Leadership news

26.09.14

No. 71

N200

NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

SULTAN TURBAN TURBANS T TAMBUWAL SOKOtO Mutawallen SOKO 63 TOMORROW

Chibok Diary

DAY

165

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

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@leadershipNGA

AhMED ABUBAkAR jARMA DIES 6 AT 94

ORTOM, FROM MOTOR PARk TOUT TO hONOURABLE 28 MINISTER

Lagos Dep Gov Calls On FG To Do More To Rescue Chibok Girls > Page 2

Abandoned Chibok Girl Bruised, Pregnant Boko Haram leadership tussle claims 30 senate okays Jonathan's $1bn loan request

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L-R: General manager, Listings Sales and Retention, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mrs Taba Peterside; Managing director/ CEO, Transcorp Hotels Plc, Valentine Ozigbo and President/CEO, Transcorp Plc, Mr. Emmanuel Nnorom, during the FactsBehind-the-Offer presentation by Transcorp Hotels Plc to flag off the company’s IPO, which opened yesterday.

INDIA secoND LARGesT eMPLoYeR oF LABoUR IN NIGeRIA – INDIAN eNVoY

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#BringBackOurGirls 165 day

Friday, September 26, 2014

Editor’s Note Whew! It’s Friday again! So much has happened since our timeout last week. But don’t worry because we have got it covered.

We start with our cover story of the freed Chibok schoolgirl the insurgent group abandoned in a bush on Wednesday five months after abduction.

You will also hear the plight of Nigerian students stranded in Uganda, with no means of survival and face threats of eviction and non-graduation, in Friday Extra. To lighten the mood, Essentials presents Love FM, DJ Adx. Adx has been putting smiles on faces of Nigerian audience for the past 20 years. Ibeku Village in Abia State, flags off its New Yam festival with pomp and galore.

Find out why some women in Borno State have named their children after the governor and the extraordinary Ibrahim Baquaqua featured in Roots. We have touching Human Interest Stories and Conversation With Azu is on ‘Why T.B Joshua Is a Sacred Cow’.

As I said, you haven’t missed a thing.

And, yes, please Thank God It’s Friday!

The child is father to the man – anonymous For Feedback: fridayleadership@leadership.ng

ChIbok IN ThE WEEk SaTURday, SEPTEMBER 20, 2014 BBOG group protests the death sentence upon the 12 soldiers by the army accused of mutiny.

It described it strange that the army initially claimed there was no mutiny, only to charge the soldiers to death. The action, it said sent the wrong message to other soldiers at the battle front against Boko Haram insurgents.

“It is … a direct threat to the rescue of the Chibok girls. It’ll dampen the morale of the soldiers in the field,” said BBOG spokesman.

SUNday, SEPTEMBER 21, 2014 The BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) group rallied for basic amenities from its members for its proposed visit to the Internally displaced Persons (IdPs) camps in Nasarawa State. The group decided to recognize and empathize with the people whose lives had been drastically affected by the by the abduction of the chosen school girls.

MONday, SEPTEMBER 22, 2014 BringBackOurGirls group marks day 160. To commemorate the occasion the group visited three Internally displaced Persons (IdPs) camps in Nasarawa State operated by the nongovernmental organization, Stephano. Part of the package presented to the 700 IdPs includes food, clothes and toiletries. The leader of the IdPs from Borno, adamawa and yobe states said the materials would make their lives easier.

TUESday, SEPTEMBER 23, 2014

BBOG group decried the unlivable condition of the Internally displaced Persons (IdPs) outside the country. The group called on the federal government to take responsibility for the livelihood of the IdPs who had fled to safety in Chad and Cameroon as a result of the North-Eastern Nigeria insurgency attacks. The group pledged continuous support for the IdPs through the provision of basic amenities like food, water and clothing.

WEdNESday, SEPTEMBER 24, 2014 Senator ali Ndume’s infamous speech at BBOG: “I would have championed Obasanjo when he wanted to come for third term because if he had been at the helm of leadership in Nigeria, this insurgency would have stopped”.

Senator Ndume said his team is compiling a comprehensive list of IdPs that will help cater to their needs.

THURSday, SEPTEMBER 25, 2014 One of the abducted schoolgirls, who claimed to be Susan Ishaya, was found at Kahala village, Borno State. The critically ill abductee was abandoned by the sect in a bush, where she stayed for two days before she found herself in Kahala, a remote village in Borno State. Meantime, Borno State government has granted 36 escaped Chibok schoolgirls’ scholarships to international schools in abuja, COMPILED UGOCHUKWU Kaduna andBYPlateau states. IROKA The scholarship is worth N1.4m annually. ...As Compiled By Abah Adah

L-R: Executive director Women Empowerment and Legal aid (WELa), Mrs Funmi Falana; deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs adejoke Orelope-adefulire; President, Campaign For democracy & Guest Speaker, dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice atilade; and Lagos State attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Mr ade Ipaye at a stakeholders summit on Child Rights Law/domestic Violence Law organized by the Lagos State Judiciary in Lagos, yesterday.

Lagos Deputy Gov Wants FG To Do More In Rescuing Schoolgirls

BY OLUGBENGA SOYELE, Lagos

Lagos State deputy governor, Adejoke OrelopeAdefulire, yesterday called on the federal government to do more to rescue the over 250 girls who were kidnapped by members of the deadly Islamic sect, Boko Haram, in Chibok, Borno State on April 14, 2014.

Orelope-Adefulire made this call while delivering a keynote address at a stakeholders’ Summit on Child Rights Law and Domestic Violence Law in Lagos, organised by the Lagos State Judiciary as part of activities to celebrate the new legal year.

The deputy governor, who said as far as she knows, the federal government is not doing enough to ensure the return of the girls, urged President Goodluck Jonathan and all the security

agencies to increase their efforts and ensure that the girls return safely to their families.

She also decried the rising cases of domestic violence in the country, saying it is disheartening to see that despite government's efforts, legal instruments, advocacy and sensitisation, the statistics are still very high.

While contributing to the discussion, president of Women Arise, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, urged the federal government to show proof to Nigerians of its commitment to the return of the abducted Chibok girls.

There were also paper presentations at the event by Mrs Funmi Falana, Mrs Itoro EzeAnaba of Partnership for Justice, Mrs Juliet Olumuyiwa Aje-Afuwa of Mirabel Centre, and the Rape Rehabilitation Centre of the Lagos State government.

FG Can End Insurgency In 30 Days - Sen Ndume

BY CHIkA MEFOR, EJIkE EJIkE, abuja AND ABIJAH THOMAS, Lagos

One of the senators representing Borno State, Senator Mohammadu Ali Ndume, has said that the federal government has the ability to end the Boko Haram insurgency in 30 days, including rescuing the Chibok schoolgirls, if it is determined to do so.

The senator, who made the assertion at the daily sit-out session of the #BringBackOurGirls Group yesterday, said the problem with the insurgency had always been a lack of political will, as the insurgents were less than 10 000 men, compared to the better trained security agencies in the country.

"If the government is sincere, crushing the insurgency cannot be more than 30 days. The Boko Haram cannot be more than 10,000. Are you

saying that the Nigerian army and police cannot handle them? I tell you, if the government is fair, this is going to end.

"Villages are being taken over. Konduga is on the defence, because they are like the final bus stop. I believe in destiny and I know only God knows that I did whatever I could. When I get information that will help in curbing the insurgency, i always tell the security personnel. I will tell you that the issue of insurgency has not been properly managed and it has gotten us to where we are today," Senator Ndume lamented.

Meanwhile, the BBOG Group also lamented what it considered the carelessness of the Borno State government in handling the abducted Chibok girls issue, "There are things we have to push to Borno State government. We need to ask what the governor is doing in taking care of the girl that had escaped.

If you are a leader of peace, listen to the discourse of the petitioner. Be not abrupt with him; that would trouble him. ― Egyptian Proverbs

our stand

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September 26, 2014

Insurgency And The Rwandan Experience

A

s the insurgency in the North East continues almost unabated, efforts to bring succour to the troubled peoples of the area came into focus at a lecture, the second in a series by the Atiku Abubakar Centre for Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Development, recently held at the American University in Nigeria (AUN), Yola. The lecturer, the executive director of Rwandabased Organisation of Women in Sports, Mrs Felicite Rwemarika, tried to draw a parallel between the situation in her country in 1994 during the Rwandan genocide that claimed an estimated one million people and what is going on in parts of North East Nigeria.

The genocide apart, the rape and humiliation of women made the country say, never again. Talking to one another, accepting to forget the bitter experiences of that dark era and doing away with needless moments of recrimination, she said, were instrumental to the country’s healing. Today in Rwanda, discriminating on the basis of ethnicity is enough to earn one a long jail term.

Rwemarika said that though that incident was the darkest

moment in Rwandan history, the country rose from it phoenix-like, to become a reference point for national development in Africa today. Nigeria, she said, can draw from the Rwandan experience and rise above the bitterness created by the insurgency. The first point, she noted was the quality of leadership provided by President Paul Kagame and the in-road women made in the politics of the country, constituting 62 per cent of the membership of the legislature in addition to other positions they occupy in the administration.

Furthermore, she said that trauma counsellors were engaged to handle victims of that crisis,

Ag. Editor Hassan Gimba Ahmed Deputy Editor Kazeem Akintunde Editorial Board Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Christian Ochiama, Deputy Chairman Standards Aniebo Nwamu, Director ’Lara Olugbemi, Assistant Director

especially the women, who were encouraged to talk about what they were going through as a way of freeing themselves from the debilitating effects of bottled up emotion and reconcile themselves to the reality that there is life after rape. Also, the lecturer said that nongovernmental organisations like the one she heads used sports to draw women out of their shells.

In our opinion, Nigeria has a lot to learn from the Rwandan model. Already, the president of AUN, Professor Margee Ensign agrees that it is doable.

And we commend her drive in collaborating with the Adamawa Peace Initiative (API) to mobilise the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the region, re-settling and re-integrating them into the society, not just by providing for them relief materials, but by also attaching them to families where they can get back to the existence they were used to.

However, even as we are enamoured by the efforts of AUN, we must not lose sight of the fact that it is a private initiative. The trauma of Boko Haram is real for its victims. The government must rise and do what is appropriate to mitigate its impact.

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

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 Business Manager Bilkisu Mohammed Rimi

The barking of a dog does not disturb the man on a camel.

— Egyptian Proverb

LEADERSHIP is a national paper symbolically embedded in the nation’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!

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September 26, 2014

This advertisement is published in compliance wiht the Rules and regulations of the Securities & Exchange Commission and the Lisitng Requirements of The Nigerian Stock Exchange.

INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING of

800,000,000

Ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at

N10.00 per share

PAYABLE IN FULL ON APPLICATION

APPLICATION LIST OPENS: Thursday, September 25, 2014

APPLICATION LIST CLOSES: Friday, October 17, 2014

Application forms are also available on the website of the Registrars, Africa Prudentials Registrars Plc: www.africaprudentialregistrars.com FINANCIAL SUMMARY

HISTORY AND BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY Transcorp Hotels Plc (formerly Transnational Hotels and Tourism Services Limited) is the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (“Transcorp Plc”). Transcorp Plc holds an 88% ownership interest in the Company through a wholly owned entity named Capital Leisure and Hospitality Limited. The remaining 12% is owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria. The Company currently holds 100% equity interest in two hotels – Transcorp Hilton Abuja and Transcorp Hotels Calabar.

Transcorp Hilton Abuja has 670 rooms, including 427 standards rooms, 116 deluxe rooms, 127 executive suites, 24 meeting rooms, one banquet hall and 7 restaurant and bars. Located in the heart of Nigeria’s Federal Capital, Transcorp Hilton Abuja offers easy access to the commercial district, Abuja tourist attractions, and is only 40 minutes from Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport.

Transcorp Hotels Calabar (formerly The Metropolitan) has 132 rooms. This hotel has 102 standard rooms, 8 Royal rooms, 4 Ambassadorial rooms, 2 Executive and 16 Chalets; 2 conference rooms and one meeting room. It is located in the heart of Calabar, a few metres away form U.J. Esuene Stadium and Government House.

Utilisation of Offers Proceeds

31 December 2013 N’

31 December 2012 N’ mm

31 December 2011 N’ mm

31 December 2010 N’ mm

31 December 2009 N’ mm

Turnover

15,349

13,258

13,725

13,641

12,995

Profit/(Loss) before Taxation

6,122

4,050

5,426

6,001

5,919

Profit/(Loss) after Taxation

4,409

2,910

6,957

4,454

3,996

Dividend

4,200

4,560

5,555,

4,455

4,355

5

5

5

5

5

43,514

43,305

44,774

7,655

7,655

Earning per share (N) - Basic

882

582

1,391

891

799

Dividend per share (N)

840

912

1,111

891

871

Share Capital Net Assets

ALLOTMENT

ISSUER:

Transcorp Hotels Plc

UBA Capital Plc, Lead Capital Plc, BGL Capital Limited and the Directors of the Company reserve the right to accept or reject and application in whole or in part for not meeting the conditions of the Offer. The allotment proposal will be subject to clearance of the Securities & Exchange Commission.

LEAD ISSUING HOUSE:

UBA Capital Plc

SHARE CERTIFICATE / E-ALLOTMENT

JOINT ISSUING HOUSE:

Lead Capital plc and BGL Capital Limited

At the completion of the Offer, the ordinary shares will be registered and transferable in units of 50 kobo each. The CSCS accounts of successful subscribers will be credited by electronic transfer not more than 15 working days from the date of allotment. Investors are hereby advised to state the name of their stockbrokers as well as their CSCS account number in the spaces provided on the Application Form page 72. Shareholders without Clearing House Numbers will have their physical share certificates sent by registered post not later than 15 working days from the date of allotment.

SUMMARY OF THE OFFER

SHARE CAPITAL: (AS AT THE DATE OF THE PROSPECTUS) Authorised

N 7,500,000,000 made up of 15,000,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each

Issued and fully paid

N 3,591,000,000 made up of 7,182,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each

Now being offered

800,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each

METHOD OF OFFER:

Offer for subscription

MINIMUM SUBSCRIPTION:

Minimum of 1,000 ordinary shares and multiples of 100 ordinary shares thereafter

All application monies will be retained in separate interest yielding bank accounts by the Receiving Banks pending allotment. If any application is not accepted, or is accepted for fewer shares than the number applied for, a crossed cheque for the full amount or the balance of the amount paid (including accrued interest) will be retured by registered post within 5 working days of allotment. Where monies are not sent within the stipulated 5 days, accrued interest shall be paid to the unsuccessful applicant at the rate below Central bank of Nigeria MPR minus 5%.

OFFER PRICE:

N10.00 per share

DIRECTORS AND COMPANY SECRETARY

OFFER SIZE:

N 8,000,000,000

CHAIRMAN Olorogun O’tega emerhor, OON

PURPOSE:

The estimated net proceeds of N 7,704,275,850 after deduction of estimated total offer cost of N 295,724,150 shall be applied as follows:

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Okaima Ohizua

NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Obinna Ufudo

NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mr. Emmanuel Nnorom

NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mr. Gogo Kurubo

NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mr. Abubakar A. Giza

NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR HRH Baba Mohammed

NON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Mr. Benjamin Dikki

COMPANY SECRETARY Mr. Chinedu Eze

Estimation completed period

Utilisation of Offers Proceeds

N

%

Transcorp Hilton Ikoyi Project

4,314,394,476

56%

2017

Transcorp Hilton Port Harcourt Project

3,389,881,374

44%

2017

7,704,275,850

100%

Total

APPLICATIONS MONIES

MANAGING DIRECTOR Mr. Valentine Ozigbo

Lead Issuing House QUOTATION:

Application has been made to Council of The Exchange for the listing and admission to this Daily Official List, the 800,000,000 subscription and 7,182,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each representing the issued and fully paid shares of THP.

STATUS:

The ordinary shares being offered shall rank pari-passu in all respects with the issued ordinary shares of the Company.

Joint Issuing Houses

Please read the Prospectus and where in doubt, consult your stockbroker, fund/portfolio managers, accountant, banker, solictor or any other professional adviser for guidance before subscribing.

5

September 26, 2014

Power

Hospitality

Leading Nigeria's economic transformation

Agriculture

Oil and Gas

6

September 26, 2014

LIVING TO BE 100

One health tip daily Don’t limit saturated fats and don’t ever opt for ‘Iowfat’ or hydrogenated foods The supposedly ‘good fats’- polyunsaturated fats from vegetable oils (corn, soy, safflower and the like)appear to predispose people to cancer, whereas animal fats may be protective, preventing heart disease, osteoporosis and even cancer. Two large studies show that regularly consuming more saturated fats leads to less disease progression than following a diet higher in polyunsaturated fats and carbs. But avoid transfats – produced by ‘hydrogenation; when hydrogen is added to liquid vegetable oil to make it solid at room temperature – as they’re linked to greater risks of heart disease and strokes’

Ahmed Abubakar Jarma Dies At 94

By Paul chIaMa, Abuja

A foremost agriculturalist and elder statesman from Bauchi State, Alhaji Ahmed Abubakar Jarma, has died yesterday in Mends Specialist Hospital, Ungwa-Rimi, Kaduna State.

A family member of the deceased, Ahmed Abubakar Jarma, Jnr, who is the Jarma of Misau, Bauchi State, stated this yesterday while speaking to LEADERSHIP Friday.

Born 94 years ago, the late Jarma had a Master’s degree in Soil Science in 1961 from Queens University, Belfast, Ireland. An agriculturist by training, he started his public service as agricultural assistant in the Northern Nigerian government. He also worked in various agriculture departments in North Eastern State.

The late Jarma also worked with Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria up to the rank of deputy registrar and was also secretary to Institute of Agricultural Research, ABU. He was at another time, the Chief Agric Officer of the defunct North Central State from 1976 to 1979 and as well served on several agricultural boards such as Hadejia-Jamare River Basin Authority and the defunct Gongola-Jamare River Basin Development Authority.

late Jarma

At one time, the late Jarma was member of Bauchi State elders’s advisory committee. Until his death, he was the chairman, Lilleker Electrical Engineering Limited. As a religious devotee, he dedicated his time to religious research at retirement from active service. He was, therefore, the publisher of the Islamic Prayer time almanac known as Islamic Timing.

He is survived by his 81-year old wife, Mrs Jummai Jarma (one of the Miller twins) and many relations. Alhaji Jarma has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

Abandoned Chibok Girl Bruised, Pregnant

By MohaMMed IsMaIl, Yola; Jonathan nda-IsaIah, PatIence IvIe IheJIrIka Abuja, kareeM haruna, Maiduguri and GeorGe aGBa, New York

One of the abducted Chibok girls recently released by the Boko Haram insurgents, Susan Ishaya, is four months pregnant, chairman of Chibok community in Abuja, Tsamdo Hosea Abana, has confirmed.

Abana, who made the disclosure through phone chat with our correspondent, lamented the trauma parents and the abducted girls are going through, saying their lives will never be the same again.

Security sources said Miss Ishaya was found near a police station in the border town of Mubi on Wednesday after she was left there by the insurgents.

Abana confirmed that the girl in question was among the schoolgirls abducted by the insurgent group about five months ago in Chibok, Borno State, adding that she has been moved to Adamawa State Police Headquarters in Yola.

“Susan is actually one of our daughters abducted from Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok. She was found in Mubi where her abductors dumped her and she was later taken to Yola.

It has been proved that the girl is four months pregnant, and she is psychological and physically traumatized,” he stated.

Abana, who pleaded with the police authorities to ensure that she is given adequate medical attention considering her plight, also called on federal government to step up efforts toward freeing the remaining girls and re-uniting them with their families.

He revealed that the girl is suffering from trauma and there are signs of physical abuses on her body, saying he believed the insurgents subjected their captives to horrible physical and sexual abuses.

“Evidently, the girl was subjected to serious abuse. There are bruises on her body, and she is suffering from psychological trauma”, Abana stated.

Sources at the Police Clinic in Yola confirmed that Miss Ishaya was on admission at the clinic where she was receiving treatment but that she was taken to the police headquarters in the morning.

However, a source said the girl might have been referred to a better hospital.

The police public relations oficer (PPRO), Michael Haa, declined to speak on the matter, saying the military had taken charge of security in the state since the declaration of state of emergency by President Jonathan in 2013.

Attempts to speak to the Army public relations officer, Captain Jafaru Nuhu, were not successful as his phone was switched off.

Senate Okays Jonathan’s $1bn Loan Request amidst rowdy session The Senate session yesterday became rowdy over President Goodluck Jonathan’s request for external borrowing of not more than $1bn, to tackle the security challenges in the country It would be recalled that just before the Senate proceeded on its two-month vacation, President Jonathan had sent a request to the National Assembly, seeking $1bn to help fortify the military in the fight against the insurgency ravaging the northeastern part of the country Although the Senate eventually approved the loan, senators from the All Progressives Congress ( APC) stood against their colleagues from the Peoples Democratic Party( PDP), as they questioned the constitutionality of the loan.

Chairman of the Senate Committee On Finance, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, while presenting the report stated that the security situation in the North East states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe had continued to detoriate, despite the imposition of a state of emergency in the said states.

According to him, the insurgents had carved out some local governments in Borno and Adamawa states and had declared them a caliphate under their control, as they were no longer part of the territory of Nigeria.

He emphasised the need to upgrade the equipment, training and logistics of the army and other security services, to enable them move forcefully to confront the security threat.

Senator Makarfi also observed that the loan facility request was not a cash loan but a supply of military hardware to be paid for over seven years, saying it was in the nation’s interest not to let the opportunity slip away.

He also argued that the committee’s findings observed that helicopters were crucial for decisive victory in the war against terror, adding that quick victory

Rather a piece of bread with a happy heart than wealth with grief. ― Egyptian Proverb

Jonathan

could not be accomplished without helicopters, because of the terrain and nature of the operations to be undertaken “The number of helicopters in the fleet of the Nigerian Air Force is inadequate for effective deployment. The following factors contribute to this: lack of adequate funds for maintenance, recent burning of two helicopters by the insurgents at Maiduguri and no new helicopter had been added to the fleet since 1998,” he said.

Drama ensued when Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi, coming through a point of order questioned the constitutionality of the request on the grounds that it contravened the fiscal responsibility Act. “Mr President, permit me to refer us to Section 81 (a) and (b) of the constitution. Section 81, sub-section 4 reads: If in respect of any financial year, it is found that the amount appropriated by the Appropriation Act for any purpose is insufficient, or a need has arisen for expenditure for a purpose for which no amount has been appropriated in the act, a supplementary estimate showing the sum required shall be laid before each House of the National Assembly and the head of any such expenditure shall be included in a supplementary appropriation bill. Mr President, Section 83 of the constitution says the National Assembly may by law, make provision for the establishment of a contingency funds of the federation and for authorising the president if satisfied.

Finally, Section 44, (1),(2) and (3) of that same act says: Any government of the federation or its agencies or corporation desirous of borrowing shall specify the purpose for which the borrowing ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

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September 26, 2014

Abandoned Chibok Girl Bruised, Pregnant ➔ FROM PAGE 6

is intended present a cost analysis detailing the economic and social benefit for the purpose for which the intended borrowing is to be applied. Without prejudice to sub-section 1 of this section, each borrowing shall comply with the following conditions: (1), exercise of prior authorisation in the appropriation or other acts or law for the purpose for which the borrowing is to be utilized. (b), Such borrowing shall solely be applied towards long-term capital expenditure.”

However, Markafi, in a swift reaction dismissed the arguments of Senator Adetumbi as irrelevant to the issues on ground, adding that the request was in compliance with the public Procurement Act. The following then played out.

Mark: “The question you ask is whether Adetunmbi is right in what he said or not and the simple answer is no, he is not right.

So please, merely quoting the constitution does not make him to be right. Because he is quoting the constitution doesn’t mean he is right. Please, I want us to address the issue properly. I know he quoted the constitution and he quoted from our Standing Order, but that is not what makes him to be right. I will take few comments and I will put the question, because this is democracy. I am not a lawyer and so I can’t say that these are legal issues and if they are legal issues, they have to be addressed separately. Our understanding here is not exactly like in the court of law.”

Ekweremadu: “Your Excellency, very distinguished colleagues, I will still come to the issue of the constitution, but I would like to join the Senate president in our dealing that we do not go through any debate on this matter, because I am too worried about the character of the debate. I don’t want a situation where if we leave this chamber and the public will believe that one political party is supporting a fight against insurgency and another political party is not supporting it. I am only asking for caution, especially as it concerns the political party we belong so that Nigerians do not misunderstand us. Now, looking at the constitution sir,I agree that we must have to follow our constitution in what we do here but regrettably, section 80 and 81 here cited have absolutely nothing to do with what we are doing here. Those points are only there in respect of appropriation. Borrowing is guided by a different legal framework, a different legislation which is in the Fiscal Responsibility Act and as far as I am concerned, even in regard to what he read, we are in full compliance, both this parliament and the president. In simple tense, what the law required for borrowing is that the president and the governor as the case must be, will have to table the request for the borrowing before the appropriate parliament. In case of the federal government and the National Assembly, now that it has been tabled before us, what is left for us to do is for us to approve or otherwise. So the argument should be on whether to approve it or not.

But I believe that as I have sincerely said so, we are in full compliance with the law on this subject. So, I would like to appeal as I said earlier that we should not bring partisan politics into this matter.”

Ojudu: “Points of or, point of order, Mr President?”

Mark: “All the points we are discussing are point of order and so you are not going to add anything extra. It is the point of order that we are still discussing.”

Ojudu: “Distinguished colleagues, Order 53 (7) and (8). Order 7 says it shall be out of order to use offensive and insulting language and Order 8 says no senator shall input improper motive to any other senator.

Mr President sir, we are discussing a very important issue, there is no single Nigerian, not to talk of a senator that is not concerned about the security of this country.

All we are saying is that this money should be done properly in a manner that all of us can go out of here and defend.”

Mark: “Ojudu, who has inputted improper motive? Please distinguished colleagues, who has inputted improper motive here? I said so because I want to rule on it.”

Ojudu: “I used to understand English sufficiently, sir.”

Mark: “I think all of us here do, so let’s not... Please, Ojudu, all of us here understand English. Nobody is speaking any other language here. Make your point of order so that I can rule on it. Please, Ojudu, what the deputy Senate president said is that we should not make this debate appear as if one party is supporting the fight against insurgency and the other party is not.”

Boko Haram Kills 20, Burns Schools, Churches In Southern Borno In what appeared to be a renewed onslaught by the Boko Haram against hapless civilians, the insurgents, between Wednesday and Thursday attacked two communities of Hawul local government area of Borno State, killing 20 persons, among whom was a pastor, sources said.

The pastor, Eliud Gwamna Mshelizza, was a branch head of the Living Faith Church in Marama town of the same local government.

Also among those killed was a school teacher, (name undisclosed).

Eyewitnesses in the attacked villages narrated that the Boko Haram insurgents invaded Shaffa and Shindiffu towns at about 8pm and proceeded to wreak havoc in the towns until 11am Thusday.

LEADERSHIP Friday learnt that the insurgents, who attacked Shaffa town first, were forced to flee by soldiers and on their way, stopped at and attacked the residents of Shindiffu Village.

“They burnt houses and all the churches in Shindiffu, including our schools,” said a displaced resident, Amos Buba.

“They also burnt down Government Girls Secondary School, Shaffa, the clinic, the staff quarters and many houses,” he said.

Mr Ibrahim Gwamna Mshelizza, the slain pastor’s elder brother confirmed the incident when he spoke to journalists in Maiduguri by phone.

However, soldiers of the Nigerian Army deployed from Biu town in Borno State and others from Adamawa State were able to intercept the attacking insurgents while on their way to Turaku village, another Christian-dominated community.

The soldiers engaged the sect members and killed several of them.

Sources said that as the insurgents were about to complete their mission in Shaffa, a deployment of troops arrived the town, causing the them to flee to Shindiffu, a

nearby village.

Also confirming the incident, a top military source who did not want to be named as he was not authorised to talk to the press said, “Our men from Adamawa and Biu axis repelled the attacks on Shaffa, Shindiffu and Turaku villages. Over 100 of the terrorists were killed, while several arms and ammunition were also recovered in the encounter.”

Police public relations officer, Gideon Jubrin, told journalists by phone that he could not give details of casualties on both sides, because telecommunication networks in the area were shut down after the attacks.

Boko Haram: Internal Tussle Over Leadership Claims 30 A tussle over the leadership and control of structures within the ranks of the Boko Haram sect is reported to have left over 30 members dead after a shootout between members of the sect in Madagali local government of Adamawa State.

Reports from trapped residents of Madagali town, which has been under the control of the insurgents for weeks, have it that trouble started following a disagreement over who should lead the group, after the killing of their leader in an onslaught

by Nigerian troops in Bazza, and whether to surrender to Nigerian troops or not.

A source from the ravaged town said, “The insurgents have been going through turbulent times, as they have been waging internal war against each other over leadership succession and the issue of surrendering to Nigerian troops. Over 30 of the members were killed in a fight between two splinter groups within the sect.”

A trapped resident who spoke to reporters in a telephone interview said that there had been serious rancour within the group, which may finally lead to its annihilation

by Nigerian troops, who in recent times seem to be gaining the upper hand in the fight against the insurgency.

Reports have indicated that since the insurgents took over in the affected areas, they have been passing draconian judgements, including cutting off fingers and whipping on people.

It was similarly gathered that the insurgents had been marrying off spinsters to willing husbands, saying they wanted to curtail adultery and fornication in the land.

2015 Polls Will Follow Global Best Practices - Jonathan President Goodluck Jonathan has assured the international community that the forthcoming 2015 general elections in Nigeria will be conducted with strict adherence to global best practices, to further strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.

Jonathan spoke at separate meetings with the United Nations secretary-general, Mr Ban Ki Moon and British prime minister, Mr David Cameron on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, before leaving New York late Wednesday.

He noted that while it was his personal commitment to ensure progressively better, freer and more credible elections in Nigeria, in keeping with his administration’s dedication to openness and transparency in the conduct of public affairs, international observers would be allowed to free-

I believe what you say, I’m only surprised at what you do. ― Egyptian Proverb

ly monitor the 2015 elections.

The president thanked Mr Ban Ki Moon and Mr Cameron for their continued support of Nigeria’s efforts to curb terrorism, insurgency and violent extremism within its borders.

He, however, said that the federal government would welcome even more assistance from Britain, especially in the areas of intelligence sharing, anti-terrorism training and defence logistics.

Earlier, at a meeting with the directorgeneral of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Margaret Chan, Jonathan had expressed Nigeria’s appreciation of the support it received from WHO in the successful containment of the Ebola Virus Disease.

Stating that Nigeria was now Ebola-free, President Jonathan called for greater international support to ensure that the virus was also eradicated in other West African countries it continues to ravage.

FG To Rehabilitate Surrendered Members The Federal Government said yesterday that it will soon commence the process of rehabilitating and de-radicalizing all the Boko Haram members that have surrendered their arms and weapons in the last one week.

The Coordinator of the National Information Centre, Mike Omeri, who stated this while briefing journalists at the centre in Abuja, said any member of the sect apprehended without surrendering their weapons and arms will be brought to justice.

“As am speaking with you, efforts are ongoing to rehabilitate and de-radicalize all the Boko Haram members that have surrendered their arms within the last one week, he said He said religious leaders, the school system as well of residents of the area where the surrendered insurgents are being detained will assist in the rehabilitation process.

According to him, the Nigeria armed forces on ground in the North East have discovered the winning strategy and will not rest until peace and security is restored to the troubled spot.

Omeri urged all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support to ensure that terrorism in the country is brought to an end.

“All Nigerians are advised to support the current fight, it will not last forever and I believe it will soon come to an end”he said Speaking on the abducted Chibok girls, Omeri said the federal government is working towards ensuring the eventual release and rescue of the girls.

“It is a global challenge which Nigeria will soon overcome, the federal government is embarking on various measures to rescue them within the shortest possible time”said Omeri On the issue of one of the abducted girls that escaped from the Boko Haram custody, the Police Spokesperson, Emmanuel Ojukwu, said on 24th September around 17 hours, which is 5pm, a girl of about 20 years was seen at Mararaba area of Mubi, Adamawa State wandering around, she was picked up and upon interrogation,she was discovered to be one of the adbucted chibok girls that was able to escape”.

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September 26, 2014

tHE SultAnAtE CounCil, SoKoto

Turbaning Ceremony The Sultanate Council, Sokoto, under the distinguished and spiritual leadership of His Eminence,

SulTAn MuHAMMAd SA’Ad AbubAkAR III Cordially invites the general public to the turbaning ceremony of His Excellency Rt. Hon. Aminu WAziRi tAmbuWAl CFR Speaker, House of Representatives as Mutawalle of Sokoto

and Rt. Hon. muHAmmAd lAWAl zAyyAnA Speaker, Sokoto State House of Assembly as Sarkin Gobir of Gwadabawa

Special Guest of Honour: His Excellency,

dR. GoodluCK EbElE jonAtHAn, GCFR

President, Federal Republic of nigeria

Guest of Honour: His Excellency,

muHAmmAd nAmAdi SAmbo GCon

Vice President, Federal Republic of nigeria

Chief Host: HiS ExCEllEnCy, AlHAji Aliyu mAGAtAKARdA WAmAKKo Sarkin Yamman Sokoto, Executive Governor of Sokoto State

date: Saturday, September 27, 2014 Venue: Palace of His Eminence, Sultan of Sokoto Time: 10.00am Signed: distinguished Senator AbubAKAR buKolA SARAKi Turaki of Ilorin, Chairman national Organising Committee

AlHAji muHAmmAd mAiGARi dinGyAdi Katukan Sokoto, Chairman, local Organising Committee

September 26, 2014

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10/ NEWS EXTRA

September 26, 2014

N500, 000 Largesse Tear Youths, Transporters Apart

By Matthew Dike, Lagos

Pandemonium broke out in Ijora area of Lagos State, yesterday, when youths and transporters went for each other’s throats, following a disagreement on how to share the N500,000 gift which the local government chairman had given them.

Following the confusion and freefor-all, residents hid themselves indoors while shop-owners locked them – though a few were unlucky to have their shops looted. Many were injured while over 15 vehicles were said to have been damaged.

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY investigations revealed that after a general meeting,

the chairman handed the money to a member of road transport workers union identified as Kudeti. After the chairman left, some youths approached the said Kudeti, ordering him to hand over the money, seeing as he was no youth.

A war of words ensued and, before long, the situated degenerated into violence.

An eye-witness, who identified himself as Balogun, revealed that one of the transport workers, Seyi, had his house broken into by the irate youths who also beat up his pregnant wife.

According to Balogun, but for the divisional police officer of the Ijora Police Station, SP Benjamin Adeola, several people would have lost their lives.

L-R: Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, Prof Akin Ibidapo-Obe; Vice Chancellor Prof Rahman Bello and Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) at the 2014 edition of the Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Colloquium in Lagos, yesterday. Photo by nan

Rivers: Monarch Remanded In Prison For Illegal Arms Possession

By Anayo Onukwugha, Port Harcourt

A Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, yesterday, ordered that the traditional ruler of Rumueprikom Community, in Obio/ Akpor local government area of Rivers State, Eze Anthony Owabie, be remanded in prison custody for illegal possession of firearms.

Owabie, who was arraigned before Justice Uche Agomuo, for illegal possession of firearms, was denied bail by the court, after the officer-in-charge of the legal department of the Rivers State Police Command, Mr. Paul Idenyenmin, opposed his bail application.

On September 8, 2014, when the matter came up first in a vacation court, it was adjourned till yesterday, for hearing and plea, following the failure of the police to produce the accused in court.

Yesterday, the accused person pleaded not guilty, after the charge had been read to him.

In his opposition to the bail application, Idenyenmin told the court that the summons was served to him while in court by the counsel to the respondent, Emenike Ebete.

After listening to the arguments of both counsels, Agomuo told the respondent’s lawyer that justice is “a three-way traffic. It is justice for you; justice for him and justice for the court. You cannot coarse him (O/C Legal), having served him [the papers] this morning in court”.

The judge adjourned the matter till October 8, 2014, for hearing on bail application, ordering that the accused person be remanded in the Port Harcourt Maximum Prison.

Owabie was arrested and detained on August 13, 2014 by the Rivers State Police Command for allegedly shooting his son with a single-barrelled gun at their residence in Wimpey Junction, Obio/Akpor local government area of the state.

R-L: Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, Hon Waman Ogoriba; committee members Hon Albert Akintoye and Hon Akim B. Kazeem, during the committee’s meeting with stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, at the National Assembly, Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

Police Parade 19 Suspects, Recover 9 Stolen Vehicles In Nasarawa

By Donatus Nadi, Lafia

ty, while the State Anti-robbery Squad (SARS) also arrested Salisu Moh’d, JoshThe Nasarawa State Police Command ua Atasba, Kelvin Onoja and Ezekiel Okhas arrested 12 suspected armed rob- wula with two stolen Toyota Corolla cars, bers and seven persons for illegal pos- two Honda Academy cars and one Nissession of firearms and charms. san Sunny.

The state police spokesperson, ASP Is- “Also, on August 19, 2014, at about A boy being screened to gauge his body temperature and detect if he has the Ebola maila Numan, who paraded the suspects 1200hrs, one Inspector Oliver Gapen and virus at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, venue of the on-going National at the State Criminal Investigation De- his team attached to Operation Nasara Youths Summit, yesterday. PHOTO BY OGOH JOSEPH. partment (SCID) in Lafia, the state cap- arrested and brought to the SCID, Lafia, ital, said nine stolen vehicles were also and reported that on the same day at recovered from them. about 0830hrs, while on stop-and-search Numan explained further that one cam- duty on Obi-Agwatashi Road, they interouflage trouser, as well as 44-7.62mm cepted one Yahaya Abdullahi and Ya’u Aland 4-9mm ammunitions were also re- iyu of Azara on a motorcycle and found covered from them. in their possession one locally made pisHe revealed that detectives from the tol, one locally made shot-gun, one cutNew Nyanya Divisional Police Head- lass, as well as one knife and a torchlight quarters , New Karu local government were all recovered from them,” he added. area, arrested Ezekiel Joseph and Bitrus The PPRO gave the names of other susJoseph in Kachia, Kaduna State, with a pects who were paraded for illegal posstolen Toyota Sienna belonging to a res- session of firearms as Danlami Ayaka, ident of New Nyanya, Obekpa Okewu Monday Iwu, Mohammed Danjuma, Patrick.

David Bamaiyi, John Arigu and YohanNuman also disclosed that, following na Bala. a tip-off from a police source, a team While appreciating the general public for of cops from the Masaka Division (in its cooperation in ensuring that the state Mallam Ibrahim Balogun giving a demonstration of the rites of ‘Hajj’ while intending the same local government) arrested is rid of crimes and criminals, Numan pilgrims of Comerel Travels and Tours Ltd look on during their ‘Hajj’ 2014 induction armed robbery suspects, namely; Uche admonished them not to relent in giv- course which held between September 20 and 21, at the International Conference Odii Daniel; Lewis Agiopu and Usha Fos- ing the police useful information.

Centre, Abuja.

It is only a stupid cow that rejoices at the prospect of being taken to a beautiful abattoir. — African Proverb

11

September 26, 2014

NATIONAL AGENCY FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING INFRASTRUCTURE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Idu Industrial Area, P.M.B. 391, Garki, Abuja, Nigeria

success story of

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION AGENDA:

Official Commisioning of

Made In Nigeria NASENI TRICYCLES & Other Products

NASENI Tricycle (Cargo)

NASENI Tricycle (Passenger)

Cargo

Passenger

NASENI Tricycle (Cargo)

Kinetic Turbine

Small Hydro power

‘naSEni inVESTMEnT DaY’ ABUCCIMA International Trade Fair 2014

The NASENI Governing Council and Management cordially invite investors, stakeholders in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, policy makers, top government functionaries and the general public to ‘naSEni inVESTMEnT DaY’ and Official Commissioning of the successful Design and Manufacturing of First Wholly Made-in-nigeria ‘naSEni TriCYCLES’ (Cargo and Passenger types) a success story of the economic transformation agenda of the Federal Government. The Commissioning of the product alongside others produced by NASENI will take place at the on going 9th Abuja Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ABUCCIMA) International Trade Fair 2014.

CHAIRMAN OF THE OCCASION: Rtd General Martin Luther Agwai, CFR, Chairman, SURE-P, who will commission NASENI TRICYCLES & Other Products.

SPECIAL GUESTS OF HONOUR: Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and members of Economic Team.

CHIEF HOST: Honourable Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Abdu Bulama.

DATE: Tuesday, September 30, 2014.

TIME: 12: 00 Noon.

VENUE: J.T. Useni International Trade Fair Complex, Airport Road, Lugbe, Abuja.

Further Enquiries, Call 08035346683, 08034994892, 08131510178

NASENI Motocycle

Animal Drawn Boom Sprayer

Rotary Furnace

Manual Drilling Rig

Brick Moulding Machine

Cassava Flour Plant

NASENI Solar Dryer

NASENI Solar Panel

NASENI Step Down Transformer

NASENI Science Kits

Mobile Cassava Grater

By this Publication, NASENI Calls on Interested SMES, Investors, Other Business concerns to contact the Agency for discussions on how to surrender to them the technologies behind the products hereby commissioned for further commercialisation and mass production in order to develop the Nigeria economy.

Signed: Engr. Dr. MohaMMED Sani haruna, FnSE, FiET, FnaTE Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, NASENI Federal Ministry of Science and Technology.

NASENI, Producing Home Grown Technologies For Nigeria Economic Self Reliance

12 NEWS

September 26, 2014

Group News Editor: Tony Amokeodo

Why Buhari Shouldn’t Contest – Jibrin Asks him to support Nda-Isaiah, Kwankwaso, others Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

A member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon Abdulmumin Jibrin, has asked a chieftain of the party, former head of state, General Muhammad Buhari, to protect his integrity by not contesting in the next elections in fulfilment of the promise he made to Nigerians in 2011.

The lawmaker, who is the chairman of the House Committee on Finance, said that at this time the elder statesman would gain more respect by supporting younger candidates in the party to run for president in the 2015 elections.

Speaking to selected journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Jibrin called on Gen Buhari to endorse any of the qual-

ified people in the party, including the founder of LEADERSHIP Group, Sam Nda-Isaiah, and governors Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano) and Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), among others to take up the opportunity.

He further said that he could also choose to persuade Speaker Aminu Tambuwal to defect from the PDP and fly the kite of the party in the presidential contest.

Stressing that he means no disrespect to the elder statesman, he said he was speaking the minds of many people.

“I believe that we have to be honest with ourselves on the issue of Gen. Buhari’s aspiration to be president; perhaps that has been the challenge of the North. I have an inner conviction about what I am saying,” Jibrin insisted, noting that those clamouring for him to run in 2015 do not really like him,” he said.

“My message to him is that he should

play that tape of 2011 where he said he won’t contest again. The issue of his supporters bringing him back does not arise, otherwise, he is no different from Jonathan who said he was going to do one term in 2011 but is now running in 2015.

“Some of his supporters I spoke with told me that if he elected, he will only spend four years. But if he is going back on his 2011 pledge, how do I trust him now?”

He warned that Nigerians may begin to misinterprete that Buhari wants to be the one to be the president rather than support anyone else because he built opposition in Nigeria.

“I believe that all those calling on him to contest are his biggest enemies. Buhari is 73 years old. Take it for granted that he becomes the next president, he will be done when he will be 81. By then many generations (of politicians) would have been wiped away,” he added.

Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency A. R. Ghanshyan, explaining a point when he paid a courtesy visit to the corporate headquarters of LEADERSHIP Group in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY JANE OKEKE

India Is Second Largest Employer Of Labour In Nigeria – High Commissioner

BY BODE GBADEBO AND ABAH ADAH, Abuja

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency, A. R. Ghanashyam, has said that his home country is the second largest employer of labour in the country, trailing behind the federal government of Nigeria, through the numerous Indian business interests that abound in the country.

The diplomat disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the corporate headquarters of LEADERSHIP Newspapers Group in Abuja yesterday.

He stressed the long standing relationship between India and Nigeria which transcends various spheres of human endeavours with investments in virtually all sectors of the economy, like telecommunications, power and automobile, among others, saying there was no need for offi-

cial envoys in both countries as their citizens remain the greatest ambassadors.

According to Ghanashyam, who said he came to Nigeria six months ago, India, which maintains a highly valued diplomatic relationship with Nigeria since the latter’s independence, is a leading stakeholder in the nation’s economy, adding that Nigeria is India’s largest trading partner in Africa and vice versa in the world.

“Nigeria is very important to us. Come to talk about relationship. First, you are the first centre for diplomatic mission.

Second, you are our largest trading partner in Africa while we are your largest in the world and we are your largest importer of crude oil,” he added.

Earlier, the group managing director of LEADERSHIP Group, Mr. Azubuike Ishiekwene, in his welcoming remarks,

told the guest about the LEADERSHIP evolution story in the last 10 years, adding that the publication remains the most influential in the country today.

He also highlighted the age-long remarkable cooperation between both countries, which he said has common colonial history.

“Nigeria and India have a very long standing relationship. I recall that the first diplomatic mission of India in Nigeria was opened in 1958. And in 1962, Nehru himself visited Nigeria. Since then, the relationship between these countries has been growing in leaps and bounds.

