Leadership news by LEADERSHIP Newspaper

06.02.15

No. 89

N200

NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

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VIEW FROM ABROAD/The Economist

Nigeria’s Election: The Least Awful A former dictator is a better choice than a failed president

Sometimes there are no good options. Nigeria goes to the polls on February 14th to elect the next president, who will face problems so large— from rampant corruption to

a jihadist insurgency—that they could break the country apart, with dire consequences for Nigerians and the world. And yet, as Africa’s biggest economy stages its most

important election since the restoration of civilian rule in 1999, and perhaps since the civil war four decades ago, Nigerians must pick between the incumbent,

Goodluck Jonathan, who has proved an utter failure, and the opposition leader, Muhammadu Buhari, a former military dictator with blood on his hands. The candidates

stand as symbols of a broken political system that makes all Nigeria’s problems even more intractable. In this section Start with Mr Jonathan, whose People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has run the ➔ CONTINUES ON PAGE 7

AftEr 8-hour CouNCIL of stAtE MEEtING, GoWoN, shAGArI, 4 IBB, shoNEKAN, ABDuLsALAMI, CJNs sPEAK WIth oNE voICE

Elections Must Go On INEC is ready - Jega PDP prepared - Metuh

It's victory for democracy- APC

Pay attention! Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido (right) appears to be playfully telling Governor Rotimi amaechi of Rivers State, during the national Council of State meeting, held at the Presidential Villa in abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY REMI AKUNLEYAN

Chibok Diary DAY

298

Nigeria Must Take Decisive Steps Against Insurgency Like Jordan - BBOG Group > Page 2

2015

NIGERIA decides

NSA Warns Against Ethno-Religious Politics

> Page 10

CouNtDo

DAYs t oG

#BringBackOurGirls 297 day

Friday, February 6, 2015

Editor’s Note It is certain that in life, we don't usually stand still for long. We all have goals, and we all have role models. It's just a question of whether those role models are positive or negative. We are either moving upward, toward the peak, toward constructive, life-affirming goals, (thanks to the influence of positive role models) or we are moving downward, toward the pits, toward inauthentic, life-destroying goals, no thanks to the influence of negative role

models. Choosing between those two options is like flying a plane. If we surround ourselves with the right mentors, we start a climb into the stratosphere, if we spend too much time on the negative side, we lose our altitude, and run the risk of crashing. That can ruin your whole day. The stars are more fun to look at and they are easier on the face than the gravel.

For Feedback: fridayleadership@leadership.ng When the past calls, let it go to voicemail, believe me, it has nothing new to say.

CHIBOK IN THe WeeK SaTurday, JaNuary 31, 2014 The Chibok community advised non-governmental as well as multinational organisations who have aids for the internally displaced persons (IdPs) from the Boko Haram activities in the North-east to liase with the leaders of the affected communities directly so as to provide the help only for the affected who really need it. SuNday, FeBruary 1, 2014 It was gathered from around Chibok community that the Chibok schoolgirls who are being held captives by the Boko Haram sect, over nine months after their abduction are still alive and well, most of them married by the terrorists who are keeping them as wives. MONday, FeBruary 2, 2014 The BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group, during a rally it held at the Garki market in furtherance of its advocacy for the rescue of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls who are still in captivity of the Boko Haram terrorists, made a patriotic call on Nigerians to unite against the insecurity currently ravaging some parts of the country instead of antagonising and fighting one another. TueSday, FeBruary 3, 2014 The unity Fountain base of the BBOG group was reportedly under threat as touts with President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign posters were said to have stormed the base Monday in a vehicle, driving round the group, blasting music and disrupting their meeting. In another development, the BBOG group called on the Federal Government, the Federal Capital Territory

administration (FCTa) and all other stakeholders to facilitate the construction of a camp in abuja for the internally displaced persons (IdPs) who accidentally found themselves in abuja to alleviate their sufferings. WedNeSday, FeBruary 4, 2014 The BBOG group described the reported news of bombardment of Sambisa Forest by Nigerian troops as mere political gimmick geared towards the forthcoming elections, expressing wonder as to why the troops which did not do anything for several months after the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls who are still being held captives by the Boko Haram terrorists would start doing so now in the face of the elections. THurSday, FeBruary 5, 2015 In view of the electioneering campaign for the 2015 polls that is being abused by diehard politicians across Nigeria, the BBOG group issued a note of caution to the players to restrain from involving the issue of religion in their campaign as a strategy to manipulate the electorate and focus on what they intend to achieve for the people if elected.

Some members of the #BringBackourGirls(BBoG) advocacy group during an advocacy meeting on the rescue of the abducted Chibok girls at the Unity fountain in abuja, recently. PHOTO BY DELE DAmisA

Nigeria Must Take decisive Step against Insurgency Like Jordan - BBOG Group By Chika Mefor and ejike ejike, Abuja

The #BringBackOurGirls group yesterday, implored the Nigerian government to learn from the situation in Jordan where it's King, Abdullah had made a desicive step and had vowed a relentless war against Islamic State on their own territory. Speaking at the group's gathering yesterday, a member of the BBOG, Maureen Kabric noted that the way and manner Jordan handled the killing

of a Jordanian pilot by ISIS showed how the country value the security and lives of the citizens. Kabric added that if the government of Nigeria had taken a decisive step against Boko Haram sect, it would have gone a long way to reduce the activities of the insurgency in the Northeast. " What we see with what the Jordanian King has done is remarkable. It shows that he value the lives of his people. It took the death of just one person for him to take that step. Our country

must learn from it," she said. Recall that the Jordan's King Abdullah had vowed a relentless war against Islamic State on their own territory after the killing of a captured Jordanian pilot. "We are waging this war to protect our faith, our values and human principles and our war for their sake will be relentless and will hit them in their own ground," he had said. Jordan had promise to intensify its efforts with an international coalition fighting Islamic State.

TOday, FrIday, FeBruary 6, 2015 The BBOG group has implored the Nigerian government emulate the decisive step taken by King abdullah of Jordan against the terror activities of Islamic State in his territory by stepping up action fast to rescue the Chibok schoolgirls from their prolonged captivity in the hands of the Boko Haram terrorists. ...As compiled by ABAH ADAH

Members of the #BringBackourGirs (BBoG) durin at the Unity fountan, abuja, recently. PHOTOs BY DELE DAmisA

Harm watch, harm catch.

― Egyptian Proverbs

our stand

February 6, 2015

No To Lawless Vigilante Groups

ecently, it was reported that 16 people were allegedly killed by members of vigilante groups in Raba local government area of Sokoto State. Reports indicated that vigilante groups in Zamfara State were said to have been invited to join their counterparts in Raba in an operation that led to the arrest and killing of 16 people for alleged cattle rustling in the area. The commissioner of police in the state, Shuaibu Gambo confirmed that the vigilante groups summarily tried and executed the suspects, after which they carted away cattle and other valuables. We are worried that the unlawful executions were said to have been carried out with the full backing of traditional rulers, who invited the vigilante groups from a neighbouring state to take part in the act. Royal fathers, apart from their traditional roles, are expected to be the custodians of law and order. We join all well-meaning Nigerians in condemning this act of lawlessness. The constitution of Nigeria, which is the highest law in the land, does not bequeath anyone the powers to take the life of

another. In fact, the penalty for murder is the death sentence. While the role of vigilante groups in ensuring security in communities is appreciated, it ought to only be complementary to the role of the police. They cannot take upon themselves the role of the police and the judiciary, whose duty it is to ensure that lawbreakers are made to pay the price. The police said they have arrested 10 vigilante members in connection with the killings. We urge them to ensure that the matter is thoroughly investigated and anyone who had a hand in it fished out and punished. This will serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to indulge

Ag. Editor Pembi David-Stephen Deputy Editor Kazeem Akintunde Editorial Board Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Christian Ochiama, Deputy Chairman Standards â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Lara Olugbemi, Director

in such acts. Also, the police must ensure that anyone seeking to set up a vigilante group must get the required approval with the guidelines for operation clearly defined and membership rules must be strictly adhered to. This is to avoid a reoccurrence of such dastardly killings. However, as we condemn this resort to jungle justice, it is pertinent to point out some of the circumstances that gave rise to it. With the level of insecurity in the country today, it is becoming obvious that the populace is beginning to get impatient with the tardiness of the security agencies. Cattle rustling has been a major security threat in that part of the country. Cows are of great economic value to their owners and yet the police look on helplessly as bandits carry out their roguery without effective check. As we move against the resort to selfhelp in the administration of justice, because of its obvious implication of degeneration to a state of anarchy where might is right, it is our opinion that the security agencies must reassure the people that they still have what it takes to protect them and their property.

Founder Sam Nda-Isaiah Group Managing Director Azubuike Ishiekwene Group Executive Directors Michael Okpere Dr Kazeem Durodoye Divisional Directors Iyobosa Uwugiaren Salisu Alhassan Bichi General Managers Aminu Abubakar Sule Abdulmumin Balogun Zipporah D. Tanko

Leadership Holdings

Managing Director Abraham Nda-Isaiah Executive Director Nnamdi Samuel New York Office Mohammed Bello Shehu London Office Dr Bello Salihu Johannesburg Office Abiodun Oguntuase

Haste makes waste. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Egyptian Proverb

LEADERSHIP is a national paper symbolically embedded in the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital. We shall stand up for good governance. We shall defend the interest of Nigerian people even against their rulers, and we shall raise our pen at all times in defence of what is right. These are the values by which we intend to be assessed. We shall never, ever for any reason forget the noble reason of our coming into being: For God and country!

February 6, 2015

LIVING TO BE 100

Some health tips daily Miscellaneous The secret of Chinese who lived up to 250 Years - Even in modern times there is an instance of a Chinese whose name was “Lichigian” who reached to a life span of 250 years using the great Indian herb called India Pennywort (Brahmi). He said he is regularly using this Indian herb and he has achieved such a long life by regularly using this herb. Available for the benefit of our web friends - The secrets of people who lived to more than 100 years at very nominal cost through email or in printed form - It also includes the recipes of soups and juices which one must have daily to prolong his life span. A very useful and a must for every one. – Don’t miss the Golden Opportunity as you have only one life to live. — Source: livelongto100years.com

Minister of Agriculture, Akinwumi Adesina

Agriculture: Nigeria’s Next Cash Cow

ecent economic developments have, again, thrown up the debate on the diversification of the economy. It is in the light of this that it is important for Nigeria as a nation to look in the direction of agriculture. Agriculture has the potential to generate significant revenue for Nigeria, and offers more sustainable and equitable development than oil provides. With 60 per cent of Africans and by extension, Nigerians, directly depending on agriculture for survival, coupled with the growing poverty and food insecurity, agriculture should be of

African nations. Importantly, if the Nigerian Government is really committed to achieving the Vision 20: 20 and putting the nation among the league of major economies of the world in the year 2020, it must begin to look inwards towards reforming the agricultural sector. The agricultural sector should be Nigeria’s next “oil” in this ever changing economic clime. Research has shown that Nigeria, for example, one of the world’s largest producers of cassava, is responsible for nearly that of the second and third producers Brazil and Indonesia combined. However, ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Elections Must Go On ByGeorge Agba, Chibuzo Ukaibe, CHIKA OTUCHIKERE, Abuja

The Council of State, after a marathon meeting that began at about 11:30 am and ended at about 7:30pm yesterday, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to proceed with its assignment of conducting the 2015 general elections scheduled to begin on February 14, 2015. The development was sequel to the insistence of the electoral body that it was fully prepared for the polls on the grounds that 65 per cent of Nigerians had received their permanent voter cards (PVCs). LEADERSHIP gathered that the meeting was a stormy session which took place at the council chambers of the presidential villa, Abuja. It is the first time, after a long period, that the council was witnessing such a massive turnout of members. Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari, led all the opposition party’s governors to the meeting. Other living former presidents and heads of state also attended the meeting except former President Olusegun Obasanjo who was conspicuously absent. The former leaders at the meeting included Shehu Shagari, Yakubu Gowon, Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar and Ernest Shonekan. LEADERSHIP further gathered that all former heads of state spoke on the need to go ahead with the February polls since the date had been fixed in line with INEC’s statutory role to conduct elections. It was also revealed that all former Chief Justices of Nigeria (CJNs) also concurred on the need for the polls to go on as scheduled. Contrary to the alleged tacit support for the postponement of the elections, the service chiefs were said to have been non-committal on the matter during the meeting, as they were said to have restrained to speak strongly on the calls for the polls shift. LEADERSHIP further learnt that only the National Security Adviser (NSA), Col Sambo Dasuki (rtd) spoke in favour of polls shift. But the INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, was said to have insisted that the commission was more than ready to conduct the February polls. It became apparent that governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and their APC counterparts were

Jonathan

Buhari

not on the same page regarding the resolutions taken at the meeting, judging by their submissions while briefing journalists. The governors of Ondo, Imo and Adamawa, Olusegun Mimiko, Rochas Okorocha and James Nggilari, who briefed journalists after the council meeting spoke in discordant tunes. Okorocha, of the APC, admitted that the meeting had been a tough one but that the council had asked INEC to proceed with its responsibility. He said, “The National Council of State advised INEC to go and perform its civic responsibility, which is to conduct elections. That is what we rose to agree. It was a very challenging moment, and INEC has reaffirmed several times that they are ready. “But because of the concern of security agencies in some local governments, council asked INEC to go and perform their civic responsibilities, which is the conduct of elections.” Asked if there was a decision as to change of date for the polls, he said, “There is no decision as to change of date on postponement at all, but the council has asked INEC to go and perform their responsibility.” Okorocha acknowledged that the governors were not in agreement. “As usual, we will not be on the same page on any issues of this nature. It is normal that some will be for and others will be against.But the truth is that we looked at the constitution of Nigeria, which is the only binding factor when there are issues of disagreement. The constitution guides everyone because that is the fundamental law that guides the whole nation’s policies,” he said. On the possibility of using temporary voter cards, the

governor said: “The temporary voter cards are being exchanged for the new ones and once you have given out your temporary voter card, that means you don’t have any more. “So, they are going for the permanent voter cards, and the PVCs would be assumed to have been distributed before Sunday. That was the essence of the whole exercise and Jega has reassured us that they are equal to the task. In fact, they are more prepared than they were in 2011,” the Imo State governor explained. But Mimiko, a PDP governor, told journalists that INEC was asked to go and consult widely before taking a decision on whether it was prepared to conduct the polls or not. According to Mimiko, “Council of State, in a meeting that lasted close to seven hours, essentially discussed the state of preparedness of INEC on the table. INEC had the benefit of input from council members and security chiefs and agencies. “And based on the very exhaustive discussion and pieces of advice, INEC is constitutionally empowered to brief the nation and then the news will be communicated to you.” Asked to be specific on whether there would be a shift in the election date, he said INEC was going to consult widely with stakeholders and come up with a decision that they will brief the nation soon. “The Council of State is essentially an advisory body. Mr President, in his wisdom, invited INEC to brief us on the state of preparedness. Based on what INEC briefed, and based on perception of council members and security agencies, INEC was properly advised and you will

Hasty climbers have sudden falls. ― Egyptian Proverb

➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

February 6, 2015

Elections Must Go On ➔ FROM PAGE 4

hear from INEC”. The Ondo State governor added that the issues of PVCs distribution, the extent of piloting to ensure that people are familiar with this, as well as security issues were discussed at the meeting. On whether council was not worried that just seven days to the election, 34 per cent of Nigerians were yet to get PVCs, Mimiko said “It was a major issue that was discussed, including issues of preparedness of security to conduct elections nationwide, issues of extensive pilot and the card readers which is a new technology.” The APC governors who attended the meeting are Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), ) Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara), Tanko Al-Makura (Nasarawa) Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Rochas Okorocha (Imo), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Aliyu Wammako (Sokoto). The PDP governors included Bala Nggilari (Adamawa), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Idris Wada (Kogi), Ibrahim Shema (Katsina), Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom), Sule Lamido (Jigawa),

Mimiko

Jega

Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo), Jonah Jang (Plateau), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti), Mukhtar Yero (Kaduna), Willy Obiano (Anambra), Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), Isa Yuguda ( Bauchi), Sullivan Chime (Enugu) and acting governor of Taraba State. The governors of Yobe, Abia, Borno and Oyo states were represented by their

deputy governors. Also in attendance were Senate president David Mark, speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal; national security adviser, Colonel Sambo Dasuki; attorney-general of the federation, Mohammed Adoke; former Chief Justices Alfa Belgore and Dahiru Musdapher, and secretary to the government of the federation, Anyim Pius Anyim.

Okorocha

After the meeting, the PDP governors met with President Jonathan in his office for another 40 minutes. The APC governors were the first who came out of the meeting. As they stepped outside, they gathered in smaller groups and conferred on the next step. ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Agriculture: Nigeria’s Next Cash Cow ➔ FROM PAGE 4

Nigeria only processes a quarter of what produced. It is evident that there is an untapped opportunity for Nigeria to also become the world’s largest processor of cassava, providing more than enough for the local market and with the potential to become a major exporter. In the face of falling oil prices, ANDREW ESSIEN looks at the need for massive rural-urban agricultural development as the way forward to boost production, create employment for the country’s teeming unemployed and stabilise the nation’s dwindling economic fortunes. In the 1960s, before it became totally dependent on oil, Nigeria was one of the most promising agricultural producers in the world. Between 1962 and 1968, export crops were the country’s main foreign exchange earner. Nigeria ranked number one in palm oil exports globally, well ahead of Malaysia and Indonesia, and exported 47 per cent of all groundnuts, putting it ahead of the US and Argentina. Unfortunately, its status as an agricultural powerhouse has declined, and steeply too. While Nigeria once provided a large percentage of the global production of cocoa, second in the world in the 1960s, that figure is now down to 8 per cent, while the country produces 65 per cent of tomatoes in West Africa, it is now the largest importer of tomato paste. Sadly, Nigeria is now known for nothing else other than oil. The gains of oil are, no doubt, to the detriment of the agricultural sector, thereby giving rise to a high poverty situation. What has

caused this ugly turn of events over the years is clear for all to see. Until very recently, successive governments in Nigeria were pretentiously doing very little or nothing at all in terms of solving the nation’s agricultural problems. Agriculture was and in some quarters, is still greatly and relatively undermined; and or even overlooked as a mere “back-yard business”. No thanks to white-collar jobs, some Nigerian Youths even regard farming as “an odd job that is meant only for the illiterate rural people.” The greatest number of dedicated full-time farmers in Nigeria can neither read nor write; the local farmers there are even as uninformed as they lack modern agricultural education. This has in no small measure contributed to the downward turn in the agricultural sector so much so that what is even produced is not enough for export. Going forward, diversifying sources of growth which include a strengthened agricultural sector that works with nature and not against it will go a long way in improving livelihoods, considering the fact that the sector currently employs a large labour force with most of it being rural. It therefore becomes imperative to look at whether relying on oil or agriculture could provide the most feasible pathway to enhance food security and job creation for Nigeria’s teeming youth. With African agriculture and agribusiness estimated to be worth 1tn dollars by 2030 and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in agriculture projected to grow from less than 10 billion dollars in 2010 to more than 45 billion dollars in 2020, demonstrates

the potential of agriculture to generate significant income for Africa. In addition, considering that existing oil and mineral reserves may run out, Nigeria’s soil and its ecosystems, including rivers and forests will remain. Agriculture hence, offers a sustainable source of income to both the government and the governed. Oil revenue should therefore be reinvested into agriculture to ensure food production and employment creation well into the future. Reinvesting natural resource revenues into ecosystem-based adaptation driven agriculture is imperative to leapfrog Nigeria into a world where, in the words of Nelson Mandela, “there is work, bread, water and salt for all.” Sustainable farming approaches should be studied and adapted in most rural communities, since they involve traditional agricultural practices. A recent United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) publication shows how it is possible to invest in ecosystembased adaptation driven agriculture. This can be studied and implemented. Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture seeks to add 20 million metric tonnes to the domestic food supply and to create 3.5 million jobs through agriculture in 2015. This will require more than just words, sophisticated thinking about reinvigorating the love for agriculture in the minds of Nigerians; a rebranding of sorts is the way to go thence. Commendably, the introduction of Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing Systems for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has de-risked lending to the agricultural and has in a way,

Hatred is blind, as well as love. ― Egyptian Proverb

curbed the racketeering syndicate in the distribution of fertilizers. In a bid to revamp the agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture has developed four key principles in executing its programmes. The first principle called ‘subsidiarity’ which is aimed at touching every part of the country’s agricultural value chain. The second approach involves working within a framework of strategic partnerships with the private sector, civil society and particularly farmers. The third principle is to treat agricultural endeavour as an investment which must generate returns like any other viable business and the fourth focuses on using bottom-top approach to engender accountability and delivery of results in the entire programme While there is still a lot left to be done, the transformation of Nigeria’s agricultural sector may have indeed begun but analysts are of the opinion that a lot more still needs to be done. With many seriously perturbed by the dwindling price of crude and the ensuing economic challenge, professionals are overjoyed because necessity they say, is the mother of invention. With the easy “oil money” out of the way, local government chairmen, state governors and of course, the federal government will now be forced to walk rather than crawl. They will now have to learn how to navigate in a turbulent economic environment devoid of the windfall. But if they effectively put their acts together, the nation certainly will emerge from the current economic downturn with a more sustainable economy.

February 6, 2015

Nigeria’s Election: The Least Awful ➔ FROM COVER PAGE

country since 1999 and who stumbled into the presidency on the death of his predecessor in 2010. The PDP’s reign has been a sorry one. Mr Jonathan has shown little willingness to tackle endemic corruption. When the governor of the central bank reported that $20 billion had been stolen, his reward was to be sacked. Worse, on Mr Jonathan’s watch much of the north of the country has been in flames. About 18,000 people have died in political violence in recent years, thousands of them in January in several brutal attacks by Boko Haram, a jihadist group that claims to have established its “caliphate” in territory as large as Belgium. Another 1.5m people have fled their homes. The insurgency is far from Mr Jonathan’s southern political heartland and afflicts people more likely to vote for the opposition. He has shown

little enthusiasm for tackling it, and even less competence. Quick to offer condolences to France after the attack on Charlie Hedbo, Mr Jonathan waited almost two weeks before speaking up about a Boko Haram attack that killed hundreds, perhaps thousands, of his compatriots. The single bright spot of his rule has been Nigeria’s economy, one of the world’s fastest-growing. Yet that is largely despite the government rather than because of it, and falling oil prices will temper the boom. The prosperity has not been broadly shared: under Mr Jonathan poverty has increased. Nigerians typically die eight years younger than their poorer neighbours in nearby Ghana. Goodbye Jonathan Voters have ample cause to send Mr Jonathan packing. In a country where power has often changed through the barrel of a gun, the opposition All Progressives Congress has a real

chance of winning through the ballot box. Yet its candidate, Mr Buhari, is an ex-general who, three decades ago, came to power in a coup. His rule was nasty, brutish and mercifully short. Declaring a “war against indiscipline”, he ordered whip-wielding soldiers to ensure that Nigerians formed orderly queues. His economics, known as Buharism, was destructive. Instead of letting the currency depreciate in the face of a trade deficit, he tried to fix prices and ban “unnecessary” imports. He expelled 700,000 migrants in the delusion that this would create jobs for Nigerians. He banned political meetings and free speech. He detained thousands, used secret tribunals and executed people for crimes that were not capital offences. Should a former dictator with such a record be offered another chance? Surprisingly, many Nigerians think he should. One reason is that, in a country where ministers routinely

wear wristwatches worth many times their annual salary, Mr Buhari is a sandal-wearing ascetic with a record of fighting corruption. Few nowadays question his commitment to democracy or expect him to turn autocratic: he has repeatedly stood for election and accepted the outcome when he lost. He would probably do a better job of running the country, and in particular of tackling Boko Haram. As a northerner and Muslim, he will have greater legitimacy among villagers whose help he will need to isolate the insurgents. As a military man, he is more likely to win the respect of a demoralised army. We are relieved not to have a vote in this election. But were we offered one we would—with a heavy heart— choose Mr Buhari. Mr Jonathan risks presiding over Nigeria’s bloody fragmentation. If Mr Buhari can save Nigeria, history might even be kind to him.

Elections Must Go On ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Progressive Governors laud Outcome The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the Council of State meeting at the presidential villa, Abuja. In a communique signed by the chairman of the forum and Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, the progressive governors expressed satisfaction with the assurances given by INEC and the national security adviser (NSA) on the state of preparedness for the February 14 and 28 general elections. The communique reads in part: “The chairman of INEC assured council that INEC is ready to proceed with elections as scheduled, emphasizing, in their own words, that ‘our accomplishments are to such a degree that we can conduct the elections. Compared with the 2011 general elections, for instance, our systems are definitely more robust. We believe that we are ready for the elections as planned.” The PGF took cognizance of the security challenges pointed out by the NSA in 14 local government areas in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. It also noted the wish of PDP governors that the elections are postpone in spite of the assurances of INEC. It also advised all state governors to engage the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) with a view to resolving the strike by judicial staff. We’re Ready For Elections - PDP The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday said it was ready for the forthcoming general elections. The party also stated that it looked forward to the outcome of the meeting between INEC and other stakeholders over the polls. Reacting to the outcome of the Council of State meeting yesterday, the national

publicity secretary of the party, Chief Olisa Metuh, said: “We have got snippets of what happened at the meeting and we have been briefed that INEC was mandated to liaise with security agencies and other stakeholders and find out if the elections can hold. “So, we look forward to hearing from INEC, but whatever the decision of INEC, PDP is willing and ready to take on the elections whenever INEC decides they will hold.” It’s victory for democracy - APC The APC has described the decision of the National Council of State to reject the proposal to postpone the February 14, 2015 presidential election and other elections scheduled for the general elections as the “triumph of the nation and its people over parochial individual and political interest.” In a statement by Malam Garba Shehu, its director of media and publicity, the campaign body said that the position of the Council of State vindicates the position of millions of Nigerians who are ready and keen on the elections and who want to change the circumstances of the country. The statement said further that upholding the February 14, 2015 date and other scheduled dates for the elections confirms the sacrosanct nature of those dates as well as the May 29, 2015 handover date. “We are heartened that a major crisis of political and constitutional nature has been averted which would have made Nigeria the laughing stock of the civilised world. “INEC has always said it is ready for the polls, likewise all the security and intelligence agencies and, more importantly, the Nigerian people who are the voters. It would have been a terrible disservice if, on the basis of personal interest, the elections were postponed. “No nation learns all the lessons of

Badeh

Minimah

democracy at once; thus, it is the belief of our campaign that INEC, the electoral umpire, still has the chance and is indeed determined and ready to organise credible polls next week and thereafter.”

to election postponement”, “Nigerians are ready for elections”, “GEJ, you claimed you have improved power sector and built 200 roads, why are you afraid of election?” A spokesman of the protesters, Olatunde Daniels, told reporters that his group would resist any attempt by the government to postpone the elections, saying that Nigerians are ready for election, and that no amount of propaganda would make Nigerians allow the ruling party to truncate the nation’s democracy. “We are against the planned postponement of the elections and we are ready to sustain this protest to ensure that the elections hold as scheduled,” he stated. One of the participants, Mohammed Abdullahi, condemned the calls for the shifting of the polls, and called on the government to reconsider its plan on the issue. According to him, INEC should be given all the necessary logistics and financial support to conduct the elections, which he said, should not be postponed on any account.

Elections Postponement: Police Stop Group’s March To Villa Opposition to the planned postponement of the 2015 general elections yesterday provoked a protest march by a group of FCT residents who insisted that the elections must hold as scheduled. The protesters, who took off from the Unity Fountain, Maitama, to the Presidential Villa junction, urged INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, not to succumb to pressures mounted on him by the PDP to shift the February polls. However on the way to the presidential villa, the peaceful protesters were stopped by armed anti-riot policemen who insisted that they were not permitted to go further Some of the protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as: “On Feb. 14 we stand” ,”Democracy must survive”, “No

Hawks will not pick hawks’ eyes. ― African Proverb

8 NEWS

February 6, 2015

Group News Editor: Tony Amokeodo

10 Political Parties Resist Plot To Shift Elections By Chibuzo Ukaibe, Abuja

L-R: Strategic Business Group (SBG) head, Public Sector Group, UBA Plc, Mr Oliver Alawuba; group managing director/CEO, UBA Plc, Mr Phillips Oduoza; Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II and executive director, Resources, UBA Plc, Ms Obi Ibekwe, during the official visit of UBA executive management to the emir at his palace in Kano.

We Don’t Earn N3.4bn Monthly – Ajaokuta Steel Workers By Catherine Agbo, Abuja

Staff of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, Kogi State, have refuted reports that the federal government pays them a monthly wage of N3.4billion. Recent reports credited to the chairman of the Board of Assets Management Company (AMCON), Mr Kola Belgore, quoted him as saying that the federal government spends N3.4billion monthly on salaries of workers of the steel company, following which the House of Representatives set up a committee to investigate the claim.

But the steel workers, under the auspices of Iron and Steel Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ISSSAN) and Steel and Engineering Workers Union (SEWUN), in a joint press conference in Abuja, yesterday, refuted the claim, clarifying that the said N3.4billion is the annual wage bill of the company. ISSSAN president, Comrade Otori Maliki, who spoke on behalf of the group, explained that “the paltry N3.4billion is what is paid to workers in 12 calendar months, about N288million monthly for the well over 6,000 workers, as appropri-

ated by the National Assembly in the national budget.” He described their services as sacrifice to their fatherland, aimed at protecting the over $5billion investment at the steel plant from vandals. Otori advised that in a dwindling oildriven economy, the National Assembly should champion advocacy for the completion and commissioning of the Ajaokuta steel plant, noting that a functional steel company would be a boost to the non-oil sector and immeasurably bring economic fortune to the country.

Elections: Nigerians Will Resist Postponement With Violence – CLEEN Report By Chika Otuchikere, Abuja

A security threat assessment report on the 2015 general elections has revealed that monumental violence will greet any postponement of the election. The report put together by the CLEEN Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, and presented to the media yesterday, indicated that Nigerians are totally against any plans to postpone the elections in spite of the challenges confronting the preparations for the exercise. In her opening remarks, executive director of CLEEN, Kemi Okenyedo said the report which is part of their contribution to a peaceful, violence-free election, commenced in 2013 to identify security threats which may affect the planning and conduct of the 2015 general elections. According to the report, the national aggregate of the Security Threat Assessment (STA)

reveals that 11 states, including Adamawa, Benue, Borno, Imo, Kaduna, Kano, Nasarawa, Plateau, Rivers, Taraba and Yobe are in the red and highly prone to violence. Only Cross River, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kwara and Osun states are in the green, indicating that there are no threats of violence. The remaining 20 states are in amber, indicating that they have potential of violence. The report identified the following threat indicators which have not yet been surmounted: insurgency, hate and inciting speech, communal violence and other localised conflict, militant groups, vigilantes and youth thuggery, proliferation of small arms and light weapons and performance of security institutions. Others are fear of electoral manipulation, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and postponement of the elections. Part of the recommendations of the report

to mitigate possible violence are understanding of the politics of the regions and responding to some of the key concerns of the people, containing the insurgency in the Northeast and stopping its spread into other regions and states, setting up rapid response strategy in the event of a crisis, especially around flashpoint areas and avoiding hate or inciting speech. Others are that the political parties should adhere to a peace memorandum, showing their commitment to eschew violence and work peacefully before, during and after the election and effective monitoring to ensure that parties and candidates abide by the Abuja Accord. Also, it was recommended that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should ensure free, fair and credible election by commencing early preparation for the elections and providing all the non-essential electoral materials to states to avoid logistic hiccups.

He goes long barefoot that waits for dead man’s shoes.

Ten registered political parties, under the aegis of Coalition of Progressive Political Parties (COPP), yesterday rejected calls for the postponement of the general elections from the scheduled dates of February 14 and 28, under any guise. The political parties, while insisting that the election must go on as scheduled, stressed that the call for the postponement of the election has nothing to do with the pace of distribution and collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The political parties that make up COPP include Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), African Peoples Alliance (APA), Kowa Party, Mega Progressive People’s Party (MPPP), Social Democratic Party (SDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC). Others are Hope Democratic Party (HDP), Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), United Progressive Party (UPP) and Accord Party. The declaration by the 10 political parties came two days after 16 other political parties called for the postponement of the elections. Addressing a press conference in Abuja, spokesperson of the group and national chairman of the PDM, Bashir Ibrahim said any attempt to postpone the polls would “plunge our country into anarchy.”

2011 Post-election Violence: Northern Coalition Submits Evidence Against Buhari At ICC By Kunle Olasanmi, Abuja

A civil society organisation, Northern Coalition for Democracy and Justice, has said that it has formally submitted a complaint against the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Gen. Mohammadu Bahuri at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague in Netherlands. In the complaint, the coalition accused Buhari of masterminding the 2011 post-election violence that led to the death of 11 corps members in Bauchi State. At a news conference in Abuja, the group’s secretary in charge of Documentation and Research, Dr Ibrahim Buba said the presentation of additional evidence at the ICC had become imperative in view of the federal government’s inability to prosecute Buhari over the matter. He said, “The complaint sets out in detail the background to the 2011 Nigerian electoral violence and discusses the available evidence against General Buhari. “The complaint analyses the crimes within the ICC Statute and the modes of liability applicable to General Buhari’s conduct.” The organisation further alleged that the post-election violence of 2011 in the country was orchestrated by Buhari’s inflammatory speeches.

2015 NIGERIA February 6, 2015

decides www.election2015.leadership.ng

Hate Campaigns Can Lead to Violence - ASUU Warns

Fagge

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) yesterday warned that hate campaigns by some politicians in the country can plunge the country into violence if not stopped. ASUU’s national president, Dr Nasir Fagge, while speaking at a symposium organised by the union on the 2015 general elections titled “Towards issuebased and violence free 2015 polls”, condemned hate campaign among politicians and their supporters. He tasked Nigerians to use their votes to unseat all “parasites in government” and ensure that the 2015 general elections usher in new crop of leaders that are interested in development of the country. Through the “callousness of the parasites”, Nigerians, he said, were being looked down on, not only by the developed countries, but also by African countries that have the same history with Nigeria. He therefore asked the electorate to ensure that corrupt and anti-people persons are legally removed through the ballot. Fagge, who noted that the problems facing Nigeria such as unemployment, insecurity and infrastructure decay were results of failed leadership, urged Nige-

The environment in which the electoral process is taking place is poisoned by violence and threats of violence

COUNTDO W

rians to unseat parasites in government. He opined that government policy that is focused and sustained in education sector will address ills in the country. He charged future policy makers to address the problems in the education sector. Setting the agenda for new government, Fagge said the policy thrust of a new leader is to ensure that the constitution is people friendly and ensure equitable distribution of wealth. Former ASUU president and convener of the symposium, Professor Asisi Asobie had, in his opening speech, condemned politicians who rather than address issues, embark on personality attacks on candidates, thereby charging the polity with a threat of violence. According to him, only an issue-based campaign can avert apathy, ensure people participation, guarantee orderliness, violent free polls and make results acceptable across party lines. “The environment in which the electoral process is taking place is poisoned by violence and threats of violence, not just against individuals and groups but ominously against the state itself. “We are faced with a circumstance in which the state not only appears to have lost its monopoly of the legitimate use of force and the capacity to keep conflicts within the bounds of law and order, but even appears compromised and mixed up in the entire melee,” he said. The chairman of the symposium and Professor of Political Science, Adele Jinadu, called for the reconfiguration of the Nigerian state to make politics for public interest a goal to pursue rather than politics of personal interests. He said the innovation (PVC and card reader) by the Attahiru Jega commission of INEC will ensure transparency and make the elections credible. – By Adebayo Waheed, Ibadan

DAYS T OG

Chidi Odinkalu

State 96%, Delta State 76%, Rivers State 80%– are highly implausible, particularly given the credible reports of low voter turnout from those states”. In the 2011 elections, generally said to be much fairer than those of 2007, the South South, along with the South East, produced the highest rates of voter turnout in the country, well

oddbAlls

FG Calls For Vigilance Over Alleged Plans To Bomb Polling Centres

Dakingari

Youths Rain Stones On Dakingari In Jega Irate youths in Jega local government area of Kebbi State yesterday rained stones at the PDP guber campaign rally just seconds after Governor Dakingari ascended the podium to start his campaign remarks. The incident, which caused pandemonium and chaos, disrupted the rally, making the VIPs, including the governor’s aide and the crowd to run helter skelter for safety from the stones. According to an eyewitness, a staunch member of PDP who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “the incident started around 8pm on Wednesday. Stones started coming from all directions, making the whole place rowdy and the security had to quickly bundle the governor into one of their vehicles to the house of Alh. Abbas Jega, a prominent businessman in Jega popularly called Abbasco”, he said. Reports say the vehicle of Senator Umar Tafida, the PDP guber runningmate, a black Prado Jeep and some vehicles belonging to the governor’s convoy were smashed by the stone missiles. All efforts by the combined team of armed mobile policemen and officers of the Civil Defence Corps to curb the incident proved abortive as the irate youths took to their heels as they rained the stones from a distance. By Yahya Sarki, Kebbi

The federal government yesterday asked Nigerians to be alert in order to avert alleged plans by some terrorist groups to attack polling units in the forthcoming general elections. It said that the groups have perfected plans to collect, buy or steal permanent voters cards (PVCs) of female voters, hand over same to female suicide bombers and create access for them into polling centres where they will detonate bombs and kill unsuspecting voters. Coordinator of the National Information Centre, Mr. Mike Omeri, stated this while briefing journalists alongside security officers at the centre in Abuja. He urged Nigerians, especially female voters, to be mindful of their PVCs to ensure that they don’t get into the hands of bad elements. “By this information, Nigerians, especially female voters, are warned to remain vigilant and also jealously guard and preserve their PVCs to avoid the possibility of losing them to these bad elements who will put them to untoward uses”, he said. Speaking on the 7,500 AU-backed multinational force, Omeri said the force is to be composed of mainly troops from countries in the Lake Chad Basin Commission area. According to him, the modalities for the operationalisation of the force are being worked out at a tactical summit which started yesterday in the Republic of Cameroun, adding that the Chadian chief of Defence Staff is currently in Nigeria to consolidate discussions on transborder operations with its Nigerian counterpart. By Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Abuja

Mike Omeri

FACTCHECKER South South Particularly Exposed To Electoral Malpractice

While rigging is a widespread problem during elections in Nigeria, outcome of researches show that the offence is more prevalent in the South-South region of Nigeria. In its report of the 2007 elections, the European Union Election Observer Mission noted that “the high turnout rates for the Niger Delta region – Akwa Ibom State 83%, Bayelsa

above the national average of 51.95%. It is not clear if the pronounced levels of rigging may be connected to the inaccessibility of the terrain. Chairman, National Human Rights Commission, Chidi Odinkalu appears to make that connection, telling Africa Check that there is documented evidence of acts like the “re-writing [of] election returns inside the boats

in the creeks” and that “the patterns in other parts that don’t have water are different”. Blatant election malpractice is very much a part of Nigerian politics, persevering right through to the last vote in 2011, when international observers recognised democratic process, but underlined that there is still a long way to go.

10 NIGERIA DECIDES

February 6, 2015

NUMBERS

QUOTES

3 Number of lawsuits filed in the federal high court seeking disqualification of All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Gen Muhammadu Buhari.

➔ Chief OdigiOyegun “These are part of the PDP’s script to deny Nigerians their right to choose their leaders on the 14 and 28th of February”.

681 Number of poling units relocated in Kebbi State.

2, 898 Number of cards readers received by INEC in Kebbi State for the 2015 elections from the headquarters of the commission in Abuja.

2 Number of days declared by the governor of Oyo State, Sen. Abiola Ajimobi, as public holiday in the state for the collection of PVCs.

3.5 million Number of PVCs yet to be collected nationwide. 16, 700 Number of adhoc staff to be recruited by INEC in Jigawa State to complement existing staff members of the commission for this month’s general election. 1,802,158 Number of PVCs received by Jigawa INEC, out of 1,838,187.

L-R; Senate President Sen. David Mark, Kaduna State Governor Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, and Former Head of State Gen. Muhammadu Buhari during the National Council of State meeting, Held at the Presidential villa Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY REMI AKUNLEYAN

Nsa Warns Against Ethno-Religious Politics

he national security adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) has warned the citizenry against politics of tribe, religion and regional interest in the forthcoming general election. Dasuki, who stated this at the zonal workshop for South South states on increased security consciousness for women, youths, civil societies, political parties and non-governmental organisations yesterday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, explained that enlightenment of the citizenry to choose leaders that they trust and can represent their interests, not on the basis of tribe, religion and regional interests, is paramount. He stated that the first elected black mayor of Enugu was a Hausa man and it was gratifying to note that currently, there are several non-indigenes serv-

INECWATCH

ing at both executive and legislative positions in the country, especially in Lagos and Kano States. Dasuki, while commending the level of enthusiasm and commitment of stakeholders towards the conduct of free and credible elections, said all hands must be on deck to avoid the repetition of unnecessary loss of lives and wanton destruction of property witnessed during the 2011 elections. Represented by the permanent secretary, Special Services, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr. Habiba Lawal, he said the workshop sponsored by the of SGF and NSA was aimed at increasing security consciousness in promoting peace and security, before, during and after the 2015 elections. He said it was against this backdrop that the president,

He said it was against this backdrop that the president, Goodluck Jonathan and 13 other presidential candidates signed a peace pact on January 14 2015 against electoral violence.

