Nigerian Watch - Issue 050

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NO KOBOKO OR BUST

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NIGERIAN WATCH

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Parents warned to spare the rod or face prosecution – p3

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NIGERIAN WATCH THE UK’S LEADING AFRICAN NEWSPAPER WITH THE LARGEST CIRCULATION

BEFFTA COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF THE YEAR 10 - 23 Apr 2015

Issue No 050

FORTNIGHTLY

To Inspire, Inform and Entertain

nigerianwatch.com

THE HISTORY MAKERS CHIBOK GIRLS Vigil called to mark the heartbreaking anniversary Page 14

‘DOPE’ DEALER Meet the Naija youth leader out to make the BBC more streetwise Page 4

What allowed Nigeria to defy the odds – pages 16-19

MADAM AMEBO RETURNS WITH THE DIASPORA’S WICKEDEST WHISPERS – page 10

NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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Did the Scots scupper Emmanuel?

NIGERIAN

WATCH

thE VoICE 2015: Emmanuel performs ‘Somebody I used to Know’ and waiting with finalists Stevie McCrorie, Sasha Simone and lucy o’Byrne to discover if he has made the final two

CoMMENt

We are ready to serve Nigeria or six weeks the world held its breath, fearing the worst; not only the descent into chaos of Nigeria but the whole of sub-Saharan Africa.

But on March 28 and in the days since that fear has been replaced with rejoicing. Nigerians have delivered and stood by a verdict that sets Nigeria on course to be the powerhouse of the 21st century, for not only the continent but the world. for that we must be ever grateful to President goodluck Jonathan, President-elect general Muhammadu Buhari, and the dogged and determined chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission Professor Attahiru Jega.

Is it too soon to suggest a statue of these three men be placed in freedom Park, lagos, opposite the founding fathers statue of Azikwe, Balewa and Awolowo? Their achievement is of equal greatness.

But of course the really hard work starts now. rome wasn’t built in a day and we must be patient. general Buhari has said he will be a collaborative and listening President. hopefully that extends to the diaspora.

In recent times we have grown weary of the lipservice paid to the contribution we can make and expertise we can bring to the development of our great nation. President Buhari, sir, we are here to serve our great nation as it consolidates its new position in the world, if allowed.

Maryanne Jemide, MD

publisher tevin Jemide publisher/Managing director Maryanne Jemide Managing editor Jon hughes art editor Cathy Constable contributors obah Iyamu; harriet ogbeide; AJ James; Ayo Akinfe; funmi odegbami; Samuel Kasumu; Ngozi Mbana; Ekanem robertson, Jessica onah, laura Adenuga; Edel Meremikwu chief cartoonist harold ogbeide office address Nigerian Watch Chartwell house 292 hale lane Edgware Middlesex hA8 8NP email editor@nigerianwatch.com marketing@nigerianwatch.com sales@nigerianwatch.com Website www.nigerianwatch.com tel: 020 8588 9640 fax: 020 7160 5232 Nigerian Watch is a monthly newspaper owned by green World Media ltd.

Views expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher.

All rights reserved. No part of the newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher.

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Acclaimed Nigerian soul singer Emmanuel Nwamadi surprisingly failed to make the final cut on the BBC’s talent show The Voice on Saturday (April 4) – and many suspect it was because Scottish Nationalists were roused to vote for the eventual winner, fireman Steve McCrorie.

Dubbed the “shy one” on the show for his humble character, Emmanuel delivered what many considered was the best performance ever seen in the three years of the show’s ex-

istence when he performed a version of Seal’s Crazy as a duet with his mentor Ricky Wilson.

The Twittersphere went into meltdown as people raved about the performance, which cast McCrorie’s version of the Beatle’s ‘Get Back’ in the shade. Throughout the series Emmanuel has been acclaimed for his virtuosity in making popular songs his own.

Many believe McCrorie got into the final two thanks to the leader of the Scottish National Party Nicola Sturgeon – the most popu-

Mayor bows out after successful year championing the girl child The Mayor of Lambeth Councillor Adedamola Aminu has held a thanksgiving service at the Brixton Town Hall to celebrate the end of his mayoral year and the successful completion of

since February last year following the unfortunate death of Mayor Mark Bennett.

During his year in office, he adopted the Girl Child Network Worldwide (GCNW) as

an active tenure.

An academic Cllr Aminu was sworn in as the mayor of Lambeth at a civic ceremony in June 4 last year, marking the commencement of his tenure for the 2014/15 mayoral year.

First elected as a councillor in 2006, Cllr Aminu was elected deputy mayor in 2013 but had been acting as mayor

his chosen charity, organising two high profile dinners to raise fund for it. On Saturday, the GCNW, which campaigns for underprivileged girls worldwide, held a fundraising dinner in Essex, during which Councillor Aminu was honoured.

Cllr Aminu said, “I am grateful to God for

having a very successful year in office during which we achieved a lot and got quite a bit done.

I am particularly pleased about how we raised money for the charity the GCNW and would like to thank all those who stood by me and helped.”

Dozens of Nigerians turned up at the event, which was characterised with prayers for the outgoing mayor and eulogies for how he helped those in need during his tenure.

Among those present was the former mayor of Enfield Kate Anolue, who said that Councillor Aminu was an inspiration to the youths.

Princess Deun Adedoyin-Solarin, the chair of the GCNW board of trustees, who was also present, added that “caring for the vulnerable in society is something everyone should consider an obligation”.

lar politician in the UK right now – calling on her supporters to vote for him.

Not to worry, though. In the UK there is a fine tradition for runners up in talent shows to emerge as the long-term victors; both Olly Murs and Will Young were runners up and their careers have never looked back.

Emmanuel, a talented guitarist who speaks with the deepest baritone and sings like a reincarnation of Otis Redding is sure to follow suit. He did us proud.

Law on pensions penalises Africans who return home Pensioners from the African diaspora who return home after a lifetime of working in the UK are having hundreds of pounds taken from their pensions.

Currently, the pensions of British nationals who return or move to countries outside the EU, are permanently frozen at the date they retired, or when they first arrived in their new home country. In other words, a 90-year-old who migrated at age 65 gets just £43.60 per week, while a newly-retired pensioner receives £113.10.

The rule affects up to 550,000 British pensioners currently living overseas, primarily in the Commonwealth.

When the 2014 Pensions Act was passed, both the Government and the Labour opposition expressed no desire to change the current arrangements. They argued that addressing the anomaly would be too costly and could open the door to backdated claims totalling millions.

Speaking in the House of Lords earlier this month, Liberal Democrat peer Baroness Floella Benjamin urged the Government to instead consider a ‘partial uprating’.

This would mean pensions would rise in line with inflation going forward but would not be reinstated to the full amount.

The proposal – introduced by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Frozen British Pensions – is gathering cross-party support, as to battle to win the grey vote before the May election hots up.

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‘No koboko –or bust,’ pAreNts wArNed Excessive physical chastisement within diaspora families is resulting in more children being taken into care and more parents being imprisoned, a charity has warned.

A conference to address the culture clash and spell out the letter of the law regarding child protection is to be staged at Lewisham Town Hall in July in the hope of ending the abuse and family breakdown.

The issue has been raised by the World of Hope charity following an upsurge of cases since the turn of the year.

At a press conference on Thursday (March 26) at their community HQ in Plumpstead, south east London, the charity’s founder Florence Emakpose revealed that since the turn of the year she had become involved with six families who had fallen foul of the law.

“We are a small charity and we have six cases currently ongoing, all from the same cultural background. If a part of the ethnic background is resulting in them getting a criminal record then we have a problem,” Ms Emakpose said.

“If this is replicated across London and other cities, and we have to presume it is, then we have a problem.”

While there are no figures detailing how many children have been taken into care as a result of being physically chastised by their parents, black and African children are disproportionately represented in the care system.

Recent government figures show that 4,520 out

of 65,520 looked after children are Black or Black African children i.e. (7%) compared to 3090 (5%) of Asian or Asian British; black population is estimated to be 2% of the UK population and Asian around 5%.

“Get me my koboko” are words that have sparked fear among generations of Nigerian children deemed to have misbehaved by their parents.

The command generally heralds a thrashing.

Most of the more than 30 people who attended the press conference spoke knowingly of being on the end of such beatings.

And that is where the seeds of the problem lie; for many in the diaspora it is the only form of parenting they know. Ms Ekampose spoke from personal experience.

“I was guilty of it,” she said.

“I was raised in that manner and it was what I knew. I have

learnt from my mistakes and found better ways to discipline my children and luckily it didn’t involve the police.”

Most cases of over physical chastisement come to light through schools when the marks of such beatings are clearly apparent during such classes as PE and swimming.

In the first instance when schools identify a potential victim of a beating they generally contact the parents to call them in to discuss their child. But often Ms Ekampose revealed parents ignore the letter or email. There are many reasons for this. Some parents simply become to fearful, others are offended by the intrusion and many simply say they are too busy.

This is when the situation spirals out of control and the social services and police can become involved.

“But,” Ms Ekampose said, “when the social services become involved you will find the time you said you didn’t have.”

For a start you will probably be made to undertake a parenting course that will involve workshops spanning 12 to 14 weeks.

“We need to adapt to the system here,” said Ms Ekampose. “Parents are being arrested, children are being taken away and parents are not allowed to see their children for up to four months. Do we want to

“The bottom line is simple; you can’t live like a Nigerian in the UK”

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No KoBoKo (from l-r): Florence Ekampose (also below left), outgoing chairman of CANUK, Bimbo Afolayan Roberts, and CANUK welfare officer Dr Edwin Sawacha. toP lEft: the koboko whip and cane

continue to see our community suffer like this?”

The conference is being supported by the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK and the outgoing chairman Bimbo Roberts and welfare officer Dr Edwin Sawacha were present at the press conference.

Mr Roberts reinforced what Ms Ekampose had said. He told the meeting, “People from our community and across the African diaspora are being taken to court. Every day we are seeing are people jailed for

something they know little about. This conference is to help our people understand child protection law. The bottom line is simple, you can’t live like a Nigerian in the UK.” While the conference is aimed at informing diaspora parents about the UK’s child protection laws it is also hoped it will inform the police and judges of the cultural issues involved for families.

One parent asked, “Shouldn’t we educate our hosts about how we bring up

our children?

Physical discipline is part of the fabric of our community. It might not be acceptable but it is not criminal.”

However, a barrister in the audience informed those present that parents were only allowed to use “reasonable force”, which meant physical punishment should not leave a mark or cause internal injury.

The World of Hope conference on Safeguarding Children and Parents is scheduled to take place on July 9 at Lewisham Town Hall.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

Nigeria praised for smart thinking as it shifts to a ‘complete digital lifestyle’ The global community has applauded Nigeria for its rapid expansion of affordable broadband connectivity across the country.

A study by the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI), recently ranked Nigeria number two on the Broadband Affordability Index, at the just concluded Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

The A4AI is a global coalition of private sector, public sector, and civil society organisations that have come together from different countries of the world to advance the shared aim of affordable access to both mobile and fixed-line Internet in developing countries.

Executive Director of A4AI, Sonia Jorge, explained Nigeria had ranked so highly in the report for its strong leadership and regulation of the broadband industry, its robust broadband strategy, effective competition in the telecommunications sector, efficient spectrum allocation, universal access to rural and under-served population, and infrastructure sharing, among others.

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Nigeria’s mobile broadband penetration rate stands at just 10%, despite the fact that close to 40% of Nigerians use the internet, and the government has put in place policies to increase this penetration level to 30% by 2018. To increase the ability of mobile operators to serve more Nigerians, plans were recently announced to auction spectrum in the 2.6 GHz band.”