“We share many things in common.

Both are members of the Commonwealth and share the same colonial heritage. We are happy that in the tradition of deepening that relationship, you have come to pay a visit,” Ishiekwene said.

Ekiti CJ Orders Closure Of Courts As Fayose, AG Disagree Over Attack On Judges ALO ABIOLA, Ado-Ekiti

The Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Ayodeji Daramola, has ordered the indefinite closure of all courts in the state.

This followed the the series of attacks on judicial officers of the High Court, Ado Ekiti, by political thugs, leading to the harassment and manhandling of Justices John Adeyeye and Segun Ogunyemi.

Justice Daramola, in statement signed

by Chief Registrar of the State High Court, Barr Obafemi Fasanmi, and made available to newsmen, expressed concern over the spate of attack perpetrated by political thugs and their persistent presence at the Ado-Ekiti High Court premises in the past few days.

The court was invaded by hoodlums on Monday during trial of Ekiti State governor-elect Mr Ayodele Fayose over a case instituted to contest his qualification for the June 21 governorship election. Same scenarios was recorded when suspected thugs assaulted Justice Adeyeye during the sitting of the election petition tribunal on Thursday, necessitating Justice Daramola’s closure order.

The statement said the new date for the reopening of the court will be announced later.

Speaking on the matter, the commissioner for Justice, Mr Wale Fapohunda, told journalists the judge was allegedly assaulted on Fayose’s order who he accused of moving round the court premises with a large number of supporters during the tribunal sitting.

But Fayose , who spoke with journalists in Ado Ekiti, said, “ I am not aware that a judge was beaten. In fact , this is strange to me.”

$9.3m: Nigeria Now A Laughing Stock– Fashola GEORGE OKOJIE , Lagos

Lagos State governor Mr. Babatunde Fashola yesterday said the $9.3 million cash seized by the South African government has made Nigeria a laughing stock worldwide.

Fashola, who spoke at the 2014 Gani Fawehinmi memorial colloquium held at the University of Lagos, Yaba, lamented the death late Chief Gani Fawehinmi , saying he would have put the federal government on its toes on the issue.

The governor said, “The issue has made us mere stuff worldwide, and this happened because of the value choices that we have made.

Let us stop pointing fingers at those people; you all voted for them. They are representatives of the values we have chosen to live with.

“Will Gani have stood by and watch without demanding an explanation on how the money was spent, and how N2 trillion was spent on oil subsidy without appropriation?

Also, how will he have reacted to the stories of the disappearance of the $20 billion or $49 billion depending on what side you believe?”

He also pointed out that the central government had not been consistent on sensitive issues concerning its citizens, especially the continued captivity of the Chibok girls.

If you are a leader of peace, listen to the discourse of the petitioner. Be not abrupt with him; that would trouble him.dess.

Egyptian Proverbs.

September 26, 2014

13

14

September 26, 2014

c

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCES LIMITED (A SUBSIDIARY OF LEADERSHIP NEWSPAPERS GROUP)

2014 ANNUAL

CONFERENCE & AWARDS CEREMONY Chairman MR. SAM AMUKA Publisher, Vanguard Media Limited Keynote Speaker MR. BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN Executive Governor, Lagos State STAR AWARDS 2013

LEADERSHIP PERSON OF THE YEAR General Yakubu Gowon GCFR LEADERSHIP GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan

LEADERSHIP POLITICIANS OF THE YEAR The G-7 Governors Dr. Babangida Aliyu (Niger) Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano) Alh. Sule Lamido (Jigawa) Alh. Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto) Alh. Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara) Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Ameachi (Rivers) Alh. Murtala Nyako (Adamawa) LEADERSHIP BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR Mr. Olatunde Ayeni

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 2013 LEADERSHIP CEO OF THE YEAR Simdul Shagaya CEO, Konga.com LEADERSHIP COMPANY OF THE YEAR Chi Limited LEADERSHIP BANK OF THE YEAR Diamond Bank LEADERSHIP ICT COMPANY OF THE YEAR Jumia LEADERSHIP BANKER OF THE YEAR Mr. Philips Oduoza GMD, UBA LEADERSHIP GOVERNMENT AGENCY OF THE YEAR Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) LEADERSHIP AUTHOR OF THE YEAR Malam Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai

LEADERSHIP PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Nagari Farm Yoghurt LEADERSHIP MICROFINANCE BANK OF THE YEAR LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited LEADERSHIP TELECOM COMPANY OF THE YEAR Swift Networks Limited LEADERSHIP PUBLIC OFFICER OF THE YEAR Dr. Akinwumi Adesina Minister of Agriculture & Rural Development LEADERSHIP BRAND OF THE YEAR SAMSUNG LEADERSHIP ARTISTE OF THE YEAR Ice Prince LEADERSHIP YOUNG PERSONS OF THE YEAR The Golden Eaglets LEADERSHIP SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR Stephen Okechukwu Keshi

Venue: ThisDay Dome, Abuja Time: 9:00am Date: October 14th, 2014

business

September 26, 2014

15

10th

Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr. (GCON), has bagged the award of the ‘Telecom Investor of the Decade’ at the 10th edition of the annual Nigerian Telecom Awards

FG Funds 70 Tech Coys With N1.4bn Seed Capital

By Chima Akwaja, Lagos

The minister of communications technology, Dr Omobola Johnson, has said the federal government has committed N1.4 billion ($9 million) to finance the development of 70 technology start-up companies in Nigeria in order to create a robust software industry that could leapfrog Nigeria into the digital economy superpower.

Disclosing this, yesterday, at the DEMO Africa 2014 in Lagos which would witness 40 African software

start-ups pitch their solutions before venture capitalists, angel investors, and corporate entrepreneurs, she said the Nigerian government has done and would continue to do her bit to support the software development industry.

“Today, we have added 70 start-ups to this fledgling but vibrant ecosystem and four IDEA (Information T e c h n o l o g y Development Entrepreneurial Accelerator) incubates L-R: Executive director, Corporate Services, Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mrs Lola Abiola; managing have emerged finalists director/chief executive officer (CEO), NDIC, Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim; director, Insurance and Surveillance Department, Mr Zaccheaus Anate; and director, Administration Department, Mrs Christiana Afabor during the press conference to mark the for DemoAfrica 2014.

25th Anniversary of NDIC, in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

NDIC’s Premium Reduction Saves Banks N53bn ...To insure mobile money subscribers

BY NSE ANTHONY-UKO, Abuja

Banks across the country have saved a no less than N53 billion in revenues from the reduction of deposit insurance premium paid to the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) between 2011 and 2014.

This was revealed, yesterday, when members of the management of the NDIC led by the managing director, Umaru Ibrahim, briefed journalists in commemoration of the corporation’s 25th anniversary.

The MD also revealed that in support of the Financial Stability Fund in 2010 the corporation reduced the premium base rate from 0.5 per cent to 0.4 per cent effective 2011 to 2014.

This led to reduction of N53 billion in total premium paid by banks during the period.

“From next year, there is going to be additional reduction in the base rate from 0.4 per cent to 0.35 per cent and definitely that will lead to additional reduction for banks. We

want to make sure that we reduce the premium burden on banks and also to make sure that the deposit insurance is fairly priced so that banks will know that want to support them to succeed,” he said.

Speaking regarding the state of the Nigerian banks, the NDIC boss said they were generally stable. According to him, a lot has been done in terms of reforming banking sector so there has been a lot of improvement in terms of risk management, deposit mobilisation, non-performing loans and profitability. However, he noted concerns remained over banks’ inability to extend credit to the real sector of the economy.

On the issue of no pre, no cover, Umaru said, “We are not yet there but that should be the guiding principle. But we recognise that we are dealing with very sensitive institutions, we are not dealing with ordinary companies. It is what we are canvassing for. It is one of the initiatives contained in the amendment of the NDIC Act which we are pushing for. But we will have to work with the CBN. By the time banks fail to pay premium consistently we will be forced to

remove their cover which will obviously expose them.”

On deposit insurance coverage for mobile payment subscribers, the NDIC boss explained that the framework for the Mobile Payment System (MPS) was designed to provide financial services to people who otherwise not bonafide bank customers in the spirit of financial inclusion.

“Since these subscribers are not bonafide bank customers because they do not have deposit accounts with the deposit money banks (DMBs). The only people that can provide information about them are the mobile payment operators.

“So presently, the mobile payment operators have pool accounts with the DMBs and that is where all the funds of the subscribers are pooled together such like you have in a cooperative. So in terms of the deposit insurance, if you look at it as just one account, it is entitled to just N500,000.

“We are saying that it would be better for individual subscribers to be covered to a certain limit and there are four conditions that the mobile payment operators must meet.

“Firstly, the pool accounts have to be so designated so that the banks and their management can know that even though the account is in the name of the mobile payment operator, the beneficiaries are usually up to 10,000 subscribers.

So it must be designated as a special account.

“Secondly, the mobile payment operators who know these subscribers must provide their details such as names among others.

“Thirdly, there must be a trustee to ensure that the funds in that account are not mismanaged by the mobile payment operators since they are not the owners of the funds.

“Fourthly, the mobile payment operators must take fidelity bonds against internal frauds,” he said.

He said the NDIC was working together with the Central Bank of Nigeria and was at an advanced stage and almost concluding.

“At the end of the day, each mobile payment subscribers would be covered up to a certain limit just like bank customers are covered up to N500,000 and primary mortgage institutions and microfinance banks covered up to N200,000,” he added.

BUSINESS QUOTE If inflation continues to soar, you’re going to have to work like a dog just to live like one.

George Gobel, comedian (1919-91) Never waste a good crisis. Lee Myung-Bak, South Korean president, quoted in the Economist, November 2009.

Turkish Airline To Commence International Operation In Enugu

By Nnamdi Mbawike, Enugu.

President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, disclosed that the Turkish Airline would soon commence international flight operation at the recently upgraded Akanu Ibiam International Airport,

Enugu.

He stated this while delivering his speech at his re-election rally organised by the Enugu Movement for the Re-Election of Jonathan held at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

The president, who was represented by his deputy, Namadi

Sambo, said apart from Ethiopian and Turkish Airlines, other airlines in the world such as America, British, France, among others would also commence operation at the Enugu Airport.

He expressed happiness over the high turnout at the event and

the support given to him by the people of Enugu State, urging them to continue to support his administration. He commended the state governor, Sullivan Chime, for his numerous achievements, especially in the area of road construction, stating that the

governor has done well in many areas.

Earlier in his speech, Chime had assured the president that he would get hundred per cent vote from Enugu in 2015, adding that any vote to any other individual would be vote cast in error.

Chime

16 BUSINESS NEWS

business news Etisalat Wins Big At 2014 Nigerian Telecoms Awards

By Chima Akwaja, Lagos

Etisalat Nigeria claimed two prestigious awards for Best Brand Campaign and Youth Empowerment Telecom Operator of the Year at the 10th Nigerian Telecom Awards at the weekend.

It also picked the Telecom Entrepreneur of the Year, won by the chairman, Etisalat Nigeria, Hakeem Bello-Osagie.

The public relations manager, Etisalat Nigeria, Chineze Amanfo, described the awards as a clear confirmation of Etisalat’s commitment to innovation and corporate excellence.

“Since our entry into the Nigerian market in 2008, we have continuously delivered top quality products and services promised to our customers. Our subscriber base in this highly competitive industry now exceeds 19 million,” Amanfo

said.

She further explained that creativity was important in almost every decision taken at the organisation. “At Etisalat we believe in doing things differently and we are proud of it. We are driven by a desire to add value to the lives of our customers and to build a reliable network,” she said.

Etisalat won the “Best Brand Campaign” award for the EasyFlex commercial, while the success of the music reality television show, Nigerian Idol, earned the company the “Youth Empowerment Telecom Operator of the Year” award. The “Telecom Entrepreneur of the Year” award was presented to the chairman, Etisalat Nigeria, Hakeem Bello-Osagie, in recognition of his role in bringing the UAE telecommunications firm to Nigeria and keeping it afloat for close to six years amidst stiff competition.

Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 To Enhance Nigeria’s Market

OLUSHOLA BELLO, Lagos

Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited has said that efforts at enhancing Nigerian capital market have been boosted with the introduction of Stanbic IBTC Exchange Traded Fund 30 (ETF 30).

The initial public offering had opened on september 15, 2014 and expected to close on October 15, 2014, with 10 million units of the fund available at N100 each at par.

The offer is for a minimum subscription of 10,000 units and multiples of 5,000 units thereafter.

The chief executive officer (CEO) of Stanbic IBTC Asset, Olumide Oyetan, made this known at an investors’ forum in Lagos, yesterday. He said that a deep financial sector as well as vibrant capital market was pivotal in enhancing economic efficiency, attracting investment and driving faster growth.

Oyetan said that the company was seeking to expand participation of domestic investors in the capital market, which would help in the capital formation process and in turn

generate significant returns to investors while fuelling wealth creation as well as economic growth.

“The opening of the Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 is a direct response to increased investor demand for passive investment strategies that will deliver the market return for the index being tracked, which in this case is the NSE 30 of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). The Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 provides a transparent and flexible structure that allows investors efficiently gain exposure to the securities of these companies that have over time outperformed the broad equity market,” said Oyetan.

Oyetan stated that the fund was designed to track the performance of the NSE 30 Index which comprises the top 30 companies listed on the NSE in terms of market capitalisation and liquidity.

According to him, the fund represents a convenient and efficient way for investors to have access to the top 30 most capitalised and liquid stocks on the NSE, in a cost-effective manner.

September 26, 2014

Emir of Zazzau Pledges Assistance To Miners

By Ruth Tene Natsa, Abuja

The emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris, has pledged to assist the Nigerian miners to interface with the federal government and, particularly, the Central Bank Of Nigeria (CBN) to capture the mining industry in the provision of funding facilities for the growth of the industry.

The emir, who is a life patron of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) gave the commitment when he received a delegation of

the association, led by its president, Alhaji Sani Shehu, in the emirate on Wednesday.

In a statement made available to Leadership Friday, yesterday, the emir commended the miners for providing employment for the populace while further pledging to assist in the growth of the industry.

In his remarks, leader of the delegation, Shehu, commended the support of the emir and also gave a summary of the challenges facing the new committee

of the association some of which he said included the lack of adequate attention by government which has resulted in the non-capture of the industry in funding, the issue of multiple taxation by all levels of government and agencies, influx of foreign mineral traders who buy minerals at the detriment of Nigeria miners and outrageous demands by mining communities which the Emir promised to take up with the appropriate authorities.

L-R: Representatives of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Ahmed Hashem and Mr Ben Oskar Nwachukwu at an event to usher in the 44th Annual Accountant Conference of the Nigeria Institute of Chartered Accountant sponsored by the Dangote Group at Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.

Ghana To Seek Maritime Adjustment With Nigeria

By Chika Izuora, Lagos

As joint oil and gas exploitation significantly heightens in the Gulf of Guinea, Ghana is about to seek proper demarcation of boundaries with her neighbours.

Ghana is currently in dispute with Cote d’Ivoire over boundary issue and has signified intention in the coming days to open negotiations with her other eastern neighbours to define its maritime boundaries.

The move is informed by huge scramble for oil and gas concessions in West Africa’s coastline.

Ghana is trying to avoid disagreements over boundaries in the future with Nigeria, Togo and Benin and would want the identified boundaries clearly demarcated.

The pre-emptive move was revealed after the country’s attorney general, Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong, announced the start of an arbitration with Cote d’Ivoire over the disputed oilrich C-100 territory, in a report published by Ghanaweb. The territory holds about two billion barrels of oil and 1.2 trillion cubic feet of gas, which Cote d’Ivoire is claiming falls within her boundaries. Several years of negotiations have failed to resolve the dispute.

Ghana remains confident of holding off the Ivorian claim when the two countries begin arbitration proceedings under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). But once bitten, twice shy, Ghana now wants to ensure that this dispute is not repeated.

The oil-producing country shares the Gulf of Guinea with

Togo, Benin and Nigeria to the east, and the Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Liberia to the west.

Kwame Nfojo of the Ghana Maritime Boundary Secretariat said over the years not much attention has been paid to these boundaries, but noted with economy-changing deposits of natural resources in the ocean beds, this was all about to change.

In a Ghana National Petroleum Corporation briefing notes, it states that “the Gulf of Guinea is proving to be one of the most prolific oil and gas provinces in the world. In the last few years, a series of new, world-class discoveries have been made, stepping out into deep water from proven near shore oil provinces in Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and Angola.

Not saved every movement is money progress; SomeDanish movements areMoney just a taken, way offreedom burning fats! ― Israelmore Ayivor Money is as good as gained.

Proverb forsaken. ― German Ayivor

September 26, 2014

17

18/ MARITIME

September 26, 2014

Japaul Boss Drops Ambition As NISA Elections Nears

Global Shipping Industry Confidence High Despite Slump Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos, with agency report

The overall confidence levels in the shipping industry fell slightly during the three months to August 2014, according to Moore Stephens’ latest Shipping Confidence Survey.

The confidence is, however, still higher than at the corresponding period 12 months ago, and confidence among charterers actually reached a six-year high, the survey shows.

“Excessive tonnage is still a major concern. The amount of anticipated significant new investment over the next 12 months was down over the three-month period as were levels of expectation with regard to improved freight rates in the dry bulk and container ship sectors. Once again, the dominating concern among respondents was the perceived adverse effect on the market of an excessive amount of tonnage,” Moore Stephens said.

The report obtained from Worldmaritimenews website, yesterday, said that in August 2014, the average confidence level expressed by respondents in the markets in which they operate was 6.1 on a scale of 1 (low) to 10 (high), down from the 6.3 recorded in May 2014. This compares to the 5.9 recorded in August 2013, and to the record high of 6.8 when the survey was launched in May 2008.

According to the survey, charterers expressed a significant increase in confidence, this time, up from 6.1 to 6.7, the highest figure recorded by this category of respondent in the life of the survey. Owners, (up from 6.1 to 6.2), were also more confident.

But confidence on the part of managers and brokers was down, from 6.5 to 6.2 and from 6.0 to 5.3.

The biggest fall in confidence was in

fact that expressed by uncategorised respondents (down from 6.7 to 5.9).

Geographically, confidence was down in all main areas canvassed by the survey. In Asia, the fall was from 6.4 to 6.0, in Europe from 6.2 to 6.1, and in North America from 6.5 to 6.2.

A number of respondents referred to the adverse effect which political and economic developments are having on the market.

“The shipping markets are still unpredictable, and much will depend on political and economic developments between certain nations and on the easing or intensifying of economic embargoes,” a respondent said.

Moore Stephens’ Shipping Partner, Richard Greiner, said, “The slight decrease in confidence recorded over the three-month period covered by the survey coincides with a deterioration in the political situation in areas of the Middle East and Ukraine. Shipping operates on a global stage, and must inevitably be affected by international events.”

“We had been anticipating a better year in 2014,” said one respondent, “but that has not materialised to date, so we now look to 2015, when we anticipate a better year with an improvement between supply and demand in terms of tonnage.”

Despite evidence to suggest that measures to reduce overtonnaging in the industry are meeting with some success, a number of respondents warned that there were still too many ships – both in service and on order – for the cargoes available. The results indicated that the likelihood of respondents making a major investment or significant development over the next 12 months was down on the previous survey on a scale of 1 to 10, from 5.8 to 5.4, the lowest

figure recorded in this respect since November 2012.

“Finance is still difficult for companies which have limited equity,” said one respondent, “so the future looks pretty uncertain in the absence of really strong global economic growth,” he added.

The figures for all categories of respondent were down, most notably in the case of charterers, who rated the prospect of new investment at just 5.5, as opposed to 6.4 three months ago.

Managers’ expectations, meanwhile, were down from 6.2 to 5.6, while owners recorded a drop from 5.8 to 5.6.

Geographically, expectation levels of major investments were down in Asia, from 5.9 to 5.2 (the lowest figure since May 2012), in Europe from 5.7 to 5.4, and from 5.9 to 5.6 in North America, where just 22 per cent of respondents rated the likelihood of making a new investment over the next 12 months at 7.0 out of 10.0 or higher, as opposed to 62 per cent in the previous survey.

Demand trends, competition and finance costs, in that order, once again featured as the top three factors cited by respondents overall as those likely to influence performance most significantly over the coming 12 months.

Greiner added, “Overall, confidence in shipping is higher than it was 12 months ago. It continues to attract investors both from within and outside the industry. Moreover, both charterers and owners, the prime movers who make the industry go round, are more confident now than they were in the previous survey. The peaks reached by the freight markets in the mid-2000s may not be achievable for the foreseeable future, but today’s industry has moved out of foothill territory and has reason to be looking up, rather than down.”

As the Nigeria Indigenous Shipowners’ Association (NISA) election continues to draws near, one of the foremost contenders and the managing director of Japaul Oil and Maritime Service Plc, Mr Paul Jegede, has dropped his ambition of contesting as the association’s president.

The election which is expected to hold on October 15, 2014, has former director-general of NIMASA, Mr Temisan Omatseye, secretary-general of NISA, Captain Niyi Labinjo, Japaul boss, Paul Jegede and Stars Investment Company’s chief executive officer, Mr Greg Ogbeifun as contestants.

But Japaul’s boss said over the telephone, yesterday, that he has dropped his ambition, citing personal reasons.

“I am no longer contesting for the position of the NISA president and it is a personal decision,” he said.

When asked whether he is dropping the ambition to enable him support another candidate, Jegede said, “I cannot disclose that to you because it is a hidden agenda.”

The highly influential association has been presided over by Chief Isaac Jolapamo since its creation about 10 years ago. Apart from the position of president, other posts to be vied for include first and second vice president, secretary, treasurer, financial secretary, legal adviser and national publicity secretary.

Customs Rakes In N2.2bn From Vehicle Import At Seme Border

By Samson Echenim, Lagos

Barely four months after the commencement of a new vehicle import transit scheme at the Seme Border, the Nigeria Customs Service has said it has collected N2.24 billion as duties and levies paid on imported vehicles through the scheme from a total of 9,229 vehicles cleared through the scheme as at 15th September, 2014.

The vehicle import transit scheme is the outcome of the meeting of directorsgeneral of Customs of proximate countries of Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria initiated by Comptroller-General Abdullahi Inde Dikko of Nigeria Customs Service held March 26, 2014.

The scheme which is in line with the Transit Code, sees all Nigerian bound vehicles imported from the affected countries handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service by the customs administration of the respective countries after due clearance.

You lament not the dead, but lament the trouble of making a grave; the way of the ghost is longer than the grave.

Antoine de Saint-Exupery, fresh writer and aviatorny

TOURISM 19

September 26, 2014

German Envoy Advocates For Cultural Dialogue

L-R: Director, National Orientation Agency, Mrs Gloria Abumere; permanent secretary, Mrs Nkechi Ejele and director of tourism, Dr Paul Adaliku, all of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation at the maiden edition of the Tourism Expo for the Hospitality Industry in Abuja recently. PHOTO BY CHIKA OKEKE

Tourism Expo: Repositioning Hospitality Industry For Global Best Practices Stories By Chika Okeke, Abuja

The tourism and hospitality sector had been grappling with the challenges of under development and less patronage with the recent insecurity that has also affected other sectors of the economy.

The sector which stands the highest chances of contributing immensely to the gross domestic product (GDP) has been relegated to the background while the potential inherent in the sector had remained untapped.

This was one of the major reason the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation gathered experts from both the government and private sectors for the maiden edition of Tourism Expo for the Hospitality Industry to brainstorm on how to reposition the industry for global best practices and job creation.

Speaking on the theme, “Tourism Expo for the Hospitality Industry to Boost Local and International Patronage as well as for Employment Generation,” in Abuja, the minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke, noted that tourism was a huge part of the economy which has the potential to contribute significantly to the national economy. Duke, who was represented by the permanent secretary, Mrs Nkechi Ejele, said the expo was part of President Goodluck Jonathan’s commitment towards repositioning the industry to serve as a catalyst for wealth generation, job creation and poverty alleviation.

“It will further provide a solid platform to brainstorm on upcoming trends and innovations in global tourism, proffer solution to the challenges confronting the tourism and hospitality industry as well as to review the impact of different

policies in the tourism sector,” Duke said.

He added that though Nigeria has enormous potential, the challenge ahead was to unlock the potential, stressing that the country was committed to tourism development.

“The country has enormous potentials and endowment and so our challenge is to make the most of these advantages, boost tourism earnings because Nigeria is committed to tourism development and determined to grow the industry for the benefit of the nation,” Duke said.

He encouraged the hospitality sectors to collaborate in order to create an era of sustainable tourism, improve the business environment and be proactive in offering quality services.

The minister added, “Over the years, the hospitality industry has shown its commitment towards ensuring a better service delivery and is also working in synergy with other relevant stakeholders in aviation, trade and investment and agriculture to raise the capacity of the sector.

“The essence of this expo is to bring together stakeholders in the sector to synergise on the way forward towards repositioning the sector to attract more local and international tourists to our sites, thereby increasing earnings for the sector and to likewise proffer solutions on how to address some of the challenges confronting the hospitality sector.

On her part, the permanent secretary’s speech, read by the director of National Orientation Agency, Mrs Gloria Abumere, stated that she was convinced that the expo would not only chart a way forward for greater cooperation among the sector but would also serve as a catalyst towards repositioning and galvanising the sector for national

growth and development. She reiterated the resolve of the ministry to partner with stakeholders, saying that their support would connect Nigeria with the League of Nations that would reap inexhaustible benefits from the tourism and hospitality sectors notwithstanding the current security challenges.

In his presentation, titled, “Domestic Tourism: Catalyst for Rural Development in Nigeria,” a stakeholder in the industry, Mr Elijah Benjamin, suggested collaboration between tourism administrators at the federal, states and local government levels with a view to developing the tourism resources located in rural communities so as to improve the living conditions of the poor.

Earlier, in a statement made available to LEADERSHIP Friday to commemorate the International Peace Day, the minister called on Nigerians to embrace peace and eschew violence even as he appealed to insurgents to lay down their arms in the interest of peace and harmony in the country. He said that though Nigeria was yearning for sustainable development and economic emancipation, no nation can develop meaningfully in an atmosphere of wars, conflicts, bitterness and rancor.

Duke requested that the international community should join hands with the federal government to win the war against terrorism, saying that the world can no longer watch as spectators due to the snowball effects of terrorism.

According to him, “Nigeria is at a crossroad with the unity of our nation under serious threat because of the raging wave of terrorism, insurgency, insurrection, arson, ritual killings, kidnapping, rape and all sorts of man’s inhumanity to man.”

The ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, Michael Zenner, has advocated for cultural dialogue between Germany, Nigeria and other African countries in a bid to improve the bilateral relationship with African countries.

He stated this at an event organised by the German Embassy, in collaboration with the Polish Embassy, to celebrate their excellent relations in a United Europe and the opening of a photography exhibition of photographs taken by Nigerian photographers who were sponsored on a trip to Berlin and Warsaw by the embassies.

According to him, “We invited young photographers and bloggers to see how Berlin and Warsaw look like. Their works are really amazing because they were able to bring out the fascinating places in Germany and Poland.

He noted that the German foreign Ministry initiated a special cultural initiative with Africa in order to showcase African artists to Germans and German artists to Africans, saying that the major component of cultural exchange were the exchange of views and ideas.

On his part, the ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Nigeria, Przemysław Niesiołowski, noted that the essence of the exhibition was to celebrate the excellent relations between Poland and Germany and pass a message across to Nigeria that despite their differences, they would always emerge victorious.

According to him, “The essence was to show it to Nigerians so they can see it through Nigerian eyes such that no matter the differences in the past there is always hope for future cooperation, understanding and beneficial relations.

CACT To Unveil Mixed Media Exhibition The founder, Centre for Art and Creative Talent (CACT), Aisha Augie-Kuta, has disclosed plans to unveil her maiden Mixed Media exhibition tagged, ‘Alternative Evil’ at the International Institute for Creative Development (IICD), Abuja.

Addressing newsmen, she noted that the expo billed for November 13, was designed to create awareness on the dangers inherent in smoking, especially among youths, saying that plans are underway to extend the message to the grassroots.

The award winning photographer regretted that the federal government has refused to effect a ban on smoking despite advertorials by concerned citizens on health-related problems associated with smoking cigarette and the newest form of smoking called vaping.

She added, “My interest on the subject stems from my personal work with teenagers between the ages of 14 and 19, and 90 per cent of whom find the idea of smoking “cool.”

Insurgency: Sukur World Heritage Site Records Zero Tourist The director of Administration, Adamawa State Agency for Museums and Monuments, Mr Ibrahim Obadiah, has lamented that since the beginning of insurgency the Sukur Cultural landscape, Adamawa, had recorded no tourists.

In an interview with LEADERSHIP Friday, he noted that “since the beginning of the crisis, the Sukur Cultural landscape, Adamawa, which is one of the World Heritage Sites enlisted by the United Nations Organisation for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) has received no patronage because tourists have refused to visit because of the crisis.

“We usually record between 1-500 tourists visiting Adamawa every year before the crisis. But now, we have not recorded any tourist so far since the beginning of the crisis,” Obadiah said.

The system will always be defended by those countless people who have enough intellect to defend but not quite enough to innovate.

Edward de Bono, Maltese physician, author, inventor and consultant.

20 motoring

September 26, 2014

Toyoya Aygo

Auto Policy: Is Toyota Missing In Action?

Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos

The ongoing implementation of the revived National Automotive Policy by the federal government is receiving needed attention by all stakeholders, including automobile companies and their representatives in Nigeria.

Many of the leading players in the industry have already expressed their support and desire to deepen the investment plans for vehicle assembling in the country.

Already, firms such as Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN), Innoson Motor Company and Stallion Nissan Motors Nigeria have since rolled out car brands assembled in their Kaduna, Nnewi and Lagos plants respectively as the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) takes its course to transform the automobile industry.

According to the director-general of the National Automotive Council (NAC), Mr Aminu Jalal, the response to the policy by industry investors has exceeded the expectations of the agency which is responsible for the implementation of the auto policy.

“The existing assembly plants have a new lease of life with the VON assembling the Nissan and Hyundai vehicles and PAN resuming assembly of Peugeot cars,” Jalal said in a recent statement to the media.

However, industry experts have raised eye brows about the seeming lukewarm response

by Toyota Nigeria Limited to the federal government’s plan to developing the local automobile industry.

“Toyota alone takes up to 40 per cent share of patronage by Nigerian car owners.

Naturally, we expect a company like Toyota to lead other motor companies in investing into the auto policy plan because it is a brand of first choice for many Nigerians,” said a dealer of the brand in Lagos, Alhaji Ahmed Toju.

According to Mr Martins Ekeh, an automobile importer, Toyota cannot afford to miss out from the present scheme of things in the industry, as the policy will soon make importation of cars unattractive.

“I think that sometimes, Toyota may be tempted to think that the brand is so apt to remain where it is today. This is not to be with what we are seeing in the industry today,” Ekeh said. “The Hyundai brand is taking the Nigerian market by the storm. So is the Kia brand, whose distributors already have begun assembling here in Nigeria from

the information reaching us. The Peugeot is back too, all for Nigerian market and made in Nigeria,” he said.

But a Toyota Nigeria official said the company is in alignment with the automobile policy, but declined to state tangible moves

by Toyota to begin assemblage of vehicles in Nigeria.

“I cannot speak on the company’s plan regarding whether it is assembling vehicles in Nigeria, but I do know that we align with the federal government’s automobile policy,” the source said.

Meanwhile the NAC said in a recent statement that government had not reneged on its promise to shift the implementation process of certain aspects of the NAIDP till January 2015.

NAC DG, Jalal, said the federal government had only extended the concession on the importation of used vehicles only by another six months till 31st December, 2014.

He said, “This was because up to three out of four imported cars are used and time needs to be given to the assembly plants to produce affordable vehicles to replace the imported used ones. Unfortunately, this levy on new cars was misinterpreted to mean that all vehicles, including new FBU (fully built units) imports were exempt from levies until 31stDecember 2014.

“This could not have been the case because existing and new entrants into the assembling process under the NAIDP had started to roll out new products at competitive rates. As a result of continuous inflow of new FBUs without restriction occasioned by this misinterpretation, assemblers began to cut down on orders for assembly kits and this has the potential to derail the policy.

“Action taken was therefore urgent.

Government decided to clear this misinterpretation. Given this clarification, the Nigerian Custom Service (NCS) has been thus guided in their operations.

Council wishes to reassure Nigerians that new vehicles have been stockpiled under the NAIDP awaiting buyers and there is therefore no need to fear adverse rise in prices.”

The DG however stated that a special package under the NAIDP was being worked out for dealers who had made some commitments to enable them import new FBUs at concessionary import duty rates (minus the levy) until they set up local assembly operations.

Don’t take the straight path or the winding path. Take the path your ancestors have taken.”

Roger von Oech, American author, inventor and speaker

AGRICULTURE /21

September 26, 2014

AgriC REPORT

Ban On Hide Will Preserve Leather Industry –Experts The recent outcry by Nigerians over the alleged ban on hide, popularly known as Pomo, consumption has put the federal government on the defensive as it tells citizens that the commodity has no nutritional value, Ruth Tene Natsa writes.

pomo, even though it is a protein (mainly collagen fibres and cornified epithelium), it is a very poor protein that does not do what protein

Any child before the age of six fed pomo as the sole dietary protein cannot develop some critical areas of the brain to the fullest.

“Similarly, after six years such areas will develop into scars, which will not recover even if rich protein sources such as fish, beef, eggs, milk and vegetable proteins are fed to the child.

“The child, subsequently, loses a great deal of his mental faculty forever.”

These are the words of the director, Federal Department of Animal Production and Husbandry Services, Chika Nwabueze, who says pomo Lacks any nutritional benefit. Even though it is a protein (mainly collagen fibres and cornified epithelium), it is a very poor protein that does not do what protein from beef, milk, fish or eggs will do in building muscles and other vital organs of the body in growing children, or maintain adequate health in adults.

Defining pomo he said it is derived from hides and a material critical for tanneries where raw hides and skins are turned into leather which is in turn used for manufacturing car seats, winter coats, bags, shoes, belts, caps, home furniture and so many more.

The value of leather as a highly priced global export commodity which rakes in billions of dollars for countries endowed with livestock resources as Nigeria is in no doubt.

But then pomo is a special delicacy in Nigeria, most common among the Yorubas but eaten by almost every Nigerian, irrespective of class, age or religion, even though it offers no nutritional benefit as a protein. Speaking on the need to develop the nation’s leather industry, Nwabueze argued that no country can have a healthy economy without exports, or else how does a country meet its Balance of Payments (BOP)?

Leather is the leading non oil foreign exchange earner for Nigeria.

“Leather from a single cattle hide can be used to manufacture no less than 20 of the popular type of men’s shoes in Mongoro market, Lagos, sold at N15,000 each, thus yielding N300,000 per hide. The trims from this leather will also be used to manufacture no less than 100 assorted leather wrist watch straps sold at N50O each, again fetching N50,000. In addition, the offcuts will yield no less than 1,000 leather key holders sold at N100 each, giving N10,000 revenue. The fact is that a complete hide from an adult large-sized cattle tanned into leather can be used to manufacture different leather products that will fetch no less than N450,000 and provide employment for Nigerians.

Other products in the value chain are car upholstery, aircraft upholstery, leather wallets, leather bags, leather coats, belts, caps, winter boots, armed forces boots, home furniture, etc. The 5,000 cattle hides per day if translated into leather products will fetch no less than N624 billion locally aside foreign exchange earnings and jobs created. Combined with sheep and goats skins from an average of 15,000 heads slaughtered per day, leather potential in Lagos State alone can fetch not less than $5

billion in value added products.

He maintained that the need to control pomo consumption to build the leather industry is because the tanneries as at now cannot access raw hides and skins due to their uncompetitive price offers. Nigeria still imports a great deal of leather products ranging from Armed Forces shoes, belts, bags and many others. A vibrant leather industry will save the country substantial foreign exchange which will strengthen our currency.

Similarly, the registrar to the Nigerian Veterinary Council, Mr Marcus Avong, said if the sole purpose of eating beef or cow meat is to meet the protein requirements of the body, then eating pomo has no impact as its protein content is almost zero.

“If the sole purpose of eating meat is to meet the animal protein requirement, then pomo is the worse alternative. It is a bad option because the quantity of protein in it is very low. The only reason for eating it is just to satisfy a crave,” Avong said.

He said that no matter how cheap pomo is, compared to buying beaf, chicken or turkey, it makes no sense consuming it because it will just be a case of being penny wise and pound foolish (that is saving money to buy what is cheap and yet useless.

Speaking on the quality of Nigerian leather, Dr Marcus said “the hide/skin coming from Nigeria is of high quality and standard and can compete with international standard. The veterinary doctor was of the opinion that the quality of a hide and skin can be marred by poor flaying, dematophilosis (disease of the hide), skin diseases and fungal infections among others.

C’River Awards Water Contract worth N2.4bn

By Lanre Arotimi, Calabar

Cross River State Government yesterday awarded a N2.4 billion contract for the construction and expansion of the Okpoma, Yala, water scheme.

This is coming barely a month after the government awarded contracts for two other water schemes, including the Phase 2 of the Ikom Water project.

While signing the contract document, the state commissioner of water resources, Mr Elemi Etowa, said it was part of efforts to attain the 2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of providing potable water to the populace.

“All the necessary facilities in terms of funding needed to actualise the remaining water projects have been secured from donor agencies and we are working towards the full implementation of the various projects within the shortest possible time.

“At the exit of the Imoke-led administration, we will surpass our target of delivering potable water to 80 per cent of the urban populace and 80 per cent to rural dwellers through our intervention in Rural Water and Sanitation Agency (RUWATSA),” Etowa said.

In his remarks, Governor Liyel Imoke, expressed joy at the successful implementation of the various water projects across the state. He said, “this particular project is very significant because it covers over 14 communities in a very challenging terrain.”

The governor noted that the importance of the Public Private Partnership towards meeting the basic need of the masses cannot be overemphasised.

“As a matter of policy in the state, we believe that water projects should be maintained under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis with the engagement of operators who will sustain the scheme and ensure quality service delivery to the masses.”

Responding, the director, South-South Operation, CGC (Nig) Ltd, Mr William Yan, thanked the state government for the contract award and promised to execute the project on time.

“We are grateful for the trust and confidence reposed in our company by the state government. We promise to reciprocate this gesture by delivering according to specification and on time,” Yan said.

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY

world news REPORTS AND ANALYSIS OF GLOBAL EVENTS AND ISSUES September 26, 2014

Sierra Leone Widens Ebola Quarantine To 3 More Districts

By Iroka Ugochukwu, With Agency Report

Sierra Leone’s President Ernest Bai Koroma has widened a quarantine to include another one million people in an attempt to curb the spread of Ebola.

The northern districts of Port Loko and Bombali, and Moyamba in the south, will in effect be sealed off immediately.

Nearly 600 people have died of the virus in Sierra Leone and two eastern districts have been isolated since the beginning of August.

The move follows a three-day nationwide lockdown that ended on Sunday night.

New figures released by the UN World Health Organization show

that 2,917 people have died in the current Ebola outbreak in West Africa, with Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea worst affected.

Two eastern districts have already been isolated and the extension of the indefinite quarantine means more than a third of Sierra Leone’s 6.1 million population now finds itself unable to move freely.

During Sierra Leone’s threeday curfew, more than a million households were surveyed and 130 new cases discovered, the authorities say.

In a bid to combat the deadly epidemic, United States Secretary of State, John Kerry has elected former US ambassador to India, Nancy Powell to lead the

Health workers getting hosed down before entering quarantine units.

Ebola Coordination Unit at the Department of State. In this role, Ambassador Powell will lead the State Department’s outreach to international partners, including foreign governments, to ensure a speedy and truly global response

By Iroka Ugochukwu, With Agency Report

Female pilot, Major Mariam al-Mansouri, who has taken part in strikes against IS pictured in her F-16 fighter jet earlier this summer.

Obama’s Syrian Airstrikes Get Clinton’s Approval

Former President Bill Clinton told CNN he agrees with President Barack Obama’s decision to authorize airstrikes against the terrorist group ISIS and arm Syrian rebels working to defeat them.

During a panel hosted

by CNN’s Erin Burnett at the Clinton Global Initiative on Wednesday, the former president unequivocally said, “I support what they (the Obama administration) are doing.”

“I personally believe the way they have thought this through and planned it and limited our involvement,

avoids ISIS achieving their objective of suckering us into their fight,” Clinton said of the airstrikes. “We should give support for people who are fighting for their lives.”

Meanwhile, US-led air strikes have targeted oil refineries controlled by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group in eastern Syria for a third day, US officials say.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE joined in the strikes by piloted and drone aircraft targeting facilities around al-Mayadeen, alHasakah, and Albu Kamal, the US military said.

At least 14 ISIL fighters and five civilians were killed in the strikes,

General Assembly: World Goes Against Boko Haram, Al-Qaeda, Others ABIODUN OLUWAROTIMI, New York

This year’s Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York is almost the toughest for terrorist groups like Boko Haram, Alqaeda, Al-Shabab and others as virtually all the Heads of governments speaking during the 69th Session have indicated interests to join efforts to decisively combat the menace.

Led by the United States president, Mr. Barrack Obama and United Nations Secretary-General, Mr.

Ban Ki-moon, Heads of governments like the British Prime Minister David Cameron, South Africa president Jacob Zuma, Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, leaders from the Gulf and Middle East regions, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, King Abdullah II respectively, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sis, and others informed the General Assembly on the need for a unified efforts to phase out terrorists from

the globe.

Obama in his 20 minutes address lauded the Nigerian government for all its efforts to aid the fight against terrorism in Nigeria and the entire Africa, urging participants to join hands with the United Nations and ensure that they make the war against extremism a major priority.

The US leader added that the terrorist group known as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) must be degraded, and ultimately destroyed.

to the crisis.

Powell also has previously served as the State Department’s Senior Coordinator for Avian Influenza, a role for which she was honoured with the Homeland Security Service to America Medal in 2006. the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported.

Only hours later after the raids, David Cameron, the UK prime minister, told the UN General Assembly that Britain should join the US-led air strikes against the ISIL in Iraq, adding that his country’s parliament had been recalled to secure approval.

Iraq’s prime minister has said his country’s intelligence officials have uncovered a plot to attack underground rail systems in the US and Paris.

Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said, yesterday, he was told foreign fighters among the Islamic State group in Iraq were plotting an “imminent” attack.

Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, he told reporters that the details he had received looked credible.

264

Three Al Jazeera staff; Peter Greste, Baher Mohamed and Mohamed Fahmy have been imprisoned for 264 days in Egypt.

300

A search and rescue operation is under way off Cyprus for 300 people stranded at sea who authorities suspect may be refugees from Syria.

You can’t claim heaven as your own if you are just going to sit under it.

40,000 Nigerian Households To Benefit From US Development Initiative ...As Nigeria, switzerland sign agreement to improve migration policies

By Iroka Ugochukwu, Abuja

The US government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID),has launched a five-year, $20 million project that will improve local economic development and increase the incomes of 42,000 households, contributing to President Obama’s Feed the Future Initiative to end global hunger and extreme poverty.

Working with six Nigerian civil society organizations, the Support to Vulnerable Household Accelerated Revenue Earnings (SHARE) program aims to increase agricultural productivity, elevate income and wealth, reduce poverty, and improve nutrition habits in several communities for the benefit of women and children. The project will provide Nigerians with the skills to engage effectively in the local economy and break free from the cycle of poverty and malnutrition.

During a ceremony in Sokoto State to inaugurate the program, US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Maria Brewer promoted a strong US-Nigeria partnership. “Government plays an important role in building prosperous communities and thriving households. This work creates a long-lasting impact by setting the foundation needed to support Nigeria’s continued development,” said Mrs Brewer.

The Global Programme on Migration and Development (GPMD) of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), a governmental agency of the Swiss Government, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) of Nigeria signed today in Abuja, Nigeria an agreement to support the Commission in institutionalizing the National Migration Dialogue as a platform for effective and inclusive migration governance in Nigeria.

23

September 26, 2014

THE

ELECTABLES On September 30th, 2014

Who

Makes The List?

The best among Nigeria’s politicians; the best among those who aspire for political and elective office; the most popular candidates; the traiblazers; Nigeria ‘s most presentable candidates and those who have the vision and sense of mission to lead.

This is a must read!

LANRE

A

ADEGBOYE

08034098480

JOSHUA WAHEED

08032083633 08033705561

08130077135

SPECIAL PROJECTS PUBLI CATION

24

September 26, 2014

Bernard Okhakume MC & A Weekly Digest market consumer advertising 08053040003

mcaandadigestweekly@gmail.com

OOh Advertising In Africa: Prospects & Challenges (2) llegal and Willful Destruction: Indiscriminate and incessant disruption of operations by government agents sometimes on such ridiculous excuses as: the Governor’s directive; failure to pay as when due, etc., - Prevalence of miscreants: We are helpless because government appears undisturbed, and so unwilling to check them, - Non-availability of sources of funding for Expansion: The industry is highly capital intensive, but sources of funding, especially from financial institutions are near non-existent, - Delayed Payments by Clients/Advertisers, - Unhealthy Competition by the Regulators: There is direct competition by some of the agencies with operators in the industry they also regulate. A case of the referee also being the Team Manager of one of the contending teams!