Goodluck Jonathan and 13 other presidential candidates signed a peace pact on January 14 2015 against electoral violence. The security boss stated further that the federal government was, as a deliberate policy, employing confidence-building strategy through the workshop as one of the series of collaborative initiatives by UNDP/DGD in its bid to ensure free, fair and credible elections. Dasuki maintained that with the Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security is working tirelessly to ensure a peaceful conduct of elections, adding that it was his belief that the workshop would avail the participants the opportunity to discuss, deliberate and cross fertilize ideas on how to promote peace and security before, during and after the elections. By Bernard Tolani Dada Uyo

➔ Olisa Metuh “We will not glorify APC by joining issues with them on this matter. For now, our focus is on issuesbased campaign towards the re-election of President Goodluck Jonathan, so that he can continue to deliver the goods for Nigerians”.

➔Femi Falana “Since the power of organizing and conducting the general election, including the fixing of dates for the election, is the exclusive responsibility of INEC, the council of state is not competent to advise the president or direct INEC to postpone the general elections”.

PVC Distribution: INEC, APC Committing Electoral Crime – PDP

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has disclosed that more facts have emerged on the connivance of some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to deny non-indigenes in APC-controlled states of their permanent voter cards (PVCs) for the

February 14, 2015 general elections. PDP national publicity secretary, Olisa Metuh, in a statement on Thursday, described the development as a crime against the electoral process, adding that the party has received overwhelming evidence from citizens in APC states following its earlier alarm that non-

indigenes who form the bulk of PDP supporters in Lagos were being denied their PVCs. The PDP said apart from Lagos, the same scandalous practice is also being perpetrated in other APC controlled states, including Kano. “Since our alert on Lagos State, we have continued to receive calls and comments from

citizens from local governments and wards in APC states confirming that the collaboration between some INEC officials and the APC to shut out non-indigenes in the states, made up mainly of our supporters, is deeper than earlier thought. By Chibuzo Ukaibe, Abuja.

NIGERIA DECIDES

February 6, 2015

PDP’s Chances Of Winning Nasarawa Bright – Nunku

Alhaji Rabiu Nunku is one of the oldest members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State. In this interview with selected journalists, he speaks about the politics of Nasarawa State, the government of Alhaji Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and the chances of the PDP in the 2015 elections. AbAh AdAh was there for LEADERSHIP.

Nasarawa State is right now in a difficult situation because of ethnic and religious tensions in the state. There is a divide and rule policy being implemented in the state and so, people are not honest and straightforward. The interest of the ordinary citizens of the state is not an issue, people are only pursuing their personal ambitions so they can become governors, ministers, ambassadors, advisers, House of Assembly members, etc. The economic empowerment of the ordinary citizens of the state is not in focus. As a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, how much chance do you think the party stands of regaining the governorship seat in Nasarawa State come 2015?

PDP has an excellent chance but on one condition and the condition is that all the major stakeholders of the party in the state must bury their personal ambitions and form a united front to rescue the state from the current misgovernance and misrule it is passing through. That is the only way the party can survive, that is the only way the party can succeed as far as the 2015 election is concerned.

of the state. He is only flagging off white elephant projects in the state that have no direct impact on the economic life of ordinary citizens. For instance, the two airports he wants to build are long term projects that he may not be able to complete instead of short and medium term projects that can be completed during his tenure and that will create jobs and generate income for our people. He is rather pursuing shadows. If you look at the ethnic clashes in the state which have consumed the life of a lot of people, they show that he is not able to guarantee the security and safety of the generality of the state’s population. If he was on top of his game, this wouldn’t have been the situation in Nasarawa State. Investors are running away from Nasarawa State because nobody wants to invest where is not safe, families are divided and people are running away from areas they consider unsafe to other places. This should not be so. Again, you will be able to see that he is not able to provide support in terms of the emerging opportunities for the next generations of

The governor of Nasarawa State, Alhaji Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, is rounding up his first tenure under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). What is your assessment of his tenure in the last 4 years?

He is running the state as if he is running his private estate company which has slowed down the progress

Nasarawa State indigenes who want to pursue careers in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. He is rather providing selective scholarships to his cronies by way of getting special memos raised by commissioners, permanent secretaries and the secretary to the state government. There is a particular case of a Nasarawa youth who got opportunity to go to aviation school to study to become a pilot in Zaria, yet the governor couldn’t provide support. This would have been a good opportunity for the state since he has an ambition of building airports. Now, who are the people that will run the airports he is claiming to be pursuing? This is a very clear case of deceit and I think 2015 is a good opportunity for us to rescue Nasarawa State from this misrule. As an elder of the PDP in Nasarawa State, do you think the PDP stands a good chance of regaining the presidency come 2015?

My advice to our dear president and leader of our party, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, is to do everything possible to avoid the politics of religion and tendencies that will divide this country. Religion is a delicate issue and is setting Nigerians against each other in the country. This is not good for Nigeria; this is not good for our party. As a president, Dr Jonathan must strive to see that he is seen as a leader for all. Muslims and Christians alike must look up to him for leadership, they must see him as a leader that is compassionate and one that is deeply concerned about eradicating poverty and empowering the people for progress. Nunku

ANSWERS

QUIZ TEST YOUR POLITICAL IQQ 1.

1. When is the new deadline announced by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for collection of

PVCs? How many states may elections not hold in part due to insurgency in the north-east? How many law-

suits have been filed to contest Gen Buhari’s qualification to run for president in 2015? When will Attahiru

Jega’s tenure as INEC chairman elapse? How many days are left to the presidential elections?

1. February 8, 2015 2. 3 (Adamawa, Borno and Yobe) 3. 3 4.June, 2015 5. 8

2015 elections are just around the corner, what do you think of the elections, as far as Nasarawa State is concerned?

voices

Election Postponement Unconstitutional Minority leader of the House of Representatives, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila lent his voice to the cry against alleged plans to postpone next week’s general elections. According to him, unless the constitution is amended to make provision for such a move, it remains unconstitutional and must be opposed. He stated, “Whatever they do and however they do it they cannot go against the provisions of the constitution which is sacrosanct and must be obeyed.” “Elections remain a democratic process with a 4 year cycle under Gbajabiamila our constitution. The lifespan and the life of this the last time an attempt government ends May 2015 was made to amend the unless the constitution is constitution for the purpose amended. And of course we of extending the tenure of a all know what happened sitting government. “

trending Nigerians have taken to Twitter to express their views on alleged plans to postpone next week’s election. Here are some reactions. Alkanawy @Abdul_933 If GEJ could not postpone the declaration of his 2nd term ambition a day after 48 pupils were killed in Yobe, so why postpone the elections? PDP Youth Frontier @ PDPNYF Only INEC can postpone polls. Mr Fani-Kayode rejected reports that the PDP and GEJ were planning to have this month’s election postponed. Bamikole Omishole @ Mr BanksOmishore Could it be that GEJ wants elections postponed so INEC chairman’s term can elapse so he can replace to a stooge that will do his bidding? Free man @BayLord01 Why is President #GEJ

afraid of election when he know that his 6yrs tenure fulfilled all promises? Elections must hold. Babatunde Daniel @ BabaMatego If GEJ is not given chance for poll postponement, then it’s likely we see another deadly ploy to stop the poll. George Okusanya @ TiJesunimiTweet Q: can you confirm that elections will hold as scheduled on 14th February? GEJ: Let me assure you that the May 29 handover date is sacrosanct. Bibi @boluxxxx Not everyday be slandering GEJ like who is possessed by water demons. Some days support your troops and country even with a tweet.

12 / NEWS EXTRA

February 6, 2015

Wife Stabs Husband To Death In Bayelsa by Osa Okhomina, Yenagoa

Tragedy struck in Bayelsa State yesterday following the stabbing to death of a legal practitioner, Henry Gagariga, by his wife, Victoria. It was gathered that Victoria, 28, killed 33-year-old Gagariga at their residence along Ebisam Road in Akenfa, a suburb of the state capital,Yenagoa. She was said to have stabbed him in the neck with a kitchen knife following a bitter quarrel over “a minor domestic issue” at the break of dawn yesterday. Sources said they had co-habited for some years before legalising their union in Yenagoa last June. They have no child

yet. Gagariga was said to have given up the ghost at the hospital where he was rushed to after losing a lot of blood.His body has been deposited at an undisclosed mortuary in the state. Victoria, daughter of a retired director in the state Ministry of Information from Brass Local Government Area of the state, is said to be working at the Bayelsa State Council for Arts and Culture while Henry was a native of Sagbama Local Government Area, also in the state. The police public relations officer, Bayelsa Command, Asinim Botswat, confirmed the incident.

Scam: EFCC Nabs 3 Over N16.9m Bogus Contract BY Ejike Ejike, Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested three suspected fraudsters, Nwabueze C. Nwabueze (alias HRM Ezeugo 1), his wife Bridget and Eze Izima Ngozi, alias Engineer Victor, who allegedly conspired to defraud one Architect Austin Ilenre Emuan to the tune of N16.9 million over a non existent contract. The trio (and others at large) are suspected leaders of a syndicate from Obagi Community, Ahoada, Rivers State , who engage in fraudulent acts, obtaining by trick and impersonation. According to EFCC spokesperson, Wil-

son Uwujaren, the suspects’ arrest followed a petition from Architect Emuan, managing director, Gothic-Len Consortium Ltd, alleging that one Miss Joy Mba Ozioma (now at large), Nwabueze and others sometime in 2011 conspired and defrauded him of the said sum under the pretext of awarding his company a contract for the construction of a cottage hospital in Obagi community by Total Nigeria Ltd. According to Emuan, Ezeugo 1, who claimed to be the traditional ruler of Obagi community, connived with one Eze Izima Ngozi, who posed as an employee of Total Nigeria Ltd, to defraud his company of the said sum and 600 bags of rice before the L-R: Rotary Foundation chairman/past district governor, Richard Giwa-Osagie; district governor, Dele Balogun, and the elected district governor, Bola Onabadejo, project was discovered to phoney.

Housemaid 8 Months Pregnant, Guardian Unaware BY VICTOR OKEKE, Abuja

A housemaid in Apo, Abuja, has been confirmed eight months pregnant according laboratory results at the Federal Staff Hospital in Jabi. Ijeoma, 20, was brought from the village last October as a maid to one Mrs Esther Ogbonna but she did not disclose to her guardian that she was pregnant. According to Mrs Ogbonna, until yesterday when the laboratory results came out, Ijeoma had been developing signs of pregnancy which she continually dismissed as resulting from her sedentary lifestyle. “She is always in the house, taking care of my little baby. I couldn’t believe that I girl I took as my own sister could hide such a thing from me all these while.” Mrs Ogbonna expressed relief that her pregnancy was discovery a month early as

L-R: National publicity secretary, United Progressive Party (UPP), Chief Ogbuchi Dike; national chairman, Independent Democrats (ID), Mr Edozie Madu, and ID national director of operations, Barr. Chidi Ike, during a press briefing by political parties to call on INEC not to postpone the February polls, in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY ADEFEMI ADEWUUYI

she would have had to pay a very exhorbitant hospital bill at delivery time since her pregnancy was not registered. Mrs Ogbonna said she had even registered the girl for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) taking place this May/June. “I was buying sanitary pads for her unaware that she wasn’t using them. I never knew she came already pregnant. She just disappointed me,” she said. According to her, Ijeoma had an evenly round body, her tummy slightly protruding and her legs swollen, but thought it was either a sign of good living or a disease as she only took her to the hospital to examine her general health status. When contacted, a medical doctor, Dr Yewande Olaifa, explained that babies born to mothers with little or no prenatal care were at increased risk of low birth weight and many other complications.

during Rotary Foundation District 9110 Nigeria Dinner Dance Hall Press Conference at the Rotary Centre in Lagos. PHOTO BY MICHAEL OBASA.

L-R: Deputy national chairman, Accord Party, Oke Sikiru; national secretary, African Peoples Alliance (APA), Samaila Umar, and national chairman, Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM), Bashir Yusuf, during a press conference by the Coalition of Progressive Political Parties on Nigeria’s general election in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY JANE OKEKE

Man Arraigned For Torturing Neighbour To Death OLUGBENGA SOYELE, Lagos

The police in Lagos yesterday arraigned a 30-year-old man, Abiola Ogunmola, before a Lagos Chief Magistrate’s Court sitting in Ebute-Metta for allegedly torturing his neighbour, Alhaji Nasirudeen Ajaweshola, to death. The deceased was 68 years. According to the police prosecutor, Corporal Cyraicus Osuyi, the accused, who was charged with a two count charge of conspiracy and murder, had on November 8, 2014, at about at 11 am, at 13, Osikoya street, Ketu, Lagos, allegedly conspired with others to commit crime. Osuyi also alleged that Ogunmola told

a mob that the deceased laced his brother with charm which rendered him unconscious, a development that incited the mob to attack and torture the deceased to death. The accused person’s plea was not taken because the magistrate court is not constitutional empowered to conduct a murder case. Before she adjourned the case to March 11, Magistrate Y. Badejo-Okusanya directed the police to seek legal advice from the office of Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) on how to proceed with the case. The court also ordered that the accused person be remanded in prison custody.

Chairman, Verification Committee, Joint Federal Staff Cooperative Thrift and Loan Society, Suleman Ganiyu, addressing members during the group’s emergency congress meeting in Abuja, yesterday. He is flanked by secretary of the committee, Uwaje Ifeanyi (right), and another committee member, Florence Oyakirome. PHOTO BY OGOH JOSEPH.

NEWS / 13

February 6, 2015

Elections: US Issues Fresh Travel Warning To Nigeria By Abiodun Oluwarotimi, New York

L-R: President Goodluck Jonathan, former military President General Ibrahim Babangida and former Head of State GenYakubu Gowon, after the Council of State meeting at the State House, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY REMI AKUNLEYAN.

Feb 14: We’re Not Endorsing Jonathan, Buhari – Ohanaeze

By Nnmadi Mbawike, Enugu

As the recent endorsement of President Goodluck Jonathan for this year’s presidential election by the Chief Gary Igariwey-led faction of apex Igbo socio cultural organisation, Ohaneze Ndigbo continues to generate mixed reactions, another faction led by Chief Ralph Obioha has distanced itself from any endorsement. The faction made its position known in a joint media briefing addressed by Obioha and Dr Zed Chukwujama as chairman and secretary of the organisation’s Caretaker Committee respectively as well as Chief Mbazulike Amae-

chi, the chairman of the organisation’s Elders’ Council. They made it clear that they would not be endorsing either President Jonathan or his main challenger and the candidate of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) Muhammadu Buhari for next week’s presidential election. The faction therefore urged Igbos at home and those residing in various parts of the country to vote according to their conscience, expressing dismay that until now, none of the two major presidential candidates including President Jonathan of the PDP and Buhari has entered into any form of agreement

with Ndigbo on the four cardinal issues they have outlined. According to them, the issues included security of lives and property of Ndigbo, infrastructural development in Igbo land, reparation for atrocities and war crimes against Ndigbo at least at the level recommended in the Oputa Panel Report as well as what would become of Ndigbo after the tenure of the would-be president by 2019. “Of the two candidates, only one sent a high level delegation to us and we told them that we must see the candidate himself because whatever agreements to be reached will be implemented by him, if he wins and becomes president.

Banking Reform: Emir Of Kano Commends UBA’s Leadership Role By MILLIE IBE, Abuja

The emir of Kano, His Highness, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has commended the management of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc for the leadership role the bank played in the financial industry reforms, when he was the governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The emir, speaking during the visit of the executive management of UBA to his palace in Kano, said that because of the UBA’s commitment to the reforms introduced by the apex regulatory institution, the bank’s group managing director, Mr. Phillips Oduoza chaired the committee on

financial inclusion, which championed financial inclusion, the cashless and mobile banking initiatives in the country. “The reforms introduced by CBN towards improving Nigeria’s financial landscape were a collective decision and responsibility of everybody, but I should emphasise the contribution of UBA. UBA’s Group Managing Director chaired one of the critical committees that drove the reform,” the emir said. The emir also praised UBA for offering him a job when he returned from Sudan after bagging a degree in Islamic Studies. “I am not surprised by the role played by UBA in ensuring that we succeed. The

Bank defied all odds to offer me employment after my education in Sudan in Islamic Studies, and provided me an opportunity to advance my career in banking. The institution has been instrumental to my success as a banker, for which I am grateful. My relationship with UBA was further extended to CBN,” the emir said. Mr. Oduoza, while responding to the commendation, praised the exemplary leadership skills shown by the emir as a staff of UBA and governor at the CBN. He said that the banking industry is today, relatively immune from the vagaries of crisis brought about by the crash in crude oil price.

He cannot speak well that cannot hold his tongue.

In the build up to the February 14 presidential election, the US Department of State yesterday warned American citizens of the risks of travelling to Nigeria. The department also recommended that U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states as a result of the security situation in northeast Nigeria which remains fluid and unpredictable. The fresh travel warning which was contained in a press statement made available to journalists in Washington, DC by the U.S. Department of State strongly urged U.S. citizens in Nigeria to consider their own personal security and to keep personal safety in the forefront of their travel planning. The travel warning which replaces the travel warning for Nigeria dated August 11, 2014 further stated that the ability of the US Mission to provide assistance to American citizens in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states remained severely limited. It also recommended essential travel to Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara states due to the risk of kidnappings, robberies, and other armed attacks.

Jonathan Launches 3 National Security Documents By George Agba, Abuja

In a bid to combat terrorism and cyber crimes, President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday launched three national security documents, namely National Security Strategy, Counter Terrorism Strategy and Cyber Security Plan and Strategy. Speaking at the Presidential Villa, Abuja during the launch of the security documents, the president directed all security agencies to adopt the principles enshrined in the documents. He said, “Today the foremost threat facing us is clearly the terrorism perpetrated by the Boko Harram, the radical Islamic sect, in its bid to further its misguided cause. This cowardly group has continued in wanton disruption of lives and property particularly in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. “Boko Haram has systematically targeted the poor and the wealthy; it has employed violence to intimidate and instill fear to the general populace and media propaganda to manipulate the minds of our people. The sect, its supporters and allies, seek to undermine our national security. “They neither believe in our country nor the sanctity of human lives. The counter terrorism strategy document is a major contribution to our determined national efforts to effectively and comprehensively deal with the challenges posed by Boko Haram and other insurgency groups”.

February 6, 2015

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

Dangerous Attempt To Shift Election Date Forces Postponement of Conference The Management of LEADERSHIP wishes to announce the postponement of its annual conference and awards following moves by the government to shift the election date against the current of public opinion. The management is compelled to postpone the awards after three of its leading awardees indicated that they may be attending the National Council of State meeting, which President Goodluck Jonathan has purposely convened to shift the election date. Our awards have been known for their star quality. If three of the star awardees â&#x20AC;&#x201C; former president Olusegun Obasanjo, Governors Kashim Shettima of Borno State and Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; may be attending the council of state meeting on a matter of clear and present danger to the nation, the responsible thing for us to do is to postpone the awards. We warned against a shift in the election date in our front page comment of Monday, January 26. Though we consider the postponement of the conference painful and unsettling, we consider it a price worth paying as we stand with our star awardees and indeed the majority of Nigerians united against the unwarranted attempt to tinker with the date. We apologise for the inconvenience caused the invitees. A new date will be announced soon. Signed:

MANAGEMENT

February 6, 2015

ONLY BUHARI CAN SAVE NIGERIA O

n Saturday, February 14, 2015, the feeling throughout the country will not be that of love, with which that date has come to be identified. For the first time since February 14 came to be associated with St. Valentine, attention in Nigeria will shift from love to a matter that will have more to do with the country's destiny than romance involving lovers. It is the day in which Nigerians will have to make a choice between going forward and remaining on the same spot, that is, if not going backward. On that day, Nigerians will have to choose between doing the same things over and over expecting a different result and doing something different, with the high probability of achieving an entirely different result. It may not be a doomsday prophecy to say that for the beleaguered Nigerians that have been taken for a ride for a whole 16 years, it is now or never. They will either make the decision to break away from the cycle of corruption, poverty and underdevelopment in the midst of plenty, which has plagued the country from the advent of the Fourth Republic, or remain doomed for life. There has never been a better time than now, since 1999, for Nigerians to truly exercise their freedom of choice. The coming into existence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has presented Nigerians the opportunity that they never had before now. Until now, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gloated over the fact that the country was a one-party state. It was the reason the party's leaders, at different occasions, arrogantly announced with glee that the party would rule the country for various periods ranging from 60 years to eternity. It is not an overstatement to say that the simple majority control of the National Assembly before the gale of defections last year and the higher number of state governors gave PDP the arrogance to see the country as the same thing with the party. Nigerians watched in disbelief as senators on the platform of the party held the country to ransom late last year because they were aggrieved by the refusal of the party leadership to give them automatic second term tickets after they extended a similar privilege to the president. After 16 years of eating the same dish, Nigerians now have the opportunity to taste something different. That is what democracy is all about. It is not as if the APC possesses the magic wand to wave out the country's problems and wave in solutions overnight. The point is that the election of next month presents an opportunity for Nigerians to try something different, as is usually the case in other parts of the world where democracy is practiced. In the United States, for instance, Americans alternate between the Democratic and Republican parties, whenever they feel that the party in power is not doing

A Statement By The 4TH FORCE

well enough. President Barack Obama rode into office on a wave of glory. If recent developments are enough indicators of what to expect in 2016, then the Democratic Party may be out in the cold for at least one term, beginning from January, 2017. The APC made the right choice by electing G e n e r a l Muhammadu Buhari as its flag bearer in next month's presidential election. As we have always stated, not only is the former military head of state the right match for Jonathan, he is a rg u a b l y t h e best man for the job of president at this crucial s t a g e i n Nigeria's history. B u h a r i ' s credentials as the leader Nigeria needs now bears no repeating. He stands today as the only Nigerian leader – dead or alive – with no blemish trailing his tenure in all the offices that he has held, which include state governor, minister of petroleum, head of state and chairman of The Petroleum Trust Fund that was more or less a parallel government, because of the enormous financial resources at its disposal – far in excess of whatever accrues to the NDDC now. The two qualities that Buhari has, which is lacking in Nigerian leaders, namely, integrity and discipline, make him the president Nigeria needs. President Goodluck Jonathan is not known to be corrupt, nor has he been linked with any corrupt practice. His greatest undoing is his lack of political will to fight the cankerworm that has destroyed the Nigerian fabric. His weakness lies in his willingness to sacrifice the country's interest for his own personal political interest, by recognizing cows that should be considered sacred. He fights corruption only with his mouth, talking tough on television, but not in action. That is why his ministers and other appointees have virtually run amok, stealing the country dry, while he looks the other way. Does it surprise anybody that five of Jonathan's ministers left office with enough money to prosecute their governorship primaries? Where did they get the money from? Even if they were to save every kobo of their salaries from their first day in office, they would not have saved enough to prosecute a project as capital intensive as electioneering in a country like Nigeria, where politics is all about money. The ministers followed in the footsteps of three others who left office as ministers of power in the Obasanjo administration with enough money to prosecute

campaigns that fetched them the office of governor. This shows clearly that as a party, PDP is very much at home with corruption. Despite what later day inquirers want Nigerians to believe, there is no report that links Buhari with corruption in any of the

restore discipline in a country that has become notorious for lawlessness and impunity, where laws are observed in the breach, especially by public office holders. Those who see Buhari as a serial election looser should read Abraham Lincoln's political

offices he held. Nor is he known to have protected officials whose hands were soiled in lucre, just to protect his political interest. Were he to be president, there is no way a minister would remain in office after sending young and hapless job seekers to their early graves as a result of greed, in a job recruitment exercise that turned out to be a scam. Buhari, as president, would not keep for one extra day in office a minister that flies about in private jets hired with tax payers' money. He would not keep in his cabinet a minister that is so undisciplined and pigheaded as to ignore constitutionally stipulated summons to the floor of the National Assembly to explain his activities in office, as it is done in other democracies. As a civilian president, the former military leader would not condone the level of waste that goes on in government circles, especially at the federal level. His track record in all the places where he held office bears him out. Under Buhari, the war against Boko Haram would not take the eternity that it is taking today. If he, as general officer commanding a division of the Nigerian army could threaten to overrun Chad when that country's gendarmes attacked some northern Nigerian villages, even without the order of his commander-in-chief, it can only be imagined what he would do today as the country's president, with the level of carnage and destruction that is going on in some parts of the North. Nigerians recall with nostalgia the path to a disciplined society that Buhari charted for the country in the 20 months that he was military head of state. They also remember with regret the country's systematic slide into the valley of corruption and indiscipline after he was forced out of office. Buhari needs to be president for only four years to

history to know, as the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo said, that what matters is not how many times a man falls, but his ability to get up each time he falls. Between 1832 and 1859, Lincoln failed election into the Illinois State legislature; failed two times to win election into Congress; failed two times to win election into the Senate; failed once as vice president and won election in 1860 as president of the United States. Till date, he remains one of the best presidents America has ever had. If Nigerians did not accept Buhari before now, it was because the country was not ready for a leader in his mould, just as it wasn't ready for a leader like Awolowo, who was regrettably described in death as the best president the country never had. After 16 years of groping in the dark, it is obvious that Nigeria is ready for a visionary leader, a modern day Moses who can lead the Israelites out of captivity. It is not by accident that after failing in three attempts to get elected president, Buhari is alive to contest election into the nation's highest office again. We believe that the same factors that worked against him in previous elections will work in his favour this time around. He may not have been accepted in the South before now because of the wrong perception that people in this part of the country had of him as a sectional leader. For many years, his political traducers presented him as a religious bigot who was first of all a Muslim before a Nigerian. They succeeded in painting the picture of a Muslim fundamentalist who hated Christians. But it has come to light that some of his personal aides, like drivers and stewards, are Christians. Certainly, a man who loathes Christians so much would not have them as people close enough as to have his life in their hands.

And for those who seek to make an issue of Buhari's age, it is worth mentioning here that examples abound all over the world of leaders who assumed office at old age and left indelible marks. Ronald Reagan was 70 when he took office in 1981 as president of the United States. He left a good record. If John McCain had defeated Barack Obama in 2008, he would have b e c o m e president at the age of 72. Right n o w, H i l a r y Clinton is the frontrunner in the Democratic Party. If she wins the party nomination and gets elected in 2016, she will assume office as president at the age of 70. Nelson Mandela was 76 when he assumed office as the first democratically elected president of South Africa. His successors have not come close to equaling his record. In the end, what matters is the physical and mental alertness of a leader, not necessarily his age. With Jonathan's youth, what have Nigerians got? With Nigerians being more and more enlightened as to separate the wheat from the chaff, the presidential election of February 14 will be a different ball game altogether. It helps matters for APC that the PDP primaries of December, 2014, especially those that produced candidates for the governorship elections of February 28, left the party in disarray in many of the states, thus underscoring the widely held belief that the party's claim of adherence to internal democracy is hogwash. That Buhari commands a cultlike followership in the northern part of the country is not in doubt. The figures are there for anyone to see. With the sure victory of the party in the South West (despite the strong challenge by PDP) and its expected reasonable showing in the South South and South East, the presidential election of next month will certainly not be a tea party for PDP. Considering where we are coming from and where we are at the moment as a country, Nigeria needs a strong-willed leader that can demonstrate the political will to tackle the problems of indiscipline, corruption and insecurity – the three problems that have made it impossible for there to be any meaningful growth. Quite regrettably, these are the areas where Jonathan has demonstrated unfathomable weakness. He is too weak to ensure discipline among his appointees, which is the reason the entire system is bogged down by indiscipline, from the highest to the lowest public office holder. We see such indiscipline everywhere – in

public places such as airports, roads, offices, etc. He is too weak to raise a voice against public officers who steal as if the world is coming to an end. It is quite instructive that despite his often repeated avowals to fight corruption, nobody of substance has been charged to court, let alone convicted, in the five years that he has been president. Yet, Nigerians know that if corruption walked on four legs before he came into office, it has now developed two more legs, walking on six. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which made a semblance of financial crimes fighting during the tenure of Obasanjo, has virtually gone to sleep, adopting the posture of a toothless bulldog since Jonathan came to power. Nigerians must rise in unison and put a stop to the arrogance of PDP by voting out Jonathan next month. It would be the only way of proving that democracy has, indeed, taken root in the c o u n t r y. T h e b e a u t y o f democracy is that if, by 2019, it turns out that PDP was a better evil, Nigerians will have the opportunity once again to vote APC out. And we would continue to alternate between the two parties, with the positive effect of making parties know that they seek power not for leaders, but for the followers. We urge Nigerians to give Buhari a chance to pilot the affairs of this country for the next four years. This may be the only opportunity we have to feel the refreshing difference, from the suffocating presence of a party that now takes Nigerians for granted. What else, it will be the best Valentine gift for the long suffering Nigerians. This may be the only opportunity to save Nigeria. GOD BLESS NIGERIA. DIGRESSION P R O S T A T E ENLARGEMENT /CANCER, KIDNEY M A N A G E M E N T , ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION The ROOTS is a wide function fully natural herbal preparation which: 1. Prevents and manages Prostate problems 2. Prevents malaria 3. Massively boosts the immune system 4. Massively boosts the libido 5. As a powerful diuretic, it boosts urine flow and thus a. Helps stabilize blood sugar level b. Manages the kidneys 6. Boosts liver functions because of its extreme bitterness 7. Partial success in the treatment of fibroids The ROOTS is the herb of life. Make it a way of life if you are 40 and above, whether you are healthy or not, whether you are male or female. Available throughout Nigeria. Senator P. O. Ani (National Coordinator) 08033326547 08071241227 E-mail: forth_force@yahoo.com

February 6, 2015

18 / NEWS NATIONAL

February 6, 2015

Soyinka Campaigns Against Jonathan Over Leadership Failure By George Okojie, Lagos

Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka has said that President Goodluck Jonathan’s government has failed to provide leadership for the people, urging the electorate not to vote for the continuation of his administration in the February 14 presidential polls. Soyinka who spoke yesterday at the 2015 edition of Vision of the Child (VOTC), a yearly programme inaugurated in 2012, told the students that

he has 60 reasons not to vote for the continuation of the Jonathan administration. The literary icon said, “I will not vote and I will not encourage anyone to vote for the continuation of this government, simply because your colleagues numbering over 200 were kidnapped”. According to him, the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped on 14th April, last year were sent on a mission to acquire education, but ended up being kidnapped. “And the government of this nation

failed to show leadership. So, anyone who says after that event that I will vote or encourage anyone to vote for this regime must be living in Sambisa forest. “There has been a failure of leadership. Our children whom you represent today have been betrayed,” he lamented. Soyinka added that no appropriate action was taken to rescue them, saying it took the Jonathan government 10 days to even accept that the Chibok girls were missing.

Niger Decries Violence As APC Condemns Soldiers’ Presence On Minna Streets Niger State government has decried the increasing wave of politically motivated attacks in three parts of the Niger East called Zone B in the state, even as the All Progressives Congress (APC) condemned the presence of soldiers on some streets of Minna, the state capital, few days to the presidential and National Assembly elections. Whereas the opposition APC complained of the presence of soldiers on the

streets, alleging plans by the government to use soldiers to intimidate voters ahead of the elections to pave way for rigging, the government said five cars were burnt in various politically motivated attacks in Minna, Suleja and Tegina. The government in a news conference addressed by the commissioners of information, Danladi Ndayebo; justice, Barr Bawa Wuse and agriculture, Prof Mohammed Yahaya Kuta, vowed to deal decisively with the perpetrators and their sponsors.

Also in an interview, the APC publicity secretary, Jonathan Vatsa alleged that those causing the violence are the same Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members who felt aggrieved by the party’s primaries which they alleged was not free and fair. He said APC is worried by the drafting of soldiers to the streets of Minna to intimidate people and maybe hide under flimsy excuses to impose curfew on election night to give them opportunity for rigging as they did in 2011.

figments of the imagination of certain individuals bent on tarnishing the image of the commission and the country’s first family. It said, “The attention of the NDDC has been drawn to a mischievous online news item by the Sahara Reporters to the effect that the scarce resources of the commission have been put at the disposal of certain politicians in Abuja and Port Harcourt, thereby compromising the salaries of staff. “Management hereby rebuts such allegations as unfounded, untrue and sadly fabri-

cated to dent the good image and new reputation of the commission. To say that the commission is unable to pay salaries is not only laughable but also very misleading and perhaps aimed at dragging the commission into the political battleground. “For the avoidance of doubt, the commission has never given money to the first lady or anybody for that matter for the passage of our annual budget, neither has NDDC ever failed to pay the salaries of its staff as at when due.”

NDDC Denies Awarding Contracts To Dame Jonathan By GEORGE OKOJIE, Lagos

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has debunked the rumour making the rounds that the commission has been awarding contracts to the nation’s first lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, which made it unable to pay salaries of its workers. The commission in a statement issued by the head, Corporate Affairs, Toye Abosede said the reports that have gone viral in the online media were not correct and were the

By Yahya Sarki, Kebbi

The Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) centre in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State treated 214 women with the disease from January to December, 2014. The chief medical officer of the centre who is also the only Fistula surgeon in the hospital, Dr Abubakar Bawa Dakingari disclosed this to Leadership yesterday in an exclusive interview in his office in Birnin Kebbi. He said the centre was established in 1985 with the aim of providing free medical services including operations to women with VVF problems in the state, adding however that the centre received patients from neighbouring states like Zamfara, Niger, Sokoto and even from neighbouring countries such as Benin, Niger and Chad. Dakingari explained that VVF is caused by prolonged obstructed labour, adding that most of the patients that patronise the hospital come from poor families in the rural areas because they do not have access to good health care system. “Most of my clients are from the rural areas, from poor families. 80% of my clients are divorcees abandoned by their husbands”, he said. He stated that in Kebbi State, Argungu, Bagudo and Koko Besse produced the highest number of patients but of recent, patients from Birnin Kebbi have increased substantially despite the availability of health facilities in the area, adding that the issue is being investigated.

Human Rights Group To Investigate Assassination Attempt On Politician

People queuing to collect their PVCs in Minna, Niger State, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN.

By Abu Nmodu, Minna

Birnin Kebbi VVF Centre Treats 214 Patients

Before you make a friend, eat a bushel of salt with him.

By millie ibe, Abuja

An international Human Rights and Press Freedom Advocacy Group has arrived Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State, to inquire into the allegation of assassination attempt on Zamfara Central PDP Senatorial flag bearer, Engr Ibrahim. A spokesman of the group, Mr Kehinde Rotimi also told LEADERSHIP Friday that a team of Nigerian and international lawyers will also participate in the investigation of the alleged attempt directed by a serving senator. Rotimi said the action by the human rights group follows the receipt of various sworn legal declarations and affidavits submitted by some of those who suffered fatal injuries during the attack. He recalled that following the incident, various media organisations have reported the case, as a result of which intimidating threats were issued against some of them, including the POLITY which was threatened with legal action. Kehinde, who is the coordinator of the Media and Political Forum of the WorldAfrica Association, gave assurance that every step will be taken to guarantee that working journalists in the state enjoy the full constitutional freedom to practise without any harassment or intimidation.

business

February 6, 2014

$1.48bn The amount of money NNPC should remit to the Federation Account

Audit Report: NNPC Must Remit $1.48bn To Federation Account – PwC BY NSE ANTHONY-UKO and juliet alohan, Abuja

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) were, yesterday, indicted by the investigative forensic audit done by the PriceWaterHouse Coopers (PwC) over the allegations of unremitted funds to the Federation Accounts and both institutions are to return a minimum of $1.48 billion to the federation account. Addressing journalists on the highlights of the audit report as requested by President Goodluck Jonathan, the Auditor-General of the Federation, Mr Ukura Samuel, said that the PwC report centered on the NNPC costs, ownership of the NPDC revenues and Dual Purpose Kerosene

(DPK) subsidy. Samuel stated that “based on the information available to the PwC, and from analysis, the firm submitted that the NNPC and NPDC should refund to the Federation Accounts a minimum of $1.48 billion.” The auditor-general, before presenting the PwC audit highlights, categorically stated that the president “cannot direct” him to release the highlights or complete details of any report but can “request” for the release of the highlights. His office, he said, is mandated by law to submit its report to the National Assembly and not to the Presidency. With regards to the NNPC cost from where the $20 billion was alleged to have gone missing, the PwC report berated the NNPC’s operations which it described as “an unsustainable model.”

The report noted that 46 per cent of the proceeds of domestic crude oil revenues for the review period was spent on operations and subsidies while the corporation was unable to monthly sustain remittances to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and meet its operational costs entirely from the proceeds of domestic crude oil revenues and have had to incur third party liabilities to bridge the funding gap. It further stated that the NNPC provided transaction documents representing an additional cost of $2.81 billion related to the review period, citing the NNPC Act, LFN No 33 of 1977, that allows for such deductions. Based on this, the PwC recommended that “the NNPC model of operation must be urgently reviewed and restructured as the

current model which has been in operation since the creation of the NNPC cannot be sustained.” However, the NNPC has refuted this report. A statement signed by its spokesman, Ohi Alegbe, read in part, “It was not true that the NNPC was indicted in the forensic audit report as being speculated in some quarters as the $1.48 billion that the audit firm recommended the corporation to remit to the Federation Account was not part of the alleged unremitted revenues from crude lifting.” According to the statement made available to LEADERSHIP, yesterday, the corporation noted that the release of the forensic audit report has “finally laid to rest the controversy surrounding allegations of “missing oil revenue.”

BUSINESS QUOTE Ten minutes are not just one-sixth of your hourly pay. Ten minutes are a piece of yourself. Divide your life into ten-minute units and sacrifice as few of them as possible in meaningless activity. . Ingvar Kampard, founder of IKEA (1926-)

‘BoI Delaying Disbursement Of N2.2b Cassava Bread Fund’ By Ruth Tene Natsa, Abuja

L-R: Head, Corporate Services Division, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr Bola Adeeko; chief finance officer, Access Bank Plc, Mr Seyi Kumapayi; chief executive officer, NSE, Mr Oscar N. Onyema; group managing director, Access Bank Plc, Mr Herbert Wigwe; executive director, Operation and Information Technology, Access Bank Plc, Mrs Ojini Olaghere and executive director, Commercial Banking, Access Bank Plc, Mr Roosevelt Ogbonna at the bank’s Facts Behind the Offer in Lagos, yesterday.

Stock Market Halts Positive Run By Olushola Bello, Lagos

The Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) AllShare Index dropped for the first time in the week, shedding 1.36 per cent to drag the Year-To-Day return to -12.86 per cent. The volume traded and market turnover moved in the opposite direction as the former increased by 2.46 per cent while the latter declined by -16.59 per cent.

Market breadth (0.54x) skewed in favour of decliners as 35 stocks dipped as against 19 stocks that gained. Champion topped the gainers’ chart with 10.03 per cent to close at NGN6.91, closely followed by DANGFLOUR, IKEJA HOTEL, UAC-PROP, and RT BRISCOE with respective price appreciation of 10.00 per cent, 9.88 per cent, 8.84 per cent and 8.22 per cent in that order. Conversely, TRANSEXPR and FLOURMILL

led the underperformers with five per cent losses apiece. DANGSUGAR, HONYFLOUR and SKYBANK trailed with price depreciation of 4.92 per cent, 4.85 per cent and 4.76 per cent respectively. From sector standpoint, all but one trended southward, with only the NSEINS10 increasing by 0.35 per cent. The NSEBNK10, NSE30, NSEFBT10, and NSEOILG5 indices declined by 2.62 per cent, 1.59 per cent, 1.39 per cent and

0.42 per cent in that order. Analysts at the Meristem Securities Limited said, “We suspect that the halt in the positive streak may not be unconnected with profit taking by speculators given that some stocks have offered pocket of gains within the positive trading days. We anticipate that this speculative trend might continue in the near term as risks affecting investments are still inherent.”