Chief Executive of the Nigeria Communications

Commission, Dr. Eugene Juwah told the conference, “Broadband is going to restructure the Nigerian Telecommunications industry or the IT industry. It is going to move us from analogue lifestyle to a complete digital lifestyle. If we don’t do it now, we shall be left behind. This is why it is timely to the objective of the NCC that we start it right away and implement it without delay with all the resources that government has given to us.”

Accepting the recognition, the Minister of Communications Technology, Dr. Omobola Johnson said what will grow the internet is local content and not over-reliance on YouTube, Facebook and other such online channels.

This was against the popular taste of panel members gathered from across the world at the Mobile World Congress who have deep passion for social network channels. “What will drive the internet is relevant, local content. The most visited sites in Nigeria are the job and the news sites, not social media,” the minister said.

tEEN hEro out to MAKE thE BBC MorE “DoPE” Aged just 15, Jeremiah Emmanuel is the unrivalled voice of his generation among diaspora youth.

A member of the UK Youth Parliament and Deputy Lambeth Youth Mayor in 2012, he also founded a coalition of youth groups called One Big Community – following the street killing of a friend – for which he was named a ‘Teen Hero’ by BBC Radio 1 in 2013.

Now he is set to become the leader of Radio 1’s first Youth Council, a new body designed to keep the music station’s crusty controllers in touch with the “Nike and Nando’s” generation, which has abandoned radio for the more “dope” YouTube.

The post is one of his own making. He identified a disconnect between the station and its audience when he was asked to be on the judging panel for the 2014 Teen Awards.

“I found myself in a room with pop stars, journalists and Radio1 presenters like Fearne Cotton and Grimmy discussing the nominations and arguing for different people. It was great to be involved, but I still felt that there was a gap between the Teen Awards and other opportunities to involve young people in the radio station. It made me think that it isn’t enough to talk about young people, and broadcast to young people.”

So he asked and secured a meeting with Radio 1 boss Ben Cooper and pitched his idea of a youth council.

“I was surprised that he made time for me, but also scared and nervous before the meeting. I didn’t know how he would take it and whether

rADIo 1’S ProBlEM - radio 1 reaches 40% of its target 15-29 age audience.

- over the past year listening figures fell by half-a-million, to 10.4 million.

- Just 4% of 16- to 24-year-olds said they would choose to switch on a radio set.

- Average radio 1 listening has dropped from 10 hours a week to six hours and 24 minutes since 2007, as its audience switches to smartphones, tablets and consoles.

he would like the idea of someone telling him what to do! Luckily he loved the idea and now it is actually happening!”

The Youth Council will meet four times a year to review the station’s output across all platforms and “tell the teams at Radio 1 and 1Xtra what we really think”.

Council members will be specially selected in the first year, from former teen heroes, interns and work experience candidates.

For Jeremiah the really exciting thing is that “what happens in those meetings is

going to be shared with the rest of the BBC, so we may even end up telling the whole BBC what we think!”

And he has a message for other young people. “I am so, so happy that my idea was heard and is now going to happen. Lots of young people have great ideas but they think no one will take the time to listen to them, or won’t carry them out. So I hope this can be an example to inspire other people that anything is possible. If you have an idea, keep pushing because one day, someone will listen!”

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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Afrobeats’ finest sell out Wembley Arena It was the hottest ticket in town and the lebarasponsored Dance Afrique extravaganza, featuring DJ Edu, Awilo longomba, tiwa Savage and P Square, (pictured l-r) more than fulfilled the hype when thousands of Afrobeats’ fans – including 100 that won tickets via Nigerian Watch – packed Wembley Arena on March 28.

frEEdom At lASt for ‘Euphoric’ tolu Having served just short of 23 years in a us jail for a first-time non-violent offence, Nigerian tolu Akinrosotu’s appeals for clemency have finally been heard – and he is set to be released later this year.

Aged just 22 when he was convicted of conspiring to import drugs – having unwittingly arranged flights for some friends he had met in the then thriving New York club scene – previous appeals for leniency have been

supported by the lawyers who prosecuted him and prison service. but his latest appeal, written by himself, has proved successful and he is to be released on November 1.

However, he will be out of prison on a halfway house placement from June.

Thousands of readers responded when Nigerian watch reported on tolu’splight last year, to both support the campaign for his release – launched by his old school friends

from the st Charles Grammar school, osogbo – and to send messages of support.

A “euphoric” tolu told Nigerian watch, “I could not have done this without your support and the comments obtained for me, they were included in my appeal to demonstrate the level of my support to the Court.”

He continued, “My joy overflows.

My love and gratitude abounds. I’m so indescribably HAppY right now.”

Pressure mounts on EU banks as more of Abacha’s loot is returned Switzerland is to return to Nigeria $380m (£260m) that was allegedly looted by the former military dictator Sani Abacha and held in European bank accounts, it has been announced. The transfer will be carried out under the supervision of the World Bank, ending 16 years of court wrangling.

The notoriously brutal dictator Abacha, who ruled Nigeria for five years after a 1993 coup, is believed to have stolen $4.3bn while in office.

Following his death in 1998, Nigeria asked Switzerland to help it recover $2.2bn that he was said to have stashed in European bank accounts. The tax haven was even forced to relax banking secrecy regulations after some landmark rulings.

The $380m to be returned had been placed in several accounts abroad that were controlled by the Abacha family, which is considered a criminal organisation, the prosecutor’s office in the Swiss capital, Geneva, said on March 18. The sum was seized in 2006 in Luxembourg following a request from Swiss authorities.

The decision to return it to Nigeria follows a deal struck last July guaranteeing the Abacha family immunity from prosecution.

Dr John-Mark Iyi, a Nigerian academic, was among students who demonstrated against Abacha on the night he took power, recalling student organisations were instantly banned.

Iyi, now based at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa, expressed satisfaction at the return of the funds but said Europe must take responsibility for effectively assisting Africa’s kleptocrats.

“It is a welcome development on the part of the Swiss government, but it is only one of several cases of looted funds awaiting return from European governments.

“It would not be possible for African leaders to loot their national treasuries if there were no countries willing to receive these funds. If you preach transparency and accountability, you should not have the facility to transfer illicit funds to your own country.”

Switzerland has previously returned to Nigeria more than $700m that Abacha hid in Swiss bank accounts – the first time European banks had returned looted money to an African country.

Last month an African Union report found that the continent loses more than $50bn every year in illicit financial outflows as governments and multinational companies engage in fraudulent schemes to avoid paying taxes.

In total, Africa has lost about $850bn between 1970 and 2008, the report said. An estimated $217.7bn was illegally transferred out of Nigeria over that period.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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WomAN AccuSEd of trAfficKiNg 40 girlS ArrEStEd iN NigEriA A woman suspected of being a major organiser for a child trafficking ring has been arrested in Nigeria, as part of an operation co-ordinated by the uK’s National crime Agency (NcA).

The Nigerian Economic and Financial Crime Commission arrested Franca Asemota, 36, in Benin City, on Wednesday March 24, on suspicion of money laundering offences.

Following liaison with the NCA her fingerprints were checked with UK records and her identity was established.

She was additionally arrested to face extradition.

Asemota is wanted in the UK for allegedly being an organiser in a network which trafficked young women, mainly under 18 and from remote Nigerian rural villages, into Europe using London’s Heathrow Airport as a transit hub. Investigators believe the girls would be promised education and training in France, but were later told they would have to work as prostitutes.

Asemota is accused of

accompanying around 40 victims on eight separate flights between August 2011 and May 2012. A European Arrest Warrant (EAW) was issued for her when she was thought to be in Italy, but NCA officers later tracked her down to Nigeria.

The investigation into the trafficking network, codenamed Operation Hudson, is led by Home Office Immigration Enforcement criminal investigators and supported by the NCA. Hank Cole, the NCA’s International Operations chief, said, “Asemota’s arrest was the result of exceptional and close collaboration working with our partners at home and in Nigeria. She is wanted on suspicion of serious offences in the UK and we will now seek her extradition so she can be put before the courts here. This operation demonstrates the NCA’s global reach and our determination to track down those wanted by law enforcement in the UK, no matter where in the world they are.”

The face of AFWL 2015

our houSE Over 100 women – and a handful of men – attended the annual meeting of the Nigerian Women in Leadership Diaspora Forum at the House of Commons on March 19.

The evening acted as a combined celebration of International Women’s Day and 2015 being

the African Union designated Year of Women’s Empowerment.

Among issues raised were the continued disappearance of the Chibok schoolgirls and the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (see pages 14 & 15 respectively).

So Solid Crew murder suspect back in UK NIGERIAN murder suspect Abdul Adewale Kekere-Ekun has arrived back in the UK after being extradited from Nigeria in what is believed to be the first case of the two countries co-operating to hand over a Nigerian for trial in Britain.

Mr Kekere-Ekun will now be prosecuted for the murder of

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Marcus Hall, an 18-year-old who was beaten and stabbed to death 14 years ago following a brawl outside a night club in Luton.

The murder took place after a gig by the then notorious south London rap group So Solid Crew.

Mr Kekere-Ekun fled the UK in a bid to escape prosecution for the offence but the Economic and

Financial Crimes Commission arrested him in Nigeria a few weeks ago for an identity theft related offence.

The British authorities subsequently submitted a formal extradition request, which was accepted by the Nigerian courts who ruled Mr Kekere-Ekun had a case to answer.

Stunning Maggie Smith has won a landslide victory in the race to become the face of Africa Fashion Week London 2015.

The 20-year-old received 1,947 votes – over 200 more than her nearest rival.

Maggie, who is a receptionist, will get to see her face on posters, websites and the catwalk when she fronts Africa Fashion Week London in August.

Following her terrific triumph over more than 20 other contestants Maggie, born in Uganda but now living in Airdrie with mum Joanne, said, “I am over the moon as this will be an amazing opportunity but I will have to try and contain myself as I still have to get up for work in the morning in the meantime.”

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

KASUMUWatch

9

The

Samuel KASUmU Column WE hAVE A ClEAr ChoICE IN MAy

Nigeria’s democracy is the real winner The victory for General Buhari was something that I must say took me by surprise. It was clear that the General has had signiďŹ cant support within Northern regions for over a decade now, but what was surprising was the voter turnout within PDP strongholds. More surprising was that for the ďŹ rst time Nigeria’s electoral picture was now easy to both navigate and analyse for people across the world.

Having a two party state has beneďŹ ts when compared to the confusion of a state with too many unclear options. A democracy like Britain can deal with such an uncertainty to an extent, but as we approach May many economists are

worried about what a hung parliament will bring in the UK. We can now see a picture developing with key marginal seats in Nigeria, just like in England, deciding who wins and who loses.

The APC has won an election with a key promise to deal with the endemic corruption within the country.

My hope is that Nigerians can exercise patience with regards to this particular pledge.

The reality is that most of the key inuencers within the APC have also been benefactors of the culture that they have pledged to eradicate. They will have to ďŹ rst look within themselves for an established moral compass before looking outside. Buhari and his Vice

“I am convinced the country will make siginiďŹ cant progressâ€?

CANUK elections look interesting The Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK) has recently had elections, and by the time you are reading this article they will probably have a newly elected Chair (April 11).

Naturally I will not be endorsing any candidate, but I will say that this organisation has the potential to be one of the most inuential groups in the land.

The Nigerian population in the UK is one of the largest ethnic communities; we are increasingly economically mobile and academically perform favourably compared to our counterparts.

