, a science experiment she created in school caused a chemical reaction resulting in a small explosion. The, then, 16-year-old African American student at Bartow High school in Polk County, Florida was charged with creating a chemical explosion on school grounds and expelled. She was eventually reinstated and the charges dropped, but a legal anomaly means the felony charge will remain on her record for five years. “They didn’t read me any rights. They arrested me after sitting in the ofﬁce for a couple minutes. They handcuffed me. It cut my wrist, and really hurt sitting on my hands behind my back,” she wrote at the time.

Kiera Wilmot and what was left of the experiment that went wrong

Like Ahmed who garnered immense social media support and even an invitation to the White House, Kiera’s neighbours and the wider community came out in her defence. She says of the Texas incident: “I think what they did was amazing. How he had all the support behind him.”

School administrators in Irving, Texas, stand by their decision, however. “It’s a little bit disappointing that there are so many comments on social media from people who I don’t think have the complete story and we have an obligation to protect all 2,800 students here at MacArthur,” said Lesley Weaver, spokeswoman for the Irving School District.

These days Kiera is a model and mechanical engineering major at Florida Polytechnic University. She hopes to meet Mohamed one day and has a bit of advice for him. “I’d tell him he has to keep moving forward and not let the haters get to him,” she said. Despite being exonerated, Ahmed Mohamed has decided he doesn’t want to return to MacArthur High School.

Malaysia

Saudi Arabia

Police in Malaysia have arrested eight people they suspect of involvement in the bombing of a Bangkok shrine last month.

A Saudi teenager is facing death by cruciﬁxion in his home country of Saudi Arabia on charges activists say are politically motivated.

Eight arrested in Bangkok shrine blast probe Deputy Inspector-General of police, Datuk Noor Rashid Ibrahim, told reporters Malaysian authorities working together with their Thai counterparts arrested the suspects in Kelantan and Kuala Lumpur this week. Four of the suspects are reportedly locals. “I would like to clarify following the bombing, police have worked together with Thai counterparts in efforts to locate and arrest those involved in the bombing,” he said at a press conference in Bukit Aman on Wednesday (September 23), adding: “As of now, we’ve arrested eight suspects. Four are foreigners of Uighur origin. Four of them are locals. Those locals arrested [are] involved in human trafﬁcking.” Noor Rashid said that the authorities are still in the process of verifying the identity of the detainees and none have admitted to the crime yet. “So far they are being detained but we can’t conﬁrm if it was them. There is no solid proof or confession from them yet that they are the ones who are involved in the bombing,” he said. Noor Rashid offered his assurance that local authorities would be working close-

Police believe this man, captured on CCTV arriving with and then leaving without a rucksack, deposited the device that caused August’s explosion

ly with Thai police to ensure the case is solved soon. “We have informed Thai police to assist them in a probe on the bombing last month. Maybe we can help them in physical evidence, witnesses and DNA test,” he explained. Noor Rashid also said if the Thai authorities would like to extradite the suspects across the border, they would need to establish “basic proof” and go through proper legal channels.

“The Thai police need to have at least basic proof to request for them to be brought back to Thailand. “There should also be a request that they need to put in which will have to go through the legal processes. The case is still in its investigwative stages,” he added. The August 17 bombing of a Hindu shrine killed 20 people, most of them ethnic Chinese tourists. This raised suspicions that militants supporting Uighurs, an ethnic group facing heavy persecution in China, were involved in the bombing.

Juvenile dissident set to face ‘cruciﬁxion’

In 2012,Ali Mohammed al-Nimr, then 17, was arrested in the country’s Qatif province charged with illegal protesting and gun possession. After being arrested, al-Nimr was held in jail and allegedly not allowed to speak to a lawyer. According to the British legal aid group Reprieve, al-Nimr was subject to torture to extract a forced confession. A closed appeals process — which he was not invited to and occurred without his knowledge — dismissed any remaining possibility that the nation’s legal system would prevent his biblical execution. Saudi Arabia has received a lot of bad press as of late due to it consistently breaking its own records for beheadings, but sometimes a simple beheading isn’t sufﬁcient for Saudi authorities keen to make an example of critics of the regime. In what the Saudis have termed “cruciﬁxion,” the executed person’s beheaded body is placed on public display for three days. Apart from Ali Mohammed al-Nimr, currently facing this fate are Dawoud Hussain al-Marhoon - also a 17-year-old juvenile and Sheikh Nimr Baqir Al Nimr, 53. Both were arrested during a 2012 crackdown on anti-government protests in the Shiite province of Qatif. All three are due to be executed this week, pending appeals. 13

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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CRIME

Drug dealers jailed for 18 years Two drug dealers who were part of an organised criminal network smuggling large amounts of cocaine into the UK from the Caribbean have been jailed for a total of 18 years.

