Leadership pages

11.07.14

No. 60

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

www.leadership.ng

N200

NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

BRAZIL 2014: BUSINESSMAN DIES WHILE WATCHING MATCH 8

SENATE ORDERS NNPC TO REFUND $262M TO FEDERATION ACCOUNT 15

Chibok Diary DAY 88

WE EXPECT PDP TO CONGRATULATE US WHEN WE DEFEAT THEM IN 2015 55 – APC SEC

Face Your Real Enemies, BringBackOurGirls Groups Tell FG

> Page 2

INTERVENTION FUND

5% Demand By N’West, N’Central Divides Confab As Kutigi meets with interest groups today

Unforgettable Faces At 2014 National Conference

BY BODE GBADEBO, Abuja

4

RAMADAN TIMING Day 14

ABUJA Magrib - 7.00 Alfijir - 4.59 KANO Magrib - 6.53 Alfijir - 4.53 Kutigi

Akinyemi

Lamido Adamawa

Bakare

KADUNA Magrib - 6.57 Alfijir - 4.58

The inauguration of the 2014 National Conference by President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday March 17, 2014 marked yet another milestone in the annals of the history of this country.

Though not a few people doubted government’s sincerity in organising the talk-shop, the ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

LAGOS Magrib - 7.12 Alfijir - 5.16

Yusuf

Mandara

Mamman

Waziri

SOKOTO Magrib - 7.07 Alfijir - 5.06 Full table on page 5

ADAMAWA IMPEACHMENT: NYAKO, LAWMAKERS HOLD SECRET MEETING

4

#BringBackOurGirls 88 DAY

Friday, July 11, 2014

Editor’s Note

Good Day one and all, it’s another Friday, thanks for keeping a date with Leadership Friday as it brings you exciting news that are emotional and of newsy interest to readers.

This week in Essentials discover the gospel artiste whose recent music video Chukwunonso offers hope and solace to terrorized Nigerians. My Town continues with The Origin of the Gbagyi Tribe, you’ll be familiarized with the inheritance and marriage rites of the original settlers of the F.C.T. For those in want of light but relevant reading, Books and Arts page feature a Nigerianized version of Swedish playwright August Strindberg’s Dance of Death 1, Bluegrass feel and Akin, The Drummer Boy. Onto serious matters with the aim of proffering solution to insecurity in Adamawa State and the nation, American University Nigeria (AUN) and Adamawa Peace Initiative (API), peace talks recommend basic education for pregnant and married girls below 18 years and almajiris, amnesty talks with the Boko Haram sect and many more to defuse the taut tension in the nation.

Leadership Friday has everything for the variant taste of its readers. So, take a copy and cuddle up with loved ones or share coffee with friends discussing issues that really matter to you. Now, aren’t you glad it’s Friday again?

"Friends are not the people you meet at the top; they are the people who were with you at the bottom" For Feedback: fridayleadership@leadership.ng

CHIBOK IN THE WEEK Saturday, July 5, 2014 Residents of Chibok, the embattled community in Bornu State where over 200 schoolgirls were abducted on April 14, decried inadequate presence of security operatives to safeguard their lives and properties, saying only a handful of soldiersabout the size of a platoon are deployed in the area.

Nigerians living in the US joined in the call on the federal government to step up actions to ensure quick and safe return of the schoolgirls kidnapped by members of the Boko Haram sect in Chibok.

Sunday, July 6, 2014 Many victims of the Boko Haram’s incessant attack in Bornu State, who either suffered directly or lost lives or properties, were reported to be living in penury due to lack of inadequate support from the government.

Monday, July 7, 2014 Security operatives at the Presidential Villa stopped the BringBack-Our-Girls group from entering Aso Rock as they barricaded the villa gate, thereby halting the protest over the prolonged stay of the abducted schoolgirls in captivity Tuesday, July 8, 2014 A member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee

on Diaspora Affairs, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, chided the federal government over ‘slow response’ to the plight of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls in Boko Haram’s captivity.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014 The Council of State expressed the hope that the over 200 abducted Chibok schoolgirls being held captive by the Boko Haram sect will soon be released based on a hint given by the military.

The Bring-Back-Our-Girl group expressed fear over the information making the rounds that the only platoon guarding the embattled Chibok community in Borno State has been withdrawn.

Face Your Real Enemies, BringBackOurGirls Group Tells FG STORIES BY EJIKE EJIKE AND CHIKA MEFOR, Abuja

The #BringBackOurGirls Group has described franchise allegations levelled against it by the State Security Services (SSS) as a dangerous and unprecedented attack designed to cook up trumped up charges in order to crack down on its members.

The group also urged the government and security forces in the country to redirect their effort towards tackling the insurgents who are the real enemies, instead of seeing its civic activities as anti -government.

The group, which has remained in the forefront of the campaign to rescue the over 200 schoolgirls abducted from Chibok, Borno State by the Boko Haram sect on April 14, was reacting to a statement credited to the Deputy Director of Department of State Security (DSS), Marilyn Ogar, where she labelled the group as a ‘franchise’.

But the group in a statement signed by former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili and Hadiza Bala Usman, lamented that for over two months, security agencies have continued to

harass and sought to intimidate its members.

In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP FRIDAY yesterday , the group noted that: "This is a dangerous and unprecedented attack because as is well known in security circles, the term “franchise” is used to refer to inter-related terrorist cells. There is a clear attempt to smear our work with a link our work with Chibok and Sambisa forest.

It is clear from these comments that the security agencies are setting up the movement for a crackdown based on trumped up accusations.

"Rather than see our civic action calling on the government and its security agencies to do their work as enemy action, we urge them to take action against the real enemies who are the terrorists who have abducted and kept in captivity for almost three months over 200 innocent Nigerian girls".

Noting that its activities remain open and its meetings held in a public space at the Unity Fountain, Abuja, the #BringBackOurGirls group denied ever compelling persons to register for its membership. It added that its symbols such as the red t-shirts, face caps and pins were being donated voluntarily by members.

Group Defies Security Threat, Meets At Unity Fountain The BringBackOurGirls group yesterday, defied the threat and accusations from the spokesperson of the Department of Security Service (DSS), Marilyn Ogar, to meet for their daily sit out at the Unity Fountain, Abuja for the campaign for the safe rescue of the over 200 schoolgirls abducted in Chibok, Borno State on April 14.

The group, which received additional members that thronged the area, stated that despite the questionable statements from Ogar, the group would keep protesting and continue with its daily sit out until the abducted girls are rescued.

Debunking the allegations raised by the DSS at the

National Information Centre on Wednesday, the group queried, how it would be possible for an unregistered group to open an account in any bank in Nigeria?

The group also challenged the DSS and other security operatives to make public the details of the said bank account and all they claim to know about the group, saying that it is ready to take up issues against them in a competent court of the land to prove its case.

It also noted with regret the rate at which government and it security agencies are paying attention to its sit out and tasked them to channel the same energy and attention to the safe rescue of the girls and ensuring the security of the nation.

Thursday, July 10, 2014 The Department of State Security (DSS) lambasted the Bring-BackOur-Girl group, saying the group was becoming a threat to national security.

The National Information Centre barred the Bring-Back-Our-Girls group from attending its briefing as it denied that there was any briefing going on in the building.

Today Friday, July 11, 2004 The Bring-Back-Our-Girls group condemned the labelling of the group as a threat to security by the State SecurityBYService (SSS), saying COMPILED UGOCHUKWU IROKA it is a ploy to crack down on its members. ...AS COMPILED BY Abah Adah

L-R : Some members of the National Conference: Bisi Olateru Olagbegi , President of Women Arise, Dr. Joe OkeiOdumakin, Senator Daisy Danjuma and former Chairman, Punch Nigeria Ltd, Chief Ajibola Ogunshola at the National Conference in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY ADEFEMI ADEWUYI

A little “thank you” that you will say to someone for a “little favour” shown to you is a key to unlock the doors that hide unseen “greater favours”. Learn to say “thank you” and why not? ― Israelmore Ayivor

our stand

3

July 11, 2014

Iraq’s Imminent Disintegration

T

he world ought to be bothered by the tragedy playing out in Iraq. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has refused to bow to international pressure and form a national “salvation” government. In his view, “the call to form a national emergency government is a coup against the constitution and the political process”. Relying on the fact that his electoral bloc won 92 seats in the April 30 parliamentary elections, nearly three times as many as those of the next biggest party, he insists that his mandate to govern is inviolate.

But the reality confronting the world now is that there is a real threat of a civil war in Iraq degenerating in such a way as to trigger instability in the entire region and entrench extremists and those with proven links to terrorist groups in the various enclaves. That eventuality has to be avoided at all costs.

The United Nations (UN) special representative in Iraq has been stressing the need for political leaders to reach across religious and sectarian lines to bring the country

together, take military action against Sunni extremists who have captured large areas, and stick to the constitution.

Nikolay Mladenov noted that the advance toward Baghdad

by Sunni rebels had stalled but he warned that the conflict could easily become “a sectarian war”. The situation, he said, required a security operation side by side with a political process.

Already, Syria is suspected to have joined the conflict under the pretext of pursuing fighters of ISIL - that is, the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant – who have been fighting along with the rebels opposed to Assad and has since crossed the border into Iraq. Predict-

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

ably, the US has warned Syria to stay off Iraq. The UN’s human rights monitors say at least 1,075 people (most of them civilians) were killed in Iraq in June alone. The UN in Iraq said at least 757 civilians were killed and 599 injured in Nineveh, Diyala and Salheddin provinces from June 5 to 22.

Neighbouring countries are fretting. Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah has ordered “all necessary measures” to protect the kingdom against any potential “terrorist threats”. In response, Israel has offered to provide “effective and reliable assistance to moderate Arab states who are dealing with extremists.” The conflict may widen. And the Kurds in the north are seizing the opportunity to entrench their separatist pursuits and autonomy by taking over larger chunks of oil reserves. Iraq is hurtling towards dismemberment.

Prime Minister al-Maliki has to heed the voice of reason urging him to be more than a Shiite ruler and form an all-inclusive government. If he does not do that, the geographical space currently known as Iraq will soon become history.

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

Return to old watering holes for more than water; friends and dreams are there to meet you.

— African 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

July 11, 2014

LIVING TO BE 100

One health tip daily Nature’s Pollution-Fighter The powerful antioxidant and detoxifier L-cysteine can help protect your body from the harmful effects of pollution, heavy metals, chemicals, radiation, alcohol, and smoke. This naturally occurring amino acid may also help boost the immune system, protect against heart disease, build muscle, and decrease fat buildup. L-cysteine is also useful for combatting inflammation and promoting healthy hair and nail growth. The substance is found in eggs, fish, almonds, sesame seeds, soy, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, legumes, avocados, bananas, whole grains, and brewer’s yeast.

Unforgettable Faces At 2014 National Conference ➔ FROM cover

various stakeholders who were asked to nominate delegates to represent the different strata of the Nigerian society at the conference complied nonetheless, save for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

The proceedings of the confab, which will wind up in less than a week from now, have been in the news for both good and bad reasons in the last four months while it sat. This was made possible by the calibre of delegates to the conference. They are from different backgrounds, they have different pedigrees and came with different interests, intentions and missions.

It is therefore for the records that LEADERSHIP Friday presents to you in this edition a list of some of the unforgettable delegates, whose actions and contributions at the 2014 confab stood them out among the rest.

Justice Idris Kutigi: The Nononsense Chair He is a retired chief justice of Nigeria (CJN) and is the chairman of the 2014 National Conference.

He was living a relatively private life after his retirement as the CJN, before President Goodluck Jonathan, on March 3, 2014 beckoned on him to chair the august gathering. As a forthright judge, he apparently was not prepared for the intrigues and politicking that were to later take over as the conference proceedings progressed. Not given to frivolity, he at some points ordered delegates to behave themselves with rather harsh words. The climax was when he ordered journalists covering the confab to “disappear and vamoose” from the gallery when the house

was to discuss a report of its National Security Committee. No doubt, Kutigi’s name will linger in the memories of both the delegates and journalists for his firmness.

Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi: The Patient Deputy A professor of political science and former minister of external affairs during the military era, Akinyemi is the deputy chairman of the conference and there is no doubt that the president made a right choice when he picked him to assist Kutigi.

It is on record that the chairman democratised the leadership of the conference by allowing his deputy to also preside, even at crucial moments. It was his style of leadership, particularly his patience and expertise that caught the attention of one of the delegates to the conference, the Lamido of Adamawa HRH Muhammadu Barkindo Mustapha. He honoured Akinyemi with the traditional title of Hasken Adamawa, meaning the ‘Light of Adamawa’.

HRH Lamido of Adamawa: The Punctual Royal The paramount ruler of the Adamawa Emirate, HRH Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha is a delegate representing traditional rulers in the country. He caught the attention of the nation when he warned ethnic chauvinists to be wary of actions that could disintegrate the country.

Whichever way you view the foremost traditional ruler, he is consistent, firm and pragmatic.

He was the first northerner at the conference to advocate for 100 per cent resource control for ➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

5% Demand By N’West, N’Central Divides Confab

By JOE DUDUN, AMINA ALHASSAN AND BODE GBADEBO, Abuja

For the third time in a row, the plenary of the National Conference was forced to end abruptly without final decisions on the contentious issues of derivation principle for oil-producing states and revenue-sharing formula.

Earlier, delegates at plenary had voted on other recommendations of the Committee on Devolution of Power while waiting for the “consensus group” of the Conference to find a middle ground on the issue of derivation formula.

But the group could not reach an agreement on the matter.

An apparent crack within them made other delegates agitated, a situation which made the plenary atmosphere rowdy.

LEADERSHIP Friday gathered that a proposal for 5 per cent allocation for the north-west and north-central zones as intervention fund was the bone of contention as southern delegates only favoured the north-east for the allocation in respect of reconstruction and stabilization of the zone that has been bedevilled by Boko Haram insurgency.

The “consensus group” members entered the auditorium giving the impression that they had finished their job only for a cochairman of the Northern Dele-

gates Forum (NDF), Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie, who is a member of the group, to tell the plenary that their group was yet to reach an agreement on the contentious issue.

But another member of the group, Chief Raymond Dokpesi, was busy circulating copies of a paper containing the resolutions of the group. Chief Olu Falae later read it in the hearing of other delegates amid opposition from northern delegates.

Given the rowdiness occasioned by shouting from delegates, who variously disagreed with the presentations by both Coomasie and Falae and applause from another section of the delegates who seemed to also agree with the two presentations, the conference chairman, Justice Idris Kutugi, decided to adjourn sitting till Monday next week.

After a brief consultation with the principal officers, he announced that the leadership of the conference would meet with selected delegates referred to as the “50 wise men” today in a bid to resolve the contentious issues before Monday.

Kutigi added that, in addition to the “wise men”, all the chairmen, co-chairmen and deputy chairmen of the 20 standing committees of the conference should also attend the meeting.

Meanwhile, in an interview with journalists after the sit-

Kutigi

ting, Dokpesi explained the bone of contention among the “consensus group”, adding that only three members of the group disagreed with its resolutions.

Dokpesi said: “I want to assure you that the committee worked tirelessly and made a lot of concessions; all the southern leaders and north-central leaders made sacrifices but there are people who never wanted this conference to succeed and these people were the ones who were shouting today.

“Professor Gambari was to get up and present the report. I have the signatures of almost all the 37 persons that were available.

Thirty-four had already signed.

It was only Alhaji Ibrahim Coomasie, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu and Alhaji Mohammed Kumalia who refused to sign. Prof Iyorchia Ayu was not available to sign today.

“I would like to thank the leadership of the conference for their patience – and indeed all the delegates, because there has not been any clear opportunity to explain the details of what had transpired.”

Adamawa Impeachment: Nyako, Lawmakers Hold Secret Meeting

By MOHAMMED ISMAIL, Yola

The faceoff between Governor Murtala Nyako and the some lawmakers of the Adamawa State House of Assembly may have a happy ending for both parties.

Yesterday, the governor swore in 36 development area administrators at the Government, House Yola.

The swearing-in of the administrators was conducted shortly after the governor returned to the state from Abuja, after he had held a closed-door meeting with some of the lawmakers led by the speaker of the House of Assembly, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

Investigations reveal that the failure of Governor Nyako to endorse the list of the development area administrators brought to him by the legislature was part of the contention that degenerated into the impeachment move.

The swearing-in of the administrators is believed to be an effort to fulfil part of the rapprochement entered between Governor Nyako and the lawmakers in Abuja as a way of staving off the impeachment threat

against the governor and his deputy, Bala Ngillari.

Meanwhile, Governor Nyako has appointed the former secretary of the PDP, Mr PP Elisha, as senior special adviser on government affairs.

Many saw the appointment as a payback to the appointee who stood solidly behind the governor while the impeachment saga lasted.

Sources said the development was a subtle move by the governor to reduce the influence of his chief of staff, Abdurrahaman Abbah Jimeta, who allegedly appeared to have played double standard during the crisis.

Constituency rejects Ramadan gift from anti-Nyako lawmakers Some lawmakers who participated in the impeachment move against Governor Nyako and his deputy Ngillari are facing the wrath of their constituencies as many of their constituents rejected the Ramadan gifts presented to them by their representatives.

Those affected include the member representing Girei lo-

cal government area, Abubakar Umar; the member representing Mubi North, Abubakar Umar Jaringol; and the member representing maiha local government area, Hassan Kaigama.

The constituencies took the measure to protest the involvement of their lawmakers in the plot to impeach Governor Nyako and his deputy. “That is not what we sent them there to do,” said a resident of Mubi, Mallam Idris Haruna. “The people of Mubi have decided to reject the Ramadan gift from their member to show him their disappointment over his involvement to remove Governor Nyako and his deputy.”

Angry Idris said they regretted voting for Jaringol, as his actions were always contrary to their wishes, adding that before he got entangled in the move to impeach the governor he never deemed it right to consult with the people on whose mandate he went to the assembly.

“It is unfortunate that the member could not even listen to our most cherished traditional leader, His Highness the Emir

Always being in a hurry does not prevent death, neither does going slowly prevent living. ― Nigerian Proverb

➔ CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

ISLAM 5

July 11, 2014

Fasting Where The Sun Never Sets During this year’s holy month of Ramadhan, when consumption of food and water is prohibited between dawn and dusk, how do Muslims observing the fast manage in the far north of Scandinavia, where the sun never sets?

An estimated 700 Muslims are spending Ramadhan in the mining town of Kiruna, located 145km north of the Arctic Circle and surrounded by snow-capped mountains throughout the summer. Many of them are recent asylum seekers, sent to Kiruna while their claims are processed.

The sun stays up around the clock from May 28-July 16, which constitutes half of the fasting period this year.

“I started Ramadhan by having suhoor with the sun shining in my eyes at 3:30 in the morning,” said Ghassan Alankar from Syria, referring to the meal just before dawn.

“I put double curtains in my room and still, there’s light when I’m going to sleep.”

Since there is no central authority in Sunni Islam that could issue a definite religious ruling, or fatwa, Muslims in the north are using at least four different timetables to break the fast.

Alankar sticks to Mecca time, Saudi Arabia, “because it’s the birthplace of Islam”. But he is worried about whether his fast will be accepted by God. “I’m not sure I’m doing the right thing,” said Alankar, who arrived in Kiruna seven months ago after a hazardous journey via Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece. “Only when I’m in God’s house, if I make it to heaven, I will know.”

No dusk, no dawn The start of Ramadhan is determined by the sighting of the new moon, which moves about 11 days back in the Gregorian calendar each year. About every 33 years, Ramadhan falls at the same time.

A majority of those who fast in Kiruna follow the timings of the capital Stockholm, 1,240km further south, after being advised by the European Council of Fatwa and Research (ECFR), a Dublin-based private foundation composed of Islamic clerics.

Zero, 15, 25 or 45 hours, it doesn’t matter as long as you believe in what you’re doing.

- Hussein Halawa, European Council of Fatwa and Research “In Stockholm, there’s day and night,” Hussein Halawa, secretary-general of the council, told Al Jazeera, explaining the decision. He was personally invited to northern Sweden from Dublin this year to experience the lengthy daylight and give advice.

Idris Abdulwhab, from Eritrea, follows the ECFR fatwa, which means his longest period of fasting will be 20 hours.

“Zero, 15, 25 or 45 hours, it doesn’t matter as long as you believe in what you’re doing,” he said. “But we’re human beings; of course it’s hard sometimes.”

One of those who has chosen to fast according to the local prayer times listed online is Fatima Kaniz. In a homely apartment overlooking mountains and mining facilities, she prepares a Pakistani fast-breaking dinner, or Iftar, for 8:30pm as the persistent sun penetrates the window blinds. Oil sizzles in a pan as she drops in pakoras, a vegetable snack made with chickpea flour.

She recalls her first day in Kiruna five years ago, in June.

“I waited for the sun to go down so I could pray maghrib,” she said, referring to the sunset prayer. “I waited until 3am, until my Chinese roommate at the asylum centre found me and explained it was pointless to wait. I thought, ‘What kind of strange place is this?’”

The fare of the day consists of the Pakistani Ramadhan staples chapati and pakoras served with raita, with the addition of Swedish fish fingers and lentil stew.

During two-thirds of Ramadhan, following the Kiruna prayer times means that Kaniz fasts for about 18 hours. But due to the sun’s movements, she will fast for a whole 23 hours during one of those days.

“I live in Kiruna, and I pray according to Kiruna time all year round. Why should I change this during Ramadhan and suddenly follow Stockholm?” she asked.

She followed the same system during four previous Ramadhans - the last one also at the height of summer.

“Sometimes I got tired and took the bus home from work instead of walking, but otherwise, I felt fine,” she said. “But I looked at the clock many times.”

The weather in Kiruna varies widely during the summer

RAMADAN TIMING Day 14

months. Within a day, 25 degrees Celsius and sunshine can turn into 10 degrees and pouring rain.

December Ramadhan: Perpetual darkness When Ramadhan falls in December, however, Muslims will face the opposite of midnight sun: polar night. For two weeks, the sun does not rise above the horizon.

There was no really established Islamic organisation at the time, or information on the Internet. I had to make up my own rules.

- Abdulnasser Mohammed, chairman of the Islamic association in Kiruna “Why don’t they come to me to ask about Ramadhan then?” asks Halawa of the ECFR. He said a conference will be held later this year to issue a winter timetable for both fasting and prayers.

Muslim prayer times also follow the sun - which means that during winter, all five prayers can fall within a time span of two hours.

Abdulnasser Mohammed, of Somali origin, was new to Sweden and Kiruna the last time Ramadhan fell under the Midwinter night, in 2000.

“There was no really established Islamic organisation at the time, or information on the internet. I had to make up my own rules”, he said. “I fasted for about five hours.”

Mohammed, who is now the chairman of the Islamic association in Kiruna, follows the fasting times of Istanbul in the summer, since Turkey is the Muslim country closest to Sweden.

But he explains, in his view, everyone is free to choose.

“Islam isn’t rigorous,” he said. “Ramadhan is not about starvation or about inflicting injury on yourself. People must choose what works for them.”

Apart from the Syrians, who have fled the war in their homeland, Eritreans form the largest Muslim community in Kiruna.

Hawa Fidel and Alia Hassen host a plentiful Iftar at Stockholm’s fast-breaking time, 10:10pm, in the apartment they share. They have prepared seating on the floor and filled trays with sponge-like injera flatbread, spicy beef stew, pastries, and other traditional Eritrean food.

The men chatting in the living room are already planning their next communal meal. They have set up a system to share the costs fairly, with participants paying different amounts depending on their incomes. Some have jobs. Others, whose applications for asylum have been rejected, get by on a monthly $200 grant provided by the government.

“Eating together with friends remind me of Eritrea,” said Fidel, who is still waiting for permanent residency after living in Kiruna for three years. But she misses going to a mosque for tarawih, the special prayers at night during which long portions of the Quran are recited.

The Muslim community in Kiruna is using a hall in an apartment block as a mosque, but so far it is only open for Friday prayers.

On the first Friday of Ramadhan, as the rain trickled down, about 40 men and four women, including Fidel, gathered there at Stockholm’s dhuhr prayer time.

Safwaan al-Taieb, who used to do the call to prayer in his neighbourhood mosque in Syria’s Deraa before he fled the country last year, recited a melodious adhan.

Al-Taieb’s sister came with him to Sweden, but because she fasts according to Mecca timings and he Stockholm, they do not eat together.

Besides the rest of the family, he said the social nature of Syrian society is what he misses the most - during Ramadhan and the rest of the year.

“In Syria, you don’t eat only with your family. Everyone is welcome, we bring plates of food to our neighbours, we invite others. If you do that with Swedish people, they think you’re crazy.”

“Next Ramadhan, God willing, I’ll be back in Syria.”

Source: Al Jazeera

Magrib

Alfijr

Abuja

7.00

4.59

Aba

6.56

5.02

Abakaliki

6.53

5.01

Abeokuta

7.10

5.18

Akure

7.03

5.10

Ankpa

6.57

5.04

Argungu

7.12

5.08

Auchi

7.02

5.08

Awka

7.03

5.03

Azare

6.50

4.46

Bama

6.39

4.32

Bauchi

6.51

4.51

Benin

7.05

5.09

Bichi

6.58

4.54

Bida

7.05

5.04

Birnin Gwari

7.04

5.02

B/Kebbi Gwandu

7.13

5.08

Biu

6.42

4.39

Calabar

6.50

4.59

Damaturu

6.42

4.38

Daura/Kazaure

7.01

4.39

Dutse

6.52

4.51

Enugu

6.54

5.01

Funtua/Malumfashi

7.02

4.57

Gembu

6.47

4.45

Gombe

6.45

4.43

Gusau

7.01

5.00

Gwadabawa

7.12

5.01

Hadejia

6.50

4.46

Ibadan

7.14

5.13

Ife

7.09

5.10

Ilesha Baruba

7.11

5.09

Ilorin

7.07

5.11

Jalingo

6.42

4.43

Jere/Suleija

6.59

4.58

Jos

6.56

4.52

Kabba

7.04

5.04

Kafanchan

6.58

4.55

Keffi/Nasarawa

6.58

4.55

Kaiama

7.13

5.12

Kafin Maiyaki

6.58

4.52

Kaduna

6.57

4.58

Kano

6.53

4.53

Katsina

7.01

4.55

Kontagora

7.07

5.07

Lafia

6.53

4.55

Lagos

7.12

5.16

Lokoja

6.57

5.07

Maiduguri

6.35

4.36

Makurdi

6.54

4.54

Minna

7.01

5.05

Missau

6.47

4.45

Monguno

6.38

4.28

Mubi

6.37

4.35

Nguru

6.47

4.43

Ningi

6.51

4.50

Okene

7.07

5.05

Ogbomosho

7.12

5.13

Onitsha

7.00

5.08

Oyo

7.14

5.15

Port Harcourt

6.59

5.12

Potiskum

6.45

4.41

Saki

7.06

5.15

Shagamu

7.07

5.21

Sokoto

7.07

5.06

Umuahia

6.58

5.00

Warri

6.57

5.15

Wukari

5.45

4.55

Wurno

7.11

5.01

Yenagoa

6.39

4.38

Yola

6.36

4.38

Zaria

6.58

4.59

Cotonnou-Benin

7.16

5.18

Ndjamena-Chad

6.27

4.225

Niamey-Niger

7.22

5.17

Zinder – Niger

6.59

4.44

Younde-Cameroun

6.40

4.44

Garoua – Cameroun

6.34

4.37

(Source: Timing Committee, Islamic Research and Timing Organisation Kaduna)

Recommended DU’A for Day 14 Pray an 8 Raka’ah, after the recitation of Surah Alfatiha, recite Surah Al Zilzaal 30 times. Then say this Du’a: ALLAAHUMMA LAA TUW-AAKHID’NEE FEEHIL BIL-A’THARAAT WA AQILNEE FEEHI MINAL KHATAAYAA WAL HAFAWAAT WA LAA TAJ-A’LNEE FEEHI GHARAZ”AN LIL-BALAAYAA WAL AAFAAT BII’ZZATIKA YAA I’ZZAL MUSLIMEEN. Meaning: O Allah do not let indecision and confusion take hold of me, in this month, nor errors and lapses get the better of me, nor let misfortune and disaster make me its target, through Thy power O He who makes powerful those who willingly submit to Him. Compiled by Al-Amin Ciroma

Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever Walt Disney, founder and CEO of the Walt Disney Company

Towns

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July 11, 2014

Unforgettable Faces At 2014 National Conference ➔ FROM page 4

all the states of the federation. It is also on record that he has been the most punctual delegate among the other traditional rulers at the confab.

Pastor Tunde Bakare: Sacrificial Service A delegate of the South-West zone and the presiding pastor at the Latter Rain Assembly in Lagos, Bakare caused a stir on the first day of sittings of the conference on Tuesday March 18, 2014, when he accused the chairman, Kutigi, of saying things he doesn’t understand in the Arabic language.

When the recent bomb blast in Nyanya Abuja and the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls occurred on Monday April 14, 2014, Bakare called for the stoppage of the conference thereafter as a protest, until when the federal government found a solution to the killing spree in the country.

It is also on record that Bakare refused to collect the bi-weekly allowance of N1.4m for delegates, saying his service to the nation was free.

Malam Kabiru Yusuf: Also Serving Sacrificially He is one of the two representatives of the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) at the confab. Yusuf, like Bakare, has earned a distinction for himself by offering his services at the confab for free, sacrificing his bi-weekly allowance in the spirit of service to fatherland.

The Odumakins: The Outspoken Couple

Comrade Yinka and Dr (Mrs) Joe Okei-Odumakin are husband and wife and delegates to the ongoing National Conference. While the husband is representing the South-West geopolitical zone, his wife represents the civil society organisations.

When LEADERSHIP cornered the couple at their Abuja abode, they said they were at the confab as individuals with different missions. The couple has however been the cynosure of all eyes and among the outspoken delegates at the confab.

Justice Mamman Nasir and Yadoma Mandara: The Oldest and Youngest Delegates HRH Justice Mamman Nasir is the district head of Malumfashi town in Katsina State and delegate of the state government to the confab. He is no doubt a northern star and a nationalist who attained the peak of the legal profession before he retired voluntarily to take a traditional title.

Nasir at 92 is unarguably the oldest delegate to the 2014 National Conference and has not disappointed the gathering as he has always provided wise counsel for the other delegates whenever needed. At a point, he extended his voice beyond the conference, to call on President Jonathan and the governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to sheathe their swords when their altercations were becoming embarrassing.

The least in age is the 24-year-old Yadoma Bukar Mandara, who is representing youth organisations at the confab. Her presentations at plenary sessions of the conference have since endeared her to those of the older generation present.

Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke: The Poet A former speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly and delegate of the South-South zone, he is one of the

outspoken delegates at the confab. He is however unique, as he often contributes poems and by so doing douses the tension that may have built up during proceedings.

Duke would read a soothing poem laced with the words needed for the moment, to the admiration of the other delegates.

Amb Yusuf Mamman: The Bridge Builder He is a former ambassador to Spain, ex-national chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and currently one of the delegates of the North-West zone.

The atmosphere at the confab in the last three days had been tense and rowdy, but Mamman did not join the bandwagon.

He is one of the delegates who have been preaching peace, unity and brotherhood over the contentious issues that have had delegates at daggers drawn with one another.

He spearheaded a group of delegates that organised the All Time Democrat Awards event last Thursday, where some delegates and other living nationalists were honoured, in an attempt to promote the unity of the country.

Olushola Ebiseni: Confab Historian and Statistician He is one of the Ondo State delegates and is the current commissioner for environment in the state. On Monday May 26, 2014 when the report of the Committee on Environment was under discussion, Ebiseni made a new disclosure in order to ‘correct’ an age-old historical fact when he said oil was first discovered in his state and not in Oloibiri in Bayelsa State, contrary to widely held belief.

On another occasion, his contribution was greeted with a round of applause from other delegates, as he gave an analysis of local governments’ creation in Nigeria visà-vis the glaring injustice done to some pioneer states in the country with large populations. Ebiseni wondered why Lagos State with about 15 million people would have 20 local governments, while Osun State with about four million people has 30 local governments. He also told the plenary that Bauchi State with about five million people has 20 local governments, while Borno State with roughly the same population has 27 local governments.

Chief Asara Asara: Inventor of the ‘Only in Nigeria’ Slang He is from Bayelsa State but a delegate of the federal government.

Asara had, in the early stages of the confab inadvertently introduced what soon become a catchphrase for other delegates whenever the ills bedevilling the country were being discussed.

It was as he was commenting on the inaugural speech of the president that he attributed the occurrence of all manner of irregularities, malfunctions and other ills in the country to be happening “only in Nigeria”. He repeated it over and over until other delegates started mimicking Asara and thereafter began to use the phrase to tease one another.

Adamu Maina Waziri: The Patriot The ‘Only in Nigeria’ slang had been in use for weeks before a delegate from the North-East, Adamu Maina Waziri, raised a point of order from the National Conference Procedures 2014 against the users of the phrase. Waziri described it as derogatory against one’s fatherland and invoked a relevant section of the rulebook that forbids delegates from portraying their country in bad light. Waziri deserves to be recognised as a patriot because since then, the use of the phrase stopped.

Others There are many other unforgettable delegates who by their actions – either good or bad – will be remembered for quite a while to come. Take, for example, statesmen, the peace builders, the truants, the seat warmers and the ones who said the conference is a waste of time and they simply came to join in and waste time, while they pocket millions of naira as allowances.

The list is inexhaustible; one could go on and on but whatever it is, everything will become history in a matter of one week from today.

Adamawa Impeachment: Nyako, Lawmakers Hold Secret Meeting ➔ FROM page 4

of Mubi. The member has never registered with us since we elected him into the assembly as the only member elected on the platform of the defunct CPC, now APC, only for us to hear that he has defected to the PDP. And as if that was not enough sin, he is now involved in the plot to remove our governor, against our wishes,” he said.

Hon. Abubakar Umar received a similar treatment in Girei. The people vowed never to do anything with the member because he has betrayed them. “We will never have anything to do with a traitor, we prefer to die hungry than collect a Greek gift from him,” Ladan Ibrahim said. “Very soon, we

will start the recall process against him as we felt betrayed by his actions.”

Also in the firing line is the member representing Maiha, Hassan Kaigama, whom the constituents promised to teach a bitter lesson for the ignoble role he played in the impeachment saga.

Mr Yohanna David, who spoke on behalf of Maiha Concerned Citizens, said the constituency had resolved to deal with the member if he did not retrace his steps from the impeachment move against the governor and his deputy. “We expected them to consult us before he blindly supported the move for the impeachment of Governor Nyako and his deputy. We call on him to retrace his steps before it is too late,” said

David.

Investigative panel shifts venue again The seven-man investigative panel constituted to look into allegations of gross misconduct brought against Governor Nyako and his deputy Ngillari by the state House of Assembly has yet shifted the venue of its sitting, a day to the hosting of Governor Nyako and his deputy.

The investigative panel has initially settled for the usage of the Usman A Iya Health Workers Union Secretariat in Jimeta to host Governor Nyako but, less than 24 hours to the hearing, it shifted its venue to the Federal Secretariat, Yola.

Information available to LEADERSHIP

Friday indicated that the protest that greeted the proposed usage of the Health Union Workers’ secretariat by members of the union led to the change of the venue of the panel.

The panel pasted the “change of venue” notice at the entrance of the deputy governor’s office, indicating that the venue had been shifted to the Federal Secretariat, Yola.

Since its inception, the issue of sourcing a venue for its sitting has become a herculean task following its eviction from the hotel where it commenced its maiden meeting. Since then, it has been running from pillar to post to secure another venue for its sitting.

You may work with 100% capacity every day and may not be seen by anybody for recommendation. This does not mean you should give up! The day you will decide to work at 40% may be the day you’ll be seen by the person who is meant to recommend you for higher profile opportunities! ― Israelmore Ayivor

7

July 11, 2014

UN Adopts New Strategy Against Boko Haram

By George Agba, Abuja; ABIODUN OLUWAROTIMI, Washington, DC AND Juliet Alohan, Uyo

The United Nations (UN) said yesterday that it has adopted a new strategy for assisting Nigeria in tackling the menace constituted by the Boko Haram sect.

This was disclosed by the special representative of the United Nations secretarygeneral for West Africa, Mr Said Djinnit, at the opening of the 45th ordinary session of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, and a two-day summit in Accra, the Ghanaian capital.

President Goodluck Jonathan left Abuja on Wednesday evening to Accra where he is also attending the ECOWAS summit.

Djinnit, who said the support of the subregional body to the counter-terrorism efforts of the federal government in tackling the Boko Haram scourge was satisfactory, noted that the strategy known as integrated support package was targeted at complementing ongoing efforts by Nigeria which can only achieve results through a multi-dimensional approach.

According to him, the current support from ECOWAS was also a reflection of the solidarity of the countries of the region and their legitimate concern about the spread of violent extremism.

The UN Envoy said, “The United Nations has adopted an integrated support package to complement Nigeria’s efforts, since we are convinced that only a multi-dimensional approach can bring lasting solution to the crisis.

“Our primary and immediate concern is the plight of children including in particular those that are being held in captivity by the terrorists, Boko Haram group, as well as the fate of the civilian population in the northeast where human rights and humanitarian conditions are distressing.”

Also, the heads of state and governments of the ECOWAS have promised that they would not rest on their oars in supporting Nigeria to combat the excesses of members of the sect.

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, who is currently chairman of the authority of heads of state and government of ECOWAS region, commended the establishment of peace operations in Cameroon and Chad to defeat the Boko Haram sect in north-eastern Nigeria.

He said great opportunities lie ahead of the region for creating prosperous life for citizens but only when its leaders can achieve peace and security.

He said, “Less than two months ago, precisely on 30th May, 2014, we met at this same venue for an extraordinary summit.

The main purpose of that gathering was to review the security situation in our sub-region, specifically in northern Mali and some parts of northern Nigeria.

“Let me take the opportunity to thank all who are involved in the efforts to bring peace to our sub-region. We welcome the role of Algeria and Mauritania and others to bring peace to Mali. We acknowledge the peace operation from Cameroon and Chad to defeat the Boko Haram in north-eastern Nigeria.”

On the Ebola threats in the sub-region, Mahama expressed concern over the spread of the virus and stressed the need for concerted efforts to tackle it.

He said, “I wish to express our deep concern about the unprecedented outbreak of the Ebola in three member states if our community. Evidence has shown that, in less than six months, the disease has claimed the lives of almost 500 people.

“I want to call for the contribution of urgently needed resources to see that we sustain these efforts. We must scale up efforts to defeat the deadly disease. We must exercise vigilance and avoid any panic on misinformation.”

He challenged medical and research centres in the ECOWAS region to assist in the development of vaccines and cure for the disease.

Other issues discussed at the opening session of the meeting included the proposed biometric identity cards for ECOWAS citizens to aid easy identification and movement for trade purposes.

The lingering difficulty in doing business by citizens in the region was one of the concerns raised by the leaders.

At the meeting, they identified Illegal checkpoints, unnecessary documentation requirements, substantial informal payments at borders and transit fees as some of the huddles inhibiting free trade.

Boko Haram: Western Media Misleading The World - Adefuye Nigeria’s ambassador to the United States Professor Adebowale Adefuye on Thursday said that the western media were misleading the world with false and unfair reports about the security condition in Nigeria.

Testifying before the United States Congress during a panel hearing tagged “Instability In Northern Nigeria and Ongoing Threat of Boko Haram” at the Cannon Congress Building in Washington, DC, Ambassador Adefuye noted that the western media were blowing the situation out of proportion. He pressed further that the federal government of Nigeria had been very unfairly treated by the foreign media.

Saying that Nigeria believed in the freedom of the press, the Nigerian envoy noted that this did not mean that the western media should hide under the indulgence to create an atmosphere that was making the entire world believe that Nigeria was totally unsafe.

He said: “All the reports from the foreign media are very untrue and unfair to the Nigerian government, and, for this reason, I challenge everybody here to go to Nigeria and you will discover that the situation is not as bad as portrayed by the international media organizations. The Chibok girls are there and we have located where they are, and we shall get them out very soon.

I must say that we are making progress in our search and rescue mission.

“The western media are misinforming the world that the entire Nigeria is unsafe but I have to say it clearly that it is only three states out of the 36 in the entire federation that are experiencing Boko Haram’s attacks. How can you say that the entire United States is unsafe when you only have crisis in just three states?

“There is a domestic factor in the issue of Boko Haram and Chibok kidnapping.

We are having our elections next year and some people have been saying that they will create problems in the country if power goes to President Goodluck Jonathan again. These people are very happy each

Ki-moon

time there is an attack on innocent Nigerians. They are enjoying the crisis because it is embarrassing the federal government but we are trying our best to ensure an end to the whole thing.”

Adefuye also made it known that most of the suicide bombers that had been arrested in Nigeria so far were not Nigerians but foreigners, stressing that he could not imagine any Nigerian killing himself for no just cause. He however challenged everybody to mention what ought to have been done that the Nigerian government had not done to ensure the release of the over 270 kidnapped Chibok students.

Also speaking at the event which was moderated by Ambassador Robin Sanders, a former US ambassador to Nigeria, the representative of the Department of State, Ambassador Robert Jackson, said that the United States government understood that the federal government had been doing all that were supposed to be done to tackle insurgency and to as well rescue the kidnapped Chibok students.

Promising that the US would not relent in its efforts to create further support for the Nigerian government in its rescue mission, Ambassador Jackson urged the federal government to initiate a move to quickly prosecute those that had been arrested in connection with Boko Haram’s attack in the north-east so as to serve as a deterrent to other perpetrators.

Stating that the government must intensify its efforts so that current insurgence would not have negative effects on the forthcoming 2015 general elections, the US officials urged Nigerians to come together and give their support to the government as their support was very critical towards ending insurgence in the country at this stage.

Boko Haram: FG Fast-tracks Power Projects In North To Avert Famine In order to avert an impending food crisis in the north-east, occasioned by prolonged insurgency in the zone, the federal government has ordered co-ordinated intervention programmes that would be implemented by a special committee already put in place by the president.