CANUK in the years ahead should ensure that the diaspora

is better engaged on a political level both in the UK and in Nigeria. Perhaps we should have had a greater voice during the Nigerian elections, which would have avoided the shambles that took place during General Buhari’s visit.

Perhaps we could have (should have?) our own debate for the Nigerian community in the run up to the UK elections.

And perhaps we should have more candidates of a Nigerian heritage contesting seats in May. These are key questions for CANUK’s new team to discuss going forward. I will be observing with great interest as this group continues to go from strength to strength.

President are two people with the credentials to make a dierence in this area, but it won’t be easy.

The victory for Buhari aside, Nigeria’s democracy is the real winner. I am convinced that the country will make signiďŹ cant progress because people will now be held to account at the ballot box.

As for the outgoing President; Goodluck Johnathan has left a legacy that sets an example for all future leaders. History will remember that he eventually was able to deal with the challenges of Boko Haram, oversaw Nigeria becoming the number one economy in Africa, and was honest enough to hold free and fair elections.

For me, he is a President that we will come to read about in the history books. My hope is that this isn’t the last time that we see him.

I’m sure it won’t be.

WE’VE lAuNChED A NEW CAMPAIgN As you may have seen in the previous edition of Nigerian Watch, I recently launched a new campaign focused on helping 5,000 people into self-employment by 2017. This is my way of holding my team and me accountable as we set an ambitious challenge.

What I’ve seen over the last few years is that selfemployment is not just about ďŹ nancial freedom. For some people it’s about being able to do what you love every day. For others it’s about being able to have the exibility to deal with the challenges of raising a family in a country that is expensive to live in. And of course for others it’s simply about giving yourself a chance when no one else has. This is why we have set up the campaign #Emerging5000. We want to help regular people to fulďŹ l their ambition.

Find out more at: www.encampaigns.com.

We simply shouldn’t go back to what was the status quo before. We must let the Conservatives ďŹ nish the work they have started.

For Nigerians in the Diaspora we must ask ourselves what it is that we want to be known for as a community, and which government will best help us to achieve our aspirations. A Labour government will continue to tell us that we cannot go further than where we are; that a life on beneďŹ ts is ok as an option, and that equality can only be achieved through the state.

A conservative government that has empowered communities to set up their own businesses, take control of local public services, open their own schools, and to own their own homes is what the alternative is.

We must not just think about ourselves when we head to the ballot box in May. We must think of our children’s children. Can we honestly vote for a party that is comfortable spending beyond its means with little regards for how the next generation will pay for such economic recklessness?

The UK General Election on the seventh of May will be one of the closest for a generation. The polls are showing that the Conservatives and Labour are neck and neck.

Of course, I myself have a bias for one particular party. I am a paid up Conservative and am proud of it. In ďŹ ve years the party has turned a failing economy into the fastest growing in the West. It has created 1,000 jobs every day, and has taken low paid workers out of tax. This is a party that has made tough decisions which will mean that future generations are not stuck paying o debts for excessive spending.

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10

NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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GISTWatch

Madam

Amebo Is there only one way to eat African food?

NOTHING beats eating your own food and enjoying it like it is something your palate cannot do without. However, when you hang out in a multi-cultural environment, it can get a bit tricky.

One Nigerian councillor who loves his African cuisine decided a few days ago to treat his colleagues to a sumptuous meal at a London Naija eatery and was embarrassed to the hilt at their antics. What actually happened was that his Caucasian friends were enjoying the Nigerian food so much that they went overboard with their enjoyment.

They were putting ketchup on the pounded yam and eating it like it was mashed potato, mixing their gari with the okra and pouring their jollof rice into their pepper soup. In fact, it was so much fun, they suggested that the treat be made a monthly event as part of a multicultural tour of the various communities.

Our embarrassed councillor was so red-faced afterwards when the owner of the restaurant asked him what had happened that he added an extra £20 to the tip. One has to ask, is there only one way to eat African food?

Who said dry gari and pounded yam cannot be mixed together into a special kind of paste? Maybe those looking to sell African food to a wider audience should examine being a little more creative with their dishes.

Late babysitter WHAT does a woman do when her husband is a perennial latecomer whenever it is his time to babysit or take charge of the kids? One north London gentleman nearly found himself in the divorce courts recently after his poor wife got sick and tired of his repeated late arrivals whenever it was his turn to look after their baby.

They have a baby and because both of them work, they take turns in coming home to relieve the minder who stays at their home all day but goes home at 6pm.

Obviously mummy has more days, being in charge of three week days, while daddy just has two.

One Thursday when daddy was due to be in charge, his wife arranged a day out. She was actually attending a society event and had gone all done up for it, including wearing a newly purchased dress and set off from home at about 5.30 as the function started at 7pm.

At about 5.55pm, she received a call from her husband saying he had been tied up with work and could not get home on time. She had no choice but to turn back and head for home to relieve the babysitter.

No need to say that her husband had a lot of grovelling to do, including the purchase of several gifts to redeem himself.

Eventually, his wife succumbed and he now no longer has to sleep in the guest room.

Desperate event planners WITH the political campaigns now over, many an event organiser has made a bob or two thanks to the large number of politicians who visited the diaspora to bring their message abroad. In the run-up to the election campaign, many London event planners made repeated phone calls to Nigeria seeking to sell their services.

They offered to pull together crowds of thousands of diasporans for anyone visiting London in exchange for hefty sums. When the Nigerian politicians queried why they should pay so much, they simply responded that they were providing a five-star service which included a posh hotel, a media presence, food and an influential

Call Us Now

audience.

Several politicians forked out large sums for such events but were disappointed that several of these planners did not live up to their promises. Sometimes, the media presence promised was not there and also the crowds were not always that large.

To add insult to injury, keen to cut costs, the event planners generally only provided finger food at such events rather than the sumptuous African dishes expected.

It is no surprise than one very vocal event planner has been struck off the lists of one of the main parties after an event he arranged in Waterloo drew so many complaints from its UK membership.

Several had threatened to campaign for the opposition or even quit the party altogether if he was left in charge of organising future events. Reading the writing on the wall, he has decided to stick to parties and seminars from now on.

Taking advantage

FANCY arriving in Lagos and logging on to Facebook to immediately see images of your kids holding a wild party in your home. Well that is what happened to one south London couple who decided to take a short break in Nigeria for a fortnight.

No sooner had they left for the airport and their two teenage kids put a well rehearsed plan into action.

Friends were rung, booze quotas were issued, food cooking began and the DJ was commissioned.

Exactly 36 hours after the middle aged couple left their south London home, the party started with some 100 teenagers gathering from a bash that looked like it was out of Ibiza. In fact they later found out that the music was so loud that the police had to be called twice.

All sorts of booze flowed and youngsters being who they are, got up to all sorts of mischief. Upon logging on once she arrived in Lagos and being hit by the pictures, the

madam of the house nearly passed out.

Not surprisingly, her kids have had their pocket money cut, they have been grounded and a summer treat being lined up for them has been cancelled. No doubt, they probably think the party was worth the sacrifice as it has been described as the talk of the town.

Long distance tryst HOW does a man who lives in London arrange a two week tryst with his girlfriend who is visiting from Nigeria without his wife finding out? Apart from the fact that he has to find somewhere to put her, he needs to explain his frequent nights out.

Anyway, one east London man thought it was worth the risk so bought a ticket for his girlfriend and decided to fly her to London. He put her up in a cheap nearby hotel and told his wife his company was organising a two week exhibition, so he would be away for most of the coming fortnight.

He got away with it for the first week but after that his wife asked him what kind of exhibition lasts for two weeks. Furthermore, she wanted to know what kind of exhibition goes on overnight?

After pressing him about it for a while and him telling her it was at the Excel Centre, she decided to visit there and find out for herself.

Our friend had a lot of explaining to do when he eventually got home and his wife told him she had been at his "exhibition" all day and could not find him there.

He came up with all sorts of funny excuses but his wife has chosen to give him the cold shoulder and ignore him until further notice. Well, luckily, his girlfriend has returned to Nigeria now, so he has returned to his normal routine.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

YOURWatch

11

Letters to the Editor let us know what you think. Put pen to paper and send your letters to: The Editor, Nigerian Watch, Chartwell house, 292 hale lane, Edgware, Middlesex hA8 8NP, or email us at: editor@nigerianwatch.com letters to be included in the next issue must be received by no later than April 18, 2015. Anonymous letters will not be published. Please include your full name, postal address and contact telephone number. Names and addresses can be withheld, if preferred. letters may be edited for publication.

Our voices have been heard I was a proud witness and participant in the historic election victory that has now ushered the All Progressive Congress (APC) Presidential candidate, Gen (Rtd) Muhammadu Buhari to power.

The important thing in this victory is that it is a victory, first, to Nigerians, who wanted, went for and got the CHANGE they desired – the election result being a manifestation of the people’s resolve to confront corruption, exploitation and bad governance – and secondly, for democracy, because it is about Nigerians being assured that in their democracy, their votes count unlike before (people used to say, why the heck am I voting anyway, the politicians will always rig and my vote doesn't mean a damn thing) and that power lies in their hands.

If the president, any governor or other public office holders do not do as we want in the next four years, and make life better for us, they will meet us at the Polling Unit and we know we now have the power to get rid of them.

This is what I am most happy about. Nigerians, from the grassroots to the top have been empowered; their voice and power are being heard and taken into account. Political leaders should do more. Public servants and political office holders are being told to serve us. Politicians must not mess with the people anymore. Politicians must not take the people for granted anymore.

Akintokunbo A Adejumo, via email

It’s been a blast I want to take this opportunity to say thank you for what has been a memorable four year experience serving the UK Nigerian Diaspora, with honour, in the capacity of 1st vice chairman of Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK).

I still remember the day, December 4, 2010, when I won the election for the position, having campaigned effortlessly against my opponent and friend Toyin Ibrahim Igbo. How was I to know what sort of journey I'd embarked on.

I would like to thank my able chairman Chief Abimbola Folayan who has steered CANUK to the dizzy heights of this present moment. He has selflessly lent himself to his executive and the Nigerian community in a quest to ensure Nigerians are united, portray a positive image and show their worth here in the UK. Our Chairman has led by example on many fronts.

CANUK is now the envy of every organisation, both here in the UK and elsewhere over the world, and I put it down to the extremely hard work of most of the executives.

Having worked with and for CANUK for over eight years supporting Dr Abani and his team and now the current team, it is an emotional time for me as the giddy flight lands and I disembark. However, if given another opportunity to do things differently, I would work twice as much, give my people more of my time, and try and unite Nigerians into one happy family.

The fun times and the CANUK business times will always be special memories for me. I am returning to my state union where I am head of planning to continue my service to my great nation and I will also be working with young boys as a football coach, to help develop them into men.

Those vying for election I wish you luck and God's guidance; given the

Asthma alert Last week’s high pollution levels received widespread media coverage because of the health risks posed to many vulnerable people across the UK, including those with respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Though pollution levels have since decreased, I write to alert those of your readers with asthma made worse by pollution that it can take as long as two weeks for airways to return to normal after being exposed to an asthma trigger. Therefore they should remain vigilant with their asthma by continuing to take their medicines as prescribed and keeping track of their symptoms. The best way to do

opportunity; do serve your country well and with pride.

I will see some of you on the April 11 at the Nigeria High Commission, God willing, where I shall handover the baton of service with a tear; believe me I'm no masochist, simply a Nigerian who has a vision of a great Nigerian people.