Julian Tavernier, 36 of Norfolk House, Regency Street SW1 was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court to ten years’ imprisonment and his accomplice Sylvester Gerard, 40 of Sydenham Road SE26 was jailed for eight years. On Wednesday, 11 March 2015 ofﬁcers from Westminster Crime Squad carried out a proactive operation and swooped as Tavernier took delivery of the drugs at Norfolk House. The authorities had become aware of the consignment on Friday, 27 February when Border Force at Portsmouth Harbour selected a courier parcel for examination which originated from the Commonwealth of Dominica. Found inside was four kilos of drugs concealed in two clay pots - tests later proved it was cocaine. Also inside were cigarettes, rum and other Caribbean goods. The address on the parcel was traced. Further enquiries revealed Tavernier and Gerard had entered a bank in Horseferry Road SW1 on Thursday, 5 March and paid the duty tax required on the cigarettes and other goods.

Sylvester Gerard

Julian Tavernier

Nigel Wilson

An X-ray of one of the containers

One of the containers being opened

The package was then released by customs for delivery to the ﬂat in Norfolk House on 11 March at 11:00hrs where Tavernier was waiting to receive it. Ofﬁcers entered the property, seized the package and arrested Tavernier. Gerard was arrested on Wednesday, 31 March. The investigation led to further warrants being executed elsewhere in the UK. In total drugs with a street value of £1m were recovered during the operation. Tavernier pleaded guilty on Thursday, 10 September, three days into his trial, to conspiracy to import class A drugs into the UK. Gerard was found guilty on Monday, 14 September by a jury of the same offence. Detective Constable Mark Gibson said: “Operation Marne was an intelligence-led investigation, involving our colleagues in the UK Border Force and the National Crime Agency, which has successfully broken an organised criminal network. “This network, if left unchecked, would undoubtedly have gone on to import millions of pounds worth of cocaine onto the streets of London. “The arrest and successful prosecution of these two defendants has prevented further misery for the many victims of crime created by the trade in illegal drugs.” Sentencing took place on Wednesday, 16 September

Two jailed for ﬁrearm offences, Hackney

A man who ﬁred a gun at a Police Community Support Ofﬁcer (PCSO) in Hackney has been jailed for a total of 27 years at the Old Bailey today (18 September).

Mubarak Shaibu - 25 of Amhurst Road, E8 was jailed for a total of 27 years after pleading guilty to possession of a ﬁrearm with intent to endanger life and possession of ammunition with intent at an earlier hearing. Another man, Scott Nelson - 27 of Wharton Road, E15 was found guilty of possession of a ﬁrearm and of assisting an offender on 17 September following a trial at the Old Bailey. He was jailed for 12 years. The court heard how Shaibu and Nelson had set out on 5 April 2014, intent on carrying out a retribution attack on a group they believed was responsible for assaulting one of their associates. Shaibu, armed with a submachine gun, and another male cycled to the Pembury Estate and attempted to attack three males. The males made off from the scene with Shaibu, who had come off his bike, and 14

the other male pursuing them - this was witnessed by officers who were on patrol on the estate. A PCSO, who had heard about the altercation over the radio, shouted to Shaibu to stop - however, Shaibu drew the gun and fired a shot at the officer. He was not injured. The PCSO pursued Shaibu at a distance and saw him enter an address on the Downs Estate. Armed officers attended and Shaibu and Nelson were arrested. A pair of latex gloves were recovered outside the address which linked Nelson forensically to the firearm. Following a subsequent search of the address, a submachine gun was recovered in the loft area of the flats near to the address where they were arrested. Tests revealed firearms residue on Shaibu’s face, linking him to the discharge of the gun. Shaibu and Nelson were subsequently charged. Detective Inspector Andy George of the Trident and Area Crime Command led the investigation. He said:

The ﬁrearm involved

“Shaibu and Nelson set out on that day to carry out an act of violence. Shaibu’s decision to ﬁre his gun at a PCSO shows there was no regard who came to harm as a result of his actions. “In sentencing Shaibu and Nelson, Judge Hone praised the PCSO who pursued Shaibu, commending him for his

actions. This highlights the dangers Met employees face while they carry out their duties protecting Londoners. “This sentencing sends a strong message to those who believe violence is an acceptable way to settle scores. Trident detectives will ﬁnd you, arrest you and put you before the courts.”

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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Sounds of Diaspora People of America

Soap star slams Viola Davis Emmy speech

After Viola Davis made history on Sunday night at the Emmys by becoming the first black woman to win Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series and gave an empowering speech about the lack of opportunities for women of colour, one soap star took to Twitter to criticize.

with their arms stretched out to me over that line, but I can’t seem to get there no how. I can’t seem to get over that line.’ That was Harriet Tubman in the 1800s,” Davis told a captivated crowd, adding: “And let me tell you something, the only thing that separates women of colour from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there. So here’s to all the writers, the awesome people—Ben Sherwood, Paul Lee, Peter Nowalk, Shonda Rhimes—people who have redefined what it means to be beautiful, to be sexy, to be a leading women, to be black. And to the to the Taraji P. Hensons, the Kerry Washingtons, the Halle Berrys, the Nicole Beharies, the Meagan Goods, to Gabrielle Union, thank you for taking us over that line”

“General Hospital” actress Nancy Lee Grahn slammed the “How to Get Away With Murder” star after the awards show ended. “I wish I loved #ViolaDavis Speech, but I thought she should have let [HTGAWM Executive Producer] @shondarhimes write it. #Emmys,” she wrote. Davis’s stirring speech got a standing ovation from the audience inside the Microsoft Theatre on Sunday. “’In my mind I see a line, and over that line, I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful white women