The group drew membership from serving ministers and ranking political officeholders from the zone.

The presidential effort is also tied to the ongoing fast-tracking of identified key power projects as catalyst for socio-economic emancipation, food security and poverty alleviation in the zone.

Minister of state for power Mohammed Wakil, who made the disclosure while receiving a delegation of the Economic Summit Group in Abuja, said that the 3050MW Mambilla Hydro Project which has been on the drawing board for decades without any meaningful sign of take-off, has received a whopping $7 billion Similarly, Wakil said that the Kashimbilla Multi-purpose Dam in Taraba State will not only provide water for domestic purpose and irrigation, but the electricity component would also be activated to add 40MW to the national grid.

The minister, in a statement issued by his special assistant, media, Olawale Rasheed, in Abuja yesterday added that other transmission line projects are on course to evacuate power and enhance the quality of electricity supply in both Borno and Yobe states.

He urged the delegation led by the former director-general of PENCOM, Mr Mohammed Kabiru Ahmed, to in line with its mandate draw up a comprehensive recovery agenda that will provide workable solutions to issues that have been thrown up especially those that will help avert impending food crisis in the crisis region.

Wakil also disclosed that he met recently with the executive director of the United Nations Population (UNFPA) in New York who promised a scheduled visit to Nigeria with the sole aim of energizing the proposed social mitigation programmes for the zone.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Ahmed informed the minister that the group has submitted a preliminary report capturing findings on the field to President Goodluck Jonathan.

He said: “The report covered humanitarian activities, developmental priorities as well as extensive coverage of devastation and solutions to the insurgency in the zone.

“We may eventually have to hold a donor conference as the magnitude of funding needed to address the developmental challenges of the region cannot be provided by both the states and federal government alone.”

The main reason why your company can easily influence you is because “emotion and attitude are stronger than knowledge”. What you see can overcome what you know. You can easily damp away what you already know when you are faced with the reality of what your senses tell you to do! ― Israelmore Ayivor

8

NEWS EXTRA

July 11, 2014

Brazil 2014: Businessman Dies While Watching Match

By Matthew Dike, Lagos

Tragedy struck in Ikota Estate, along Victoria Island-Epe Expressway, in Lagos, on Wednesday night, when a businessman watching the semi-final game between Argentina and Netherland at the on-going Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup, slumped and died.

The businessman identified as Ukachukwu Onuoha, 48, a native of Nnewi, Anambra State, was said to have been viewing the match in his flat when death came knocking.

According to a neighbour, Obiefuna, Onuoha, a tile-dealer and a die-hard supporter of the Argentine football team, was hypertensive.

Obiefuna said the incident occurred during the second-half of the 120-minute game, when the Dutch attempted to score the Argentines.

“Onuoha just screamed ‘Yeeeh!’ and no one heard from him again. When his wife checked on him, she was shocked to find the lifeless body of her husband, she also collapsed and was rushed to a hospital where she was revived,” Obiefuna said.

Onuoha’s remains were moved to Nnewi on Thursday morning, where it will be deposited in a mortuary.

Reps Commend Briton For Return Of Looted Bronze Artefacts

By Edegbe Odemwingie, Abuja

The House of Representatives on Thursday commended British citizen, Dr Mark Walker, for returning two important artefacts stolen from the Benin Kingdom during Britain’s punitive expedition to Benin 117 years ago.

Walker, grandson of Captain Philips Walker, one of the principal figures who took part in the expedition, willingly returned two of the bronze items of heritage to the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa.

Federal lawmakers called on the British government to heed repeated calls by the monarch to return looted artefacts from the kingdom after a motion sponsored by Hon. Samson Osagie (Edo/APC) and 40 others got the nod of the house.

“Among the celebrated artefacts that were looted by the soldiers was the original mast head of Queen Idia which, in 1977, was used as the official symbol of the Festival of Art and Culture (FESTAC) and it has remained, amongst others, in British museums till date,” Osagie told lawmakers.

In another contribution, the chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Hon. Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje (Abia/PDP) accused the British government of allowing its citizens possess stolen artefacts belonging to African nations.

Members of a kidnapping syndicate which has allegedly been terrorising young women in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), when they were paraded by the Department of State Security Services (DSS), in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO.

Armed Robbery: 4 To Die By Hanging

By Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

An Ilorin High Court has sentenced four persons to death by hanging for criminal conspiracy and armed robbery.

The condemned armed robbers are Ibrahim Olayiwola, Abdulwaheed Aliyu, Tunde Kareem and Omotayo Isah.

Shortly after the sentence was handed down by Justice S.T Umar, the convicts broke down in court.

They were charged for robbing the petroleum attendants of Rockfield Petroleum Filling Station, Odota, Ilorin, in February 2011, contrary to the provisions of Section 97 of the Penal Code and Section 1 (2) of the Robbery

and Firearms (Special provisions) Act, CAP R11 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

Delivering the judgment, Justice Umar said he agreed with the lead prosecution counsel, M.A.I Akande, that the prosecution has proved its case against the convicts beyond reasonable doubt.

The court further held that “there is sufficient evidence to establish that the four convicts conspired among themselves and did rob the petroleum attendants of Rockfield Petroleum Filling Station, Odota, Ilorin on February 18, 2011, while armed with guns, contrary to the provisions of Section 97 of the Penal Code and

Section 1 (2) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special provisions) Act, CAP R11 Laws of Federation of Nigeria 2004.”

The convicts were accordingly sentenced to death by hanging.

Counsel to the first suspect, Rapheal Ashaolu, argued that Olayiwola was not at the scene of the incident but was arrested as one of the suspects.

However, Counsels to the second, third and fourth accused, Barr Abdulhameed, Abdul Gegele and Kamaldeen Gambari, respectively, pleaded the alibi, but the court rejected it on the ground that the [alibi of the] police station was not part of the pleas.

SSS Parades Kidnappers Of Jonathan’s Uncle

By Chika Otuchikere, Abuja

The Department of State Services, DSS, yesterday, paraded a gang of six who were said to have abducted an uncle to President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Nitabai Inengite, from his Otuoke home in Bayelsa State.

Inengite, 65, was reportedly abducted on February 23, 2014, and held by his abductors for 17 days. He was allegedly released without any payment of ransom, on March 12, 2014.

The spokesperson of the service, Marilyn Ogar, who briefed journalists while parading the suspects, said the gang was busted after useful intelligence on their activities was provided by members of the public.

Eldred Magnus Jonah, 30; Raphael Inengesi, 32; Ibeabuchi Inya, 29; Ore-

va Abridi, 29; Tammy Tamarapreye Agbai and a native doctor, Felix Onuoha were arrested in Bayelsa, Edo and Delta states. However, upon interrogation, they denied collecting any ransom from the victim’s family.

“Recall that on the February 23, 2014, about 9pm, Nitabai Inengite, an uncle to President Goodluck Jonathan, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen at Otuoke Community, in Ogbia local government area of Bayelsa State.

“He was whisked away in an ash-coloured Honda Jeep to Onuegbu Waterside, from where he was transferred into a waiting speedboat and to the creek. He was held captive in two different locations; the creek of Bras, very close to the mouth of the Atlantic and Okigbene creeks,” Ogar said.

In a related development, the SSS also

paraded another gang of kidnappers who allegedly kidnapped two sisters at their Lifecamp residence and robbed the family on June 8, 2014.

The girls were released by the kidnappers after holding them hostage for nine days, upon payment of a N10m ransom.

The kidnappers, numbering 10 were arrested at their different hide-outs in Tafa local government area of Niger State, Masaka in New Karu local government area of Nasarawa State, Okene local government area of Kogi State and Jos North local government area of Plateau State. The others were arrested in Mpape and Kubwa, suburbs of the FCT. Ogar promised that the suspects will soon be arraigned, but called on Nigerians to be more vigilant about their environment.

When a once-beautiful piece of cloth has turned into rags, no one remembers that it was woven by master weavers. ― Nigerian Proverb

NEWS EXTRA 9

July 11, 2014

Herbalist, Farm Attendant Nabbed For N16.7m Fraud

By Kola Eke-Ogiugo, Asaba

Two fraudsters identified as Samson and Favour (surnames withheld) are now guests of the State CID, for defrauding staff members of the Delta State Post Primary Education Board of the whopping sum of N16.7m in the course of a year.

Speaking to LEADERSHIP FRIDAY, the chairman of the board, Orode Imevbore said that one of the suspects, Samson, allegedly connived with Favour to defraud unsuspecting staff members of the board, as they, hitherto, paraded themselves as staff of the board, so as to obtain loans from a finance house (name withheld) before nemesis caught up with them.

It was reliably gathered that upon their dismissal, the suspects turned herbalist and farm attendant, respectively, unknown to the genuine members of staff, and visited their former offices continually to carry out the fraudulent activities.

“When a staff of the PPED applies

for loan, the finance department of the board processes it and sends the processed form to the finance company issuing the loans, but when the suspects collected the form, they removed the identity of the genuine staff and put their own identities before going to the finance company,” the police public relations officer in the state, DSP Celestina Kalu said.

But their luck ran out when one of the companies thought something fishy was going on and set out to investigate for itself. It discovered the discrepancies and alerted the board management who informed the police. Upon their arrest, it was discovered that the suspects were both in possession of different identity cards of the company.

Kalu assured the media that investigations are on-going and, upon completion, justice will be done.

Meanwhile, the affected staff members who were in shock when the fraud was discovered, are presently recuperating in hospitals.

L-R: Minister of Tourism and Culture, Hon. Edem Duke; Managing director, Phillips West Africa, Mr Abdallah Khamis and CEO, Phillips Africa/ senior vice-president, Phillips Group, Mr J.J Van Dongen, at the Phillips’ Stakeholders’ Cocktail and National Theatre Lighting-up in Lagos, on Wednesday. PHOTO BY GBENGA OLAJOBI

Ekiti Police Dismisses 2 Cops For Corrupt Practices Alo Abiola, Ado-Ekiti

Two police constables of the Ekiti State Police Command were summarily dismissed from the services of the force, yesterday.

The duo of F/No. 446106 PC Famiwole Tolulope and F/No. 448477 PC Olotu Tope were dismissed for alleged “discreditable conducts and corrupt practices”.

The commissioner of police in the state, Felix Uyanna, who approved the dismissal, while addressing the media, said that the move was in line with the mission of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Mohammed Abubakar, to

engender an efficient and disciplined workforce, in order to rid the force of bad eggs.

Uyanna said the offence is contrary to Paragraph ‘C’ and discreditable conduct contrary to ‘E’ (I) & (II) CAP 359 of the First Schedule of Police Act and Regulations 370, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990.

He assured that the command will continue to commend the dedication, commitment, forthrightness and gallantry of its officers and men as a form of motivation, while the recalcitrant and black sheep will equally to be shown the way out to serve as deterrent to others.

Kaduna State governor, Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero (centre), during an international conference on the biography of the Prophet Muhammad sponsored by NUSRET in Kaduna.

NGO Takes Peace Campaign To Schoolchildren

By Victor Okeke, Abuja

A voluntary organisation, Let’s Talk Peace,” has taken the message of communal peace and dialogue to schoolchildren, saying if they learn how to make peace at an early age, it would result in less cantankerous society in future.

Facilitator of the Organisation, Dr Bosede Awodola, yesterday, who led her team to Divine Mercy Secondary School, Asokoro, where the group held an interactive session with students, remarked that peace and conflict issues talks had always been restricted to adults but that as a voluntary group, it felt it was necessary to involve children under 18 years in peace discussion since they are the leaders of tomorrow so that they can imbibe the culture of peace at an early age and grow with it. She stressed the need to teach peace studies in all schools in the country.

According to her, any community that

is desirous of progress and development must imbibe the culture of peace, by adopting dialogue and forgiveness in human interrelationship.

She told the students: “It is not only for the government to talk about peace, you as young ones must begin to encourage peace in all situations, because it is only where there is peace that you can have progress, unity, and happiness.”

Noting that if members of the Boko Haram group were taught peace at early stages in lives, they won’t have grown to be terrorists, she called on children to abhor violence and strive very hard to be successful in their education in order to be better citizens of the country.

Another member of the organization, Chidezie Acholonu, urged the schoolchildren to be security conscious at all times, including at home. He listed measures they could take to safeguard themselves in different situations.

L-R: Zonal Head (FCT 1), First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Mr. Baldwin Onuigbo; Head of public sector, FCMB, Mr. Mustapha Lukman, presenting an LED television to one of the winners of the bank’s 30th anniversary promo ‘Reloaded,’ Mr. Remigius Emegwara, at the North Regional draw of the promo in Abuja, yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

L-R: National auditor, PDP, Alhaji Adewole Adeyanju; Governor-elect, Ekiti State, Dr Peter Ayodele Fayose and the coordinator of the Southwest mobilisation, Prince Buruji Kasamu, during the party’s stakeholders’ meeting in Ogun State, yesterday.

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

10 NEWS

July 11, 2014

Group News Editor: Tony Amokeodo

Appeal Court Throws Out PDP Lawmakers’ Application Over Suspension

By Patrick Ochoga, Benin City

The Court of Appeal in Benin City yesterday threw away the application brought before it by four suspended members of Edo State House Assembly which challenged an order restraining them from the House, saying the application lacked merit as they had refused to obey the interim order slammed on them by a lower court.

The four lawmakers, Patrick Osayimen, Jude Ise-Idehen, Friday Ogierakhi and Festus Ebea, were former members of the All progressives Congress (APC) who recently defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

They were suspended by the House but they refused to accept the action, saying it was not duly done. They also defied an interim order restraining them from going to the legislative chambers and quarters, and approached the Court of Appeal to challenge the order.

Delivering her ruling, Justice H. M. Ogunwumiju , along with two other justices, said the lawmakers could not come

to challenge a valid order that they did not obey, adding that they should have obeyed the order restraining them from coming into the House of Assembly and allowed the motion on notice to be argued.

He said, “It is quite lawful also that stay of execution is not granted in void; the party in contempt cannot deliberately flout an order of the court and proceed to seek remedy in a higher court while still in contempt of the lower court.

“The pursuit of a judicious hearing of the pending motion on notice of the interlocutory injunction in the lower court seems to be the proper course to follow so that the right of the application will be deliberated upon. The application is premature, devoid of merit and is hereby dismissed.”

Counsel to the four lawmakers, Ferdinand Orbih, said they would study the ruling and then decide what to do.

His counterpart on the side the All Progressive Congress (APC) lawmakers, Ken Mozia, said the ruling would enable them to continue committal proceedings against the suspended lawmakers for contempt of

court.

“The police have a duty to comply with the law; the high court spoke, they did not obey, and now the Court of Appeal has removed every vestige of justification that they may have. So now they have been told in clear terms that the parties concerned must comply with the order so let us see what they will do.”

Meanwhile, traditional rulers in the state have agreed to set up a committee to resolve the crisis.

Speaking to journalists in the palace of the Oba of Benin shortly after the meeting of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Otaru of Auchi, Alhaji Haliru Momoh said, “Edo State is in a turmoil and we felt we must, as traditional rulers, come into the matter to resolve it totally and absolutely and we felt that the State Council of Traditional Rulers should make a statement to the country about the situation here.

“Omo N’ Oba has agreed that we dissolve into a committee and call our subjects and resolve the matter that is between them absolutely and totally.”

APC Govs Solidly Behind Nyako – Kwankwaso

By Abubakar Salihi, Kano

Kane State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors are behind their Adamawa counterpart, Murtala Nyako, and will explore all avenues to make sure that his rivals do not unseat him.

In an interview with newsmen at his office yesterday, Governor Kwankwaso accused the PDP-led federal government of witch -hunt against non-PDP states.

Governor Kwankwaso accused the federal government of using the security agents to influence the election in Ekiti State, alleging that a similar plan is underway in the next election in Osun State.

Kwankwaso decried what is happening in Rivers, Nasarawa, Edo, Osun, Kano and Adamawa states respectively, where they accused the federal government of doing everything to destabilise the states.

He alleged that, recently, remarked a federal minister too away Kano Assembly members to Abuja and coerced them to defect to the PDP. Kwankwaso accused that the present regime of President Jonathan of being the most corrupt in the country, noting that any person caught with the crime of corruption would be freed once he joins the ruling party.

He also criticised the federal government for impunity in the way it hastily dropped corruption charges against Muhammad Abacha, simply because he joined the PDP, saying the latter was even set to contest governorship election in the state in 2015 on the platfform of PDP.

2015: PDP Will Clear South West – Fayose

By Gbenga Adeboye, Abeokuta

National Conference delegates in a rowdy session, in Abuja yesterday PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO.

Jonathan Nominates FRSC’s Chidoka, Abubakar As Ministers Wants Chinelo Anohu Amazu confirmed as PENCOM DG

By Uchenna Awom and Jonathan Nda-Isaiah, Lagos

By President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday forwarded the names of the Corps Marshall of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, and a political science lecturer at the University of Abuja, Dr Sulaiman Abubakar, to the Senate by for confirmation as ministers .

In a similar vein, President Jonathan, in

another letter, also sought for confirmation of the acting director-general of Nigeria Pension Commission (PENCOM), Mrs Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, as substantive director-general and Mr Ebenezer Foby as a Federal Commissioner of the Commission, representing South-South .

According to the letter read on the floor of the Senate by the Senate President David Mark, the nominees are from Anambra and Kwara states, the two states with vacancy in the federal cabinet.

Speculation that the former governor of Anambra State Peter Obi would be nominat-

ed for a ministerial position was put to bed by the nomination of Chidoka who filled in the slot for Anambra.

The FRSC boss is expected to occupy the slot for the state which has remained vacant since the exit of the former minister of aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, while Dr. Abubakar from Kwara state may be assigned the portfolio of National Planning after confirmation by the Senate since the ministry of Sports, which was superintended over by the former minister from the state, Malam Bolaji Abdulahi, before his removal in March this year, already has a substantive minister.

Ekiti State governor-elect Ayodele Fayose has said the Peoples Democratic Party will have a landslide victory in the South West in the 2015 poll.

He made the assertion yesterday in Abeokuta at the South West sensitisation tour of the PDP preparatory to the forthcoming poll.

According to him, the people were disappointed with the APC for failing to uplift their lives and are now prepared to return PDP to power.

“We had to allow sentiment of change in 2011. The change the opposition preached has left our people worse than they met us. It is crystal clear now that their change has no human face. Our people are ready to go back to the path of progress; they are ready to leave darkness for light,” Fayose said, noting that the Ekiti people had shown the way by returning him to power.

According to him, the overwhelming majority votes he recorded at the Ekiti poll was a clear testimony that the people were tired of elitist government.

“My overwhelming victory is a testimony to the fact that our people have rejected APC and their deceit. I beat them in all the 16 local governments. They were beaten even at their polling booths. Our people cannot be deceived again,” he declared.

If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people together to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea. Antoine de Saint-Exupery, fresh writer and aviator.

July 11, 2014

11

12 / NEWS

July 11, 2014

Associates Lament, Blame Doctors’ Strike For Aturu’s Death By gbenga soyele, Olaolu Oladipo, Lagos

and millie ibe, Abuja

Friends and associates of the late human rights lawyer, Mr Bamidele Aturu have blamed his death on the ongoing strike embarked upon by members of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).

Reacting to the death of the Ondo Stateborn lawyer in Lagos yesterday, some of his friends and associates told LEADERSHIP that their loved one would have survived his medical condition if the doctors had not gone on strike.

Chairman of the Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders (CACOL), Mr Debo Adeniran said the late lawyer must have overworked himself or he was a victim of the doctors’ strike, adding “but we will know in due course.”

He described the death as a sad loss, especially to the human rights and civil society community.

Another activist, Biodun Aremu, la-

mented the death of Aturu which he described as sad, saying “It is a sad news. We had something in common in that I handed over to him as UAD Convener. We were contemporaries in the Students’ Movement then. It is a sad loss, especially since he died young.

“This reminds us that whatever we have to do, we should remember death. It is unfortunate that death is an irreparable thing we cannot avoid,” he lamented.

National publicity secretary of the panYoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin, said the news of Aturu’s death was devastating and shocking, adding that his death has depleted the progressive forces in the country.

“He was one of the foremost activists in Nigeria. Words are not enough to express his loss. We will surely miss him. May God grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss,” he said.

National president, Campaign for Democracy (CD), Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin de-

scribed Aturu’s demise as shocking, especially at a very young age.

She said Aturu, over the years, had displayed uncommon courage in the face of tyranny in confronting the powers that be with the truth.

Amosun, Aregbesola, TUC Mourn Aturu Meanwhile, Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun and his Osun State counterpart, Rauf Aregbesola, yesterday expressed shock at Aturu’s death, hailing his strong commitment to democratic principles.

In a statement by Amosun, the governor said he was greatly saddened by the news of the sudden death of the prominent lawyer, especially coming at a time when his wealth of experience was mostly needed in reshaping the destiny of the nation.

Aregbesola in his own statement said the sudden death of Aturu has robbed the nation, legal profession and human rights communities of a redoubtable advocate and rights activist.

A cross-section of internally displaced persons from the Wukari crisis waiting to receive relief materials from Nema in Jalingo, Taraba State, yesterday. PHOTO

BY NAN.

Shekarau Wades Into ASUP, COEASU Crisis

By Kuni Tyessi, Abuja

Barely few hours after the minister of education, Ibrahim Shekarau assumed duty as minister of education, he made an attempt to wade into the crisis rocking the Polytechnic sector.

He held a combined meeting with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) where both unions tabled the grievances that led to an indefinite strike for the last 10 months. ASUP’s president, Chibuzo Asomugha, who spoke on behalf of both unions, raised issues of polytechnics’ visitation white paper which is yet to be released by the federal government.

He also said both unions were aggrieved by the non-constitution of governing councils of six federal polytech-

nics, including the report of the Needs Assessment of Nigerian polytechnics which is yet to be implemented since 2012.

Asomugha equally bemoaned the delay in amending the Polytechnic Act, adding that the last time such amendment took place was in 2004.

While advocating an end to the dichotomy between degree programmes and Higher National Diploma (HND), he said setting up an independent commission, the National Polytechnic Commission, would greatly reduce unrest in the sector.

Shekarau, in his response, appealed to the unions to prevail on their lecturers to go back to the classroom, adding that the Polytechnic sector which happens to be the engine room of national development cannot afford to be under lock and

key for so long.

He assured the affected unions of government’s commitment to the education sector, saying that discussions could go on while the union suspends the strike.

“As a minister and with my pedigree as a teacher, I can assure you that government is committed to the education system.

“Now that I have been briefed on some of the challenges, I will table the issues before the appropriate quarters where they will be viewed more holistically, but in the meantime, I want to appeal to you to suspend the strike in the interest of our children and Nigerians.

“Polytechnics are the engine room of our national economy; we cannot make any progress as a nation without taking the polytechnic sector into consideration,” he stated.

Everything you can imagine is real.

Pablo Picasso, Spanish painter and scuiptor

Steer Clear Of Osun Election, NGO Tells Military

By Bayo Oladeji, Abuja

The military has been told to keep away from the Osun State governorship election holding on 9th August and face its constitutional responsibility of protecting the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

A group, Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria, stated this in Abuja yesterday, calling for a level playing ground for all candidates, even as it endorsed Governor Rauf Aregbesola as its preferred candidate.

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY recalls the controversy which the involvement of soldiers in the governorship poll conducted in Ekiti State has been generating and the plan of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to challenge it in court.

“We call on the military to steer clear of conducting election as its primary responsibility is to protect life and property as well as protect the territorial integrity of our nation. Our group, Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria passes a vote of confidence on Governor Rauf Aregbesola for deepening democracy and improving the living standard of his people.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission should, without further delay, release the authenticated voter cards to the people of Osun State”, the group said.

On the speculated second term of President Goodluck Jonathan, the group promised to support him and even pay for his nomination form if he can stop his aides from interfering in the 9th of August election.

Reps Want Perimeter Fences In Federal Schools

By Edegbe Odemwingie, Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday directed its Committee on Education to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Education to construct and repair perimeter fences in federal government schools.

The resolution followed a motion by Hon Evelyn Oboro (Delta/PDP), which was unanimously adopted without debate when put to a voice vote by the speaker, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

The motion was entitled “Urgent need for the Federal Ministry of Education to erect or repair parameter fences in all Federal Government Secondary Schools in Nigeria”.

Oboro, in lead debates, expressed concern that the absence of the perimeter fences posed danger to the students of the affected schools.

She recalled a 2011 media report where hoodlums reportedly forced their way into a school hostel and raped four girls.

“These children are exposed to risk of not only harassment from people but also of dangerous reptiles,” she said.

July 11, 2014

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July 11, 2014

Increasing aggressive propaganda against the Tobacco Industry

B

developing or reviewing regulations, ensuring that the consultation itself is timely and transparent, and that its scope is clearly understood.”

This propaganda is not limited to smear campaigns, dissemination of unfounded information but also includes aggressive lobbying of several stakeholders within the country to:

Stakeholder consultation and participation in public policy is global best practice typical of democratic countries in Europe, America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Nigeria. In the United States of America, the process is called ''Public Notice and Comment''. The United Kingdom has its ''Code of Practice on Consultation'' and ''Consultation Principles Guidance''. In Parliamentary parlance, it is called ''Public Hearing''.

ritish American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) is greatly disturbed by the increasing aggressive propaganda against the Tobacco Industry by certain nongovernmental organisations (NGO's) operating within the country.

(i) Exclude the company from making inputs into the development and implementation of policies which will affect the industry (ii) Stop the industry from engaging on pertinent issues that are likely to affect the legal entities operating within the country and open doors for illegal entities to operate.

It is important to note that the industry has on several occasions stated that it is not averse to a balanced, fact-based tobacco regulation, which is enforceable and will not lead to unintended consequences such as tobacco smuggling.

We are therefore worried and concerned about the recent spate of events where several foreign-funded NGOs have continued to use emotional and exaggerated information which is not backed with data to lobby key stakeholders in the country. This is an extremely dangerous trend which may lead to inappropriate decision making and should be stopped.

Consultations for policy formulation must have extensive reach. Such consultations should involve all stakeholders who are concerned and will be affected by such policies. This is a basic principle for every legislative or policy formulation process that should be adhered to at all times.

It is therefore imperative that tobacco control policies be developed in an open, transparent and consultative manner, involving all the stakeholders including the tobacco industry.

Consultations with the tobacco industry are a matter of good governance and such consultations are strongly encouraged by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in its Guiding Principles for Regulatory Quality and Performance. These principles call on governments to “Consult with all signicantly affected and potentially interested parties, whether domestic or foreign, where appropriate at the earliest possible stage while

It is therefore strange, to read and hear of agitations and proposals that seek to bar an entire legal industry from policy input, stakeholder engagements and partnerships.

Section 39 (1) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended, guarantees that every person ‘'shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.''

Section 40 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution as amended, guarantees that every person ‘'shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.''

It is important to note that the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) itself calls for extensive consultations amongst key stakeholders including the tobacco industry. These consultations must be open and transparent.

The industry is and must be part of the solution · It is important to note that Tobacco is a legally-traded product and as such must be given due consideration and accorded its legal status. · It is the Tobacco industry that has in the last decade, in partnership with several government agencies, ensured that the level of regulatory trends within the industry is stronger than the existing tobacco control act.

Signed: Freddy Messanvi Area Director, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs British American Tobacco, West Africa

15

July 11, 2014

business news Jonathan Approves New Board For Aviation, Parastatals

By Igho Oyoyo, Abuja

President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the composition and appointments of the chairmen and members of the Governing Boards of Federal Government Institutions, Parastatals and Agencies.

This include the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic In Persons and other Related Matters, Federal College Of Chemicals & Leather Technology, Zaria, National Research Institute for Chemical Technology, Zaria, National Library of Nigeria, National Geological Surveys Agency, Citizen and Leadership Training Centre, Federal College of Education, Eha-

Cat 1 Re-certification: Nigeria Knows Fate In September

By NKEM OSUAGWU, Lagos

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States of America has informed the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) that the outcome of the recertification exercise would be communicated to the authority in September this year.

This is to allow the regulatory authority sufficient time to file with the FAA the evidence of

training of some of its safety inspectors who had been slated for the exercise in Europe between now and August.

This was disclosed by the FAA team leader, Andre J. Lamarre at the NCAA’s conference facility in Lagos yesterday.

Lamarre, who led a three-man team comprising of Michael Jennisin and James Plasman said the most important thing to the FAA at this juncture is the sustenance of a robust oversight

of the industry and strict enforcement of compliance of safety regulation by the NCAA. The team arrived at the Aviation House, the Headquarters of the NCAA, yesterday, to conclude the final phase of the Category 1 Recertification which began in March, this year.

Lamarre said his job was to verify all corrective actions, the dates, plans and completion of trainings.

Amufu, and the Federal School of Dental Technology and Therapy.

In a statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, Daniel Kure will be the chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), while Onuora Chinwe Leticia, Ibrahim Bamalli, Ngozi Lavender E., Shafii Salisu Baba, Habu Muazu, Phillip Aivoji will be members. The board for National Agency For the Prohibition of Traffic In Persons and other Related Matters, will be chaired by Taiwo Adeife, while Evelyn Hosa Okunbo, Godson Echegie, Gambo Gujungu, Abubakar Tsav, Rabi Muntari Muhammed and Adi Elekwachi will be members.

Bancorp e-Trade Records 56% Growth In 6 Months

By Friday Atufe, Lagos

A dealing member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Capital Bancorp Plc, has its Bancorp e-Trade online platform recorded a growth rate of 56 per cent between January and June this year while the value and commission on transactions appreciated by 322.92 per cent during the period.

In a bid to revive the interest of local investors in the Nigerian stock market, Capital Bancorp had on July 23, 2013, blazed the trail in

the market with the launching of the online trading platform to enable prospective investors buy and trade their shares or bonds with ease from the comfort of their homes or offices.

The managing director and chief executive officer of Capital Bancorp Plc, Mr Aigboje Higo, said, “the Bancorp e-Trade platform is an inventive retail stockbroking online service offering carefully crafted to provide access to stockbroking services for the busy executive and upwardly mobile young adults.”

Pension Funds Vital To Achieve Infrastructure Devt – PenCom

By Chika Izuora, Lagos

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has challenged African countries to develop appropriate framework that will help them leverage on the growing pension funds to accelerate the implementation of critical high-impact infrastructure projects.

The acting director-general of the agency, Mrs Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, who gave the charge in Abuja at the maiden World Pension Summit “African Special,” identi-

fied infrastructure as a key driver and critical enabler of sustainable growth in Africa.

She said that the current favourable economic landscape on the continent provides a unique opportunity for public and private sector collaboration to deal with the infrastructure gap.

According to her, focusing on Africa’s infrastructure challenges will indeed help in creating the economic pre-conditions needed for longer-term growth as well as foster poverty alleviation.

L-R: Executive director, Finance and Admin, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Itotenaan Henry; chairman, Board of NDDC, Bassey Ewa-Henshew and managing director/chef executive officer, NDDC, Bassey Dan during the 2013 appropriation budget performance defence at the National Assembly in Abuja Yesterday. PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO

Senate Orders NNPC To Refund $262m To Federation Account Opposes subsidy removal

BY UCHENNA AWOM AND JONATHAN NDA ISAIAH, Abuja

The senate has unanimously approved its Committee on Finance’s recommendation directing that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) should refund to the Federation Account, the total sum of $262million being the balance of the gross lifting under the third party financing oil deal.

However, the senators rejected the recommendation that the federal government should remove the subsidy on petroleum products because of the alleged misapplication of the billions of dollars voted annually for it.

The senators also confirmed that there was no $49.8 billion missing in the oil fund as alleged

by the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.

The resolution was sequel to the adoption of the report of the committee chaired by Senator Ahmed Makarfi (PDP, Kaduna).

Nonetheless, they also directed that inter-agencies reconciliation meetings between institutions such as the Ministry of Finance, NNPC, CBN and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) should be done on regular basis.

Such regular meetings among those sensitive economic institutions, they contend, would prevent a recurrence of this confusing allegations and ensure that “all revenues were properly and legally accounted for.”

However, the senate rejected the committee’s proposal to accept the N813.8 billion subsidy deductions by the NNPC from January 2012 to July 2013, since it was certified by the

Not every movement is progress; Some movements are just a way of burning fats!

― Israelmore Ayivor

Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) and appropriated for by the National Assembly. It instead accepted that the subsidy deducted by the NNPC to the tune of N180 billion for the fourth quarter of 2011, was also certified by the PPPRA and appropriated by the National Assembly.

The NNPC was advised not pay their operational expenditures directly from the Federation Fund without appropriation by the National Assembly. The senators in the same vein asked the oil corporation to strictly adhere to international best practises in keeping records, but cautioned that the NNPC should not control the revenue account of Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) so as not to undermine its separate legal status and make accountability more difficult. The NNPC was also advised to ensure

16 BUSINESS NEWS

July 11, 2014

UAE Unveils Visa Services For Sealink To Raise $60m To Enhance Trade Integration 2014. private sectors in the various countries Travellers To Dubai Speaking at the Sealink investors’ concerning the project had been quite Olushola Bello, Lagos

GEORGE OKOJIE, Lagos

As part of measures to ensure hitch free travel to the United Arab Emirate, the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) has unveiled its first Visa Application Centre for Emirates travellers in the country.

According to the regional manager, West Africa for Emirates Airline, Mr Manoj Nair, Emirates is a global connector of people and places, and its commercial partner, the DVPC recently launched Dubai Visa Application Services in Lagos.

He said, “The introduction of this facility is aimed at providing high quality services to applicants from Nigeria for their UAE visa application process when travelling to Dubai.

“The new Dubai Visa Application Centre (DVAC) will offer greater comfort, convenience and reach to enhance the visa application experience of applicants and travel agents from the country. The DVAC in Lagos is now operational for accepting visa applications and delivery of UAE visas for travel to Dubai.”

He added that the launch marks the expansion of the DVPC’s operation in the African region.

The managing director and chief executive officer of the Nigerian ExportImport (NEXIM) Bank, Mr Roberts Orya, has said the $60 million capital that Sealink Promotional Company Limited is raising from the stock market would enhance trade integration across West and Central Africa.

Sealink public offer, which is selling at $0.70 per ordinary share with net proceeds of $60 million ordinary shares, opened on March 24, 2014, is expected to close by September 30,

forum held in Lagos yesterday, Orya said the purpose of the offer is to raise the funds needed to acquire shipping vessels for conveying people and cargo across the West and Central Africa coast.

He said the ability of the regional economies of West and Central Africa to grow and compete on a global scale depended largely on efficient and barrier free intra- and inter-regional trading. He said that the response of government and the organised

tremendous.

Orya said the forum is underscored by the growing significance and relevance of trade to global development.According to him, the NEXIM Bank, being Nigeria’s export development finance institution and trade policy, has been in the vanguard of promoting developmental initiatives targeted at removing trade barriers and enhancing regional integration in Africa, in line with the transformation agenda of the president.

Investors Trade 310.01m Shares On NSE Olushola Bello, Lagos

Investors on the Nigeria Stock Exchange (NSE) on yesterday traded a total of 310.01 million shares worth N3.61 billion in 5,568 deals.

The volume represented an increase of 47.8 per cent over the 209.76 million shares valued at N2.28 billion exchanged in 5,150 deals on Wednesday.

The All-Share Index, which opened at 43,039.42, went down by 35.14 points or 0.08 per cent to close at 43,004.38. Also, the market capitalisation depreciated by N12 billion or 0.08 per cent to close at N14.20 trillion against the N14.212 trillion posted on Wednesday.

Forte Oil led the gainers’ chart with a gain of N10.50 to close at N220.50 per share. It was followed by Guinness which gained N2.47 to close at N200, while Ashaka Cement inched by N1.40 to close at N31 per share.

NCC Closes Down Illegal telecommunication Company in Akwa Ibom

By Bernard Tolani Dada, Uyo

The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), yesterday, closed down TB Links telecommunications and Security Systems Limited located at no 77 Aka Etinan road Uyo, in Akwa Ibom state.

The assistant director, Enforcement, NCC, Mr Salisu Abdu, who disclosed this to newsmen yesterday in Uyo, said the company was closed for operating without the necessary licence.

“In one of our surveillanceexercise in April, 2014, TB Links Telecommunications and security system limited and another company, Marc 2 limited, were detected to have been providing public mobile communication, vehicle tracking service illegally. We sealed the premises and have already contacted the Nigeria police for the purpose of investigation into their activities because it is a criminal offense and if found guilty, they will be prosecuted,” Abdu stated.

Follow these reports on leadership.ng/business

Not every movement is progress; Some movements are just a way of burning fats!

― Israelmore Ayivor

MARITIME 17

July 11, 2014

Marine Pollution: NIMASA Seeks Collaboration From Coastal Communities The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has again held a sensitisation programme for some communities located along the nation’s waterways on the need to collaborate with the agency in protecting the nation’s waterways from marine pollution and imbibe a cleaner, peaceful and safe ecosystem.

Speaking at the one-day workshop on community sensitisation organised by a non-profit making organisation, the Centre for Creative Arts Education (CREATE), in conjunction with the NIMASA in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, recently, the director-general of the NIMASA, Mr Patrick Akpobolokemi, identified solid waste dumping, municipal waste discharge, especially from industrialised cities, agricultural toxic waste, oil spills and discharge into the ocean as some the sources of marine pollution in the country.

Akpobolokemi, who was represented at the workshop by the NIMASA assistant director, Marine Environmental Management Department, Mrs Felicia Chinwe Mogo, further enumerated some consequences of coastal pollution while delivering a paper titled “Peace, Safety and Security in the context of Sustainable Environment.”

According to him, these include decomposition of organic matter causing anoxic conditions, creation of micro climate and mutations, loss of biodiversity and depletion, damage of biodiversity, general loss of aesthetic, economic, cultural, social, political values of the ocean, water hyacinth invasion, among others.

The director-general also commended the awareness programme which was the grand finale of a one-year sensitisation tour round the various coastal communities in the country by the two organisations. He further called for collaborations among individuals, states and regions in the country in order to demonstrate the political will to move on in protecting the nation’s waterways.

“Whether it is to organise clean-up campaigns, art exhibits, tree-planting drives, social media campaigns and different contests, every action counts.

When multiplied by a global chorus, our individual voices and actions become exponential in their impact,” he said.

Speaking with journalists at the side line of the programme, the CREATE’s chief executive officer, Mrs Hilda Dokubo, said the awareness programme had started making positive impact among the communities as a result of the knowledge and information that have been shared with the people on the issue of marine pollution.

She said, “We have been able to successfully bridge the gap between the people and the agency.”

Bad roads along the Lagos sea port

Piracy In Nigeria Threatening UK Economy – Report Stories By Samson Echenim, Lagos

The growing incidences of piracy off the coast of Nigeria threaten seafarers as well as the economy of the United Kingdom (UK), according to a UK Chamber of Shipping report.

The report shows that maritime crime in the Gulf of Guinea, an area with Nigeria as the leading economy, exposes almost all of the UK’s £6.3 billion (about N1.8 trillion) annual trade with the region to risks, including 12 per cent of oil imported into the UK. The study also states that ships in the region are attacked at least once per week, with a significant proportion of the attacks

unreported.

Over the past 10 years, 45 seafarers have been killed and 459 held hostage in the region and, for 2013, 60 per cent of attacks were within Nigerian territorial waters, where foreigners are forbidden from carrying weapons, complicating the operations of security companies.

“Most people are aware of pirate activities off Somalia, but lawlessness in the Gulf of Guinea is a major threat to our seafarers, the UK’s energy and trade security, and to the economic development of the region,” said the chief executive of the UK Chamber of Shipping, Guy Platten, who was quoted in the report.

“Nigeria and other states in the region

have known for 30 years that piracy was a problem, but too little has been done and enough is enough.

“The lack of security in the region costs Nigeria £7.2 billion (N2 trillion) a year in oil theft alone, which shows criminal activity is severely hampering the region’s potential for prosperity. Put simply, these countries will remain poor until their maritime security issues are tackled,” he said.

Platten went on to acknowledge the economic benefits in Ghana and Togo since efforts were made to improve their maritime security through investments in security patrols, adding that, “Nigeria, however, lags behind and has done very little – and it is costing them and us dearly.”

Bad Roads, Lack Of Synergy Among Agencies Worry Operators The perennial poor state of the Lagos seaports access roads, the lack of synergy among government agencies in the maritime sub-sector and the inability of the country to fully harness the industry’s potential, including aquatic resources, formed leading discussions at a colloquium to mark the 70th birthday anniversary of a former managing director of the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) and an ex-chief executive officer (CEO) of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC), Chief Adebayo Sarumi, held in Lagos recently Sarumi, who anchored the privatisation and concessioning of the nation’s seaports in 2006, is seen by maritime stakeholders as a giant in the sector’s reforms.

Scores of maritime industry practitioners took turns to eulogise the Aare Parakoyi of Ibadan land, for his contributions to the maritime industry between 2003 and 2007.

He was praised for his focused, determined and dedicated service in the implementation of the port reforms of that period.

Discussions on how to activate sustainable

growth in Nigeria’s maritime set the stage for a critical review of all the efforts of the former NPA boss at repositioning seaport authority and the maritime industry for the nation to begin to harness and take full advantage of the potentials offered by the maritime industry.

Kick-starting what looked like the linking of Sarumi’s contributions in the maritime industry and the progress being experienced presently, the current executive secretary and CEO of the NSC, Mr Hassan Bello, who incidentally was employed by the Sarumi who was a managing director (MD) then, revealed that his former boss was a de-tribalised Nigerian who consciously developed an intellectual powerhouse to drive his vision of a maritime industry worthy of making life more abundant for Nigerians and stakeholders in the industry.

Bello said that Sarumi’s knack for an industry that is rooted in ensuring that relevant legal frameworks are always in place, created professional linkages that

are beneficial to the industry with a view to attracting investments into the maritime sector of the economy. It was during his time that the inland container depots (ICDs) was conceptualised.