It's been a blast.

Chima Olugh MRPharmS 1st Vice Chair and head of projects, CANUK, via email

Elect a woman It would be a wonderful and symbolic gesture for the largest diaspora community group in the UK – CANUK – to elect a woman as leader.

It would demonstrate immense faith in our women, and belie the myth that African women are relegated to the background.

I hope all your readers, especially those involved in the leadership election, can associate with me in effecting this. Thank you.

Dr Paddy Davies, via email

this is by using a written asthma action plan -a step-by-step guide they can fill in with their GP or asthma nurse to help them stay on top of their condition. Despite the fact that people are four times less likely to need hospital treatment for their asthma when they have a written asthma action plan, only 30% of people with asthma do and this needs to change.

Your readers can download one from www.asthma.org.uk and take the Asthma UK Risk Test to see if they are at increased risk of a potentially fatal asthma attack and find out what they can do to reduce their risk.

Kay Boycott, Chief Executive of Asthma UK, 18 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AA

Now is the time to heal our nation and bind the wounds The All Progressives Congress (APC) UK Chapter, under the Chairmanship of Dr Philip Idaewor, on behalf of its entire membership – NEC/NWC, States Organs, UK Regional Units and Caucuses of the APC – congratulate Your Excellency, General Muhammadu Buhari on your historic election by the Nigerian peo-

ple as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

This is not the time for recriminations but the time to work together to heal our nation, bind the wounds and mend the broken limbs and hearts of our people.

The APC UK is elated for Nigeria because of the changes that are about to happen in

the country. Your total commitment to fight corruption, your determination to build hospitals, roads, schools, modern railways with new trains, refineries and resurrect the moribund Nigeria Airways and pay salaries on time all over Nigeria are laudable and doable.

To make Nigeria great again, peaceful and united is a task that must be done. This is a social contract between Your Excellency, the APC and Nigerians, and we implore you to keep our side of the bargain.

Under your watch, Nigeria must not go back to ineptitude and social injustices and systemic decay in all sectors of our economy. Nigeria must industrialise and develop Agriculture and food production as well as guarantee youths full employment across the country.

Let peace and justice reign; let democracy and freedom flourish all over Nigeria.

Philip Ilenbarenemen, Publicity Secretary, APC UK

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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EMBASSYWatch

News from the

NIGERIA HIGH COMMISSION London Nigerians set to elect new leader of the diaspora CANuK CoMMIttEE 2015-2017 1st Vice Chair 2nd Vice Chair General Secretary Assistant Secretary Legal Adviser

Tomorrow (Saturday April 11), the current executive board of the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK) will be dissolved and the newly-elected one inaugurated when the organisation holds its AGM at the Nigeria High Commission, Northumberland Avenue, London.

The highlight of the day will be the election of a new chairman or – for the first time – chairwoman, with Boma Douglas, Ronke Udofia

and Babatunde Loye vying for the leadership role (pictured above, l-r).

The elections for all other positions on the executive committee were conducted by postal ballot and the results were declared on Wednesday (April 8).

The new office holders and their affiliate organisations, who will remain in place until 2017, are detailed in the panel (right).

Doors open for registration of delegates at 10am.

Treasurer Social Secretary Assistant Social Secretary Publicity Secretary

Assistant Publicity Secretary Welfare Secretary Assistant Welfare Secretary

Alex ubaka Achebe (Anambra State Union UK) Charles E Sylvester (Nigerian Security Officers Association) Dr olugbenga Coker (Association of Nigerians Architects in the UK) Ade Coker (Association of Independent financial advisers) Elizabeth Ikiriko (British Nigeria Law Forum) ronke Adeagbo Adeagbo (Oyo State Indigenes UK) femi Williams (League of Nigerians in Diaspora) godwin Emiko forson (UniBen Alumni UK) lagun Akinloye (British Association of Nigerians Designers, Printers and Publishers) Theodora Ibekwe oyebade (UK Nollywood Producers Guide) Dr Edwin Sawacha MBE (Ijaw Progressive Association) Agatha Anyiwo (Nigerian Organisation of Women)

lIVErPool hoStS Dr tAfIDA Just days after Nigeria’s indefatigable Ambassador to the UK Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafida OFR, CFR, returned from voting in Nigeria’s historic Presidential election he was back to business as usual – representing Nigeria and continuing his drive to unite the diaspora behind the country.

So it was that over the Easter bank holiday weekend he travelled to Liverpool to conduct Town Hall meetings with the Nigerian community there.

It was something of a homecoming for Dr Tafida, as the city was where he had completed his medical training.

She got her fees paid.

I got to see the first lawyer in our family.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

NEWSWatch

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#BrINgBACKourgIrlS

Sarah Pearce

chibok – a heartbreaking anniversary one year on since the Chibok girls’ abduction, campaigners call for a mighty vigil to show we have not forgotten n April 15, at 5pm, a vigil is to be held outside the Nigeria high Commission on Northumberland Avenue in london, to mark the heartbreaking 1st anniversary of the abduction of more than 200 schoolgirls by the terror organisation Boko haram.

o

Glenna Gordon

Moxie DePaulitte

The vigil has been called by the Nigerian Women in Leadership Diaspora Forum who have gathered their on the 15th of every month since the girls were taken overnight on April 14/15 last year.

Ekanem Robertson of NWILDF made a passionate appeal for people to join them to show the world “we have not forgotten, that we still care”.

She told the recent annual gathering of the Forum at the House of Commons, “This dreadful thing started a year ago and we women in the diaspora took it on ourselves to ChIBoK 100: Artist Sarah Peace marked 100 days with an installation piece of 100 burkas in Epping Forest (14th April – 23rd July 2014) say every 14th/15th we will be outside the NHC MoxIE DEPAulIttE’S flASh ShoE INStAllAtIoN: “276 pairs of girls shoes in the town centre as a show of love." Dumfries, Scotland (10th May 2014) saying, ‘Where are our children?’ You know how governments are. If we didn’t stand there nobody would be standing there, the girls would be forgotten.

“The numbers were wonderful when the news first broke; there were newspapers and cameras because you know it was a ‘good story’. Then they all went away because it rapidly became old news. Ladies we were 2300 then, now it’s gone down to a handful.

That is shameful.

“I’m appealing to you all to come to the Embassy on April 15, at 5pm, to make sure the world remembers our girls and ask the new government, what are you going to do to bring back our girls?”

ChIBoK SChoolgIrlS: Glenna Gordon photographed the clothes and belongings of the missing girls in an attempt to give them an identity, the very identity their kidnappers are trying to quash.

BrINgBACKourgIrlS uK (froM ltor) Cross-party MPs Houses of Parliament (May 13, 2014), Demonstations ouside Nigerian HIgh Commision, London (May 2014)

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

NEWSWatch

The C2 to the Congo The remarkable london bus driver challenging the global powers to stop turning a blind eye to Africa’s “world war” Every time you pick up a mobile phone, spare a thought for the people of the democratic republic of congo (drc).

The country boasts over 1,000 very precious minerals but for the past 20 years it has been brutally savaged for coltan, the mineral that enables your phone to be “smart”.

Our convenience comes at a bloody cost; over five million dead – men, women and children – and an equal number – again, men, women and children – raped.

It is a bloody business and one that was raised by Charlotte Simon, otherwise popularly known as Ma Congo, at the annual gathering of Nigerian Women in Leadership Diaspora Forum as it celebrated the African Union Year of Women's Empowerment.

A powerful yet charming advocate for her country of birth she called on the women of Africa to "stand up and say no, enough is enough".

She asked rhetorically why are our men doing this? But the answer is known and few people can articulate it as clearly as Charlotte.

“The curse of coltan, the curse of

being blessed with all the minerals the world wants,” she says. It is a situation all too familiar to Nigerians who have suffered the curse of oil.

A report into the country’s mineral wealth concluded that “untapped deposits of raw minerals are estimated to be worth in excess of USD 24 trillion.” This is a potential worth comparative to the combined GDP of Europe and the US, and surpasses the total value of Saudi Arabia’s oil reserves.

The DRC boasts more than 1,100 different minerals, including copper, cobalt, silver, uranium, lead, zinc, cadmium, diamonds, gold, tin, tungsten, manganese and rare metals such as coltan, where 80% of the world’s reserves are to be found.

It has led to constant conflict in recent times, which was once dubbed “Africa’s world war”, when nine countries, including Zimbabwe, Angola, Namibia, Burundi, and notably Rwanda and Uganda fought for control of these minerals.

In its report on the DR Congo published on 15 July 2004, the UN reported, “the sovereignty of the DRC continues to be challenged not only by the intervention and military

support provided by Rwanda and Uganda to its allies or proxy forces” The demand for the conflict minerals in the west is widely reported as the catalyst.

Charlotte has been exiled from her country of birth for her outspoken campaigns against the political elites who benefit from the ongoing conflicts.

So she rises everyday at 3.30am to prepare to drive her bus around London all morning to leave her time to run her two organisations; her internationally acclaimed Mothers of Congo, which campaigns to highlight the causes and end the sexual violence caused by the mineral conflicts in the DRC; and the Tatiana Giraud Foundation, which cares for the victims of conflict.

The TG foundation has cared for hundreds of children and currently is paying for over 70 to be in education. Ma Charlotte, a typical African in the diaspora, deserves our support. As she says of her punishing schedule, “If you can, you should give something back.”

For more information visit www.mothersofcongo.org & www.tatianagiraudfoundation.org

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

WE SALUTE YOU International reaction

PrESIDENtIAl rESultS Accredited Voters: 31,756,490 Total Valid Votes: 28,587,564 Rejected Votes: 844,519 Total: 29,432,083 fINAl rESultS Total Number of Votes: 28,280,083 goodluck Jonathan: 12,853,162 votes; 45% of the vote Muhammadu Buhari: 15,426,921 votes; 54% of the vote

PrESIDENt oBAMA

“President Jonathan has placed his country’s interests first by conceding the election and congratulating president-elect Buhari on his victory. I look forward to working with President Jonathan throughout the remainder of his term, and I thank him for his many years of service and his statesmanlike conduct at this critical juncture.”

PrIME MINIStEr DAVID CAMEroN

“I send my warmest congratulations to General Buhari on being elected as Nigeria’s next president. This election has been a credit to the Nigerian people and a truly historic moment for Nigerian democracy.”

uN SECrEtAry gENErAl BAN KI MooN

“The successful outcome of these polls is a testament to the maturity of Nigeria’s democracy.”

ENtrEPrENEur Mo IBrAhIM, whose foundation awards a prize for achievement in African leadership

Professor Attahiru Jega (above) is the man who midwifed Nigerian democracy into the 21st century as the chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Committee. Independent and incorruptible he has proved to be an inspirational public servant. He rose above all the intimidation and abuse that was thrown at him to deliver what have

been acclaimed as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.

The former chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has acquitted himself honourably.

Jega has proven to be the hero of democratic innovations through the insistence on using card reader as means of authenticating voters in the upcoming 2015 elections, in

SENAtE rESultS The All Progressives Congress (APC) has won majority status in the Nigerian Senate after securing 64 seats in the National Assembly elections.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) – previously the Senate majority party with 68 seats – now has 45 seats while the Labour Party (LP) has one.

a nation where satanic madness rages over the transparent conduct of elections.

Through his integrity and neutrality, the soft-spoken Kebbi-born academic has midwifed true transition that has never been witnessed in the country’s history. He has ushered in a new dawn.