Viola Davis delivers the acceptance speech that upset Nancy Lee Grahn (inset)

Lee Grahn’s now-deleted tweet reads: “Im a f—ing actress for 40 yrs. None of us get respect or opportunity we deserve. Emmys not venue 4 racial opportunity. ALL women belittled.” Grahn also criticized Davis for quoting Harriet Tubman during her acceptance speech. After receiving nearly immediate backlash for her ramblings, Grahn sidestepped into attempted apologies. “I apologize for my earlier tweets and now realize I need to check my own privilege,” Grahn said in an extended tweet. “My intention was not to take this historic and important moment from Viola Davis or other women of color (sic) but I realize that my intention doesn’t matter here because that is what I ended up doing. I learned a lot tonight and I admit that there are still some things I don’t understand but I am trying to and will let this be a learning experience for me.”

MJ’s daughter no longer Paris after dark

Paris Jackson and boyfriend Chester Castellaw enjoy an informal and unguarded moment together

Paris Jackson has dealt with family drama and her own grief since her dad Michael Jackson died in 2009. But the teenager seems to be coming out of the other side and seems happier than ever.

Her piercing blue eyes are unmistakable but for the most part the adorable little girl is gone. Paris is now a 17-yearold beauty and even has a boyfriend these days. The late King of Pop’s only daughter has lead a predominantly private life in the years following her father’s tragic death, while most of her public outings with Michael were by night or behind strange shrouds. But now she’s a social media star and loves sharing her good looks with followers. According to insiders her happy transformation it is all down to new boyfriend Chester Castellaw.

The teenager was first reported to be in a relationship with Chester, who plays football for Californian club Real So Cal, in April this year. While they haven’t been together long, the couple are already reportedly serious about each other and planning a future together. “Chester is absolutely in love with Paris and I am sure that he would love to marry her,” an insider told Radar Online. “That ring that she is wearing is a promise ring that he got her.” A source told Radar Online previously that Chester is “an incredibly kind and sensitive young man who has been nothing but supportive and understanding of Paris”. They added: “Paris is completely head over heels for him and she has been gushing about him constantly, telling her family members that she loves him and he is her ‘soul mate.’” 15

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Gospel By Michael Adekoya

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

DON’T QUIT!!!

“Let us not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in due season, if we don’t give up” Gal. 6:9

Continued from last week... ...“Lord, I have prayed, fasted, sown seed and believed You so much but why am I still single?” “Lord, I have married since five years ago, yet no child.” “Lord, why are people not coming to my shop?” “Lord, I worked so hard, why am I having nothing to show for it?” “Lord, why is my parent, spouse, child, friend still not saved?” “Lord, I have put in all efforts that I can into this company, this club, this team, this government, yet no growth or progress”. “Lord, what’s happening to my finance, career, education, business and my nation?” I’m tired and I want to quit. My friend, is this where you are now? I have a word for you.

Peter, John and James were once in your position. They were washing their nets; the last thing fishermen do before they give up and head for home. They were tired, fed up, discouraged and wearied for lack of results and saw no point in trying again. My friend, hear me! The Lord God often waits until we’ve been humbled and challenged by circumstances, even by people, then He steps in with a life changing word. God has a comforting and transforming Word for you in every situation. God still speaks today to people and when He speaks, it is your make or break moment. It may be a word that is so hard to accept at first and you become so defensive. Sometime, when this Word comes through a person so familiar to you and you may want to water it down, make a joke about it or resist it thinking, “He doesn’t know what I’ve been through” or saying to the person, “I really don’t care anymore about the issue. What will be will be!” This is a

wrong attitude! God’s word is His bond. It produces results. If you go with your feelings or you are arrogant to resist the Word of God, you’ll miss what God has got for you. But if you exercise your faith and determine not to give up on the issue or quit from the whole thing, there will be a turnaround. All things are possible with God. When your back is to the wall and you feel like you’re out of options or feel there is no way, you should be honest to tell God how you feel. Peter told Jesus, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything” (Luke 5:5). My friend, it’s time to go on your kneels and be open to God. Don’t be too full of yourself to despise God’s word for your life!

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

(PART TWO)

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

Generally, the greatest discoveries about wGod take place when we have reached the end of our rope. God usually shows up when we need Him most. No matter what may be happening around you, you need to exercise patience, trust in the Lord and have hope to find new strength. You’ll soar high on wings like eagles; you’ll run and not grow weary and you’ll will walk and not faint (Isa 40:31). My friend, seek the face of God and get a word from Him when the going is tough and you want to give up or quit. We walk by common sense. Nobody goes to school to learn how to walk. But we can only fly higher in life by obeying instructions. High flyers don’t fly by ideas or by much teaching but by obeying instructions.