A member of the panel of discussants at the ceremony, Mrs Mfon Usoro, who is the secretary-general of the Abuja MOU and a former director-general of the NIMASA, emphasised that the lack of synergy between maritime relevant stakeholders had robbed the industry of the necessary working legal framework. She called on all well-meaning groups in the industry to close ranks in order to surmount the problems plaguing the industry.

The executive vice chairman of the ENL Consortium and chairperson of Seaports Terminals Operators Association of Nigeria, Mrs Vicky Haastrup made a passionate appeal to stakeholders to jointly rise up to the situation of bad roads in Apapa, which is adversely affecting business.

If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people together to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea. Antoine de Saint-Exupery, fresh writer and aviatorny

18 / TOURISM

July 11, 2014

NTDC, Gambia Signs MoU On Tourism Development

L-R: Minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke; chairman, Governing Board of Nigeria Our Heritage (NOH) project, George Obiozor and director-general, National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM), Malam Abdallah Yusuf Usman at the official presentation of the NOH project in Abuja, recently. PHOTO BY CHIKA OKEKE

Promoting Tourism Through Nigeria Our Heritage Project Stories By Chika Okeke, Abuja

There have been concerted efforts by stakeholders on the need to promote Nigeria’s tourism potentials in order to diversify the revenue generation base of the country and avoid over dependence on oil and gas.

The call was further heightened when a stakeholder, Mr Fidelis Ekwunife Anosike, unveiled the ‘Nigeria, Our Heritage’ (NOH) project in Abuja, in collaboration with the ministry of tourism, culture and national orientation, and fully endorsed by the federal ministry of foreign affairs and Howard University Alumni Association.

The 7-man editorial board of the NOH, led by former Nigerian ambassador to the United States between 2004 and 2008, Prof. George Obiozor, were saddled with the responsibility of marketing Nigeria as a top five world economy by 2114, through documentaries, publications, conferences, events, road shows, among others.

They were also tasked with laundering Nigeria’s image abroad as an investment destination and to promote the country’s tourism potentials and cultural heritage for wealth creation.

The NOH project is proudly supported by over 15 companies and the media some of which include the Nigeria Export Import (NEXIM) Bank, Benue State, Niger State, Heritage Bank, Eko Atlantic, DSTV, Multichoice, CNN, DAAR communication, NERC, BGL, Ekiti State, etc.

In his address, the minister of tourism, culture and national orientation, Edem Duke, expressed readiness to work with the initiators by overhauling Nigeria’s image globally and promoting the country’s tourism and cultural heritage which he said was aimed at wealth creation as well as

securing international trust for foreign investment.

“We shall be working with the initiators of this programme to engage in Nigeria’s global image overhaul and promote our tourism potentials and cultural heritage for the patriotic purpose of creating wealth for national development and securing international trust for foreign investment,” Duke said.

While announcing his decision to adopt the project under the federal government’s policy on Public Private Partnership (PPP), he was optimistic that the NOH would support and uphold the cardinal principles of his ministry and further called for an increased partnership with Nigerian companies, the media and government in a bid to lead the race towards revamping Nigeria as an investment destination in the world.

“We, therefore, seek for the partnership of companies which are proud of Nigeria, the media, local and international agencies, institutions of government and state governments to be part of this project by identifying with our avowed commitment to lead the race towards revamping the global dignity of Nigeria as an investment destination.

“We believe that time has come for the private sector to take the front row in shaping the future of Nigeria economically, socially and otherwise because all over the world, government makes policies and create enabling environment for growth but the private sector is the substructure that shapes the economy, “ Duke stated.

While noting that the project would celebrate the rich cultural inheritance and vast economic endowment of Nigeria, he regretted that Nigeria had come under global media conspiracy that brought humiliation for the country.

Also speaking, the chairman, NOH

Governing Board, George Obiozor, challenged Nigerians to develop positive attitude towards the country even as he expressed optimism that Nigeria’s problem would be solved.

“We must develop a positive attitude towards our own country because God does not make mistakes. There is no country that have permanent good image but it depends on the way they handle their problems,” Obiozor said.

He further identified the ‘Red Cross Syndrome’ as one of the consistent problems in policy making in Nigeria, urging the younger generation to resist negative comments about Nigeria.

Obiozor thanked the minister for recognising and supporting the project which he said assembled eminent scholars like Professors Tunde Adeniran, Sam Oyovbaire, Collins Gardner, Isawa Elaigwu, Jide Osuntokun and Bukar Bukarambe as editorial board members while Mr Tunji Okegbola and Mr Charles Ozoemena were selected as content research and compilation team of the NOH initiative.

On his part, a member of the editorial board of the NOH project, Prof Tunde Adeniran, said their primary target was to create the culture of innovation and perception even as he commended the media for their immense contributions to nation building.

“Inspite of everything, we have to give credit to the media for the role they are playing in nation building and we must never be frustrated and tired of certain things that is happening around us because God did not make mistake by creating us to be Nigerians.

“The project is a message to every Nigerian that we have a duty to ensure that Nigeria is not only what is should be but what others see it as. We have to be holistic in the way we look at things, especially our culture.

The director-general, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Mrs Sally Mbanefo, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Gambia Tourism Board in a bid to develop tourism and ensure best practices within the industry.

Speaking at an event in Lagos, she was optimistic that the partnership would promote the sub-regional tourism brand, saying that Nigeria has the political will to explore the potentialities of the industry.

“With the partnership, the NTDC staff members can go to the Gambia for capacity building and bring back the knowledge to develop Nigeria’s tourism industry and the Gambia Tourism Board can as well send their staff to Nigeria for training and also appreciate our tourism potentialities,” Mbanefo said.

She noted that the relationship between the two countries would promote travel and tourism, saying that the Gambia was the first country to sign an MoU with the NTDC. Responding, the director-general of the board, Mr Benjamin Roberts, assured of his readiness to promote the tourism potentials between the two countries, noting that the partnership would also help in promoting sub-regional brands and experience.

According to him, “We shall work on achieving one brand for the benefit of the two countries and also build the capacities of the workers of the NTDC and the Gambia Tourism Board. Hence, we shall come to Nigeria to appreciate Nigerians and tell the Gambia story while your people can also come and tell us Nigeria’s story.

On her part, the permanent secretary of the Gambia Ministry of Trade, Mrs Naffie Barry, was hopeful that the partnership would not only bring about blessings between the two countries but for the entire African countries.

Nigeria Generates 70% Trade Volume In Cultural Products – ITI The president, International Theatre Institute (ITI), Nigeria, Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, has disclosed that over 70 per cent of the total volume of legal and illegal trade in cultural products in West African region originated from Nigeria, saying that our economy account for over 70 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP) of West Africa.

In an interview with LEADERSHIP in Abuja, he noted that Nigeria was unable to reap the full benefits of its potentials from cultural industries since the key players in the cultural sectors operates independently, stressing that they synergise their roles occasionally under the auspices of national festivals, carnivals and cultural expos.

“The country has a population of over 160 million made up of over 500 ethnic nationalities and an economy that accounts for over 70 per cent of the GDP in West Africa.

Consequently, over 70 per cent of the total volume of legal and illegal trade in cultural products in the West Africa region originated from Nigeria.

He maintained that from the pre-colonial period till date, the cultural industries had continually shaped the economy and provided sustenance for large numbers of people across the various social and economic strata in Nigeria.

Dandaura, who is also the head, Department of Theatre and Cultural Studies, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, said, “Even in modern times, these industries continue to provide opportunities for investment, wealth creation and employment compared to other sectors.

“With over 2,000 movies produced per annum, a captive viewing audience of over 200 million across the globe and potential annual revenue of N522 billion, Nigeria’s home video industry secured the UNESCO’s rating as the world’s second largest film industry,” he concluded.

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

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

AGRICULTURE 19

July 11, 2014

Agri REPORT

Niger Partners Private Firm To Establish N1.6bn Shea Butter Factory

Using Nuclear Tech To Curb Post-harvest Losses

A major limitation to farming can be blamed on post-harvest losses and the need to effectively reduce and subsequently curb that is what has led to the Nigerian government to seek nuclear and technological solutions. Ruth Tene Natsa writes on the efforts of government, through the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA), to attain this.

Some had expressed fear about the hidden implication of its adaptation while others perceived it as a welcome development capable of boosting the sector

It’s been reported that farmers lost over 40 per cent of their farm produce as a result of poor processing and storage facilities.

This is a huge loss, not just to the farmers, but the economy itself, especially as Nigeria is an agrarian state with large potential to cultivate any crop.

Kogi is the largest producer of cassava but lacks processing facilities which leads to severe post-harvest losses.

Similarly, fruits harvested in Benue State are wasted due to inadequate processing, storage and marketing facilities, and vegetables suffer the same fate in Jos, among other states. Efforts to reduce these losses led to the establishment of staple crops processing zones (SCPZ) with the aim to industrialise areas with a high array of a particular farm commodity. It was designed such that large industries which will take care of the harvests, processing and marketing will be setup close to areas where a particular crop is largely grown.

Meanwhile, as the drive is being sustained, there may be attempts

to integrate the use of nuclear technology in food and agriculture.

This is probably to complement plans to reduce post harvest losses, prevent wastage as well as improve agricultural productivity.

It is a well established fact that radiation processing technology is gaining increasing importance all over the world. It is now being used in agriculture through radiation treatment of food to prevent spoilage and food-borne diseases.

Nigeria, as a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), aligned some of its developmental agenda in which the ATA with the IAEA are inclusive.

In its Country Programme Framework signed last year February 14, for the period of 20122017, the nation gave priority to technical cooperation in terms of transfer and application of nuclear technology in the agriculture sector. Some of the areas include use of gamma irradiation for food preservation and processing; application of irradiation technology in pest control; use of irradiation technology in mutation breeding; application of nuclear techniques in characterisation of food contaminants, pollutants to assure food safety and the usage of research reactor for soil fertility mapping.

It is worthy of note that the nation presently has a Gamma Irradiation Facility (GIF) at the Nuclear Technology Centre (NTC), Sheda, Abuja, where it demonstrates radiation processing of food, agricultural and industrial products for commercial purposes.

So far, it has been able to focus on sprout inhibition of onions, potatoes and yams; insect dis-

infestations of grains and flour products; delay ripening in fruits (paw-paw, tomatoes, etc); microbial decontamination of meat, pork seafood and reduction of microbial load in species such as chilli pepper, ginger, etc, for exports.

It is believed that with this technology, onion, a perishable commodity, could be preserved for about six months without getting rotten. Potatoes could also be preserved for a year without sprouting while food fumigation for human consumption can be outlawed because of the proposed better and safer technology.

It must, however, be noted that the use of nuclear technologies come with high level of responsibility. This is because it has many global implications, in terms of safety and security.

More so, it requires both bilateral and multilateral cooperation in a properly coordinated way, within the framework of the IAEA. But the question whether the nation is ripe enough to adopt this technology, especially as it relates to food and agriculture, is causing mixed reaction. Some had expressed fear about the hidden implication of its adaptation while others perceived it as a welcome development capable of boosting the sector.

A farmer, Mr Adebowale Ademoye, from Akoko, Ondo State, expressed fear for the safety of people healthwise, if the technology is eventually accepted.

Though he said it may be better to prevent farm losses and check waste, he advised that government should ensure it is safe before giving final approval.

by abu nmodu, Minna

The director-general, Niger State Investments, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed Kontagora, has stated that the state government and a private company will sign memorandum of understanding (MoU) to invest over N1.6 billion for the establishment of a shea butter factory, He disclosed this to journalists, after the State Executive Council meeting, that the factory will be located in Mokwa town and that the state contribution to the project is the release of 20 hectares of land to the firm.

While saying that the MoU would be signed following the council’s rectification, Kontagora said actual construction will commence after the signing by both parties.

He said that it was expected that the project will be completed in the first quarter of 2015, adding that the factory, when completed, will engage about 10,000 youths and generate over N10 million monthly to boost the economy of the state .

According to him, the choice of Mokwa for the location of the factory was as a result of its location which will make the movement of raw materials and finished product easy in the day-to-day operation of the factory.

Similarly, the director-general of the One Stop Investment Centre, Alhaji Hamza Bello, has revealed government’s plan to upgrade and develop some markets in the state and put them in position of generating more money to the administrations at all levels.

He said that the state was losing over N160 million monthly from improper management of markets and that the Mariga market will be developed to an integrated commodity market following a survey carried out for government by the United Nations Development Partner while those at Dikko and Madalla will also be upgraded.

He also said that the Niger State Development Company is to invest over N1.8 billion on the Madalla market and will start next month. Gov. Babangida Aliyu

20 / tax f0cus

July 11, 2014

Administration Of Withholding Tax (3) Application Of Withholding Tax Sections of CITA and PITA that provides for the deduction of withholding tax at the applicable rates below.

Returns and remittance Tax returns are filed monthly with evidence of remittance and a detailed schedule of taxable transactions. Submitted schedule should show the following details: Name of supplier; address; nature of service; invoice date; payment date; amount; rate @ Y% tax.

• Returns for corporate suppliers should be filed within 21 days from end of month of transactions.

• Returns for non –corporate suppliers should be filed within 30 days from end of month of transaction.

• In practice, tax returns are filed in the same month they occur.

• Tax deducted should be remitted to the revenue in exchange for a receipt of payment.

• Tax is payable in the currency of the qualifying transaction.

• • Following payment and filing of returns, the revenue processes credit notes for the suppliers on whose income tax was deducted.

• Credit notes can be used in applying for tax credit against current and future tax liabilities (i.e. where it is not final tax) • Remittances are due to either federal or state tax authorities.

• • Remittances due to the Federal Inland Revenue

• • • • • • •

Service (FIRS): Corporate entities, Nonresident individuals, Members of the armed forces and police, Resident of Abuja, Foreign officers.

Remittances due to state internal revenue service (SIRS): • All other individuals / partnerships resident in the state.

Payment on currency Section 64B of the Company Income Tax Act (CITA) empowers the tax authority that withheld tax must be remitted to the tax authority in the currency in which the deduction was made. This means that transactions made in foreign currency are to be remitted in the same currency and that the tax so withheld is to be remitted in the same currency.

Simultaneously penalty for default would also be calculated in the same currency.

How to claim Withholding Tax credit (Credit Notes) A taxpayer from whom tax has been withheld is expected to gain withholding tax credit notes from the relevant tax authority via the deducting organisation. All withheld taxes are forwarded to the tax authority, which in turn records the credit against the taxpayer’s account, with a schedule containing details of the contract or service on which basis the tax authority issues a credit note. Assessed tax and related charges are usually entered as debits in the taxpayer’s tax account, while he is expected to pay only the difference between his assessed tax and withholding tax credit at the time of filing their own

tax in focus

returns.

It is this credit note that a taxpayer uses as a set off against tax assessed within that year or if unutilised within that year can be applied based on the taxpayer request to transfer the credit balance in that year to offset or reduce debit balance of another year.

In cases where there is an excess charge of the WHT on a taxpayer, the 2007 Acting chairman, FIRS, Kabiru Mashi amendments to CITA withholding (Section 63 (7)) have even tax to any taxpayer within 90 further empowered the FIRS days of filing a claim. to refund proven excess Table of Payment Type of Payment

Applicable WHT

Applicable WHT

Companies *a( %) Individual *b (%) (i) Dividend, Interest and Rent

10

10

(ii) Royalties

15

15

(iii) Commissions, Consultancy Technical &

10

5

(iv) Construction/Building Contracts

5

5

(v) Contracts, other than outright sales and

5

5

(vi) Directors Fees

10

10

(vii) Technical, Service Fees

5

10

Management

purchase of goods in the ordinary course of business

Offences and penalties offences: • Failure to withhold tax or • failure to remit or late remittance of the tax withheld • Non remittance of the tax withheld within the time limit stipulated by the Revenue.

Penalties: a.

For companies A fine of 200 per cent of the tax not withheld or withheld but not remitted, plus interest at the prevailing commercial rate. b.

For individuals and other organisations A fine of the higher of N5,000 or 10 per cent of the amount of tax due, plus the amount of tax deductible, or withheld but not remitted, plus interest at the prevailing commercial rate.

Interest on savings account of less than N50,000 paid by a bank is not subject to WHT. The WHT system has come to stay since it is a veritable source of revenue to government.

It enhances the collection efforts of tax authorities and it ensures that revenue is generated in advance. It is therefore imperative that the system should continue to be improved upon in the light of modern tax administration procedure.

Usually an advance payment of tax provides information that an income source has been identified through a third party. Such information being provided by the payer should be readily available for use in accessing a potential taxpayer.

Field officers should always be ready to follow up on such information. concluded

Management fees

Shifting Tax Monies: Transfer Pricing Phenomenon (2)

BY Embuka Anna

Transfer mispricing is of importance to governments because it provides multinationals a means of depriving the government of the needed revenue.

Estimates vary as to how much tax revenue is lost by governments due to transfer mispricing.

Global Financial Integrity in Washington estimates the amount to be several hundred billion dollars annually.

Christian Aid (March 2009) estimated that about $1.1 trillion in bilateral trade mispricing came into the EU and the US alone from non-EU countries from 2005 to

2007.

Transfer mispricing is embarked upon by multinationals because of the variance in tax rates and policies amongst nations. Though the object is the same: a reduction of the tax burden by the adoption of transfer prices not determined by market forces, i.e. transfer mispricing comes in different forms. It can be achieved by paying some tax, paying no tax or even getting tax rebates.

Paying Some Tax Case 1 ‘A’ which is a subsidiary company in Uganda buys goods at N100 each, repackages and exports them to

‘B’, a parent company in Nigeria at a selling price of N200 each.

The profit is N100. Company B then resells for N300 and makes a profit of N100. The group’s

assessable profit is thus N200 (N100 in Uganda and another N100 in Nigeria).

Ordinarily, these transactions are harmless. However, considering the tax rates of the respective states, the conclusion could be different. Assuming that companies income tax for company A is 20 per cent (amounting to N20) and companies income tax in company B is 60 per cent (amounting to N60). This effectively makes the group’s net profit N120 (i.e. N200 – N80). The subsidiary company in Uganda contributed N80 to this profit, while the parent company in Nigeria contributed N40. The

profit after tax generated by the parent company is smaller because they paid a company’s income tax of 60 per cent as against the 20 per cent paid by the subsidiary company.

Case 2 Assuming the transfer price is now N280 while B’s selling price still remains N300. The effect of this is a shifting of profit before tax from B’s home country (i.e.

Nigeria, which has a company’s income tax of 60 per cent) to A’s host country (i.e. Uganda which has a company’s income tax of 20 per cent). to be continue

21

July 11, 2014

Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa

an honour

Well Deserved

Dr. Abdu

Bulama

Honourable Minister of Science and Technology

T

he Governing Council, Management, Staff and Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, heartily rejoice with our staff and former Rector, Dr. Abdu Bulama on his well deserved appointment as the Honourable Minister of Science and Technology by the President and Commander- in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. Sir, as you assume this challenging position, may the Almighty Allah grant you the wisdom and strength to serve your fatherland and to take the Ministy of Science and Technology to the highest level.

We are indeed honoured by your honour and proud to be associated with you.

Once again,

Congratulations.

Signed Dr. Shettima Abdulkadir Saidu (Shettiman Malamai, Nguru) FCSN,FiCCON Rector

22

July 11, 2014

July 11, 2014

23

NAERLS forum

July 11, 2014

National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services, ABU Zaria Contact: Dr M.K Othman - 08065571637. mkothman@gmail.com

Application And Use Of Biotechnology In Nigerian Food And Agriculture System (2) Technologies will be needed to minimize extraction and provide for longer-term sustainability because there will be fewer resources available, particularly nonrenewable resources such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

There will be less water, and the quality of the remaining water will be reduced as demand increases.

Fewer people will be engaged in primary agriculture due to rural urban migration, while the demand for meat and milk is on the rise.

Samaila Ilu, Director, NAERLS

Current status of biotechnology The Nigerian government is committed to the use of modern biotechnology in agriculture and is a signatory to the Cartagena Protocol. The National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) has been established and charged with the responsibility to empower the nation to become self reliant. However, the nation is lagging behind in the adoption of biotechnology. Nigeria produces no GM crops grown primarily for food or feed, and has not approved any GM varieties for commercial release. There has therefore been little effect on either Nigerian farmers or consumers in with respect to use of biotechechnology crops, although on a worldwide basis, Since the first commercial release of a transgenic crop in 1994, the land area planted to

these crops has expanded to over 90 million ha worldwide, with approximately 8.5 million farmers in 21 countries cultivating transgenic crops.

Although the nation has a some level of biotech research capacity, this capacity has evolved in and is limited by a very restrictive R&D funding environment. The future commercialization of biotechnology in Nigeria however remains a possibility.

Potentials and opportunities for deploying biotechnological agricultural biotechnology applications in Nigeria Agricultural biotechnology has potential to lead to an increase in productivity and, as a result, increase food production without the need to increase the area of cultivated land, thereby reducing the pressure to expand cul-

Bernard Okhakume MC & A Weekly Digest market consumer advertising 08053040003

To wit, the Agency contributes its quota in the area of market research – data collation, analysis and interpretation for articulate application of same findings for: • Effective product launch/introduction • Effective brand introductory campaign • Effective media vehicle consideration, purchase and deployment • Proper target market profiling.

The process takes off thereon, unto a whole gamut of strategic and tactical imperatives to guide the brand through the ever delicate (product) life cycle. The Agency and the brand owners/managers work together as partners, for the growth of such brand, swimming and sinking together. The commitment from both ends is total and selfish because the success or failure at both ends is dependent upon the brand.

Therefore, what obtains in such ideal situation is that the brand is taken care of by two sets of professionals from two different perspectives but for a common goal. On the one hand the owners are so passionate about the brand, they see it as the best that can be, and it should just be so respected and engaged by the market,

mcaandadigestweekly@gmail.com

for the company’s growth and success.

On the other hand, the Agency positions as the outside marketing team for the brand and independently look at the brand versus competition and gives advice on way forward dispassionately but professionally, for the brand’s success.

Beyond its consultancy service, the Agency acts as the one-stop shop for concept generation, development and execution for effective marketing communication. In this area, it shares responsibility with no other. This is where the influence and importance of the Agency is most manifest. Information is key and powerful, more so an articulate product campaign based on scientific deduction, robust in strategic thinking and functional creativity. A good campaign will at least elicit trial.

The big picture here is that by reason of its professional contribution to the process of marketing the advertising agency plays a very important role for the success of any business. It is evolving as in so many other dynamic professions worldover.

However, compromises abound in our local environment; presently threat-

tivated areas into forest and marginal areas.

Important advances in livestock genetics and genomics as well as animal cloning and a better understanding of the molecular basis of genetic variation will result in more productive and disease resistant genotypes, vaccines and diagnostic tools to control diseases.

Agricultural biotechnology together with significant advances in informatics, including geographic information systems, and computing capabilities enable the development of models and methods that can address the complexities of the livestock component of agricultural systems, and the introduction or more sustainable land use practices.

- Biotechnology will probably allow the expansion of production in some of the nation’s major crops of maize, soyabean and cotton without increasing the pressure on fragile environments.

- It will also lead to increased opportunities for agro-industrialization that may arise from increased production and diversification.

- Biotechnology can be expected to improve yield potential and stability (increasing tolerance to adverse effects) of crops.

- Agricultural biotechnology could be used to develop crop varieties tolerant to biotic and abiotic stress particularly weed and drought tolerance, which can stabilize and

improve the yields of crops grown in rainfed areas. eg maize varieties able to grow in poor conditions of drought and/or striga infestation.

- It could also improve agricultural sustainability by increasing disease and pest resistance and supporting integrated pest management efforts, thereby lessening the use of toxic pesticides (Bt cotton, maize).

- It could improve the nutritional value of food crops (including the enhancement of vitamin and micronutrient contents of food grains) eg vitamin A fortified maize or garri, Rice with iron and vitamin A, Edible vaccines in maize, potatoes and bananas - It could expand the potential uses of agricultural processes and products (for instance utilizing non-edible substances of food crops to produce medicinal products, fuel alcohol, and industrial oil, thereby increasing employment and incomes). Eg Jatrropha - It could be used for increasing productivity and quality of farm animals. Increased productivity or efficiency refers to greater yields of animal products (carcass, milk or eggs) for the same unit of inputs. Such a reduction in herd size would minimize the deleterious effects of livestock farming on the environment.

TO BE CONTINUED

Brand Management Inquest (2) ...Who Manages Your Brand?

en brands, brands owners and management from all directions. For some reasons plenty of untrained non-professionals are now involved in the service of brands management, principally for financial gains – without the ethical and professional responsibility. Some position within the very small service-end of the process in the name of media buyers, hot-shop and portfolio consultants, etc. They cannibalise the market so badly, sanity takes flight. The attraction they bring to their “clients” is value-for-money (cheap) services. They go about prom-

ising fee-free services, undercutting the essence of the standard Advert Agency.

Then-on they become attractive (mostly to the Asians). What are not evident at the initial stage are the compromises they bring to bear. Most of these so-called practitioners are not even registered to practice, let alone represent a brand.

While we do not quarrel with those seeking means of livelihood, we care about how all these impact on the brands and the consumer. At least the buying public should be adequately informed, to enable wise and beneficial decision to purchase. We are restraining from mentioning names at this point. As we go forward in this series, we shall look at peculiar cases for purposes of learning and appreciation. But our principal concern for now is to point out those impediments with inimical consumer satisfaction. To enable a market situation for consumer satisfaction, the messenger should be seen as important as the message.

The question we shall keep asking for some time on this page remains: WHO MANAGE YOUR BRAND? ➔ CONCLUDED

Your Entertainment and Lifestyle Guide

July 11, 2014

Living To Praise

ESSENTIALS PLAYLIST World Cup Anthems

There are many colorful flowers on the path of life, but the prettiest have the sharpest thorns.

RAZAK’S DIARY TATTLES ― African Proverb

26

STARTERS

July 11, 2014

EDITOR’S NOTE It is as if the world cup has been taking place forever; even after our team fought and lost the good fight to stay in the game, we are still hooked on to our television sets, anticipating the finale.

Who’s ever going to forget that trouncing of Brazil by Germany? It was nightmarish [for them, at least].

After this period of euphoria and excitement what do we have left?

Whatever we left behind to join the excitement bandwagon will be waiting for us, as with everything else in life. We cannot sweep our problems under the rug; not for too long. Another Friday comes to our rescue; rescue from the hustle and bustle of the week and, as always, ESSENTIALS provides that easy read from music to interviews and celebrity chit-chat that always lightens

Sound Sultan Ft. Babayaro & Yung Grey C – Super Eagles (No Tension)

The world cup season has spewed a lot of tunes dedicated to Nigeria’s Super Eagles and this is one of them. Sound Sultan enlists the help of former footballer Emmanuel Babayaro and his label mate Yung Grey C for this very inspiring number.

Ice Prince, Dammy Krane, Sasha P, Nosa and Seyi Shay – Fly Like the Eagle The world cup buzz has also caught up with Chocolate City artistes Ice Prince and Nosa.

They joined forces with Seyi Shay, Dammy Krane and Sasha P to release the Etisalat official World Cup theme song.

Oscar Ft. Banky W & IBK Spaceshipboi – Nigerian World Cup Theme Most people might not know who Oscar is, but after listening to this song you’ll be itching to know more. Oscar is a superproducer who has worked with the likes of Simi, Omawumi, Tuface, Praiz, Retta, Bez, P-Square, Niyola, Banky W, Chidinma, Darey and Phyno. Wherever your patriotism has gone, this song will help you find it! Also, on this song, Banky W, once again, proved why he is regarded as a good musician.

song and dance and, though many find it difficult to take him seriously as an artist, he has a catalogue of music, including beats that can rival those of some of the big boys in the game. He also has a number of endorsements to boast of and in this track he brings you up on the gist that he recently signed a deal worth $6,000,000. This great production and a compliment to his unique style says something; there is more to music than just ‘bars’.

NIGERIAN SONGS

Xo Senavoe – The Gift. I had to mention

this guy, because I think he is probably the most intelligent lyricist in the country. Rap seems hard to sell in Nigeria but it doesn’t mean that there isn’t talent [to that effect] in the country. Senavoe’s name has circulated for a while but he has not been able to enter the mainstream market yet. This song says it’s all a matter of time. His word-play is something to love, with some hard hitting punch lines. XO is a name to remember.

Mode9 – Bigger than this. Keeping it Hip-

ArtQuake – Go Super Eagles

hop-inclined for now, let me introduce one of the veterans…Mr Mode9. He has been very vocal in recent months on how he felt when he was essentially abandoned by many of his fans and people in the industry. He is now reminding us of why he was once the best thing in Nigerian rap [and still has the credentials to stake such a claim]. They say class is permanent while form is temporary.

It seems that Modey has not lost that touch.

Great Hip-hop track with a message for all haters to fear.

Solidstar – Super Eagles

Oritse Femi ft. D’Banj – Double Wahala (part 2). Oritse Femi is one Nigerian artiste

According to tooxclusive.com, this song is an upbeat, properly arranged gyration track aimed at motivating the super eagles of Nigeria at the FIFA world cup in Brazil.

You think they are wrong? Only one way to find out! Listen to the song.

This is the only world cup song supported officially by the Nigerian Supporters Club.

A very catchy song that will make you sing along before even know what it is they are singing about.

FOREIGN SONGS

Gunplay Ft. Rick Ross – Aiight. Just as

his name suggests, Gunplay is back with another street anthem. We are all very aware of his antics outside the studio, but the dude has definitely made himself a force to be reckoned with in the rap world. He teamed up with the MMG boss on this one and they have made it clear that they are not to be ‘tested’. Ross will surely appreciate Gunplay’s loyalty.

Soulja Boy – Wassup. Soulja Boy will

always be remembered for a certain hit-

Lerato

lerato.umah@leadership.ng fridayleadership@leadership.ng follow us on Twitter @essentialsng

ONE TO WATCH

ESSENTIALS Playlist With Abisola Alawode 2014 WORLD CUP ANTHEMS

the mood and, unquestionably, gives us reason to sweep some things under the ‘rug’, even if for just a moment.

Enjoy your weekend and, together, let us keep praying for the safety of the Chibok girls and peace in our country.

with enviable street credibility. Reason: his songs are popular with everybody and he appeals to a very large audience. Proof of this is the presence of D’Banj on the remix of the popular Double Wahala. As catchy as the original was, the addition of a little more flavour from the Koko Master, shows that he (D’banj) is starting to show his old self.

Great song, set to conquer the airwaves.

Ice Prince – Tears for Naija. Many have

released songs in relation to the recent troubles in Nigeria. However, Ice Prince has keyed into the present to remind us of his vast ability. In this number alone, just like in most of his songs, a list of genres can be pointed out. This is a fantastic fusion of cultures and stories with a very important message. Great work from Ice Prince. God bless Nigeria.

Community This series follows a group of students at a community college in the fictional locality of Greendale, Colorado. What makes this show really interesting is the interaction between its characters. They often seem so believable and the life lessons one can learn watching this show is another stand-out point. The show also makes heavy use of metahumour and pop culture references, often parodying film and television

clichés and tropes. To cement its status as a truly enjoyable show, Community has received acclaim from critics, being ranked in several critics’ lists of the Best Television Series in 2010, 2011 and 2012, and has gained a cult following.

The show stars Joel McHale, Gillian Jacobs, Danny Pudi ,Yvette Nicole Brown, Alison Brie ,Donald Glover ,Ken Jeong ,Chevy Chase and Jim Rash.

MOVIE REVIEW

The Grand Budapest Hotel Release date June 2014 Producer Wes Anderson Genre Comedy Starring Ralph Fiennes,Murray Abraham, Matthew Amalric, Adrien Brody The Grand Budapest Hotel retraces the adventures of Gustave H, devoted concierge at one of Eastern Europe’s most prestigious hotels, and his most trusted employee, Zero Moustafa, the lobby boy.

The central intrigue concerns a missing Renaissance painting and

a family feud, all unfolding amid political turmoil in Europe.

It is a movie worth watching because of how beautiful the film is and the hilarious dialogue. Although the risk may be that style-oversubstance might seem frivolous and annoying. You will either laugh hysterically or be baffled as to why people like the movie. After watching, you can either love or hate Wes Anderson.

— Reviewed by Innocent Ekejiuba of nollysilverscreen.com

group EDITOR Lerato Miriam Umah REPORTERS Abisola Alawode, Patience Ivie Ihejirika DESIGN & LAYOUT Chukwudi J. Nwabueze, Iniobong Ekong

ACTING EDITOR Hassan Gimba Ahmed

FOUNDER Sam Nda-Isaiah CHAIRMAN Hajiya Ireti Kingibe GRP MANAGING DIRECTOR Azubuike Ishiekwene GRP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS Michael Okpere, Dr. Kazeem Durodoye

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

FEATURE

July 11, 2014

27

Ema The Musician Who Lives To Praise

By ABISOLA ALAWODE

Emmanuel Onyegbula a.k.a Ema could have opted for any music genre of his choice. Instead, he chose to stand out by being a gospel artiste. In this interview, the Imo State-born artiste discusses the challenges he has faced as a musician and what he thinks about gospel music in general.

1

Why did you choose to do gospel music?

Gospel has been my thing since I was a child. For me, it is not about the music; it is about what you want to contribute to the society and the kingdom of God. For me, gospel music is a calling. The craving to do gospel music came because I wanted to expand the word of God. I wanted people to know more about God and, also, to know how good serving him can be.

2

How do you feel when your work is appreciated?

Ema

For most of them, once they realise that the genre does not pay, they switch back to doing secular music.

Once gospel starts paying, they switch back again. I call these kinds of artistes confused artistes, because they do not know what they want. They just go where the money goes.

One thing that makes life liveable is doing whatever you are doing well.

When my video for Chukwunonso was released, I received a lot of feed-back.

My friends on Twitter and Facebook grew. In all honesty, it makes me feel good whenever someone appreciates my work, because I don’t even know how the inspiration comes. In all things, I give glory to God because he is the owner and author of all inspiration.

3

At what point did you opt to be a musician?

I started professionally in 2010; meaning [that] I’ve been in the industry for about four years.

How has the journey been and what are some of the challenges you have faced along the way?

I’ve faced a lot of ups and downs in my career but I remain grateful to God. You know, making gospel music is different from making secular music. For example, you could perform at a secular show and get paid in millions but in gospel music circles, even when you perform with a live band, you may just get a “thank you”. But I’m still doing gospel, because, for me, it is a responsibility. I feel obliged to share the good news with people. In all, the challenge I constantly face is finance, because the process of making music – going to the studio, shooting videos and all that – is not free but it is God’s work and it must be done.

4

Tell us more about your latest album The Hiding Place.

The Hiding Place, like you know, is the To be without a friend is to be poor indeed.

title of my debut album. It has eight tracks and, presently, I’ve just shot one video which is the video for the track Chukwunonso. The inspiration for the album is the current security situation in the country. With killings and bomb blasts everywhere, I just wanted people to know that in God, they can find a hiding place. You know, when you are faced with difficulties, you wonder if God has failed you.

I just wanted people to know that you can only find true refuge in God. You should let God be your hiding place.

5

Are you saying that anyone who listens to this album, even if the person was about to do evil will have a change of heart?

Yes. I think that people who are into terrorism do not have the fear of God in them. These people have no respect for human life at all. If they did, they would not be perpetrators of such evil acts. If you listen to this album you would understand what I am talking about. I was inspired by the Holy Ghost to write and we all know God works in mysterious ways. An example is the story of a woman who called me from South Africa. She said after watching the video for Chukwunonso on Youtube she was able to key into what she saw in the video and, lo and behold, God answered her prayers. This is the kind of impact I’m talking about.

6

What do you think about gospel music in Nigeria?

One thing I’ve noticed is that a lot of these ‘gospel’ musicians out there joined the fray, not because of what they can offer, but because they think gospel music is a sure way to line their pockets. They seem to forget that if you go into something God did not call you for you will surely fail. Frustration will lead you out. If God truly calls you, he has a way of making everything right. There is a difference between looking for a way to fill your pockets and doing gospel music the right way. The problem with those who are doing gospel for the money is that they are always in a hurry to make money. For most of them, once they realise that the genre does not pay, they switch back to doing secular music. Once gospel starts paying, they switch back again. I call these kinds of artistes confused artistes, because they do not know what they want. They just go where the money goes.

7

Considering the huge disparity between Nigerian gospel and secular musicians, what do you think about the growth of gospel music in Nigeria?

The truth of the matter is that most gospel musicians have not packaged themselves. As a gospel artiste, you should be well packaged, recognise that you are a brand

― Tanzanian proverb

28 TATTLES Ray J’Tempah s ‘Interesting’ Gift to Kim Kanye Tinie Says Third Album WillAnd Be His Last United Kingdom-born rapper Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu a.k.a Tinnie Tempah, insists he’s not retiring but he’s bored of putting out albums and thinks there are better ways to let fans hear his music using digital platforms and streaming services. According to The Sun (UK) newspaper, “This is a Spotify/iTunes/shuffle generation. I don’t think people really listen to albums completely from track one to 12. People now curate their own playlists, so I think it’s clever to beat them to it and say, ‘Here it is, done for you’. A third album will emerge some time but I think another after that is uncertain.”

The rapper, whose last album was released in 2013, wants to release a series of EPs for fans. He also claims that the rise of celebrity producers and disc jockeys is killing the careers of singers.

Cameron Diaz Wants No Kids In a recent interview with Esquire Magazine, Cameron Diaz reiterated that having kids was never part of her “immediate plans”. Fans of the 41-year-old actress, who is also famous for dating a bevy of male celebrities, have always wondered why she has remained childless, despite all her relationships.

“It’s so much more work to have children. To have lives besides your own that you are responsible for - I didn’t take that on. That did make things easier for me. A baby all day, every day, for 18 years. Not having a baby might really make things easier, but that doesn’t make it an easy decision.” Who doesn’t want children? Well, everyone can’t be everyone.

Nigeria Needs A Revolution – Femi Kuti Afrobeat musician and son of the late Fela Kuti, Femi Kuti has long toed the path of his father – calling out the government. Well, he sure is getting older, but he is not toning it down.

In an interview with a national daily recently, the singer prescribed a revolution as the only way forward for Nigeria.

“Unfortunately, it seems it’s going to have to be a revolution.

There are too many people without jobs. The crime rate has increased. Kidnapping has increased. Ritualists are on the rampage. When you read the papers every day, you must be totally unhappy. But when they talk about revolution on social media, I know I am totally against it, because we would be worse off than Syria, Egypt and Libya. When you look at great men like Gandhi and Martin Luther King, you will understand that violence is not the answer. The country is just horrible.

AGN Crisis: Mr Ibu vs. Ibinabo Fiberisima After Clarion Chukwurah decided to let sleeping dogs lie in the tussle with incumbent Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) president, Ibinabo Fiberisma, everyone thought the worst was over. Not yet.

Nollywood comic, John Okafor a.k.a Mr Ibu, has joined the fray.

Over the last weekend, he took the media, calling on Fiberisima to “drop her ambition of running for a second term”.

Okafor insists that since a vote of no-confidence has been passed on her, she has to step down.

“Going for a second term is creating more resentment and anger. It is better for her not to come again. She should leave the office and allow another person to try. No progress at all. I am not [a] part of it.

As I speak with you, Fiberisima has about two to three court cases.

We are tired, we want another person.

‘No Man Influenced My Conversion To Islam’ If you are one of those peddling the news that Moji Olaiya was influenced to convert to Islam, well, she has an answer for you.

In a recent interview with a soft-sell magazine, the actress was quoted to have said that “Islam is a peaceful religion and the aspect I love most is that you don’t need any pastor to get closer to God.” She went on to dispel claims in some quarters that her conversion was influenced by some man. “That is the problem I have with people. When you say you are doing something, they believe a man must be responsible for it. No man influenced my decision to identify with Islam. I have just said it; my mother was an alhaja before she converted to Christianity. Islam has been a religion I have always loved. I have been in-between Christianity and Islam but just recently I decided to embrace Islam fully and there is no regret doing so.”

July 11, 2014

According to various r eports, Chris Brown and his on-off girlfriend Karrueche Tran, may have called it quits again!

Fans recently noticed that Brown and Tran deleted all photos in which they appeared from their respective Instagram accounts.

They reportedly broke up because Chris wanted a threesome with Tran and other girls!

Whoa, Chris.

Who knew Beyoncé’s father was a randy fellow? Mathew Knowles, who guided his superstar daughter to fame from a young age, was recently accused by another woman of fathering her daughter. She is so sure that Knowles is responsible that she is requesting a DNA test to buttress her claim.

TiSPY

Which musician said his third album will be his last?

I Never Called My Industry Bland, Mediocre – Genevieve This is certainly not the best of times for Genevieve Nnaji. Recently, she was quoted to have said she doesn’t think she can “return to the blandness and mediocrity that characterised Nollywood in the past”.

That ‘simple’ statement did go on to brew a storm in the entertainment industry, as her fans and colleagues descended on her for kicking the industry that ‘made’ her.

Movie director, Mac Collins Chidebe was one of the unimpressed. “Genevieve has just insulted the industry that made her who she is today. Really, what effort has she made to help improve Nollywood?

Those days in Enugu when Genevieve was growing in Nollywood, our movies were not rubbish; she has grown now, made money, fame, popularity etc., how much has she invested in this Industry that made her?” he queried.

Probably realising her mistake, the actress released a statement saying; “I never called my industry bland and mediocre. Truth or not, they were not my words. As a person/writer, you can ‘assume’ what you like about my thought process but do not project those thoughts as ‘quotes’ by me.

It’s distasteful, insensitive and quite unprofessional. It’s insulting to those limited few working hard to make a difference in the industry. I am a product of Nollywood and my loyalty remains unshaken.”

Despite this reply, TATTLES doubts if Nnaji can undo or ‘unsay’ (if there’s anything like that) what she said. Crying over spilt milk you may say.

The Things

THEY SAID

“The girl I sponsored to school broke my heart after an eight-year relationship.”