The national chairman of Master Bakers and Catering Association of Nigeria, Sir Simeon Abannlor, has blamed the Bank of Industry (BoI) for the delay in the disbursement of the N2.2 billion Cassava Bread Development Fund released to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) and managed by the bank. He also debunked allegations of unfair disbursement of the fund by the Lagos State Chapter of the Association, alleging that “those complaining are politically motivated.” The chairman, who made the allegation while reacting to a recent Newspaper publication (not LEADERSHIP) on Wednesday, February 5, 2015, with the heading “Lagos Bakers Fault N2.2bn Cassava Bread Fund Disbursement,” said, “The fund released by the federal government to the FMARD was immediately made available to the BoI for the financing of hi-tech bakery equipment, such as Rotary Ovens, Spiral Mixers, Water chillers, standby generators, among others. “I am surprised to see some bakers from Lagos State carrying placards, telling all sorts of stories, I believe this is mischief and I believe this is not the time to politicise food security because the minister, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, is doing everything possible to make sure this country is food sufficient and as long as the association is concerned, we will not sit down and watch some of our members mislead the country or give false information.” He alleged that “the chairman of the Lagos State bakers, who he said was inducing bakers to carry placards, is a beneficiary of the fund, but noted that the only problem we are having is the delay from the BoI.” Abannlor asserted that “the complaint by the Lagos chapter of the association to cut down the loans of beneficiaries from N14 million to N5 million was not reasonable as the amount was too small to meet the demands of 20 per cent Cassava inclusion without the necessary equipment which cost of N14 million at the least.” Follow these reports on leadership.ng/business

20 / BUSINESS NEWS

February 6, 2015

SEPLAT Petroleum Acquires 40% Chevron OML 53 By Chima Akwaja, Lagos

A Nigerian company with huge oil and gas interest, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc, has acquired a 40 per cent working interest in the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 53, onshore north eastern Niger Delta, from Chevron Nigeria Ltd for $259.4 million. The company has also concluded negotiations to buy 56.25 per cent of Belemaoil Producing Ltd, a Nigerian special purpose vehicle that has bought a 40 per cent interest in the producing the OML 55, located in the swamp to coastal zone of south eastern Niger Delta.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) holds the remaining 60 per cent interest in the OML 55, and Seplatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effective working interest in the OML 55 as a result of the acquisition is 22.50 per cent, it said. Seplat is paying $132.2 million for its 22.50 per cent interest in the OML 55, after adjustments. It has also advanced certain loans of $80 million to the other shareholders of Belemaoil to meet their share of investments and costs associated with Belemaoil. In addition, Seplat said talks are underway to determine repayment terms for the initial deposit against the

acquisition of the $52.5 million that Belemaoil funded with bank debt, which may be added to the total amount loaned to Belemaoil by Seplat Current gross production at the OML 55 is 8,000 barrels of oil per day and Seplat has been designated operator of the OML 55. The company will also act as technical services provider to Belemaoil. Seplat estimates net recoverable hydrocarbon volumes attributable to its 40 per cent working interest in the OML 53 is 51 million barrels of oil and condensate and 611 billion square cubic feet of gas. Seplat has been designated the operator of the OML 53.

200 Foreign Firms Indicate Interest in Enugu Trade Fair By Nnamdi Mbawike, Lagos

No fewer than 200 foreign firms have so far indicated interest to participate in the forthcoming 26th Enugu International Trade Fair scheduled to hold from March 27 to April 6, 2015. The president of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), Dr Ifeanyi Okoye, who disclosed this yesterday during a press briefing, assured that the fair, would have the highest number of foreign firms in the history of the ECCIMAorganised fairs. Okoye stated that the preparations and planning for the hosting of the 26th edition of the fair started as

far back as the beginning of the 2nd quarter of last year, even as he stressed that a good number of corporate bodies/business organisations as well as government agencies have made made known their intention to participate. According to him, the forthcoming fair has been packaged to have meaningful and positive effects for all stakeholders, particularly for exhibitors and other participants. He added that part of the value addition to the fair is the erection and availability of over 1000sqm Marquee air-conditioned dome for corporate and international exhibitors. He further disclosed that they were partnering with

a Lagos-based marketing communication firm to enhance the level of participation and visitors to the fair. This would be done through a unique introduction of gifts to lucky visitors to the fair. Okoye further disclosed that as part of strategic efforts to boost the success of the fair, they would commence sensitisation by next week and consolidate marketing efforts with visits to stakeholders both in public and private sector in Lagos, Abuja and across the South East and south South States. He also stated that they have equally put in place measures to ensure stable and quality supply of electricity and water.

SEC To Unfold Robust Plan For Capital Market Devt By Friday Atufe, Olushola Bello, Lagos

The apex regulatory body of the Nigerian capital market, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has said the new management of the commission would soon unfold a robust plan for the development of the market. The acting directorgeneral of the commission, Mr Mounir Gwarzo, stated this when he received executives of the Capital Market Correspondents Association in his office in Abuja, yesterday, remarking that the commission will focus on investors education and financial inclusion. He said the commission was also working on a

complaint management framework in abid to enhance resolutions of conflicts in the market space. The director-general also said the new management would soon issue a new circular on how to stregthen the market through enforcement of rules and regulations. Gwarzo also said the commission would soon inaugurate the board of the Investors Protection Fund (IPF) so that it would become operational since the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) has put down its contribution to the fund. The directorgeneral, who promised to unfold a robust plan for the market soon, also noted

that the commission would develop an e-library with a view to making information about developments in international capital markets readily available to the investing public among others. On the other hand the SEC is to collaborate with the Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX) in a bid to make the commodity market in Nigeria more vibrant. Gwarzo gave this assurance when he received the management of the exchange who paid him a courtesy call in Abuja. The NCX is the former Abuja Securities and Commodity Exchange (ASCE) which has transformed into a commodity trading outfit.

analysis 21

February 6, 2015

tax in focus

Enhancing VAT Voluntary compliance

he operation of the tax law is universally administered as every person (corporate or individual) is a taxable entity no matter how, when and what method is used to conduct the business. The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has adequate mechanisms to assess and bring all taxable entities into the tax net. Among these methods is cordial dialogues with stakeholders during enlightenment drives to achieve mutual understanding and promote voluntary compliance. Registration by taxable persons Section 8(q) of the Federal Inland Revenue Service Establishment Act, 2007, directs the Service to issue a taxpayer identification number to every taxable person in Nigeria in collaboration with State Boards of Internal Revenue and the Local Government Revenue Boards. Section 8(1) of the Value Added Tax Act (VATA) Cap V1 LFN, 2004 as amended in 2007 also requires taxpayers (individuals, enterprises or corporates) to register for VAT. However, when the tax identification number (TIN) is generated, it suffices and covers all the tax types as no other registration number for any tax type will be required. Reference to Section 8(1) of the VATA as amended, it is specifically stated that “A taxable person shall, within six months of the commencement of the Act or within six months of the commencement of business, whichever is earlier, register with the Board for the purpose of the tax (VAT).” The phrase whichever is earlier, that specifies the time for registration, has caused a lot of pain for taxpayers in VAT administration. It is not practical to expect that a business just recently incorporated (say in 2011) to have registered in 1994 for the purpose of the tax. Hence, a business incorporated after 1994 is expected to register within six months of the commencement of business. Therefore, penalties (and other sanctions) for late registration for VAT would start

self-conviction and as a call to duty without notice or reminder within the time line allowed by law.

Acting executive chairman, FIRS, Kabir Mashi

counting immediately after the six months of commencement of business if the taxpayer fails to register for VAT and not six months from the commencement of the VAT Act when the business was probably not in existence. Historical antecedents of the VAT • VAT was first introduced as consumption tax in 1919 in Germany, France (1954), UK 1973 etc. • Introduction was occasioned by the impacts of 1st and 2nd World Wars. • The adverse effects of direct taxation on the economy, individuals and businesses. • The introduction of consumption tax was later modernised into VAT. • The high point of VAT is that it has no noticeable impact on the taxpayer because of its indirect nature. VATable income In arriving at what constitutes a VATable income, all income from sales, rentals, charges and fees relating to activities enjoyed by customers are VATable and should be charged with the VAT. The law did not make provision for any activities or services that is non-VATable in the industry. The first schedule of the Act stated Goods and Services Exempt from the VAT in Nigeria. The implication of the schedule is that any other business activity in the form of buying and selling or rendering of services or enjoying any rights

which are not stated in the schedule are liable to VAT. Duration of remittance All the VAT charges should be remitted to an FIRS office within 21 days in arrears on a prescribed form 002. This is supported by Section 15 of the Act. Meanwhile, a taxable person who does not remit the tax within the time specified above, will be liable to five per cent penalty and interest at commercial rate, added to the tax and the provision relating to collection and recovery of the unremitted tax, penalty and interest shall be employed. Similarly, a taxable person who fails to collect tax is to pay 150 per cent of the amount not collected plus five per cent interest above the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) rediscount rate. Concept of voluntary compliance The FIRS encourages voluntary compliance instead of the use of coercion. Tax compliance relates to the degree to which a taxpayer complies (or fails to comply) with the tax rules of a country, for instance, by declaring income, filing returns and paying the tax due on or before the due date. Voluntary tax compliance is a situation where a taxable person or entity files returns without the tax authority resorting to using the instruments of the law and force to ensure compliance. It is voluntary when a taxable person discharges the statutory obligation of tax payment on

FIRS’ means of enhancing voluntary compliance • Through education and sensitisation of operators. • Business owners should have open an mind and seek clearance from the FIRS when in doubt and seek further legal advice when not satisfied. • Regular monitoring/audit visitations to check compliance and enlighten taxable entities on their roles and responsibilities. • The FIRS ensures that the principle of know your tax payer (KYTP) is adhered to, so that it would be easy for taxpayers to reach schedule officers for information and guidance/assistance. • Regular provision of VAT forms 002 for monthly rendition of returns. • Encourage voluntary compliance to avoid infraction of the law. • Consistency and civil enforcement of the provisions of the tax law • Imposition of interest and penalties and enforce compliance where default occurs. • Improvement in the work process of the tax office to make compliance easier. • Compliance with the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) requirements by business owners. • Monthly rendition of returns and payments on or before 21st of each month in arrears, to the nearest the FIRS office. • Proper documentation and record keeping of the VAT charges taken at source, returns and payments vi-avis correct profiling of income sources. • Businesses should note that they are not the party suffering the VAT, but a mere agent of collection and remittance. • It is better to charge wrongly and remit to the FIRS, than not to charge at all, because when the actual liability is established, it is owner of the business that would bear the entire burden. Consequences of noncompliance • Out of the entire the VAT

Act of 47 sections, about one third of the provisions are on offences and penalties. • Statute based consequences are highlighted from section 25 to 37 of the VAT Act Cap VI, 2004 as amended in 2007. Some examples of offences and penalties are: failure to submit returns attract a fine of N5,000 for each month the failure continues. • Failure to collect tax attracts penalties of 150 per cent of the amount not collected plus five per cent interest above CBN rate. • VAT evasion attracts N30,000 or twice the amount of tax evaded whichever is greater or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years. • Failure to keep proper records of accounts would attract N2,000 fine for every month the failure continues. • Failure to issue tax invoice attracts fine of 50 per cent of the cost of goods and services for which an invoice was not issued. Offences by body corporate: Every officer, manager, secretary and other similar officer, including partner in partnership, shall be severely guilty of an offence under the act, etc. Reputational implication • Second categories of consequences of noncompliance are reputational and reporting risks. Apart from reputational damage arising from actions by the FIRS to enforce compliance via distrain, search and seizure, and litigation, amongst others. • Reporting risk involves the imposition of interest and penalties. • All the interest and penalties imposed on any of the aforementioned offences would be enforced. The FIRS tries to avoid enforcing compliance because of the service’s slogan, “Taxpayers are King” except on recalcitrant taxpayers. It is necessary to once again emphasize that nightclub and event center activities are not exempted from the VAT. Consequently, taxpayers are encouraged to embrace voluntary compliance since the consequences of non-compliance are enormous; ranging from statute based sanctions to reputational damage/reporting risk.

22 / MARITIME

February 6, 2015

Solving Shipping, Port Costs Equation

A ship at sea

NISA Boss To Step Down Over $6.5m Fraud Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos

The Nigerian Shipowners Association of Nigeria (NISA), said it was considering suspending its president, Captain Niyi Labinjo, pending the probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of his involvement in a $6.5 million ship acquisition fraud that rocked the local shipping industry last week. A business deal on ship acquisition between Acenk Maritime, a company owned by the NISA president, Energy Services Limited, and another indigenous shipowner, Mrs Nike Jolapamo-Onifade, the daughter of the immediate past president of NISA, Dr Isaac Jolapamo,had gone sour, landing the NISA boss in the EFCC net. Reports said that his wife, Bola, was also arrested by the EFCC over the alleged fraud. The two were arrested following a petition by Jolapamo-Onifade, accusing Labinjo and his wife of diverting about $2 million out of a $6.5 million deal to acquire an oil tanker and a fast speed intervention vessel (FSIV). A first-generation commercial bank had given a loan facility of $5.85 million to the company for vessel purchase, while the beneficiary company was expected to make an equity contribution of 10 per cent or $650,000. Jolapamo-Onifade in her

petition said that while the FSIV was purchased and delivered to Nigeria, the Labinjos failed to remit the remaining $2.3 million for purchase of the oil tanker. The report had it that a good part of the $2.3 million had found its way from the shipbroker, Radunia International Corporation of Greece into various company accounts said to be owned by the Labinjos. She said that after waiting for more than a month without any headway, she approached one of her friends at Fidelity Bank where the Labinjos maintain their company accounts and she discovered that rather than pay for her 5,000dwt oil tanker with the balance $2.3 million, Radunia had been transferring the money into various accounts allegedly belonging to the Labinjos. She claimed that Radunia severally transferred money to Transunion Credit Agency Nig. Ltd, Global Shipping Activities Bureau Limited and Soughtafter International Synergy Ltd, all companies, she claimed were owned by Labinjos. She alleged that a total of $1,125,530 (N216 million) of the first generation bank loan had been transferred by the supposed shipbroker, Radunia International Corporation to the companies. The telex transfer documents revealed that Radunia transferred $220,000 to Transunion Credit Reporting Agency Nigeria

Limited on October 17, 2014; $20,000 on November 6, 2014; $300,000 November 17, 2014 and $350,000 on November 25, 2014. Radunia also transferred $230,000 to Soughtafter International Synergy Limited on October 6, 2014, and $5,530 to Global Shipping Activities Bureau Limited on November 6, 2014. However, Captain Labinjo denied having any business transaction with Jolapamo-Onifade but confirmed there was a business transaction between his wife and the daughter of the former NISA boss. “I am aware she had a business transaction with my wife. They had a memorandum of understanding (MoU) but along the line, there was a breakdown of the agreement. Trust was also lost. I am aware also that there are arrangements to return all the loan to her so that she can go her way since the working agreement is not working,” he said. The general-secretary of the NISA, Mr Tunji Brown, disclosed that the association would investigate the matter and ask Labinjo to step down as president if need be. “I am currently consulting with the executive members but we want to set up a committee quickly to look at the allegations. The position of the association is that if they accusation is found to be true, we will ask the president to step down,” Brown said.

Good health is above wealth.

― Egyptian Africa

The last is yet to be seen of a legal tussle between shipping companies and terminal operators on the one hand and the port economic regulator, the Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC) over shipping and cargo storage charges in Nigerian seaports. The regulator had in October last year attempted a downward review of the charges by terminal operators and shipping lines. The case is now in the Appeal Court where the terminal operators and the shipping lines ran to after they lost out in the first round at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi. They are seeking to stop the NSC from implementing the reversed costs existing as at May 2009. While the battle to save the soul of the port goes on, experts and port stakeholders have continued to maintain that a host of causes exist for the high cost of doing business in the ports. The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) captured several sides of the hydraheaded problems in the ports and possible solutions in a letter to the minister of transport, Senator Idris Umar, recently. In it, they demanded the withdrawal of the NSC’s directive on the reversion of seaport terminal charges to rates as at May 2009 and the minister’s intervention on the issue which bred a fortnight-long crisis at the Apapa port. In the petition, the MWUN observed that the prevailing high cost of doing business in the country’s ports was caused by many problems that needed “to be addressed holistically if the desired goal is to be achieved in its entirety.” Top on the union’s list was poor access roads to the port which gave rise to higher cost of trucking goods in and out of the ports, stressing that this must be addressed. It also stressed that the presence and practice of illegal tolls and extortions by various agencies operating in the ports, both legally and illegally, have to be curtailed. “Activities of some customs men and officers which also add to the operational cost of ports and effect of congestion giving rise to demurrage and additional increase on the cost of clearing goods in the port are also some of the critical aspects to treat,” the MWUN noted.

39 Ships Call At Lagos Ports This Month A total of 39 ships laden with various cargoes will call at the Tin Can Island and Apapa ports in Lagos between September 29 and October 28, the Shipping Position released after the daily berthing meeting yesterday by the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) has indicated. According to the statistics, 21 of the vessels are laden with loaded containers, while 10 others are laden with various food items, such as rice, frozen fish, buckwheat and crude palm oil. The NPA Shipping Position also showed that another seven vessels will arrive the seaports with general cargoes, while one vessel will sail into the port with diesel. The authority said also that the vessels would sail into Atlas Cove Jetty, the New Oil Jetty, Petroleum Wharf, Bulk Oil Plant, and Single Buoy Mooring among others. Meanwhile, six vessels carrying petroleum products, including aviation fuel are awaiting to berth at the port. It also said that another five other vessels carrying rice and frozen fish were queuing to berth.

TOURISM / 23

February 6, 2015

Korea Tourism Body Targets 15m Tourists The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) has launched a massive exhibition globally with a view to targeting 15 million tourists through the World Travel Market (WTM) Portfolios in Africa, Latin America, London and Arabian Travel Market. A statement obtained from the WTM website revealed that the KTO showcased its largest exhibition last year at the WTM at its stand which was the largest, alongside its sponsorship of the WTM Buyers’ Club, in a bid to promote its new marketing campaign titled ‘Imagine Your Korea.’ The public relations manager of the KTO, Ramy Salameh, explained that the WTM portfolio was an ideal platform for Korea to promote its best destination spots with a plan to attract 15 million visitors to Korea by the end of 2015. He said, “Our primary function at the events is to provide a platform for our partners to do business and with the WTM Portfolio’s global reach and respect, it’s a great opportunity for the KTO to take advantage of the traffic and promotional opportunities.” Salameh noted that the initiative would guarantee maximum return on investment at speed networking events as well as making use of all the PR opportunities available.

Duke Preaches Peaceful Co-existence, Violent-free Election Ahead of this month’s general election, the minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke, has called on politicians at all levels to stand up against violence, saying that violence is not a tool for accessing political offices. He stated in Abuja, yesterday, when some members of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), under the auspices of Passion for Nigeria and Save Nigeria 2015 groups paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja to align with the activities of the ministry. Duke noted that stakeholders in the Nigerian polity must be voluntary soldiers aimed at propagating national unity and violent-free election since Nigeria would remain indivisible and protect her territorial integrity. The minister maintained that since Nigeria is made up of over 65 per cent youths, senior citizens have no right to disintegrate the country, insisting that one of the mandate of his ministry is to re-orientate the citizens on the need to shun violence and other societal vices. Commending the groups for their initiative, he said their vision of uniting against violence was an eloquent testimony that the future of the country cannot be taken for granted. Also speaking, the director-general of Save Nigeria 2015 Campaign, Mr Kennedy Iyere, was optimistic that the essence of creating the nongovernmental organisation was to eradicate the culture of pre- and post-electoral violence, stressing that there was the need to inculcate the culture of peace and unity among the youngsters. On his part, the president of the NIDO, Chief Gabriel Okoye, said that group is examining possible ways of curbing electoral violence and informed that plans were underway to eradicate violence in the country. In the same vein, the director-general of Passion for Nigeria, Mr George Guorline, said the foundation was formed with the sole purpose of eradicating violence and other societal vices, maintaining that they believe in good governance, the indivisiblity of Nigeria as an entity and eradication of corruption.

L-R: Chairman, Governing Board of National Gallery of Art (NGA), Hipo Onwuegbuke; minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke; and director-general,NGA, Mr Muku Abdullahi during the unveiling of Abuja Biennial Logo in Abuja, recently. PHOTO BY CHIKA OKEKE

Controversy Trails Classification Of Hotels, Tourist Sites Stories By Chika Okeke, Abuja

The need to classify hotels and tourist sites cannot be overemphasised as such grading would provide a clear distinction on the type of facilities and services available in the hotel. Regrettably, grading of hotels and tourist sites in Nigeria had become a mirage 54 years after the country attained her independence in 1960 despite its pivotal role in developing the tourism sector. A cross section of stakeholders that spoke to LEADERSHIP Friday suggested that it was the prerogative of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), and states, to classify hotels and tourist sites while others argued that it requires the collective responsibility of both the government and citizens. The president of Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), Mallam Aliyu Badaki Ajayi, regretted that since the country attained its independence in 1960 the issue of classification of hotels and tourist sites has not been settled, saying that tourism professionals were not engaged in most cases to anchor strategic tourism positions. Contradicting the Supreme Court judgement on the classification of hotels, he said that Decree No 81 of 1992 empowered the NTDC to classify hotels but that it was expected to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in carrying out the assignment. “The classification and grading will ensure proper standardisation in terms of facilities, services, pricing and healthy competition in the industry. It will enhance the marketing and promotion of the facilities and services at both local and international markets. It is also

a means of packaging the nation as a serious tourism destination for the global travel market. Also, the organiser of Abuja Bantaba and Akwaaba African Travel Market, Mr Ikechi Uko, noted that the inability of the federal government, through the NTDC, to classify hotels and tourist sites have opened doors for robbery, theft and making undue profits on false pretence. “The absence of classification creates a lot of distortion in the environment. The NTDC was supposed to classify hotels after registration. But the Lagos State Govenment had successfully pursued a case that posits that the NTDC cannot register hotels or tourist sites in the states at the Supreme Court. This suit automatically takes away the powers that the NTDC have over regulations. If you are not my regulator, you cannot classify me, so I don’t see how it could be done and it’s not the best thing to do state by state classification because it’s a shambolic method of organising or doing things. “Classification of hotels helps to create standard. If you tell me this is a 5-star hotel and I am paying $200; I know that I am paying for the product but when you don’t classify hotels, you will see all kinds of shabby hotels touting themselves as 5-star hotels and charging exhorbitant prices. Its simply theft, robbery or making undue profits on false pretences. So one of the major reasons we need to classify hotels is to set standard and help the industry grow,” Uko said. He noted that the sector lacked the requisite leadership despite the increasing number of 5-star hotels and awareness about tourism. He also enjoined the federal government, through the National Commission for

Good masters make good servants.

― Egyptian Africa

Museums and Monuments (NCMM), to negotiate with foreign museums and institutions holding onto Nigeria artefacts with a view to possibly get them back. The national president of the Institute for Tourism Professionals (ITP), Chief Abiodun Odunsanwo, submitted that the regulation of tourism was the prerogative of the state government, adding that the essence of classifying hotels and tourist sites was to ensure quality and sell ideas to investors on the type of services available. “The Supreme Court judgement of July 19, 2014, between the Federal government, NTDC and Lagos State Government that the regulation of the tourism sector was the prerogative of the state government was very clear. Within the ambience of that pronouncement, it remains the prerogative of the state government to actually regulate and direct tourism in their domain. However, there is the need for national standard across the state. For instance, if you have a 3-star hotel in Kaduna or Niger State, the quality and ratings should be the same so that people will know the type of services they are paying for,” Odunsanwo. Reacting, the minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke, argued that the classification of hotels and tourist sites requires the collective responsibility of Nigerians since the assets are located within the states. “The classification of hotels and tourist sites requires a collective responsibility of each and every one of us. Very many of these assets are located within states and it’s important for us to collaborate with these states in classifying these resorts as well as in identifying the quality standard.

24 / AGRICULTURE

February 6, 2015

agriculture REPORTS

We controlled Ebola, We Can Control Bird Flu – Experts BY Ruth Tene Natsa, Abuja

A cotton farm

Sustaining Cotton Revolution Will Revive Nigerian Textile Industry There is a concensus of opinion among Nigerians that the reforms in the agriculture sector, which has spun various various value chains needs to be sustained. Ruth Tene Natsa writes on the success of the Cotton Value Chain.

T The MoU signed by the WACOT and FMARD to boost cotton production in Nigeria will revive the textile industry against the massive importation which obtains today

he history of cotton in Nigeria can be traced to 1903 and it is grown in 24 states across the six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It was reported as one of Nigeria’s major export commodities and formed a major component of the gross domestic product (GDP). The collapse of agriculture as a result of the discovery of oil subsequently led to the collapse of various commodities in the nation’s agricultural sector, including cotton, thereby leading to a near collapse of the economic value of cotton and the sector as a whole. The revival of the agriculture sector, and in particular cotton, began with the growth enhancement support scheme (GES) for farmers three years ago where agricultural inputs, in form of seeds and fertilisers, were given to farmers. With a population of over 15 million registered beneficiaries registered under the agricultural transformation agenda (ATA)/ GES, agricultural production has experienced a quantum leap. And so has cotton production. The ATA founded in 2012,

by the Goodluck/Adesina administration was a reform policy set to revolutionise the sector using the value chain approach. One of the commodities adopted was the cotton and it was began with the signing of an memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the West African Cotton Company (WACOT). Speaking on the development of the cotton value chain, the WACOT project coordinator, Dr Kabir Mustapha, in an exclusive interview with Leadership Friday said that the WACOT and Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) had signed an MoU to boost cotton production in Nigeria. He said the katsina State ATA intervention has led to the improvement of cotton by 100 per cent. He further assured that “sustaining the tempo will revive the textile industry against the massive importation which obtains today. “We operate in the cotton production area of the state such as Faskari, Funtua, Malumfashi, Bakori, and Kafur. These are the local governments where cotton production are high and we touch all these areas; we had over 5,000 farmers who are benefiting from the programme.” Speaking on the previous collapse of the sector, he said, “Years back, cotton was produced on a high scale because it had value and farmers were into it. But in the recent past, the cotton sector has been neglected as a result of several factors which include the use of worn out seeds, such as the Simcot 8,9,10 which was released in 1977 (over) 30 years earlier. As

the yield became lower, so also the demand for it went lower. “The collapse of the textile industry is another key factor why cotton production went down because there was no internal demand for cotton as a result of low or no production from the cotton houses,” Mustapha said. He assured that “with the cotton revolution, Nigeria was set to become a vital economic hub again in cotton production.” Also speaking with Leadership Friday, a cotton farmer, Mallam Rabiu Sulaiman, said, “We are not in support of or vote for any government that will not continue with the ATA. This is the first time farmers are getting the government’s subsidised seeds and fertilisers and all can see the transformation in the agriculture sector. So it will be a good thing if the federal government will ensure the scheme is given legal backing to ensure the continuity of the GES in the event of a change in government.” Another cotton farmer, Alhaji Nasiru Ibrahim, said he is praying that “after the 2015 elections whoever wins the elections will continue with the ATA because it is helping us the rural farmers a lot. It is now we know that government are concerned about farmers.” He called on the federal government to remain committed to the ATA/GES saying, “we at the rural areas are now enjoying and it is now we know there is a government. In those days all we got were 2/3 tiers, now we see real fertilisers and our yield has been overwhelming.”

Good health is above wealth.

― Egyptian Africa

The national president, Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association, Dr Edgar .A. Sunday, has said that if the Ebola disease could be controlled in record time, there was no reason bird flu cannot equally be contained in an even much shorter time. The president stated this in an interview with journalists following an emergency meeting on the Avian Influenza with all states’ commissioners and other stakeholders in Abuja on January 28. According to Sunday, “Again, fortunately we have had this before. In 2006, we had this outbreak and were able to contain it in record time. I am sure that the structures we had then just need to be revamped and we have started doing that already. “We are mobilising and sensitising our people on a daily basis to understand its importance and we do so because not only is it an economic disease, it has a zoonotic or human health implication. We understand that it poses a challenge to the economy of the country and that of millions of our people who work in the rural areas. But most importantly, the human population is at risks hence the need to mobilise and ensure that all hands are on deck.” He was optimistic that despite the challenges of the Bird Flu, Nigeria was well prepared to handle the situation, saying that “since we were able to control ebola in record time, I am sure that we will be able to contain this in much shorter time frame.”

We’ll Vote Politicians with Sound Agric Policies – Farmers BY Ruth Tene Natsa, Abuja

Farmers on the platform of Oxfam Nigeria and Voices for Food Security have stated their intention to vote only for candidates and political parties that have sound agricultural policies in the forthcoming elections. Speaking with journalists at a media briefing in Abuja, yesterday, the programmes officer for the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Salaudeen Hashim, said, “Since hunger shortens life expectancy and its political, social and economic consequences are detrimental to the community and undermines security, it is imperative to ensure food security in Nigeria. “Security is a very important and timely analysis of the interactions between food insecurity, vulnerability and the right to food, given the continued failure to meet global hunger reduction targets set by the international community, is vitally important to build a nexus between human and food security. Unless the right to food is placed at the very centre of the efforts of the national discourse to address the structural causes which have led to the global food crises, we will repeat our past mistakes.” On their demands towards ensuring food security, he called on the government “to as a matter of urgency reinforce and respond to the security needs of armed personnel across the country, particularly in the North East,” even as he called on politicians willing to secure farmers support during the general elections “to indicate willingness to sign up to the farmers manifesto and also ensure that the issue of food security should form part of the manifestoes being bandied about by political parties across the country.”

February 6, 2015

Brymo Olawale

Round The Block And Back Gluttony kills more men than the sword. ― Egyptian Proverb

razak’s DiarY TaTTles ‘Dear WizkiD, You Can Do BeTTer’

February 6, 2015

Before you read 2015 is proving to be one filled with ‘little bundles of joy’. If you are wondering, the reason is that quite a number of entertainers are being blessed with new babies. A recent example is popular rapper Olamide, who recently welcomed a son. At the same time, there seems to be

a rising trend of ‘baby mamas’. This is a topic for another day. Our cover subject this week is the brilliant Brymo. He talks about the Nigerian music industry in general and dishes out a set of advises to upcoming musicians who want to sign on to any ‘major label’.

Essentials Playlist

Our guest writer Naija Single Girl sent in a truly hilarious article about romance in Nigeria. The good news is that this article will be published in three parts. Look out for it. Since Razzy’s return from his sabbatical, his escapades have not reduced one bit! Catch up with him

in his diary. Have you heard that D’banj and Don Jazzy may work together some day? Read all about it in TATTLES. Enjoy the weekend! fridayleadership@leadership.ng follow us on Twitter @essentialsng

one TO WATCH

‘Dear Wizkid, You Can Do Better’ …being a letter written to the singer by a fan I have been monitoring Wizkid’s moves since he finally got his wish to leave Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), the recording company that made him. So far, saying I am disappointed is an understatement. Many of us have forgiven the 24-yearold for releasing a mediocre album, but the two things we cannot forgive him for are; 1) Putting in mediocre work into promoting the album and 2) Reducing the quality of his music out of nonchalance. Wizkid almost didn’t promote the Ayo album, because, after-all, it was his getout-of-jail move from EME. But since he got out of ‘jail’, Wizkid’s projects have been akin to those of an upcoming artiste. All the videos he has released under his Starboy Records are below standard, very much like those of an artiste who wants to make it big in the game. The video for Show You the Money was okay, but since it is about money that was a poor video. The video for In My Bed is ridiculous. Wizkid knows this and that is exactly why he said, after its release, that it was a “party” and that he was “having fun”. Wizkid, you are a top artiste; no games, no fun, just quality. After releasing In My Bed, Wizkid abandoned the Ayo album for months, kick-started Starboy Mondays and went on to release

two mediocre singles and three belowpar videos. Wonder is a 4/10 song at best, while Sound It is a 3/10 song if you want to be forgiving. The videos for both songs are not ‘Wizkid standard’. What a drop in quality. After this he returned to Ayo again. Who does that? Only Wizkid. A man who is unsigned, makes all the decisions for himself – safe to say, a man without a proper plan or company structure. His fans expected big things from Ojuelegba, but, once again, Wizkid failed. Maybe, that was a bit harsh. Wizkid failed to deliver. He released a 1/10 video for the best song [arguably] on his Ayo album. At this point, it looks as if Ibrahim Balogun just wakes up from bed, shouts on the microphone and releases it. He’s also announced an official single for next month. If I were you, I will look forward to another disappointment from the hugely talented artiste. For now. What can Ayo Balogun do better? He needs to have a team. He needs to strategise again. Moreso, he needs a tinkerman. Banky W did this job for him back in the day. Wizkid, you need to control the quality of your music. You can’t continue to release mediocre songs. You can do better. Make your fans long for your music [once more]. Written by a big fan of Wizkid who works at 36NG.com.ng — Courtesy Tooxclusive.com

Glee A stand-out American musical comedy-drama series that focuses on the fictitious William McKinley High School Glee Club, New Directions, which competes on the choir competition circuit while its disparate members deal with relationships, sexuality, social issues and learning to become an effective team. Currently in its sixth season, the series was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan. Glee features on-screen performance-

based songs that selected by Murphy, who aims to maintain a balance between show tunes and recent chart hits. The music of Glee has been a commercial success, with over thirty-six million digital single sales and eleven million album sales worldwide. It stars Dianna Agron, Jacob Artist, Melissa Benoist, Chris Colfer, Darren Criss, Jane Lynch, Jayma Mays, Amber Riley, Naya Rivera, Kevin McHale, Lea Michele and the late Cory Monteith.

movie review

John Wick

Director David Leitch and Chad Stahelski Year 2014 A legendary assassin and long-time ‘bad guy’ decides to leave the life of crime behind and turn a new leaf. You can definitely guess it had to do with a woman. Sadly, it was a short-lived hiatus for the legendary assassin who gets pulled back into the underworld when an unimaginable and unforgivable evil was committed to him. No, they didn’t kill his wife. They killed his dog; the one given him as a gift by

his dead wife and he’s out to get them all, every last one of them. It also sounds like a tried and tested formula that most times doesn’t work but the thing is, it does work for John Wick. It makes perfect sense when you actually watch the movie. I guess that’s a way of saying John Wick is good. Really, really good at what it sets out to achieve. When the credits start rolling and the screen goes black, John Wick is a fun, mindless, violent, hard-to-believe action fantasy film. — Courtesy sodasandpopcorn.com

group REPORTERS Abisola Alawode DESIGN & LAYOUT Chukwudi J. Nwabueze, Iniobong Ekong

ACTING EDITOR Pembi David-Stephen

Founder Sam Nda-Isaiah GRP MANAGING DIRECTOR Azubuike Ishiekwene GRP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Michael Okpere, Dr. Kazeem Durodoye

Your weekly ESSENTIALS is filled with exclusive interviews, amazing articles from guest columnists and contributors.

February 6, 2015

Essentials Taste

Kunun Aya (Tiger Nut Milk) Prior to my first visit to the Northern part of Nigeria, the only type of kunu I drank was Kunun Zaki. After a while, I got exposed to the other types such as kunun aya (made from tiger nuts) and Kunun Gyada (made from groundnuts) and, sometimes, sprinkled with rice. Tiger nuts are called aya in Hausa, aki Hausa in Igbo and ofio in Yoruba. Kunun aya is a creamy, milk-like beverage with a nutty taste you'd definitely get hooked to once you try it. In Spain, the drink is known as horchata de chufa. To make Kunun aya, you can use either the fresh or dry nuts or combine both. If you opt to use the dry one, you have to soak it in water to become fresh again. Tiger nuts are rich in calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. They're also rich in vitamins E and C. Ingredients

• 2 Cups tiger nuts (I used a combination of both dry & fresh ones) • 1 Medium ginger • 10 Dates (or less) • 1 Coconut (optional) Directions Step 1 Soak the tiger nuts in clean

water overnight. If you are using the dry variety, you'd need to soak it overnight to get re-hydrated and swell a little.

Step

Rinse the soaked tiger nuts and place in a blender. Remove the seeds from the dates, wash and place in the blender. Please, note that dates are very sweet and when adding them, you don't need to add sugar. If you are using coconut (I didn't use it here, because I love the natural taste of tiger nuts’ milk), peel and place the flesh in the

blender also. Add the skinned ginger, a little water and blend. Step 3 With a pap/cheese cloth, strain the milk into a bowl. The first milk strained would be thick. Place the chaff back into the blender, add some more water, blend and strain again till the whole milk is extracted. The subsequent milk strained would

be lighter than the first. It's always better not to make the kunun aya too light. Step 4 Place the extracted milk drink in a refrigerator. Serve cold! Health Benefits of Tiger Nuts • Sugar-free tiger nut milk is suitable for diabetic people and also helps in weight control, due to its carbohydrate content, with a base of sucrose and starch (without glucose) and its high Arginine content, which liberates the hormone that produces insulin. • It is recommended for those who suffer from indigestion, flatulence and diarrhoea because it provides digestive enzymes like catalase, lipase and amylase. The high content of oleic acid has positive effect on cholesterol, thereby preventing heart attacks, thrombosis and activates blood content of soluble glucose. Tiger nut reduces the risk of colon cancer. It prevents constipation. • Tiger nut contains a good quantity of Vitamin B1, which assists in balancing the central nervous system and helps to encourage the body to adapt to stress. • The milk supplies the body with lots of Vitamin E, essential for fertility in both men and women. — Courtesy Dobbysignature.com

Kunun Zaki (Millet Drink) Recipe Kunu drink is a popular drink made from whole grains of millet and sometimes sorghum or corn. It’s quite popular in most parts of Nigeria, especially the northern part where it originates. It’s got a spicy, nutty flavour and it’s packed with nourishing vitamins and minerals. It’s also rich in protein and high in fibre. Preparation of this drink takes about a minimum of two to three days. This is because for the first two days, it is soaked in water, so as to get it to ferment. Making kunu at home is quite easy and requires nothing fancy. Here's how it’s done. Ingredients

• 3 Cups of millet (de-hulled) • 1 Medium-sized sweet potato, peeled (optional) • 2 Medium-sized ginger, peeled • 1 Tablespoon of cloves (konofiri) • Sugar (to taste) • Water

Directions Step 1 Soak the seeds in water for

48hours to allow fermentation, making sure you change the water every seven hours.

blades) and blend till you have a smooth paste, making sure you add water while blending to enable some smoothness. Step 3 Place the blend in a large bowl and pour cold water over the paste (this is to make it easier to sieve) and mix. Gently pour the slurry into the sieving bag and sieve the mixture. Discard the chaff Step 4 Leave the sieved out liquid to settle for about seven hours, by then the clear liquid would be above the sediment (thick paste below). Sieve out the clear liquid leaving the settled mixture which should be thick. Step 5 Divide the thick paste into two bowls (bowls 1 and 2). Pour boiling hot water over the content of bowl 1 and stir (As if you are preparing pap). Add the content of bowl 2 into bowl 1 and stir some more. At this stage you can add as much water as you want, depending on how thick or watery you want your kunu. It’s usually thick though. Step 6 Sweeten with sugar, refrigerate Step 2 Wash thoroughly with clean cloves (konofiri), sweet potatoes in and serve chilled. water and place the millet, ginger, a blender (you need one with sharp GiveCaution As him welcome anisinch theas and parent flowers he’lloftake in safety. May. an ―ell. ―Egyptian Egyptian ― Egyptian Africa AfricaAfrica

interview

February 6, 2015

Brymo Olawale

Round The Block And Back

C I Y

ongrats; you’ll soon be a father. What went through your head when you heard the news for the first time? After the publicity for Thank you! The first time I heard it I said "yes! his debut album, Son It's about time”. It just felt like the right thing, because the timing was perfect. of a Kapenta on the

cards of Chocolate City, Braimoh Olawale aka Brymo, attempted to leave the label, but ran into troubled waters. Well, he was expected to make a return, and return he did. Following the release of his recent effort, Tabula Rasa, the singer, composer, songwriter and recording artist has been getting applause for his deep, insightful and brilliant lyrics. He spoke to ESSENTIALS.

By Abisola Alawode

f you were to choose, would you prefer a boy or a girl? I have no preferences, the child is a gift and I'll cherish it, irrespective of its sex. ou have been compared to John Legend, Aloe Blacc and Asa. How does this make you feel?

It's mostly confusing. It's easier when people see you for you and not compare. I am, however, happy that people would identify with what I do in comparison to those great acts, considering that they work in more organised settings. It's a big deal when people think music that was recorded in Igando, Lagos is as good as what's made in the states or Europe. I am glad, nevertheless.

hy the name Tabula Rasa for your latest album? A number of things inspired the title. My career and personal life inclusive. A music-maker is also something like a speculator and the people are always going through phases. Tabula Rasa can also stand for a new page for Nigerians and Africans at large. We are easing into an era where our economies must come alive and the work we put in now or choose not to will matter in a few years.

ou have released two albums and, in all, you have featured just one musician. In an era when some musicians seem to think collaborations are key why do you just opt for an artiste? It's becoming increasingly impossible to point out what individual artistes stand for and what message they bring with their music, especially when there are so many people on a project that's supposed to carry the name of one. Now that it's a popular trend, however, it might be considered a ‘sin’ if one doesn't partake, hence the one artiste per project concept. It ensures that I take part in what's trending without messing with the general image of the work and, also, my one guest gets all the attention

Brymo

as opposed to sharing with three, four or five other people.

ou are proof that one can do ‘Indie’ music in Nigeria and survive. Any thoughts on this?