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

My friend, God is in control of every circumstance you’re facing today. Always invite Master Jesus into the situation. Jesus is the Master over trouble marriages, attacks, temptation, weakness, fear, lack, barrenness, impatience, sickness, unbelief and discouragement. Ask Him for revelation and directions for the way out and He would speak to you. He told Peter, don’t quit “…launch out into the deep and get down your nets…” What an instruction! What a prophetic utterance! Peter decided to respond, in faith, to the divine instruction by saying, “… nevertheless, at Your Word, I will…” And he was rewarded! Did you hear that? My friend, the majesty and sovereignty of God’s voice in your situation is the gateway to solution. Revelation is the answer to frustrations and the cure for all tears (Isa 60:20; Rev 5:4-5). On the other side of your decision to obey God’s voice (or His Word, His command, His law, His instruction) and also make Jesus the Lord of your life and the Lord of your situation, then salvation, breakthrough, deliverance, victory, prosperity, fruitfulness and blessings await you so great that it will also touch those around you. When God speaks, He commits Himself to perform what He says (1 Thess 5:24). He sustains only what He ordains! My friend, you need to catch God’s voice to become a voice. Operating your life, home, ministry, business, government, even the Church of Jesus, as commanded by God, puts you in supernatural command. It is time to break the spirit of fear, weariness, doubt, murmuring, discouragement, division, defeat, disobedience, unbelief and failure. It is time to quit doing things in our own way but in God’s way. No matter the challenges, attack or persecution, my friend, press on, move on, continue praising God, keep doing what’s right, keep putting efforts to what you are doing, keep renewing your mind, keep walking with God in faith, keep on obeying Him and praying with expectation, keep being part of the team that makes things happen! Don’t give up! Don’t quit! Remain blessed!

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 Forth-

nightly 12am Sunday Service: Sundays 10am - 1pm Winners’ Chapel London- part of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, at 1 Churchill Close, Green Street, Green Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1QE meets Sunday 7.30am, 9.15am and 11am and Wednesdays at 7pm. For details call: 01322 292097 Christ Apostolic Church, Surrey Docks District, Solution Centre, 47-47 High Street, Swancombe, Kent, DA10 0DA Tel: 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

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Friday, 18 September - Thursday, 24 September 2015

Africa Newsround

Kenya

Teachers’ pay impasse leaves schools empty Kenya’s government’s refusal to acquiesce to a court ruling awarding school teachers pay increases of as much as 60 percent has resulted in all state schools remaining closed since August 31st.

Kenya’s main teachers union vowed to continue its strike for higher pay as the government prepared to appeal the ruling. President Uhuru Kenyatta has ruled out giving in to teachers’ demands, saying to do so would “seriously distort” public finances. The Kenya National Teachers Union (KNUT) said its members won’t go back to work until the government complies with last month’s Industrial Court order to raise their pay. “We are not vacating from our position,” Secretary-General Wilson Sossion said in an interview with Nation TV, a broadcaster based in Nairobi, the capital. “You don’t comply with the order, we don’t resume duty.” Kenya’s more than 280,000 publicschool teachers earn a minimum of 23,692 shillings (£148) to as much as 140,089 shillings (£862) a month, according to the Kenyan presidency. Annual inflation in the $55.2 billion economy, East Africa’s biggest, was 5.8 percent last month.

President Uhuru Kenyatta says giving in to teachers’ demands would “seriously distort” public ﬁnances.

Private institutions remained open this week after the high court suspended the government’s directive that all schools be closed. The Education Ministry had ordered primary and secondary schools shut because of the strike, while allowing high-school students who are preparing to take exams to continue their studies.

Kenya’s main opposition party, the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy, plans to hold a rally in Nairobi on Wednesday (September 23) to back the teachers’ demands. The group has also threatened to call for Kenyatta’s impeachment for defying the court order, Citizen TV, a Nairobibased broadcaster, reported on September 17.

Kenya’s government opposes the court ruling that awarded pay increases of 50 percent to 60 percent, arguing that it usurps the constitutionally mandated role that the Teachers Service Commission and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission have to set teachers’ pay. The two bodies’ appeal against the ruling will be heard today (Tuesday). KNUT has also asked another court to jail eight high-ranking government ofﬁcials for contempt of court over their failure to pay the increases awarded last month, according to Nairobi-based Business Daily. President Kenyatta, who addressed the nation in a televised speech, said agreeing to teachers’ wage demands would require the salaries commission to review pay across the public service. That would inﬂate the government wage bill to 61 percent of total revenue, compared with 52 percent now and a middle-income country average of 35 percent, he said. Kenya collected 1.1 trillion shillings (£6.8 billion) of revenue last year. To raise additional revenue, the government would either have to raise valueadded tax to 22 percent from 16 percent, borrow money, or suspend development programs. Doing so “will raise the cost of living, slow down our economy and increase unemployment and poverty,” Kenyatta said. “None of these options is tenable.”

Uganda

Vehicle tracker leads cops to stolen luxury ﬂeet Police investigating a spate of luxury car thefts in London have traced stolen vehicles valued at over £1m to Uganda.