NIgErIAN ElECtIoNS 2015

to buhari the wIN; to Jonathan the pLAudIts; to the people VICtorY March 28, 2015 will go down in history as the day Nigeria fully embraced democracy. Chief among the history makers was President goodluck Jonathan, who during his tenure laid the foundations for free and fair elections. london-based commentator Emeka Asinugo salutes the man whose legacy as one of the great leaders of the nation and continent is assured – and looks at the critical issues facing his successor or 16 years into the 4th republic the pdp ruled Nigeria. There is no doubt that the party tried its best to move the country forward in those years. But its best was not good enough.

f

In the article titled Before the Cock Crows (Nigerian Watch, 47) I noted that if the Jonathan-led government failed, that is, if Jonathan failed in his bid for a second tenure, it would not be all about Jonathan, it would be all about the PDP (People’s Democratic Party). It was PDP that was killing Nigeria, not Jonathan.

Right from the outset in 1999, when the mantle of political leadership was handed over to Chief Obasanjo, the foundation was laid to make or mar

porous soil.

Over time, the level of achievement of the party became controversial, partly because of internal strife. The discontent within the party reached a crescendo preceding the election, when Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State was reelected as Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) but was sidelined by President Jonathan in favour of Air Commodore Jonas Jang, Governor of Plateau State.

The crises in the NGF laid the foundation for the demise of the party that once prided itself as the largest and most well organised in Africa.

Nigerians went to the polls to vote in their President on Saturday March 28.

Before they cast their votes, it had become necessary for them to look hard at the factors that would build a strong democracy. They knew that democracy was not military rule. They knew that military interference in the democratic process in Nigeria had done a lot of damage to the nation. They knew that the road to democracy could only lead from a deepening of democratic values.

Under Jonathan’s watch much was achieved: trains started running again; Almajiri schools were built, with the

“As he confessed, Jonathan underutilised the media to showcase the world the achievements of his tenure”

“Today, we Africans are all proud of Nigeria and President Jonathan. Thank you Mr President. If you are seeking a legacy, you have definitely achieved it.”

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ELECTIONWatch

Nigeria as a democratic country.

Had Obasanjo followed in the footsteps of his kinsman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and used the country’s enormous oil wealth to turn Nigeria into a welfare state, the country would not have been in the mess it is.

But Obasanjo failed to harness that wealth and use it wisely. And Jonathan could have failed too, because his Godfather laid the foundation of the nation’s democratic evolution on

hope that someday an alumnus of the Almajiri School built by President Jonathan would become the President of Nigeria; theft in the fertiliser sector had been eradicated; and more Federal Universities had been sited in Northern States. There is a lot more that Jonathan bequeathed Nigeria. But as he confessed, he under-utilised the media to showcase the world the achievements of his tenure.

While Nigerians are ready to forgive him for that, they expressed their hope in the nation’s future by overwhelmingly voting for his rival, General Muhammadu Buhari, now popularly called “The People’s General!”

But before we take a cursory look at the expectations of Nigerians in the new dispensation, it is necessary for people to recognise Dr Jonathan as the President who actually laid the foundations of true democracy in Nigeria for Nigerians. rom his days as Vice-President through his years as President, one of Jonathan’s major commitments was to stabilise Nigeria by laying the foundations for the conduct of free and fair elections. He was very keen on leaving that feat as a legacy for Nigerians as they march towards true democracy.

Since 2011, the country has conducted elections that both Nigerians and foreign observers agree are the most credible in the political history of

F

the country. And as he leaves office, it is only right that Jonathan should feel that a large part of his initial plans for Nigeria has been achieved.

Another huge stride Jonathan made in the march of Nigeria towards true democracy was signing the Freedom of Information (FoI) Bill into law. It was not a coincidence that all the governments that have ruled Nigeria post-independence failed to address this critical issue. It was Jonathan who recognised the importance of this vital aspect of human rights in the nation’s march towards true democracy. He encouraged the National Assembly to debate and pass the Bill, and then he assented to it.

Considering the importance of this law to any democratisation process, should give Nigerians a better insight into the values of their elected President of the last four years. In the context of directing Nigeria towards attaining true democracy, assenting to that bill alone should place Jonathan head and shoulders above all of those who occupied Aso Rock before him. It wasn’t easy.

Many Nigerians heaved a sigh of relief when the Act became a reality.

They knew that from then onwards they could legitimately uncover facts and figures and hold the government to account. As one observer said, Nigerians had been given the oxygen of information and knowledge to breathe life into governance. It was no longer ‘business as usual!’"

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

ELECTIONWatch

17

HIstorIC HANdoVer IN tHeIr owN words BuhArI At exactly 5.15pm this (Tuesday, March 31) evening President Jonathan called to congratulate me on my victory. For this I want all Nigerians to join me in congratulating and appreciating Mr President for his statesmanship.

President Jonathan engaged in a spirited campaign and was a worthy opponent. I extend my hand of fellowship to him. I look forward to meeting him soon as we plan the transition from one administration to another. He will receive nothing but understanding, co-operation and respect from me and my team.

The good people of Nigeria, answered the call of history. When the account of this fine moment is written, it will be said that it was the people themselves who led this nation to democracy.

You stood in line patiently for hours in the sun, rain and then in the dark to cast your ballots. Even when the vote was extended to Sunday in some places, you still performed your civic duty. You did so peacefully. You voted with your heart. Your vote affirms that you believe Nigeria’s future can be better than what it is today.

You voted for change and now change has come.

INEC has released the official

JoNAthAN

results of the Presidential election. INEC has declared that I gained the most votes with the required spread and thus won this election. In a more profound way, it is you, Nigerians that have won.

The people have shown their love for our nation and their belief in democracy.

The declaration of INEC accurately reflects the will of the people. While there might have been some logistical obstacles and irregularities associated with the exercise, the result shall stand as what the people want.

In all the 55 years since Nigeria became independent, no other President has had as much patience or composure as Jonathan had with his fellow Nigerians in the face of namecalling, insults, derogatory language about him, and even an attack on the Presidential convoy. In many ways, his high office and his education may have humbled him. But Jonathan felt at home with Nigerians. Any other President before him would have hounded into prison those he saw as his detractors and some of them would have died there while in detention. Not Jonathan.

Jonathan often said that he did not want to run after every Nigerian who hurled an insult on him because such a move would only counter the foundation of democracy he was laying for the country.

As he often said he did not want the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission parading fellow Nigerians on television unless their cases had gone to court and they had been convicted as criminals; to prejudge the outcome he believed was tantamount to a denigration of their human rights.

In that sense, we will be correct to regard Dr Jonathan as a frontline advocate of Nigerian Human Rights who left his footprints on the sand along the road Nigeria is marching towards true democracy.

Jonathan’s going displayed the true democratic spirit of the

I thank all Nigerians who have made this day possible. Our country has now joined the community of nations that have used the ballot box to peacefully change an incumbent President in a free and fair election. To me this is indeed historic.

We have put one party state behind us. You have voted for a party and president that will serve and govern but never rule over you. Change has come. A new day and a new Nigeria are upon us.

The victory is yours and the glory is that of our nation – Nigeria.

Fellow Nigerians, I thank you all for turning out en-masse for the March 28 General Elections.

I promised the country free and fair elections. I have kept my word. I have also expanded the space for Nigerians to participate in the democratic process. That is one legacy I will like to see endure.

Although some people have expressed mixed feelings about the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), I urge those who may feel aggrieved to follow due process based on our constitution and our electoral laws, in seeking redress.

As I have always affirmed, nobody’s ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian. The unity, stability and progress of our dear country is more important than anything else.

I congratulate all Nigerians for successfully going through the process of the March 28 General Elections with the commendable enthusiasm and commitment that was demonstrated nationwide.

I also commend the Security Services for their role in ensuring that the elections were mostly peaceful and violence-free.

To my colleagues in the PDP, I thank you for your support. Today,

“Anything short of a harmonisation of the legal system would be like sitting the nation’s ass on a keg of gunpowder” statesman. When he realised he had lost the election, he quickly picked up his phone and congratulated General Buhari, the President-elect. In this way Jonathan saved the country much bloodshed that would have flowed in the post-election violence that marked previous elections. It was rare in Nigerian politics, and Nigerians should remain grateful to him for his magnanimity. It is an act that will reverberate across the continent. ow that Nigerians have changed batons, what are they expecting from the new government? The incoming President has addressed the nation, reminding Nigerians; “You wanted change.

Change has come.”

Nigerians did not want change from the university campus to the military barracks. They did not want change for the fun of it. They wanted change from a party that had overruled them for 16 years. They wanted change from a party whose internal crises had made it possible for government to no longer have the interest of the masses at heart. Now the change has come. And very soon, the new government of the APC (All

N

Progressive Congress) will be faced with some harsh realities.

The APC will begin to realise that Nigerians care more about what part of the country you come from, not that you are a Nigerian. The party will begin to observe that the commitment of most Nigerians to their local communities has become so much their way of life that to be seen as a de-tribalised Nigerian is now a feat that deserves eulogy.

The new government will begin to see that the people are so beclouded by their ethnic allegiances, the unrelenting pride they attach to their local language and culture, that only a total change of their mindset can get them on the right track to becoming truly Nigerian. That will be the initial challenge of the Buhari Administration, and one that will shape his domestic policies.

Buhari’s first challenge will centre on how to go about changing the mindset of an average Nigerian to make him think Nigerian, and not Igbo, Hausa or Yoruba? Where does the government start from?

Nigerians believe Buhari can be trusted to handle this very sensitive national dilemma. They believe he could still summon the military clout

the PDP should be celebrating rather than mourning. We have established a legacy of democratic freedom, transparency, economic growth and free and fair elections.

For the past 16 years, we have steered the country away from ethnic and regional politics. We created a pan-Nigerian political party and brought home to our people the realities of economic development and social transformation.

Through patriotism and diligence, we have built the biggest

that enabled him to get Nigerians to evolve the monthly Sanitation Day and the idea of queuing up at banks and bus stops to back-up the psyche of the people and make Nigerians think Nigerian.

Others say the incoming President was only able to change the attitude of Nigerians at that time because he was in military uniform. They argue that any legislation along that line in a democratic dispensation would have to pass through the procedural rigours of the National Assembly, which are likely to mellow or even break its resolve. We shall see.

Then there is the issue of the judiciary which the new government is expected to address. To remain a united country, every citizen must be guided by the same set of laws. The Southern parts of the country are successfully operating the customary courts. The Northern parts of the country must then be able to operate their sharia courts. In this way, every citizen would be given the same opportunity to choose to pursue legitimacy in the nation’s higher law courts, or in the lower customary and sharia courts.

As judicial adjudication is made open for citizens to choose what courts they want their cases judged in, there will be a harmonisation of the legal system. Anything short of that would be like sitting the nation’s ass on a keg of

and most patriotic party in Nigerian history. We must stand together as a party and look to the future with renewed optimism.

I thank all Nigerians once again for the great opportunity I was given to lead this country and assure you that I will continue to do my best at the helm of national affairs until the end of my tenure.

I have conveyed my personal best wishes to General Muhammadu Buhari.

May God Almighty continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I thank you all.

gunpowder, which can explode any time. That, the APC must avoid.

Many observers still believe that the various ethnic groups that Britain lumped together as a country were never meant to be. Some still believe that Britain decided to amalgamate the North and the South for its own selfish economic and political interest. A good number believe that there should have been a plebiscite in 1914, to give the ethnic groups the leeway for self- determination. But Nigeria decides. One hundred years into their amalgamation, they have decided. They have taken a stand for another 100 years.