– Musician Yemi Sax “I worked as Richard MofeDamijo’s PA for over two years” – Comedian Bovi

FLiRT “I can be a second wife.”

ALERT –Actress Nkiru Silvanus

GOT A CELEB GIST? GET IN TOUCH!

FRIDAY EXTRA July 11, 2014

AUN Charts Course For Peace In Adamawa

By Zion Zadok

INSIDE

The American University of (AUN) has taken the lead to chart the course of peace in its host state, Adamawa. The university made this laudable feat when it organised the International Peace Conference, in conjunction with the Adamawa Peacemakers (API), in Yola, recently. The three-day conference focused on developing practical solutions to the security challenges in the state and its neighbouring communities and the hope to extend the reform to the rest of the nation.

According to the AUN president, Dr Margee Ensign, the Adamawa Peace Initiative (API) was established in 2012. According to Ensign, in the wake of the nationwide strike against the fuel subsidy removal and the current security challenges in the nation, she and the former chairman of the AUN board, Ahmed Joda, decided to reach out to religious and community leaders in Yola to deliberate on the sources of tension in the state and the nation at large and find ways to defuse the tension and promote peace and stability.

“Our goal is to promote harmony, development and stability in the state through collaboration of locals, as well as religious, community and business leaders. Also, they achieve this through education, especially the girl-child education, peace through sports, ICT training, youth empowerment and invention of programmes based on community development,” Ensign said.

Ensign explained that with the growing security-related challenges and the chilling statistics of the activities of insurgent groups like the Boko Haram and the number of deaths attributed to the sect – the population of those who have been rendered homeless in some parts of the country, especially in Borno, Yobe and some parts of Adamawa – the university community, in collaboration with the API, mooted the idea of a conference which centres on the issues affecting the nation negatively – gender and education, security, the role of religion, governance, the role of the media and how to strengthen these sectors in order to tackle the problem of insecurity in the country. These are issues which, if not properly addressed, may incite more violent outbreaks in different parts of the country.

According to Ensign, some of the recommendations reached at the end of all the different panel sessions, if applied, can help tackle the current challenges the country is facing adequately.

On gender equity, the API agreed that if both the male and female folk are adequately educated, the issue of illiteracy and ignorance (which, ultimately, gives birth to fundamentalist groups like the Boko Haram) will be gradually phased out.

The parley also recommended the promotion of and increased access of married women to education. This includes legislation that allows pregnant and mar-

AUN president Ensign Margeee holds out the banner of the peace initiative with other participants, during the march for peace

ried women to continue with basic education (primary and secondary) and ensure all schools are safe and secure for education – especially, boarding schools. Another recommendation is that girls are required to, at least, have a secondary school leaving certificate and should not leave school before the age of 18. It was recommended that the government enforce laws against child marriage and increase participation of women in governance, as well as embed same in the constitution.

On education, the peace parley opined that the government should fund free education from primary to secondary school with, at least, 26 per cent of the national budget channelled towards same, in order for the children, including the almajirai, to have access to quality education.

The initiative also prescribed that parents who refuse to send their children to school be prosecuted, as long as safety and gender friendliness are encouraged by government. Other recommendations which were made included the development of digital solutions for the uneducated in Nigeria, for example, mobile applications (e-thinking and e-resources), should be made available to all through multiple platforms. The inclusion of peace education in primary and secondary schools curriculum was also recommended.

For security operatives and their modules of operation, the API agreed that the military needs additional resources and training to curb corruption which is slowly eating up the system. The initiative also recommended the penalising of corrupt security operatives and suggested that the federal government begin talks with the Boko Haram and consider amnesty for sect members who surrender. The initiative also advised the government to look into securing and tightening the country’s porous borders.

Other recommendations included; merit-based recruitment into the armed forces, fostering trust between the military and the citizenry, implementation of recommendations of previous panels, ensuring the provision of the people’s basic needs

Why is the ground solid? nobel ultimate top list

(on the part of government), exposing and arresting clerics who instigate and preach fundamentalist doctrines amongst youths and collaboration of the government with the international community to stop the source of the Boko Haram’s funding.

Religion was fingered as one of the deepseated causes of the current security challenge. The panellists, both Muslims and Christians, agreed that religion played a role in fuelling the fires of insurgency in the country.

One of the panellists, Pastor James Movel Wuye, pointed out that religion-related mayhem in Nigeria dates back to 1945 where religion is being used, particularly in Northern Nigeria, to create conflict or for resource control. Another panellist, Imam Dauda Bello, said the Boko Haram was begat by the ignorance of a few who wish to manipulate its members to do their will and cause tension in some quarters.

In order to curb the use of religion as fodder for violence, the initiative recommended that religious leaders should, as a matter of conscience, instantly and clearly condemn any acts of violence within their cycle and, also, seek to promote culture and dialogue between both religions, as well as build a culture of peace and tolerance in the upcoming generation.

The initiative frowned on the manipulation of religion for personal gains and advised religious leaders to be honest and forthright enough to admit the ills of their members and, also, seek to abide strictly to teachings of the holy books.

They urged the federal and state governments to respond to conspiracy theories and develop an effective regulatory body to monitor the religious practices and proceedings of religious institutions, as well as monitoring the establishment of mosques and churches. Government was also advised to implement legislation against hate-speech, develop early warning, monitoring and response systems for religious leaders and, most importantly, separate religious leaders from traditional leaders.

The government was urged to set up specific frameworks and programmes to cater

for young people, especially the almajirai, and focus on good governance and social justice at all levels in order to reduce negative fall-outs.

The initiative pointed out the need to encourage more religious freedom, tolerance and understanding in all faiths and the need for religious leaders and the media to convene a conference in order to discuss the current security situation and establish action plans, even as they advised that the media refrain from popularising the activities of extremists in their reportage.

In the case of better governance, the initiative tasked government on the promotion of accountability by implementing performance-based governance at all levels, strengthening the voice of the poor and using social mapping exercises in local communities to determine needs and assets. According to the initiative, this performance indices should include getting young people to be more interested in politics, creating a platform where people and the press are protected and the culture of impunity is eliminated (including the erasing of ‘political immunity’ for politicians).

The initiative advised media outfits to report first-hand stories on location via the ethics of journalism, adoption of peace journalism by reporting from a peace viewpoint during conflict and not to further ignite the flames of strife, abstaining from sensationalising reports and presenting a positive image of Nigeria by writing stories of people doing things for the development of the country.

The initiative further advised that the media must be accorded adequate freedom to make its report, as government’s censorship of the media can only threaten democracy.

In the end, just like the report and set of recommendations of any committee or panel, what separates those of the peace initiative from reality is the application and recognition by the powers that be.

Participants took time to visit Bole, a village where those who have been displaced by the violence in the state have been camped.

Big Questions & Answers Why... answers to scientific questions

30 FRIDAY EXTRA/Best places to do...

July 11, 2014

As one travels around the world, one is bound to meet more and more birders. They are passionate, they get excited in their own quiet way about their discoveries of a species or a behaviour of one, and they are the first to explain when nature is in sync and when it isn’t. If you want to see the natural world in a new light, ask a birder. You could even become one yourself! Bird-watching or “birding,” can be done on nearly every continent and in both urban and wilderness environments. Picking the best place to see birds depends on what kind you want to see

Bird Watching

T

he area around Utah’s Great Salt Lake offers some of the most celebrated birding in western North America. Millions of shore birds, ducks and other waterbirds live in the region, including more than 250 species that nest and feed on Antelope Island. You can spot gulls, egret, and chukars year-round, but the big attraction is the bald eagle, which appears between January and March.

The 760-acre Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas, just north of the Mexican border, is one of the top birding destinations in the United States, for good reason. The park, plus an additional 1,700 acres of adjoining US Fish and Wildlife refuge land, has a rich population of birds that aren’t found anywhere else in the country, and it is home to the renowned World Birding Center. Birders come here year-round to spot everything from green jays, ferruginous pygmy-owls, gray hawks and more.

Every spring and fall, Swains on’s and broad-winged hawks migrate in such

large droves that they’ve been likened to a flying cloud. The area around Tucson, the gateway city to southeastern Arizona, is one of the best places in North America for year-round bird-watching.

It has a surprisingly varied terrain-including grasslands, wetlands, forests, and narrow canyons with creeks-which attracts a host of wildlife. The region is home to Tucson Mountain Park, Saguaro National Park, Agua Caliente Park, Tohono Chul Park, Coronado National Forest, the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area, and the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge. In these spaces, you’ll find hundreds of desert and water species, including at least five types of hummingbirds, cactus wrens, and the pygmy nuthatch.

You don’t even need to leave Tucson City limits to see a variety of typical desert birds. Meander through the city’s parks, washes, and undeveloped lots to catch a glimpse of what the area has to offer. Tucson Audubon Society has a nature shop inside Saguaro National Park that conducts bird walks on a regular

basis. The Arizona-Senora Desert Museum, located just west of the city, is also a good place to learn about the native birds and their habitats. Also, don’t forget the South-eastern Arizona Bird Observatory in Bisbee (about 50 miles southeast of Tucson), where you can take guided bird walks, go on tours and attend educational workshops at local birding hot spots.

Florida in general is ripe for birdin in fact, the state boasts the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, a 2,000-mile, self-guided nature highway. But if you have to choose one spot in the state to focus on, hone in on the south-central region. Its diverse habitat and areas of both temperate and subtropical climate draw more than 250 species of birds, including bald eagles, cerulean warblers, sandhill cranes, bobwhite quail, and grasshopper sparrows.

Also in Florida, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge/Canavera I National Seashore, the J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Everglades National Park, the St. Marks Wildlife Refuge, and Paynes Prairie Preserve State

Park are just a few more places you can spot birds. In addition, the area has several sanctuaries and conservation operations, including the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in Naples, and Busch Gardens in Tampa. During the last weekend of January, Brevard County hosts the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival, a six-day annual event that is one of the most popular in the United States and features field trips, classes, and workshops.

Georgia’s Colonial Coast Birding Trail includes a number of islands with prime birding opportunities. One of the best is on Jekyll Island where, by law, 65 per cent of the island has to remain in its natural state. The North End Beach is a mix of beach, forest, and saltwater habitats that provide a range of birds including redthroated loons, least terns, scoter, and scaup. Just next door is Cumberland Island, Georgia’s southernmost barrier island and a national seashore, where more than 335 species of birds have been recorded, including bald eagles and falcons.

The old saying that “success breeds success” has something to it. It’s that feeling of confidence that can banish negativity and procrastination and get you going the right way. Donald Trump, American business magnate, author and TV personality

FRIDAY EXTRA/...Bird Watching 31

July 11, 2014

International Yeracruz in eastern Mexico is a favorite of experienced birders, as it hosts an unbelievable 650,000 migratory birds a week during the fall-winter season, plus more than 500 species that are either native or transient to the area. The sheer volume of birds derives from a variety of habitats that range from mountains to tropical rain forests to highland grasslands. Cardel is the place to go in October to see the “river of raptors,” the incredible autumn migration when more than a million Swainson’s and broad-winged hawks can pass overhead in a single day. Chichicaxtle, the San Julian Lagoon, the La Mancha ecological reserve, the Alvarado Wetlands, the Selva Zoque tropical rain forest, and the Sierra de los Tuxtlas range are great (and generally easily accessible) places to see migrating raptors, warblers, orioles, falcons, hummingbirds, parakeets, spoonbills, terns, kingfishers, and hundreds of other species.

A variety of different ecosystems, from rain forests to wetlands and coastal zones, allow for prime birding in the country of Belize. The Belize Audubon Society offers customized bird-watching tours in protected areas like Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Aguacaliente Wildlife Sanctuary, Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, and Red Bank Village. If you have to choose one, opt for the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, which is packed with endemic species, meaning they are unique to that region. In fact, between October and January alone, you can catch sight of at least 120 bird species. Of course, you can go any time of year and get a great view.

You might expect the nearby Galapagos Islands to win out, but as far as overseas birding destinations go, Ecuador is a top pick-not only because of its variety of birds, but also its user-friendliness. The

government and private enterprise have done a great job making trails accessible, encouraging the building of ecolodges, and promoting the country’s mountains and cloud forests, which is where most of the birds are found. The Santa Lucia Cloud Forest Reserve is home to more than 394 different species of birds, including the rare white-faced nunbird, the wattled guan, the long-wattled umbrella bird, and more. Mindo is another area popular with birders. Located on the western slope of the Andes, it’s the winter home of many temperate species and has one of the highest bird counts in the world. Favorite trails in the area include the Flat Loop Trail, the Rio Mindo.

Dirt Road, and the trail that runs along the Cordillera San Lorenzo. Few places in the world compare to Brazil when it comes to birding. The bird population of Brazil is so abundant and diverse that enthusiasts will often return over and over to different parts of the country. The Pantanal wetlands is a massive wilderness paradise and is home to as many as 650 species of birds. We’re talking mega-size, brilliantly colored birds like the hyacinth macaws and the turquoise-fronted parrot toucans, the rare helmeted woodpecker, and nocturnal creatures such as pygmyowls.

With its diverse habitat and unique ecosystem, the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa is home to at least 250 species of birds. Located just a short drive south of Cape Town, the area’s terrain ranges from rocky mountaintops to beaches and is home to birds such as the South African black-footed penguin, bush birds, curlew sandpipers, and ostriches. The Cape of Good Hope Nature Preserve and Cape Peninsula National Park are good places to explore, while Boulder’s Beach, Kirstenbosch National Botanic Garden, and the Rondevlei Nature Reserve also offer prime

viewing opportunities.

The island of Madagascar isn’t so much known for its volume of bird species but its individuality. Out of about 285 species of birds, 100 are endemic. One of the easiest places to see a wide variety is the wetlands Lake Alarobia. This privately owned park is within a few miles of the capital city of Antananarivo, and it’s filled with bril- liantly plumed birds. From the Madagascar pond heron to the Madagascar kingfisher, you’re sure to spot feathered creatures that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.

If there’s one thing on your birding bucket list, it should be the tiny fairy penguins of Australia, which are known as little blue penguins in New Zealand. These are the smallest of the penguin species, and to watch them parading back from the sea at dusk is a sight you’ll remember. Though touristy, the best place to see them in action is Phillip Island outside of Melbourne, which is home to one of the largest colonies in the world. Every day at sunset, you can sit on the beach and wait for the wild penguins to return from their day of feeding and waddle across the beach

back to their burrows for the night. Wellenforced rules prohibit anyone from getting too close or taking photographs, and the walkways make it possible to see these little guys from all angles without disturbing them. In New Zealand, the penguins live all along the coastline, but they’re easily spotted (along with the equally cute yellow-eyed penguins) at Penguin Place on the South Island’s Otago Peninsula, near Dunedin.

Of 17 species of penguins, only a few inhabit Antarctica, but they’re worth the trip. Whether it’s the mighty emperor penguins (think March of the Penguins) or the chinstrap penguins (named for the thin black line under their chins), these creatures are best seen on an expedition cruise. The benefit of a guided cruise is that you can reach otherwise inaccessible areas.

Lindblad Expeditions has partnered with National Geographic experts on the National Geographic Explorer, where you’ll travel with naturalists who really know their stuff, whether you’re cruising on the Zodiac, kayaking between ice floes, or hiking through the wild where penguins roam freely.

National Wildlife Refuges Surround yourself with enthusiasts at a national wildlife.These attract large numbers of birds and are the sites of bird festivals all around the country during spring and fall migrations. Catch sight of green jays and Altamira orioles during the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival in Harlingen, Texas, which includes field trips to several area refuges. The majestic Festival of the Cranes takes place every November at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico, where sandhill cranes and snow geese take to the skies at dawn and

A Bird’s- Eye View In Belize Headed to Belize on a cruise? Arrange your own independent shore excursion instead of following the rest of the cruise-ship crowds. The Belize Audubon Society can help point you in the right

direction, like the Bird’s Eye View Lodge and Tours that lies within a protected area and employs specially knowledgeable guides. www.birdseyeviewbelize. com.

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

Epictetus, Greek Stoic Philosopher

dusk. Search for bald and golden eagles at Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, and see the unique scrub jays in Florida’s Hobe Sound, Lake Wales Ridge, and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuges.

If you really know your stuff, the Cache River Birding Blitz in Illinois involves teams competing to see who can identify the most species of birds in 24 hours in areas like the Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

32 FRIDAY EXTRA

July 11, 2014

nobel

A Century Of Prize Winners

Jan Tinbergen

For having developed and applied dynamic models for the analysis of economic processes.

Ragnar Frisch

ECONOMIC SCIENCE

(1906-1989) Born into a family that had been goldsmiths since the I7th century, the Norwegian Ragnar Frisch graduated in economics because, when it came to enrolling at university, he chose the course that lasted for the shortest amount of time. This, however, did not prevent him from becoming a brilliant economist and being awarded the 1969 Nobel Prize in Economics for his pioneering work in econometrics. The prize, initiated the year before and with the full title of “The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel,” was shared between Frisch and Tan Tinbergen. Frisch was one of the first people to implement the new science of econometrics, which consists of using mathematical and statistical formulas to solve economic problems.

Ragnar Frisch, who was born in Oslo on March 3, 1895, was expected by his father to enter the family business. It was his mother, Ragna Fredrikke Kittilsen, who understood that he would never be at home in the world of gold and silver and encouraged him to further his education. Ragnar studied economics and mathematics in other countries, particularly France, which he considered his second home, Germany, Great Britain, the United States and Italy.

He obtained his doctorate in 1926 from the University of Oslo with a thesis on statistics, and it was in his hometown that he forged a notable academic career.

He was a member of scientific academies all over the world and received various honorary doctorates. During a short stay at Yale University he helped found the Econometrics Society there, in 1930. He was also the editor of the highly influential journal Econometrica until 1955 and was director of researach of the Economic Institute of the University of Oslo.

Frisch was married for the first time in 1920 to Marie Smedal, with whom he had his only daughter. He was widowed in I952 and, a year later, married Astrid Johannessen, a childhood friend who stayed with him for the rest of his life. He said of her, “Ever since our marriage, Astrid has been my unfailing companion and has sustained me devotedly in all the ups and downs of life.”

Ragnar Frisch loved the outdoor life. He was a mountaineer on a modest scale but his main hobby was beekeeping. He said that this activity was not exactly a pleasure for his free time, “it is more in the nature of an obsession which I shall never be able to get rid of.” He died in 1973.

Tan Tinbergen also received half of the prize.

ECONOMIC SCIENCE

(1929-) It was his role in the development of econometrics that brought the Dutch Tan Tinbergen the 1969 Nobel Prize in Economics, an award he shared with the Norwegian Ragnar Frisch, who also played a significant role in the same field.

Born in The Hague, Tan Tinbergen achieved international fame through his work in economics. His higher education took place at Leiden University, a wellknown institution halfway between Rotterdam and Amsterdam. It was from here that he received his doctorate degree in 1929.

Early on in his career he focused on statistical work. Between 1929 and 1945 he worked for the Central Bureau of Statistics in the Netherlands, and in addition to that he was an expert on economic matters at the League of Nations Secretariat between 1936 and 1938. After World War II Tinbergen was director of the Central Planning Bureau of the Netherlands government for 10 years.

His solid reputation meant that he was sought after all over the world. He was an advisor to various developing countries, including the United Arab Republic - a political union between Egypt and Syria that existed between 1958 and 1971 Venezuela, Suriname, Indonesia and Pakistan, among others. He also shared his knowledge with international organisations such as the European Coal and Steel Community - which was the forerunner of the European Economic Community and then the European Union - the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the United Nations Secretariat.

It was in the 1930S that he concentrated on the new science of econometrics, which uses mathematical and statistical formulas to solve economic problems. He was a member of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Science as well as scientific academies in other countries.

Tinbergen was awarded 15 honorary doctorates, mostly from European universities.

His body of published works emphasised the development and application of dynamic models in the analysis of economic processes. These publications include Business Cycles in the United States, 1919-1932 (1939), Business Cycles in the United Kingdom, 1870-1914 (1951), Centralization and Decentralization in Economic Policy (1954) and The Element of Space in Development Planning (1969), which he wrote together with L.B.M. Mennes and T.G. Waardenburg. Tan Tinbergen died in 1994 at the age of 91.

Ragnar Frisch also received half of the prize.

For having developed and applied dynamic models for the analysis of economic processes.

There is no beauty but the beauty of action.

Culled from the book ‘Nobel’ ― Moroccan proverb

INVALUABLE TIPS FOR LIFE 11.07.2014

The 5 Things You Must Give Employees

Some of the most effective things you can do to develop and sustain motivated, energised employees cost little or nothing at all.

Finances

Living Within Your Means

WORK & CAREER The 5 Things You Must Give Employees

Grooming Riding And Driving

Motivation

How To Be More Likable In 10 Easy Steps

Health Skin

34 FORESIGHT

July 11, 2014 DIFFERENT SIDES, DIFFERENT PROCESSES

WORK & CAREER

PERHAPS YOU’RE IN THE HABIT OF ALWAYS TRAVELLING THE SAME WAY TO WORK OR PARKING IN THE SAME PLACE IN THE CAR PARK. THE MORE YOU DO THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THE MORE YOUR BRAIN CELLS ARE PROGRAMMED TO REPEAT THE ACTION UNTIL IT BECOMES SECOND NATURE.

The 5 Things You Must Give Employees

O

nly 30 per cent of workers are engaged in their jobs, that means they are involved in, enthusiastic about and committed to their work and contribute to their organisation in a positive manner. That leaves 70 per cent of workers either not engaged or actively (you might even say disastrously) disengaged.

But all is not lost. As a good team leader or boss, some of the most effective things you can do to develop and sustain motivated, energised employees cost little or nothing at all. Forget the employee-of-the-month award or the big holiday bonus; they have little lasting effect on positively motivating employees. Instead, focus on daily interactions. And be sure that you provide your employees with these five things: Interesting work No one wants to do the same boring job over and over, day after day. Though a certain amount of routine and repetition is part of almost every job, make sure each employee finds at least part of his or her job highly interesting. If you want someone to do a good job, give them a good job to do. Find out which tasks your employees most enjoy and use that information when you make future assignments.

Information Information really is power, and your employees want to be empowered with the information they need to do their jobs better and more effectively. And, more than ever, employees want to know how they are doing in their jobs and how the company is doing in its business. Open the channels of communication so that employees are well informed, can ask questions, and can share information. Be transparent, honest, and forthright. Those qualities will have a direct impact on employees’ effectiveness.

Involvement As the speed of business continues to increase, the amount of time you have to make decisions continues to decrease.

Involving employees in decision making, especially when the decisions affect them directly, is both respectful and practical.

Those closest to the problem typically have the best insight as to what to do. Involving others will increase their commitment and speed the implementation of new ideas or

changes.

Independence Few employees want their every action to be closely watched and monitored, or for their every decision to be questioned or micromanaged. Most employees appreciate having the flexibility to do their jobs as they see fit and to make decisions independently.

Giving people latitude increases the chance that they will bring additional initiative, ideas, and energy to their jobs.

Increased Visibility Everyone appreciates getting credit when it is due. Occasions to celebrate employee successes are almost limitless, and you should never let one pass. One of the best and most highly motivating forms of recognition is to give your employees new opportunities to perform, learn, and grow in response to their recent achievements. They will always rise to the occasion, becoming even more engaged, productive and effective.

CULLED FROM INC.COM

Joylifechangers@gmail.com

Have you ever stumbled onto something so precious and nice but wished more people knew about it?

Sometimes it is even a person so gifted, talented and awesome that you cannot say anything until everybody gets to experience and know about it? Well some of you may have been there, experiencing something so wonderful, you cannot wait to share.

In fact, the irony of life is that most of the time, the not so good ones are the ones in circulation, and so you find them every where. The goal today is to challenge you to aggressively market your brand. What’s the use of being good and unknown?

In times past, people, especially Africans saw personal branding as pride, with some people saying things like, ‘if it’s theirs own it will come to them.’

People shy aware from lauding their good works or potential. But the good news is that, things have kind of moved past that level of reasoning now.

The essence of any good virtue or product is for it to benefit somebody and eventually translate into a profit for commodity itself.

Here are a few ways to market your services:

•Have a very good resume that defines you and concisely projects what you can do handle effectively and also what you have done in the past.

•Print a complimentary card with a valid email and phone number that you can be reached on. Distribute this at every perceived or given opportunity.

•Volunteer your services for free at social events and let your competence do the rest.

•If possible, create a web presence so that people who don’t have time to listen to you can easily be referred to your website.

•Stay active on social media, rebrand your image and be careful how you interact.

•Advertise on local media. Radio, magazines, newspapers and TV stations are all available to promote your skill, talent and products.

•Your reputation is part of your brand, when your name is mentioned, what comes to the peoples’ minds? You decide that!

Ensure you are the brand you create, don’t fake it.

And certainly you don’t need to overdo it.

Be heard, be seen, and be known!

Be a Life Changer!!!

INFLUENCING PEOPLE

CONTENT Ehinome Osezua GRAPHICS Igwe-Ngerem Michael Hassan Gimba Ahmed

group FOUNDER CHAIRMAN GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

By Joy Jones

Aggressive Marketing

foresight AG. EDITOR

INFLUENCE PLUS

Sam Nda-Isaiah Hajiya Ireti Kingibe Azubuike Ishiekwene Michael Okpere, Dr Kazeem Durodoye

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

The Procastinator YOU’LL NEED EMPATHY TO GET TO THE ROOT OF THEIR INDECISION

You have all come across these people. It may be an internal member of staff or a potential prospect or client that just can’t make decisions.

You even engage in this behaviour yourself when trying to decide what product to choose. Making decisions is tough on everyone, both at home and at work. Quite often the procrastinator won’t make a decision because there are many different variables to consider which makes

the prospect of actually making a decision too daunting. This can be very frustrating.

The important thing is not to show through your conversion and body language that you are irritated with them. You’ll need empathy to get to the root of their indecision and also sympathy for their predicament.

Then you can set about helping them through a process that will unfold at their pace.

FORESIGHT 35

July 11, 2014 COMPARISM

FINANCE

ALWAYS COMPARE THE SHORT-TERM GAIN OF DOING OR BUYING SOMETHING WITH THE LONG-TERM GAIN. FOR EXAMPLE, INVESTING IN A BETTER FUTURE FOR YOUR CHILDREN THROUGH THE BEST EDUCATION THAT MONEY CAN BUY OR PAYING INTO A PENSION SCHEME TO MAKE YOU SECURE IN OLD AGE.

FINANCIAL FUTURES

Goals For Living Within Your Means Setting Priorities Basics of...

You may find that you are spending more than you’re saving and steadily going deeper into debt as a result. This is an easy and common pattern to fall into, and one that requires some planning and discipline to reverse. The first step is creating a budget. As unpleasant as this may sound, creating a budget is nothing more than examining your income and expenditures in order to determine exactly how much money you have coming in and where you’re spending that money. Once you’ve got a clear understanding of your current budget, your challenge is to find places where you can spend less or earn more in order to achieve your financial goals. Here are some steps you can take toward that end: Question Your Needs And Wants What do you want? What do you really need? Evaluate your current financial situation. Take a look at the big picture. Then make two lists – one for needs and one for wants.

As you make the list, ask yourself these simple and sincere question: Why do you want it? How would things be different if you had it?

What other things would change if you had it? (for better or worse?

Which things are truly important to you?

Does this match your values?

Set guidelines Have different budgets based on your needs and wants. But building a budget chart will give you some guidelines on how much should go toward different expenses. You may need to make adjustments for visits to family, but remember to subtract amounts from other areas if you do.

Track, trim and target Once you start tracking, you may be surprised to find you spend hundreds of dollars a month on eating out or other flexible expenses. Some of these are easily trimmed. Cutting back is usually a better place to start than completely cutting out. Be realistic, at least it will help you to be better prepared for unexpected costs.

The SMART way to trim expenses In finding ways to trim flexible expenses, it helps to have a goal to save toward each month. In setting such a goal you need to be SMART: Specific Smart goals are specific enough to suggest action. Example: Save enough to visit Rome for your wedding anniversary. Not just ‘save money.’

Measurable You need to know when you achieved your goal or how close you are. Example: A trip to Italy costs $2,000, and you’ve saved $800.

Attainable The steps toward reaching your goal need to be reasonable and possible.

Relevant The goal needs to make sense.

You don’t want to work toward a goal that doesn’t fit your need.

Example: You’d like to stay in four-star hotels in celebration of your anniversary.

Time-related Set a definite target date of something you want to do or a place you want to visit. Draw a chart that shows some rough guidelines on how much of your income should go toward different expenses. If you live in an area where transportation is higher than normal or rents/mortgage are higher, you may need to make adjustments. Also, if you would like to add a section for gifts, or something else, then you’ll need to subtract from another area.

CULLED FROM PRACTICALMONEYSKILLS.COM

MAKE YOURSELF

UNFORGETABLE Acknowledge The Hard Parts

You have decided you are willing to take a risk, but you haven’t yet taken action.

Why is that? Think through the risk you are thinking of taking and identify the opposition. Your mind will drift to the areas you see as being resistant on the path to your goal. At first this will look murky. That’s because you haven’t taken time to the time to find out what’s between you and your goal. To take risks, you need to overcome. They may be physical obstacles (lack of funds, or not having the right equipment) or intangible such as fear of the unknown or lack of time to start something new.

Suppose you want to learn something new. Think through why you haven’t learned yet, you might realise you don’t have exactly what it takes like money, or don’t even know anything about it and don’t know how to go about learning. That’s a lot of difficulty, but at least now you’re clear on what you need to do. From there, your creativity and willpower will start to solve the problems.

Your unconscious mind can solve many problems. What your unconscious mind can’t do is penetrate the murky mass of fear between you and your goal.

The first sensible thing to do is to narrow your objectives.

You probably won’t be able to achieve every financial goal you’ve ever dreamed of. So identify your goals clearly and why they matter to you, and then decide which are most important. By concentrating your efforts, you have a better chance of achieving what matters most.

It is really important that you focus first on the goals that matter. To accomplish primary goals, you will often need to put desirable but less important ones on the back burner.

Be prepared for conflicts Even worthy goals often conflict with one another.

When faced with such a conflict, you should ask yourself questions like: Will one of the conflicting goals benefit more people than the other? Which goal will cause the greater harm if it is deferred?

Put time on your side The most important ally you have in reaching your goals is time. Money stashed in interest-earning savings accounts or invested in stocks and bonds grows and compounds. The more time you have, the more chance you have of success. Your age is a big factor - younger people (who have more time to build their nest egg) can invest differently than older ones.

Generally, younger people can take greater risks than older people, given their longer investment horizon.

Choose carefully In drawing up your list of goals, you should look for things that will help you feel financially secure, happy or fulfilled. Some of the items that wind up on such lists include building an emergency fund, getting out of debt and paying kids’ tuitions. Once you have your list together, you need to rank the items in order of importance.

Include family members If you have a spouse or significant other, make sure that person is part of the goalsetting process. Children, too, should have some say in goals that affect them.

Start now The longer you wait to identify and begin working toward your goals, the more difficulty you’ll have reaching them. And the longer you wait, the longer you postpone the advantage of compounding your money.

Sweat the big stuff Once you have prioritised your list of goals, keep your spending on course. Whenever you make a large payment for anything, ask yourself: “Is this taking me nearer to my primary goals - or leading me further away from them?” If a big expense doesn’t get you closer to your goals, try to defer or reduce it. If taking a grand cruise steals money from your kids’ college fund, maybe you should settle for a weekend getaway.

Don’t sweat the small stuff Although this lesson encourages you to focus on big-ticket, long-range plans, most of life is lived in the hereand-now and most of what you spend will continue to be for daily expenses - including many that are simply for fun.

That’s OK - so long as your long-range needs are taken into consideration.

Be prepared for change Your needs and desires will change as you age, so you should probably re-examine your priorities at least every five years. What you crave for at the ages of 10 to 15 would definitely change between ages 25 to 30 years. Deal with those needs like an adult and live your age sensibly.

CULLED FROM MONEY.CNN.COM

36

37

July 11, 2014

DR. IBRAHIM SHEMA’S FORWARD LOOKING DEVELOPMENT STRIDES IN KATSINA STATE KATSINA STATE UNIVERSAL BASIC EDUCATION BOARD being UBE intervention projects in 2008 using purely State, FG-UBEC funds to the tune of over N612 Million. This is in addition to the reconstruction/extension work at 5 Primary Schools namely.

In 2009, 366 classrooms, 152 VIP toilets, 5,040 3 – seater furniture, 95 offices and stores were provided using UBE Intervention Funds to the tune of over N 1 Billion Naira. This is in addition to the reconstruction/extension work at four primary schools namely. ii.

A total of 328 classrooms and 156 cubicle toilets, store and supply of furniture to the tune of N1,245,563,931.28 in some ECCD, Primary and Junior Secondary Schools using UBEC-State Government Funds in 2010. This is in addition to construction of storey building in existing structure at Batagarawa Model Primary School, Hussaini Model Primary School Zango, Baure I Primary School Baure, Mahuta Model Primary School Dandume. There is also the rehabilitation of Jabiru Abdullahi Primary School, Katsina, Muhammadu Bashar Primary School Daura, Shehu Primary School Funtua. Similarly there is the provision of computer centre at Dambo Tukur Primary School Ingawa, Danja Model Primary School Danja, Kaura Abdulkadir Primary School Rimi and Maradi Ahmadu Primary School Kurfi.

There is also the provision of 4 No. Merry-goround to some ECCD centres.

Extension/Construction of Storey Buildings: Five primary schools have benefitted from the general construction work/upgrading into storey buildings on existing structures.

A total of N417,943,542.50 Million Naira was expended using the FG-UBEC/State Government Funds. The schools are: iii.

DR. IBRAHIM SHEMA

Executive Governor, Katsina State ...continued from last week edition

Introduction

Since the launching/introduction of the UBE programme in 2003, Katsina State has vigorously pursued the delivery of qualitative education to our teeming youth in the state. The present administration of His Excellency Alhaji Ibrahim Shehu Shema has accorded the Basic Education sector a higher premium by expending enormous sum of money to ensure proper service delivery on education. To this end, the following projects were recorded during the period of tenure of this administration (2009 to date).

In addition, four primary schools were upgraded into storey building on existing structures, while one was totally reconstructed using the Federal Government and State Government funds at the total sum of N518,498,867.50. The schools are:

A. Supply of Instructional Materials: As a tradition of the Board, instructional materials were purchased and distributed to all the 2,174 Primary Schools with an enrolment of 1,278,418 in the state. This is aimed at improving teaching and learning.

B. i.

PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL CLASSROOMS Construction of Two Classroom Blocks, Office & Store The Board constructed a total of 178 classrooms and 338 cubicle toilets, 52 offices, 52 stores and 12,240 and provided 3-seater pupils’ furniture to the tune of N626,855,353.62 in some Primary and Junior Secondary Schools using FG-UBEC and State Government Funds in 2007. This is in addition to construction of storey buildings on existing structure at Mani Central, Nuhu Model Primary School (Kankia), Danja Model Primary School, Kaura Abdulkadir Primary School (Rimi) and Dallaje Primary School (Safana).

Another 442 classrooms, 672 cubicles VIP toilets, 41 offices and 41 stores, were constructed and 3,024 units of 3 – seater furniture procured

Similarly, 4 primary schools were upgraded into storey building on existing structure using Federal Government and State Government Funds for the year 2009 to the tune of N413,087,976.00 as follows:-

Education Trust Fund Abuja (E.T.F.) Normal Intervention: In 2007 and 2008 the total sum of N488,800,000 was received from E.T.F. Abuja and the fund was used for the construction of 140 classrooms, 272 cubicles toilets and the procurement of 11,592 3 – seater pupil’s desk and table was carried out in some primary and junior secondary schools across the state. There is also the allocation of 215,000,000.00M for the year 2009/2010 (BOT) and was used for the construction of 252 classrooms, 474 toilets, 170 offices, 5,292 furniture and general rehabilitation work and supply of furniture at Batagarawa Low-Cost Primary School was carried out.

C. Supply of Furniture: A total of 19,994 three-seater desks and tables were procured using FG-UBEC, ETF and State Government Funds worth N179,928,000 Million Naira. Also 1,628 3 seater pupils’ desks were procured for 78 classes in some Junior Secondary Schools.

D. Teachers Welfare: With the total number of 23,045 primary school teachers across the state, a total of Two Thousand, Eight Hundred and Sixty (2,860) deserving teachers were promoted to various ranks in 2007. In 2008 2,560 teachers were promoted, while 8,826 teachers promotion of 2009 was in the year 2010 6,894 Teachers were also promoted with the arrears of over 64 Million Naira. A total number of 17,157 primary school teachers are currently undergoing various in-service training courses in and outside the state to upgrade their teaching qualifications. Over N35,882,860 is being expended annually on in-service training programmes.

Already the State Government has approved and paid the new Teachers’ Salary Scale (TSS) with six month arrears. This is in addition to the prompt payment of teachers salaries and other entitlements as and when due. To facilitate efficiency and punctuality of teachers, a total number of 5,000 units of NANFANG Motorcycles were purchased at the total cost of N280,000,000 and distributed to teachers across the State on soft loan basis. The State Government has released funds to the

Board for the payment of LTG for the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011.

E. State Government Special Intervention Funds: A total of N832,000,000 was released by the State Government to this Board for the year 2008 as Special Intervention Funds for U.B.E. programmes which enabled the Board to access Federal Government Matching Grant. The state is the first in the federation to release the sum of over 832 Million Naira for the year 2009 intervention funds. The same N832,000,000 was released by the State Government for the year 2010.

This represents over 50% requirement expected as counterparts funds.

F. Girls Education Programme (GEP) The state is one of the six states in the country that participated in the UNICEF/DFID Girls Education Programme (1st Phase) during which the state government contributed N35,129,178.50 for construction of classrooms and N7,600,000 for procurement of classroom furniture in the GEP Schools.

The second phase of the programme comprised of five states, and the state government is expected to expend over N300,000,000 for the programme.

G. Donor Agencies: In addition to UNICEF, DFID, World Bank e.t.c. new donor agencies have made contacts with the Board in identifying areas where they could be of assistance. Such agencies include Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JAICA). (i) Best Performance Award: The state government through the State Universal Basic Education Board has emerged as the Best Performing State in the implementing of Universal Basic Education in the country for the year 2006/2007. The state was awarded 700 Million Naira, a Hillux Car and a Trophy.

The money is meant for the development of primary education in the state as follows: A. INFRASTRUCTURE

B.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS:

J. ii.

BEST PERFORMANCE AWARD 2007/2008 The State has emerged as one of the best states in the implementation of UBE programme in the country for the year 2007/2008. The state won a total sum of 650 Million Naira, the funds are meant for the development of universal basic education in the state;

Other Activities: a. Surprise visits to schools by the Executive Chairman b. Beginning, mid and end of term inspection to schools. c. Annual primary schools Debate and Quiz competitions d. Workshops on: i. School Inspection and Supervision ii. Nomadic Teachers iii. Workshop on Special Education

PROSPECTS 1.

To ensure the exercise of the right to education for every child in the State.

2.

To ensure equitable distribution of teachers in State owned Primary and Junior Secondary Schools.

3.

To ensure the provision of good and qualitative basic education in the State.

PROBLEMS/CONSTRAINTS The problems and constraints of primary education in Katsina State, are many, but with the determination of the State Government to salvage education, the problems are minimized but the major problems that still persist are:a.

Inadequate classrooms accommodation. b.

Inadequate teachers. c.

Inadequate water supply and toilets in schools. d.

Inadequate classroom furniture.

WORKABLE SUGGESTIONS ON WAY FORWARD a.

Employment of more teachers. b.

Construction of more classrooms c.

Provision of more instructional materials and classroom furniture to schools. d.

Provision of more water supply facilities and toilets in schools.

38 FORESIGHT

July 11, 2014 HOW TO ORGANISE YOUR LIFE

GROOMING

CONTINGENCY PLANS CAN RANGE FROM SIMPLE PLAN B TO AN OFFICIAL CRISIS STRATEGY DOCUMENT USED BY A COMPANY OR HOSPITAL. IT HELPS YOU COPE WITH THE UNEXPECTED EVENT IN A CALM AND STRESS-FREE MANNER, MAKING SURE YOU ARE ABLE TO DEAL WITH THE TASK IN HAND.

Riding And Driving In riding or driving, as in walking, it is good manners to give the lady the wall. So, while you assist a lady to mount a horse at the beach or a carriage if need be while on vacation in a country where carriages are still in use, hold your hand at a convenient distance from the ground, that she may place her foot in it. As she springs, you aid her by the impetus of your hand. Guide a lady with good strength that she may not fall while in your care.

In doing this it is always better to agree upon a signal, that her spring and your assistance may come at the same moment.

For this purpose there is no better form than the old duelling one of ‘one, two, and three.’

When the lady is in the saddle, it is your place to find the stirrup for her, and guide her left foot to it. When this is done, she rises in her seat and you assist her to draw her habit straight. Even when a groom is present, it is more polite for the gentleman himself to perform this office for his fair companion; as it would be more for him to hand her a chair than to have it handed by servant.

If a gate has to be opened, you need hardly observe that is your place to hold it open till the lady has passed through. In driving, a gentleman places himself with his back to the horses, and leaves the best seat for the ladies. If you are alone in a carriage with a lady, never sit beside her unless you are her husband, father, son or brother. Even though you are her affianced lover, you should still observe this rule of etiquette.

To do otherwise, would be to assume the unceremonious air of a husband.

When the carriage stops, the gentleman should alight first, in order to assist the lady. It will be rude for you to alight and continue as though you are all alone and without company. Keep in mind that it is good manners to be of help to a lady in your

The Art Of Selling Yourself

company.

To get in and out of a carriage gracefully is a simple but important accomplishment. If there is but one step, and you are going to take your seat facing the horses, put your left foot on the step and enter the carriage with your right in such a manner as to drop at once into your seat.