Metropolitan Police detectives were alerted when a £50,000 Lexus SUV was stolen from a house in west London. The vehicle was ﬁtted with a state-of-the-art tracking device which self-activates if it moves without the authority of its rightful owner. The UK’s National Crime Agency was able to track the car ’s movement, leading investigators to Le Havre in north France, before it was shipped all the way to Oman in the Middle East. It was then shipped on to Kenya and finally transported in a container to Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

Ugandan police inspect a collection of stolen BMW, Mercedes and Range Rover SUVs

Police worked with local Ugandan law officials and travelled to Kampala, where they were stunned to find not only the Lexus they had been tracking, but 26 other cars that had been stolen in the UK before being shipped, presumably via a similar route, to Uganda. The value of the vehicles exceeds £1 million. As a former British colony Uganda is a right hand drive market, making UK cars popular. Transport costs also makes importing cars relatively expensive. Prestige European market vehicles, particularly 4x4s, command a high value in a home market flooded with low spec Far Eastern fodder. The stolen cars found in Kampala are now in the process of being transported back to the UK to be reunited with their owners, which in most cases will be insurance underwriters. 17

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Friday, 18 September - Thursday, 24 September 2015

Nigerian News

HID Awolowo: End Of An Era – Aregbesola Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has described the translation of the matriarch of the Awolowo family, Chief Mrs. Hannah Idowu Dideola Awolowo, as the end of an era.

Aregbesola, in a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, said joined the progressive family in mourning the glorious exit of a matriarch. He described Mama Awolowo as a solid pillar beside the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo when he was alive. According to the Governor, Mama stood by her husband during his lifetime and even after his demise. He stated that the Awo Matriarch worked tirelessly to ensure the Awolowo political dynasty remains united. The statement quoted Aregbesola as saying, “we join the entire progressive family, Awo political movement as well as the whole Yoruba race in mourning as well as celebrating the glorious translation. “They set examples for politicians when they were here with us. The couple typified the best of what politicians should strive to be in their families in our society. “We believe there will be a celestial celebration of reunion of a couple that exemplified harmony and true wedlock. “There is no doubt that she was a jewel of inestimable value as Papa described her. “She demonstrated this by standing behind her husband during his political trial. She never wavered for once during Papa’s incarceration. Rather she was committed to upholding what Papa stood for. “Even in death Mama remained a rallying point for the Awolowo political dynasty until her last breath on earth. “To the best of my knowledge, Mama was an ideal wife, a loving mother, an astute woman and committed political leader. “Her death certainly has left empty the socio-political house of the Yoruba race and the Awolowo dynasty. “On behalf of myself, the government and people of Osun, I commiserate with the Awolowo Family, the governnent of 18

Ogun State, the entire Yoruba race both at home and in diaspora and Nigerians in general. “May her soul in eternal bliss with the Lord. “ Meanwhile, the Government of the state of Osun on Sunday asked Eid-il-kabir holiday makers to use the opportunities offered by their homecoming to measure the magnitude of the development works going on in the state as against the campaigns of calumny which the opponents of the government have embarked on. This was just as the government announced that it has concluded arrangements to provide free Eid-el-Kabir train services for its citizens in continuation of its commitment to making life more meaningful for the people of the state. A statement by the Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Mr.Semiu Okanlawon, on Sunday, said the free train service would be offered between Tuesday and Wednesday. It explained that the train would, by 11.00 A.M on Tuesday the 22nd and Wednesday, 23rd of this month convey people from Lagos to Osogbo. He pointed out that the return journey to Lagos from Osogbo will be on Sunday the 27th by 11 A.M. The Bureau emphasised that the gesture by the Aregbesola-led administration is aimed at facilitating a stress-free homecoming for the people during the festival. He noted that the state government had, since 2011, been making such similar arrangements for people of the state, to travel home during festive seasons. While wishing eid-il-kabir holiday makers successful journey back home, the statement urged them to take advantage of their homecoming to have a feel of the ongoing developments of the state. “We encourage holiday makers to use this opportunity to update themselves about the developments that are taking place in the state as against the persistent negative media campaigns by our traducers. This is one of those opportunities they have to see things directly in order to be guided by future campaigns of calumny which our political opponents are committed to.” the statement concluded.

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola(right); Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode(2nd right), National Leader All Progressive Congress (APC), Senator Bola Ahamed Tinubu(left), Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi(3rd left), Rev. Mrs Tola Oyediran(2nd left) and Professor Kayode Oyediran (3rd right) during a condolence visit in honour of the Late Yeye Oodua, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Awolowo at Awolowo Country Home, Ikenne, Ogun State

Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola(3rd left); National Leader All Progressive Congress (APC), Senator Bola Ahamed Tinubu(2nd right),former Governor Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi(left), National Publicity Secretary, All Progressive Congress (APC), Alhaji Lai Muhammed(2nd lefta), Dr. Mrs. Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu(right) and others during a condolence visit in honour of the Late Yeye Oodua, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Awolowo at Awolowo Country Home, Ikenne, Ogun State

From left- Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, National Leader All Progressive Congress (APC), Senator Bola Ahamed Tinubu and National Publicity Secretary, All Progressive Congress (APC), Alhaji Lai Muhammed during a condolence visit in honour of the Late Yeye Oodua, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Awolowo at Awolowo Country Home, Ikenne, Ogun State

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Friday, 18 September - Thursday, 24 September 2015

Nigerian News

Saraki - New Dawn for Democracy? By Olubunmi Omoogun This week has been a heavily packed week for news seekers. There’s the abduction of a former Secretary to the Federal Government under Ibrahim Babangida government and Akure leader, Chief Olu Falae by a gang of fulani kidnappers at his Ilu Abo farm near Akure, Ondo State Southwest Nigeria. There is also the passing of the Chief Hannah I. Dideolu Awolowo, wife of the former Premier of Western region and foremost political and yoruba leader, Ikenne born Chief Obafemi Awolowo of blessed memory. She died two months before her 100th birthday celebration.

