Leadership news

23.01.15

No. 88

N200

niGeria's First FriDaY neWspaper

makurDi, sokoto stanD still For Jonathan, 7 buhari

Chibok Diary

cultists kill 3 preGnant Women, natiVe 13 Doctor DAY

284

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

www.leadership.ng Leadership Newspapers

@leadershipNGA

FG Disburses n122m aGric Grant to 27 naGropreneurs 16

bboG Group Disappointed at > Page 2 nsa's comments

No Going Back On February Polls - INEC 4

APC, Atiku, others react to call for postponement

L-R: Vice President Namadi Sambo, President Goodluck Jonathan and national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, acknowledging cheers from the crowd at the PDP presidential rally in Bauchi, yesterday. photo by remi akunleyan

untold stories of other political parties

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#BringBackOurGirls 284 day

Friday, January 23, 2015

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

Choosing between those two options is like flying a plane.

If we surround ourselves with the right mentors, we start a climb into the stratosphere. If we spend too much time on the negative side, we lose our altitude and run the risk of crashing.

That can ruin your whole day. The stars are more fun to look at and they are easier on the face than the gravel.

For Feedback: fridayleadership@leadership.ng When the past calls, let it go to voicemail.

Believe me, it has nothing new to say.

CHiBOK iN tHE WEEK Saturday, JaNuary 17, 2014 a community leader in Chibok, Borno State, allen Manasseh, reportedly criticises President Goodluck Jonathan for failing to speak about the schoolgirls being held captives since their abduction on april 14, 2014 by the Boko Haram terrorists during his unscheduled visit to the area.

SuNday, JaNuary 18, 2014 Former Minister of Education and a frontline leader of the BringBackOurGirls (BBOG) movement, Oby Ezekwesili, faulted President Goodluck Jonathan’s visit to Maiduguri, describing it as ill-timed and too late.

MONday, JaNuary 19, 2014 the BBOG group charged the Nigerian government to step up action to find lasting solutions to the wanton destruction of lives and properties by the Boko Haram sect in the North-east. tuESday, JaNuary 20, 2014 On the insurgency ravaging North-eastern Nigeria, the BBOG group and some members of the Chibok community in abuja paid a courtesy call on the uN representative for africa to seek assistance on the way forward.

Meanwhile the President of the american university of

Nigeria, dr Margee Ensign, disclosed to newsmen that all the 21 girls in the institution are on full scholarship.

WEdNESday, dECEMBEr JaNuary 21, 2014 the BBOG group said the dismissals of Nigerian army officers would pose grave danger to the country and its if not checked, adding that the welfare of the officers was critical to the struggle for recue of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls in captivity of the Boko Haram sect. tHurSday, JaNuary 22, 2015 the BBOG group, speaking through one of its members, Maureen Kabric, advised Nigerian politicians to desist from making inflammatory statements capable of inciting ethno-religious violence as they carry out their campaign for the forthcoming elections.

Member of #BringBackourGirls(BBoG) advocacy group, in a village square meeting advocating for the rescue of the abducted Chibok girls at the Unity fountain in abuja yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

Chibok Girls: BBOG Group disappointed at NSa's Comments

By Chika Mefor and ejike ejike, Abuja

The #BringBackOurGirls(BBOG) group has expressed disappointment over the statement made by the National Security Adviser to the President, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (rtd) that the Chibok girls abducted over 280 days ago by the Boko Haram sect were yet to be located.

One of the group's members, Dr Emmam Shehu, while speaking during their daily sit-outs, said it was both unfortunate and shameful that after several months, the government and the military still do not know the whereabouts of the girls.

She added that the 219 Chibok girls represented everything that had gone wrong in the country, adding that the failure of the government to bring the girls back shows insensitivity.

LEADERSHIP recalls that the NSA, at the Chatham House Africa Programme in London, yesterday,

said that the girls had not been found but gave the assurance that they would soon be located with the help of the international community, particularly the French, British, Americans and Chadians.

He had also debunked allegations that soldiers of the Nigerian Army were under-equipped.

Mr Dasuki had maintained the official Baga attack casualty figure released by the Nigerian Army, insisting that only an independent verified copy of the satellite images can prove otherwise.

Members of the Boko Haram sect had attacked the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) base in Baga, Borno State on Saturday, January 5, killing hundeds and destroying most houses in the town. Defence spokesperson, Major-General Chris Olukolade,had peg the casualty figure around 150 people, comprising mainly of members of the sect, but an independent report put the number at 2,000.

tOday, Friday, JaNuary 23, 2014 the BBOG group expressed disappointment at the statement credited to the National Security adviser (NSa) to the President, Col. Sambo dasuki (rtd), that the whereabouts of the Chibok schoolgirls who are still in captivity close to a year after their abduction by the Boko Haram sect was yet unknown. ...As compiled by ABAH ADAH

Members of the #BringBackourGirs (BBoG) advocacy group in a vilage square meeting for the rescue of the abducted Chibok girls at the Unity fountan in abuja yesterday. PHOTOs BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO .

Experience is the mother of wisdom.

― Egyptian Proverbs

our stand

3

January 23, 2015

Disqualify Under-aged Candidates Before Polls

T

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on January 13 released the list of candidates cleared to contest election into the Senate and House of Representatives. The list contained 22 contestants who are below the stipulated age of 35 for the Senate, while another 25 fell below the 30 years prescribed by the Constitution for the House of Representatives election.

These under-aged candidates cut across 13 political parties, but not from the two leading parties – the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Section 65 (1) of the 1999 Constitution is clear and unambiguous on this. “Subject to the provisions of Section 66 of the Constitution, a person shall be qualified to be elected as a member of (a) the Senate if he is a citizen of Nigeria and has attained the age of thirtyfive (35) years of age; and (b) the House of Representatives, if he is a citizen of Nigeria and has attained the age of thirty years (30),” it states. The INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega said, after this was discovered, that the commission does not have the backing of the law to disqualify candidates

submitted by political parties, including the underage candidates, for any elective office. Kayode Idowu, his spokesman, added a caveat: the commission will investigate the matter to ascertain whether the underage candidates were submitted by their parties, or were as a result of typographical errors by the commission.

While typographical errors could be termed human, it is unacceptable for the commission to handle the list of would-be lawmakers with such unnecessary legalese in a fragile yet complex democracy like ours. INEC should be advised that such errors, if indeed that’s what they are, can complicate a fair process and leave room for politicians

Ag. Editor Pembi David-Stephen Deputy Editor Kazeem Akintunde Editorial Board Safiya M. Adamu, Chairman Christian Ochiama, Deputy Chairman Standards ’Lara Olugbemi, Director

to latch on to technicalities to wrest from people a mandate that was freely given by the electorate. INEC made the judiciary a vulnerable partner in its activities when it used its powers to register and de-register political parties administratively.

What prevents it from stopping unqualified candidates now?

INEC’s role in this democracy is not that of a rubber stamp agency for frivolous politicians and parties. It should weed out unserious candidates and parties. We believe that INEC has the moral right as a regulatory commission to screen, sanitise, monitor and sanction the amorphous bodies that call themselves political parties. Due process and compliance cannot be breached where it saves us from needless litigations that would have been averted if these candidates were not cleared ab initio. The serious business of governance, which should be the ultimate goal of people seeking public office, must have minimum standards, including age and educational qualifications. We will only be dignifying frivolous people by allowing under-aged voters and candidates to become a cog in the wheel of our democratic progress.

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

Leadership Holdings

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

Fortune favours the brave (the bold).

— 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!

4

January 23, 2015

LIVING TO BE 100

Some health tips daily Miscellaneous

By BODE GBADEBO AND CHIBUZO UKAIBE, Abuja; GEORGE OKOJIE,

The secret of Chinese who lived up to 250 Years - Even in modern times there is an instance of a Chinese whose name was “Lichigian” who reached to a life span of 250 years using the great Indian herb called India Pennywort (Brahmi). He said he is regularly using this Indian herb and he has achieved such a long life by regularly using this herb.

Available for the benefit of our web friends - The secrets of people who lived to more than 100 years at very nominal cost through email or in printed form - It also includes the recipes of soups and juices which one must have daily to prolong his life span. A very useful and a must for every one. – Don’t miss the Golden Opportunity as you have only one life to live.

— Source: livelongto100years.com

Untold Stories Of Other Political Parties

I

t is no longer news that Nigeria, the largest economy and most populous country in Africa, will swear in a new president come May 2015.

Given her economic, political and cultural influence on the continent, this big event is of vital importance, not only to Nigeria, but the continent. The coming elections will, arguably, be one of the most competitive since 1999, when Nigeria returned from longlasting military rule to civilian democracy.

Interestingly, for a major part of this electioneering process, the concentration of the larger part of the populace has been on just two political parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressive Congress (APC), forgetting that the other 11 of the 26 parties also have candidates who are gunning for the seat of the president. ANDREW ESSIEN analyses the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates and how they hope to unsettle the cart come February.

Many Nigerians can hardly name more than five political parties – the most notable being Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Alliance for Democracy (AD), the FRESH Party – but according to the information provided by the Independent National Election Commission (INEC), the parties fielding candidates for the positions of president and vice-president on February 14, 2015 are the

No Going Back On February Polls - INEC

PDP, represented by Goodluck Jonathan and his vice, Namadi Sambo; APC, fielding Buhari and his running mate, Yemi Osinbajo; KOWA Party, Prof. Oluremi Sonaiya and Saidu Bobboi; Hope Democratic Party (HDP), Ambrose Albert and Haruna Shaba; Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Ganiyu Galadima and Balarabe Ahmed; Alliance for Democracy (AD), Rafiu Salau and Clinton Cliff Akuchie; United Democratic Party (UDP), Godson Okoye and Haruna Adamu; African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nani Ibrahim Ahmad and Obianuju MurphyUzohue; National Conscience Party (NCP), Martin Onovo and Ibrahim Mohammed; Action Alliance (AA), Tunde AnifowosheKelani and Paul Ishaka Ofomile and the United Progressive Party (UPP) represented by Chekwas Okorie and Bello Umar.

The Labour Party (LP) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) will not be fielding candidates, as both parties have pitched their tent with the PDP, adopting Jonathan as their presidential candidate.

Without a doubt, some of these candidates have come to the contest with impressive resumes.

Oluremi Sonaiya (KOWA Party) One of the candidates in the contest for Aso Rock is Prof.

Oluremi Sonaiya, 59, of the KOWA party and indeed the only woman in the contest. Sonaiya is a professor of French and Applied ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Lagos, with agency reports

The dates for the general election in February may be hanging in the balance as the nation’s national security adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), has called for postponement to give the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) more time to distribute about 30 million permanent voter cards (PVCs) to eligible voters.

But, INEC has declared that there was no operational reason, including the concerns over the distribution of the PVCs, to postpone next month’s general election.

Dasuki spoke yesterday during a talk show at Chatham House, the London think-tank group.

According to Reuters, the NSA said he had discussed the matter with the INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, adding that a delay within the time allowed by the law will not be a bad idea.

“That is what we are encouraging at the moment,” he said, noting that INEC had been able to distribute 30 million PVCs but had an outstanding 30 million others to hand out.

He further said that although INEC had assured him it would achieve the task in time for the February elections, he thought it would make more sense to take more time. According to him, there is a 90-day window during which the election can legally take place.

Dasuki was said to have told Jega: “It costs you nothing, it’s still within the law,” adding that it was for INEC and not him to decide on the matter. “What sense does it make to vote three months early when there are 30 million cards still with INEC? That’s my position.”

But in another twist, Dasuki gave assurances in the text of the lecture he delivered at the event that the February general election will be successful.

“The 2015 elections are expected to be relatively peaceful and violence-free.

The federal government has taken all necessary measures to ensure this by making adequate provisions for INEC, security agencies and by supporting numerous sensitisation programmes,” the security chief stated.

He, however, admitted that there was anxiety in certain quarters about whether elections will hold in the northeast and the ability of the government

to ensure that those internally displaced are able to vote.

“Our answer to both of those is yes. As far as it is possible, we are determined that adequate security will be in place to enable elections in all the areas in the northeast that are safe, and that the IDPs will be provided with the opportunity to exercise their vote,” he explained.

The NSA commended the emergence of a strong opposition in the polity, saying it is a sign of growing maturity in the country’s democracy.

“The emergency of a seemingly viable opposition, as well as the closeness of the race is a clear demonstration of our maturing democracy. Greater voter awareness also means that people are more engaged in the electoral process and determined to protect their rightto vote. We on our part are doing all we can to ensure that every Nigerian who wants to vote is able to and that their vote will count.”

Speaking on the theme, “Nigeria’s Insecurity: Insurgency, Corruption,Elections and the Management of Multiple Threats”, Dasuki demonstrated that Nigeria’s insecurity challenge was both local and global. He, however, challenged the international community to show the same concern to the rising terrorism in parts of Nigeria as it does in other parts of the world.

He noted that while Nigeria continues to face the debilitating effects of corruption, “we have taken steps to build strong institutions and strengthen our laws in addressing it. As we continue to do this, we call on the global community to further address the corrupting influence of big companies and rich countries.”

He also told his audience that “successive elections in Nigeria have improved and lessons learnt in 2011 are now being practiced in preparation towards the 2015 elections.

The INEC has a strong team and government has ensured adequate funding and capacity enhancement while putting in place strong coordination mechanisms between the electoral body and other stakeholders.

“It is my firm belief that Nigeria will emerge stronger, manage her threats better and improve on governance. We are taking these careful but sure steps at the moment. The terrorist threat has focused us on the right path.

Every bird likes its own nest. ― Egyptian Proverb

“We have developed a new national security strategy that puts our people at the heart of our efforts, a national counterterrorism strategy that employs both hard and soft power and an economic revitalization plan that will bring succour to those most vulnerable and those affected by violence,” he said.

No basis to postpone election – INEC The commission further added that there was no communication from the presidency to postpone the election over complaints of the PVCs distribution.

The chief press secretary to the INEC chairman, Kayode Idowu, said: “We have not received any official or unofficial communication to that effect.

From the point of our operation, the commission has not seen any good basis to postpone the election.”

Kayode, however, pointed out that information available to the commission with regards to what transpired at the London meeting was contrary to what the NSA was quoted to have said.

He stated that the claims that 30 million uncollected PVCs were not true, noting that there has been accelerated distribution and collection of cards since the decentralisation of the process.

According to him, rough estimates indicate that the collection process has surpassed 70 percent since the decentralisation of the distribution of the cards at the ward level.

Kayode said: “Where are the 30 million cards that have not been collected? Statistics are cold; they are not flighty. By the commission’s rough estimation, even though we have not collected the raw data from the states, we have cases of over 26,000 PVCs collected in states in a space of three days, and this could be the trend across the country.

“I can assure you that the percentage is much higher than 70 percent.

What we do is that immediately the cards come in, we move them to the states. We just moved four million cards recently.”

He assured that before the end of the month most of the PVCs wouldhave been distributed and collected.

Govt should not tinker with election timelines – Atiku ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

January 23, 2015

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January 23, 2015

No Going Back On February Polls - INEC ➔ FROM PAGE 4

Former vice president and APC chieftain, Atiku Abubakar, has insisted that the general election should hold as scheduled next month, adding that government must not tinker with the option of postponing the timelines for the elections.

In a statement signed by Atiku’s Media Office yesterday, he said: “Yes, we have a problem with the distribution of PVCs but the position of my party, the APC, is that since we have a voter register, then that should be used in conducting the elections. I also believe there is enough time between now and the elections to issue everyone with their PVCs.” He said the call made by Dasuki for a postponement of the elections was uncalled for and portends a dangerous signal about the intentions of the federal government to conduct a free, fair and credible polls in February.

APC Rejects Call To Postpone Elections The APC has rejected the call by national security adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd), for the postponement of next month’s general election ostensibly to give INEC more time to distribute the permanent

voter cards (PVCs).

The party, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday by its national publicity secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said Col. Dasuki’s call during an event at the Chatham House in London yesterday, had exposed the plot by the Jonathan administration to push for the postponement of the polls, using all sorts of cheap tricks. APC warned that under no circumstances should the elections be scuttled.

The party said: ‘’Now that we have found the smoking gun, we are urging the international community, in particular, to urgently extract a commitment from President Goodluck Jonathan that the elections will hold as scheduled next month, and that he would respect the outcome, just as we have said.”

APC said Dasuki was only seeking to buy time for the struggling Jonathan electioneering campaign to gather steam, saying Dasuki is hinging his postponement call on the delay in PVCs distribution.

“They know for sure that if they don’t postpone the elections, there is no way they can win. They are just terrified,” the party stated, urging Nigerians to reject in its entirety the ongoing plot by the Jonathan administration to postpone the elections, to avoid a constitutional

crisis that could undermine the nation’s democracy. ‘’After realizing it will be rejected by Nigerians who have borne the brunt of its mis-governance over the years, after realizing that its campaign of calumny against our presidential candidate has failed, the Jonathan administration has now started to play its last card, which is the postponement of the election,’’ it said.

APC said the importance of elections cannot be over-emphasized, adding: “Election is the lifeblood of democracy, the mechanism by which modern representative democracy operates. It is the only way for the citizenry to renew and refresh the governing process so they can get the most benefits out of democracy.

Therefore, anyone that tries to sabotage this mechanism is aiming a dagger straight to the heart of democracy.”

The party accused the Jonathan administration of using tricks to scuttle the forthcoming polls, while also hiding under the insurgency in the northeast.

According to APC, “They are hiding under the needless controversy over the secondary school leaving certificate of our presidential candidate, the concocted report by the DSS alleging a plan to hack into INEC’s database and the fabricated report of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s ill-

health ‘’They tried to hide under terrorist attacks in the northeast and the fact that Nigeria is at war to shift the elections, this did not fly. They used the DSS to invade our Data Centre and then concoct the allegation that we are planning to hack into INEC’s Data Base, it did not fly as INEC said its Data Base cannot be hacked,” the APC said.

It further noted that the PDP government also launched an aggressive campaign to convince Nigerians that the APC presidential candidate is not qualified to run because he has no secondary school leaving certificate, but that also did not fly, as the certified results of his Cambridge examination has now been published for all to see. ‘’They went and procured a fake report showing our candidate is suffering from prostate cancer, hence he is not fit for the high office of president, but their antics were discovered when the health institution that purportedly issued the report disowned it. ‘’Now they have launched their last set of jokers, which include hiring willing hands to make the television rounds saying there is no way the elections could ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Untold Stories Of Other Political Parties ➔ FROM PAGE 4

Linguistics and a former lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), IleIfe, Osun.

In 2008, she was named an International Ambassador Scientist of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the first Nigerian to be so appointed, an office she occupied between 2008 and 2014. Until recently, she was the national public relations officer of her party.

KOWA was registered as a political party on July 16, 2009, by a group of Nigerian civil society activists, professionals and technocrats.

Sonaiya, a Christian, who describes herself as “a true representative of the people”, will hope to cash-in on the reinvigoration of the women folk who have argued over the years that they are better resource managers than the men. The ‘affirmative action’ which they have always based their argument on may just work in her favour.

If Sonaiya wins the election, she will become the first Nigerian woman president. With her party not having the requisite financial war-chest and little or no political patronage and structure in the nooks and crannies of the nation, she and her party will need all the luck in the world.

Tunde Anifowose-Kelani (AA) The Action Alliance’s AnifowoseKelani is confident of victory at the poll.

The managing director and chairman of Siegener Sabithos Nigeria Limited – a provider of secretarial services, communication services, support, training, counselling and courier services in and outside the country – holds a bachelor degree in personnel psychology and

counselling. He also has a Master’s degree in personnel psychology.

The party is financially starved and, thus, will struggle to match the financial power of the dominant parties in the land.

protesting Nigerian public during the demonstrations that greeted the removal of the oil subsidy by the Federal Government in 2012, accusing the government of failing to deal with corruption in the oil sector.

Ganiyu Galadima (ACPN) Ganiyu Galadima was ratified the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN)’s presidential candidate by the party’s delegates in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. The party once moved for the prosecution of the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) who, according to it, had been canvassing votes for Jonathan against the dictates of the electoral law.

Galadima is hopeful that he will “end impunity in Nigeria,” once he is sworn in as president. Whether he will have the requisite financial muscle and votes to upstage the dominant political parties to actualise his dream is anyone’s guess.

Rafiu Salau (AD) The AD’s presidential candidate, Rafiu Salau, described himself as “the best” among his co-contestants. He specifically said he was “better than Jonathan and Buhari”.

Salau claims to know the solutions to the nation’s problems and the type of economy Nigeria needs to survive and succeed. “I know how to make our nation become the first in Africa,” he asserted. The party Sonaiya will hope to muster votes in the South- Aso Villa.

Many of these parties are hampered by western region where it was once a force to be reckoned with, but with its meagre poor finances, as it costs a lot of money resources and a waning support base, its to field, brand, sell and campaign for a chances at the poll are, at best, gloomy and presidential candidate. Worse, the parties are no longer funded by the INEC. slim.

At more points in their campaign than they can count, these hard-hit parties get Chekwas Okorie (UPP) Chekwas Okorie emerged his party’s to rely on their members who occupy plum presidential candidate at its national public offices and supporters who donate convention held in Aba, the commercial to their cause.

With only the three main parties city of Abia. He co-founded the party after leaving the APGA and, as an influential controlling the 36 state governments chief in Abia and a bosom friend of the and just two dominating the parliament, late Biafran leader, Emeka Odimegwu most other political parties struggle to stay Ojukwu, Okorie’s popularity in the South- afloat.

The result of the 2015 general elections eastern region is expected to get him a good might be a close call – even fragmented, number of votes in the region.

He had warned the PDP and the APC that some say – but for Nigerians, the most the United Progressive Party (UPP) has important goal is the preservation of come to edge them from their positions as the overall peace and stability, social and the most dominant parties in the country. economic progress and improvements Whether this translates to the needed in the living conditions of the people. votes to win the contest remains to be seen, Regardless of who wins, many hope and considering that votes from the Southeast pray that the presidential election takes alone cannot guarantee his occupation of place without negative drama.

Martin Onovo (NCP) Martin Onovo of the National Conscience Party (NCP) also comes to the contest with a refreshing resume.

He is a renowned petroleum engineer and a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). Incidentally, the NCP was founded by late legal luminary and human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, in 1994.

Onovo, the national leader of the Strategic Union of Professionals for the Advancement of Nigeria (SUPAN), is often featured on television programmes where he analyses the oil-dependent Nigerian economy and offers advice on how the country could make her economy more vibrant.

Interestingly, he supported the

Every bullet has its billet.

― Egyptian Proverb

7

January 23, 2015

No Going Back On February Polls – INEC ➔ FROM PAGE 6

hold next month, ostensibly because INEC is not ready, even when the electoral umpire has said it is ready to conduct the polls.

According the APC, there are also

alleged plans to stage-manage some high profile cases of violence and arson, for which the opposition will be blamed and then its leaders arrested in droves, all in an effort to scuttle the polls.

“For those who find these hard to believe, we ask them to look at the

sheer madness of a state governor placing a newspaper advert wishing our presidential candidate dead! The possible repercussions of this kind of provocative act are better imagined, had our party not been a peaceful party. ‘’In view of the above, we have

decided to take our case to Nigerians and indeed the global community, so they can prevail on President Jonathan to allow the elections to hold as scheduled and to make a commitment to respect the outcome,” the statement concluded.

Presidential Rallies: Makurdi, Sokoto Stand Still For Jonathan, Buhari I’ll Boost Agriculture, Create Wealth in Benue - Jonathan

By George Agba, Abuja; SOLOMON AYADO, Makurdi

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday gave assurance that he will boost agriculture and enhance mechanized farming to create wealth for the agrarian people of the state.

Jonathan who stated this yesterday at the PDP presidential rally at the IBB Square in Makurdi area of the state noted that Benue is the major provider of food in the country, saying he will create a value chain to foster commercial agricultural production.

The president noted that agriculture is a vital sector that create jobs for the teeming youths and stated that he will make sure that Benue farmers obtain soft loans to procure machines to improve farming capacity.

“I will add agricultural value chain because Benue is the food basket of the nation. This will encourage commercial agriculture and stop the importation of rice, and Benue is that state that can do it.

We shall make sure that our farmers have soft loans.

“We shall make sure that Benue farmers no longer use hoes and cutlasses but they shall be using machines like tractors. This will enhance large food production and create abundant jobs for the unemployed youths,” Jonathan stated.

He further pledged to complete the Oweto-Loko Bridge across the River

Benue, build the faculty of medicine in the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, reconstruct and rehabilitate the MakurdiOtukpo roads and ensure steady electricity supply in the state.

Meanwhile, some supporters of the ruling PDP yesterday said they were expecting President Goodluck Jonathan to end corruption and insecurity in the country.

A PDP supporter, who simply gave his name as Shiekuma, told LEADERSHIP that “the president is doing a lot but he actually needs to curb corruption and end insurgency in the north eastern part of the country. We want him to ensure stable peace that will enhance sustainable development.”

Again, Hoodlums Attack Jonathan’s Convoy In Bauchi President Goodluck Jonathan said yesterday that with the unalloyed support of Nigerians for his administration, no retrogressive force will be able to dislodge the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at the Ibrahim Babangida Square in Bauchi during the PDP presidential campaign rally, Jonathan gave the assurance that his government would continue to do its best for the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria in general.

The president spoke amidst a very unfriendly atmosphere in the town and the rally ground, as his bid to seek the support of Bauchi people in next month’s presidential

election turned bloody.

LEADERSHIP Friday gathered reliably that six operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) were hospitalized after sustaining injuries in a faceoff with suspected thugs.

The hoodlums hauled stones at the president’s convoy, a development which may have compelled organisers of the rally to end the event in a hurry.

At the venue of the rally and on the road, the PDP presidential campaign team met hostile thugs, with some brandishing brooms, a symbol of the All Progressve Congress (APC), while others hauled stones.

After the president’s jet had touched the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Airport around 11am, his convoy headed for the palace of the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwan Suleiman Adamu, for him to pay homage.

Just as Jonathan’s convoy was driving out of the Emir’s palace, the suspected APC thugs were seen with brooms and posters of APC candidates, while some displayed those of the president and his deputy, Namadi Sambo.

And while a good number of the youths cheered the president, some others displayed brooms to show support for his main rival.

The situation, however, got worse as the president’s convoy entered the Ibrahim Babangida Square for the rally, as the hostile youths started throwing stones at the convoy.

It was the quick intervention of security personnel that saved the day, as they pursued the thugs who had already bruised

some vehicles in the president’s convoy with stones.

Also, at the venue of the rally, security operatives had to chase the hoodlums out of the place, but they demonstrated their when the president’s convoy was leaving the rally venue: they attacked the last bus which carried some SSS operatives, smashing the windscreen with a big stone.

Six of the occupants sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital.

Four of them who had minor treatment were discharged immediately, but two others, a lady and a young man who had deep cuts on their heads and other serious injuries, were bandaged.

Presidency officials who were on ground told our correspondent that the two seriously injured persons who were still undergoing treatment at the time of filing this report would be flown back to Abuja for proper treatment.

Earlier at the rally ground, President Jonathan had told the crowd that no amount of opposition would prevent the good work his administration was doing for Bauchi people. He told the people to ask those who were instigating the youths to violence what they had done for the people.

President Jonathan had earlier gone to the palace of the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwan Suleiman Adamu to seek his blessing for next month’s presidential poll.

Jonathan told the royal father and other members of the Bauchi Traditional Council that his administration had achieved a lot and lamented that the ongoing Boko Haram violent campaign was taking attention away from the achievements.

Nigeria Has 3 Fundamental Problems – Buhari

by Abba Kabara, Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto

The APC presidential candidate Muhammadu Buhari said yesterday in Sokoto that Nigeria had three fundamental problems and that repairing the country would definitely take time, as the damage had already been done.

Buhari, who was in Sokoto in continuation of his presidential campaign, spoke while on a courtesy to the Sultan of Sokoto and president-general, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Sa’ad Abubakar III, in his palace.

Stressing that Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal will be succeeding incumbent governor, Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, as the next governor of Sokoto State, Buhari decried that over 60 million Nigerian youths are estimated to be unemployed, adding that it will soon be a thing of the past hence the resolve to strengthen agriculture when he becomes president.

“There are three fundamental issues that is before us in this country. And these are the question of security, the question of economy and the question of corruption.

All other things can be under those three fundamental problems.

“On security, Your Eminence, we asked what we can do to solve the situation.

Luckily, we share the same profession with you. And from the experiences, I think we will make sure that the security enforcement agencies, including the military, are once more the pride of Nigeria.

“Unemployment, which is another problem, forms the vicious cycle of security because of bribery and corruption. With the number of youths, it is estimated that over 60 million Nigerian youths are unemployed whether they go to school or not. We have to do something quickly about it.

“The way we can do something about it is to go to farming, Your Eminence.

Farming to make sure how much we can put in that line because of mechanization or increased fertilizer distribution and so on - for extension farmers to get the best. And then, like what is happening in Zamfara about the mining of gold and the effect of lead on people and communities is very clear. So that we quickly take a lot

of the unemployed youths.

Dignitaries in the campaign include, Buhari’s running mate, Prof. Osibanjo, Senator Saraki, APC national chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun and other party faithful.

‘We Must Vote Out Corruption, Insecurity’ The APC presidential flag bearer, Gen. Muhammad Buhari yesterday said it was not only a civic duty but that every Nigerian was morally-bound to sustain the struggle to rid this country of the prevailing corruption and insecurity.

Buhari, who made this observation in Zamfara State capital, Gusau, amidst a massive crowd of supporters on Wednesday night in continuation of his nation-wide campaign tour, noted that the major challenges now facing the nation were security and corruption.

He emphasized that he would make sure that those who steal public money are made to return it, noting that the fight against corruption will form a major focus of the APC government.

Buhari

Buhari said despite his mature age, “I feel spiritually strong enough and physically agile to give every sacrifice in our bid to salvage our dear nation from imminent economic and social disintegration.”

Buhari recalled that despite holding so many strategic positions in this country, he was never indicted of involvement in any misappropriation of public treasury or condoning acts of corruption, explaining that if he had any blemish, he would have been exposed by now.

The retired general also noted that poverty and Insecurity are closely related, and that the prevailing unemployment among millions of youths must be addressed through job creation.

8

January 23, 2015

2015 NIGERIA January 23, 2015

decides www.election2015.leadership.ng

A

The conduct of governorship election in Adamawa State on February 28, 2015 alongside other states as scheduled is an error of law

of the Nigerian Constitution was amended.

“A careful perusal of that Supreme Court judgment would reveal the inevitable conclusion that the conduct of governorship election in Adamawa State on February 28, 2015 alongside other states as scheduled is an error of law,” he added.

Ardo further noted that by virtue of that Supreme Court’s decision as contained in the supporting judgment of Justice M.S. Muntaka-Coomassie, the period that the impeached Governor Murtala Nyako and his then deputy, Nggilari, were out of office and during which the then Adamawa State speaker of House of Assembly, Hon. James Barka, held office as acting governor cannot be counted in computing their 4-year term of office.

“I therefore call upon INEC to halt forthwith, the planned governorship election in Adamawa State and declare, in accordance with the Supreme Court judgment, that the term of the current administration in the state will expire on 1st August, 2015. If, however, INEC fails to do so and insists on going ahead with the governorship election, then one will have no other option than to institute an action in court to seek the determination of the matter,” he said.

By Bode Gbadebo, Abuja

DAYS T OG

O

PDP Youth Leader, 2 Women Mobilisers Slump At Benue Rally Ishaku

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholder in Adamawa State, Dr Umar Ardo, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to stop the planned governorship election in the state slated for February 28, 2015 as conducting the election along with other states of the federation will amount to an error of law.

In a letter to the INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, titled “It Is an Error of Law to Conduct Governorship Election in Adamawa State On 28th February 2015”, and obtained

by LEADERSHIP Friday yesterday, Ardo said the tenure of the sitting governor of the state, Barrister Bala Nggilari, ought to end on August 1 and not May 29 as erroneously believed.

“You may wish to recall that the Nyako/Nggilari gubernatorial ticket in Adamawa State is among the five states of the federation whose governorship election was nullified by the election tribunal in February 2008 but contested a re-run election and won. You may also recall that their tenure of office and reelection for second term became a matter of serious and long judicial proceedings that was ultimately determined by the Supreme Court of the country on 12th January, 2012, and for which Section 180

22

N

oddbAlls

Ardo To INEC: Adamawa Gov’s Tenure Ends In August, Not May 29

Jega

COUNTDO W

8 Dead, Many Injured As PDP Rally Turns Bloody In Taraba Seven supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Taraba State lost their lives on Wednesday during the governorship rally while another slumped and died on the eve of the rally at government lodge, Gembu, on Tuesday night.

The seven supporters died as a result of multiple accidents that occurred along Mambilla Plateau road when the supporters were descending the Mambilla Plateau hills.

According to survivors, the accidents were triggered by brake failures that occurred in the three vehicles that were involved in the crash.

The Gembu-Serti-Gashaka road is a dangerous one because of the deep slopes and valleys as well as zig-zag manoeuvring of hills and rocks and is not usually advisable for first timers, especially when descending.

A councillor representing Muri “A” ward in Karim Lamido local government area of Taraba State, Hon. Murtala Tukur, who survived the accident, told LEADERSHIP on his hospital bed at Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jalingo, that their Toyota Hummer bus sommersaulted several times when the brakes failed as they were descending the hills.

By Andrew Ojih, Jalingo

There was confusion yesterday at the popular IBB Square in Makurdi, venue of the presidential campaign rally of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, when a youth leader and two women mobilisers (names withheld) slumped while waiting for the commencement of the exercise.

The mammoth crowd of party supporters, including elders, women and youths, had come to Makurdi, the state capital, from across the 23 local government areas to witness the event. They arrived at the IBB square as early as 8.am and were waiting for President Goodluck Jonathan.

While the party men and women filled the umbrella like canopy in the place beyond its capacity, others sat under trees and in the parking lot due to the harshness of weather and probably because they were famished and completely tired.

The security operatives guarding the arena prevented entry for hawkers of refreshment who were not allowed to sell in the place.

Some of the business persons however contravened the rules and were seen struggling to supply their products to buyers over the walls of the fence.

At about 4.pm, the campaign team was yet to arrive the state.

Suddenly, the youth leader who was coordinating party supporters alongside the two women suddenly fell heavily. They were quickly rushed out of the place for urgent medical attention.

Suswam

FACTCHECKER APC Was Wrong On President Jonathan Not Creating Jobs

John Odigie-Oyegun

The opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) has constantly bashed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, for not creating a single job for any Nigerian in its 15 years in power.

The PDP, on the other hand, claims it has created millions of jobs.

The APC publicity chairman in Lagos State, Mr. Joe Igbokwe, has alluded that President

Jonathan’s led administration failed to provide jobs, leading to a stampede that killed youths during a Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) recruitment exercise last year. ”Did you not witness nearly two million young Nigerians scrambling for 3000 jobs that may have been given out to girlfriends, relations and friends even before that fatal tragedy? Did you not

see the tragedy of losing nearly 30 young Nigerians due to stampede for jobs that were not there in the first place?”

But investigations show that agriculture has also received a visible boost during the Jonathan administration. This is reflected in the fact that the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has presented Nigeria with an award for achieving the

Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on Hunger three years ahead of the 2015 target date set for the MDG. Government policies in the agriculture sector made achieving the MDG on Hunger ahead of schedule possible. What this means is that more Nigerians have now gone into farming, thereby generating employment in the sector.

10 NIGERIA DECIDES NUMBERS

1,139,405

Number of PVCs released to Oyo State by INEC headquarters, Abuja.

January 23, 2015

Playing Their Part

QUOTES

➔ Gen. Buhari My examination number was 8280002 and I passed the examination in the second division and although the ruling party may want to wish this away, the issue in this campaign cannot be my certificate which I obtained 53 years ago

6 Number of states in the North East zone.

14 Number of head of states that have presided over Nigeria so far.

39,469,484 Total number of votes cast in 2011 presidential election.

750,000.

Number of adhoc staff that would be required by INEC for the February elections.

10,819 Number of security personnel deployed for Sokoto election in 2011.

28000 Number of security personnel deployed for Anambra State governorship election.

155,000 Number of expected voting points for 2015 general elections.

Kazeem Ogunsanwo (Alias Baba Ke), presenting an addresss at the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally by physically challenged citizens of Nigeria at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos yesterday . PHOTO BY BENEDICT UWALAKA

Fashola Threatens Legal Action Over Shutting Of Buhari’s GSM Campaign Fund Raising The director of Buhari /Osinbajo Campaign Fund Raising Committee, Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, on Thursday decried the shutting of GSM platforms established by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its presidential campaign by the Nigerian Communications Commission, threatening to institute legal actions against the commission.

Fashola, who accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of repressing the freedom of other parties in the country with its political power in its desperation to retain the nation’s leadership, said at a press conference in Lagos that it was improper and uncivilised for NCC to shut down the GSM platforms of the party to raise money from the general public.

The governor said it

INECWATCH

amounts to dictatorship and intolerance on the part of President Goodluck Jonathan and his party, adding that such distasteful media censorship after the president has benefited from using the same GSM platform to raise campaign funds in 2011 election is absolute abuse of power.

Fashola said the directive to shut the platform came via a letter dated 19th January ,2015, file number NCC/ CAB/GEN/2015/VOL.1/004, addressed to the managing director , Emerging Markets Communication , tagged Political And Partisan Advertisements, signed by Mrs. Maryam Bayi, director , Consumer Affairs for executive vice chairman (CEO) and Mrs Yetunde, head , Legal and Regulatory Services for executive vice chairman.

Fashola accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of repressing the freedom of other parties in the country

NCC wrote, “The commission wishes to advise all service providers to avoid running political advertisements/ promotion that will portray them as being partisan. The commission will not hesitate will not hesitate to sanction any service provider that will flout this directive.”

Fashola accused NCC of double standards, saying the commission had in a letter dated 21st October , 2010 file number NCC/TSMI / short Code / Vol 9/044/ 2010, signed by Dr B.M Sani, director, Technical Standards And Network Integrity for executive vice chairman /CEO, approved the application of Wagilri Communication Limited for short codes to be used for fund raising for Goodluck/ Sambo presidential campaign.

By Kazeem Akintunde and George Okojie, Lagos

➔ Namadi Sambo “Incidentally, some people have been going around accusing our government of corruption, inability to provide security to the citizenry and disenfranchising the electorate.