In distinctively expressing their wish for a change of government with their votes, Nigerians have proved to the world that they desire not only to remain a united, progressive country but also one that eagerly wants to take its rightful place in the comity of democratic nations.

Their expression will not spell victory for Buhari or failure for Jonathan. It will spell victory for the APC, and a challenge for the PDP. And while that victory lasts for APC, Nigerians will look forward to what this change could mean for them.

With time, they will get to know whether or not the new APC government is the medicine they have waited for so long to drink, to cure their persistent national headache.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

ELECTIONWatch

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In his first address to the nation, President-elect General Muhammadu Buhari GCFR committed his government to the rule of law and said his key priority was tackling the twin evils of Boko Haram and corruption. He also called on Nigerians to show patience in their desire for change. Here – in the name of transparency that will be critical to his administration’s success between now and 2019 – we publish his agenda-setting speech as it sets to tone and tenor of what we can expect over the next four years am immensely grateful to god for this day and for this hour. i feel truly honoured and humbled that the Nigerian people have so clearly chosen me to lead them. The official announcement from iNEc was the moment the vast majority of Nigerians had hoped and been waiting for. today, history has been made, and change has finally come. Your votes have changed our national destiny for the good of all Nigerians.

I

tHe New brooM

INEC has announced that I, Muhammadu Buhari, shall be your next president. My team and I shall faithfully serve you. There shall no longer be a ruling party again: APC will be your governing party. We shall faithfully serve you.

We shall never rule over the people as if they were subservient to government.

The urgent jobs; Boko haram & corruption

our government will embrace all Our long night has passed and the daylight of new democratic governance has broken across the land. This therefore is not a victory for one man or even one party. It is a victory for Nigeria and for all Nigerians. Millions of you have worked for this day. So many have risked life and livelihood; and others have died that we may witness this moment.

And it is with a very heavy heart that I report many deaths and injuries amidst the jubilations yesterday. We send our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives; and wish speedy recovery to those who suffered injuries. I appeal to all our supporters to celebrate this victory with prayers and reflection instead of wild jubilation.

May the souls of those who died rest in peace. Let us take a moment of silence to honour all of those whose sacrifices have brought us to this fine and historic hour. As the results of the election have shown, their labour has not been and will never be in vain.

Democracy and the rule of law will be reestablished in the land.

Let us put the past, especially the recent past, behind us. We must forget our old battles and past grievances — and learn to forge ahead.

I assure you that our government is one that will listen to and embrace all.

I pledge myself and our in-coming administration to just and principled governance. There shall be no bias against or favouritism for any Nigerian based on ethnicity, religion, region, gender or social status. I pledge myself and the government to the rule of law, in which none shall be so above the law that they are not subject to its dictates, and none shall be so below it that they are not availed of

voted for me as well as those who voted against me and even for those who did not vote at all.

We all live under one name as one nation: we are all Nigerians.

I harbour no ill-will against anyone Some unfortunate issues about my eligibility have been raised during the campaign. I wish to state that through devotion to this nation, everything I have learned and done has been to enable me to make the best possible contribution to public life. If I had judged myself incapable of governing I would never have

“The good people of Nigeria your obligation does not end with casting your ballot. I seek your voice and input as we tackle these problems to bring forth the Nigeria you seek” its protection.

You shall be able to go to bed knowing that you are safe and that your constitutional rights remain in safe hands. You shall be able to voice your opinion without fear of reprisal or victimisation. My love and concern for this nation and what I desire for it extends to all, even to those who do not like us or our politics.

You are all my people and I shall treat everyone of you as my own. I shall work for those who

electoral period.

Most of all, I thank the people of Nigeria for reposing their confidence in me at this trying moment. Our nation wrestles many challenges including insecurity, corruption, economic decline. I pledge to give you my best in tackling these problems.

The good people of Nigeria, your obligation does not end with casting your ballot. I seek your voice and input as we tackle these problems. This will not be a government democratic only in form. It will be a government democratic in substance and in how it interacts with its own people.

sought to impose myself on it. I have served in various capacities and have always put in my best.

But despite the rancour of the elections, I extend a hand of friendship and conciliation to President Jonathan and his team. I hereby wish to state that I harbour no ill will against anyone.

Let me state clearly that President Jonathan has nothing to fear from me. Although we may not agree on the methods of governing the

nation, he is a great Nigerian and still our president. He deserves our support and permanent respect by virtue of the office he has held.

This is how an honourable nation treats its servants and conducts its affairs; and this is how Nigeria should be. I look forward to meeting with President Jonathan in the days to come to discuss how our teams can make the transition of administrations as efficient as possible.

Nigeria will become a global force for good I assure all foreign governments that Nigeria will become a more forceful and constructive player in the global fight against terrorism and in other matters of collective concern, such as the fight against drugs, climate change, financial fraud, communicable diseases and other issues requiring global response. I want to assure our fellow African nations that Nigeria will now stand as a more constructive partner in advancing the matters of concern to our continent, particularly with regard to economic development and eradication of poverty.

Former head of state and president Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, General Yakubu Gowon, Alh. Shehu Shagari, General Ibrahim Babangida, Chief Ernest Shonekan and General Abdulsalami Abubakar deserve commendations for their statesmanship and words of caution and counsel for peace during the tense moments of this

No doubt, this nation has suffered greatly in the recent past, and its staying power has been tested to its limits by crises, chief among which is insurgency of the Boko Haram. There is no doubt that in tackling the insurgency we have a tough and urgent job to do. But I assure you that Boko Haram will soon know the strength of our collective will and commitment to rid this nation of terror, and bring back peace and normalcy to all the affected areas. We shall spare no effort until we defeat terrorism.

Furthermore, we shall strongly battle another form of evil that is even worse than terrorism—the evil of corruption. Corruption attacks and seeks to destroy our national institutions and character. By misdirecting into selfish hands funds intended for the public purpose, corruption distorts the economy and worsens income inequality. It creates a class of unjustly-enriched people.

Such an illegal yet powerful force soon comes to undermine democracy because its conspirators have amassed so much money that they believe they can buy government. We shall end this threat to our economic development and democratic survival. I repeat that corruption will not be tolerated by this administration; and it shall no longer be allowed to stand as if it is a respected monument in this nation.

We will hit the ground running I ask you to join me in resolving these and the other challenges we face. Along the way, there will be victories but there may also be setbacks.

Mistakes will be made. But we shall never take you for granted; so, be rest assured that our errors will be those of compassion and commitment not of wilful neglect and indifference.

We shall correct that which does not work and improve that which does. We shall not stop, or stand idle. We shall, if necessary crawl, walk and run to do the job you have elected us to do.

I realise that the expectation of our people today is as high as their commitment to change has been strong and their belief in us unshaken.

While we pledge to begin doing our best without delay, we would like to appeal to them to appreciate the gravity of our situation, so that we become more realistic in our expectations.

We will govern for you and in your interests.

Your vote was not wasted.

This is not the first time Nigerians have cast their votes for us, and this is not the first time they have been counted; but this is the first time that the votes have been allowed to count. With the help of God, we pledge to do our utmost to bring forth the Nigeria you seek.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

ELECTIONWatch

CoMMuNICAtIoNS

ElECtIoN oBSErVAtIoN MISSIoN

The role social media played in the 2015 Nigeria elections raises hopes for an “African spring” “We failed to invest in the media. We failed to invest in the public relations aspect of government, so now we’re receiving the reward of poor investment in public relations.”

So said President Jonathan about a month before he lost the election in Nigeria.

A dreadful admission considering the PDP spent somewhere in the region of $1m hiring spin doctors from America. Palpably money down the drain.

Installing inflammatory motormouth femi fani Kayode as the president’s media spokesman was also a disaster, the final nail in the communications coffin that had been in the making over the previous four years.

While the party simply shunned the mainstream print media – still the most trusted medium but also the most critical – they made a hash of using social media.

Consider the post #bringbackourpresident.

The insensitive pun on the hashtag bring back our girls – that brought global attention to the Chibok schoolgirl abduction – caused a furore, generating 8,000 tweets, and was quickly removed. Such ineptitude is mind-boggling. little wonder the APC triumphed on twitter, clearly commanding that element of the campaign; while 151,000 people actively followed the APC, only 59,000 followed the PDP. however, the parties were far closer together on facebook; with the PDP just edging it with 69,579 likes compared to the APC’s nearly

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62,000. President Jonathan’s facebook page, however, had 500,000 followers, showing he was considerably more liked than his party.

Maybe these figures reflect a demographic, with the south more likely to have internet access than the north.

Elections are not won via social media but perceptions are shaped here. The PDP failed to understand that and after repeatedly launching tweets that backfired they abandoned the space allowing civil society, activists, the Independent National Electoral Commission and the APC set the narrative.

Its influence as an amplifier of people’s voices and mainstream media analysis can only grow in the coming years. from less than 100,000 internet users in 1999, when the country returned to civilian rule, the International telecommunications union estimates some 43.9 million Nigerians now have access to the internet - almost a third of the population. others put them umber as high as 67 million. There are an estimated 1.8 million Nigerians currently on facebook and the number of Nigerians with twitter accounts is growing by the day.

So this was the first election where the people and civil society and activists had both freedom of speech and freedom of information (introduced in 2011 by the PDP).

The combined effect of this was to hold politicians in check; they could no longer hood-

NIGERIA Landline Mobile

wink the people with wild claims as they would be instantly challenged across social networks with access to the same facts and figures.

This new found people’s power is not confined to Nigeria, raising the possibility of an African Spring.

Now, across the continent Africans have the ability to quickly connect to the Western world and to get more people involved, especially during a critical election such as this.

Africa’s Internet growth has risen from 10% to 16% since 2010 and with zealous Nigerians celebrating the outcome of the elections other Africans feel optimistic about the upcoming elections in their own country. following Nigeria’s election, one twitter user wrote “#NDC must certainly know it is also losing the #Elections in #ghana ... Congrats #APC #Nigeria ... #Nigeriadecides” So the new social network trend in Nigeria is one that could be a catalyst for other developing countries to have a voice of democracy.

With the burden of expectation facing President-elect general Muhammadu Buhari perhaps greater than that which ushered both tony Blair and Barack obama to power, he would be wise to ensure he makes communication with the people a top priority.

The people will only respond to his appeal for “patience” if he keeps them regularly posted as to the steady steps being made towards the promised change.

The heads of international election observation missions, comprising of the African Union, the Commonwealth Observer Group, the European Union, the International Republican Institute, and the National Democratic Institute, would like to congratulate the leaders and people of Nigeria for their commitment to a peaceful response to the election results.

We commend President Goodluck Jonathan for his statesmanship in swiftly congratulating his opponent and paving the way for a historic peaceful transfer of power and we also congratulate General Buhari on his success and his appreciation of his opponent.

We call on the people of Nigeria to approach the upcoming governorship elections, which will also be internationally observed, with the same commendable spirit as demonstrated during the presidential election.

Professor Amos Sawyer, Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission; Dr Bakili Muluzi, Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group; Santiago Fisas, Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission; Constance Berry Newman, Co-Leader of the International Republican Institute Election Observation Mission; Ambassador Johnnie Carson, Co-Leader of the National Democratic Institute International Observation Mission

Mr BIMBo AfolAyAN roBErtS, Chairman, Central Association of Nigerians in the uK (CANuK) “This is one of the best times ever for Nigeria; democracy has come to stay. This is the first time the opposition has won the Presidency and the first time an incumbent has congratulated the winner. This experience has made Nigeria a strong and striving democracy. We need to take this opportunity to move the nation forward and place Nigeria firmly among the comity of democratic nations.”