The problems affecting signed talents are pretty much the same as those plaguing the independent artistes. To be signed in an organised environment means you only worry about the music, while being independent means that you have to come up with every other thing as well. Independent artistes must go at their own pace to keep surviving while signed talents have the tendency to go faster. To be signed can, however, mean total commercialisation of the music when it's easier for Indies to preserve value. So it's all about choice and what's workable.

ased on your style of music, many fans would like to know about your source of inspiration. The universe has provided us with limitless energy to tap from. Inspiration is everywhere you look and it’s really easy if we tune to it. It also takes

Give a fool rope enough, and he will hang himself. ― Chinese proverb

FRIDAY EXTRA February 6, 2015

INSIDE

EADERSHIP Friday observed that people, most traders of Igbo extract, were busy loading their belongings into vehicles, Marcopolo buses and trailers. The garage which usually sees an influx of travellers, has its peak period during the yuletide season when people go home to spend the Christmas holidays and return after the New year. This time, the large number of travellers is a bit unusual but apparently they were heading towards the southern parts of the country in their droves, because the elections were drawing nearer. What caught LEADERSHIP Friday’s attention wasn’t just the movement of travellers, but that they seemed to have packed their whole household, as Chairs, beds, mattresses, wardrobes, stoves, pots and other household properties were noticed inside the Buses and trailers around Kpagungu in Minna and other parts of the state capital Minna. Some of them who spoke to LEADERSHIP said that they will be away till after February election and that they were sure that the election may turn violence and they could be the target. Most of them who spoke to LEADERSHIP Friday under anonymity reluctantly confirmed that they have decided to leave for fear of the what might happen after the elections. They didn’t want to witness another eruption of violence like the one in 2011 or even worse. Following this revelation, LEADERSHIP Friday went around town and observed that most of the shops at the Kure Ultramodern market, Minna, where most of the traders operate have been locked for some time now. A lot of shop owners have refused to return after traveling for the Christmas season and some are now while others are just following suit. Similarly, some shops in strategic places were under lock and key and were yet to be opened since after the Christmas break. It seemed that some traders had made plans well ahead and might not return until after the elections. It was learnt that some nonindigenes were moving back home of their own accord but mostly, the decision was based on the pressure on them by their families in their home towns. They had had hints that there may likely be post election violence. A trader, Mr Matthew Kanu who hails from Ebonyi state and owns a provisions shop along Okada Road, Minna, said since his wife travelled home for Christmas with their 2 children, she has not returned. “My wife’s family refused to allow her to return to Niger state. They are afraid that violence will break out in the north, like the last time.” When LEADERSHIP Friday asked him about his plans, he confirmed that he was under a lot of pressure to close down his shop and move to another part of the country. He howeve said that he didn’t want to move because Minna was his 2nd home where he has stayed for about 18 years. “I don’t want to leave but I feel that I don’t have a choice because my wife is already in the east with my children and I don’t know what the outcome of the

The fear of electoral violence has caused many Nigerians to reconsider their choices

We Are Leaving For Fear Of Electoral Violence – Non-indigenes

Despite reassurance from Niger state Governor, Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu that nonindigenes will be safe during the elections, quite a number of them were seen leaving Minna, the state capital. ABU NMODU spoke with some of them about their fears for the forthcoming elections. elections will bring. It is better to be safe than sorry,”he adds. Whereas the state witnessed its own share of post election violence in 2011, LEADERSHIP Friday observed that the violence was only targeted at public institutions and property of notable politicians as well as campaign offices. In the 2011 post election violence, the office of the independent National Electoral Commission along David Mark Road, Minna was their first point of call and the perpetrators did not give the attacks on any ethnic or religious colorations. Drawing inferences from the 2011 experience, there are no indications that the situation will generate to that level in Niger State by the February elections, despite the general apprehensions ahead of the election. Niger state government in 2011 took the responsibility of compensating those who lost their property to the violence and had also arrested those alleged to be responsible for such acts. The police since last year have been

Big Questions & Answers nobel 10 ultimate top list

educating the public on the dangers of allowing violence in the forthcoming elections through jingles and public outings that create an interface between the police and the politicians. Recently, the Commissioner of Police in Niger state, Mr Emmanuel Amorie, in a meeting with the Governorship candidates of all the parties in the state was categorical about the rules of playing the game without disturbing the peace of the state. Consequently, he said Niger state Police Command has outlawed the use of street urchins, popularly known as “Yandaba” in Hausa, from being used by political parties and candidates in the state for campaigns ahead of the general election in the country. Speaking during the meeting at the police head quarters Minna, the Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Olusola Amore said that the candidates and their parties have banned them, the Yandabas, from embarking on street rallies and processions during the electioneering campaigns.

The “Yandabas” are notorious for the deployment of dangerous weapons in street fighting especially at the state capital, Minna, leading to post election violence that was witnessed in 2011, thus the state commissioner of police reaffirmed that they should be banned in order to forestall outbreak of violence among supporters of the contestants before, during and after elections. “All rallies must be held in a specified venue so that the police can provide adequate security before and after such gathering. We will not tolerate a situation whereby party supporters will clash in the streets to trigger violence” Amorie declared. In the same vein , the Niger state Governor, Dr. Mu ‘azu Babangida Aliyu had urged the people not to panic trailing the February elections and assured them of adequate security before, during and after the elections Governor Aliyu had decried the exodus of non-indigenes from the state because of the fear of likely violence after next month general election.

Why... answers to scientific questions

30 FRIDAY EXTRA/Best places to GO...

February 6, 2015

Hang Gliding

Speed has its limitations, and this is almost always true about travel. Getting there can still be half, if not most, of the fun, especially if you pick the right mode of transport. This is where barges come in. With nearly 5,000 miles of navigable waters, France has the largest and most intricate inland waterway system of any country, which is why it should come as no surprise that it is home to some of the best scenic canal barging.

Canal Barging

anal de Bourgogne in Burgundy is what many people envision when they think about cruising through French wine country. Served by barges like the 20-passenger Litote and the sixpassenger Fandango, the canal twists through the Ouche River valley. It passes vineyards, Gothic churches, Renaissance chateaux, and picturesque villages such as Dijon and Beaune. The towpaths have been paved for easy cycling .or walking when the barge docks for the day. Don’t miss a side visit to Clos de Vougeot, a vineyard bound by stone walls where monks planted the first vine in the 12th Century, as well as to the medieval Chateau de Chateauneuf and the hill-top basilica of St. Mary Magdalene in Vezelay. Best of all, this route will take you to Les Halles, the enormous covered market in Dijon. You’ll find the lowest rates in the shoulder season, usually early March through late April and mid-October to early November.

Food lovers can splurge on a Michelin cruise on the Burgundy Canal du Nivernais and Yonne River on board the Randle. You can charter the entire boat, which fits only four guests, and comes with a Cordon Bleu chef who prepares your breakfast and lunch. With brokers like Edge Charter (www.edgecharter. com), you create your own itinerary: Dine at four Michelin-starred restaurants in a week, including the two-star le Grand Hotel de l’Esperance in the village of Saint-Pare and the renowned threestar La Cote Saint-Jacques in Joigny. And to avoid the tourist wine trail, you can arrange visits with small, artisan winemakers in villages like Tennay and Irancy. To explore a lesser known region, skip the well-trod Burgundy and Bordeaux regions in favour of the 300-year-old Canal du Midi in Languedoc-Roussillon. This is a considerably more laid-back region for wine lovers, and yet it’s an unusual gem because of how difficult it is to grow wine

grapes on the foothills of the Pyrenees. Canal du Midi is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and its network of waterways stretches nearly 225 miles from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. It considered an engineering marvel, with hundreds of aqueducts, bridges, and locks connecting the waters, but to barge here feels like you’ve travelled back a few centuries. While sailing on a barge like the four-passenger Alouette, you’ll travel between Beziers on the Mediterranean and the medieval walled fortress town of Carcassonne, passing by vineyards, Roman ruins, and medieval villages along the way. Languedoc-Roussillon has a typically Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, so you can go any time of year, but wine lovers should go in October-this is harvest season when the region is alive with festivals and events. Savvy travellers like the AlsaceLorraine region because it’s a little off the beaten path. The area borders France

Fools may sometimes speak to the purpose. — Egyptian Proverb

and Germany and features distinct architecture, the capital of Strasbourg, the town of Colmar with its “Little Venice” district, and the famous Saint-LouisArzviller inclined plane. This is a hill that the barge ascends via a specialized boat lift, which is considered an engineering marvel. It enables the barge to cross a stretch of the Vosges mountains without making a long detour.

February 6, 2015

...Canal Barging FRIDAY EXTRA 31

Want a gourmet experience outside of France? The 10-passenger Shannon Princess II follows the lower River Shannon in Ireland, between Athlone and Killaloe. Chef Olivia Power, trained at Bally-maloe Cookery School (which is at the forefront of modern Irish cuisine), uses locally sourced ingredients from artisan cheese makers and bakers. She’ll even take you on foraging excursions and bring you back to the barge for a seasonal cooking lesson. As you sail the river, you’ll visit the ancient Clonmacnoise ruins, medieval castles, kitchen gardens, traditional craftsmen, and rural old villages along the way. Llangollen Canal is a stunning 41-mile, 3-day journey through England and Wales. The canal starts near the town of Nantwich in Cheshire and ends near the Welsh village of Llangollen. Along the way, you’ll span the border of both countries as you pass by sheep pastures, peat bogs, tree-lined lakes, the ruins of Castell Dinas Bran, and the foothills of Snowdonia. The canal also traverses the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a feat of masonry engineering, which carries the canal 120 feet over the River Dee. Another less-spectacular aqueduct carries the canal over the River Ceiriog and passes through several tunnels. Nature enthusiasts love the fact that the canal runs right through the Fenn’s, Whixall, and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve on the border of Wales and England. It is no surprise that you can barge through Holland’s ample waterways and even less of a surprise that the best time to do it is in spring tulip season. For a more unexpected itinerary, the Marjorie II is a 12-passenger luxury barge that sails from Haarlem down into Bruges. That means you cover many of the same sights as a traditional central Holland cruise—like the Keukenhof Gardens and Aalsmeer flower auction-but also stop in Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. Beer and chocolate, anyone? Want to stick closer to home? The Erie, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca Canals in central and western New York are popular with the slow-travel brigade-and families with children-who want to soak in the delightful scenery and see peaceful historic villages that have changed very little this century. You can have a perfectly Norman Rockwell experience over 10 days or so on the water. Swimming, fishing, and biking are plentiful along the route, while dozens of small towns, vineyards, museums, churches, and waterfalls beg to be explored during off-barge excursions. These canals are navigable via self-drive barges that can be rented from a variety of vendors along the route. Mid-Lakes Navigation operates daily cruises and twoand three-day journeys along the Erie Canal. And if you want to try your own hand, you can self-skipper a charter boat and get a full orientation on how to operate the boat and maneuver through a lock.

Insider Tip Europe is also a great place to get hands-on barging experience. Although driving a barge isn’t difficult, the intimidating part is navigating the canal locks and lift bridges. If you’re a first-timer, your best bet is the Canal du Rhone it Sete in the Camargue region of southern France. It has only three locks total, and it’s a more off-the-beaten path option with old fishing villages and Mediterranean beaches. Le Boat is the major provider of self-drive barges in Europe, and will set you up with instructions on how to operate the barge and provide emergency support along the way.

Insider Tip Did you know that on many barge cruises, you can jump on and off the boat throughout the day? When the barge is in a lock, you can jump out and bike, walk, or jog along the towpath that parallels the canal. If you’re near a village, you can even take a detour through town to see the sights. Since barges only go 3 to 4 miles per hour, there’s little chance the barge will outpace you. When you’re tired of exploring, simply hop back on. Many people fear that barges will be too claustrophobic, considering their small size, so knowing that they can hop-off at regular intervals is reassuring.

Culled from the book ‘The Best Place For Everything’

Fools never know when they are well. — Cambodian Proverb

32 friday EXTRA

February 6, 2015

why?

... answers to everyday scientific questions

No Life On Mars? There is no life on Mars because it is too cold and dry as it has no plate tectonics and so does not benefit from the greenhouse effect. there may have been life on Mars in the past, when it was warmer and wetter, and there may still be life in Mars, below the surface. But there is almost certainly no life on the surface of Mars. the immediate reason for this is that it is too cold and dry. the temperature at the surface ranges from -133°e (-207.4°f) to 3re (98.6°f), but even when it is above ooe (32°f) water cannot exist as a liquid because the pressure is so low. the Martian atmosphere is 100 times thinner than earth’s, so any liquid water would instantly boil away into gas. the distance of Mars from the sun is similar to that of earth - if it had a thicker atmosphere, like ours, the greenhouse effect might keep it warm enough for liquid water and life. a few billion years ago Mars probably had a thicker aonosphere, but it lost it. Mars is much smaller than earth and so has weaker gravity, and

the aonosphere probably leaked into space. But it might also be because Mars lacks the earth’s plate tectonics. relative positions of planets to the sun on earth, plate tectonics help to maintain in the atmosphere a constant level of carbon dioxide, the most important greenhouse gas. when water is around, falling as rain or splashing around as seas, carbon dioxide dissolves into the water and then chemically reacts with rocks. this reaction forms rocks like chalk and limestone, and the carbon is locked away. Plate tectonics suck these rocks down into the planet’s hot interior, melt them and then blast the carbon back out into the aonosphere through volcanoes. thanks to plate tectonics, there is a carbon cycle. on Mars, there is no plate tectonics, and so Mars has no carbon cycle. when it was warmer and wetter, carbon dioxide in the Martian atmosphere was locked away in rocks through similar processes to those found on earth, but then it was locked away forever. the more carbon dioxide that was removed, the less greenhouse effect there was and the colder it got. the colder it got the more water

condensed out of the atmosphere as rain and the more carbon dioxide was removed. it was a runaway reverse greenhouse effect, and the result was a cold, dry, barren planet. Hot and heavy Almost exactly the opposite happened on Venus. Venus is almost the same size as Earth, and billions of years ago it too may have had a gentler, wetter climate. But Venus is just a little bit closer to the sun and instead of water falling as rain it stayed in the atmosphere as steam and triggered a runaway greenhouse effect. The heat released masses of carbon dioxide from the rocks and Venus now has a crushingly thick, unbearably hot atmosphere. The

Crows do not pick crow’s eyes — Cambodian Proverb

surface air pressure is ninety-two times higher than on Earth, so walking on the surface of Venus would be like walking on Earth’s ocean bottom a kilometre down, except that the temperature is 477°C (890.6°F). Hot enough to melt lead! another reason why tectonic activity is important to life on earth is that life may well have started around a hydrothermal vent, a sort of water volcano on the bottom of the ocean. the best place to look for life elsewhere in the universe may be around similar vents - for instance, there might be some on europa, the sixth moon of Jupiter. Culled from Why?: Answers to everyday scientific questions

INVALUABLE TIPS FOR LIFE 06.02.2015

You Can Create Your Own Luck Successful people have known “luck” is often the result of developing a plan, working to make it a reality and creating new opportunities

Finances

Marriage

Grooming

Making Wealth Happen

How to Confront Your Partner’s Poor Spending Habits

Our Children- Right or Wrong

Motivation Health 7 Ways to Keep Your Sanity

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

34 FORESIGHT

February 6, 2015 PASSION

The biggest mistake that you can make is to believe that you are working for somebody else…The driving force of a career must come from the individual. Remember: Jobs are owned by the company, you own your career!

WORK & CAREER

You Can Create Your Own Luck “I am a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.” Although this quote is attributed to Thomas Jefferson, he wasn’t the first to announce the concept. “Diligence is the mother of good luck,” goes back to the 16th century. So, it seems that for five hundred years, successful people have known “luck” is often the result of developing a plan, working to make it a reality and creating new opportunities. Entrepreneurs don’t wait to be invited to the Today Show or to make Oprah’s Favourite Things list. Instead, most entrepreneurs know that they have to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty to make good things happen. Here are 7 tips to help you learn to work hard and create your own luck: 1. Network, network, network No matter where you are in your plan, it’s important to build relationships as soon as possible. Join Facebook and LinkedIn. Learn to tweet. Attend industry meetings, but also let your family, friends, and colleagues know what you’re doing. You never, ever know where future clients and connections will come from. 2. Be positive When you surround yourself with supportive people, you can stay energised, even during tough times. Take time to find something good in your day, every day. Avoid and ignore critics; keep your eye on the prize. 3. Have a clear mission Study the great companies: they adhere to their purpose. If they develop ‘mission creep,’ they return to their service or product. If a new opportunity isn’t a fit, they decline and move forward. 4. Refine your craft Focus on your skills and talents. What are you really good at? What makes you happy? What makes time pass quickly? How can you become an expert?

Describe yourself in one sentence, then work to make it happen. 5. Be imperfect Don’t wait until you have enough cash flow, a better office space, or the next version of your invention. You may have a clear vision of your business, but hesitation will only delay and frustrate you. Constant adjustments are part of life, whether personal or professional. Perfection never arrives, so get going. 6. Accept setbacks There is not one inventor, entrepreneur, or leader who has not been humbled by failure. When it happens to you, choose to learn from it. No one learns during complacent times- it’s always the challenges that make us wiser. 7. Do good works Some people call it karma or ‘paying it forward.’ When you help others, contribute, and volunteer, giving service always brings rewards and feels good. When you help others, you may be planting seeds that will someday ripen and bring you a rich harvest. Need one more quote? Think of Thomas Edison, who worked tirelessly- a thousand false starts- to develop the light bulb: “The reason a lot of people do not recognise opportunity is that it usually walks around wearing overalls, looking like hard work.” culled from inc.com

foresight

Pembi David-Stephen

group

FOUNDER Sam Nda-Isaiah GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR Azubuike Ishiekwene GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Michael Okpere, Dr Kazeem Durodoye

Foresight published as an insert in LEADERSHIP Friday. A number of the articles here are sourced from diverse sources. Please do send your feedback and enquiries to: foresight@leadership.ng

Re-inforcing Confidence Why is confidence so important? Well, when you lack confidence in yourself, other people are likely to agree with you. Quite reasonably, they figure you know more about yourself than they do, so if you are down on yourself, they probably will be also. But for the same reason, when you project an air of confidence and self-assurance, they feel good about you. Stay curious as to what kind of confident person you can be at your best. This question of who you can become is one that even the most experienced, capable chief executives ask themselves regularly. Successful people stretch themselves constantly. Remember the first time you rode a bicycle? The whole idea of it seemed to contradict the laws of gravity. How would you ever balance on those two thin wheels? Maybe you did fall over a few times, but once you learned how to do it, riding a bicycle seemed perfectly natural. It seemed to happen by itself, without you even thinking about it. Certain situations can bring anxiety and stress. This is perfectly normal. It’s about what you are doing, not what you are at the deepest level of your being. You’ve enormous potential limited only by yourself and it’s up to you to realise it. Gandhi had to overcome acute shyness to take injustice in the world and free his people. And the more you connect with what is important to you, the more you become true to your most confident self. People often feel a fraud when they take a new leadership role

that’s more senior. If you have this feeling, then remember that you’ve been selected for that important job because your company believes you will do it well. You’re not being realistic to expect to have all the knowledge on day one. People invite you to join them because they know you can contribute and they want you to grow and develop. Not everyone needs to be an international leader on the world stage, yet you can become a leader in your own world inspiring others. Look back over time to things that you may take for granted. As your skills and competence grow, so you become more confident to take on bigger challenges. Be your own sponsor as well as critic. You may be good at giving yourself a hard time by comparing yourself unfavourably with other people. Comparisons with others are valuable in that they can help you excel and raise your game as a budding player on the golf circuit, for instance. Don’t waste energy beating yourself up by not being as good as the expert who dedicates every day of their life to practice. You are important in this world and have real contribution to make. Support, coaching and personal sponsorship of various types will help you to be the very best you can be. Begin by assuming that you’re going to be successful and surround yourself with people who honour and support your growth. In the words of Gandhi: ‘you must be the change you wish to see in the world.’

INFLUENCING PEOPLE

CONTENT Ejura Adama graphics Matthew Akhabue

AG. EDITOR

MAKE YOURSELF UNFORGETTABLE

Questions, questions... PURITY OF HEART IS TO WILL ONE THING

The way we phrase questions to elicit information from people is crucial. Questioning is an important skill that is needed in communicating successfully. There are open questions and closed questions. The open questions uses words in such

a way that the respondent answers in more detail and at greater length. Open questions are useful for getting inside the mind, as they encourage selfdisclosure. You can use them to find out a person’s true, possibly hidden motives or desires.

FORESIGHT 35

February 6, 2015 BE UPDATED

FINANCE

Getting straight with your money is as complicated as a trip to the store: You need a comparison shop, add and subtract, stick with a plan, and ask questions- nothing more.

Financial FUTURES

Basics of..

Making Wealth Happen

Things You Should Avoid in a Potential Investor Choosing the right investor is more important than you think. While it can be tempting to jump on any offer when you’re trying to get a business off the ground, choosing the right investor can make all the difference for your company down the line. Ideally, a strong relationship with your early investors involves much more than just a signed check. Look out for these red flags and you will be smiling about your returns.

Getting wealthy means being very honest with yourself and being willing to invest your time and efforts into the quest for greater prosperity. Many of the rules are behavioural, and changing your behaviour is never easy. The willingness to put in the effort and do something, make things happen is vital. You’ve got to Know Where You Are before You Start The first thing you have to do is to take stock. Find out what you’ve already got, what can be used, what can be discarded or discounted, what you owe, what you are owed, and what basically your net worth is. If you don’t know where you are before you start, you can’t really work efficiently toward becoming wealthy. All you’ve got to do is collect all the information- what you owe at the bank or have in there in your savings account. Also, start working out what you spend on a monthly and annual basis and where you spend it.

You’ve got to have a Plan If you don’t have a plan, you’ll be tempted to fritter your cash away, spend it instead of investing. If you have a plan, you know exactly what does and what doesn’t fit into it. Your plan should involve taking financial control of your life. The plan might involve a career change, investigating a business idea, investing money, or generating some capital so that you can enter the market. In fact, one of the fundamental truths about getting rich is that wealth- real wealth- comes from doing deals, not from earning wages, salaries, or fees. Decide Your Attitude toward Risk The other thing to ponder is how you respond to the risks of life. Life in itself is risky, and nothing is certain. How do you cope when things go wrong? Are you positive, dynamic, enthusiastic, and up? cULLED FROM FAMILYEDUCATION.COM

An unclear time investment You have to do an intense background check on your investors before you ink a commitment. You also have to exactly understand their time investment. A lot of young start-ups make the mistake of thinking their investors will be more involved than they are, so you have to really understand what you’re walking into. An inability to embrace failure The underlying tendency of a start-up is to fail. Those that succeed are anomalies. An investor who cannot embrace failure can be a destructive force when the going gets tough. Founders should look up a potential investor’s failed ventures, and reach out to founders of those start-ups to listen to their experiences and evaluate whether or not the investor is sportive enough to build a business with. A lack of relevant experience Investors who do not have experience in the industry that

you are in or with the types of customers you are serving are not going to be able to relate to your situation and provide as much value. On the other hand, investors who have strong ties in the industry and understand the problems you are solving will be able to provide better introductions and feedback. Someone who only evaluates the numbers Your investors should be your biggest fans and supporters. You should avoid an investor who takes an unreasonable stance at inception or tries to negotiate overly burdensome financial terms. A focus on short-term thinking The worst investors are ones who look less at the big picture and more at short-term gains. That sort of attitude is mainly bothersome to deal with. In some cases, it can also be toxic, which can negatively impact your vision and outlook for the company. Someone who adds no value beyond money Avoid adding investors who add little to no value beyond money. More often than not, the added value of gaining direct access to an investor’s network of contacts, relevant experience in your area of business, and free business advice at critical stages of your business is more valuable than the money. Investors who don’t add value beyond money should be disqualified from your search for capital.

REACHING THE

NEXT LEVEL Be Wise, Early Rise others if you haven’t connected with the best within yourself? And how can you champion another person if you fail to see the champion in you? Getting up early to do your inner work, It’s so easy to forget that our enlarge your thinking, to outer lives reflect our inner sharpen your life’s philosophy or lives and that by getting up review your goals is not a waste earlier each day to do some of time. That ‘holy hour’ infuses internal work, our days will every remaining minute of your become dramatically better. day with a perspective that How can you be a positive source elevates each area of your life. of energy to those around you It’ll transform you. Make you when you have no energy? How better as a leader, as a parent can you develop the best in and a human being.

“GETTING UP EARLY TO DO YOUR INNER WORK OR REVIEW YOUR GOALS IS NOT A WASTE OF TIME”

CULLED FROM life.familyeducation.com

36 FORESIGHT

February 6, 2015 THouGHTS

LEADERSHIP

MOST PEOPLE ARE OTHER PEOPLE. THEiR THOUgHTS ARE SOMEONE ELSE’S OPiNiONS, THEiR LiVES A MiMicRY, THEiR PASSiONS A qUOTATiON.

Traits of Courageous Leaders Courageous leaders are in high demand and short supply these days. Rampant fear has sent many organisational cultures into a downward spiral, the tenuous state of the economy creating untold levels of anxiety. According to a 2011/2012 Kenexa report , workplace stress is at the highest levels in four years, driven in large part by fear. In these situations, people tend to keep their heads down and their mouths shut in order to survive. This not only applies to the rank and file, but to management as well. These are the times that call for bold, confident, courageous leadership. As history has shown, those with the guts to step forward, take some risks and lead change during downturns will be the winners as the economy rebounds. But it’s not easy. Demonstrating leadership courage - whether it’s having an uncomfortable conversation, communicating when you don’t have all the answers, or making a decision to move ahead on a new project can be scary. Yet it’s precisely the kind of behaviour that fosters trust and sets a crucial example for others to follow at a time when they’d rather hunker down and wait for the storm to pass. If you want to see more courageous action by your people, consider whether you’re modelling the traits of courageous leaders: Confront reality head-on Ditch the rose-coloured glasses and face the facts about the state of your organisation and business. Only by knowing the true current state can you lead your team to a better place. Seek feedback and listen We all have blind spots that impact the way we interact with others. Unfiltered 360-degree feedback is not always easy to hear, but it can breathe new life into your leadership style if you listen and act. Say what needs to be said Real conversations can be awk-

ward and uncomfortable, especially if conflict is involved. Having crucial conversations helps cut through the smoke and move through issues. This also means having the courage to put your opinions on the table, even if they are unpopular. Encourage push-back Many leaders feel pressure to have all the answers. By encouraging constructive dissent and healthy debate, you reinforce the strength of the team and demonstrate that in the tension of diverse opinions lies a better answer. Take action on performance issues Confronting people’s issues is hard, which is why so many leaders ignore them until they

“

MANY LEADERS FEEL THE PRESSURE TO HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS become a toxic threat to the team or company’s performance. By taking swift action to reassign or exit underperforming employees, you are helping yourself, the team and organisation. Communicate openly and frequently Keep the lines of communication open, even when you don’t know all the answers. Courageous leaders refuse to hide behind jargon and wiggle-words – they use straight-talk and are not afraid to say “I don’t know.” They also share information instead of hoarding it. Lead change In fear-based environments, it’s all about protecting the status quo. Envision a better way, a better solution, a better product and approach it with determination and an open mind, knowing that it will be messy and that a mid-course correction may be necessary. Hold people and yourself accountable Expect people to perform and deliver on their commitments, and have courage to call them out when they don’t follow through.

culled from forbes.com

Toxic Things Great Leaders Never Say Communication is one of the key jobs of every leader. Unfortunately, few leaders are really good at it. Some are too busy to bother, while others don’t use the right words at the right time, or they aren’t as transparent and forthright as they could and should be. And then there are leaders who just say the wrong things. There are some things that every great leader just never, ever say. If you’re a leader, here are three toxic things that you should remove from your vocabulary right now. ‘I’ As a leader, you know that you depend on your team- and each and every person on it- for your own success. If the people who work for you don’t do a good job, then you won’t be able to do a good job either. Neglecting to shine the spotlight on others is the fastest way for you to get your team to stop putting everything they’ve got into doing their jobs really well. Saying things like “I can’t believe I landed this deal” or “I’m the one who got it done” is a slap in the face to your team. Other ‘I’ phrases great leaders never use are “I don’t care,” “I can’t,” “I don’t have the time,” and “I am in charge.” ‘I don’t care if it doesn’t feel

like the right thing to do--just do it!’ A great leader would never utter these words at the sacrifice of what is ethically and morally the right path to take. A great leader would also never ignore the concerns and warnings of the people who work for them. You’ve recruited and hired great people, and chances are, they know a few things that you don’t. When their personal ethical (or, even more concerning, their legal) radars are going off, then you’d better listen. Great leaders never support unethical behaviour- they always make the choice to do the right thing even if it means sacrificing company profits. ‘Why can’t you ever get it right?’ This kind of comment serves only to make the person across the table from you feel alone and isolated, as if they were the misfit link on the team. Instead of really communicating with your employee, you’re opening the door to a knee-jerk, defensive response. Great leaders get to the bottom of a problem by asking how they can help, working alongside their team, and coming up with solutions through team collaboration.

culled from inc.com

WHAT LEADERS ARE SAYING... “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” William Arthur Ward

“The mark of a great man is one who knows when to set aside the important things in order to accomplish the vital ones.” Brandon Sanderson

“A leader is a dealer in hope.” Napoleon

February 6, 2015

FORESIGHT 37

TEAM WORK

MARRIAGE

The greatest marriages are built on teamwork. A mutual respect, a healthy dose of admiration, and a never-ending portion of love and grace

How to Confront Your Partner’s Poor Spending Habits The topic of ‘finances’ may be one of the most stressful conversations that a couple will encounter in their marriage. It can be difficult to talk about money, especially if you find that your partner is making financial decisions without your input. If you share a joint account, you may constantly worry that your partner will be careless with the money you share. This can lead to resentment and anger if it is not addressed early. The following steps will help you approach your partner about his or her spending habits and find a satisfying compromise for both of you.

that your partner felt that he or she had a good reason to spend the money, or didn’t realise the effect it would have on your joint financial situation. No matter what your partner has to say, it is important that he or she is provided the opportunity to be heard also.

Encourage a productive atmosphere It is completely normal for you to feel upset about your partner maxing out a credit card or making a large purchase without your input. However, try to be as calm and civil in your approach as possible. Wait until you have had a chance to cool off from your initial reaction. If your partner feels ‘attacked,’ it will only create a wall between you and make matters worse. Ask your partner to give you a chance to speak without interruption and promise the same in return. Outline your concerns Give your partner specific examples of when his or her spending has been upsetting to you and how you have noticed a negative trend. Explain why his or her spending habits must change for the benefit of your relationship. Avoid statements like “you always…” or “you don’t care…” Rather than being accusatory, describe how it makes you feel by using statements like, “I felt frustrated when you used money out of our

savings account without asking me.” This approach will allow for a more productive conversation. Listen to his or her perspective Your partner listened to your concerns, right? Now it’s time to let your partner have the floor. Let him or her explain why the decision to spend money was made and how he or she feels about the concerns and frustrations you raised. It may be

Develop a plan and put it into action Now is the time to take all that you hashed out, and make a plan. Discuss a budget and let your partner come up with ideas for how he or she can change his or her spending habits to fit within the budget. Your potential solutions will depend on what the problem area is. If, for instance, your partner spends too much money eating out, encourage him or her to pack a lunch instead. If maxing out credit cards is the problem, maybe your partner should leave certain ones at home so he or she won’t be as tempted to use them. Some couples budget for a set amount of ‘play’ money, giving you both freedom to have a limited amount of indulgences without overspending. Whatever the plan, you will need to make sure it is something your partner can follow and is a satisfactory compromise to you both. Conversations with your partner regarding finances and spending habits may not be the most enjoyable, but are necessary nonetheless. You will likely need to continue the conversation at a later date to check-in and see if your plan is working for both of you and to discuss any changes to be made. The most important thing is to make sure you are working together as a team so that spending habits don’t get in the way of a healthy and satisfying marriage. CULLED FROM TWOOFUS.com

Renewing Your Vows, Renewing Your Commitment Are you and your partner thinking about saying ‘I do’… again? Well, you’re not the only ones… couples choose to renew their vows for a variety of reasons. Renewing your vows doesn’t mean that the vows you took on your wedding day weren’t meaningful, but it can serve as a reminder of what your commitment to one another really means. It is a great time to reflect on the blessings and tribulations you have been through together and what to look forward to in your future. Whether you are restating and amending your original vows or writing new ones, make sure they include reasons you love your partner, how your love has grown, how he/ she has made you a better person, and what you pledge to do in the future.

You already had a wedding, but want to marry legally Some couples have a wedding some time before making their union legal, due to family circumstances, timing, and other reasons. Making your commitment a legally binding agreement is an important reason to renew vows. You want to celebrate a milestone Are you coming up on a 5-year, 10-year, or even 50-year anniversary? If so, your wedding day may seem like a distant memory. You may be interested in renewing your vows on a particular anniversary as a way to celebrate how far you have come together, reaffirm your commitment, and exclaim, “Here’s to 50 more!”

You have survived an experience that tested your marriage Maybe you and your spouse were separated for one reason or another — a legal separation, military deployment or other long distance relationship. Or maybe you have overcome another stumbling block — such as infidelity, addiction or illness. When you have been through a major event like this, you may choose to renew your vows as a symbol of moving forward together. You may also consider renewing your vows regularly, even if it’s on a smaller scale. This may mean that you write down vows in the form of love notes that you share with each other on every anniversary. Or maybe you periodically re-read the vows you made on your wedding day. Make it a fun tradition. CULLED FROM twoofus.com

38/ FORESIGHT

February 6, 2015 ORGANISE YOU LIFE

GROOMING

Life is like a camera, focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, take another shot

Our Children – Right or Wrong Good manners are an essential in every school, and where the Head believes in courtesy, consideration and kindliness, then the boys and girls he teaches will come not only to believe in them, but to practise them. Playmates When children become old enough to form friendships, they face their first problem of social interaction. They are almost certain to get to know children who, by adult standards, are not suitable companions. It is a difficult task, too, for a parent to encourage

“ Good manners begin in a good home. The teaching of good manners is the earliest stage of a child’s education. Usually the first two words a baby learns to say are ‘mummy’ and ‘daddy’. Among the next six will be ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘goodbye’. These are, of course, simply vocal tokens of good manners. Life is a pretty complicated business for us; for a child it is sometimes terrifyingly so. He needs discipline, firmness and possibly punishment to indicate the right road. How to behave cannot be left to his intelligence. Here is some etiquette that could shape a child’s manners: Education Ignorance is a degrading form of servitude. Education’s purpose is to make a young person free and to permit the child to take his or her place in the society. Education should not be expected to cram facts into the mind, but to encourage the use of faculties which are dormant. When selecting a school for a child, neither the buildings, nor the record of examination passes should be the only consideration. In addition to that, other factors to study are the traditional spirit of the place and the characters of the teaching staff.

HOW TO GET PROMOTED

IF HOWEVER, YOU ARE A GUEST IN A HOUSE WHERE A CHILD IS PUNISHED OR REBUKED IN FRONT OF YOU, DO NOT INTERFERE, HOWEVER BADLY YOU WANT TO

one friendship or stifle another. A child will usually be extremely definite about his or her decision, and he or she can rarely be forced to like some friend chosen by his parents or ordered to stop liking one they consider unsuitable. Children will have friends in a different stratum of life. It is absolutely right that they should do so. No better education for tolerant and well-mannered living can be hoped for than that a child should learn early in life to be a good mixer. Children and guest Children should be taught from the beginning that within the framework of family life there are occasions when the parents entertain friends. All children, unless the guests are relatives or very close friends, should be out of the way for formal evening occasions. If your children are badly behaved, then keep them away from your guests, it is better that way than to prove it by scenes. If they have been properly disciplined, then allow them to meet your guests. But don’t risk the chance of having to rebuke or punish your children before guests. It is embarrassing for the visitor, galling for you and degrading for the child. If however, you are a guest in a house where a child is punished or rebuked in front of you, do not interfere, however badly you want to. Try to do the impossible by ignoring the whole thing and rapidly change the subject once the erring child has been dragged.

Relate to the Circumstance

One of the most important qualities of an unforgettable person is the ability to resolve conflict. In the workplace, this ability is not just important, but absolutely essential. When called upon to deal with

a person or persons as a supervisor try to focus on the situation and not the personalities. You should inform the parties involved of whatever you may already know about the problem and give them a chance to

explain what happened. By your reducing defensiveness and not jumping to conclusions, the different perspectives will surface, and the root cause of the problem can be found and addressed.

SPEAKING OUTDOORS

It Ends With Authenticity To express authenticity requires you to feel confident and stable in yourself. This is the state we know as being ‘centred’. When you’re centred, you have no need for worrying or second-guessing because you are simply present in the moment. An authentic speaker employs certain beneficial techniques. Manage assumptions Prepare yourself by noticing the assumption that form the foundations of your success. These are safety blankets that you rely on. Hold fast to your safety blankets and do everything you can to manipulate your external environment so that you won’t have to face something that puts you off-balance. Consequently, learn how to become a weeble- one of those toy clowns with a rounded bottom. No matter how hard you push it, it will always come back to balance upright at its centre. A weeble adapts to changing circumstances without being thrown. Find confidence within Find confidence in your own experience in the subject matter. What knowledge or unique angle do you have that won’t disappear, no matter how well the talk goes? Also find confidence in how you shine when you’re at your most comfortable. There’s not a person in the world who isn’t fun, interesting and inspirational when they’re around their closest friends. This is the core of who you are, irrespective of what happens when you’re speaking.

FORESIGHT /39

February 6, 2015 PRAYER

MOTIVATIONS

Appreciation is the highest form of prayer, for it acknowledges the presence of good wherever you shine the light of your thankful thoughts.

7 Ways to Keep Your Sanity in the Midst Of Chaos We are living in a world where there is way too much bad news bombarding us, 24 hours a day. At times it really does get hard to stay positive and focused when it feels like the world is going crazy. Thankfully these are 7 ways to cope in this crazy world: 1. Protect your mind--don’t just sit back and absorb the negativity Interestingly enough, according to Seth Godin, the world has grown less violent every decade for the past 1000 years. It sure doesn’t feel that way. What has changed though is the sheer volume of news that we are being bombarded with every minute of every day, so when something bad happens, we certainly know about it. It makes really good sense to protect your mind by being extremely discerning with what you watch, what you read and what you listen to. Sure, find out what is going on, but then that is enough. Do we really need to read or listen to 100 articles about the same murder? 2. Look for the good--not for the bad When the world seems to be going crazy, it can be hard to see the good. But rest assured it is there and in fact, there is far more good going on than crazy, it’s just that you have to know where to find it. This means we need to consciously hunt down the things that make us feel good, the websites, the articles, the radio, the television shows, the people, the places. 3. Do as many kind deeds as you can In the darkest of times the smallest acts of kindness have the greatest impact. Whenever the world seems dark and gloomy, do what nurtures you, do it selflessly and do it as often as you can. 4. Avoid the situations where negativity rules It’s interesting to see how quickly conversations turn to negative top-

ics, and of course it is quite natural when the topic is current. But we all play a role in keeping these conversations alive. You have to make a conscious decision not to participate in the conversations that are all about doom and gloom. Whenever they take that direction, leave or disconnect. Also make a point of avoiding those people who seem to revel in talking about the latest bad news story, they can’t wait to dive straight in and get to the nitty-gritty of the latest calamity. 5. Do more of the things that make you smile inside and out We all have those things that make us feel good right to our core. We all have those things that evoke this wonderful sense of inner peace, contentment and gratitude, the key is to remember what they are and do them often when it feels like the world is going crazy. 6. Get excited about your future It is easy to lose hope when there doesn’t appear to be a lot of good news around. But these are the times that we have to focus inwards, appreciate our businesses, the difference we make to others, the opportunities ahead and the way we can make the world a better place and focus on all of this. Visualise where you are heading and what you are going to achieve and that excitement is contagious in a good way. 7. Treat this as a daily practice We know that if we want to be fit, we need to exercise daily. If we want to grow our business, we need to work on it daily. Well the same principle applies with building a strong and positive outlook on life; we need to work on it daily. culled from INC.com

Reasons We Don’t Reach for the Stars You deserve the good that comes your way when it comes to achieving your dreams, what’s stopping you? Don’t let a bad experience or person keep you from fulfilling your heart’s desire. There are millions of other reasons why people don’t take their shot at happiness. Here are a few of the main ones

Being too shy to ask Whether it’s asking someone out on a date or for a job, many of us are too shy to actually approach another person. These days, much of our communication can happen virtually, but nothing takes the place of a face-to-face request. It’s much harder to say no to someone directly than it is to not return a text or email. You feel you don’t deserve it If you have doubts about your worthiness when it comes to life and interpersonal relationships, you need to take a long look into your internal mirror. What negative messages are you sending to yourself? Why do you believe that you are not good enough? Asking yourself these questions will help you develop positive alternative thoughts. Remember that you deserve happiness. You question your ability You may be able to ask for what you want, and you may feel you deserve it, but you still wonder if you’re up to the task. Maybe you think you don’t have the talent or the leadership ability to get the job done. You have to just dive in and expect to make a few mistakes along the way. You will get the hang of whatever it is, soon enough. You feel that you don’t have the time to take on anything more

Everyone who has successfully started their own business began working on it in their spare time. Evenings and weekends are no longer spent in front of the television. You can spend your extra time building your dream. Anything you want to achieve is worth the extra work. You tell yourself that there’s someone who is better than you There will always be people who are better looking, have more money, higher degrees, greater experience, and more amazing personalities. But they aren’t the same as you. You bring your own set of talents, your personal vision, and your values to any situation or person with whom you’re involved. Trust that what’s inside you is as good as it gets. Now go for it. You’re trying to keep a low profile You may think that you shouldn’t stand out because you’re afraid you might get hurt. Yes, successful people can become targets for others who are angry, misguided, or feel somehow inferior to you. But believing that if you’re successful, harm will come your way is a myth that was started by people who were too scared to reach for their dreams. You have the talent, the energy, and the gifts to fulfil your dreams. Don’t let yourself or anyone else talk you out of going for them. culled from psychologytoday.com

WHAT MOTIVATORS ARE SAYING...