The news of the Senate President, His excellency Abubakar Bukola Saraki being tried by the Code of Conduct Tribunal for alleged false declaration of assets as public office holder while serving as the governor of Kwara State, north central Nigeria. Recall that Mrs. Toyin Saraki, former first lady of Kwara state and wife of the Senate President was quizzed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC not long ago for alleged fraud. It was based on her role as founder/President of her pet project, Well-Being Foundation Africa (WBF AfricaY, a pan-African maternal health and wellbeing charity. Her husband’s trial by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) coming on this heel has been described in political circle as witch hunting, scape goatism double crossing and what have you. The public, political pundits, media and legal luminaries have carved all sorts of terminology for the happenings going on with the Sarakis. Senator Bukola Saraki being the central figure in this drama has pleaded not guilty to the 13 charges read against him in the presence of 20 Senators and political friends that accompanied him to the CCT to face the trial. Senator Bukola Saraki believes his ordeal is due to his assumption of the office of Senate President. A position he assumed against the wishes of his political party the APC. People have questioned the timing of this action by the CCT especially at a time the National Assembly will be resuming its duties after a long recess and at a time President Mohammadu Buhari is putting finishing touches to his

Senate President Bukola Saraki

ministerial lists and eventually pushing them forward for screening at the senate this month of September. There are angry reactions by some section of the population that believed that this might stall the screening of the ministers when finally brought forward to the senate by the executive. If the Senate President is under trial by the executives by way of the CCT why should the same senate under Bukola Saraki have the morality to screen the ministers. Though the President, Mohammadu Buhari and the APC have washed their hands off the trial of the Senate President however, some supporters of Saraki feel that this is the handiworks of some aggrieved APC chieftains who lost out in the Senate Presidency race. All these are serious political manoeuvres which some say could affect the fortunes and gains of APC as a political party. It is no longer news that long before the March 28 Presidential and National Assembly elections leaders have had cause to have a sense of who to become the senate President, and why not after all its an important position, in the hierarchy of government it is number three, after the President and vice President of the nation. That is the reason the APC had a mock selection in June to select its Senate President. The Saraki group in the dead of the night

turned the table around and scuttled the party’s arrangement. This probably confirms what Russel Wayne Baker, an American Columnist said in 1925 ‘the dirty work of political conventions is almost always done in the grim hours between midnight and dawn. Politicians work best when the human spirit is at its lowest ebb’. Russel can never be farther from the truth. The plan to get Senator Ike Ekweremadu, PDP Enugu, South east Nigeria to pair with Saraki to have Saraki-Ekweremadu ticket for the Senate Presidency and Deputy Senate Presidency was something that was hatched in the grim hours between mid-

night and dawn when the spirit of the core APC members was at its lowest ebb. The coming week will turn out to be another test for the APC led National Assembly reason been that the National Assembly will resume with a semi bruised Senate President just fresh from the defendant box of the Code of Conduct Tribunal and the ministerial lists expected to come through from the President, His Excellency Mohammadu Buhari to the Senate for screening. The people are eager to see the final list of the ministers and will have their eyes on the resumption of the National Assembly with Senator Bukola Saraki presiding. Barka de Sallah! 19

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

Garzitto: I’ve waited five years for this moment Five years appear such a long time, but for Frenchman Diego Garzitto, it is no long a period after all. Garzitto made a name for himself after guiding DR Congo side, TP Mazembe to CAF Champions League glory in 2009.

Now in charge of Sudanese giants El Merreikh, the 65-year old will come faceto-face with Mazembe at the semi-final of the CAF Champions League in the first leg on Saturday, 26 September 2015 in Omdurman. It will be the first time Garzitto will be on the opposing bench against the club he enjoyed a fruitful spell with between 2008 and 2010, and it is a moment that he strongly cherishes. Ahead of the match, the Frenchman spoke to Cafonline.com on his expectations; Cafonline.com: What is the feeling of coming up against your former club, TP Mazembe? Diego Garzitto: I had two stints with TP Mazembe, the first from 2003-2004, and later 2008-2010. It was a youthful team during both spells. Some of the players are no longer with the team such as Tresor Mputu Mabi, Mulota Kabangu and Bedi Mbenza. The likes of Jean Kasusula, Muteba Kidiaba and Given Singuluma are still around. I have good memories of my Mazembe days. Now I’m with El Merreikh and I have goals I desire to achieve with them. Mazembe has experienced changes over the years but not in the best direction. They are not the same strong team they