- Revenue Now Over and Above Environmental Issues: The coming of Signage Agencies has, in some cases, compounded the environmental challenges that outdoor advertising practice was accused of, and which was the basis of which the agencies were set up. Obviously, it is all in the drive for more revenue, - Unwholesome Pact between Signage

Agencies & Certain Foreign Operators: One by-product of the high-level of corruption in the continent is the unwholesome pact with foreign operators and suppliers. It is common experience that local operators would be denied approval to develop certain locations, and eventually foreign operators (not better in any way that their local counterparts) would allowed the use of such locations • • -

-

The list is in exhaustive!

EFFECTS OF THESE CHALLENGES: Snuffing life out of the business SMEs are shut out as rates are unbearably exorbitant (no thanks to the exorbitant rates of Signage Agencies) Clients abandoning the OOH Media and are now moving to other platforms Increasing the unemployment situation in the land Stunted creativity Encouraging, promoting and openly rewarding corruption WAY OUT, AND THE WAY FORWARD: There is URGENT need for governments to review the current arm-twisting approach to the issues of regulation, control and revenue drive Operators to insist on continual En-

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

Plantain farming and growing plantain are easier and less complicated than any other plantation. Although growing plantain still require ones attention, the level of skill required is not as intensive as other trees. You might be wondering how Plantain Farming can make you millions of naira yearly and we say, with a very little capital, if you are serious to make serious money, how to plant plantain and market it with ease here in Nigeria and Abroad is an opportunity you have to cash in.

The first thing to consider in starting a plantain farm is looking for the right climate. Plantain cannot thrive in an environment that is too hot or too cold. The ideal climate for plantain is the tropical climate with temperature ranging from 26 to 30 degrees Celsius. Below 14 degrees and the plantain would die. Plantain plants also need good irrigation and humidity. The plantain plantation must have a good drainage system. A rich, natu-

Agbaji@yahoo.com

rally fertilized soil is the ideal for planting plantain. If such is not available, one can create compost and add chicken manure.

Plantain plants are grown through suckers. Suckers are those that grow from a dying, mature plantain plant that can be transplanted and re-grown. They may be considered as baby plants that are used to start new plantain plants. Choose suckers from plants that are vigorous. They should have small, spear shaped leaves and are about four feet high (high bred). Plant these and cut or decapitate the sucker to facilitate good evaporation. Keep around two to five meters between planted suckers. In the early days of your plant, keep them moist but not too wet as they don’t have leaves yet to evaporate the water.

THE OPPORTUNITIES IN PLANTAINS FARMING PLANTAIN: Plantain farming is a very lucrative business as a bunch of plantain sells between N650 and N1, 500 depending on the size. When you buy the suckers you will not buy it again an-

-

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gagement Government Agencies and departments Advert permit fees are a form of Taxes and should, therefore, be a reasonable % (NOT more than 15%) of actual revenue derivable from each billboard site Unengaged sites should not attract any fees (otherwise it becomes exploitative and arm twisting) Only professionals duly registered by APCON should practice in any area of the industry, including being appointed as the helmsman in any of the Agencies There should collaboration based on mutual trust among the Signage Agencies and the Outdoor Advertising Association of Nigeria (and its equivalent in the continent) to foster improved relationships, better understanding, and accomplishment of objectives

Investing in modern technology without doing away with the traditional static boards, Promotion of Out of Home Media education should be the joint responsibility of all stakeholders.

Conclusions: Outdoor Advertising is undoubtedly the oldest platform for marketing communication purposes will continue to exist and it will to improve for the reason that it will continue to take advantage of technological advancement to enhance the impact of the marketing communications engagements of advertisers. It will also continue to make remarkable contributions to the economic growth of the Nations of Africa as more and more people will be attracted to the practice and depend on it for their livelihood. It is therefore wisdom for agencies and departments of government in the continent not to stifle the growth of this industry through excessive taxation and draconian control and regulation.

Thank You All for your time.

CHARLES CHIJIDE, frpa; fdm; (and some day by His Grace IPP) President, OUTDOOR ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA ➔ CONCLUDED

Plantain Plantation Multi Million Naira Business Venture

ymore because you will be getting them from the ones that grow from your farm onwards. The beauty of this business is that you can sell it directly to the market people at a higher price from your farm.

You can also export it to other countries in Africa and the rest of the world. You can start with a plot of land and that depends on the capital you have. We advise that you start with a plot of land and then increase the farming space when you see that your level of income is increasing.

PLANTAIN SUCKER SELLS/PLANTING: As agriculture has become a business there is division of labor/specialization now that gives room for any Agribusiness entrepreneurs to make money, you can sell and plant plantain suckers to prospective farmers who wants to farm plantain.

PLANTAIN CHIPS PRODUCTION: A plantain chip is one of the easiest businesses you can start in Nigeria if you want to generate quick cash right at

The costly news of today will be free tomorrow. — English proverb

home. Plantain is readily available in the country especially in the south/middle belt regions of Nigeria; you can buy from the open market or from an agroproducts broker.

PLANTAIN FLOOR PRODUCTION: Plantain flour has become a popular food today as a result of the increasing number of diabetics’ patients in the country.

Plantain is the only raw material needed and machineries for processing and packaging.

AGROPODUCTS BROKER:As a cooperate broker you don’t need to have a farm before you start making money from plantain, all you need to do is to look for plantain market which is readily available all over the country and abroad, then make contact with the farmers who have farmed.

PLANTAIN SELLING: This selling directly to final consumers in the market who uses it at home for food (frying, cooking and roasting).

FRIDAY EXTRA September 26, 2014

By Abba Abubakar Kabara

T

INSIDE

he 11 of us were undergoing graduate and undergraduate courses in various universities and other institutions in Nigeria when we were removed by the Kaura Namoda local council (Zamfara) chairman who sent us to Uganda for a five-year degree course, but now we are stranded due to his failure to pay the tuition fees, take care of accommodation and feeding,” cried Munir Abubakar, one of the students now stranded in Kampala, Uganda.

The 11 students, including a 22-yearold woman, all of Kaura Namoda local government area of Zamfara State, were selected from a number of indigent families within the local government and sponsored to study medicine and surgery, nursing and other relevant disciplines at the Kampala International University, Uganda.

The students, who are entitled to a monthly amount of N20,000, were sent to the East African country in February this year for a five-year study under a bond that at the end of their studies, they will serve the local government area for a compulsory period of three years, after which they will decide if they will continue working with the local government or serve elsewhere.

Five of the students who spoke to LEADERSHIP FRIDAY over the phone from Uganda, each confirmed that all the 11 students now face threats of ejection from their rented hostels for non-payment of their rent, as well as other basic accommodation and feeding requirements. Worse, their academic programmes are threatened, as they cannot continue with their studies. The university authority has stopped them from participating in the examinations.

Munir Abubakar of Sarkin Baura Ward, Kaura Namoda local government, who spoke on behalf of the stranded students, revealed that 10 of them sponsored to study medical courses while one other was to undergo computer training. “To our disappointment, we were denied taking our examinations after completing the prescribed six-month basic class as a pre-requisite to pass onto the degree programme,” he said.

When the students demanded to know why they had been exempted from participating in the preliminary examinations, the university authority informed them that their tuition fees were not paid by the council chairman.

However, after they pleaded for leniency, they sat for the exams in which three of them made the acquired grades to qualify for the degree programme.

Abubakar alleged that two of those who had failed their preliminary exams are related to the chairman, but were favoured to change their courses of study, with their tuition fees paid. “The rest of us who were not so privileged were given return tickets which expired on Thursday, September 25, 2014 and N5000 each to facilitate our movement from Kampala to our local govern-

Group picture of the eleven students (fore front) taken with the Council Chaiman just before departing for Uganda last February.

Nigerian Students Stranded In Uganda ments. We are pleading with the state government to help us continue our studies, even if it means registering us with the private university in Katsina,” he complained.

Abubakar also revealed that all of them were studying in various higher institutions and were either part two or part three students before they were enrolled in the Ugandan university.

While narrating his version of events, the local government chairman, Alhaji Lawali Muhammad Liman, denied all the allegations, dismissing them as “a politically instigated attempt to score cheap political points”.

He added that though he is aware of the “political forces behind the whole issue, [there is] no way they can distract me from what me and my council believe is good for the people”.

Liman, who availed LEADERSHIP FRIDAY of some documents, revealed that the programme was borne out of the need to have qualified medical staff to improve health care delivery in the local government, He said that, as part of the plan, a committee of trusted community leaders was formed to source for eleven qualified candidates from poor families whose education could scarcely be funded by their indigent parents.

“These candidates were short-listed

for the programme on the condition that they will work hard to justify the commonwealth spent on their studies and, also, on a bond that at the end of their studies, they will serve the local community for a compulsory period of three years.

“Regrettably, however, five of the candidates namely; Isa Saminu, Abubakar Munir, Umar Hamisu Sirajo, Abubakar Bello and Isa Bello failed to measure up and the institution advised that they discontinue their programmes,” Liman narrated.

Liman further explained that the affected students were given the opportunity to register for, at least, a diploma course in a health-related discipline, to prevent them from totally losing out.

“The refused and pressed for a change to either computer studies or other courses which do not fall within the services need of the local community,” he revealed.

He further explained that all the correspondence between him, the university authority and the students were not done informally, but were fully documented. “I have personal records to support my actions,” he said.

Liman produced some hand-written documents under-signed by the some parents and guardians of the failed students, in which they consented to

the need for them to return home. “It sounds very irrational and unfair for me to continue wasting public resources on projects that will not yield the desired result,” he reasoned.

“These affected students are not only constitutional citizens of the local government; they are entitled to all rights, privileges and protection by the authority by virtue of their birth. It is in view of this that we arranged to transfer them to a private university in Katsina, so that they can return home and continue with their education,” Liman explained.

Liman insisted that the students were being “politically instigated” and “I am sure that if they will be honest enough to tell the truth about the situation, there will be a different story,” he said, maintaining that all the noise being made about the issue could not be a threat to his plans to improve the socioeconomic state of his people.

Liman pointed out that, from the initial stage, the programme plan was conceived and executed in collaboration with and under the supervision of the local government’s elders, including the emir of the district and other important personalities. “So, you see, it would not be possible for me alone to arbitrarily manipulate the discontinuation and the return of the students,” he disclosed.

Best Places to see Fall foliage Big Questions & Answers nobel ultimate top list Why... answers to scientific questions

26 feature

September 26, 2014

Ibeku youths c elebrating the new yam festival

New Yam Festival In Ibeku Elicits Joy, Feasting And Peace The new yam festival is one of the famous celebrations in Ibeku kingdom in Umuahia North local government area of Abia state. Being one of the earliest settlers in Igboland, when the people of Ibeku celebrate their annual new yam festival, it is assumed that the festival has been celebrated in every community in Igboland, writes MIKE UBANI.

T

he months of August and September are considered as important months in most communities in the SouthEast geo-political zone, which is home to the Igbo of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states. These are the months set aside for the celebrations of new yam festivals in various communities in the zone.

In Igboland, and perhaps elsewhere in the country, yam is regarded as the king of all farm crops. It is a man’s crop. And to illustrate the importance of the crop, the more yams a man has in his barn, the higher his status in the society.

Some communities in Igboland have created such titles as ‘Ejeji’ (king of yams), ‘Nnaji, (father of yams), and ‘Okogbuo’ (great yam farmer), to underscore the importance of the crop and to promote its cultivation.

The people of Ibeku ancestral kingdom in Umuahia North local government area of Abia state constitute one of the major communities in Igboland famed for yam cultivation.

It is very important that we give them the best in accordance with what is happening in the country Ibeku people are blessed with vast farmland, and they have not hesitated to put the land into productive even before the coming of the British colonial masters to Igboland.

In fact, the land where Umuahia – the capital of Abia state is situated - is owned

by Ibeku people – and before the British conquest of the territory – the land was known as ‘Ala-ocha Ibeku’, and was predominantly used to cultivate yams and other crops.

According to Prince Benjamin B. Apugo, the ‘Ochiagha Ibeku’ (warlord of Ibeku), Ibeku – the man who founded Ibeku kingdom, was a notable warrior whose troops conquered several

communities in the present day Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, and consequently established settlements in the conquered territories.

This explains why today communities such as Ibeku Ngwa, Ibeku Opi-Nsukka, and Ibeku Mbaise, are found outside the present day Ibeku clan in Abia state. And one peculiarity among the inhabitants of these communities is cultivation of yams and ancillary farm crops.

Prince Apugo, a descendant of the founder of Ibekuland, and currently a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), said that when warfare and territorial conquests where no longer fashionable, Ibeku people embarked on large scale cultivation of yams and other farm crops to keep themselves busy. He also said that the proclivity for farming, especially yam cultivation, has remained part of the people’s way of life for several centuries.

Also in their book titled “Ibeku in Igbo History”, O. N. Njoku, P. Murray, C. Park, U. B. Ekwe, and A. Ogbonna, write that “after the turbulent years of warfare and conquests, the Ibeku kingdom stabilized.

There was relative peace and people settled down to mind their farms.

“Apart from demonstrating his prowess in a war, an Ibeku man was not fully recognized by people until he married a wife or wives, built his own home and acquired a large yam barn where he tied rows of yams which he proudly exhibited and advertised to his visitors”.

He who can persuade someone not to gamble has earned money for him.

And such exhibitions usually take place every year during the month of August or September when the people of Ibeku kingdom celebrate their new yam festival.

This year’s new yam festival which took place on August 27, attracted several Ibeku sons and daughters from within and outside the country including Governor Theodore Orji of Abia state.

The governor hails from Ibeku.

Andrew Ikeokwuadighim Nwoko, 109, the ‘Ezeji 1 of Ibeku’, and the oldest man in Ibekuland, told LEADERSHIP FRIDAY that the new yam festival was an inheritance from Ibeku, the founder of Ibekuland, whom he described as a great warrior and legendary farmer. He said the new yam festival marked the end of ‘unwu’ (famine) season, and signifies the beginning of a period of plentiful supply of food.

According to the authors of ‘Ibeku in Igbo History’, “whenever the Ibeku people celebrate their new yam festival, people publicize the event by announcing that Igbo ‘Eriele ji’, meaning that the Igbo people have performed the rituals of new yam.

“The deduction from this is that the ritual performed by the Ibeku people for the ‘Iri ji’ festival (New Yam Festival) is on behalf of themselves and other Igbo people. The indication is that this is a carry-over from the days of Ibeku kingdom when the Ibeku people were in control of much of Igboland. It is also an

— Chinese Proverb

continued on next page

feature 27

September 26, 2014

New Yam Festival In Ibeku Elicits Joy, Feasting And Peace from previous page

indication that the Ibeku are among the early settlers of Igboland”.

Prince Apugo – one of the descendants of Ibeku, performs the rituals to herald the commencement of the new yam festival at a compound called ‘Egwu Ibeku’ which is located at Isieke-Ibeku – the headquarters of Ibekuland. As soon as the rituals are carried out, the people are free to cook as well as eat the new yam.

“This is a day when we feel extremely happy because this new yam festival is a culture that we inherited from Ibeku himself, the founder of Ibeku kingdom.

“Nobody, whether you are a Christian or a Moslem should play with the culture of his people, because we need to teach our children where they are coming from and the mores of the society so that they will become useful citizens when they grow up”, said Prince Apugo, who also holds the revered title of ‘OparaukwuIbeku’, (first son of Ibeku).

And apparently to immortalize the founder of Ibeku Kingdom, Prince Apugo in 2003, built a magnificent dome inside ‘Egwu-Ibeku’, believed to be the living and burial place of Ibeku.

The place also served as a take-off point when Ibeku people were going to war, and where they come back to display their trophies – human heads cut during each war they were involved in.

Today, the dome serves as a symbol of unity for all sons and daughters of Ibeku living in the country and in the Diaspora, as well as those who trace their lineage to Ibeku-land.

According to High Chief Austin Okey Nwankwo of Isieke-Ibeku, “the new yam festival is a time when every Ibeku son and daughter show love to one another; when we visit one another to present farm crops of all kinds as well as cash. It is also a period of joy and a period when we preach to our people the essence of peace, having gone through several turbulent wars in the past”.

Indeed, this year’s Ibeku new yam festival was celebrated with pomp and pageantry. Several hundreds of youths, men, women and children, some of them dressed in traditional attires, danced for several hours along the Umuahia-Bende Road, before proceeding to the community square where several cultural dancing groups took turns to thrill the ecstatic audience.

Later in the day, the ‘Ekpe and Okonko title holders, paid a courtesy call on ‘Ochiagha Ibeku’ to demonstrate their loyalty and support to his leadership of Ibeku Kingdom. Also, several woman groups and youths came in turns to pay homage to the leader of the clan.

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY observed that almost everybody that visited ‘Ochiagha Ibeku’, went home with cash and yams. Indeed, it was a day of feasting, merriment and entertainment.

“I wish the new yam festival will be celebrated every day, said 15-yearold Okechukwu Azubuike, who came from the neighbouring Olokoro town to witness this year’s Ibeku new yam festival.

The oldest man in Ibeku

Traditional chiefs in Ibeku

Burial site of the founder of Ibeku town

Prince Benjamin B. Apugo

New yam

He who can persuade someone not to gamble has earned money for him.

— Chinese Proverb

28 FRIDAY SPECIAL/from the scratch

September 26, 2014

By Solomon Ayado

Ortom, From Motor Park Tout To A Minister Of The Federal Republic

I

n a country Nigeria where there is economic instability and people hardly think of uplifting the lives of the less privileged, it is however very difficult for someone who is born without silver spoon to begin life from the scratch and make it to the top. But for Chief Samuel Ioraer Ortom, the minister of state for industry, trade and investment, for many people who have come in contact with him will assert that his transformation as a motor park tout into a wealthy societal man is not mistakable.

Born on 23rd April, 1961 in Nzorov area of Nongov in Guma local government area of Benue state, he tasted western education for the first time when he was enrolled into the St. John’s primary school Gboko in 1970 and later moved to St. Catherine’s primary school, Makurdi in 1974 where he completed his primary education in 1976.

Desirous to become a reasonable man even without a famous background, Ortom moved out of Benue state and was admitted into Idah secondary commercial college, Idah in Kogi state in 1976. He did two years in the school before his father’s retirement brought an unceremonious end to his dream of completing western education. The abrupt end of the education of this honourable man was on account of inability to pay school fees. The situation propelled him to give his life to Christ.

However, it is a rare character of anyone without proper financial family background to refuse getting spoilt and or involving hatchet jobs in time of serious financial challenges to fend. But Ortom, instead of idling away at home to mourn his fate, he sold his shame and immediately got into the Gboko motor park as a tout.

In the motor park, Ortom would load commercial vehicles and could sometimes engage pushing wheelbarrow just to earn a living. It was in the motor park that a tolerant Nigerian taught him how to drive.

The opportunity given to Ortom to learn how to move a motor vehicle was because of his honesty and dedication to duty which those that senior him in the place observed.

After he became conversant with driving, it was then that another considerate person helped him to obtain a drivers license, the situation that led to his first employment in the park as a professional driver. Ortom had a stint because he wanted to fully continue with driving in the park before on proper recommendation, he became the driver and confidant of a prominent Gboko-based Christian leader and politician, Pa Samu Ihugh.

His success story began on a very fateful day after close of work, he hung around voluntarily in the house of his boss waiting, in his usual manner, whether his services might still be needed. Know that he is a courageous man and never give up easily on things he desires.

Surprisingly, that wait opened a new chapter in his life that has even contributed immensely in raising him up to his present level.

Retrospectively, while sitting on a bench outside the house of his master, the wind

Retrospectively, while sitting on a bench outside the house of his master, the wind blew a piece of paper which as an advertisement for enrollment into the National School of salesmanship, Manchester, towards him.

He picked it, read it well and decided to enroll for it by correspondence, thus launching himself into the world of acquiring knowledge and certificates online

Chief Ortom

blew a piece of paper which as an advertisement for enrollment into the National School of salesmanship, Manchester, towards him. He picked it, read it well and decided to enroll for it by correspondence, thus launching himself into the world of acquiring knowledge and certificates online.

By correspondence, Ortom obtained the General Certificate of Education, GCE as well as Diploma in salesmanship. Determined to further his acquisition of knowledge, he gained admission at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and obtained both the interim Joint Matriculation Board Certificate in 1995 and diploma in journalism in 1998 respectively.

He also attended the Benue state University Makurdi where he obtained advanced diploma in personnel management in 2001 and a Master of Public administration in 2004. Not forgetting the manner in which he started, Ortom crowned his education pursuit with a Doctor of Philosophy, Ph.D from the commonwealth University Belize, through distant learning.

His working experience as a professional driver and salesman cut across various stages beginning with Gyado Foods Co. Limited before he was elected as executive chairman of Guma local government area between 1991 and 1993 on the umbrella of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

It is a fine thing to command, though it be only a herd of cattle.

— Dominican Proverb

Fondly regarded as a veritable bridge between the poor and the rich, it could be the fervent prayers of those he had assisted and or because of his unflinching desire to achieve greatness, out of nothing that saw him excelling in the political sphere.

He has been state publicity secretary of the National Centre Party of Nigeria (NCPN), state treasurer of the All People’s Party (APP) and state secretary, as well as deputy state chairman of the PDP, in agrarian Benue state.

Dr. Ortom served as Director of operations of the PDP gubernatorial campaign in Benue state in 2007 and director of administration and logistics of the Goodluck/ Sambo presidential campaign organization in 2011. He became the PDP national Auditor before he was appointed as minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by President Goodluck Jonathan. He is the current Minister of State, Trade and Investments.

As a matter of fact, Ortom has distinguished himself to challenge the popularly held notion that ‘nothing good can come out of Nazareth’. On his personal effort to transform the lives of many less privileged, he has propriety for outfits including the Oracle Business Limited a conglomerate that owns Goshen Water which produces bottled and sachet water, The Oracle oil mills, Oracle printing press as well as Oracle Farms Limited which handles mechanized farming and animal husbandry.

One prominent area that has clearly shown that Chief Ortom has not forgotten his root, he established the Oracle Driving school which turns out qualified drivers on a regular basis, for over a decade now.

Among other establishments and many projects, the tout cum educated fellow and employer of labour, he has not dashed his determination to achieve greatness, declaring a firm ambition to run for governorship of Benue state come 2015.

As it is, Chief Ortom who started life as a motor park tout has carved a niche in all his endeavors and has proven the fact that you must not achieve greatness by birth but also by determination, hard-work and relentless struggle to impact positively on the lives of the less privileged.

FRIDAY EXTRA 29

September 26, 2014

nobel

A Century Of Prize Winners

Andrei Sakharov

For their pioneering work in the theory of money and economic fluctuations and for their penetrating analysis of the interdependence of economic, social and institutional phenomena.

Gunnar Myrdal (1898-1987) Gunnar Myrdal was born in Gustafs, Sweden, on December 6, 1898. His early education was at the law school of Stockholm University, from which he graduated in I92} Myrdal practiced law for a number of years, although he continued to study and, in I927, received his doctorate in economics.

Between 1925 and I929 he also studied at German and English universities, and then, with the aid of a grant from the Rockefeller Foundation, he spent a year in the United States. During this period he published his first books, among which was The Political Element in the Development of Economic Theory. He then returned to Europe to teach in Geneva and stayed there for a year; in I933 he returned to his native country to take the Lars Hierta chair of political economy and public finance at Stockholm University.

Besides his academic career, Myrdal was also an active politician. As a member of the Social Democrat Party he was elected to the Swedish Senate in 1934. In I938 the Carnegie Foundation in New York commissioned him to study the integration problems of African Americans. The result was the book An American Dilemma: The Negro Problem and Modern Democracy (I944).

Once more at home, Myrdal became part of the board of the Bank

economic ScienceS

of Sweden and also presided over the Commission of Post-War Planning.

Between 1945 and 1947 he was the minister of commerce, but he left the government to become the executive secretary of the United Nations Economics Commission for Europe.

In I96I, on returning to Sweden, he was made a professor of international economics and established the Institute for International Economic Studies. Myrdal also ran the Research Institute for International Peace and the Stockholm Latin American Institute.

He was a member of many societies and was awarded 30 honorary degrees, the first of which was from Harvard University in 1938. He won the I974 Nobel Prize in Economics as a result of IO years of research into the social and economic conditions in Southeast Asia.

Myrdal died one year after his wife, whom he had married in 1924. Alva Reimer Myrdal worked for the United Nations in the area of social affairs; she was the director of UNESCO’s Department of Social Sciences, a Swedish ambassador to India and the Swedish minister for disarmament between 1966 and 1973. Alva’s work and the various books she published on disarmament earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in I982.

Friedrich August von Hayek also received half of the prize.

(1911-1990) The nuclear physicist and political dissident Andrei Dmitrievich Sakharov was an active voice in the defense of human rights and attempted to improve relations between the Soviet Union and non-Communist countries.

From I968 onward his career as a researcher gave way to his work as a spokesperson for freedom in his country, disarmament and controlling nuclear arms at an international level. It was this work that earned him the 1975 Nobel Peace Prize.

Sakharov was born on May 21, 1921, and had a happy childhood, living in a communal apartment in Moscow with his large, hardworking family.

He was the son of a physics teacher and accomplished pianist, but Sakharov held special affection for his grandmother, Maria Petrovna, who brought up six children and, at the age of 50, taught herself English. In the evenings she delighted her grandchildren by reading stories aloud. In this comfortable environment it was not difficult for Andrei Sakharov to take his first lessons at home, but he would go on to have some difficulty in adapting to life in the classroom.

Nevertheless, he graduated from Moscow State University in 1942 and continued his studies during World War 11, defending his doctoral thesis on nuclear physics in I947 at the Lebedev

peace

Institute under the direction of the physicist Igor Evgenyevich Tamm. In 1948 he joined a group of scientists who were working on developing nuclear weapons. The head of this group was Tamm, with whom Sakharov made a proposal that led to the construction of the Soviet hydrogen bomb.

He worked for 20 years in the strictest security and under great pressure, first in Moscow and later in a secret research center. As the situation evolved, however, Andrei Sakharov became increasingly aware of the inherent moral problems of the research he was conducting.

In I96I he made a formal protest against atmospheric tests of the hydrogen bomb carried out by the Soviet Union. Seven years later he made his position public in articles and books and was removed from his top-secret work. He returned to the Lebedev Institute in 1969 and started researching elemental particles, gravitation and cosmology.

The Soviet government did not authorize his trip to Norway to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, and Andrei Sakharov was exiled to Gorky in 1980 because of his political activity. He was granted permission to return to Moscow six years later, however, and in 1989 was elected to the Congress of People’s Deputies. He held the position of spokesperson on human rights and political and economic reform until his death a few months later.

For his defense of fundamental principles of peace between men.

Sweet and sour walk hand in hand.

— Dominican Proverb

Culled from the book ‘Nobel’

30 FRIDAY EXTRA/Best places to SEE...

September 26, 2014

Traditionalists always head to New England to watch the leaves change colour, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. There are a number of stunning destinations that almost consistently put on a dazzling fall foliage show, and some, like Oklahoma and Arizona, may not be on your list.

Fall Foliage

Y

ou will step into a canopy of blazing colours as you drive through White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Here, it’s all about the brilliant red maple leaves and bright yellow birch trees, with deep evergreens dotting the landscape.

Depending on when the nigh-time cold snaps begin, foliage tends to peak in the northern part of the mountains the week before Columbus Day; in the central and southern parts of the forest, Columbus Day weekend is a truly amazing time to see the leaves. The Kancamagus Highway is an official Scenic Byway and travels through the heart of the forest.

It showcases New England’s foliage at its very best between mid-September and mid-October. You can drive the entire length of the 34-mile highway in about an hour. As you cut through the national forest, you’ll get magical views of the fiery mountains and the Sabbaday, Lower, and Rocky Gorge waterfalls.

The White Mountain drive can get

crowded during peak foliage season, so your best bet is to camp or stay at a B&B in the towns of North Conway or Sugar Hill, just outside of the park. That way, you can get up and out early in the morning. Loon Mountain is one of the best places to get a sweeping view of the region-just take the gondola up to the 3,050-foot summit and climb up to the observation tower. Loon Mountain also has a free shuttle to take you and your bike to Franconia Notch State Park, where you can hike or bike to the Flume, an 800-foot gorge at the bottom of Mount Liberty. The trail is manageable but a bit steep, so wear sturdy shoes and watch out for sprays from the cascading water.

Keep going, and you’ll be rewarded with close views of waterfalls, old-fashioned covered bridges, and, of course, the New Hampshire fall foliage.

You can’t talk about fall foliage and overlook Vermont. Here the bountiful red and yellow maple leaves mix with oaks, evergreens, and other colourful deciduous trees, with hundreds of miles

of trails, driving routes, and mountain overlooks to capture all the colours. If you are willing to hike, then head to the northern half of the famous Green Mountains into Camel’s Hump State Park, named for its distinctive peak.

This is truly undeveloped territoryno resorts, no concessions, no camps.

Because the summit itself is free of foliage, you can get a clear, unobstructed view of the highest peaks in three states: Mount Washington in New Hampshire, Mount Marcy in New York, and Mount Mansfield in Vermont. Standing just over 4,000 feet, there is more than one way to go up, including Burrows Trail from the town of Huntington and the Monroe Trail from Duxbury.

Although primitive camping is allowed on the mountain, it is better to take advantage of the shelters and lodges supervised by the Green Mountain Club that are open between May and October.

Then there are the foliage hikes for those who don’t want to do a lot of heavy lifting - or at least aren’t comfortable

A camel does not tease another camel about his humps.

— Egyptian Proverbs

hitting the trails without an experienced guide. Appalachian Trail Adventures has packages in Vermont that include guided day hikes based on your level of fitness, plus they throw in meals and spa treatments.

Setting out from Killington, you’ll explore the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail within the Green Mountain National Forest. The beauty of biking through foliage country is that you get to wind your way through places that aren’t accessible by car, and you can cover a lot more ground than on foot. To make it even easier on yourself, book a biking trip with a company like Great Freedom Adventures, where they’ll handle the logistics such as lodging, sight-seeing, and schlepping your luggage from point to point. You’ll set out from the quintessentially quaint town of Wood stock, Vermont, during peak foliage week, usually late September/early October, and embark on six days of

September 26, 2014

... Fall foliage FRIDAY EXTRA 31

Bog Touring

Here’s a crazy idea: touring a bog in fall. On the East Coast, there is an abundance of kettle hole bogs, which were formed thousands of years ago by peat moss creeping into depressions caused by melted glaciers. Because the land here is acidic and nutrient poor, the foliage tends to be different than nearby forests.

In New Hampshire, both Ponema and Philbrick-Cricenti bogs actually have boardwalks so you can wander through about a mile of swampy land to see the changing colors, like blueberry shrubs that turn flaming red and conifers turning golden before losing their needles. In Maine, the Great Sa eo Heath bog is part of the Nature Conservancy, covering more than 1,000 acres with a nature trail and floating board walk. Here you can catch sight of rich colors from red maple and black gum trees (which also turn a brilliant red) along with white pines and white cedars. In Lubec, Maine, Quoddy Head State Park has a 1.5-mile bog trail that takes you along a raised boardwalk to see sheep laurel, cotton grass, and black gum trees.

biking anywhere from 20 to 50 miles a day. Don’t worry, these aren’t races and you can go at your own pace. The terrain varies from flat, paved roads to the occasional dirt roads and hills. As you look out into the dense foliage of bright maples and deep evergreens, you’ll also make pit stops at working farms, do a tasting at the Plymouth Cheese Factory, and pick up baked goods at the King Arthur Flour headquarters.

Practically the entire state of Connecticut is awash in colours come October, but if you have to choose, the best place to start is the Litchfield Hills. This northwestern region is a collection of small towns in the foothills of the Berkshire mountains, and a driving tour of Route 7 shows off the most classic of New England scenery.

Drive north, along pastoral hills and valley, to pass through towns like Gaylordsville and Kent. Then it’s south on Route 45 toward the shores of Lake Waramaug. The loop continues onto Route 47 and Route 67 back toward New Milford, past the Housatonic River and the historic covered Bull’s Bridge where you can get out for a spectacular autumn photo op.

Oklahoma has a beautiful fall foliage season that peaks around late October. It happens in the southeastern part of the state, particularly in Kaimichi County. The Talimena Scenic Drive in Ouachita National Forest is the state’s only Scenic Byway, which runs 54 miles along the Winding Stair Mountain Range, overlooking mountain scenery and changing leaves. It has several easy, self-guided hikes, as well as a 3.5mile hike down the Billy Creek Trail (steep climb back up), a longer 11-mile loop called Horse Thief Spring Trail, and the more rugged 23-mile Broadstand Trail. Real adventurers can try the full 223-mile Ouachita Recreation Trail.

By water

By sky

They don’t call it Aspen for nothing. Located high in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen, Colorado, is awash in golden yellow in the month of September. The area is known for its quaking, white- barked aspen trees mixed with rich evergreen trees. My advice: Take the Burlingame Lift in Snowmass Village or the Silver Queen Gondola up 3,000 vertical feet to the summit of Aspen Mountain, and hike or bike down to enjoy the scenery. Because of the altitude, the foliage comes in early-good thing, since the lifts usually close for the season by the second week of September. Wine Country has beautiful foliage courtesy of the grapevines. Hop into a hot air balloon basket with Napa Valley Balloons, and soar high above the wineries, where you can see grapevines change from green to bronze in late September and early October.

For really incredible aerial views, how about hang gliding? If you’re a first-timer, you’ll likely start by practicing with a Scooter Tow, where you’ll actually be towed along by a motor scooter. But then, when you’re comfortable, you’ll get to fly from a mountain launch point like Lookout Mountain in Georgia, near Chattanooga, Tennessee. You’ll launch from the flight park and soar over the colourful scenery.

Most of the major cruise lines, like MSC and Holland America, sail along the coast of New England and Canada. But it is better to find smaller ship experiences. American Cruise Lines has cruises along the Hudson River valley onboard the American Star, which fits 100 passengers, and the American Glory, which accommodates only 49.

You’ll set out from New York City and make your way into the picturesque Hudson Valley, stopping in maritime villages with the Catskill Mountains to your west and the Taconic and Berkshire Hills to your east.

Add a dash of culture to the trip with Smithsonian Journeys, which also charters the American Glory to sail along the Hudson River on an art-and-architecture-themed cruise. The trip is led by a museum curator, who will take you on private tours of artists’ studios, Hudson Valley mansions, and even the cadet chapel at West Point. Of course, you’ll sail past spectacular foliage views.

Even the plains of the Midwest have an array of deciduous trees that burst into fall colours. Take advantage of this autumn beauty before Illinois’s frigid winter sets in. Head to the Chain O Lakes State Park in Spring Grove (north of Chicago) whichlike its name suggests - is a chain of 15 lakes connected by the Fox River, canals, and channels. Through mid-October, you can paddle a kayak along the Fox River or rent a motorboat to take out into the lakes, affording ideal views of the 6,000-acre park’s array of oak, hickory, cherry, elm, and spruce trees.Combine foliage viewing with an intense adrenaline rush. Every weekend in October, waters are released into Russell Forks in Breaks Interstate Park on the Virginia-Kentucky border, creating some of the most challenging whitewater rafting in the country.

Insider's Tip

Accessible hiking to see the foliage is possible in Vermont’s Green Mountains. Camel’s Hump View Trail is a wide, easy path of just under a mile, with several viewing points to see the summit and surrounding foliage.

Timing Your Trip

If you’re traveling east of the Mississippi in search of colours, how can you be sure that you’ll get a show when you arrive? Unfortunately, there’s no foolproof way to predict when the leaves will turn. Deciduous trees need a cold snap to change the leaves into bright fall colours, so we’re at the mercy of Mother Nature. But a good rule of thumb is that foliaqe starts changing first in higher elevations in the Northeast and works its way down and west.

So Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont generally get colorful from the last week of September through early October. In Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York, colors usually peak around Columbus Day weekend. If you travel farther east, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island actually have a later fall season because the ocean keeps the weather more temperate. So the leaves there change well into late October. Another late starter is the Arkansas River valley in Arkansas, which peaks as late as November. In November, you can also find great foliage down south, in areas like the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway in South Carolina, and Lookout Mountain in Alabama and Tennessee. Fall foliage isn’t just a one-shot deal. Travel like a contrarian and you can catch great color all around

Absence is the enemy of love; as the distance is from the eyes, so it is from the heart.

— Dominican Proverbs

32

September 26, 2014

September 26, 2014

Your Entertainment and Lifestyle Guide

DJ Adx

Proud To Be A Disc Jockey Because we focused on the snake, we missed the scorpion. ― Egyptian Proverb

ESSENTIALS PLAYLIST

razak’s diary Tattles

34

staRteRs

September 26, 2014

beFOre YOU ReaD The role of the disc jockey and radio presenters in a musician’s career cannot be over-emphasised. Most times, though, these ‘unsung celebrities’ are not duly recognised. However, one thing is sure; both the DJ and the on-air personality are celebrities in their own right. To celebrate these people, in the coming months, ESSENTIALS will bring you various interviews with these folks who have been instrumental to the

growth of Nigeria’s music industry.

DJ Adex, one of Abuja’s (if not Nigeria’s) most popular disc jockeys, is our cover personality this week. Have fun reading his interview where he talks about his rise to fame and what being a disc jockey means to him.

Tony Tetuila has thrown his hat in the ring. He is set to contest for a seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly. He joins the likes of Bob-Manuel Udokwu and

Desmond Elliot who have also declared their intention to run for elective office.

Well, the least of our worries is the fact that they are declaring; can they take the heat? Do they stand any chance of winning the elections they are set to contest or is it just a publicity stunt?

This is what this week’s main feature on TATTLES focuses on.

Did you know that entertainment entrepreneur Tyler Perry is expecting

his first child? Well, you can read it here…

Also, Entertainment site Tooxclusive. com recently celebrated their 4th year anniversary. congrats to them.

Enjoy the weekend!

fridayleadership@leadership.ng follow us on Twitter @essentialsng

one TO WATCH

essentials Playlist

latest nigerian songs for the Genevieve Pink Ball Foundation and it is produced by London Boyz.

The song, composed to give hope and courage to breast cancer patients, was borne out of interest in the foundation which was inspired by a personal experience.

The Mavin – Arise ft. Don Jazzy, Reekado Banks & Di’Ja

WizKid – In My Bed Off his record-setting album Ayo, WizKid once again thrills with another undisputed jam produced by Uhuru.

This one is truly In My Bed.

Phyno – Oringo

Besides being the one of the hottest Nigerian rappers on a roll presently, Phyno’s Oringo is the latest classic from the Man of the Year himself.

Pasuma – Ife ft. Tiwa Savage Finally, the much-talked about collaboration between Fuji star Pasuma and songstress Tiwa Savage is out for music lovers. This song titled Ife has been on repeat on my play-list for some days now and you’ll be glad you listened too.

Brymo – Fe mi

Former Chocolate City signee Brymo has launched himself out of the shadows with the song Fe Mi, his latest single off the yet-to-be-released album Tabular Rasa which is expected in stores later this year. Brymo takes his audience on a musical ride through steamy romance coated in rhythmic poetry. Pundits are already saying this is the love song everyone should hear.

Seyi Shay – Because we Care

This single is Seyi Shay’s song released

The Mavins are known for their expert delivery and consistency. This time they present an unexpectedly beautiful song for Nigeria. Unlike every other song inspired by Nigeria, this one is kind of groovy. It can even be played in clubs. It can even be played in clubs.

Dammy Krane – Faleela Primed for the wedding season, Faleela is a quirky love song with catchy lyrics.

Produced by Spellz, the song is one of the many break-out songs off The Enterkraner and is sure to get you dancing!

DJ Spinall – Oluwa ft. MI Abaga

The Hip-hop/rap single titled Oluwa, features incredible, self-declared ‘African rapper No 1’, M.I. Produced by gifted hit-maker E-Kelly, with background vocals supplied by Nigeria’s new R& B sensation Cooker and Byno on the hook.

T-Spize – Gbawaya Producer, T-Spize enlists the know-how of ‘that nigga from the East banging in the West’, Phyno, as they collaborate on Gbawaya – an up-tempo Igbo Highlife track laced with instrumental Afro sounds. On this number, T.Spize shows appreciable vocal effort with well-timed ad libs in the Yoruba language.

Lord of Ajasa – Figure 8 ft. Terry G

Veteran indigenous Hip-hop act Lord of Ajasa links up with street-hop royal Terry G on this new banging single. It’s a song dedicated to all the Figure 8s in the nation.

— Courtsey tooxclusive.com

agents of s.H.i.e.l.D. For those who like superheroes, numerous supernatural phenomena and drama, this is the show for you.

Based on the Marvel Comics organisation S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division), a fictional peace-keeping and spy agency in a world populated with superheroes, the series is set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, sharing continuity with the films in that franchise. It revolves around the character of Phil Coulson.

The series sees Agent Phil Coulson putting together a small team of S.H.I.E.L.D. agents to handle strange

new cases. In the first season, Coulson and his team investigate Project Centipede and their leader, ‘The Clairvoyant’, eventually uncovering that Project Centipede is backed

by Hydra, and that they must deal with Hydra’s infiltration of – and the destruction of – S.H.I.E.L.D. In the second season, Coulson and his team look to restore the trust of the government and public following the organisation’s collapse.

The series stars Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Brett Dalton, Chloe Bennet, Iain De Caestecker, Elizabeth Henstridge and Nick Blood.

movie revieW artist Hustler Genre Documentary Director Taiwo Badejo Year 2012 Artist Hustler takes a closer look at the world of a hustling artist; one not devoid of creativity, but opportunity. The documentary is in the Yoruba language but subtitled in English and carefully trails the artist from the point where the art is made through the frustrations

of trying to sell and, finally, ends at the point of reflection after a day’s job.

The sound-track for this documentary carefully complements the artist’s line of work (sculpting). This particular artist is, inadvertently, not just telling his story, but the story of art appreciation in Nigeria and the challenges of surviving.

— Reviewed by Innocent Ekejiuba of NollySilverScreen.com

group rePOrTerS Abisola Alawode DeSiGN & LAYOUT Chukwudi J. Nwabueze, iniobong ekong

ACTiNG eDiTOr Hassan Gimba Ahmed

FOUNDer Sam Nda-isaiah CHAirmAN Hajiya ireti Kingibe 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.

35

September 26, 2014

EssEntIals Taste

How To Cook Ofada Rice Ofada Rice (grown in Mowe, Ofada, Ogun State), also known as Abakiliki Rice (grown in Abakiliki, Ebonyi State), has it very own unique spot on the Nigerian dining table.

It's a locally grown, short-grained brown rice which is mostly sold unpolished and unrefined with part of the bran still intact. Surprisingly, even though it's not as refined as the regular rice and, most times, abandoned for white rice, due to its peculiar qualities. Matter of fact, it is nutritionally superior to white rice. Technically speaking, white rice is polished and, thus, has lost its ‘aleurone layer’ – a layer filled with health-supportive, essential fats. These fats, once exposed to air by the refining process, are highly susceptible to oxidation. This layer is removed to extend the shelf life of the rice. The resulting white rice is, simply, a refined starch that is largely lacking its original nutrients.

Unlike white rice which has been stripped of its basic nutrients such as iron, vitamins, Zinc, magnesium and other nutrients during the refining process by manufactures, Ofada Rice still contains these basic nutrients and the ‘aleurone layer’ which makes it far healthier than white rice.

Directions

clean water. It could be extremely dirty, so you have to wash and rinse severally, until water is clean.

Once done, place in a small pot.

Step 3. Add some water just enough to cover the rice. Parboil for 10 minutes and turn out into a clean bowl. Rinse a few times more and place back in the pot.

Step 4. Add some salt and clean water then boil till rice softens.

Serve with Ofada stew or any Nigerian stew/sauce available.

Health benefits of Ofada Rice

Step 1.

One major problem with Ofada rice is the presence of sand/stones. This is the major reason why people are put off by the local rice. Once the stones are taken out, you’d have no

more issues with the tasty local rice. So, before cooking Ofada Rice, take time to remove the stones.

Step 2. After picking out the stones, wash the sorted rice severally with

• Due to its rich fibre concentration, Ofada rice facilitates healthy bowel movement and promotes weightloss.

• It helps improve metabolism and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.

• It is rich in protein.

• It contains lignans which helps protect against Heart disease.

• It’s a good source of fibre which has been shown to reduce high cholesterol levels and prevents atherosclerosis.

• The fibre contained in it helps keep blood sugar levels under control and, so, is an excellent grain choice for diabetes sufferers.

Native Jollof Rice (Palm-oil Rice) Native jollof rice is a traditional Nigerian meal which is enjoyed by many. It’s a palm oil-based meal which is similar to the Nigerian jollof rice but prepared with locally sourced ingredients such as okpei/ iru, scent leaves, crayfish etc. Unlike the very popular Nigerian jollof rice which has vegetable oil and a mixture of tomato and pepper puree as its base, Native jollof rice a.k.a palm oil rice has palm oil as its base, with pepper puree. This tends to give it that unique local flavour most people enjoy. If you don't have ogiri, okpei /iru or dawadawa, you can always prepare palm oil rice without [any of them], though the addition of any of the listed tends to give the dish its authentic local flavour.