The name we give to something shapes our attitude towards it. Katherine Paterson

Fear, desire, hope still push us on toward the future. Michel de Montaigue

You just can’t complain about being alive. It’s selfindulgent to be unhappy. Gena Rowland

40/ FORESIGHT

February 6, 2015

HEALTH

THERAPY DECIDING YOUR FOOD PRIORITIES: VITAMINS AND MINERALS PROVIDE YOUR BODY WITH ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS. AIM FOR VARIETY OF COLOURFUL AND SEASONAL FRUIT and vegetables.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease GENERAL INFORMATION DEFINITION

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the upper genital area. PID is one of the most common and serious complications of sexually transmitted diseases(STDs) in women.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

It usually affects the fallopian tubes; cervix; uterus; ovaries; urinary bladder .

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED Sexually active females after puberty. The peak incidence occurs in late teens and early 20s.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

•Pains in the lower abdomen. •Vaginal discharge (may have a foul odour). •Irregular menstrual bleeding. •Fever, nausea and vomiting. •Painful intercourse or pain when urinating. •Some women have no symptoms.

90%

• 10 to 20 per cent of women with chlamydial infection may develop PID if not treated • 90 per cent of women with genital chlamydial infection are asymptomatic • Women with PID have 9 percent chance of having ectopic pregnancy • Women with PID have a 20 percent chance of developing infertility from tubal scarring SOURCE American Academy of Family Physicians

•Multiple sexual partners, or exposure to a single partner who is infected. •Abortion. •Pelvic surgery. •Women who douche once or twice a month. This may push the bacteria into the upper genital area. •Use of an intrauterine contraceptive device (UID). •Teenagers (more at risk than older women). •Prior episode of PID.

HOW TO PREVENT

•Use latex (rubber) condoms to help prevent sexuallytrnasmitted infections. •Get medical care for abnormal vaginal discharge, unusual odour, fever and bleeding between periods. •Have your sexual partner tested and treated if needed. •Oral contraceptives may help decrease the risk.

WHAT TO EXPECT

CAUSES

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

Bacterial infection (usually chlamydial or gonorrheal). The bacteria infection starts in the vagina and cervix and then spreads to the upper genital area. PID usually develops from 2 days to 3 weeks after exposure to bacteria, but can take months to develop. The infection may be transmitted by an infected sexual partner.

•Your health care provider will do a physical and a pelvic exam. •Medical tests may include blood studies, culture of the vaginal discharge and a pregnancy test. Other tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other disorders.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE •Treatment is with drugs. •Surgery to drain a pelvic abscess may be done.

RISK INCREASES WITH

•Women who have a sexually transmitted disease.

•Counselling can be helpful if infertility occurs.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

•Chronic pelvic pain. •Infertility or ectopic pregnancy. •Abscess (pus-filled pocket). It can be life threatening.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

With early diagnosis and treatment, most women recover with no complications.

HOW TO TREAT

GENERAL MEASURES

•If you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), your partner needs treatment (even if he has no symptoms). •Use sanitary pads to absorb the discharge or menstral flow. •Do not douche during treatment.

MEDICATION

•Antibiotics (by injection or taken by mouth) for bacterial infection will be prescribed. Finish taking the entire drug course prescribed to be sure of a complete cure.

ACTIVITY

Avoid sexual intercourse until you and your partner complete treatment.

DIET

No special diet.

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF...

•You or a family member has the symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease. •Fever, pelvic pain, or abnormal vaginal discharge occurs after treatment. SOURCE: COMPLETE GUIDE TO SYMPTOMS , ILLNESSES & SURGERY, 2012

QUESTIONS ANSWERED: HERNIA My wife has been diagnosed with a hernia near her navel. We thought that only men had hernias. What has happened in her case? Both men and women can have a small defect in their abdominal muscles that can lead to hernias. Obviously inguinal hernias (in the groin) are more common in men

because of the connection with the tube from the testes, but men and women have equal chances of having hernia elsewhere. Your wife was most likely born with this slight problem, and it has come to her notice only recently, perhaps she has been straining her muscles. I have had a large hernia in my right groin for years.

I am really not keen on surgery, and have used truss to keep it under control. Is there harm in doing this or must I face the knife at some point? Everyone with hernia should consider surgery. Any hernia can suddenly strangulatewhich means that the loop of bowel inside it can twist itself, depriving itself of blood

supply and therefore oxygen, and blocking further progress of its content through it. So you can suddenly develop both obstruction of the bowel 0r gangrene of the bowel wall. This is a life-threatening emergency that has to be operated upon immediately, when you are far from your best physically- often in shock.

FRIDAY EXTRA 41

February 6, 2015

nobel

A Century Of Prize Winners

For their work for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime, and for laying the foundations for a new democratic South Africa.

Nelson Mandela

peace

had given to him during his ascension to the throne. However, when the king arranged a marriage for Mandela shortly after his departure from Fort Hare University, he fled to Johannesburg. There, in 1944, he was instrumental in founding the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL), along with Walter Sisulu, Oliver Tambo and Anton Lembede. During his early days in Johannesburg, Mandela found temporary work as a security guard for a mine then became a clerk in a law firm, during which time he completed his bachelor’s degree through correspondence with the University of South Africa. After the victory of the white-Afrikaner-dominated National Party in the 1948 elections, Mandela began to be politically involved, opposing the policy of apartheid and racial segregation. In 1952 he was a prominent member of the Defiance Campaign and three years later of the Congress of the People and its adoption of the Freedom Charter, initial steps in the unified rejection of the policies of the National Party. During these years he also offered free or low-cost legal aid to poor blacks who would have otherwise been without representation. In December 1952 Mandela was put in prison under the application of a law to suppress communism, but his nine-month sentence was suspended. He was forbidden from taking part in meetings or leaving the district of Johannesburg, a situation that continued for nine years but which did not prevent his political activity. In I956 Nelson Mandela was one of 150 people accused of treason. The trial dragged on until I96I and concluded with all the accused being acquitted. In the meantime he had married his second wife, Nkosikazi Nomzamo Madikizela, later known as Winnie Mandela, in I958. After the Sharpville massacre of I960, in which 67 blacks were killed by police, the African National Congress and the Pan-African Congress were banned; Nelson Mandela went into hiding. Although initially dedicated to nonviolent methods of political reform inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, in June I96I the ANC formed an armed faction, the Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation), of which Mandela took command. He travelled across the continent\received guerrilla training in Algeria and was in London with exiled compatriots. In August I962, shortly after returning to his country, he was captured, along with other leading members of the ANC. At the trial Mandela represented himself and his companions, all of whom, except for Rusty Bernstein, were sentenced on June I2, I964, to life imprisonment for planning armed action against the government. After refusing an offer of conditional freedom made by President P.w. Botha in I985, he was released in I990, after President de Klerk had lifted the ban on the African National Congress. Mandela assumed effective leadership and, after difficult negotiations with the government, saw the end of apartheid. In I994 his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, was published. That same year, at the age of 77, he was elected the President of South Africa; he retired in I999 and was succeeded by Thabo Mbeki. Meanwhile, in I992 he had announced his separation from Winnie, who had been accused of kidnapping and ordering murders during the I980s. In September 1996 Nelson Mandela publicly acknowledged his relationship with Craca Machel, widow of the former president of Mozambique, Samora Machel; they married on July I8, 1998, on his Soth birth-day. Mandela has a total of six children, four by his first marriage, to Evelyn Ntoko Mase, and two by his second marriage. Frederik Willem de Klerk also received half of the prize.

(1918-) For 27 years Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was the best-known political prisoner in the world. His name was the principal slogan in the fight against apartheid in South Africa, and when he was released on February II, 1990, the event was broadcast live around the world. He jointly received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 with F.W. de Klerk, with whom he had established the basis for democracy and racial equality in South Africa. The following year he became the first black president of his country. Mandela, whose given name was Rolihlahla, meaning troublemaker, was born on July 18, 1918 in Transkei, Eastern Cape, in the Union of South Africa. The son of a former chief and member of the Privy Counsel to the king of the Thembu people and the “third,” according to the tribal ranking system, of his four wives, Mandela was himself raised to be a chief. He was the first member of his family to attend school, where, at the age oh, he was given the English name Nelson; after the British admiral Horatio Nelson, by a Methodist teacher who found his given name difficult to pronounce. He went on to study at Fort Hare University, but he was soon asked to leave because of his involvement in a boycott of university policies by the Students’ Representative Council. After the death of his father when he was 9, Mandela was informally adopted by King J ongintaba Dalindyebo in appreciation of the help the boy’s father Forbearance is no acquittance. — Dominican Proverb

Culled from the book ‘Nobel’

42 FrIDAY EXTRA

February 6, 2015

big

queSTIoNS & ANSwerS CROSSWORDS PUZZLE

Why do text messages and voice calls use data differently? A text sends a small packet of data in one direction. A phone call transmits electronic voices in two directions. Texts create much smaller amounts of traffic on the network. A one-minute phone call requires more data than about 500 text messages, which is why texts cost much less to send.

Why are broadcast antennas so tall?

The tallest antennas are for AM radio stations, the oldest kind. AM radio waves can travel far, but buildings and other metal structures can easily block them. If the antennas were shorter, the radio waves couldn’t reach your radio. Newer FM radio and TV signals travel more easily and only require the help of smaller antennas.

ACROSS 2 Hard rubber ice-hockey disc (4) 4 Familiar gravy cube (3) 6 Nearest pub to home (5) 7 Be indisposed (3) 9 Short-sleeved garment (1-5) 11 London river (6) 15 Becomes invalid (7) 16 Do the dishes (4,2) 20 weigh down (6) 23 Put a question (3) 25 Kirsten _, actress in How to Lose Friends and Alienate People (5) 26 Long slimy fish (3) 27 operator (of a computer) (4) DOWN 1 System of exercises and meditation (4) 2 registers of voters (5) 3 Prickly plants (5) 5 removes excess ink from (5) 8 Feel irritation of the skin (4) 10 Sing without opening your mouth (3) 11 Fastens with bows or knots (4) 12 Code word for one of the vowels in radio communications (5) 13 This planet (5) 14 request to reply to an invitation (in its) (4) 17 Clump of turf (3) 18 Giant tea-brewing vessels (4) 19 _ with Me, Cup Final song (5) 21 Smallest pigs of a litter (5) 22 Someone having a meal (5) 24 Licence to _, Bond film starring Timothy Dalton (4)

Why do many radios stop working in tunnels? Why do clocks run clockwise? Sundials, which measure time by the angle of shows, were the original timepieces. Later, when clocks were first made, clockmakers copied the movement of the shows. The first clockmakers were in the Northern Hemisphere, where the show on sundials moves to the right as the sun moves across the sky. That’s why clocks, and the numbers on them, run “clockwise.”

WEIR D fact !

For the most part, radio waves won’t pass through solid matter such as the earth surrounding tunnels. Some tunnels, however, have transmitters that carry radio signals deep into the tunnel.

How does technology help men Broken bones? Keeping a broken bone completely still by using a cast is the best way for it to heal. The first casts using bandages – soaked in plaster of Paris – were used in the 1850s. Today’s casts are usually made of lightweight polyurethane, like the material that makes race cars. Doctors also use computer models to design plastic and metal cages like the one shown at left.

If there are aliens out in space, they could listen to radio shows from long ago. TV and radio signals are still traveling through space, as are cell phone calls.

Fortune is easily found, but hard to be kept.

― English Proverb

FRIDAY EXTRA 43

February 6, 2015

titans

he crusader warrior Godfrey of Bouillon became the first ruler of the Christian kingdom of Jerusalem, after indiscriminately slaughtering thousands of Jews and Muslims, ‘purifying’ the city in the name of God. Godfrey was born in 1060, probably in Boulogne-sur-Mer, to Eustace 11, count of Boulogne (who had fought on the side of the Normans at the Battle of Hastings in 1066), and Ida ‘the Blessed’ of Boulogne (a pious and saintly figure who founded a number of monasteries). Godfrey was an athletic and fair-haired boy of ‘pleasing’ features, who, in the words of William of Tyre, was ‘tall of stature ... strong beyond compare, with solidly built limbs and a stalwart chest’. As the second son of the family, Godfrey did not stand to inherit much from his father, but in 1076 his childless hunchback uncle bequeathed him the duchy of Lower Lorraine. If Godfrey was in many ways the typical crusader, the idea of the crusade belonged to one visionary: in lO95, Pope Urban 11 announced a new theological concept - Christian holy war. In Clermont on 27 November, Urban addressed a crowd to declare that all who took the Cross and fought to liberate and cleanse the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, to liquidate the infidel, would be granted remission of sins. As many as 80,000 people - from princes to peasants - answered the call and set off for Jerusalem, raising money any way they could, often with massacres and looting of Jewish communities. Some were adventurers who hoped to make their fortunes (as Godfrey’s family did) but this was an age of faith and the great majority were believers who risked their lives (and most died on the way) to reach Jerusalem. Godfrey himself, along with his brothers Eustace and Baldwin, answered the call. Godfrey declared he was determined to avenge the blood of Jesus on the Jews. In August 1096, Godfrey’s army estimated at 40,000 - began the long march through Hungary towards Constantinople. When they arrived in November, it soon became apparent that the crusaders and Emperor Alexius I had very different priorities. Alexius wanted to concentrate on winning back the lands he had lost to the Turks, whereas the crusaders were eager to conquer Jerusalem and capture the Holy Land. After a period of political tension throughout lO97 in which Godfrey’s troops pillaged the neighbourhood of Salabria - Godfrey tentatively agreed that his army would submit to Alexius’s orders for a time before marching southwards towards Jerusalem. From the summer of 1098, Godfrey’s force - and other crusading armies -

of history

Godfrey Of Bouillon, The Crusader Kings Of Jerusalem 1060-1100 . .. if you had been there you would have seen our feet coloured to our ankles with the blood of the slain. But what more shall I relate? None of them were left alive; neither women nor children were spared. Fulcher of Chartres, medieval chronicler and chaplain to the armies of Godfrey of Bouillon and his brothers, describing the siege of Jerusalem in 1099 began to make inroads into Muslim lands, his reputation growing as he did so. In October, he reportedly killed 150 Turks with only twelve knights in a battle outside Antioch and the following month he cut a Turk in half with a single, down ward swipe of his sword. Eventually, in February 1099, the various crusading armies finally conquered Antioch and Edessa and began their advance on Jerusalem, fighting through Tripoli and Beirut before arriving to besiege the city in June. Only about 12,000 crusaders had survived to reach the Holy City, under the command of five princes, Raymond the count of Toulouse, Robert the count of Flanders and Robert the duke of Normandy, plus the princely Norman adventurer Tancred de Hauteville and Godfrey. On the morning of Friday 15 July, Godfrey was among the first crusaders to breach the city’s weak spot in its northern wall, after his men had built and scaled a movable tower which

they had placed against the defences. Ferocious fighting took place on the parapets as Godfrey bravely held his position and directed his men into the city so that they could open the gates. Thousands of crusaders flooded into the streets, as the Muslim citizens fled to al-Aqsa mosque. The Fatimid governor of the city, made his last stand in the Tower of David. He and some of his soldiers were allowed to escape, but over the next forty-eight hours, those left in the city - combatant and civilian, Muslim and Jew - were put to the sword and murdered in the streets. The crusaders pillaged Muslim holy sites such as the Dome of the Rock and either burned their victims to death or cut open their stomachs, believing that Muslims swallowed their gold. The city’s Jews had fled to a synagogue, which the crusaders simply burned to the ground. Raymond of Aguilers reported that he saw ‘piles of heads, hands and feet’

Four eyes see more (better) than two. ― Egyptian saying

scattered across the city, while Fulcher of Chartres, a chaplain to Baldwin’s army, wrote approvingly that ‘this place, so long contaminated by the superstition of the pagan inhabitants’ had been ‘cleansed from their contagion’. Six months later, it still stank of putrefaction. At the height of the systematic massacre, Godfrey stripped to his undergarments and walked solemnly, barefoot through the blood, to pray at the Holy Sepulchre, site of Jesus’ crucifixion. On 22 July, his fellow crusaders chose him to be the first Christian ruler of Jerusalem, although he refused to take the name of king in the city in which Christ had died, preferring instead the title Duke and Advocate of the Holy Sepulchre. It was there that he was buried after dying of plague on 18 July 1100, his mission complete. The massacre of Jews and Muslims in Jerusalem was a terrible crime but it was certainly vastly exaggerated: Muslim historians claimed that 70,000 or even 100,000 died in the slaughter but it is likely there were no more than 30,000 inside the city and the latest research from contemporary Arab source elArabi suggests the number may be closer to between 3,000 and 10,000. Crusader brutality demonstrates the evil of intolerance but the Christians were scarcely alone in this: when the crusader cities of Edessa and Acre later fell, the slaughter by Muslim conquerors was much greater. As for Godfrey, his snort reign founded a kingdom and a dynasty, built by gifted and remarkable warlords: most significantly his much more dynamic, talented and bigamous brother, Baldwin count of Edessa who succeeded him as king of Jerusalem. Baldwin I conquered a substantial kingdom in what is today’s Israel, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. His heir was his cousin Baldwin II, who continued to build the kingdom, succeeded by his half-French, half-Armenian daughter, a powerful and shrewd ruler, Queen Melisende. Under her the Jerusalem kingdom reached its golden age: it was Melisende who built not only today’s church of the Holy Sepulchre but also the Tomb of the Virgin Mary and the markets of Jerusalem that also survive today. But the death of her son Baldwin III marked the end of its heroic period. The tragedy of Baldwin IV- a brave teenage prince who was slowly dying of leprosy - symbolized the crisis of the kingdom, beset by corruption, ineptitude and intrigue, which was defeated by Saladin. Jerusalem fell in 1187 but a rump kingdom based along the coast around Acre survived until 1291. Culled from the book ‘Titans of History’

44 FRIDAY EXTRA

February 6, 2015

ultimate top list 10 Literary One-bit Wonders 1

DOCTOB ZHIVAGO BY BORIS PASTERNAK Doctor Zhivago is the best-known book of Boris Pasternak, the famed Russian Nobel Prize-winning poet. The book covers the period of the last days of Tsarist Russia to the beginning stages of Communism. The book discusses the plight of a man whose life is torn apart by a changing society. CATCHER IN THE RYE BY J. D. SALINGER Catcher in the Rye (1951) is the only novel by J. D. Salinger, in which a young man, Holden Caulfield, suffers teenage angst and rebellion. The book is written in the first person and became a worldwide hit, regularly read in schools. After the publication of the book, Salinger became reclusive and has not written another novel, though he did write a novella entitled Hapworth 16, 1924, which was published in the New Yorker.

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD BY HARPER LEE To Kill a Mockingbird won Harper Lee a Pulitzer Prize. The book describes racism and tension in a small town in the South and contains autobiographical elements describing elements of an event that occurred near her home when she was ten years old. Two of the main characters are based on herself and Trurrian Capote, who was her childhood friend.

THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY BY OSCAR WILDE Oscar Wilde is best known for his witty plays, but he also wrote poetry and one novel: The Picture of Dorian Gray. The novel delves into the mind of a young gentleman whose obsession with youth and beauty lead him into a life of debauchery and horror. It was to be the only novel written by one of the greatest minds of English literature in the Victorian era.

THE BELL JAR BY SYLVIA PLATH Sylvia Plath is undoubtedly one of the greatest female poets of the twentieth century but she also wrote two novels (one of which was destroyed by Ted Hughes, her husband, after her death). The novel, The Bell Jar, is semiautobiographical and describes the life of a young woman with mental illness. One month after it was published, Plath committed suicide.

IN SEARCH OF LOST TIME BY MARCEL PROUST French writer Proust is best known for his extremely long novel In Search of Lost Time, which spans thirty-two hundred pages. Proust spent his entire literary career on the novel and, in fact, the last three parts were not completely revised when he died. They were published posthumously.

WUTHERING HEIGHTS BY EMILY BRONTE Emily Bronte wrote much poetry, but only one book: Wuthering Heights. It is considered to be a classic in English literature and many people consider it to be of greater merit than the works of any of her sisters. She died in 1848 of tuberculosis after refusing medical help.

THE DEVIL IN THE FLESH BY RAYMOND RADIGUET Raymond Radiguet was only fourteen when he involved himself with the modernist set in Paris (Picasso, Juan Gris, and Jean Cocteau, who became his lover). Despite the homosexual relationship with Cocteau, Radiguet also had relationships with women and it was one of these that inspired his great novel The Devil in the Flesh.

Friends are thieves of time.

— Chinese Proverb

GONE WITH THE WIND BY MARGARET MITCBELL Pulitzer Prize-winner Margaret Mitchell wrote this book while recovering from a broken ankle. She used dramatic moments from her own life combined with her knowledge of the Civil War to produce one of the great books of the Old South. She did write one other book (Lost Laysen), but it was not published until after her death. BLACK BEAUTY BY ANNA SEWELL Anna Sewell had a fall at the age of fourteen, which ultimately rendered her lame. As a consequence, she frequently used horse-drawn carriages to get around which led to her great fondness for horses. In later life she became confined to her home and it was during this time that she wrote her one and only book: Black Beauty, the tale of a highbred horse who leads a difficult life in London pulling cabs.

Culled from the book ‘Ultimate top 10 list’

interview

February 6, 2015

Brymo Olawale: Round The Block And Back Q&A 1. Rice or Beans? Rice 2. What essential items do you need in the studio? Water 3. Have you any interest in another career or, perhaps, other aspects of the entertainment industry? Not for now. There’s still so much to explore in music. 4. What three songs are on current rotation in your car? U2’s Miracle, Fela’s Money Miss Road and John Mayer’s Stop This Train. 5. Your three favourite songs of all time? That’s hard... I have favourite artistes, not songs. 6. What is your ultimate goal as a musician? My ultimate goal is [to make an] impact. I came into music because some people did it so well and I fell in love with the art. I’d like for people to embrace it because of me as well. 7. Who is Brymo? Brymo is a Nigerian from the Southwest. He makes music and loves food and those who can cook it (loud laughter).

practice. I write better songs now than I ever could five years ago.

W W Y

hich musician would you like to work with in future (both internationally and locally)? Locally [I would like to work with] Sound Sultan, Manifest from Ghana, Asa, Zahara from South Africa and quite a number of new acts that I respect in Nigeria. Internationally, I prefer John Mayer, Frank Ocean, Adele, U2... the list is endless, really. hat are your thoughts about the Nigerian music industry generally? The music industry is a pool of boundless opportunities. We are, however, not doing much to tap into them. That's not a surprise, because it's the case with everything here at home. The work that must go in to bring desired results is what we are lacking. our legal battle with your former record label Chocolate City is well documented. What piece of advice do you have for upcoming artistes who have been approached by labels? If there's an opportunity somewhere, please, take it, as long as it fits the picture you created in your mind. You cannot know what's going to happen, anyway, if you don't try first. Do your part; it's the only way you can demand same of others.

his year 2015 is an election year. What piece of advice do you have for both the electorate and politicians? To the electorate (which includes myself), we have the opportunity to pick a better leader every four years. We must start to become the change we want to see. As for the politicians, they must start to see that it's not about them. It's about us all. If there are no structures for growth, you'll serve your tenure and be plunged back into the same hardship. We are all in this together, sir.

Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.

― Egyptian proverb

TATTLES

Between Snoop and–Iggy Azalea Sex Should BeDogg Divine Carlos Santana

The on-going feud between Iggy Azalea and Grammy award-winning guitarist Carlos legendary rapper Snoop Dogg has been Santana (remember him from that song described as the ‘World’s most random rap feud’ Mariah, right?) has revealed that two and it all started when Snoop posted a picture of the things he revere most in life are mocking Iggy’s makeup-free face. Snoop posted spirituality and sex. the photo showing an albino-looking woman The singer told Yahoo!: “They’re both with cornrow braids and the caption “Iggy extremely important. When you see a Azalea no make-up.” Many of Snoop’s 3.5millionpeppermint stick, it’s white and red and plus followers were also tickled by the derisive they’re inseparable. You lick both of them at the same picture, as it scored thousands of likes and comments within hours. time. It’s the same thing [with sex and spirituality]. They’re Well, Iggy got wind of the picture and blasted Snoop on Twitter, inseparable.” saying “why would you post such a mean picture on Instagram when In order to promote a more open and healthy relationship you send your body guards to ask me for pictures every time we are with sexuality, Santana believes the way it is taught in at shows.” Snoop responded by posting another picture online of schools worldwide should be reformed. “I think that if we him wearing a platinum blonde wig under the words: Snoop Dogg

teach people in school sex education from the point of being sacred and delicious, we’d have a different approach to how we share it with women or men.

Chris Brown’s ‘Ebola Tweet Apology’ Not Accepted By Fans AmericanFavour musicianInferior Chris Brown is not aRoles Oscars Black doctor he doesn’t even play one on TV and – David Oyelowo he’s now learned to keep his mouth shut when

it comes to important medical like the David Oyelowo has taken a jab atissues the organisers Ebola crisis. Recently, Chris tweeted of the American Movie Academy Award that “I don’t knowknown but I think Ebolafor epidemic is his (popularly as thethis Oscars) snubbing a form population control. role in aof wonderful movie year. S**t is getting crazy bruh.” The immediate and furious includedknown that followed The Nigerian-British actorbacklash made his feelings during anwas definitely expected. “You’re notInternational a smart person all,” and “You appearance at the Santa Barbara Filmat Festival recently. believe this based whatLuther evidence? yeah, none” Selma, and “Why Oyelowo, who playson Martin King,Oh Jr. in the movie moronsthe gotta be famous?” accused academy’s judges of tending to recognise black actors Christhey conceded defeat after just 3 minutes by tweeting, “Let me when play subservient roles. shut my black up!” But kept coming. “This is truly myass feeling. I feltthe thisangry beforeresponses the situation we’re talking This isand notI feel oneitofnow. Chris’s finest moments. about Generally speaking, we, as black people, have been celebrated more for when we are subservient, when we are not being leaders or kings or being at the centre of our own narrative.”

Wizkid Is An Ungrateful Person – Samklef

Popular musician WizKid is currently in the eye of the storm over issues bordering on attitude and excessive collaboration charges from his fellow artistes, Samklef and lately Saeon. It all started when WizKid allegedly labelled his former producer Samklef’s beats ‘Amateur’ Saidi Balogun has fingered poverty as the in a recent andcurrent Samklef, not taking sole reasoninterview behind the relationship the comments siting down WizKid between entertainers andreplied politicians. immediately. He made his feelings known in In a recent interview, the actor said: “Poverty, an interview with Ikeji. “I’mpeople not happy that’s why you seeLinda some of our with WizKid. I am angry because he’s going running helter-skelter, campaigning for all about disrespecting my talent.one I like his music l don’t likeasked, him these politicians. But there’s question webut have all not as a person anymore. The reason I don’t like him anymore is, why and that’s what makes American artistes donate to politicians do youthe go actors about spoiling other people’s business? I nevermember spoiled while here in Nigeria take from them. Every your came has out to anything bad aboutlaw youon for of thebusiness, Nationalnever Assembly notsay made an reasonable four years. So has whydevoured would youthe go industry. to an OAPSo, andthere’s tell thepoverty OAP that piracy which in the industry. If there’s not, you won’t see our people flocking around all these politicians, campaigning, singing and dancing for them.” Em…it depends on how you see it, Balogun. Musician, fashion designer and entrepreneur Lanre Fasasi, aka Sound Sultan recently made a shocking revelation that his wife, Farida Fasasi is not a fan of his music. While speaking in a recent interview with NET, the ‘Naija Ninjas’ said ‘My wife doesdirector not listen my music, she Knownboss primarily as an actor, andtomovie likes listening Blackface andadded Bob Marley. ’ to producer, Van to Vicker recently ‘musician’ Sound Sultan, a devoted Muslim, married his long his resume. Speaking recently in an interview withterm Igbo Christian girlfriend, Chichi Morah in 2009 andmusic his modernghana.com, the actor said: “I have chosen wife sinceIconverted to done Islam much after getting now has because think I have for the married movie to the Satellite Town star,training fully adopting Islamic industry, with my Vanbred Vicker facility;the being a faith and the Farida. producer andname, a director. So [it is] time to contribute to The music union industry betweenas Sound the well.”Sultan, whose career started in 2000 with the releaseasked of hiswhat hit single, hisbe wife, is currently When genre‘Jagbajantis,’ of music he and would promoting, theblessed actor with 3 children. added: “Any genre that can catch the eye of the international [musicloving] market. I’m looking at discovering a talent for the international market, it doesn’t matter if is Hip-life, Gospel, Reggae etc., what matters is real talent.” Entertainers Invest N1 Billion In Hospitality Businesses Ahem! TATTLES can only wish Van Vicker good luck in this new venture. With Nigeria standing tall as the fastest-growing hospitality sector in sub-Saharan Africa, according to data collected by W-Hospitality Group, top entertainers in the country have also delved into the sector, investing almost N1b this is according to NET. Though some of these entertainers have failed in operating While always wondered whyteamed some women love sex toys, few ofmany their have investments, others have up with experts other think that there is nothing wrong with it. Actress Bisi Ibidapo in the sector to invest heavily and wisely. From Comedian, AY’s Obe is one of those who think that there is nothing to it. recently opened ‘MVP Lounge’ to 2face Idibia’s ‘Rumors’ and Dayo According to her,Suites women who indulge with sexkeep toysinvesting are “morein decent Adeneye’s D&C and bar; entertainers the than prostitutes who give their bodies to different men and, in the hospitality sector in recent time. Other entertainers who have end, comeindown with all kinds of sexually transmitted diseases.” invested the hospitality sector are Femi Kuti ‘Afrikan Shrine’, Victor Olaiya, Stadium Hotel, and Flavour, 2nite Klub.

Poverty Makes Entertainers Run After Politicians – Saidi Balogun

Sound Sultan’s Wife Is Not A Fan Of His Music

Van Vicker Delves Into Music

Women Who Use Sex Toys More Decent Than Prostitutes – Bisi Ibidapo-Obe

February 6, 2015

According toold several sources, 40 year Spanish Actress and there a two strong possibility motherisof Penelope Cruz was recently named theRihanna Sexiest that Kanye West and Woman Alive according Esquire will be going on tour to this year. magazine’s annual list of desirable The saidfemale tour will cover North beauties. America. It is, however, still a supposition, as both singers are yet to respond to the rumours.

Despite

rumours Kim Kardashian has the World’s Best butt! This is according of an alleged break up to in recent research commissioned January, Nicki Minaj and by Longevita plastic surgeon Prof. Meek Mill are .now officially Dr Fuat Yuksel And over 45% percent of women a couple. Newsseeking of theirto enlarge their butt in the lastafter one relationship went viral year want what they now refer to the Anaconda as ‘Therapper Kim’. posted a picture of Mill kissing her on her Instagram recently.

TiSPY Which Ghanian TiSPY actor recently Name the delved into musician that music? has a nightclub in Festac?

II'm CanNot Still Work That Rich With Don Jazzy -Genevieve Nnaji – D’banj

Star actress Genevieve Nnaji was a guest on TV show ‘The Truth’ with Olisa Adibua. In the interview, she A few years after the break-up of Mo Hits Crew and a few weeks after he blamed Dr Sid for the group’s break-up, Dapo Oyebanjo aka D’banj has revealed that he could still work with his former producer Don Jazzy. D’banj, who bared his mind in a recent interview on Olisa Adibua’s chat show The Truth, said: “I know that everyone wants me and Don Jazzy to work together again and I think there is a possibility of that happening, if the price is right. I bumped into Don Jazzy in America and we discussed the possibility of a reunion, a business reunion. Don Jazzy told me that it would have to be for the right money for that to ever happen.” The singer who recently celebrated his 10th anniversary as an entertainer insisted that he had had great success since leaving Mo’Hits. According to him, he won awards, travelled the world, had the most downloaded song in 2013 and reached the point where he wanted to “expand and do something new”. He made clear that the fact that he hasn’t been spending all his time in Nigeria has not made him less successful. He also debunked claims that his new song Feeling the Nigga was written for Akon and that he made a cameo appearance in it. He explained that though he featured Akon in the remix of the song, “both songs are mine”.

TheThings Things The

They Said Said They havesay never dated anyone in the “I‘Ididn’t anything about Tiwa Savage’s entertainment industry” marriage”

–Sarkodie –Musician Kcee “Life sweet die” My first crush is O.C. Ukeje” ––Musician SaeonDavido FLiRT ALERT

“I don’thusband want to settle down untilbiggest I find the right person” “My is my fan and cheer-leader.” –Actress Genevieve Nnaji – Toke Makinwa

GOT A CELEB GIST? GET IN TOUCH!

TATTLES

February 6, 2015

TATTLES

with Abisola Alawode

ccf

OUR EAR-ON-GROUND

Funniest Nollywood Actors Ever

Creating a list of ‘funniest Nollywood actors ever’ would definitely be an uphill task for anybody. I mean, where would one begin? Who would make the list? Who wouldn’t? What criteria would be used in choosing the actors? These are some of the questions one must ‘tackle’ when putting together such a list. Pulse.ng managed to come up with its own list. Read on and see if you agree with them. There are some Nollywood actors that can make your stomach twist into knots with laughter. Some of these actors are romantic, others are dramatic while others are just good at making movie lovers laugh. Pulse.ng presents to you 10 of Nigeria’s best comedy actors, in no particular order. John Okafor (MR Ibu) John Okafor is most popular for the movie Mr Ibu which earned him the same nickname. The actor also recently received the Best Comedian Award from his state governor, Sullivan Chime. Okafor’s facial expression and mannerism are such a delight to watch and they have made him quite popular, especially in movies like Sherikoko, Limpopo Master, Sweet Mama, the Mr Ibu movies, amongst many others. Nkem Owoh The veteran Nollywood actor has a special way of delivering his lines. From his facial expressions to his use of words, watching Owoh star in a movie after a stressful day can be a rewarding experience. Owoh is popular for movies like the Osuofia franchise, Sawam, The Master, Spanner, amongst many other hilarious, must-watch movies. Bishop Imeh Umoh The Akwa Ibom-born actor, popularly known as Okon has come to be associated with his nasal, funny, on-screen voice. He earned the name ‘Okon’ from his movie Okon goes to School. Bishop has also featured in movies like In the Cupboard, Jump and Pass, Okon in Lagos, amongst many others. Sam Loco Efe As far as playing the comic is concerned, late Sam Loco Efe was a force to reckon with. The actor featured in over 100 comedy movies before his death. Sam Loco was popular for Long John, Games Fools Play, Old Cargo, amongst others. Victor Osuagwu The comedian is popular for his character in the movie Onye Eze. Okafor’s other movies include Face to Face, Three Wise Men and so many others. Osita Iheme The talented actor is popular for his character ‘Paw Paw’ in the hilarious movie Aki and Paw Paw. Iheme, regularly stars alongside his friend, Chinedu Ikedieze (‘Aki’) and is popular for his roles in One Good Turn, Baby Police, Mirror Boy, amongst others. Chinedu Ikedieze Chinedu Ikedieze got the name ‘Aki’ from the comedy Aki and Paw Paw, in which he starred alongside

PUBLiC DiSPLAY

Despite being rated one of the worst dressed female entertainers in 2014, Emma Nyra has insisted that she is a “young female artiste” who feels it is necessary to push the fashion boundaries and try new styles.

While speaking to Nigerian tabloid, Mercy Aigbe stated that she would very much love to play the role of an imbecile in a movie. The actress who doubles as a businesswoman also revealed that she wouldn’t mind acting in a Hausa movie if the opportunity comes.

his on-screen brother and friend Osita Iheme. Ikedieze’s other movies include Spanner, TV series The Johnsons, Magic Cap, Jack and Jill amongst others. Chinwetalu Agu Chinwetalu Agu is one actor who has perfectly merged the role of a villain and that of a comic while reeling out expletives. Agu has received credits for his roles in films like Ebola Doctors, The Maidens, Okada Rider, The Cadet, amongst others. Funke Akindele From her Jenifa days, the Africa Movie Viewers’ Choice Award-winning actress has remained one of the industry’s leading comical actresses. Funke is also popular for Maami, Married but Living Single, Sherikoko, amongst many others. Ada Ameh The Benue-born actress is popular for her role in Phone Swap, TV series The Johnsons, The Orphan amongst others. Ameh is also popular for starring alongside Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme.

“I signed autographs on many “Ihave have not had sex for boobs” 8 years now.” –Sir Shina Peters – Comedienne Mandy

Popular indigenous rapper Olamide welcomed his first son on Friday, January 30, 2015. The child was born to Olamide’s long-time partner Aisha Suleiman. The duo are also set to wed later this year. Congratulations, badoo.

Michael Jackson‘s former home could become a rehabilitation facility for children who have been sexually assaulted – that is if potential buyers of The Neverland Ranch, situated in Santa Barbara, California, USA, have their way. The famous property is up for sale with potential buyers proposing new uses for it.

“Strive strongest not to be a of success, all warriors but ratherare to be of value” TiP TiPFOR FOR “The –Albert Einstein THE THETOP TOPthese two ‘Time and Patience’. –Leo Tolstoy

Call Bisola on 08126995258 Or e-mail at friday@leadership.ng

COLUMNS

February 6, 2015

Diary

guest column

Romance In Nigeria (1)

co s y razz y @ ya h o o. co m

I’m an impulsive guy with an insatiable thirst for adventure. This is all about my dalliances & escapades.

The Creaking Bed And Other Stories (2) Somewhere along the line, I ignored Etim and his periodic sly looks. But I was determined to pretend that the fellow did not exist. He did a good job of keeping his hands off Binta and I was glad about that. But I knew that once a consensus was reached, he would not wait one moment to whip of her clothes in the privacy of his hotel room. He could behave himself like that. Yes, like that. “Did you hear me, Razak?” Bugger me. Goomsu was talking to me. “Sorry, the din couldn’t let me hear you. Were you talking to me?” “Yes. I said you don’t look thrilled to be here. You look as if you’d give anything to be some place else,” she said. “Actually, I came here to honour the couple. I know them and, if I fail to honour their invitation, I’ll lose face before them. I can’t apologise for that. Now that I am here, though, I have to make the most of it. See?” “I see,” she said and as she did, I felt a toe ride up my feet towards my ankle. I smiled. “Your mother will kill you if she sees you,” I said, testing the waters. “Well, I didn’t come here with a chaperone, I am no baby. I came here with a couple of friends and we hope to catch some fun. I f you want to be a jerk about it, wallahi, I’ll be gone in a twinkle. “So, what do you say? Jerk or fun?” She asked, looking me straight in the eye. Something within me stirred and, before I knew it, I returned the ‘toe drive’. There was a lot of din around us. But we were glad we were not the only ones carrying on dsicussions. Girls were engrossed in discussions with their mothers and stepmothers, nubile boys hoping to score a ‘hit’ stood around discussing with their friends, smiling hopefully at the fair-skinned girls and taking discreet glances at their behinds once they glided past. I smiled. If you were a ‘behind guy’ this gathering would hold no fun for you. The men who were present were mostly unmarried fellows who were at the event to woo ladies, the few married men present were shopping for their third or fourth wives while the mothers looked at their younger versions with some degree of envy, wishing they could turn back the hands of time. Everyone was here for the taking, I thought to myself, smiling again. The master of the ceremony introduced

the couple to everyone, to loud cheers and cat calls. The lady was lithe, graceful and so beautiful that her beauty hurt. When she spoke, her voice was gentle, somber and caressing. It was easy to mistake her calmness for unhappiness at the prospect of being married. But her happiness was written all over her. Once again, everyone trudged to the dancefloor to Skales’ ‘Shake Body’. They must love this song to death, I thought. Davido’s ‘Aye’ was next on the cards and we did justice to it. While the others danced, though, I took Goomsu by the hand and led her away. While we were hurrying to the car, I saw Etim doing his best to keep his hands off Binta in full glare of everyone. I called out to him and we rushed into our rented Peugeot 206. Once inside the vehicle, Etim pounced on his date. “Please, don’t let these police men stop us over your indecency,´I chastised him. “Whether its inside the room or outside, it’s the same, dumbo,” he fire back. Binta and Goomsu giggled at our camaraderie. “Are you two always like this?” Binta asked, panting. “No, he is always like that,” Etim and I said simultaneously. We got to the reception, asked for our keys and headed off into our rooms; as calmly as we could. But we were burning to get this over with. Etim, fair-skinned and huge, opened the door for his lady and practically bumped her into his room. I was determined to take things a lot more slowly and, I can swear that, even before I closed the door, I could already hear Binta screaming. With heightened anticipation, Goomsu and I got down to it. After a few drinks of chapman and ice, she said: “So…..” “Lights or no lights?” “Lights for the pre, no lights for the deed, but let’s talk some.” We talked some and, after about 20 minutes, she blurted: “Why are you so boring to be around, yet remain such a calming effect?” “Em…..” I was lost for words, so I just threw my hands in the air and, moved towards her. I peeled of her cloths as gently as one would those of an orange made skin-thin by the harmattan and reached for the switch. Even I don’t know what I did next. I just know that it was such a calming experience – that is, after my mind was blown to smithreens.

Write to us! Share your favourite recipes, TV shows, movies, and of course write to Matilda, Mimi and Rasaq. Send us your comments and suggestions on our features. We want lots of feedback from you! fridayleadership@leadership.ng

Gifts from enemies are dangerous.