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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NEWSWatch

‘If 106-year-old Irene can do it, so can you’ “Awesome” inspirers more than shine at event to motivate the next generation to set and achieve high goals

Highlights of the evening included the first honorary lifetime achievement award presented

by Councilor Susan Jumoke Fajan-Thomas to Irene Sinclair, from Guyana, who is now 106 years old. Irene became a model for the Dove Worldwide Campaign at the age of 96. Ms Sinclair ended her thank you speech with her own rendition of Vera Lynn’s, “We’ll meet again”.

Ms Dixon said she was truly humbled by the love shown at Awesome You event. “When I

made the decision to put on the Women on the Crossroads “Awesome You” event I was thinking of all the women I meet as I mentor, lecturer and give inspirational talks. Many tell me that they want to raise the bar, to do something for themselves, but lacked the confidence.

“I chose ‘Inspirers’ from different walks of life to show those who attended that we all have hiccups and may have been at many crossroads in our lives before finally finding our feet and becoming the role models in our lives and then in our chosen career.

“I wanted to motivate people to keep on

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trying and be like Irene Sinclair, 106-years-old and a model who’s catchphrase is, ‘Never say never’.”

The evening seems to have been a great success with many of the more than 150 present signing up to become mentors to the next generation. Ms Dixon told Nigerian Watch, “I believe Awesome made an impact and motivated many to raise the bar, that they too must make a mark; passing on the baton to the next generation.

“Many have signed up to be mentors and for this reason I believe that we are about to make a global change in attitude. Many want to inspire not only in the UK but via social media and Skype to others less fortunate in Africa, the Caribbean and the US. I am ultimately trying to stop women from using the excuse that they can’t. Who says you can’t? You do. If Irene Sinclair can do it, so can you.

“Many women are too willing to take the back seat and moan.

My whole teaching is about getting up, getting going and getting, to stop women, especially the younger generation, from giving up. I want them to stop moaning because our forebears had it harder.

“Many women of my grandmother and mother’s generation had to work a day job, do a part time cleaning or make money teaching private students. Whatever it was they did it.

Now the younger generations, who are more equipped with gadgets to make their lives easier, are choosing not to enhance their personal brand. I want to make them see that it’s not good enough to give up.”

On the night, powerful messages of personal failure, tribulations and achievements were given. St Lucian/UK Inspirer, TV producer and presenter, Delia Dolor was acknowledged for the unique way she inspires others to achieve; especially the young and those in need.

Inspirer Eryca Freemantle, who was involved in a major car accident– which caused her to lose her hair, suffer multiple facial scars and near amputation to her left leg – is now regarded as one of the world’s most famous makeup and fashion institutions. Lawyer Jenny Chika Okafor told the audience she was an example of what could be overcome and what could be achieved “if you stay strong and focused”.

Acclaimed TV Presenter Pauline Long, focused on what she has achieved despite issues in the early start of her career.

Wari Lace, Inspirer and co-ordinator of the Awesome You Fashion Show, said, “I was inspired to get involved as Sherry Ann Dixon is Patron of my company called LACE (London Africa Cultural Event), which is all about inspiring the next generation. I love helping Africaninspired brands to show off their creative talent and it was great to see two African designers – Kosibah Creations and Samon Soboye – showcase their beautiful fashion.

Seeing brands like those in the limelight will only serve to inspire others to make their mark.”

Natasha Veerasawmy, founder of Bonded Thru Cancer, was selected for the special award of a five day holiday at Paradise Ridge with butler service at Ladera resort in Saint Lucia. Her charity works to ensure anyone diagnosed with cancer is not left to tackle the deadly disease on their own.

Accepting her gift, she tearfully informed the audience that as a cancer victim she strived to achieve the purpose of bondedthrucancer.com and said, “never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d receive such a wonderful gift. I’m going to Saint Lucia!” Staring at a picture of Ladera, she screamed, “Wow!” For more information go to: www.womenonthecrossroads.com or contact info@sherrydixon.co.uk

“many women are too willing to take a back seat and moan. I want them to stop because our forebears had it harder”

NickGreganPhotograph.co.uky

An international group of 16 women based in the uK were recognised recently at the prestigious holiday inn, Bloomsbury, for being “awesome” and “inspiring”. The acclamation was made by Sherry Ann dixon, founder of Women on the crossroads (Wotc) network; an online space that enables women to connect and communicate their needs and bring these issues to the attention of others.

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EDUCATIONWatch

NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

21

Top tips on how to get your child to love revision “13 plus, gcSEs and A level exams are fast approaching. getting your child just to sit down and begin to tackle their revision over the Easter holidays can be difficult for any parent,” says hugh Viney, education consultant and director of minerva tutors.

“The trick is to work out exactly what motivates them and to find their perfect learning environment. But that’s not always easy.” here are hugh’s top tips for revision and exam success:

SEttINg goAlS Laying down achievable goals is the key to motivating them and unlocking their potential. Don’t merely say “sit down and work”. Break the long-term revision plan into workable objectives, like completing certain topics within subjects. For example, say, “By the end of today lets make sure you’ve covered algebra for your maths noncalculator paper”, or, “Let’s look at volcanoes in geography this morning”, is much more doable than saying, “Sit down

and get going with your maths revision.”

Setting these small goals leads to satisfaction once they have been achieved.

This in turn leads to students working harder to achieve the next set of goals. Introducing young students to the powerful motivational tool that is goal-setting will help them in all walks of life, way beyond the exam hall.

Write the goals down next to their revision timetable. Feel immensely satisfied as you cross them off.

CrEAtE thE rIght StuDy ENVIroNMENt A good study environment has good lighting, is tidy and minimises the number of distractions. Talk to your child about what kind of environment they work best in. Is it the kitchen, their room or the living room?

Try different locations out. And consider a free local library.

PuttINg thEM uNDEr A lIttlE PrESSurE IS No BAD thINg Research suggests that children perform better when they know their parents and teachers have high expectations of them. It

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shows them that trustworthy adults believe in their potential, which gives them confidence that they can succeed.

Be very specific about the expectation you have of your child. “I believe you can go up from a C to a B in English this holiday” is better than “You need to focus more on English”.

Consider putting your expectations and belief in their abilities down in writing.

PrAISE thEM for Effort AS WEll AS SuCCESS Remind them of past achievements. Build up their confidence by telling them they’ve done

it once they can do it again. But also praise effort even if it doesn’t bring initial results.

Learning is not about achieving a particular grade, it’s about enjoying a process, with all of its peaks and troughs.

That’s why praising effort rather than just achievement works better, to encourage children to persevere through challenges. It transforms learning into a game rather than a race.

A tutor can be the perfect support for parent and pupil alike. Our team at Minerva our specifically trained to motivate their pupils and encourage them towards success.

Ideal at this crucial time of year before exams.

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Why? tting n teens ge gs y Nigeria an are so manup with London G caught

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4 Angels for Africa promise night to remember 6 Seizure of assets case against Ibori collapses 18 Centenary City plan

‘A SUPERB LEADER and example to every Nigerian and millions of others, including Brits’ Baroness Linda Chalker’s verdict on our Ambassador as diaspora embraces “Tafidaism�

Features 10 When will the Tory party wake up to the race issue?

21 The agenda the National Conversation must consider 24 Africa’s 55 billionaires

Life & Style 29 Men – it’s time to take a health check 31 Makeup show live – top tips and exclusive offers

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ALL OUR

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Nigerian gardeners at the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest flower show Page 5

GOING HOME Hundreds gather to pay tribute to

100 100 OUT OF

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YAM time

THE BIG YOUTH REVOLUTION FROM LIDL BEGINNINGS The incredible rise of Afrikan Boy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; pages 2-3 3-4

Kaye Whiteman Page 4 WHO CAUSED THE NORTH TO FAIL see page 18

E

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CENTENARY SPECIAL

100 GREAT NIGERIANS TO MARK 100 GREAT YEARS

READERS AND ADVERTISERS A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS

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LARRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BACK WIN tickets to Azonto title fight night at York Hall â&#x20AC;&#x201C; page 22

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THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LEADING AFRICAN NEWSPAPER WITH THE LARGEST CIRCULATION Issue No 032 nigerianwatch.com FORTNIGHTLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertain

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INSIDE

INSIDE News - Air fares row special report - Yellow fever alert - Ibori seeks to serve gaol term in Nigeria - MPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s witchcraft campaign

Patrick Vernon on why we should celebrate our coming Page 15

THE ÂŁ6BN QUESTION

NEW

Features - Why we need big baggage allowances in a small world - New calls for a Sovereign National Conference

NIGERIA RISING

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NIGERIAN IDOL to launch London audition A star is born in EMIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tina

IN 2014 NIGERIAN WATCH

Business & Property - Diaspora bondsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; launch set - Lekki: Naija treasure island

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; UK diaspora leads campaign for clemency â&#x20AC;&#x201C; His prosecutors support early release

You can help end this waste of a life

Where should the diaspora put its money â&#x20AC;&#x201C; pages 12&14

Education - Advice on preparing your child for entrance exams

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LEISUREWatch

Fortnight

eclipsed at The gate Theatre - see Theatre listings below.

WhAt to SEE AND Do oVEr thE NExt inspired movement and poetry, taking us from the fleeting high of the score and the robust camaraderie of the team, to the poignant lows of a body too worn to play the game.

Touring the UK from April 23rd; 29 Apr – 2 May, 2:00/7:30pm.

From £15.

Southbank Centre, London Belvedere Rd, SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

DANCE Boy Blue Ent: legacy

SIlIVA thE Zulu A remarkable silent film by Italian explorer and filmmaker Attilio Gatti, with a live score by the talented British-Nigerian musician Juwon Ogungbe, using African and western instruments.

In 1927 Gatti travelled to Africa with anthropologist Lidio Cipriani to make a film that would depict the realities of life among the Zulu natives and blend them with a scripted story. The result was Siliva the Zulu, a story of a romantic rivalry in a primitive African village.

Along with the love story wedged into Gatti’s footage, Siliva the Zulu also includes historically invaluable scenes of daily life among the Zulu people, including healing rituals, dancing, and magical ceremonies.

17th Apr, 7:30pm. Tickets £10. Wilton's Music Hall, 1 Graces Alley, London, Tower Hamlets, E1 wiltons.org.uk

thEAtrE Everyman Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave) is Everyman in Carol Ann Duffy's new adaptation.

Liberia. At a rebel army base four young women are doing their best to survive the conditions of the war. Yet sometimes, the greatest threat comes not from the enemy’s guns, but from the brutality of those on your own side. With the arrival of a new girl, who can read, and an old one, who can kill, how might this transform the future of this hard-bitten sisterhood?

Until 16th May, 3;00/7:30pm.

From £10

Gate Theatre, 11 Pembridge Road, Notting Hill Gate, W11 www.gatetheatre.co.uk

Combining original poetry with contemporary movement, The Spalding Suite is a new physical theatre show that celebrates the elegance and beauty of basketball from a British perspective.

Six dynamic performers will mix live beatboxing, music, hip-hop, basketball

22nd Apr-16th Jul, 2:00pm/7:30pm.

Tickets from £15.

National Theatre, South Bank, SE1 www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

It’s best to work with the system, and right now -the system is war.

2003, civil war is raging in

A new showcase of handpicked dance pieces exploring some of Blue Boy Ent’s most original work of the last fourteen years.