Ingredients

• 3 Cups rice • 3 Cooking spoon palm oil • 2 Medium-sized smoked fish (optional) • 1 Cup ground crayfish • A handful dried prawns (optional) • 1 medium-sized onion, chopped • 1 Cup freshly ground pepper puree (3 scotch bonnet, 6 chili, 2 tatashe or as desired)

• 1 small ogiri okpei/ dawadawa or 1/2 cup iru • 2 seasoning cubes • Salt to taste • A handful scent leaves/ curry leaves, chopped

(optional)

Directions

Step 1. Wash the rice and parboil with clean water. Rinse and drain the excess water in a

sieve, then set aside.

Step 2. For this meal, you can use dry prawns, powdered crayfish or smoked fish. To prepare the dry

A woman will be twice bound when her chains feel comfortable. ― Egyptian Africa

prawns, remove the sharp heads by breaking off gently. Rinse and set aside. To prepare the smoked fish, gently open up the fish, remove the bones and gut, rinse and set aside.

Step 3. On medium heat, heat up the palm oil for about 4 minutes.

Gently add the chopped onions and leave to fry for about 2 minutes.

Add the pepper puree into the oil and stir-fry for about 5 minutes.

Step 4. Add the iru/locust beans (that's what I used for this meal)/ okpei or dawadawa (dissolve in a little water before adding), add the dry prawns, powdered crayfish and washed smoked fish. Top-up with water (remember, the rice has been parboiled already so just add the quantity of water that'd slightly cover the rice), add the salt and crushed seasoning to taste and leave to cook for 7 minutes.

Step 5. Gently add the drained parboiled rice and chopped leafy vegetable (if using any), stir with a wooden spoon to mix well and leave to cook covered till the liquid in the pot gets absorbed by the rice.

Turn off the burner and serve hot.

— Courtsey dobbysignature.com

36 TATTLES Tyler Perry Expecting His First Child Entertainment mogul Tyler Perry has enjoyed a successful career and is reportedly waiting on the sidelines to delve into fatherhood. The actor who recently celebrated his 45th birthday with a starstudded bash at his Atlanta mansion revealed the happy news to his guests, among who was Stevie Wonder. According to Entertainment site Bossip, he allegedly got up to announce that he was going to be a daddy while everyone cheered and toasted with champagne. He didn’t reveal the identity of the baby’s mother, but it’s believed to be his on-again, off-again girlfriend of the last five years, model/activist Gelila Bekele. Last year, Perry revealed in an interview that the one thing he hasn’t achieved yet, and wishes to achieve by age 45, was becoming a dad. Well, well….that seems about to be chalked off.

Idris Elba Would 'Absolutely' Play James Bond British actor Idris Elba has given fans the biggest hint that he may be the first African-born actor to play James Bond. During a recent interview on Reddit, the Mandela star admitted that he would love to take over from Daniel Craig when his tenure ends. When a Reddit user asked: “If it were offered to you, would you be the next James Bond?” Elba answered: “Yes, if it was offered to me, absolutely.” Elba was first linked to the iconic 007 role back in 2012, when Skyfall female lead Naomi Harris claimed the London-born actor was in talks with producer Barbara Broccoli. Although becoming the next Bond could be a huge career boost, Elba, 42, has been somewhat coy about playing the much-loved spy. ‘’I don’t want to be the black James Bond. Sean Connery wasn’t the ‘Scottish’ James Bond and Daniel Craig wasn’t the ‘blue-eyed’ James Bond, so if I played him, I don’t want to be called the ‘black’ James Bond,’’ he was quoted to have said previously.

Motherhood Leaves Ayo Adesanya Unchanged In a recent interview with a national daily on how motherhood has changed her fashion style, actress Ayo Adesanya answered in the negative.

In essence, it has not.

“I don’t think it has in any way. For me, I use fashion to express the kind of person that I am. I wear things according to the way I feel and how I want to be seen at a particular time and that is how I dress. Motherhood has not affected me in any way and, even if I wanted it to, my work would not allow that.

The kind of job I do is showbusiness and fashion goes with it. I must be at the top of my game all the time. Motherhood has not affected me one bit,” she said.

Ayo also denied speculations that she has been using bleaching creams on her body. “I have sun burns and it is not a hidden thing. I have tried a lot of things to make it fade away but it has refused and I have come to terms with it. I would never bleach my skin; a lot of people get confused about it but I don’t get bothered.”

WizKid, Wande Coal To Release Joint Album While the rave accompanying the release of his Ayo album is yet to fade away, there is a huge possibility that WizKid and Wande Coal will release a joint album in future. WizKid made the revelation in a recent interview with Tolu ‘Toolz’ Oniru of The Beat 99.9 FM.When asked why Wande Coal was missing from his newly released album, despite the very close relationship they have, WizKid replied: “Wande Coal is actually my very good friend; we are very close and, already, we have a lot of songs together, so we might just do our joint album. Our fans should watch out for it.”

Tunde Kelani To Preserve Literary Works Popular film-maker and director Tunde Kelani has commenced shooting of one of Femi Osofisan’s classic proses, Yeepa Solarin Nbo, using a fusion of stage and film techniques. Speaking on his new move, Kelani said that “the new direction will elicit interests and excitement in the Nigerian film industry, which critics believe is not churning out new offerings and, as a result, fails to arouse response or interest of the audience.” In the new work, Kelani preserves the stage form and infuses film technique, deploying four cameras shooting in Dream Studio, Ikeja, Lagos and on locations in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Ropo Ewenla, Bayo Bankole, Ayo Binta Mogaji, Ebun Oloyede, Toyin Osinaike, Joke Muyiwa, Kayode Olaiya, Monsuru Olajide, Samson Alli, Ibikunle Oladipo, Gboyega Olomodosi, Toyin James, Toyin Omotubora and Yemi Ogunyemi are some of the thespians who star in the work.

September 26, 2014

Kardashian Klan momager Kris Jenner and her exhusband Bruce Jenner have finally completed their divorce. Kris is said to have cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for their split.

Popular rapper turned TV host Shad Moss a.k.a Bow Wow and Love & Hip-Hop star Erica Mena are engaged! Moss recently made the news known on Instagram.

Congrats to them.

TiSPY

Which British actor would like to play James Bond?

Lara George Reveals: ‘I Was Once Fed Up With My Marriage’ No one saw this coming, but when she sat down for an interview with a society magazine, gospel singer Lara George revealed that though she has been married for 10 years, there was a time when she nearly quit her marriage, because of marital pressure.

The saving grace, she said, was turning to her pastor for counseling.

“There were many times like that. We have had our fair share.

I remember a time we weren’t talking to each other. It got really serious I had to call my pastor that I was fed up with my marriage. I can remember that my pastor was not around then but he spoke to my husband and things were sorted out. I am glad my husband allowed someone he sees as a mentor to step into the situation,” she said Speaking about challenges she has faced in her marital life, George said understanding each other has been a major challenge for her.

“Understanding one another has been a challenge for me. When you are going out as boyfriend and girlfriend, you will think you have known everything about the person until you get married to the person.

It is not as if I don’t understand him, but there are different types of communication and understanding.

When communication is complete, it means we have completed the journey. So the journey is still on, we are learning to understand each other daily,” she said.

The Things

They Said “Apple needs to hire me to design its next phone” –Musician Dencia

“I get paid N1.5m to attend events” Actress Toyin Aimakhu-Johnson

FLiRT “Rihanna, leave the nude thing for me now. Ha,ha,ha… na wa o! Copy ALERT copy!” —Singer and serial Nudist Maheeda

GOT A CELEB GIST? GET IN TOUCH!

43 TATTLES 37

September 26, 2014

TATTLES with Abisola Alawode

OUR EAR-ON-GROUND Actress and television presenter, Eku Edewor , alongside South Africa’s Siyabonga Ngwekazi, will be hosting the 2014 Channel O Africa Music Video Awards come Saturday, November 29, 2014.

Entertainers Seeking Elective Office It is no longer news that several big names in the Nigerian entertainment industry have indicated their interests to contest for elective positions in the country. From the movie industry, to comedy and music, a number of entertainers have come out to say they are ready to put their money where their mouths are. NET reports on some of some of them: Federal House Hopefuls

Of

Representatives

9ice Leading the group of entertainers going into politics is Alexander Abolore Ajifolaj Ifaola Akande, better known as 9ice. The gangling singer hinted at his desire to go into politics during the nation-wide ‘subsidy’ protests of January 2012. The singer has not only joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) he has also gone ahead to print posters and embarked on campaign trips to Ogbomoso North/South/Orire Federal Constituency which he hopes to represent in the Federal House of Representatives come 2015.

Kate Henshaw Offiong Kate Henshaw is one of Nigeria’s leading actresses. The 43-yearold is also gunning for a seat in the Federal House of Representatives. Henshaw –whose aspiration was unveiled on youth advocacy website www.campaign. ng, on July 19, the day she turned 43 years old – is seeking to represent the Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency in her native Cross River State, on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Jibola Dabo Jibola Dabo is another celebrity politician in the making. The bearded actor has revealed his desire to represent Owo/Ose Federal Constituency in Ondo State, although the House of Representatives hopeful is yet to reveal the party on whose platform he hopes to achieve his aim.

PUBLiC “I do love shopping online” DiSPLAY — Actress Osas Ighodaro

Kenny Saint Best Kenny Saint Best (formerly Kenny St Brown) might have been just a gospel artiste to many for some time now, but the Kennis Music manager has decided to throw her hat in the ring. Not only has she unveiled a poster as further statement of her intent, she has chosen to pitch her tent with the All Progressives Congress (APC) as she seeks a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly to represent Ikeja Constituency 01, covering the entire Onigbongbo area in Lagos.

Desmond Elliot If you are one of those who thought Nollywood actor and director Desmond Elliot is from the eastern part of the country, think again. He is a bonafide Lagosian. The award-winning actor, who has featured in over 200 movies and several television series, is seeking membership of the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015. Elliot, who has revealed that he will be contesting on the platform of the APC, he aims to represent Surulere Constituency.

Dan D’Humourous Just last month, comedian Dan D’Humorous unveiled a poster to announce his intention to run for a seat in the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The comedian who revealed his intention on Instagram, said he aims to represent the Ikwerre Constituency, although he is yet to reveal the party platform on which he hopes to achieve his ambition.

Funke Adesiyan Yoruba movie genre actress Funke Adesiyan is the latest Nollywood actress to join politics. Adesiyan has had her share of scandals in the past, but she seems ready to take on more responsibilities, with her desire to represent the people

of Ibadan in the Oyo State House of Assembly. Adesiyan, who announced her political desire through a BBM broadcast, is yet to announce the party she will be joining, but she has reportedly been seen around some APC bigwigs in the ancient city of Ibadan.

Bob-Manuel Udogwu The special adviser to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State on Nollywood and entertainment matters, Bob-Manuel Udogwu, recently disclosed his interest in politics.

Having tasted the pudding through his political appointment, the actor has been confirmed to have his heart fixed on representing Idemili North Constituency at the Anambra State House of Assembly on the platform of the All Progressives’ Grand Alliance (APGA).

Others who have been mentioned to have been on the verge of delving into politics include; Fuji king Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1), veteran actor Prince Jide Kosoko and singer Adewale Ayuba.

The Daunting Odds For the entertainers, most of who are in the race partly due to the popularity they enjoy, the undeniable challenge is the size of their ‘war chest’ as regards finance. Most of those they count as their supporters may support moneybags or career politicians when It comes down to the wire, especially during primaries.

Another major impediment is their lack of experience, which is all too glaring in the way many of them approach their new venture. Many of the entertainers have only recently started unveiling banners and posters, without carrying out the necessary consultations with their constituents.

Former Chocolate City artiste Brymo is set to release his fourth album titled Tabula Rasa soon.

This is Brymo’s first album since he left his former label, following a bitter, legal battle some months ago.

During a recent interview, singer Praiz said, “I don’t intend to marry anyone in the industry. I want my love life to be different from what you see on the screen”. Good luck to him.

Guinness world record-holder and dance queen, Kafayat Shafau-Ameh a.k.a Kaffy, is set to launch her own clothing line. The clothing line, Yanga, is set to hit stores soon.

Congrats, Kaffy!

TiP FOR “An unexamined life is not worth living.”

THE TOP — Socrates

Call Bisola on 08126995258 Or e-mail at abisolaalawode@yahoo.co.uk

38

FEATURE

September 26, 2014

DJ Adx: Proud To Be A Disc Jockey

Born Adeola A. Adebowale, DJ Adx has been around for some time; 1994 to be precise. It could almost be said that he has seen it all in his career. He is an artiste manager, event promoter and highly respected DJ. Armed with a vast knowledge of all things entertainment, Adx is showing no trace of slowing down.

ABISOLA ALAWODE

DJ Adx

1

How did this all begin for you?

Actually, music (the disc-jockeying aspect) has always been something I’ve wanted to do. I mean, right from my secondary school days, I have always wanted to be a DJ. You know, back in the days, there were very few DJs one could learn from. What I did was to summon courage to meet one of the DJs in my area then and he told me to come to his studio after school. That is how it all started. So, I can say I got interested in disc-jockeying back in secondary school. I started learning how to be a DJ in 1992, but began playing professionally in 1994.

2

Has the journey been fulfilling and, now, can are you proud of saying that you are a disc jockey?

Parents have even warmed up to the idea; they recognise disc jockeys and encourage their daughters to marry DJs, because they think DJs earn so much, not knowing that the bulk of the money goes to the artiste

You see, Nigerians did not recognise people who went about saying they were DJs. They saw us as irresponsible people who just went about making noise with speakers. Now, everybody wants to be a disc jockey. Parents have even warmed up to the idea; they recognise disc jockeys and encourage their daughters to marry DJs, because they think DJs earn so much, not knowing that the bulk of the money goes to the artiste.

Personally, I’m proud to be a disc jockey and I can say that anywhere.

3

Do you think you can ever leave your chosen profession as a DJ in favour of a more lucrative career?

Omo, na lie! Disc-jockeying is my passion. It has taken me to places I never thought I could visit, even in my wildest dreams, both within Nigeria and outside the shores of the country. It has brought me fame and I’ve also met many important people. If I wasn’t a DJ, I don’t think I would have

A goose’s child is a swimmer. ― Chinese proverb

4

had all these opportunities.

On the global music scene, the DJ is seen as integral to the development of any artiste. Sometimes, though, DJs do not get as much recognition as they deserve. What do you think about this?

One thing I think can be done to remedy this is getting other disc jockeys to form a finely bonded organisation, an umbrella body that will represent the interests of DJs across Nigeria.

For example, in Abuja, we have an association of DJs. Another problem DJs face is the fact that some artistes use and dump them (DJs). Once the DJ promotes the artiste’s songs and the artiste becomes famous, that’s it. Instead of giving some credit to the DJ who was instrumental to his/her success, the artiste opts to recognise the ‘made’ jockeys in the industry.

5

For the Nigerian music industry to grow, experts have said there has to be a synergy or connection between the disc jockey, the artiste, on-air personalities and the marketers. Can a synergy between these people work?

I personally feel artistes and disc jockeys need to work together. However, the problem remains that when the DJ and the artiste work together and they start having results, the artiste always forgets the DJ. This is not supposed to be so. No man is an island, they say, so the artiste needs the DJ just as much as the DJ needs the artiste.

FEATURE

September 26, 2014

39

DJ Adx: Proud To Be A Disc Jockey

I remember back in the day when I used to perform at Lekki Summer Slam which was held at the Lekki Beach.

Fights usually broke out for no reason.

I often ran away from the scene and I had to leave my equipment behind

DJ Adx on the wheel

6

As a DJ, what is your favourite piece of instrument to work with?

Off the top of my head, I would say, the turn-table. That is because everything you want to do as a DJ is on the turn-table. I particularly like the Pioneer 2000 Brand.

7

Would you say being a DJ has been financially rewarding?

Let me say here that being a disc jockey is profitable. But for you to start earning big, you need to make yourself a brand and do what I call ‘packaging’.

You have to be of the highest standard, so that high-class bodies and people in the society will want to associate or interact with you. People recognise our worth that is why they do not mind the amount we charge them. They know they can expect the best whenever they invite DJ Adex to their event.

8

The norm these days is for DJs to release singles, mix tapes and, in some cases, albums. Should we expect DJ Adex to do same?

You see, when DJ Jimmy Jatt dropped Stylee, I made a mix-tape with the likes of Kelly Handsome, 606, Singaholic and some other artistes back in Owerri. We put the song out and that was it. It’s not as if I can’t release a single or an album; I can, but you have to realise that these things take time. That said, my fans should expect a mix-tape from me very, very, soon.

9

Which DJs inspired you while growing up (both locally and internationally)?

Internationally, I really liked Funk Master Flex. He was and will always be a source of inspiration for me. In Nigeria, the likes of Mix Master T, DJ Jimmy Jatt and DJ Funky J. were fun to llisten to. I really did and still look up to them.

10

If you were to put a figure on the number of shows you have played at in the course of your career, how many shows would you say you have attended?

Honestly, I can’t [say]. Chai, e go hard o, I no go lie for you. Shows too

plenty. If I say 200 or 300, it’s obviously a lie. I don play for many, many, shows.

As someone who has performed at ‘many’ shows is there anyone who stands out in your mind? Particularly, where you had a bad experience?

I remember back in the day when I used to perform at Lekki Summer Slam which was held at the Lekki Beach. Fights usually broke out for no reason. I often ran away from the scene and I had to leave my equipment behind. Those were terrible times. Now, I thank God that things have changed.

So, DJ Adex, which Nigerian artiste are you currently feeling’; I mean, that artiste that you can talk about anywhere?

Bros, without a doubt, its 2Face (now 2Baba) Idibia. 2Baba is an artiste who can make your day, not only through his music but via his personality, as well.

He is a clown, a comedian and many more things rolled into one. Speaking as someone who has met him one-on-one, he truly represents what every Nigerian musician should be.

11

Any advice for other DJs coming through the ranks?

If you want to become a top DJ, there are simple rules you have to follow: Be loyal, focused, polite and always listen to your boss. Also, having a proper education is invaluable.

DJ Adex In Short

Real names Adeola A. Adebowale Current Gig Head DJ, Love FM 104.5, Abuja Active since 1994. A total of 20 years Milestones First DJ to perform at Abuja Carnival, won best DJ at Benson & Hedges competition in 2002 and performed at President Goodluck Jonathan’s daughter’s wedding.

Favourite turn-table brand Pioneer 2000 Twitter handle @DJADXNAIJA_BOSS

A man with two ears can be supported by two words.

― Egyptian proverb

40

COLUMNS

Diary

Razak’s

September 26, 2014

Relationships Sick And Tired Of FoR You, BY Me Being Sick And Tired

co s y raz z 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.

Iya Bashira In Bauchi!

Having suffered at the hands of that terrible lady, I felt the best I could do was to get the shock off my mind and try to enjoy the atmosphere of Bauchi.

Mama na wanted to know what got me all worked up and flustered. But I wasn’t telling; not even over my dead body or at gunpoint. If Mama na hears of it, she wouldn’t stop hassling me to “get married, dan ubanka” and I wouldn’t hear the last of it. Gosh!

I was into my second week in Bauchi and, to be candid, I had no mind to go back. I was not yet ready to go back telling Bhaira of another failing. I was tired of letting her feel sorry for me.

That embarrassment I would heal myself before joining the world again, I decided.

One afternoon, in a bid to try something new, I went looking for somewhere to have egusi soup and tuwo shinkafa, with fish. I took a bike to the training ground of the Wikki Tourists FC of Bauchi, where I knew many women who were not from the North would be making some good soups and stews.

Since the Igbos were very good at making egusi soup, I decided to test what little Igbo Ada my former girlfriend had taught me. I went around the mammy market asking for an ‘Igbo restaurant’, until I came to ‘Mama Akwanga Restaurant’.

“Blos, welcome,” she said in affected English.

“Ina kwana,” I replied.

“Kalau,” she replied in flawless Hausa. Her fair complexion reminded me of my mother. More surprising, the two girls who were making the rounds in-between tables looked very much like her. For a moment, I started, thinking I had seen a ghost. But it was not; one of the girls did look just like my sweet Bhaira!

For a moment there, I thought about walking out, but I heard the woman’s voice float over to me again.

“Gasu yara na,” she said in that Hausa again.

I sat down and ordered for my meal. The Bhaira doppelganger moved so fast to come serve me, I was dumb-founded. Also, the food was so hot I thought I couldn’t handle it. Spicy egusi soup with a lot of fish and very smooth tuwo shinkafa.

How did one acculturate with a place so much and know how to prepare our dishes? I was so engrossed in my food, I didn’t notice Mama Akwanga come in with the doppelganger.

“I was born in Akwanga long before the Civil War. My father was a very well-to-do food stuff dealer. But, shortly before that coup by Kaduna Nzeogwu and co, they were killed in one of the first uprisings in Jos. They had just gone to Jos to get Irish potatoes to sell in the popular Akwanga Market and just like that….,” she shook her head.

I never invited her to begin her story, but it was beginning to sound like a not-too-bad idea. It was

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like music for my ears.

“One of our neighbours, Mama Mariam, took me and hid me. She, it was, who took me in and made me one of her salesgirls. She also enrolled me in school. I would go to school in the mornings and return to the restaurant in the afternoons to join the serving. I was just nine but we always cooked in turns and when my turn came, I had just turned ten. I cooked the egusi soup which my mother had taught me to cook and, before long, my egusi soup and tuwo shinkafa became the winning combination. It was while working in Mama Mariam’s restaurant that I picked up on the Hausa language.” She paused as I requested for another ‘wrap’ and a bottle of coke.

The doppelganger was, again, at hand to serve me.

“By the time I finished secondary school, I was no longer interested in doing any other thing. I and four other girls graduated the same year and we decided to come to this place to begin our own businesses. Two of them are down the road and the other now works as the official chef of the state government.”

I finished my meal and, for some time, I couldn’t believe how well and heavy I was feeling. I had set out to have a good lunch and I had ended up doing just that with a reading session added for good measure – only the reading was from no book.

I bade them goodbye and had to decide to walk it off before taking a motorcycle.

When I got home, I went straight to bed. I did not hear my mother wondering aloud where I had been for two hours! My father just laughed aloud, wondering if I had missed the girls in Bauchi so bad that I wanted to kill myself in one afternoon. I drifted off to sleep. I guess.

All I remember was Bhaira introducing me to her doppelganger, to my amusement.

I woke up and headed out again. But Mama na was ready.

“I hope this time you are not going straight to hell,” she said.

“No, mama na. I just want to go see a friend.

When I return I’ll just go to bed.” I couldn’t figure out which of the statement was true. None.

As a matter-of-fact, I was heading to Mama Akwanga’s place to have dinner.

In no time, I was on a bike. I didn’t want to be late for dinner at Mama Akwanga’s. I hailed a motorcycle and, voom! I was on my way.

“I knew you would return,” said Mama Akwanga.The doppelganger was beside her as both of them stood like sentries while the hungry men ate ravenously.

Another uneasy feeling announced its presence in the pit of my stomach.

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

I happen to be a ‘follower’of some guy on Twitter, who, I was told, kind of writes about the same issues I write about. I was told that I’d been missing a lot for not following him. I notice that people write letters to him and he ‘tweets’ these letters. They usually contain people’s true feelings on a subject matter he treats a week or so before. The one and only letter I happened to see was about a woman – I am guessing from the letter that she was between 31 and 36 years of age – who was tired of being asked why she wasn’t married. I must confess that I found that totally hilarious. In her letter, she implied that she didn’t care about her not being married, in order to not conform to society’s needs, wants and requirements. What I failed to see was the need for the letter. How can you write a letter harping on what society thinks is wrong with you and still say nothing to help any other woman out there in such a situation? The impression I got was of a woman being sick and tired of being sick and tired. If you aren’t so bothered why dignify whoever’s question to you about your being single at a certain age with an answer – a public one at that. It seemed to me like therapy more than anything. Now, what even got me more worried was people’s replies. Some claimed to shed a tear and others applauded her. Why? Is she a cripple who just learnt how to paint with her feet and is earning money to feed her two children who have Down’s syndrome?

Dignifying society with such issues only gives it more fuel to those who are pointing and laughing at women who aren’t married at a certain age.

Life is short and there are people who cannot make their cries public or even private – they are just stuck in a situation in which, no matter how much they try to move from it, it feels like quick-sand. I was once helpless, until I realised that the only person truly holding me back from my own happiness was me. Yes. Me. The day I realised this, words can’t express how it felt to be free of my own chains. I always blamed my love for this friend, my family or for a person for holding me back. The thing is, I didn’t even realise that I was so sick and tired, that it was evident to the men who wanted to date me.

At some point, some guys I dated felt that I was crazy. They were probably right – I couldn’t see anything wrong with my actions.

However, in the long run, I did learn from my sister that your happiness means more than anything. Once you don’t have that, nothing can make sense to you.

It is true that things we can’t control happen in our lives, but there lots of people who are not hindered by the I-can’t-control-my-lifeso-I-will-be-stuck-in-sorrow-forever notion. I know people who had nothing; their families weren’t rich, they didn’t marry rich but they fought to change their situation. My point is this; get off your backside and quit being sick and tired of being sick and tired.

Life is a bitter-sweet symphony and, I truly believe that though we dance to our own tunes, we let God handle all the instruments to be used to make the perfect melody. I am a Christian, I believe every success I have has been given by God. Yes, people helped me along the way but that was Him using his instruments to make melody for me.

Are you still in love with your ex? Have you discovered that you are unable to move on mentally and emotionally? Is your work unfulfilling and your family driving you crazy? The day you realise the power and strength inside of you, you’ll know that you do not www.miseducationofmimi.blogspot.com Mimidoo Achineku is a PR consultant in the SME, TV & Film industry.

She is a blogger, fabulous, old, depending on who you ask and she isn’t lonely!

He whose house is made out of glass, shouldn’t throw stones at people. — Egyptian proverb

41

September 26, 2014

THINK NIGERIA MUSLIM-CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT. PLOT 326 OBULI CRESCENT, JABI -ABUJA.

THE ORITSEJAFOR WE KNOW Nigeria is a theatre of constant breaking news especially with the recent debut of online news media like the Sahara Reporters and the Premium Times; that have recently turned like an alternative mouth piece or arsenal of the Nigeria's political opposition. The major breaking news and dominating discourse of last week was the South African incidence in which the sum of $9.3 million dollars of Nigeria's government were trapped by the South African authorities in the private jet of pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, and were prevented from the planned payment for a consignment of military/security equipment needed in Nigeria for the continuous fight against insurgency ravaging the north-eastern part of the country.

There is no doubt that certain mistakes were committed in the process of the transaction; which qualifies for Nigerians' outrage. What however is disturbing to us is the way and manner the matter is being deliberately twisted towards an orchestrated blackmail on the person and office of His Eminence Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor; the current President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). A review of the sequential parts of the scenario that unfolded would clearly show a desperate, calculated and joint efforts of powerful groups and individuals playing their various parts of the single script marshaled to fight their common enemy in the person of Pastor Oritsejafor. The scenario went as follows: 0. Few weeks before the breaking news of the South African saga, an interactive session was arranged at the British House of Commons in which key figures of the Nigerian opposition complained amongst other things of a systematic elimination of a section of Nigeria by the Jonathan administration.

1. Then on the 15th of Sept an online tabloid broke the news of the South African incidence.

2. The next day (16th Sept.) the same news was re-echoed and propagated online by one of the delegates that represented the Nigerian opposition at that British Parliamentary interaction.

3. By the 17th Sept, online social media became saturated with castigating comments against the Christian leader.

4. By the morning of 18th Sept, selected online columnists and bloggers were mobilized to carry the blackmail to another level.

5. At the evening of Sept 18th, selected civil rights Activists were introduced at this stage to aid an opinion shaping among Nigerians.

6. Then, legal experts particularly from the south-west zone of Nigeria were drawn into the battle; to highlight the breaches of Nigeria's and international laws.

7. By Sept. 19th, a letter purportedly written in 2012 by one of the five blocks of the CAN was released through the Internet; announcing a temporary withdrawal of the block from the Oritsejafor-led Organization.

8. Then, a call by the opposition was followed; for the Nigeria's parliament to open a prove into the incidence.

The ultimate picture designed and desired to be painted in the minds of Nigerians was that Pastor Oritsejafor was caught red-handed in either a scandal of money laundering involving some corrupt officials of the Jonathan administration, or he was involved in arms smuggling into Nigeria in order to empower his Christians followers to revenge the onslaught of Muslims against them as accentuated by the Boko Haram attacks. The ulterior aim of the whole machinations was to taint the credibility and moral standing of the CAN president through corruption allegations; so that his coveted position as the conscience of Nigeria will be eroded before a major onslaught is hatched against the Nigeria project in the build up to the 2015 elections.

The second target was to link Pastor Ayo to arms smuggling in order plunge Nigeria into a sectarian crisis between Christians and Muslims on the premise that while Muslims are fighting the Christians through Boko Haram, now the CAN president is planning a revenge. The scenario was evilly conceived to cause anarchy in the nation. So that the 2015 doomed prediction against the Nigerian state will become a reality by any means necessary.

Both of the evil motives stated above are politically motivated using the CAN president as a scapegoat. We therefore wish to categorically state that Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor is apolitical; as constrained by his calling and the elevated position he occupies. That does not however stop him from complementing Nigerian governments at all levels towards social development of the nation. This, he must do, irrespective of the political party that governs. These allegations are therefore mere insinuations against the person of pastor Ayo Oritsejafor; whose content of character are far parallel to the image being desperately painted. The Oritsejafor We Know can never be a party to immorality, Corruption, political partisanship, or religious bigotry. These are our reasons: Religious Bigotry: Any body that interacted with Pastor Oritsejafor will certainly testify to the fact that; this man of God is never a fanatic as he is wanted to be seen by the grand plan in question. He is an ardent believer and stickler to the biblical injunction of "that they all may be one". His goodwill to particularly the Muslim north of Nigeria is a clear testimony to that. He had traversed the region in love and solidarity whenever an emergency was at hand. For instance, he was at the SokotoKebbi axis during the 2012 flood disaster; where he handed multimillion Naira donations in cash and kind to the victims of the climatic disaster. Similarly, during a

sectarian unrest in the north-east, Pastor Ayo was in Bauchi to commiserate with the victims and carried along with him several food items, clothings and building materials. In addition to a large sum of money he left behind to be distributed throw a revolving scheme. This same scheme, he also initiated for the people around Jigawa, Katsina and Kano under the care of a transparent retired military General. His goodwill around the two former Islamic empires of Danfodio and Borno had seen him to across over to the northern Cameroon; where in 2013 he made huge donations to the flood victims in the Muslim dominated part of that country. It has also been the culture of Pastor Oritsejafor to mind on the safety and security of the Nigerian Muslim leadership. It was to his credit on two separate occasions to be the first religious leader to put across a sympathy call and paid adverts in condemnation of the separate attacks by insurgents on their royal highnesses the Shehu of Borno and the late Emir of Kano. These and many others will never come from an enemy! These few reasons will convince the world that Pastor Ayo will never, whatsoever contemplate of any plot to kill a people that he holds so dear in his large heart.

Money Laundering: The whole narratives surrounding the money laundering allegation are laughable. Nigerians need to ask the following questions: What is US $9.3 million to a man that commands a worldwide followership that numbers in millions? Would he have been among such money-making Clergies, he would have been able to generate double that amount on weekly basis. The other question Nigerians need to ask is that; could the whole of the US $9.3million be able to buy the hard-earned integrity that this pastor had strived to build over his 40 years in the service of God? or does he needs an angle to decend from heaven to warn him on that integrity he jealously guards; to an extent of making him forfeits several of his rights and entitlements in order to preserve it? On the other hand, when one looks closely on the amount being alleged to been laundered, the world would be easily convinced if the narrative is coined against a state government, instead of the almighty federal government of Nigeria that earns not less than US $300 million on daily basis from it's crude oil. Similarly, if it is a case of money laundering, why taking it to South Africa when there are numerous safe havens across those islands that dotted the world?

Arms Importation: Even though we are not holding any brief on behalf of the federal government, Nigerians however, need to know that governance is always occasioned by exigencies and especially as it relates to national security.

Several unconventional approaches are applied worldwide to solving daunting challenges like shortage of armaments in the middle of war; which our dear country is currently faced with. In fact, the global idea of security-vote was necessitated by the need to fast track the normal procedures of financial provision. Therefore, while we acknowledge that errors or mistakes had came into play in the South Africa incidence; which we are sure that in the usual manner and characteristics of Pastor Ayo, he would have been the first Nigerian to shout-out against the presidency; had he been aware. This respected man of God would never be associated with violence, in fact he was very instrumental in convincing the ex-militants of the Niger delta to surrender their arms and embrace dialogue. Many Nigerians could still remembered how he risked his life and traversed the Niger delta creeks to engage the lethal militants to surrender.

Then, how could we be sold into the idea that this peace-loving cleric could turn round and destroy part of the national stability that he helped to build?

In conclusion, Nigerians need to know that the CAN president is rather being hunted by a powerful group with divergent motives; but having a common enemy. He is un-apologetically threatening traditionalism under the pretext of God's service. The culprits are therefore fighting back. He also remains among a very few that have not been penetrated by the dirty politics of the Nigerian opposition; he therefore have to be factored-in among the hurdles to be crushed for 2015 to be favorable for them. Still, Pastor Ayo remains a diehard believer in Nigeria's unity and sovereignty; which therefore risked him of the ruthlessness of the Architects and Engineers of Nigeria's disintegration by 2015!

May we end by calling on all Nigerians to be wary of our national detractors. We also pray for God's eternal strength for Pastor Oritsejafor amidst these trying moments that always accompany selfless leadership. If Jesus and Muhammad (SAW) were tormented by allegations and persecutions, who therefore is Oritsejafor to escape this holy path of the anointed?

Signed: Alhaji Abdul Ahmed 08037004981 Dr. Abdullahi Laminu 08033005556 Ustaz Mohammad Saidu 08035350604

42 FRIDAY EXTRA

titans

September 26, 2014

oF hIstoRY

JESUS

C. 4 BC-C. AD 30

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

T

he first three of the nine beatitudes (blessings) delivered

by Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount Jesus of Nazareth was the founder of Christianity, whose followers believe that he was the son and earthly manifestation of God. He lived in [udaea and Gallilee under the Romans and the princes of the Herodian dynasty. After working as a carpenter his ministry was short - perhaps one year, no more than three. He preached the coming of the kingdom of God and exhorted his followers to live lives of humility and compassion. He is also reported to have healed the sick and performed miracles.

As a result of his activities, he was crucified, after which Christians believe he rose from the dead and ascended to heaven. His legacy, in the form of the Christian Church, not only underpins much of Western society and culture but also provides spiritual inspiration and guidance to millions of people worldwide.

The story of Jesus’ birth is well known, but little is recorded of the rest of his early years. His parents were Ioseph, a carpenter, and Mary, who is known as the Virgin, though the Gospels of the New Testament differ over whether Jesus was immaculately conceived and there is much debate as to whether Jesus had brothers and a sister. Competing views of the exact nature and composition of his family continue to proliferate. He was born in the town of Bethlehem during a census that took place at the end of the reign of the Judaean king Herod the Great, who died in 4 BC. Various groups of pilgrims, including shepherds and ‘wise men’ from the east, visited him at the time of his birth. Like all Jews, he was circumcised in the Temple of Jerusalem and had a dove sacrificed for his blessing.

Jesus was apparently a precociously intelligent child. As a young man he went to be baptized by his cousin, John the Baptist, a prophet who had predicted his arrival. Some time after this, Jesus became an itinerant preacher and healer, travelling the Jewish areas of Palestine and spreading his message.

The Gospels report that Jesus was able, usually by the laying-on of hands, to cure men and women of blindness, paralysis, leprosy, deafness, dumbness and bleeding. He was also famed for his powers of exorcism - he visited synagogues to cast out demons, thereby apparently curing both mental and physical ailments. It is said that he conferred this ability on his disciples.

Further attention and bigger crowds were attracted by Jesus’ ability to perform miracles. Some of his most famous miracles included the ability to walk on water;

to multiply small numbers of fishes and loaves to feed large groups of people; and to turn water into wine. When he cursed a fig tree, it withered, to the amazement of his disciples.

As well as performing miracles, Jesus preached and his main message was the imminence of the kingdom of God, the Apocalypse and Judgement Day in which eternal life awaited those who repented and believed in him. He approved of poverty as a state of grace and chose to surround himself with sinners and the deprived, asserting that he was sent to preach not to the righteous but to those who had strayed. Jesus also taught the forgiveness of enemies and the observance of a humble and pious moral code.

According to some of the Gospels, he saw himself as the Messiah (or Christ), others claimed he used instead the vaguer ‘Son of Man’.

A student of the Jewish prophets, his every act was a consious fulfilment of the prophecies of Isaiah, Ezekiel and others.

But he mocked the Temple’s priestly aristocracy and Herodian princelings and that, coupled with his apocalyptic message, made him a threat to the Romans too.

Iudaea was disturbed by a constant succession of Jewish ‘pseudo-prophets’ and self-declared Messiahs, all of whom were ruthlessly suppressed by the Romans. Jesus remained a practising Jew and as such he knew that a Jewish prophet had to live and die in Jerusalem. So when, around AD 30, Jesus went to Jerusalem for Passover, he was a source of considerable concern to the city’s governors.

Roman troops were usually stationed in Jerusalem for Passover, as the crowds present spelled trouble. Soldiers would have watched Jesus’ triumphant entry into the city, mounted on a donkey. But he created far greater concern when he entered the city’s Temple, turning over tables as people convened to pay the temple tax and buy sacrificial pigeons.

The Jewish authorities were understandably aggrieved at the disruption, but the Roman prefect Pontius Pilate had already crushed a Galilean rebellion in the city.

Pilate - notorious for his clumsy violence, tactless blunders and brutal repressions would not tolerate any Jewish threats, particularly one connected to messianic expectations. Pilate encouraged the high priest to ensure Jesus was silenced. The high priest suborned one of Jesus’ disciples, Judas Iscariot, to betray him. After a final meal with his disciples - the Last Supper at which they shared bread and wine, Jesus led his disciples to the Mount of Olives for prayer. Here, in the garden of Gethsernane, Jesus was identified by Judas, arrested and taken before Caiaphas, the Jewish

Artist’s impression of Jesus

high priest, who adjudged him guilty of blasphemy. Brought before Pontius Pilate, Jesus was sentenced to death. He was flogged, forced to drag a cross through the streets of Jerusalem, and crucified outside the city in the company of two thieves.

It was clear from his crucifixion that his trial and execution were the acts of the Romans: had it been the act of the Jewish high priests, he would have been stoned.

Three days after Jesus’ death, sightings of him began to be reported. He did not reappear as a ghost, nor as a reanimated corpse, but was transformed in some mysterious way. After visiting a number of his acquaintances and friends, Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving his followers the task of establishing the Christian Church.

After centuries of persecution, the Christian Church eventually became the dominant religious force in the Western world. While Catholics, Protestants and others have at times been responsible for appalling excesses in the name of their particular denomination or viewpoint, Jesus’ philosophy of pacifism, humility, charity and kindness has endured through the ages. Iudaeo-Christian ideas provide the inspiration for, and foundation of, much

of Western political thought, government and law, morals, art, architecture, music and literature.

Yet there is an irony in the story of Christianity: Jesus left no writings; the Gospels were mostly written forty years later, after the destruction of the Jewish Temple by the Romans in AD 70.

Until then, the Christians, led by members of Jesus’s family, had prayed as Jews in the Temple. The destruction of Jerusalem and the fall of the Jews led to the final separation of Christianity from the mother-religion. However it is clear that Jesus saw himself as a Jew and not the founder of a new religion, but certainly a prophet, a reformer and the Son of Man, if not the actual Messiah.

It was the dynamic visionary Saul of Tarsus, a Jew converted on the road to Damascus, who as Saint Paul forged Christianity as a universal religion based not so much on Jesus’s teachings, but on his sacrificial crucifixion and resurrection and the achievement of grace through faith in Jesus the saviour of all mankind. It was Paul - keen to convert Gentiles, not just Jews - who made Christianity a world religion.

His opinions are like water in the bottom of a canoe, going from side to side. ― Dominican Proverb

Culled from the book ‘Titans of History’

43

September 26, 2014

OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN ON THE POLITICAL SITUATION IN TARABA STATE

‘LET THE PDP TRADITION CONTINUE’

I

humbly appeal to Your Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR, our dear President and Commander in Chief of Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the leader of the greatest political movement in Africa and the entire black world, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP; Alhaji (Dr) Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu, the National Chairman, PDP; and Chief (Dr) Godswill Akpabio, Chairman, PDP Governors’ Forum; to kindly intervene in the political situation in Taraba State and also come to the aid of the Acting Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency, Alhaji Garba Umar (UTC).

Your Excellency, this appeal has become very necessary because I have watched with total dismay the undue and unwarranted animosity and disdain which the Acting Governor has been subjected to since he assumed the mantle of leadership of the state in 2012. Especially, as the party approaches its primaries, I urge your Excellency, my dear President to ensure that equity, justice and fairness play out in Taraba State for the sake of posterity and for the unity and oneness of the party. In the course of our history especially during this fourth republic administration, which Your Excellency has been a major player, it has been proven that at this stage of political tension in any state as in Taraba, the Acting Governor is almost helpless, and would rely only on the help of the Almighty God and the intervention of Mr. President, as well as the national leadership of the PDP to ensure that peace is kept in the state. The ordinary citizens of Taraba State have no problems with any indigene of the state becoming their Governor, but there are several mischief makers and political desperadoes scattered in all the states of the federation including Taraba, who would always want to fan all the negative embers of religion and ethnicity to destabilize the state, especially during elections for their selfish purposes.

But, I thank God that Your Excellency, and the national leadership of the PDP have proven on many occasions that you are capable of ensuring that the party maintain its admirable traditions that has consistently made it the number one party in Nigeria for almost two decades, which among others includes its religious and ethnic impartiality on all important party and national situations, at all times. One important aspect of this admirable PDP tradition is ensuring that its sitting governor at any point in time in any given state is fully supported politically including getting the party’s gubernatorial ticket. This has contributed greatly to the success of the party in many gubernatorial and national elections and continued to prove to all that PDP is a party that is anchored on equity, justice and fairness, with very little or no religious or ethnic inclinations at all times.

Your Excellency may kindly recall that in 1999, when PDP nominated then Governor-elect of Adamawa State, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku as the vice presidential candidate, then Deputy Governor-elect, who was clear to succeed his principal, was subjected to all manner of intimidations and threats to resign or just chicken out, even when it was clear in the constitution that he was the next in the line of succession to the position of governor. Interestingly, the party intervened, and saved Governor Boni Haruna in 1999 from the hands of those mischief makers back then in Adamawa. The battle surfaced again heading to the 2003 Adamawa State PDP gubernatorial primaries, when so many mischief makers in the state swore with their lives that the sitting governor would not continue because of so many reasons including religion and ethnicity, the PDP did not allow any such baseless and parochial sentiments to stop or deny a PDP sitting governor ticket. Then president, and vice president, as well as the party national hierarchy ensured that Governor Haruna got the ticket to complete his second term in office.

Your Excellency, it was not easy for you also in 2007 heading to the PDP primaries as then sitting governor of Bayelsa State, as you equally encountered so many malicious and jealous oppositions, by those whose objections to your candidacy were not based on any clear cut reasoning or issues, but sheer jealousy, envy and primordial reasons.

However, you enjoyed the deserved sympathy of Nigerians, many from outside Bayelsa State, the presidency and the national leadership of the PDP, who collectively ensured that you were deservedly nominated based on your two years performance as the governor after taking over from Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha, in 2005, and the wisdom that you are already on the seat. In like manner, in 2011, heading to the presidential primaries, there were so many malicious and hateful oppositions that fought so hard to frustrate you as then sitting president from contesting the 2011 PDP presidential primaries. Your Excellency, you would recall, there were lots of gang ups, intimidations, lies upon lies, inciting the people against your candidacy and whipping up several religious, ethnic or zonal sentiments, all in an effort and determination to stop you, but the national leadership of the PDP helped, and you did not only succeed at the primaries, but went ahead to win the presidential elections, of which Nigerians are enjoying your good works, and are willing to return you in 2015 by God’s grace, if you so desire, for among many wise reasons being the fact that you were a sitting president.

Your Excellency may also remember that late Sir Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna State could not had survived the massive movement and malicious mobilization against him based on religious and ethnic sentiments, after he took over from then Governor Namadi Sambo who heed the national call to serve as your vice president in 2010. Also, as the 2011 Kaduna State gubernatorial elections were approaching, agents of destabilization were once again very active, and intimidation, seditious comments and gang ups against the sitting governor were rife as they wanted him out at all cost and by all means for no cogent reasons, but just because of primordial sentiments like religion, ethnicity and political class struggle.

Your Excellency, it is instructive to once again emphasis here that it was not the ordinary citizens of Kaduna State that did not want Governor Yakowa, or were fomenting those

troubles; but just a few political desperadoes, who for the sake of their personal egos and pride would not mind if the party loses the entire state, or the state goes up in flames, that were molesting both Mr. Boni Haruna in Adamawa State, yourself in Bayelsa State and at the Presidential Villa, and against Sir Patrick Yakowa in Kaduna Sate.