If you are about to seat with your back to the horses, reverse the process. As you step into the carriage, be careful to keep your back towards the seat you are about to occupy, so as to avoid

“

IF A GATE HAS TO BE OPENED, YOU NEED HARDLY OBSERVE THAT IS YOUR PLACE TO HOLD IT OPEN TILL THE LADY HAS PASSED THROUGH

the awkwardness of turning when you are once in.

A gentleman cannot be too careful to avoid stepping on ladies’ dresses when he gets in or out of a carriage or vehicle. A proper gentleman should also beware of shutting them in with the door.

Touting Your Credentials

You worked hard for your achievements. So, you have reason to be proud, and to assume others will value them too. They will, but far less than you suspect.

Again, consider the research that studied the effect of experts’ credential on jurors.

Do people place more faith in the expert with the more impressive credentials – the ‘better’ school, higher degree,

longer list of articles in respected publications? They don’t. They place faith in the person who communicates most clearly.

Then, why stress something that matters relatively little?

Perhaps worse, you may sound immodest. Touting sounds like tooting one’s horn, which tends to repel people.

More important, consider the phrase “What have you done for

others lately?” Your credentials come from your past, and in the minds of others may reveal little about your ability to answer their needs. Be very careful in complimenting yourself. A gimmick also makes it appear that you have nothing important to say, so you are relying on bad puns, word play and tricks instead. If you worry about your idea being professional, it probably isn’t.

ALL THINGS SOCIAL

By Chioma Agwuegbo dfairygodsister@yahoo.com

Staying Safe Online – the thing about strangers. (Part Two)

Every child is told they are not to talk to strangers, and even your parents must have ingrained that in you. Even in these days of ‘networking’ (this poor, over-abused word), you should still apply that rule to your conversations, offline, and online, but with a little twist.

Remember Cynthia Osukogu, the final level student who was lured to Lagos by some men she was chatting with on Facebook on the pretext of business and then gruesomely murdered? Same men were apprehended and the case is still in court, but the poor lady, unfortunately is still dead.

Now here is the point: Evil people abound, and security consciousness presupposes that everyone remains one step ahead of their wiles. Here are ten tips that will help.

•Don’t use lazy passwords (see last week’s column for guidance), and use different passwords for different sites.

•Do not befriend people you don’t know – don’t meet them up either. You can (in extenuating circumstances), stretch that and meet up in ‘very public’ places, but please do not go alone.

•Ensure that you use anti-virus software.

•Do not open emails/attachments from unknown sources; do not click on unsolicited links either.

•Think before you upload videos or photos of yourself. Ask yourself if you would be comfortable with your folks or potential employers seeing them before you click ‘upload’.

•Delete old accounts you don’t use anymore (think Hi5, Myspace).

•Minimise personal information shared online – phone numbers and home addresses.

•Set your privacy settings as recommended by your computer, best to be overprotected than exposed.

•Lock your phones and devices. If you can set the remote ‘erase all data’ feature on them, do it.

•Be really careful. If the deal is too good to be true, it probably is. You probably hear that a lot of times, most of the people who fall victims to fraudulent people on the internet popularly referred to as ‘419’ were probably up to ‘417’ or ‘418’ themselves.

They became victims not only out of ignorance but more often than not, out of greed.

FORESIGHT 39

July 11, 2014 OTHER PERSON’S POINT OF VIEW

MOTIVATIONS

Accepting each person’s own map of the world is important; otherwise you could tend towards imposing seemingly rigid views on someone else. This would affect your ability to communicate effectively and possibly also their motivation.

How To Be More Likable In 10 Easy Steps Have you noticed there are people who always seem to be more likable?

An interesting personality trait that defines the most popular people: They more readily admit their weaknesses rather than waiting for them to be revealed over time.

The show is about using cunning tricks to manipulate others and ensure a positive outcome, so it’s a bit ridiculous, but there’s truth in the observation.

It’s possible to exhibit traits that help you to be more likable. Here are a few to cultivate, try to develop these traits to ensure your celebrity status any where you are and you won’t regret it.

Ask questions People who ask questions are often well liked. Its human nature to be helpful and you all have a great desire to share what you know. When someone appears to need your help, you tend to like him or her more, because you like being the one who provides the answers.

Talk more, not less For example, a certain a small-business owner is extremely well liked. One of his strongest traits is that he tends to talk constantly.

You never have to guess what he’s thinking.

He’s not blunt or rude, but he explains things in detail. If you are an introvert, you need to develop this trait more in yourself and use texting and e-mail a little less often.

Give your time... cost-free A no-strings-attached approach to helping others also makes you more likable. Think of the person you like the most, usually, it’s someone who will help you with the copier machine or is willing to read through your business proposal in a pinch. Of course, those who help just to be liked always reveal a manipulative trait, so make sure you’re genuine.

Listen better Talkers tend to be more likable, and that’s true. Sometimes, over communicating puts people at ease. But it’s also important to pause once in a while and listen. Good communicators take a breath once in a while! Likable people are always listeners who are curious to genuinely learn new things.

The best communicators talk and talk, and then listen for a response. That makes them a favourite.

Really and truly care How do you develop the personality trait of caring? It can be difficult, especially in an age of social media, where everyone is dangerously close to being a narcissist. Caring is an act of setting aside your own interests and ambitions for a while and helping

others. It requires effort, and you have to consciously decide you are going to care about someone else. When you do, and you are genuine about it, you’ll find that more people will like you.

Admit it, you don’t know everything Everyone knows how important it is to steer clear of the office know-it-all. Why is that? Part of the reason is everyone knows that people won’t ask for help and everyone like to be helpful. More important, those who have all the answers are usually pushing their own agenda.

In their conceited attitude, they exhibit a sense of pride that’s not attractive to anyone.

Go for the laugh, every time It’s hard to hate a jokester or someone who has a carefree approach to life. Usually, the most-liked people are those who can fill a room with laughter. It might not be in your nature to joke around, and that’s alright. Just make sure you are ready to see the humour in something. Be someone who can laugh easily and smile often.

You’ll win people over.

Lighten up A lot of people will admit to struggling with this one.

You’re a serious person with serious concerns most of the time. But it’s better to see the big picture in life.

Really serious people are essentially acting selfish, because they focus too much on their personal issues. Highly likable people at work are those who can set aside their concerns and go with the flow. They’re selfless.

Don’t be pushy Here’s an interesting one and a difficult trait to master. For example, a certain man went on a road trip with someone a few years ago, he didn’t have highly distinct tastes. What does that really mean? For starters, he’s not that selfish and won’t push his preferences; he’ll go to lunch at any restaurant and listen to any form of music. He’s flexible. That makes him likable, because he will adjust to the situation.

Admit your weaknesses Admitting weaknesses make you more likable. People figure them out on their own anyway. Of course, it’s important not to act like a victim or share your problems with everyone you meet. At work, it’s alright to go into a meeting and lead with the challenges you face. People are more likely to suggest a few solutions, come to your aid and even pat you on the back. culled from inc.com

5 Reasons People Fail And What To Do Instead These barriers to success are easy to overcome, but only when you know they are there.

Why do some people achieve their goals while others fail? I believe it’s because successful people manage to overcome five barriers that, in many cases, guarantee failure. Here are those barriers and how to overcome them: Uninspiring goals When most people set goals, they envision a thing, such as a particular amount of money, an object (like a new car), or a specific achievement (like writing a book). Unfortunately, those things you are going to do, which you refer to as goals don’t appeal to the core of what motivates you, because they miss the point that what you’re actually seeking in life and work is the positive emotions that you believe those things will produce.

Fix: Rather than envisioning a thing as your goal, envision with all the strength in your imagination how you will feel when you achieve the goal. That way, you’ll be inspired to do whatever it takes within legal and ethical bounds to achieve that goal.

Fear of failure If you’re afraid of failing, you won’t take the necessary risks required to achieve your goal.

For example, you won’t make that important phone call, because you’re afraid that you’ll be rebuffed. Or you won’t quit your dead-end job and start your own business because you’re afraid that you might end up without any money.

Fix: Decide right now that failure, for you, is a strictly temporary condition. If things don’t go the way you would like, it is only a setback that, at most, delays your eventual success. In other words, accept the fact that you will sometimes fail, but treat that failure as an unavoidable (yet vital) component in your quest.

Fear of success In many ways, this fear is even more debilitating than the fear of failure. Suppose you achieved something spectacular, like enormous wealth. What if it

didn’t make you happy? What then? What if you ended up losing all of it? What then?

Would your friends start acting weird? Would your family be envious? Such thoughts, and they are common, can cause even a highly motivated person to self-sabotage.

Fix: Decide that you are going to be happy and grateful today and happy and grateful in the future, no matter what happens. Rather than focus on possible problems, envision how wonderful it would be to be able to help your friends and family achieve their goals.

An unrealistic timetable Most people vastly overestimate what they can do in a week and vastly underestimate what they can do in a year. Because of this, most people try to cram too many action items into the short term rather than spacing out activities over the long term. The inability to get all the short-term steps accomplished creates discouragement and the impression that the final goal is slipping away.

Fix: As you list the activities and steps required to achieve a goal, schedule only the 20 per cent of the activities that will produce 80 per cent of your results.

Beyond that, set ambitious long-term timetables, but always leave some ‘wiggle room’ when you plan short term.

Worrying About ‘Dry Spots’ It is easy to get discouraged when you reach a point at which nothing you do seems to advance you toward your goal.

For example, suppose you are trying to master a certain skill.

You make swift progress at first but then, after a while, it seems as if you are not doing any better or maybe a little worse. Some people use these ‘plateaus’ or ‘dry spots’ as an excuse to give up and therefore fail.

Fix: Whenever you reach a plateau or dry spot, it is time to celebrate rather than give up.

A plateau is almost always a sign that you are on the brink of a major breakthrough, if you just have the patience to stick with it and trust that you will eventually achieve your goal.

culled from inc.com

WHAT MOTIVATORS ARE SAYING...

“This is chief thing: be not perturbed, for all things are according to the nature of the universal.”

Marcus Aurelius

“Nothing is good for everyone, but only relatively to some people.”

André Gide

“An enthusiast may bore others, but he has never a dull moment himself.”

John Kieran

40 FORESIGHT

July 11, 2014

HEALTH

DRINK WATER Unless you want to end up as a dried out prune, drink up to two litres of water everyday. Your body naturally loses several litres of fluid each day. Water is critical to help you cleanse your body, eliminating waste and toxins.

Fecal Impaction GENERAL INFORMATION DEFINITION

A fecal impaction is a large, firm amount of stool that cannot be passed voluntarily. In most cases, the impacted stool is in the rectum, which is the lowest end of the bowels. Sometimes, the impaction may extend further up in bowels.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED Lower colon; rectum.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED Both sexes; all ages.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Lack of normal bowel movements.

• Sense of fullness in the rectum, but unable to pass stool.

• Pain or cramps in the stomach or abdomen area (often after meals).

• Thin, watery discharge from the rectum.

• Headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite.

• General sick feeling.

80%

• Constipation is a very common problem that affects at least 80 per cent of people at some time during their lives.

• About 95 per cent of healthy adults have a pattern that ranges from three times a day to three times a week.

• You need about 25 grams to 30 grams of fibre every day to soften the stool and encourage proper bowel function.

SOURCE

www.womenshealthmag.com

• •

• • •

colon or rectum, as with a spinal-cord injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis.

Being elderly or bedridden (such as after surgery).

Disorders such as hypothyroidism, hypercalcemia or chronic kidney disease.

Use of some drugs, such as narcotic pain remedies.

Being immobile or inactive.

Living in a nursing home or adult care home.

HOW TO PREVENT

• Increase the fibre in the diet.

Drink adequate amounts of fluid each day. Begin a program of regular exercise.

• Set aside a regular time each day for bowel movement (within an hour after breakfast is best). Don’t try to hurry. Sit at least 10 minutes.

• If mild constipation develops, use a stool softener or a suppository.

WHAT TO EXPECT DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

CAUSES

Irregular bowel function causes dry, hardened faeces to remain in the colon or rectum.

• Your own observation of symptoms.

• Your health care provider will do an exam of the abdomen area and digital rectal exam. The rectal exam is done with a gloved finger inserted into the rectum.

• Medical tests such as x-ray and others may be done to confirm the diagnosis and check for complications.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Long term constipation.

• Rectal disorders that make normal bowel movements uncomfortable, such as painful haemorrhoids or fissures.

• Rectal or colon cancer.

• Swallowing substances for x-rays of the intestinal tract.

• Nerve problems in the

APPROPRIATE HEALTH

CARE

The impacted mass may be removed partially by your health care provider. This is done as with the rectal exam. A gloved finger (sometimes two) is inserted into the rectum and the mass is broken up. The rest of the stool may be removed with the use of a suppository. In some cases, water irrigation with a special instrument inserted into the rectum is used.

POSSSIBLE COMLICATIONS • Injury to the rectum.

• If the impaction is not removed, the problem can worsen and surgery may be required.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Usually curable with treatment.

Impaction may recur, unless the underlying cause is removed.

HOW TO TREAT MEDICATION

After treatment, stool softeners may be prescribed.

ACTIVITY

No limits. Be as active as your health permits. Good physical fitness improves bowel function.

DIET

• Eat a normal, well-balanced diet that is high in fibre.

• Drink plenty fluids each day.

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF

• You or a family member has symptoms of a faecal impaction.

• Your normal bowel pattern changes.

SOURCE: COMPLETE GUIDE TO SYMPTOMS , ILLNESSES & SURGERY, 2012

QUESTIONS ANSWERED: Skin My partner and I have cut out meat and dairy and we are convinced we have more wrinkles. Could there be a link between our diet and ageing?

I don’t know of any. But if you are eating too little protein (and you have lost your two main sources of protein from your diet) you may be losing some elasticity in your skin. Elastin,

the substance that keeps your skin supple, is a protein. Lose that and wrinkles will surely follow. Check your diet with your General Practioner, who will advise you on what you may be missing. You may even need to have your blood protein levels checked. You didn’t mention whether or not you smoke. That is the commonest cause of accelerated wrinkling with age.

Of course, the wrinkles may just be your natural ageing process and the link with food just a coincidence.

For eight years I have had dermatitis in my face and scalp. I have had dozens of creams containing different steroids that just make my skin even redder. It’s getting worse. Can you suggest something?

It sounds as if you need investigations to find out the cause, which can range from fungal infections (which steroids will make worse) to allergies.

Have you had scrapings taken from the affected area? Have you seen a dermatologist? It is unusual to prescribe steroids for any prolonged period for the face, it can lead to reddening and thinning of the facial skin.

FRIDAY EXTRA 41

July 11, 2014

kids

QUESTIONS

QUICKFIRE

Why is the Earth’s axis tilted?

The Earth’s axis is the imaginary pole that our planet spins around, creating night and day. The axis is tilted 23.5 degrees. Most scientists think we got our tilt during a long-ago collision with another planet. The tilt gives us changing temperatures, making Earth perfect for supporting life…so it was a lucky bounce.

Why is the Grand Canyon so huge?

Why do stalactites form in caves?

Stalactites look like icicles hanging in caves. They appear where water drips from the ground above a cave. The water contains carbon dioxide, calcium, and other minerals. Over many years, the ‘rocky’ water drips through cracks in the cave ceiling and dries out in a cone shape.

Each drip makes the cone just a little bit longer.

A canyon is a deep, narrow valley with steep sides. The Grand Canyon, in Arizona, is more than one mile (1.6 km) deep in places. Its upper rim measures an average of 10 miles (16 km) from edge to edge. The rushing Colorado River carved out this amazing spectacle over millions of years.

During that time, the river washed away tremendously amount of rocks and dirt, leaving behind this cavernous canyon

Why are some mountains snowy even in the summer?

Why do islands stay in the same place?

Even when it’s warm and sunny at the base of certain mountains, snow can still be seen on top of high peaks. The higher up you go from sea level, the colder it gets.

Some mountain peaks are so high that the air never warms up, even on the hottest days down below. Plus, when there’s a large amount of snow, it can take a long time to melt, even in sunny weather.

COOL FACT !

Sixth-grade students in Santa barbara, California, formed the ‘Paper Not Plastic’ campaign in 2012. Their website, posters and community activities helped make a plan to ban plastic grocery bags in their city.

Islands are not rafts! Most islands are attached to the sea floor, just like continents.

In many cases, island are the highest parts of mountain that rise up from the bottom of the sea. Some islands are the tops of huge volcanoes, and others are formed from thousands of years of built-up coral.

Why is gold so valuable?

The element called gold is rare, as most of the Earth’s gold lies at its core. It is also beautiful, strong and flexible enough to be made into all kinds of things, both practical and beautiful.

Culled from the book ‘TIME for kids Big Book of Why’

Judge not your beauty by the number of people who look at you, but rather by the number of people who smile at you.

― African proverb

42 FRIDAY EXTRA

July 11, 2014

why?

... ANSWERS TO EVERYDAY SCIENTIFIC QUESTIONS

solid?

The ground is solid because it is made up of atoms with electrons that cannot be squeezed any closer to the nuclei they orbit.

In 1911 the New Zealand physicist Ernest Rutherford (1871- 1937) shot subatomic particles at a piece of gold film. Some of the particles passed right through, but some bounced straight back.

Rutherford realised that the atom was not a big solid mass, as had previously been thought. Further research revealed that the atom is like a tiny solar system, with almost all of its mass concentrated into a minute nucleus in the centre, which is orbited by still more minute electrons. Most startlingly of all, there is nothing in between them: 99.999999999999 per cent of the volume of an atom is just empty space!

If you are sitting in a chair or standing on a floor while you read this, think about what is holding you up. Less than one part in 100,000 of that solid surface is actually made of something. The rest is just empty space. Not only that, but all the atoms that you consist of are mostly empty

space. There is so much empty space in atoms that if you removed it, you could pack the entire human race into the volume of a sugar cube.

If both you and the floor are mostly empty space, what stops you from falling through the floor?

The reason that solids are solid is that electrons have to obey two laws of quantum physics known as the Pauli exclusion principle and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.

The first law says that two electrons cannot be in the same place - each electron needs its own space. The second principle says that you can know either the location or the speed of an electron, but not both at the same time.

The uncertainty principle means that the more you pin down the location of an electron by confining the space it can occupy, the greater the possible range of speeds it can travel. The electron is like an angry bee in a shrinking box: the more the box shrinks, the more frantically it buzzes about. If you try to squeeze the electron any closer to the nucleus its energy levels go through the roof.

To squeeze a solid by just 1 per cent would raise the energy of the electrons in it by the same amount as heating them by 1000°C (1832°F) This

Patience is the mother of a beautiful child.― Bantu proverb

is why you cannot crush a solid into a smaller volume, and hence why solids are solid and you don’t fall through the floor.

Culled from Why?: Answers to everyday scientific questions

FRIDAY EXTRA 43

July 11, 2014

titans

of history

QIN SHI HUANGDI c.2S9-210 BC

If you govern the people by punishment, the people will fear. Being fearful, they will not commit villainies.

— Lord Shang’s legalism, adopted by Qin Shi Huangdi as the basis for his rule

Q

in Shi Huangdi created the first unified Chinese empire, which emerged from the Warring States Period. By 221 BC he had successfully destroyed the last remaining rival kingdoms within China and made himself supreme ruler: the First Emperor. A ruthless statesman and conqueror of manic gifts, haunted by madness, sadism and paranoia, Qin Shi Huangdi’s reign quickly degenerated into a brutal and bloody tyranny. His reputation in China had always been that of a tyrant until Chairman Mao Zedong, another monstrous dictator, associated himself with the First Emperor and promoted him as his glorious precursor.

Born a prince of the royal family of the Kingdom of Qin, Zheng, as the future emperor was named, was raised in honourable captivity. His father, Prince Zichu of Qin, was then serving as a hostage to the enemy state of Zhaou, under a peace agreement between the two kingdoms. Subsequently released, Zichu returned to Qin and assumed the crown, with his son Zheng as his heir.

In 245 BC, Zichu died and the thirteen-year-old Zheng acceded to the throne. For the next seven years he ruled with a regent, until in 238 BC he seized full control in a palace coup.

From the beginning, Zheng showed a new ruthlessness: he regularly executed prisoners of war, contrary to the established etiquette of the time.

Zheng now vied for power with the other Chinese kingdoms, creating a powerful army. When he had come to the throne, Qin had been a vassal state of the Kingdom of Zhaou. In a sequence of military victories, six kingdoms fell to Zheng’s forces: the Han (230), Zhaou (228), Wei (228), Chu (223), Yan (222) and Qi, the last independent Chinese kingdom, in 221 BC. A superb commander, Zheng was also a skilled diplomat, especially in exploiting divisions among his enemies. He now stood unchallenged within a unified China. To commemorate this feat he took a new name that reflected his unparalleled status: Qin Shi Huangdi, ‘The First August Emperor of Qin’.

Qin Shi Huangdi now created a strong centralized state across his territories.

In an extension of existing practice in the Kingdom of Qin, the old feudal laws and structures that had remained in much of China were abolished, to be replaced by centrally appointed officials and a new administrative apparatus.

Standardization of the Chinese script, currency, weights and measures

changed the spheres of economics, law and language, with a unified system of new roads and canals, to weld China together as a cohesive national unit.

There was, however, a price to be paid - borne by the ordinary people of China. A million men were put to work as forced labour to build some 4700 miles of roads. Qin Shi Huangdi would have his edicts carved in vast letters on mountain rock faces. As his projects of national unity became ever more ambitious, so too did the human toll they exacted. One such project was to link up the numerous independent frontier walls that barricaded northern China from the threat of hostile tribes.

This effectively created a forerunner to the Great Wall of China, but it cost hundreds of thousands of lives.

At the same time, Qin Shi Huangdi was unwilling to accept any limits on his own power - in contradiction to the Confucian belief that a ruler should follow traditional rites. So he outlawed Confucianism and persecuted its adherents brutally. Confucian scholars were buried alive or beheaded; a similar fate befell the follower of any creed that might challenge the emperor’s authority.

All books not specifically approved by the emperor were banned and burned; intellectual curiosity of any kind was to be replaced by unswerving obedience.

As he grew older, Qin Shi Huangdi became obsessed with his own death.

He regularly dispatched expeditions in search of an ‘elixir of life’ that might make him immortal. He grew ever more fearful of challenges to his position, and with good reason, as he was the target of several assassination plots. The emperor’s efforts to counter such a fate became ever more paranoid and bizarre.

At random, servants in the imperial household would be ordered to carry him in the middle of the night to an alternative room to sleep. Numerous doubles were deployed to confuse any would-be assassins. A close watch was kept, and anyone suspected of disloyalty was instantly removed. Ultimately, it was Qin’s pursuit of immortality that was his downfall. It was widely believed that a man might live longer by drinking precious metals, gaining some of their durability. The emperor died in 210 BC, on tour in eastern China, having swallowed mercury tablets, created by his court physician in an effort to confer immortality. Even in death, Qin Shi Huangdi seemed afraid that he might be vulnerable to attack. Long before he died he had ordered a gigantic

three-mile-wide mausoleum to be built, guarded by a full-scale ‘terracotta army’ of over 6000 full-sized clay models of soldiers. Qin Shi Huangdi’s aim was to ensure that in death, as in life, his every whim and desire would be catered for in his huge subterranean palace. Again, the epic scale of the building project exacted a monumental cost in terms of lives lost. Some 700,000 conscripts were required, a substantial proportion of whom did not survive its completion.

The terracotta army was rediscovered in March 1974 by a group of Chinese peasants sinking a well near the city of Xian. Digging down, they stumbled upon a vast chamber containing the figures. Upon further exploration, it became clear that the individually sculpted infantrymen, cavalry, charioteers, archers and cross-bowmen were guarding the entrance to the enormous tomb of the First Emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi.

So far, only the soldiers who guard the path to the door of the tomb have been uncovered. Each is fashioned in precise detail, and each has unique facial characteristics. All of the figures face east, from where it was assumed the enemies of the eternally sleeping emperor would come. In total, the entire funerary compound fills a whole mountain, covering a site of over twenty sql1are miles.

The scale of what remains to be uncovered is indicated by the words of ancient Chinese historian Sima Qian (Ssu-ma Ch’ien; c.145-c.85 BC), who describes the tomb thus: “The labourers ... built models of palaces, pavilions, and offices, and filled the tomb with fine vessels, precious stones and rarities. Artisans were ordered to install mechanically triggered crossbows set to shoot any intruder. With quicksilver the various waterways of the empire, the Yangtze and Yellow rivers, and even

Youth is beauty, even in cattle.— Egyptian proverb

the great ocean itself, were created and made to flow and circulate mechanically.

With shining pearls the heavenly constellations were depicted above, and with figures of birds in gold and silver and of pine trees carved of jade the earth was laid out below”.

Qin Shi Huangdi’s immediate legacy did not last long. He had declared that the empire he had built would last for a thousand years, but it collapsed only four years after his death, as China entered a fresh period of civil war. Yet Qin Shi Huangdi created the reality and the idea of a Chinese empire, a similar territory to today’s People’s Republic of China.

Culled from the book ‘Titans of History’

44 FRIDAY EXTRA

July 11, 2014

ultimate top list 10 COMMON HISTORICAL MYTHS

4

Let Them Eat Cake

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NERO FIDDLED WHILE ROME BURNED From July 18 to July 19, 64 AD, the Great Fire of Rome occurred. The popular myth surrounding this event is that Nero played the fiddle while he watched Rome burn, and later benefited from its burning by using cleared land for his new palace.

Suetonius and Cassius Dio said that Nero sang the “Sack of Ilium” in stage costume while the city burned. However, Tacitus’s account has Nero in Antium at the time of the fire. Tacitus said that Nero playing his lyre and singing while the City burned was only rumor. In fact, according to Tacitus, upon hearing news of the fire, Nero rushed back to Rome to organize a relief effort, which he paid for from his own funds.

“LET THEM EAT CAKE” According to popular myth, Queen Marie Antoinette was heard to say, “S’ils n’ont plus de pain, qu’ils mangent de la brioche” (“If they have no bread, let them eat brioche.”), referring to the poor. First of all, even if Queen Marie had made this comment, it would have not had the same meaning as it does today. Laws at the time of her reign meant that bakers who ran out of cheap bread had to sell their finer bread (such as brioche) at the lower price, in order to protect people from ruthless bakers who would make insufficient quantities of inexpensive bread in order to make a bigger profit. That aside, the queen did not say these words at all; they were actually written by Jean-Jacques Rousseau in his book Confessions, written a number of years before Marie Antoinette became queen. His exact words: “I recalled the make-shift of a great princess who was told that the peasants had no bread and who replied: ‘Let them eat brioche.” The misattribution and perpetuation of this myth is most likely a result of antiroyal propaganda following the revolution in which she and her husband were murdered.

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LADY GODIVA RODE NAKED Lady Godiva was an Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who is supposed to have ridden through the streets of Coventry naked in order to force her husband, Leofric (968-1057), to remove an unfair tax on his tenants. Both she and her husband were very generous to the poor and religious institutions in their time. In 1043 Leofric founded and endowed a Benedictine monastery at Coventry and it is believed that his wife, Godiva, was the primary instigator of this. It is very possible that the legend has sprung from this particular event. But there is no doubt that her husband was a very generous man with little need for coercion.

Interestingly, the legend of the Peeping Tom also arises from this myth as later versions of it describe a man, Tom, who peeped at Lady Godiva while she rode naked, and was struck blind.

POPE JOAN This myth tells us that a young woman dressed as a priest and went to Rome to study.

Eventually, she became pope but gave birth to a child while in a papal procession, causing the crowds to kill her by stoning. In fact, there never was a Pope Joan. The myth seems to have originated around the thirteenth century from the writings of Martin of Opava (Martin Polonus), a Polish chronicler, and it generally places Joan in the ninth century papacy.

Aside from Catholic literature, even enemies of the Catholic Church at the time (for example, Photius), make no mention at all of a female pope.

According to the Catholic Encyclopedia: “Between Leo IV and Benedict Ill, where Martinus Polonus places her, she cannot be inserted, because Leo IV died July 17, 855, and, immediately after his death, Benedict III was elected by the clergy and people of Rome; but owing to the setting up of an antipope, in the person of the deposed Cardinal Anastasius, he was not consecrated until September 29. Coins exist which bear both the image of Benedict III and of Emperor Lothair, who died September 28, 855; therefore Benedict must have been recognized as pope before the last-mentioned date. “ The recent resurgence in the belief in this myth is most likely the result of antiCatholic and feminist wishful thinking, according to Philip Jenkins, author of The New Anti-Catholicism.

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EDISON INVENTED THE LIGHTBULB In fact, Thomas Edison not only did not invent the lightbulb, he did not invent many of the things attributed to him. His shrewd business skills enabled him to steal, improve, and patent many ideas before their original inventors were able to. He was, in addition, a ruthless man who attempted to discredit other inventors in order to gain popularity for his own. Prior to Edison’s patent for the electric lightbulb in 1880, electric lights had already been invented. In 1840, British astronomer and chemist, Warren de la Rue, enclosed a platinum coil in a vacuum tube and passed an electric current through it, thus creating the world’s first lightbulb-a full forty years before Edison.

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SALOME WANTED JOHN THE BAPTIST KILLED The Bible tells the tale of Herod executing John the Baptist and giving his head as a gift to his daughter in reward for her dance at his birthday. Most people mistakenly believe that Salome, the daughter, requested this out of anger for John refused her advances. It was, in fact, Herodias, her mother, who wanted John killed, not Salome-she was merely the messenger.

“And when the daughter of the same Herodias had come in, and had danced, and pleased Herod, and them that were at table with him, the king said to the damsel: ‘Ask of me what thou wilt, and / will give it thee. ‘ And he SWore to her: ‘Whatsoever thou shalt ask / will give thee, though it be the half of my kingdom. r Who when she was gone out, said to her mother, ‘What shall / ask?’ But her mother said: ‘The head of John the Baptist. ‘ And when she was come in immediately with haste to the king, she asked, saying: ‘l will that forthwith thou give me in a dish, the head of John the Baptist.’” (Mark 6:22-25) This popular myth has been seen in opera, poetry, and painting.

A pretty face and fine clothes do not make character.

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LIZZIE BORDEN TOOK AN AXE ...

Unfortunately, this myth rears its ugly head quite often, and often no amount of effort is sufficient to disprove it to the true believers. First off, Lizzieshe is famous through the children’s poem: “Lizzie Borden took an axe And gave her mother forty whacks. And when she saw what she had done She gave her father forty-one.” In fact, her father was axed eleven times and her stepmother eighteen or nineteen, but that is not the real myth; the real myth is the belief that Lizzie Borden committed the crime at all. After a mere one hour of jury deliberation, Lizzie was found innocent of the crime.

To give further weight to her innocence, shortly before her trial a second axe murder happened in the area. Additionally, Lizzie was found with no blood on her minutes after the crime took place, and no murder weapon was ever found.

WITCHES WERE BURNED IN SALEM In 1692 and 1693, anti-witch mania hit Salem, Massachusetts, resulting in a series of trials that led to the deaths of twenty accused witches. Over 150 people were tried for the crime of witchery. Contrary to the popular myth that the witches were burned, they were, in fact, hanged to death. Of the twenty, fourteen were women and six were men. All were executed according to this method with the exception of one man who died during judicial torture.

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THE COLOSSUS OF RHODES Most ancient and even modern paintings of the now long-gone Ancient Wonder of the World, the Colossus of Rhodes, show him straddling the harbor entrance with ships entering the port beneath his legs. The Colossus was a statue (the tallest in the ancient world) of the Greek God Helios, built between 292 and 280 BC, and standing at a height of 100 feet.

Contrary to the popular misconception that the statue’s legs were apart, the Colossus actually stood with his legs slightly apart on one side of the entrance to the harbor. This renders virtually all illustrations of the statue, incorrect.

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ABNER DOUBLEDAY INVENTED BASEBALL This very common myth of baseball credits Doubleday with inventing the game, supposedly in Elihu Phinney’s cow pasture in Cooperstown, New York, in 1839.

In 1905, a committee was appointed to investigate the origins of the game; their conclusion was: “The first scheme for playing baseball, according to the best evidence obtainable to date, was devised by Abner Doubleday at Cooperstown, New York, in 1839. [1nl the years to come, in the view of the hundreds of thousands of people who are devoted to baseball, and the millions who will be, Abner Doubleday’s fame will rest evenly, if not quite as much, upon the fact that he was its inventor ... as upon his brilliant and distinguished career as an officer in the Federal Army. In fact, this conclusion was based on the testimony of one man, who was of questionable credibility.

Jeff Idelson of the Baseball Hall of Fame has said that baseball was not really invented anywhere, but as far as history is concerned, the first written rules of baseball were penned by Alexander Joy Cartwright for the baseball club The Knickerbockers. On June 3, 1953, Congress officially credited Cartwright with inventing the modern game of baseball.

― Congolese Proverb

Culled from the book ‘Ultimate top 10 list’

July 11, 2014

TATTLES

TATTLES 45

with Abisola Alawode

OUR EAR-ON-GROUND

Patoranking

Burna Boy

Yung L

Ayo Balogun a.k.a WizKid is set to celebrate his 24 th birthday party on a yach t in New York City on July 27. The Bombay crooner revealed this on Twitter recently. Happy birthday in advance, Wizzy!

Cynthia Morgan

The Return Of Patois: Patoranking, Yung L, Cynthia Morgan, Burna Boy Except you have been living in a cave for the past one year, you would have noticed a subtle change in the songs being released. Evidently, most Nigerian artistes seem to have discovered a love for Jamaican Patois. Though they do not use this patois in the same way as the legendary Bob Marley, they have, indeed, created their own version of the popular slang. The artistes who are leading this fun, patois are Patoranking, Burna Boy, Yung L and Cynthia Morgan.

Patoranking Following his branding as the ‘New face of Naija Dancehall’ by MTV’s Iggy, the Ebonyi State-born artiste is not living below the hype.

Patoranking’s debut single Alubarika signalled the start of many good things for the man who was born Patrick Okorie. If you do say that Alubarika was the biggest song of 2013, you may not be totally wrong.

His follow up single, Girlie O saw him continue to express himself using Jamaican Patois. He speaks the slang so effortlessly that one is forced to wonder whether he was born in Jamaica. This song was such a hit that Pop/R&B singer Tiwa Savage asked to be featured in the remix. The end

PUBLiC “I am a Buddhist” DiSPLAY – Charly Boy

result was hearing Tiwa speak patois with so much passion as if it was her second language. Patoranking has gone on to feature in countless songs – all because of his unique use of Jamaican Patois.

Burna Boy Though Burna Boy has been in the industry longer than Patoranking, it was on his debut album L.I.F.E (Leaving an Impact for Eternity) that the Rivers State-born musician embraced fully the Jamaican Patois.

On songs like Smoke Some Weed, Yawa Dey, and Abeg Abeg Abeg, Burna’s use of the slang is like a breath of fresh air. However, it was on the recently released Don Gorgon that this artiste’s love for patois shone. Burna oozes class whenever he speaks patois; perhaps, it is because he often mixes the pidgin English, Yoruba and the normal Queen’s English. The end result is often a great song for his fans to enjoy.

Fever, Red Rose and Designer, Yung L is definitely going to be around for a long time – provided he sticks to his unique style of delivery. TATTLES cannot imagine Yung L featuring in a song in which he doesn’t render his lines in his own peculiar brand of Jamaican Patois.

Cynthia Morgan Another delightful addition to this list is Cynthia Morgan. TATTLES first heard Cynthia on Jhybo’s Ejo le fe ro/ Run their Mouth track. Ever since, TATTLES has kept tabs on the Benin Edo State-born beauty. Better still, she is yet to let anyone down, though she has blended her own use of Jamaican Patois with a Nigerian swag. Listen to songs like Kuchi Kuchi, Don’t break my Heart and Lead me On and you may just understand what we are talking about.

Variety, as they say, is the spice of life. However, this doesn’t mean that patois speaking is the ‘in’ thing and every musician must jump on the bandwagon. As an artiste, you Yung L need to find your niche to enable you Though he is considered a ‘newbie’ grow and build your own unique fanin the industry, the musician who base – as these artistes have done – also goes by the name ‘Mr Marley’, and you might just grow, both as a has made his mark on the industry. performer and recording musician.

With the success of songs like SOS,

Remember Kel the femcee?

After than more-than-brief hiatus, she’s back. The rapper who gave us that mega hit Wa Wa Alright recently revealed in an interview that she did not leave the music industry because she was broke or because she wanted to go raise a family. According to her, she left the industry because she felt “Nigerians do not love rap music”. Well, she’s back to make us love it more – I guess.

To understand how big Davido is at this stage of his career, consider the fact that on July 4 2014, he was invited to perform as the headline act for Rwanda’s annual Liberation Day celebrations held at the Amahoro National Stadium in Kigali.

Guess who came to receive him? The president of Rwanda, Paul Kagame! Is that cool or what?

P-Square’s older brother and manager, Jude Okoye, and his fiancée MBGN Tourism 2012 Ifeoma Umeokeke, who got engaged on April 24, after dating for a few months, have picked July 17 for their traditional wedding.

The wedding will hold at the bride’s home town in Nnewi, Anambra State. The Western wedding will hold after Ifeoma, who is said to be pregnant, puts to bed.

TiP FOR “Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.”

THE TOP –George Addair

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

FEATURE

46

July 11, 2014

Ema performing on stage

and always go for the best in terms of songs and videos. By the time you have this; people who recognise and identify with excellence will follow you. And when they see this excellence, they have no choice than to appreciate you. Also, you cannot compare gospel artistes to secular musicians, as most gospel artistes, as Christians and religious people, cannot do what these other guys do to make money.

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What inspires you?

I’m going to answer this question with a comparison between how gospel artistes get their inspiration and how secular musicians get theirs. A secular musician gets his or her inspiration from anywhere; for example, they can see a lady’s physique and an idea can come to them. For gospel artistes, if your inspiration comes from anything or anyone besides God… Your lyrics should come from the Bible. You shouldn’t write music outside the Bible. Yes, you can present your lyrics in a way people will understand but there should always be an element of God in your sound. Sometimes, when I’m just singing, inspiration comes. I might be in the bathroom and get a line or lyric. Quickly, I rush to get my phone before I forget.

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Which artistes have influenced you the most?

Internationally, I’m a big fan of Donnie McClurkin. Locally, I like Chris Morgan.

As a gospel artiste, what is your ultimate goal?

I’ll want to be remembered as someone whose music blessed a lot of people. I want to be known as someone who can sing to people of any religion and make them remember God. If you are sick and you listen to my song, I believe you can get your healing. If you are frustrated and you listen to my music, my songs will give you hope. My goal is to reach out to a lot of people.

Hold a true friend with both hands.

― African proverb

47

July 11, 2014

ESSENTIALS Taste

By Patience Ivie Ihejirika

Boiled Unripe Plantain With Owo Ingredients

1kg Smoked fish 1handful crayfish (ground) Potash 5 fresh tomatoes (ground) Freshly ground pepper (to taste) 1cup palm oil Salt (to taste) 2Stock cube 1medium-sized onion

Direction

Wash the smoked fish and put inside a pot. Add all the ingredients including the ground tomatoes, pepper, onion, stock cubes, salt and potash. Allow to boil for about 10 minutes.

Bring down pot from cooker and allow it to get cold. This is to enable you get the desired taste and let the palm oil mix properly. If you do it otherwise, the sauce will not taste like owo.

After allowing it to get cold, add the palm oil and mix thoroughly until mixture thickens. Sauce is ready to be served. It is traditionally served with boiled, unripe plantain and, sometimes, boiled yam. Enjoy!

Plantain: A Delectable Meal

Plantain is a staple in Nigeria. It can be eaten in any state (so far it is ready for harvest) – unripe, ripen or overripe. Unripe plantains are usually boiled or used for plantain porridge; ripe plantains are mostly fried and used to supplement dishes like rice and beans. Over-ripe plantains are used to make snacks like plantain ‘chips’. Boiled unripe plantain is usually eaten with owo sauce, a sauce popular amongst the Edo people in Southern Nigeria.

Health Benefits

Research has shown that plantain contains 2.3g of dietary fibre per 100g. Adequate amount of dietaryfibre in the food helps normal bowel movements and reduces constipation. It is also rich in Vitamin C which helps the body resist infectious agents and harmful oxygen-free radicals. It is also a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, as well as provide adequate levels of minerals such as iron, magnesium and phosphorous.

Crayfish & Garden Egg Crayfish is generally suitable for the same treatment as large prawns.

Ingredients 2handful crayfish (ground) 3 large garden eggs (afufa, yallo) 1/2 vegetable oil or palm oil 1stock cube Salt (to taste) Ground fresh pepper (to taste) 1 large onion

Direction

Cook the garden egg, until it is soft.

Blend to medium smoothness.

Heat a pot then add oil. When oil is fairly heated, add onions and fry. Add blended garden egg and pepper, and then fry. Add the ground crayfish; let it fry for five minutes. The sauce is ready.

You can eat with boiled/roasted yam, cocoa yam or potato.

Get A Treat With Crayfish

Crayfish is a popular, nutritious sea food. It can be grilled, steamed or even used in making soups, cutlets and cold salads. Other popular dishes made from this sea food include crayfish pie, crayfish dressing, crayfish bread, crayfish beignets and crayfish/garden egg sauce.

Health Benefits Of Crayfish

Crayfish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

According to a recent research, it is an excellent source of protein that is low in fat. The protein in crayfish is of high quality and contains an abundance of essential amino acids. Also, it is easy to digest for people of all ages.

The friends of our friends are our friends. ― Congolese Africa

48

COLUMNS

July 11, 2014

Diary

Razak’s

RELATIONSHIPS FOR YOU, BY ME

Desire Does Not Equal Respect, Value

co s y raz z y @ ya h o o. co m

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

One Adventure Too Many It’s been two weeks since the start of the Ramaddan.

Two weeks since that unfortunate incident with Bose, the new HR lady. As dire as the situation was – Bhaira was gone again and, this time, not even an accident would bring her running back to me. Fanta had refused to talk to me and sohad a number of people in the office. A few still talked to me, but to them, I was just another fellow who couldn’t keep it in. “You balled Bose, Raz. Boy, you’ve hit the big leagues,” Etim said to me on Wednesday afternoon, after he had returned from lunch.