Curated by Kenrick ‘H2O' Sandy and Michael ‘Mikey J' Asante, the show will feature work from eleven of the UK’s pre-eminent hip hop dancers, including Kenrick ‘H2O' Sandy, with guest performances from The Blue Print and Michael ‘Mikey J' Asante / The Bluez.

15-18 Apr, 3:00/7:00pm. From £13.

Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford, E15 www.stratfordeast.com

The Spalding Suite

Everyman is successful, popular and riding high when Death comes calling. He is forced to abandon the hedonistic life he has built and embark on a last, frantic search to recruit a friend, anyone, to speak in his defence. But Death is close behind, and time is running out.

Eclipsed

23

ADoPtINg BrItAIN;

70 yEArS of MIgrAtIoN

blue boy eNt at The Theatre royal stratford

An interactive, accessible exhibition about immigration as part of Changing Britain.

In 1951, the nationwide Festival of Britain established a feeling of recovery and progress following the Second World War. Do we still believe in its values?

Changing Britain is inspired by Tales of a New Jerusalem, a series of acclaimed books by historian David Kynaston examining the social history of England after World War Two. In the run-up to the 2015 national election, with immigration high on the agenda, we ask what we can do to promote understanding and empathy for fellow human beings.

17 April – 6 Sept, 10:00am – 11:00pm.

FREE Southbank Centre, London Belvedere Rd, SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

14 DAyS...

Mythopoeia tiwani contempoary

Art Mythopoeia | Mequitta Ahuja, Kapwani Kiwanga, Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum and Alida rodrigues Featuring four international artists: Mequitta Ahuja (USA), Kapwani Kiwanga (Canada), Alida Rodrigues (Angola/UK) and Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum (Botswana/South Africa). The exhibition points to the age-old role of storytelling and mythologising in rationalising the unknown.

10 Apr- 9 May. Tiwani Gallery, 16 Little Portland Street, London W1W www.tiwani.co.uk

Aabru Art's transcending Boundaries 2015 Aabru Art’s Transcending Boundaries 2015 includes exceptional never-beforeseen artworks by 35 Nigerian artists. Transcending Boundaries 2015 highlights the thriving cultural life of

Africa and offers an opportunity to invest in pieces by well-known masters in their region and internationally emerging artists of great quality.

24 April - 11 May Lacey Contemporary Gallery, 8 Clarendon Cross, W11

ChIlDrEN Mwalimu Express Its all about music and film from the Motherland. Its free and incredibly family friendly. Featuring a tribute concert celebrating the life of Yulisa Amadu Maddy.

Performances from Usifu Jalloh The Cowfoot Prince, Alim Kamara Matto Cole Showers Jalloh Asabi Hawah Abdul TJ, Bunton Cole , with drumming and dance workshops. Special Masquerades from Sierra Leone. Games and delicious food from Mama Put More.

Tributes from the great Bunny Mack, King Masco and Anni

24

NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

Domingo.

19 Apr, 2:00pm - 5:00pm. FREE Richmix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, E1. www.richmix.org.uk

siNkaNe at Xoyo, shoreditch - see Music listings below

11th Apr, 10:00am to 5:00pm.

From £5:00 Migreat Africans, 18 E Tenter Street, E1 www.migreat.co.uk

CoMEDy gina yashere and friends

Annual Igbo Conference: Igbo Womanhood

Her biggest show to date, Laugh Riot promises to explore it all! One of the UK’s funniest females, Gina Yashere, returns to her home country from across the pond.

Gina, as always, has plenty of stories to tell in a way that only Gina can tell them!

The theme of the fourth annual Igbo Conference is ‘Igbo Womanhood, Womanbeing and Personhood’. Exploring Igbo traditions in relation to the role and status of women in panels, Igbo cultural performances and workshops. With Author Nnedi Okorafor.

11 Apr, 7:00pm. TIckets from £18. O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Road, Brixton SW9. www.o2academybrixton.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter @NigerianWatch

LEISUREWatch

Immigrant Diaries

Sinkane

Statistics don't tell the story of immigrants; people do.

Comedians and entertainers share their true stories of people who choose to live and work on this marvellously multicultural island.

Sinkane creates an eclectic blend of music featuring styles ranging from anything like krautrock and funk rock to Sudanese pop music and free jazz.

24th Apr, 8:30pm. Tickets £10 Southbank Centre, London Belvedere Rd, SE1 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

MuSIC Juju featuring: Mosi Conde Mosi Conde will delight both aficionados of African music and newcomers to the genre, with his immense talent and fresh vibes, firmly rooted in tradition.

11 Apr. Advance Tickets £6.00 Upstairs at the Ritzy, Brixton Oval, Coldharbour Lane, SW2 www.facebook.com/ UpstairsAtTheRitzy

14th Apr, 8:00pm. Tickets £9.50. 18+ London XOYO, 32-37 Cowper Street, Shoreditch, EC2A www.xoyo.co.uk

othEr Professional Blogging in the london African Community Bringing prominent figures of London based African writers and bloggers together to discuss the concept of Identity, Home and Belonging within the UK African Community context in the morning, followed by an afternoon workshop on the cultural integration of African communities in London and the UK.

17th - 18th Apr, 9:30 am - 8:00 pm Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre, School of African Oriental Studies, Thornhaugh Street - Russell Square www.igboconference.com

Black Whose Story is it anyway?

Writers including; Nadifa Mohamed, Chris Cleave, and Zodwa Nyoni discuss the representation of refugees in novels and plays.

21st Apr, 7:30pm. Tickets £5.

Richmix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, E1. www.richmix.org.uk

fashion Africa Conference 2015 – london – “AN

AfrICAN rEVolutIoN” Social Enterprise Africa Fashion Guide host a full day conference event! Providing a means to discuss and promote the full supply chain of African Fashion Design, Textiles, and Manufacturing.

With Annegret Affolderbach of Choolips, Arieta Mujay of African Creative Collective, Christne Bredehorst of Cotton Made in Africa, Leigh Odimah of Africa Channel, Tamsin Lejeune of Ethical Fashion Forum and many, many more.

24 Apr, 9:00am - 5:00pm, From £35 Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green

thE hArlEM gloBEtrottErS! The world famous Harlem Globetrotters are in town. This is no mere basketball game... it's an eye-popping piece of family entertainment that has been thrilling fans for more than 80 years.

This year's star-studded team includes Sweet J Ekworomadu who plays for the Nigerian National Womens Basketball side.

18th Apr, 7.30 pm.

From £21 Wembley Arena, Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley, London www.ssearena.co.uk

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

SPORTSWatch

27

Super Eagles respond to call for more spirit

EMENIKE tAlKS of BuS ShootINg Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike says he and his fenerbahce team-mates were left in shock after their team bus was shot at by a gunman on Saturday (April 4). The shooting happened as the turkish side were travelling to trabzon airport to fly back to istanbul, following a 5-1 win over rizespor.

The driver was taken to hospital but no players were injured in the attack.

“The incident left several players in shock, when we should be celebrating a big away win,” Emenike told BBC Sport, following a victory that took them to the top of the table.

“I was on the phone with my brother when I heard the loud sound and I thought one of our tyres had busted because the bus was swerving on the road.

“We quickly realised the security guy was the one who hit the brake, and he said the driver [who was already soaked in blood] had been shot. The word ‘shot’ came as a big shock but when we saw blood and the shattered driver’s side window, it quickly turned into a scary moment for everyone on the bus.”

Fenerbahce have since called for the Turkish Super Lig to be suspended following the attack. Emenike, 27, and his team-mates have been left stunned by what happened.

“It’s unbelievable that some people actually fired shots at our bus and the driver

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was badly hit, a bus conveying footballers and officials,” he said. “It’s strange but it’s also an indication that things happen in life and no-one can be guaranteed complete safety.

“I just want to wish our brave driver a speedy recovery. I will forever be grateful to him and our security man because that bus could have plunged over the bridge.

“The outcome could have been terrible and tragic but we are all here today because of them and of course God was on our side.”

For Emenike, the shooting was particularly shocking as it brought back bad memories. “I’ve been involved in a terrible accident in Nigeria before, where my mother suffered severe bruises, and for a moment I had a terrible flashback when that bus was swerving all over the road,” he said.

“I hope this incident will be investigated thoroughly and the perpetrators are made to face the justice system.”

Emenike, who has endured a turbulent period in Turkish football since he re-joined Fenerbahce in 2013, demanded to be substituted after he was booed by his own fans during their 1-0 home win over rivals Besiktas two weeks ago.

The Nigeria international has scored only four goals in 23 league appearances this season but says this latest incident will not force him to quit the Istanbul-based club.

“I have a contract here and I love the club,” he added. “It’s only an isolated incident and not enough to make me look for an easy way out.”

Fenerbahce, who have former Premier League players Dirk Kuyt, Raul Meireles and Emre Belozoglu in their side, are the defending champions and have won the major domestic competition 19 times.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have redeemed some of their lost pride with a spirited performance against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in Nelspruit on March 29 that saw them concede a last minute equaliser in a hard fought 1-1 draw.

Of late the Eagles have been on a downward trend after a string of poor results that saw them fail to qualify

for the 2015 African Cup of Nations.

Prior to playing South Africa, the team also lost at home to lowly Uganda in a match played at the Uyo Stadium in Akwa Ibom State, prompting calls for more patriotism and spirit from the players.

Thankfully the team appeared to heed those calls with a spirited performance.

flyINg EAglES

From page 28

Muhammed down the right. But it took a moment of pure magic from Bulbwa, who showed great skill outside the box, before unleashing an unstoppable screamer into the top corner of the net.

Senegal searched for an equaliser before the break with Roger Gomis and Moussa Kone coming close. In a scary moment in the 41st minute, the Flying Eagles defenders were ball watching as Sane nodded a Sarr corner kick onto the cross bar in the 41st minute.

In the second half, the Young Lions kept pressing forward in search of an equaliser and a cracking shot from Niang in the 47th minute was brilliantly tipped away by Enaholo. In the 54th minute, Senegal nearly scored again but the Nigerian defence cleared the danger after a goal mouth scramble. The Flying Eagles stood firm to be hailed as champions by the 40,000 strong crowd.

The Flying Eagles are now one of the favourites for the U20 World Cup taking place in New Zealand later this year. Preceding the final, Ghana beat Mali 3-1 in the third place play-off to win the bronze medal.

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NIGERIAN WATCH 10 - 23 Apr 2015

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INSIDE

Emenike in ‘shock’ after fenerbahce bus shooting

SportswAtCH

FlyiNg eagles break aFricaN record NigEriA’s u20 team the flying Eagles have been crowned African champions for a record seventh time – following their 1-0 victory over hosts Senegal in dakar in the African Youth championship on march 22. And now are set to face Brazil in the u20 World cup.

The Flying Eagles sealed victory thanks to a lone goal scored by Bernard Bulbwa in the 20th minute of a tense affair. But both Nigeria and Senegal, along with runners-up Mali and Ghana, now qualify for the U20 World Cup as Africa has four slots to fill.

The four African representatives for the tournament learnt of what awaits them in New Zealand the day after the final, following the draw conducted in Dakar.

The Flying Eagles will feature in Group E, pitching them against Brazil, Korea DPR and Hungary; Ghana’s Black Satellites were drawn in Group B alongside Argentina, Panama and Austria; ‘Les Lionceaux’ of Senegal in Group C with Qatar, Colombia and Portugal; whilst the Eaglets of Mali will battle it out with Mexico, Uruguay and Serbia in Group D. In the final against Senegal the Flying Eagles took time to settle to their usual free flowing game and utilised the runs of captain Musa Turn to page 27

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