These accusations are not only baseless but a calculated design to mislead the people and overheat the polity.”

IDPs: INEC Says It Will Check Multiple Voting

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured that it has put measures in place to check multiple voting by internally displaced persons across the various camps.

Disclosing this at a stakeholders meeting over the possiblilty of internally displaced

persons voting in next month’s election, Mrs Thelma Iremiren, INEC national commissioner, who was also the chairman of the commission’s Taskforce Committee on IDPs, said the commission was proposing 34 voting centres for Adamawa State.

Iremiren’s presentation also revealed that

the commission was also proposing 16 and three voting centres for Borno and Yobe States respectively.

She said that the voting centres had been created for IDPs in the affected states based on their constituencies, local governments and registration areas.

“These centres have been established in such a manner that no voter from one registration area can vote in another,’’ Iremiren said.

She stressed the need to put adequate measures in place to guarantee security in all voting centres.

11

January 23, 2015

Jonathan Took Us Backwards In Fight Against Corruption – Opara Maxwell Opara is the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate for Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)/ Bwari federal constituency in the 2015 election. In this interview with Mbachu Godwin Nnanna, Opara speaks on next month’s general election, President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration and friction within his party.

The adoption of President Jonathan as APGA’s presidential candidate is the party’s decision and the decision was well considered before we took it. Personally, I think it is the right decision for the party and I will go by it. As a loyal party member, I have to abide by the party’s decision which was ratified at the convention which we held at Awka, the Anambra State capital, last December.

How would you rate the performance of President Jonathan in the last three and half years?

Despite the security challenges in the country, I think the president has made some achievements in the area of infrastructure. However, he did not fight corruption. If you watched when former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, was in office, he fought corruption to a stand still.

Then, if you have a petition against any minister, Obasanjo would personally take it up. But Jonathan has taken us back in terms of the fight against corruption. Personally I have written about 15 petitions to Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and not even one has been acted upon. What they tell me is that they don’t have the financial capacity to prosecute the petitions. I have lost confidence in the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Tribunal.

There are fears and apprehension that the 2015 election will be violent. What advise do you have for Nigerians?

I don’t know why somebody should be afraid of the 2015 election. Some of the things that are happening in Nigeria today also happen in other countries. The elections will come

and go, people should not be afraid, what we need is prayer, and that we conduct ourselves very well and not heat the polity so there will be no violence. I also want to advise the electorate to shine their eyes, try to get their permanent voter cards and ensure that their votes count.

They should not sell their votes for a porridge of yam and youths should not allow themselves to be used for thuggery.

Rev Father Ejike Mbaka , the founder of Adoration Ministry, Enugu, has come under severe criticism over his New Year message outburst where he asked Nigerian voters to reject President Jonathan in next month’s election. As a catholic what is your view?

Rev Mbaka has been under attack because of the position he has attained spiritually in the society.

You don’t say something because you have your mouth, he controls over 3million followers and many people believe in him. I think that he shouldn’t have gone so far in making those utterances. Even though it was his personal opinion and has the right of freedom of expression, there are limits. There is what you people in the media call gate-keeping, it is not everything you see that you put in the papers.

The question is what tract records do you have?

I have a lot of package for AMAC/ Bwari Federal constituency.

The Land Use Act of 1978 created problems for Federal Capital Territory (FCT) indigenes and it needs to be addressed because it is defective. The constitution says all land belong to the federal government, it did not envisage that there are some indigenes who are original inhabitants. Again, the issue of majority has become important for the FCT status. The original indigenes of the FCT are not being taken care of, so it is my plan to offer quality representation of the area at the national assembly through robust legislative debate, motion and bills, to impact the lives of AMAC/Bwari residents, if elected. If you go to Kawu, Sheri and Igo, all in Bwari area council, you won’t see access roads, pipe borne water and electricity, yet they have a council chairman and representative at the National Assembly. Such rural areas need the attention of the government, this can be done through proper representation and appropriation.

The protracted leadership crisis in APGA appears to be unending, which faction do you belong?

What are your chances in AMAC /Bwari federal constituency election, considering the politics of indigeneship and ethnicity?

I have a bright chance. The work I have done so far in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will speak for me.The question of indigeneship should not arise. I have been practising here as a lawyer, I have my family here, I live here in the FCT and I have my fans and supporters here. So we cannot sacrifice competence with indigeneship.

recognised national chairman o f APGA.

Opara

ANSWERS

QUIZ TEST YOUR POLITICAL IQq 1. How many aspirants contested for APC’s 2015 presidential ticket?

2. Who was the

first chairman of Nigeria’s electoral body?

3. How many years has President Jonathan been

The crisis has been on for some time but I will like to tell you that we don’t have any faction or internal crisis right now. Sir Victor Umeh is the current a n d

president of Nigeria?

4. Gen Buhari has contested for president of Nigeria how

many times?

5. How many aspirants vied for PDP’s 2015 presidential ticket?

1. 5 2. Chief Eyo Esua 3. 6 4.4 5. 1 Sent from my BlackBerry 10 smartphone.

There are reports of grumbling within your party, the All Progressive grand Alliance (APGA), over the adoption of President Jonathan as its presidential candidate in the 2015 election at Awka convention. What is your take on that?

voices

Political Injustice Bane Of Our Development - Mato

Mato

Social commentator and political scientist, Kabir Mato, has identified the spate of injustice in the political system as the reason why the country seems to be failing.

He also picked holes in the notion by some politicians that there is no place for morality in politics.

He said, “as a student of political science, I do know very well that in fact, there is a close relationship between politics and morality. Those who claim there isn’t or there should not be are way off in the arithmetic of global political reality. It is critical that the religious

persuasions of politicians must dictate their political actions.

“All religions in Nigeria teach justice to their adherents. So every Christian or Muslim must place justice as cardinal in their political actions and intercourse. If justice were primary in politics and governance, Nigeria wouldn’t be where it is today. The failures we are talking about would be replaced long ago with success.

“The politicians here only use religion and God in the reverse and in the negative. They call God while destroying the economy.”

trending President Goodluck Jonathan’s supporters are ensuring that he gathers votes with the hashtag #GEJWinsIt. Jay Braggadocio @babajay1 I can’t use my thumb to vote for GMB, I’m educated enough to know you don’t relive your past, you learn from it. #VoteWisely #GEJWinsIt_ joel john ndaka @joel_ndaka “Hmmm one is missin @ HRC_Nerd_Frost: Bad guy”@segundaniel360: Confirm truth Infact dere are 4”@OfficialUwem: Lmao #GEJWinsIt_ #GEJWinsIt_ Lord awesome @LordThalord Una bad gon”@segundaniel360: Confirm truth Infact dere are 4”@OfficialUwem: Lmao #GEJWinsIt_ #GEJWinsIt_ No Role Modelz @lord_ vemor kjv bible *dodges stones*””@ Etz_desola: Kamasutra”@ joel_ndaka: “Love notes @ OfficialUwem: Your favorite mobile app #GEJWinsIt_ #GEJWinsIt_”” Musty shidali @ supafreshgee I’m short of words”@joel_

ndaka: n we complain abt our politicians.@OfficialUwem: Lmao this guy is a boss #GEJWinsIt_ your tweera_buddy@ weyrey_gidi u neva can tell,buh i knw of1 “@OfficialUwem: How many siblings do you have #GEJWinsIt_ #GEJWinsIt_”” ZISAN :) @bodamzisan “How many wives ya fada get@wondertee4real: Av lost count”@OfficialUwem: How many siblings do you have #GEJWinsIt_ #GEJWinsIt_”” Jonath anR e volut ion@ GEJRevolution And the certificate saga continues. As @MrAyeDee always says, when you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.

APC won’t learn #GEJWinsIt_ De BABABA@Yax_bababa “GEJ’s campaign rally.. @solomonbr33zy: “@ OfficialUwem: Most Dangerous sport #GEJWinsIt_ #GEJWinsIt_”corruption”

12

January 23, 2015

NEWS EXTRA /13

January 23, 2015

Cultists Kill 3 Pregnant Women, Native Doctor, 8 Others

By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba

No less than 12 persons, including three pregnant women, a native doctor and eight others, have lost their lives in the wake of the renewed activities of men believed to be cultists in Agbor and Boji-boji Owa communities of Delta State.

In recent weeks, residents had moved about freely, thinking that calm had finally returned to their communities, only for the men to strike in the early hours of yesterday.

It was reliably gathered that the killings have heightened fear and tension in the communities, as lorry loads of armed policemen and other security agents have swarmed both communities.

Residents who spoke to LEADERSHIP Friday disclosed that the attacks were part of a supremacy war between various cult groups who have laid siege on the communities in the last three years. According to these residents, the cultists shoot sporadically into the air on some nights; scaring residents of the areas and, in most cases, allegedly rape unsuspecting young ladies.

Among those killed by the cultists was a native doctor who, according to them, leased his shrine to a rival cult group and also prepared charms for them on

many occasions.

Since the cult war escalated in December 2014, over 26 persons have lost their lives.

Meanwhile, the residents of the area have called on the state government and the Joint Task Force not to fold their hands and watch the situa- L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Ben Akabueze; State governor Babatunde Fashola and special adviser to the governor on media, tion degenerate further.

Alhaji Hakeem Bello, at a briefing by the governor over the alleged shut-down of An octogenarian, Alice Igbenoba, who the Buhari/Osinbajo Campaign Fund Platform by the Nigerian Communications claimed that two of her children were Commission (NCC) in Lagos yesterday. Photo By Nan killed by cultists said: “I want the state government to come to our aid. We are tired of these killings, especially at night, when they begin to shoot guns and, sometimes, kill innocent persons”.

Sources who preferred not to be named fingered the Ake and Eiye confraternities, who recruited teenage boys into their ranks and armed them with sophisticated weapons, as the cults who made their lives unbearable.

The public relations officer of the state police command, DSP Celestina Kalu, who confirmed the activities of the cult groups, said that over 26 suspected members have been arrested, adding that the police have stepped up security measures with random arrests of people within the town.

L-R, Guest speaker, Rev. Daniel Mbaya; Group chairman, Wisdomfield Model Academy, Kalu said the victims have been de- Kwatri Kwagga; Member, governing board, Botar Emmanuel and the proprietress, Martina posited in the morgues of various state- Kwatri, during the commissioning and dedication of Wisdomfield Model Academy in Nasarawa State recently. owned hospitals.

Pregnant Wife Of Man Killed Over Lottery Suffers Miscarriage

BY Matthew Dike, Lagos

Tears flowed freely from the eyes of onlookers when the fiancée of a man who was clubbed to death over a bet in Surulere area of Lagos State suffered miscarriage.

LEADERSHIP Friday gathered that the dead man and his fiancée were planning to get married in March.

The deceased, Oluwatosin Odukeye, 32, was said to have been killed on January 15, 2015, at Makinde Street, Ojuelegba, by hoodlums who obeyed the order of the victim’s boss, Shade Onafowope.

A police inspector attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, where the case is being investigated, disclosed that the widow of the late Odukeye collapsed in shock and lost her pregnancy in the process.

He said: “According to the family, the couple was planning to wed in March this year. The case was transferred to us from Surulere Police Station. The victim was a lottery agent of Premier Lotto, at Abiodun Street, Shomolu, which is one of their numerous offices in Lagos. A man reported the victim to his boss, Sade Onafowope, that he (the victim) gave him the sum of N500 for a game worth N1000. When the result

came out the man noticed that he won N240,000 and came for his money. The explanation that he deleted it did not go down well with the customer who reported the matter to the boss. Odukeye was taken to Ojuelegba where he was allegedly bound and tortured to death.

“She rushed the victim to a private hospital at Idiaraba, where he was confirmed dead. Instead of telling the police the truth, the woman showed the police a fake autopsy report indicating that the victim died of motor accident.

“Unknown to her, somebody was recording the torture process on his handset and the SCID is banking on it as evidence.”

“When the woman learnt that her deed was discovered, she allegedly begged the father of the deceased with the sum of N1m to forget the case but he refused to collect the money.”

The police said even the great gambler and the owner of Premier Lotto, Chief Adebutu Kessington was interested in the matter and also took a swipe at the woman for such evil act.

According to him, Kessington explained that somebody had made away with his N20m and he did not kill him.

The father of the victim, Mr. Odunkeye, wept uncontrollably over what he called the “destruction” of his family by Odunkeye.

L-R: Director, Large Enterprises, Bank of Industry (BoI), Alh Mohammed Alkali and the managing director of the bank, Rasheed Olaoluwa, when the bank’s management visited the NASENI in Abuja yesterday PHOTO BY REMI AKUNLEYAN

L-R: Chairman/CEO,Yaliam Press Limited, Yahaya Amfani; Managing Director, SkySat Technologies Nigeria, Izzat Debs and the Comptroller-general, Nigerian Immigration Service, David Shikfu Parradang, during the product launch of Konica Minolta Bizhub press C1100 series in Abuja yesterday. PHOTO BY JANE OKEKE

14 NEWS NATIONAL

January 23, 2015

Fayose’s threat on Buhari: APC Campaign petitions Police, SSS, INEC, Others

BY MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Yola

The APC Presidential Campaign Organisation (APCPCO) has petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Suleiman Abba, over the PDP morbid advert sponsored by Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State and published on the cover pages of two national dailies of 19th January, 2015.

In the petition signed by the Governor of Rivers State and Director General of the Campaign, Rotimi Amaechi, the APC Presidential Campaign condemned PDP and Fayose for portraying its candidate, General Buhari as a dead man walking to scare Nigerians from voting for him in the February 14 election.

According to the petition, the portrayal of Buhari as a likely to die in office just like past northern leaders such as Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, General Sani Abacha and General Murtala Mohammed was “morbid and reckless” and that such irresponsible political advert is not only “in bad taste, but also capable of undermining law and order in the country.”

The strongly-worded petition said that insinuating death for a man who is still alive based on unscientific logic or prediction is capable of causing a breach of the peace across the country.

The APC Campaign petition also drew the attention of the IGP to the fact that Fayose’s advert violated the

spirit and letter of the Ambassador Kofi Annan initiative which had Nigerian political parties and their presidential candidates sign a peace accord.

It therefore urged the IGP to investigate the origin of Fayose’s “sinister and inhuman” advert and call him to order with a view to preventing a repeat of such provocative publication in the interest of peace.

The APC presidential campaign said that copies of the petition had been sent to the Department of State Security (DSS), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), The Sun and The Punch newspapers respectively .

Niger Guber: LP Aspirant Protests Alleged Substitution With Party Chair BODE GBADEBO,Abuja

A gubernatorial aspirant for the Niger State governorship seat under the platform of Labour Party (LP), Engr.

Yahaya Daudu, has protested the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deny him a Certificate of Return despite his emergence at the primary election as the duly elected governorship candidate for the party in the state.

Daudu, who was declared winner as the sole governorship candidate in the election monitored by officials of the party in the presence of INEC officials and security agencies in the state is being denied his certificate by the national leadership of

the Labour Party.

Sources close to the candidate revealed that he has made several trips to the party’s headquarters all in effort to resolve the issue.

According to the source, “he has travelled several times to the party’s headquarters all in vain. He has also contacted the national party chairman, Alh. Abdulsalam, but all efforts have yielded no positive result,” the source disclosed.

Investigation by our reporter further revealed that the name of Daudu might have been substituted with that of the state chairman of the party who is being alleged to be the arrowhead of the plot to undermine the candidature of Engr. Daudu.

The Niger State congress

of the Labour Party was convened by the state chairman of the party, Alh. Musa Abubakar Mohammad and was monitored by officials of INEC, the Department of State Security, officials of the Nigeria Civil Defence and the police.

When contacted, the resident electoral commissioner in the state, Alhaji Nasiru Olarewaju Ayilara told our correspondent that he was yet to receive directive from the INEC headquarters. He said “the letter was addressed to my chairman; my office was only copied; I can not take any action on the matter; I have however drawn the attention of the INEC head office to the issue. I still await a directive from my boss.”

Get Your PVCs Before Deadline, NOA Tells Nigerians

By Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Abuja

The Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mike Omeri has called on all registered voters in Nigeria to ensure that they collect their PVCs before the end of the exercise.

Omeri who made this call during a training session on voter education organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for staff of the NOA in Abuja, stressed the fact that no genuinely patriotic Nigerian can afford to

deliberately avoid participation in the electoral process.

He reminded Nigerians that the PVC is the only instrument that empowers them to decide the nature of leadership and the direction of development the nation will have in the next four years.

Omeri reiterated NOA’s commitment to ensuring thorough voter sensitisation in the country down to the grassroots and has deployed its entire staff, including the Community Orientation and Mobilization Officers (COMOs) in the 774 lo-

cal government areas of the country for that purpose.

The INEC Director, Voter Education and Publicity, Mr. Osaze Uzzi, who led a team of INEC staff for the training acquainted NOA staff with the preparations and processes for the accreditation of voters and assured them that INEC was fully prepared to ensure credible, free and fair elections.

The training was part of the partnership between NOA and INEC towards efficient voter sensitisation and massive voter turn-out in elections.

A fool may ask more questions in an hour than a wise man can answer in seven years

NEWS 15

January 23, 2015

Group News Editor: Tony Amokeodo

R-L: APC National Chairman, Chief John OdigieOyegun, APC vice presidential candidate Prof Yemi Osinbajo, former Kwara State governor, Bukola Saraki (4th right), APC Presidential Candidate, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, Sokoto State governor, Alh. Aliyu Magatakarda and speaker House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal during the APC Presidential Rally in Sokoto State, yesterday.

PDP Faults Buhari’s Certificate

By Chibuzo Ukaibe, Abuja

The Presidential campaign organisation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday alleged that the certificate presented by the secondary school of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Gen Muhammadu Buhari, was forged.

The PDP campaign team therefore asked the security agencies to investigate the matter and fish out the authors of the purportedly forged certificate.

This is in spite of the declaration by former president of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Umaru Abdullahi and former inspector-general of police, Alhaji Ibrahim Coomassie, that Gen Buhari was their classmate in 1961.

Buhari’s secondary school, Government College, Katsina, formerly known as Provisional Secondary School, had on Wednesday, released his result sheet and school copy, in a bid to put to rest claims by the PDP that he does not have a certificate.

Gen Buhari had while addressing a press conference in Kano requested his secondary school to make available the

school copy of the result of the Cambridge West African Schools Certificate.

But speaking yesterday on the issue, the director of media and publicity of the PDP, Presidential campaign organisation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, said the result sheets which was attributed to Cambridge examination body was a super imposition.

Fani-Kayode further said as much as he respects the declarations of justice Abdullahi and the former IG of police on the matter, their positions does not shed any light that Buhari has a certificate.

But when asked if he had contacted the school principal to ascertain the authenticity of the certificate, Fani-Kayode said “it is not for us to go to the school, we have made our assertion. The school itself have said they issued the certificate, do you believe that?”

The campaign spokesman who resorted to a power point presentation to back-up his allegations declared “having carefully studied the statement of Result signed by the “school principal” and an “examination officer” of the Government College, Katsina, as well as the attached document titled UNIVERSITY OF

CAMBRIDGE WEST AFRICA SCHOOL CERTIFICATE 1961, we wish to make the following observations and comments: “The results sheet which was attributed to the Cambridge examination body is clearly a super imposition of one document on another as you will shortly see in the enlarged image of the result sheet as published. The column lines on the part where names are printed do not align with the blank columns while there is an introduction of extraneous lines on some other columns.

“The document contains an obvious alteration on the Mathematics column of the candidate, Mohamed Buhari, who was assumed to have scored an “F” in the subject. This raises a very fundamental issue of validity in view of the fact that the accompanying result sheet states that “any alteration or erasure renders this statement of Results invalid.”

“This is the standard practice in all interpretation of documents especially academic records. The question we put to Gen Buhari and his party is whether this alteration was done by the University of Cambridge?”

We’ll Not Respond To Fani-Kayode’s Provocations – APC By bode gbadebo, Abuja

The All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Organisation (APCPCO) has said that it prefers not to respond to the provocations of the director of media and publicity of the PDP Presidential campaign, Mr Femi Fani-Kayode, but rather engage him on issues that have the potential to bring the greatest good for the greatest number of Nigerians.

A press statement signed by director of media and publicity of the APCPCO, Mallam Garba Shehu, yesterday said it was laughable the PDP would not let-go of the educational qualifications of the APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, even when the matter has

been exhaustively laid to rest.

“It is not our desire in the APC presidential campaign organisation to join an individual who has a record of talking to please the moment on any petty issue. At some point in the recent past, it was convenient for Fani-Kayode to say this of the APC and its leaders: ‘What Nigerians need now is to join hands with the APC leaders, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari and Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu to move the nation forward.’ Today, a Fani-Kayode sees no desecration in recanting that same position, just to satisfy his convenience.

“The APC and its candidate are in this presidential campaign to discuss issues that will improve the standard of living of Nigerians and ensure that the people of

this country are properly secured. Whenever the PDP and its presidential campaign spokesman feel ready to join us on this noble path, we will not be willing to join them on petty issues,” Shehu said.

He noted that these distractions are being promoted in order to provide a blanket cover over the shortcomings of the Jonathan administration in the areas of security, employment, war against corruption and infrastructure.

“Nigerians need no telling that all these distractions and provocations by Jonathan, the PDP and their cohorts are aimed at ensuring that they escape scrutiny over their score card marked by insecurity, unemployment and rampant corruption,” Shehu said.

Facts are stubborn things.

― Egyptian Proverb

I Have No Personal Disagreement With Jonathan - Fashola

By George Okojie, Lagos

Amid intense politicking in the country that has put political gladiators at arm’s length, Lagos State Governor Mr Babatunde Fashola yesterday debunked insinuation in some quarters that he is at loggerhead with President Goodluck Jonathan.

Addressing the mammoth crowd of All Progressives Congress (APC) party faithful at a Campaign Rally held in AjeromiIfelodun local government area of the state, Fashola said, “I have no personal disagreement with Jonathan.”

Fashola said the only problem he has with the president is that he has failed to fulfill lots of promises made to the residents of Lagos prior to the 2011 elections.

According to him, “I have no personal disagreement with Jonathan. But I am a citizen of this great nation. And if any political office seeker comes to make promises in public and the people voted for him, based on the promises he made, both the office seeker and the citizens have signed a social contract which must be fulfilled by both parties. The people of Lagos have done their part but the president has not.”

He added that he has fulfilled his side of the contract he signed with residents of Lagos, saying, “I have fulfilled my side of the contract which I signed with you in 2007 and 2011 elections.”

According to him, rather than fulfill his promises, he started to “divide us along the ethnic lines. Is the President God? If God chose to make us different, no one can question that. We have lived together for hundreds of years.

“We need leaders that will bring us closer and not the one that will divide us. We have been our brothers’ keeper in Nigeria especially Lagos. For instance when our athletes go ahead to represent this country in any tournament, no one is concerned about the state the person hails from or his religion.”

Fashola lampooned the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), gubernatorial candidate, Jimi Agbaje for a statement credited to him that the South-South will collapse the nation’s economy if Jonathan loses in the incoming election.

He said, “Nigeria will not divide if President Goodluck Jonathan losses the February 14 election. Rather, it is the President who will leave office and return to his home town in Bayelsa State. He has deceived us enough.”

Fashola, however, faulted the transfer of the Commandant of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, a police formation financed by the State Government, Mr Hakeem Odumosu.

He argued that, “It was because the message of change has already reached their (PDP-led Federal Government) door step.

“The RRS is the unit that responded to the violent crime in the state. And last week, they transferred the commandant of the RRS out of Lagos. Whoever they bring will have his relations in Lagos.”

16

business

January 23, 2015

N122m The amount of agricultural grants disbursed to 27 nagropreneurs across the six geopolitical zones

‘Africa Remains Attractive To Foreign Investors Despite Challenges’ OLUSHOLA BELLO, Lagos

Members of the ‘Achieving Africa’s Growth Agenda’ panel discussion at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2015 said Africa has remained an attractive region for foreign investment despite the economic and security challenges faced by the continent.

The annual meeting held in Switzerland, yesterday, has panelists which include South African president, Jacob Zuma; Rwandan president, Paul Kagame; the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) chief executive, Oscar Onyema;

chairman of Flour Mills of Nigeria, John Coumantaros and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, Sunil Bharti Mittal.

The panelists agreed that despite the security challenges in Nigeria relating to the Boko Haram insurgency, falling commodity prices and the lack of infrastructure, foreign investors have continued to pour funds into the continent.

According to Zuma, Africa has faced a lot of challenges historically.

But over the years, we have reduced the amount of conflict in the

region.

Onyema, making his contribution, said, “When investors look at the countries they want to invest their resources, they have to consider risks, but this applies to every region, not just Africa. You have to ensure that your assets are safe. Most of the challenges Africa is facing are isolated. I believe there is a risk but it’s not as big as we make it out to be.”

He noted that Africa got about $57 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2013, showing the confidence that the investor

community has in Africa.

For Mittal, “Most African countries and industries offer worthy investment opportunities and small pockets of terrorism shouldn’t chase investors away. Africa has enjoyed 10 years of peace which brought in a lot of investment. Gone are the days of Africa relying on the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund for financial aid.”

However, the panelists did indicate that the continent faces a number of issues that need to be resolved before the region can achieve optimal growth.

BUSINESS QUOTE Ten minutes are not just one-sixth of your hourly pay.

Ten minutes are a piece of yourself.

Divide your life into ten-minute units and sacrifice as few of them as possible in meaningless activity. Ingvar Kampard, founder of IKEA (1926-)

FG Disburses N122m Agric Grant To 27 Nagropreneurs

BY Christiana Nwaogu, Abuja

L-R: A beneficiary of the federal government’s grant under the Youth Employment in Agriculture Programme (YEAP), Funmi Vicky Suberu, receiving a N2 million cheque from the minister of agriculture and rural development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, supported by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Sonny T. Echono, in Abuja, yesterday.

Investors Trade 410.59m Shares OLUSHOLA BELLO, Lagos

Investors on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), yesterday, traded 410.585 million shares valued at N2.47 billion transacted in 4,030 deals.

The turnover increased by 78.92 per cent, compared to the 229.482 million shares worth N3.29 billion traded in 3,901 deals on Wednesday.

Mutual Benefit emerged the most traded equity with 141.53 million shares

worth N70.77 million.

FCMB came second on the activity chart, accounting for 59.59 million shares valued at N122.33 million while the FBN Holdings traded 28.43 million shares worth N213 million. Access Bank sold 28.34 million shares valued at N142 million while Continental Reinsurance transacted 16.1 million shares worth N14.77 billion.

Despite the high trading volume recorded, the equity market declined

by 0.24 per cent as the NSE All-Share Index fell by 71.11 points to close at 29,687.93, as against 29,759.04 achieved on Wednesday. Similarly, market capitalisation shed N23 billion to close at N9.889 trillion compared to the N9.912 trillion posted on Wednesday.

Mobil led the laggards’ table, dropping N7.06 to close at N150 per share. Guinness trailed with a loss of N2.98 to close at N127.02 while Presco declined by N1.48 to close at N28.22

per share. International Breweries shed N1.09 to close at N20.80 and Okomu Oil lost 60 kobo to close at N23.30 per share.

On the other hand, Wapco led the gainers’ table, appreciating by N1 to close at N82 per share. Flourmill followed with a gain of 99 kobo to close at N36.99 while Union Dicon advanced by 57 kobo to close at N13.80 per share.

Dangote Cement grew by 48 kobo to close at N155.50 and Oando improved by 36 kobo to close at N16.50 per share.

The federal government, yesterday, disbursed N122 million agricultural grants to 27 nagropreneurs across the six geo- political zones.

The measure is part of efforts to boost agricultural production and also promote its newly established project, the Youth Employment in Agriculture Programme (YEAP).

The minister of agriculture and rural development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, who presented the kickoff grant which ranged from N2 million to N5 million to the beneficiaries in his office said the initiative remains one of the pivotal strategies of his office to complement all poverty alleviation and employment initiatives of the federal government.

He added that it also signifies the beginning of a new chapter for youths in the agriculture sector.

According to Adesina, the scheme is expected to positively improve the economic activities in rural areas by way of turning youths to a global power house as well as help grow successful farms into agro businesses. While advising the young nagropreneurs to make judicious use of the grants accorded them by the President Goodluck Jonathan, the minister, disclosed that to scale up the programme, his ministry plans to call for expression of interests.

The minister, who reiterated his commitment to achieving the Agricultural Transformation Agenda of the president, emphasised that subsistence agriculture needs to give way to youth-driven commercial agriculture while the money spent on food importation will be channelled among local farmers.

Follow these reports on leadership.ng/business

BUSINESS NEwS /17

January 23, 2015

Major Oil Marketers Hail Govt On Pump Price Reduction OLUSHOLA BELLO, Lagos

The Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) has commended the federal government over the reduction of petrol pump price from N97 to N87 per litre and vowed that its members will continue to support government, particularly, in areas where it benefits the citizens of the nation.

According to a statement released by the MOMAN, after meeting with the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency

(PPPRA) and executives of oil marketing companies in Lagos, “Major marketers in the country are committed to continue to support government, particularly, in areas where it benefits the citizens of the nation,” the statement read in part.

The executive secretary, MOMAN, Mr Femi Olawore, said that marketers have started complying with the new directive but that it will be difficult to guarantee instant and hundred per cent compliance from the over 30,000 stations nationwide with an average of six pumps per station,

giving the marketers a total of 180,000 pumps to be adjusted.

He said that pump technicians have to traverse the length and breadth of the country at short notice to make changes, saying that some of them who are accredited are shared by some major marketers who, as part of its processes, will only use accredited technicians to guard against manipulations and sharp practices by these stations, thereby protecting the value the consuming public should benefit from the price reduction.

Stating that marketers have been cooperating with regulatory agencies while also dispatching their own monitoring team to ensure compliance, Olawore said that all stakeholders ought to have been carried along before government made its pronouncement on the pump price reduction for better planning and execution.

He said major marketers in Nigeria will continue to work with government to anticipate product price changes in future such that logistics can be planned and deployed for quick implementation.

AfDB, MasterCard Partner On Financial Inclusion

By Bukola Idowu, Lagos

The African Development Bank (AfDB) and MasterCard are in collaboration as part of efforts to expand the financial inclusion across the African continent.

The collaboration seeks to develop solutions that drive inclusive growth in Africa by broadening access to and the usage of digital financial services.

MasterCard brings proven expertise to design and scaleinclusive financial services solutions and infrastructure

and the AfDB actively promotes sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction in Africa.

Together, they will work with African governments and local private sector companies to develop and deliver affordable services that meet the needs of a wide consumer base, especially the traditionally unbanked.

The collaboration between the two entities, according to a statement, will seek to build cohesive African financial systems that drive inclusion at a country level and enable service

delivery to the traditionally excluded populations. It will also see investment in a curated set of innovative financial services companies and solutions targeted at addressing barriers that hinder financial inclusion, and share knowledge across academic, policy and commercial sectors to create thought leadership on financial inclusion and economic development.

The president of the AfDB, Donald Kaberuka, while commenting on the partnership, said, “Despite the phenomenal

economic growth in Africa, this has not translated into shared prosperity and better livelihoods for the majority. Growth has to be inclusive to be socially and politically sustainable. One key component of inclusive development is financial inclusion, an area in which Africa has been lagging behind other continents.

“Broadening access to financial services will mobilise greater household savings, marshal capital for investment, expand the class of entrepreneurs, and

enable more people to invest in themselves and their families.”

On his own part, the president and chief executive of MasterCard, Ajay Banga, said, “Less than one adult out of four in Africa has access to an account at a formal financial institution. While many of our industry partners have been active in this space, we believe that through our payments expertise, and the AfDB’s 50 years of experience in financing Africa’s economic transformation, we can achieve scaled impact and lasting transformation.

less stress more control Use your Debit MasterCard® to pay for your daily shopping, bills and services.

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18

January 23, 2015

c

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCES LIMITED (A SUBSIDIARY OF LEADERSHIP NEWSPAPERS GROUP)

2015 ANNUAL

CONFERENCE & AWARDS CEREMONY Chairman PRINCE JULIUS ADELUSI-ADELUYI Former Minister of Health and Chairman, Juli Pharmacy Plc.

Keynote Speaker PROF. IBRAHIM GAMBARI

Former Nigerian Permanent Representative To The United Nations

Theme: “Reclaiming Nigeria: A Pathway” STAR AWARDS 2014 LEADERSHIP PERSON OF THE YEAR Chief Olusegun Obasanjo LEADERSHIP GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR Alh. Kashim Shettima

LEADERSHIP POLITICIAN OF THE YEAR Gov. Tanko Al-Makura LEADERSHIP BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR Adewale Jubril Tinubu

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 2014

LEADERSHIP CEO OF THE YEAR Benedict Peters Founder, Aiteo Group LEADERSHIP COMPANY OF THE YEAR Stallion Group LEADERSHIP BANK OF THE YEAR Jaiz Bank LEADERSHIP BANKER OF THE YEAR Henry James Semenitari MD/CEO, Unity Bank LEADERSHIP GOVERNMENT AGENCY OF THE YEAR Small & Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria SMEDAN

LEADERSHIP PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Innoson Vehicle LEADERSHIP MICROFINANCE BANK OF THE YEAR Fortis Microfinance Bank Plc. LEADERSHIP PUBLIC OFFICER OF THE YEAR Gimba Ya’u Kumo MD/CEO, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria LEADERSHIP BRAND OF THE YEAR Brains and Hammers LEADERSHIP ARTISTE OF THE YEAR Ali Nuhu LEADERSHIP YOUNG PERSONS OF THE YEAR The Chibok Girls LEADERSHIP SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR Asisat Oshoala

Venue: Sheraton Abuja Hotel Time: 9:00am Date: February 5th, 2015

January 23, 2015

19

20/ MARITIME

January 23, 2015

Ghana Begins Investigation Of Nigerian Pirates

Shipwrecks As Den Of Criminals At Lagos Ports Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos

Shipwrecks and abandoned vessels have become the newest den of criminals who launch attacks on ships berthing at the various terminals at the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.

The terminals now run their businesses in fear of these criminals who could not dare crime in the sea, but are evil enough to break into cargoes at the terminals, especially at night.

Nigeria’s largest bulk terminal concessionaire, the ENL Consortium Limited, which operates terminals C and D at the Apapa Port might have been host to the thieves as it told the police a bitter story of how the criminals attack berthing vessels at night.

“They would come into the terminals in boats or motorised canoes, unleash terror on the vessels, and quickly manoeuvre back to their hideouts inside the shipwrecks which are littered around the water not far from the berths near the Snake Island.

“At night, the abandoned vessels are illuminated by torch lights which

further authenticate the presence of criminals on board the wrecked vessels,” the ENL’s Security, Safety and Environment manager, Mr Raphael Oyinloye, said.

He further told men of the Seaport Police Command during a visit to the terminal that many criminals had made the abandoned vessels their hideout to perpetrate evils as several attacks on cargoes at the terminal had been traced to the bandits who often hibernate in the abandoned ships.

The Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is not only charged with the responsibility of removing the shipwrecks but is also the designated authority (DA) for the International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) Code, a set of regulations that are meant to ensure safety and security at the ports.

“It is the duty of the NIMASA as the Designated Authority to remove all wrecks that serve as a threat to our economy and waters. Removing the wrecks will solve some of our security problems. We are confident that if the NIMASA would assist the Western Port Police with the

provision of needed platforms and equipment these criminals can be checked. We would like to urge the police to draw the attention of the director-general of the agency, Mr Patrick Akpobolokemi, to the menace that we face in our ports today and also seek assistance of the agency in providing platforms for this cause,” Onyiloye said.

He also charged the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to provide boats to the port police to patrol the waters in the Lagos ports and around berthing vessels.

The Western Port Police commissioner, Mrs Hilda Ibifuro Harrison, determined to fight the menace, said she would further strengthen the synergy with relevant maritime agencies to protect and secure the ports and terminals under her watch.

“It is a surprise to me because we do not have this kind of report before. But I want to assure all terminal operators that this is a situation we must deal with on time to ensure that it is no more. So, operators should remain calm as we will raid the miscreants out of their hideouts,” she said.

Be slow to promise and quick to perform.

Ghana’s Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) said it had taken over investigations into how a Nigerian tanker vessel, MT Mariam, was hijacked and piloted into Ghana’s territorial waters by eight Nigerians who were arrested last Saturday by the Ghanaian authority after they asked for a ransom.

A special team of the Ghanaian Naval Force, the Eastern Naval Command in Tema, caught the pirates on a tip-off after they hijacked the crude oil-laden vessel from Nigeria.

Eastern Naval commander, Commodore Steve Darbo, told the media that the suspects will most likely face piracy charges.

“We have finished out part and we have asked our intelligence service in Ghana to take over and conduct further investigations. We are going to follow proceedings, and the law will take its course,” he said.

The tanker was detected in Ghanaian waters on Saturday via the vessel’s onboard tracking device. The Ghanaian Navy’s patrol vessel, the GNS Blika, was dispatched to the scene, some 26 nautical miles south east of Tema, where the tanker had drifted. However, the pirates had already siphoned the vessel’s cargo when the Navy arrived the scene. The owner of the MT Mariam, Mr Nakase Sunday, told journalists in Tema that the hijacking occurred in the early morning of January 11, at Warri, Nigeria, adding that the vessel was loaded with approximately 1,500 metric tonnes of crude oil when it was captured by the pirates. The oil tanker was heading to Togo when it was seized.

Freight Forwarders Seek Partnership With Container Terminal The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has stated its intention to go into “strategic partnership” with the operator of West Africa’s largest container terminal in Apapa Port.

The NAGAFF, during a visit to the APM Terminals (APMT), Apapa Limited, said it was seeking partnership with the concessionaire “towards entrenching better ports operations for the enhancement of international trade in the country.”

The NAGAFF delegation was led by its founder, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, who informed the APMT management that the NAGAFF came on the visit as part of the association’s agenda to establish corporate relationship with other major stakeholders in the sector.

He said the management that the NAGAFF was aware of the various challenges in the business climate in Nigeria and promised to use the association’s many channels of communication to push these issues to the attention of those in authority with a view to redressing the situation.

Aniebonam, however, urged Nigerians doing business at the terminals to help the operators by complying with due processes while also advising operators to create customer-friendly environment for enhanced operations to the benefit of all.

He also stressed the need for the provision of shelter for freight agents and the establishment of a Customer Relations Department to bridge the gap between the company and the general public.