“Boy, that your Nurse Tits is from another planet.”

He wouldn’t stop singing her praise, but I was not interested; not in this season and I let him know that.

“The chameleon has become a dove, because of the setting sun,” he said.

“What does that even mean? You always have a knack for formulating stupid proverbs. Accept the fact that you are not one of your clan’s wise men and shut up,” I said with some good spirit. I bore him no grudge and I was mighty glad he knew it.

“I’m glad Shade has never found out. She would have had my head first then yours,” he said, slapping his huge thighs.

“You used to play American football when you were in college over there, so you come back here and get involved in another form of balling. Wonderful.”

I was really needling him and he was taking it in good spirits.

“You know, back in America, I used to attend this fraternity party where the girls were passed on to any guy who wanted them,” Etim boasted.

“Which means wherever they are now, they must have HIV/AIDS and Shade or Nurse Titi must be infected, as well,” I said.

“Funny thing; when we realised how much harm we were doing ourselves, we went for medical tests.

None of the girls was pregnant and no one was infected. We were mighty lucky and glad to be so,” he said, with his eyes half closed.

As we talked, I politely avoided all lewd talk and focused on light banter.

I didn’t want to broach the incident with Bose.

Etim wouldn’t encourage me to worry about how wrong I was and I believed that, wherever Bhaira was, she would be more interested in spiritual things associated with the season and not the fresh professions of a philanderer.

I think Etim sensed something coming and was about leaving when Bose walked in.

“Hello,” she seemed to say to me with so much ice.

She didn’t even bother to look at me. I just let the moment pass; no need to reply.

“What are you doing in this hostel, E.T?” “Chill it, babe, I came to have a little chat with Raz, my man,” he said.

“Yeah, a chat about women and the things they can do, abi?”

“E.T, I think you should be on your way. Momi wants you back home,” I said, sarcastically.

He eye-balled me, baring his teeth.

“Foolish words from a fool,” she spat.

“Ok, that should do it. Babe, let’s roll. There’s so much

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work to do. Let’s all get to it and not declare this office a battle ground,” Etim said and, in moment, they were both gone.

I exhaled and just when I thought I was done with all of it, Bose popped in and when she made as if to hug me, I put out my palms. She smiled and sat down on my desk. I could not help but notice well sculptured laps and a rounded derriere. I looked away.

“Boy, you’ve been avoiding me for two weeks now.

I dey smell?”

I smiled. “No, you no dey smell. I’m surprised you do not know.”

“Know what?”

“It’s Ramaddan. That’s the first point. The second point is this; we have nothing going. Nothing. What we had was a one-night stand and it has damaged a lot of things for us. No. For me.”

“Bros, sit down. Why are you always so paranoid?”

“I can answer that question another day. For now, all I want is to observe Ramaddan in peace and the best any well-meaning person can do for me is to respect that. I have had one adventure too many and I don’t think I can undo the things I have done, but I think I can change things,” I said to her.

“That’s more understandable. I think we need to talk about this in some weeks’ time, when the Ramaddan is over. We should be able to come to an understanding.”

“No, you won’t, because after the fast, his fiancée, Bhaira will be back in his life and she will be checking him more closely.”

We both looked up. We had been so into our conversation that we failed to realise the entrance of Fanta. I smiled. At least, someone still believed in me.

I walked up to Fanta and courtsied. She was even more beautiful than the last time I saw her.

“My maternity leave is over and when I called Bose, your new girlfriend, she said I could resume, because my clients were all on her neck.”

“Where is Zakary?” She had christened her son some weeks ago.

“He’s with the nanny.” Yeah, I forgot she could now pay for anything, thanks to that fat bank account which was getting even fatter by the day.

She took a seat across from me and suddenly became all serious.

“I can talk to you freely, because you have been good to me and I think you are the brother I do not have around here.”

I knew what was coming.

“That thing with Bose was, at best, debasing.” She paused, catching my eye.

Men do debasing things all the time.

“If you had no woman in your life, it would have been forgivable, but you do. Look at Bhaira, look at me, look at your ma…and now you add Bose to the list. Didn’t you learn anything from that ugly breakup with Shade? You don’t look like you did.”

“Mtcheew.” We looked back suddenly, but there was no one. I ran to the door and could only see her back.

I would know it from anywhere.

Shade was eavesdropping on the conversation.

Theoffice was getting really small for both of us.

I read something that caught my attention the other day; “Just because a man desires you [it] does not mean [that] he values you.”

The truth this statement holds is quite immense. Men, women and even friends of these people tend to get confused about what love and lust is. If a man woos you endlessly, jumps through hoops for you, wants you, and acts goofy for you and all that, it does not necessarily mean [that] he values you. The fact that a girl is always calling you for favours doesn’t mean that she values you. It’s easier to break down what ‘valuing’ means, so that everyone can easily spot the difference.

What does it mean to be valued?

• When you’re appreciated • When there is a fear of losing you • When you can’t see that person with anyone else • Thanking God everyday that this person came into your life.

The truth is that value and respect are two very important things for any kind of relationship to survive – be it a relationship between an employee and a boss, two friends, mother and child. The human need to want to be loved surpasses most needs.

The question is, as a woman or a man, how do you position yourself in order to get the appreciation and admiration you need to survive?

It is all about knowing your worth and exhibiting your worth. You cannot be taken seriously if you don’t take yourself seriously. How can you demand respect if you don’t respect yourself?

Women always demand some form of respect or want to be treated differently from the rest but don’t exhibit traits that make them different. Sometimes issues like loneliness, age, being single, the need to be desired and wanted or even lack of money can make you demean yourself in front of someone else. Inevitably, this leads to the destruction of your image or taints it and makes it difficult to go back to that initial point of exhibiting the right impression in order to gain respect.

Even in religion, a woman is celebrated and valued. This explains, in depth, the need of a woman to better the world of man and a man is constantly mentioned as the head that should be respected.

If you are with someone who doesn’t value you or just says they do, then it is clear [that] you don’t value yourself or your sanity and will forever settle for less. Putting yourself in any situation where you feel less of yourself because of the perception, opinion of others is just a sad case of disrespect for one’s self. You should not be with someone who waits to be told by other people how amazing you are before he/she shows some appreciation with words or actions.

The bottom line is [that] you should never have to convince anyone of how special you are; your significant other should be able to see that for him or herself. He/she should know all of this about you without needing the opinions of trusted friends or family members to fuel his/her thoughts. They are not the ones in the partnership with you. So, if he/she can’t recognise that you are a beautiful person, inside and out, you might want to rethink some things. Better yet, you might want to rethink being in a relationship with him/her. It is as simple as that. Most importantly, wouldn’t you want to be with someone who sees you as you see yourself? If you truly believe yourself to be a caring, compassionate, hard working, deserving person, then your partner/friend (whoever) should see you in the same way without being given any subtle hints.

I’ll leave you with this quote: “It doesn’t take a whole day to recognise sunshine”. Remember that. You too are worthy of and deserves good things. Remember that.

Write to us! Share your favourite recipes, TV shows, movies, and of course write to Matilda, Mimi and Rasaq. Send us your comments and suggestions on our features.

We want lots of feedback from you! fridayleadership@leadership.ng

Children are the reward of life.

— African proverb

www.miseducationofmimi.blogspot.com Mimidoo Achineku is a PR consultant in the SME, TV & Film industry.

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

FRIDAY SPECIAL/BOOKS & ARTS / 49

July 11, 2014

With Chikelu Chinelo & Onukogu Kanayo Jubal

Bluegrass With An African Twist Good music, they say, is difficult to find.

Good musicians, like wine in an old skin, can make magic with any and all kind of music. This is, perhaps, the best way to describe the musical performance by Henhouse Prowlers at the second annual Abuja Music Festival hosted by the US Mission, Nigeria, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The industrious team demonstrated talent and fortitude with a bluegrass version of P-Square’s Chop My Money. If you have never heard the original version, you’d never think there was one. That’s what good music is about. It cuts across all genres and boundaries.

Although the band did a few original songs, the most uplifting, a bluegrass version of Jackie Wilson’s Love Is Takin Me Higher, is nothing short of magical.

It took the already-excited audience to another realm. Listeners had no doubt that good music was playing out in their presence. They reveled in the lyrics, the feeling and rhythm and were swept off by the mellifluous vocals of the quartet.

One of the most noticeable qualities of the quartet was their perfect balance and stage decorum, respect for beats (they missed once when Jon, one of the members entered before the other three) and the right movement. It was a delightful display of teamwork.

One needs not forget that for every song rendered by the group, there was a meaning. They sang of struggles in hard times, the wails of the desperate, socio-cultural developments in states and, best of all, hope. Their performance was introduced by a standard rhythmic introduction, but it wasn’t in a bad way. It is just bluegrass music.

Whether Breaking Ground, Can’t Stand the Rain, Train or Take Me Back To You, each song transcribes general feelings of what makes us human – hope, struggles and hopelessness as symbolic with rain, and love. Then, of course, one gets to understand a bit of the American culture from the perspective of the American.

These themes were re-echoed by the eleven Nigerian artistes at the event.

Stand out performances from Six Foot Plus’ slow, easy and demonstrative rap E Don Do Me. It explores family and societal issues, domestic violence, poverty and unemployment. The song, though familiar, wasn’t pushy and it isn’t what you dance as to listen to. As usual, the bored ones slept while the oyibos talked through it.

Rhythm & Jazz’s Shola Emil was grand and appealed mostly to the older audience and a few younger ones. Shola, obviously a fan of pacy jazz and a great admirer of Charlie Coltrane, rigged up some of Coltrane’s numbers in an energetic solo. His delightful Highlife and Fuji performance in the all-star collaboration at the event interweaves with the stringed rhythms of The Prowlers.

CEF was another original artiste who graced the occasion. It was unusual but interesting to see his duo-amplified guitar performance. The uniqueness of his storied songs is their inventive, interactive rhythms. The ‘Spirit Music’ crooner talked the audience through the ethnic songs – a mix of English and Yoruba languages. The result is transfer of culture and universality in a Nigerianised version of Adam and Eve. However, it is clear to see that he has a style akin to Asa’s and a continuous conscious tread in the path leads to commercialised music.

Takon Ekude Wins First Korea Speech Contest

Dr. Curt and Sgt Edgar as played

by Promise Ebichi and Oluwatoba Oyewale

Dance Of Death 1: The Pulse Of Societal, Human Complexities It always begins with cheating, infidelity.

There is nothing stronger than the passionate stirrings of the heart when it is set on vengeance. But this isn’t solely about that; it is a pot-pourri of several societal, psychological and physical issues which define the varied emotions of man.

In this contemporised, ‘Nigerianizsed’ version of Swedish playwright, August Strindberg’s Dance of Death 1, Arojah Theatre explores split personalities, the lethal harmlessness of keeping up appearances and gender disruptive qualities against inequality.

The play is about uncompromising and arrogant Sargent Edgar, who realises that his 25-year-old marriage to Alice is, more or less, a bland sham and that it is a bit too late to turn back, as he battles with the bloodless emotions of a female pushed too far.

The title is subtly implied in the dexterous use of words, humour and rich doses of metaphors, hubris, dramatic irony and tragic flaw, creating such suspense that leaves audiences at a loss as to its conclusion.

It is indecisive on the accusation that Sergeant Edgar (played by Oluwatoba Oyewale) fathered Dr. Curt’s son or a host of others which Alice flings the way of her spouse.

Dominant in the play is the harmful side effects of war on the human psyche, as it eats away at the persona and, eventually, the family and society. Obviously, Sergeant Edgar’s split personality and black-outs stem from emotional scars from battlefields which have so affected his lifestyle that he can hardly be associated with his reckless actions during such spells. He loses more control over his tongue and arrogance and becomes who he cannot be, as opposed to the normal Edgar who is subservient to his superiors.

Alice (played by Oluwaseun Odukoya)’s vengeful stance, though brilliantly insightful as seen in today’s societal housewives, is a bit unrealistic as our society has proven women barely end a marriage based on infidelity. However, it does register with the increasing gender-disruptive struggle for equality which has made women more outspoken and seen many more become their family’s breadwinners.

On keeping up appearances, Alice and Edgar hide the tattered fabric of their mar-

riage, even as she carries on cheating on her husband who she believes is cheating on her. Also, there’s Sargent Edgar’s refusal to own up to his sickness and the gentlemanly sneaky Doctor Curt, who is carrying on a love affair with his cousin.

With several ‘Nigerianised’ humour and hubris from the three main protagonists, the director develops the plot in a little over six acts. There are a lot of invisible (back story) plots at play. Several scenes in the original play are hinted at but leave no vacuum; rather it lets the audience’s imagination roam free, filling the pieces of the puzzle.

Alice’s tendency to foreshadow creates taut suspense and prompts the audience to guess which way the story will play out, then throws it off-guard with its conclusion.

It is the conclusion that leaves a huge gap and makes it very difficult to swallow, as it fails to convince on how a near-death experience completely swings the sergeant’s attitude. This is poorly executed. Alice’s quick capitulation (considering the level of hatred) against her husband begs a lot of explanation.

The play’s charm lies in the parlour setting, an unusual but well-lit scene occasioned by some good choice-making on the part of the Swedish Embassy. It gave the actors some good space to utilize. Although none of the three main characters stood out, their controlled movements on the small stage is commendable.

One must agree that Ebichi Chinonyerem’s projection of ‘Dr. Curt’ was well done.

The character was sneaky enough to erode suspicions on his relationship with Alice, yet gentlemanly [enough] to proffer solution to the couple’s marriage. The audience can relate to his character; wicked but not evil enough to go over the edge.

Arojah Royal Theatre and the Swedish Embassy deserve commendation on the institutes’ capacity to avail theatre practitioners the opportunity to practice their profession as well as create an avenue for cultural exchange between Nigeria and Sweden.

This production did inject, in some way, some life into the theatre-peformance-famished FCT a breath of humour, suspense and variety as an escapist art form. It was a welcome distraction for a tensed city.

BOOKS FROM BACK THEN

Akin The Drummer Boy (Cyprian Ekwensi, 1960) The story revolves around a blind boy named Akin whose wonderful drumming skill and melodious voice brings joy to the people in the communities in which he performs. Given the irresistible nature

of the rhythm that flowed from his tambourine and the melody of his songs, the drummer boy becomes a focus of attention for well-meaning and criminal-minded citizens.

The Korean Culture Centre Nigeria (KCCN), in the FCT, recently held its first Korean Speech Contest where Takon Ekude emerged winner of the contest.

Ekude, a student of the beginners’ class, won the contest with her freshly engaging poem as well as the best inflections in the language.

The contest, a representation of the strong transfer of culture and knowledge skills between both countries, indicated the creative capacities of participants who were given a wider opportunity to manipulate words in a freestyle speech contest.

Speeches ranged from dialogues, poems to speech-cum Korean anthem and a performance entitled Nigeria United, an interchangeable song of the English and Korean languages. The original piece by Joseph Patrick and company drew heavy applause from the director Kwon and instructors Mee Yeon and Hyun gi.

Chidi Chijioke Glory, who incidentally won a scholarship for post graduate studies in Korea, won the third runner-up in the intermediate category and a cash prize of N10, 000, alongside classmates Franklin Fache and Nkechi Ariekwe.

Juliet Godwin and Bobboi Robiatu claimed second place and a cash prize of N20,000, respectively, for the Basic and Intermediate classes.

Consolation prizes in the form of traditional, triple-coloured Korean hand fans and soccer balls were presented to other participants while graduates of the Beginners’ class were awarded certificates to move on to the Intermediary class.

50

July 11, 2014

Hauwa Booth WOMAN ON THE LOOSE

Ff:@ofastupidwoman: Read @ www.diaryofastupidwoman.com When God says His ways are not our ways we often grumble.

When He says He is merciful, we want to compare; so that would have been the German team we would have played???

Ha! We would have set an unbeatable record! We say thank you, God. And so a senior lawyer who happens to be a pastor gets stabbed to death and mutilated by his son because his father slapped him during their prayers. The son cut the body to pieces, placed them in a suitcase then dumped the body in a wooded area. Initially I thought it was a story from Crime Investigation when I heard about it. A lot of things are no longer taboo for us.

It is Day 88 and the CHIBOK girls have gradually lost hope and settled into their new brutal lives. By the time they are rescued, found or released, they won’t be suffering from ‘Stockholm syndrome’, it will be a new kind; ‘Nigerian syndrome’ However, should the Government decide to exchange the girls for the incarcerated BH members I hope a Committee will be set up to discuss the fact that it doesn’t end there! We want an end to the scourge. We want the violence and impunity against women to stop. We want better protection from our men! Which one is another 68 women being kidnapped, then escaping then 43 being recaptured?? Haba!

Stay safe (well...as much as it depends on you.)

The Party Pack 5th July was approaching and I was having nightmares as to how to handle a party for my daughter’s birthday. You do realize that the economy is not quite as buoyant as it used to be. I have a ‘premonition’ that the tide will change as 2015 approaches... Continuing, unfortunately it fell on a Saturday! I schemed to have the birthday moved forward to 7th; Monday. They are only 9 in her class. She’ll never know. The catch was her grandparents would call on Saturday.....so I decided to have a birthday play date for her. It would be home styled. No rude, sexually charged and senseless music, no parents; chips and meatballs, popcorn, drinks, cake and lots of games to play. Simple. Then two children on their way out asked for ‘their’ party packs.

“STRAIGHT FACE” How times have changed! Can you remember growing up and going to someone else’s house and asking for even water?? Your mum would skin you alive for accepting a drink talk more of asking for something!!

What is it with this idea of party packs that has even become a competition! I have heard of a certain party pack that turned out to be bicycles!! We have taught our kids materialism and unrealistic expectations. I don’t know how to talk subtlety to children. I think they should be talked to straight; they aren’t stupid. So I told them as it is. “edited” (then again, maybe it was being broke reacting).

The Death Of Courtesy The showing of politeness in one’s attitude to another. A simple definition of courtesy. There was a time when we understood the import of saying sorry, thank you, apologizing when late, informing another of your inability to make an appointment ahead of time among other things. Alas, Now people get offended because you call them out on their lack of courtesy. No more do we feel the person has a right to be upset for messing up their plans or just leaving them in the dark. This gradual erosion of our sense of respect for another is becoming a huge problem because the simplest thing you can do to affirm another person and it isn’t being done is giving way to all sorts. I don’t know if the solution is to include it in our schools’ curricula. Parents ought to be the first point education, I’m just wondering how did we get here?

Made In Nigeria 6.30am, 27th June, the guard came upstairs with tears in his eyes and told the news that the left hand side of the back passenger window was broken. I was mildly irritated as I accused him of breaking it in his bid to ōver zealously wash the car. Then it dawned on my; thieves! they’d stolen my laptop. This wasn’t what upset me. After all, as long as we are alive, it will be one thing or the other; that’s how life has been rigged. As long as whatever it was that happened can be solved with money...let’s go! The problem there was the money but Hyundai did not have a replacement part. It would take about six weeks to get the part! So I’m car less for the

WEEKEND

BiTES

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THOSE ON THE SAME MISSION AS YOU.

next six weeks with the reason that they can’t house every spare part. Everyone that heard this story asked the same question, ‘why didn’t you just go to Apo Mechanic Village? Somehow everyone was sure that I would have found the part and at half the price! That part also stung. I felt like I was being robbed for the second time. ”Sigh”.

The question brings me to my main point; it is high time we really look into this Made in Nigeria Vehicle and support it. I mean if my car had been wone I would have probably just needed to order the part from Nnewi! It would have arrived overnight!

FEEDBACK: LET’S HEAR FROM YOU

Hello Readers, thank you for reading and spreading the word about this page. We are now ready for your feedback. Let’s hear your take. Constructive criticism and contributions will be published. Send thoughts to diaryofastupidwoman@gmail.com OR 08055241197 via TEXT ONLY. Don’t forget to include your name and location. Please bear with us if yours doesn’t make it onto the page.

51

July 11, 2014

PUBLIC NOTICE

SONGHAI AVIATION LTD

T

60, BIRNIN KEBBI CRESCENT, GARKI II, ABUJA TEL: 09 291 0120

his is to inform the general public that Songhai Aviation Ltd. (Incorporated on February 9, 2011), has applied to Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for Air Transport License (ATL), to operate both national (scheduled and non-scheduled) passenger and cargo services as part of the company's strategic plan.

This notice is in partial fulfillment of conditions for the grant of license by the NCAA, and for records only.

SIGNED: MANAGEMENT

52 my town

July 11, 2014

By M.R. Is’haq

Inheritance Generally speaking, the right of occupancy passes to the eldest son, brother, or father in the order named. Failing them, the value of the crops is given to the mother or a woman amongst the aged widows.

The mother holds property in trust for a minor. Unreal property is divided amongst the sons and daughters in the proportion of two to one by the Ggagyi Hausa or, where there is no issue, the estate is administered by the alkali (formerly by the sarki), who pays an eighth of its value to the widow and something to the mallams for their help.

Elsewhere, it is the custom for the nextof-kin in the male line to inherit, while provision is made for the younger children at the discretion of the Sarki and elders.

These practices are subject to slight modifications according to the locality. With the Abuja Gbagyis, for instance, a right of occupancy passes on a man’s death to his eldest son or nearest male heir – if he has none, the value of the crops, but not the land, goes to his nearest female descendant. Private property is divided between the brother and eldest son; with the daughter also getting a share.

Amongst the Gbagyin Yamma on the other hand, the farm and all property pass to the eldest surviving brother, failing (in Gbagyiland, this is used instead of ‘in lieu of’) him to the son, the heir in either case acknowledging and paying all debts.

In Abuja, however, it is the eldest son who inherits. The younger sons receive small portions, whilst the widows pass to the deceased’s younger brother. In Kuta, the land is divided amongst the sons.

Should any case of dispute arise, the family is the only unit allowed to settle it. In lieu of sons, brothers inherit in seniority; failing brothers, nephews inherit according to age, irrespective of the status of their fathers. If nephews are of equal age then the son of the eldest brother of the deceased will inherit.

Land can descend to a female if she has no brothers, but she must be married, or of marriageable age, otherwise it will pass to the next male heir. Thus, a woman cannot inherit per se.

There is no payment in the nature of a death duty. There is no power of disposition over land. If a man leaves a wife and offspring real property, it will be divided amongst them in varying shares, but the proportion of these shares is not fixed and any case of dispute is settled by the family.

The eldest son will take priority if necessary, but if the sons’ shares can be divided equally, they are so divided.

The widows pass to the brother of their deceased husband, but are at liberty to marry any man they choose.

There is no power of disposition over personal property except the ordinary power of gift during lifetime. In the case of wells, they are the property of the digger and are passed onto his heirs.

In Kushaka, the eldest son inherits everything, including his father’s widows. Failing him, the younger brother inherits – never an elder brother – and failing him the property is divided amongst the widows and children.

Occupation The Gbagyi excel in hunting, but they are

A Gbagyi household. photo by Patrick Ebi-Amanama.

The Origin Of The Gbagyi Tribe (3) principally a farming people.

Land is not allowed to lie fallow until completely exhausted and the ordinary rotation of crops is corn or millet followed by cotton, groundnuts or tamba. In Niger State it is reckoned that the land will remain productive from between seven and ten years if Fulani herdsmen and their cattle graze there for about 30 or 40 years.

Grain is stored in sheaves and sprinkled with ashes to preserve it from insects and kept in silos (rhombus) from about seven to eight feet high – the Gbagyin Waiki add a layer of sticks and mud at the top to help it last for longer, for about four or five years.

A considerable quantity is used for brewing native beer.

Tobacco is raised and extensively smoked in every village.

The women do a fair amount of farm work, except in Kuta where this is not the custom. The women also make pottery for local use and the men make mats and bags of woven palm-fronds. They also grow, dye and weave a little cotton.

Dressing Both sexes wear a single cloth: the men wrap it round the body and throw one end over the shoulder. Sometimes, though, goat-skin is preferred. For the women, they pass it round the chest under the arms whence it hangs on the knee. The children go naked.

Where there is much intercourse with Muhammadans the use of the gown is creeping in, but in the houses it is restricted to men of position.

The townships consist of clusters of

mushroom-like huts, which are generally perched on hills or in thick kurmi (forest) for defensive purposes.

Housing A large township is divided into welldefined quarters, in each of which there is a common house where corn is ground.

The wives of the chief, however, have their own dakin nikka (grinding room) in his compound. Each man has his own cluster of huts, one of which serves as a fowl-house, another as stable, another for guests and three or four for corn stores, besides the ordinary living and sleeping huts, one of each for each of his wives. They are approachable from outside by one entrance only – that leading through its own apartment. In the sleeping-rooms there is a raised mud platform about twelve to eighteen inches high, on which a tortoise and other emblems signifying ‘good’ are traced. The beds of the women are protected by a screen of clay, into which one or two rhombuses are built for storing clothes and other personal effects. The floors are sometimes laid with broken shards. For the most part the huts are small and very close together, with peculiarly thin walls (some two or three inches thick only), through holes in which the filth from the compounds is drained into the paths outside.

The townships are, sometimes, entrenched behind stone dykes, to prevent a recurrence of a time when the Gbagyi were harried by the raids of the Nagwamatse from Kontagora and their mounted forces practically destroyed, forcing the inhabitants of the plains to seek safety in the hills.

If I am in harmony with my family, that’s success.

― African Proverb

The military manoeuvre favoured by the Gbagyi is an enveloping movement down the hillsides or forests.

The ordinary weapons are bows, barbed and poisoned arrows, hatchets, knives and a few spears.

Marriage Customs Marriage is arranged when the girl is about three or four years old. From that period, till it is consummated some nine years later, the suitor, together with his young friends, works on his father-in-law’s farm for several days during each month of the sowing and harvesting seasons and gives his future mother-in-law a calabash of acha (sorghum), dawa (guinea corn) and 400 cowries every year.

At the time of the marriage, he gives the bride’s mother 1,000 cowries and her father a pot of beer, after which the girl is stained with red dye from the majigi (camwood) tree and becomes his wife without further ceremony – unless it is, as is in Fuka, eating their first meal out of the same calabash.

The husband and wife habitually eat together when they are first married, if there are no strangers present. But as their children grow, the boys eat with their father and the girls with their mother.

The custom in Kaduna State is very similar.

A suitor offers the parents of the girl he wishes to marry a present of 400 cowries; if they accept it the engagement is recognised, though the marriage is not consummated till the girl is of marriageable age, when the groom gives a further present of 2,200 cowries and 12 bundles of straw to the girl’s father, as well as two-and-a-half bundles of guinea corn to her mother. A feast is given to conclude the ceremony and, during the next wet season the groom, together with four or five of his friends, work on his father-in-law’s farm for a period of two or four days.

A woman can leave her husband for another man on repayment of the marriage dower.

53

July 11, 2014

Between Goje, Oshiomhole And Nyako

Stanley Nkwocha Our Eye On Power And Politics

Still On Nyako’s Rigmarole

How sweet and interesting the times are gradually becoming in the polity ahead of 2015. What some call ‘political gymnastics’ is setting in and power players are deploying all instruments available to outwit political foes. And it is not new.

In 2006 in Gombe State, just as then All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP’s) candidate , Gen. Muhammadu Buhari was billed to use the Gombe Township for the presidential campaigns in the state, bulldozers suddenly got drafted to the stadium in the name of renovation. Attempts by Buhari to get a campaign ground was frustrated at all cost.

So when the Comrade Governor in Edo State followed suit and began taking off the roofs of the Edo House of Assembly in a bid to justify “ his assembly wing’s “ sitting elsewhere , it was just an enactment of tricks applied in politics.

Compare it with the sudden public holiday which embattled Adamawa governor, Murtala Nyako declared in his state so as to wade off the inauguration of the seven man committee constituted to investigate him, and again the sacking of a primary school teacher by the then Ohakim administration in Imo State over the usage of his school by Rochas Okorocha to campaign ahead the 2011 governorship election, perhaps only then shall we get to understand what our leaders survival instincts push them to do.

Feedback: stanleyn@leadership.ng

08038011382 (text only)

Suddenly Baba Mai Mangoro has turned vegetable, no longer the boisterous governor he was before now.

And his aides, who landed him in this mess in the first place no longer throw indiscriminate jabs as they did with impunity before now, preferring to seek the help of past

presidents to plead for Nyako.

The song now is that of reconciliation and begging.

Like I have said before, there is a collective responsibility in leadership. I am, however, disappointed at Nyako as I thought his wealth of experience ought to have thought him how these things work! Too bad he was enjoying the politics without playing it.

Stan’s Memo

If you are neutral in situations of injustice you have chosen the side of the oppressor - Bishop Desmond Tutu

i

Musings The Central Bank of Nigeria has gone full blown with its cashless economy policy across the country, but I see politicians being the major stumbling block to this policy. I mean , wouldn’t the easiest way to lose elections be to tell your foot soldiers, agents, mobilsers, campaign organisations, etc that you will “wire” money to their accounts when physical cash is needed?

Let’s Know The Sponsors Of Boko Haram Confab, Entanglements

I have always been of the opinion that one sure way of fighting the Boko Haram insurgency is to expose its sponsors. On several fronts, President Goodluck Jonathan has admitted that there were persons sponsoring the sect but has lacked the courage it seems to expose them.

Now that the Nigerian military has admitted investigating politicians , allegedly linked to the sect, will they - at least since they won’t be contesting any elections-have the courage to expose these politicians?

Shall we continue to play the

ostrich with this very grave issue until we get overrun like ISIS is doing in Iraq? If the military is convinced, shouldn’t the release of the names of these politicians be utmost at the moment?

Like many other Nigerians living by His grace, we had to take the remains of a kinsman of ours to the village last week. He was amongst those who died in the Abuja EMAB Plaza bombing which occurred two weeks ago. I wish to know why some persons would feel that such brutal killings hold the key to power acquisition. For the Borno, Yobe and Adamawa folks who have died while others live in abject fear and have abandoned their homes not for reasons attributable to natural disaster but for the antics of politicians, I think they also deserve to know why they should be made guinea pigs in this cruel political laboratory. The military now owe us their exposure if the President does not have the balls to.

The deliberations that have gone down at the National Political Conference have been encouraging and enlightening as salient issues that seem to bother us as a nation have even been thrown open for discussion.

However, by the day we see a Confab that is becoming emboldened by the day and beginning to think it has a legal status and recognised by the Constitution. The way and manner the debates on states creation, land reforms, resource control and a few others went, suggested that the decisions reached would be final.

Before now issues that had to do with alleged drafting of a new constitution as well as power devolution had been blown out to the extent that at a point some measure of crisis emerged from the Confab.

As the Confab begins to wind down, it must be reiterated that the issues

that have been articulated are suggestions on how our country’s weaknesses could be enhanced.

The danger in over indulging and assumptions, is that, were the National Assembly later to reject some of the recommendations of the Confab, some persons who got soaked into believing that the Confab had constitutional leanings may be tempted to drag the National Assembly to court. I am, therefore, of the opinion that there should be clear cut understanding of the limits of the Confab.

Power Play: It’s Still Nyako Vs Adamawa House of Assembly Call it a scene from the latest series of the popular kiddies cartoon -Tom and Jerry, but for political gladiators, political allies and immediate family members of Adamawa governor, Murtala Nyako, these are no fun times.

The hide and seek,

intrigues and manipulations, threats and schemings, stunts and wits, that have been been brought to play out in this seeming drama by both the House, Nyako and even the Presidency on one hand, is all too interesting.

From the blues, even

former Presidents Obasanjo and Babangida have been drafted in to feature in the impeachment drama.

Now the melody of resignations and no resignations are streaming out from the jukebox, making the choreographer find it

difficult to organise a specific dance for the drama. The curtains shall soon be drawn and if it does we hopefully would have come to the end of it. Would it take a week more? Certainly the answers lie in the hands of the power players!

Not every movement is progress; Some movements are just a way of burning fats! ― Israelmore Ayivor

politics To posit that Nasarawa West Senatorial District is the heart beat of Nasarawa State politically is to hit the nail to the head. With the most population in the state, the district is seen largely to have a positive impact on both gubernatorial and presidential elections, providing the winning streaks most times. Therefore, whoever assumes the candidate is expected to be the determining factor for both the presidential and the governorship election in the state and would also give a clue to the direction of where the two other zones might likely turn to.

The power play over the presidential elections will have a huge impact on the local politics that will play out. Before now, Political stakeholders in the zone determine the direction of the Senatorial District while the youths accept without resistance such decisions. However, with 2015 inching closer there are clear indications that the status quo would be altered and a different political cloud ushered in.

As things stand now, it does seem that the political empire of incumbent Senator Abdullahi Adamu is facing the greatest test with reports suggesting that internal revolts by some loyalists of the once dreaded godfather may see him engage in the political battle of his life ahead of 2015.

The calibre of politicians eyeing the Senator’s seat suggests that it would not be an easy ride for the Sarkin Yaki Keffi.

Curiously, names been mentioned as having an eye on the seat were mostly seen as the political soldiers of Senator Adamu before now. And the list seems endless with grassrooted politicians like Ahmed Wadada, Bagudu Usman, Senator Abubakar Sodangi and Ishaq Kana, member representing Keffi-Kokona-Karu Federal Constituency.

Before now, Senator Adamu’s political camp was never complete without these politicians as they formed the nucleus of his political think-tank.

Ahmed Wadada A former federal lawmaker representing Karu- kokona-Karu, Wadada, before now a close associate of Abdullahi Adamu has not hidden his aspiration of becoming Nasarawa West Senator. A grass-roots Politian, he has over the years helped Abdullahi Adamu win elections whether as governor or as a senator.

Cracks in the duo’s relationship came to the fore when Wadada stayed put in the PDP, opting out of Senator Adamu’s decision to join the All Progressive Congress whose governor, Tanko Almakura is in charge of the state. His entry into the race suggests that all may not be well between him and his erstwhile boss, just as the desire to create his own political dynasty may be a motivating factor. In 2011, he lost his House of Representative seat to Ishaq Kana of the then CPC due to what was perceived as the wind of change that blew in the state against the PDP then.

Set on a rebound, Wadada who has parted ways with Adamu whom he promised not to ever contest election with whilst in same

Al-makura

Adamu

Wadada

July 11, 2014

Sodangi

Nasarawa: 2015 As Abdullahi Adamu’s Real Litmus Test

Nasarawa State would sure be an interesting spectacle ahead of 2015 following heads locking between the However, with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressive 2015 inching closer there are Congress (APC) with the Senatorial Districts to define the clear indications outcome of events. Former governor Abdulahi Adamu that the status quo would represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District. Will he stage a comeback or would political alienation bring his be altered and a different strong hold on the region’s politics to an end? STANLEY political cloud ushered in.

NKWOCHA writes party seems poised to challenge the former governor for the same seat in 2015 since both men are now in different parties. His declaration to contest the Senate seat has all but changed the permutations in the zone owing to his popularity.

Going for Wadada is his youthfulness and grassroots politicking which has seen him continued his youth empowerment programme even while out of public office.

Added to this is his political experience and wield of influence across the five local governments that make up the zone. If stories making the rounds that he has been endorsed by elders and stakeholders is true, then he may turn out to be the man to play the role of the ‘undertaker’ for the PDP in 2015.

Senator Abubakar Sodangi Whilst Adamu was governor, Sodangi held sway as the Nasarawa West senator for a record three terms (1999-2011). The battle line between them got drawn, however, when Adamu declared interest for the same seat in 2010 and eventually displaced Sodangi in 2011. Both men were then under the PDP. A popular lawmaker who sold himself to the hearts of his constituency through his open and eventful leadership, Sodangi’s defeat in the hands of his erstwhile boss cut his then rising political profile and brought

it to a halt as since 2011, he seemed to be in the coolers.

His interest to return the Senate is laddered with a whole lot of conjectures as what is perceived to be Adamu’s waning influence on the politics of Nasarawa State may rub off on him having been seen as Adamu’s political son and a benefactor of Adamu largesse in terms of structure and foot soldiers who worked for Sodangi’s victory at various times. It is believed that the polarization of Adamu’s structures will have an adverse effect on Sodangi’s aspiration as the ‘palace arrangement’ which made Sodangi’s victories easy then are no longer there. Adamu was said to be instrumental to those arrangements when he had a strong hold in the politics of the state and most especially the zone but he must foremost clear criticisms over his strange relationship with the state PDP, a situation that is alleged to have made him stay away from the party’s state office in Lafia.

Hon. Ishaq Kana He presently represents Karu-Kokona-Keffi in the National Assembly and had worked as a protocol officer to Senator Adamu while he was the governor of the state. He had served him for more than a decade, starting from when the erstwhile governor was in Kaduna before he returned home

to play active politics. Kana, like most of others have enjoyed the rich benevolence of Adamu, but surely is aspiring to greater heights, taking advantage of the waning influence of his boss.

With the exception of Hon. Wadada, most who got into government did so under the influence of Adamu who provided the platforms for them to excel politically.

Only Wadada has been in the private sector and joined politics without serving in government. It would now be left for Kana and others to show that they can fly without the influence of their erstwhile benefactor.

Honourable Kana has served as member of the state assembly representing Kokona He did very well while serving as member of the state assembly but his critics accuse him of failing to find his bearing in the National Assembly as the member representing Karu-Keffi-Kokona Federal Constituency. They allege that his inability to play along and get acquainted with the politics of a larger group unlike the state assembly where they were only 24 members, have made him looked like a novice in legislative business in Abuja. Having moved over to the PDP from the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) where he won elections, it remains to be seen whether he still possesses the right skill to stay atop politically.

Wisdom is not like money to be tied up and hidden. ~ Akan proverb

FRIDAY POLITICS 55

July 11, 2014

'We Expect PDP To Congratulate Us After We Defeat Them In 2015' Alhaji Mai Mala Buni, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in this interview with VICTOR OKEKE says it was to avert violent clashes that necessitated the congratulations by Governor John Fayemi in Ekiti to Ayodele Fayose after the elections in the state recently. He also states that APC signals a new dawn to Nigeria’s politics. Excerpts

How united is your party after the conduct of the national convention where some people were reported to be aggrieved with the outcome of the convention?

Few months from now we would be having the general elections. How prepared is the APC?

Well, thank you very much. You will recall that some parties went into merger to produce what is now APC. The essence of this merger is to have a strong committed political party that will save Nigeria and to give the country purposeful leadership that will improve the lives of Nigerians. The parties made a lot of sacrifices to merge to give birth to a modern Nigeria.

Nigeria is blessed with rich human and natural resources which unfortunately hasn’t been properly harnessed and utilised for the benefit of Nigerians.

Nigeria suffers maladministration and general inefficiency which has made life extremely difficult for the citizenry.

In fact, Nigerians deserve to have a better lifestyle than what we have today. Sadly, other countries with less human and natural resources are better off than our dear country, and this is due to ineffective administration and the mismanagement of resources.

Therefore, APC is built on a passion for socio-economic transformation that will save the country from the economic doldrums, social instability and the general insecurity that has bedevilled it.

APC is a Nigerian project that has the interest of every single Nigerian. We are committed to building a lasting peace and security to lives and property of the citizenry across the length and breadth of this country. Our commitment also centres on establishing service delivery, accountability and transparency in governance and, enthroning true democracy where the voice of the people is not only heard but, respected.

So, with seven months to the next election, we are concentrating on building a strong united party, a party that gives every member equal opportunity, a party that will exploit the best potentials and, produce the best leadership this country will ever have to provide Nigerians with the change they have been yearning for.

What will make your party different to achieve what you think the ruling PDP has not achieved?

If you look at the leaders, stakeholders

Buni

and manifesto of the APC, they have clearly defined goals and approach to the practice of democracy, governance and infrastructural development than what we have had in the last 15 years.

You will agree with me that internal democracy which is a basic tenet of democracy had remained an illusion.

Accountability, probity, rule of law and social justice have also suffered wanton abuse in the last 15 years.

Worse still are the conditions of our infrastructures in this country. After 15 years and huge resources sunk into these infrastructures, they are still in comatose.

Look at the condition of power supply. In spite of the crucial role played by electricity in industrial development, the state of electricity supply after 15 years of the PDP administration is still horrible. I don’t think Nigerians need anybody to tell them that they need a government that will make it work. A government with the passion to provide electricity to bring the moribund industries back to life to give Nigerians employment opportunities and, improved lives.

Fifteen years after, we still have poor roads and ineffective transport system, weak healthcare delivery system, unproductive agricultural policies, poor education system and a dead manufacturing sector.

It is totally unacceptable for a country like Nigeria to have its education system in such a comatose.

We have the human and capital resources to develop education to international standard. The ineffectiveness in the sector has made many Nigerian students to travel out

to much less countries to study.

Sadly, it is either academic staff of Nigerian Universities, Colleges of Education and Polytechnics or, Nigeria Medical Association that are on strike. This has terribly affected these institutions with the consequences of huge medical and, educational tourism to other countries thereby, deflating the economy.

Let me tell you, everybody in this country including members of the ruling PDP are feeling this harsh brunt and now agitating for change.

You will be surprised to see the level of support and encouragement we are receiving from Nigerians across geographical and political divides. More surprise is to come as we approach the 2015 elections because, many Nigerians especially the political class have indicated interest to join the APC because of its transparent commitment and zeal to transform the country.

APC shall also practice true democracy with clear separation of powers between the executive, legislature and the judiciary to promote check and balance, good governance, service delivery and democratic growth.

It is also sad that in the last 15 years, our legislative arm did not enjoy the legislative independence it ought to have. Similarly, the judiciary ought to have been better than what it is today but unfortunately government in the last 15 years deliberately blocked and retarded the independence of these two arms. This is what will make APC different from other political parties.

Let me use this opportunity to once again correct this wrong impression about illfeelings in the party after the convention.

The APC convention was the best party convention we have seen since the return of democracy to Nigeria in the last 15 years.