I recently spent a whole day watching Hollywood romantic movies. When I was done, I wept all night. Reason: I was single. I felt like I deserved to be arrested for being single. These Hollywood guys know how to make love/ dating look so beautiful. The images I saw of them kissing, holding hands, looking into each other’s eyes, whispering sweet nothings (what does that mean anyway?) will surely keep me depressed for days. When this mood eventually fades, I’m going back to the best movies for single ladies. Horror movies! As much as I admire all that romantic nonsense, it’s difficult to practice them in Nigeria. Any girl/woman who complains that her Nigerian boyfriend/husband is not romantic is simply callous. Ladies, are you still looking for a guy who’s going to spread red roses on the bed every night? Have you seen red roses before apart from those of the hibiscus flower? You still want to fall asleep with romantic candles around your bed like it’s a deliverance session? Do you know it’s really difficult, time consuming and expensive to be romantic in this country? I know why I’m asking these questions. I’ve been there and, as usual, I’m here to share my experiences. Aside the two and-a-half men I dated, there were several quarters I had. I choose to call them quarters (I’ll refer to them as ‘lover’ boys in all my posts) because I never said ‘yes’ to their relationship proposals. At the same time I got jealous whenever they were around other girls. I guess loneliness and fear of heartbreak were responsible for my despicable behaviour. Back then I had stacks of Mills& Boons novels. I loved the Jack & Kate kind of love. I was a die-hard fan of Romeo & Juliet. A couple of times, my obsession with the above characters had me speaking old English to my male admirers. I wondered which guy would paint me nude like it happened in Titanic without drugging and raping me afterwards. I also liked how Jack in Titanic died for Kate like a real man, making it look like death is nothing. I wondered which Nigerian guy would volunteer to die for me. I wanted to experience those things I read so badly. My first fantasy was to lie by a natural waterside with my lover while we tell ourselves ‘sweet nothings’. We might even strip and dive into the water like it happens abroad. Then I remembered that ‘lover boy’, like most Nigerian men, has a big tummy full of fufu. The pressure of the 15kg of fufu in his tummy might just drown him. Aside that, my enemies might be lurking around with a camera phone waiting to take my nudes. Okay, no diving! We’ll just lie by the waterside. I thought of a suitable beach we could visit. Since I had no idea, I googled the words ‘lying down with boyfriend in a Nigerian Beach’. Results: -Two dead bodies found lying in Elegushi Beach aftermath of severe tide. -Boyfriend machetes girlfriend to death at a popular beach in Lagos -A dead fish suspected to be shark found at Beach in Nigeria -Birthday party turns mourning ground as a final-year undergraduate of UNILAG drowns in beach. Arrgghhh!!!! Bad news in beaches. Water might even wash us away while we are busy whispering sweet nothings. I didn’t want a situation [where] I’ll lie on the beach sand with my lover only to open my eyes to see him in hell while I’m chilling in heaven. LOL. Whatever happened to those sort of cool deaths that ends with car chases, explosions in slow motion and several police helicopters hovering around one body? I thought of going for rivers. River Niger was the only river I could think of. It means we could drive down all the way to Onitsha just to lie under bridge like refugees just because I want to experience romance? The government even said Niger Bridge might collapse soon. What if it collapses on our heads while we are busy whispering ‘sweet nothings’? How am I going to explain what we were doing to Angel Gabriel when I arrive at heaven’s gate? I don’t even want to mention all the disgusting refuse by River Niger and other ‘yama yama’. Love is not that serious, so I ruled out rivers. Okay, I was going to settle for streams, I thought. I called a friend who lives in the outskirts of town to enquire if I could visit their village stream for ‘romantic purposes’. ”My dear, you can go o but you are at your own risk o! I heard that’s where they do sacrifice to gods. Aside that, there is a harmless python that…” ”Okay, okay, okay! I don’t want to hear [any] more.” I cut her off at the mention of the word ‘python’. How am I going to explain the snake bites to my parents all in the name of romance? To be continued — Courtesy naijasinglegirl.com

— Egyptian proverb

ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE /49

February 6, 2015

Ustaz Abubakr Siddeeq Muhammad Focus On Faith 08076760011 (sms only) www.abubakrsiddeeq.com, email: deedat@gmail.com

Justice And Fairness (2)

s I adumbrated earlier, it is curiously unjust that people commit felonies when Government is insulted but when God and His Prophet are insulted, it is freedom of speech. Does it make sense in a world where a vast majority are religious? Muslims love Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). They do so naturally and as a religious duty. According to the Qur’an, “the Prophet is closer to the believers than their own selves” which means that they would prefer the Prophet (PBUH) to their lives. Therefore, there is no normal Muslim that does not feel hurt when the Prophet (PBUH) is castigated or ridiculed. There is no normal Muslim who does not feel the pains deep in his marrows. It is only the degrees of reaction to the hurt that vary. While 99 per cent of Muslims would consider it as one the suffering they bear in this unjust world being controlled by unjust leaders, part of the remaining one percent might react in a manner that is often presented as representing the attitude of the vast majority. Islam is aware of the natural inclination of insulting other peoples’ objects of worship and it forbids Muslims from doing so (i.e. And insult not those who they (non-Muslims) worship besides Allah, lest they should wrongfully insult Allah without knowledge. Thus we have made alluring to each people their own doings…) To drive the point further home, let us consider the Charlie Hebdo issue. Despite the fact the leaders of Muslims in France and beyond have condemned the act, it did not matter to the initiators of the provocation. They went ahead to print additional million copies in order to spite and hurt 1.7 billion Muslims for what two people did. This provocation had the tacit support of governments and people that would otherwise be considered responsible. How do you condone one evil and condemn a similar evil? Evil is evil and all evils by all persons should be countered. We assume that everyone has a fair knowledge of terrorism, a term seemingly reserved for deviant actions perpetrated by those who bear names associated with Islam, which is part of injustice. A crime committed by a Jew is not blamed on his religion. No one took Judaism to task on trial as a result of Israeli atrocities against the Palestinians. A crime committed by a Christian is not blamed on his religion.

Group picture of participants at the roundtable

No one blamed Christianity when Anders Behring Breivik killed 85 people in one swoop in July 2011 at a summer camp in Oslo. It is whatever people who bear Muslim names do wrong that is blamed on Islam while the infractions of others are treated as non-issues. There are four causes of contemporary terrorism in my opinion. They are 1) widespread injustice and its glorification, including imbalance 2) Corruption, a cankerworm in the global community; 3) Forced cultural assimilation through which globalization is used to advance the jaundiced philosophy of might is right or the aggressive pursuit of making everyone conform to a single norm; and 4) Lack of leadership, structure and hierarchy in the Islamic community globally and locally, which makes Muslims to individualize what should have warranted a collective response. It is on the basis of the last point that I believe the Nigerian Muslims should boycott all French products. At least, we must look for an acceptable way of registering our collective disgust for what happened regardless of how effective or otherwise it will be. Let Muslims boycott French products even if this is not satisfactory or adequate to some people. The NSCIA is also forwarding a letter of protest to the French embassy to register its disgust on the re-printing of the offensive cartoons while sympathizing with the country on the tragedy. I don’t know

how many people have sympathized with us on the horrific massacre at Baga and Doron Baga which happened around the same time where hundreds of our countrymen were killed and “over 3,700 structures were damaged or completely destroyed”, a situation that Amnesty International described as “devastation of catastrophic proportions”. Another relevant issue here is the speed with which our Federal Government reacted to the Charlie Hebdo tragedy. If the Government had responded to the Boko Haram murderous campaign with the same speed after the abduction of the Chibok girls, we would not be where we are today. It is for this same reason of selective interest in dealing with issues bordering on human life and security that many people believe that the Government is directly or indirectly involved in the spiral of violence being unleashed by the murderous gangs

Let the world be fair and just. Let the government of Nigeria be fair and just. Fairness and justice complemented by good governance in all situations

A thief passes for a gentleman when stealing has made him rich. ― German proverb

tormenting our peace and security as a country. Before I conclude, Mr Chairman, let me use this opportunity to call on Nigerians to come together and defy all ethnic and religious contours that are often exploited to divide us to ensure that the forthcoming elections are peaceful and successful. It is in our collective interest that we promote democratic ideals and contribute to the process of governance, part of which is elections. We should discharge this civic responsibility as a religious obligation and we should make the process violence-free. Politicians don’t actually fight wars, they rely on ordinary people. Nobody’s political ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian as we were all born equally. Let the world be fair and just. Let the government of Nigeria be fair and just. Fairness and justice complemented by good governance in all situations are effective counter-terrorist measures. The Nigerian Muslim community will continue to offer sincere advice to the government, even if the Government does not listen to our own advice. We wrote that the Federal Government should postpone the National Conference held last year because nothing would be implemented from its outcome because of the timing was wrong and it would affect the preparations for the forthcoming elections. Yet, the Federal Government went ahead to organize it and people are counting it already as part of the failed promises regarding the implementation of the reports. The Federal Government rather prefers to listen to self-serving religious merchants who are concerned about their comfort and pockets. They readily serve as money launderers and gun-runners while pretending to be men of God. They cannot deceive God and wise men and women. Lastly, I learnt that three magic expressions are “Please”, “I am sorry” and “Thank you”. I plead with the Government to please save Nigeria and Nigerians that are dying like fowls especially in the North-East. I am sorry to those who expect more from some us religious leaders because we can only advise and God is a witness that we do so as sincerely and as frankly as we can. I want to appreciate the National Security Adviser/The SSA and their teams for inviting me to this occasion. And to all of for your attention, I say, “Thank you”.

50 / Feature

February 6, 2015

SME Clustering, An Instrument For Economic Development By Nkechi Isaac, Abuja

A recent study released by McKinsey Global Institute shows that one of the most important underappreciated changes in Nigeria is the growing size and strength of its consuming class; although more than 40 per cent of the population falls below the national poverty line, the number of households in the consuming class is growing rapidly.” The study said it is calculated that in 2013, an estimated eight million households had incomes of more than $7,500 per year—the threshold for what the McKinsey Global Institute considers “emerging consumers,” with sufficient income to meet all basic necessities and have money left over to start buying more and better food as well as health and education services. The projection is that by 2030, an estimated 35 million households (an estimated 160 million people) could be living above this threshold. Currently, “Nigeria’s consumer market is worth nearly $400 billion per year and, based on this expanding consuming class, could reach $1.4 trillion a year by 2030.” However, economic development experts have identified the cluster initiative as a development strategy for raising living standards and generating employment in Nigeria. The notion of industrial clustering has gained widespread policy attention in all regions of the world and some notable work have been carried out in other parts of Africa, including Nigeria where systematic research on clusters was started at the local industrial levels in the 1990s. In promoting clustering for economic development, the federal government has funded studies and policy formulation on industrial clusters for the rapid economic development of the nation. In a paper presentation at the national council on raw materials-based clusters in Nigeria organised by the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), a parastatal under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Abuja, with the theme “Facilitating Cluster Initiative in the 774 LGAs: A Strategy for Economic Development”, the Director/Chief Scientific Advisor, UN-HABITAT, Nairobi,

Entrepreneurs at work

Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, said the Nigerian government popularised industrial clusters for economic development in 1997. He said, “The studies and policy formulation on industrial clusters was first popularised in Nigeria through a landmark study titled: “Nnewi: an emergent industrial cluster” in 1997. This and subsequent publication show that while grounded in relevant theory – the clustering initiative should be anchored in the broader national industrial policy to enable its effective implementation. “At the official government level, there has been commendable continuation of the effort to carry out a comprehensive study on the issue with the aim of employing clustering as an instrument of industrial policy for promoting the growth of SMEs by both the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and RMRDC. An examination of industrial cluster within the context of the local government areas (LGAs) fits into the broader theory of urbanisation and industrial clusters. “The local government is the third tier of the administrative structure in Nigeria. There are 774 LGAs in the country. Being also the tier of government closest to the people, it is considered a most important facilitator of economic and social development at the grassroots. The development of the LGAs should, therefore, be

tied closely to the phenomenon of industrialisation and rapid urbanisation that is creating a new consumer class which in turn stimulates rise in income leading to higher spending thereby creating further demands and investments.” Giving some recipe’s on tentative cluster initiative strategies that can be deployed to the LGAs for rapid economic development and employment generation, the economic expert listed some tested mechanisms which can be specifically articulated for different LGA contexts. According to him, the mechanisms include the convergence between investment and technology policies for job creation; promotion of a collective and communitybased programmes, particularly for informal economies; development of specific zonal enterprise clusters and urban agglomerations through direct policy interventions emphasizing decent jobs; promotion and investment in local high employment elastic sectors such as construction and housing and the convergence of urban planning and investment in infrastructure to attract investment in cities. Earlier in his remarks, the minister of agriculture and rural development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, said the theme of the national summit on raw materials-based small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) clusters in Nigeria, “raw materials-based cluster initiative: The imperative

for Nigeria’s sustainable industrial development and economic growth” is vital for the achievement of Presdent Goodluck Jonathan’s Transformation Agenda. He observed that the ministry’s Ward-based Cluster Programme (WBCP) is in line with what its ministry was doing under its agricultural transformation agenda (ATA). The minister said that the ATA launched in 2011 is the vision of Jonathan to reposition the economy, diversify it from reliance on oil, reduce dependency on food imports, boost domestic food production, and revive rural economy and increase export earnings. The minister said, “This vision of the president is based on the realisation that Nigeria has huge agricultural potential with over 84 million hectares of land, two of the largest rivers in Africa, Niger and Benue (and other smaller rivers all over the country), cheap labour and vast agro ecologies that are good and favourable for agriculture. On top of all these is the population of 167 million people making Nigeria Africa’s largest market. “The ATA is focused on the development of the Agricultural Value Chains (AVC) (which for all intent and purposes is clusterbased) to connect our farmers to a strong growth markets through agro processing. In making the ATA sustainable, emphasis is also placed on building strong institutions of markets, finance, research and development and infrastructure. “The value chain approach

adopted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, is very much in line with the concept of clustering which involves providing catalysts for the concentration of economic activities around a particular resource and hence stimulate the production of different products to increase local production and value addition, meet local market demands and increase volume of exports etc. The target of clustering is to enhance the growth of SMEs which is considered the major engine of economic growth in any country. Those enterprises that make up the SMEs cluster include firms in different segments of upstream and downstream value chains with a close network relationship which involves competition and collaboration.” He reiterated his ministry’s willingness and readinesses to collaborate with the RMRDC to promote the cluster-based initiatives, with a view to streamlining efforts and avoid resources wastage arising from unnecessary duplication of efforts. Ministry “The Federal of Agriculture and Rural Development will henceforth work closely with the RMRDC/ the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology to effectively use the cluster initiative to provide common platform for triple helix linkage among the public, private and knowledge (educational) sectors of the economy to drive competitive industrialisation process in the country,” he added.

FRIDAY SPECIAL/BOOKS & ARTS 51

February 6, 2015

With Chikelu Chinelo & onukogu kanayo Jubal

Books from BACk then

Mission To Kala By Mongo Beti (1982) A young man returns to his home in town for school vacation, only to be sent on a “mission” to an upcountry village to retrieve a cousin’s wife. While in the village, he finds himself a celebrity due to his “high education.” With the help of his cousin, the village sports hero, he quickly immerses himself in the social life of the village, enjoying the freedom of his cousin and friends along with his status as an honored guest. When he returns home, he finds life under his oppressive father unbearable. While the book is written in a comic tone with plenty of funny moments and mock heroic allusions, it also is a serious commentary on colonialism and Westernization and the confusion of values and identities that go with them.

Channeling ‘Agent of Change’ Via Literature The Halima Factor Community Initiative in collaboration with the Gombe State government and Gombe State University recently organised the Literature Day in the state to highlight the use of ‘Literature for Peace and Sustainable Development’. The focal point of the event was the use of literature as an agent of change. Secondary school and university students, as well as artistes who attended the programme were prevailed upon to channel a variation of changerelated causes in playlets, poetry and prose, to advocate change in the region. Despite the on-going crisis in the north, the organs pulled in a number of students from the state and literary artists from the federal capital territory, Abuja and Jos, Plateau State. Functional dignitaries at the event included the Executive Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo, a huge supporter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and a passionate promoter of educational development, identified literature as an enhancer of peace and development, as well as a remedy for ignorance and its attendant consequences. The traditional leader, Mai Kaltungo, Engr. Saleh Mohammed, urged the students to emulate the actions of the founder of the Halima Factor, Halima Usman, who employs her writing skills and passion towards painting scenes of change and to fight for peace in the region. Her thoughts and ideas on issues are clearly evident in her works – Spellbound (2008), Sunshine and Waterfall (2014) and Me and My Environment, Handbook for Children (2014) – with over a hundred copies presented to the students before and during the event. ANA Vice President Denja Abdullahi charged participants to discover and feed their innate abilities to ensure a place in life and the society. “Self sustenance is all about entrepreneurship which has to do with skills and the ability to add value,” he said.

Enlightening Nigerians On Abundant Green Energy Resource, Culture Aware of the increased culture of green energy in Europe, East and Northern Africa, LEADERSHIP recently caught up with renewable energy expert Dr. Victor Fodeke Ayodeji, the Director of the African Clean Energy Summit held recently in Abuja. Fodeke speaks to Chikelu Chinelo on the importance of clean and efficient energy, policies, benefits and challenges of provision of green energy in Africa. What are the issues discussed at the summit?

The summit discussed shifting Africa from its present state as ‘a dark continent’ to a brighter one, as well as, emphasizing Nigeria’s alternative resources to provide clean, friendly, and sustainable energy to Nigerians. It is estimated that one out of six inhabitants on planet earth has light in Africa, especially in the sub-Saharan regions. Without energy, there will be slow, or stone-age growth, rather than fast development. It will be based on generating sustainable energy for Africa and Energy efficiency that does not require the building of power stations, which are expensive, time consuming and air pollutants. What do you mean by energy efficiency?

Energy Efficiency is the use of the available and efficient natural sources of energy in Nigeria. Even the change of our light bulbs to LED lights not the CFL ones, installing sensors in rooms such that once you leave your room, power is cut off automatically are energy efficient driven. In principle, people only need electricity at nights and on cloudy days. It saves money, saves environment and is sustainable. Incidentally, the summit focused on enlightening Nigerians to learn to build in such a way that draws light into all parts of a house. These need to be done before we can adopt the next level: alternative energy sources such as wind energy, biogas or biofuels. It perfectly captures the summit’s slogan, Energy efficiency first. We embark on it via the executive funding of the UNFCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), and focusing on the fact that its cheaper and that returns-on-investment is faster for Africa, especially with participation in the UNFCC clean development mechanism, and other market funding mechanisms such as the National Appropriate Mitigation Action, the intended National Action Plan and F.G plans to fortify renewable energy funding through the new NFCC in Nigeria. There are a lot of funding scenarios that Africa can tap into to shift the continent from a dark to a bright continent. It cuts across small and large business enterprises,

ciency and renewable energy on the front burner. The agency will take the responsibility of accessing renewable energy sources, funding and making renewable energy cheaper for consumers use. To fund such agency would prove no headaches since there is huge money in the field across the globe. I call for a Nigerian Renewable Energy Agency, with the responsibility of providing alternative energy sources to the country. Such energy, in one year, can replicate ten times the energy a crude oil substation power plant can generate say from 6,000 to 18,000 mega watts. Policies, benefits and other incentives to drive investment in alternative energy if put in place can spur increased megawatt in the sector each year. What are Feed-in-Tariffs and Carbon Credit (as part of renewable energy incentives)?

health sector, and communication sector. We start off with the solar energy, which Africa has in abundance. When we resolve the energy issues of Africa, African countries need not go cap in hand to get funds. It will rather focus on trade. It will draw investors, which improve economies. You earlier differentiated between LED lights and CFL. What is wrong with the CFL light bulbs?

CFL means compact fluorescent light bulbs. The components of the CFL light bulbs contain mercury vapours. When people dispose of these light bulbs, the mercury escapes into the environment. The mercury element is bad for the brain. It induces madness in human beings. Some years ago in Britain, the mad-hatters disease, originated with hat makers in the country. It was a result of the mercury content used in hat-making combined with mercury ink that led to the disease. In Minamata, Japan, a company that mines zinc, in which you find mercury as one of components of the ore, disposed it into a river. People who had access to that water and its fishes contacted the disease called Minamata disease, which majorly induced mental problems. Nigerians do not know the after-effects of the use of CFL spiral bulbs, especially the products negligent disposal on the environment. Even the fluorescent lights have mercury. It is dangerous. Why hasn’t renewable energy taken off in the Nigerian market considering the current power status of the country?

Oil investors, fossil fuel investors and generator marketers are against this source of energy to reduce competition and monopolize the sector. You mentioned that Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) is responsible in ensuring that Nigeria is not a dump for nonstandardized products. Does that mean they are not doing a good job?

They need to do more to ensure quality products are produced as well as imported into Nigeria. Do you think there is a need for the creation of a specific agency to handle green and renewable energy in Nigeria?

Yes, an agency that will take energy effi-

They are incentives awarded to individuals and companies that invest in the provision of renewable energy to Nigerians. Feed-In-Tariff is a subsidy of sorts to investors to make them buy power sources such that whether people buy it or not, government buys directly from these investors at any occasion it budgets for the alternative energy sources. They have the right of first refusal. They deed their products directly to the nation’s power grid. Government has huge plans for the power sector which I cannot reveal at this moment. Carbon credit: is an incentive for renewable investors. Developed nations have exhausted their capacity for renewable power sources, so we encourage them to invest in Africa, replacing our generators with solar power generators; these foreign investors make money from such trades. It translates that, supposedly exhausted units to money by the mechanisms of the UNFCC. These investors can bring those energy sources, register the products or service with the Ministry of Environment’s DNA, and several other processes under the UNFCC policies and qualifies the added impact of their products in relation to their remuneration. I am told the Ministry of Science and Technology also manufactures solar panels. Solar panels receive sunlight and convert them into electrical energy. There are other renewable energy sources available such as wind energy. How does that factor into Nigerian environment?

It works best on places located close to the sea sides and coasts. The wind energy depends on the capacity purchased. There is wind energy whose fans generate about 8,000 megawatts. Some small ones with seemingly small fans produce as much as 5 megawatts. Five megawatts is equivalent to powering a place like Kubwa properly. Which of the alternative agencies do you think is the most efficient for Nigeria and Nigerians?

It is the solar. This is because Nigeria enjoys over three hundred days of sunlight. What about energy from waste products?

That is bio fuel and bio gas. It is plausible. Chinese power their homes and cooking with energy from personal waste.

52 / issues

February 6, 2015

North East Elections Conundrum BY BUTROUS PEMBI

The iconic William Shakespeare in the Hamlet, one of his political plays, vividly confronted one of life’s greatest dilemmas, which is “to be or not to be, that is the question”. This is also the puzzling question to answer with reference to the uncertainty of conducting the February scheduled elections, against the background of the prolong Boko Haram brigandage in the North East frontier of Nigeria. Evidently, the absence of peace and the obligation of conducting the general elections in the entire North East landscape have lately become the bone of contention among the political class in the count down to the forth coming general elections. Increasingly, political actors and gladiators are now polarized over the realism, competence and readiness of INEC, Nigeria’s electoral empire, to superintend violent free and credible polls that are staggered between14-28 February, 2015. Penultimate week Bala James Ngillari , who by an act of providence and constitutional leverage is now the Adamawa State Governor, fired the first salvo when he publicly expressed his pessimism over the conduct of the national elections in the North East, where the Boko Haram insurgency has continued to inflict terror and mayhem among the hopeless populace in the five states of Adamawa, Brono, Yobe, Gombe and Bauchi to some extent. Matter of fact, the increasing human tragedy that has characterised the entire North East corridor cannot even inspire patriotism and the right of universal suffrage among the already traumatised populace, presently displaced from their villages and who are now IDPs in Yola, Kano, Jos, Abuja and Lagos refugee camps. Expressing his “personal views”, Ngillari had expressed deep concerns over the atmosphere of insecurity prevalent in 7 of the 21 local government areas of his state and therefore doubted the possibility of conducting violent free elections in the entire region, particularly where the Boko Haram pseudo-jihadists have since declared their Caliphate in some parts of Borno and Yobe states. Wrongly or rightly he was shouted down at the stakeholders’ forum organised by INEC in respect of the conduct of violent free general elections in the North East. Notwithstanding that the Adamawa state helmsman was roundly jeered and lampooned, the recent escalation of Boko Haram orgy of massacres of residents of Baga, Monguno, Biu and Potiskum, Damaturu and lately in Gombe, have increasingly lent credence to Ngillari’s pessimism, unfortunately. Furthermore, the uncertainty over the conduct of the elections, which begins next week, is further compounded by the European Union Observer Team, who had already declared the North East zone a-no- go- area of sort. One can understand their apprehensions, but that should not dissuade INEC from going on with the polls in these flashpoints. After all, credible elections were successfully conducted in more troubled areas of Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia over the years. Apparently, one should wonder

Jega

why the federal government has failed woefully failed to protect its citizens for about four years now since the Boko Haram notoriety held sway in the entire North. The futile efforts of government all the while to effectively arrest the spate of terrorism in the five states of the North East really make the elections doubtful in the sub-region. It equally undermines the seriousness and sensitivity of the federal government to the sanctity of lives and property of its hapless citizenry. Having expected the federal government to free the entire North East from the brutal grips of the Boko Haram terror group but to no avail, the victims are wont to believe that either the government is incompetent to protect them or it is remotely behind the insurgency that have disoriented their ways of lives forever. The victims have repeatedly asked why the Nigerian military whose exemplary exploits and heroic antecedents, since World War II through the Nigerian Civil War and at UN Peace Keeping Missions around the world, cannot now defend the territorial integrity of the Nigerian state? The people seek answers to why the weaponry of the Nigerian military is inadequate and less superior to the fire power of a ragtag militia? Why is the morale of the Nigerian military at its lowest ebb ever, against the rising confidence level of these rampaging insurgents? Justifiably, the people really feel insulted why it has taken the Commander- In- Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria more than a year to visit these flash points, at least to empathise with them or even to inspire and assuage the fears and despair of victims of these ceaseless terror attacks? Why for heaven sake should the over 200 Chibok girls be still missing for close to one full year now, while their whereabouts are not even known to the same government who is desperately desirous of been reelected by the grieve stricken parents, their kith and kin as well as the concerned citizens of Nigeria, whose votes are critical to the victory at the polls? There are indeed more questions than answers to this conundrum confronting the vanquished

Presently, due to the widespread frustrations, terrible hardships and hopelessness that have become the general fate of the victims of the Boko Haram brigandage, wicked rumors and insulations have persistently gained currency among the people.

and alienated victims of a typical failed state. And fundamentally, what is the essence of government when the security and defense of its citizenry and the territorial integrity of the state become both compromised and breached? Political sociologist have historically underscored the principle of Social Contract to underpin the essence of government as espoused by renown philosophers such as Pluto, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, John Locke and Thomas Hobbes. The social contract concept posits that “individuals either explicitly or tacitly consent to surrender some freedom and summit to the authority of the state in exchange for protection of their natural and legal rights”. By all means of governance, therefore sovereignty belongs to the people because by moral or political obligations, the subjects have voluntarily chosen to entrust their freedom and authority to the state in the great expectation that their security of lives and property are sacrosanct and therefore should not be breached or sacrificed on the altar of incompetence, poor leadership or lack of political will power, as it were. The long and short of the social contract doctrine avails security to citizen in return for subjecting themselves to an organised system of rule or authority. Thus government primarily exists to secure the lives of its citizenry and therefore should guaranty peace, law and order within its territorial space. Arguably, the Nigerian state has so far performed dismally by breaching the spirit and letters of this implicit social contract principle. That is why the general insecurity now pervading the North East frontiers has terribly, overwhelmed both the Nigerian state and subjects. Presently, due to the widespread frustrations, terrible hardships and hopelessness that have become the general fate of the victims of the Boko Haram brigandage, wicked rumors and insulations have persistently gained currency among the people. One of such is the conspiracy theory that the federal government has deliberately refused to defeat the militants as a grand design to disenfranchise the people in the North East and therefore significantly reduce the potential votes for the opposition, whose increasing popularity is allegedly overwhelming in the sub-region. Others believe that military intelligence are either deliberately flouted, or not used at all or even shared with the militants. All these probably explain why the international forces led by the US military experts allegedly backed out of the coalition that would have since routed these misguided extremists. While these insinuations are puerile and rife, the situation should not have been allowed to fester, like cancer, in the public domain for too long. Thank God indeed, President Goodluck Jonathan during his reelection campaign visit to Adamawa state early this week had debunked rather belatedly, such seemingly wicked and irrational rumors. Certainly the increasing disillusionment occasioned by the ceaseless attacks on our traumatized kith and kin, whose lives have been terribly fractured, have every reason

to blame government for their abject woes and plights. They feel alienated and abandoned to their fate and nature. As victim of the orgies of rapes and abductions (ala the missing Chibok girls) and the brutal massacres that have daily characterized their lives in the last one year, no one should really blame them for such seeming blasphemies in the face of the cruelty, death and endless miseries inflicted on our defenseless people. The harrowing Hobbessian scenario where the state of nature makes the “human life solitary, poor and nasty, brutish and short” because of the absence of good political order, has embolden and given the militants the freedom to plunder, rape, murder and unleashed general lawlessness in the entire North East. Nevertheless the elections should hold while the people should be educated on their civic responsibilities of casting their votes to change their circumstances, for better or worse. To the extent that change of guard is desirable, failure to exercise our franchise or even make wrong choices at the polls would only perpetuate our precarious social condition, which is now in the realm of the Hobbessian state of lawlessness in our shattered towns and villages. Consequently, as the people are urged to vote, their votes must really count while their lives must also be secured in the process and beyond. Our government must deploy effective security infrastructure, seriousness, strong political will-power that should ensure violent-free and credible elections that were achieved in similar war-torn climes such as the former Balkans, the beleaguered, Afghanistan, Somalia, Rwanda, Iraq, etcetera. Therefore, to stop the present debilitating season of anomie now prevalent in the North East, the political stakeholders must resolve and clamor for the federal government and for INEC to ensure that people are by no means disenfranchised to enable them vote for either “change” or the “continuity” of the prevailing militancy that has turned their lives upside down and had further wrecked havoc on our collective sensibilities. Honestly, we are all obligated to pray and choose to step back from this dangerous precipice or risk plunging into the cataclysmic of what Thomas Hobbes, once again, graphically described as bellium omnium contra omnes meaning “war of all, against all”. Presently, such scenario is indeed playing out Iraq, Syria and Ukraine. God forbid that should not be our portion but all the same, this nonsense must stop indeed! Invariably, whoever wins the February polls, the brutalised people of the North East earnestly deserve a Marshal Plan of some sorts; specially packaged not only to ameliorate their sufferings but essentially to comprehensively rehabilitate them and integrate them into the national political economy and of course the core development agenda of the Nigerian state. Only such initiatives can ensure social justice for the alienated populace of the beleaguered North East. PEMBI, a media consultant, wrote from the recaptured town of Michika, Adamawa State

feature / 53

February 6, 2015

hen the Federal Government established the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) in 1956, part of its mandate was to ensure the provision of housing for the teeming populace of the country. This is by way of providing mortgage finance assistance to Nigerians desirous of such support. From inception, the FMBN had been expected to play a pivotal role in developing a robust mortgage finance system for the country. With a mandate which among others, include promoting the growth of primary mortgage institutions to service the need of those desiring such services, through the mobilisation of both domestic and offshore funds into the housing sector; linking the capital market with the housing industry, establishing and operating a viable secondary mortgage market to support the primary mortgage market and collecting and administering the National Housing Fund (NHF) in accordance with the provisions of the NHF Act, the FMBN, as it were, has been an onerous task before it to date. The past three years have witnessed a drastic improvement in housing finance in Nigeria, as it has become the key driver of economic development, political stability and forming a substantial part of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) especially in the last four years. The record also shows that the demand for housing and housing finance in Nigeria is significantly growing with huge potential to launch the nation’s economy on the stride to fortune. And key players in the sector, including FMBN’s Managing Director, Mr. Gimba Ya’u Kumo, have attributed the progress to the “Transformation Agenda’’ of President Goodluck Jonathan – a direct result of the Housing Retreat earlier organised by President Jonathan. It was the retreat that kick-started the launch of the Nigeria Mortgage Finance Company (NMRC) that signalled the beginning of a process that is today increasing opportunities for Nigerians to own their homes at an affordable price. Before now, the lack of healthy mortgage financing system in Nigeria had made the rate of home ownership in the country one of the lowest in Africa. Nigeria’s homeownership rate was put at about 25 per cent which is much lower than contemporary countries. This is why FMBN under the present management has embarked on drastic measures to ensure that the housing deficit is bridged and this has, no doubt, led to the introduction of mass housing

Kumo

Informer Sector Workers To Access Housing Through FMBN The Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) is currently looking in the direction of informal sector workers who might want to own houses through mortgage system. PAUL CHIAMA, in this report, x-rays the activities of FMBN from its inception in 1956. schemes in across the country. Some of the mass housing schemes are done on a rent-and-own model that allows low income participants to rent a home for 15 to 20 years and own the property at the end of that period. And expectedly, this new approach to the housing market has resulted in thousands of new mortgages at low, double to high interest rates. This is hinged on maintaining a stable macroeconomic environment with low single digit inflation, a feat which the country has shown over the past few months that it can achieve. But notwithstanding its limitation, particularly that of the housing deficit, the apex mortgage bank initiated projects, which have delivered about 53,000 houses through the NHF, as well as launching of the housing scheme for the informal sector, and the Estate

Development Guarantee (EDG) scheme, amongst others. These initiatives, coupled with its appeal to recapitalise, are set to place the industry on a new pedestal. For instance, with the informal sector’s Cooperative Society Loan Scheme, Kumo explained that operators such as farmers, traders and artisans would be able to tap into the benefit from the National Housing Scheme, like those in the formal sector. “The mortgage industry in Nigeria is just starting. If you look at the size of our contribution to the GDP, it is less than one per cent, but my target before I leave here, is that we should be able to contribute at least 15 per cent. That is why we are putting a lot of issues on ground to be able to drive this process. “And how do you do that? If you look at the NHF that we are managing, out of

the 170 million population, less than one per cent are the ones contributing. So, we said this is not good enough. How do we reach the other segments of the society that are not in formal employment?” he queried. Explaining the reason for the establishment of the scheme, Kumo observed that people in the lowest strata of the society have not benefited from housing loans, because they have limited capacity to pay for houses, as the income they generate is very small. This, he explained, led to the introduction of the Cooperative Loan Scheme, which according to him, was brought about to extend the bank’s services to people who can be deemed as “disadvantaged” in the society because of their low income level, which may be irregular and difficult to access under the NHF loan window. According to him, the FMBN, under the scheme, is now using cooperative societies to benefit a certain group of people operating in the informal sector category, especially because of the nature and structure of their income, which is not definite or regular. “The loan enables a cooperative society that has acquired a plot of land to develop houses for allocation to its members. The parcel of land would have title in the name of the society which would act as facilitator on behalf of its members in the loan transaction and facilitate construction of the housing units. The root of the title of the estate land would be sublease to the beneficiaries,’’ Kumo explained. While the various strides by the agency may not have met all the expectations of stakeholders, majority of stakeholders are of the view that going by the steps taken so far, a bright future lay ahead of the industry. They expressed confidence that the FMBN has done well with its schemes and only needs some propping to deliver greater benefits to the people. Sometime last year, President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan launched National Housing Fund (NHF) e-Card and commissioned the FMBN-financed ‘Aviation Village’ Housing Estate. The ‘FMBN Aviation Village’ Housing Estate was developed by Suntrust Real Estate Investment Limited, a private developer based on funding for both construction and infrastructure financing provided by FMBN to the tune of N2.4 billion. The estate which covers a land mass of 11.9 hectares comprises a total of 270 housing units of 144 units of 2 bedroom flats, 50 units of 3 bedroom semi-detached bungalows and 76 units of 3 bedroom detached bungalows.

INEC Trying To Disenfranchise South South – Ijaw Youth Leader By Onukogu Kanayo Jubal, Who was in Keffi, Nasarawa State

The Independent National Electoral Council has been accused of deliberately trying to disenfranchise the Southern part of the country. The claim was made by the leader of the Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, Comrade Udengs Eradiri on Tuesday, during the national conference of the Northern Ethnic Youth Groups Assembly (NEYGA) in Keffi, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday.

He said: “I am not making this accusation for the first time. I have also made my mind known on national television. The point is that we have structures set up, especially in the Niger Delta, to assess the level of collection of permanent voters’ cards (PVCs) by our people, as well as the distribution of the PVCs by the INEC and we have discovered that it is lop-sided. The excuse which the INEC has been giving is that the PVCs have not been printed. “If, a few days to the elections you have

not printed, then you are deliberately disenfranchising our people down there. The INEC has been saying that Nigerians who are legible have all got their PVCs, but the reality on ground is that these PVCs have not been printed and distributed the way it should be done.” Eradiri added that the development has not provided a level playing field for the presidential contestants. “This has resulted in a situation in which other contestants from other parts of the country come to the South and they are

Greedy folk have long arms.

— Nigerian Proverb

well received, but when the president goes to the North to campaign; he gets booed, stoned or threatened. Worse, supporters of the president in the North are bullied and threatened. Why should this be? “The ethnic youth of the North and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) resent this and we have gathered here to raise our voices about this. If, therefore, the INEC does not plug these holes and assure Nigerians of fairness of the process, we may not accept the results of the elections when they are conducted,” he said.

February 6, 2015

Igboeli Arinze The Standpoint a.igboeli@gmail.com

08058054767

After 2015, Its Time To Ask The Old Cadre Home!

erontocratic is the word that can be used to describe the Nigerian political structure, Nigeria’s prominent politicians are largely old and grey headed with years of political experience recycling themselves from republic to another republic, party to party and portfolio to portfolio. Worse still is the fact that these politicians are not yet keen on retiring, that is their body language show that they would rather play at the game and dominate the political landscape at the expense of the younger generations until two events occur, death or their being dislodged. Surprisingly, death will be a much likely option for this grey politicians than dislodgement since the Nigerian politician does not find it difficult or cumbersome to cross carpet at will, dislodgement even at the polls will not permanently retire them, Nigerian politicians surely know how to adapt. But why are our politicians particularly the aged ones not ready to throw in the towel? Why should one expect or choose to die in office or in active partisan poli-

tics? Why is it that despite the stress and the daunting tasks of running a country or parts of it as complex as Nigeria, our grey politicians will grapple with these tasks amidst poor health and other challenges. The answers to the questions above are to my knowledge two-fold. Firstly, the lucrative side of politics is a reason why many of our greyheads do not want to retire. Our system of politics much allows for rent seeking, corruption and looting of the public till and even the formation of organizations like the EFCC and ICPC have largely done little to whittle down this form of impunity! Nigeria is awash with stories of many who went into politics and public office with little or nothing but emerged as billionaires shortly afterwards. Such rent seeking one will agree with me is naturally attractive and since there is no one to balk at such practices, as a number of them are all involved, then it is indeed no wonder why an eighty plus year old man will still be vying for governor , or running an agency or a board. A majority of these men know little or

Baba EL-Nafaty Impressions

elnafatyb5@yahoo.com

or the past five years the north eastern part of Nigeria has been torn apart and ravaged by the scourge of war. The recent time in the history of that region that it suffered from such a terrible apocalyptic event was in 1893, when Rabih AzZubyr Ibn Fadilallah, the Sudanese Warlord and slave trader who swept the region and conquered the thousand year-old Bornu Empire. He ransacked the capital, Kukawa and razed it to the ashes. He built a new capital city in Dikwa. Rabih was a murderous tyrant who ruled his new empire with an iron fist and unleashed untold suffering and sorrow amongst the people. Fortunately for history and the people of Bornu he crossed sword with the French, whom he offended severally. He was defeated and killed while trying to escape across Lake Chad. The empire he built; on a feet of clay, which stretched from Sudan to the western side of Lake Chad basin, along the Sahelian corridor, was destroyed. The spoils of war were shared between Great Britain and France who wanted to consolidate their hold on the Dark Continent. Today, the memories of those dark and terrible bygone days are being revisited on the west side of Lake Chad and along

nothing about corporate governance and having neither the vim nor verve to run an agency in the 21st century have largely slept at meetings and slowed down the pace of such corporations from meeting the needs of the yearning public. Second, is the prevailing aspect of our culture which attributes old age to wisdom and therefore the need for the younger ones to give them a deified form of respect? These greyheads may do as they like, go out of bounds and stand all logic on their heads, he can brook no opposition as an elder, since our culture has imbued all the wisdom in the world in him and what the young Turks will not see while standing up, greyhead will see while sleeping and snoring! Even when the young Turks might be in the right and even use polite means to protest whatever wrong decision, greyhead may have taken, society has taken to frowning at such, sometimes calling on these young men to wait for their turn. This is not to say that I am an advocate of a forceful retirement for all old politicians, after all, I am tipping General Muhammadu Buhari of the APC to

win the 2015 elections, but this is largely based on his track record as a military leader and his anti-corruption stance. My case is that a lot of these leaders have recycled themselves to an embarrassing point, that it is time we tell them to go. Even with the talk that our younger politicians aren’t prepared much for leadership, let me quickly retort, how old were the likes of Zik, Awo, Enahoro, Mbazuilike Amaechi and company when they assumed the mantle of leadership then? More annoying is the talk that governance then wasn’t as complex as it is now. But, what they have failed to note is that every society at every point in time has its own unique form of challenges. Just as it is now, leadership in the time of Zik and Awo was no tea party. This is therefore a clarion call on the youths in Nigeria to begin a post 2015 campaign to reclaim Nigeria. The talk of #30percent or nothing was good enough but come 2019, let it be #100 or #90percent or nothing; we can be magnanimous to leave 10 percent to the elders. Again, let’s reclaim Nigeria.