TOURISM 21

January 23, 2015

Sheraton Abuja Bags Best Hospitality Enterprise Award STORIES BY Chika Okeke, Abuja

L-R: Ambassador Joe Keshi; chief executive of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mrs Dayo Keshi and minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Chief Edem Duke during the 11th edition of the Honours Lecture/Awards series in Abuja, recently. PHOTO BY CHIKA OKEKE

Experts Differ On Implementation Of Tourism Master plan Stories By Chika Okeke, Abuja

When the tourism master plan was inaugurated in 2008 by the former minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, the aim was to launch the sector as a viable economic alternative to oil as well as market Nigeria’s tourism assets both at the local and international level.

Six years down the line, it appears that achieving this project has become a herculean task with scanty activities thriving in the sector.

A cross section of stakeholders that spoke with LEADERSHIP Friday maintained that the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation lacked the competent manpower to implement the tourism master plan.

Reacting, the president of the Hospitality and Tourism Management Association of Nigeria (HATMAN), Mallam Aliyu Badaki Ajayi, said the findings in the tourism master plan document revealed that both the ministry and Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) lack professional personnels. He suggested that competent professionals, including relevant stakeholders, should be involved even as he enjoined the federal government to show more commitment towards its implementation.

Ajayi was worried over the absence of any intervention

scheme for tourism and hospitality development, adding that integrated statistical information aimed at measuring the economic aspects of tourism was not readily available.

In his contribution, the president of the International Council of African Museums (AFRICOM), Mr Nath Mayo Adediran, described the tourism master plan as an orphan, saying that the inability to implement the plan was due to lack of competent human resources. Adediran, who is the chief executive officer of RAA Heritage Global Resources Ltd, admitted that there was scanty strategy, capacity and capabilities within the leadership of the sector, stressing that the sector also lacked adequate finances and sponsorship from corporate bodies to market their products.

“Where are the people that compiled the tourism master plan? Who did they hand it to? The problem was that there was no succession; they did not sensitise the sectors enough to carry them along, at least to make demands for its implementations and it was not institutionalised for ownership.

It came as an orphan and has remained in that position.”

On his part, the national president of the Institute for Tourism Professionals (ITP), Chief Abiodun Odunsanwo, called on the federal government to actively involve private sectors in the industry, noting that tourism was

designed to be driven by the private sector since they played an important role in the industry.

According to him, “The tourism master plan was a very good document at that time but some of its content has become redundant because the issues were yet to be done.”

Also, the organiser of the Abuja Bantaba, and Akwaaba African Travel Market, Mr Ikechi Uko, said the plan was not supposed to succeed since it was faulty from the beginning. He said that implementing the master plan six years after it was inaugurated in 2006 could lead to violence.

“The master plan was not supposed to succeed; it was faulty from the beginning. The development plan was built on false clusters that are unworkable and the assent of development was in the wrong direction. I knew and said it from the beginning that the master plan was not implementable as it were.

“Since some research was done, it could be adapted and through a development strategy, we can grow our tourism. The master plan was done around 2006, and implementing it eight years later could turn violent,” Uko said.

He frowned on the fact that the sector lacked the requisite leadership needed therein despite the increasing number of 5-star hotels and awareness about tourism and called on the federal government, through the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), to negotiate with foreign museums and institutions holding onto Nigeria artefacts and possibly acquire them.

“Having identified the problems, we should try and solve them but the unfortunate thing is that we actually don’t have a requisite leadership in the industry. At this stage, with 5-star hotels growing and with the market exploding, the industry needs leaders and that is what is missing. Without appropriate leadership, we will not have the joy of the benefits of the investments that has been made,” he stated.

As at the time of filing this report, the minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke, failed to respond to these input or contribute his own despite attempts made by this reporter.

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

In recognition of its performance, the Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, recently bagged the Best Hospitality Enterprise Award of the Student Union Government (SUG) of the University of Benin.

Presenting the award, the SUG president, Comrade Ihide John Ifidon, explained that Sheraton Abuja Hotel was one of the nominees under the category of Best Hospitality Enterprise, adding that the voting was carried out through electronic mail, Facebook and blog sites.

A statement made available to LEADERSHIP Friday by the public relations communications assistant of the hotel, Raliyat Lawal, revealed that the voting lasted from September 3-17, 2014, adding that Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, got the highest number cast by students.

Also responding, the general manager of the hotel, Mr Boris Bornman, explained that the greater part of their target was to affect people’s lives positively, saying that the hotel had achieved the target aimed at supporting humanity.

The students also presented an award to the director of Human Resources of the hotel, Alhaji Shaibu Dauda, for his outstanding contributions towards the development and empowerment of people.

Govt To Commercialise Abuja National Carnival Through PPP The federal government has disclosed its plans to commercialise the Abuja National Carnival as a creative sector through a public private partnership (PPP) arrangement and provide conducive environment and incentives to local and foreign investors.

The carnival, which was attended by six states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and invariably ignored by 30 states last year, witnessed low turnout of participants due to insurgency and the outbreak of the Ebola virus.

President Goodluck Jonathan stated this in Abuja during the 10th edition of the carnival with the theme ‘Building an Enduring Creative Nation.’

“Our desire was predicated upon making the carnival a creative sector; a private sector-driven venture with the role of the government being to provide a favourable investment climate and incentives to attract the requisite local and foreign investment in the sector.

The president, represented by vice president, Namadi Sambo, enjoined the private sector to key into the project, stressing that despite the security challenges the carnival had contributed to national cohesion, intercultural understanding and display of our creative potentials.

“It is on record that the beauty of the Abuja National Carnival is not limited to the presentations of Nigeria’s diverse and unique cultural wealth but has the ability to stimulate the consciousness of the people to the general socio-economic benefit of a multi economic nation like Nigeria if properly articulated and harnessed,” he said.

Also speaking, the minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke, said that culture was a major tool for advocating peace and stability in the country, stressing that the essence of commemorating the fiesta was to celebrate diversity, love and harmony in the country.

“Today, we dance but not out of celebration; we sing but not out of joy because few hours ago, insurgents dealt a terrible blow on the Nigerian nation and we have a very sad tale to tell,” he said.

22 motoring

January 23, 2015

Nissan Altima Leads 2015 Mid-size Sedan Market Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos

Stallion Nissan Motors Nigeria (NMN) has described its Altima 2015 model a favourite choice among the family sedans, delivering excellent fuel economy and a rare blend of comfort and agility, features the company said has helped the car to maintain a lead in the class’ market.

The Nissan sales company and local custodian of the brand in Nigeria described the car’s target customers as “confident individuals, stylish and responsible adults seeking personal and professional fulfilment on their terms.

“This class of people want more out of life and do not want a conservative or dull midsize sedan,” said Stallion NMN’s head of sales and marketing, Mr Amit Sharma.

The new Nissan Altima is detailed as stylish, bold and aggressive with long body lines that distinguishes the sedan from rivals like Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima. Emerging from a total makeover last year, the new Nissan Altima provides customers with premium experiences and high technologies that drivers will cherish to remember, especially when viewed against Altima’s package with far better

value proposition than competition.

Altima’s innovative features are designed to reposition the car way ahead of competition and to keep it fresh against rival brands. While many manufacturers are offering different 4-cylinder engines with hybrids and diesels, the 2015 Nissan Altima sedan goes the traditional route by offering a base 4-cylinder and a V6. The 2.5-litre 4- cylinder, for instance, is designed for lighter weight and higher efficiency, while the 3.5-litre V6 offers improved fuel economy. Both engines drive Altima’s front wheels through the Nissan’s next generation Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) that drives engine revs ahead of vehicle speed during strong acceleration and helps both the Altima achieve tremendous fuel economy.

Altima’s rear seats have generous legroom while the trunk size of 436 litres is ambitious for the class. Standard features include Bluetooth and a USB/ iPod input, leather upholstery, a rearview camera, premium BOSE audio x 9 speakers and 3D display. The unique multifunction rearview camera performs the lookout jobs very well and the NASA-inspired seats zero gravity seats are proved to be fatigue-reducing.

Nissan Altima

Volkswagen Tops 6m Mark In 2014 Volkswagen passenger cars brand made a new delivery record, topping the six-million mark for the first time in a 12-month period in the last 10 years.

“That means we have doubled deliveries by the brand since 2004,” said a board member for sales and marketing for the Volkswagen Group and the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, Mr Christian Klingler.

The company handed over 6.12 million vehicles to customers from January to December 2014 and the brand delivered 529,500 in December 2013, compared to the 542,300 units delivered in December 2014, representing a 2.4 per cent increase in units in the month of December.

“We expect the existing challenging market conditions to continue in 2015. However, we believe we are very well prepared to face these challenges with new products such as the Passat or the internationally acclaimed and multi-award winning Golf,” Klingler said.

Volkswagen

The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand delivered 1.68 million vehicles on the overall to the European market in 2014, of which 858,300 were handed over to customers in Western Europe, excluding Germany.

Deliveries on the home market of Germany also grew with 578,400 last year compared to the 560,100 in 2013, representing a growth of 3.3 per cent as customers took possession of a new model there. Volkswagen Passenger Cars delivered 244,700 vehicles in Central and Eastern Europe in the 12 months to December, while 128,100 units were handed over to customers in Russia.

In the North American region, the brand delivered 586,700 last year of which 367,000 were handed over to customers in the United States. Deliveries in the South American region from January to December, however, decreased to 662,600 from 804,300 units in 2013, of which 541,700 were handed over to customers in Brazil.

Porsche To Sell 200,000 Cars In 2015 Porsche has said it expects to increase sales to 200,000 cars or more this year, hitting a long-planned target three years early after posting record deliveries in 2014.

Sales in December surged 39 per cent from a year earlier to 20,644 sports cars and sport-utility vehicles (SUVs), boosting full-year deliveries to a record 189,849, Porsche said on Thursday, marking a 17 per cent gain on 2013 levels.

More than two-thirds of Porsche models sold are SUVs, thanks to its new Macan model which hit dealerships last April, sales data showed.

About 34,000 of the 45,000 customers who bought the Macan, which is smaller than the top-selling Cayenne SUV, were new to the Porsche brand and previously owned a model from BMW, Mercedes or another rival, the company’s chief executive, Matthias Mueller, told reporters at the carmaker’s base in

Stuttgart, Germany.

Separately, the 61-year-old Mueller, previously the top product strategist at the parent VW, ruled himself out as a potential successor to the VW group chief executive officer (CEO), Martin Winterkorn.

“I am not a potential successor to Winterkorn. I am too old for the job.

It is no solution for the VW to put a 63-year-old at the helm in 2016,” ,” Mueller said, adding that he had already

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

communicated the message to the VW headquarters.

Porsche, which contributed a fifth of the VW group’s nine-month operating profit of €9.4 billion ($11.06 billion), could see its operating margin drop to 13 per cent of sales temporarily from about 17-18 per cent because of spending on fuel efficiency and connectivity, Mueller said. The car maker is targeting an operating margin of at least 15 per cent over a five-year period.

AGRICULTURE /23

January 23, 2015

agriculture REPORTS

Bird Flu Poses No Real Risk To Humans ‑ Adesina

BY Ruth Tene Natsa, with agency report

A farmland

How Prepared Is Nigeria To Tackle Climate Change?

Experts have defined climate change as a large-scale, longterm shift in the planet’s weather patterns or average temperatures caused by higher temperatures, changing rainfall, changes in nature, rise in the sea level, retreating glaciers, decline in sea ice and shrinking ice sheets. Ruth Tene Natsa writes on the need to preserve agriculture in the face of all these.

There is need to better educate farmers, especially at the rural levels on the need to understand the effect of climate change on their productivity and better prepare them to counter its effects

The report that 2014 was the hottest year ever recorded in world history had left many worried, especially in Nigeria where most of the farmers are unlettered and not knowledgeable about the implication this could have on their crops and the nation as a whole.

Unfortunately with the effect of global warming affecting the pattern of rainfall across the different agro-climatic belts in this country, there has been either inadequate and excessive rainfall than the farmers have been accustomed to, the resultant effect being that farmers are bound to suffer heavy losses due to both.

Climate change adaptation can be said to happen in two critical ways: through externally planned interventions and through autonomous action at the household and community level.

Both are important processes and it is essential that planned interventions recognise existing community scale responses.

Aligning both the knowledge systems and responses from these two approaches is an important step in moving forward on adaptation planning.

Much of Nigerian agriculture

is rain-fed (dependent on natural rainfall) as very few farmers have adapted the technology of conserving and using stored or dammed water in farming. In the case of inadequate rainfall, a wellplanned irrigation intervention can save the day. Unfortunately excessive rainfall is difficult to manage and is accompanied by environmental devastation and degradation that sabotages alternative sources of livelihood like forests and streams as was witnessed in 2012 when several parts of the country witnessed flooding which destroyed tonnes of agricultural produce.

According to an online report, ‘Preparing for a Changing Climate’ “rising levels of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere have warmed the Earth and are causing wideranging impacts, including rising sea levels; melting snow and ice; more extreme heat events, fires and drought; and more extreme storms, rainfall and floods.

Scientists project that these trends will continue and in some cases accelerate, posing significant risks to human health, forests, agriculture, freshwater supplies, coastlines, and other natural resources that are vital to the economy, environment, and our quality of life.

“Furthermore, torrential rains that cause flooding do not only destroy crops, livestock and other land resources, but also destroy homes and valuable infrastructure, especially roads and bridges.

This effectively cuts the farming populations from markets for their produce, and hinders access to education and needed healthcare facilities. The grand effect is that agricultural growth and farmers’ living standards are seriously

compromised,” the report read in part.

Sadly while developed countries have looked into the issues and impacts of climate change on agriculture and even sought mitigating steps to curb the effect on agriculture, developing and under developed countries are lacking in this regard, leaving the many illiterate farmers to the mercy of nature.

A farmer, Mallam Adamu Maiangwar, told LEADERSHIP Friday that he does not understand the vagaries of climate change.

“Right from the beginning of time, the climate has never been steady as it changes in correlation to the seasons. If the weather gets hotter, the soil gets drier and harder for the farmer but excess rain also does not make it any easier either as the climate becomes too moist to allow good agricultural activities,” he said.

As far as he is concerned there is nothing new about climate change; but experts have differed on this, insisting that the earth is getting drier as it’s less rainy which, ultimately, is bound to affect agriculture more than ever as farmers may experience less yield, leading to less food for the ever increasing population. For the government to rise up to this challenge, there is need to better educate farmers, especially at the rural levels on the need to understand the effect of climate change on their productivity and better prepare them to counter its effects.

Responding to this fear, the minister of agriculture and rural development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has called on global leaders in agricultural research to ensure that the vulnerabilities of poor farmers are considered.

Nigeria reported its first human death from bird flu on January 17, in Lagos, almost one year after the disease first hit the country.

A 22-year-old woman died on January 17 and became the first confirmed case of the avian influenza in Nigeria in “tests conducted by Nigerian scientists using in-country laboratory facilities,” sources said.

Since then no confirmed recorded fatality has been reported but the risks to human infection, though mild, still remains a possibility.

With the recent reoccurence of the avian influenza, all kinds of speculation have again risen to the surface but the minister of agriculture and rural development, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has assured that the recent reported cases of bird flu should not pose any real risk to humans.

“Research findings have confirmed that human infection with the H5N1 virus, although possible, remains a rare event. Direct contact with infected poultry, or surfaces and objects contaminated by their faeces, is presently considered the main route of human infection.

Exposure could potentially occur during slaughter, de-feathering, butchering, and preparation of poultry for cooking.

“There is no evidence to suggest that the avian influenza virus can be transmitted through the consumption of poultry and poultry products as long as standard precautions regarding food storage, handling and preparation are followed,” Adesina said.

He, therefore, assures that it is safe to eat poultry products but called on consumers to ensure that it is thoroughly cooked (that the fluids are drained and there’s no visible pink meat). Internal temperatures for whole chicken should reach 85°C while for chicken parts the temperature should reach 74°C. Eggs should be cooked until the yolk is no longer runny. He has also called for the full cooperation of all stakeholders in the poultry industry so as to quickly control the incidences of bird flu and avoid any further spread.

The minister advocated for an enhancement of hygienic practices (bio-security measures) which include, but is not limited to, regular disinfection, proper processing and cooking of poultry and poultry products and timely reporting of deaths of poultry and other bird species to veterinary authorities.

“I also appeal to all the states and the Federal Capital Territry (FCT) to cooperate with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development by promptly reporting any disease outbreaks to the chief veterinary officers, implementing diseases containment measures in the states, ensuring the quarantine of infected areas and premises, depopulating and decontaminating infected farms and live bird markets, engaging in advocacy and creation of awareness among the public on disease situations, collecting and transportating samples to the central laboratory at National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, for analysis, enforcing restriction of movement of poultry and poultry products, providing logistics and essential equipment to the state veterinary services, registrating poultry farms as provided by the ACT 10 of 1988, and engaging in disease surveillance in the state,” Adesina said.

A fool may throw a stone into a well which a hundred wise men cannot pull out.

24/ analysis

January 23, 2015

Electronic Filing Of Returns, An Outcome Of The Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) (2) Procedures For E-Filing At A Glace Stage A 1. Obtain “e-filing Access Application Form” from any FIRS Tax Office nearest to you or download from FIRS website: www.firs.gov.ng 2. Complete the form by nominating Officers or Agent that will represent your organization on tax matters 3. You will indicate on the form the access the nominee should have either to declare (file returns), view only or declare and view rights.

4. Upon returning the completed form to FIRS Tax Office where your tax matters are handled, the FIRS will use the information on the form to issue system generated Username and Password 5. The username and password are the only key that gives you access to the e-filing site to transact tax business with FIRS. 6. You are required to change your password upon first log-in 7. The platform is user-friendly, hence you will be promptly able to navigate your way through to filing completion 8. You can check your account balance, change relevant registration details and connect to tax office using customer centre to make enquiries.

tax in focus

Note: FIRS e-filing works best on google chrome or any version of internet explorer not less than version.

Stage B 1. After a successful login, you are positioned in your Home page in which you can see a summary of the declarations (i.e. tax returns) which need to be filed.

2. You are required be in custody of either hard or softcopy of the return you want to file.

3. To start your declaration, you have two choices: 4. On the Home page either click on the View all declarations to be filed hyperlink or on the Taxpayer Service tab 5. The Tax Declaration page opens by default in the collapsed form 6. Click on “view all tax declaration” then click on the tax type for which you want to file and the tax period which are yet to be filed are displayed.

7. The expanded form is displayed and the “File now” hyperlinks are shown, for the relevant tax period 8. Click on the “File now” hyperlink, 9. The return page opens and relevant form lines are displayed.

Then, Enter Line Details.

10. In this page you can enter the amounts for the required form lines in the filing currency previously authorised for the tax account for which you are filing or you can upload csv file 11. When you finish, click on the “Submit declaration” button. This brings you to a

confirmation step where you can verify whether the entered amounts are correct or not.

12. If you are sure, then click on “Yes”. For the returns to be submitted 13. Following this action, your declaration will be submitted to the tax office and the page showing “End

Declaration Process” step is displayed.

14. Click on the hyperlink “here” and you are led to the View Filed Declaration page which gives you a summary of your declaration and 15. Document number is displayed at the top right hand corner.

16. Copy the document number which is required at the bank to settle the tax liability.

For more Information on e-filing, please contact: itas.change@firs.gov.ng itasproject@firs.gov.ng 08115900301 08115900021

FRIDAY EXTRA January 23, 2015

B

INSIDE

ilkisu Ashiru, 23, took the short walk to fetch water for her domestic use at the brand new hand pump at Kofar Tudu community in Kaita local government area.

Before now, Bilkisu said she and the other locals would have to trek a very long distance to fetch water from a pond known by the locals as ‘tapki’.

“I recall very well how we used to trek for some kilometres to get water. That time, bathing regularly or even washing one’s clothes was always difficult but now, all that has changed. We are grateful to you all,” she told LEADERSHIP Friday in Hausa language.

Rural Water and Sanitation Support Agency (RUWASSA) intervention which received a boost from both the state government and the support of donor agencies and development partners has helped in assuaging the sufferings of many rural dwellers like Bilkisu, a mother of four.

Generally, there is limited access to improved source of water supply in Nigeria with residents of rural communities and slum settlements in urban areas being the worst hit by scarcity of water. Of course, this lack of access to improved water has exacerbated the challenge of improved sanitation.

Water and Sanitation coverage rates in Nigeria are amongst the lowest in the world with access to an improved water source said to be around 54 per cent in 2010.

Perhaps in appreciation of the need to address the perennial challenges of water supply, government introduced different initiatives among which is the Presidential Water Initiative (PWI) of Water for People, Water for Life, launched by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2003.

The initiative had the target to increase access, including a 100 percent water access target in state capitals, 75 per cent access in other urban areas, and 66 per cent access in rural areas.

Of course there had been series of such initiatives by successive governments but because very little was done in ensuring dutiful implementation, targets are far from being met.

The challenge of safe drinking water is made more prevalent with the rising cases of water borne diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, invective hepatitis A and E; contacted through the drinking of unwholesome water.

In Katsina, although the statistics are shaky, available evidence points to the fact that water supply has posed serious challenge. This is made obvious with the alarming presence of water vendors in all nooks and cranny of the state.

Katsina and environs receives part of its drinking water from the popular Ajiwa dam, augmented by pockets of boreholes sunk here and there by the elites and even middle class people.

Only recently in a speech at the commissioning a semi-urban water scheme in Mai’adua, Mai’adua Local Government Area, Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State said the state government had spent N8.4 billion on the provision of water

Childern operating hand water borehore

How Katsina Gives Rural Water Supply, Sanitation A Boost Although available data show that improved drinking water and sanitation coverage are low in Nigeria consequent upon which the nation is not on track to reach the MDG targets of 75 per cent coverage for improved drinking water and 63 per cent coverage for improved sanitation by the end of 2015, it appears some level of success is being recorded in Katsina State where the government seems to focus on rural water supply and sanitation, MUAZU ELAZEH observes. supply in the past eight years, repaired 27 semi-urban water schemes, established 18 motorised boreholes and a host of other water projects during the period under review.

The state commissioner for water resources, Gide Sani Batagarawa disclosed that a large chunk of the N4 billion budgeted will be devoted to the construction of new dams, dredging and upgrading of some existing ones.

Batagarawa recalled that in 2013, as a demonstration of its commitment to addressing the challenge of safe drinking water, the state government awarded a contract worth over N259 million for the construction of 16 mechanical wind mill powered boreholes in each of the fifteen federal constituencies in the state just as it approved contract for the construction of semi urban water supply schemes in seven local government areas in the state.

“The state government equally accorded top most priority to provision of water in the 2015 budget. And interestingly, investments in the water subsector is yielding positive results”.

Indeed, more than anything else, the challenge of safe drinking water is faced mostly by the rural dwellers who most often than not, resort to using unclean water sources and its attendant consequences.

Perhaps it was in appreciation of the need to finding lasting solution to challenges of rural water supply that the state government, in line with best international

Big Questions & Answers nobel 10 ultimate top list

practices, established the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA).

LEADERSHIP Friday gathered that RUWASSA was saddled with the responsibilities of coordinating the provision of bore holes and hand pumps for rural communities as part of an overall effort to assuage the sufferings associated with accessing clean drinking water which has been the bane of most communities across the state.

Sources said the Agency is implementing its policies and programmes aimed at providing potable drinking water and ensuring improved sanitation and hygiene in rural areas in line with the Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene strategy and Guiding Principles.

Abubakar Gege is the executive director of RUWASSA. He told LEADERSHIP Friday that appreciable success has been recorded in the area of the provision of safe water sources for the rural dwellers in the state.

According to Gege: “Presently, as part of the process for the implementation of the plan which started in the year 2009, the state government has provided 450 motorized and hand pump bore holes to rural communities across the state through RUWASSA and the MDGs office in Katsina.

This is in addition to the provision of complete set of sanitation facilities in 150 selected primary schools and health centres in the state”.

“These efforts have indeed manifested and yielded positive results because the

level of rural water supply coverage in Katsina state has increased to over fifty percent from inception of RUWASSA to date” he noted even as he declared that no fewer than 3000 bore holes had been sunk in rural communities across the state as part of efforts to provide portable drinking water to the people..

Gege insisted that the three new drilling rigs with supporting equipment, accessories and spare parts procured and donated to the agency by the state government had been “a veritable source of motivation for the agency to ensure dutiful execution of its mandate and insisted that the myriads of bore holes, hand pumps and in some cases motorised bore holes sunk across the state were made possible through the state government’s support in provision of the equipments.

In furtherance of its effort of providing potable water to the rural populace, the Katsina state Government in collaboration with the government of Japan through the Japan International cooperation Agency (JICA), had provided hand pump bore holes to some communities in Safana, Kankara, Mashi, Dutsinma and Faskari local government areas.

Findings revealed that under the joint partnership with JICA, a total of fifty six Hand pump bore holes were provided with beneficiaries of such projects trained on how to repair and maintain the hand pumps while repair tools were given to them free of charge.

Why... answers to scientific questions

26 CULTURE

January 23, 2015

Particpants at the festival

Argungu Fishing Festival: A Festival Like No Other

T

he Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival (the most widely attended in Nigeria and, perhaps, the oldest known festival of its kind) predates the ‘conquests’ of Kanta of Kebbi in the early 16th Century. The festival started initially in the form of religious rites prior to the time of Surame Gungu of Kebbi Kingdom. In other words, it began as an informal family and communal affair. Since that time, the festival has undergone several changes and modifications.

More than 30,000 fishermen had taken part in the annual Argungu fishing festival in what is now known as Kebbi.

People from all over West Africa come to participate in the main event, the fishing contest in River Mata Fada, using nets and traditional gourds made with calabashes. The fisherman who takes the biggest fish wins a prize of almost N1m ($7000).

The evolution of the festival seems to

go in hand with the socio-economic development of the Kabawa (people of Kebbi) generally. Since the 16th Century (Kanta’s days), the festival as we know it today has become more elaborate and stylish. At the same time it has, since the jihad period, been getting progressively enriched with the fielding of more events for the general entertainment of the attending public.

Fishing Festival From 16th Century to 1934 In the 16th Century – the days of Kanta – the fishing festival at Kabi probably assumed a sort of nationalistic character. The spectacular rallying powers of Kanta who used to travel in a boat receiving homage throughout his riverine empire must have served to bring in bold belief in the desirability as well as efficacy of a centralised festival. Kanta himself was known to have encouraged both localised and annual festivals as a passport to having a very firm

hold on his subjects. Kanta had to work with the officials and chiefs of fishing and waters who also advised him in matters of significance for the welfare of his kingdom such as during warfare, communal fishing and harvests. In this period, four major public rituals were observed: the ‘Gyaran Ruwa’, the ‘Fashin Ruwa’, the ‘Gyaran Gari’, the ‘Shan Kabewa’ and ‘Fura’.

The first two ceremonies, (‘Gyaran Ruwa’ and ‘Fashin Ruwa’) relate to water and have direct bearing on fishing while the last two ceremonies are land festivities.

Specifically, the ‘Gyaran Ruwa’ refers to the basic rituals of purification of waters preceeding the great fishing day, with the view to having a hitch-free fishing festival on the appointed day. On the day of ‘Gyaran Ruwa’, the priests and the ‘Bori’ parishioners enter big canoes and traverse the length of Kabi Rivers. In the process, the ‘jirgi’ (master of the river) pours libations in the middle of the river

Fish and company stink in three days.

In other words it began as an informal family and communal affair.

Since that time the festival has undergone several changes and modifications to the Queen Spirit of the Water (‘doguwa’). At this junction, the ‘Bori’ practitioners leap into the water and perform some incantation for the protection of the fishermen throughout the year.

The ‘Fashin Ruwa’ signifies the opening up of the waters for fishing. In this case, the formal permission of the Emir of Kabi is sought and, if he agrees, a date ➔ continued on the next page

culture 27

January 23, 2015

Argungu Fishing Festival: A Festival Like No Other

Camel riding has become part of the festival

➔ continued from previous page is fixed for the beginning of the fishing season. The ‘Fashin Ruwa’ rite attracts a great deal of social interaction. It is a national event with open displays of music, dance, acrobatics, wrestling etc serving as side attractions witnessed by huge crowds of men, women and children.

The ‘Gyaran Gari’ (purification of the town) and ‘Shan Kabewa’ (testing the pumpkin porridge) were specialised rituals of land propitiations. They were replete with sacrifices, ‘Bori’ and ‘Tsafi’ demonstrations; music, dancing and artistic exhibitions all aimed at purging evil spirits from the land and soliciting for bountiful harvest. As part of thanksgiving, profuse sacrifices are made at the foot of some specific rocks and trees and at the top of some hills.

All the four festivals mentioned above were heavily attended and naturally called for the presence of side attractions and the presence of entertainers of all traditional occupations. With the steady penetration of Islamic culture in the area, the three rites, namely the ‘Gyaran Ruwa’, ‘Gyaran Gari’ and ‘Shan Kabewa’ were stopped, leaving the ‘Fashin Ruwa’ rite which is the origin of the present Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.

Within this period, the festival at Argungu had already assumed a fairly nonreligious or non-animistic tone, devoid largely of the usual Bori and Tsafi exhibitions. However, even though Islam had, by this time become very widely adopted in the area, the presence of Islam ap-

pears to have merely served to neutralise the base for Bori and Iskoki rites so well associated with the festival. This is suggesting that, with the wide spread acceptance of Islam among the Kabawa, most individual families in the area have increasingly given up animist practices but continued to look up to the festival occasion for periodic displays of the traditional cult. At the same time, attendance to this festival appears to have increased considerably with community representatives taking some fairly conspicuous position at the festival venue. Dignitaries from the neighbouring riverine areas also featured regularly as guests during the festival.

The 1934 festival was the most conspicuous in attendance by a non-Argungu notable dignitary, with the historic visit by the Sarkin Musulmi, Sultan Hassan Dan Mu’azu. In response to an earlier invitation extended by the Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Sama, the newly appointed Sultan of Sokoto paid a visit to Argungu in 1934.

In anticipation of the visit, the emir and his council decided to arrange a grand fishing exhibition which will serve as a momentous symbol of the Kabawa identity. Initially the Emir and his officials had felt that local entertainments and feats of manhood like boxing and wrestling would alone appear demeaning and totally unworthy of entertainment for a whole Sultan. Neither would anything short of water-craft portray this in clear focus than organising a grand fishing fiesta devoid of the traditional rituals of spirit propitiation.

Between 1934 and 1950 the festival began to record a certain degree of consistency in terms of dating and attendance. For the first time women and small children were admitted into the festival ground. Besides, the grand day for the fishing finale began to alternate between Saturdays and Sundays of a special period after the rainy season. In late 1870s, however, the most preferred day of the week for the grand fishing finale has consistently been a Saturday in February or March.

Prior to 1934, the financing of the four rituals was on a purely individual familial or communal basis. Individual families and participants sponsor themselves or live on one another’s reciprocal hospitality and upkeep of the sacrifices and other material rituals that are to be performed by the Bori practitioners and the fishing functionaries.

From 1934 up to the 1960s, the Emirate Council, the Native Authority and the Northern Government started in turn to invest in the festival with a view to making it grandiose, particularly in the wake of increasing waves of invited guests.

Active government participation, however, came with the establishment of a Northern Regional Government

In the case of attendance, before 1934 the attendance to the four rituals remained chiefly a local affair

Follow the river and you’ll get to the sea.

when, for the first time, a substantial grant of £500 was made to the Argungu Native Authority. In 1969, the then North Western State government decided to involve itself directly with the general development and restructuring of the festival. The federal military government waded in with a substantial donation of £10, 0000 each in 1970 and 1977.

In fact, in February 1977, the Argungu Fishing Festival was organised specifically as a major side event of immense cultural value. In recognition of the value of the festival in reviving the state heritage and enhancing the development of tourism, subsequent Sokoto state administrations drew up a multimillion naira master-plan for the festival village and for the provision of infrastructure.

In the case of attendance, before 1934 the attendance to the four rituals remained chiefly a local affair. However, after 1934 the festival at Argungu became not only a community affair but, essentially, a national event worthy of being witnessed by dignitaries from the international community. Indeed, after the memorable visit of Sultan Dan Mu’azu, the festival began attracting such a growing followership from all over the country. Tourists and guests for the occasion trooped in large numbers from Europe, Britain, United States, Russia, South East Asia and neighbouring African countries like Niger, Benin Republic, Cameroon, etc. ➔ continued on the next page

28 culture

January 23, 2015

Argungu Fishing Festival: A Festival Like No Other ➔ continued from previous page By 1970 the attendance figure to the festival had exceeded 100,000. The first visit by a Nigerian Head of State was also recorded in 1970 with the visit of His Excellency Gen. Yakubu Gowon and his counterpart from the Republic of Niger, Alh. Diori Hammani. Both statesmen attended in the company of their wives. In the same year (1970) fishermen from Rivers State and cultural troupes from the South, Western and Eastern State of Nigeria began participating. In fact, by 1979, Rivers State had established a permanent camp for its fishermen and cultural troupes in the Fishing Village. The festival was used by the Federal Government during the period to heal the wounds of the Civil War and build confidence and mutual respect between Nigerian people. In contrast, 1977 marked the beginning of the attendance of high-profile international guests to the festival. Notable amongst the visitors were American Secretary of State Andrew Young, the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria and the Consul-general of the Saudi Arabian Embassy.

Cultural troupes and Heads of Missions of most nations that attended the Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 1977 also witnessed the festival. All Nigerian Heads of State and presidents witnessed the festival, with the Exception of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar and Chief Ernest Shonekan. Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has a record attendance of four visits to the festival. To date, more than 200 traditional rulers have witnessed the festival from all over Nigeria and neighbouring African countries, with the sultan and many others making it a duty to attend annually, until the end of their individual reigns.

The 1980 festival was witnessed by no less than nine state governors, among whom were Alhaji Abubakar Rimi of Kano, Abubakar Barde of Gongola, Adamu Attah of Kwara, Solomon Lar of Plateau and Tatari Ali of Bauchi.

On the whole, approximately 105,000 persons attended the 1980 (46th) festival. In his vote of thanks, the Guest of Honour of the occasion, Governor Tatari Ali of Bauchi, remarked that the festival was simply marvellous beyond description. He said: “with all my travels the world over I have not yet come across a festival of this nature drawing so huge and so complex a multitude of persons.”

Events which feature in the festival have, over the years, become diversified and secular. Until 1950 the festival had consistently fielded three major events – ‘Bori’ and ‘Gyaran Gari’.

From 1970 to date the festival has featured, amongst other things, a highly diversified and multi-sponsored agriculture show, a grand fishing competition, craft exhibitions, national wrestling and boxing tournaments, cultural entertainments, traditional symphonies, instrumentalists, etc. It also features the

much cherished Kabanci display which includes swimming competitions of different styles, bare hand fishing, wildduck catching, diving competition (‘shako’), canoe race of different categories, etc. The motor-rally and archery competitions were introduced in 1973 and 1981, respectively. In 1980, 175 varieties of artistes and entertainers performed during the festival.

The Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival has contributed highly to the infrastructural and socio-economic growth of Argungu Town and its environs. It has also brought fame and acclaim, both national and international, for the Argungu Emirate, Sokoto and Kebbi states, as well as for Nigeria as a whole.

Indeed, as a result of a growing interest in the festival, Argungu as a town and Sokoto and Kebbi states are becoming increasingly identified as some of the most reputable tourist centres on the continent of Africa.

In his speech at the 1978 edition of the festival, the Late Emir of Argungu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Mera, said: “We are proud to notice that the Argungu Fishing which started as a humble traditional ceremony each year has now developed to its present size, drawing visitors from both within and outside Nigeria. This year we are pleased to notice that our traditional fishing festival has truly become, not only an international event but also the greatest traditional festival in the country. With the presence of such a great number of distinguished guests than as ever attended any traditional festival in the country at any one time.”

Entertainment The fishing festival commences at the beat of drummers who move through the surging water on their canoes.

The festival has already benefitted the local economy. A noisy night market operates throughout the event, which also includes donkey and camel-racing and other water sports.

Annual event The fishing festival did stop briefly in the late 1990s, but it then resumed some years back.

The venue of this competition is called ‘Matan Fada’, a portion of the river upstream at the northern end of Argungu Town. Fishing activities are forbidden in the area throughout the year, except for the competition. This is one of the measures taken to ensure safety of the fish.

The supreme head of the fishing sites and custodian of the waters, Hussani Ibrahim Makwashe, performs all the traditional fishing rites before the commencement of any festival. Scene of the actual fishing event is better seen than described. When the competition is about to begin, hundreds of the fishermen equipped with a pair of traditional hand nets called ‘homa’ and a large gourd with an opening at the top which

A fisherman displays his catch

keeps the fishermen afloat on the water as they roam about searching for a catch. The fishermen are made to stay on line at the opposite end of the river bank, tensely awaiting the signal. Indeed, it is difficult to describe the massive charge when, eventually, the signal is given but, suffice to say, that it is the most thrilling point of the event.

An equally fascinating moment is when individual fishermen start making big catches. The battle that ensues is exciting.

Getting To Argungu The Argungu Fishing Festival, which

Fish begins to stink at the head.

has now attracted global audience as the biggest fishing festival in the world, is usually well publicised in the newspapers. To attend the fishing festival, you will have to travel by road to the Northwestern Kebbi state in Nigeria. There are guest houses and hotels in the state capital where tourists and visitors can lodge, before journeying down to experience the spectacular fishing fiesta.

Also, you can travel by air using the airport in neigbouring Sokoto. There are direct flights from Lagos and Abuja to Sokoto and, from there, you can proceed to Argungu by road.

— Culled from: airkhaleej.com

FRIDAY EXTRA 29

January 23, 2015

nobel

A Century Of Prize Winners

Egas Moniz

For his outstanding, pioneer contribution to present-day poetry.

Thomas Eliot

literature

(1888-1965) Thomas Steams Eliot was born in Saint Louis, Missouri, into an old, well-established New England family. The son of a successful businessman and a poetess, he had a broad and distinctive education. Considered brilliant even as a youth, he entered Harvard in 1906 and completed his bachelor’s degree in three years, instead of the usual four. He obtained his PhD from Harvard, having carefully studied Asian philology and philisophy. T.S. Eliot, as he was widely known, then completed his education at Oxford and the Sorbonne, Paris.