DR Congo in fine form

used to be. I know their weak and strong points. In spite of the quality of players, they are not in harmony. I cannot deny the fact that I have waited five years for this moment. What kind of results are you expecting from the game? Personally, winning by one or two goals would be a good result and if we are able to win 3-0, it would be the perfect result. I don’t preview matches from only one angle. My strategy is to attack in both home and away matches, like we did against Esperance (Tunisia) and Kabuscorp (Angola) at the knockout stages. We have a strong attack with the likes of Bakri ‘Al Medina’

Babiker, Didier Lebri and Francis Coffie, who have the ability to score in Omdurman and DR Congo. There is nothing to worry about. There were concerns over the fitness of Bakri Al Medina. What is his situation and that of the team in general? Bakri is ready for the match. He underwent a short therapy in Dubai and has been passed fit to play. The only unavailable player is young midfielder Sharaf El Shaiboub, who is out with a knee injury. But I have good replacements in Ayman Said and Omar Bakhit. You are oozing so much confidence. What is the motivation?

We have been working since the beginning of the year. El Merreikh has developed over time. We lost of our first match 2-0 against Azam of Tanzania, and ever since we have never looked back in the Orange CAF Champions League. Conceptions about the team have since changed. The players are united to work for the team. Also, we have a huge support base, which have served a major source of inspiration especially in our home matches. We are yet to lose in our last six home matches, with no goal conceded. This is a wonderful record. Describe the atmosphere in your camp ahead of the match? We have been in a preparatory camp for a week. All the players are concentrated and know their role in the upcoming match. The players have developed a winning mentality for all matches. We are working hard to achieve our goals. El Merreikh is in one of its best conditions ever. We will exploit the weak points in Mazembe to win the match. Are you looking forward to your second CAF Champions League trophy? I won the title in 2009 and left Mazembe in the middle of the 2010 season. So I played a role in Mazembe winning the title again in 2010, and I think I deserve some credit for that feat. Now I’m looking forward to winning the title for another time and I believe I have the tools to achieve that, but we have to deal with each match separately. We will see what happens after Saturday’s match.

Mikel back from the cold

Chelsea star recalled as provisional squad named for Belgium friendlies By Alan Oakley

Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh recalled English Premier League stars John Obi Mikel, Victor Moses and Odion Ighalo for upcoming friendlies against Cameroon and Congo.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel was dropped for last month’s CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Tanzania, while his team-mate Moses, currently on loan to West Ham, missed out through injury. Watford striker Ighalo was not considered but has since hit a streak of fine form for his club, while Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi was sidelined by a one-match suspension picked up against Chad in June, when he was sent off. 22

Nigeria face Congo on 8 October in Antwerp and the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon three days later in Brussels as part of preparations for FIFA World Cup™ qualification. The winners of the preliminary round between Swaziland and Djibouti will host the Super Eagles on 9 November in a World Cup first-round qualifier. Nigeria will host the return leg at home eight days later. Nigeria squad from: Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille/ FRA), Carl Ikeme (Wolverhampton Wanderers/ENG), Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Sunshine Stars), Femi Thomas (Enyimba) Defenders: Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05/GER), Abdullahi Shehu (Uniao da Madeira/POR), Elderson Echiejile (AS Monaco/FRA), Chima Akas (Sharks FC), Godfrey Oboabona (Caykur Rizespor/TUR), William Troost Ekong (FK Haugesund/ NOR), Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa SK/ TUR), Austin Oboroakpo (Abia Warriors)

Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel

Midfielders: Ogenyi Onazi (SS Lazio/ITA), Paul Onobi (Sunshine Stars), Obiora Nwankwo (Coimbra FC/POR), Mikel Obi (Chelsea/ ENG), Rabiu Ibrahim (AS Trencin/SLO) Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow/RUS), Emmanuel Emenike (Al Ain/

In-form Watford striker Odion Ighalo

UAE), Sylvester Igbonu (FC UFA/RUS), Moses Simon (KAA Gent/BEL), Alex Iwobi (Arsenal/ENG), Victor Moses (West Ham United/ENG), Odion Ighalo (Watford FC/ENG), Prince Aggrey (Sunshine Stars)

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Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015

Malawi begin preparations for Tanzania World Cup qualifier

Etoile du Sahel take on high-flying Zamalek

As part of preparations for next month’s FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 qualifiers, Malawi has resumed a training camp at the Chiwembe Technical Centre in Blantyre.

The Flames moved to camp on Monday, 21 September 2015 to begin preparations for the clash with Tanzania billed for Wednesday, 7 October 2015 in Dar es Salaam. The return leg will take place four days later at the Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre. Coach Ernest Mtawali has summoned 25-players for the two-legged encounter including new faces midfielders Levison Maganizo and Kondwani Kumwenda of Fisd Wizards and Be Forward Wanderers respectively. Returning to the squad are defender Miracle Gabeya (Big Bullets), midfielder Harvey Nkacha (Kamuzu Barracks) and striker Luka Milanzi (Wanderers), whereas defender Lucky Malata (Silver Strikers) and veteran winger Fischer Kondowe (Big Bullets) were overlooked. The team will be joined by additional players plying their trade in Mozambique and South Africa to wrap up preparations. Meanwhile, General Secretary of the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Suzgo Nyirenda has announced plans are on course to play either Kenya or Uganda in a test match en route to Tanzania. The winner of the Malawi-Tanzania tie

Mohamed Ibrahim

Etoile Sportive du Sahel host Zamalek in Sousse on Sunday, in the first leg of their 2015 Confederation Cup last four encounter.