It was a convention conducted based on national interest. It was a convention in which national interest superseded individual, group or sectional interest. It was a convention in which national interest was paramount, incontestable and irresistible.

Like in every human endeavour somebody who sought for something but could not get it may feel sad at an individual level. We have assured such persons that the party has a large landscape to accommodate every member.

However, to assure every member of social justice, we have in place the convention appeal committee handling all issues arising from the convention and, the committee is effectively handling that.

Let me also make this clear, nobody has told us that he is leaving the party and, for your information, no true democrat with a true sense of patriotism and concern for Nigeria will ever contemplate leaving APC for another political party.

And if you see anyone leaving, he must have realized that, APC is not the party for personal or selfish antics. This is a party that is into bond for change with Nigerians; we will not compromise this stand and, political jokers will have no space here to actualize selfish ambitions.

But again, the doors of the party are wide open to every Nigerian who shares the same commitment and passion to change and transform Nigeria for good.

Your sitting governor in Ekiti lost the governorship election and conceded defeat. Does that not send warning signals?

If you listened carefully to the governor, he said “if that was the wish of Ekiti people so be it” and he conceded in realization of possible conflicts that may follow if he disagrees with the result of the election.

You see the mass deployment of security personnel in the Ekiti election in which members of our party were harassed and intimidated leaves much to be desired.

We have always urged security agencies to maintain neutral stand; they must avoid actions that portray them as partisan and supporting a particular political party.

They should promote a level playing ground for all parties and abide by the rules of engagement to safeguard the image of security organizations and the country.

Our experience in the Ekiti election has made it necessary that the security authorities must check their men against repeat of such unfortunate intimidation in future elections.

Now, in spite of all these, the outgoing governor and APC candidate conceded defeat and congratulated the PDP candidate. This is a new page in the history of Nigerian politics.

This action must be commended and emulated

by PDP. We equally expect the presidency and PDP to concede and congratulate us when we defeat them in 2015.

Wisdom is not like money to be tied up and hidden. ~ Akan proverb

56 INTERVIEW

July 11, 2014

‘Nigeria Belongs To States, Not Federal Government’ Dr. Pius Tabi Tawo, a former economist with the Central Bank of Nigeria, and currently a delegate at the on-going national conference, is a member of the Committee on Economy, Trade and Investment. In this interview with reporters in Abuja at the weekend, Tawo defends the controversial resolutions of the confab and called on President Jonathan to put the resolutions of the conference before Nigerians through a referendum rather than submit them to the National Assembly. ONUKOGU KANAYO JUBAL was there for LEADERSHIP FRIDAY. Why is the national conference recommending the creation of 19 new states when the federation can hardly sustain the already existing 36 states?

Nigeria as currently structured, is not working. Nigeria does not seem to have the political and structural architecture to deliver employment, security and a strong economy. Things have gone wrong fundamentally. The whole idea of restructuring is to rejig and re-engineer the country, to rearrange so that public goods – such as security, welfare and infrastructure, amongst others – can be more efficiently delivered.

All kinds of options would have been examined. You know when you come to a national conference, you come with ideas because it is a market place of ideas and your ideas must compete with those of others. Having put these ideas side by side, we have recommended that the creation of more states will be better for Nigeria, so that both the new and old states can constitute the federating units.

The conference is also calling for autonomy of local governments. Why is that so?

What our founding fathers negotiated and agreed was to establish a ‘federal’ Nigeria but because of military intervention and a couple of other political conspiracies, that political contract by our founding fathers was seriously undermined. All we are doing is to try as much as possible to return Nigeria to the political status quo ante. The regions were the federating units but now, because we spent such a long time with states, the states will now be the federating units.

Local governments are not and cannot be federating units. We are returning local governance to what it is logically supposed to be. So, we’ve not done anything terrible; we’ve proposed to rearrange the country in such a way as to be consistent with the principles of federalism, to be consistent with what our founding fathers agreed and to have the gear that can deliver development. The local government is too far from the centre.

The centre cannot be more enthusiastic

about our local development than we are; their intentions cannot be superior to the intentions of the state.

The federal government owns no territory except Abuja. So, in a federal structure, the federal government owns no territory. The territory of Nigeria belongs to the states who are the Nigerian partners. We are returning Nigeria to that status, and that is the type of gearing that will make Nigeria more politically, more economically and more strategically efficient. Note that this efficiency we seek is efficiency for everybody; efficiency that will create prosperity and stability for everybody. It is a win-win package we are giving to Nigerians.

Currently, there’s so much hue and cry about local government/state government Joint accounts. What mechanism is the conference putting in place by recommending that local governments be left to the states?

We are recommending the setting up of the equivalent of what we have at the centre – the Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Allocation Commission (RMFAC) – for the states. That is what has been approved by the plenary. It is to be structured in such a way that even when you have an irresponsible governor, it will be impossible for him to misbehave. So, we have to be committed to building institutions. Once we are committed to building institutions – even those that are not efficient – they will grow. Governance will become more and more committed to ensuring that the local governments are well taken care of and the local government politicians and elite will begin to assert themselves more and more.

That done, those who are not necessarily in the states but who come from local governments, of course, will have a responsibility to encourage our politicians, our elite and our traditional rulers to assert themselves more, not confrontationally, but to begin to enjoy their share of equity, so that the local governments will develop and the states will develop as well.

Tawo Reports in the media suggest that there is great degree of suspicion between northern and southern delegates of the national conference.

What’s the true situation?

It is not really suspicion. We have been trying to understand ourselves more and we are building bridges as we go along.

We have our responsibility on all sides to explain ourselves more. It is not easy to change. Our duty, whether as southerners or northerners, is to explain each other’s position more clearly, with logic and facts. More so, we listen attentively to each other.

Considering that resolutions of the conference will be submitted to the National Assembly, what gives conference delegates the confidence that your resolutions will be implemented?

Let’s wait till after our debates and resolutions are done. We are going to discuss the processes and what will happen with our resolutions. Our conclusions will have three components: policy issues, issues requiring fresh legislation and constitutional issues. Those are the three components we are discussing.

Also, we have defined steps we must take to advance our conclusions and resolutions to law, policy and constitutionalise some. Now that we have made all these recommendations, what next? How can you move them from this level to the level of implementation? How can you make them law, policy or [a part of the] constitution?

Will the conference consider the use of a referendum in its discussions?

Referendum is one of the options which we’ll be looking at. Many of us believe that we should have a new constitution, and that it doesn’t take more than a week

Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.

— Akan proverb

The federal government owns no territory except Abuja. So, in a federal structure, the federal government owns no territory. The territory of Nigeria belongs to the states who are the Nigerian partners. to create a new one which will be subjected to a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote. We don’t need a law for a referendum to hold. Referendum is an international practice. When the people vote on a referendum question, it is superior to any other legal approval. This is what my ideological group is proposing.

We need to love our country. All over the world, democratic regimes seem to be doing relatively better than regimes that are not. If you want to develop, you know the things to do; just do the right things because the path to development is clear.

A big liability which Nigeria suffers from is the fact that we have not subscribed to the ethics and the steps that should drive us to development. There are some development drivers we must adopt. Once we adopt these development drivers we’ll get there. Many Nigerians are very frustrated at the stubbornness of the Nigerian political elite and the immorality of the elite who do not want to give Nigeria the chance to develop.

Can you give an insight to the type of Nigeria we should be looking forward to should the recommendations of the conference be implemented?

A more stable, more secure and more functional Nigeria.

57

online

reactions

11/07/2014

Adamawa Impeachment: I Have No Plans To Resign – Nyako Bulus Bello You have two options, you either resign or you will be impeached.

Wakil Jajere Why seek the devil’s help?

Mohammed Kabir Laden GEJ imposed Nyako on us in 2011; we have now vowed to reject him.

Stephen Aminu Garkuwa Please, tender your resignation!

Nyako

Nigeria Tops Countries Most Plagued By Oil Theft – Report

Suleiman Yusuf According to President Goodluck Jonathan, it is mere stealing and nothing serious.

That report must be false!

Sunday Simeon Ogunyemi Blessed Is it oil theft alone? What about human theft; financial theft; treasury theft; brain theft; car theft; knowledge theft and property theft?

We need divine help in this country.

Gbenga Idowu Adeyemi It is part of Jonathan’s transformation agenda. The international community will be surprised how oil theft will transform Nigeria.

Shehu Malami Isah Fresh air thieves!

Uduak Ekong The ‘President of Adamawa’ is now begging the President of Nigeria. I am so sorry for him; the way he was talking earlier, I thought they were equals!

Audi Laminga Has anyone asked you to resign? Your tenure will end next year, so be calm.

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Jonathan Nominates Chidoka As Minister

Shekarau Emerges Education Minister Abdullahi Nuhu Jamo The President has appointed the right man for the job.

Shekarau is a competent hand and, will, no doubt, turn things around in the education sector.

May Allah give him the wisdom to resolve the indefinite strike

by ASUP and COEASU. Aniekan Umana Does it mean that we have no sound and fresh educated men and women in this country to head the education sector?

Jonathan

Temple Edem I know, Jonathan, by his nature, will forgive him.

Keep up with updates on these stories @ www.leadership.ng

Why must we be recycling old and tired bones for the job, all in the name of politics?

EFCC Closes Case Against Fani-Kayode

Habbat Yahya Again, President Jonathan has failed to appoint Minister of Aviation.

Imamu Usman Alto May Almighty Allah see you through and give you the courage to uplift northern states that are educationally backward.

Shekarau

‘Top Politicians’ ID Cards, Party Materials Found In Boko Haram Camp’ Slimton Saint Ceeman Display the ID cards for us to see. If you arrest ordinary Boko Haram members, you will parade them, but when you have anything implicating the high and mighty, you keep it secret; why?

Odoma Edegbo Who are these politicians?

Reveal their identities and let them face the wrath of the law.

Ade Adebare It is all propaganda; they are just trying to implicate some innocent Nigerians.

Ochong Onahi Job Nigerians of yesterday are

not Nigerians of today, no one should use security agencies to blackmail the opposition. God has opened our eyes to see who the real Boko Haram members are.

Imran Love The story doesn’t make sense to me. When 8 squatters were brutally killed in Apo, Abuja by security operatives, they immediately blacklisted them as Boko Haram, in order to cover up their ungodly act.

Ekene Nnorom Why are they sounding like they have arrested Shekau?

Can you imagine? What is in ID cards. They should

tell us the identities of the politicians and stop playing politics with the lives of innocent Nigerians.

Bukar Mohammed Girgiri Late Azazi said it all, when he identified PDP as the sponsor of Boko Haram.

Chika Nelson ID cards can be forged; that is not an issue at all. There is no reason why a sponsor of Boko Haram will be careless with his identity.

Tukur Garba Akla Gunda And before we know it, the federal government will say those ID cards belong to members of the opposition.

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world news REPORTS AND ANALYSIS OF GLOBAL EVENTS AND ISSUES July 11, 2014

Russia Wins Backing For Ukraine Truce Call The leaders of France and Germany have backed Russia by calling for a new ceasefire in eastern Ukraine but told Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, to prevent separatist fighters and arms from crossing the border into Ukraine.

French President Francois Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel told Putin on Thursday that it was important to reach a political solution quickly in the three-month-old conflict between government forces and

separatists in the country’s east.

In a three-way telephone conversation, they asked Putin to “exert all necessary pressure” on the separatists and to take “the concrete measures required to control the Russia-Ukraine border”, Hollande’s office said in a statement.

Russia denies accusations by Ukraine and Western governments that it has worsened the conflict by allowing fighters and weaponry to move freely into eastern Ukraine

from Russia.

The Kremlin said in a statement that the three heads of state supported “a swift renewal of the ceasefire and a meeting of the contact group” on resolving the crisis.

The three leaders have had regular phone conversations on the conflict. They will also soon hold talks with Petro Poroshenko, the Ukrainian president, Hollande’s office said.

—Al Jazeera

Ukrainian nationalists calling for the continuation of the fight against separatists, yesterday.

Nigeria, Germany Hold Bi-National Meeting To Deepen Cooperation

By Ugochukwu Iroka, Abuja Security, terrorism and the 2015 general elections were some of the issues discussed during the third session of the Political Consultations Working Group of the Nigeria- Germany Bi- National Commission, held in Abuja yesterday.

Speaking during the opening session of the meeting, Permanent Secretary for the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Dr Martin Uhomoibhi who Co- chaired the meeting on behalf of Nigeria said that the meeting was timely as it provided an opportunity to reveal to the international community, the preparations being made by the government, electoral agents and stakeholders to ensure that the 2015 elections are ‘excellent, free, fair and credible.’

He however noted that the input of the international community, making up for any lapses, would play an important role if the desired results are to be achieved.

Leader of the German delegation and co-chair of the meeting,

L-R: German Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr Markus Ederer and Permanent Secretary for the Nigerian Minsitry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Martin Uhomoibhi exchanging gifts at the end of the BNC meeting in Abuja, yesterday.

Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr Markus Ederer stated that Nigeria was a ‘key player in the continent, key player both regionally and globally for developing the future.’

A communiqué issued at the end of the meeting revealed that the German government agreed to

support and collaborate with Nigeria in the areas of intelligence, Police and Military training, Crisis prevention and Management and control of small arms and light weapons in addition to terrorism financing through capacity building and exchange of information.

One of the main issues to be

India’s New Government Unveils Reform Budget

By Chinelo Chikelu, Abuja

India’s new government has unveiled a budget it said can revive growth after the longest slowdown in a quarter of a century even while curbing borrowing.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley pledged on Thursday to adhere to the “daunting” budget deficit target - of 4.1 percent of gross domestic product for this fiscal year - that the government inherited from its predecessor.

“Fiscal prudence is of paramount importance. We cannot leave behind a legacy of debt for our future generations,” Jaitley said.

He said that the budget deficit would be reduced to 3.6 percent in the following two fiscal years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, in office for less than two months, said that it would raise caps on foreign investment in the defence and insurance sectors, and launch a tax reform to unify India’s 29 federal states into a common market.

Limits on foreign investment in defence and insurance ventures have been raised to 49 percent and 26 percent respectively.

Delivering his maiden budget, the finance minister told parliament that India’s 1.2 billion peo-

ple were “exasperated” after two years of economic growth below five percent.

The finance minister outlined the broad strokes of the plan, which he said would be a departure from the “mere populism and wasteful expenditure” that has dragged down Asia’s third-largest economy.

He said that the government would overhaul subsidies to be “more targeted” but gave no details.

Modi, 63, won a landslide general election victory in May with a pledge to create jobs for the 1 million people who enter India’s workforce every month.

discussed at the meeting, according to a statement released by the German Foreign minister, Frank-Walter Steinmeier last month was the welfare of the victims of the Boko Haram insurgents and while fielding questions from journalists at the end of the meeting, Dr Ederer stated that talks were still on-going with stakeholders.

Also discussed at the meeting was the issue of minority rights.

There was particular reference to same sex and noted the cultural and emotional underpinnings involved in the issue and agreed on the imperative to defend minority rights within the ambit of the law and international obligations.

Both countries deliberated extensively on Regional security issues particularly the flash points of the West Africa sub region and Dr Uhomoibhi, during his closing remarks stressed the importance of including the ECOWAS in the conversation about terror stating that ‘the battle against terror will benefit from a regional concerted effort.’

88

More than 88 people have now been confirmed killed and about 600 injured by Israeli strikes on the Gaza strip

10

A court in Myanmar sentenced four reporters and the chief executive officer of a magazine to 10 years of hard labour in prison

Germany Expels CIA Official In US Spy Row The German government has ordered the expulsion of a CIA official in Berlin in response to two cases of alleged spying by the US. The official is said to have acted as a CIA contact at the US embassy, reports say, in a scandal that has infuriated German politicians.

A German intelligence official was arrested last week on suspicion of spying.

An inquiry has also begun into a German defence ministry worker, reports said.

“The representative of the US intelligence services at the embassy of the United States of America has been told to leave Germany,” government spokesman Steffen Seibert said.

The chairman of the Bundestag (parliament) committee overseeing the secret service said the action had been taken because of America’s spying on German politicians and its failure to co-operate and provide adequate responses.

The US has not denied allegations that a German intelligence agency employee arrested last week was passing secret documents to the US National Security Agency (NSA).

However, the latest reports that an employee within the defence ministry was also spying for the US were considered more serious. Although no arrest was made, searches were carried out on Wednesday at the ministry and elsewhere.

The US and Germany have been close allies for decades but relations were hit last year when it emerged that Chancellor Angela Merkel’s mobile phone had been monitored by the NSA. The White House declined to comment on the matter but said the security and intelligence relationship with Germany “is a very important one and keeps Germans and Americans safe”.

—BBC

I now know that I learn by solving problems as they arise. Rarely do we learn significant lessons, or significantly improve, any other way. Rob Parsons, American Entrepreneur

NEWS NATIONAL / 59

July 11, 2014

Osun Launches N4bn Empowerment Scheme

By Joshua Dada, Osogbo

In his continued effort to make life more meaningful for the people, the governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has launched a N4billion micro-credit scheme for the operators of small scale businesses.

The governor also distributed 40 minibuses (Korope) to transporters at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park in Osogbo at the commissioning ceremony of Osun Micro Credit Agency through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Co-operatives and Empowerment.

The elated transporters confessed that the state government’s efforts in purchasing the buses and tarring the roads have solved commuting problems for the people.

Speaking at the occasion, the governor said the welfare, security and empowerment of the people are the primary responsibilities of a good government.

He averred that any government that brings hardship rather than succour to the people is a devilish government.

According to Aregbesola, since the inception of his administration, he has pursued welfare, peace, progress and development of the people of the state.

“Our own way of serving our people and showing our gratitude to them is not by sharing money which they will spend within a very short time. Rather, what we do is to give them the means and capacity to be able to make money by themselves and for themselves. In other words, we empower our people to be economically productive and financially independent.

“In this way, we tell our people certain things about us: that we are a government of responsibility, accountability and transparency,” he said.

The governor of Lagos State, Mr Babatunde Fashola who graced the occasion said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a party of the masses and will at no time consider any policy that will be against the people.

Congress Decides Our Resumption – ASUU/LASU

BY Taiwo Ogunmola Omilani, Lagos

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Lagos State University chapter has said that its ongoing strike remains until the institution’s Congress decides otherwise.

This was disclosed yesterday by the chairman of the union, Dr Adekunle Idris.

He said, “The Exco of our union had a meeting with the Appointments and Promotions (Academic) Committee and the university administration on Wednesday, July 2, 2014 which resulted in some resolutions.

“As directed by Congress, the resolutions have been forwarded to the Governing Council (our employers) for ratification/consent. Thereafter, Congress will meet to review the ongoing strike action. Until then, academic staff in Lagos State University remain on a total, comprehensive and indefinite strike action.”

Nigerian Union of Pensioners protesting over non payment of their pension at the front of National Assembly gate, Abuja, yesterday.

PHOTO BY OYEDELE OMOKAGBO.

Party Supporters Besiege Shekarau’s Inauguration As Shekarau takes charge of education ministry

By Kuni Tyessi, Abuja

Former governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau, yesterday took over the affairs of the Federal Ministry of Education, pledging to work with all stakeholders to move the sector forward.

Shekarau was received by the minister of state for education, Nyesom Wike.

His inauguration, however, took a political dimension as hundreds of party supporters besieged the ministry to usher

him into office.

At a brief inaugural ceremony at about 9.30am, Shekarau thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for the opportunity given to him to pilot the affairs of the education sector in Nigeria.

Addressing his supporters in Hausa language, he sought their prayers for success in executing his new assignment.

Shekarau’s initial challenge would be how to end the strike by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) which has lingered for over 10 months.

Shekarau would also be expected to consolidate some of the achievements recorded in the education sector, especially in infrastrutural development, including prevailing on state governments which are yet to access over N53billion for basic education delivery in Nigeria, under the purview of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to do so.

Wike expressed willingness to work as a team with the new minister to develop the sector.

The new minister later held a meeting with the management staff of the ministry where he sought their cooperation.

Jonathan Is Subverting Democracy – Lai Mohammed

By Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

The national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Lai Mohammed, yesterday accused President Goodluck Jonathan of destroying democratic institutions and subverting the nation’s hard-earned democracy.

Speaking to newsmen at his Oro country home in Kwara State shortly after his annual Ramadan Lecture, Mohammed also accused Jonathan of being the na-

tion’s number one enemy.

He lamented that the president has formed the habit of deploying armed soldiers to deal with political situations.

He cited the recent siege laid on the residence of the acting chief judge of Adamawa State by the soldiers, deployment of soldiers for Ekiti State governorship election and the protection being given to minority lawmakers in Rivers and Edo states as examples of the president’s impunity.

Warning that there might not be free

and fair elections in 2015 if the trend continues, Mohammed said, “All we are asking for is a level playing field for all parties. But this is a country where the office of a Chief Judge is taken over and people are not allowed to see him. In Edo, seven lawmakers are being supported against the majority.

In Rivers State, five lawmakers in minority are being supported to remove the governor. All we are saying is that President Jonathan should tread gently and allow our nascent democracy to grow”.

Jos Twin Bomb Blasts: Plateau To Pull Down JMDB Shopping Complex

By ACHOR ABIMAJE, Jos

Plateau State government has said that the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) shopping complex along Murtala Mohammed Way, Jos is unsafe for business and as such, will be pulled down.

LEADERSHIP Friday recalled that the twin bomb blasts of May 20 killed over 100 persons at the Terminus Market, as

a result of which the state government came up with measures aimed at ensuring safety.

The state commissioner for information and communication, Barrister Olivia Dazyem, while addressing newsmen in Jos yesterday, said “A task force has been inaugurated by the state police commissioner to enforce the ban on illegal trading, hawking, illegal motor parks,

Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever Walt Disney, founder and CEO of the Walt Disney Company

indiscriminate parking of vehicles and operation of commercial motorcycles in the Jos City Centre.

She added that the state government is concerned about the safety of its citizens, stressing that all the security measures taken are in no way punitive but aimed at ensuring public safety, sanity, economic prosperity and the general wellbeing of the people.

60 NEWS NATIONAL Judicial Workers Begin Nationwide Strike Over Autonomy Today

By Michael Oche, Abuja

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) has directed its members to shut down all courts in the country with the exception of federal courts for the failure of state governments to implement the judgement of the Federal High Court on the financial autonomy of state judiciaries.

The directive is to take effect from today after the union said it had exhausted all possible means to ensure that state governments respect the court judgement.

In a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee of the union, the union also said federal judiciary workers would soon join the strike action in solidarity.

The communique which was jointly signed by the national president of the union, Comrade Marwan Mustapha Adamu and the general secretary, Comrade Isaiah Adetola, also disclosed that the national secretariat of the union has also taken over the industrial dispute embarked upon by the Rivers State JUSUN recently over leadership crisis.

July 11, 2014

IGP Commends Aregbesola, Receives 20 APCs For Osun Command

By Joshua Dada, Osogbo

The Osun State government yesterday fulfilled its promise to further equip the state police command with additional 20 sophisticated Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).

This was just as the governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, expressed displeasure over what he called the federal government’s penchant for playing politics with crucial security matters.

Aregbesola had appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to separate politics from the issue of security by granting the

state a short code for its emergency centre.

The governor read the riot act to criminals and agents of violence to steer clear of the state or face the full wrath of the law as the governorship election approaches.

He said these during the launch and handing over of 20 sophisticated Armoured Personnel Carriers worth N1.3billion to the Osun Police Command in Osogbo.

The governor said that when government fails to guarantee the safety of lives and property, such government has no business in power.

Aregbesola stated that security, safety and the welfare of the people are the primary responsibilities of any government as enshrined in the nation’s constitution.

He said that since his first day in office, he warned his party members and the people that there would be no room for infraction of law and that people should refrain from using their previous experience to persecute their political opponents.

“Politics should not be mingled with security, because security does not know religion, party affiliation or ethnicity.

Kano LG Election: Court Delivers Judgement July 16

By Abubakar Salihi, Kano

Kano State Election Petitions Tribunal presided over by Chief Magistrate Aminu Yusuf Waziri has slated July 16, 2014 to deliver its ruling on the preliminary objection filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), praying the tribunal to strike out the petitions filed

by PDP challenging the poll of the six local government chairmen returned by the state electoral body, KANSIEC. When the petitions came up in separate proceedings before the tribunal, counsels to the respondents, Barristers Ibrahim Waru and Mishelia Duru urged the tribunal to strike out the petitions for being grossly incompetent.

Adumbrating on the applications of preliminary objection, Barrister Waru argued that the petition filed by the PDP was status barred, alleging that the petitions were not filed within 14 days from the day of election declaration by the electoral body as ordered by the decision of the Court of Appeal.

In their 7-paragraph affidavit, Barrister Ibrahim Waru argued that the petitioners filed their grievances at the tribunal’s registry on May 13th, 2014.

L-R: President, Campaign for Democracy, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, Executive Director, WARDC, Dr Abiola Akiode-Afolabi, Secretary, Adeyemi College of Education Alumni Association, Lagos Chapter, Dr Ademola Azeez, Professor, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor USA, Dr Omolade Adunbi and a close associate of late Aturu, Abiodun Famoro, at the residence of Late Bamidele Aturu, yesterday. PHOTO BY BENEDICT UWALAKA.

Reps Wade Into UNIABUJA VC Appointment Crisis

By Edegbe Odemwingie and Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate the roles played by the Governing Council of the University of Abuja in the recent recruitment of its vice chancellor.

The council had on June 30, 2014, approved the appointment of Prof Michael U. Adikwu as the new VC.

Coming under matters of urgent national importance, Hon Pally Iriase informed the lawmakers at yesterday’s plenary that Adikwu’s appointment was fast assuming a dangerous ethno-religious coloration and could trigger conflict in the university.

Iriase (Edo/APC) told the House that opponents of Adikwu’s appointment were protesting the alleged injustice, discrimination and unfairness in the processes leading to the appointment.

He said the first and second placed

candidates who scored over 80 per cent and 70 per cent respectively were dropped to pave way for Adikwu who scored a little above 60 per cent.

“Unless steps are taken to courageously address the discontentment in the University of Abuja community, the matter may lead to avoidable unrest,” Iriase warned.

The motion was unanimously adopted by the House and the ad hoc committee when constituted is to report its findings and recommendations within seven days.

Glo Signs Oke ‘Badan Festival Sponsorship Pact

BY Millie Ibe, Abuja

Oke ‘Badan, the age long festival of unity celebrated annually by Ibadan indigenes, has received a major boost as Nigeria’s indigenous telecommunications operator, Globacom, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the organisers of the festival to sponsor the festival.

Globacom, speaking through its zonal

business coordinator (West), Mr Dare Oyewale, said the company is proud to associate with Oke ‘Badan Festival because it serves as a reminder of the historical antecedents of Ibadan people.

“This collaboration with the Ibadan people will further strengthen the festival and turn it to a world-class event which will attract tourists from across the world.

“It is our belief that this partnership will further foster a symbiotic relationship

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which will bring immense benefits to both Globacom and Ibadan land,” he said.

He described the festival as a social pot where all divergent issues affecting the lives of the people in the community are melted, where the sons and daughters of Ibadan land both home and abroad consider themselves as brothers and sisters as well as a cornerstone for the development of the community socially, politically and economically.

NEWS NATIONAL / 61

July 11, 2014

Senator Hails Jonathan’s Reappointment Of NEMA Boss By paul chiama, Abuja

Senator Hassan Mohammed Gusau, who represented Zamfara Central in the Sixth Senate, has praised President Goodluck Jonathan for his approval of a second term for the director general of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Alhaji Muhammad Sani Sidi.

Speaking to a group of journalists in Abuja yesterday, Senator Gusau said the re-appointment is “clearly a reward for exceptional performance by Sani Sidi during his first term in office as head of the National Emergency Management Agency.”

He said, “In the last four years, NEMA has gradually been transformed into a modern emergency management body because as head of the agency, Sani Sidi successfully improved the emergency resilience and preparedness capacity of NEMA, in line with global best practices.”

The senator recalled the performance of the agency during the 2012 flood disaster that affected almost all parts of the country, noting that, “That big challenge was efficiently handled by NEMA, which provided the needed assistance to victims all over the country.

“It is under the leadership of Sani Sidi that NEMA achieved its present level of sophistication as the agency now has the capacity to provide immediate relief to victims. NEMA now has ambulances, helicopters, and air ambulance for the purpose of managing emergency situations.

These are laudable achievements that obviously won the DG a second term in office.”

Gusau also said the re-appointment of the NEMA boss will further improve the agency and make it more focused to deliver efficient services to Nigerians in fulfilment of the transformation agenda of the Jonathan administration.

NEPAD Needs More Financing To Impact On Africa – Njeze

BY Onukogu Kanayo Jubai, Abuja

If the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) is ever going to make any impact on Africa, it has to be funded adequately and without reserve.

This position was made known by the special adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on NEPAD and Nigeria’s ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Fidelia Njeze.

Njeze, who was speaking at a stakeholders’ retreat organised by the NEPAD at the Bolingo Hotel and Towers, Abuja on Wednesday, called on the public and private sectors to key into the partnership’s dream and provide adequate funding for its activities.

“This is the only way to reposition NEPAD Nigeria for effective implementation of its mandate, which primarily, is the mainstreaming and domestication of the continental agenda into national priorities by collaborating with relevant stakeholders to improve the welfare of Nigerians. We cannot perform these arduous tasks in isolation, but in close collaboration with stakeholders,” Njeze said.

L-R: Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori, founder, Living Faith Church (aka Winners Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and his wife, Sherifat, during the Bishop’s visit to the governor in Government House, Osogbo, on Wednesday. PHOTO BY GOVERNMENT HOUSE.

Kwankwaso Berates Confab Delegates For Succumbing To Jonathan’s Ulterior Motives

By Abubakar Salihi, Kano

Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has berated the national confab delegates for agreeing with the five per cent increase in revenue derivation to oil producing states.

In an interview with newsmen in his office yesterday, Governor Kwankwaso condemned President Jonathan’s ulterior motive to use the confab to achieve his personal goal of pleasing his region.

Kwankwaso accused northern delegates of not speaking with the voice of the people they represent, saying

they instead succumbed to the federal government’s ill-conceived demands.

He expressed concern that some delegates are weak and cannot perform well at the confab.

The Kano governor stated that there are multiple ways oil producing states are making big money from the federal government, such as royalty, SURE-P and NDDC but have nothing to show for it.

Kwankwaso said that whoever endorsed such arrangement of increasing revenue derivation to states that already have enough either does not understand the issues at stake or

has ulterior agenda to kill the country.

He blamed the federal government for playing to the gallery, saying all of such ulterior motives of Mr President are the root causes of insecurity in the country.

Kwankwaso regretted that instead of the northern delegates to discuss the agenda agreed upon before they were sent, which is onshore/offshore, they went ahead to deliberate on the demands of oil producing states.

He called on delegates at the conference to deliberate on the fact that northern states need better attention to fight desertification, poverty and insecurity.

Court Strikes Out Omisore’s Suit Against Aregbesola, Others

By JOSHUA DADA, Osogbo

A High Court sitting in Osogbo yesterday struck out a suit filed by the gubernatorial aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the August 9 governorship election in Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore against Governor Rauf Aregbesola and two others.

Omisore had dragged Aregbesola to court over the constitution of a Standing Commission of Inquiry on Disturbance of Public Peace that he inaugurated on 15th May, 2014.

He had approached the court to declare

the action of the governor illegal, contending that the commission was inaugurated to witch-hunt him in particular, owing to the widely reported fracas involving him and a former governor of Osun State, Senator Isiaka Adeleke.

Senator Adeleke had alleged that he was assaulted by Omisore and others at a hotel this year.

But the court in its ruling held that under the 1999 constitution as amended as well as extant law (s) of the state, specifically the Commission of Inquiry Law 2002, the governor has an unfettered statutory power to institute a Commission of Inqui-

ry into any matter in the state as he may deem necessary and that the claims of the plaintiffs are at best speculatory.

The presiding judge, Justice Akin Oladimeji went further to state that the plaintiffs in one breath agreed that the governor of the state, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola has the power, as conferred by law, to inaugurate the commission being complained against, and in another breath asked the court to restrain the said commission from performing her duties as constituted.

Consequently, the action failed and was struck out for lacking merit and being of no moment in law.

Sam4Nigeria Appoints Media Aides

By Abah Adah, Abuja

In preparation for the electioneering campaigns for the 2015 general elections, the Sam4Nigeria Campaign Organisation has announced the appointments of two me-

dia assistants. They are Isa Tela Danmusa as Media Assistant (Hausa) and Bashir Ahmed as Media Assistant (Social Media, Hausa).

A statement released by the group said the two new appointees are to work with the Director (Media and Publicity), Sam-

Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever Walt Disney, founder and CEO of the Walt Disney Company

4Nigeria Campaign Organisation, Macauley Hunohashi.

The Sam4Nigeria Campaign Organisation last week announced the appointment of Macauley Hunohashi, a veteran journalist as its Director (Media and Publicity).

62 NEWS NATIONAL

July 11, 2014

APC Leaders Meet In Osun To Discuss Ekiti, Osun Guber Poll

BY JOSHUA DADA, Osogbo

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Wednesday night converged on Osogbo, the Osun State capital, where issues affecting the fortunes of the party in the South West were reportedly discussed.

The meeting that lasted till the early hours yesterday had in attendance the Deputy National Chairman of the party, Engr Segun Oni, Senator Chris Ngige, Senator Babatunde Ojudu and Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

Also in attendance were Governors Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, Rotimi Amaechi

(Rivers) and Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State.

Although the meeting was held behind closed doors, it was learnt that the meeting was called to discuss issues such as the last governorship election in Ekiti State.

Other issues reportedly discussed at the meeting include the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State and the impeachment saga of Governor Muritala Nyako of Adamawa State However, none of the governors at the meeting spoke with newsmen at the end of the meeting as they all declined to comment on the questions posed to them by journalists. But, the National Deputy

Chairman (South) of the party, Engr.

Segun Oni informed that the APC leaders came to strategies on the forth coming governorship election in Osun.

According to him, the meeting also resolved to challenge the result of the June 21 Governorship election in Ekiti state before the court and prevent a repeat of the Ekiti scenario in the state.

He said “what happened in Ekiti state was a new dimension to election rigging in Nigeria. We are therefore ready to challenge the Ekiti election result in court.”

Oni maintained that the result of the election in Ekiti state did not reflect the wishes of the people of the state.

APC Out To Bring Nigeria To Its Knees – PDP

BY CHIBUZO UKAIBE, Abuja

The political tango between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) notched up yesterday as the PDP accused the APC of not minding to grind the country to a halt in its quest for power.

The PDP was reacting to a statement of APC on Wednesday, accusing President Jonathan of impunity and failure.

PDP said the outburst by the APC was as a desperate effusion of noise, fury and falsehood which are the unmasked trademark of the Nigerian equivalent of the

ancient “ Athenian thirty tyrants” who would not mind the nation on its knees in quest for power.

“The APC is trading in its best merchandise - falsehood, deceit, blackmail, sheer pernicious propaganda. This political party, the APC is the centrifuge of violence in Nigeria, and like the “ thirty tyrants “ in the ancient Athen, is desperately looking for excuses to truncate democracy and ruin our collective destiny but Nigerians are not ready to dig in with them.”

A statement by the national publicity secretary of the PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh, said that it was on record that no administration in the recent history of Nige-

ria achieved in its first three years, up to what President Jonathan has so far achieved despite unprecedented security challenges.

“In the past three years , the Jonathan administration has squarely tackled massive infrastructural development with thousands of kilometers of federal roads and bridges either constructed, reconstructed or rehabilitated,” he said.

Various measures for air safety also took centre stage with the vast expansion and rehabilitation of facilities at all federal airports in a gale of efforts that changed the face of the nation’s aviation industry in less three years.”

‘Private Guards Crucial In Fighting Terrorism’

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A security expert and retried squadron leader, Dr. Ishaya Bawa, has opined that as Nigeria confronts the challenges posed by the Boko Haram, the role of private guards is crucial.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, after a meeting of the Telecom Workers Association of Nigeria, Bawa, who is also the chairman of the association stated that private guards are very tangential to the on-going crusade to combat terrorism and other forms of insurgency in the country, stating that” that private guards because of their mastery of their environment and capability of identifying strangers within their vicinity are important in the onerous campaign against insecurity.’

He added that, “Their indepth knowledge of the people, their peculiarities, behavior and close engagement have made them more capable in identifying strange persons, objects and happenings in their place of assignment,” he maintained.’

He urged the federal government and security agencies not to exclude the private guards companies in safe guarding the country.

The retired Air force officer pledged the willingness of the Telecom Security Workers Association of Nigeria, to support and collaborate with the federal government and security agencies in securing life and property in Ni-

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Only The Media Can Save Democracy – Mark

BY JONATHAN NDA-ISAIAH, Abuja

Senate President David Mark has underscored the inevitability of the media in the propagation and sustenance of democracy, saying that only the sector can save democracy.

“The role of the media is critical in any democracy. Nobody can underestimate or undermine the crucial role of the press. It is a huge responsibility that must be jealously guarded for the good of the society,” Senator Mark told a delegation of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) who visited him in his office in Abuja yesterday.

To this end, Senator Mark reminded the media of the principle of fairness , balance and objectivity in order to uphold public trust and confidence at all times.

He specifically told the NTA to, among other things, rise up to the challenges of modern broadcasting in order to be able to compete favourably in the dynamic and challenging world of the media.

Senator Mark noted that although NTA is a government owned Media outfit, it should not in the discharge of its duties ignore other aspects of the society if it must retain viewership.

Meawhile, a bill for an act to establish the Nigerian Peace Corp has scaled through first reading .When eventually passed into law, Nigeria will become the second country in the world to have established the peace corps.

Fayemi Alleges Manipulation Of June 21 Election

BY ALO ABIOLA, Ado-Ekiti

Wife of Ekiti State governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, yesterday said that the story of how the June 21 governorship election was allegedly manipulated against Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, would soon be revealed in due course.

Mrs Fayemi who stated this while delivering a keynote address at the 50th anniversary public lecture and award ceremony of the state chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), said events unfolding after election in the state suggested that the election was manipulated from ‘source.’

She said, “I would like to state that we have not heard the last about the election. Two weeks after the immediate confusion and hysteria of the June 21 elections, a picture has begun to emerge.

“In due course, the full and real story of how the Ekiti elections of June 21 were manipulated from source will be revealed. There are many implications of Ekiti people having voted the way they supposedly did.”

The theme of her address was “Women Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow – the Ekiti Experience.”

According her, many armchair analysts and commentators have opined that the electorate embraced patronage, popularly known as ‘stomach infrastructure’ as opposed to sustainable development during the last elections.

ISLAM / 63

July 11, 2014

Discourse with Sheikh Muhammad Mahmud Turi turimuhd@yahoo.com 07038199475 (text only)

Ramadhan Kareem: Lessons From Other Significant Historic Events In the name of Allah who states “Ramadan is the (month) In which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide To mankind, also clear (Signs) For guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong), So everyone of You Who is present (at his home) During that month should spend it in fasting …”

Q2: 185.

May the everlasting peace and blessings of Allah be upon His noble servant our master Muhammad and his purified progeny.

ASSESSING OUR FASTING As the Ramadan moves fast, I hope we should accelerate our activities seeking the pleasure of Allah the Most high. And as the popular saying goes assess yourself before you are assessed, each of us can appraise his or her activities geared toward the goal of fasting by now. Whatever the case, I strongly urge all of us to put more efforts in Qur’anic recitation, superogatory prayers, personal and general supplications and humanitarian services.

In our self and general assessment, we should never forget that the goal behind fasting is attainment of taqwa; piety or self - restraint. “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may learn self restraint (Al - taqwa)” Qur’an: 2:183.

This simply means that whoever does not achieve it in the end has really missed the goal and failed the spiritual training!

“O you who believe! Seek help with patient perseverance and prayer; for Allah is with those Who patiently persevere”. Q2:153.

So we must keep all the good forms of worship we do and extend our night prayers seeking Allah’s forgiveness and mercy for our humble selves, parents and beloved so that we may achieve salvation.

“When My servants ask thee concerning Me, I am indeed Close (to them); I respond To the prayer of every supplicant when he calleth on Me; Let them also, with a will listen to My call, And believe in Me; That they may walk in the right way” Q2: 186.

On the lessons from Tafseer and relevant sessions, we must make sure that we practice, as actions always speak louder.

The piece I of this week is on some Ramadhan historic events from which we have many lessons to learn; The prophet lost his beloved wife sayyidah Khadijah and compassionate Uncle Abi Talib, the father of the commander of the faithful. The year was generally known as the year of sorrow in Islamic history.

Sayyidah Khadijah was the first wife

of the noble messenger. She was a prominent lady known for her piety, compassion and generosity before revelation for which she was referred as the pure among other names. The prophet has related the success of Islam to her wealth, sword of Ali in defense of the religion and protection of Abi Talib!

In a hadeeth the prophet (s) said “the most superior women of paradise are Khadijah daughter of Khuwailid, Fatima daughter of Muhammad, Asiyah daughter of Muzahim and Maryam daughter of Imran” In another narration, he said; the best of all the women are four whom he named as Maryam daughter of Imran, Khadijah daughter of Khuwailid, Fatima daughter of Muhammad and Asiyah wife of Pharoah”.

A’isha, mother of the faithful reported “one day the messenger of Allah remembered Khadija (his deceased wife).

I disliked this and said she was old, she was such and such. Now Allah has provided you with a better wife. (She meant herself). He said; Allah has not provided me with a better wife. She believed in my prophet hood when others refused to believe in me, and she verified and supported my words when others contradicted them, and she placed her wealth at my disposal when others disappointed me.

Allah blessed me with children through her and not through any other wife” Istii’aab by bin Abdul Barr, with similar records by Bukhari and Muslim.

It was part of the boundless blessings that her daughter Fatima was highly elevated above all women in this Ummah “O my daughter! Are you not satisfied that you are the doyenne of the women of the world? She said: o father! What about Mary daughter of Imran (then)?