In 1914 he met Ezra Pound, one of the greatest figures of 20th Century literature, who became a close friend and he decided to remain permanently in Europe. He married Vivian Haigh-Wood in 1915, but the marriage was an unhappy one. It ultimately provided inspiration for The Waste Land (1922), a highly influential poem that represented the disillusionment of the post-war generation.

His first years in London were spent working as a teacher, bank clerk and literary consultant. However, his fame as a poet, critic and dramatist came quickly after the publication of The Sacred Wood in 1920. The Waste Land followed, which earned him a place at the forefront of modern English poetry. Between 1922 and I939 he founded and worked as the editor of the Criterion, the most important international literary journal of the time. In I927 Eliot gave up his American citizenship to become a British subject and joined the Anglican Church.

When Harvard University offered him the Charles Eliot Norton professorship for 1932 to 1933, Eliot accepted, leaving his wife in England. In I933 they officially separated but remained married. Vivian was committed to a mental institution in I938 and died there in 1947, having never been visited by Eliot. He was remarried in 1957 to Valerie Fletcher. This experience proved much happier than the first.

The couple lived contentedly until the poet’s death in London on January 4, I965.

In I943 Four Quartets, which Eliot considered his masterpiece, was published; in it, he expresses his spiritual experiences, drawing heavily from mysticism, philosophy and Christian thought. The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock and its famous opening lines comparing the evening sky to “a patient etherised upon the table,” is another well-known poem that has maintained its popularity.

T.S. Eliot also wrote critical essays and plays. Murder in the Cathedral was based on the death of Thomas Becket and opened at the Canterbury Festival in I935.

It is his best-known dramatic work, partially due to the film version, which was released in I952. Four years earlier T.S. Eliot had received the Nobel Prize in Literature for his original contributions to contemporary poetry. In I948 he received the Order of Merit from King George VI and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in I964, a year before his death.

physiology/medicine

(1874-1955) Antonio Caetano de Abreu Freire Egas Moniz was born in Avanca, Portugal, on November 29, 1874 and received a grammar school education at the Colegio de San Fiel, of the Jesuit Order and the Liceu de Viseu.

He enrolled in the Coimbra Faculty of Medicine in 1894 and in 1901 he obtained his doctorate degree. Between 1902 and 1911 he was a member of the teaching staff at Coimbra University, where he served as a substitute lecturer in anatomy, histology and general pathology. In 1911 he transferred to the Lisbon Faculty of Medicine and was made professor of neurology, a subject that was officially created only a short time before. He became director of the institution in 1929.

Before this time Moniz had obtained fame in other fields, including politics. He was a deputy in the Portuguese parliament between 1903 and 1917, was made minister of foreign affairs in 1917 and was the Portuguese ambassador to Spain between 1918 and 1919. He was also a writer who focused not just on medicine but teaching, politics, history and social questions.

In 1944, when he reached retirement age, he was given his pension, but only stopped teaching in 1949. That same year he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, for his development of the leucotomy procedure (he shared the prize with the Swiss WaIter Hess, who won for his discovery of the correlation between the interbrain and the activities of the internal organs).

Moniz led a medical team that carried out the first surgical intervention of this type on the brain in 1935. He believed that the prefrontal leucotomy could be used as a surgical treatment for psychoses. The procedure involved sectioning some of the connections of the white matter on the prefrontal lobes of the brains hemispheres. The prefrontalleucotomy was not, however, the Portuguese neurosurgeon’s only contribution to medicine. The cerebral angiograph, which he created in 1927, and his description and systemisation of the encephalitic veins and arteries and the patterns of various tumours were even more important efforts.

Besides his Nobel Prize, Moniz was widely recognised for his contributions to science, being awarded the Oslo Prize in 1945, made a Commander of the Legion of Honour in France and awarded honorary doctorates from the universities of Lyon and Bordeaux.

Moniz was shot in 1939 by a psychiatric patient, but he recovered fully from the attack. He died in Lisbon in 1955.

Waiter Rudolf Hess also received half of the prize.

For his discovery of the therapeutic value of leucotomy in certain psychoses.

Culled from the book ‘Nobel’

Faults are thick where love is thin.

— Dominican Proverb

30 FRIDAY EXTRA/Best places to find...

January 23, 2015

Signature Dishes

I have a general rule about travel and restaurants: I don’t have a favourite restaurant; I have favourite dishes at individual restaurants. There’s no better way to get to know a destination than to fall in love with one signature dish everywhere you go. So I’m guilty as charged.

B

read is something that is usually overlooked by many restaurants, and by customers as well, but not by me. The bread served at A Figueira Rubaiyat in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is nothing short of xtraordinary. The food at this restaurant is great, but the bread is the best. It’s a chewy, rich interpretation of piio de queijo, Brazil’s famous cheese bread. How many times have you been warned by your mother (or a close friend) not to “fill up” on bread and ruin your appetite? This Brazilian restaurant is the exception to that rule ignore the admonition, and please fill up. For me, Indian food is all about the naan and the appetizers.

We’re talking about something called chaat, or savory Indian street snacks.

In Cape Town, South Africa, go to the Bombay Brasserie inside the Taj Hotel.

Don’t worry about the entrees. Ask for the bhalla chaat, which is made of soft lentil dumplings in yogurt with sweet mango relish.

In Washington, DC, Rasika serves the best garlic naan with herbs, and its signature dish is palak chaat-crispy baby spinach, sweet yogurt, tamarind, and date chutney. And if you don’t order seconds (my bet is that you will), then move on to a main dish 0 tandoori salmon, made with organic Scottish salmon, cinnamon, and black pepper.

The best tapas can be found in a place

called El Carajo, located in a decidedly unsexy part of Miami. This place looks like 7-Eleve merged with a liquor store and a gas station. In fact, it is a wine store and, yes, you can also buy motor oil and a spare battery. But you really go there for the tapas. Try the coquetas de bacalao (codfish croquettes) or the amazing pulpo a la gallega (octopus Galician style from northwest Spain).

Like a hearty breakfast with every single possible option? Then try Hash House a Go Go in Las Vegas. It’s not on the Strip, and it will take you a little while by cab to get there. It’s also not open 24 hours a day, which is a rarity in Sin City. Breakfast is served starting at 7:30 a.m. As its name implies, this place is hash and more hash, ranging from roasted chicken hash to corned beef hash to smoked salmon hash to japalefio hash. And don’t forget its signature griddled meat loaf with smoked mozzarella. The portions, I should caution you, are huge.

The best steak tartare is in Paris, of course. And the best steak tartare in Paris can be found at a egendary place that hasn’t changed in more than a hundred years: Brasserie Lipp, on boulevard Saint-Germain (walking distance to the Musee d’Orsay).

This is the classic preparation, made tableside in the most traditional manner yr Nw.ila-chateau.comllipp. When you think of pizza, about the very last

place you’d imagine finding the best is in Switzerland. But that’s where it is, in the Engadin region-more specifically, St. Moritz. What mountains! What lakes! What pizza! Head up the mountain (Corviglia) on the ski lift to the top. When you get to 8,000 feet, that’s where you’ll find Mathis Food Affairs.

It looks like any other mountaintop ski restaurant, but owner Reto Mathis, who is a legend in the region, disabuses you of that notion the minute you sit down. It’s okay to look at the menu, which boasts contemporary alpine cuisine, but only order the pizza.

Important note: It’s not called pizza; it’s actually a tarte flambee, or a flammkueche, an old Alsatian specialty. It’s made with an extremely thin and crispy dough, topped with fromage blanc (ricotta), and then layered with raw onion rings, bacon strips, Brie, and coarsely grated Fontina. It’s baked very hot, at 300 degrees Celsius (!) for about 2 minutes. Then Reto adds shaved truffles and truffle oil. I always order two, and if a friend goes with me, I order three. I won’t share.

When it comes to food and wine, stop. Do not pass Go. Head directly to an airport and fly to Cape Town, South Africa, and the tasting room at Le Quartier Francais in Franschhoek.

Owner Sus an Huxter has a menu that you can only dream about (after you leave and, of course, before your re-

Fine feathers make fine birds.

— Egyptian Proverb

turn visit). The wine pairings are phenomenal, and there is no one best dish.

Surrender your plans and have Susan order for you.

Argentina is a beef-oriented country. The dollar is still king there, which means you can dine like one and walk out of the restaurant with your wallet as full as your stomach.

When dining in a Buenos Aires steakhouse, don’t expect to get out before midnight-and only after dining on platter after platter of top-quality cuts of meat, to the point that you might wonder if you just ate a whole cow.

Skirt steak, in particular, comes from the belly of the cow. It’s an inexpensive cut, tougher than many other cuts, which makes it prime for lllarinating and braising.

January 23, 2015

...Signature DiSheS FRIDAY eXtra 31

Street Food

PORTLAND The Pacific Northwest is home to high-quality local ingredients, and Portland is a food-obsessed city. The result? A glut of specialty food carts selling everything from Cuban fare to crepes.

What sets these vendors apart from other cities is that they tend to stay in one place in rented spaces, with more than two dozen lots scattered throughout the city. Just keep in mind that due to the weather, many carts close up for the winter.

Your best bet is to check for the latest news in food carts throughout Portland.

Join the late-night scene at Hawthorne and SE 12th, where Whiffies serves up fried pies, both savory and sweet, from barbecue beef brisket to a Mounds bar-inspired confection with coconut cream and chocolate

Seafood Never underestimate the quality and inventiveness of the menu at small American strip mall restaurants. In Juno Beach, Florida, I found one that serves the best tuna on the planet and in the most inventive way. The place is called Captain Charlie’s Reef Grill, and it’s located in a strip mall so tiny that it’s easy to miss (drive on Highway 1 and look for an interior design store and a fire station). Folks (myself included) will drive more than an hour to get there, just to stand in line for 45 minutes waiting for a table. What’s even more amazing is the menu-handwritten and photocopied each day on three legal-size pages. The entree and appetizer creations number in the dozens, and how they manage this menu in such a small place is still baffling. But one thing on that menu stands out and is a local favorite: peppered tuna medallions with blueberry teri- yaki sauce.

Doesn’t sound great, until you put it in your mouth and find yourself unabash-

Desserts

Firinda sutlac is a creamy rice dish from Istanbul that is vastly different (most say superior) from American rice pudding. It dates back to royal kitchens of the Ottoman Empire and can be found in pudding shops and restaurants all over Turkey.

The best rice pudding in Istanbul is in a small restaurant called Tarihi Subasi Lokantas, near the famed covered bazaar.

When you get to the covered bazaar main entrance, do not go inside; instead, turn right and walk to the end of the block.

You’ll find the restaurant on your right.

The word tarihi means historic, and this rice pudding, which is torched on the top (much like the better creme brulees) is epic. I don’t go to Istanbul without stopping there. Twice.

For chocolate mousse, there is absolutely no comparison. I travel at least once a year for my chocolate mousse fix at a little restaurant in Lisbon called Papa Acorda, in the Alfama District. Make sure your hotel concierge gets you an exact address for the place and a map, because many cab drivers don’t even know about

chips.

The Mississippi Marketplace, at North Mississippi and Skid more Street in North Portland, has 10,000 square feet of space loaded with carts, including the Big Egg, which focuses entirely on break-fast using cage-free, organic eggs.

On SE 43rd and Belmont, the Good Food Here hosts nearly 20 carts, including a local favorite, the Sugar Cube where chef-owner Kir Jensen makes every gourmet cupcake, milkshake, and smoothie inside her 8- by 14-foot cart.

LOS ANGELES Street food has long been a part of Los Angeles’s food culture in the form oftaco trucks. But the concept of gourmet trucks went mainstream in LA with the Kogi barbecue to-go truck, which brought Korean-Mexican fusion to the streets.

edly ordering seconds.

How about the best grouper in the world? It’s at Laurel’s Restaurant and Bar in St. Lucia. Here, there are only about six tables and a small bar. Talk about the catch of the day: It’s great every day. The shrimp and the chicken are also excellent, but when you order the grouper, they throw it in the pan and make culinary magic right in front of you, since the kitchen is about 5 feet away. The restaurant isn’t easy to find in the Bois d’Orange section of Quarter of Gros-Islet-there are no street signs or lights. So get them on the phone and have them direct the cab driver.

My pick for the best sushi might surprise a lot of my sushi-snob friends.

I’m not picking Nobu in New York (although their black cod is amazing).

There are two great sushi experiences: The first are the sushi stalls right next to the Central Fish Market in Tokyo. Go to the fish auction there around 4:30 a.m. each day.

Most Expensive Cuisine

it. And be prepared to eat a lot of chocolate mousse. At Papa Acorda, it’s not just how good the mousse is, but how much there is. You won’t be served in a small pudding dish or an even smaller champagne glass. At Papa Acorda, the server brings an empty dinner plate to your table. Soon after, a waiter appears behind you with a very large bowl and an oversize serving spoon, and simply holds the bowl while you dig deep and serve yourself as much as you want. Okay, you’ve been warned!

Lebanese hanefi is dessert is made of a layer of shredded dough and a layer of cheese stuffed inside a dough with sesame seeds. You can find it all over Lebanon. But a little closer to home, you can find an outstanding version of it at Tanoreen Restaurant in Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood. Knafeh, as they spell it, is their signature dessert.

The shredded dough is stuffed with two kinds of sweet cheese, topped with pistachios and homemade syrup flavored with orange and rose water.

FleurBurger 5000 is a $5,000 burger at Fleur by Hubert Keller restaurant at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The burger is made with Wagyu beef and topped with foie gras, truffle sauce, and shaved black truffles on a brioche. But that’s not aLL: It’s served with a 1995 Chateau Petrus from Bordeaux in Italian stemware that will be shipped to your home.

Nino’s Positano Pizza in New York can create a caviar pizza for $1,000 (that’s $125 a slice, if you’re counting). The crust is topped with creme fraiche, four different types of caviar, sliced Lobster tail, and salmon roe, and drizzled with wasabi sauce. Not surprisingly, this pizza has to be ordered 24 hours in advance. Norma’s restaurant dares you to choose its Zillion Dollar Lobster Frittata inside Le Parker Meridien Hotel in New York. This supersize dish is made with six eggs, roasted Maine Lobster tail, and 10 ounces of caviar, for a grand total of $1,000.

On the Upper East Side of New York, Serendipity 3’s Frrrozen Haute Chocolate goes for a whopping $25,000. Made with 28 types of cocoa, including some of the most expensive types from South America and South Africa, the hot beverage is infused with 0.2 ounce of edible gold and topped with whipped cream, more edible gold, and shavings of the world’s most expensive chocolate truffle from La Madeline au Truffe. Don’t worry, you won’t be Left empty-handed once the drink is gone. You also get an 18-karat gold bracelet with diamonds and the diamond-encrusted gold goblet and spoon that it’s served in.

The founder of Three Twins Ice Cream, NeaL GottLieb, is so invested in his certified organic ice cream that he’ll personally deliver 100 pints to you (almost) anywhere in the United States for the cool price of $3,333.33. Visit the store at Oxbow Public Market in Napa, California, you’ve got even more options: The World’s Most Expensive Ice Cream Sundae is $3,333.33-a banana split made with syrups from three rare dessert wines (a 1960s vintage port, a Chateau D’Yquem, and a German Trockenbeerenauslese), served with an ice-cream spoon from the 1850s.

Order it a day ahead and it will come with a performance by a cellist. If you’ve got $60,000 to spend, go for the World’s.

— Source: BestPlacesForEveryhing

Feast today and fast tomorrow.

— Cambodian Proverb

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January 23, 2015

January 23, 2015

Making Her Mark On Nollywood First think, then speak. ― Egyptian Proverb

essentials PlaYlist

interviews tattles How to Get a niGerian Man to MarrY You

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January 23, 2015

Before you read If you had any feeling of euphoria about the New Year, i’m sure those feelings would have disappeared by now. The year has begun in earnest and one has to tidy up all loose ends so as not to end up on the losing side at the end of 2015.

Our cover this week is the talented Adesua Etomi. The actress whose appearance on the movie Knocking on Heaven’s door garnered a lot of positive reviews speaks about her work in theatre and also her ‘romantic life’. Make

Essentials Playlist

sure you read all about it.

Also, crossover Fuji star Pasuma Wonder speaks of his decision to live without a wife in TATTLES. The sudden break up of Mo’Hits records still comes up once in a while but did you know Dr Sid

might have had something to do with it? TATTLES gives you an expose on this.

Enjoy the weekend! fridayleadership@leadership.ng follow us on Twitter @essentialsng

one TO WATCH

The Entertainment Year in Retrospect (Part 2)

W

e’ve been looking for an Ice Prince redemption but one’s not sure if a remix of the N-Word did the magic trick any bit of justice.

Davido and Wizkid began their spat over God knows what. Vector got the ‘clear’ verdict and quickly answered our questions to Where is Vector? This would later become the lead single off his mixtape #A7. In the same vein, Afro-soul singer Asa prepared us for the release of her third studio album, Bed of Stones with “ah-mah-zing” lead singles Satan Be Gone and The One That Never Comes.

At this point, the incredible M.I Abaga had generated so much buzz and appeal for his upcoming album after a year-long hiatus.

The shocker, however, was the moment we realised that King James wasn’t even housed on the album. Faze, former member of now disbanded music group, Plantashun Boiz, made an unanticipated comeback with Your Daughter. Afro R&B specialist, Banky W, did it again with Jaiye Orimi. Vector’s Shiga had an especially nice ringing beat and Toolz in the background actually singing? Hmmmn.

‘Alhaji Orezi’ teamed up with Wizkid for another hit single You Garrit, while we celebrated our Afro-centric duo, P-Square, for Eje Ajo, their spanking collaboration with international rapper Tip ‘T I’ Harris.

Wake Up is what you get when Flavour teams up with Wande Coal to present a danceable Makossa-like Highlife number.

Collabo, that exquisite collaboration between P-Square and Don Jazzy cannot be overlooked. Burna Boy raised the stakes in Dancehall game with Check & Balance. Brymo’s love offering, Fe Mi would later become the lead single to his hotly anticipated album, Tabula Rasa. Fire brand entertainer, D’Banj caused uproar with fans taking sides for/against Omini. Same was the case for Wizkid when he finally dropped his long-awaited second studio album, Ayo (Joy). He would later team up with 2Face to headline the year’s Hennessy Artistry concert series, performing their collaborative number Dance Go (Eau de Vie).

Tiwa Savage was in the news, no thanks to less than pleasing new about her marriage making the rounds. She kept mum until My Darlin’ surfaced. Her response maybe? Who are we to judge? Oh wait, Phyno’s Yayo was just bad.

Yemi Alade was building a fan base so fast with her single Kissing, the lead single to her acclaimed and impressive debut effort King of Queens. Another collaborative effort from the Mavins Crew was Adaobi. It never really got that much buzz until the video

‘righted’ all the supposed wrongs we faulted Dorobucci for.

Right on cue was M.I with the almost over-due album Chairman. Olamide hinted on another album release, Street OT, his fourth album in four years.

Same day, Flavour pulled a Beyoncé on us with his own fourth album Thankful.

HKN front man, Davido dropped an early birthday offering before turning 22. Owo Ni Koko was greeted initially with mixed feelings but it didn’t stop us from grooving to it.

D’Banj had promised us a collaboration with Akon. Feeling The Nigga hit the stores, but it was Akon-less. We talked and talked some more. The year was fast drawing to an eventful close and, in a perceived desperate attempt, Starboy Wizkid ‘disposed’ off some tracks, Wonder and Sound It, respectively.

Praiz also dropped his over-due debut LP Rich & Famous; a two-in-one, 27-track album. Really, has he got that much to sing?

The Headies came again but this time, surprisingly, it wasn’t the hot mess we planned for it to be. For some not-sopeculiar reason, Di’Ja was labelled the ‘late bloomer’ of the Mavin freshmen trio. After Yaro and a remix with Ice Prince (why am I not surprised?), she showed versatility and game on her last single, Awww.

Who can forget Kefee’s death, WizKid’s drama with Saeon and Samklef, Charles Novia’s erratic responses to entertainers, Etcetera’s vile and venomous tongue that seriously needs a leash on it every time he puts pen to paper, D’Prince and his relentless efforts at doing music, Jesse Jagz die-hard tactics and huge appreciation by fans, Kcee’s ever growing automobile and gold merchandise, the many, many endorsements ( by DJ Jimmy Jatt, Niyola, Lynxxx, Naeto-C… in passing), Davido’s 5 straight-up award wins for Artiste of the Year (four of which were on the African platform) and, finally, Oritsefemi’s new ‘BFF-ship’ with guy man, D’Banj as well as the circumstantial tale that was told about how he crashed that Range Rover Evoque only a week after it was given to him (the bits really don’t add up – that’s to whoever cooked up the story).

Regardless, it was a big explosively flourishing mighty year and that was just 2014. Now…2015! Gird your loins and brace yourselves, because even bigger things are gon’ be happening.

Best regards and God speed.

—Courtesy tooxclusive.com

Scorpion Loosely based on the life of self-proclaimed genius and computer expert Walter O’Brien, In the series follows O’Brien and his genius friends as they help each other to solve complex global problems. The team includes O’Brien, one of the smartest people in the world with a 197 IQ, and his friends Sylvester Dodd, a

“human calculator” dealing in statistics; Happy Quinn, a “mechanical prodigy”; and Toby Curtis, a “world-class shrink” (a Harvard-trained behaviourist). Paige Dineen is a former waitress whose interaction with people translates the real world to them; they, in exchange, translate her young mentally gifted son, Ralph, to her.

movie review

Black November Genre:Religious drama Director: Jeta Amata Year: 2014

Hollywood and Nollywood the prolific, still export-resistant Nigerian film industry — don’t so much meet as exchange business cards in “Black November,” an impassioned but inert social tract disguised only notionally as a high-octane terrorism thriller.

While the presence upfront of Kim Basinger and Mickey Rourke lends the initial impression of cheerfully cheesy exploitation fare, their contributions turn out to be marginal: Auds chasing cheap thrills will be caught off guard by this earnestly angry study of

Nigeria’s corruption-riddled oil industry, superficially bracketed by a standard-issue, Los Angelesset hostage drama. Sadly, Jeta Amata’s film proves plodding and sanctimonious in either register.

Finally getting a multiplatform release after languishing on the shelf since 2012 — following a premiere at the United Nations, no less “Black November” (titled “Rise Up” on the copy viewed by this critic) won’t draw much international attention to its home country’s plight.

—Courtesy Variety.com

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

ACTING EDITOR Pembi David-Stephen

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

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

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January 23, 2015

The Desire To Be Internationally Recognised Is Pressing – Mc Bob Bob Anasi, popularly known as MC Bob, hails from Assiga Afrekpe, Yakurr local government area of Cross River State. The CEO of Comic Room Entertainment and host of Comedy Convention pours out his heart in this chat with

ANTHONY ADA ABRAHAM The Beginning I started comedy way back in my secondary school days, when it was just ‘Yabis’, alongside my friends Eval Eni, Innocent Mike and Randy Edu. Nobody could defeat us in terms of 'yapping'. In 2001, I decided to go professional. Since then, it's been wonderful.

2. Love For Comedy I love comedy and I have passion for it. I was motivated further when I watched Julius Agwu’s stand-up performance in the now-rested soap, Paradise Park.

3. Mentors Of all the comedians I have come across, none of them have made huge impressions like Julius Agwu and Gordons.

4. Nigerian Stand-up Comedy In my opinion, besides Nollywood, stand-up comedy is the next big projector of the country’s image. The industry is growing by the day. At least, taking unemployed youth from the streets to become celebrities who manage weddings, concerts and other events, is something.

5. Up-coming Events I’m currently working on my personal show, MC Bob Again! It is the most anticipated show in Abuja and beyond. Also, it promises to be quite interactive. The event will see the gathering of humour kings at Sledge Lounge Kubwa, the biggest and finest event centre in Kubwa axis of Abuja.

The event will the high-point of an evening of fun featuring Abuja’s best

Mc Bob

comedians (Nick B, D2, Wafi, Cri Snow, Chuks D General, Orolee and Dr Ayuba). Music will be from Abuja’s finest (Oga Thomas aka Angel Papa, Hiobee, Slim and Fuzzy).

7. Future Of Comedy I see myself achieving more than

others who have gone far in the industry; people like Basketmouth and others. I want to take comedy to another level and also use it to help many youths who have passion for the industry. I see myself on a big stage with great international comedians doing our thing.

Essentials Taste

Bitter Leaf Soup (Ofe Onugbu) Back in the day, I used to have a phobia for preparing this soup, because the very first time I tried, I ended up throwing the whole pot of soup away due to the unbearable bitter taste and the whole family went to bed hungry that day.

Worse, I didn’t hear the last of it for the rest of the week.

The next time I made it, I unknowingly released a stink bomb within the house, no thanks to the excess ogiri. This was a milder blunder compared to the first and the house smelled great the next day after I emptied two cans of air freshener.

Thanks to my experiences, I am now a pro (sort of) and I can proudly say I’m totally in love with onugbu soup.

Ofe Onugbu (Bitter leaf soup) is a tasty Nigerian soup native to the Igbos of South-eastern Nigeria. The name 'bitter leaf soup' is derived from the fact that the leaf used in preparation (vernonia amygdalina) is bitter until washed thoroughly.

Preparation is quite easy, though.

assorted meat, periwinkles (isam), stock fish/ dry fish, pepper in a medium-sized pot, add some salt and boil with little water for 15 minutes. Pour some more water, just enough to cover the content of the pot.

Step 3 Check for salt and add more if necessary. Add the crushed seasoning and ogiri into the pot and mix. Leave to boil for five minutes till the liquid in the pot starts to bubble.

[if it is well prepared]. The first thing to do is to wash the bitter leaf by hand thoroughly to remove the bitter taste. A shortcut to this would be to place it in a pot and allow boiling for 10 minutes. While doing this, make sure the pot is left uncovered, otherwise it'll bubble out. Once you're done boiling, pour into a sieve and rinse severally with cold Directions water. Squeeze off excess water and Ingredients Step 1 The major misconception set aside.

•3 handfuls Bitter leaf • 1 cooking spoon cocoyam (ede ofe) about this soup is that it's bitter.

Actually, it's not meant to be bitter Step 2 Place the washed beef, • 1 tablespoon of ogiri • 600g Red beef • 500g assorted meat (tripe, ponmo) • 1 Cup periwinkles (isam) • Stock fish/ dry fish • 1 Red scotch bonnet pepper – diced • 2 Cooking spoon palm oil • 1 Cooking spoon Crayfish •2 Seasoning cubes •Salt to taste

Caution First As welcome deserve is theasand parent flowers then ofin desire. safety.

May. ――Egyptian EgyptianAfrica Africa

Step 4 Gently add the cocoyam paste, leave to dissolve in the bubbling liquid. Remember, the cocoyam being used is the non-edible type that draws and not the edible type that can be boiled and eaten like yam. As it boils, it'll begin to thicken.

Add the palm oil and crayfish and leave to thicken further.

Step 5 By now you should notice

a considerable reduction in the volume of liquid in the pot. Gently add the washed bitter leaf and mix to incorporate. Leave to boil further for 10minutes more before turning off the burner. Serve hot with your favourite swallow.

— Courtesy Dobbysignature.com

36 TATTLES

January 23, 2015

Between Snoop Dogg andFor IggyMore Azalea I Can't Date Someone Than 6

Months- Michelle Rodriguez

The on-going feud between Iggy Azalea and legendary rapper Snoop Dogg has been described asinterview, the ‘World’sactress most random rap feud’ In a recent Michelle and it all started when Snoop Rodriguez (popular for herposted role ina picture the mocking Iggy’s makeup-free face.

Snoop Fast & Furious film franchise and herposted the photo showing an albino-looking woman relationship with both men and women) with cornrow braids and the caption “Iggy said she can’t be with anyone for more Azalea nomonths. make-up.” Many of Snoop’s 3.5millionthan six plus were the derisivenothing consistent She followers said: “Look atalso me!tickled I haveby absolutely picture, as it scored thousands of likes and comments in my life, but that’s where serendipity comes inwithin and Ihours. love Well, Iggy got wind of the picture and blasted Snoop on Twitter, that. I’m a lone wolf, the thought of being in a long-lasting saying “why would you post such a mean picture on Instagram relationship?

I couldn’t last more than six months with when you send yourlet body guards toaask me for pictures every for timeawe are somebody, alone have father figure around kid.” at shows.”

Snoop responded by posting another picture online of As for having children, she said; “Having kids don’t leave him platinum wig under the words:want Snoop thatwearing sh*t toame.

I’ll getblonde a surrogate.

I wouldn’t toDogg

sacrifice the last years that I have of being youthful in this business to have kids.”

Chris Brown’s ‘Ebola Tweet Apology’ Not Accepted By Fans

American musician Chris Brown isMy notSuccess a My Background Hindering doctor he doesn’t even play one on TV and In The JamesshutBlunt he’s nowMusic learnedBusiness to keep his–mouth when

it comes toaccused important medical After being of being oneissues of the like the Ebola crisis.dominating Recently, Chris tweeted that “I performers Britain’s entertainment don’t know butofI think this Ebola epidemic is scene because his influential background by a form of population control.

S**t is getting bruh.”

The Shadow Culture Minister Chris Bryant, popularcrazy British musician immediate and furiousbybacklash included that followed was James Blunt responded calling the politician a “classist gimp”. definitely expected.

“You’reMP, notYou a smart all,” and “You He wrote: “Dear Chris Bryant classistperson gimp. at I happened to believe this based on what evidence?

Ohway, yeah, and “Why go to a boarding school.

Every step of the mynone” background has morons gotta besucceeding famous?” in the music business and when I have been against me Chris conceded after just 3 minutes managed to breakdefeat through, I was still scoffed atby fortweeting, being too“Let poshme shut black ass up!”

But the angry responses coming. for themy industry.

And then you come along, lookingkept for votes, telling This is not one of Chris’s finestpeople moments. working class people that posh like me don’t deserve it and that we must redress the balance. But it is your populist, envy-based, vote-hunting ideas which make our country crap, far more than me and my s*** songs. Very blunt, Mr Blunt.

Wizkid Is An Ungrateful Person – Samklef

Popular musician WizKid is currently in the eye of the storm over issues bordering on attitude and excessive collaboration charges from his fellow artistes, Samklef and lately Saeon.

Since the ugly break-up Mo’hits labelled Records, It all started when WizKidofallegedly fans have been wondering what caused the his former producer Samklef’s beats ‘Amateur’ sudden implosion. in a recent interview and Samklef, not taking It does seem, however, thatreplied the factor the comments siting down WizKid responsible for that division has been immediately. He made his feelings known in revealed. an interview with Linda Ikeji. “I’m not happy with WizKid. I am angry In a recent interview withdisrespecting Olisa Adibuamy on talent.

The Truth, because he’s going about I likeD’banj his music cleared Don Jazzy’s name after rumour mongers accused himhim of but l don’t like him as a person anymore. The reason I don’t like being responsible. anymore is, why do you go about spoiling other people’s business?

“If I would really be business, truthful, the first person up Mo’hits I never spoiled your never came out that to saybroke anything bad is Dr Sid,” he told a surprised Adibua. about you for four years. So why would you go to an OAP and tell Recall that inthe an interview national November the OAP that reason whywith youano longer daily work in with me is because 2014, Dr Sid was quoted as saying: “We are not missing Dbanj; no, not at all. He is doing well and he has gone on to drop a couple of hits. Same goes for Mavin.”

One can only wait to see how this saga will play out.

Musician, fashion designer and entrepreneur Lanre Fasasi, aka Sound Sultan recently made a shocking revelation that his wife, Farida Fasasi is not a fan of his music.

While speaking in a recent interview with NET, the ‘Naija Ninjas’ boss said ‘My wife does not listen to my music, she likes Following the release hisMarley. two monster listening to Blackface andof Bob ’ singles (Shake Body and Givemarried it to Me) Sound Sultan, a devoted Muslim, hislast long term Igbo Morah into year, the Christian talentedgirlfriend, singer isChichi attempting 2009 and hisyear wifeon hasasince converted Islam after begin the high, with thetorelease of getting married the Satellite Town bred star, fully two new songstoJe kan mo and I am For Real. adoptingisthe Islamic faith the name, Farida.

Skales definitely notand messing around!

The union between Sound Sultan, whose Produced by Jay Pizzle, Je Kan mo iscareer an started in 2000 with the release of his hit single, up-beat song and is sure going to be a club anthem in no ‘Jagbajantis,’ and his wife, is currently blessed with 3 children. time. I am for Real, produced by Orbeat, is another song that showcases the versatility and musical ingenuity of Skales.

Also, his debut album will be released in March on the Entertainers N1 Billion In Hospitality platform of hisInvest new abode, Baseline Records. Businesses With Nigeria standing tall as the fastest-growing hospitality sector sub-Saharan Africa, according tosdata collected by 30 Daysin In Atlanta Becomes Nigeria’ Highest Grossing W-Hospitality Group, top entertainers in the country have also Unless you been living underalmost a rockN1b for the three months, delved intohave the sector, investing thispast is according to you must have heard comedian AY’s award-winning 30 NET. Though some ofof these entertainers have failed inmovie operating Daysofintheir Atlanta. few investments, others have teamed up with experts The movie which premiered onand October 31,From 2014, accordingAY’s to in the sector to invest heavily wisely.

Comedian, box officeopened statistics, is the highest grossing movie in the Nigerian recently ‘MVP Lounge’ to 2face Idibia’s ‘Rumors’ and Dayo cinema history, havingand amassed a total of N137m, so far. If you are Adeneye’s D&C Suites bar; entertainers keep investing in the one of thosesector who say Nigerians don’t patronise Nollywood, then hospitality in recent time.

Other entertainers who have this information says otherwise. invested in the hospitality sectorGet arethat.

Femi Kuti ‘Afrikan Shrine’, Victor Olaiya, Stadium Hotel, and Flavour, 2nite Klub.

Dr Sid Broke Up Mo’hits – D’banj

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

Rapper Skales Releases New Music

Singer

According to and 40 year old Spanish Actress mother of two Penelope Cruz TMZ, fast-rising was recently named the Sexiest R&B singer AugusttoAlsina Woman Alive according Esquire exchanged blows magazine’s annual list backstage of desirable female beauties. Loose with show promoter Cannon Slim at a show to promote non-violence.

What a coincidence!

Jordin Spark, Kim Kardashian has the World’s Best butt!

This is who splitaccording from to recent research commissioned Jason Derulo in surgeon July 2014, by Longevita plastic Prof. recently revealed that45% he Dr Fuat Yuksel . And over percent women to broke upofwith herseeking and never enlarge their butt in the last one said a word to her again! She year want what they now refer to said she as didn’t even ‘The Kim’ . know they had officially broken up when he decided to call it quits. What a pity.

TiSPY Who broke TiSPY

up Mo’’Hits Name the records? musician that has a nightclub in Festac?

II'm AmNot Comfortable That Rich Living Without A -Genevieve Nnaji Wife – Pasuma

Star actress Genevieve Nnaji was a guest on TV show ‘The Truth’ with Olisa Adibua. In the

The number of Nigerian entertainers who have no need for a wife or husband is gradually in the increase. For many, it is the 21st Century way and for others, it is not something they want to try.

Speaking recently, popular Fuji musician Wasiu Odetunde Alabi, popularly known as Pasuma, spoke about his decision to live without a wife.

“I am comfortable. I think anything you do in this life, you just have to believe in yourself first. At the same time, if I am not ready to do anything, nobody can force me to do it. By now, I believe people should allow me live my life. I am comfortable living without a wife, but I can’t shy away from the fact that I need someone to call my own under my roof. I know quite well that it’s better for me to have a wife [one thing] which I will still do. So, people should just wait, keep their fingers crossed and let me choose for myself.”

The singer also visited memory lane, reminiscing on the days before he found fame as a singer.

“I did quite a lot. There’s a place in Ojuwoye, Mushin, where I used to be a wheel barrow-pusher, helping traders convey their goods. I was also a bus conductor at some point. While I was still in secondary school.”

TheThings Things The

They Said Said They havesay nothing against theSavage’s media” “I“Ididn’t anything about Tiwa marriage”

—Actress Funke Akindele

–Musician Kcee “Nosweet second-term for President Jonathan” “Life die”

—Musician Lagbaja

– Musician Davido

FLiRT ALERT

“I wantnever to settle down untilheartbroken I find the right person” ”Idon’t have been before” –Actress Genevieve Nnaji — Actor Yomi Fash Lanso

GOT A CELEB GIST? GET IN TOUCH!

TATTLES 37

January 23, 2015

TATTLES with Abisola Alawode

OUR EAR-ON-GROUND

ccf

Why Nigerian Celebs Look Bad On The Red Carpet

The fashion sense of some of our celebrities is fodder for critics around the country. Some say because they are too cheap, they prefer to create their own style, instead of hiring professionals.

The result: Disaster on the red carpet!

The article below (which has been edited for space), from entertainment publication The NET, is republished for your reading and comprehension. You can make your own inferences: “I was watching Nike Oshinowo’s new television show and in the first episode she said something that made me chuckle. It was something like ‘it takes a village to get me to look like this’. I smiled. Thank God someone is telling the truth! I often shake my head when I read the comments sections of Nigerian blogs where men and women criticise celebrities’ fashion sense and fling the words ‘Get a stylist! She needs a stylist!’ Do you think it’s easy? As someone in the public eye, I try to look good. Sometimes, I look good and, sometimes, I don’t. And I really do try!

First off, there are not up to 10 good stylists in Nigeria – I don’t know why.

The fashion industry is growing rapidly but the number of good stylists [have refused to grow]. The average good stylist charges as much as N50, 000 per look! Some stylists like Veronica Odeka ask you to put them on a monthly retainer – the last time I asked how much she charges was 2012. The rate at that time was N200, 000 per month.

The good thing was it would cover all events, photo-shoots and even a wardrobe overhaul. Again, this depends on how many events you attend. Note that this was back in 2012. I heard her star client Genevieve Nnaji pays her more.

Speaking of Genny, how many movies has she been in recently? How does she afford all her designer this and that and all her fabulous trips abroad?

I’m asking! Biko, show us the way! Her new fashion line seems to be doing well – but she just started! Please, let’s not get into how some female celebs flaunt designer stuff online all the time.

Half the time, their money isn’t from their craft (I won’t get into that today).