Malawi National Football Team a.k.a. The Flames

will face Algeria at the next round of the continental qualifiers. Full squad Goalkeepers: Bright Munthali (Fisd Wizards), Juma Chikwenga (Moyale Barracks), Richard Chipuwa (Be Forward Wanderers) Defenders: Stanley Sanudi (Be Forward Wanderers), Pililani Zonda, Yamikani Fodya (Big Bullets), Emmanuel Zoya, John Lanjesi (Civo United), Miracle

Gabeya (Big Bullets), Wonder Jelemani (Silver Strikers), Chisomo Mpachika (Dedza Young Soccer Stars) Midfielders: Isaac Kaliati (Be Forward Wanderers), John Banda (Blue Eagles), Yamikani Chester (Azam Tigers), Dalitso Sailesi (Big Bullets), Chikoti Chirwa (Red Lions), Levison Maganizo (Fisd Wizards), Kondwani Kumwenda (Be Forward Wanderers), Harvey Nkacha (Kamuzu Barracks).

Toure: Star-studded City can become one of best teams in Europe Yaya Toure believes Manchester City can become of the best teams in Europe after splashing the cash in the transfer market.

City top the Premier League by two points after six games following the arrivals of Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling for around £100million. De Bruyne and Sterling have settled in relatively quickly in Manchester, and Toure is confident the international pair can lead City to new heights both domestically and in Europe. “Kevin De Bruyne has been brilliant. He gave an assist and scored one goal at Sunderland. Raheem is scoring, and [Sergio] Aguero is our top striker and our top goal scorer,” the Ivory Coast international said. “Could we be one of the most exciting teams in Europe now? Yeah, to be honest,

YAYA Toure

I think yes. It is full credit to chairman who made this happen. “Yes, we are working to be the best City team. It is difficult because we have just bought those players like De Bruyne and Sterling. We need to make sure they feel part of the team.

“As a player, it makes my duty a little bit less! For the moment I just focus on defending because offensively we have a lot of power to show like Sergio, Sami [Nasri], [Jesus] Navas, Kevin. They don’t need me on the attack side now!”

The Tunisians finished second in their Group A on 13 points, behind Al Ahly on goal difference, after enjoying a 100 percent home record. Meanwhile, the Egyptian giants sealed a first-place finish in Group B on an impressive 15 points. The White Knights are full of confidence ahead of their trip to Tunisia, after completing their first domestic double since 1988. The Egyptian Premier League holders defeated arch-rivals Al Ahly 2-0 in the Egypt Cup final on Monday, courtesy of a first-half brace from star striker Bassem Morsi, to put an end to a 21-match winless run against the Red Devils. And Zamalek are now switching their focus to continental action, in their bid to claim their first ever title in Africa’s second-tier club competition. However, Etoile prepared for their African clash with a 4-0 win over US Ben Guerdane in the Tunisian Ligue 1, and will be looking to keep their momentum going on Sunday. “Just one week from the first leg of our CAF semifinal tie, it was necessary to mentally pick ourselves up,” said Etoile coach Faouzi Benzarti, who defeated Zamalek in the final of the 1994 CAF Champions League at the helm of Espérance de Tunis. The Tunisians enjoy a good record against the Cairo giants, whom they defeated on away goals in the semifinals of the 1999 CAF Cup before securing a 1-1 draw and a 2-1 win in the group stage of the 2005 edition of the CAF Champions League. The match will kick off at Stade Olympique de Sousse at 21h00 CAT on Sunday 27 September 2015. 23

Friday, 25 September - Thursday, 1 October 2015 ISSUE 598

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Toure: Star-studded City can become one of best teams in Europe SEE PAGE 23

Young Gunner receives the call Striker’s impressive pre-season sees father’s wish fulfilled

Alex Iwobi’s father Chuka (left) was influential in his son’s decision to pull on the green of Nigeria’s Super Eagles

By Alan Oakley

Nigeria has called up teenage Arsenal striker Alex Iwobi to represent the Super Eagles after the

youngster, who represented Eng-

land at U16, U17 and U18, elected

to play for the country of his birth at full international level.

Iwobi, who was on the bench for the Gunners’ Capital One Cup clash with arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, is one of Arsene Wengers most promising young talents and had been tipped to play in the England senior squad had he not chosen to plump for Nigeria. He trained earlier this year with England’s U23 squad alongside last season’s break-out star, Tottenham’s Harry Kane, Iwobi spoke of his father’s influence in his final decision. “My dad too has told me a lot of things about the honour and pride that goes with

playing for Nigeria,” he said, adding: “So I thought a lot about this and decided to play for Nigeria.”

Alex Iwobi is expected to join the rest of the Nigeria squad for their friendlies against Congo and Cameroon in October.

The 19-year-old has footballing connec-

tions with the Super Eagles that go beyond his father’s devotion. He is the nephew of

former Nigeria and Bolton captain Jay-Jay

Okocha, possibly the most famous player to pull on the green shirt of West Africa’s most successful footballing nation.

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