Nevertheless, the presidency, and the national leadership of the PDP also came to the rescue of Sir Patrick Yakowa, and he was able to succeed for himself and for the party, which Nigerians keep appreciating that PDP always live above undue religious and ethnic sentiments at all times, which has continued to single it out as the only true national party in Nigeria.

Your Excellency, I make bold to inform you that all the negative tactics and seditious ethno-religious gimmicks of the various disgruntled, and selfish politicians which were deployed against Boni Haruna, your eminent self, and Patrick Yakowa are at full speed right now in Taraba State against the Acting Governor, Alhaji Garba Umar, who has committed no crime, but for the sake of being a Muslim in Taraba, where these mischief makers have illegally termed a Christian state, because it is unconstitutional for anyone to term any state of the Nigerian Federation a religious state. In our not too distant past, we have several Military Governors, Muslims, Christians and others who governed other states they were not from, nor knew anything about across the federation. Still, all their contributions towards the development of those states are still being appreciated by the citizens. It is painful to come to terms with the unconstitutionality, illegality, the hatefulness and malicious which these people fighting the Acting Governor for no just course. It is obvious that the Acting Governor needs the kind of help and intervention of the Presidency and the national leadership of the party, just like Boni Haruna, your eminent self and Patrick Yakowa enjoyed during your similar travails suffered in the hands of supposed brothers turned enemies for selfish political reasons.

Your Excellency, it is in line with this proven and well appreciated PDP tradition of supporting its sitting governors, especially those who took over the sit from the position of deputy, just like yourself in 2007, that I am appealing to you and the leadership of the PDP as well as the leadership of the PDP Governors Forum, to kindly ensure that the tradition is applied also to the amiable Acting Governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Garba Umar (UTC), after all ‘what is good for the goose is also good for the gander’. Your Excellency, this is very important in our belief for the peace and harmony in the party and in the state in general, especially as the approach the 2015 general elections, and in the consideration of the very volatile security situation which your administration has been battling for several months now. Please, let the Acting Governor enjoy the strength of the big, strong PDP umbrella, which has in the past effectively given others like him the desired cover.

Also, Your Excellency, from our research in our recent political history even within the PDP, it has been observed that the socio-economic, political and security cost of denying a sitting governor the party’s ticket is always very costly and expensive in both the short and long term; and sometimes, the party never recovers from the strain and division that would be sewn in the fabrics of the party in the state.

A typical example of this is what happened in Anambra State in 2003. Despite the fantastic performance of PDP Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju in quelling the intimidating security challenges back then in the state, heading to the primaries, because of obvious abuse of close relationship with the national political leaders at the Presidency, certain group of political desperadoes had intimidated and humiliated the sitting PDP Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju and denied him the ticket in their arrogance that whoever they present would win the state for the party. At the end of the day what happened irrespective of their boasting and beating their chest of knowing it all, and having all the powers and structures and minds of electorates, PDP woefully lost Anambra, one of the most important states in the entire south east zone, and has never recovered it since then.

In a similar scenario, when the agents of destabilization embarrassed and humiliated another sitting PDP governor, Alhaji Rashidi Ladoja in Oyo State, including mobilizing the House of Assembly, who illegally forced him out of office through hasty and ridiculous impeachment process. When he was reinstated governor after winning his court case against the House of Assembly, he was denied the PDP gubernatorial ticket under controversial circumstances by those who claim they are better than a sitting governor. What happened, even though the PDP won in 2007, the strain which the party suffered as a result of denying Governor Rashidi Ladoja the gubernatorial ticket polarized the entire PDP structure in Oyo State, to the extent that it could not hold on to its victory, and at the end of the day, PDP lost Oyo state in 2011.

Similarly today, so many people are boasting in Taraba State, to be better than a sitting governor and could deliver the state irrespective of who they present to the electorates. Your Excellency, the truth is that it is a very painful and grave injustice to deny any sitting governor his own party’s gubernatorial ticket under any unconstitutional circumstances, because as long as the state is concerned, an indigenous governor who has been ruling the state for two years is the most suitably qualified person to continue the job.

INDEED, YOUR EXCELLENCY WITH THE BENEFIT OF HINDSIGHT, JUST AS IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A GREAT INJUSTICE TO DENY MR. BONI HARUNA THE ADAMAWA STATE PDP GUBERNATORIAL TICKET IN 2003; JUST AS IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A GREAT INJUSTICE TO DENY YOUR EXCELLENCY, DR. GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN GCFR THE PDP GUBERNATORIAL TICKET OF BAYELSA STATE IN 2007, AND THE PDP PRESIDENTIAL TICKET AS A SITTING PRESIDENT IN 2011; JUST AS IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A GREAT INJUSTICE TO DENY SIR PATRICK

YAKOWA THE KADUNA STATE PDP GUBERNATORIAL TICKET IN 2011, IT WOULD BE A GREAT INJUSTICE TO DENY ALHAJI GARBA UMAR THE TARABA STATE PDP GUBERNATORIAL TICKET IN 2015, IF HE CHOOSES TO CONTEST. HE SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO ENJOY WHAT OTHER PDP GOVERNORS AND SITTING POLITICAL LEADERS HAVE ENJOYED. PLEASE, YOUR EXCELLENCY LET THE PDP TRADITION OF SUPPORTING AND DELIVERING THE PARTY GUBERNATORIAL TICKET TO DESERVEDLY SITTING GOVERNORS APPLY IN TARABA STATE. Your Excellency, in all honesty in my opinion, which I know millions of Tarabans and Nigerians also share, Alhaji Garba Umar, if he decides to run for the governorship of Taraba State, is the most suitably qualified and the most experienced than any other indigene of the state at the moment. Vastly experienced and accomplished professional just like Your Excellency, within the private and public sectors, he has served the government of his principal well in other capacity, from where he was seen and appreciated by Governor Danbaba Suntai as a capable lieutenant; and who nominated him as deputy governor after wide consultations with the Taraba State PDP and political leaders and other important stakeholders; and for two years now, has been the governor of Taraba State.

In the course of his acting governorship, he has performed creditably well. Despite all the challenges he has had to contend with. He has kept the peace and harmony of the state, which is a huge achievement within the time he has been in charge, and this has been largely due to his large heartedness and immense tolerance and wonderful spirit of a good team player just like Your Excellency. He has ensured that Taraba did not lag behind in any way, but has continued to forge ahead with all other PDP states in delivering the much needed dividends of democracy to the people of Taraba State. These he has achieved amidst all now known and well documented sociopolitical and security challenges since he took over the mantle of leadership of Taraba State. In all critical sectors of the state, including agriculture, health, education, sports, tourism, and infrastructures, the Acting Governor has done well. He has continued to accord his incapacitated Principal and Mentor the respect and honour that he deserves, and has always carried his family and close associates along in all his dealings in the state during this period, despite being embarrassed and humiliated by many of these people.

Your Excellency, the huge admirable personalities of Alhaji Garba Umar, the Acting Governor of Taraba State, has continued to keep the state in peace despite so many provocative utterances and actions of so many people who feel they are the Lords of Taraba State, with very little or no respect and appreciation towards the glaring contributions of the Acting Governor during the period under consideration.

Your Excellency, Alhaji Garba Umar possesses a huge personality and wonderful strength of character deserving of a great leader just like you, which is very important in this tensed political period of our national life. He has tolerated what so many political leaders in his position would not, for the sake of the peace and tranquility of Taraba State and by extension the PDP and the nation, just like Your Excellency tolerated in the hands of so many political mischief makers both in 2005 and 2011 for the sake of the peace of Bayelsa State and the nation.

He has remained respectful and appreciative of his incapacitated Governor, and has been very supportive and sensitive to his family; Alhaji Garba Umar has remained respectful to all the leaders and founding fathers of Taraba State, including former governors and other socio-economic and political leaders; he has remained loyal and supportive to Your Excellency in all the difficult times your administration has passed through, especially since the dangerous twist in the activities of terrorists in the country; he has remained loyal to the party despite all the humiliation and intimidation he has suffered from the hands of some not to cooperative members of the Taraba political power brokers; where he is being cursed, he has blessed; where he is being snubbed, ridiculed and disrespected, he kept reaching out to all important stakeholders towards moving the state and the PDP forward in Taraba State.

Your Excellency, simply put, Alhaji Garba Umar has endured a torrid time, in fact ‘raw deal’ during the course of his leadership of the State from the hands of a certain cabal in Taraba State, and as if he is an angel just like you, he has not uttered one word in anger against any one, he has been very cooperative to all just to ensure peace in the state. That is the characteristics of the leader the people want. Your Excellency, such men like Alhaji Garba Umar are invaluable national asset that should be held in high esteem, both within Taraba State, PDP and the nation at large. He has been a fantastic ambassador for the PDP. Sincerely speaking, I do not need to bore you with all those unfortunate situations and scenarios that do occur when the political head is incapacitated or indisposed for a long time from the hands of relatives and close political associates and sheer mischief makers, because we know you perfectly understand the precarious situation in which Alhaji Garba Umar has been in for almost two years. But, I sincerely and passionately appeal to Your Excellency, to kindly ensure that justice and equity is followed, and that the PDP’s well known tradition of supporting its sitting governors all the way in all important national issues is followed in Taraba State.

PLEASE, YOUR EXCELLENCY, I PRAY, LET THE PDP TRADITION OF GIVING THE PARTY GUBERNATORIAL TICKET TO ANY SITTING GOVERNOR CONTINUE IN FAVOUR OF ALHAJI GARBA UMAR, IF HE CHOOSES TO RUN. Chris Umeh, Mobile: chrisumeh2013@gmail.com

0802-940-0135,

E-mail:

44 ROOTS

September 26, 2014

By Kanayo Jubal

Baquaqua and his master

Mohammad Gardo Baquaqua

The enslavement of the African peoples, the transatlantic slave trade, and the plantation system that followed, initiated the largest sustained commercial trading of human beings in history.

Some scholars estimate that more than 20 million Africans were transported to the New World.

The few slave narratives that are have been presented in this page reflect only a fraction of the millions upon millions of stories that could have been told by people who had the misfortune to toil under the yoke of slavery.

Although each of their stories is as unique and individual as a fingerprint, describing as they do, a different heartbreak and a different survival strategy. The brief glimpse provided in this exhibit will give you an introduction to the ways in which lives were affected Mahommah Gardo Baquaqua Mahommah Gardo Baquaqua was born in the West African town of Zoogoo (now Djougou, Benin) around 1830, though his exact birth date is unknown. As a young man, Baquaqua was sold to European slave traders, changing hands between several African masters before he was placed in a slave ship bound for Pernambuco, Brazil. In Brazil, Baquaqua served a series of masters, including a ship captain. When the ship landed in New York, Baquaqua escaped. Initially guided to Boston by abolitionists, Baquaqua decided to relocate to Haiti, where he converted to Christianity. He ultimately returned to New York to attend college, proceeded to Canada, and collaborated with an editor to publish his Biography. After its completion, Baquaqua traveled to Liverpool, England, in hopes of returning to Africa. Three years later, he petitioned his former sponsors at the American Free Baptist Mission Society because he was still unable to raise the necessary funds.

After 1857, there is no known record of Mahommah Baquaqua.

Scholars disagree about the extent of Baquaqua’s role in composing the Biography, but they generally agree that Samuel Moore, the editor, played an important role in transcribing and ar-

ranging the narrative. Moore, an Irish immigrant and abolitionist, reportedly encountered “many difficulties” while compiling the text “in consequence of the imperfect English spoken by Mahommah”. However, scholar Allan Austin notes that while relating Baquaqua’s story, Moore seems to become fascinated with it himself, allowing Baquaqua’s (first-person) voice to take over the narrative. Scholars Robin Law and Paul Lovejoy suggest that Moore might be considered the “compiler” of the first section but merely a “reviser” of the second half (p. 10).

The narrative begins with a detailed account of West African life, culture, and geography. As a young boy, Baquaqua is sent to school to become a Muslim cleric, but he runs away repeatedly, disliking the strictness of the instructor—his older brother. He subsequently trains as a craftsman. After becoming a palace servant for the king of Bergoo (now northern Benin), he falls in with false friends, who get him drunk and sell him to a slave trader. Baquaqua describes the Middle Passage, the transatlantic journey of slaves from Africa to the Americas, as a state of prolonged “suffering and fatigue” surrounded by “loathsomeness and filth”.

In Brazil, Baquaqua is purchased by

a Roman Catholic baker, who beats Baquaqua whenever he is unable to sell his loaves and who enforces his slaves’ piety during Catholic services with a whip. After Baquaqua fails in an attempt to drown himself, the baker sells him to a slave dealer, and he is purchased by the captain of a vessel called Lembrança (Portuguese for “memory”).

Baquaqua becomes the ship’s steward, but the captain’s mistress often gets Baquaqua “into disgrace. . . and then a whipping was sure to follow”. However, on other occasions, she saves him from punishment. “She was a strange compound of humanity and brutality,” Baquaqua recalls. The captain himself is an even stranger compound, subjecting Baquaqua to horrific physical abuse, including a beating in which he is tied to a cannon and pummeled by three men, leaving him incapacitated for days.

When the Lembrança lands in New York, Baquaqua understands that he has arrived in a “land of freedom,” and he attempts to escape. Unable to speak any English but the word “F -r-e-e,” he is soon detained, but the New York authorities do not release him back to the captain. One night “some friends” manage to open the prison doors and transport him to Boston, though his welcome there is temporary, and he is given the choice of proceeding to Haiti or to England. In Haiti, Baquaqua reports, “I felt myself free” among the “people of color who dwell there”. However, he does not understand their language(s), and he has no means of supporting himself. After a period of extreme poverty, Baquaqua is rescued by a Christian minister, Reverend William Judd, and his wife Nancy, who run the Baptist Free Mission in Port-au-Prince. Baquaqua eventually converts to Christianity, and after two years in the Judds’ mission, they agree to finance his journey to Central College in McGrawville, New York.

Baquaqua’s Biography says little about his time in college, but an original poem is included toward the end of his text.

The middle stanza begins, Oh! Africa, my native land, When shall I see thee, meekly stand, Beneath the banner of my God, And governed by His Holy word?

There is nothing in this passage to identify Baquaqua’s God as explicitly Christian, and Moore seems to have felt the need to bolster Baquaqua’s Christian credentials by inserting two lengthy quotations from other sources: one from a book about Baptist churches and the other from an article by William Judd. It is impossible to know exactly what motivates Baquaqua to convert to Christianity, or to understand the complexities of his personal faith, but his words make it clear that he wishes to return to his African homeland, and the Christian ministry may have offered him a way to get there. Unfortunately, the trip home is not easily achieved. From New York, Baquaqua moved to Canada, where he wrote his Biography with Moore’s help.

The historical record after the Biography’s publication shows that Baquaqua traveled to England, but it is unknown

whether he was able to return to Africa.

Baquaqua, Mahommah Gardo (1824?-1857?)

Mahommah Gardo Baquaqua’s biography is the only known biography of a former slave from Brazil. Baquaqua was born around 1824 near Djougou in modern day Benin to a Muslim merchant family. Baquaqua was captured from Djougou in 1845 while acting as a messenger for a local king; he was taken to the coast and shipped to Recife, Brazil. Originally he was sold to a local baker and soon after was sold to a ship’s captain based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

After living in bondage for two years Baquaqua’s owner took him on a voyage to New York City, New York where local abolitionists helped Baquaqua secure his freedom in 1847.

Baquaqua spent the next two years in Port-au-Prince, Haiti with the Baptist Free Mission Society. In 1848 Baquaqua, previously Muslim converted to Christianity and the Baptist missionaries continued to hope he would return to Africa to become a Christian missionary. In 1849 Baquaqua returned to New York State where he enrolled in New York Central College in McGrawville, New York, remaining there until 1853.

It is not known if he received a degree.

New York Central College was established by the American Baptist Free Mission Society to educate white students and former slaves. As such it was one of a handful of racially integrated colleges in the United States. It was also the first college to hire African American faculty.

Baquaqua moved to Chatham, Canada West in modern day Ontario in 1853.

In 1854 Baquaqua’a biography was taken as an oral narrative while he spoke mostly in Portuguese, as he knew little English and no French. He spoke fluent Dendi and Arabic which had been his native languages in Africa. Although Baquaqua’s oral narrative was recorded in Portuguese while he resided in Canada, its target audience was the anti-slavery population of the United States.

In 1855 Baquaqua travelled to Great Britain, still intending to return to Africa one day as a missionary. However, in 1857 all records of Baquaqua ceased and it is not known where or how he lived out his last days. ➔ TO BE CONTINUED NEXT WEEK

In 1855 Baquaqua travelled to Great Britain, still intending to return to Africa one day as a missionary.

However, in 1857 all records of Baquaqua ceased and it is not known where or how he lived out his last days.

Don’t be like the shadow: a constant companion, yet not a comrade. — Dominican proverb

royalty /45

September 26, 2014

By Muazu Elazeh

Wazirin Katsina: An All Round Traditional Ruler

U

narguably, one apt way of describing Dr Sanni Abubakar Lugga, the Wazirin Katsina is to say that he is an all rounder as he has his hands filled with different humanitarian gestures that people sometimes wonder if he has time to rest.

From being a patron to different organisations including the prestigious Nigeria Union of Journalists to his diverse philanthropic gestures, the Waziri has his hands in different areas that make him a true traditional leader that he indeed is.

The fifth Wazirin of Katsina, Dr Sani Abubakar Lugga was appointed by His Royal Highness the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji (Dr) Muhammad Kabir Usman CFR, on Saturday 26’ October 2002.

Ofcourse his appointment was described by many as well deserved as he ascended the throne of his grandfather, Waziri Haruna, the first Waziri of Katsina, who was installed as the Waziri by the Emir of Katsina Alhaji Muhammadu Dikko in 1906.

Quite naturally, Waziri Lugga, as a senior emirate council member and an adviser to the emir, is sadled with the responsibilities of protecting the interests of the good people of Katsina emirate while discharging his onerous task.

Indeed, Dr Lugga has effectively live up to his bidding as a senior member of the Katsina Emirate council as he serve as chairman of the Emirate Council’s Establishment Committee and numerously represents the Emir within the Emirate, in the State and all over the Nation.

The honest, respected and indeed highly revered Wazirin Katsina was born on the 28th day of August 1950 at Katsina. Typical of children born into Muslim Family, Dr Lugga started Qur’anic education at a very tender age and was later enrolled into the primary school in 1958. He therefore continued with Islamic studies alongside ‘formal” education.

Filled with an unquenchable thirst for both Islamic and western knowledge, the Waziri of Katsina, enrolled at the then Provincial Secondary School, Katsina (Now Government College Katsina) in 1968 where he obtained the West African School Certificate (WASC) with credits in all his subjects.

He attended the College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University, Kabba Campus, Kwara State, where he obtained a Diploma in Agriculture in 1970. Because of his quest for further education, Dr. Sani later enrolled at the Kaduna Polytechnic where he obtained a National Diploma in Marketing. In 1977, he passed out with a Higher National Diploma in Marketing.

Dr. Sani also obtained a Diploma in Manufacturing from the institute of Manufacturing, Warwickshire, England in 1980 and a Certificate in Management from Kabelmetal Electro Training, Hanover, Germany. in 1985.

Sanni Abubakar

The fifth Wazirin Katsina is a proud holder of PhD in Management from St Clements University, who over the years attended several courses, seminars, workshops and Conferences both in Nigeria and abroad.

But beyond arming himself with the requisite academic pursuit to literally swim in the waters of the present day, Dr Sanni engages in different gestures which stand him out as a traditional ruler par excellence.

Even before his appointment as Wazirin Katsina, Dr Sanni has never hid his determination to support the growth of Katsina emirate and the state at large, its people and importantly, the religion of Islam.

To demonstrate his commitment, Dr Sanni is reputed for leaving his doors wide open for any one with complaints, grievances or advices. Indeed, his magnanimity and compassion can be attested to by scores of masses who continually receive support and assistance just as they have their problems solved by the Waziri.

Expectedly, the Wazirin Katsina, as a senior emirate council member, has continually been according priority to support factors that will uplift the status of the emirate in the estimation of many across the world.An astute professional cum traditional leader, Dr. Sani is a Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Management, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Commerce of Nigeria, a Fellow of the Institute of industrialists and Corporate Administrators of

Nigeria, a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants of Nigeria and a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Financial Managers of the United Kingdom.

He is also a Member of the Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, a Member of the British Institute of Manufacturing, a Member of the American Institute of Management and a Member of the Nigerian Marketing Association.

Of course he started his working career as a teacher with Katsina Native Authority Education Department in 1969. He had also worked with the former North Central State Ministry of Agriculture as an Agricultural Assistant from 1971-1973. After his National Youth Service at Sokoto-Rima River Basin Development Authority in 1977/78, he joined Arewa Consultancy Centre, Kaduna, as an Agro-Marketing Services Executive in 1978. In 1979, he was appointed as the first Administrative Manager of the German based Northern Cable Processing and Manufacturing Company Ltd, (NOCACO). Kaduna.

The Wazirin Katsina served variously as the first Group Marketing Manager for Sambo Farms Ltd Funtua, Ramada Carpets Ltd Katsina and Hamada Agricultural Co Ltd Kaduna.

He was later appointed as the General Manager of Sambo Farms Ltd. in 1983 but switched over in 1984, when he moved to the German based Northern Cable Processing and Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NOCACO), where he

A blow to another’s purse is like a blow to a mountain of sand.— Egyptian Proverb

became the first Nigerian to attain a General Management position.

From 1992 when Dr Sanni retired from NOCACO, he went into private business and was later appointed as the Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport in Katsina State in January 1994. But from then to date, he is engaged in private business that includes property development, printing and publishing, investments, agriculture and other commercial and industrial businesses.

One of the numerous attributes of the Wazirin Katsina which has endeared him to scores of people both within and outside the Katsina emirate and the state at large is his commitment to assisting the needy and his determination to supporting the cause for a united Nigeria.

He has been in the forefront of championing peaceful coexistence among different religions and ethnic nationalities in Nigeria. His determination to support religious harmony and the attendant peace is best captures in his tradition of inviting both muslims and Christians to breakfast during Ramadan.

In most of this breakfasts which the Waziri organises every year during the Ramadan, his central message is on how to strengthen the bond of friendship and collectively work to end poverty and misery among Nigerians.

“We all have a responsibility to support the task of building a virile nation where all including the young and the old, the disabled and other disadvantaged persons will have a sense of belonging” “Indeed, we cannot be tired of stressing the need for all to preach the message of peace and contribute meaningfully towards efforts that will help reposition our nation and the entire world” Dr Sanni has said in one of his numerous speeches devoted to preaching peace.

There appears to be what could best be described as a consensus of opinion among scores of people who have the privilege of coming into contact with Dr Sanni that his major preoccupation is to ensure growth, progress and development of Katsina emirate in particular and the state in general.

Quite interesting too is the fact that inspite of his numerous commitments which cut across the Katsina emirate, the state and indeed the nation at large where he serves in different committees including his being appointed as a Member representing the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs on the Presidential Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation (2012) and appointment as a Member of the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenge in the North (2013), Dr Sanni still finds time to write.

He is a prolific writer who has written no fewer than twenty books as he started writing in the 1960’s while at Katsina Secondary School as a columnist and member of the Editorial Board of the School Magazine titled. ‘The Courier”.

46 FEATURE

September 26, 2014

By Bode Gbadebo

Inside Story Of Governors’ Battle With Social Media Critics

I

n what appears to be a new trend which gives credence to Robert Greene’s quote in one of his bestsellers, The Art of Seduction, “When our emotions are engaged, we often have trouble seeing things as they are,” some state governors across the country have since shifted their barracks from their political battle fields where they engage their real or perceived political foes to the social media, where they have to battle critics on different platforms like Twitter, Facebook and the a number of others, for daring to criticise or ‘insult’ them.

Perhaps, they are obeying one of the same author’s directives in his other book, the 48 Laws of Power, “Understand: people will constantly attack you in life.

One of their main weapons will be to instill in you doubts about yourself – your worth, your abilities, your potential. They will often disguise this as their objective opinion, but invariably it has a political purpose – they want to keep you down.”

These governors are probably oblivious of the age-long cliché “a leader is like a dustbin where all manner of people throw or drop all manner of wastes”. To be candid, it simply means that a leader should be tolerant, since he is to lead all manner of people as his subjects.

The current battle between some governors and their social media critics has a lot of implications for the state executives who are always on the offensive, given their approach of venting their grievances by getting their critics – who are supposed to be their subjects and for whom they are governing in trust – arrested and, in some cases, dehumanised in prolonged detention. But that is not to say that the rights of governors or any other public office-holder should be violated by the critics, many of who are attention-seekers.

The most recent case is that of a student of the National Open University of Nigeria, Abdulmalik Sa’idu, who is reported to have been languishing in a police cell for over 20 days now allegedly on the borders of the Katsina State governor, Ibrahim Shema, for posting details of an alleged fertiliser scam in the state on his Facebook page.

According to media reports, Sa’idu was invited to the Katsina Government House on August 28, 2014 by a phone caller, who claimed he had a message for him. But when he arrived at the governor’s office, he was promptly arrested and detained on the governor’s order which was promptly obeyed by his aidede-camp.

The young man was also accused of cloning the governor’s phone number and using same to call the state commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Sani Makana, with instructions

for Makana to deposit N3m into his account.

Meanwhile, the father of the accused was reported to have said that, prior to his son’s detention, some officials of the state government had warned Sa’idu to desist from criticising the governor on Facebook.

Sa’idu’s case is not the first, neither will it be the last, given the penchant of Nigeria’s political office-holders for impunity.

In November 2012, a civil servant in Bauchi State, Abbas Faggo, attracted the ire of the Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State, when he questioned the source of the funds used to organise a lavish wedding for the governor’s son, on Facebook.

As a result, he was summarily dismissed on direct orders of the governor.

He was initially suspended, then arrested by the police, before he was arraigned before a Chief magistrate of the state for the same offence. The judge, Adamu Madaki, struck out the case, citing procedural defect.

However, a letter terminating Faggo’s appointment, signed by one Ibrahim Shehu on behalf of the State Civil Service Head, was handed to him saying his services were no longer needed.

Similarly, Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, once ordered the arrest of a businessman, Tonye Okio, for also criticising him on Facebook.

Okio was arrested at his Abuja residence sometime in October, 2013. He was subsequently blind-folded and driven to Yenagoa by the Special Investigation Bureau (SIB), where the police took possession of his mobile gadgets and all postings on his Facebook page about the governor were deleted.

He was detained for 10 days without trial before his lawyer filed a case at a Bayelsa High Court demanding the enforcement of his client’s fundamental rights and that he be charged to court if he had, indeed, done anything wrong.

He was eventually released after spending 86 days behind bars.

More pathetic is the story of a 31-yearold motorcyclist in Ogun State, Wasiu Ogunnoiki, who was arrested and later arraigned before Magistrate Court 1 in Sagamu for denting the image of the state governor, Ibikunle Amosun, on social media, last year.

Ogunnoiki, who was arraigned on a two-count charge, was, however, remanded in prison custody for failing to meet the bail condition granted him by Chief Magistrate O.O. Ojo then.

During court proceeding, Ogunnoiki was alleged to have contravened Section 249(d) of the Criminal Code, Volume II Laws of Ogun State, 2006 by publishing his opinion about the state government’s demolition of houses in the state with-

Gov Lamido

Gov Dickson

out compensation for the owners on Facebook.

According to the state’s legal machine, the accused also committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 60 of the Criminal Laws of Ogun State

A man with two ears can be supported by two words. ― Egyptian proverb

Volume II, 2006 for making “false allegations” on his Facebook page that the then All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in Sagamu local government, Femi Felix Kafar, had dumped his party ➔ continued on the next page

FEATURE 47

September 26, 2014 for the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

What an ‘offence’.

The chief magistrate, however, granted the accused bail in the sum of N400,000 with two sureties who were proved to have been residing within the court’s jurisdiction, in addition to owning a landed property in the state, pending the determination of the case.

There was an outrage when Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, arrested Mukhtar Aminu, the 24-year-old son of his political opponent and a former House of Assembly member in the state, Ibrahim Aminu, for allegedly ‘insulting’ him on Facebook in 2011.

Consequently, the Nigeria Liberty Forum in London began a massive Facebook campaign against the governor who was described as an “emperor”.

The UK-based protest movement led

by Kayode Ogundamisi, had asked Nigerians on Facebook to bombard the Facebook page of Governor Lamido, in order to force him to “drop the charges against Mukhtar”.

Aminu was detained for 10 days. By the time he was released, he was utterly traumatised that he had to be given urgent medical attention, according to his father.

The ‘offensive’ post against the governor was about his support for President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2011 presidential election.

“O Allah, destroy Sule Lamido and the rest of his friends,” Aminu had written in the post, which has since been deleted from Aminu’s timeline.

He was arrested in the state capital, Dutse, and then taken to Nigerian the Nigeria Police Force headquarters in Abuja, where he was also held for nine days.

After being transferred back to Dutse, he was held in police custody for another day before being arraigned in court.

A judge ordered that he be remanded in prison, but the case was recalled hours later at the insistence of the Jigawa State justice commissioner who told the court that the governor had opted to “withdraw the case in the interest of the public”. Lamido finally gave way for reason, just as he should have done in the beginning.

Sometime in 2011, a staff writer of campus-based Student Voices, John Vettese, wrote about the experience of high school girl Emma Sullivan, in Fairway, Kansas. According to Vettese’s post, Sullivan thought she was joking with a small group of friends when she poked fun at Governor Sam Brownback on Twitter.

When the governor’s staff saw her post, 18-year-old Sullivan found herself in the middle of a national discussion about freedom of speech on the Internet.

Sullivan and her classmates were on a field trip with the Youth in Government programme on November 21, watching Gov. Brownback give a speech.

Standing in the crowd with her friends, she tweeted from her smart phone, making negative remarks about the governor.

She says that she didn’t actually say anything to his face and that it was just an innocent comment intended only for the friends who followed her on Twitter. “I probably have like 60 followers on Twitter,” she told the local NBC Action News. “I didn’t think it’d be like everybody would be freaking out.”

Gov Shema

Nonetheless, Brownback’s staff found what she wrote while searching Twitter for posts mentioning him. They complained to the Youth in Government programme, which complained to the school district and, resultantly, Sullivan’s principal called her into his office demanding she write a letter of apology.

But Sullivan refused. “I believe that it is my right to state my opinion,” she told Action News. As she became the centre of national media attention, the school district eased up on its stance, saying in a statement: “The district acknowledges a student’s right to freedom of speech and expression is constitutionally protected.

The district has not censored Miss Sullivan nor infringed upon her freedom of speech.

“She is not required to write a letter of apology to the governor. Whether and to whom any apologies are issued will be left to the individuals involved.”

When she as interviewed by ABC News, Emma’s older sister, Olivia, said that the family found it inappropriate that the governor’s office cracked down on the relatively insignificant tweet.

“It was a misuse of their time and a misuse of their power.

“There have been worse things said about Gov. Brownback from people who matter much more politically,” she said.

Brownback apparently agreed. In a statement released early the following week, he wrote, “My staff overreacted to this tweet, and for that I apologise. Freedom of speech is among our most treasured freedoms.”

Sullivan is pleased with the how the incident unfolded. She told the Associated Press that it “has turned into a good starting point to open up dialogue about this ... free speech and the power of social media and the power that people my age could potentially have, that people will listen to us.”

Gov Amosun

Gov Yuguda

You lament not the dead, but lament the trouble of making a grave; the way of the ghost is longer than the grave. ― Chinese proverb

48 my town

September 26, 2014

Bida: Home Of Brass Work

By Mohammed Jiya Amina

There is nothing artificial that beats the natural way in cultures and ideals of life. It is one place, one home, a tourist centre, filled with monuments, home of relaxation, peace and unity, that place known to be the second largest city in Niger State, Bida local government.

The early history of Nupe is centered around the figure of Tsoede or Edagi, the culture hero and mythical founder of Nupe kingdom. The geneologies of Nupe kings which are preserved in many places in Nupe land, and which have also found their way into the earliest written records of Nupe history. Great rulers who have embeded their histories as Etsu Nupe in this powerful city are : 1. Usuman Zaki dan Mallam who ruled from 1856 - 1859.

2. Masaba dam Mallam Dendo 1859 1873.

3. Umaru Majigi dan Muhammad 1873 - 1884.

4. Abubakar dan Masaba 1884 - 1897.

5. Muhammadu dan Umaru 1897 - 1899.

6. Abubakar dan Masaba (2nd time) 1899 - 1901 february.

7. Muhammadu dan Umaru (2nd time) 1901 - 1916 february.

8. Bello dan Maliki 1916 - 1962.

9. Mallam sa’idu dan Mamudu 1926 1935 february.

10. Mallam Muhammad Ndayako dan Muhammadu 1935 - 1962 october.

11. Usman Sarki dan Mallam Sa’idu 1962 - 1969 .

12. Umaru Sanda Ndayako 1975 - 2003 september.

13. Yahaya Abubakar 1st September 2003 till date.

Bida is a traditional state in Nigeria, a successor to the old nupe kingdom, with its headquarters in Bida, Niger State.

The head of the state is the leader of the nupe people. Also, the old nupe kingdom was established in the middle of the 15th century, in a basin between the Niger and Kaduna rivers in what is now called the central Nigeria. Early history is mostly based on verbally transmitted legends. King Jibril who reigned around 1770, was the first nupe king to become muslim, so came the Etsu Muazu who brought the kingdom to its period of its greatest power, dying in 1818. During that period, the fulani were gaining power across Northern Nigeria. After Muazus death and during subsequent wars of succession, the Nupe kingdom came under the control of the Gwandu emirate, Masaba, son of the fulani leader, Mallam Dendo and a Nupe mother gained power in 1841.

During Masabas reign, the Nupe kingdom grew extensively, Masaba residing first in Lade and later in Rabba conquered the Kamaku in the north, the gbari in the east of kakanda in the south, he however entrenched himself firmly on the yoruba side of the Niger, snatching the country from the fulani cheifs who had gained a foothold there.

The endowed city is a dry and arid town, a town full of opportunities, the people here are a race of artists who have produced many artworks that

holds sway in the cultural heritage of the country. Such work of mass production of traditional arts includes, but it is not limited to glass, brass ware, sculptures, beadwork and painting. Different people from other parts of Nigeria patronise Bida for these beautiful heritage, mostly brass wares, and beads.

I am focusing on one of the most popularly known monument my town is known for, which is the “brass ware” , it is of two varieties, one which is beaten work and the other cast in moulds, and the most commonly used here is the beaten type. The brass workers in this blessed city painstakingly fashions their designs on small anvils, using a small hammer.

However, this gifted people dont even use preliminary sketches or drawings to guide them, but the punching is so well handled that the patterns are remarkably accurate, precise, and exciting. It is widely known that beaten brass ware is common in this city.

Incredibly, its finished products consists of trays, bowls, urns, bracelets, and other objects are of considerably tourist attraction. Most of this items are also ordered for during weddings, which are used as souvenirs, and we find it in different homes, serving useful purposes.

In conjuction with the above,describing the nupe peoples huge brass bowl is very interesting, because it has a flat rim edge, much age and patina to the bowl, detailed embossed designed signed bida in two places on the bowl,it is massive, the size of a fruit bowl, it is of 12inches in diameter and 4inches tall. Most arts produced by nupe people have details on them.

A beautiful city, no denial. You will quickly recall the prominent position of Bida in the cultural heritage of Nigeria, if you have ever heard of the “durbar festival” . The present Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar is one person in this event, with the horses in their costumes to beautify the festival. Bida, a city of attraction.

This durbar festival is usually held during the celebration of muslim festivals in two major cities at different time, a day and five days after sallah id-el-fitri and ide-el kabir in minna and bida respectively, this durba promotes understanding, unity, and peaceful co existence within the cities, however, different groups from non indigenes residing in bida, such as Igbo community, Yoruba community, Idoma community, Igala community as well as representatives of all the district in Bida all participate in the memorable fiesta.

It will interest whoever comes across this peace to become aware that this city situated in the power state is a place to be, a place to visit. The State itself is sorrounded by tourist sites, like, Gurara water falls, zuma rock, the moving rock, soje hut, bonu village, to mention but a few.

Furthermore, My wonderful city has not lagged behinde in the path of Agriculture, the people of this town do alot of rice, they are highly known for mass production of local rice and alot more. They however, do alot more in the processing of fried groundnut to extract the oil from it, which is popularly known as groundnut oil, and the remains of it called “ku-

likuli”.

The kuli kuli which is mostly used in taking garri, mostly in the northern parts of Nigeria. The enriched town, is also a mass producer of kuli kuli.

Having known that Bida is an overwhelming city and a land of pride and integrity, it is a site of attraction and the home of Nupe people and also other people from different ethnic society, it is paramount to give credit to the blessed city for all that it contains. For me, there are only two great and remarkable cities in Nigeria, Bida and others.

My town has all it takes to live a comfortable life,more than you can find in other places because, it is a town of come one come all, what more can one ask of ,with all these resources my city is blessed with.

The people of Niger state who are opportuned to be residents in Bida are the only ones who know the sweetness of the city, for all that there is, long live Bida, long live Niger State, long live the Cheif Servant, Dr Mua’azu Babangida Aliyu, con, Talban Minna, long live Nigeria!!!.

If fate throws a knife at you, there are two ways of catching it: by the blade or by the handle.

― African Proverb

FEATURE 49

September 26, 2014

By Abdulkareem Haruna

T

he dream of Fatima Modu (not real name), a 19-yearold nursing mother, who hails from Konduga local government area of Borno State, was to conceive, be successfully delivered of a bouncing baby and, perhaps, christen the baby with a beautiful name at a grand naming ceremony.

Luckily, barely two months after she got married to her husband, Modu, in 2013, God answered her prayers and she conceived. Her family members were overjoyed and looked forward to the day on which she will be delivered of her baby.

As weeks turned into months and the days into hours, her enthusiastic spouse, Modu, set about making all necessary preparations for the arrival of his first child into his family home in Damboa.

The rams were purchased, while minor repairs were effected in the house, so as to accommodate the train of relatives who would come from far and wide to grace the christening.

That happy dream was however altered on July 5, 2015, when the Boko Haram terrorists carried out a twin attack on the town of Damboa, 85km away from Maiduguri, the state capital. The attack, which resulted in total destruction of Damboa Town, claimed the lives of over 50 soldiers and several other civilians. At least 15, 000 people of Damboa and its neighbouring communities were forced to flee their homes, as the insurgents marched on the town, training the nozzles of their weapons upon the defenceless.

“While some of our people fled towards Biu, we had to run on foot towards Maiduguri,” recalled Fatima, who had to flee with the rest of the frightened locals, in order to save their lives.

“My pregnancy was 7 months old then, and I was too heavy to run, but I had to run for my dear life. My husband supported me as we walked and jogged through the bush till we arrived at Maiduguri,” she continued.

In Maiduguri, Fatima and hundreds of other displaced people were camped at the NYSC Orientation Ground where the state government continued to cater for them and see to their daily needs.

Their dream of welcoming their bundle of joy with a colourful christening now shattered, Fatima and her husband attended to her pregnancy with mixed feelings. The fear attending to the baby in an indecent environment like a refugee camp became an abiding concern.

Two weeks ago, Fatima yielded to nature’s call when she laboured and was safely delivered of a bouncing baby boy.

True, the joy which greeted the baby’s arrival was muted, but the child was welcomed by cheerful, internally displaced persons.

In Borno State, naming a baby is usually done in line the people’s rich culture, in order to emphasise the circumstance surrounding the period in which the child is born. The most significant aspect of baby-christening is the culture of name-sharing (takwara).

The Modus did not waste much time in deciding the name of their delight-

Why Parents Name Babies Born In IDP Camps After Governor ful baby, as they announced to fellow camp mates that the new “baby’s name is Kashim Shettima”.

“My husband and I decided to name the child after Governor Shettima, because he was the one who came to our rescue when the world was falling down on us; I had almost lost the pregnancy even at seven months, due to the stress of fleeing Damboa 80km away from Maiduguri when the Boko Haram attacked but when we arrived here, though we lost our home and our collective peace, at least we were not allowed to starve and I was able to continue my ante-natal before I was successfully delivered of Baby Kashim Shettima,” Fatima revealed.

“It is part of our culture that we give our babies the names of our benefactor, someone we hold in esteem, our parents or grandparents, in order to show love and appreciation. Also, we are happy to name him after the [Borno State] governor,” Fatima said.

Fatima is not the only displaced mother who is showing appreciation to her benefactor. Two other mothers who are inmates at the camp for internally displaced persons have named their babies after Governor Kashim Shettima at the NYSC IDP camp.

Aishatu Abubakar, another displaced young mother who hails from Damboa local government area of Borno State, also has a ‘governor’ baby she delivered about a month ago.

“My baby’s name is Kashim Shettima, because he was not born in the village but here in the city, she said.

According to her, the baby was born while she was in the custody of the governor who fed and provided shelter for her, until she was able to deliver the baby

last month.

“We have no better name than to give him that of the governor and we pray that he will grow up to be like the governor who is kind-hearted and caring,” she said.

Maryam Abdullahi, a 24-year-old woman also gave birth to another ‘Kashim Shettima’ about two months ago, shortly after she fled Damboa town.

Her reason; the governor’s kindness and care.

A man with two ears can be supported by two words. ― Egyptian proverb

The Modus did not waste much time in deciding the name of their delightful baby, as they announced to fellow camp mates that the new “baby’s name is Shettima

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September 26, 2014

51

September 26, 2014

Hauwa Booth WOMAN ON THE LOOSE

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

Re: Diamond Bank, Why? Woah! I got an earful and eyeful on complaints about banks and their sharp practices or ‘grey area’ practices. I have summed up most of the readers’ reactions as follows: Readers wanted to know the role of the account officer in the whole matter. We have a good relationship with him. He didn’t have much of a role, since he wasn’t in the picture when we were called or when fingers were ‘dipped’ in the account. However, I did run into him and I gather that the bank’s reason for illegal finger-dipping is that it has a ‘right of set-off’. Seriously?

Other readers wanted to know if the bank had addressed the issue and if there had been any effort made at recovering it. Well, what I have noticed is that banks and bankers work at collecting your money and, after that, well…It becomes the case of the hunter and prey; just wait till you have an issue and you will see their true colours. So, to answer that question: no.

I am still hoping that someone in the system will take it up, present it to their management and risk his career for our money’s safety and rights

(wishful thinking, right?) *sigh*.

Advice. you really need to start tracking your money, its ‘comings’ and ‘goings’, ask questions.

Don’t let them intimidate you, it is your money and you have a right to know. More so, they owe you a duty of care and communication!

Finally, Diamond Bank responds to me on the other issue. Wow, it took three months. Very impressive. I’ll respond. It might take three months, though. Tit for tat, you’ll say.

The Killing Of Shekau...Again

‘Show Appreciation’

I was wondering what the rationale behind the re-surfacing of certain roads around the FCT was, when there are roads within the city that have not even ‘smelled’ coal tar, talk more of being laid with a ‘first layer’. My boss tried to give a plausible reason; something about the wear and tear of the road or something like that…but I’m not convinced. Based on his explanation, then, the surfacing of the road that has baffled me is the one close to the Nigeria Army Headquarters that has been on the lockdown. ……………………………

I met former FIRS boss Mrs Ifueko Omogui-Okauru. It was nice to meet her: she’s one whose work ethic, ability to affect and turn around a moribund industry without noise and fuss, I admire. We saw less of her and more of her work. We need more of her ilk in government, especially, to fill the 30 per cent affirmative representation in government being lobbied for women. By the way, I’m campaigning for her; she should be given another appointment! ……………………………..

Public holiday is fast approaching (yippee!) and it is (literally) for a whole week.

October 1st, then 4th and 5th for Sallah, but 5th is a weekend, so we get 6th and 7th as the ‘official’ public holidays. Well, I’m hoping...

There are four versions to this issue; that of Marylin Ogar who steadfastly holds on to the assertion that Abubakar Shekau was killed last year, that of the Nigerian Army who insist that he was finally killed last week, the Cameroonian government who corrected our army saying “we killed Shekau” and that of the journalist/ negotiator Ahmad Salkidi who has brought him

back to ‘life’ by insisting that Abubakar Shekau – the original that is – is still alive!

There must be a way we can put this matter to rest once and for all, because three deaths and the opinion of one man do not inspire confidence; not even a little. I’m not sure putting forth the theory that ‘Abubakar Shekau’ could be a title for each new commander and leader is sitting well, either.

In-flight Refreshment

Lagos State has declared that October 15, 2014, will be a hornfree day. The idea is to mitigate noise pollution in Lagos State. The presented with the in-flight refreshment; plantain chips, mini-bottle water, an apple, biscuit, a choice idea is to promote respect for other road users, instil some road discipline, improve driving culture and give the ear drums a rest, as of chicken pie and cake, choice of coffee/tea or most have become desensitised. The advocates pointed out that “it a 250ml packet drink, tea pack with a practical amount of milk, sugar and spoon, sanitising hand is not a law but a community development advocacy programme”. towel, serviette and breath freshener! I mean…

The driver of the taxi I boarded seemed sceptical about the idea. c’mon!! Bear with me. I know [you must be asking] However, he opined that if the idea is to work, doctors and nurses how snacks and safety can be compared, abi? should be trained. I asked why and he said a lot more pedestrians My view is that tomorrow is promised to no one will be hit than cars because of the indiscriminate crossing of roads and no one knows the time when or the method by paedestrians, since they can’t horn! “Does it include sirens?” he by which we will depart this life, so I’ll live in the moment. As I was saying, all that in N15,300? What mused.