The likes of Chika Ike who actually go on vacation every three months and buy all these designer things –

PUBLiC DiSPLAY

what exactly do they do for a living apart from being celebrities? We also know the ones who flaunt very good imitations. I see you, Mercy Aigbe. The pretty actress has been seen rocking six different Hermes Birkin bags! Those bags cost roughly $14,000 each! So she bought them all? *Blank stare* Mercy Aigbe.

Unfortunately, the red carpet is important. It helps with image, [creates] awareness for your brand and, generally, reminds your fans, foes, colleagues and brand managers that you are around. Appearing on the red carpet has helped a lot of careers. Look at Toke Makinwa, Uti Nwachukwu and Zainab Balogun. They appear often on the red carpet and they look good.

They also have endorsement deals.

Speaking of angles, you do know that stars in Hollywood actually have been taught how to pose on the red carpet by expert’s right?! We have no such experts here! So, sometimes, celebs get creative. You dress yourself from your closet or get a designer to make or lend you an outfit. Sometimes, you just have to make do with what you are given. That’s just getting ready for an event. If you are not naturally slender like me, you have to work out constantly or resort to body magic or both. You have to eat healthy – this is not easy all the time and it’s not cheap in Nigeria. Abroad, there are a plethora of nutritionists, aestheticians, plastic surgeons and personal trainers to ensure that the stars look their best.

Uzi (celebrity trainer) charges over N100, 000 per month. Ponle (another trainer) charges over $100 per workout session. We all know with N500, if you buy rice and meat from a buka – you will eat well. But N500 cannot buy you a salad! It might buy you some miserable looking carrots and cucumbers.

That’s it! A facial at a good spa costs at least N12, 000. I made enquiries at a dentist’s office; I wanted to whiten my teeth. I was told it costs N80, 000.

Just to whiten – not to get a new set of teeth! I’m not making excuses. I just want you to think about these things and know that it is not easy! So, think twice before you type ‘get a stylist’. It is a lot of hard work and dedication!

“I have signed autographs on many “’Oga Bello’ shaped myboobs” life” –Sir Shina Peters — K1 de Ultimate

Popular actress Ini Edo who recently ended her marriage to Philip Ehiagwina has reportedly found love again. She is said to be dating actor Mike Godson.

Speaking during a recent interview, fastrising musician Kiss Daniel mentioned that he graduated from the university with a CGPA of 4.3. Remarkable!

Many still find it difficult to come to grips with the fact that actor Muna Obiekwe recently passed on, due to complications arising from kidney failure. The actor whose many roles made him a darling with movie lovers around the world will be sorely missed. RIP Muna.

It seems Nigerian musicians are now taking their craft abroad. An example is Dancehall singer Timaya. The Ukwu crooner has announced his first official tour of 2015 which will kick off in Australia. Proceedings will start in earnest on January 23, 2015 with a live concert at Perth. He’ll follow up with stops at Sydney, Melbourne and other cities in Australia before returning to Nigeria. Good luck to him.

“Strivein notthe to be a success,skies but rather besee of value” “It is often darkest thattowe the brightest TiP FOR TiP FOR –Albert Einstein THE TOP THE TOP stars” —Richard Paul Evans

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

38

interview

January 23, 2015

Adesua Etomi: Making Her Mark In Nollywood London Life, Lagos Living happened simply because of the director Kenneth Uphopho. I had previously worked with him in two plays (The Anatomy of a Woman and Shattered). He called and asked me to come on board. The play showed at the Taruwa Festival and it was a wonderful experience. I’m thankful for the positive reviews.

6

Which filmmaker’s work do you admire the most?

Wow. One person? There are so many film makers I’m in awe of. I cannot possibly arrive at one name. I spend my days acting in films or watching films and my wish-list of producers and directors include, at least, a dozen Nigerians and several more from Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. If I get the chance to be in films made by, at least 80 per cent of these people, I’d be a very happy camper.

7

Which actor/actress would you like to work with (both internationally and locally)?

Internationally, I absolutely love Meryl Streep, Daniel DayLewis, Leonardo Dicaprio, Denzel Washington and Chris Hemsworth. As for Nollywood, I would really like to work with Rita Dominic, Kalu Ikeagwu, RMD, amongst others. There are so many talented actors over here and working with anyone of them will be an honour.

8 9

Is Adesua in a relationship or, better yet, will the wedding bells ring soon?

Living is about relationships. We are in relationships with everyone we interact with regularly. Mischief aside, I share so much of my life with the rest of the world and my personal business is probably the only thing I can hold onto. So this particular question, in the spirit that it was asked, will be left unanswered.

Q&A 1. Coke or Fanta?

I like Fanta, absolutely. [I have] no issues with coke, but, gun to my head, Fanta is always going to win.

2. What essential items do you need on set?

Hmmm. I guess I’ll say I need the script, because you need to be sure you have your lines; otherwise an actor simply needs to show up on set and everything you need for that scene will be handed to you.

3. Have you any interest in another career or, perhaps, other aspects of entertainment or the film industry?

I have been blessed with a decent singing voice. I don’t know for certain if this is something I’ll actively pursue yet. We’ll see.

4. How would you define your style?

My style would depend on the occasion or the event. However, I do like to be comfortable, so this has a huge impact on anything I choose to wear.

5. Your three favourite movies of all time?

That’s a difficult one, but these three come to mind; Coming To America, Slumdog Millionaire and Blood Diamond.

6. What is your ultimate goal as an actress?

I’m thankful to be in a position where I get to do what I love every day of my life. My long-term goal is to be a critically acclaimed and commercially successful actor.

7. Who is Adesua Etomi?

Adesua is the third of three siblings and the daughter of an amazing woman. Professionally, she is an actor and, personally, she is a free spirit and in love with the arts.

What are some of the things you learnt during your sojourn abroad that you feel Nigerians will benefit from?

I wasn’t exactly sojourning while I was abroad. I relocated and was privileged to get an education, preparing myself and training to be good at my job. I graduated with national diplomas in the Performing, Musical & Physical Theatre, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Drama and Performance. I’m not sure I’m in a position to teach anyone right now but, given the chance, I’d be happy to pass on whatever knowledge I do have.

10

The year 2015 is an one in which elections will take place. What piece of advice do you have for both the electorate and politicians?

Whatever happens and whoever wins or loses, I’d implore that we do not resort to any form of violence. Most importantly, if you haven’t gotten your PVC, please take out the time to get it. We cannot make a difference if we do not exercise our right to vote. For the politicians, please keep your promises to the electorate.

11

What are your plans for the future and what should fans expect from you?

I’ve just wrapped-up my first shoot of the year, produced by Uduak Isong Oguamanam and directed

by Niyi Akinmolayan. I start another in a week or so and the next in the second week of February. There is also a television series which I started shooting last year and is set to air sometime around April. It is called Las Gidi Cops. Besides that, there is talk of a third season of Gidi Up, so that is also in the works. I’m doing more Film and TV projects this year in addition to those on stage. This year, you will be seeing a lot more of me on screen and on stage.

12

Final words?

I’m very grateful to everyone who has watched anything I’ve been in and been supportive of my career, so far. I’m also thankful to the producers, directors and everyone in the film-making community who have taken chances with me. I will do my best to repay the faith shown in me. God bless you all.

Etomi

First come, first served.

― Egyptian proverb

interview

January 23, 2015

1 She might not be as popular as the Mercy Johnsons and Rita Dominics of Nollywood, but one thing is sure; her incredible talent is evident in the movies she has starred in.

Adesua Etomi is definitely poised to make her mark as an actress who will be remembered for years to come.

BY ABISOLA ALAWODE

I think we put a lot of pressure on Nollywood, sometimes unfairly so. We also forget that for every 10 films you consider sub-standard, we have one gem. In time, these gems will be all we see.

39

Adesua Etomi Making Her Mark In Nollywood

As someone who is primarily known for her stage performances, you recently made the move to full-blown films. Why? An actor is an actor, be it on stage or in film.

Think of actors as vessels and these platforms as our media. As for making ‘the move’ I still pursue both media actively. If I’m contacted for a project which intrigues me, I’ll do it, be it on stage, in the studio or on set. I love to act and when you love something you’ll jump at it, regardless of whatever package it is wrapped in.

2

Would you say Knocking on Heaven’s Door was the movie that brought you to limelight, seeing that you played a lead role in this movie?

Knocking on Heaven’s Door was my first film project and I also landed the lead role. It literarily introduced me to Nollywood, so I’m very grateful to everyone who had a hand in making that happen, especially Emem Isong, Desmond Elliot and the Royal Arts Academy team. There have been several other projects following that, including Lowladee’s Brave and, more recently, Gidi Up. Before my foray into film, I’d had a very good run on stage with plays like London Life, Lagos Living, Band Aid and Saro. All of these projects added a bit of light to the limelight, but, yes, Knocking On Heaven’s Door did bring an extra oomph.

3

Sometimes, actors have to go to extreme lengths to prepare for certain roles. Some have to shave their hair, while others have to lose or gain weight to suit a particular role. Some even do this to the detriment of their health. To what extent would you be willing to go for a role and what type of roles will you turn down?

It is not acting, unless you’ve completely immersed yourself in the character. Thankfully, there are very realistic prosthetics to help sell the story, so shaving your hair is not as common place anymore. That said, some method actors like Daniel Day-Lewis have been known to live their characters’ lives off and on screen for the duration of that project. Everyone has limits, but I will do everything I can to stay true to the role.

I’m not afraid to lose myself every time, as long as it helps the ‘believability’ of my character.

4

It is well known that Nollywood is listed amongst the three biggest movie industries in the world. For some of its critics, the tag means very little, because we are not producing movies of ‘international standard’. What is your take on this?

I think we put a lot of pressure on Nollywood, sometimes unfairly so. We also forget that for every 10 films you consider sub-standard, we have one gem. In time, these gems will be all we see. Several Nigerian film makers have made

Etomi

quality films over the past four to five years which have given international films a run for their money. If you check the box office figures, you will see that Nollywood films are doing very well.

I’m proud of how far we’ve come and I’m confident that, as more people get the right training, the standards of film making will continue to improve.

5

First catch your hare. ― Chinese proverb

Your ‘hilarious’ performance in the stage performance of London Life, Lagos Living definitely gained you a lot of positive reviews from film and theatre experts alike.

How did it happen?

40

COLUMNS

January 23, 2015

Diary

guest column

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

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

The Creaking Bed And Other Stories (1) Apologies, dear readers, for I have been away on a long, long, long leave of absence.

I am back now and hope to make this page worth your while, as much and as best as I can.

I went on a mission of self-evaluation, to discover what makes me a jerk and to either put a stop to it or continue being such a sorry, sorry jerk.

I was in the city of Kano again after a long while.

I had not been to the city since the accursed people started spreading the virus of violence everywhere and at every time.

It was the weekend for the wedding Fatiha, the Walima and the Buddan Kai between the daughter of one of the Titans of Northern Nigeria and the son of a former minister of petroleum in the ‘80s and early ‘90s.

I had seen the couple and I was humbled. I should marry Bhaira and settle down some day, I thought to myself.

But I was not alone and it was bad. Etim was with me.

We were at the venue of the Bachelor’s Eve on the night of Wednesday, December24, 2014 and, for some gracious reason, the place was flooded with fair-skinned, Northern beauties. Some of them were accompanied by hard-staring, mute, matronly chaperons who looked like they were willing to reverse the hands of time to be enjoying the loud, care-free laughter.

“Ol’ boy, what are all these women doing here na?” Etim nudged me as we stood at the centre of the room, trying to decide where to sit, so as not to attract attraction to ourselves.

I was dressed in that long robe called ‘tazarce’ and ‘babanriga’ and so was Etim, but we topped it off with Joseph Wayas-like caps and, only a true eye could tell we (no, Etim) were (was) not from the city.

“Em, Etim,” I started calmly, “We will attend this wedding and behave as chaste as the situation calls for. We will not drag our good name or that of any lady hereinto shame and…”

He held up his hand to stop me.

“Why do I get this feeling that I have heard that before and that everytime you say that we end up getting a night of creaking beds?” He asked.

I smiled wanly. I was never programmed to win any debate; not with Etim.

Suddenly, we heard the MC’s voice amidst all the noise.

“And now, everyone, some music! Salamu alaikum!”

Right on cue, the intro for Skales’ ‘Shake Body’ came on and, before we knew it, all the bodies in the room were gyrating to the hard-hitting song.

“Mbok, these Kano people can bubble o!” Etim screamed above the noise.

Somehow, in the midst of the madness, Etim began dancing away from me. I was alarmed. He didn’t know anyone or anywhere in this city and we needed to be together.

Or so I thought.

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I got busy on my own and forgot about the bugger.

A guy saw me dancing and felt he needed the competition.

“These people are just mobbing their bodies violently, they don’t know the necessary dance steps for the songs.” He was talking and dancing at the same time. And he could dance.

We dug into Run Town’s ‘Alhaji’.

P-Square and Don Jazzy’s ‘Collabo’ caused catcalls and screams to rent the air.

“I can’t believe we are in Kano, the city of conservatives,” he screamed, enjoying the whole thing.

“The conservative tag is just an impression.

This city has more socialites than some states combined,” I replied, still scanning the crowd for Etim.

Two lithe ladies bummed into us, creating space for themselves. They had seen us dancing and were willing to give us a run for our dancing skills.

We were back to Skales’ ‘Shake Body’ and we all shut up to get down to it.

In no time, a circle had been created.

The new guy in the owlish spectacles was nearly outdoing me and, though there other dancers in the room, everyone soon stopped and was clapping for all four of us.

The MC called off the dancing to take some remarks from the wedding families and we all returned to our seats. The new guy had gone off with one of the girls and I was left with the other.

After we had calmed down and took some gulps of the very chilly water in a very chilly Kano city, we got a good first look at ourselves.

She was lithe and fair and, goodness gracious, she had on the colour of the night (a combination of red and brown), a cool mien and a set of shoes to match. She also had a Luis Vuitton handbag.

Wow, I thought to myself.

“I am Razak. Abdulrazak,” I went first.

“Goomsu is the name,” she replied in rich alto.

“And I am Etim.” I whipped my head around and saw my friend take a bow, whistle and slump into a seat.

“Alright guys, meet Binta my beauty queen”.

Binta had a demure smile which was arresting.

She reminded me of Nurse Titi. No wonder Etim fell for her, I thought.

I explained to Goomsu that Etim was my colleague in the office and that he forced himself on me when I told him I was coming to Kano.

“All lies,” he insisted, turning from his companion.

“So, where do you guys stay?” Both girls chorused at the same time.

“The Grand Central Hotel, rooms 221 and 223,” Etim happily disclosed.

I groaned and looked at him.

But all he had was a twinkle in his eye and that sh**-eating grin God blessed him with.

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Fine words butter no parsnips.

How To Get A Nigerian Man To Marry You

Getting a Nigerian man to marry you is the easiest thing in the world. This is your chance to stop being single and get a-mingling. These easy steps will get you married, bedded, bare-foot and pregnant in less than a year, guaranteed or your money back.

Be Very Religious. Nigerian men love religious girls.

You don’t actually have to be, you just have to pretend that you are. Talk about the vigils you go to every now and then, slip in some Bible passages in random conversations even when they don’t fit in, give him a Bible for his birthday. call him randomly for “morning prayers”. A Nigerian man will marry a woman who appears to be religious. Fake it till you get that ring, baby girl.

Pretend To Be Maternal. Pretend that you love children so much, especially other people’s children. Coo at them at grocery stores, malls, lounges, planes. Talk about how much you love children. Carry his friends’ kids all day long.

Offer to help feed them. It doesn’t matter that you don’t love other people’s kids and think that children can be such dicks from a very early age, it should not matter. Pretend, girl. You’re auditioning to be his baby popper, so act like one.

Don’t Ever Mention That You’re A “Feminist”. Femigini? That shit don’t live here, miss. Fuck women rights.

Accept all traditional roles even when you’re dating. When you are dating him, make sure his food is ready as soon as he walks through that door. It doesn’t matter that you’re in school or you are also working like him – stuff like that don’t matter. you have to show your man that you can put your back into it and be that super woman who will clean, cook, pop your back in bed and still pop out those kids.

You Have To Deny Anything You Had To Do With Any Other Man. Have you ever had sex? Made out with someone? You don’t have to tell your Nigerian man that.

When you’re asked your body count, it should be one or two, never more than 3, though, cos you’re already sidestepping into whoredom. Never mind that your Nigerian man’s count is like 54…who cares? He’s only out there humping everything in skirt, so that he can impress you in bed. All of what he does is for you, you ingrate!! He’s out there putting his p**** in everything in order to come home and please you in bed and you have the guts to say you have a body count of more than three? If any man claims he has slept with you, cry and swear that you know no such man.

Refer to rule number 1, start quoting Bible passages about how your enemies are chasing you and all that stuff.

A Nigerian Man Has Needs That Only You Can’t Meet. You have to give him some p**** room. Why are you being selfish? Let men be men. Let them have wings to fly. Don’t be asking him why he came home late. You smell perfume on him? Be happy that some girl is keeping him moisturised and smelling all good. That’s one thing you don’t have to do today. Let them have some fun, girl.

You just want that ring on your finger, don’t you? Relax.

That diamond that you can Instagram with well-manicured fingers is coming.

Last but not least, cook up a storm. Your man should never go hungry. Cater to his food palette, girl. If you don’t cook for him, some other girl will cook for him and steal him away. Cook him new delicacies all day, find out how his mother used to do it, cook for his friends too. Why do you want to eat in a restaurant? Please, use that money, get to the grocery store and make that man some food. Let him save that money he would have used to take you out on your ring, darling. Be wise. A stitch in time saves nine.

This is my good deed for the day. Let she who has ears, listen or…something like that.

— Courtesy Leggy Freda’s blog

— Egyptian proverb

January 23, 2015

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January 23, 2015

ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE /43

January 23, 2015

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

Je Ne Suis Pas Charlie (I Am Not Charlie) (2)

T

his week, we shall see the hypocrisy behind the so-called secularism (or in the French case, Laïcité) which has allowed rogue press like Charlie Hebdo to insult the religion of over a billion people without official consequence. The French government claims that as a state practices Laïcité; it supports no religion or irreligion; a case they made for why although they did not approve of what Charlie Hebdo did, they could also not stop it, curtail it or even sanction the paper. Let us see whether facts and history support this claim.

Take this entry from Wikipedia for example: “Although the concept of separation has been adopted in a number of countries, there are varying degrees of separation depending on the applicable legal structures and prevalent views toward the proper relationship between religion and politics. While a country’s policy may be to have a definite distinction in church and state, there may be an “arm’s length distance” relationship in which the two entities interact as independent organisations.

“A similar but typically stricter principle of laïcité has been applied in France and Turkey, while some socially secularized countries such as Denmark and the United Kingdom have maintained constitutional recognition of an official state religion. The concept parallels various other international social and political ideas, including secularism, disestablishment, religious liberty, and religious pluralism.

Whitman (2009) observes that in many European countries, the state has, over the centuries, taken over the social roles of the church, leading to a generally secularized public sphere.

“The degree of separation varies from total separation mandated by a constitution, as in India and Singapore; to an official religion with total prohibition of the practice of any other religion, as in the Maldives.

“For centuries, monarchs ruled by the idea of divine right. Sometimes this began to be used by a monarch to support the notion that the king ruled both his own kingdom and Church within its boundaries, a theory known as caesaropapism. On the other side was the Catholic doctrine that the Pope, as the Vicar of Christ on earth, should have the ultimate authority over the Church, and indirectly over the state. Moreover, throughout the Middle Ages the Pope claimed the right to depose the Catholic kings of Western Europe and tried to exercise it, sometimes successfully, sometimes not, such as was the case with Henry VIII of England and Henry III of Navarre.

“In the West, the issue of the separation of church and state during the medieval period centred on monarchs who ruled in the secular sphere but encroached on the Church’s rule of the spiritual sphere. This unresolved contradiction in ultimate control of the Church led to power struggles and crises of leadership, notably in the Investiture Controversy, which was resolved in the Concordat of Worms in 1122. By this concordat, the Emperor renounced the right to invest ecclesiastics with ring and crosier, the symbols of their spiritual

power, and guaranteed election by the canons of cathedral or abbey and free consecration” The German priest, Martin Luther, was one of the first proponents of ‘the two kingdoms’ that saw Europe change in the 16th Century.

It was his proposition that the church should have little or nothing to do with the state and vice versa.

Matters came to a head in the 1530s when King Henry VIII announced himself the head of the newly founded Church of England and outlawed any other denomination. Catholics fled to Northern America away from the persecution in England. They grew in number and strength until the 1770s when they revolted against King George III, marking the beginning of what is now the United States of America. Greatly influenced by the writings of John Locke, one of the things the new state did was to abolish the the establishment of religion

by Congress.

From the little I have cited above, it is clear that the history of secularism lies in the struggle for dominance between those who abused spiritual authority and those who abused temporal authority. It was not for any altruistic reasons. The group that won the battle is the one determining what is right and what is wrong today. In trying to ban the influence of religion on the affairs of state, they have fallen into the same trap they claimed that they sought to destroy - the misuse of power.

Out of that irresponsible, yet powerful ideology many horrid ideas have sprung. It is from the fountainhead of secularism that concepts like free speech and LGBT (Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transvestites) grew.

Secularism has become a religion in itself.

Talking or arguing against it is deemed another form of blasphemy now.

In essence, we have a French government whose laws had a distinct Christian history that they seek to blot out with the godless concept of laïcité. Yet, this is just on paper. Let us see some examples.

In the two French provinces of Alsace and Moselle, the Concordat between France and the Holy See remains because the area was under German control when the 1905 French law on the Separation of the Churches and the State was passed. Catholic priests as well as the clergy of three other religions (Lutheran, Calvinist, and Jewish) are paid by the state, and schools have religious courses.

Moreover, the Catholic bishops of Metz and Strasburg are named (or rather, formally appointed) by the French Head of State on proposition of the Pope, which interestingly makes the French President the only temporal power in the world to formally have retained the right to appoint Catholic bishops, all other catholic bishops being appointed by the Pope.

The French President is ex officio, a coprince of Andorra, where Roman Catholicism has a status of state religion (the other coprince being the Catholic Roman Bishop of Seu de Urgell, Spain). Moreover, French heads of state are traditionally offered an honorary title of Canon of the Papal Arch-basilica of St. John Lateran, Cathedral of Rome. Once this

honour has been awarded to a newly elected president, France pays for a choir vicar, a priest who occupies the seat in the canonial chapter of the Cathedral in lieu of the president (all French presidents have been male and at least formally Roman Catholic, but if one were not, this honour could most probably not be awarded to him or her). The French President also holds a seat in a few other canonial chapters in France.

In Wallis and Futuna, a French overseas territory, national education is conceded to the diocese, which gets paid for it by the State (for all the quotations, please visit this link: http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_church_ and_state) Having thus shown that the government is not entirely separated from involvement in religion, we go on to examples of where the French government and other western governments have used state powers to protect other religious groups from verbal or physical abuse by anyone; including the press.

In the United Kingdom, for example, it was a crime to blaspheme against God or the Anglican Church. As part of the drive towards godlessness at the helm of affairs, that was removed in 2008.

‘All blasphemies against God, including denying his being or providence, all contumelious reproaches of Jesus Christ, all profane scoffing at the Holy Scriptures, and exposing any part thereof to contempt or ridicule, were punishable by the temporal courts with death, imprisonment, corporal punishment and fine.’- (Whitehouse v Gay News Ltd [1979] AC 617 at 665).

In the United States, the State of Massachusetts, Michigan, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Wyoming, and Pennsylvania have laws that refer to blasphemy.

In France itself, the Gayssot Act of July 13, 1990, makes it illegal to question the existence of crimes that fall in the category of crimes against humanity as defined in the London Charter of 1945. When Robert Faurisson challenged the act, the Human Rights Committee upheld it as a necessary means to counter possible anti-Semitism. In 2012, the Constitutional Council of France ruled that to extend the Gayssot Act to the Armenian Genocide denial was unconstitutional because it violated the freedom of speech.

What we learn from the above is that there

Despite the amount of desperation to make money which has driven a paper to caricature the noblest of humanity, we will behave in a noble manner and comport ourselves like the best of humankind

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

has always been a supermarket shopping approach to how the governments of various countries have treated the protection of other people’s religious and human rights - they pick what they like and drop what they do not. The same government that forbids me from saying I do not believe there was a holocaust says it is right for me to say I did not believe the Turkish government once murdered a large number of Armenians. Both were genocides but I could dismiss one without any fear and yet I will be jailed for dismissing the other! Just like Animal Farm, where some animals were more equal than others.

The average Muslim and Christian is unaware of these facts and therefore makes highly uninformed choices when he has to decide whether to support or condemn actions that are results of an exercise of the so-called free speech.

I also saw people like Netanyahu and others in a march against the terrorist suppression of free speech that they claimed the shootings symbolised. It was an irony to see them in that kind of protest when notably, Obama’s government is trying to capture and jail two whistle-blowers that exposed the lies of the CIA and other agencies murdering innocent, unarmed people in Afghanistan, Pakistan and other countries they have invaded in the last decade or more. Netanyahu is an accomplished mass murderer and a violent repressor of free speech. Snipers routinely murder neutral journalists covering the angles of the war that the Israeli government does not like to be covered.

In response to these hypocritical acts of the western world, many of our less informed brethren resort to sometimes-unwise acts of self-help. Every time blasphemous literature surface about Islam, the unthinking reaction for some has always been to go on the streets protesting. The jobless and the mischievous mix up with this crowd of protest and wreak havoc. Ironically, the greatest casualties are the Muslims themselves.

It is time to think in a new way. The law has guaranteed an unfettered use of free speech. Let us use it. In doing this, do not insult a religion or a god. The Islamic way is to address the issues. As I wrote earlier, those who are inciting us to react have an agenda behind their incitements. They get the results they want when we go berserk on the streets and attacking people who had nothing to do with the murder. That is a daft thing to do. Use the moment to educate as many people as possible about Islam and its prophet (PBUH). It reminds me of a group that has been asking for the credentials of their opponent to contest an election when what they should be asking is why their man should even be allowed to govern a primary school.

Despite the amount of desperation to make money which has driven a paper to caricature the noblest of humanity, we will behave in a noble manner and comport ourselves like the best of humankind. They may be crude, uncouth, irreverent, insulting and godless but we cannot descend that low to reply them, we are Muslims, we are not Charlie!

44 FRIDAY SPECIAL/BOOKS & ARTS

January 23, 2015

With Chikelu Chinelo & Onukogu Kanayo Jubal

Amadi-Obi, ROF, Others Star In Torres Gran Coronas Wine Campaign Shoot Photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi, designers Selina and Carmen Sutherland of Republic of Foreigner (ROF), make-up artiste Debola Falana and GDN joined forces to create the lifestyle campaign for Torres Gran Coronas Wine campaign shoot.

Fashion brands ROF and Mai Atafo Inspired were in charge of wardrobe and Selina & Carmen were hands on to create a sleek and chic look. Hair and makeup was taken care of by Debola Falana who transformed the (albeit already beautiful) model to the perfect Torres Girl.

The shoot was coordinated by Mevis Aiyeju, Ify Onyido and Torres Africa Manager, Salim Isler. The brand is known for its worldwide appeal among red wines and displays a great aromatic complexity with notes of blueberry, ripe plum with a bouquet of spices like pepper and coffee beans. In all the brand is mature and jammy on the plate with well-structured tannins and good concentration.

Amadi-Obi on duty

BOOKS FROM BACK Then

The Marabi Dance

By Modikwe Dikobe (1984) This work of rare insight into the township life of Johannesburg tells the story of Martha, trapped between the pull of the country and the violent life with the dance-band groups.

In the end, she finds herself with a lot of un-needed baggage. The book also touches on a number of subjects who make it an interesting read; but the chunk of Afrikaans and other forms of South African vernacular may make it difficult for foreigners to relate with.

Ankara Press Reaches Out To Nigerian Romance Lovers With 6 Books Step aside Mills and Boon. Ankara Press is here! The new and hip romance story imprint that’s had African literary Twitter buzzing for weeks is worth every beam of spotlight it’s enjoying at the moment.

All six debut titles are high-quality, absorbing, and easy-to-read African love stories set in cities as diverse as Lagos, Cape Town, and Jos. Released in December 2014, these purse-size novellas will be a literary obsession in 2015.

These are the kinds of novels I like to call literary small-chops. They’re short and accessible on mobiles or tablets, so they’ll go anywhere your purse goes. But they are also such fun to read and can— word of warning—be addicting.

Best part is, you won’t break your bank trying to read them all since the publisher is still running a promo that gets you any of the six titles for less than N500 ($3).

Honestly, it’s fun, refreshing, and such a relief to see men and women play at the game of love the African way—the setting is familiar, the dialogues are familiar, the “toasting” style is familiar, and, most of all, the drama is legit. Even the sex scenes make sense.

In Chioma Iwunze-Ibiam’s Finding Love Again, jilted bride and radio broadcaster, Kambi, has literally fled to the poetic solitude of Obudu Ranch, where she hopes to finish writing her poetry collection. But love comes looking for her in the form of a handsome, oliveskinned secret from her past.

Oyindamola Affinih’s Lagos story titled A Tailor-made Romance is an ur-

ban fairy tale starring Tishe, a beautiful advertising executive, and Adnan, a Mushin tailor.

Sifa Gowon’s A Taste of Love is a love story built around the erotic power of food. Let’s just say the love affair between Adoo, a Jos-based cake maker and Toby, a successful club manager, happens somewhere between a delicious pizza and a suspicious cheese cake.

Amara Okolo’s Black Sparkle Romance pits Mira, a magazine editor, and Dominic, a high-profile fashion photographer, in an elusive and beautiful tussle of love.

Ola Awonubi ‘s Love’s Persuasion

proves that accountants don’t just bleed numbers and ledgers. They can fall in love!—as Ada Okafor proves only too well when she finds herself entangled in an office romance with a dashing British-trained assistant manager at the Lagos firm, City Finance.

Amina Thula’s Cape Town romance titled Elevator Kiss, features a hero and heroine who break all the rules of romance when, as perfect strangers, they kiss on their first encounter. This sets off a roller-coaster ride of the most passionate love affair.

— Thanks to Brittlepaper for some of the materials used here

5 Mind-bending, Mood-altering African Books (1)

1.Sleepwalking Land (1999) by Mia Cuto, Mozambique A boy and an old man are survivors in a post-apocalyptic, war-ravaged town.

They stumble upon a burned-out bus and decide to make it home. While clearing out the corpses trapped and burned in the bus, they find a journal kept by one of the dead passengers, named Kindzu, who was on a quest in search of a messianic band of warriors. The journal chronicles his journey up until he dies. Nightly reading of this journal transports the old man and the boy into alternate realities and parallel spaces. The story about the old man, the boy, and their life in and around the bus begins go blend into Kindzu’s magical

journey. If you like stories crowded with ghosts and strange creatures or stories where time does weird things like fold into itself and space is embedded with other parallel spaces, this is the book for you.

2. My Life in the Bush of Ghosts (1954)

by Amos Tutuola, Nigeriaw On the run from a band of slave raiders, a little boy enters a mysterious forest.

For the next 24 years, he’ll search for the way back home without much success, partly because what he imagines to be an ordinary patch of forest next to his hometown is actually the Bush of Ghosts, a parallel world tucked between the human world and the sphere of the gods. In his

24-year stay in the Bush of Ghosts he has the craziest experience. At some point, he is transformed into a cow and sold into slavery. His very disturbing encounter with Reverend Devil who attempted to baptize him with fire is pretty epic. All he does in the 9th Town of Ghost is eat raw meat and get high on weed. In the Nameless Town, he hangs out with a bunch of bearded lesbians and even marries one of them. The story of his eventual escape from the Bush is no less crazy. Let’s just say it involves a very complicated teleporting technology.

A word of warning: with Amos Tutuola, there’s no reality check whatsoever, so if you get hooked, there’s no way to guarantee that you’ll come out sane

January 23, 2015

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46

for the record

January 23, 2015

Christians, Beware Of Dogs! ➔ CONTINUED from yesterday

By Sharon Faliya Cham

Their major opponent in that year’s presidential election was former Military Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari, a man known for his ramrod integrity, honesty, discipline and incorruptibility. General Buhari was, and is still, hugely popular, and many Nigerians had a favourable view of him to help redeem the country from the choking grip of corruption, indiscipline and thefts of public funds that became as choking as an airless room. Considering the threat General Buhari became to the kleptocracy and kleptomaniacs in power at that time (till date), the PDP and CAN came up with barefaced lies against the man that he had told Muslims at an Islamic event in Sokoto not to vote for non-Muslims in any election, and till today they have not been able to prove this allegation in spite of the man’s strident denials. Not even a video or audio recording of what they said General Buhari said have they been able to present to Nigerians till date. But they stuck to the lie and propaganda, and till today there are those who are still stuck in that mud of Luciferian clay, which keeps them stuck in perpetual Luciferian political decisions usually exploited by Luciferian politicians, who in turn have stranded the country in a perpetual Luciferian state.

Christians, Beware of Dogs!

But it shouldn’t be seen as strange when priests who should be seen as occupying Holy Offices are seen conniving with strange characters to hatch lies against persons innocent of the lies they hatched against them. This is more so when there is a corrupt system that serves the worldly and materialistic benefits of the alliance of rogue rulers and greedy materialistic priests. Even the Lord Jesus Christ Who was going about doing good to those in need was a victim of such malicious conspiracy and propaganda. John chapter 11 verse 45 says ‘’Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.’’ Because many people were getting attracted to the Lord Jesus Christ for the good things He was doing should have been a thing of joy and celebration to everybody whose heart is filled with love, but not the priests. They became envious. They felt their own popularity and influence over the people were under threat, and were on the verge of losing their fiefdom. Verses 47 and 48 report their frustration and dilemma: ‘’Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? For this man doeth many miracles. ‘’If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.’’

Did you see that? They were only concerned about their own place of power and influence, and what they perceived as losing their nation to a foreign colonial power, and their bitterness and frustration were not due to any crime or evil committed by the Lord Jesus Christ, but because the good things He was doing was attracting popularity and fame for Himself, which naturally meant the people would gravitate towards Him as their spiritual and political leader. And their bitterness and frustration was so strong that they took this decision in verse 53: ‘’Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.’’

Can you see how strong envy is? Their only option and decision against the Person they were so envious of was to put Him to death, and then His emerging great political career would end, and then they would continue to enjoy the monopoly of power and influence!

So, if the priests of those days could be so envious and treacherous against a divine personality known for honesty, truth, compassion and good deeds, how much more would the priests of nowadays be against honest and truthful persons that are mere flesh and blood whom they would consider as a threat to their greed, materialism and earthly influence?

I also remember in 2013 when General Buhari cautioned against any attempt to rig the 2015 general elections, as the PDP would always do in any election that involves them, wherein he warned of the consequence by metaphorically saying the baboons and monkeys would soak themselves in blood if such is contemplated, which also literally means the forces of good and the forces of evil would clash, the priests in Nigeria literally took up arms against him by maliciously

and falsely labelling him as a violent man instead of aligning themselves with such a patriotic call to call for decency and accountability in the electoral process.

Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, the current President of CAN and an openly shameless ally of the PDP, outrightly called for his arrest in addition to lying against him as the sponsor of ‘’Boko Haram’’, a lie they concocted and held unto with the zeal and passion of a hungry village boy clutching a cone of ice cream. Somehow, they kind of feel uneasy when anyone calls for integrity and accountability in the country’s electoral process, for the current dysfunctional and corrupt state of Nigeria’s electoral process appears to serve them and the rogue politicians they ally with very well. Again, the character of priests lying in wait to catch and lie against persons of integrity by their spoken words is nothing new. Matthew chapter 21 verse 45 says ‘’And when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that he spake of them.’’ Luke chapter 11 verse 54 puts it that they were ‘’Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.’’

If anyone is not a monkey or baboon that participates in electoral malpractices, why should they be angry and frustrated when someone says such monkeys or baboons will swim in the unpleasant consequences of their evil activities? Why not warn the authorities and agencies concerned against such evil instead of fighting those who issue the warning? And if we are to label people who warn us of the unpleasant consequences of our evil actions as violent people, are we to also label anyone who reminds us that eternity in hell is the consequence of unrepented sin as violent people?

Fools and madmen speak the truth.

― African Proverb

This should give us a glimpse of the picture of conspiracy to terminate the political career of people of sound integrity like General Buhari and others like him, and this could also explain why Nigeria’s political space is dominated by crooks of all shades, usually exploiting religion to get what they want with the full consent of the religious leaders.

Well, in any case, the PDP and Obasanjo had to deploy a great deal of both official and unofficial means of violence and thuggery to violently rig the 2003 elections in alliance with the notoriously corrupt and deliberately incompetent Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which means CAN and the PDP knew that they had no human numbers that could swing the election in their favour in a free and fair electoral contest, hence the resort to crude and crooked means. And, as could be obtained in such a crude and crooked society engendered by an alliance of corrupt politicians and corrupt religious leaders, the courts validated Obasanjo and PDP’s ‘’victory’’ of the 2003 presidential election, and CAN had their ‘’Christian President’’ in Obasanjo. It is noteworthy to remind ourselves that President Obasanjo sought to have the country’s constitution amended chiefly to accommodate his third term bid, but the nation coalesced together to fight against the bid.

Then came time for Obasanjo to leave office in 2007, and it became natural that power had to return to northern Nigeria.

Whether it was by deliberate design or not, only God and Obasanjo would know the truth, but Obasanjo picked a sickly Umaru Musa Yar’adua as the presidential candidate of their party, the PDP, and paired him up with Goodluck Jonathan as running mate, and went ahead to impose them on the nation as President and Vice President with the usual active collaboration of INEC and the security agencies through one of the most fraudulent elections in Nigeria’s history, which was admitted to by President Yar’adua himself during his inaugural speech but which they had no strength of character to forgo. And as usual, the corrupt courts went ahead to validate the sham election.

Well, Yar’adua couldn’t survive his debilitating illness. He died barely two years in office, and Vice President Goodluck Jonathan got sworn in as President in accordance with the law. But before President Yar’adua’s death, there was this drama about swearing in Vice President Goodluck Jonathan as Acting President so that he could be vested with constitutional powers that could only be exercised by the President while Yar’adua was lying critically ill at an overseas hospital. Much resistance against this move was coming ➔ CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE

FOR THE RECORD 47

January 23, 2015

Christians, Beware Of Dogs! ➔ FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

from a powerful group the press dubbed as ‘The Yar’adua Cabal’, which prompted well meaning Nigerians to rise up to the occasion by organising solidarity protest marches on the streets of Lagos and Abuja, and later on other cities as well.