Chad And The Ripple Effect (1)

the northern slopes of the Cameroon Mountains. An Islamic fundamental terrorist group, practising extremist Wahabism, called Boko Haram have captured some parts of the regions in North Eastern Nigeria and Northern Cameroon. What started as a minor religious conflict has turned into an international crisis involving four countries. A multinational joint task force formed amongst Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and Chad as members has been set up. Lately the African Union has waded into the conflict with the commencement of the formalisation of the 7,500 international troops. Chad has also entered the war, full scale although the Boko Haram insurgency has not directly affected them. Their troops have moved into Cameroon and Nigeria. After the defeat of the MJTF at Baga, Chad came back with a vengeance, launched a massive attack along the western shores of Lake Chad, captured Gamboru and some small towns along the shores of the lake and hoisted its flag. What is happening on the Chad basin is a reflection of what has transpired in Chad in the last fifty years. It is therefore absolutely important to put in perspective the historical antecedents of Chad in order to fully grasp the complexity of their involvement in the present crisis

President Idriss Debby of Chad

in Nigeria. Chad’s problems started after independence when it’s new President Francoise Tombalbaye assumed office following tribal, sectional and religious cleavages. He was a Christian southerner from the war-like Sara tribe; the same tribe that distinguished themselves in the Hausa Constabulary, The West African Frontier Force and the Nigerian army. He favoured his people and was harsh to the Muslims in the northern part of the country. He became a tyrant and was completely intolerant of opposition. He banned political parties and started arbitrary arrest of political opponents.

The northern Muslim population suffered seriously from repression and revolted. The first of these upheavals broke out in central Chad in 1965, when Muslim peasants revolted against tax collection and government forces fired upon protesters. Many Muslims fled north and took up arms against the government. They unleashed terror along the country side and that part of the country became almost ungovernable. From Sudan those living in exile formed FROLINAT, “Front pour la liberation du Tchad” to coordinate the rebel groups in Chad. Within three years, the government lost control of most of the northern part of the country. Libya came into the conflict when a local chief from Tibesti region went on exile to Libya with more than a thousand followers. Gradually the country disintegrated as a result of Tombalbaye’s tyrannical rule. He equally came in conflict against his tribesmen. In 1975, he was overthrown in a bloody military coup. He died like a true Sara, with a gun in his hand, blood in his mouth and defiance in his heart. General Felix Malloum, another southerner, took over. He tried to reconcile with the rebel groups in the north but they were not interested.

If ten cents does not go out, it does not bring in one thousand dollars. ― Ghana proverb

➔ TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK

February 6, 2015

Agbaji Chinedu business 1:0:1 Agrobusiness with Agbaji Chinedu 08035004617

Snail farming is a lucrative venture that is yet to be appreciated in the Agro industry. Very smart few in the business discovered this, and are making a fortune from it. Many people see snails here and there. Some people take it as meat. But quite a number don’t know how to go about rearing them. This is made worse because snails, which belong to the family of animal called MOLLUSCA, is a hermaphroditeIt has both the female and male sexual organs; so one cannot really distinguish between the male and female specie of it. However, the Smart few in the snail farming business over time keeps the farming methodology very secret to themselves. But the plain truth is that snail farming is as easy as ABC. The only thing the snails may constantly demand from you is your attention and care. They hardly fall sick. You don’t have to buy their food and you may not have to spend much to build a Pen (House) for them. The beauty of it all is that the snails reproduce rapidly; they are capable of producing hundreds of eggs, which hatch into snails. It is now possible to produce 1,000,000 snails worth more than N5 million twice a year. This is made possible because of the availability of very highly prolific ACHATINA ACHATINA species of snails, which lay 200-400 in one batch 2-3 times a year. INCOME EARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Agbaji@yahoo.com

The demand for snail is higher than the supplies as such the market potential of snail is inexhaustible, locally and internationally. This farming has been approved to be most lucrative farming venture presently, as it requires far less capital investment, while much profit is being generated in a considerable short period. It has lower risk compared to other livestock farming. Snail is an export commodity, which has value next to gold in overseas countries. It is a foreign exchange income earner of our days. Our climate is one of the best in snail breeding. Snail farming in Nigeria requires small capital and the running cost is very low, hence their feeds are very local.No stress, no time consuming, no odour, no noise and no irritation. THE SNAIL MARKET If you rear snail in commercial quantity, Hotels, fast food restaurants such as Genesis fast food, the promise, Mr. Biggs, Tantalizers, etc and super stores will be your regular customers. They will only need your assurance of regular supply per week. There is also good market for snail meat in the international market if only you can do a good packaging. You can make millions of naira from this vast and inexhaustible market. Snail farmers are making huge profit as the global demand for the delicacy

Multimillion Naira Agribusiness Snail Farming

increases. In Nigeria the prices of raw, matured snails goes for N250 to N600 Depending on the size. However, the annual demand for snail in Nigeria is about 7.5million kg annually. The international trade in snails is flourishing in Europe and North America. The United State America imports more than $4million worth of snails annually from all over the world, including Nigeria. France also requires about 15000 metric tons of the delicacy annually. The snails reproduce rapidly. They are capable of producing more than 300 eggs, which hatch into snails. It is now possible

to produce 1,000,000 snails worth more than N20 million twice a year. This is made possible because of the availability of very highly prolific ACHATINA ACHATINA species of snails, which lay 200-400 in one batch 2-3timesayear. Snail meat has been consumed by humans worldwide since prehistoric times. It is high in protein (12-16%) and irons (4550 mg/kg), low in fat, and contains almost all the amino acids needed by humans. Snails can also be helpful to Asthmatic patients. NOTE: 2015 different Agribusiness opportunities manual are available.

opinion

Obi’s Broken English On Gen.TY Danjuma By EmmanuEl BEllo

First, Amanze Obi’s diatribe in his “Broken Tongue” column of Thursday 5th February, 2015 is essentially that: broken. But apart from the broken logic and insinuations contained in it, it was filled with hate and name calling- the quintessential mark of all hack writers. At the end of the write up, you get a sense that here is an ethnic jingoist masquerading as a columnista classical case of the kettle calling the pot black. There is also that ancient but unmistakable hint of tribalism on the part of the writer. All you need do is to read between the piece and you are face to face with a two-faced ethnic apologist. Clearly, Obi is a trouble maker posing as an unbiased writer. And you begin to wonder where journalism got such a mercenary from. You also begin to wonder what happened to good old column writing the type souls like Adamu Adamu, Dan Agbese and the legend Dele Giwa represent. Truth is I have never been a fan of Obi’s Sun Newspaper column. As someone who had written a couple of column in some papers, I often sift through the pile out there to pick the guys that make my day. It’s a fast world and I don’t have the

patience for most of the drab writings that pass as column these days. People have an axe to grind, and they start a column. Someone is bored and starts a column. An out of work reporter begs a publisher and opens a canteen called column with some cheesy name. He is then assured of a steady supply of customers who pay into an account. Very soon we would begin to see columns with account numbers of the columnist! It’s brisk business, alright! But let’s even consider some of the points raised by Obi in his piece titled “Danjuma in a bush of thorns”. In it he tried so hard to paint General TY Danjuma as a regional character and one who glories from a conquest mentality. Lumping Danjuma alongside the likes of Professor Ango Abdullahi and Junaid Mohammed, Obi said the famed warrior is a tribal war lord. The General got the whopping because of his recent call for the arrest of some militants who threatened to start a war should President Goodluck Jonathan lose the election. General Danjuma, never known to shy away from calling a spade by its name, screamed from the mountain tops that the militants were wrong. The militants then issued an ultimatum, asking General Danjuma to apologize to

them or face their wrath. And you begin to wonder what they would do should the general not apologize! Honestly, I thought the militants were joking because you simply do not ask a man like General Danjuma to apologizeno matter what the issue is. In fact, to some of us in Taraba state, that sort of a demand from the militants is not only ridiculous, it is the closest thing to a blasphemy! Wait a second! Could they be referring to this man who gave his life to keep this country together? Could they be tasking this colossus who is respected around the world to apologize? How many of the militants have actually sat with wise counselor of world leaders to glean from his experience? But that is not even the case. Why are they asking General to apologize? Is it for calling for their arrest which is the proper thing to do or is for not endorsing their calls for war? What did they expect from the General? Pat them on the back, invite them for dinner and give them a garland for their action? There is something the militants don’t get. General TY Danjuma, like every single soldier who has fought to keep Nigeria one, cannot stand the threat or even the call for war. It goes counter to their reasoning, training and life

Happy is he that is happy in his children. — English proverb

experience. It makes no sense to them when civilians or terrorists loosely or glibly talk about war. For they know something most war mongers don’t know: that war is the most terrible thing that could happen to any people. The general is not scared of war because he is afraid of what could happen to him and his family or even his investments if Nigeria goes to war or, God forbids, breaks. No! Such a man could well leave this shore and stay anywhere in the world while we turn into Somali or Rwanda. He could choose to keep quiet and avoid the ire of the irredentists. But not this man who at the height of the Taraba imbroglio, looked at terror in the face and called it by its name and demanded for justice. Danjuma is not your ordinary business mogul who hides inside those monotonous board rooms. He is a war- hero who confronts national matters with the same zeal with which he attempts to salvage individuals from the crisis of their lives through philantrophy. You don’t ask such a man to apologize. No. You actually feel guilty for not doing enough to show gratitude to such a fella. — Bello is the commissioner of Information and Strategy, Taraba State and writes from Jalingo.

56 / NEWS NATIONAL

February 6, 2015

Candidates Shun Police Meeting In Imo By Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri

Candidates of the various political parties in Imo State yesterday shunned a peace accord meeting initiated by the state police command. The meeting which was slated for 10am dragged till 1pm with no candidate of any political party in attendance. The assistant inspector general of police, Usman Gwary who was to be a guest at the meeting waited in vain for the candidates. The state police public relations officer, Andrew Enwerem who addressed journalists on behalf of the state commissioner of police, AbdulMajid Ali expressed disappointment over the attitude of the candidates. Enwerem informed that the aborted meeting was the second time, noting that the meeting clearly shows an indication that the candidates were not serious. He explained that the motive of the meeting was to educate the candidates on violence free election as well as making them to sign a peace accord for the election. Enwerem however proposed for a postponement of the meeting, hoping that the candidates would respond when another meeting is scheduled.

‘Poor Environment Breeds Leprosy In Nigeria’ By Agbo-Paul Augustine, Abuja

The Medical Advisor, The Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN) Dr Moses Onoh, has identified the deplorable living conditions in many parts of Nigeria as the major cause of the endemic state of leprosy in the country. He made this known in an interview with LEADERSHIP Friday in his office in Abuja yesterday. Dr Onoh said the germ that cause leprosy is mostly identified in areas stricken by poverty and with poor hygiene culture leading to weak immunity of the people living there. “Leprosy is associated with people living in poor environment and cannot afford good food to build strong immunity”, he said. He added that Nigeria still remains a leprosy endemic country because of the high number of new cases reported annually. Of the 250, 000 reported cases in the world, Onoh said Nigeria accounts for about 3,500 to 5,000 new cases yearly. “We notify between 3500 and 5,000 cases every year in Nigeria. Specifically, 3, 385 are the number of cases we notify in Nigeria in 2013”, he said. He added that states with more clusters of 200 cases per 10, 000 populations are Kano, Lagos, Ogun, Kebbi, Zamfara and Bauchi states. Others are Ebonyi, Cross River, Benue, Niger and Borno states.

Kogi State first lady, Hajiya Ladi Wada displaying a dummy electoral material and sensitizing women to vote, during the house to house, unit to unit, ward to ward campaign in Lokoja.

FG Bans Foreign Trainings, International Travels By Civil Servants By Igho Oyoyo, Abuja

The federal government has placed embargo on foreign trainings and international travels by public servants, saying that it has become necessary to introduce a number of cost-saving measures, following the recent development in the international oil market that has affected the revenue stream of government. In a statement signed by assistant director of Media Relations for Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mohammed Manga, a circular titled “Re-

strictions on Foreign Trainings and International Travels by Public Servants,” was issued from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government. It stated that the head of the civil service of the federation, Mr. Danladi Kifasi said that government has embarked on a number of measures to help manage the economic situation and that one of such measures is an embargo on foreign trainings and international travels by public servants in all Ministries, Departments

and Agencies (MDAs), including all parastatals, beginning from January 2015. According to the statement, Kifasi who listed in the circular some guidelines/instructions which shall be applied before any public officer shall travel out of the country on government expense, stated further that “proposals for participation or attendance of international conferences, seminars, workshops, study tours, trainings, presentations of papers, negotiating/signing of memoranda of understating (MOU) abroad at government expense, shall no longer be allowed.

Al-Makura Pledges To Revamp Agriculture By Donatus Nadi, Lafia

Nasarawa State governor, Umaru Tanko Almakura, has disclosed that his agricultural blueprint for the state is tailored towards using cooperative societies as the means of promoting social and economic development and achieving more equitable distribution of income. Al-Makura made this known in Nasarawa Eggon in continuation of his statewide campaigns seeking for second term of office. He said that government will render every necessary technical and financial support to

farmers in the state towards establishing virile agricultural cooperatives when re-elected on February 28. According to him, “The All Progressives Congress (APC) government under my leadership will prioritise agricultural cooperatives because they are effective means that farmers can keep control over the business of agriculture and provide means for chanelling government information and assistance”. “Agricultural cooperative societies play very important role in establishing economic structure and in motivating farmers to become aware of and utilise improved tech-

niques,” he added. Al-Makura, who noted that agriculture is the biggest employer of labour in the state stressed that cooperatives when fully established will be used to provide individuals and communities with services in such fields as education and health and other social welfare services. He called on farmers to continue to support his administration so as to enable him consolidate on his success in the agricultural sector and reap the benefits of his strategic plan for repositioning agriculture in the state.

7 Political Parties In Adamawa Endorses PDM Guber Candidate By Mohammed Ismail, Yola

Seven gubernatorial candidates in Adamawa State under various political parties have dropped their ambition for the candidate of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) and former executive secretary of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Dr. Ahmed Modibbo. The political parties that dropped their ambitions for Modibbo include APGA, KOWA, APN, ACPN, UDP, NCP, MPPP and CPP.

Speaking during the endorsement ceremony yesterday in Yola, the gubernatorial candidate of the NCP, Comrade Mohammed A. Margwi said all the candidates who contested and won their seats on the platform of the seven political parties have decided to support the governorship ambition of Modibbo. He said Modibbo’s record of service has led him and other parties to stand down their ambition to support him to actualise his ambition to govern Adamawa State under the PDM platform.

Agues come on horseback, but go away on foot.

Comrade Mohammed A. Malgwi also called on other political parties and leading candidates like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to step down for Modibbo as that will enable him to coast to victory and actualise his objectives of transforming the state. In his remark, the director general PDM Gubernatorial Campaign Organisation, Sunday Wugira said the development was a sign that the party will emerge victorious in the next general election.

February 6, 2015

60 / NEWS NATIONAL Cuba, NAFDAC Launch Drug For Cancer Management By Winifred Ogbebo and Victor Okeke, Abuja

Succour seems to have come the way of cancer sufferers in the country as a new drug, known as VIDATOX 30 CH, said to treat the disease, has been formally launched into the Nigerian market. Speaking at the launching yesterday in Abuja, the director-general, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr Paul Orhii, said the availability of serious medical palliatives for cancer is one of his greatest challenges as a regulator. He said many people are unable to afford palliative care for cancer, which is one of the most expensive ailments, with so many sufferers cutting across all ages, genders and races. Expressing delight at the launch of the drug, he said, “I congratulate Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development Company (VPDC) and Labiofam Pharmaceuticals, South Africa, for making this product, VIDATOX 30 CH, a novel homeopathic biotherapeutic product for the management of cancer pain, available in the Nigerian market”. He said that most patients with advanced cancer experience severe pain which can be alleviated if correctly and effectively managed.

February 6, 2015

Polls: Don’t Create Turmoil In Nigeria, Gumi Warns Politicians By Agbo-Paul Augustine, Abuja

Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has warned Nigerian politicians not to use the forthcoming elections to create political turmoil in the country. Gumi gave the warning while speaking to journalists at the First Roundtable Peace Meeting organised by the Northern Religious Leaders Peace Initiative Forum, held in Abuja yesterday.

He cautioned politicians not to slide the country into turmoil as currently being experienced in Yemen where insurgents took advantage of the discord among political leaders to wield power in that nation’s capital. “I am warning Nigerians now; if as a result of election there is political turmoil in the country, we are here in Abuja standing; in some few months it will be Boko Haram people that will be standing and talking. This is what happened

Chairman, National Automobile Technician Association (NATA), Kaduna Branch, Comrade Salisu Abdullahi (fifth from right); training officer, NATA, Engr Mohammed Bello (sixth right); vice chairman, NATA, Comrade Goodluck Eheroma (fourth from left), legal adviser, National Automotive Council (NAC), Barr Gloria Daniel (fifth left), at the graduation ceremony of SURE-P workers training in Kadauna, yesterday. PHOTO BY

Avoid Areas Of Anticipated Violence, ADF Counsels Igbos By Paul Chiama, Abuja

Following increasing fears and speculations of election violence, the Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), a pan-Igbo organisation, has cautioned all Igbos to stay away from areas of anticipated violence during and after the forthcoming elections. Speaking in a press release made available to LEADERSHIP Friday and signed by the foundation’s publicity secretary, Col. Justino Ezeoke (rtd), the pan-Igbo group also called on the federal government to “spare no effort in seeking the assistance of the regional and international communities in the fight against the insurgency that is ravaging an appreciable part of the nation and consistently making the security of lives and properties all over the nation uncertain”. The ADF further stated, “Of paramount importance is the security of Ndigbo to the ADF and consequently, the ADF calls on Ndigbo to, as a matter of primary importance, stay away from all areas of anticipated violence during and immediately after the elections”. In carrying out their civic responsibility during the election, ADF advised Igbos to “cast their votes for whichever candidate they believe will serve their best interest and the interest of the nation”. Similarly, the foundation has cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the conduct of fair, free and credible election to allay the already pervasive fear and anxiety among the people.

in Yemen where insurgents were initially confined to a mountainous part of the country but when there was political turmoil, the insurgents took advantage and invaded the capital, sacking the government”, he said. The cleric added that Nigeria cannot tolerate political turmoil at this time of national elections, and called on the dominant political parties, PDP and APC, to sit down and sort out their differences without turmoil or everybody will lose.

GBENGA ABIOLA.

Ekwueme, Okurounmu, Clark Call For Jega’s Resignation, Arrest By Kunle Olasanmi, Abuja

The Southern Nigeria Peoples Assembly (SNPA) has called for the resignation and arrest of the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega. The leaders of the assembly made the call on the grounds of bias. According to former vice president, Dr Alex Ekwueme, who was represented by former governor of Anambra State, Chief Chukwuemeka

Ezeife, Chief Edwin Clark, Dr Walter Ofonagoro and Chief Femi Okurounmu, who are leaders of the assembly, the INEC chairman should resign because he has lost the requisite moral rectitude to organise a credible election devoid of shenanigans of the Northern Elders Forum and their cohorts. Senator Okurounmu who made the position of the assembly known to the media called for the immediate postponement of February 14 elections to allow for the re-constitution, repositioning and re-processing of INEC to dis-

charge its responsibility of conducting an impartial election. In addition, the Assembly called for the immediate arrest of Jega for criminally masterminding the procurement of PVCs for underage pupils in contravention of the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic Nigeria (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2010. The Assembly said that if the federal government fails to take decisive action on the issue, it shall mobilise against any election in any part of Southern Nigeria.

AFIT Commandant Bags ASUP PAN-African Leadership Merit Award By Isaiah Benjamin, Kaduna

The Commandant of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) Kaduna, Air Vice Marshal Tony Adokwu, has been conferred with the African Students Union Parliament (ASUP) PAN African leadership merit award in recognition of his outstanding contributions towards community development and selfless service to humanity. Presenting the award to the Comman-

dant at the institute during a courtesy call paid on the institute yesterday, the Honourable Speaker of ASUP Coulibaly Ahmed described Adokwu as a ditribalised Nigerian, lover of students/youths and a charismatic personality whose credible credentials of efficient service delivery, high administrative acumen, financial prudence and community service yet unsung which marks him as an iconic patriot in our African society worthy of emulation.

As the old cock crows, so does the young.

Ahmed further described Adokwu as a “tested and trusted , outstanding officer, noble leader, young at heart, astute erudition, dedication personified, obedient officer, kind hearted, well read and an understanding leader. “The dream of building a better secured society is sacrosanct and tedious and it can be perfectly achieved through a collective and collaborative effort of well meaning inhabitants of such society.”

NEWS NATIONAL / 61

February 6, 2015

IBBU Matriculates 2,553 Students By Abu Nmodu, Minna

All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters at Lagos State rally in Yaba, Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN.

February Polls: Katsina Candidates, Parties Sign Pact By Muazu Elazeh, Katsina

Some candidates and their respective political parties in Katsina State, yesterday, signed peace pacts and commitment to ensuring violence free polls. The pact was signed during a security meeting for all political parties, candidates and relevant stakeholders convened by the Assistant Inspector General Of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 1, Tambari Yabo Muhammad. Speaking during the meeting, the AIG

said the meeting and the pact was in line with the directive by the IGP Suleiman Abba, assuring that the police would deal ruthlessly with any one who foment trouble. He said the police will not take it lightly with any one causing troubles before, during or after the polls and directed divisional police officers to disarm and arrest those found in possession of weapons in their respective divisions. AIG Muhammad said “If other democracies like Ghana can conduct credible

polls, Nigeria should do better” even as he challenged Nigerians to exhibit civilised behaviour. He urged politicians to accept defeat if they are genuinely defeated insisting that the pact was signed to compel the politicians into giving their commitments to peaceful polls. In a speech, the Katsina State chairman of Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) Yushau Armayau stressed the need for security personnel to sign accord to be impartial during elections.

Women Hold Interactive Session With Ambode, Agbaje, Others By Taiwo Ogunmola-Omilani, Lagos

The Cosmopolitan Women Club yesterday organised an interactive session for the three governorship candidates in the February elections in Lagos State to know the programmes and policies they have for the women should any of them become the governor. The event which took place in Lagos had the three governorship can-

didates in attendance. The candidates include Akinwunmi Ambode of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jimi Agbaje of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Oloye Gboyega Adeniji of the KOWA Party. While addressing the gathering, Ambode, who said he would continue to learn from the women, added that the role of women in any nation is second to none and that women have continued to be a pivotal force for progress.

The APC gubernatorial candidate said he was raised by a woman and as a result, understands the challenges of women in the society. He said his government would institute Employment Trust Fund with an initial N25 billion to cater for talented youths and women. “Our government shall pursue equal treatment of men and women in workplaces. There would be same conditions of services for the male and female.

Group Predicts Peaceful Election By Mbachu Godwin Nnanna, Abuja

As the fear of a possible outbreak of violence in this month’s election continues to grip Nigerians, a group of clerics under the aegis of Masters Seed Pentecostal and Evangelical College of Bishops and Ministries Network has predicted a peaceful and violence free election. The clerics who are optimistic of a

successful and peaceful election admonished Nigerians not to panic as God has already taken absolute control of the situation, assuring Nigerians of God’s intervention in the election. Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the national president of the association, His Grace Bishop Emma David Okafoagu said the clerics were concerned about the peace of the country and decided to intercede for the peace-

ful conduct of the February elections. The group which is made up of clerics from different parts of the country said their prediction was necessitated by the revelation they received after their prayers in 16 states of the country and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) which they said God assured them of a peaceful election. They condemned inflammatory and divisive comments by some politicians.

He is a good friend that speaks well of us behind our backs.

Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU) Lapai has matriculated 2, 553 students for the 2014/2015 academic session as the vice chancellor, Professor Mohammed Nasir Maituare admonished the students to avoid unnecessary distractions. The vice chancellor who spoke at the ceremony yesterday at the university in Lapai said that the students should be aware that what would qualify them to graduate at the end of their study is when they were found worthy in character and learning. He disclosed that 5,296 candidates applied for the university’s admission and 2, 795 were admitted and 2553 registered and were being matriculated as the students for the new academic calendar. According to the vice chancellor the school would have admitted more candidates but was constrained by the quota given to it by the National Universities Commission (NUC) which was 2,630. Prof Maituare said that the university has attained significant milestones in terms of academic excellence to the extent that one of the graduates of the school was offered admission for a Doctorate Degree skipping Masters Degree by a foreign university. He therefore advised the new students to imbibe the culture of academic excellence that the school is known for by setting their targets that could make them obtain a good degree. “First ensure that you clearly have outlined goals. He who has no goals, has no life so set yourself a goal of graduating with first class , it is possible to achieve this goal by managing your time very well in the University” he said.

Another Journalist Passes On In Kogi By Sam Egwu, Lokoja

Barely 48 days after Kogi State journalists lost one of their members to the cold hands of death, another journalist, Mr Kola Toluhi has passed on. The death of Chief Kola Toluhi, publisher of Kogi Affairs Newspaper has been described as one death that has dealt a very big blow to the journalism profession. Kola Toluhi worked with Vanguard Newspaper as energy correspondent for several years before retiring to private publication in Kogi State. Kogi State deputy governor, Yomi Awoniyi, when he paid a condolence visit to the family of late Chief Toluhi who died in a ghastly motor accident along Lokoja – Okene road yesterday said that recent deaths in journalism family is worrisome. Awoniyi said the government and people of Kogi State mourn with heavy heart the death of the veteran journalist and described him as a colossus and embodiment of developmental journalisms. He said the death has created a vacuum that would be difficult to fill and urged the family and colleagues he left behind to take solace in the fact that the late publisher left an indelible mark in the journalism profession.

for the record

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY February 6, 2015

Christians, Beware Of Dogs! ➔ CONTINUED from yesterday

By Sharon Faliya Cham

“Apart from that the same thing happened in Borno State. I met with the governor and told him that those boys you gathered and you gave them weapons you called them ‘’ECOMOG’’ they are going to become a disaster and it happened....’’ So, did you see that? And, well, the former Borno State governor, Ali Modu Shariff and President Jonathan are friends today, and they have all benefitted from the use of violence in advancing their political career, and today, their products of violence have become the major threat to Nigeria’s corporate existence. It is noteworthy that since Alhaji Atiku Abubakar gave that interview, no one has come out to contradict him. So, why should President Goodluck Jonathan be lying even in churches that his ambition is not worth the blood of anyone when, indeed, his political career has always been bloody? Isn’t it strange that some pastors are in the company of a politician whose allies are warlords like Tompolo, Asari Dokubo and the witches that always endorse his political career, plus alleged drug barons wanted in the USA? What is the position of the church on such issues of violence, witchcraft and illicit drugs? So, why wouldn’t a politician whose political career has always been deliberately washed by blood not engage in a proxy war in the name of ‘’Boko Haram’’ to further advance his political career? In the end, when you cast a zoom lens camera on media reports on ‘’Boko Haram’’, you get stuff like this: 1. “Boko Haram will be contained by mid-October” - President Goodluck Jonathan (page 3, DAILY TRUST, Friday, September 19, 2014) * October ended with “Boko Haram” waxing stronger. They captured several towns in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States including Mubi town, the second biggest city and largest commercial centre in Adamawa State apart from being the largest International Cattle Market in Nigeria! 2. “We are turning the tide against Boko Haram” - President Goodluck Jonathan (page 3, DAILY TRUST, Thursday, October 2, 2014) * Turning the tide against “Boko Haram”? Well, with the way “Boko Haram” has gotten stronger before and after a fraudulent ceasefire, I think the President meant to say he has turned the tide in favour of “Boko Haram”! 3. “New military weapons arrive to combat Boko Haram” - Nigeria’s Minister of Finance Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (page 7, DAILY TRUST, Wednesday, October 1, 2014) * Where are the weapons? At the last count, our soldiers were still running away

with the civilian populations in the face of superior weapons used by “Boko Haram”. Did she mean to say new military weapons have arrived and have been given to “Boko Haram”? 4. “Army’s weapons more sophisticated than Boko Haram’s” - Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah (page 12, LEADERSHIP Sunday, September 14, 2014) * Really? Was he joking, or was he serious or drunk when he said this? At the last count it was the Nigerian soldiers that were running away with civilians even as far as to Cameroon because of the sophisticated weapons deployed by “Boko Haram”! Or, did he mean the Army’s sophisticated weapons were given to “Boko Haram”? Well, if the Army’s weapons are more sophisticated, then why does “Boko Haram” overrun them easily? Ok, go and recapture the towns seized by “Boko Haram” for several months now (some since 2013) so that we can believe you! In any case, doesn’t this put to lie all the claims and propaganda that there are no better weapons in the armoury of the Nigerian Army to successfully fight ‘’Boko Haram’’? Because if the sophisticated weapons being used by ‘’Boko Haram’’ are inferior to that of the army as claimed by the COAS, then why does ‘’Boko Haram’’ always overrun our soldiers, and why are our soldiers always complaining that they are being given weaker weapons? 5. “Boko Haram uses weapons stolen from Nigerian Army” - Reuters Investigation (see page 9, The PUNCH, Wednesday, July 2, 2014) * In other words, the Nigerian Army has been ordered to give “Boko Haram” its own sophisticated weapons, which could be the only reason our soldiers are constantly given weaker weapons while “Boko Haram” uses the more sophisticated weapons.

No ragtag group on planet earth can steal weapons from the Army of a sovereign country except the Army authorities steal and give them, and, in this case, there is an example in Nigeria. In 2007, some Niger Delta terrorists sponsors holding top government positions under President Yar’adua connived with their senior military commanders in Kaduna and stole some heavy and sophisticated weapons from the Kaduna military ordnance. A military panel instituted by Yar’adua indicted them, but he died before he could act on the report, which therefore means his death has profited them. Of course, they will not act on the report, and that’s why “Boko Haram” acts with impunity to “deal with parasites” that have no crude oil. MEND leader, Henry Okah said as much in his court affidavit in South Africa. 6. “BOKO HARAM: Chief of Army Staff relocates to Borno - Infantry unit now to face insurgents” - Page 5, DAILY SUN, Wednesday, March 5, 2014 * This was since March 2014, and you are left wondering what he actually achieved on that publicized trip to Borno, and, moreover, there has been no report whatsoever that he has ever led any of the troops under his command to battle! Well, since “Boko Haram” has gotten stronger with more conquests since that time, did he mean to say the “infant unit” of the military was going to face the “terrorists” or the infantry unit of the Army? 7. “INSECURITY: Blame governors, not me” - President Goodluck Jonathan (Headlines, front page, THE NATION, Sunday, March 30, 2014) * Always dodging responsibility, and always shifting blames. That’s one of the hallmarks of this President. When he talks like this, you will think he shares

Hares may pull dead lions by the beard.

― African Proverb

the command of the military and security forces with the governors, but, no! In any case, look at the next item: 8. “Boko Haram not sponsored by antiJonathan politicians” - United States of America officials (see front page, THE NATION, Saturday, July 5, 2014) This statement angered the Jonathan government and their supporters, and since that time they started telling lies against the United States, that they are not helping them with weapons and logistics in the war against “Boko Haram”. But they may have not reckoned with the possibility that America probably suspects that the Nigerian government is merely winking at “Boko Haram” instead of fighting them! The Jonathan government and their supporters have always been comfortable lying against prominent opposition figures as the sponsors of “Boko Haram”! In any case, item number 9 below will confirm to you that the Nigerian government is telling lies against the United States of America! 9. “United States of America delivers military equipment to Nigeria” - Front page, THIS DAY newspaper, Thursday, June 26, 2014 * Can you see the lie exposed? If America has decided not to be helping Nigeria again with military equipment, it may be because they have found out that the same weapons always end up with “Boko Haram”, and that could be one of the reasons “Boko Haram” has better weapons than the Nigerian military! In any case, Abubakar Shekau always poses with armour tanks and other merchandise belonging to the Nigerian military. In fact, the next item should support this argument: 10. “US drones spy on Boko Haram” - Page 44, Saturday PUNCH, May 25, 2013 * Did you see that? Since May 2013 reports have it that the United States spy drones have been spying on “Boko Haram”, which actually means the Americans must have noticed some strange things about how the “terrorists” were getting arms and funding! Look at item number 11 for another fact that contradicts the Jonathan government! 11. “Chibok girls: U.S. Ready for action against Boko Haram. U.S. Lawmakers await Jonathan’s approval” - Front page Headlines, THE NATION, Monday, June 16, 2014 * So, it means since we have not seen any American action against “Boko Haram” in Nigeria, President Jonathan has not given them the go-ahead. But why didn’t he give them the approval? So that “Boko Haram” will not end, perhaps? 12. “Jonathan should start acting like a leader” ➔ CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

FOR THE RECORD 63

February 6, 2015

Christians, Beware Of Dogs! ➔ FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

- U.S. Lawmakers (see page 14, The PUNCH, Wednesday, July 9, 2014) * This statement by American lawmakers may have further angered the Jonathan government and their supporters, and hence they stepped up their propaganda against America. But isn’t it even clear to everybody that Jonathan lacks any leadership quality? The next item must have also made Jonathan’s government angry with America: 13. “Federal Government not supporting northern governors’ development efforts” - The United States Government (page 3, The PUNCH, Friday, May 2, 2014) * Since this suspicious “Boko Haram” started, there has been no country that has been brutally frank with Nigeria like the United States of America. You can therefore understand why Jonathan’s government is blowing all manner of propaganda against that country! Also, look at the next item: 14. “Chibok schoolgirls abduction: Nigeria rejected help for weeks” says the U.S.A and the U.K. (Front Page Headlines, THE NATION, Sunday, May 11, 2014) * Why did Jonathan led government reject help? Was it to give time and legroom to “Boko Haram” to hide the girls properly? Why should any government reject help when she knows she cannot rescue the girls? Isn’t it suspicious? Anyway, the girls have been away now for over 9 months and female suicide bombers are on the loose! Who are those female “suicide” bombers? 15. “We have developed new strategies to end Boko Haram” - Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah (see page 10, LEADERSHIP, Sunday, July 6, 2014) * And I say, where are the new strategies? Since he made this statement in July 2014, can you remember how many towns and villages have been captured and destroyed by “Boko Haram”? Can you also estimate the number of people killed or turned into refugees since that time? So, where are the new strategies? Were the strategies designed for the success of “Boko Haram” or for the Nigerian Army? 16. “Okonjo-Iweala: Federal Government has adopted three-pronged approach to stop Boko Haram” - Front page Headlines, THIS DAY newspaper, Thursday, July 3, 2014 * According to her, the three-pronged approaches are: security, political and economic solutions. She made this claim in July 2014 in London, but since that time up till now, “Boko Haram” has grown as big as the World Bank building in Washington from where she came from! 17. “Boko Haram: Russia to supply Nigeria arms” - page 5, Sunday PUNCH, September 28, 2014 * Where are the arms? This promise was made almost at the time Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor’s private jet was arrested in South Africa with 9.3 million dollars and some 3 black market weapons suppliers who wanted to buy weapons for unknown groups in Nigeria. Have the supplies from Russia replaced the ones intended to

Adefarasin

be bought with Pastor Ayo’s jet? Is that the reason for “Boko Haram’s” renewed strength after the South Africa bust up? 18. “The Czech Republic has offered to assist Nigeria with military hardware, including aircraft and gadgets to secure the nation’s borders and combat incursion of terrorists.” - page 13, The PUNCH, Wednesday, October 15, 2014 Have the military hardware, aircraft and gadgets been given to “Boko Haram”? Why is “Boko Haram” reportedly using aircraft and sophisticated gadgets so much that our soldiers often run for their dear lives? 19. “Use our Special Forces to rescue Chibok girls” - Australian Government (Front Page Headlines, The PUNCH, Wednesday, June 4, 2014) * That offer was never accepted! Do you know why? I don’t know! 20. “Nigeria, US, UK, Others sign Memorandum of Understanding, Set up Unit to Combat Terrorism” - Front Page Headlines, THIS DAY, Thursday, June 12, 2014 * That was cheery news! But who is frustrating this agenda from fruition? Where is this unit operating? 21. “Cameroon kills 27 militants to save 480 Nigerian troops” - Front Page Headlines of THE NATION newspaper, Thursday, August 28, 2014 * In other words, only 27 “terrorists” were chasing 480 Nigerian soldiers even up to Cameroon! Very funny and sad at the same time! Again, in other words, these 27 “terrorists” were very well armed than 480 soldiers of a country called Nigeria, and because Cameroon is a more serious country than Nigeria, their soldiers are also better armed, and that’s why they were able to kill the 27 boys chasing 480 men from Nigeria! So sad! 22. “Boko Haram occupies army base, gives orders in Gamboru” - page 4, DAILY TRUST, August 27, 2014 * Have you ever heard of any country where “terrorists” can chase away a country’s army from its military base and even occupy it? Well, it has now happened under a Commander - in - Chief called Goodluck Jonathan! Or, most likely, the

soldiers were ordered to run away so that “Boko Haram” can occupy their base and use their weapons and equipment in just the same way they vanished from Mubi town some hours before “Boko Haram” arrived! 23. “The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah, has said the Army will soon launch a massive military offensive to end insurgency in the NorthEast region” - page 8, DAILY TRUST, August 25, 2014 * Story! Story! Story! Where is the massive military offensive promised since August 2014? Rather it has been “Boko Haram” that’s waging massive military offensive, killing people and capturing towns and villages! Or does his “soon” mean after the 2015 presidential election? 24. “President Jonathan behaves like Commander - in - Chief of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA)” - Kano State Governor, Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (page 3, DAILY TRUST, Tuesday, September 2, 2014) * Hahahahahaaaaa...... And I sincerely agree with the Governor, for why should anyone be called the Commander - in Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces when these same forces keep running away from attacks by a ragtag terror group? Also, why should any worthy Commander - in - Chief be losing territory continuously to a ragtag band of terrorists? Of course, except if the Commander - in - Chief wants those territories lost, and that looks like the agenda, anyway! 25. “Army can crush Boko Haram” - Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (page 5, DAILY SUN, Monday, March 17, 2014) * Yes, he should know this fact very well! As a former Military Head of State he knows the kind of military equipment in possession of our security forces, and he also knows the kind of trainings they usually have. In any case, as Military Head of State, he fought a civil war successfully without borrowing a dime from anywhere, unlike the current ruler who has spent over 30 billion dollars on “Boko Haram” and yet wants a loan of a billion dollars for the same cause!

Hard words break no bones.

— African Proverb

26. “Chief of Army Staff, General Minimah to Boko Haram: Dialogue now or get crushed” - Page 9, LEADERSHIP, Thursday, March 20, 2014 * This “carrot and stick” offer was made since March 2014, but since “Boko Haram” did not dialogue, shouldn’t they have been crushed? What stopped the crushing? Agenda? 27. “Boko Haram will end when Federal Government wants” - Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State (page 5, THE NATION, Monday, August 18, 2014) * In other words, Governor Amaechi also suspects and believes that the federal government is solidly backing “Boko Haram”! Well, doesn’t it look so? 28. “90% of Boko Haram members are foreigners” - Mr. Ademola Seriki, former Minister of State for Defence and Minister of State for Interior under President Umaru Musa Yar’adua (page 22, The PUNCH, Monday, November 10, 2014) * He should know, isn’t it? Because of the position he held and the privileged information available to him should make him know this as a fact. But who is so wealthy and so connected to be able to hire such volume of mercenaries from abroad and even grant them free access into the country to do as they like? This can only be done by those who allow “strange helicopters” to be at the service of “Boko Haram” within the Nigerian territory! The well publicized picture of President Goodluck Jonathan sitting with Ali Modu Shariff the alleged Godfather of “Boko Haram” and Idris Darby the President of Chad comes to my mind here! And, hey, the next item should even disallow any excuse from the Jonathan regime about any so called porous borders. Look at this: 29. “Terrorism: US to Offer Nigeria Modern Technology to Fortify Border Security” - Page 44, THIS DAY newspaper, Wednesday, May 1, 2013 * Did you see that? The United States of America has assisted Nigeria with modern technology to fortify our borders. But why and who allowed so many foreign mercenaries to come into the country to destroy northern Nigeria in the name of “Boko Haram”? And, hey, note the date this commitment was made: 2013! Can you see why America will not be happy with Jonathan’s government? Didn’t former Governor Murtala Nyako talk about some genocide against northerners and he got scalded? 30. “North Trapped In Civil War” - General T.Y. Danjuma - Front Page Headlines, SUNDAY TRUST, March 3, 2013 * Did you notice the date on which he said it? And can you recall or visualize the catastrophic destruction wreaked on the north by “Boko Haram” since that time till now? — To read the full article, visit: www.leadership.co.ng ➔ TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW

February 6, 2015

Hauwa Booth WOMAN ON THE LOOSE

Ff:@ofastupidwoman: Read @ www.diaryofastupidwoman.com

Scammers In Silverbird’s Shoprite She was fat (no need for political correctness here) with a tiny baby strapped to her chest. I noticed her, because I towered over her and she was in my way as I tried to get unsalted butter. I was about to say ‘excuse me’ when she said spoke and begged me not to react. Shoo. She was waving the floor in a bid to keep the conversation strictly between us. Each time she spoke, she heaved and brought out an inhaler and proceeded to tell me a story about a drug she needed and how it costs N18,000! Ah-ah! But she only has N5,000 and casually raises her hand to show a seeming amount of money in her hands. She then moved in for the kill when she noticed I was listening. “You can buy it for me; you don’t have to give me the balance. However, all the pharmacies in Silverbird don’t have the drug.” If I would be so kind to go with her to Ceddi Plaza…I couldn’t believe the audacity. I protested that she must be crazy to think that I would let her ride in my car. She had a solution. She would follow me in a taxi! Now I’m not sure if the taxi money would come out of the N5,000 or I would pay for that also. Anyway, I asked her where her husband was. “NYSC,” she replied. Huh? And she, what did she do for a living? “Hairdresser.” So, I proceeded to bore her with my disappointment with the current crop of Nigerians and how we have made it difficult to help people who genuinely need help. I was still complaining as I walked away. This is my theory. Since she pointed me in the direction of Ceddi Plaza, that’s where the scam would occur. I would pay for the drug; a whole N13k (wipes brow) and she will go back and return the supposed drug and the proceeds split! Don’t tell me it doesn’t sound plausible. We are, unfortunately, smart like that. On the other hand, she could have just done her homework well to cut down the talk time. As I walked out of Shoprite, I saw her at the ATM, scouting her next mark.