He, however, had a fool-proof method. He thought that the advocaught my attention, though, was that half the items in the snack box came from other companies cates should have ordered all drivers to dismantle their horns on that were set up here! Arghhhhh. Do you see the the 14th, because he said there is no chance that drivers will not economics and sense? blare their horns!

Frequent fliers will advise you to take Arik or Aero as much as you can when flying within the country.

Arik makes no apologies about its prices and has no promos. No need; it is selling safety. Arik to Lagos cost N33,000. It is just that they have this ‘in-flight refreshment’ which 90 per cent of the passengers look forward to it (erhmm, I stand to be corrected). So, when I was given a cupcake and offered coffee/tea or a tot of juice, I thought “well, not bad for N33,000 given the economy and all”. I decided to take DanaAir on my return, because it was the earliest flight out of Lagos. I barely made it to the airport and was a bit skeptical paying N15,300 for a ticket – and this was the over-thecounter price!

You can imagine my surprise when we were

Horn-free Day

South Africa To Nigeria’s $9.3m: ‘Na Only You Waka Come?’

Honestly, I’m a bit confused about the hullabaloo that has engulfed the discovery of $9.3m aboard a chartered plane that was supposed to be used to buy arms for the Nigerian government. I’m not even being funny. We don’t do anything by the book. I really don’t know why we expected different. Also, isn’t the matter of buying the much-needed guns and other

ammo of uttermost importance for us to bulldoze our way to go pick up a couple of arms? Does the SA realise [that] it is ‘Big Brother, Giant of Africa’, Nigeria that’s involved?

SA should stop being funny and give us back our money jor if they won’t allow us buy the guns!

Under a certain president, we won’t even be hashing

WEEKEND

FEEDBACK: LET’S HEAR FROM YOU

BiTES

You see a person’s true colours when You are no longer beneficial to their life – Britt Balduk

out this matter in the public space; there would have been bottle necks and hiccups affecting SA businesses (invariably us) which would have made them sit up and behave appropriately! By the way, I have a feeling that about $200k or $700k from the money was nicked. $9.3m just seems an odd figure; $9.5m or $10m seems more like it. Just saying.

hello readers, thank you for reading and spreading the word about this page. we are now ready for your feedback. let’s hear your take. constructive criticism and contributions will be published. send thoughts to diaryofastupidwoman@gmail.com or 08055241197 via teXt onlY. Don’t forget to include your name and location. please bear with us if yours doesn’t make it onto the page.

personalityprofile

September 26, 2014

By Weneso Orogun

Aig-Imoukhuede: A Man For All Seasons

M

r.

Aigboje AigImoukhuede former group mananing director and chief execitive of Access Bank is a quintessential banker and outstanding manager of resources, his uncanny ability to bring dreams alive has earned him a pride of place in the chronicle of successful corporate restructuring in the world, and the transformation story of Access Bank under his leadership was listed a case study for MBA students in leading Business Schools across the hemisphere.

Access Bank which is now credited with the most successful growth trajectory in the history of banking in Africa and perhaps in the EME was incorporated in February 1989 as a privately owned commercial bank obtained a banking licence and commenced business in May 1998.

The bank converted to a public limited liability and was listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in November 1998. Until March 2002 after the recapitalisation of the Bank when Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede was appointed by the bank’s Board of Directors alongside his partner, Herbert Wigwe who currently serves as the Bank’s Group Managing Director with a clear mandate to reposition the Bank as one of Nigeria’s top 10 Banks by 2007 to salvage its dwindling fortune.

With his partner, Herbert Wigwe, they steered the affairs of the Bank off the storm and turned the perennial lossmaking institution into a profit making venture. Interestingly, in their first year at the helms of affairs, the recorded a PBT of N1billion, an amount which was more than the total profit recorded by the Bank in its entire 13 years of operation before the appointment of Aigboje and Herbert, which marked the creation of value for the Bank’s shareholders.

Under their watchful eyes, Access Bank emerged from 65th position in 2002 to rank amongst bank top 10 banks in Nigeria before the banking consolidation.

Subsequently, the bank went ahead to acquire Capital Bank International and Marina International Bank to meet the capitalisation requirements.

Aigboje’s acumen and resourcefulness have not only nurtured his personal vision to success but served the Nigerian nation in different capacities and contributed significantly towards building a better world for the habitation of mankind. Most recently, Aigboje who is a member of the National Economic Management Committee, dedicated to shaping national economic policies also served at the Chairman of the Fuel Subsidy Verification and Repayment Committee. Consistent with his reputation, he made success of the herculean task

which brought huge discomfort to his family and threat to his life by saving the country of a whooping sum of N1 trillion when he blocked the channels through which our beloved country is fleeced of her resources.

He toiled day and night, forensically combing through paper works and activities of interested parties with members of his committee, to unravel the misery behind the yearly ballooning of Fuel Subsidy Repayment that has consistently seen it over-shooting budgetary provision annually. A team player, who does not take personal credit for collective accomplishments, he openly acknowledged the contributions of every member of the presidential committee and their selfless efforts at nation building.

An alumnus of the Harvard Business School and law graduate of the University of Benin who started his career in the Legal department of Continental Merchant Bank discovered early enough that he enjoyed making deals than doing legal works, and quickly transited to core banking. He spent over 19 years of professional and senior management banking experience at Guaranty Trust Bank (now GT Bank), where he was Executive Director superintending the Public Sector Group before resigning in February 2002 to lead a team of other professionals to reposition Access Bank for global recognition.

Aigboje’s rounded exposure in his banking career - spanning treasury, finance control and planning, commercial banking and investment banking has proven to extremely beneficial to the development of the Nigerian economy and its financial services sector. Specifically, the experiences garnered from these specialist fields of financial services have condensed to differentiate him from other leading bankers in his generation and equipped him to make practical and useful contributions to the Nigerian economy.

His contributions to nation building and social transformational initiatives have singled out for service to humanity at the global level. For this, he was appointed the first African Co-Chair of GBC-Health, a leading coalition of private sector focussed on addressing health issues. Also, Aigboje serves as Chairman of Friends Africa and led other African corporate organisations to donate $1 million to the Global Fund “Gift from Africa” project as demonstration of the commitment of Africans to address some of the problems facing the continent, especially Tuberculosis and Malaria.

Over the past decade, he has registered himself as an ardent advocate of responsible business practices and sustainable

Aig-Imoukhuede

practices. He has consistently demonstrated commitment towards addressing critical societal needs via participation in global alliances, playing defining roles in global and workplace health initiatives.

The winner of the 2013 edition of the African Banker Award and the 2011 edition of the Ernst and Young West Africa Entrepreneur of the Year Award in recognition of his contributions to the African financial services landscape and his entrepreneurial process coupled with exceptional acumen has won several awards locally and internationally in his glittering career.

Aigboje who is the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Financial Markets Dealers Association (FMDA) was named in 2012 amongst the top ten most respected CEOs in the Pricewaterhouse Coopers Most Respected Companies and CEOs Survey in Nigeria. He is a highly sought after speaker on leadership and entrepreneurship with visible contributions to the African continent.

He is a respected and highly experienced boardroom player, serving on the Boards of several notable Nigerian companies, some of which include Wapic Insurance Plc, Associated Discount House and Asset and Resource Management Ltd. He is a member of the Presidential Committee on the establishment of the African Investment Bank, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and a Governing Council member of the Financial Institutions Training Centre.

He is a member of the sub-committee of the Bankers’ Committee on Professional Ethics, Harvard Business School Associa-

He has registered himself as an ardent advocate of responsible business practices and sustainable practices. He has consistently demonstrated commitment towards addressing critical societal needs via participation in global alliances, playing defining roles in global and workplace health initiatives tion of Nigeria, as well as on the Board of FATE Foundation where he assists in inspiring entrepreneurial driven youths to realize their potentials.

In addition to being a Fellow of ASPEN Leadership Initiative, Aigboje’s defining role as chairman of the Bankers’ Committee Sub-Committee Development has significantly impacted and contributed to the transformation of the Nigerian economy. Decorated with the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his numerous contributions especially as a member of the National Economic Management Team, industry observers have also attributed Access Bank’s expansion into the United Kingdom and into other African countries such as The Gambia, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Democratic Republic of Congo and Ghana to the practicality of his vision.

Run as hard as a wild beast if you will, but you won’t get any reward greater than that destined for you.

― Congolese Proverb

KANNYWOOD trends

By Al-Amin Ciroma

September 26, 2014

email: alaminciroma@gmail.com. GSM: 08033225331 (sms only)

For Zee-Zee, No Going Back On IBB Everyone loves the story of the youngest Nigerian entertainment multimillionaire (arguably), Ummi Ibrahim Usman a.k.a Zee-Zee (the Kannywood star who made her fortunes from starring in a number of successful movies). She is believed to have made a fortune from starring in movies than a number of actors in Kannywood. She certainly doesn’t need any extra exposure to further her business venture and fame.

Despite her feat, though, for over a decade, the actress has had her fair share of controversies. This phase in her life began to unfold after an alleged romance with singer Timaya (real names Enetimi Alfred Odom), with whom she had planned a high-society wedding.

That scandal caused a stir and set many a tongue wagging.

Ironically, for some time now, the actress went off the radar, opting, instead, to quit acting for “obvious personal reasons” withdrawing to herself and away from the spotlight. Despite her withdrawal, she still found time to make a few public uproar-inducing comments on her Facebook wall. Such was the case

two years ago, when she kept posting her picture and that of former Nigerian president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB). Very attached any importance to the posts, but the frequency of the postings caused more of her followers to take it with more than a pinch of salt. It remains to be seen if anything came of that little show.

According to findings, that relationship also went sour, so much that the actress allegedly threatened to commit suicide, before she was rescued by some close associate of the retired general. It was whispered in every nook and cranny of Kannywood that her romance with IBB was for real. Many cited as an example, the period when she never stepped out without a host of security guards taking the rear as proof. Ummi is actually the power behind the throne!

Lately, though, it does look as if ZeeZee is bent on having the last laugh.

Kannywood Trends understands that the star was quoted to have told some close associates that her relationship with the general is a fait accompli; no doubt about that.

Iyantama Bags US Award For Excellence

Prominent Kannywood film-maker, Alhaji Hamisu Lamido Iyantama, recently bagged an award of excellence from a US-based Nigerian humanitarian organisation, Zumunta Association USA. Iyantama has been a torch-bearer many actors in the Hausa film industry and beyond. Widely known for his philanthropic deed and firm approach to his work, there might hardly be any country or culture where the veteran filmmaker is not revered and recognised. Over the years, Iyantama has been rated among top 10 entertainment practitioners in the nation’s motion picture industry. Critics have it that the tall, handsome, lightcomplexioned approaches his roles with so much flair and professional interpretation.

The organisers of the event described Iyantama as “a pacesetter in the entertainment industry in Nigeria”. A letter signed by the conveners of the group, Hajiya Rakiya Bello (chairman) and Francis John, said that “the award is bestowed on him for his resilience and elasticity

Zee-Zee

Rahama Hassan Appointed NOUN Ambassador

Hassan receieving her award from VC, NOUN, Professor Vincent Ado Tenebe

Iyantama displaying his award

in regenerating the society through good works.”

The two-day event took place at The Marriot Country Club Plaza, Missouri, USA, on August 16, 2014.

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has appointed Kannywood actress-cum model, Rahama Hassan, one of its celebrated ambassadors. As part of the deal, Hassan has also been offered a scholarship to further her studies at the university.

According to her, the offer will go a long way in creating awareness and giving many who think they are past the age of learning hope.

“As an actress and model, though I travel a lot and barely have time for myself, I can still make out time to study. In that light and as an ambassador of this great institution, I am tasked to share my optimism with our teeming fans and audience on the

A borrowed coat does not keep one warm.

— Egyptian Proverb

need to be relevant at all times. We have to understand that education is key,” said Hassan.

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September 26, 2014

2015: My Take On VP Sambo's Fate

Stanley Nkwocha Our Eye On Power And Politics

Is Abubakar Shekau Finally Dead ?

Since the endorsement of President Goodluck Jonathan by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as its sole presidential candidate for the 2015 presidential election, not a few tongues have wagged, including funny enough too, the APC’s which has frowned at the idea, describing it as undemocratic.

The most tongues have wagged at the direction of Vice President Namadi Sambo who was left out of the endorsement as the PDP elected to leave Sambo’s fate in the hands of the president.

The vice presidential candidate of the PDP just as should be in the APC, must be one seen to have the capacity to lead the country and possess the requisite intellect, political strength and finesse to lead the nation in 2019 when the president would definitely step down if the PDP wins and perhaps in 2023 if the tides favours the APC. In the PDP, as painful as my view might be, am of the opinion that Sambo is deficient of the political clout needed to win elections for the PDP as his electoral antecedent since becoming vice president has shown.

The PDP needs a vice presidential candidate that is at home with the North and really commands political clout and influence. If I were, therefore, to make a choice for President Jonathan I would for obvious reasons still stick my options to the Northwest but narrow my choice down to either Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State or Sule Lamido of Jigawa State.

The pointers show that in 2015 even though loyalty remains a vital tool, political clout and patronage remains a high optimum factor and should not be sacrificed for self pity and the political convenience of a few.

Feedback: stanleyn@leadership.ng

08038011382 (text only)

Director of Defence Information, Maj-Gen. Chris Olukolade last Wednesday confirmed the death of Mohammed Bashir a.k.a Abubakar Shekau. While the military expected praises, mum has been the word as this is not the first time Nigerian military will “kill” Shekau. Even the statement by Olukolade was written and delivered in a most cautious manner. But need this be the case?

All that would have been needed to confirm if the victim was indeed Shekau or not would have been to simply run the dead

victim’s DNA profile against Shekau’s which ought to be in the databank of the military authorities by now as family members are easily undeniable sources of DNAs. If Olukolade is telling us that the Nigerian Army has just been shooting wild, then this would be surprising as technology in this instance has made for easy precision except if the military has no records. The dictates of the time necessitates this as there should be limits to the confusion over Shekau’s death or not.

Stan’s Memo

There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but because conscience tells him it is right - Luther King Jnr.

i

Musings I looked forward to President Barack Obama’s speech to the United Nations last Wednesday and wasn’t disappointed as he delivered what in my opinion (from head to toe, like we say ) was a point blank message to the world’s leaders especially those of the Middle East. However, that Russia’s foreign minister Sergey Lavrov and his crew were caught giggling after Obama’s speech which also criticised Russia’s role in Ukraine crisis wasn’t amusing.Russia, sure has a different idea of world peace, it seems.

Bravo To Nigeria's Military

Gombe: Who Is Out With Yan Kalare Again?

Reports being churned out in the media indicate that the military at the moment seem to have gotten the upper hand in the war against insurgency. With reports of weapons surrendering choking the airwaves and no stories of ‘tactical maneuvering’, it is only natural that aside prayers we also praise the gallantry of the soldiers.

The number of soldiers that have fallen to the bullets of insurgents is better left imagined. And it would have made more sense if they died while defending the territorial integrity of our nation against external aggressors and not as the case is - against internal strife, made so by the fanaticism of a few bent on foisting strange ideologies on our statehood.

Taking into account these losses as even those dead on the Boko Haram side while fighting could have been effectively utilised for greater national productivity, it is only fair that the crisis of insurgency is nipped in the bud.

It will be most unfair that whilst lives are being lost on daily basis, soldiers get sent on death-row for mutiny over same insurgency that those who fanned and funded the crisis are left to enjoy the luxuries of life.

The Jonathan administration must, and I repeat, just must reveal, expose and prosecute those sponsoring insurgency in this country.

The Gombe State government has accused erstwhile governor, Danjuma Goje of allegedly resurrecting the outlawed Kalare group in Gombe State ahead 2015. This, according to reports, suggested why the Gombe State commissioner of police invited the senator to his office last week.

Since falling apart with his godson and moving over to the APC, to posit that the political temperature in Gombe State has been on a steady rise is to say it as it is. If cognisance is however taken of the destruction of lives and property that the ‘Yan Kalare group brought to bear on the citizenry in Gombe in the past, it would be not only atrocious but outrightly wicked for any politician, no matter the interest and intent to reintroduce ‘Yan Kalare.

I mean if Goje, Modu Sheriff and others were given days to publicly tender apologies for their actions and inactions by insurgents in the past and they did, it should then be unheard of that they ever get allegedly linked to any dangerous group remotely or immediately, having known the capacity they possess in causing mayhem and extinguishing lives.

Whether for 2015, 2019, 2023 or 20... forever, the Kalare group must be made a bygone in Gombe politics. The vast potentials of the youths in that state can be effectively put to other uses. Let Kalare be a thing of the past.

I mean we can’t put soldiers on deathrow while those alleged to be sponsoring insurgency in this country are enjoying the comforts of private jets that land them at different countries of the world including those countries where they surprisingly play host to our commander -in- chief when he visits. So long as we don’t cut the source of supply for these insurgents we may just be on a wild goose chase – putting further innocent and brave lives on the line.

Power Play: Wike Vs Wike Just when the minister of state for education, Nyesome Wike thought he has perfected plans to emerge the PDP’s candidate in the 2015 general elections in Rivers State, the very machinery that he helped to instal in the PDP is the

focal point of attack by his hitherto foot-soldiers.

The declaration of ‘no zoning’ by the Hon Obuahled PDP in Rivers State is the cause of the latest crisis which has stirred the hornet’s nest and threatening to tear the Rivers PDP to shreds.

As if waking up from a deep slumber, the very party chieftains who helped Wike to wrest the PDP machinery out of Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s grip forcing him to the APC, have turned against their perceived leader and threatening showdown. For

them, the battle lines have been drawn and it is clear that this time unlike the upper and lower cuts that emanated from Governor Amaechi’s side of the ring, the punches will come from Wike’s own supporters... sadly within the same ring!

You lament not the dead, but lament the trouble of making a grave; the way of the ghost is longer than the grave.

politics

September 26, 2014

APC Must Learn From The Past To Ensure Victory In 2015– Lukman Alhaji Salihu Mohammed Lukman is the director general of the Progressives Governors Forum. In this interview with ISAIAH BENJAMIN, he speaks on the chances and challenges of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2015 general elections, the performance of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the past 15 years and other national issues.

As the director general of the Progressive Governors forum, how would you objectively assess APC governments?

Well, as far as the state governments are concerned, they are engaged in what I will call very active peer reviewcomparing notes among themselves , taking best practices from across each other on the basis of future, working to come up with certain standards- that is the major work of Progressive Governors Forum. So in terms of assessment, I will say that I think we have started very well and that is why we are not engaged in propaganda issues. We are more engaged more in governance issues and based on that, we try to explore ways and means of strengthening the state governments and APC as well as also ensuring that policies of the state governments fit into the party’s so that subsequent state governments of the APC will replicate the policies of the APC. Talking about replicating policies, we already know that 2015 general elections is already around the corner. To what extent can you say the APC is prepared to take over power?

Let me say that APC has been a work in progress, unlike any other party. Anybody who understands politics very well should know that politics is an art of negotiation, constant negotiation, a process of aggregating interests and it is almost a lifelong process. We discovered each other. We started with so many people, so in the process, people discovered they could not fit into it because their interest was narrow, because it was more or less for their personal ambition, personal aspirations, and along the way, they had to leave the party and move to other parties.

I don’t think anybody would hold grudges against them.

I think it is the process of discovering ourselves and we discovered new people who were not in the party and are playing very active role now. I think that is the beauty of it. On the party, I will say it is opening up beyond the imagination of anybody and in the process of opening up, in some way, they are making some people uncomfortable who ordinarily would not want an open party because they want the party to be controlled. But I think that at the end of it all, APC would emerge stronger, would become a party that is controlled and directed by Nigerian citizens and to that extent therefore, the interest of Nigerians would guide whatever the party is going to do.

How would you assess the PDP government in the past 15 years?

Let us look at the indices. For instance, when PDP government took over power in 1999, unemployment was about 17 percent, poverty level was in the region of 3040 percent. Today, officially from the office of the Federal Office of Statistics, unemployment is almost 23 percent, going to 24 percent. This is as far back as 2012; I don’t know what the statistics is today. It largely could have worsened.

Poverty level is almost 70 or 60 something percent. With reference to that, things have gotten worse with reference to infrastructural development; light situation has remained tale by moonlight. With all the resources being pumped into the sector, you cannot get light. It has gotten worse even in urban centres, if you don’t have a generator, you cannot enjoy light. If you go to other sectors like the transport sector, things have really gotten worse, although they keep citing the rail project which is not yet off the

ground. We have seen quite a lot of work, but until we see it them work, we cannot talk about it. Is it air transportation you are going to talk about?

Or is it the flooding that happened last year, which we were told was on account of the fact that the River Niger had not been dredged for decades and the PDP government, I am sure, did give contract for dredging the River Niger but yet we are still stuck in that situation. Our urban centres are all congested. There is nothing to show about it. On health, Nigerians now go on health tourism more than ever before, nobody ever imagined that. Education is the same situation. Almost everybody is sending his or her children to private schools, either in Nigeria or abroad. So whatever aspect you look at, we have regressed and how ever you want to be diplomatic about it, the people in charge have to take responsibility. I cannot but say that PDP government is a failure and that is why we must all wake up and pose a strong alternative to the PDP. Kaduna is your home state and it is also governed by PDP,. How hard is APC working to try and take over in 2015?

My strong position is that we have no alternative but to work hard and take over the government of Kaduna State and in doing that, we must learn from our past mistakes and build a strategy that would really deliver the state to APC in a qualitative way. I am not one of those who just want PDP defeated for the sake of defeat. I want to see the real alternative, that is why I virtually engage everybody to say, ‘we must work hard for the alternative. What is our past mistake? The first issue I would raise is the fact that the opposition parties were never united. We go to primaries and those who contest primaries, when they lose, they jump ship and go to another party. Their supporters who might remain in the party would start anti party activities. That is the first. The second issue is the quality of the candidate the opposition party fields. In most cases, you will find out that from 1999 to date, almost all the gubernatorial candidates of the opposition party are people who have crossed from PDP to the opposition. To that extent, they don’t pose in the eyes of the public, as any better alternative than what PDP presented in the elections. They also use the opportunity to contest basically to enrich themselves. When they get what they want , they don’t provide leadership to the party to be able to defeat the PDP. That is why if you talk to the citizens generally, they will tell you that one of the major problems is that the candidates themselves, even when they have lost the election, don’t fight back to reclaim their mandate. Typical example was in 2003, Suleiman Hunkuyi was adjudged to have won the Kaduna State governorship election. He went to tribunal, but before the judgment of the tribunal, there was a contract settlement to the PDP government of Makarfi and he withdrew the case from the tribunal. These are typical examples.

The other problems are also because we have not built the opposition parties. They don’t do what is needful to even be able to protect the votes that they would have won. A good case is a situation where you take people that are illiterate to polling units. They cannot read and write. They don’t know the electoral laws. They are not trained. They don’t even know what to do in the polling units. I think these are major problems so we must learn from those mistakes and

Lukman

seek to depart from them and start doing things right in such a way that we can truly defeat PDP. When I say defeat PDP, I don’t mean we just start talking of constructing roads, giving contracts, big time contracts without giving priorities to the people in terms of human welfare, in terms of basic facilities of life. We are at that primary stage unfortunately, not just in the state, but in Nigeria generally.

We are talking of basics of livelihood which include issues of health, education, water. We are at that real primary stage.

Today, almost all the food we consume are imported even though we are supposed to be an agrarian nation. This is quite unfortunate and we have to really work hard, if we are going to pose an alternative to PDP, to come up with programmes and campaign promises that clearly seek to depart from the old ways. I always say that for once in Kaduna State in particular, however good your programme is, you must be able to address the question of unity of the people and you must be able to mobilise citizens to work in a harmonious way to be able to deliver the kind of result that should move our society forward and place it on that competitive level with other countries of the world. These are my honest views and that is what drives my engagement with politics. I believe if we work hard, we will mobilise our people and get things done in a very proper way.

In your recent interview, you raised the alarm that the APC is moving towards failure to wrestle power from PDP. Can you shed more light on the issue?

Basically, it has to do with the old ways I spoke about. Some of us only see APC as an opportunity to simply win election and on the basis of that, they come into the party and all they do is exactly the way the PDP is doing it. They want to take over the structures of the party, refuse to allow members of the party to determine their own leaders; where members are given opportunity to determine their own leaders, when they see that those leaders are not going to do their bidding and ensure that they emerge victorious in primaries and become candidates, they start working against the leaders the people want. For us in Kaduna, up till today, we are still grappling with all manner of crisis simply because congresses have taken place and those ‘big shots’ who think they must dictate who become leaders don’t want those that were elected and are working assiduously to get those leaders removed. There are four local governments that are grappling with what they call problem of over voting. The only reason that problem has not been resolved for three months is because same people have emerged as leaders.

Wisdom is not like money to be tied up and hidden. ~ Akan proverb

56 FRIDAY INTERVIEW

September 26, 2014

38

Friday, September 26, 2014

Gbagi People Are Marginalised – Ushafa vying for the House of Reps. To represent AMAC/BWARI Federal Constituency come 2015 and what inspired me most is that my people have been eluded with development call it infrastructural development, provision of social amenities, employment opportunities and self empowerment. And the most painful and disturbing one is that my people are educationally backward. Though I commend the effort of some elders of mine who has in one or the other contribute to the growth and development of the Gbagyis most especially in the FCT but by the grace of God if I happen to be there I will contribute my own quota thank you.

Knowing how smart my people are if the platform or opportunity surface itself for them to strive well they can do better than they are now. So as part of my manifestos if I am elected come 2015 I will ensure that education is seen as the greatest investment and priority in life.

Barrister Ephraim Ushafa hails from Federal Capital Territory. To him, the present political set-up does not favour his people; the Gbagyi, ethnic nationality, which are the major ethnic group in the nation’s seat of power. He tells Paul Chiama how he intends to address this situation.

Excerpts As a successful lawyer by profession, what is the way forward for Nigerians in this era of insecurity that we found ourselves today?

First of all I must commend the effort of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GCFR, for standing firm and committed to fighting this insurgent attacks in our country. Nigerians should not forget that development can not strive well in an environment where insecurity is in play.

But to answer your question, the way forward for us Nigerians is to pray for the country at all times and all hands should be put on deck to ensure that we report any suspicious movement to the security agent around us. For security remains every body’s business. So let’s join hands together to make development sail through the entire nation.

Politics they say is a dirty game, how do you study the Nigerian political system?

Well, politics is a dirty game depending on how you go about it moreover, I believe that the politics in Nigeria is changing, people are becoming more prudent and conscious of what

Why are you into politics, knowing the negativity that comes with it?

Ushafa

they do now so I will say there is a fare level playing ground now. Our politics now in Nigeria is moving from money politics to credibility and informative politics, people judge their candidates now based on his or her ability to deliver.

So to summarize it all, I will say we are making progress.

Rumors had it that you will be vying for the house of Reps come 2015. What is your reaction to this?

It is no longer a rumor but a statement of facts that I am

NEWS

Group Cautions Jonathan Against 2015 Presidential Race

BY PAUL CHIAMA, Abuja

A coalition of political groups, the *National Coalition Against* *Fraudulent Politicians,* yesterday in a statement cautioned President Goodluck Jonathan against contesting the 2015 presidential election. The group in the release signed by their leaders claims Jonathan would have done two terms by 2015.

It cited a letter to the PDP national chairman by one Dr. Umar Ardo and asked President Jonathan to borrow a cue from it.

“It is important for Nigerians to have a clear understanding of the message Dr. Umar Ardo sent to the public domain. His submis-

sion is left for constitutional lawyers to prove in a court of law,” the group said.

It adds, “Our opinion is based on the moral rights of President Jonathan who has continued to take Nigerians for a ride. We applaud the courage of Dr. Ardo who has headed for the court of appeal for interpretation on the matter.”

It also condemned regional endorsements which President Jonathan is receiving, describing it as misleading. According to the group, “We are not unaware of the political game plan by some political spent forces hiding under the cloak of regional representations to extend Jonathan’s tenure.

Youths Commend FG On Fight Against Insurgency

BY OIBOH PETER, Abuja

A socio-political and non-governmental organisation, Youth Development Transformation and Sustainable Development in Nigeria based in Abuja, has commended the federal government on the successes recorded so far in the war against insurgents in the country.

Speaking with newsmen yesterday in a press conference in Abuja, the National leader of the organisation, Hon Innocent Kaku, said northern the caucus has called on President Goodluck Jonathan and Namadi Sambo to re-contest for the 2015 presidential election as being canvassed by many other Nigerians.

The group denied a media report that the NGO is in support of the call for the replacement of Vice President Namadi Sambo as running-mate to President Goodluck Jonathan adding that the report is an act of wickedness to tarnish the image of the organisation.

The organisation commended the effort of the federal government in the fight against insurgency with the recent killing of one of the boko haram leaders in the north east.

Kaku also encouraged every peace-loving Nigerian youth to be dully registered in the on-going voter registration exercise as “our vote is the only tool we can use to effect changes in government.”

A bad shearer never had a good sickle.

No, I don’t think so, I am still on the profession no matter how tight my schedules will be like, what prompted me most to engage myself in politics is the passion I have for my people and looking back at some of the past leaders who have contributed immensely to the growth and the Development of the various Gbagyi communities it will be prudent for someone to do better than what they have done over the years, because a lot of our communities in the FCT are yearning for development and I felt within me that the time to do that is now in order to meet up with their yearnings through my able representation. And part of my manifestos’ is to make my people understand the value for education because it is discovered that if the world would have majority of its inhabitants educated then 90% of the problems we face in the world today would have been solved.

57

September 26, 2014

Mediafacts: A Caveat Emptor Our attention has been drawn to some “facts” contained in the 2013 edition of one publication called “Mediafacts”.

We would have ignored the “facts” in question but are constrained to respond because unsuspecting members of the public may take them seriously.

name. How the names of these publications not only appeared in a survey report in 2013 but also were rated as premium brands, only God knows. And would one believe that in the “National” ranking, Triumph made it from the dead to rank No. 10? A second life never looked so good, except that this is supposed to be a serious The first sign of this armchair survey passed off as “facts,” document, not material for the afterlife. appears under the heading “Key points – Economy” where 3. The same report list Compass and Sunset as “newspapers the authors claimed that oil contributes 80% of government read yesterday by region”, when these publications revenues, when, in fact, widely available data (including a have been off the newsstand for years and do not even report by McKinsey Global Institute and even the National have online versions. From where did Mediafacts get its Bureau of Statistics 2013 Q3) clearly suggest otherwise by a respondents? far, far lower margin.

4. The classification of the newspapers is another monumental injustice to research. How, in the name That opening inaccuracy was just a tip of the iceberg. We of research, can any serious survey classify specialised shall specifically concentrate on the following embarrassing newspapers, such as Complete Sports and Soccer Star and inaccuracies in the newspaper section of the report on page vernacular newspapers, such as Alaroye and Aminiya, 36 of Mediafacts: with daily and weekly general-interest newspapers 1. The section is entitled, “Newspapers read yesterday by published in the English language? And to confirm its region”. In the modern world of media convergence, status as the mother of all media fable, ThisDay, a top this title is, to say the least, archaic and meaningless. brand by any stretch, does not even appear at all on the What do the authors mean by “read yesterday?” Read on radar of the 135,120,664 respondents polled!

Twitter, Facebook, mobile phone, tablet or desktop – all 5. Mediafacts should tell the world how in a population of modern extensions of many print brands? If the authors 178m people, it polled 135,120,664 respondents. How? were producing a resource for modern media consumers, it would have occurred to them that the “newspaper” is We know how difficult it is to obtain data, especially credible not the printed material but content. And, today, content media data, in this part of the world and have worked may be consumed across multiple platforms at different tirelessly with the Newspaper Proprietors Association of times of the day. A respondent, who is claiming to Nigeria and other stakeholder groups to establish a baseline. have read A or B newspaper “yesterday”, could actually But the difficulty in making progress does not justify the be referring to a consumption experience online, not sort of embarrassing and misleading conclusions contained necessarily in print. The title of this section sets the stage in the media fable produced by Mediafacts. for the comedy of errors that follows.

2. Mediafacts claims that, in the South-East, The Standard The errors are too glaring, too fundamental, and too brazen and Triumph newspapers are numbers one and two for the conclusions to stand. respectively. Except if these newspapers are “leading” from the grave, we do not know how this claim is We advise media consumers to be wary of the “facts” probable. The Standard, formerly published by the contained in this report. The public – and especially media Plateau State government, and Triumph, formerly agencies – should guard against any opportunistic attempt published by the Kano State government, were rested to hoodwink them by parading these “facts” as gospel or many years ago, very likely before Mediafacts found its medals.

Signed:

Dr. Kazeem Durodoye Group Executive Director Technology & New Media FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

58 / ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

September 26, 2014

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

This topic first appeared on this page in 2011. I am repeating it here, during this Hajj season, starting from today, until its third part, because of its importance.

Enjoy: Abu Hurairah narrated that The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon said, “Travelling is a kind of torture as it prevents one from eating, drinking and sleeping properly. So, when one’s needs are fulfilled, one should return quickly to one’s family.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Vol. 3, Hadeeth 031) The above hadeeth was mentioned on this page last week when I wrote on THOSE WHO CAN AFFORD THE JOURNEY. Yes, any journey, including that of hajj, is a kind of torture. There are two groups of people both missing the import contained in this hadeeth: on the one hand are those who think that any form of comfort in hajj is haraam; that the more hardship you encounter during the performance of pilgrimage the more reward you get; and on the other, those who would be averse to the slightest of discomfort in hajj because they cannot compromise comfort.

Both groups are wrong!

Allah has not placed for us in religion any difficulty (Al-Hajj 22:78); He desires ease and not hardship for us in everything of service that we perform for His sake (AlBaqarah 2:185). They have misunderstood religion those who think that one will get more reward by undergoing avoidable hardship and exertion in the performance of hajj. Such people see no point in pilgrims staying in decent accommodation in Minaa, Arafaat or Muzdalifah – what! Mattresses and pillows in Minaa…? Subhaanallah! To these people, this must be a blameworthy innovation (bid’ah). What an astounding thing…; they frown at hajjis that move in air-conditioned buses. I wonder why such people do not travel to hajj by road; and you would find some of them travelling on business class tickets; I’m going for ibaadah, he will say, so I can stay anywhere; I don’t want good accommodation or anything near Haram. But why not travel on economy, or better still by road if inconvenience is your understanding of ibaadah? The ideal for more reward in their confused psyche is for one to stay in tents within the Holy Territories devoid of carpeting and proper hygiene, and for one to trek from Minaa to Arafaat, from Arafaat to Muzdalifah, and from Muzdalifah to Makkah. This misguided opinion has led to the slumping in the Holy Mosque or even death of many who after finishing this medal less marathon on the 10th day of zulhijjah would attempt to perform tawaaf al-Ifaadah with a million other hajjis.

We can perform hajj in comfort and ease if we can afford it bearing in mind that hajj is no picnic. You can have all the money to pay for the most expensive packages but do not assume that will be like cruising your way to holiday in a private yacht. Alhamdulillah, some hajj tour companies in Nigeria can compete with any in the world in providing quality services to pilgrims but you find hajjis saying when stuck in holdup for hours around Makkah for instance, ‘What is all this wait in traffic? People recommended your

Hajj Is No Picnic (1) company to us, that you are the best, that if we don’t want to suffer, we should join your group.’

No, undertaking the journey to hajj denotes preparing to take part in religious ceremonies with more than 3 million other hajjis, moving towards the same destination at almost the same time. There is no such event in the world. Hajj is indeed unique!

Madinatul Hujjaaj (City of the Pilgrims) is the Hajj Terminal and your first arrival point during your journey to hajj, except where you are lucky to have a direct flight to Madinah. Madinatul Hujjaaj is like a grave, a prison of some sorts or an apt microdepiction of the Day of Judgement. The mere mention of this place sends shudders into the veins of those who have been there. Of the four or so terminals of the Jeddah airports, this is farthest from Makkah. It is too vast and at the same time too rowdy during the peak periods of hajj arrivals and departures.

Hardly will anybody notice or care about your problems; everybody is preoccupied with how to sort themselves out of this desolate, harsh and unfriendly environment. Many are trapped here for days when they arrive and or when they are brought a second time after observing their hajj rites waiting for their flights back home. Prices of everything here are quadrupled if you are lucky to get what you are looking for.

As soon as you come into the arrivals hall you are greeted by indifference from airport officials that have attended to millions of pilgrims on that day’s shift. You will be left there for hours on end unattended.

You cannot protest or complain to anyone even where you can speak the lingua franca.

Here nobody cares who you are in your country or what type of package you paid for; it is a shocking status leveller for the most arrogant. You are just a pilgrim like other millions from around the world. Here, poverty stricken officials who can be bribed with a trifle will not be found like we have at home; you just have to swallow your pride – provided you don’t choke on it.

In this arrivals hall you will be administered fresh immunisation injections like the one intending pilgrims have and be given certain tablets that you must swallow in the presence of the officials; medics here do not believe in what is contained on our ‘yellow cards’ as if they knew that you can buy one, with genuine department of health’s seal of approval, even at the point of boarding your flight for only five hundred naira, write your name and passport number on it and you are free to travel; your immunisation is complete!

The queue at the Immigration counter is endless. It is like the siraat over which all must pass on the Last Day. VIPs are no VIPs here until they have their passports stamped, and move out of the arrivals hall where they may be received by protocol staff from the Nigerian Embassy or Consulate, or their hajj tour operator. Do not think that your wait has ended. It has just begun! You still have 2 to 4 hours more of waiting if your destination

is to Makkah depending on what options are at your disposal for an exit strategy. If you choose to go out with your passport illegally and you happen to arrive in the morning, you have to wait until night when evil things are easier to commit. For a price you are smuggled out of this dungeon in jeeps with tinted classes. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself lying down motionless in the roomy luggage compartment with a former this and a former that from Nigeria. If you succeed, you are free, and with your passport in hand you can go to Makkah on your own arrangement or travel to Madinah at your convenience; if you are caught, the car, its driver and illegal cargo are consigned to sijin (prison); your hajj would not be possible that year; you may watch the hajj live on television screen with other inmates. Thus, a few hours wait has transmuted to months or years on end.

This piece is not on the implication, to states pilgrim authorities or private hajj operators, of the above scenario of people absconding with their passports out of the Hajj Terminal. I will address that in another article. But why will otherwise honourable people subject themselves to the humiliation of lying under the seat of vehicles to be smuggled out of the airport? Going out through the legal means is torturous and inhumane. The buses are old, most of them; if you see new models they are hardly assigned to any Nigerian pilgrims. Hajjis are made to form queues; passports are sorted out and once you are on board for a 3 or so hour drive to Makkah (such pilgrim airport shuttles have a designated lane on the highway and a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour that must be observed for the safety of the hajjis), every movement you make is monitored by the hajj ministry official in the bus who is charged with the task of taking you to the field office in Makkah where all passengers and passports are checked; the number must tally with the original figure at the time the

For normal pilgrims travelling through an international hajj tour arrangement; if you come out of the arrivals hall and your tour operator is not at the airport, you are on your own and may Allah help you

It is better in times of need to have a friend rather than money. ― Greek proverb

bus left the airport.

Your ordeal does not end there. The field office will register the passports while the pilgrims remain seated in the bus for another hour at least before a guide is provided to take them to their hotel or pilgrim apartment.

If you happen to have ‘luxurious’ buses in your group, you begin to realise the wisdom behind the ‘exorbitant’ rates you were charged for fully air-conditioned buses. Your mind begins to appreciate the necessity and not luxury of that arrangement.

If the passengers on that particular bus are from two different groups and you are so unlucky as to belong to the further place of accommodation, then you have more hours to remain in the bus, because the first group will have to alight first as their destination is nearer the field office than yours. This, in normal times may mean few minutes, but in hajj with heavy traffic around Makkah, it translates to hours; and may Allah bless your soul if your hotel is near the Ka’bah for you may find it extremely hard to reach your destination especially during prayer times as all roads are either closed or diverted.

Approaching the Ka’bah area around 6 pm means you cannot reach your hotel until 9pm because the roads will remain closed until after Ishaa prayers! Whether you are common, special, VIP or Platinum; whatever fancy name you were given by your tour operator, your stomach will speak the same language with others. It will demand to be filled. Having a bus with refreshments aboard will greatly reduce the stress.

The above reason is what makes some pilgrims throw caution to the wind and find their way out of the Hajj Terminal by all means necessary. Even top officials and dignitaries from Nigeria and any other country would have to wait for at least 3 hours within which time the protocol staff will seek for kafaalah (sponsorship) clearance for them to move out of the airport with their passports. Nobody goes out of Madinatul Hujaaj with their passports. All passports are collected only to be given back to their owners at the same place before boarding their return flights to their respective destinations.

For normal pilgrims travelling through an international hajj tour arrangement; if you come out of the arrivals hall and your tour operator is not at the airport, you are on your own and may Allah help you.

What I have mentioned so far has to do with those who start with Makkah. If your destination is Madinah; and many people prefer to start with Madinah, then your waiting time depends on what period of the month of Zul Hijjah you arrive and the availability of Saudi Arabian Airlines flights (the only local airline allowed) taking off from the Hajj Terminal. Prepare your mind to stay for at least 10 hours if you arrive around the 1st to 3rd of the hajj month; many have had to stay for more than 24 hours to connect to Madinah. This is quite unusual to regular travellers, but this is hajj! Book an earlier flight if you like; you are sure to miss it in case the officer at any desk decides to smoke or have Arabic coffee for some time. Tickets here are non-refundable.

ISLAM 59

September 26, 2014

Discourse with Sheikh Muhammad Mahmud Turi turimuhd@yahoo.com 07038199475 (text only)

In the name of Allah who states “The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakka: full of blessing and of guidance for all the worlds. In it are Signs Manifest: the station of Abraham; whoever enters it attains security; pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah -those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith, Allah stands not in need of any of HIS CREATURES” Q3:96 - 97 Please and blessings of Allah be upon His chosen servant, our master Muhammad his purified progeny.

The piece of this week is on the Pilgrimage which the intending are getting prepared to perform next week. As usual I am not going to look at the jurisprudential aspect concerning the worship but rather some important lessons for the Ummah to reflect.

As noted earlier Zulhaj is a sacred month to which the pious companions and rightly guided predecessors attach more importance as it regards to worship. Its first ten days are regarded as the known days. In a well known hadeeth, the prophet is reported to have said “there are no days most loved before Allah in worship than the first ten days of Zulhajj”.

So believers are highly encouraged to put more effort to acquire the pleasure of Allah through various forms of worship such as prayers, fasting, meditation, Qur’anic recitation, asking Allah’s blessing on the noble prophet and humanitarian services.

Prominent narrations by Kaf’amy, Majlisy and others equated fasting the nine days of Zulhajj to that of the age as a whole. There are specific prayers highly recommended in this month from its beginning to Arafat day obtainable from Mafaateehul Jinaan, Dhiyaa’us saaliheen and Iqbaalul aamaal among others.

The martyrdom of Imam Muhammad son of Imam Ali al - Baqir occurred on the 7th day in the 114th year after Hijra at Medina.

As such the Imam is remembered and visited from far and near. The eighth day (day of Tarwiyyah) is also recommended for fasting.

The ninth day is very prominent, preceded by its very significant night; it is recommended to keep awake in prayers and remembrance, seeking Allah’s forgiveness and mercy. Prayers are accepted and the reward for that worship is beyond common comprehension. As the Arafat day, fasting is highly recommended for those Muslims not on pilgrimage rite. The Arafat day is greatly revered as a day in which Allah The Most high called on His servants.

PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage as a pillar in Islam is a compulsory duty once in a life time for every physically and financially able Muslim.

“Behold! We pointed the site, to Abraham, of the sacred house, saying: Associate not anything (in worship) with me; and sanctify My house for those who compass it round, Or stand up Or bow, Or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer). And proclaim the pilgrimage, among men; they will come to thee on foot and (mounted) on every camel, Lean (on account of journeys) through deep and distant Mountain highways. Q26: 29.

Unlike the Solomon’s temple, the site of

Hajj: A Phenomenal Rite!

Makah was granted to Abraham and son Isma’il, peace be upon them, as a place of worship to Allah alone. The two prophets built the holy Kaaba asking Allah’s blessings and forgiveness for selves and offspring.

No doubt, Hajj is evidently the greatest gathering attended by millions of people of different backgrounds on earth. It is the envy of its enemy which ought to be ideally used by the Ummah for advancement and protection of its spiritual and material interest.

Mecca, the birth place of Prophet Muhammad was initially a barren land in the desert when prophet Ibrahim, the father of monotheism migrated with his wife Hajar and first son Isma’il, peace be upon them.

However, due to his prayers it became the pulling point that attracted millions of people with socio - economic stability.

“Remember Abraham said: O my lord! Make this city one of peace and security: and preserve me and my sons from worshipping idols. ” Q2: 35.