The front page of THE NATION newspaper of Tuesday, January 12, 2010 carried a list of the organisers of the street protests and public lectures to prevail on an unwilling National Assembly to create an enabling condition that will have Vice President Goodluck Jonathan sworn in as Acting President, and these individuals at the forefront of this campaign are, Professor Wole Soyinka, General Muhammadu Buhari, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, the late Dim Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Chief Solomon Asemota (SAN), Professor Pat Utomi, Mallam Uba Sani, Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Femi Falana, Hon. Wale Oshun, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, Pastor Sarah Omakwu, Mrs. Ayo Obe, Mallam Naseer Kura, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, and Uche Onyeogocha. Apart from this list, there were other frontline people like Suleiman Lukman, Engineer Buba Galadima, Hajiya Na’ajatu Mohammed, Yinka Odumakin, and Hon. Farouk Adamu Aliyu. In fact, Hon. Farouk Adamu Aliyu even went as far as instituting a judicial process to compel the National Assembly to create an enabling environment for Goodluck Jonathan to be made Acting President.

Please, note that in this list, apart from Pastor Tunde Bakare and Pastor Sarah Omakwu, there were no other pastors in this struggle. The pastors that have currently hijacked President Goodluck Jonathan, and are helping him in ruining Nigeria were not anywhere near the struggle. They were just like patient vultures waiting for the harvest of what they did not take part in sowing, and even when General Buhari later took Pastor Tunde Bakare as his running mate in the 2011 presidential election, the Christian Association of Nigeria and the bulk of Nigerian pastors rejected them, and instead adopted and campaigned for Goodluck Jonathan in their churches even though it was as clear as daylight that the ticket of General Buhari and Pastor Bakare was the best, considering that both men are men of honesty, integrity, patriotism and compassion for the poor and needy whereas Goodluck Jonathan had no record of any act of integrity, honesty and accountability in his public life, which further confirms that a lot of these Christian clerics are more comfortable with the corrupt and rotten status quo, and which also suggests they would rather have a corrupt President that they will be swarming round him at all times and will be junketing around the world with them on so called Holy Pilgrimages to Israel to purportedly ‘’pray for the nation’’ in the Holy Land even though they know that all they need to do is to stop corruption and the massive looting of public wealth.

Very importantly, it needs being emphatically placed on record that the

Bakare

involvement of these fine and morally upright personalities in the struggle to enthrone Goodluck Jonathan as Acting President with full constitutional powers was not because they felt, or knew, or perceived that Goodluck Jonathan was a good man. No, it was because of their overwhelming sense of fairness and sound conscience, which is the driving force that compels such breed of people to seek the good of everyone. At that time of Nigeria’s history, it was the right thing to do, and not because Goodluck Jonathan represented anything noble, for he doesn’t. Rather, he has been a part and parcel of all the corrupt politicians that have been undermining Nigeria’s quest for socio-political and socio-economic development since 1999. These gentlemen and women came together to provide leadership at a time of national confusion, and to rally the nation to promote and follow constitutionalism and the rule of law even if those in power at that time were themselves the chief promoters of lawlessness and corruption.

And for General Buhari himself, it was a solemn demonstration of proof that he isn’t a bitter, sulky and intolerant person as the PDP and their close ally the Christian Association of Nigeria and other bigots have painted him. If he was such a bitter, sulky and intolerant fellow, he would have kept himself away from anything to do with Goodluck Jonathan in the light of the fact of how the PDP and the Yar’adua/Jonathan campaign openly and shamelessly rigged the 2007 presidential election, and the way and manner they corrupted the courts to validate the election they clearly did not win. Such breed of people is rare. Also, considering that the PDP was going to be the major beneficiary of the struggle, General Buhari would have abstained from the struggle considering how the PDP violently rigged the 2003 elections against him and his party, the ANPP, if he were not a compassionate and fair minded person.

As a matter of fact, the involvement of General Buhari and other close Muslim associates of his in that struggle to make sure the National Assembly, and, indeed, the entire nation did the right thing to

make Goodluck Jonathan Acting President greatly exposes the lie and mischief peddled by CAN and other ethno-religious bigots against the man that he is a Hausa/ Fulani Muslim bigot without tolerance for people of other faith and tribe even though his record all through his public career does not in any way suggest that he was biased against non-Muslims or non-Hausa/ Fulani. But then, like I said earlier, all that the corrupt establishment in Nigeria need to do to stigmatise and frustrate any honest Muslim’s political career is to label them as Islamic Fundamentalists pursuing an Islamic Agenda to Islamise the country by force, and if the person is a honest Christian, they will undermine him or her by saying Christians have no business with ‘’worldly things’’ as they did against Pastor Tunde Bakare when he joined politics even though their romance with, and campaigns for their corrupt political allies is for their own ‘’worldly things’’ more than any other person. And the involvement of General Buhari in this struggle was not even a one-off thing, for he was deeply involved in the struggle against General Obasanjo’s Third Term Agenda. Boldly written as screaming headline on the front page of THIS DAY newspaper of Friday, December 16, 2005 is the caption Buhari Rallies Lawmakers Against 3rd Term. Again, during this struggle against Obasanjo’s Third Term Agenda, apart from the usual frontline activists like the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana, Ayo Obe, Shehu Sani and many others, only a few Christian clerics like Archbishop (now Cardinal) John Onayekan, Cardinal Anthony Olubunmi Okogie, Pastor Tunde Bakare and a few others stood in the struggle. The majority were nowhere to be seen and neither was their voices heard either for or against, and it’s not that they don’t usually speak on national issues.

No, they do speak on national issues, but usually in loud support of the very things that cause this nation to be rooted in massive corruption and lawlessness.

For example, when the National Assembly wanted to impeach President Obasanjo in 2002 over established cases

Fools grow without watering.― African Proverb

of constitutional breaches, the Anglican Archbishop of Province One and Bishop of Lagos, the Most Revd (Dr.) Ephraim Adebola Ademowo was reported on page 5 of THIS DAY newspaper of Wednesday, September 4, 2002 saying the attempt to impeach Obasanjo was an act of indiscipline by the federal lawmakers, and you are left wondering how those lawfully and legally empowered to discipline an undisciplined leader who has committed series of acts of indiscipline can be accused of indiscipline. Did the pastor mean to say the lawfully constituted and established discipline board or committee of his church cannot discipline any errant official or member of his church? The pastor even went further to threaten or claim that if the federal lawmakers went ahead with the impeachment, it could result in national crisis and chaos even as he described the bid as ‘’bogus and mischievous’’ without telling Nigerians how lawful measures of correcting illegalities amount to mischief.

Also speaking along the same lines, the THIS DAY newspaper of Monday, September 16, 2002 on page 10 reported the Right Reverend Emmanuel Gbonigi calling on the national lawmakers to ‘’remove the log in their eyes before talking about the peck in another’s’’. In his logic, as reported by the paper, he wants ‘’those checkmating others’’ to ‘’first cleanse themselves of immorality’’, which infers that, if we are to go by his weird and funny logic, no lawfully constituted court of law or police department can sanction anyone for breaching the law because the judges or the policemen must have some kind of log, or even logs, in their eyes. And by this logic therefore, the President of any country can do as they please without any sanction because those that could sanction them may have issues they also need to be sanctioned over, and what a better and faster way to build a completely lawless country where national institutions do not, and cannot work because of certain logs at their gates!

Can you see how supposed ‘’Men of God’’ help in undermining law and order because of some puerile consideration? And trying to undermine a clearly national issue being handled by a legally constituted national institution, the pastor brought in their usual ethnic colouration of issues into the fray by saying ‘’the Hausa hegemony were shocked at the trend of things in the present administration’’ without stating or explaining any spectacular achievement achieved by the Obasanjo regime at that time which he thought rankled the Hausa/Fulani they hate so much with satanic passion. At that time, there was a deliberate attempt by people like this pastor and other ethnic bigots to turn the attempt to impeach President Obasanjo as a Hausa/Fulani agenda to get back power even though it was the same Hausa/Fulani political and military leaders that went all out to make Obasanjo president, and till today this particular pastor is actively involved in promoting ethno-religious bigotry in the country. ➔ TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW

48 ISSUES

January 23, 2015

Ibro Mai Rasuwa: The Last (Imaginary) Movie Of A Commanding Comedian

By Sa’ad Abubakar Zongre

In his distinguished acting carreer as a grade “A” comedian/ satirist in the booming Hausa film industry, popularly known as kannywood, Alhaji Rabilu Musa Ibrahim, fondly called “Dan Ibro” excelled in featuring, directing and producing imitative films in which he mimicked personalities and events as seen in his highly hilarious comical films such as, “Ibro Honourable”, “Ibro Minister”, “Ibro Dan Siyasa”, “Ibro Samanja”, “Ibro Awilo”, “Ibro Makaho”, “Ibro Likitan Ebola” and others too numerous to mention that made many of us shed tears of laughter and temporarily, forget our many troubles and sorrows of life in a Nigeria of today which has become a laughing stock in the comity of nations mainly due to glaring incompetence in leadership.

When the news of his death broke out on Wednesday, 10th December, 2014, due to complications arising from kidney-related disease, I initially took it lightly thinking that it was a dummy being sold to the general public to announce the release of a new film in which he mimicked a death or dying man.

Tragically, I was wrong! The power of death is so formidable that could not allow our hugely talented and humorous Ibro to mimic it even if it were to be his last acting role or film on earth.

The death of Ibro is painful, but what is more painful is the fact that, he died as someone who had to endure series of persecutions and jail terms simply because he had chosen to be a man of his own who could not be cajoled or intimidated to abandon or divert from a cause he firmly and rightly believed to be in the best interest of the culture and civilization of his

people! In the name of carryingout the mandate of the Kano State Films/Videos Censorship Board and its affiliate mobile court in checkmating the perceived excesses of Kannywood movies, especially prior to the re-election of the current governor of Kano State, Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, these self-styled custodians of Hausa/Islamic culture continued chasing, intimidating, hunting and hurting Ibro out of what seemed to be in envy for his rare talent and divine gift in promoting the original and unadulterated culture of his people through comedy. Ofcourse, as human, Ibro can never be 100% perfect or free from certain flaws/shortcomings in same way that the Alhaji Rabo Abdulkareem led Kano State Films/ Videos Censorship Board and its affiliate mobile court can never be 100% perfect or free from certain flaws/shortcomings as well. So, why was he specifically singled out for prolonged maltreatment and denial of fair hearing in spite of his widely acknowledged massive contribution to the development and advancement of Hausa culture and civilization?

With the exception of few professors and PhD holders in Hausa literature/culture, and some distinguished writers/ columnists and novelists, no one, I repeat, no one in post-independent Hausaland/Northern Nigeria aggressively and successfully promoted the Hausa culture and civilization in its purely traditional form within the West African sub region and even beyond the way Ibro did! In a befitting tribute to Ibro, Dr Carmen McCain (an American citizen living in Kano), who is a blogger and columnist in the Weekly Trust newspaper, and

acted as “Baturiya” in Ibro’s “Ibro Ya Auri Baturiya” comical film, boldly brought out the strategic role of Kannywood (in which Ibro was a stand out star) in promoting the attractiveness of Hausa culture and civilization globally when she strongly and correctly argued thus; “I often hear educated Northern Nigerian elites talking about how embarrassed they are by Hausa films and yet it was these very Hausa films (and also novels) that attracted me to learn Hausa. I am an American here in Kano because of film”.

Ibro also holds the enviable record of been the actor who featured in more films than any other actor/actress in the history of Kannywood and in the process, featured, directed or produced many films that were 100% Hausa/Islamic culturecompliant but without these socalled custodians of Hausa/Islamic culture commending talkless of recommending him for state or national honours award. But once he featured, directed or produced a film that appeared a bit liberal, they all rose up in total condemnation without giving a damn to his previous or other films that even they, silently acknowledged as “good”. It seemed what really matters to them were to facilitate and see the downfall of Ibro by all means.

When he released the sensational Hausa musical video titled; “Marmar-Mamar” (featuring women dancing excitedly to an equally exciting kalangu music that is common and well-known in Hausa culture) few years ago, these anti- Ibro elements, using the instrumentality of the Kano State Films/Videos Censorship Board and its affiliate court,

“happily” apprehended and jailed him for several months. Yet from the ancient times till today, Hausa women have being performing this kind of exciting kalangu dance publicly during wedding celebrations and other communal festivities without anyone raising an eye-brow. But because it was Ibro that did it, it became an offence!

While stars of the mainstream English film industry of Nigeria, popularly known as Nollywood are being nationally celebrated, decorated with state and national honours award and dining with high profile citizens of the country, our own (Northern Nigeria) most popular and accomplished star in Kannywood was, instead, unjustifiably condemned and sent to prison to dine with petty criminals by our own people. What an irony and a glaring injustice?

It is quite possible, that anti-Ibro elements may now be thinking that it is “mission accomplished” since their major target (Ibro) is gone.

But they should note however, that we, his fans and millions of sympathizers world-wide will continue to cherish and defend his good works and good heart as someone who dedicated his life in doing some of the things that Islam enjoin its adherents to do; making people smile, laugh and happy through any talent or gift (comedy in Ibro’ case) that Allah (SWT) endowed one with! And this was what exactly he kept doing, at times, even to the detriment of his health.

It was once speculated that for Ibro to produce a grade “A” comical film, he had to, sometimes, deliberately refused to eat or drink anything for several hours so as to look haggard, exhausted and

hungry in order to suit the scripted story line. And when you added the average amount of energy he expends in several rounds of highly charged funny arguments and confrontations, in addition to a lot of running when being chased by a comical policeman or an aggressor in as many scenes making up a complete film, one will better appreciate the huge physical exertions that he had to undergo in the course of producing a real comical film that could generate so much laughter from us and give us so much joy as well.

Though most deaths in Kannywood were road-related, we still, cannot completely rule out the issue of prolonged or long term physical exertions in contributing to the death, at relatively young age, of Ibro’s colleagues in comedy such as Tsigai (who usually act as his wife), Kulu (Ibro’s closest disciple), Dan Wanzam (one of the pioneering comedians in Kannywood) and even the slightly elderly, Yautai (whom I regarded as the funniest of the lot). The baton has now been handed over to Chinnaka, Dauche, Dan Auta and Gatari; I tip Daushe though to fill the vacuum created in Kannywood’s world of comedy following the demise of Ibro because he appears to possess almost all the comical theatrics to blossom into a world class comedian in the nearest future.

The likes of Ali Nuhu, Sani Musa Danja, Safiya Musa, Fati Baffa Fagge (Bororoje), Rukayya Umar Santa (Dawayya) and Sameera Ahmed are seen by many followers of the Hausa film industry as the faces of Kannywood.

— Zongre, a public affairs analyst, wrote from Yerima Bappa Sanda Road,

Akwa Ibom Guber 2015: Before They Cast The First Stone ➔ continued from yesterday

by Ibanga Isine

Majority of those, who are now ranting and crying wolf were once beneficiaries of the political machine that produced the former Secretary to the Government of the state, Mr. Emmanuel and Mr. Umana in the PDP and APC, respectively.

Akwa Ibom people should not forget those who introduced “Mbiam,” (traditional oath) into politics in the state. We should not forget those who schemed out prominent Ibibio sons and daughters from top government positions in the state in order to remain eternally relevant. We should not forget those who helped

procure violence and bloodshed in the cause of political campaigns in the state. We must never forget those who betrayed their former bosses and schemed themselves to power but who are now crying blue murder when nemesis caught up with them.

We should not also forget that majority of these people have held public offices within and outside the state and did not perform well enough to justify their new quest to occupy the highest office in Akwa Ibom State.

I am not a fan of Governor Godswill Akpabio, neither am I his enemy. But I know that most of those who are now calling him names and blaming him for all the transgressions in the book were once his closest friends and

allies. They dinned and enjoyed unlimited privileges inside the innermost sanctum of power in the state. They once sang praises of the governor and supported most of the actions he took. Some of us who positively criticized Mr. Akpabio were deemed enemies of “Uncommon Transformation,” and were not allowed to get any close.

Akwa Ibom people should, therefore, act wisely and allow good judgment to prevail in the choice of who becomes their governor come 2015. While Mr. Akpabio has adamantly insisted on producing a successor against every known calculation in the state, it is however, true that almost every politician that has occupied any serious public office in the country gets the backing of power or

influential persons.

We should not allow an innocent man to be sacrificed on a shrine filled with priests who failed to stop the chief priest from eating from the calabash of the gods when they had the opportunity.

Akwa Ibom people should look at the credentials of those who seek their mandates to occupy public offices and decide who indeed deserves their trust and their votes.

We should not allow ourselves to be taken for granted once again by supporting people whose actions and inactions contributed directly and indirectly to the problems we have been grappling with as a people.

For the records, I take full responsibility for this article and the others I have written in the

past, drawing attention to issues and situations in Akwa Ibom State. I do this with every sense of responsibility and hope that those who do not agree with me will instead of blackmail and outright insult; espouse superior arguments to counter my positions. Let the best of the best become the next governor of Akwa Ibom State.

Those who are not guilty of supporting or benefiting from electoral fraud in the state should cast the first stone or they should forever hide their faces in shame for creating the political monstrosity that they now think can simply be wished away.

– Ibanga Isine is with Premium Times Newspaper, Abuja ➔ concluded

FEATURE 49

January 23, 2015

2015 Polls: Kogi Central Interactive Session For Peace As the 2015 general elections draws closer, the need for violent free polls became necessary in Kogi Central Zone of Kogi State known for violence during elections. A one-day interactive session for stakeholders and party candidates on Constituency Reportage and Community Outreaches was organised

by Kogi Central CSOs Network in Okene. agbo-paul augustine reports on issues discussed at the forum.

T

o erase the battered image of politicking in the central zone of Kogi state, a coalition of Civil Society organisations in the zone under the auspices of Kogi Central CSOs Network took the initiative to calm nerves among politicians ahead of the crucial February polls by holding an interactive session in the ancient city of Okene.

Okene, the headquarters of the Ebira nation is known for rich culture, tradition and religion spanning centuries but recent development in the political life of the people pseudo put a dent to the image of the zone based on the reality of how politics is played among the people.

The incidence of violence resulting to destruction of lives and property as seen among politicians and their supporters in the past constrained a meeting of party candidates and stakeholders to converge on Okene in the cold morning of January 17, 2015 for an Interactive session on Constituency Reportage and Community Outreaches.

As the cold morning gradually gives way to the warm weather of the day, the political gladiators from the zone and their teeming supporters filter into the venue at the hilltop side of the town, the atmosphere became charged with the expectations of a departure from the past.

Party candidates including current serving Senator of the Zone, Senator Nurudeen Abatemi and his counterparts in the House of Representatives, Tijani Damisa representing Okene/Ogori Mangogo Federal Constituency and Abdulrahaman Badamasuiy representing Adavi/ Okehi Federal Constituency, Kogi State House of Assembly Speaker, Momoh Lawal and other serving members of the

L-R: Director General, Peoples Democratic Institute Dr Lanre Adebayo, Representative, Kogi State Speaker, Hon Lamidi Yahaya and Sen Nurudeen Abatemi at the event.

Kogi State Assembly as well as candidates vying for Senate, House of Representatives and House of Assembly seats from the Kogi Central Zone were all present to chant a way for a violent free polls in February.

Speaking at the occasion, Chairman, Kogi Central CSOs Network, Mohammed Attah said the interactive session was to reinvigorate the political sector for grassroots development of the zone.

He noted that Kogi Central has been known for violence during elections in the past and there is every need to shift to non-violent and issue based elections hence, the need to bring all party candidates and stakeholders to discuss issues of peace, security and development of the zone.

Chairman of the occasion and President, Ebira Peoples Association (EPA), Dr. Abdulrahman Adeiza said the interactive session is the first gathering of the key politician power blocks in the zone in the last eight years and it became necessary to probe all the candidates and representatives in the zone. He said the zone is blessed with both human and material resources but it has not translated into physical development of the people. “Finding solution to what is wrong with our land is that all politicians here today will be held by what they say”, Adeiza noted.

The need for peace and development in the zone was hot on the lips of stakeholders who frowned at the way party candidates go about canvassing for support in the forthcoming elections. They believe that the last known violence in the zone was necessitated by hate messages executed by thugs who are always handy as a result of high unemployment among

youths in the area.

On the need for a peaceful election in Kogi Central, Guest Speaker at the session and Director General of Peoples Democratic Institute, Abuja, Dr. Lanre Adebayo said Kogi Central has never been short of leaders but has not translated to good development of the zone.

He said leaders have dual responsibility, the national and local hence, politicians must connect with people. “Kogi Central is so blessed; the people should use the wealth to improve the people of the land. Look for people who are selfless, hardworking, confident and who understands what it takes to lead”, he said.

Dr. Adebayo noted that democracy cannot be effective without the people directly involved in the process as governance is a continuous engagement with the people. He urged the people of Kogi Central Zone to constantly engage themselves with their representatives to fashion out area of attention.

“Budgeting is all about the people so the people must be involved in the process”, Dr. Adebayo said.

He further admonished politicians to eschew the use hate messages as they try to woe voters ahead of the general elections in the state. He said hate messages has been the cause of violence in Nigeria while urging the candidates to learn the language of vote canvassing not violence.

Dr. Adebayo concluded by saying constituency reportage is very important in democracy because it foster accountability while urging the organisers to maintain it as it will help the politicians to cut cost in connecting with the electorates in the future.

The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ado Ibrahim, in a message delivered by the

Every tub must stand on its own bottom. ― Cambodian proverb

Asema of Ezuka Clan, Adavi, Alhaji Momoh Sani Isah, thanked the organisers saying the programme was apt at this time of campaigning in the country. The Ohinoyi also urge all politicians to respect their people and frowned at the attitude of candidates seeking elections not consulting with traditional rulers in the area.

Also speaking at the occasion, Senator Nurudeen Abatemi who represents the zone at the Senate said he is committed to a non-violent campaign and urge organizers to maintain the town hall meeting in the zone.

Other elected representatives from the zone including the Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly made presentations to the people on their scorecard since coming into office in 2011. Candidates vying for election in the February elections took turn to present their development plans to the people.

One major highlight of the session was an accord entered into by all the party candidates that they will conduct a violent free campaign ahead of the elections and afterward. The Okene Accord is a litmus test on all the party candidates in next month’s general election in Kogi Central Zone of Kogi State.

The need for peace and development in the zone was hot on the lips of stakeholders who frowned at the way party candidates go about canvassing for support in the forthcoming elections

flavour Weekend

January 23, 2015

PMAN Caretaker Committee Denounces Pretty Okafor, Others

By SAMUEL ABULUDE, Lagos

The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN)’s Caretaker Committee has called on musicians across the country to ignore recent statements by a faction of the association declaring Pretty Okafor as PMAN president.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Kevin Lucciano Gabriel, the association declared that Okafor’s appointment did not follow due process and so should be ignored by all well-meaning Nigerians.

The body also called on Okafor and his cohorts to stop parading themselves as PMAN representatives.

He said: “Let me state that the recent court judgement Pretty [Okafor] secured did not follow due process and, as I speak to you, we are already addressing that issue. I want to use this opportunity to remind Nigerians and all PMAN stakeholders of the fact that it is only the caretaker committee that has been empowered by the Ministry of Labour & Productivity to conduct elections and run the affairs of PMAN. Contrary to earlier reports, no state PMAN executive has been dissolved.

I am calling on all PMAN

Muna

Was Muna Really An Alcoholic?

By Anthony Ada Abraham, Abuja

Pretty Okafor

state executives to ignore the call. Besides, this matter is not within the jurisdiction of the court, as it is a trade union issue and only the National Industrial Court has jurisdiction at this stage. The Federal Ministry of Labour & Productivity, through the Registrar of Trade Unions, endorsed the caretaker committee in a letter dated July 7, 2014.”

Meanwhile, Lucciano revealed that the caretaker committee has filed a suit [FHC/L/CS/919/2012] at the Federal High Court, Lagos, challenging Okafor’s purported appointment as PMAN president. The committee also called on the court to set aside its earlier judgement of October 31 for want of jurisdiction. The case will be up for hearing on February 25.

Heaven’s Hell Premiere Postponed

By Samuel Abulude, Lagos

The much-anticipated premiere of the movie Heaven’s Hell which was scheduled for January 23, 2015, has been postponed.

The director/ producer of the movie, Katung Aduwak, explained that this delay was due to the “explicit and inciting” content of the movie.

“We received advice from a member of the Nigeria Film and Video Censor’s Board (NFVCB) to re-edit some scenes [in the movie] which were considered too explicit and inciting. Well, the scenes are currently being worked upon and, in due course, the highly expected movie will be ready. My sincere apologies to all Nigerians who have shown interest in the movie since the announcement, we won’t be

Actresses Are Not Cheap – Aisha Abubakar

By Anthony Ada Abraham, Abuja

set to hit the cinemas, details will be available,” he said.

Set in Lagos, Heaven’s Hell is a psychological drama which tells the story of two housewives and best friends; the loquacious and miserable Alice Henshaw, the pleasant and compliant Tsola Aliu and their husbands, the affluent and kind Edward Henshaw and the egotistical and brilliant Jeff Aliu, whose lives are held together by rock-solid friendship and unwavering love, yet laced by betrayal, deceit and a lurking darkness.

The movie features talented actors like Nse Ikpe Etim, Bimbo Akintola, Damilola Adegbite, OC Ukeje, Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Chet Anekwe, Kalu Ikeagwu, Femi Jacobs, Gideon Okeke, Treasure Obasi, able to premiere this January Bimbo Manuel, Wole Coker, anymore but, as soon as we are Waje, and Sarah Majekodumi.

Fool’s haste is no speed.

Since the shocking death of Muna Obiekwe in a specialist hospital in Festac, Lagos, on Sunday, January 18, 2015, Nigerians and movie lovers have been left in the dark of the true cause of his death.

Different versions of the story have continued to make the ranks. According to a version, Muna’s godmother, Vera Kanu, confessed that the late actor was addicted to alcohol.

"Everybody in the industry knows Muna drinks a lot; even when he’s shooting in the North, he has a way of finding alcohol. He fell into it after he

lost his parents in a ghastly motor accident. As a matter of fact, he was supposed to be in that car with them but, by stroke of luck, was not and was spared.

“Afterwards, Muna took solace in liquor but that never affected his job. He was just like Sam Loco; he could drink the whole sea but when he heard the director shout ‘action,’ he got into character. Muna was a method character despite his flaws," Kanu hinted, almost in tears.

Sadly, the talented thespian is no more; but it will do others who find ‘solace’ in alcohol a world of good to drink carefully.

What appears to be the fad at present is the crashing of celebrity marriages, due to issues relating to infidelity.

As a result, more than a few actresses are said to be scared of getting married, because they do not want broken homes.

In spite of this, there are a number of others who wish to be married. Fast-rising Kannywood actress, Aisha Abubakar, is one of them.

Abubakar wishes to get hooked to a man she can call her husband, but she dreads falling into the hands of the wrong man.

In a recent interview, the actress, who has featured in over 30 movies, warned deceptive men to stay off her path, because she does not want to be beguiled into

― African Proverb

marriage and dumped like many other actresses.

"If you want to be my lover, don’t deceive me; tell me in black-and-white that you are poor or rich and I will welcome you as you are, if I want to," she said.

Abubakar also spared a few words for those who consider actresses as women of easy virtue.

“There are thousands of young ladies out there staying in hotels as prostitutes.

They sell their bodies to earn a living, yet, nobody is tormenting them. Acting, to me, is as decent as one can think of. Some people prefer to be lawyers, journalists, administrators, politicians, labourers, fishermen and women, prostitutes, gamblers and the rest. We choose to act, so people should give us break.”

51

January 23, 2015

Hauwa Booth WOMAN ON THE LOOSE

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

Titbits And ‘condolences’ on the DB Three Million Naira (N3,000,000) negligence keeps rolling in.

Thankful. However, I’m just waiting for a ‘miracle’. Maybe, someone will...*ahn! Can’t someone dream again?* ========= Just when we heaved a sigh of relief on Ebola, then comes Bird Flu! It is now in six states and counting... what is the drill again? No eating chicken and kill all the birds, abi? Pity, it is going to be a tight celebration come February with no chicken to eat! ========================== The tailors for both PDP and APC are not joking o. They have brightened up this year’s campaign. Nigerians are fashion-conscious and I am glad it is being reflected in the campaigns. We are visual beings. (Un) luckily, we don’t have a woman no the centre stage. With these crop of tailors, we for see styles!

#IAmSometimesCharlie

Alison-Madueke

A ‘Whopping’ N10 Fuel ‘Subsidy’ Nigerians are apparently not impressed with the whopping N10 reduction in the pump price. Driving past NNPC Mega station, the loooooong line said otherwise. Truly, I was momentarily confused. Was there a scarcity? Petrol stations are not smiling too. They would have to sell their left-over stock at a loss. I just want to remind the petrol station owners, dealers, marketers and all those affected that they should remember those times when pump price was increased and they had left over stock. Good. They enjoyed the extra profit on fuel. No vex, let the common man enjoy this rare moment.

I’m not even sure Mr. P should have bothered with the N10 whopping reduction. We were concentrating on these other areas that Nigerians aren’t impressed by, and then he added this N10 that people feel should have been a lot more! We were buying at the N97…suffering and smiling.

WEEKEND

BiTES

“If you thInk lIfe has robbed you, It Is always an InsIde job”.

FEEDBACK: LET’S HEAR FROM YOU

First, I must commend Nigerians for not taking to the streets and violently protesting what happened in a foreign land in a language that most of us don’t comprehend. It could be that we have begun to understand the nature of violence and its ability to snowball or, truly, we are sick and tired of the carnage going on in the North-eastern region of our country. Also, it could be that, with the Presidential Election just a few days shy of a month away, we are ‘better’ preoccupied. Whatever the reason, thankfully, there was no life lost.

The West confuses me. Literally, the whole Western world and a few others rose and lent their voices to #IAMCHARLIE in response to the killing of 12 staff of Charlie Hebdo on a cartoon that had offended Muslims.

The march was to stand behind Freedom of Speech. I’m not sure why we are not entitled to free speech over people’s sexual orientation but freedom to ridicule people’s religion?

While I do not sanction every provocation being dealt with through violence, killing and maiming of people to show anger (there are several other ways to send your displeasure home); in exercising the freedom of free speech shouldn’t it be done with some responsibility, especially when you are aware that the subject of your writing is very sensitive to such? The fact that it is done in some quarters and tolerated doesn’t mean [that] everyone is that charitable. I agree, absolutely, with the defense of freedom but where one freedom starts, another ends. In that regard, #IAmSometimesCharlie.

Youth (And Sponsors And Elder Statesmen And Desperate Politicians) Say ‘No’ To Violence It felt ‘somehow’ watching the two elephants laugh, shake hands and sign a pact of ‘No to violence’.

It will take more than signing a peace accord to calm followers who are already ‘high’ from

unleashing mayhem in defence of what they believe. There is no time. The current message being articulated to discourage youth from committing violence is yet to trickle down to the real youth

who are often beguiled into perpetuating the mayhem. The message will need to be articulate and demonstrated in their various languages, not just in Abuja and on the social media.

hello reader, 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.

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January 23, 2015

Buhari: PDP Has Run Out Of Lies – Oshiomhole

By Patrick Ochoga, Benin

Edo State governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has said that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has run out of lies and is fishing for new ones having failed with the School Certificate lie they tried to pin on the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Major-General Muhammadu Buhari.

Speaking during an inspection of road projects which culminated in a campaign at the Egor market in Upper Siluko area of the

state capital, Oshiomhole said: “I’m happy that you people are following what is happening and one young man said even if Buhari doesn’t have a school certificate, if it’s just a NEPA bill he presents as certificate, it’s enough and the people will vote for him. Another said the other man has a doctorate in Zoology, but we can’t even get fish on our table.

“The truth is that everybody is tired. Today in this market, I’m sure you don’t have light.

We have provided the electric poles and the transformer but they would not give us light.

So, the only solution is, after 16 years of PDP, they have exhausted their lies. We have to bring General Buhari because we want a leader with courage; when he says I will do this, he will do it. Not a leader that will promise during campaigns but will disappear after the campaigns.

“Today in Edo, they have enriched a few individuals, and they are telling us they are going to bring a lot of money to buy our votes.

When they bring the money, collect it; it’s the money they stole from you; but we will not vote for them.”

L-R: Representative of the Sultan of Sokoto, Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; former president, Court of Appeal and chairman of the occasion, Justice Mustapha Akanbi; former chief of army staff, Lt. Gen. Dambazo Abulrahaman and former minister of education, Dr Oby Ezekwesili, during the 12th Daily Trust Dialogue with the theme “2015 Elections: How to make Nigeria the Winner” in Abuja, yesterday.

Rivers: APC, PDP, LP Guber Candidates Promise Violence-free Polls

BY ANAYO ONUKWUGHA, Port Harcourt

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Dr Dakuku Peterside and his counterparts in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), Chief Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike, and Prince Tonye Princewill respectively, yesterday made a pledge to be committed to a violence-free election in the state.

The trio signed the non-violence accord in the presence of the United States ambassador to Nigeria, Mr James Entwistle, the archbishop, Province of Niger Delta (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Ignatius Kattey and the Catholic Bishop of Port Harcourt, Most Rev. Camillus Etukudoh.

Speaking at the event, the APC governorship candidate, Peterside, said peace is necessary for not just credible elections, but also

inevitable for a united Rivers State.

Also speaking, the governorship candidate of the PDP, Wike reiterated his commitment and that of his party to peaceful and violence-free elections in the state come February 14 and 28, 2015.

On his part, the governorship candidate of LP, Princewill expressed joy over the peace pact, saying violent elections had never done any state or nation any good.

NEMA Set To Build IDP Camp In Abuja By ejike ejike, abuja

The National Emergency Management Agency is set to build a camp for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Revealing this to LEADERSHIP yesterday, the zonal coordinator of NEMA in the FCT, Ishaya Chonoko noted that the enormous challenges of recognising the real displaced persons in the FCT had necessitated

the existence of a camp, where some of the displaced persons from the Northeast who found themselves in Abuja will be kept.

Mr Chonoko explained that even though the displaced persons in the FCT had no proper arrangement from the government before coming to settle, his office has visited some of the settlements in Wuse, Karu, Area 1 and even Nyanya to offer some relief materials to them.

He lamented the infiltration of the IDP

settlements in the FCT by some miscreants, who specialise in causing harm to these displaced persons and dispossessing them of the relief materials given to them.

Mr Chonoko stated that the proposed camp for the displaced persons in the FCT, which has no site yet, when completed, would assist NEMA to have a proper register of those who were really affected by the insurgency and any natural disaster.

FG Dedicated To Transforming Nigeria’s Civil Service – HOCSF Onukogu Kanayo Jubal, Abuja

The federal government is dedicated to ensuring that the nation’s public service reforms are targetted at transforming the country’s civil service into a disciplined, professional and efficient one.

Speaking during a one-day retreat for directors-general and permanent secretaries at the Banquet Hall of the State House yesterday, the head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Danladi Kifasi, said the transformation agenda of the current administration “envisages a world-class and merit-based public service that delivers government policies and programmes with excellence, discipline and professionalism”.

Kifasi, who represented Vice President Namadi Sambo at the retreat, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to “eliminate corruption through increased transparency in the conduct of government business, improvements in human resource management and deepening benefits of Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), institutionalising a performance management system in the public service, implementing a leadership development and succession planning programme for the Federal Civil Service and entrenching a new work culture to stem indiscipline and restore professionalism”.

Dadin Kowa Power Plant 70% Complete, Operational Early 2016 – Investor

By Abah Adah, Abuja

The private investor building the 40megawatts (mw) Dadin Kowa Hydro-Electric Power Project (HEPP) in Gombe State, Mabon Limited, has said that the project is on course and will be ready for operations by the first quarter of next year.

The project engineer, Emeka Nwugo, in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, said Mabon has signed a build, operate and transfer (BOT) agreement with the federal government to manage the facility for 25 years after completion before transferring it.

He said, “The plant is expected to generate power and transmit to the 330/132KV national grid through Gombe town shortly after the ongoing works at the switchyard and transmission lines are completed, and its 2 x 20mw turbines are commissioned by 2016”.

Speaking on the project’s status, Nwugo said Dadin Kowa power plant has reached 70 per cent completion as the power house including the tail race area has been dewatered with a new coffer dam, adding that other milestones include the ongoing switchyard, with the turbines and other major equipment being delivered to the site shortly.

Engr. Nwugo said, “We had finished draining the water from the power house; works at the switchyard have gone past foundation level, with more equipment arriving our warehouse to continue the project as we are testing the fittings and installations with a dedicated 250KVA Power Generating plant.”

A fool may ask more questions in an hour than a wise man can answer in seven years

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January 23, 2015

Ebonyi: 1 Dead, Many Injured As Thugs Attack LP Supporters

By Obinna Ogbonnaya, Abakalaki

One person has been confirmed dead, a brand new Hiace bus and other properties worth millions of naira burnt and destroyed, while several people, including the Ohaozara West candidate of the Labour Party were yesterday brutalised in an attack carried out by some thugs allegedly working for the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ohaozara and Ikwo local government areas of Ebonyi State.

The coordinator, Ikwo Central Development Center, Chief Linus Amaga confirmed the incident, saying the deceased, Mr. Ogo

Nwakpu of Agubia Ikwo in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state, was attacked by the thugs after the Labour Party campaign rally in the community and he died following complications from the injuries inflicted on him, adding another victim of the attack was in critical condition in a hospital in the area.

He said over 20 Labour Party supporters in the local government had been attacked and seriously injured by some suspected thugs working for the PDP in the last one month, adding the PDP resorted to attacking supporters and candidates of the party following the rejection of its candidates by the different communities and major stake-

holders in the local government area.

“If the PDP is confident of winning the February general elections, why attack innocent Labour Party supporters.

“Elections are not won in Abakaliki capital city; elections are won at the grassroots.

Having observed their total rejection by the people and their inability to bribe them into voting for the party, they resorted to attacking our supporters and candidates each time we move round to talk to our people”.

“How many of us would they kill? Even if it is only one person that is remaining in the entire Ebonyi State, that single person would still vote for the Labour Party,” he said.

Health Workers Urge FG To End Strike

By Gbenga Adeboye, Abeokuta

Health workers under the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) have called on the Federal Government to accede to the union’s demands to bring the strike to an end “to stop avoidable deaths”.