WEEKEND

BiTES

AlwAys trust your first instinct. if you genuinely feel in your heArt And soul thAt something is wrong, it usuAlly is.

FEEDBACK: LET’S HEAR FROM YOU

In Brief My thanks to readers who gave suggestions on brands of energy savers I can buy, including the reader who gave me the ‘science’ behind why my ‘energy savers’ don’t last. He said it has something to do with non-steady supply of electricity. Ah, while we are on the subject, as a consumer of electricity, I am getting quite testy going to buy and manage N5,000 worth of electricity and every 6 months (now it has reduced to like three months) I see a different amount of kilo-wattage! Who do we ask about this ‘confusion’ or who is to keep us informed? A shop owner showed me the slip of the electricity she bought last month which gave her 189.6KW. A few months before then it was 200+KW. However, this month, with the same exact N5,000, it fell to 165.5KW! She has studied and studied and studied (and studied!) the receipts and couldn’t figure out why, in the space of one month, things changed! Yet, it is not as if light is now (supplied) 25hrs a day. ========================== Whose brilliant idea was it to shift the NYSC Passing 0ut Parade (POP) from February 12 to March 3? I learnt they are needed for ‘election duty’. Beware of the Ides of March. ================ My DSTV became due (for renewal) in the last week of January. I couldn’t remember the date but I had programmed its renewal for the end of the month to coincide with that bondage package called ‘salary’. Don’t shout. The truth is, as long as you have to wait till the end of the month to touch money then it is bondage; you must have multiple streams of income – These streams should ‘run into and through’ your life at various times that your end-of-month package should then become a bonus. These streams build wealth, not salaries. Sorry for digressing. As I was saying; however, I became concerned by January 2, when my DSTV had not been disconnected! Even after rectifying a fault two days after the ‘red light’ came on, I was still connected! In my history with DSTV, it have never ‘dashed’ me or rewarded my loyalty with free access. For some funny reason, it was fear (not sure about what, though) that propelled me to quickly pay. Now I’m not sure of my renewal date! ================= Please, who is in charge of promoting our very own Made in Nigeria car; Innoson? Is it on the list of cars that banks are giving [out] auto loans for? A car had caught fire just after the National Mosque and the men of the Fire Service had arrived to put out the fire. Well, eventually, the fire was put out but the car was burnt to a crisp. The young male owner had slumped on the sidewalk. I could imagine what was running through his mind. No comprehensive insurance. He probably hadn’t finished paying for the car; if he has, he just lost his source of livelihood or means of transport to that livelihood. Where was he to start from? First, he will leave the scene without the car and then have to explain clearly to ‘madam’ how the car caught fire. These are the least of his problems, though. The hustle in this ‘Structurally Adjusted Economy’ is that these cars which regularly ‘catch fire’ are between N500k and N750k while our very own ‘tear-rubber’ Innoson vehicles begin at N1m. Tau. I know the next complaint will be ‘where will he get the money?’‘Which bank will agree to give a taxi-driver an auto loan?’ etc. Erm, the possibilities are out there, aren’t they?

A Ride In The Elevator

Someone needs to explain to me the rationale behind a grown man sitting down in an elevator (taking up the space of four potential lift users) and punching the floors for its users!!!! Yes, yes, yes, I know [that], abroad, you have seen grown men manning the elevators, abi? But did you notice that they were well-dressed and standing (not sitting). Even at that, you get to see them only in certain hotels. In fact, in this elevator, it stopped at the ground floor where we were

but we couldn’t get on because the elevator was still going down to the basement. However, someone jumped on for the ride when laughter broke out. Reason? Apparently, someone needed to jump in to make sure the elevator operator didn’t override the system and shut it down once he got to the basement but still operated the elevator so we could get on and enjoy the ride. I am not kidding you! The next thing is to blame this behaviour on our leaders....

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February 6, 2015

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AImS AND ObjECTIVES: 1. To protect the welfare of the members. 2. To protect the peace and unity of members. 3. To cater for the needy and to provide for the homeless. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: bAR. mUSA SALEH AmED

ANY OBJEC TION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: bARR. EZUGWU EmmANUEL ANENE SUITE AZI, mAITAmA SHOPPING COmPLEX, mAITAmA, AbUjA

THE TRUSTEES ARE 1. Mrs. Helen Ahunnaya Okereke 2. Hon. Paul Wani 3. Barr. Yusuf Mohammed Ajibola 4. Engr. Patrick Chibuzor Okereke 5. Mr. Emmanuel Chukwudi Okereke 6. Mrs. Linda Chinwe Nwokeji 7. Lilian Chioma Okereke 8. Lucy Chika Okereke 9. Reginald Chukwuemeka Okereke 10. Olisaemeka Francis Obi AImS AND ObjECTIVES 1. To develop and empower youths and women in both urban and rural communities, e.g. those in school, out of school and those who did not even go to school. Any objection to the application should be forwarded to the registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama Abuja PMB 198, within twenty-eight (28) days from the date of this publication. Signed: SECRETARY

LEGAL NOTICE

042 CITY bROTHERS’ CLUb

ADO bAYERO FOUNDATION

IN THE HIGH COURT OF jUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, AbUjA

The general public is hereby notified that the above named CLUB has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990.

Whereas the person / persons whose name is set out in the first column hereunder died intestate on the date and place in the said column. And whereas the parson(s) whose name and address is set out in the second column hereunder claimed the relationship of the said deceased and has applied to the above named court for the grant letters of Administration of the personal property. Notice is hereby given that the said letters of Administration be granted to such person (s) unless “NOTICE TO PROHIBIT’’ the grant thereof is filed in the probate registry of the above named court within twenty one (21) days from the date of publication. SCHEDULE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Idoko Uchenna S. 2. Ikeh Eletanus C. 3. Asogwa Ejiofor A. 4. Uzoechi Malachy E.

- Chairman - Vice Chairman - Secretary - Financial Secretary

DECEASED NAmE AND ADDRESS ABAS DANIEL

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT Alheri Abas guardian to Raymond Abas and Patience Abas

AImS AND ObjECTIVES 1. To unite the members and help the less privileged.

Nigerian Police Force

O. P. E Rubochi Kuje, Abuja

Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Who died on the 25th December, 2014. The widow and daughter of the said deceased. Dated at Abuja this 5th February, 2015. SIGNED bARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

For booking or inquiry call

> HENRY UBIMAGO 08068640944

> AUGUstINE 08032325988

Signed: bENNETH NNAEmEKA EKE ESQ

> GLORIA OKwUM 08038722368

> ABIGAIL sAMBO 08064382438

TRUSTEES: 1. Alh. Sanusi Ado Bayero 2. Alh. Aminu Ado Bayero 3. Alh. Nasiru Ado Bayero 4. Alh. Amadu Ado Bayero 5. Alh. Nu’uman Barau Danbatta 6. Alh. Tajudeen Aminu Dantata 7. Alh. Abdullahi Sarki Yola 8. Alh. Wada Aliyu 9. Mallam Qaribullah Nasir Kabar 10. Alh. Abdullahi Ado Bayero AImS & ObjECTIVES: 1. To promote education. 2. To promote sport. 3. To promote health and welfare of members ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

> GLORIA RAPHAEL 08061356519

> GLORIA ODIO 08034285851

> GRACE OJO 08035054444

February 6, 2015

LOSS OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public of the LOSS of the following documents: 1.Offer Of terms Of Grant/Conveyance Of Approval, Right Of Occupancy in respect Of Plot E205 of about 1000 sqm in Mpape II layout. Re-Issue belonging to Mr. Tony Wemodu 2.Offer Of Terms Of Grant/Conveyance Of Approval, Right Of Occupancy in respect Of Plot D1722 of about 1700 sqm in Mpape II layout. Re-Issue belonging to Dr. Benjamin Okonta 3.Offer Of Terms Of Grant/Conveyance Of Approval, Right Of Occupancy in respect Of Plot D1723 of about 1700 sqm in Mpape II layout. Re-Issue belonging to Dr. Benjamin Okonta 4.Offer Of Terms Of Grant/Conveyance Of Approval Granted To Kenodi Systems Nig. Ltd, in respect Of Plot D600, Bwari-Relocation 5.Offer Of Terms Of Grant/Conveyance Of Approval Granted To Kenodi Systems Nig. Ltd, in respect Of Plot B466, Bwari-Relocation 6.Offer Of Terms Of Grant/Conveyance Of Approval, Right Of Occupancy in respect Of Plot MF1391, Lugbe 1 Extension Layout. Are declared missing and all efforts to trace the documents proved abortive. PLEASE IF FOUND RETURN TO AGIS OR CONTACT: NWOKE CHUKWUKERE IGBO (ARC) GSM NO. 08060000044.

ATUNMAN MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

LOST SHEEP EVANGELISTIC MINISTRY

The general public is hereby notified that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named organization has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Daniel Larai A. 2. Alamai Amina AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To create better living condition for the girl child. 2. To assist in educating the girl child. Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: SECRETARY

NAMES OF TRUSTEES 1. ALOYSIUS ALAHA GBERMAKU 2. EVANG. NAWA LAMIDO RONALD 3. SAMUEL OLANREWAJU KAJEYALE

- Chairman. - Secretary

OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. 2. To edify the body of Christ through Bible studies, seminars, prayer meetings, retreats and revivals. 3. To carry out enanglical programmes in rural areas. 4. To engage, participate in, and encourage charitable and benevolent activities. 5. To establish mission stations and post missionaries to villages, towns and cities. Any objection to the registration of the above named organization should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission P.M.B.198 Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this Publicatiojn. Signed: YAKUBU PHILEMON, ESQ.

ADENFAM ENVIRONMENTAL AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES

CHEID COMMUNITY HEALTH AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

LIFE AND LIBERTY ASSURANCE MINISTRY

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Initiative has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Ministry has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr Adeniyi Richard Olugbenga 2. Mrs Adebo Victoria 3. Mrs Adeniyi Oluwatoyin 4. Mr Adeniyi Damilola 5. Mrs Adebayo Olabisi

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. SIR. OLU OGUNROTIMI 2. REVD. JOSEPH ONIKANNI 3. ALFA SEGUN ABDULRASHEED 4. MRS AJIBIKE ADEBOMOJO.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR ADEBOLU ADEREMI OMOLAYO - GENERAL OVERSEER 2. MRS. ADEBOLU YETUNDE - SECRETARY 3. UMAR DAVID AHMED 4. OLAJIDE TOYIN 5. AJEWOLE KEHINDE TEMITOPE.

The Aim and Objectives: 1. To ensure that vulnerable children enjoy their fundamental right.

The Aim and Objectives: 1. To assist the less privilege.

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES. 1. To preach the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ

SIGNED: SECRETARY

DEAN CENTRE FOR EVIDENCE-BASED DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH

MARGARET MODUPE EKUNDAYO FOUNDATION

OGO- OLUWA N’TAN PRAYER BAND MINISTRY, ILORIN, KWARA STATE

The general public is hereby notified that the above named Centre has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The above-named Foundation has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

This is to notify the general public that the above named organization has applied to the corporate affairs commission (CAC) Abuja for registration under part “C” of the companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr Olajide Damilola 2. Dr Daoud Adekunle Balogun 3. Olajide Helen Temidayo THE AIM AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To reduce poverty and improve welfare in sub sahara Africa Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. SIGNED: SECRETARY

The Trustees are Chief (Mrs.) Margaret Modupe Ekundayo Mr. Martin Olayimika Ekundayo Mr. Felix Oluwagbemiga Ekundayo Mr. Peter Oluwafemi Ekundayo Mr. Emmanuel Abiodun Ekundayo The Aims and Objectives are 1. To promote quality education that meet all international standards. 2. To nurture talented individuals who will contribute to the betterment of the society and humanity at large. 3. To set up schools and oversee the managerial structure of schools to ensure qualitative and excellent standard of education. 4. To empower the youths to be more productive, and more determined to succeed by re-channeling their abilities and zeal into positively constructive ventures that will have direct meaningful impact in the life of the citizens. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar – General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: HAWKES LEGAL 1st Floor, 23A Marina (Mamman Kontagora House) Marina, Lagos.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. Most senior Apostle prophet Stephen Adebayo – Founder 2. Mrs. Bukola Olowoniyi (JP) – General Secretary 3. Senior Apostle Prophet Albert Ibietan – Members 4. Mrs. Kemi Oyewole – Member 5. Mrs. Oluwafemi Ogundeji – Member 6. Mr. Emmanuel Adeshina Adebayo - Member THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE MINISTRY ARE: 1. To live in unity and harmony as one indivisible and indissoluble sovereign under God. 2. To promote good government and welfare of all persons in the ministry. Any objection to the said registration should be forwarded to registrar – General, corporate Affairs commission (CAC), Maitama, Abuja within twenty eight (28) days of this publication. Signed: General Secretary

ELLY BELLE FOUNDATION

COLOR HIM FATHER FOUNDATION

GLOBAL GOOD CITIZENS FOUNDATION

THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION TO CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION UNDER PART C OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT NO. 1 OF 1990

This is to inform the general public that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

TRUSTEES: 1. DENNIS ALAN WINSTEAD 2. JOHN HARVEY WINSTEAD

THE TRUSTEES: 1. Niyi Shoyebi 2. Lolade Sunmonu 3. Godwin Eruriere 4. Yahaya Musa 5. Ibukun Shoyebi

TRUSTEES: 1. ELEOJO OPALUWA 2. OPALUWA GEORGE 3. AVM GABRIEL FRIDAY ABDUL (RTD) 4. ADA OKEME OTTO PAUL 5. ODOEMELE CHIDINMA 6. MR. KOLAWOLE ADESINA AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROVIDE SAFE HOMES FOR ORPHAN 2. TO PROVIDE SUCCOUR FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: OPALUWA GEORGE ESQ SOLICITOR

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS document DOCUMENT LOSS

This is to inform the general public of the loss of Original Certificate of Occupancy No. 2468w-13c9z55f3r-9c86u-10, file No. 20005 and Original Offer of Statutory Right of Occupancy No. FCT 81 dated 12/08/04 in respect of plot No. 302 measuring about 1,229.06m2 situated at Cadastral Zone B02 of Durumi, FCT Abuja in favour of MUSA ALHAJI KARSHI. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please contact the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO DEVELOP AND PROMOTE CORE FATHERHOOD VALUES. 2. TO PROMOTE THE IMPORTANCE OF A SOUND PURPOSEFUL FATHER FIGURE TO THE FAMILY, COMMUNITY AND WORKPLACE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION SIGNED: ONYEMENAM T. SOMTOCHUKWU SOLICITOR

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

plot No: 797 This is to inform the general public of the loss of Original re-certification and Re-issuance of C of O acknowledgement in respect of Plot No: 797 of about 1117.235sqm located at Gwarinpa Annex (CO2) by Lifecamp originally allocated to ALASCO NIGERIA LIMITED but now in favour of one IBRAHIM HANIF SANI of 6212 behind Bauchi Road, Jos, Plateau State. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please contact the nearest police station. FCDA, Development Control and AGIS to please note.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To build a forum that will enlighten the citizens on the need to maintain a peaceful and egalitarian society Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the RegistrarGeneral, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria within 28 days of this publication. Signed: TRUSTEES

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

plot No: 1069 This is to inform the general public of the loss of Original re-certification and Re-issuance of C of O acknowledgement in respect of Plot No: 1069 of about 1588.90sqm located at Gwarinpa (C2) in favour of Umaru Sani. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, please contact the nearest police station. FCDA, Development Control and AGIS to please note.

February 6, 2015 FREEDOM IN CHRIST CHURCH OF GOD

69 RURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROMOTION AND EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE

LEGAL NOTICE

The general public is hereby notified that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named INITIATIVE has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Nwaolisa Augustine Odashi 2. Nzekwue Tina Isioma 3. Uzowulu Onyisi Joseph 4. Ofuogu Gift Yomi 5. Gbunor Izuka Johnson

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Barr. Stella Winifred Agbim - Chairman 2. Onyekachi Nwaozuzu - Secretary 3. Jiya Ndolo Santeli 4. Chinenye Kingsley Nwaozuzu 5. Agbara Festus Chibuisi

- General Overseer - Vice Chairman - Secretary - Provost

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: SECRETARY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote entrepreneurship, skills acquisition and capacity building among individuals and groups in the society. Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: SECRETARY

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

OKAFOR AUGUSTINE EKE

Eke Marcillina Ifeoma and Eke Augustine Chibuike

No. 6 Nyerimo Street gwagwalada, Abuja

Who died on the 22nd December, 2014. Dated at Abuja this 5th February, 2015.

The widow and son of the said

deceased. SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

SOUL & SPIRIT HEALING TABERNACLE

LEGAL NOTICE

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Apostle James Akposeye 2. Pastor Mrs. Fine James 3. Sis Favour Ebiarede 4. Sis. Rita Pregha AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2. To preach the good news about redemption through our Lord Jesus Christ. 3. To equip Christians for works of service, encouraging spiritual growth and helping them to recognize and develop their God-given gift through the teaching of the Bible, the ministry of the Holy Spirit and worship. Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

DANJUMA HALILU IBRAHIM AMAC Who died on the 22nd June, 2014.

Jamila Halilu Abdullahi Ibrahim and Abubakar Ibrahim One man village Karu, Nasarawa state

Dated at Abuja this 5th February, 2015.

The widow and sons of the said deceased. SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

Signed: SECRETARY

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

KACHALLA ALKALI

Sarah Kachalla guardian to Enoch Kachalla

Kuje Prison Service

Kuje, Abuja

Who died on the 30th June, 2014.

The widow and son of the said deceased.

Dated at Abuja this 5th February, 2015.

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

CRUCIFIX FOUNDATION

ASSOCIATION OF HEALTH EDUCATION PRACTITIONERS OF NIGERIA

THE DIVINE COVENANT MIRACLE CHURCH OF GOD INTERNATIONAL

The general public is hereby notified that the above named FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named ASSOCIATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named CHURCH has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ehinlaiye Ighomena Onesi 2. Ogude Matthew Emamuzo 3. Akpotu Efeturi Kenneth

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Alhaja Akande Olanike Fausat 2. Commrade Dikko Adedayo 3. Commrade Abdulyusuf Kadiri 4. Mallam Suleiman Atolagbe Alege 5. Alhaji Saka Adesina Alada

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To help the needy and less privileged in our society. 2. To provide free food clothing, shelter and education to indigent members of the society. 3. To partake in social reformation of Nigeria Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: SECRETARY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. Bridging the gap between the primary health care and the fundamental education of the Nigerian people and Africa at large.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: [1] Pastor Akpan Paul [2] Pastor [Mrs] Akpan Anthonia. [3] Pastor Anyino Edwin [4] Pastor. Igbo Festus [5] Deacon. Nnabue Oliver [6] Udobodo Gift Chinonye [7] Deacon. Nweke Onyebuchi Gift AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Signed: SECRETARY

TOWER OF TRANSFORMATION MINISTRY

OTEYI GARDEN ESTATE RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION LAGOS

BRIDES OF CHRIST INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION

The general public is hereby notified that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED ASSOCIATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. AUGUSTINE SUNDAY OJUKWU 2. YEYE AREWA ADEOGUN 3. KENNETH MMAKAM 4. EMEKA CHRISTOPHER OBI 5. PRINCE ADEGBOLA OLUJUBI

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. BEN JONES AKPAN ESQ 2. BISHOP EKANEM AKPAN EKANEM 3. MRS. JANET BEN AKPAN 4. MRS. REGINA BASSEY EFFIONG 5. GODWIN BORNU ESQ.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.REV.JOSHUA JOSEPH 2.PST MRS BLESSING JOSHUA 3.MR OBINNA AKPELU 4.MR EZENNA UDOCHUKWU B. 5.MRS BLESSING IHEZIE 6.MRS ANTHONIA EKE

CHAIRMAN SECRETARY FINACIAL SEC. MEMBER MEMBER MEMBER

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.TO RECONCILE MEN TO GOD IN OBEDIENCE TO GREAT COMMISSION. 2.TO RAISE GOD’S AGENTS OF CHANGE THROUGH THE WORD OF TRANSFORMATION WHO WILL SPEND ETERNITY WITH GOD. 3.TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN LOCAL CHURCHES FOR GLOBAL EVANGALIZATION AND FOR PROMOTION OF CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP AND EDIFICATION. 4.TO PROMOTE SECULAR AND CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. Signed: CHAIRMAN AND SECRETARY

Martina

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Martina Idoko, now wish to be known and addressed as Martina Oko. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

PEACE

I, formerly known and addressed as AMENUGHAEN PEACE PETER, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS PEACE IKPENMOSA OGWUGWUA IFEOBIKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

Mary

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Mary Amos Okure, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Mary Nsikak Uko. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

NWANIKWE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OKOYE CHIZOBA IFEOMA now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWANIKWE CHIZOBA JOHNSON. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS. 2. TO COOPERATE WITH ONE ANOTHER IN DEVELOPING INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE ESTATE. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

OLADEGA

TALATU

I, formerly known and addressed as TALATU SIMFA WAKAWA now wish to be known and addressed as TALATU SIMFA OMOKHOMION. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: BEN JONES AKPAN ESQ 08165777917

SIGNED: N.P.N OKORO (ESQ) 08055916312

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AS KAREEM MUIBAT MOTUNRAYO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS. OLADEGA MUIBAT MOTUNRAYO. ALL DOCUMENTS BEARING FORMER NAME STILL REMAINS VALID. UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN AND GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO CATER FOR WIDOWS AND THE LESS PRIVILEGE .

LUCY

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS LUCY CHIRE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS LUCY ASHIKEGH. All former documents remain valid. Ministry of Works and Transport Lafia N/s, Benpoly Ugbokolo and the general public note.

Mercy

I formerly known as Mercy Ibi, now wish to be known as Mercy Yohanna Danbaki. All former documents remain valid. Chief Magistrate Court, Jalingo and the general public to please note.

MMEGWA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS NKWOH EMILA CHINASA. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MMEGWA EMILA CHINASA. All former documents remain valid.general public take note.

OLAWEPO

I, formerly known and addressed as ADELANA ADEBIMPE GLADYS, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OLAWEPO ADEBIMPE GLADYS. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

ZAINAB

I, formerly known and addressed as ZAINAB ALHASSAN USMAN, now wish to be known and addressed as ZAINAB ABDURRAHIM. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

MADUBUCHI

I, formerly known and addressed as UDEH CHIOMA PHILOMENA now wish to be known and addressed as MADUBUCHI CHIOMA PHILOMENA. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

February 6, 2015

MOHAMMED YUSUF HUMANITARIAN FOUNDATION

CHIKA IKE FOUNDATION FOR LESS PRIVILEDGED CHILDREN

ABIA STATE POLYTECHNIC ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. MOHAMMED YUSUF 2. MRS. BINTA MUSA MOHAMMED 3. AWALU MOHAMMED 4. ABDULKADIR MOHAMMED

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. CHIKA IKE 2. SERAH ONYEACHOR 3. EMMANUEL OJUKWU

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: 1. TO HELP THE POOR AND THE NEEDY IN THE SOCIETY. 2. TO PROVIDE HELP TO WOMEN AND CHILDREN ESPECIALLY THOSE DISPLACED BY CRISIS. 3. TO ORGANIZE PROGRAMMES FOR THJE GENERAL GOOD OF THE LESS PRIVILEGED IN THE SOCIETY. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROVIDE CHARITY FOR THE LESS PRIVILEDGED CHILDREN. 2. TO ENGAGE IN ALL TYPES OF CHARITABLE CAUSES FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE LESS PRIVILEDGED CHILDREN. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: JEPH C. NJIKONYE & CO

SIGNED BARR. CHIJIOKE AGIDI 08038720979

HIS IMAGE & LIKENESS BIBLE CHURCH

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED CHURCH HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990. THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. PASTOR IDONGESIT AKPAN 2. MR. PATRICK EDET

UMASABOR- IMAFIDON I, formerly known and addressed as Miss IGWILO CHIOMA PATRICIA, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs UMASABOR- IMAFIDON CHIOMA PATRICIA. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

Kenneth

I, formerly known and addressed as Odo Kenneth Okwudili, now wish to be known and addressed as Kenneth Okwudili. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

BOUFINI

AGU

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS FALEMARA BOSEDE TARI AMANDA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BOUFINI BOSEDE TARI AMANDA. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

I, formerly known and addressed as MRS OBIEMEKA ELIZABETH OBIAMAKA, now wish to be known and addressed as MISS AGU ELIZABETH OBIAMAKA due to divorce. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

OCHANYA

NWOKO-IWUOHA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS OCHANYA OCHE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS OCHANYA OGWUCHE. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

Unegbu

I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Njoku Esther Chinedu, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Unegbu Esther Chinedu. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

LOSS OF loss of OF document DOCUMENT LOSS DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public of the loss of original land document in respect of plot No. 162 Phase III Residential Layout Gwagalada, FCT, measuring about 625 square meters belonging to Mary Enang. All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found, please contact the nearest Police Station. AGIS and the general public should please take note. LOSS OF loss of OF document DOCUMENT LOSS DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public of the loss of AGIS recertification acknowledgement letter in respect of plot 2149 CAD Zone A02 Wuse I Abuja with file No. TR29 (MISC 54815) belonging to DEVELYN NIG. LTD. All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found, please contact the nearest Police Station. AGIS and the general public should please take note.

ST. PAULINA MISSIONARY ORPHANAGE

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To establish orphanages and homes for orphans and abandoned children. 2. To give care, hope, love and succour to abandoned children and the less privileged in the society.

BALOGUN

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO BRING THE MEMBERS TOGETHER IN PURSUIT OF A COMMON GOAL. 2. TO FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ASSOCIATION.

SIGNED: BARR. (MRS) CHINONYE EMEKA 08065374140

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Bishop Abraham Olaleye 2. Chika Paulina Nwachuku 3. Pastor (Mrs.) Shade Kehinde 4. Barr. Andrew Enaboifoh 5. Apostle Benson Omoniyi Durojaiye 6. Onyeka Joanna Ogbunude

I, formerly known and addressed as OGUNPEJU VERONICA FEHINTOLA, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS BALOGUN VERONICA FEHINTOLAA. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. IBEBUIKE OBIALOR SUNDAY 2. ANYANWU CONFIDENCE 3. NWAOHA UGOCHUKWU 4. WACHUKU CHIBUIKE 5. EGEGE NWACHINEMERE 6. NWAKODO PRECIOUS 7. CHIKEZIE IJEOMAH 8. ARIRIGUZO IHUOMA ANGELA 9. FESTUS AMOGU 10. NWANKPA LINDA OLUCHI

I, formerly known as MISS IWUOHA BENITTA CHIKA. now wish to be known and addressed as MRS NWOKO-IWUOHA BENITTA CHIKA. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

ESABIENLEN

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS AKIOYAMEN PRISCILLIA LEMMY, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ESABIENLEN PRISCILLIA LEMMY. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

SYLVIA

I, formerly known and addressed as EZENWA SYLVIA OBIANUJU now wish to be known and addressed as SYLVIA OBIANUJU EZENWA UGBOR. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

The General Public are hereby informed about the loss of original Certificate of Occupancy belonging to Late Alhaji Isiaka Jibrin of 96 Ran Road Bauchi. The loss Certificate of Occupancy Number 19D 2W-3AA CZ-6595-DF02U-10, in respect of Plot No.616 Garki II Abuja. All effort made to trace the above missing C of O proved abortive. If found please contact the nearest police station. 08033319544

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROPAGATE THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ALL OVER THE WORLD. 2. TO ORGANIZE SEMINARS, CRUSADE, OUTREACHES, SYMPOSIA AND OTHER CHRISTIAN PROGRAMMES AIMED AT PROPAGATING CHRISTIAN FAITH AND TO CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF MEMBERS AND THE LESS PRIVILEGED. 3. TO PREACH SALVATION AND WIN LOST SOULS FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. 4. TO ESTABLISH CHURCHES ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD FOR THE PURPOSE OF EVANGELISM. ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION. SIGNED: MR. TONY MAKWE ESQ LEGAL PRACTITIONER, CONSULTANT & NOTARY PUBLIC

ONUOHA

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS EJIAGA CHRISTIANA CHINYERE, now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONUOHA CHRISTIANA CHINYERE. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

SHADE

I, formerly known and addressed as MISS SHADE AYODELE now wish to be known and addressed as MRS SHADE OMONAIYE. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

ADEBAMBO

I, formerly known and addressed as AREMO OMOLAYO OLUWAYEMI, now wish to be known and addressed as ADEBAMBO OMOLAYO OLUWAYEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public note.

OGBUZURIKE

I , MISS IKOTIDEM PATRICIA DAVID formerly known as MRS AKPAN PATRICIA UBON ALFRED. now wish to be known as MRS OGBUZURIKE PATRICIA AKPAN. All former documents remain valid. general public take note.

loss LOSS of OF document DOCUMENT CHANGE OF NAME This is to inform the general public that we, formerly known and addressed as JOHNSON TOLA OJAJUNI, OLUFUNMILAYO taiwo ojajuni, and adehunoluwa oluwajomiloju ojajuni, now wish to be known and addressed as TOLA JOHNSON, OLUFUNMILAYO TAIWO JOHNSON and ADEHUNOLUWA OLUWAJOMILOJU JOHNSON. All former documents remain valid. General public and relevant Government Agencies, Civil Service Commission of Ondo State and Financial Institutions to please take note. Signed: tola johnson

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS This is to inform the General public that the Original Acknowledgment letter of Recertification and Re-issuance of C of O in respect of Pot No.1108, Cadastral Zone A09, in Guzape Abuja, Belonging to MARTINOC INVESTMENT NIGEIRIA LIMITED with File No. MISC 55466 is declared missing. All efforts to Trace the Said Document has Proved abortive. Anybody with useful information should please contact the nearest Police Station or J.U. Bolori Esq, On Tel: 08065917454. AGIS and the general public should please take note.

Aizighode

I, formerly known as Miss Aizighode Akhere-Ugbesia now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Aizighode Oboh. All former documents remain valid. General public take note.

1X1 SPACE FOR SALE

3X2 SPACE FOR SALE

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY

sports news and analysis February 6 2015

Referees Hail Pinnick On Capacity Building

Pinnick By ONJEWU DICKSON, Abuja

The second batch of Nigerian referees to be sponsored on a capacity building programme in the United Kingdom returned to the country yesterday, full of appreciation to the Amaju Pinnick-led board of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The referees completed an eight-day training programme in the United Kingdom and departed Heathrow Airport, London for Lagos on Wednesday night aboard an ARIK Airline flight, arriving Lagos yesterday morning. Arriving in London on Monday, 26th January, the delegation rode by bus to Sheffieldshire in the northern part of England and was warmly received

by staff of the Champneys Health Resorts. Made up of 18 referees and the Chairman of NFF Referees Committee (Alhaji Yusuf Ahmed Fresh, who led the team), Chairman of the Nigeria Referees Association (Alhaji Ahmed Maude), Member of the NFF Executive Committee, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau and FIFA Technical Advisor (Refereeing) and NFF Consultant on Refereeing, Mr. Linus Mba, the contingent members found their home for the duration of the training a very appropriate environment for the programme, away from any kind of distraction. The facility is used by The FA, from time to time, for their National Teams,

visiting international teams as well as some local clubs. Mr. Tunde Adelakun, the Director of CAF Football Hall of Fame, who organized the training programme on behalf of the NFF, disclosed that he assembled some of the best and experienced English Referees’ Instructors, who belong to a consortium of former referees who formed an outfit known as You Are the Ref. International Ltd. with its Head Office in Sheffield. Among these were Jack Waugh (a Director of the outfit), Roger Dilkes (a former Professional League referee), Keith Hackett (a former General Manager of the Professional League Referees Management Company) and Mark Hasdey (a very experienced English League Referee who spent considerable time in interaction sessions with the Nigerian referees). Among the emphasis during the course were: “Manangement and recognition of foul challenges; correct match incident analysis; high and medium intensity physical fitness training sessions and; correct match preparations”.

Bony Replaces Jovetic In Man City Champions League Squad Striker Wilfried Bony has replaced Stevan Jovetic in Manchester City’s squad for the Champions League. Ivory Coast international Bony, 26, joined City from Swansea City last month in a £25m deal. His arrival meant City had one more foreign player in their squad than they are permitted to register for European competition. City face Barcelona in the last 16 of the competition - the first leg of which is at

home on 24 February. The return leg at the Nou Camp is three weeks later. The decision by manager Manuel Pellegrini to leave out Jovetic, 25, means he will continue to be restricted to just three senior strikers for the remainder of the competition - Bony, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko. City, as punishment for breaching Uefa’s Financial Fair Play restrictions, are restricted to naming just 16 foreign players in their

squad rather than the usual 17 with their squad capped at 21. France full-back Gael Clichy and Belgium defender Dedryck Boyata do not count on the foreign quota as they qualify as home-grown and clubtrained players respectively. Jovetic, who missed large spells last season with calf and hamstring problems, has scored just 11 goals since his £22m move from Fiorentina in 2013.

Mcdowell

Mcdowell, Westwood Tie For Lead At Malaysian Open Graeme McDowell and Lee Westwood share the lead on six under par after the first round of the Malaysian Open. Both players carded seven birdies, plus a solitary bogey on the tricky par-four sixth hole, during their respective opening rounds of 66 in Kuala Lumpur. They lie one shot ahead of England’s Tommy Fleetwood, Malaysian Danny Chia and South Korean Sunghoon Kang. Scotland’s Stephen

Gallacher and Paul McGinley are among a group of seven players tied for ninth on three under. Starting from the 10th hole, Northern Irishman McDowell recorded three birdies on his back nine and followed that up with a further four birdies on the front nine. Fellow European Ryder Cup player Westwood also began his round at the 10th and picked up four shots in his first nine holes and three on the next nine.

The fact that the pair top the first-round leaderboard comes as no surprise as McDowell, 20th in the world, and Westwood, 30th and defending champion, are the two highest ranked players in the field. The duo shared ninth place at the Dubai Desert Classic last week. Westwood missed a six-foot par putt at the 420-yard sixth, while McDowell failed to get up and down from the front of that green.

Rio 2016: Sailing Water Pollution Concerns, Golf ‘On Course’ Organisers of the Rio 2016 Olympics admit they are “concerned” about water pollution in the sailing venue, but say the Games will be delivered “on time”. About 48% of sewage pumped into the Guanabara Bay is untreated, while illegal dumping is a big problem. Last month government officials stated they would miss their target of an 80% reduction in water pollution by the start of the Olympics next August. “There is a huge problem with garbage,” Mario Andrada told BBC Sport. The Rio 2016 director of communications continued: “It [the state of the sailing venue] is a concern because the water is not fully clean, but it will be safe for the

Faint heart never won fair lady. — Egyptian Proverbs

Olympics.” Last year, International Olympic Committee (IOC) vice-president John Coates claimed Rio was the “worst” prepared host city he had ever seen. Olympic sailors also complained about floating debris and even dead animals found in the water when they competed in the Rio test event last August, and drug-resistant “superbacteria” were found in December. However, Andrada insists the IOC is pleased by their progress and that significant improvements have and will continue to be made regarding the condition of the Rio waters. “People ask ‘why don’t we moved the venue?’. If we

don’t clean the bay now then it never will be and this is a legacy commitment to Rio,” he said. “When you have plastics and debris floating in the water it can damage the boats and you could eventually have a race decided by garbage and that’s the biggest issue for us,” says five-time Olympic sailing medallist turned Brazilian head sailing coach Torben Grael Lobbyists claim reducing water pollution is one of many promises organisers have broken, and Giselle Tanaka from the People’s World Cup and Olympics Committee believes people will take to the streets to protest as they did ahead of last year’s World Cup.

AMUSEMENT PARK

the thing women like most in bed is breakfast

— Robin Williams

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY c

www.leadership.ng

NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

No. 89

azu@leadership.ng Twitter: @azuishiekwene

t was beginning to feel like living in a time warp. For a moment, it seemed as if we were back to where we were 22 years ago. A few of the actors have changed, but the scene, script and the script writers have not changed much. Twenty-two years ago, the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida conducted what would have been Nigeria’s fairest and freest election. But the effort came to naught, with the seed of its failure having been carefully planted by the same regime that promised Nigeria a new future. Sponsored by the Babangida regime, Arthur Nzeribe’s Association for Better Nigeria had gone to buy a midnight court order from Justice Bassey Ikpeme, asking Humphrey Nwosu’s electoral commission to stop the June 12, 1993 election. The commission refused, saying the order violated the electoral law. It went ahead to conduct the election between SDP’s MKO Abiola and NRC’s Bashir Tofa. The results were going Abiola’s way when Babangida used Nzeribe’s dodgy court order as the main excuse for cancelling the election, throwing the country into one of its most violent post-election crisis. By yesterday morning, it seemed as if we were nearly back there again. In the last three weeks or so, INEC chairman Attahiru Jega had been under tremendous pressure to postpone the elections on grounds of inadequate distribution of the voter card. Jega’s assurances that over 70 percent of the cards had been distributed and collected, and that the commission was working flat out to achieve a higher figure appear to have fallen on deaf ears. At a point this year, when President Jonathan’s govern-

ment could not find Arthur Nzeribe’s children or grandchildren to use (because the courts were on strike), the national security adviser took up the job himself and told Nigeria, from Chatham House in London, that it was unsafe to hold the February 14 election. It seemed like 1993 all over again. Just as it was with Humphrey Nwosu in 1993, Jega has been under extreme pressure to shift the vote date regardless of what he believes is best for the country. One source said that he has had two crucial meetings – one with a top security chief and another with four top government officials, including a stalwart of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, all trying to force his hand. I understand that the whole point of trying to get him to shift the date is not necessarily because of voter cards distribution. Stalwarts of the ruling party just can’t trust he would give them the results they want – or so desperately need. All parties rig elections to a greater or lesser extent, but PDP holds the master key. It is used to having its elections rigged for it by its

N200

06.02.15

Text only: 08052100356

So The Elections Will Go On?

governors. That has been its winning strategy; everything else is by the way. Having fallen out with a good number of the governors during its December primaries, however, it is now facing its first real test – how to win a largely free and fair contest against an opposition that has come of age. It’s no longer business as usual, and the ruling party is not finding it funny. Jega’s tenure expires in June. One calculation was to get him to shift the date to around the end of March/ early April, which would still be within the 30-day worst- case statutory threshold to election. If that could be achieved, Jega would be effectively out of the way since he would commence his terminal leave around that time.  But the INEC chairman has, so far, stood his ground. A source said he told the PDP foursome, who visited him citing security concerns as a major reason for shifting the vote date, that security is not his job; the security chiefs should worry about that. The best he could do in the circumstance was to extend the voter card collection date by

But PDP holds the master key. It is used to having its elections rigged for it by its governors one week – and that he did. Not satisfied with the outcome of the meeting with Jega, the fellows embarked on judicial tourism the result of which is still unfolding. I hope and pray that when the chief justice of the federation, Mahmoud Mohammed, told judges at the inauguration of the election petitions tribunals on Tuesday that they must be above board, the message would be taken to heart by all – including his most distinguished lordship. Those who are desperate to recreate 1993 would spare nothing to achieve it. If they had a genuine interest to get sufficient PVCs out - and nothing else, they would work with the electoral commission to remove any remaining obstacles. Instead, they are withholding additional funds required

to pay for electoral materials, and asking the commission to go and get the money from General Muhammadu Buhari. If they were interested in security, they would not deliberately underfund the military or routinely ignore warnings before deadly attacks by Boko Haram. They’re busy sharing bribes and sponsoring judicial tourists, to hang on to power. It’s 1993 all over again, except that, this time, the outcome might be worse. The advice of the Council of State to go ahead with the elections is very good news. But one week is a long time. Something tells me that the government did not come this far to stop the elections only to lose its case at the Council of State. The triumph of yesterday was a triumph of common sense and a credit to the unbendable will of the opposition and a public quite determined to stand strong. We wish there would be no further needless hurdles. But wishing is not a strategy – it is just wishing. The next one week will be the longest and roughest yet. The response is preparation, or to use the old fashioned word – vigilance.

GHANA MUST GO I didn’t collect N3billion from NDDC — Patience Jonathan

Swear!

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