The rigorous activities of pilgrimage start from the eighth to tenth, in addition to two or three subsequent days later. The pilgrims are dressed in simple unsown white cloth in a state of consecration circulating the Kaaba, hastening between the hills of Safa and Marwa, making sacrifice and stoning the pillars. Although there some minor differences between the pilgrims depending on the type of pilgrimage ones engages in.

Refer to supplication books like Mafaateehul jinaan and Dhiyaa’us saaliheen for special prayers narrated from the infallible Imams on the day.

The well known prophetic sermon in his farewell pilgrimage at the mount Arafat emphasized the inviolability of blood and properties, stressed the need to observe one’s duty to Allah, avoidance of corruption and mischief on earth, kind treatment of women and piety as the only criterion for superiority before Allah. The messenger finally repeated the tradition of the two weighty things - the book of Allah and his holy progeny. It is imperative to emphasize the following lessons:

THE ARAFAT DAY On the Arafat day, all pilgrims stand on the mount Arafat, a remarkable activity of the pilgrimage. Millions of people from every land and walks of life, race and color gather on its wide plan to celebrate Allah’s praise and seek His forgiveness and mercy.

‘Behold! Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah. So if those who visit the house in the season or at other times should compass them round, it is no sin in them.

And if any one obeyeth his own impulse to Good, be sure that Allah is He who recogniseth and knowth” Qur’an: 35 – 37.

This gathering reminds one the forth coming general assembly of the Last day when all shall stand equal before Allah.

UNITY Unity is the most neglected lesson of pilgrimage. With numeric strength and bountiful resources, the Ummah ought to excel all over the world but has became the laughing stock of its enemies as a result of divisions and enmity spread by its enemies through their stooges!

Allah repeatedly states “And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves” Q3:103. “Be not like those who are divided amongst themselves and fall into disputations after receiving clear sign; for them is a clear chastisement” Q3:105.

In a hadith, the prophet has said “no community differed after (the demise of)

ETHICAL DIAMENSION Muslims are highly encouraged to observe the best possible behaviors in this worship to attain Allah’s pleasure. They must avoid all forms of anger or dispute and remain patient and humble throughout the cause of the worship. Above all, they should exercise absolute self control in atmosphere of brotherhood, friendliness and forgiveness.

In addition to that, they should forget all social statuses enjoyed in their respective lands and be stripped of wealth and pride looking for forgiveness of sins and soul purification. It is narrated that whoever embarks on hajj in accordance with the demonstration of the noble messenger he returns sinless as the day he was born.

The day cuts off the promise of the night.

― Chinese Proverb

their prophet except that the people of their falsehood gained mastery over the people of their truth”.

Virtually, the enemies of Islam use the tool of divide and rule to destroy the ummah with the help of misguided Muslims. That is why those committed to its true cause are devotedly concerned on the unity.

History is a living witness on the commendable role played by late Imam Khomeini and Sheikh Mahmud Shaltut (may Allah have mercy on them) in this direction. Ruhullah always maintained, those sowing discord along the Sunnah/ shi’a divide are neither Ahlus - sunnah nor Shiites. And of his living legacies against their conspiracy are the Unity week and the international Quds day in solidarity with the Palestinians. On the other side Sheikh Shaltut, the great Egyptian Muslim authority is still remembered with his historic verdict in favor of approximation and rapprochement.

If the UN, EU, NATO, AU, ECOWAS, NYSC and lots of others were established on the basis of unity why should the Muslims divide? No doubt all persecution, humiliations and disgrace befalling the Ummah are nothing but resultant effects of its division.

THE TRUE HAJJ AS ADVOCATED BY PROPHET IBRAHIM (AS) Pilgrimage as advocated by prophet Ibrahim has clear meaning and purpose beyond what it is presumed to be. As a politico – religious congress of believers, Mecca should be a place for the oppressed to raise their cries of protest against the oppressors and dissociate from the infidel who are perpetually bent on brutality of believers and entire humanity.

“And an announcement from Allah and His messenger, to the people (assembled) on the day of the great pilgrimage that Allah and His messenger dissolve (treaty) obligations with the pagans. If, then ye repent, it were best for you; but if ye turn away, know ye that ye cannot frustrate Allah, and proclaim a grievous chastisement to those who reject faith” Q9:3.

In a similar protest, late Imam Khomeini said “O you Muslims who are busy praying by the house of Allah! Pray for the success of those who are standing up to America and other superpowers”. Allah the most high states “You are the best community raised for the good of mankind. You enjoin what is good and forbid what is wrong, and you believe in God” Q3:110.

While performing the great ritual, ideally INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES SHOULD BE ORGANISED WITH A PRACTICAL APPROACH to solve the socio - politico and developmental problems bedeviling the Ummah at all costs.

I pray for a time when the hajj rite will be performed on clear Islamic ideals and objectives under the real Islamic leadership in such a way it leads toward solving the predicament of the Ummah in particular and the humanity as a whole.

Wassalamu alaikum warahmatullah.

60/ NEWS

September 26, 2014

Ebola: WHO Asks Nigeria To Provide Expertise, Build Capacity In West Africa

* All contacts in Nigeria discharged - Minister

By George Agba, New York And Winifred Ogbobo, Abuja

The World Health Organisation has urged Nigeria to provide expertise and build the capacity of other countries in the sub-region on how to contain the Ebola virus disease in their countries.

Executive secretary of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Mohammed Ado gave the hint this to after the meeting between President Goodluck Jonathan and the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Margaret Chan, on the successful containment of the Ebola Virus Disease in the country and the effective transmission polio melitis.

Ado also hinted that WHO is set to announce Nigeria as the next country to exit

from polio endemic country having successfully reduced the burden by 95 per cent between 2013 and 2014.

His words: “Mr President had interaction with WHO DG, we discussed the issue of polio melitis ‎ and she commended Mr. President for the leadership and effective management that had led to effective transmission polio melitis in Nigeria ‎and also containing the ebola virus outbreak.

And Nigeria was well commended because Mr. President demonstrated highest level of leadership and other countries were called upon to emulate the good work of Mr President.

“You will recall that for polio melitis between 2013 and 2014 Nigeria was able to reduce by 95 per cent the burden in the country. Nigeria is being tipped as the next country to exist frompolio endemic country and was again commended by all countries and the leadership of Mr. President was ap-

preciated by WHO and other countries were called upon to emulate Nigeria’s example”.

On how Nigeria can benefit from the new committee on Ebola, Ado said, “Nigeria’s roll in containing the ebola outbreak in the country was well commended and other countries were called upon to emulate us. In fact one key thing that came out from the meeting between Mr. President and WHO DG was for other countries to benefit from Nigeria’s expertise in terms of containing ebola and Nigeria is going to support other countries in terms of capacity building, in terms of the emergency operation centres that we used.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Health has said it has discharged all the remaining Ebola contacts under follow-up in both Lagos and Port Harcourt.

A United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) U- Report, quoting the Federal Ministry of Health, stated that there are no cas-

L-R: Airtel regional marketing manager, North, Ifeoma Azogu; general manager, Auensar Infinity, Tony Peter; Airtel head of enterprises, North, Ugonna Uzomah, and regional operations director, Wole Abu, during the launch of Airtel insurance in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO BY ADEFEMI ADEWUYI

PDP Member Begs Court To Set Aside Muazu’s Appointment

By Kunle Olasanmi, Abuja

A lawyer and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Ezionye Louis Ndubuisi has dragged the party before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, questioning the appointment of Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu as the national chairman of the PDP. The lawyer joined the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as 1st, 2nd and 3rd defendants respectively.

The plaintiff begged the court to determine three questions he raised in the suit, which are: “Whether the appointment of the 2nd defendant as the national chairman of the 1st defendant does not violate the provisions of Article 45 (2) of the constitution of the 1st defendant; “Whether it is one of the functions of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the 1st defendant to appoint a substantive national chairman for the 1st defendant; and “Whether the provisions of Article 47 (6) of the constitution of the 1st respondent empowers the NEC of the 1st defendant to appoint a substantive national chairman for the 1st defendant.”

He further asked the court to declare that the continued occupation of the office of the national chairman of the PDP by Alhaji Mu’azu is “illegal, unlawful, null and void” as he was not elected into office at the National Convention of the PDP. Ndubisi is also asking for an order of perpetual injunction restraining Mu’azu from parading himself as the national chairman of the PDP. The lawyer is also asking the court to “direct” the PDP to immediately reinstate Alhaji Bamangar Tukur as the Chairman of the PDP pending when there is a National Convention removing him as the.

APC Condemns Attempt To Cover Up $9.3m Scandal FG Declares Oct1 By george okogie, Lagos

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the obvious attempt by the PDP-led Federal Government, working with some members of the National Assembly, to cover up the smuggling of 9.3 million US dollars to South Africa on a private plane, saying the cover-up plans will fail because the issues involve transcend Nigeria.

In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the cover-up attempt manifested clearly at the House of Representatives on Tuesday, when Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha curiously refused to entertain a debate on a motion seeking a probe of the issue that has further ridiculed Nigeria in the global community.

It said the refusal of the deputy speaker becomes even more suspicious amid allegations that some members of the House has each received $50,000 bribe to quash the motion.

APC however hailed its members in the House of Representatives for staging a walkout to protest against the inexplicable decision not to allow the issue to be debated on the floor of the House, saying by their actions, they have aligned with the majority of Nigerians who are eager to get to the bottom of how such a huge amount of money could be smuggled into another country by the Nigerian authorities, despite being fully aware of the limitation on the amount of money that can be taken into any country. the party said while the Senate has already launched a probe into the issue, Nigerians would have preferred that the probe is done openly, instead of behind closed doors, so there won’t be any shade of doubt about the transparency of the investigation. It however expressed the hope that the Senate will do a thorough job to unravel the circumstances surrounding the cash smuggling gate. ‘’It is shocking that those who were elected by the people will fail to act in the interest

of the people. But then we in the APC are not really surprised at this development, going by the antecedents of the Jonathan administration and his party, the PDP. thank goodness, every day the PDP and the government it has sired at the centre are showing why they should not be voted back into office,’’ it said.

The party insisted that the Jonathan Administration and all concerned must come clean on the circumstances surrounding the ferrying of the huge funds to South Africa, including why a government that has spent millions of naira to promote a cashless policy decided to transport 90 blocks of $100,000 each to another country in violation of that country’s laws. ‘’The resort to ‘procedural error’ is not enough to explain this irresponsible and illegal action, neither is it enough to explain why a duly-constituted government will behave like a rogue government or even like insurgents who will be shopping for arms in the open market.

Everything you can imagine is real.

Pablo Picasso, Spanish painter and scuiptor

Public Holiday

By Christiana Nwaogu, Abuja

The federal government has declared Wednesday, October 1, 2014 as a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 54th Independence Anniversary.

The minister of interior, Comrade Abba Moro, who made the declaration on behalf of the federal government in Abuja yesterday, congratulated all Nigerians at home and abroad, and urged them to build a more united and virile nation that would be the pride of all.

According to a statement signed by the permanent secretary, Engr. Magaji A. G, the minister enjoined all Nigerians to use the period of the public holiday to reflect on the giant strides made by government in the development of the country towards building a more formidable Nigeria, especially under the transformation and visionary leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan.

NEWS NATIONAL /61

September 26, 2014

Late Waziri

Oyo State PDP gubernatorial aspirant, Mr Seyi Makinde and his wife, Omini, acknowledging cheers from supporters during Makinde’s declaration in Ibadan, yesterday.

Adamu Waziri Loses Younger Brother

BY BODE GBADEBO, Abuja

The death has occurred of Muhammadu Maina Waziri, who is popularly known as Yaya Alhaji, on Sunday at the Dr. Hassan Clinic in Abuja after a brief illness.

According to a family source, Yaya Alhaji, who was a younger brother to a former minister of police affairs, Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, was born in Potiskum, Yobe State in 1956 and is survived by a wife, four children and three grand children.

He was a one-time secretary of the Fika Emirate Council and he has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

Kebbi Partners NGOs To Reduce Maternal, Child Mortality

by YAHYA SARKI , KEBBI

Kebbi State commissioner for health, Hon Hussaini Raha has assured non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the health sector operating in the state of the state government’s readiness to partner with them in an effort to promote health care delivery and reduce the death of pregnant mothers and children.

The commissioner gave the assurance yesterday in his office while recieving the newly inaugurated Kebbi Maternal and Child Health Care Service (MCHCS) exco members when they paid him a courtesy visit. He stated that the emergence of the NGOs in the state would assist the current effort of government to improve the health of women and children in the state.

He also pointed out that Kebbi State government has done a lot in the health sector particularly with regards to women and children. “We have reduced the cases of maternal and child mortality in the state; we are among the best in the country,’’ he stated.

Rahah further explained that by January next year, the newly constructed Kalgo Modern Hospital would be commissioned as all the necessary arrangements have been concluded for the purchase of medical equipment and furniture.

In her remarks, the chairperson of the Kebbi MCHCS, Hajiya Maryam Mustapha said that the major aim of the organisation is to complement the effort of government in ensuring that women and children have access to health services and the death of pregnant women and children is reduced.

She solicited the support of government to the voluntary organisations especially in sensitising rural women to go for antenatal check-ups regularly at the hospitals.

PHOTO: NAN

Nigerians Must Demand Effective Representation – El-Rufai

BY MIDAT JOSEPH, Kaduna

The former minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and member, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mallam Nasir Ahmad ElRufai yesterday said Nigerians must demand effective representation.

According to the former minister, Nigerians must demand cogent infrastructural development, transparency and lead-

ership that will be accountable to the citizenry.

El-Rufai who spoke in Kafanchan, Kaduna State while addressing his campaign coordinators in Southern Kaduna senatorial district ahead of APC governorship primary election, said “People keep asking me questions on development and I usually tell them that development is not basking in the euphoria of power. Development must be visible and not fashion;

if a system is working and performing, citizens will see and there will be no confusion.”

El-Rufai who was represented by Hon Anthony Ali Wakili, the director general of his campaign organisation added that, “If you are driving around Kano today, you will see development and if you land in Lagos, you will see the same thing.

We must sensitise our countrymen and women”.

Reps Seek Review Of 2004 National Population Policy

By Edegbe Odemwingie and Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

Federal lawmakers have said that the current economic growth of 6.8 per cent has so far not taken care of the population growth rate of 3.2 per cent and poses “grave danger” to the economic wellbeing of Nigerians.

According to them, the absence of accurate, reliable demographic, socio-economic data and population management strategy to properly and effectively plan for the ever growing population in Nigeria hinders

development.

Consequently, the House of Representatives Committees on Population and National Planning and Economic Development have been directed to investigate and make recommendations on an effective population management strategy for the country.

The House also urged the National Population Commission (NPC) to review the 2004 National Population Policy to enable it meet the current aspirations of Nigerians.

These were fallouts of a motion entitled

“Ineffective management of Nigeria’s population” sponsored by Hon Beni Lar and 15 other lawmakers.

In lead debates, Lar said Nigeria is experiencing a rapid growth in its population, hence the need for proper coordination and management of the country’s population which she tagged a “valuable asset”.

She said, “The gap between the rich and the poor has continued to widen despite the rise in economic growth which has not improved the quality of lives of ordinary Nigerians”.

PTAD Threatens To Sack Staff Over Extortion Of Pensioners

by Abu Nmodu, Minna

The director general of Pension Transition Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), Mrs Nellie Mayshak has stated that when the body was established in 2013, it inherited 60,000 complaints in connection with some encumbrances surrounding old pension payments even as she threatened to sack any staff that extorts money from pensioners.

Mrs Mayshak who was speaking yesterday in Minna at a sensitisation workshop

on pension management under PTAD for North Central zone, stated that the delay in payment of pension is gradually becoming a thing of the past because PTAD has computerised all its operations.

According to the director general, the complaints received on pension payment by the body when it was established was not organised because the files were not easily located, hence the body has positioned itself to make sure that information regarding all pensioners of the old scheme are well

Don’t let women who attract attention walk behind you. ­— Cambodian Proverb

kept.

The director general disclosed that the directorate has already placed a disclaimer on those who are extorting money from pensioners, saying that they extort as much as N45,000 to N200,000 claiming to facilitate the payment of their pensions.

She described the act as fraudulent and warned that any staff of the organisation caught in the act would be sacked, even as no staff of the agency has been implicated yet in the act.

62 NEWS NATIONAL

September 26, 2014

Medical Panel Not To Remove Suntai – Acting Governor

By Chibuzo Ukaibe, Abuja

Acting governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Garba Umar, yesterday declared that the medical panel set up to ascertain the health condition of Governor Danbaba Suntai was not meant to remove the governor from office.

Umar, who stated this yesterday when he visited the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over the state of affairs in the state, however, explained that the report, when presented, would ascertain whether or not the governor could continue in office.

Taraba State has been in tensed

political situation following controversy over the health status of Governor Suntai after he narrowly escaped death in a plane crash on October, 2012. He recently returned from medical trip abroad.

Umar, who told the party’s leadership that he came on the visit “as a son in the father’s house,” however, lamented that the state had been embroiled in political tension since the second return of Suntai from hospital.

He blamed the situation on the machinations of those he described as a powerful bloc in the state.

Umar said: “As can be clearly seen over this period, the medical condition of Governor Suntai is

improving. And we are waiting for the doctors to certify him fit to resume his duties.

“The insistence by a powerful bloc in the state that I hand over to my boss even against professional advice is at the centre of the current impasse.

“This has forced the State Executive Council to request the State House of Assembly to set up a medical panel to verify the state of health of our beloved governor.

“I’ve heard people say the motive behind the setting up of the panel is to remove the governor. This is not true; it is merely intended to determine if I can hand over to him or not.”

Alleged Blackmail: Online Media Publisher Faults DSS

By CHIKA OTUCHIKERE, Abuja

The publishers of an online news media, Elombah Communication, has faulted a newspaper report in which one of its former employee Tega Sampson Oghenedoro, who goes by the pen name, Fejiro Oliver, was accused of allegedly blackmailing the Niger State governor, Dr. Aliyu Muazu for N50 million.

According to the report, the Niger State Command of the Department of the State Services (DSS) had arrested Oliver, 28, also described as a staff Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Sapele, for allegedly blackmailing Niger State Government for the said sum.

Parading the suspect before journalists in Minna,

the state director of the DSS, Mr. Larry Obiagwu, was quoted as saying that Oliver was a grade level 08 officer of the NTA in Sapele.

He said that Oliver was picked up at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by his men after boarding an Aero Contractor flight from Asaba on his way to Minna to allegedly collect the N50 million ransom.

However, the publisher of Elombah Communication, Daniel Elombah, who reacted to the report, said the SSS director lied about some of the attributes of Tega.

Elomba clarified that Elombah Communications, a registered company in Nigeria, had no relationship whatsoever with Daily Voice Nigeria.

‘FCC Not Responsible For Determining Merit’

BY PAUL CHIAMA, Abuja

L-R: Minister of police affairs Abduljelili Adesiyan, Enugu State governor Sullivan Chime, Vice President Namadi Sambo and Secretary to Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, inaugurating the Enugu helipad for the Nigeria Police in Enugu yesterday. PHOTO BY NAN

Contrary to public perception, the executive chairman, Federal Character Commission (FCC), Professor Shauibu Oba Abdulraheem, has said that the commission is not responsible for determining standards for merit for recruitment into the Nigerian public service.

The executive chairman stated this while speaking yesterday in Abuja during a one-day sensitization workshop organized by the FCC Committee on Public Relations and Publicity in partnership with National Orientation Agency (NOA) for

media executives.

In his address at the workshop which had the theme: ‘Federal Character Principle, Merit And National Integration’, the FCC boss said: “The FCC does not determine merit. It is the ministries, departments and agencies that determine merit. FCC only monitors the implementation of merit as set by the recruiting MDAs”.

Abdulraheem also stated that the federal character principle was aimed at “fostering national consciousness, national unity, sense of belonging and loyalty through equitable distribution of Nigeria’s resources.

2015: 3 Opposition Parties To Adopt

Jonathan As Sole Candidate Chibuzor Ukaibe, and Onukogu Kanayo Jubal Abuja

If the words of a pro-Jonathan grou p are anything to go by, three opposition parties are said to have concluded plans to adopt President Goodluck Jonathan as their sole presidential candidate for the 2015 election.

Briefing newsmen yesterday in Abuja, national coordinator of the Goodluck Initiative for Transformation (GIFT), Engr. Chinedu Okpalanma,

said that three political parties will officially adopt President Jonathan at the opening of the GIFT office in Lagos at the end of this month.

“Today in our polity for the first time, we have seen a sitting president adopted as the sole presidential candidate for the 2015 election. So, as an organisation that started this campaign for the president to return in 2015, we call on all political parties to adopt him as their candidate for the 2015 presidential election.

“It is with this same sense of respon-

sibility which the PDP has adopted Mr. President as their sole presidential candidate for 2015 that we have gathered today to call on all political parties in Nigeria to adopt him for the election.

This call is for every political party in Nigeria. If all the political parties easily adopt President Jonathan for the election, it will curb the huge resources that would have been expended, especially on the primaries and INEC. We can channel those resources to other pressing issues which need our attention.”

yesterday, CIYDAF’s publicity secretary, Professor Hassan Alfa, saidnoted that as might be expected on the approach of an election year, dozens of aspirants eyeing the Kogi east senatorial seat had become unusually active and holding meetings, a baseless four-year ritual.

According to him, “This is because the purpose, intents and outcomes of such meetings hold no sincere affec-

tion or thoughts for the Igala people, but purely are totally self-serving.

“These men of yester-years have risen to the peak of their careers in various fields leaving no legacies of benefits to the Igala nation, and out of fear of the dark shadows of shame hovering over their heads in retirements, they want to wangle their ways into social security at the expense of the people.”

Kogi East Senatorial Aspirants Cautioned

By Sam Egwu, Lokoja

The Concerned Igala Youth for Development and Advocacy Forum (CIYDAF) has condemned the unreasonable scramble and inordinate ambitions that always characterize the contest for senatorial position in the predominantly Igala speaking eastern part of Kogi State.

In a press release issued in Abuja

NEWS NATIONAL /63

September 26, 2014

TUC Condemns Senate’s Position On 12 Convicted Soldiers

By Taiwo Ogunmola Omilani, Lagos

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has disagreed with the Senate over its position, expressed on Tuesday, on the case of the 12 soldiers who were recently convicted for mutiny and sentenced to death by a military tribunal.

This was disclosed in a statement by the president general of TUC, Comrade Bobboi Bala Kaigama yesterday.

He said, “It is bad enough that the military tribunal issued such a sentence against ill-equipped gallant soldiers who battled the Boko Haram sect with unequalled bravery, but worse and totally bewildering that Thompson Sekibo, a senator in a civilian-cum-democratic government and chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, declared that the Senate would not intervene because the penalty is as prescribed in the Military Act and must be carried out to maintain discipline.

“We ordinarily might have agreed with the senator if the soldiers’ mutinous acts and refusal to fight had been informed by cowardice, but the undisputed evidence adduced and reported show that they are all brave, willing combatants who only requested that they be sufficiently equipped for the task at hand and protested the avoidable deaths of their buddies because of the negligence, recalcitrance and misjudgement of their commanding officer.”

The congress said that these circumstances that prompted the soldiers’ alleged offences need to be considered and are weighty enough to serve as mitigating factors in the consideration of any punishment to be meted out to them.

Sultan Turbans Tambuwal Mutawallen Sokoto Tomorrow

By Paul Chiama, Abuja

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, will tomorrow confer the traditional title of Mutawallen Sokoto on the speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

A statement issued in Abuja by Tambuwal’s special adviser on media and public affairs, Mallam Imam Imam, said dignitaries from within and outside the country are expected to grace the occasion.

President Goodluck Jonathan is expected to be the special guest of honour.

Other dignitaries invited include former Nigerian leaders, state governors, traditional rulers and members of the organised private sector.

The national organising committee of the ceremony, headed by Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki, said all arrangements have been concluded for a successful gathering.

“Nigerians from all walks of life are, therefore, invited to grace the event where the rich cultural heritage of the people of Sokoto and the Caliphate will be showcased,” the statement quoted Saraki as saying.

L-R: Former head of state, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, with the widow of the late vice chairman of the Sun Newspapers, Mrs Obioma Igwe, during Gen. Buhari’s condolence visit to her in Lagos, yesterday. PHOTO

BY NAN.

Aregbesola Replies Omisore’s Petition

By JOSHUA DADA, Osogbo

Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, listed as the 1st Respondent in the petition of Senator Iyiola Omisore and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the victory of Aregbesola in the August 9 governorship election, has formally filed his reply.

In the reply dated September 22, 2014, Aregbesola raised a preliminary objection to the competence of the petition. He argued that the petitioner had no locus standi to present this petition not having shown in the petition that he was validly a candidate at the election and the allegations contained in several paragraphs of the petition are vague, general, generic, not specific, speculative, omnibus, imprecise and nebulous.

He also stated that several paragraphs of

the petition raised a pre-election issue which the tribunal had no jurisdiction to entertain and that the grounds on which the petition is based are unknown to law, among others.

Aregbesola further noted that the petitioner did not score up to 25% of the lawful votes cast in each of the 30 local government areas of Osun and did not satisfy the provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act. Aregbesola, therefore, urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition in its entirety.

On the allegation that Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) cadets were used as ad hoc staff, the governor denied such allegation, adding that OYES was a volunteer scheme created to reduce unemployment among youths in the state irrespective of political affiliation.

In support of the reply, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola listed 603 witnesses, comprising ordinary voters who volunteered to state what they witnessed across all the local governments being challenged by the petitioners.

Moshood Adeoti, who was among the witnesses listed, after deposing to his witness in the court, said the petition against the reelection of his principal would fail.

He said it was to the knowledge of everyone that the election was peaceful and reflected the wishes of the people as against the allegation of the petitioners.

Also, the commissioner for women and children affairs, Mrs Mofolake Adegboyega, a witness, said the petition was baseless and could not have any effect on the election because it was the wishes of the people.

Nyako’s Impeachment: Court Fixes Sept 30 For Ruling On Abridgement Of Time

BY MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Yola

A High Court sitting in Yola presided over by Justice Ishaya Banu has adjourned its sitting to 30th September for ruling on the abridgement of time to allow for expedited hearing as prayed by counsel to former Governor Murtala Nyako, Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) with regards to whether the substituted service of notice of impeachment against Nyako was in order.

Counsel to Nyako noted with concern that since the case started, the third respondent and acting governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umar Fintiri has not made appearance despite the fact that the first and second respondents have done so.

“When we came to the court, we discov-

ered that the third respondent has not made appearance and the issue was only mentioned this morning. Had I known the situation, I wouldn’t have come today.

“We are now praying the court to give judgement against the 3rd defendant because the rules of the court allow that.

“The purpose was to galvanise them into action to ensure that they bring their papers in time because this is not the type of case that you drag on for so long.

“We called for the abridgement of the time so that instead of them to have their 30 days before which to file their defence, we said the court is empowered to bridge the time because of the nature of the case as time is of the essence,” he said.

He noted that the Supreme Court has de-

clared that in such matters, the judiciary should take the fast lane, adding that “what we are saying is that all parties should come to the court and let us ventilate our grievances before the court and let the court decide which way to go.”

Akintola expressed dismay over the attitude of the acting chief judge of the state who is seemingly trying to frustrate the case, adding that since August 18, they filed the case but the acting CJ refused to assign it to a vacation judge even after they pleaded with him”.

“Even before the court went on vacation, we pleaded that it should be brought before the vacation judge who was on ground but the case was not assigned to her and now, we have to wait for the court to resume,” he said.

Oshiomhole Sacks Procurement Boss

By Patrick Ochoga, Benin City

Edo State governor Adams Oshiomhole has terminated the appointment of the executive director, Edo State Public Procurement Agen-

cy, Mr Hillary Ekhoye.

In a letter signed by the secretary to the state government, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, dated Wednesday, September 24, 2014, the governor said the ter-

Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever Walt Disney, founder and CEO of the Walt Disney Company

mination, which takes immediate effect, is due to poor performance.

Mr Ekhoye was directed to hand over any government property in his possession to the secretary, Edo State Public Procurement.

64 NEWS NATIONAL

September 26, 2014

Osun CJ Pardons 16 Inmates

By JOSHUA DADA,Osogbo

No fewer than 16 inmates from Ilesa and Ile-Ife prisons have regained their freedom courtesy of the chief judge of Osun State, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo. Justice Ojo was at the prisons as part of activities marking the commencement of 2014/15 legal year in the state.

While nine inmates were set free from Ilesa prison on Tuesday, seven others were set free from Ile-Ife prison on Wednesday respectively.

Some of the inmates freed from Ilesa prison include Dauda Karimu, 29, Bamidele Balogun, 42, Seun Alatise, 31, Dayo Oluwafemi, 35, Usman Shaibu, 31, Victor James, 23, Femi Bamidele, 28, Ojo James, 38, and Kabiru Jimoh, 34.

From Ile-Ife prison are Augustine Friday, 39, Oladipupo Sunday, 26, Hassan Bamigbade, 31, Babatunde Gbela, 40, Adewale Omolade Yinka, 32, Adegoke Elijah, 26, and Muritala Tope, 25.

The inmates that were set free are of three categories: Category ‘A’ involves those who had spent four years and above, Category ‘B’ are those granted pardon on health grounds, while Category ‘C’ are those of old age - 60yrs and above.

Their offences ranged from armed robbery and murder, to stealing, felony and other offences.

The chief judge noted that those pardoned have been denied trial long enough and that they cannot be kept in the prison custody indefinitely.

2015 Presidency: NGO Hails PDP Over Jonathan’s Adoption

By Andrew Essien, Abuja

A non-governmental organisation under the aegis of Concern Nigerian Youths Development Organisation (CNYDO) has applauded the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on its recent unanimous adoption of President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole presidential candidate in the 2015 general election.

The NGO, who stated this yesterday in Abuja in a press release signed by the president, Mr Joel Edegba, said the PDP’s decision was an expression of the confidence which the party had in the president’s ability to fully transform the nation’s socio-political and economic sphere so as to ensure an enduring democracy that will “boost the citizenry’s confidence in a free, fair and credible election”.

Edegba said, “By this automatic ticket given to the president, the coast was now very clear for another round of overwhelming support for Jonathan’s re-election”.

While pledging the group’s resolve to support and work assiduously to ensure that the president is returned in 2015, he commended the senior special assistant to the president on political affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Rufa’i Alkali, for the recent national summit for all the Goodluck Support Group.

Participants at the 8th edition of Miss Big Nigeria beauty pageant 2014, in Abuja yesterday.

PHOTO BY NAN

Financial Intelligence Unit: Reps Name 6-member Panel To Harmonise Position

By Edegbe Odemwingie, Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday named a six-member committee to meet with the Senate at a conference to harmonise the different versions of the Bill approved by the National Assembly for the establishment of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).

This is sequel to the passage of the Bill at House plenary on Wednesday and similar passage in the Senate.

The panel is headed by the chairman House Committee on Rules and Business, Albert Sam-Tsokwa.

Other members are Emmanuel Udende, Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje, Enekorogha Frank, Nathaniel Agunbiade and Jagaba Adams Jagaba.

A conference committee is to harmonise the different versions for onward transmission to the president for assent. The committee is expected to turn in the report in two weeks.

Specifically, the proposed legislation titled “A bill for an act to establish the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Centre as the central body in Nigeria responsible for receiving, requesting, analysing and disseminating financial intelligence reports and other information to law enforcement, security and intelligence agencies and other relevant authorities and for other related matters” was on Wednesday approved in a committee of the whole after a clause by clause consideration.

‘Linking Insurgency With Religious Bodies Will Cause Divisions’

By Chika Okeke,Abuja

The Wazirin of Katsina, Dr Abubakar Sani Tugga has cautioned Nigerians to desist from linking insurgency with faith-based organisations and religious bodies saying that such act was capable of causing divisions between Christianity and Islam in Nigeria.

He stated this yesterday in Abuja at a roundtable discussion on “The roles of religious bodies towards reducing electoral violence” in Nigeria organised by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), a German foundation

sponsored by the German government towards promoting democracy, rule of law, socially and environmentally responsible market economy in more than 120 countries.

He further challenged religious bodies to intensify prayers towards eradicating insurgency in the country regretting that Nigerians identified as the most religious people in the world have failed to work in accordance with the dictates of the two religions.

In his paper entitled, “Ethical and Moral Imperative of Credible Election’, the executive director of Lux Terra Leadership Foun-

dation Abuja, Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, noted that most religious bodies failed to realise that looting of government treasury, maiming of opponents, stealing of voter boxes, judicial malpractices, multiple registration and corrupt deals were not electoral offences but criminal offences that every religion abhor.

According to him, “If the next round of election turns out to be another exercise in elite brigandage, the level of anger in the land will increase, our courts and tribunals will be flooded with litigations that would render government dysfunctional.”

Confusion, Threats Mar PDP Reconciliation Meeting In Anambra

By OKECHUKWU OBETA, Awka

There was confusion and threats at the Emmaeus House, Awka, Anambra State, venue of a reconciliation meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Anambra State chapter yesterday when the Ahmadu Ali-led Integration Committee from Abuja scampered for safety following the fracas that disrupted the meeting.

However, no life was lost, and there was massive turn out as who is who in Anambra

State Peoples Democratic Party attended the parley.

The trouble started when a factional chairman, Mr Ejike Oguebego was invited to address the gathering and after introducing himself as the state chairman, heaven was let loose. There were shouts of no! no!! no!!! from the crowd.

Nevertheless, Chief Ken Emeakayi, also laying claim as state chairman tried to calm down nerves but was greeted by more disapproval as party members equally shouted him down.

Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever Walt Disney, founder and CEO of the Walt Disney Company

Consequently, men and women from the opposite camps crowded in front of the visitors’ table, and soon followed shuffling and pushing as the crowd ran to the exit door which was securely locked.

All efforts by other members of the Ahmadu Ali Committee to return sanity and order among the opposing camps fell on deaf ears, while chairs were flying.

Meanwhile the timely intervention of large number of security personnel saved the situation.

Naerls forum

September 26, 2014

National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services, ABU Zaria Contact: Dr M.K Othman - 08065571637. mkothman@gmail.com

Trends Of Agricultural Commodities’ Prices In The First Six Months Of 2014 In Selected Nigerian Markets In the last ten years, NAERLS has been col- 10000 lecting prices of agricultural commodities 9000 from eight major agricultural commodities markets weekly across the nation. The pric8000 es are being broadcasted through notable Maize(white) Giwa 7000 radio stations in four major Nigerian lan6000 guages nationwide. The aim is to make inMaize(white) Bida formation available to farmers, marketers 5000 and consumers for better bargaining and 4000 price stabilization. Frequent feedbacks reMaize(white) Bodija 3000 ceive from the listeners are major indicator 2000 that this part of extension services is makMaize(white) Monday ing positive impacts on the Nigerian peo1000 Market ple. In three of NAERLS articles published 0 by this column in the month of March, 2014 presented the trend of the agricultural prices from these selected markets over a period of one year (2013). The selected markets are Monday Market Maiduguri, Giwa Figure 1: Average monthly prices of Maize (100 kg) in selected Nigerian markets of 2014 Market Kaduna, Dawanau Market Kano, Bida Market, Bida Niger State, Bodaji Mar- Borno, Maiduguri, Radio Rivers PorstHar- gion), the highest price per 100 kg bag ket Ibadan. Umuahia Market Umuahia. And court and some FM stations across the na- was recorded in the month of March, 2014 Greek Road Market PortHarcourt. The com- tion. In this article price trends of Maize, (N5350:00), while the lowest price was in modities are Cowpea, rice, Egusi, Soybean, Rice, Millet, Soybean, Sorghum and Cowpea June (N4350:00). The trend was unusual, Gari, Maize, Sorghum, Palm oil, Smoked on monthly basis in these markets are fol- in the past when the season commenced, fish, Egg, Tomato, Groundnut, Onion, Mil- lowed and graphically presented for under- the price of maize in most cases increases. let, dried ginger and Groundnut oil, respec- standing of the readers.

However, interaction with farmers revealed tively. The channels for the weekly broadFig. 1 presents the trend of price of maize that farmers stored their produce in prepacast are FRCN stations in Abuja, Enugu, in the four selected markets. At Giwa mar- ration for the subsequent season when the Ibadan and Kaduna in addition to Radio ket in Kaduna State (North- West Re- market was flooded with maize. At Bida

market, Niger State (North-Central Zonal office) the highest price was obtained in February (N6125:00), but at Bodijia Ibadan market in Oyo State (South –West Zone) the commodity had a highest price in June (N7225:00). At Monday market Maiduguri (North-East Zone), maize price was highest in April (N8875:00) while the lowest price was recorded in June with (N7500:00). No record was obtained at Umuahia market in Abia State and Elele markets in Rivers State respectively. Therefore, from the record obtained it shows that the price of maize in the first six months of 2014 was not stable, the price fluctuant across the selected markets.

In summary price of the commodity was high at Monday market in Maiduguri, while in Giwa market the price was low throughout the period under review, compare to the other five selected markets. In addition, the record revealed that at Giwa and Bida markets the price of the commodity was high in the first quarter than in the second quarter.

At Bodija market, there was no much variation in the prices over the period except in June, 2014. However, at Monday market, Maiduguri the price draft down in May and June below the remaining months of the six month period. tO BE CONtiNUED NExt wEEK

news feature

Asokoro Island To Gulp Over $1bn – Yahyah

BY PAUL CHIAMA As part of effort to make Abuja a one-stop capital city of the world, a consortium of local and foreign investors had concluded plans to invest over $1billion, a multipurpose commercial cum residential project to be cited at highbrow Asokoro district of Abuja.

Named Asokoro Island, according to Alhaji Suleyman Yahyah, the brain behind the project “ is nested underneath the monolithic Aso Rock and surrounded by shores of the Pendam Lake to the north, the Asokoro A1 and Ajayi Crowther Street to the west and A234 Murtala Mohammed High Way on the south and Abacha Barracks to the southeast, occupying over 60-hecterland. ” In an interactive session with some selected journalists in his office in Abuja recently, on the activities to herald the pre-lunch of the project, which will commence with a golf tournament at IBB golf club on October 1 to mark the country’s 54TH Independent day anniversary, Suleiman who is the Chairman of Asokoro Island Ltd, the initiators and managers of the project, disclosed that the project was designed by the same architects that designed

Real Madrid FC stadium in Spain and some South African Architects, that when completed, will gulp over $1 billion, which will be built in phases namely; Apartments, Villas, Hotels , Commercials, Entertainment and Leisure.

Explaining the composition of each of the phases, Yahyah who also doubles as the chairman of NAHCO PLC, opined that the apartments phase with its fresh, yet elegant architectural style, will maximise light, space and benefit from exquisite natural finishes, would be built within 18 to 24 months.

The Villas phase, he said, will have a range of duplex houses that will be made up of three-story residences which are individually and thoughtfully designed to offer maximum seclusion, privacy and to meet the unique needs of its occupants.

He said hotels phase when completed would be made up of 6-star boutique hotel and 5-star business hotel, where guests and visitors to the island ‘will find a warm welcome and an unforgettable experience that will offer travellers an array of world class facilities.’

The commercials phase, according to him will take care of the thriving new business hub within Asokoro Island,

which tends to provide a dynamic alternative to Abuja central business district. He also said that the ‘dedicated commercial zone features sustainable corporate building and state-of-the –art offices to provide flexible workspace for ambitious local and global businesses.

To promote entertainment at the Island when completed, the promoters plan to introduce a number of things that will attract fun seekers to the island. These include of bars, eateries, suya spots and restaurants. Also lovers of arts and culture will find solace in the islands theatre and museum, while a multi-screen cinema will offer ‘perfect indulgence for those who prefer a Hollywood blockbuster.’

He said that the leisure phase will offer a wealth of leisure opportunities that will comprise lush 9-hole golf course with exclusive night club.

He added that Dantata and Sowoe, an indigenous contraction company has been contracted to provide the infrastructure, while the funding of the project is being undertaken by both private and institutional investors , with financial backing from established financial institution of the world.

Suleiman also disclosed that the project

Yahyah

which will take a period of six years will provide job opportunities to Nigerians, noting that over 5,000 Nigerians are expected to benefit direct or indirectly when the project will commence.

If you have to drag a dog to the hunt, neither he nor his hunting is any good.—Chinese Proverb

66 Opinion

September 26, 2014

Tribal Marks In Nigeria : A Cultural Heritage Or Barbaric Practice ?

By Amina Yakubu

The art of inscribing tribal marks on the face is an age-long practice among African tribes.

However, despite its long history, some Nigerians believe that it is high time the practice be stopped. Perhaps, they perceive that it is barbaric or unfashionable in this modern time.

According to a Greek historian, Herodotus, face- marking dates back to the ancient Egyptians in the 15th Century BC, when some foreigners whom were said to have migrated to Egypt cut their fore heads with knives and creating marks on their faces,in an attempt to distinguish themselves from their hosts.

Many historians in Nigeria have traced the origin of the practice to colonial era, when the colonial masters started capturing natives and taking them to Europe as slaves.

Fearing a loss of identity, many clans adopted the practice and started marking their family members to differentiate them from other clans; peradventure they might wish to return home after being freed from captivity.

Today, many ethnic groups such as the Yorubas, Hausa-Fulanis, Nupes, Jarawas, Igalas

and many others are known to have some of the most invasive scars.

Tribal marks are given to children by the local barbers when they are still tender. Essentially, the child cannot have a say in the matter; the choice is taken away. The marking is typically done using sharp instruments fashioned out of tin, razor blades and whatever could have passed for a knife back then. The flesh is cut from the skin to create a gash after which a native dye [black paste] made from charcoal is applied to stain the incisions and cause it to heal. It does heal pretty fast, but leaves indelible marks on the face; the process is usually done without anaesthesia or pain relievers.

However, tribal marking is like changing human nature, because every human is born into this world without a single scratch on his or her face. Most of the ethnic groups who make brand their children with tribal marks have a common belief that whenever a child is born, the proud father will subject the child to tribal marking, as a way of showing that he is the legitimate father of that child. Also, it is a way of identifying the child in his family lineage.

Tribal markings are specific marks which come in different shapes and sizes. They could be vertical or horizontal, curved or slanted. The markings are inscribed on either cheek, forehead, stomach, legs, temple or under the chin, depending on the ethnic group of the bearer. Tribal marks are called by a variety of names, depending on the ethnic group involved. The Hausas call it ‘bille’, the Yorubas call it ‘kola’ while the Igbos refer to it as ‘akara’. Although tribal marks are not very common among the Igbos, only a handful of them bear tribal marks, mostly on their temples, mostly as a form of protection against epilepsy (fits).

The common reason given by many tribes in the defence of these practices is that it serves as a source of ethnic identification, especially in terms of war or migration. For others, it helps to ward off evil spirits, cure anaemia, stop a bout of fits, chase pneumonia, show beauty, and sign of religious commitment and dedication. It could be for rituals.

Unfortunately, many ethnic groups are unaware of the social, psychological and health implication on the bearer. Several

medical studies have revealed that the practice of tribal marking, especially, in these days, vis-a vis the advent of many blood diseases, increase the risk of infections arising from the use of unsterilised instruments.

As a result, it gives rise to excessive bleeding in children with haemophilia and could lead to death.

Sometimes, individuals with facial marks might experience discriminations and suffer from low self-esteem, especially when the marks are so glaring that it defaces the person, such individuals find it difficult to associate themselves with other people for fear of being discriminated against.

In conclusion, tribal marks may have been fashionable; but that was ages back. These days, the health implications are very grave.

That said, tribal marks cannot be a guaranteed means of identification and, therefore, should be stopped; no, not out of disrespect for our revered cultures and traditions, but because of the complexities of a changing society.

—Yakubu, an undergraduate of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri, Borno State.

Think Before You Ink: Are Tattoos Safe ?

Ameenu A. Abdullahi

The word ‘tattoo’ has its root in the Tahitian word ‘tautau’ and literally means “to mark”. Many scientists believe that the earliest known evidence of tattoos dates back to the markings found on the skins of icemen and a mummified Egyptian body which dates as far back as 3,300 BC or farther. Also, it is reported that the Polynesians (the Hawaiians, Maori, Tonga and Samoans) all used tattoos to define titles and marks among their tribes. Again, Nazis identified Jews in the past using tattoos. Similarly, in ancient Japan, labourers and prostitutes bore tattoos to communicate their status. Historically, during the era of slave-trading, slaves were also tattooed as a sign of ownership. More so, the US Army (marines) and the British Navy (seals) also had tattoos as a symbol of decoration for bravery. It was equal to a medal. Moreover, convicts and gang members were marked with tattoos as a form of punishment in the past. These days, a frighteningly growing number of Nigerian teens and young people are tattooing their bodies in the name of ‘decorative arts’, ‘fashion’ and ‘self-expression’, especially among musicians, footballers, public figures and, even, in our secondary and primary schools, as well as in our tertiary institutions.

In spite of the craze, one thing about tattoos (forget the beautiful, attrac-

tive artworks) is the ignorance about the substance injected into their skins in the process. Recent medical studies have revealed that most tattoo inks may contain harmful chemicals such as formalin (a substance used in preserving corpses), methanol, denatured alcohols and automobile paints (some even have radio-active particles, ultra-violet and magnetic resonance imaging) which are believed to be highly toxic to the entire body.