JOHESU comprising five unions in the sector told a news conference in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital on Thursday, that government’s failure to respect agreements reached since 2010, was responsible for the two months old strike.

Jointly addressing the conference, the chairman of Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions, Samuel Idowu, and the South West coordinator of Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Akinlotan Akinbode, condemned the federal government for taking care of doctors at the expense of other professionals in the sector, which they said created unfriendly working environment.

In their 8-point demand, Idowu, who doubles as the JOHESU chairman in the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Abeokuta, advocated the scrapping of the lopsidedness in the appointment of members of boards of tertiary hospitals.

“We also crave the release of the scheme of service for nurses and midwives in line with the National Industrial Court of Nigeria ruling; the need to define the functions and power of honourary consultants in teaching hospitals and appointment of more hospital based consultants instead of honorary ones,” he stated.

Kogi West Grossly Misrepresented – Melaye L-R: Deputy national secretary of Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Comrade Henry Ugwu, executive national president, Chief Musa Isiwele Shehu and national secretary general, Comrade Ibrahim Adeniyi, during a press briefing on the association’s creation of over 45,000 jobs within three months in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY ADEFEMI ADEWUYI

Mohammed To Maku: Stop Vilifying Al-Makura, APC

BY DONATUS NADI, Lafia

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and former Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, has been cautioned against persistently casting aspersions on the person of Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and the All Progressives Congress ( APC).

A chieftain of the APC in Nasarawa State, Alhaji Abubakar Gada Mohammed, who handed down the warning in Lafia yesterday, noted with worry that Mr. Maku had

over the past one month persistently attacked the person of the governor in his campaign outings.

He said Maku’s three-fold campaign points bordered on fervent appeals to religion, ethnicity and zoning, all of which had Al-Makura and the APC as the central point of reference.

Mohammed, who is the special adviser to Governor Al-Makura on food security, urged Maku to dwell on his blueprint for the people of Nasarawa State rather than seeking political acclamation by deliberately misinform-

ing the members of the public.

“No wonder, the PDP knows his temperament and unsuitability for the office of the governor and voted him out at the primaries in Nasarawa,” he quipped.

He called on Maku to vent his misgivings on the PDP which has nurtured him to national prominence yet could not count on his support when he was most needed and stop villifying the governor.

“Maku should direct his frustration towards PDP who voted him out at the primaries and stop harassing Almakura” he said.

I’m No Seasonal Politician – Kashamu ByGbenga Adeboye, Abeokuta

The chairman mobilisation and organisation of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the South West who also doubles as the senatorial candidate for the party in Ogun East at the February election, Buruji Kashamu, has said he is not a seasonal politician who abandons his people after election.

He made this known yesterday at Ijebu Ode while flagging off his campaign.

Kashamu promised to represent the people well saying he would use his position to bring

development to the area.

He reminded the people that he has been involved in empowerment programmes for years now through his Omo - Ilu Foundation.

“I am not a seasonal politician. I have been with you all through the years, politics or no politics. You all know the various empowerment initiatives that we have done through the Omoilu Foundation.

I promise to do even more when I am elected by you as a senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District.”

He said he is committed to the creation of

Ijebu State and any other project that will benefit the State.

“I commit myself to the creation of Ijebu State. The realisation of Olokola Free Trade Zone, and the revamping of the proposed Cargo Airport in Remo Division. I am irrevocably committed to the realisation of these programmes and will do everything within my power as a legislator to make them possible.”

“I will use my contacts to lobby various ministries, departments and agencies of government at the State and Federal levels to bring worthwhile projects to Ogun East.

By Edegbe Odemwingie, Abuja

Kogi West senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Otunba Dino Melaye has said his people have been grossly misrepresented in the National Assembly in the last eight years.

Melaye speaking while donating water pumping machines to the people of Karaworo area of ward C in Lokoja local government promised adequate and quality representation if elected into the senate in the February 14 election.

He said his decision to provide the water pumps followed several ignored pleas to the PDP-led Kogi State government by the community for urgent intervention to their water situation.

A community leader in the area, Alhaji Yeriman Salihu Abbas said Melaye had proven that he would run people oriented programmes if elected into the senate.

“We wrote to government about the water situation in Karaworo but nothing was done; we have to set out early in search of water because the pump here has spoilt, but with this gesture from our candidate I can say our days of looking for water has come to an end,” Abbas said.

Speaking earlier, an APC chieftain Mallam Abdulmalik Suleiman urged Nigerians to vote massively for APC at all levels, describing Melaye as their man.

Man concerned about the welfare of ordinary people.

A fool may ask more questions in an hour than a wise man can answer in seven years

NEWS NATIONAL /59

January 23, 2015

Jubilation In Gombi Over Rescue Of Kidnapped German

BY MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Yola

Gombi town of Adamawa State went into jubilation following the rescue of a German, Mr Nitsch Eberhard Robert, who is the coordinator of the Vocational Technical Training Centre (VTTC) in Gombi, by Cameroonian forces.

The centre was established by the administration of Governor Murtala Nyako to provide vocational skills mainly to the teeming youths in the area.

Robert was kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents July last year in the town when they launched an attack.

A cross-section of Gombi residents expressed happiness at the development, adding that the news of Robert’s release came to them as a pleasant surprise.

“We are happy to hear that Robert has been released; many of us could not control tears of joy when we heard the news.

“The man is a blessing to us due to the assistance he has been rendering to this

community; he has been assisting this community since his coming,” a resident, Muhammad Sani said.

Another resident who identified himself as Buba Jauro said the news of Robert’s release came to him as a big relief.

“It’s one of the happiest moments in my life. Robert is a good man and I can remember the last time he repaired our borehole, shortly before he was kidnapped; you need to know that the borehole is now faulty and we have no one to repair it.

Polls: Why I Endorsed My Successor – Dakingari

By YAHYA SARKI, Kebbi

Kebbi State governor Dakingari has explained why he endorsed General Bello Sarkin Yaki to succeed him as the next governor of the state.

The governor made the disclosure yesterday at the flag-off campaign rally for the gubernatorial aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kebbi State, which was held in Zuru local government area, attended by thousands of PDP supporters in the state.

Dakingari described the Kebbi PDP flag

bearer as a gentleman with an excellent track record of service in the military, honesty and vision to transform Kebbi on the basis of equity and fair play.

“The PDP in Kebbi has carefully ensured that all our aspirants are people of proven integrity and I am optimistic that our candidate for the governorship position is credible”, he said.

The governor further challenged the opposition in the state especially those who decamped to APC to show any record of their contribution to the development of the peo-

ple in the state.

On his part, the Kebbi PDP flag bearer thanked the people of Zuru for massively coming out to express their support to him and promised not to let them down. “ Zuru is my home because it is the home of my mentors in the military,” he said.

He promised to lead by example and honesty to all, saying also that those who are in doubt about his records are free to scrutinise and investigate his records even on the Internet. He advised the electorate to vote wisely for PDP and be aware of fraudsters.

APC Accuses PDP Of Planning To Attack Buhari’s Campaign In Akure

By Tope Fayehun, Akure

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Ondo State Chapter yesterday said it had uncovered plans by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to disrupt the campaign train of its presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari who will be visiting the state tomorrow.

The party alleged that PDP has hired some hoodlums to stone Buhari’s convoy to create the impression that the APC is not on ground in Ondo State.

A group in the party under the aegis of Muhammadu Buhari Legacy Foundation (MBLF) disclosed this to journalists at a press conference in Akure, the state capital.

The state coordinator of MBLF, Chief Kolawole James alleged that the ruling PDP has organised thugs from outside the state whose identities would not be known to disrupt its presidential rally billed for tomorrow.

He said, “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has organised thugs from outside the state that would come and attack our supporters on Saturday because they are aggrieved by the overwhelming support our presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari has been receiving since the beginning of his campaigns”.

Elections: ‘Ndigbo Will Not Run Away’

By Onukogu Kanayo Jubal,

Abuja

As the presidential election draws nearer, the council of Igbo kings in Northern Nigeria (Ndi Eze Ndigbo nu Uzo Ije) has said that contrary to public opinion, the Igbos who reside in Northern Nigeria are not running back to their ancestral homes in panic because of the February elections.

The coordinator of the group in the 19 Northern states of the nation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Eze Pampas Ngozi Nwahiwe (Eze Ndi Igbo Niger State), who read out the

group’s communiqué to the media yesterday at the Agura Hotel, Abuja, called on all those spreading the rumours that the Igbos are running away from the region out of fear of electionrelated violence to desist from the “heartless mischievous rumours”.

He said: “Ndigbo will never run away for anyone as this country belongs to all of us. The Nigeria of the 21st Century is for all of us to love and live in. Even when the Igbos were travelling for the normal Christmas celebrations, people said they were running away. We cannot run away for any reason.

This country is for us all.

“We believe in the unity, indivisibility and peaceful co-existence of the country’s citizens. We are committed to the peaceful co-existence of all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, creed and religion”.

“As leaders of the Igbos in the North, we urge all our kinsmen and subjects in the region to get their permanent voter registration cards and remain in their various states of abode without fear of harassment or victimisation, because we believe that the current administration is capable of providing adequate security.”

Keep Your Publications With National Library, FG Orders MDAs

By Abah Adah, Abuja

The federal government has directed all its ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) as well as its arms to deposit all their publications with the National Library of Nigeria (NLN), except those excluded by an order of the Federal Executive Council as may be published in the official gazette.

The directive, which is to ensure compliance with the provisions of the National Library Act No. 29 of 1970, was contained in a press release signed by the secretary to the government of the federation, Anyim Pius Anyim.

“The federal government has observed with concern that some Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are not complying with the relevant provisions of the National Library Act No. 29 of 1970, which make it obligatory to deposit all publications, including materials published by any arm of the federal government at the National Library of Nigeria,” the statement said.

It added that three copies of the book or publication are to be presented, two of which shall be kept in the National Library for permanent preservation while the remaining one shall be sent by the director to Ibadan University Library.

A fool may ask more questions in an hour than a wise man can answer in seven years

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Army Redeploys Laleye, Others

BY BODE GBADEBO, Abuja

L-R: Former Vice President and leader of the APC, Atiku Abubakar in a handshake with former Minister of Labour, Alhaji Musa Gwadabe on his return to the country at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

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LEADERSHIP’s Correspondent Escapes Lynching By Sure-P Officials In Lagos By our correspondent, Lagos

LEADERSHIP Newspapers’ transport correspondent, Mr Samson Echenim, yesterday narrowly escaped being lynched by officials in charge of the Subsidy Re-investment Programme (Sure-P) under the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) at the Sure-P training ground in Magodo, Lagos, near the Motorway Centre on LagosIbadan Expressway.

Echenim had gone to the Sure-P training ground to investigate allegations of extortion from graduates seeking to register as cadets with the hope of getting jobs under FERMA or other relevant government agencies.

The correspondent had got a tip-off that some officials of Sure-P engaged by the federal government as men of the Federal Task Force were collecting money before giving registration, training and allowance forms to the graduates (cadets) who must receive six months paramilitary training before being deployed as traffic controllers or protectors of federal installations on the roads.

It was gathered that the job seekers who are mostly graduates are being trained by retired military and police officers as well as members of the Man ‘O’ War. Pretending to be an intending cadet, our correspondent had asked to get a registration form for which he was asked to pay N10,000 by a lady fronting for one of the trainers. The trainer had instructed the lady to conclude the “deal” with our correspondent and make sure he was ready to pay the money.

The lady said the trainer is a senior police officer popularly known at the SureP training ground as the officer with “two

I.C.” Not willing to pay for the form, Echenim went into the administrative office of the Task Force in a bid to find out how the unit coordinator was handling the problem of extortion on the training ground.

In a brief interview that nearly ended in violence, the training coordinator, Mr Abdulrasak Kolawole Rafiu confirmed the allegation of extortion at the Sure-P training ground, blaming it on touts “planted by opposition” to tarnish the image and rubbish the good works of the federal government.

However, our correspondent got more than he bargained for when he stated that he was not so sure whether the man who attempted to extort N10,000 from him for registration forms was just a tout.

At this point, the coordinator’s temper flared and he attempted to slap our correspondent, even as he asked his men to tear him into pieces, saying he (our correspondent) was sent by the enemies of the federal government.

“Everywhere on Lagos roads, you have LASTMA officials collecting money from motorists, but you media people have never written about it. Now they have sent you here to query me. Look, I have seen money before, since 1976 when I started working; you were not even born then. I have worked with government officials. I have worked with Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti State and I have worked with Tinubu who sent you here. This is how they go about using the media to rubbish the good works we are doing and tarnish our image.

“I will beat you up and order my men to tear you into pieces, so that when you get back to your senders, you will tell them you met me and that I am a dog,” Rafiu said in rage.

All efforts by our correspondent to make Rafiu understand that he was not an agent of the opposition failed. It took a smart retreat from the correspondent and the timely intervention of one Alhaja Dotun, a member of the task force, who wisely escorted Echenim away from the Sure-P training premises to save him from being lynched.

Rafiu had earlier disclosed that he had just sacked the unit’s head of operation, whose name he declined to give, for duping intending cadets.

As our correspondent waited for Rafiu’s audience, a woman had brought a complaint before the coordinator that two of her daughters, who were seeking to register as Sure-P trainees had been duped by the same head of operations, who swindled them of a total of N100,000.

Rafiu had told our correspondent that he was stressed and depressed over the issue of touting and fraud at the training ground, which was giving him a bad name.

“They want to spoil my name. The people that sent you (our correspondent) had planted their people among us here to spoil what we are doing,” Rafiu said, insisting that our correspondent was an agent of the opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Since I came in here in the morning, I have not rested. I have been treating issues like this (extortion and fraud) that are taking place here. As you see me, do I look like somebody who would go after small small money here and there? I’m bigger than that. Did they tell you that I sent them to collect the money from trainees? I personally directed that it should be written boldly on the forms that the forms are not for sale so that people will resist paying for them,” Rafiu claimed.

Christmas comes but once a year, but when it comes, it brings good cheer.

The Nigerian Army has redeployed its director of public relations, Brigadier General Olajide Laleye alongside other officers in a routine exercise.

Laleye and others’ redeployment were part of regular redeployments and postings of officers by the Army authorities every January.

Calls placed to Laleye’s phone by our reporter last night in order to officially confirm that he had been redeployed to Benin, Edo State as the commander of the 4th Brigade were not answered up till the time of going to press.

But a source told LEADERSHIP Friday that an official release on the new postings will be made public any moment from now.

The army spokesman had attended a meeting of the Forum of the Spokespersons of Security and Response Agencies (FOSSRA) on Wednesday, a day after he addressed a press conference on General Muhammadu Buhari’s certificate saga in his official capacity.

Insurgency: Nigerian Peacekeeping Troops May Be Recalled – FG

By Patience Ivie Ihejirika, Abuja

The coordinator of the National Information Centre (NIC), Mr Mike Omeri, said yesterday that Nigerian troops on peacekeeping missions abroad may be recalled to the country to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian military in the troubled North East.

Omeri who stated this while addressing journalists at the centre in Abuja, said that the recall will be necessary given the fact that concerted action of Nigeria and other countries is needed to combat the current security situation in the country.

“It is not as if our men have depleted so badly that we are looking to recall a few that are in operation outside but what we are suggesting is a troop surge and it is a position that is being canvassed to reinforce capacity to fight Boko Haram and insecurity there.

“Whatever Nigeria needs to do to defend her territory and citizens it will do; that is not to say that we don’t have enough soldiers or people have withdrawn; you can see the effort that other people are making there and Nigeria is still part of ECOWAS community, African Union community, United Nations community”.

Omeri further stated that as part of the continuing international co-operation in the fight against insurgency in the country, offer of military and humanitarian assistance from regional and international bodies should be deployed along Nigeria’s common borders with neighbouring countries with a clear mandate, command and control, as well as rule of engagement.

According to him, Nigeria and her neighbours should improve on the effective management of their borders, while the Abuja Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit should collaborate with the Intelligence Coordination Centre based in Chad in intelligence sharing.

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Baba EL-Nafaty Impressions

T

he 2015 election which is just about three weeks ahead is now before us. It is going to be the most important election in the history of this country.The context has change dramatically from the last elections which took place in 1960, 1964, 1979 and 1983. The social order is not the same, demographics, education have changed beyond recognition; the cleavages which were once so accentuated are getting blurred. There are now additional 100million people; most are educated and very aware of the realities of our times. So much water has passed under the bridge since Obasanjo’s second coming. The ruling party which has hold on to power since 1999 is today facing its greatest challenge against a coalition of once opposing political parties who have decided to forge ahead together and confront the PDP. We should never forget that once PDP was invisible that is when the other political parties were in disarray. A storm is indeed brewing but is the umpire who will determine where the wind blows prepared for the hurricane.

Many are clamouring for change and some are praying for continuity they are afraid of the impending storm and they just want things to be. Whatever is the case, this election will redefine the political landscape of Nigeria and the Independent National Election Commission should be

elnafatyb5@yahoo.com

A Gathering Storm

prepared.

Already there are signs that INEC might not be fully prepared before the election date on the 15th of Feb, 2015. The distribution of permanent voter’s cards is slow and from all indication it is going to be very unlikely that all eligible voters will be empowered to vote on the crucial dates.

If that happens a cross section of the population may be disenfranchised which will not be acceptable to most Nigerians.

There are still no signs that election apparatus is ready to go within the next three weeks. In the past election by now election fever will be gripping the nation and indication of an impending polls will easily be discern. We are aware that the names election observers has been published but even that was a bit late, they need time to be fully prepared. By now,we hope that the lists of all the candidates are ready and all electioneering materialsare also ready. In the last election, some of the materials which were printed abroad were not ready on Election Day, the election date was move forward and the head of INEC, Jega, had to tender apologies to the nation. We hope this will not repeat itself.

Equally important is the manpower and logistic challenges, we hope that has been sorted out by the electioneering body.

The security arrangement is also relevant. We are aware that the Inspector General of police is effecting some

Jega

changes within the various formations; police presence must be felt on election days and they must remain neutral.

Other national security agencies must also be fully prepared for this election.

The military should also be on standby, during and after election. They must be fully prepared for any eventualities.

One of the most vexing challenges that

INEC has to content with is the issue of election in war torn areas in the North East. It is impossible to conduct election in all areas currently held by Boko Haram but all internally displaced person should be able to vote on election days Now that the issue of Buhari’s secondary school certificate has been put to rest, the two contending parties, PDP and APC should begin to address key national that are dragging the country down: insecurity, corruption, unemployment and economic issues such as the devaluation of the Naira and the fall in the price of crude oil. We want answers fast. The two main gladiators should tell us how they intend to deal with these issues.

A national debate before the election will be crucial; the two contenders should squarely face each other and tell us how they intend to move the nation forward.

We know that there are other presidential candidates but these are the most important ones, the presidential debate should be limited to them. It is important that we hear from them and read their body language and in the final analysis we must decide either for continuity or for change. If we truly want a peaceful lull after the storm then we must choose the best candidate and ensure that our votes count. This election is not only about us but the future of our country.

FEatUrE 63

January 23, 2015

ADF Makes Case For Ndigbo Ahead Of Polls

by Christian OChiama

As the 2015 election approaches, a pan Ndigbo socio-cultural, political pressure group, Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), has warned against the unprecedented challenges the country is confronted with as a result of the Boko Haram Insurgency in the Northern parts of Nigeria and which has continued to claim the lives of innocent people. It also noted the general state of insecurity as a result of orchestrated ethnic killings in several parts of the country, the state of corruption and poverty in the country as well as the socio-economic problems facing Igbo-land.

At the end of its executive council meeting in Enugu recently, the ADF and its board of trustees represented by Professor Uzodinma Nwala and Dr Dozie Ikedife, president of the foundation and chairman of the board of trustees respectively, called on Nigerian leaders, particularly the politicians, “to restrain themselves and observe some level of moral and political discipline in their conduct and management of the nation’s affairs.”

In a 14-point communique the foundation issued at the end of the meeting, the Igbo elders enjoined the political actors to bear in mind that they “carry full responsibility for the current state of crises in Nigeria; for the suffering of the Nigerian masses and the nation’s inability to protect the lives of innocent citizens from the rampaging Boko Haram and other armed ethnic forces.”

The ADF Council reminded politicians in Igbo-land about the immense state of suffering and poverty, unemployment and disorientation of the Igbo youth, infrastructural decay, the high rate of male school drop-out

Prof T. Uzodinma Nwala

and urged them to always bear in mind that “politics was about service - organising the people to improve their welfare through their collective endeavour under conditions of peace, stability and unity.”

This was just as it cautioned Igbo politicians and leaders to desist from their selfserving political and economic activities as well as their “insensitivity to the peculiar predicament of Ndigbo in the scheme of things in Nigeria.”

Commenting on the war raging in the Northern parts of the Country, the ADF Council urged the Federal Government to immediately “seek the help of multi-national bodies through the agency of the United Nations in order to defend the country and her innocent citizens and defeat the ravaging insurgents that appear to enjoy a great measure of support from their sponsors.”

It expressed worry at the emerging trend of “Fulani herdsmen who, without restraint or provocation rape, murder and terrorise

Igbo citizens even in their local communities” and warned the governments in Igboland against treating this issue with levity even as it stressed the urgency of united action by Igbo political leaders to protect the people.

The foundation warned Ndigbo not to overlook the importance of collecting their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) so as to ensure that they cast their votes during the General Election. However, it warned that Ndigbo views with consternation the lopsided distribution of PVCs, a procedure it sees as “a tactical removal of Ndigbo from voting.” To this extent, ADF demanded that INEC must “allow Ndigbo to use the Temporary Voter’s Cards (TVCs) where and when it cannot distribute the PVC”.

Over and above this, it pointed out the pertinence of Ndigbo voting for only candidates and parties that will guarantee for them the implementation of the United Nations and African Union Charters on human rights - right to self-determination, right to elect and change their leaders, right to security of life and personal property, basic freedoms of worship, speech and associations.

In addition to these the Igbo group said that the “people of South East and other Igbo speaking people outside the zone must endeavour to vote for parties that would provide basic infrastructure, especially power and transport to promote the commercial and industrial development of the area.”

ADF noted the importance of the religious and spiritual lives of Ndigbo and urged all Igbo voters, where ever they may be, to vote for candidates who would “not prevent us from worshipping our God without let or hindrance.”

The foundation also brought to the attention of Ndigbo, the necessity of staying away

from areas that are prone to post-election violence and recalled past experience during which both the federal and state governments could not render adequate security of their person and their properties in the event of crises and reiterated that often, Ndigbo are the target of such post-election crises.

ADF emphasised the seriousness of sensitising Ndigbo at various levels of their security, economic and political interests and maintained that religious, political and intellectual leaders of the people have a role to play in this regard, and appealed to the governments to close schools one week before and two weeks after the elections.` At the meeting, the foundation also discussed the well-known traits of Ndigbo and indeed Igbo-land who are known worldwide for the spirit of enterprise especially in the areas of commerce and industry.

To this end, ADF mused that what Ndigbo needed in this regard were the enabling environment such as basic infrastructure, particularly power and transportation.

To achieve this, the Igbo leaders urged governments at all levels to expunge politics and self-interest from the provision of power and other basic infrastructure needed for the acceleration of commercial and industrial development in Igbo-land. The Council found it incomprehensible that private investors such as Geometric Power Ltd which has invested such colossal amount of money to provide power for the Aba industrial hub have been victims of unwarranted politics leading to loss of millions of naira every day, while commercial and industrial development in that commercial town were greatly retarded. It wondered if this was not one more deliberate attempt to frustrate development of Igbo-land.

OpiniOn

Ngillari’s Call For Election Postponement In Adamawa

BY GeorGe KUshi

A trip to Yola the Adamawa State capital will reveal to those that know the state capital in the past that the population has increased tremendously and that accommodation has become scanty.

A trip to the ravaged parts of the state that have had encounter with the dreaded Boko Haram sect will give a graphic view of the colossal economic damage that has rendered many homeless.

The brutality meted out to the people by the fanatics can only be conceived by seeing and not by hearing. Tales of woe abound in Yola from living witnesses that had the fortune of being alive. Heavy calibre guns boom while youths perish from heavy gun fire,cudgels and sabres as hired mercenaries in collaboration with some parts of the local populace burn, loot, rape and murder peace-loving people with impunity.

The mass media which are supposed to be the common man’s last hope have out of fear or intimidation failed to bring to light the hardship the victims have to undergo. The victims including women, men and children have suffered untold

hardship trying to stay alive. This is why critics of Governor Bala Ngillari need to look at the issue critically before jumping to conclusion as to whether elections in North-east are feasible. A homeless people cannot be persuaded by electioneering campaigns when they have not been resettled. Any attempt to court them by political adventurers that view their deplorable plight as political capital to be reaped will risk being swept away by a tide of angry people that feel their sensibility is being taken for granted.

A few days ago Adamawa witnessed the resurgence of a fiercely armed Boko Haram in Gombi, a town not far from Yola the state capital. It is also on record that Mubi, Michika, Bama, Biu, Maiha,, Madagali,Bazza,Nguru etc, cutting across the three states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe are under the specter of Boko Haram.

In an interactive session with stakeholders from the Northeast, INEC chairman, Prof.Atahiru Jega said the electoral body could not on its volition shift elections. While this is true, the security situation in the areas demand caution. The inability of the state security

apparatus to hold down the insurgency has made the people to lose confidence and to run at the slightest inkling that the insurgents are heading their way. In this respect, Governor Ngillari has a point, because from all indications, INEC may find its staff not willing to risk their lives in those prone areas with an electorate unwilling to gather in one place for fear of being attacked and a mounting distrust for politicians they believe have betrayed them. The average man here now thinks more of how to survive and how to give his family daily bread than listening to any self-seeking politician.

Governor Bala Ngillari has lost more than a dozen members of his household to the blade of the terrorists ,yet his voice is not that of an aggrieved person, but a representative of several indigenes of the affected areas, their friends and hundreds of thousands of other people within and outside the state that have been negatively affected by the monstrosity of the insurgency.

The issue at hand should not be politicised. The victims deserve humanitarian aid and counseling.

All other things can wait until the

As the fool thinks, so the bell clinks. ― Egyptian proverb

Ngillari

appropriate time. The nation and political hawks clamouring for elections in our precarious times should be more humane and heed the warning. It is a great wisdom to heed Bala Ngillari’s warning and to take measures that will save us from the usual phrase of regret “HAD I KNOWN!” – Kushi wrote in from Yola

64

January 23, 2015

65

January 23, 2015

Safiya M. Adamu Issues In Nationhood

T

ime was when we could walk the streets of Nigeria without a glimpse of soldiers or seeing much of the policemen in the streets. Those were the days when the people held the army in awe and accorded them such enviable respect that parents then proudly sent their children to recruitment centres and the defence academy. That was when they and theirs were confined to well-kept and functional barracks, when “obey the last order” was exactly as it was - obedience without complaint. Any thought of mutiny or disobedience was simply not on the cards.

Today, our streets are filled with dulllooking soldiers clutching guns that look like they have been dug out of Lord Lugard archives, some held together with hastily torn-out rags as makeshift strings. They man roadblocks, harass hapless citizens with no clear aim, or idea of what they are supposedly checking or looking out for, leaving one befuddled. With what we witness in our streets and highways, it is apparent that our army has obviously been left behind in combat development.

The respect they commanded from the people has gradually given way to naked fear where they are now perceived as the other enemy, as the initial enemy continues to elude them and push the nation more and more towards the precipice.

No doubt we are a nation on the edge of precipice, not only because we are persecuting a war we apparently are not

feeyadem@yahoo.com

Have We Lost It?

interested in winning, but also because we are, to say the least, not interested in ourselves as a people. We have become so myopic that our sense of capability has been taken hostage by no other than the so-called ‘civilised world’; we are myopic in our assessment of our selfworth; myopic in our conception of our collective wellbeing; we are myopic in our understanding of development; we are myopic in our thoughts of leadership; in who should lead us and where to lead us, or even where we want to be. We are a people content to watch our collective destiny destroyed on the podium of materialism, egotism and ethnocentrism.

Indeed, cry the beloved country for we have lost our way!

This baggage we carry to the international scene - this myopic and total display of intellectual incapacity - is what have shaped the international community’s idea of us and what we are.

Long forgotten are those times when the mere presence of Nigerian leaders and Nigerians forced the world to listen, you know, those days when people of my generation woke up to such laudable declarations as ‘Africa has come of age, we will no longer....’ Where is that spirit of leadership that set us apart from the pack - when we joined the frontline states and practically took over its leadership?

What has happened to us that we have completely abandoned ourselves?

Today, Chad has taken over the leadership of the sub region in the view

of the international media. A country we have known to be one of the most unstable in the region for decades, a country Nigeria has saved from the edge countless times has, according to international media report, one of the best armies in the region today, and has taken the bold decision to lead the assault on the deadly Boko Haram sect that has terrorized northeastern parts of the Nigeria for well over five years now - just because the sect dared to venture into Cameroon. Chad has deployed large fleet of armoured tanks, helicopters and about 2,000 men to Cameroon to help rout the sect. Where are we in this new scheme of things?

We are allowed to express outrage over this development even if to no obvious effect. And why is that so? Simple - the lives of Nigerians are not worth securing!

Can’t you see it? The death of 12 people in Paris is so outrageous, so unacceptable, and so very grievous that almost the entire world rallied to Paris to stage a walking protest. The Netanyahus of this world who have killed more people, including journalists, than one can count were all out there. It was the same day that hundreds (thousands by some account) were killed, and many more displaced in Baga, a town in Borno State of Nigeria, yet there was no expression of outrage or acknowledgement from the authorities except for some annoying denial of the number killed, as if that was what mattered.

Politicking is much more important and President Jonathan and all the politicians did not think it necessary to halt their campaign trains even for a second to commiserate with the affected community. Yes their tragedy was personal to them; after all they are not Nigerians. Hello, did you say Baga? What or where in the world is that? Charlie Hebdo happened, President Holland of France made a personal appearance at the scene, immediately addressed the people and gave assurance to the French nation.

He presented himself as the symbol of the people’s pain, used the opportunity to shore up his falling popularity rating. By the first 48 hours, the attackers had been demolished. Now back home, when news of the kidnap of the Chibok girls filtered into town, our dear president went into auto- denial; Dame the vain came on air to exhibit an epoch performance of mediocrity in first ladyship with her record breaking track of ‘diya ris God ohh” and “na only you waka come?” It took the outrage of the international community for the presidency to accept Chibok actually happened. See any difference between Baga and Paris? Baga was badly timed and happened to a people who do not have a leader who sees them as citizens that much be safeguarded. But in Paris, those 12 people killed are human beings, not just people, and are bona fide citizens of France! See the difference? Go and think. God save Nigeria, and hmmm bless her, too.

FEATURE

Cleric Predicts 2015 Elections

By PAUL CHIAMA, Abuja

The General Overseer (GO), The Messenger of God Assembly, Adavi, Kogi State says God has a purpose for Nigeria in view of the forthcoming general election. Contrary to some men of God who have spread different messages indicating that President Goodluck Jonathan has lost God’s favour in his aspiration for re-election, the general overseer, Apostle Moses Abdullahi said he got a revelation that Jonathan is part of God’s plan for 2015.

“God has a purpose for Nigeria. And so, we all as a people chosen by the God of all creation must understand the timing for the unfolding of its purpose over our great country, Nigeria. It is on this note that, the lord took me in to the realm of the spirit, and showed me a revelation that has to do with our great nation. Specifically, it is about the forthcoming 2015 general election. In one of the revelations, the Lord made me to understand that Jonathan is part of his plan for 2015 and that his role in 2015 political landscape is to locate and bring to light the anointed one, set apart by

God, for the time of his work in Nigeria”, he said in a press release made available to LEADERSHIP Friday.

The cleric said that God also gave him a resounding warning against any attempt to hijack the electoral process through political deception, thuggery or making politics a do-or-die affair. He also said based on acclaimed divine revelation that no election can remove Jonathan until he has done what he described as item two (2), and presents the anointed one for election. He added that this is in line with God’s plan for peace to reign in Nigeria.

As if poised to sound more convincing to any doubting Thomas, Apostle Abdullahi said, “The Lord said I took Jonathan to that office to prepare a ground for my anointed one so that my purpose for Nigeria will be fulfilled. The Lord said, ‘Be patient with Jonathan, for I have carried Nigeria on my shoulder.’ ” The GO said Vice President Namadi Sambo also has a tinge of the prophetic revelation as a specific part of the message affects him. According to him, the prophetic revelation indicates severe consequences if people “refuse to follow the true plan of God concerning Nigeria

in 2015”.

Apostle Abdullahi who claimed to have received other revelations in the past, insisted that God has warned prominent leaders of Nigeria, including some past heads of states to ensure that they do not contravene the will of God concerning the outcome of 2015 election and general state of affairs in the country.

He said Nigerians should come together in peace despite religious and tribal differences, noting that the will of God should be allowed to prevail in the country.

Similarly, the church leader said God has assured First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan of protection, adding that God has protected her from several dangers in the past because of her “good heart towards the people. Therefore, do to all men, women and children that which is good and acceptable by me and do everything you can to take Nigeria out of the state of war.”

The cleric advised that Nigerian leaders should make collective effort to ensure the enthronement of peace in the country. “The personalities should agree and come together to offer peace

Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

— English proverb

Jonathan

for Nigeria. What is bound in heaven is also bound on earth”, he concluded.

He also called on Nigerians to pray against fuel tanker fire disaster along Nyanya-Mararaba Road.

66 opinion

January 23, 2015

I Beg To Disagaree

BY Gandhi Olaoye

Sir , I disagree completely with you.

Your whole writing is based on an assumption that has a very weak premise.

Fundamentalism is not an Islamic word. It actually started with Christianity. I am a fundamentalist Christian and I know you are. It simply means we don’t compromise on our faith. Nigeria has gone past putting fears in people in the name of religion.

They started sharia it could not hold roots.

At that time there was fear that it would spread all over the country. It died a natural death as it could not spread in the north not to talk of the south.

The diversity of this country can not make the islamic agenda possible. I actually don’t believe their agenda is any different from ours in conversions which has existed across the globe for centuries.

This is a democracy where there are term limits for office holders. The man has 4 years to implement any agenda. If he misbehaves, we will mobilize to vote him out.

Comparing Nigeria to Turkey in the 12th century is nothing but absurd.

How can you compare democracy to dictatorship?

Under this present administration more churches have been destroyed and more Christians killed with no repercusions. We haven’t seen this level of bloodshed since the civil war.

It is sad that the President whose primary responsibility and oath of office mandates him to protect and secure Nigerian citizens has failed to do so.

Repeatedly, he has failed to display the fruits of the spirit and has shown very little empathy towards the plight of citizens affected by the insurgency.

Chibok is predominantly a Christian community, but it took a young Muslim girl to get him to promise to see the families of the abducted Chibok girls. 219 girls are yet to be found and they are not priority!

What else can cause the islamisation of Nigeria than the spread of Boko Haram?

Buhari was able rout out the then Boko Haram known as Maitaisine. He was said to have chased them to inside Chad. That’s our leadership is supposed to respond to terrorist acts.

How come he did not encourage them since he desperately wanted to force Islam down our throat?

Why did he not succumb to the pressure

to join OIC when he didn’t need to consult anybody. That could have been done by military fiat?

Buhari’s cook of 25 years is a Christian, his driver,and part of his body guards are Christians .If he cannot convert them to Islam ,definitely it’s all propaganda to smear one of the most disciplined men this country has to offer.

It is inconceivable that 2 years after Boko Haram stepped up operations,not one high profile person has been prosecuted or jailed despite Mr President saying there are members in his cabinet.

It is unimaginable & inconceivable for Obama to say Al Qaeda are in his cabinet and he’s unable to do anything yet blame others.

It is shameful for Mr President to present himself as powerless and a victim with all the apparatus of power that comes with his office. We’ve appropriated trillions of Naira in our defense budget to fight what started as a rag tag army with nothing to show for it.

We witnessed in the past few weeks how developed nations handle terrorism - decisive, united and focused.

Our President is non chalant, has shown little empathy and has failed to rally the

nation to fight a common enemy. Instead he has continued to divide the nation while focused on campaigning and playing politics with people lives. He needs to be held accountable to his oath of office.

Being a Christian in name does not make you a Christian. There are clear indices unless our own criteria have fallen so low.”Stealing is not corruption” when the righteous are in power the nation should rejoice.

These issues and Mr President’s lack of performance should be what’s at the heart of this election season. Instead we’ve made religion the issue. Lagos has been led by Muslims for 16 years with support from Christians across denominations.

How have they hampered our faith?

As Pastors, we owe our congregation, who suffer daily under yoke of bad governance ,poor social services, limited employment opportunities, failed promises, lack of good roads, broken down health system ,poor educational system while our common wealth is being stolen by a few with brazen impunity, to guide them to focus on the issues before our great country becomes a failed state.

God bless Olaoye, a pastor, wrote in from Lagos

opinion

2015: Understanding Namadi Sambo’s 2m Votes’ Boast

BY Emeka Nwankpa

Vice President Namadi Sambo declared recently in Kaduna that the Peoples Democratic Party will win over two million votes in the 2015 general elections considering the support he believes the party has in the State.

For a man whose rising profile as a pragmatic politician is discernible amid the opposition’s sour politics in his state, the declaration is not a fluke but real.

He expressed this optimism at a unity meeting of the PDP Kaduna State chapter at Hassan Katsina House to reconcile aggrieved members over the last party primaries.

“We believe that there are no losers, no winners and no vanquished. Everybody will be carried along. Every party member that participated in our primaries agreed that it is only one person that can be a winner and they have agreed to co-operate and work together”, he said.

The declaration has provoked comments in some circles who consider it as ambitious.

Before further emotions rise, it is necessary to examine the statement properly.

To be sure, the Vice President has pointed the way forward for members of his party in the North to work towards the next elections. It is his democratic and constitutional right to so do.

Afterall, it is to his credit that reconciled members of the party in states such as Sokoto, Kaduna, Lagos, Kebbi, Yobe, Zamfara and Oyo have agreed to work together after disagreements over governorship primaries.

It was the President who, shortly after accepting the party’s presidential nomination at the last PDP National Convention in Abuja, decorated the Vice President as his running mate with an unusual testimonial: “Vice President Sambo has been a loyal and tested partner, a dependable, trustworthy gentle man and a true patriot. Sambo and I will campaign together to record another resounding victory for our great party in the coming elections”.

True to type, Namadi Sambo has left none in doubt about his commitment to his boss. Political groups made up of people with proven integrity and electoral weight have shown allegiance to him for his simplicity, humility and sincerity.

An example is the Northern Elders Forum led by veteran politician/elder statesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakassai whose members cut across the North. There is the Northern Alliance Group that has just emerged to canvass support for President Jonathan.

There are also other active rainbow groups operating in the remote areas with total allegiance to the Jonathan/Sambo ticket.

It bears repeating that the Vice President’s electoral weight was tested in 2007. He overwhelmingly won the Governorship Election in Kaduna. He would have also won a second term easily in 2011 if he was not appointed as Vice President.

He led PDP to victory in the 2011 governorship election that produced late Governor Patrick Yakowa.

– Emeka Nwankpa is an Abuja - based public affairs commentator.

Against certain odds which this piece cannot mention, he mobilised the highest votes for PDP in the 2011 Presidential Election in the States of the North (1,190,197:46.9% of total votes cast) against Gen. Buhari’s 1,334,244. He believes that the coming elections even hold brighter prospects for PDP. This therefore explains his confidence in next month’s elections. His boast is neither simplistic nor speculative but by virtue of what he has done to developmentally reposition the North as has never happened in Nigeria’s democratic history.

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January 23, 2015

SCHOOLS, EDUCATION, & FAITH PLATFORM

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

SPECIALISED CLASSIFIEDS PAGES BAPTIST HERITAGE CHILdREN & AGEd HABOUR

CHRISTIAN REFUGE MINISTRY INTERNATIONAL

URHOBO HISTORICAL SOCEITY ENdOWMEMT FUNd IT NO. 73075

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act,1of 1990.

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act,1of 1990.

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for a loss of certificate of incorporation under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, No 1 of 1990

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

Dr. Israel Thompsons 2.

Mrs. Sarah Thompsons THE AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES ARE: 1. To cater for the training upkeep and welfare of the under privileged among the Aged and children.

2. To propagate the Christian faith.

3. To give hop faith and home for orphan children and the Aged.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR – GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET.PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: N. A. Idakwo Esq - 08160658081

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Apostle Clement Ehizode Odianose 2. Vangelist (Mrs) Grace Clement Obobhagba 3. Ehizod Odaloighe Napoleon 4. Osin Ehijiele Magnus 5. Mr. Obobhagba Philip 6. Aghupue Adolphus 7. Mrs Odia Omono Verda 8. Ileoma Ojo Finsly THE AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES ARE: 1. To evangelise and preach the gospel of Christ 2. To affect communities with the gospel of Christ 3. To restore hope to the hopeless 4. To prepare the church for heaven ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR – GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET.PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: Gabriel Efemoaye 08023976368

KINSMAN REdEEMER MINISTRY

SUPREME COUNCIL OF OBOT AKARA LOCAL GOVERNTMENT

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act,1of 1990.

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Bishop Israel Aigbe 2. Rev. Kehinde Osinowo 3. Pastor Dele Oluwadare 4. Pastor Mrs. Eniola Ibikunle 5. Pastor Erric Ibikunle THE AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES ARE: 1. To preach the word of God. 2. To propagate the gospel of Christ to the whole world.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR – GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET.PMB 198, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Mr. Moses Uwem Sylvanus Udoudoumoren 2. Mr. Eno Tom Akpan 3. Prince Famous Dennis Otuekong 4. Elder Imoabasi Isong Usukuma 5. Prince Peter John Udo 6. Mr. Innocent Fidelis Atangadi 7. Mrs. Eno Peter 8. Mr. Anthony Emmanuel Udo (ACILRM) 9. Mr. Kufre Innocent Umoefon 10. Prince Itoro Raymond Jacob

- Chairman - Vice Chairman - Member - Financial Secretary - Member - Protocol Officer - Member - Treasurer - Secretary - Information Officer

THE AIM ANd OBjECTIVES ARE: 1. To eradicate poverty among our people by engaging them in Agricultural activities, tourism, seminars, workshops and award presentation.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SIGNED: Barr. Emmanuel O. Iheke 08100979725, 08023751417

SIGNED: Ezeji Gloria - 08038769236

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

THE CARPENTER’S CHURCH The General Public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for a loss of certificate of incorporation under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, No 1 of 1990 Any objection to this loss of certificate should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication SIGNED: Secretary

AUGUST 19, AGRICULTURAL & ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVE OF NIGERIA

LAdIAZ SUPPORT FOUNdATION

IMAM LAWAL jARIRI ISLAMIC CENTRE

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

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 Matter Act 1990.

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.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rev. Dr. Umoh Abasi Don - Chairman 2. Mrs. Blessing Inyang Okon - Secretary 3. Engr. Onuni Nta Sam 4. Mr. Ibodje Sunday 5. Mrs. Afiong A. Okponung JP 6. Rev. Mrs. Justina Okosun 7. Hon. Engr (Dr.) Yusuf Iliya 8. Chief Cletus S. I. Njoku ACP Rtd 9. Amb. (Dr.) Isreal Odezi Ewawa 10. Arch. Bishop Dr. Richard Ngozi Innocent

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Adetola Laribigbe Kolajo - Chairman 2. Mairo Danladi - Secretary THE AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES ARE 1. To support young females in achieving their educational dreams.

2. To assist displaced persons with basic necessities of life.

THE AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES ARE 1. To support and empower small scale farmers.

2. To promote Agriculture in our economy.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR. jENNIFER STILO OGBONdA; 08039394480

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: SHITTA-BEY RASHIdAT SHOLA, ESq 08095955477

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Alhaji Abba Mohammed Jaye 2. Engr. Dayyabu Mamman 3. Dr. Lawal Yahaya Kofarsauri 4. Alhaji Hamza Abba Kassin 5. Mustapha Mammada 6. Aliyu Amiru 7. Muhammad Mansir Dayyabu THE AIM ANd OBjECTIVES: 1. To promote the propagation of Islam within Nigeria and abroad.

2. To establish Schools, Mosques, Provision of Scholarships, Organizing seminars and Workshops.

3. To promote harmonious coexistence among adherents of different religions.

4. Engaging in all things that are incidental to the attainment of these objectives.

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

SIGNED. Suleiman A. Gene, Esq. - 08034641859

CHINANU OGBUNAMIRI LEAdERSHIP FOUNdATION

WISdOWS ANd ORPHANS EMPOWERMENT ORGANIZATION (WEWE) CAC/IT/NO. 33132

ALIYU-SIYONBOLA ISLAMIC FOUNdATION

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 Matter Act 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for the change of trustees under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja for the Registration under part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No.1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Sir Chinanu Uzoma Ogbunamiri 2. Barrister Osita Ogbunamiri 3. Mr. Kelechi Kenneth Ogbunamiri 4. Lady Ugonna Chika Ogbunamiri 5. Mr. Jefferson Uzoma Ogbunamiri

NAME OF TRUSTEES: 1. Egwuonwu Joseph Chinwendu (Old) Retained 2. Odoemena Benjamin Chuks Okey (Old) Removed 3. Nosike Ego Ann (Old) Appointed 4. Akeredolu Mercy (New) Appointed 5. Moses Adebiyi Ofeoshi (New) Appointed 6. Okereke Anthony (New) Appointed 7. Odela Bawa Elayo (New) Appointed 8. Dike Eleazar Chiemezie (New) Appointed 9. Gloria Nyiowho (New) Appointed

NAME OF TRUSTEES: 1. Alhaji Fasasi Adeniyi Siyonbola 2. Alhaji Siky Adewale Aliyu 3. Alhadja Faosiyat Iyabosola Ninalowo 4. Imam Ridwanullah Jamiu 5. Alhadja Mohammed Temitayo Shokunbi 6. Alhadja Musa Babatunde Sani 7. Alfa Shamsideen Tolani Oshilaja

- Chairman - Secretary

THE AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES ARE 1. To empower the youths 2. To support the development of human capital.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: SIR CHINANU UZOMA OGBUNAMIRI - CHAIRMAN

For booking or inquiry call

> HENRY UBIMAGO 08068640944

> AUGUstINE 08032325988

AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES REMAINS THE SAME Any objection to this change should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission plot 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: SECRETARY

> GLORIA OKwUM 08038722368

- Chairman - Secretary

AIMS ANd OBjECTIVES 1. 1. To establish a centre which shall as-much-as-possible feature a mosque (or prayer hall) lecture rooms/hall, offices and such other infrastructures and facilities as are naturally and ordinarily required for effective and efficient execution of the Foundation’s project and activities.

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

Signed: FULLHOUSE SOLICITORS

> ABIGAIL sAMBO 08064382438

> GLORIA RAPHAEL 08061356519

> GLORIA ODIO 08034285851

> GRACE OJO 08035054444

68 THE CARPENTER’S CHURCH

HYGIENE SUPPORT FOUNDATION

This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for change of trustees under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, No 1 of 1990.

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Charles Ehidiamen Omofomah 2. Nkechi Mercy Ene 3. Albert Omofomah 4. Emeka Chikezie Ene

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Olayiwola Gbolahan Lateef 2. Olayiwola Shola Khadijat 3. Odekunle Funmilayo Oluwatoyin 4. Tanimowo Caleb Oluwasanmi 5. Turawa Mikail Kolawole 6. Omitola Yemi 7. Olayiwola Nurudeen

- Removed - Retained - Retained - Retained

The Aim and Objectives REMAIN THE SAME: Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within twenty-eight (28) days of this publication.

SIGNED: Efeturi Andrew Nakpoberuo

January 23, 2015 JESU KII BAA TI PRAYER & EVANGELICAL MINISTRY 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.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Prophet John Akande Femi 2. Pastor Kolawole John Aina 3. Evang. Falana Olayiwola Raymond 4. Elder Adubiaro Ige

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.To promote clean and hygienic society.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To take the gospel of Jesus Christ to all who have neither heard it nor received Jesus as Lord and Saviour 2. To organise and undertake home and foreign missionary activities 3. To stimulate and train Christians to be effective witnesses for Christ

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

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

Signed: Barr. Adewoye Olugbenga 96, Fajuyi Road, Adamasingba, Ibadan 07030170905, 08058485069

Signed: SECRETARY

ASSOCIATION OF POWER GENERATION COMPANIES

Miracle Assembly Family World Wide

EZIEKE DEVELOPMENT UNIONOJOTO

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

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ISMAILA ISA 2. TONY ELUMELU 3. ANTHONY ONOCHIE ONOH 4. GEORGE OLUWANDE The aim and Objectives 1. To have one body with which the power generation companies can interface with various stakeholders.

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

SIGNED. TRLPLAW SOLICITORS & ADVOCATES

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rev. Johnson Love 2. Pastor Mrs. Victoria Love 3. Pastor Vincent Emmanuel 4. Pastor Okechukwu Ambassador Okogwo 5. Pastor Omale Simon Ochoyo 6. Evan. Ugwu Nelson Nnamdi 7. Deacon Emereole Cyril Chinyere 8. Deacon Francis Irokachia 9. Deaconess Martin Ketumi

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ofoma Christian Nwabunike - Chairman 2. Ekpebelu Chukwunonso Emmanuel 3. Ezechukwu Tochukwu Ifeanyi 4. Chukwurah James 5. Okoye Alfred Onuora 6.Ogbuefi Emmanuel Agbapuluonwu

The Aim and Objective: 1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote the development of ezieke district in all ramifications.

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

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

SIGNED. SECRETARY

Signed: Ofoma Christian Nwabunike - Chairman

SUPERBIKE CLUBS’ ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA

VOICE OF FREEDOM AND GRACE TABERNACLE INT’L

The Ordained Glorious Ministry of Christ Jesus

The General Public is hereby notified that the above named Association has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004.

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

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.

TRUSTEES: 1.UCHECHUKWU SMITH ANOSIKE 2. PASTOR MRS,GLORY HENRY UCHE 3. PASTOR HENRY UCHE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Evelyn Ayodele Babalola 2. Clement Babalola 3. Michael Babalola Samson 4. Esther Babalola

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. ADEYI AMEH 2. EDWARD OSENI 3. MUSTAPHA ALIYU 4. ISHAQ JOHN 5. BENJAMIN OKELUE 6. OGBONNAYA KANU 7. IBRAHIM SHEHU 8. MARTIN ISOJE The Aim and Objective: 1. To assist superbike clubs’ in promoting safety.

2. To foster a healthy culture of mutual understanding amongst riders.

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

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO CATER TO THE NEEDY 2. TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL. CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, 420, TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUYI IRONSI STREET. PMB 198, MATIAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28TH DAYS FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. SIGNED: SECRETARY

SIGNED. REX U. ERAMEH ESQ. (Solicitor)

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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

Signed: SECRETARY

All Nigerians welfare Alliance initiative

NDIKPA UMUELEKEOJI GENERAL ASSEMBLY

WELL OF THE LIVING GOD AND PRAISE MINISTRY

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.

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.

The general public is hereby notified that the above ministry has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for Registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Sergeant Dominic Okafor - Chairman 2. Mr Daniel Oralete - Vice Chairman 3. Mr Christopher Afunogu - Cecretary

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Evangelist Helen Idoko 2. Pastor Emmanuel Eneojo Sylvester 3. Pastor Joseph Chukuwuma 4. Elder Francis Ezeh 5. Engineer David Idoko 6. ARCH. Emmanuel Queen Eleojo

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Daniel Ekwevi-chairman 2. Gambo Nwachukwu 3. Ernest Madubueze 4. Anakekulu Emmanuel 5. Anay Stella 6. Emeka Oyeoka 7. Peter Ebuatu AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To preach and advocate for non-violence campaign among Nigerians.

2. To preach the need for togetherness among Nigerians.

3. To preach the attitudinal campaign for better Nigeria.

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

Signed: SECRETARY

IMANI

I formerly known as IMANI WOODMAN, now wish to be known as MRS CHRISTIANA IMANI NISKALA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

AISHATU

I formerly known as AISHATU HARUNA SALEH, now wish to be known as AISHATU YUSUF MUSA MALUMFASHI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To bind ourselves to gether as people of common ancestry.

2. To collectively defend and protect our common property and inheritance.

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

My first name was wrongly spelt as KAURAT/KAULAH, on some of my certificates. My correct spelling of my first name is KHAULAH. Therefore, I am KHAULAH ONONO ONOGOH. All former documents remain valid. My office and the general public to please note.

OMONIYI

I formerly known as AMAD FATIMOH OYENIKE, now wish to be known as OMONIYI NIKE KEMI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

brian

I formerly known as MISS ANGEL CHINEDU NOBIS, now wish to be known as MRS. BRIAN UCHENNA NWAEZIKE. All former documents remain valid. Enugu State University of Science & Technology College of Medicine and the general public to please note.

ABIOLA

I formerly known as NASSAM HALEEMAT ABIOLA, now wish to be known as ATANDA HALEEMAT ABIOLA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. Reconciling The World Back to God by Making Peace with God through the Blood of His Son Jesus Christ on the Cross.

2. Committed to the Ministry of Reconciliation, Making Disciples of All Nations and Raising Godly Leaders by preaching the Message of Salvation of Jesus Christ for the end Time Revival.

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

Signed: SECRETARY

Signed: SECRETARY

CORRECTION OF NAME

- Chairman - Secretary

REBECCA

I formerly known as MISS PATIENCE IME-OBONG PETERSON, now wish to be known as MRS. REBECCA IMOH DAVIDSON-OLULANA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

REBECCA

I formerly known as MRS REBECCA OLULAYO OLALEKAN ADEGUNWA-PEACE, now wish to be known as MRS REBECCA OLULAYO OLALEKAN. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

JANET

I formerly known as Ijale Janet Odije, now wish to be known as Ede Janet Odije.

All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

AYINKE

I formerly known as MISS GARUBA AZEEZAT AYINKE, now wish to be known as MRS AFOLABI AZEEZAT AYINKE. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

OLAITAN

I formerly known as LAWAL REMILEKUN OLAITAN, now wish to be known as MRS OMISORE REMILEKUN OLAITAN. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

OLUWATOYIN

I formerly known as MISS OBASUYI MUINAT OLUWATOYIN, now wish to be known as MRS MUSA MUINAT OLUWATOYIN. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

69

January 23, 2015

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS document DOCUMENT LOSS This is to inform the general loss of original C OF O of Plot No-2873 Danube crescent, maitama A6 District. C OF O no. FCT/ABU/ MISC. 14354. Belonging to Name of cert.

Ere-oja ltd.. All effort made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, contact any police station. AIGS and the general public to please note.

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS document DOCUMENT LOSS This is to inform the general loss of original C OF O of Plot No-541 Cadastral Zone A03 dated 03/24/97 with the file No. KG 12010. Belonging to Alhaji Ibrahim Husunu. All effort made to trace the said documents proved abortive. If found, contact any police station. General public to please take note.

GOD’S PROJECT EVANGELICAL WORLD OUTREACH UYO- AKWA IBOM STATE

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.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1 Prophet (Evangelist) Ben Owoedimo Enag - Chairman/General Overseer 2 Mrs. Edidiong Essien Enag - Vice Chairman 3 Deaconess Agnes Godwin Umah - Member 4 Mr Usen Sunday Akpan - Member 5 Mrs Mercy Essien Job - Member 6 Miss Beula Ben - Member 7 Pastor Owoedimo Ben Enag - Member

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

This is to inform the general public of the LOSS OF ORIGINAL LETTER OF OFFER IN RESPECT OF A PROPERTY SITUATE AT BLOCK 2, FLAT 12 KAFANCHAN CLOSE AREA 2, GARKI 1, FCT, FORMERLY BELONGING TO FLORENCE FOLAWUMI OLATUNBOSUN, BUT NOW BELONGING TO ALH. BELLO GARBA KWARE. All efforts made to recover this missing document proved abortive, if found, please return to the nearest police station.

LOSSOF loss OF ofDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

LOSSOF loss of OFDOCUMENTS DOCUMENT document LOSS

This is to inform the general public of the loss of original deed of lease in respect of property at no 22 james oni street, isolo Lagos dated 26th day of July, 1977 and registered as No 47 at page 47 in volume 1649 of the lands Registry in the office at Lagos. All effort made to trace the said document proved abortive ,general public and all concerned authority should please take note. If found please contact Aswani Police Station or nearest police station.

FORESTloss DWELLERS DOMINION MINISTRY LOSS of OF document DOCUMENT

This s to inform d general public of the loss of certificate of right of occupancy (R. of O) new file number: 20706, and old file number 2643, belonging to (HADIZA MUHAMMED BAKONJAGORA) in respect of Plot Number 815 of Cadastral Zone Fo2 of Bwari Area Council, Abuja. If found pls return to d nearest police station,AGIS,or call 08051414705. The general public shud please take note.

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.

NIGERIA -TAIWAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF KANO

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Julius Jibril Bala 2. Mallam Muktar Abubakar Tafawa-Balewa 3. Mallam Abidu Yazid 4. Captain Moses Gowon 5. Miebaka Kenneth Aboki 6. Barr. Franklin Ike Chude

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1 To spread the word of God 2 To Minister to each other and thye world.

3 To nurture Christian growth through preaching teaching prophesying and Fellowship.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To serve as a center for the gathering and dissemination of information and material for the promotion of business between Nigeria and Taiwan

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

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

Signed: DONALD UFFORD ESQ

Signed: SECRETARY

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. SYLVESTER OMEREORAH 2. CATHIN U. OMEREORAH 3. EZECHIEFOH NGOJI

- EVANGELIST

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To evangelize and promote the knowledge of God, the adherence to the teaching and examples of Jesus Christ.

2. To promote Christian education, values and morals 3. To provide for the spiritual welfare of her members Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Barr. Oranezi Wilson C.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. RT. REVD. ZAKKA L.NYAM: BISHOP OF KANO - CHAIRMAN 2. JUSTICE DAVID S. NYOM

- CHANCELLOR 3. HENRY U. OYONE - TREASURER 4. SlLAS T. NUHU­ - SYNOD SECRETARY AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO ENV ANGELIZE AND PROMOTE THE KNOWLEGDE OF GOD, THE ADHERENCE TO THE TEACHING AND EXAMPLES OF JESUS CHRIST. 2. TO PROMOTE CHRTSTlAN EDUCATION, VALUES AND MORALS. 3. TO PROVIDE FOR THE SPIRITUAL WELFARE OF HER MEMBERS Any objection to this Registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs, plot 420, Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: BARR. ORANEZI WILSON C.

UPLIFTING THE LESS PRIVILEGED HUMANITARIAN NETWORK

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

AMENDMENT OF THE CONSTITUTION OF OMALIMA LANDLORDS’ ASSOCIATION OZE NKWELLE EZUNAKA, OYI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE BY DELETING ARTICLE 16 (II) & (V) AND THE TERMINATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF N. C. NOBIS ELENDU/THE LAW FIRM OF CHIDI NOBIS ELENDU & CO. AS HER LEGAL ADVISER AND GENERAL COUNSEL.

SALE OF PLOT OF LANDS WHICH ARE STILL AVAILABLE AND BELONGING TO DEFAULTING MEMBERS OF OMALIMA LANDLORDS’ ASSOCIATION OZE NKWELLE EZUNAKA, OYI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.

MRS. BENEDETTE IFEYINWA NWOYE-OKORIE 2.

MR.CLETUS CHUKWUNYERE OKORIE 3.

DARBY ANGEL 4.

ARIHI GEORGE 5.

OKORIE CHINWE AMAKA 6.

NWOYE IFEANYICHUKWU BERNARD 7.

JACOB CALEB ARINZE 8.

ONYEBUCHI OBETA Esq AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To provide a network of empowerment for the talented/gifted less privileged Nigerians particularly the rural dwellers

The general public is hereby WARNED TO STOP DEALING with Chief N. C. Nobis Elendu/the law firm of Chidi Nobis Elendu & Co. as the lagal adviser and general counsel of OMALIMA LANDLORDS’ ASSOCIATION OZE NKWELLE EZUNAKA, OYI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE

Signed:

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

Signed: Onyebuchi Obeta Esq - Abuja

HADIZA

I formerly known as HADIZA UMARU NDANUSA, now wish to be known as HADIZA NDANUSA MOHAMMED. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

kutubu

I formerly known as MRS WILLIAMS-AGADA, now wish to be known as MRS KUTUBU JUNICE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

OMOBOLA

I formerly known as MISS OMOBOLA REGINA DADA, now wish to be known as MRS OMOBOLA REGINA ORUOBI. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

FELIX

I formerly known as FELIX DAVID INYANG EDORHE, now wish to be known as FELIX DAVID INYANG. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

Signed: Chairman

AISHA

I formerly known as AISHA MAITAMA YUSUF, now wish to be known as AISHA BABA AHMED. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

adeoti

I formerly known as ADEOTI ABDULWAHEED, now wish to be known as ADEOTI ADE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

NGOZI

I formerly known as MISS OSUDE VIVIAN NGOZI, now wish to be known as MRS NNAMANI VIVIAN NGOZI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

NOTICE is hereby further given to the general public that the OMALIMA LANDLORDS’ ASSOCIATION OZE NKWELLE EZUNAKA, OYI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ANAMBRA STATE is now offering for sale all those plots of land belonging to defaulting members of the Association who have in defiance of their Constitutional obligation defaulted and failed to pay up their Omalima Oze, Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State Land Development rates, levies and dues, pursuant to the provisions of Article 29 (c) of the Consitution of the Omalima Landlords Association, Oze, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State

zainab

I formerly known as mrs zainab muhammed manu, now wish to be known as mrs zainab haruna muhammed. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

tawa

I formerly known as MISS UMORU LAURETT TAWA, now wish to be known as MRS BRUNO JOSE LAURETTA TAWA. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please note.

joan

Secretary

celine

Chairman

chika

I formerly known as MISS OKOLIEOCHA CELINE AKUDO, now wish to be known as MRS EZE CELINE AKUDO. All former documents remain valid. General public to please note.

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EMMANUEL

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GINIKA

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LEADERSHIP FRIDAY

sports news and analysis January 23 2015

Fashanu Lauds Jonathan’s Achievements In Sports

Jonathan

By SALIFU USMAN, Abuja

Former England international, Ambassador John Fashanu has lauded President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for his achievements in sports sector.

Speaking to newsmen yesterday in Abuja, he noted that President Jonathan’s transformation in sports development speaks volume that it will take only a blind person not to notice, stressing that he has achieved more than any president before him.

According to the former Wimbledon FC striker, if there is any sector that the President’s name ‘Goodluck’ has so much manifested, it is the area of sports, saying

sports recorded the highest achievement under his administration.

“I have been so impressed with Mr President’s achievement in sports in Nigeria. If we have to count it, where do we begin from?

“It is on record that the Super Eagles won Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in South Africa under his administration. The Super Eagles equaled the best record Nigeria ever had at the World Cup in Brazil.

“The Nations U-17 team won FIFA U-17 World Cup in UAE. The female U-20 team won silver in their own World Cup. Nigeria had the best performance at the Commonwealth Games and the World Athletics Championship. I

cannot mention the whole achievements because they are many.

“All these happened because he was really a lucky president and most importantly, he created an enabling atmosphere for sports men and women to strive because of the way he normally appreciates them when they return,” he said.

The soccer ambassador who is a member of President Goodluck Jonathan campaign team insisted that as a president who has the interest of the youths at heart and who has promoted sports to such a high level, he should be encouraged to return to continue on the good work he had started.

“I have been in sports for a very long period to know the importance of what a President who does not like sports can do to the youths and the one who loves it can also affect the youths.

Jonathan’s goodluck in sports has really taken Nigeria sports to a higher level. We have seen in Nigeria’s history under one of the presidents when Nigeria qualified for almost every competition, yet could not win any trophy,” Ambassador Fashanu concluded.

Jigawa Govt Honours Gumel

By ONJEWU DICKSON, Abuja

The government of Jigawa State will roll out the red carpet on January 25, 2015 to honour it’s illustrious son and President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr Habu Gumel.

In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP Friday Sports, signed by the NOC PRO, Tony Ubani, this recognition which holds at the NYSC Camp is being bestowed on Engr Gumel by His Excellency, Governor (Dr) Sule Lamido, the

Executive Governor of Jigawa State as a result of the giant strides that the astute administrator has made in Sports A dministration( local and international) and Engineering practice in Nigeria.

In a letter signed by the Director of Protocol, Government House, Dutse, the Dinner in honour of Engr Gumel who is also an Executive member of the International Olympic Committee, IOC, will start by 9 p.m prompt.

Since coming back as President of Nigeria

Olympic Committee after a keenly-contested election in Asaba, Delta State, where he beat former President Engr Sani M. Ndanusa, Gumel had received congratulatory messages from international sporting bodies as well as stakeholders in Nigeria. But in his usual characteristic manner, he has decided to allow his works speak for him.

But for the honour coming from his own state, Gumel said that words were inadequate to express his joy.

Chikhaoui

Chikhaoui Scores Late To Help Tunisia Beat Zambia 2-1 Zambia were made to pay for poor finishing as Yassine Chikhaoui’s 89th-minute winner gave Tunisia a turnaround 2-1 victory.

Honour Janza’s side were good value for their lead after Southampton striker Emmanuel Mayuka broke the deadlock on the hour

in Thursday’s Africa Cup of Nations Group B clash.

But Mayuka and his attacking foil Rainford Kalaba could not add the crucial second, and Zambia were punished as Tunisia struck twice in the final 20 minutes in Ebebiyin.

Ahmed Akaichi drew

them level, before Chikhaoui completed an unlikely comeback with a late header.

The result sees Tunisia take a big step towards reaching the quarter-finals for the first time since they won the competition on home soil in 2004.

I Did Nothing To Warrant My Prosecution, Lulu Cries Out

By SALIFU USMAN, Abuja

Former president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Sani Lulu Abdullahi has reiterated that he is innocent of the corruption charges leveled against him by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

Lulu and his three other colleagues, Amanze Uchegbulam, Taiwo Ogunjobi and Bolaji Ojo-Oba are facing trial since July, 2010 on an eight count charge ranging from misappropriation of 2010 World Cup funds, purchase of two Marcopolo buses without due process, distribution of World Cup tickets, payment of estacodes and allowances to 220 Nigerians that went to watch the 2010 World Cup in South Africa among others.

The former FCT director of sports, in an open letter to Nigerians demanded for immediate justice in the case, insisting that he did nothing wrong and his

Faint heart never won fair lady.

— Egyptian Proverbs

administration witnessed unprecedented development in the history of Nigeria football.

“In our strict compliance with our vision and mission statements and campaign promises, we took up the challenge to restore the glory of the sector, despite inadequate funding. Indeed, we had inherited a debt of over N300 million, highly demoralized national team and a football system that had no capacity to meet the high expectation of the nation. We were however particularly encouraged by government’s endorsement of the rule of law, due process and fight against corruption as the new policies for our excellent administration took off.

“Conscious of the above laudable support, and in order not to let our country down, we within the first year in office, negotiated and succeeded in settling substantial part of the inherited debt of about N300m.

“We also settled several debilitating lingering court cases and most importantly, restored the glory of Nigeria football as the Super Eagles were elevated to the 9th best position in FIFA ranking. A feat only second to the 1994 ranking, where we were rated 5th best in the world.

“However, in realizing the magnitude of our responsibilities and the inadequate resources, the NFF congress’ approved budget being more than twice government approved budget for four consecutive years, we consequently and always resorted to internal borrowing as the best option to augment our lean resources.

“It must, be noted that, but for such a measure for instance where I as the president had to source about N40 million to settle players’ allowances during the 2007 U-17 FIFA tournament in South Korea and CAN Africa Nations championship in Ghana 2008.”

ROUND-UP /71

January 23, 2015

BB4P Starts Series Of Leadership Workshops

By ONJEWU DICKSON, Abuja

The first of a series of BB4P Leadership Workshops scheduled to take place in six Northern States namely, Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger And Jigawa States, kicked-off in Gusau, on January 15, 2015, with 13 secondary schools participating.

The schools are Alheri Royal College, Fatima Group Of Schools, GDSSDamba, GDSS-Gwaza, Institute Of Comprehensive Education, ECWA Bishara SS, and GGDSS Samaru.

Others are Sanbo SS, Al-Mufida SS, Govt. Tech. College, College Of Islamic Science, Govt. Science SS and GDSS-Dan Turay, at the event, held at the at the Amusement Park Gusau, Zamfara State, Peace Zone.

In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP Friday Sports, signed by the Programme Manager BB4P, Oliver B. Johnson, the six BB4P Leadership Workshops are being ‘sponsored’ by the USA Embassy, Abuja in continuation of their support to encourage ‘peaceful interaction’ among Nigerian youth nationwide.

“The more than 120 ‘students and their teachers who participated were exposed to leadership and basketball skills to encourage everyone to become

ambassadors of peace and continue to “seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave” which is the BB4P motto.

“As ‘conflict’ is an inevitable part of life; students and their teachers came to the realization that it is the reaction to ‘conflict’ that determines whether it becomes negative or positive. This discussion was highly contested because most of the participants were under the impression that all ‘conflict’ was negative.

“Participants were instructed in the basic fundamentals of ‘basketball’, the need for teams-spirit, advance skills and the importance of knowing FIBA ‘Rule One’ for success; which simply says basketball is about ‘scoring and defense’. Four ‘stations’ were set-up to instruct and allow participants to practice scoring, passing, rebounding and the lay-up for beginners,” it stated.

It explained that the team of Liberty Francis, Ishaq Shuaibu, Grace Orinya and Michael Solomon won all five of their matches to emerge the winners of the Grassroots BB4P 4-A-Side (male and female) Secondary School Demonstration League Competition necessary for skills development held on the third day.

“The Program Manager, Coach Oliver B. Johnson spoke on the importance of practicing all of the things learnt for

Participants at the workshop

improvement; the fact that BB4P had up-graded the Amusement Park Peace Zone meant that the facility would be available for those who don’t have a place to practice. He also encourage participants to build a half court Peace Zone (basketball facility) in their areas or just purchase a BB4P Portable ‘upright’ , which they could use to start their program until sufficient funds were made available for a full court basketball facility.

“BB4P also left a “portable BB4P up-right” with our Zamfara State

Facts are stubborn things.

— Egyptian Proverbs

‘coordinator’ (Surajo Yusuf); so that he can move it around to run clinics for any ‘school’ that doesn’t have facilities.

“Mal. Sagir Sani Dandango; the Deputy Director of Schools Sports of Zamfara State applauded BB4P for the initiative which he said was timely and promised that the State Government will soon provide some basketball courts in strategic areas in the state to promote the game. Among many of the Zamfara State basketball veterans that visited the workshop included the Director of Sports, Zamfara State,” it concluded.

AMUSEMENT PARK

AMUSEMENT PARK

i never forget a face, but in your own case, i’m willing to make an exception — Grouncho Marx

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY c

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NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

No. 87

N200

azu@leadership.ng Twitter: @azuishiekwene

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan must have been mightily pleased when petroleum minister Diezani Alison-Madueke suggested to him that taking N10 off the pump price of petrol would boost his flagging re-election campaign. She announced the price drop so coolly it sounded as if, at last, she was handing us our moment of relief, the moment when we finally touched the hem of her skirt.

Very nice, really. My car is a 75-litre workhorse and I can now expect to save up to N750 at the pump once a week and N36, 000 by the end of the year, all things being equal. Very bright idea indeed, don’t you think?

If Jonathan thinks that N10 change is what Nigerians are asking for, he is mistaken. The oil industry has been so badly managed that it will take more than N10 change to fix it. In the last four years, Shell, Total, Agip, Chevron and ConocoPhillips have been so fed up with the direction of the industry they sold over 20 oil blocks (mostly onshore assets) worth over $11.5billion.

We can split hairs over whether the oil majors have contributed their own fair share, but let’s face it: This is a disaster foretold and the consequences are far greater than N10 change.

In June 2012, the Financial Times published a report that Nigeria was losing $1billion to oil theft every month. Instead of cracking down on the thieves and plugging the leakages, the government appointed accomplices to take charge of the pipelines at a cost of N24billion yearly. This has been going on now for three years, with little or no change in the volume of oil stolen. And Jonathan thinks that N10 change in the pump price of petrol is the change we need?

After the oil subsidy protest

in 2012, Jonathan’s government promised to clean up the sector.

To be fair, he did a bit with SURE-P, the makeshift window created to retool infrastructure, especially transportation, in the states. But the effect was like Band Aid on a festering sore.

Nuhu Ribadu’s committee set up by the government discovered N2trillion fraud in the misuse of subsidies. The only way to lay a fresh foundation was to follow through with the report and prosecute those responsible for the fraud. Instead, Jonathan whispered softly in their ears and pushed the report under his desk. Is N10 change at the pump supposed to make us forget? That’s not the change we asked for.

And how can we forget Malabu? I’m not talking about the exotic Caribbean spirit which, by the way, is Malibu, less preferred by presidential connoisseurs to Jim Beam. I’m referring here to the Malabu Oil and Gas transaction, a deal which started in its shadiest form under Abacha but was nonetheless consummated with an illegal transfer of $1.1billion paid to top government officials under Jonathan.

Shell and Eni, the original owners of the block, didn’t come out of the mess smelling of roses.

But if our own government cannot have our backs in a deal with foreign companies, why should the companies care?

And we’re getting N10 per litre as change? Who is short-

23.01.15

Text only: 08052100356

Pump Change That Doesn’t Change Much For $20billion, Dubai built the Burj Khalifa and had change of $18.5billion

changing who? After the huff over the “unaccounted for” $20billion oil money, Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala promised a forensic audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers to get to the root of the matter. It’s nearly three months since she promised to release the audited report. Now, she’s vigorously fending off demands to make the report public.

For $20billion, Dubai built the Burj Khalifa and had change of $18.5billion. China built the tallest dam in the world that generates 3,600MW of electricity, and had $12billion change. If Aliko Dangote had $20billion, he would have built two petrochemical companies, instead of one, and still kept

$2billion as change. And we’re supposed to dance for N10 per litre change?

We’ll use the N10 change while we can, but we know we’ve been shortchanged. See what’s happening to the four refineries?

After billions of dollars down the drain in turnaround maintenance that only turned around the pockets of the masterminds, Diezani is squatting on the shell of the refineries.

Today, the refineries are delivering less than 20 percent, leaving government cronies awash in sweet petrol and DPK import deals. Whatever happened to the 400,000 barrels of crude set aside daily for local refining?

And wasn’t the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill supposed to be the best change of all – a bill which, in its honest form, was supposed to clean up the sector, give the oil communities a true sense of ownership and make all players more responsible?

We know what happened.

Vested interests twisted the bill and the petroleum minister made sure she cornered enough powers for her office for two lifetimes, leaving us – as usual – with the

change.

I’ve decided not to write about the many other areas where we have been shortchanged.

The N150billion pension fund allegedly recovered from Maina but not accounted for; the $5billion spent every year on security for the last three years while we’re losing more lives and territory and the loss of N53billion in the NCC frequency racketeering.

These figures can make one mad; they can harden or cause one to despair. But they can’t be flushed away at the pump for a N10 per litre change. It just doesn’t work that way.

And you know what? Even at N87 per litre, it’s only N7 cheaper than the pump price per litre in the U.S., a non-oil exporting country and nemesis of unserious OPEC members. And while the price of petrol dropped by roughly 10 per cent in Nigeria, which is nothing when compared with the over 40 percent fall in crude oil prices, petrol consumers in the U.S. started this year with the lowest gas price in six years!

So much for the JonathanDiezani change! The change we need is the votes that send them packing. Enough.

GHANA MUST GO Shagari denies endorsing Jonathan — News

Ndudi Elumelu’s N750m Bribe For Nomination After waiting in vain to hear that it is not true, I’ve finally come around to accept the news for what it is: Ndudi Elumelu wrote a petition to the EFCC alleging that he bribed some members of the national working committee of the PDP with N750 million

through Dumebi Kachikwu, to get the party’s governorship nomination for Delta State. And he wants the EFCC to go get his bribe money back for him! What cheek! This scandal beggars belief. Why was Elumelu allowed to walk out of the EFCC office after confessing

to a crime? I’ve been reliably informed that he wants to withdraw the case because big heads, including his own, would roll. Too late.

He cannot voluntarily confess to a crime and walk away from it. The EFCC has a duty to follow this through. And I trust it will.

He endorsed him to return to Otueke!

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