One could be proud of a new tattoo but still remain ignorant of its health implications. Some tattoo-bearers believe that tattoos have a healing, magical effect on their bodies while others consider it to be a way of expressing their love or commitment for their loved ones, a hobby, favourite pet or to communicate to a life partner – just about anything could be made into body ink.

A tattoo is made by inserting indelible ink into the dermis (a layer of the skin).

Typically, the tattoo artist uses a handheld machine that acts much like a sewing machine with one or more needles piercing the skin repeatedly. With every puncture, the needle inserts tiny droplets of ink into the skin, a process which is usually done without anaesthesia and results to slight bleeding. Some people who ink their bodies, sometimes, report severe itching or inflamed skin, many years after they might have exposed their tattooed skin to the sun’s rays.

More so, medical research has revealed that most tattoo needles are usually unsterilised and, as such, predispose the tattooist to the spread of infections like tetanus, hepatitis (B and C),HIV/AIDS, among many other blood-related diseases. These chemicals are very dangerous to the skin (having the ability to cause blood or skin cancer) and, hence, cannot be used on a patient. Furthermore, even the two religions (Islam and Christianity) prohibit the inking of the body

in anyway. Leviticus 19:28 says, “Do not cut your body for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves, for I am the Lord’’, while the Islamic view on tattooing can be seen in the following Hadith recorded

by Bukhari (Volume 3,Book 43,No:654) that the Prophet (p.b.u.h) cursed anyone who designs, cut or changes the colour of his body.

Abdullahi is a student of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.

It is only a stupid cow that rejoices at the prospect of being taken to a beautiful abattoir. — African Proverb

67

September 26, 2014

SCHOOLS, EDUCATION, & FAITH PLATFORM

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

SPECIALISED CLASSIFIEDS PAGES aLL entrance ministry

LeGaL notice

achiever’s cLuB 100

This is to inform the General Public that the above named MINISTRY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies And Allied Matters Act, 1 of 1990.

in the hiGh court oF justice oF the FederaL caPitaL territory, aBuja

This is to inform the General Public that the above named CLUB 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 James Idakwo 2. Gideon U. James 3. Pastor Moses Zakari 4. Pastor (Mrs) Esther James 5. Pastor Peter Osagbori 6. Hannah James aims and oBjectives: 1. To propagate the total gospel of Jesus Christ within and outside Nigeria.

2. To establish cell-bases churches 3. To establish educational institutions and facilities.

4. To develop a dynamic media outfit (print and electronic) for publishing/ printing, transmitting the whole gospel of Jesus Christ.

5. To acquire, hold and own properties necessary for the mission.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from this publication.

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 Deceased name and address Bernard Oru Nnandi Nigeria Police Force Who died on the 21 December, 2012 Dated at Abuja this 25th September, 2014.

Applicant for grant Esther Nnandi guardian to Benedict Joseph O. Nnandi and Briana Khejenkiostive Nnandi Plot 34C Karshi Relocation site Gidan Mangoro The widow, son and daughter of the said deceased.

SIGNED Barr. haFsat sadiQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

Signed: secretary

the trustees are: 1. Mr Olumide Emmanuel 2. Mr Rotimi Adedunmoye 3. Mrs Eniayewu Adedunmoye 4. Dr Gbenga Adebayo 5. Mr Oluleke Ogunremi aims and oBjectives: 1. To raise youth with entrepreneurial skills.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission, plot 420, Tigris crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from this publication.

Signed: secretary

WorLd harvest & rhema ministry internationaL

noBLe Fitness cLuB oF niGeria

LeGaL notice

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 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.

in the hiGh court oF justice oF the FederaL caPitaL territory, aBuja

the trustees are: 1. Rev. John Ayegba - Chairman 2. Past. Doyin Jibodu - Vice Chairman 3. Past. Samuel Odeh - Secretary 4. Past. (Mrs) Vivian Ayegba 5. Elder Michael Ayegba

the trustees are: 1. IKECHUKWU OKEKE 2. CHARLES OSUAGWU-GENERAL 3. PETER ELEODICHUKWU 4. OSONDU OGBU 5. VALENTINE OSSAI 6. OBIANIEFO IWUCHUKWU 7. NJIDEKA IFEORAH 8. UGOCHUKWU IFEWULU 9. SAMUEL NWATU

the aim and oBjectives: 1. To propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ 2. To carry out discipleship and outreach ministrations 3. To reach out to the needy and less privileged in the society 4. To partner with any organisation (Governmental or nongovernmental) in sensitizing the general public on any imminent issue of public concern Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

SIGNED: B. y. atsen, esq 08066070855

the aims and oBjectives 1. To protect the interest of members Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

the trustees are: 1. Kayode Bolaji 2. Lekan Bolaji 3. Odefunso Ahmed 4. Dr. Olugbenga Akinpeloye 5. Pastor Ezekiel Jatau the aim and oBjectives: 1. To preach the gospel of Christ.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

Deceased name and address Mohammed Abubakar Garba Angwan Hausawa Juwa Abuja Who died on the 3rd January, 2013 Dated at Abuja this 25th September, 2014.

Signed: secretary

Future christian outreach 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.

- CHAIRMAN - SECRETARY

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

Applicant for grant Zainab guardian to Abubakar Mohammed and Salamatu guardian to Abdulazeez Mohammed Angwan Hausawa Juwa Abuja The widow and son of the said deceased.

SIGNED Barr. haFsat sadiQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

LeGaL notice

Kanya BaBBa Foundation

in the hiGh court oF justice oF the FederaL caPitaL territory, aBuja

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.

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

Applicant for grant Muhammad Isah Abubakar and Musa Isah Abubakar

Deceased name and address Nuhu Yunusa FCT College of Education, Abuja Who died on the 5th August, 2014

Angwan Mallam Haruna Zuba, Abuja

Dated at Abuja this 25th September, 2014.

The sons of the said deceased.

SIGNED Barr. haFsat sadiQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

SIGNED: secretary

the trustees are: 1. Alh. Mohammed Ibrahim 2. Mal. Yahusa Adamu 3. Alh. Ibrahim Hashimu 4. Labaran Salisu Kanya 5. Kamal Mohammed Ibrahim aims and oBjectives: 1. To foster peace, progress, unity and development amongst its members.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

SIGNED: secretary

iFe city coLLeGe oLd students association

aFLame christian ministry

siL estae ProPerty oWners’ association (mBora district, aBuja)

This is to inform the general public that the above named association has applied for registration under part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990

The general public is hereby informed that the above named MINISTRY 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. MR AYEDUN ADETUNJI BISIRIYU 2. MR ADEWOYIN OLUSEGUN MARTINS 3. MR ADEWOLE ADESOJI MICHAEL 4. MR BABS-FASHOLA ABAYOMI MUSA 5. ADUROJA OLUWOLE OLUSEGUN PAUL

the trustees are: 1. Lazarus Ukogo 2. Amajuoyi Chinonso 3. Adanma Lazarus Ukogo

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.

aims and oBjectives: 1. To foster unity and progress among the members of the Association.

2. To seek improvement of the standard of education at Ife City College and the society at large.

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

SIGNED: oLuseun FadeLe FadeLe & FadeLe LeGaL Practitioners and notary PuBLic 1st FLoor aL BarKa PLaZa, in BetWeen Gt BanK and uBa BanK, aWoLoWo juction, neW Bodija, iBadan

For booking or inquiry call

> HENRY UBIMAGO 08068640944

> AUGUstINE 08032325988

the trustees are: 1. Mr. Olajide Tunde 2. Mr. Shonoiki Ganiu O.

- President - Secretary

aims and oBjectives are: 1. To raise a new class of christians who are spiritually strong and equipped in christ with the drive of raising others in the same way.

2. To raise christians who are financially strong and able to move gospel with their resources.

aims and oBjectives are: To make Sil Estate a decent, serene, tranquil and orderly environment with amenities for social pursuits and generally to foster a spirit of good neighborliness and fellowship amongst the property owners and residents of the estate.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: secretary

SIGNED: aBduLrahman o. oyediran esQ

> GLORIA OKwUM 08038722368

> ABIGAIL sAMBO 08064382438

> GLORIA RAPHAEL 08061356519

> GLORIA ODIO 08034285851

> GRACE OJO 08035054444

68

September 26, 2014

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

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

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

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

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

Applicant for grant Ibrahim A. Abdulsalam and Tijjani O. Abdulsalam No. 11 Dajuliee Street, Gwagwalada

Deceased name and address Karimu Otori Salami Nigerian Immigration Service Who died on the 5th December, 2012 Dated at Abuja this 25th September, 2014.

The sons of the said deceased.

Applicant for grant Opah Kingsley Nnaemeka and Opah Miriam Chinazor No 52 Madeira Street, Imani Estate Maitama, Abuja

Deceased name and address Susan Nne Opah Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja Who died on the 12th May, 2014

Dated at Abuja this 25th September, 2014. The son and daughter of the said

deceased.

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SADIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

HOPE DYNAMIC EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION

FOOD SAFETY AND HEALTH EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE

ADEDAS DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

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 general public is hereby informed that the above named INITIATIVE 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. Evelyn Nwaogu Nwangwa 2. Njoku Sunday Kanu 3. Nwogu Ikechi Abraham 4. Nwamuru Chinwenwa Constant 5. Ahuruezenma Ikenna AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To promote peace and unity among members.

2. To empower the less privilege economically.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: OKECHUKWU OKORIE (ESQ) 08037495283

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Alhaji Musa Barde 2. Madam Jecinta Asogwa 3. Abdulhamid Ozohu-Suleiman 4. Chief (Hon.) Yunana Kyanyiwuyi 5. Mr. Christopher Rwang Pam 6. Mr. Godwin Makama Baba 7. Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Idris 8. Dr. Salihu Yunusa Zuba 9. Chief Pharmacist Sunday Agu 10. Dr. Bulus Samuel Baba

- Chairman - Member - Member - Member - Member - Member - Member - Member - Member - Secretary

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Adedipe Dauda Ewenla - Founder 2. Shukurat Oriyomi Adedipe 3. Shakirat Oyinlola Adedipe AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To assist the poor and needy.

2. To provide education, scholarship and educational materials for indigent students.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To create awareness on the importance of food safety and health.

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: ADEDIPE DAUDA EWENLA; 08033811317

SIGNED: SECRETARY

GALMA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION

divine temple of almighty god church

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 change of trustees/amendment of its constitution under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ahmed Tanko 2. Sa’ad Sale Galma 3. Yusif Mohammed Galma 4. Imam Mustapha Abdullahi 5. Jibrin Samaila 6. Abdullahi Muktar 7. Auta Habibu 8. Musa Abdullahi 9. Sale Ibrahim 10. Sule Barau AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To unite together and encourage development projects which are culturally sound and economically viable.

2. To generate resources through donations and empower women in skills acquisition.

3. To assist the youth in their education pursuit; and seek assistance from donour organisation within and outside the country in the areas of health, educatin both (estern and Islamic) and modern techniques of agriculture.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

THE OLD TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Emmanuel Adedayo Fuwa 2. Oyebola Adewale Oshokoya 3. Makanjuola Femi Fatoyinbo

- Retained - Retained - Resigned

THE NEW TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Oshokoya Olayinka Olugbenga 2. Alatishe Ibiyemi Ololade 3. Fuwa Elizabeth Ibukun 4. Fuwa Oluwadamilare Micheal

- Newly Appointed - Newly Appointed - Newly Appointed - Newly Appointed

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To allow the Holy Ghost to guide a person in the path of rightful teachings of God to love one another.

Not to allow any person to attack or go against what God has said because ‘‘this is what God had said’’ governs the establishment of the church.

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.

Any objection to this change/amendment should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: AHMED TANKO; 08029536480

SIGNED: CHAIRMAN

SIGNED: SECRETARY

2FACE IDIBIA FANS CLUB The general public is hereby informed that the above named CLUB 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. Mrs. Yejide Omoniyi Shobande 2. Ojuko Oladimeji Ridwan 3. Olukoya Olusegun Adedamola 4. Imani Sunday Prudent 5. Francisca Ibiso Francis 6. Eleshin Tayo 7. Aladebe Oluwaseun 8. Ogechi Chima 9. Adebiyi Oyedele Adewale 10. Moses Ebiama Owotorufa

- President - Secretary

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To promote 2face Idibia as a brand name.

2. To promote the entertainer industry.

3. To cater for members.

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: PRESIDENT 08022922089

CALVARY LIGHT MISSION

OHONYETA FOUNDATION

WESLEY SYNOD INTERNATIONAL AFRICAN FOUNDATION

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 FOUNDATION HAS APPLIED TO THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR REGISTRATION UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTERS ACT 1 OF 1990.

This is to inform the general public that the above named institution has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under part “C” of Companies and Allied Maters Act, 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. FR. MATTHEW ODAH OTUJI 2. MRS. EVELYN OGAR 3. MR UGBABE ADAGBOYI DAMIAN 4. MR BONIFACE OGBECHE OMAGU

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ARCHBISHOP DR. BARTHSY OJOI ENEBIENE 2. REV. DR. AGATHA MANFON EFFA 3. DR. KOFI YEBOAH-AGYEMANG 4. CHIEF (DR.) MOSES BESONG OBENOFUNDE 5. CHIEF (DR.) BRUNO IWUOHA 6. ELDER (DR.) MBAKAM ODUNGIDE 7. HIGH CHIEF DR. EMMANUEL NSAN 8. PILOT (DR.) SIMON AGBOR 9. DAME DR. RHODA UWHUBETINE 10. CHIEF (DR.) ADEBISI ILAWOLE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Monehin Olubunmi Sylvester - President 2. Monehin Oluwabusola Moradeke 3. Ojueromi Omotayo Joseph 4. Oluwanimotele Emmanuel Odunayo 5. Ogunboye Eniola Samson - Secretary AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To engage in effective discipleship programme using the bible as a major source through correspondence and media.

2. To take the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to both rural and urban people via oral proclamation, media (print, audio & audio-visual) & publishing.

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: ADJEH MONDAY ESQ 08035777602

CHIOMA

I formerly known as MISS CHIOMA ABUNNE JULIET now wish to be known and addressed as MRS CHIOMA GREG ODIGIE. All former documents remain valid.

NYSC and the general public to take note.

ONYINYECHI

I formerly known as MISS AMADI ESTHER NWAKAEGO now wish to be known and addressed as MRS ONYINYECHI ESTHER NWAKAEGO. All former documents remain valid. General public to take note.

AISHA

I formerly known as AISHA GALADIMA now wish to be known and addressed as AISHA MOHAMMED ABUBAKAR. All former documents remain valid.

General public to take note.

MARY

I formerly known as MISS INARIGU MARY ONYESHI now wish to be known and addressed as MRS MARY ONYESHI CHARLES. All former documents remain valid. General public to take note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. TO PROVIDE EDUCATIONAL /HEALTH SUPPORT AND CARE FOR WOMEN AND ORPHANS OR ABANDONED CHILDREN IN THE TARGET COMMUNITY. 2. TO SUPPORT EDUCATION /VOCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AT BOTH PRIMARY AND SECONDARY LEVAL OF LEARNING WITH THE MAJOR OBJECTIVES IN THESE INSTITUTIONS TO ESTABLISH AND STRENGTHEN BENEFICIARIES TO BECOME SELF-RELIANT. 3. TO PROVIDE PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT TO WOMEN AND ORPHANS OR ABANDONED CHILDREN. 4. ADVOCACY, MOBILIZATION AND PROMOTION OF A FREE HIVAIDS COMMUNITY, HEALTHY LIVING, NON-DISCRIMINATION AND GENDER EQUALITY AND PROTECT FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN RIGHTS.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. Missionary Works and Evangelism.

2. Leadership Capacity Training and Development.

3. Rehabilitation and Reconciliation Centre.

4. General Educational Services

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRARGENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

Any objection to the registration should be addressed to the Registrar- General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Agiuyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR. ALPHONSUS OGAR EBA

SIGNED ARCHBISHOP DR. BARTHSY OJOI ENEBIENE 164 Parliamentary Road, Calabar, Cross River State.

David

I formerly known as David Segun Faleke now wish to be known and addressed as David Segun Oluleke. All former documents remain valid. General public to take note.

PATIENCE

I formerly known as PATIENCE ONYEMOWO AYEGBA now wish to be known and addressed as PATIENCE ONYEMOWO MOSES. All former documents remain valid.

General public to take note.

Oluleke

I formerly known as Faleke Folashade Felicia now wish to be known and addressed as Oluleke Folashade Felicia.

All former documents remain valid.

General public to take note.

CELINA

I formerly known as CELESTINA ADINU ERUMHE now wish to be known and addressed as CELINA JOHN ADIHU OBIRA. All former documents remain valid. General public to take note.

LAYIBAH

I formally known as LYDIA IBRAHIM BUKAR now wish to be known and addressed MRS LAYIBAH IBRAHIM BUKAR. All former documents remain valid. Reason for change: conversion to Islam. General public to please take note.

HANNAH

I formally known as HANNAH KATYAK ALI now wish to be known and addressed HANNAH MUSA YUSUF MATAZU. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

Nwosu

I formally known as Ineke Alichone Ndidi now wish to be known and addressed Nwosu Alichone Ndidi. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ETSE

I formerly known as ETSE ENAMHEGBAI now wish to be known and addressed as ETSE FAVOUR OLORUNDARE. All former documents remain valid.

The general public to take note.

letter to the Editor 69

September 26, 2014

Re: Dora Akunyili: A Woman Of Courage Kingsley Igbokwe

I was shocked and dismayed when I read on page 95 of the Sunday, September 21, 2014, edition of the ThisDay Newspaper, a tribute written by one Lorretta Epuechi, titled ‘Dora Akunyili: A Woman of Courage’. There was nothing wrong in paying tribute to a woman who rendered meritorious service to the nation. But I stand boldly to contest the last sentence of the fourth paragraph where Lorretta showed strands of ignorance and her depth of misinformation on the chronicles of events within the NAFDAC, particularly, as it pertains to the introduction of the Truscan and the short message service (the GSM scratch-and-text service) in the fight against counterfeit drugs. It is an urgent matter of concern that Lorretta Epuechi has bridged the tenets of factual and objective writing by propagating falsehood and misinformation without adequate research and fact-finding.

Going down memory lane, I remember vividly that, shortly after the current director-general, Dr. Paul Orhii, assumed office in 2009, he introduced the Truscan and the SMS, as well as many other cutting-edge technologies such as the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), the Black Eye, the

Mini-lab, the recently introduced mobile water technology that checks the quality of water on the spot, just to mention a few, in winning the war against drug-counterfeiting.

No doubt, the late Prof. Dora Akunyili served the agency in the best of her capacity and made it a household name, with constant and tireless service to curb the menace of drug-counterfeiting and other unwholesome practices. Her successor, Dr. Paul Orhii, has also not rested on his oars.

He has worked doggedly and relentlessly to achieve the same goal and took NAFDAC to greater heights. He may not have adopted the same strategies as his predecessor but he has introduced a 21st-century compliant strategy through the use of cutting-edge technologies to detect counterfeit drugs, alongside the usual traditional methods of fighting drug-counterfeiting.

I remember vividly in 2009, when Orhii assumed duty. Few months later he introduced and launched the Truscan device in the presence of the Minister of Health Prof Christian Chukwu, government dignitaries and other stakeholders. Prior to Orhii’s emergence, no one ever heard or saw a handheld device such as the Truscan and MAS (mobile authentication service) deployed to

CLASSIFIED OKE

I formerly known as ADEBAYO FUNMILAYO JUMOKE now wish to be known as OKE FUNMILAYO JUMOKE. All former documents remains valid. the general public should please note.

Ruth

I formerly known as Miss Dauda Micah Ruth now wish to be known as Mrs Ruth Daniel Tsokwa. All former documents remains valid. the general public should please note.

OFONAGORO

I formerly known as MISS CHIKWE CHIOMA CYNTHIA now wish to be known as OFONAGORO CHIOMA CYNTHIA. All former documents remains valid. the general public should please note.

MOKA

I formerly known as MOKA IFEANYI SERENA now wish to be known and addressed as MOKA SERENA IFEOMA. All former documents remain valid.

Children’s hospital Buffalo,New York, United States of America and the general public please take note.

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS document DOCUMENT LOSS This is to inform the general public of the Loss of Original Copy of Conveyance of provisional approval of plot No. B3 of about 1,800m2 at Sabon Lugbe residential layout, Abuja belonging to Mr. Yemi Ogunyomi got missing. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found kindly return to the nearest police station. General public should please take note.

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS document DOCUMENT LOSS This is to inform the general public of the Loss of Original Offer of Land of Plot No. 527 of about 1600 square metres in Jeida District Kuje FCT-Abuja belonging to PROF. (MRS) GAMBO LARABA ABDULLAHI. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found kindly return to the nearest police station. General public should please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS ANTHONIA TALATU ONYERO OGBEN, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS ANTHONIA O. CLEMENT EDDY-FREDRICK. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

ADELEYE

I formerly known as MISS SALIU OLUWABUSAYOMI GANIYAT now wish to be known as MRS. ADELEYE OLUWABUSAYOMI GANIYAT. All former documents remains valid. the general public should please note.

OJIAKOR

I formerly known as MRS FELIX VIVIAN CHINENYE now want to be addressed as MRS OJIAKOR VIVIAN CHINENYE. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Immigration Service and the general public should please take note.

detect counterfeit medicines on the spot.

It is globally acclaimed that under Orhii, the agency is the first of its kind to deploy the use of Truscan to detect counterfeit drugs. In recognition of Orhii’s efforts in the use of the cutting- edge technologies to fight the incidence of counterfeiting, he was invited by the US Council of Foreign Relations more than four times between 2010 and 2013 to speak on how the NAFDAC is winning the war against drug-counterfeiting with the use of Truscan and other cutting-edge technologies. Interestingly, part of Orhii’s lecture was used by the Council of Foreign Relations in its report to President Obama which also formed part of the US president’s submission at the G8 summit held in 2012. Also, in 2013, the US Senate of the State of Georgia passed a resolution commending Orhii for his outstanding achievements in the use of cutting-edge technologies to fight drug-counterfeiting.

The agency’s success under the able leadership of Orhii in the fight against drugcounterfeiting was also recognised by the director-general of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Margaret Chan, who revealed that there is a remarkable reduction in the incidence of counterfeit malaria medicines in Sub-Saharan Africa. Impressed

ORIZU

I formerly known as OGBEA IFEANYI now want to be addressed as ORIZU IFEANYICHUKWU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

OCHULOR

I formerly known as ORHEWERE ASHLEY OGHENERUKEVWE now wish to be known as OCHULOR OGHENERUKEVWE. All former documents remains valid. the general public should please note.

ISAH

I formerly known as ISAH IDRIS now want to be addressed as ISAH IDRIS IDRIS. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS This is to inform the general public of the loss of the ORIGINAL COPY OF LETTER OF ALLOCATION and original receipts OF PAYMENT in respect of House No. 91 Oba Overamwen Avenue, Gwarimpa, Abuja, with Reference No DC/GEN/182/S/VOL.1 belonging to MOHAMMED SANI ABDU. c/o Hadi Mustapha, Babura District Office, Babura, Jigawa State. Efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, kindly return to the nearest Police Station or contact Federal Ministry of Lands, Housing & Urban Development, Abuja. General public to take note.

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

This is to inform the general public of the Loss of Original Copy of R of O dated 12/08/04 in respect of Plot NO. 326, old file No. AN5390, new file No. AN20011 having an area of approximately 900.00sqm belonging to SUNDAY NAN EMEKE. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found kindly return to the nearest police station. General public should please take note.

Akunyili

with Orhii’s performance, President Goodluck Jonathan conferred on him the national honour of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2012.

Orhii’s quest to eradicate drug counterfeiting and his introduction of the Truscan, MAS and other cutting-edge technologies has proved effective in the fight against counterfeit drugs globally and has made him the global leader and champion of the fight against drug-counterfeiting.

—Igbokwe, a public analyst wrote in from Abuja

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MISS AWONIYI OLUWATOYIN FUNMI, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MRS AWOSAN OLUWATOYIN FUNMI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

PRISCILLA

I formerly known as MEDINATU O. ONUJA now want to be addressed as MRS. PRISCILLA O. OMOERA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

MUSA

I formerly known as MUSA YAHAYA ABDULMUMINI now want to be addressed as MUSA YAHAYA. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Zitta

I formerly known as Zitta Gwanfa Emmanuel now want to be addressed as Zitta Yakubu Emmanuel. All former documents remain valid. Pavlick Nigeria Limited and the general public should please take note.

OMOSHALEWA

I formerly known as MISS OMOSHALEWA BOLAJI OMONIYI now want to be addressed as MRS OMOSHALEWA BOLAJI ONAYEMI. All former documents remain valid.

General public should please take note.

CHRISTIANA

I formerly known as MISS UDEOZO CHRISTIANA CHIAMAKA now want to be addressed as MRS CHRISTIANA CHIAMAKA UDEOZO-UGWU. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

This is to inform the general public of the Loss of Original Copy of R of O in respect of Plot No. 1460 Cadestral Zone E23 dated 30/03/2012 with file No. BA62634 belonging to MUSTAPHA BABAYO ZAKI of 23 Bamako Street Wuse Zone 1, Abuja. All efforts made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found kindly return to the nearest police station. General public should please take note.

loss LOSS OF of DOCUMENT document PUBLIC NOTICE

Auction! Auction!! Auction!!!

This is to inform the general public that there will be a public auction sales of unserviceable vehicles at national teachers institutes, (N.T.I) KADUNA venue. National teachers institute kaduna. Time: 10am date 1st 10 2014 the vehicles can be inspected within the hours of 10am to 12 pm on working days. Note all vehicles must be removed within 48 hours after the sales and the reciept of all documents signed auctioneer.

Alh jafaru jibrin 08065377580’ 08036184776’ 08065556600

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY

sports PREVIEWS AND NIGERIANS ABROAD September 26, 2014

I’m Patiently Waiting For must watch Nigerians Through To Incoming NFF Board – Keshi Four ITF Champs Q/Finals Stephen Keshi has said that the forthcoming congress of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is what has stalled his contract talks with the football federation.

The 52-year old is yet to renew his contract with the NFF,and was only brought back on an interim basis to manage the Super Eagles for the last two qualifiers against Congo and South Africa. Keshi was initially in talks for a renewal but a leadership tussle at the NFF stalled any concrete agreement from being reached.

He however revealed that further negotiations are ongoing about a substantive deal,but noted that he will know his fate after next week’s elections in Warri.

“We are still talking because NFF doesn’t have a chairman yet; it should be a contract between him and I and then we can take it

from there.

“What I am doing now is for us to move ahead and help ease things for the next board that is coming on board,” Keshi said.

Keshi, who has got just one point out of two games against DR Congo and South Africa urged everyone to join hands to move the country’s football forward, noting that the current leadership crisis in the NFF would not do the country any good.

He noted that the comment credited to him that he gave the minister and NFF a deadline of September 30 to renew his contract or lose him to other countries was done to discredit him.

“I never said so, I don’t know where that comment is coming from. I never said anything like that; I never discussed with

Nigerian players

Keshi

anybody and I am surprised to hear this. Somebody first told me this and you are the second person, but there is no such thing,” Keshi added.

Skye Bank Seeks Dominance Extension As Bankers Games Starts Nigeria Bankers Games (NBG), the biggest sporting event in Corporate Nigeria returns with football matches at an opening ceremony the organizers are promising will be the most entertaining for participants, guests and fans who will throng the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium on Saturday September 27.

Defending champions, Skye Bank will kick-start the competition with a fixture against Stanbic IBTC while Fidelity Bank will take on Standard Chartered Bank in the second game

of the opening day.

The opening ceremonies will mark the culmination of monthslong activities leading to the games and which had earlier swung into motion with a colorful Draw Ceremony and unveiling of the tournament’s new trophy at the luxury Four Points Hotel on Victoria Island on August 22. The old trophy was retired to Skye Bank after they completed a hat trick of consecutive trophy wins last year to add to their previous triumphs in the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

Ahead of the opening ceremony, Fela Bank-Olemoh, the Chief Executive Officer of MediaVision Limited, organizers of the tournament disclosed that a number of activities have been lined up to make the day memorable for all stakeholders including the induction of three new NBG Hall of Fame entrants. “Our promise remains to continuously provide an enriching experience at every year of the Nigeria Bankers Games by putting in place creative, entertaining and innovative

Wonder Goal Winner Oghogho Donate Prize Share To Edo Orphanage Match Day 27 was a remarkable day for Bayelsa United’s forward, Oghogho Oduokpe as he celebrated his Glo Premier League Wonder Goal award presentation by scoring one of the two goals in his side’s defeat of table toppers, Kano Pillars.

The setting was the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, the adopted home ground of the Restoration Boys and Oghogho was billed to receive the award for his goal against Dolphins FC on Match Day 5 which was earlier in

the week announced as securing the highest votes.

Match Day 25 hat trick hero, Frank Egharevba had fired a fierce one from outside the box to open scoring for the hosts and then Oduokpe came in as a substitute to double the lead and make victory certain for his relegation threatened side. He had joined in the fray after being presented the N100, 000 prize money at half time by the Edo State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Chris Okaeben.

Presentation of Wonder Goal Award Prize symbolic cheque to Bayelsa United player, Oghogho Oduokpe

Four Nigerian players have qualified for the quarter-finals of the ongoing International Tennis Federation West & Central Africa Circuit.

The tour moved from Lome, Togo where Nigeria was dominant last week and is now taking place in Benin Republic.

On Wednesday, Ikechukwu Iloputa defeated Thailand’s Palaphoom Kovapitukted in straight sets 6-4, 6-2.

Iloputa will now come up against his compatriot Mohammed Mohammed who equally secured a

straight sets win over Connor Yao of Ivory Coast whom he won 6-3, 6-2. The other Nigerian in the running for a place in the last four is favourite,Joseph Ubon who had no difficulty dispatching his compatriot Tochukwu Eze 6-1, 6-2.

Meanwhile in the girl’s category, Nigeria’s Elizabeth Garos-Pam beat her Ghanian opponent, Francisca Nyarko of Ghana 6-2, 6-4 to go through.

NIGERIANS ABROAD Odemwingie Pleased With Surgery Success Stoke City attacker, Peter Odemwingie has confirmed that he has had successful knee surgery.

The attacker picked up an injury on 30 August during Stoke’s 1-0 win over champions, Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in a feisty Premier League clash.

Odemwingie took to Twitter to announce that he had had surgery on his injured knee and that the procedure was successful.

“Heard we won and @muniesa92 scored twice! What a day and win!! More good news for us Potters as my surgery today also went well,” he tweeted via @ OdemwingieP. Meanwhile his friend and teammate at the Super Eagles, Ogenyi Onazi has revealed that he has been offering words of support to the former Lokomotiv Moscow striker.

“When a player gets injured,

Peter Odemwingie

so many things cross his mind.

You begin to ask yourself so many questions. I know what he’s (Odemwingie) going through so I called him and encouraged him.

“We became really close during the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the friendship has continued,” Onazi told supersport.com.

Willingness to change is a strength, even if it is means plunging part of the company into total confusion for a while.

Chairman and CEO of General Electric

Jack Welch,

ROUND-UP /71

September 26, 2014

Gyan Denies ‘Ritual Killing’ Rumour Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has broken his silence to defend himself and family against “wild and ludicrous” media reports that he was involved in an alleged ritual killing of a disappeared rapper friend.

The striker used his Twitter account to post a link to a statement issued through a lawyer to set the record straight after the disappearance in July of the rapper Castro and girlfriend Janet Bandu.

The pair were on holiday with Gyan in the Ghanaian coastal town of Ada when they disappeared while using a jet ski, which was recovered without any trace of their bodies.

“Sadly, the expression of empathy during a person’s moment of grief and utter dismay does not sell in the media,” the statement said.

“What sells in the media, and what indeed sold and is still selling in the media in Ghana are wild allegations and rumours directed especially at Asamoah Gyan ranging from the absurd...and ending with the ludicrous – that he sacrificed him spiritually to enhance his career.”

The statement said Gyan, who plays for Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates after a stint at Premier League Sunderland, and family had previously kept their silence while police investigations were continuing.

Nembe City

Nembe City Fined, Banished to Benin Asamoah-Gyan

“In our painful silence, we have been totally dismayed by the fact that the platform was provided for the peddling of these wild and ludicrous allegations and rumours against us,” it added.

“Those to whom the platform was provided offered no evidence whatsoever to back their statements. And indeed, the allegation of spiritual sacrifice can by no stretch of the imagination be propped up.”

Pardew Eyes Consolidation On Cup Win Alan Pardew knows the pressure of being Newcastle United manager will never ease while they are bottom of the Premier League but he hoped the 3-2 extra time victory at Crystal Palace in the League Cup on Wednesday would kick-start the recovery.

Newcastle have just three points and no victories from their opening five Premier League games and their only wins so far have come in two League Cup ties.

While that competition may provide a welcome break, reviving their league fortunes is paramount.

“The pressure’s not going to go away from us while we’re Newcastle United and we sit

bottom of the league and we haven’t won a Premier League game,” Pardew, whose side have won just once in 13 games dating back to March, told Sky Sports News.

“We’ve got to put that right and we’ve got two tough away games. We’re here for the long-haul and we’ve got a lot of games to go.

“There’s a big big season still to play. This season there’s still all to play for and we’re looking forward to building on this small step.”

Thousands of disgruntled Newcastle fans brandished posters reading ‘Sack Pardew’ in a mass protest against the 53-year-old during Saturday’s home match against Hull City.

Murray Seals Quarter-finals Spot Andy Murray continued his quest to reach the season-ending ATP World Tour finals by booking his place in the quarter-finals of the Shenzhen Open in China.

Murray started the week in 11th place in the Race with only the top eight guaranteed a place at the lucrative event at the O2 Arena in November.

His desire to qualify took him to Shenzhen where he began his campaign with a comfortable 6-3 6-3 win over India’s Somdev Devvarman yesterday.

Second seed Murray proved a cut above his world number 141-ranked opponent, breaking twice in the first set without reply.

Devvarman rallied to break the Scot in the second but Murray converted both of his own break point opportunities

Andy Murray

to move through in one hour and 21 minutes.

In the quarter-finals Murray will play Slovakian world number 85 Lukas Lacko, who beat Ricardas Berankis of Lithuania 6-4 7-6 (7-1).

The League Management Company (LMC) on Thursday ruled that Nembe City will play their next three home matches in Benin.

These decisions and others including a financial fine on Nembe City were reached in the aftermath of the inconclusive Match Day 26 fixture between Nembe City and Lobi Stars at the Krisdera Stadium, Omoku, Rivers State.

The LMC found that the match was discontinued as a result of fans invading the pitch in protest of extra time penalty awarded by the center Referee against Nembe City. It noted that it was the action of the fans and not the protest of Nembe City players, who though initially protested

the penalty award that caused the pitch invasion and inhibited the continuation of play It further observed that play could not have resumed even if Nembe City players returned within five to twenty five minutes as stipulated by the Rules when the fans refused to vacate the pitch and accordingly fined the club N500, 000 for the unruly conduct of its players, officials and fans.

The LMC therefore ordered that the botched match will be concluded at a neutral venue on a date preceding the 2014 Federation Cup finals.

The match will be re-started from the time it was halted and with the same result that prevailed at the time of the disruption.

Kaduna Utd Blame Defeat On Fatigue Kaduna United head coach, Saleh Barnabas, has blamed his side’s 3-0 loss to Sharks in the Glo Premier League on Wednesday on fatigue.

United were sluggish from the start, and were punished when Frederick Obomate fired home within the first minute of the game.

Chiamaka Madu doubled the lead on 11 minutes, while Ifeanyi Inyam completed the rout in the 35th minute.

Sharks could have added more goals in the

second half, but Inyam, Jayeola Yusuf and substitute Obinna Fortune all missed giltedged opportunities to score.

While Barnabas noted that Sharks took their chances well in the first half, he told supersport.com that his team had arrived late for the match and that it affected their performance.

“Sharks were lucky because they created chances in the first half and took them well, but it was a different game in the second half,” he said.

Ronaldo Dismisses Manchester United Speculation Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed speculation about his future, claiming that he is not thinking about moving back to Manchester United just yet.

Over the past few weeks, the Portugal international has been strongly linked with a return to United next summer.

Ronaldo played for United from 2003 until 2009, before joining Madrid for a then-world record transfer fee of £80million.

During his time in the Spanish capital, the 29-year-old has won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Champions League and the FIFA Ballon d’Or. He is aware of the transfer talk but is giving no consideration to his long-term future at this stage as he remains fully committed to Real.

Ronaldo

“My future is Madrid. I’m happy this season is going well and my future, I will not speak about, it does not make sense.”

I have been up against tough competition all my life. I wouldn’t know how to get along without it.

Walt Disney, founder and CEO of the Walt Disney Company

AMUSEMENT PARK

i tremble for my country when i reflect that god is just

— Thomas Jefferson

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY c

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NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

No. 71

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outh Africans are bereft at Nigeria’s lousy official response after the collapse of a building in the premises of Synagogue Church of All Nations left 115 persons dead and scores injured. At least, 84 South Africans died in the tragedy.

It was not just the incident that has left South Africans appalled. We didn’t even know the number of the dead until Johannesburg told us, almost one week after. And yet that single incident could be one of the worst for casualties in the last 20 years.

How can people die in numbers and those who have a responsibility to save lives or comfort the bereaved all end up wringing their fingers, as if to say, let’s just bury the dead and move on? In an article entitled, “Blood on their hands,” published on the South African Sunday Times website, the author provided a diary of how a combination of fear, caprice and negligence led to the tragedy and compounded its aftermath.

Accidents happen. The problem is that not only do we make them happen we let all that can go wrong go wrong. It’s this depressing narrative that left the author of the Sunday Times article asking questions.

I can say, for free, that there would be no answers. How did Synagogue get approval to raise the church building from two storeys to six? Why were first responders prevented from access to the site? Why are the authorities behaving as if TB Joshua, the man on whose premises this tragedy occurred, is above the law?

There would be a probe all right. There would be a big ceremony to receive the report. And there would even be a bigger promise that the government will do everything to give the dead the justice they

26.09.14 Why TB Joshua Is A Sacred Cow We wear God on our sleeves but make our peace with hypocrisy, turning a blind eye when the rules are broken

deserve. But that would be it – until another tragedy occurs.

According to the Nigerian Institute of Building, 84 buildings collapsed in 20 years, mostly between 1999 and 2009, claiming more than 400 lives. In a 2012 study, Dr. Adedeji Adeniran quoted NIB as saying that investigations into the incidents revealed that 50 per cent of building failure cases are due to design fault, 40 per cent to construction fault and 10 per cent to product failures.

He referred to another study, which said, “about 37 per cent of the collapses are believed to be caused by carelessness and greed on the part of construction professionals.”

Enforcement of building codes has improved in some places, especially in Lagos, but Synagogue is a reminder that we still have a long, long way to go. Reports after the tragedy clearly showed that the

building was a disaster waiting to happen. It was originally a two-storey building, apparently converted to six without official approval. Why the town planning authorities allowed Synagogue to get away with a skyscraper on wooden stilts, only God knows.

Pastor TB Joshua wants the world to believe that an unidentified flying object was responsible for the collapse of the church building. Or that it was a terror attack. That, to say the least, is laughable. And not because the Nigerian Senate finds it convenient to say so.

Would the senators have been able to speak up if the Yonggi Chos of Nigerian Christendom – those with the congregations and the connections – had been the ones involved?

The reason why Synagogue happened and TB Joshua can expect to get away with his ridiculous explanations or why if it happened in any other big

Nigerian place of worship we may not even dare to ask any questions at all, is that we have put common sense totally at the disposal of religion. We wear God on our sleeves but make our peace with hypocrisy, turning a blind eye when the rules are broken.

Instead of asking why Synagogue happened and demanding answers, we resign to fate or cringe in fear that preventable disaster could either be “divine punishment” for our sins or Satan’s war on the saints. How TB Joshua could have described the dead as “martyrs and God’s generals” when his church reportedly blocked initial rescue efforts beats me. But what cofounds even more is that he has not once been called in for questioning about how the worst building collapse in the last 20 years happened in his church.

May be the police think it would be a sin against God to question the pastor, just the same way town planning authorities in Lagos might

have thought it a “heresy” to stop the church from building more than the two storeys approved.

Politics spoils everything. As election draws near religious leaders have become major recruiters for politicians.

The church and mosque have become campaign grounds.

Whatever may be the outcome of the Lagos probe, Governor Babatunde Fashola, a Muslim, would be in no less a quandary repossessing the church site, for example, than would President Goodluck Jonathan, a Christian who is harvesting his Christian base for his reelection in 2015.

After the $9.3million cashfor-arms scandal, Synagogue can only worsen the current miserable relationship between Nigeria and South Africa. That’s why Jacob Zuma’s request for a probe might get a talking attention. Nothing more.

We stumble from one bad news to another, sweeping things under the carpet as we go. We’ll probably find enough room to accommodate this tragedy without losing sleep.

It’s sad but the friends and families of the dead will have to find the courage to move on, without expecting that Synagogue will change the way Nigeria works.

GHANA MUST GO We’re working hard to free Chibok girls — Jonathan

Shekau ‘Dead Again’ In the past few days there have been claims and counter-claims about the killing of the leader of Boko Haram, Abacha Geidam, otherwise called, Abubakar Shekau. The Cameroonians first claimed that they killed him inside Nigeria and released pictures to support their claim. The Nigerian

military, which had twice in the past claimed killing Shekau, also followed with a fresh claim, complete with pictures and videos that “Shekau’s impostor” had been killed. If Shekau is really dead, I don’t think it matters too much who killed him – that is, as long as we are sure he is really, really dead.

Go to Sambisa!

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20 motoring

September 26, 2014

Toyoya Aygo

Auto Policy: Is Toyota Missing In Action?

Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos

The ongoing implementation of the revived National Automotive Policy by the federal government is receiving needed attention by all stakeholders, including automobile companies and their representatives in Nigeria.

Many of the leading players in the industry have already expressed their support and desire to deepen the investment plans for vehicle assembling in the country.

Already, firms such as Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN), Innoson Motor Company and Stallion Nissan Motors Nigeria have since rolled out car brands assembled in their Kaduna, Nnewi and Lagos plants respectively as the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) takes its course to transform the automobile industry.

According to the director-general of the National Automotive Council (NAC), Mr Aminu Jalal, the response to the policy by industry investors has exceeded the expectations of the agency which is responsible for the implementation of the auto policy.

“The existing assembly plants have a new lease of life with the VON assembling the Nissan and Hyundai vehicles and PAN resuming assembly of Peugeot cars,” Jalal said in a recent statement to the media.

However, industry experts have raised eye brows about the seeming lukewarm response

by Toyota Nigeria Limited to the federal government’s plan to developing the local automobile industry.

“Toyota alone takes up to 40 per cent share of patronage by Nigerian car owners.

Naturally, we expect a company like Toyota to lead other motor companies in investing into the auto policy plan because it is a brand of first choice for many Nigerians,” said a dealer of the brand in Lagos, Alhaji Ahmed Toju.

According to Mr Martins Ekeh, an automobile importer, Toyota cannot afford to miss out from the present scheme of things in the industry, as the policy will soon make importation of cars unattractive.

“I think that sometimes, Toyota may be tempted to think that the brand is so apt to remain where it is today. This is not to be with what we are seeing in the industry today,” Ekeh said. “The Hyundai brand is taking the Nigerian market by the storm. So is the Kia brand, whose distributors already have begun assembling here in Nigeria from

the information reaching us. The Peugeot is back too, all for Nigerian market and made in Nigeria,” he said.

But a Toyota Nigeria official said the company is in alignment with the automobile policy, but declined to state tangible moves

by Toyota to begin assemblage of vehicles in Nigeria.

“I cannot speak on the company’s plan regarding whether it is assembling vehicles in Nigeria, but I do know that we align with the federal government’s automobile policy,” the source said.

Meanwhile the NAC said in a recent statement that government had not reneged on its promise to shift the implementation process of certain aspects of the NAIDP till January 2015.

NAC DG, Jalal, said the federal government had only extended the concession on the importation of used vehicles only by another six months till 31st December, 2014.

He said, “This was because up to three out of four imported cars are used and time needs to be given to the assembly plants to produce affordable vehicles to replace the imported used ones. Unfortunately, this levy on new cars was misinterpreted to mean that all vehicles, including new FBU (fully built units) imports were exempt from levies until 31stDecember 2014.

“This could not have been the case because existing and new entrants into the assembling process under the NAIDP had started to roll out new products at competitive rates. As a result of continuous inflow of new FBUs without restriction occasioned by this misinterpretation, assemblers began to cut down on orders for assembly kits and this has the potential to derail the policy.

“Action taken was therefore urgent.

Government decided to clear this misinterpretation. Given this clarification, the Nigerian Custom Service (NCS) has been thus guided in their operations.

Council wishes to reassure Nigerians that new vehicles have been stockpiled under the NAIDP awaiting buyers and there is therefore no need to fear adverse rise in prices.”

The DG however stated that a special package under the NAIDP was being worked out for dealers who had made some commitments to enable them import new FBUs at concessionary import duty rates (minus the levy) until they set up local assembly operations.

Don’t take the straight path or the winding path. Take the path your ancestors have taken.”

Roger von Oech, American author, inventor and speaker