He said: she is the doyenne of the women of her world and you are the doyenne of the women of your world; I swear by Allah that I have married you to a master in life and the hereafter. Hilyat al - Auliya volume 2 page 42.

THE YEAR OF SORROW Sayyidah Khadija spent good fifteen years with noble messenger (s). And throughout their stay he did not marry anyone. In fact, Islamic scholars have expressed the logic of the marriages of the prophet on compassionate and political ground not any other reason! And all the verses that warned mothers of believers for one reason or the other were revealed after her.

“O consorts of the prophet! Ye are not like

any Of the (other) women if ye do fear (Allah) …” Q33:32.

“If the two of you turn to Allah (it is better) for both your hearts inclined. And if you aid one another against him, then surely Allah, Gabriel and the righteous among the believers are his helpers. And the angels after that are his supporters” Q66:4.

“If he (the prophet (s) divorces you his Lord may grant him in your place better wives than you –obedient, faithful, dutiful to Allah and His messenger, repentant for their sins, worshipful, observing fasts both widows and virgins” Q66: 5.

Allah said “O wives of the prophet and stay in your houses. Do not display yourself as the Jahiliyyah (people of ignorance) from before. Q33:33.

“And stay quietly in Your houses, and make not A dazzling display like that of the former times of ignorance” Ahzab: 33.

The prophet (s) has given sayyida Khadija glad tidings of Allah’s forgiveness and mercy in the hereafter!

Abu Talib on the other hand was the father of Ali. He believed in the noble prophet and gave him utmost protection even though the enemies of his son have rejected his faith. He also died in the same year as sayyida Khadija for which the noble messenger suffered a lot and named the year as mentioned. We will look at Islam of Abu Talib in our subsequent write – ups Insha’Allah.

THE WAR OF BADR “Assuredly Allah did help you In many battle – fields, And on the day of Hunain; Behold! Your great numbers Elated you, but they Availed you naught; the land. For all that it is wide, Did constrain you, and ye Turned back in retreat” Q9:25.

The battle of Badr was fought in the holy month of Ramadhan on the 19th.

Despite the fasting, the believers were

If you are ugly you must either learn to dance or have love.

faced with the persecution of the Meccan pagans under the leadership of Abu Sufyan. However Allah helped them with great victory killing seventy enemies and taking similar hostages! “O Prophet! Sufficient unto thee is Allah, and unto those Who follow thee Among the Believers” Q7”64.

No one could imagine success for the believers with their little number and few arms when the unbelievers have multiplied them more than three times and were fully armed to teeth!

“Remember ye implored The assistance of your Lord, And He answered you; I will assist you With a thousand of the angels, Ranks and ranks” Q8:9.

Allah has promised believers similar success forever provided they are steadfast and sincere in their faith!

BIRTH OF IMAM HASAN (AS) Birth of Imam Hasan al - Mujtaba (as) was of the historic events of this month.

The Imam was born on 15th Ramadhan, 3 years after hijra to the family of the noble prophet (s). His father was the commander of the faithful, Imam Ali son of Abi Talib and mother sayyida Fatima daughter of the noble prophet (s).

When the young Imam was born, the prophet (s) went to the house and took the baby in his blessed arms and recited Adhan and Iqama naming him al - Hasan!

The Imam was brought up under the patronage of his grandfather the prophet (s). However, The Imam was finally murdered on the orders of his father’s enemy as a martyr!

MARTYRDOM OF IMAM ALI (AS) Of the prominent historic events was the murder of the commander of the faithful, Imam Ali (as) by Mu’awiya’s tool, Ibn Muljim who fatally wounded the Imam with his poisoned sword on 21st Ramadan, 40 years after hijra while leading the Morning Prayer at Kufa. “And do not speak of those who are slain in Allah’s way as dead; nay (they are) alive, but you do not perceive” Q2:154.

Before his last breath, the Imam passed a lengthy will to his eldest son part of which; “… I advice you (both), all my children, members of my family and everyone whom my writing reaches to fear Allah, to keep your affairs in order and to maintain good relations among yourselves for I have heard grandfather (the holy prophet) saying; improvement of mutual differences is better than general prayers and fasting…”.

Wassalamu alaikum warahmatullah.

― Zimbabwean proverb

64 / TRIBUTE

July 11, 2014

By Williams Orji

Sam Egwu: A Statesman Comes Of Age On Saturday 12 July 2014, friends, wellwishers and political associates of the former governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Sam Egwu, will be gathering at his Ohaukwu home to celebrate a man many have described as a colossal politician, humanitarian and philanthropist, who will turn 60 years this on that day.

Amid happy cheers and best wishes from friends and family, Egwu has become so many inspiring things to so many different people - depending on the coin of vantage from which one evaluates him and his footprints. Indeed, a short, fleeting piece of this nature cannot do any justice to his towering stature. At best, it can only nibble away at the nectar.

Prior to his election as governor, Egwu was the choice of the people among all the front-runners to the exalted office and when the time came, he acquitted himself most creditably. He neither took the electorate for granted nor rest on his oars, despite the rumours going the rounds that he was poised to carry the day. Against the barrage of suggestions that he restricted his campaign only to certain sections of the country, he unfolded a massive campaign agenda and rigorously, sincerely took his campaign train to all the thirty-six States of the Federation, including Abuja.

Egwu has since vacated the office of governor to become, amongst a number of things, a minister of education and a delegate of the National Conference, but he has lost none of his dedication to development and his commitment to the welfare of the common man.

Egwu, from the get-go, is a manifest realist. Besides known as a bold statesman, he is easily seen in many quarters as level-headed. He has also by the same token, demonstrated a lack of desperation to grab power at all cost. He believes in playing by the rules and in the perfect Will of God. Strange as it may sound, Egwu is not one of those who believes that the platform of political offices/appointments is not needed to promote the cause of humanity. Perhaps, this accounts for the impact he has continued to make in his community, state and society in general even after leaving office as governor. His is a personification of the noble mind-set public office-holders should have. Egwu is a man whose example has shown that service to humanity should not flag.

Interestingly, Egwu is as upright as he is diligent. If you need a statesman who abhors straight-talk, engages in soggy underhanded game and plays full time to the gallery, Egwu is not such an one.

This is because his brand of politics sets

Egwu

store by openness and transparency, inclusiveness and principle. By now, perhaps everybody is well acquainted with his remarkable forgiving spirit, underscored by how he carried friends and foes along in his administration as governor. Those who know Egwu and are honest to stand by their convictions would attest to his being one of the few politicians from the South East that are agreeable to persons of diverse tempers and inclinations in their leadership style.

Matter of fact, Egwu has not done badly for sixty-year-old Nigerian poli-

NEWS NATIONAL

ID Card Policy Meant To Make Me Unpopular – Gov Okorocha

By Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri

Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo state yesterday at the International Conference Centre, Owerri stated that the controversial documentation of the northerners in the state was a calculated attempt by some politicians to make him unpopular in the north in his quest to pilot the affairs of the country.

He pointed out that the” pull him down” syndrome in the politics of the country would not solve the present problems confronting the nation.

According to him , the country is

faced with a more serious problem as insecurity and corruption and nobody cares to look at the ways to tackling it.

“They said I was registering northerners in my state ,they don’t know that it was my operation “know your neigbour” that averted the planted bomb in that church, people must know how to solve security problems, I have never asked for any registration.

“What is happening in the country today worries me , we have Boko Haram sects which is not up to 2000 chasing about one hundred and sixty million people including the governors and the president and we can not handle the

situation,” Okorocha said.

Okorocha advised that his strategy adopted by empowering royal fathers in his state in ending kidnapping would be Okorocha a good strategy to tackling the insurgency in the country.

Proposed Legislation To Limit Casual Work To 2years

By Edegbe Odemwingie, Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday passed for second reading a proposed law which will place a two-year limit to casual labour.

If passed into law, the legislation will provide that all employers “automatically” convert temporary employment of their staffers to permanent status after two years.

Leading debates on the general principle of the bill seeking to amend the

Labour Act, 2004, Hon. Emmanuel Jime(Benue/APC), said that the bill, if passed, would ensure that casual workers gets permanent employment after a time frame.

The lawmaker stressed that the bill was meant to address the rising incidence of casualisation of workers in the Country, “There is a clear violation of the rights of these casual workers, since they are not entitled to full benefits...This amendment has opened up the protection of

the Nigerian workers by way of a legal backing,” he said.

The bill, was however, opposed by Hon. Francis Enekorogha (Delta/PDP). He said if passed, the bill could create more problems in employer/employee contracts than solving the issue of casualisation.

The opposition not withstanding, the bill scaled second reading and the presiding Deputy Speaker, Emeka Ihedioha, referred it to the Committee on Labour and Productivity for more legislative input.

tician.

Part of the reason Egwu easily accommodates opponents in his system is because he is not greedy or rapacious.

If there are politicians who are not held down by artificial boundaries of ethnicity, religion and other narrow cleavages, Egwu would be named among the first.

Throughout his time as governor of Ebonyi State, he never discriminated against ‘non-indigenes’. He felicitously ran a system that was anchored upon popular participation. His free education and maternal healthcare programmes benefited all inhabitants of the state. He equally gave political appointments to all who were qualified – Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Niger Delta, etc. – and resident in the state.

It is also remarkable that Egwu matched his open-mindedness with kindness for all, regardless of his status and ethnicity. Indeed, Egwu does believe in the commonwealth of humanity; that what negatively affects a member of the family would, surely, set in some disequilibrium in society’s cohesion.

Not very many will be satisfied to be a pillar and an example for others, but Egwu is and it is further proof of the brand of contentment which comes with godliness.

— Orji is a staff of LEADERSHIP Newspapers Group

Enugu PDP Condemns Anglican Bishop Chukwuma’s Stand On Zoning

By Nnamdi Mbawike, Enugu

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Enugu State, has chided the Anglican Bishop of Enugu, Dr Emmanuel Chukwuma, over what it described as his meddlesomeness in the politics of the state.

The party asked Chukwuma to design a platform where he would field candidates of his choice to contest elections instead of criticising its zoning policy in the state.

This was even as the leader of the Nsukka Zonal Awareness Forum, NZAF, Chief James Ugwu, described Chukwuma’s comments as not only dangerous to the polity, but would be seen as an enemy by all good sons and daughters of Enugu State.

However, the state chairman of the PDP, Chief Vita Abba, who reacted to criticisms by Chukwuma over the zoning of the 2015 governorship position to Nsukka, dismissed the cleric’s comments. He said that everybody was entitled to his or her opinion but “ in our party, we have our own procedure to ensure equity and fair play while making choices for elections”.

Abba stated: “As far as the party is concerned, anyone who is talking about our zoning arrangement but is not a member of our party is making no point, it is an irrelevant comment.”

OPINION 65

July 11, 2014

A New Approach To Changing Perception About Nigeria

By Bonaventure Melah

One of the greatest challenges facing Nigerians is the way people of other nations see them and their country. Over the years and up till now, Nigerians travelling abroad are subjected to all manners of inhuman treatments by immigration, customs and other security agents from the countries they intend to visit whether for business, medical treatment or for leisure. Beginning from process of obtaining visa to frisking at airports and to hostility at the point of arrival, the Nigerian traveller faces unending nightmare. It does not matter your standing in the society, once you are identified as a Nigerian, you are marked suspect number one. So ministers, governors, industrialists and internationally recognised entertainers are not spared of humiliation.

And this happens in the United States of America as it is the same in Europe, Asia and even tiny African countries including those that are virtually feeding on Nigeria. The same hostility is meted on Nigerians seeking to do business with foreigners.

Although many Nigerians were and are still involved in series of criminal activities both at home and abroad, there are millions of Nigerians living in many countries of the world where they do legitimate businesses and contribute positively to the development of their host countries through

excellent services in the science, mathematics, medicine, educational research among others. In spite of the noble exploits of these Nigerians, what you hear instead from foreign media on daily basis on Nigeria is about fraud, corruption, bestiality, poverty, diseases, murder and human sacrifice.

Ali Mazrui, the cerebral award winning African first-grade writer has posited that history is the story we about ourselves.

And this is where Nigerians may have contributed to the stigma that they are forced to live with for decades now. Some socalled human rights groups, social critics and a section of the media in Nigeria have consistently painted the nation with tar in their quest to out- do even their teachers in the fight for what they call ‘freedom and democracy.’ Newspaper headlines in Nigeria often scream of evil, corruption, deaths and horror. Incidentally, even those who contribute in giving Nigeria bad name are not spared the humiliation whenever they want to travel, live outside or do business with foreigners.

Professor George Obiozor, Nigerias’ Former Ambassador to the United States captured the nemesis of carrying out negative campaign against your country when he stated on Tuesday 8th July that nobody would love you when he hates your country. According to him, the man who does

not respect your country has no respect for you no matter what he is getting from you.

Obiozor made this disclosure at the Harrow Park Golf Club Wuse 2 Abuja on Tuesday 8th July on the occasion of the official launch of Nigeria: Our Heritage, which is a new initiative being championed by the Federal Ministry of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation in partnership with Folio Media Group and supported by 15 other media organisations to push for a positive image for Nigeria henceforth.

Also at the occasion include former Education Minister Professor Tunde Adeniran and Mr. Inye Kemabonta who represented the Director General of the National Information Technology Agency among others.

Unveiling the project, the Minister for Culture, Tourism and National Orientation High Chief Edem Duke said the project is a positive perception agenda for Nigeria, which seeks to mobilise the private sector to take leadership in shaping the prosperity of the country. He said the initiative would among other things seek out Nigerian companies and entities to be major stakeholders towards stimulating the building of an affluent Nigeria in the new century; support resourceful enterprises that promote the positive perception of the country among the comity of nations as well as document Nigeria’s past, and present realities. He said that the minis-

Duke

try has formally adopted the project under the Federal Government’s policy of public private partnership initiative adding that the ministry would be working with the initiators of the project to engage in Nigeria’s global image overhaul and promote the country’s tourism and cultural heritage for the atriotic purpose of creating wealth for national development and securing international trust for foreign investors.

Bonaventure Melah an Abuja based journalist and public analyst can be reached on

Our Transition From PHCN To EKEDC – The Journey So Far

By Suleiman Abubakar Babagana

The transition started on November 1, 2013. To some it was a welcome development; for others, it was one of those theoretical jamboree that does not have any meaning.

Confusion The system is evidently shrouded in confusion. This is an Industry that is just transiting from public to the Private sector. In the public sector, everything goes, no discipline, dedication to task, and compliance to safety, welfare and maintenance culture. And now you are faced with the reality of being disciplined, dedicated to assigned responsibilities, being safety compliant and imbibe maintenance Culture.

The confusion now comes as a form of resistance to CHANGE. We do not want to come to terms with the current reality that will evidently bring prosperity if we put in our best and discard old values. What fosters the confusion is mainly due to realities that evidently gives the non conformist that Change is eminent.

Anxiety This is embodied in the current state of uneasiness, nervousness, and apprehension over an uncertain future. We have all been paid Severance, and are privileged to be recalled to serve. We are still living in the past. No organization had been favoured by the Government like the PHCN Workers, the Government in its wisdom knows the advantages of laying off their

hands in the Management of the Sector, which will definitely improve the System.

But if we have apprehensions and uncertainty over our future which has already been taken care of with the payment of Severance.

Then we have a problem somewhere. If you are capable, competent and dedicated to your roles and function you can join the winning team.

Fear This syndrome is related to anxiety. The System is embodied with a strong uncontrollable, and an unpleasant state of fear caused by a non-existent, or perceived danger. What this means is that we have capable and competent hands, but they are afraid to exhibit their potentials due to fear of exposing the Incompence of their Supervisors. I had an encounter with a very competent Linesman who is an asset to my District in terms of Operations and Maintenance who does not enjoy leave because of his utility. I asked him can he and a crack team reticulate poor and sagging lines within our network in two months that will inevitably ensure less occurrence of faults that will ensure steady supply. He replied jokingly that he can do it in two weeks if given the opportunity and materials, but he is afraid to come up with a suggestion for fear of being witch hunted. That is the System for you. That is why the Human Resources Practitioner cannot enforce Discipline, Compliance to safety, welfare, Maintenance of Building/Vehicles and Several other functions that are essen-

tial for running the system.

Organisational Disloyalty We don’t have an iota of the fact that our primary loyalty is to EKEDC and what it strives to achieve in ensuring a brighter future that will ensure the provision of stable Electricity that will inevitably lead the Business to Prosperity as is evident in the Oil and Gas, Telecoms, and various economic concerns within the Economy. We have a situation were we mislead Customers on the current state of Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution. It is common to hear our employees telling Customers who are asking questions on why we have erratic supply, and we that are being paid employees in the system will reply in the negative and say in street parlance” Na dis Investors no sabi what to do”.

Meaning the baton has shifted to those who cannot maintain the business. What a shame and treacherous disposition that is aimed at killing a system that is positively willing to make a turn around. But how can we achieve that when we only wait for the end of the month to smile to the bank and see our employers as cash cows. Gradually, the clogs in the wheel will be exposed.

Sabotage is another area we indulge in either consciously or unconsciously. When you are nonchalant, refuse to give positive operational Impact, deliberately refuse to contribute positively in our operations or you don’t want the current journey to be successful, you hide operational informations for the business to succeed, or you are anti-privatization, then you are definitely a saboteur.

How then can you explain when a fault that can be cleared in 1hour lingers for weeks because you are more interested in extorting money from customers before you carry out your assigned responsibilities. If you don’t give quality billing to our customers, i.e when you overbill or underbill, you are indirectly killing the System.

We in the field don’t give a damn if the business succeeds. What we are interested in is how we can milk the system to our benefit.

We should be wary of ‘eye service’ and the pretence of all is well.

All is not well as we are still living in the past, were corruption, customer intimidation and harassment still strives. We are not bothered if the business folds up or stagnate.

This is a monster that should be tackled head on without sentiment, fear or favour were some people are made sacred cows.

Conclusion For us to understand and implement our approach towards change, we should know what is expected of us. We are now in Business and much is expected of us. The MD/ CEO, SVP, VP’s, GM’s, AGM’s and the PM’s cannot be everywhere to monitor our performance and measure our output. We are to give feedback to Management on our constraints in a transparent and not misleading manner.

Turning the industry around is achievable but it will entail a lot of sacrifice.

—Babagana is a Senior Manager, Human Resources with PHCN

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July 11, 2014

SCHOOLS, EDUCATION, & FAITH PLATFORM

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

SPECIALISED CLASSIFIEDS PAGES YORUBA YOUTH WOMEN ASSOCIATION

SOCIETY FOR DRUG ABUSE ENLIGHTENMENT

LIFE RESTORATION PENTECOSTAL MINISTRY

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ORGANISATION has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The general public is hereby informed that the above named ORGANISATION has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Titilayo Dosumu Adesanya 2. Modinat Asani Oyetunji 3. Niyi Kajogbola 4. Margret Mojirayo Oladebo 5. Sherifat Hamza 6. Ayobami Adeleke.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ahmad Musa Uasar 2. Al-Irfan Sunusi Gumbi 3. Maryam Bello 4. Hamza Mohammed 5. Mubarak Alhassan Faskari 6. Ahmad ishaq Ningi 7. Ali Akilu Sadiq

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

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES. 1.To support social,economic and community development in nigeria through cultural and ethical experience of the yorubas.

2. To cooperate with similar bodies of other tribes and the society in its quest to promote nation building.

3. To use this Association as a vehicle to promote and encourage the teaching of Yoruba language and culture to our offspring and other interested parties to instill an enduring cultural value in the society.

4. To organize workshops and seminars regularly in all the states in order to achieve the aims and objectives of the Association.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Jesuyayi Omotayo Oluwakemi 2. Idowu Elizabeth Adenike 3. Revd. Adebimpe Alade

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To enlighten the populace on the effects of drug abuse and other related substances.

2. To rehabilitate and support the victims of drug abuse.

3. To association with other bodies , both national and international with similar objective.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed; ADERINSOLA ADEYANJU & CO Z.A. ADEYANJU ESQ, BARRISTER & SOLICITOR

SIGNED: SECRETARY

- President - Secretary - Treasurer

THE AIM AND OBJECTIVE 1. To preach the gospel.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

SIGNED: IDOWU ELIZABETH ADENIKE SECRETARY

PAN AFRICAN FOUNDATION FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ASIWAJU GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

LAWRENCE EGBENI MINISTRY

This is to notify the general Public that the above named Organization has applied for registration to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja under the Part ‘C’ of Company and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.HON.JAMES ABIODUN FALEKE 2.MR.TAYO OREKOYA 3.HON.TOYIN SUARA

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1.LAWRENCE EGBENI 2.EGBENI ITOHAN

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

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PREACH THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST.

A NY O B J E C T I O N TO T H I S R E G I S T R AT I O N S H O U L D B E FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

ANY OBJEC TION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL, CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT, OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, GARKI, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS OF THIS PUBLICATION.

SIGNED: BARR. AJAYI ILESANMI 07033181908

SIGNED: BARR.TOBE LORDLY 08038563003

THE TRUSTEES 1- EMMANUEL OKORO 2- MICHAEL OLUYOMIOLOJO 3- ANOSIKE NZEOCHA 4- SYLVESTER EDWARD OGAN 5- NNAEMEKAOBIARERI 6- ANTHONY OSUJI

- CHAIRMAN - SECRETARY - MEMBER - MEMBER - MEMBER - MEMBER

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To serve as a platform to assist in the economic and policy advancement of Nigeria in particular and Africa in general.

2. To engender public-private sector collaboration among organizations, and institutions on matters of economic development both in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

3. To promote activities that will foster citizens` interests and focus towards economic development in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

4. To empower people in Nigeria and Africa through assistance in setting up and running small and medium scale enterprises that contributes to overall economic development.

Any objection to the above should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, FCT, Abuja within 28 days of this Publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

WIDOWHOOD & CHILD RIGHTS FOUNDATION

JESUS DIVINE HOUSE OF PROPHETIC DELIVERANCE MINISTRY

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Barr. (Rev) Justus Olusola Agboola - Chairman 2. Deaconess Rachel Olubunmi Agboola (Mrs) 3. Miss Christiana Oluwaseun Agboola - Secretary THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. To protect the interest of widwos and children.

2. To enlighten widows on how to fend for themselves.

3. To protect widows and children from abuses.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

SIGNED: BARRISTER SUNDAY OGHAYEI

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

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS

Salini Nigeria Ltd WHO DIED ON THE 9th November, 2010

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. John Benson Okpe 2. Mrs. Blessing Okpe 3. DCN Samson Gomina

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

Any objection to this change should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission (C.A.C) P.M.B 198, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Irosi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: N. D. NKIRE, ESQ SECRETARY

AIM AND OBJECTIVES 1. To declare salvation to the world.

2. To win souls for the kingdom of God. 3. To establish local branches for the propagation of the gospel worldwide.

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 Irosi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

SIGNED: EZEJI GLORIA I. (08038769236)

CATHOLIC NURSES GUILD OF NIGERIA 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.

GRACE REIGNS GOSPEL MISSIONS THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THE ABOVE NAMED MISSION HAS APPLIED FOR REGISTRATION WITH THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION ABUJA, UNDER PART “C” OF THE COMPANIES AND ALLIED MATTER ACT 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1. PASTOR OCHIFU ISRAEL 2.ELDER, EDWIN OTSIMA OTSIFU 3. SISTER JOSEPHINE UNAZI 4 OTSIFU JOSEPH OGORRI 5. SISTER, GRACE AJE OCHIFU

Christopher Kigbu and Mary John guardian to John

THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE; 1. To cater for the welfare of Catholic nurses in Nigeria.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Uke, Karu L. G. A Nasarawa State The brother and son of the said deceased

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar General Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja within 28 days of the publication.

ANY OBJECTION TO THIS REGISTRATION SHOULD BE FORWARDED TO THE REGISTRAR-GENERAL CORPORATE AFFAIRS COMMISSION, PLOT 420 TIGRIS CRESCENT OFF AGUIYI IRONSI STREET, MAITAMA, ABUJA WITHIN 28 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THIS PUBLICATION.

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 9th DAY OF JULY, 2014

SIGNED: OSEYILI OKOOBO, ESQ

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

FOR BOOKING OR INQUIRY CALL

UNITY OF FAITH PRAYER CENTRE

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Rosalyn Okoobo 2. Mrs. Veronic Adetomi Omodunbi 3. Ossai Dorothy Ndidi 4. Rev. Fr. Lawrence Mark Obotamah 5. Nwazuruoke Juliana 6. Uduh Catherine

SCHEDULE APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

JOHN KIGBU

THE TRUSTEE ARE: 1. Prophetess Grace Sunday 2. Nkire Damian Nkire 3. Mr. Anga Onuka 4. Mrs. Mary Paschal 5. Okpo Mecha

- PRESIDENT - SECRETARY

> HENRY UBIMAGO 08068640944

> AUGUSTINE 08061602706

> GLORIA OKWUM 08038722368

- PRESIDENT - SECRETARY

SIGNED: SECRETARY

> ABIGAIL SAMBO 08064382438

> GLORIA RAPHAEL 08061356519

> GLORIA ODIO 08034285851

> GRACE OJO 08035054444

67

July 11, 2014 SAMUEL AKPAN’S FORUM OF THE KINGS FOOTPRINTS AND EMPOWERMENT INITIATIVES

GLAUCOMA PATIENTS’ CARE INITIATIVE IN NIGERIA

SPIRIT OF DOIMNION CHAPEL

This is to inform the General Public that, the above named body has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, for registration under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990.

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Martina Oghenevovwero Agberien 2. Prof. Adebukola Adefule-Ositelu 3. Chief Adesiyakan Adeduro Robinson

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Prince Afoakwa 2. Yvonne Adesuwa Obomeghie 3. Patricia Dimoriaku

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote care for Glaucoma patients.

2. To create awareness and promote care for glaucoma sufferes.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To spread the word of God. 2. To ordain Ministers of God.

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 thirty days of this publication.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED K.C. OKOLOCHA, ESQ. SOLICITOR

SIGNED MRS. ISABELLA U. EKOH SOLICITOR

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Apost. Dr. Ekpe James Effiong 2. Emmanuel Mark Obot 3. Obong Aniedi Edet Udo 4. Mrs. Vivian Samuel Akpan 5. Mr. Edem Asuquo Akpan 6. Mr. Afaha Mbong 7. Mr. Bassey Udoeyop 8. Obong Thomas Asquo

9. Mr. Emmanuel Udoh 10. Mr. Martins Inyang 11. Chief Sunday Unungo 12. Dr. Edet James Robin 13. Obong J. Obong 14. Mr. Ita Ironbar 15. Barr. Idara Eboh

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To help and empowered the less privileged in the society 2 To seek and assert ourselves socio-economically and in other fields of human endeavours.

3. To liaise, associate and co-operate with other progressive bodies Worldwide with similar objectives for the growth of the human races.

Any objection to this should be forwarded to Registrar General Corporate Affair Commission. 420 Tigris Crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, P.M.B 198, Maitama Abuja, within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Barr. Idara Eboh 08023284375, 07068191960

TIME AND CHANCE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

EDO UNITY CLUB OF NIGERIA

RUGBURU AZA – AZA LANDLORDS ASSOCIATION, RUMUOKWURUSI, RIVERS STATE

The general public is hereby notified that the above mentioned FOUNDATION has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration in accordance with Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act LFN (Cap 20)

The general public is hereby informed that the above named Club has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

The general public is hereby notified that the above named has applied for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission Abuja, Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matter Act 1990.

MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 1. REV. BENARD MARY AYO ONIWE 2. PROF. AKINRINADE OLUSOLA TIMOTHY 3. MR. EGBANE SONNY AZINO 4. PELAGIE ABIDEMI EGBANE

- CHAIRMAN - SECRETARY

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1 To serve as a catalyst to aid the educational goal of the less privilege children with particular preference for the girl child 2 To assist the less privileged in getting funds for their educational needs 3 To engage in programmes that would promote education and uphold the reading culture, our heritage and entrepreneurship 4 To create awareness on the need to promote and support education

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. FRANK EHI OMONZOKPIA 2. OJO MICHAEL OMOROGIEVA 3. COMRADE HENRY IRABOR 4. BINI ISAAC

5. BRAIMOH OMOTUEBE SETH 6. DR. GOLD BAMIDELE

- PRESIDENT - VICE PRESIDENT - SECRETARY - TREASURER - ASSIST. FIN SECRETARY - MEMBER

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AND PROSPERITY AMONG MEMBERS 2. TO PROMOTE OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE WITH A VIEW TO MAKING MEMBERS FEEL AT HOME.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Irosi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication. .

Signed: TRUSTEES

SIGNED TRUSTEES

CALVARY COVENANT HERITAGE ASSEMBLY The general public is hereby notified that the above mentioned ASSEMBLY has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration in accordance with Part C of the Companies and Allied Matters Act LFN (Cap 20) MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 1. OSIN OLUKUNLE ABIODUN 2. OSIN CHRISTIANAH ADEOLA 3. BOLAJI AYODELE AYINLA 4. FOLUSO OLURANTI ONIKAN 5. MUSTAPHA OLAWALE OLAOLUWA

THE TRUSTEES ARE:1.Chief George Amadi-President 2.Chief Emmanuel Okea 3.Chief Sunday Weli 4.Chief Chukwuma Amadi 5.Elder Stephen Adele 6.Barrister Lloyd Otuonye 7.Chief Ebenzer Chiorlu 8.Chief Yebuchi Chindah AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:1. To form a united front to ensure, promote and enhance the general welfare of its members.

2. To work for the social – economic and development of the host community.

3. To ensure the provisions of social amenities, such as good waters, construction of roads, building of communities halls and care for the elderly.

4. Employment opportunities, scholarships to well deserving youths and vocational trainings.

Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar-General Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days from the date of this publication.

Signed: BARRISTER LLOYD CHUKWUEMEKA OTUONYE (Legal Adviser)

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

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

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

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

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

SCHEDULE

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ARE: 1 To preach the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 To embark on personal and mass evangelism.

3 To plant Churches and engage in Christian activities worldwide.

Any objection should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420 Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Irosi Street, Maitama, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS

SCHEDULE

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

Linus Adikwu Abba Abba Ernest and Abba Fidelis Federal Fire Service WHO DIED ON THE 30th Arpil, N0.5 Obekpa Rd AI-Abba Effoyo 2013 Edumoga Brothers

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2014

DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS

APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

CHUKWU EMEKA ANI DEBORAH ANI GRD TO SAMSON ANI N0. 13 FHA LUGBE ABUJA AND STELLA ANI GRD TO BENJAMIN ANI WHO DIED ON THE 31ST MAY, N0. 13 FHA LUGBE ABUJA 2014

WIDOWS AND SONS

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2014

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

LEGAL NOTICE

ANOINTED TOWER MINISTRY

DISTINGUISHED ROYAL GENTLEMEN INTERNATIONAL CLUB

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

This is to inform the general public that the above named Organisation has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act Cap C. 20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

This is to inform the general public that the above named CLUB has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission for registration Under Part “C” of the Companies and Allied Matters Act Cap C. 20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Florence Nwinanee 2. Brother Felix Samuel 3. Elder Paul Onwuadi 4. Barr. Lloyd Chukwuemeka Otuonye

THE TRUSTEES ARE: (1) CHIFE ASUQUO OKON (2) MR OFFIONG ESSIEN (3) EDEM OFFIONG

Signed: TRUSTEES

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

SCHEDULE DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT sabastine agan TERNA AGAN AND MWUESE KASHIN nigerian military service OWODE OYO STATE who died on the 7th april, 2014 son and daughter

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2014

ABIODUN

MARIAM

I formerly known as MISS MARIAM OLUWAKEMI ODEWALE now wish to be known as MRS MARIAM OLUWAKEMI AJIBADE. All former documents remain valid. Federal Polytechnic, Bida, University of Abuja and the general public to please take note.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To preach the gospel to every human being 2. To make disciples of all nations 3. To help better our society Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 20, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: Barr. Lloyd Chukwuemeka Otuonye Legal Adviser

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

I formerly known as MS ABIODUN OLUWALOSEYI ANIFOWOSE, now wish to be known as MRS ABIODUN OLUWALOSEYI ANIFOWOSEADEGOKE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

General Overseer Secretary Men’sfellowshipChairman Legal Adviser

SARAH

I formally known and called MISS SARAH IGBE AMEH, now wish to be known and called MRS SARAH IGBE PETER. All former document remain valid.

NCMM and general public to take note.

OSUJI

I formerly known as DURU CHINWERO IJEOMA LINAH now wish to be known as OSUJI CHINWE LINA. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

OMOLARA

I formally known and called MISS OMOLARA PETERS, now wish to be known and called MRS OMOLARA OLANREWAJU all former document remain valid authority concern and general public to take note

JULIET

I formerly known as JULIET ONGHAJI ODEY now wish to be known as JULIET ONGHAJI THOMPSON. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

AIMS & OBJECTIVES ARE: 1. TO FOSTER UNITY AMONG MEMBERS. 2. TO INITIATE VIABLE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS THAT WOULD BE USEFUL TO THE PEOPLE OF STATE,COUNTRY AND THE WORLD AT LARGE. Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 20, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

Bilyaminu

I formally known and called Sulaiman Abdullahi now wish to be known and called Bilyaminu Sani Musa all former document remain valid authority concern and general public to take note

UDEH

I formerly known as MISS ONYEKEMEZIE IFUNANYA EVANGELINE now wish to be known as MRS UDEH IFUNANYA EVANGELINE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

DINCHI

I formerly known as JENNIFER DINCHI SILAS now wish to be known as DINCHI KODJO RICHARDS ZANDO. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

JULIET

I formerly known as MISS JULIET ONGHAJI ODEY now wish to be known as MRS JULIET ONGHAJI THOMPSON. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ADEOLA

I formerly known as ADEOLA AISHA IDRIS now wish to be known as ADEOLA AISHA OCHAYI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

MOTUNRAYO

I formerly known as MISS MOTUNRAYO BADA now wish to be known as MRS MOTUNRAYO ADEWINMBI. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

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

SCHEDULE DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT MRS ANITA ROSALYN AKINGBALA Adegbite O. Akingbite and Temitope S. Akingbala Agency for Mass Education, FCTA WHO DIED ON THE 16th November, 2013 Plot 135, Nnamdi Azikiwe Crescent Karu

Site FCT The widower and son of the said deceased

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 9th DAY OF JULY, 2014 SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

July 11, 2014

DE EASTERN ROYALE BROTHERS CLUB

I AM NIGERIA VALUES DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Celestine Chinweike Ekejiuba 2. Okafor Ifeanyi Jude 3. Igboekweze Bright Chinenye 4. Osita Jude Udemba 5. James Adigwe 6. Ikpokili Paul Ifeanyi 7. Obi Emeka 8. Nwankwo Ejike Calistus 9. Oge Nwora

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Senator Grace Folashade Bent (Con) 2. Professor Isaac Olawale Albert 3. Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah 4. Alhaji Farouk Suleiman 5. Alhaji Abdulrahman Idris 6. Ali Muhammad Ali 7. Victor Okwuadi 8. Nmezi Godson Uche 9. Adaora Onyechere

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote and protect the interest and welfare of members.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED NWAKA CHRISTIE, ESQ CHRYSANTHEMUM CHAMBERS (08037317572)

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote patriotism among Nigerian youths, and to create the awareness that Nigeria is you and me.

2. To promote unity, peace, stability and sustainable development of the people in the society.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED SECRETARY

OVER DO JESUS ABLE MINISTRY

EZIOKWU BU NDU BROTHERS CLUB OF NIGERIA

VOLUNTEERS ON CARE INITIATIVE

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

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Innocent Okwuekpo 2. Ikenna Ozomadu 3. Jonas Ozomadu 4. Joel Amukene 5. Hyginus Okafor 6. Eya Hillary Obinna 7. Uchenna Edeh 8. Casmir Okafor 9. Ernest Ugwu 10. Francis Okoro

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Vivian Ibeziako 2. Mr. Obiora James Ibeziako 3. Chilezie Ebirim 4. Chikezie Ebirim

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Ikoro Uzezi Cyril 2. Odiakase Ngozi 3. Owumi Benedicta 4. Atuwori Amos

- General Overseer - Secretary - Treasurer - Member

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To spread the gospel of Jesus.

2. To teach people how to pray according to the word of God. 3. To preach the gospel to all nations or the world in accordance with the word of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

- Chairman - Vice Chairman - Secretary - Vice Secretary - Treasurer

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. A social club to promote and carter for the needs of its members.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED LOUIS CHIEMELU (07039892966)

SHOLA MESE FOUNDATION

LEGAL NOTICE

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Shola Mese 2. Abimbola Shola-Mese 3. Mr. Westson Eleye Princewill 4. Mrs. Roli Jemerigbe Atotuomah AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To give hope to the jobless.

2. To help the less privileged and frustrated youths, give them good education.

3. To put a smile on faces of the hopeless and widows 4. To help our youth from drugs addiction and create jobs for them.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED: SECRETARY

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

SCHEDULE DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT CHUKWUMA OSITA KINGSLEY Ngozi k. Osita guardian to Emmanuel Osita Lugbe Abuja WHO DIED ON THE 19th November, Lugbe, Abuja 2013

The widow and son of the said deceased

DATED AT ABUJA THIS 9th DAY OF JULY, 2014 SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To reduce poverty and improve the quality of living in a sustainable manner by implementing integrated conservation and community development programs.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED CHIDI ONWUEKWEIKPE 08034015399

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Staff Club Abuja This is to notify the general public that the above named CLUB has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Farouk Achimugu 2. Ahoemwen Aibangbee 3. Nuhu Drisu 4. Alex lgwe 5. Michael Adejo

- Chairman - Secretary

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To create awareness of its members.

2. Promote and protect the interest of members.

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 thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED Nduka Okata (08030925138)

ALUMINIUM COIL DEALERS ASSOCIATION ONITSHA

MALLAM MUSA OBAJE FOUNDATION

LEGAL NOTICE

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

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

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

TRUSTEES: 1. CHIEF OKONKWO CLETUS EKEMEZIE 2. CHIEF BASIL EZERIE 3. MR. CHIDI CYRIL MBACHU 4. MR. ANYIKA JOHN EBUBE 5. MR. EMEKA CLEMENT MALUZE

TRUSTEES: 1. ALHAJI TAHIR MUSA

-CHAIRMAN 2. HON. JUSTICE YUNUSA MUSA -VICE CHAIRMAN 3. ALHAJI IBRAHIM LABARAN MUSA -SECRETARY 4. ALHAJI ALI UMORU

-MEMBER 5. MR RAWLINGS AGADA

-MEMBER 6. BARR. IBRAHIM USMAN -MEMBER 7. AUDU YAKUBU JACK

-MEMBER 8. HAJIYA HASSANA USMAN -MEMBER

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote peace, unity and good relations among members of the association.

2. To function as a platform for the improvement of social economic and general living conditions.

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.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO PROMOTE HUMANITARIAN ACTIVITIES AND CATER FOR THE WELFARE OF WIDOWS, VULNERABLE, DISTRESSED AND LESS PRIVILEGED MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY. 2. TO PROMOTE HUMAN AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH EDUCATIONAL, HEALTHCARE, SPORTS AND SOCIO-CULTURAL PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES. 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: MUSA ISIAKA, ESQ. SOLICITOR. 08063513638

SIGNED: SECRETARY

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

SCHEDULE DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT MUSA ABUBAKAR BAKO Madinatu Musa Bako and Aliyu A. Gwagwa FCTA Health & Human Service Secretarial Abuja WHO DIED ON THE 26th September, 2013 House No 54, Ibn Aboki Crescent Hassan

Dalatu, Suleja

The widow and brother of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 9th DAY OF JULY, 2014 SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

LOSS of OF document DOCUMENT LOSS loss OF DOCUMENT

LOSS OF OF DOCUMENT DOCUMENT LOSS loss of document

LOSS of OF document DOCUMENT LOSS loss OF DOCUMENT

This is to inform the general public of the loss of the original copy of the Deed of Assignment dated 11th day of June, 2008 and registered as N0: 30 on page 30 in Volume 2203 at the Lagos State Lands Registry, covering property situated at Ogombo Village, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State. All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

This is to inform the general public of the loss of original copyof the Deed of Assignment dated 27th day of May, 2008 and registered as N0: 53 on page 53 in Volume 2202 at the Lagos State Lands Registry, covering property situated at Ogombo Village, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State. All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station.

General public to please take note.

This is to inform the general public of the loss of Original Offer of Statutory Right of Occupancy with New File N0: MISC 118094, measuring about 1.15 hectres, in favour of Blessed Onovo & Co. Limited, situated at Plot N0: B71 Cadastral Zone E23 of Kyami.

All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

69

July 11, 2014

WESTERN ZONE SHAREHOLDERS ASSOCIATION

OWU BAPTIST CHURCH

LEGAL NOTICE

The general public is hereby informed that the above named association has applied to the corporate affairs commission for registration under part “C” of the companies and allied matters act 1 of 1990.

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

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

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. OWOLABI ADENIRAN OLUSEGUN 2. ADEBIYI TEMITOPE IYABODE 3. OPELOYERU HAMED AZEED 4. OWOEYE TOMIWA MICHAEL 5. AJAYI MOSES ADEBAYO AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1.TO PROTECT THE INTEREST OF MINORITY SHAREHOLDERS. 2.TO IMPROVE AND BRING ABOUT A VILE CAPITAL MARKET Any objection to this registration should be forwarded to the registrargeneral, corporate affairs commission, plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Garki, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

SIGNED: BARR. FOLAKE OWOEYE 08056140355

THE TRUSTEES ARE: 1. Dr. Onaolapo Olusegun Soleye 2. Engr. Nathaniel Adelere Oyedele 3. Hon. Justice Yetunde Abiodun Adewolu 4. Adebayo Olusola Ayoka 5. Deaconess Grace Ayoka Adeyemi 6. Sunday Adigun Makinde 7. Engr. Babatunde Olatokunbo Odebunmi 8. Omoyinmi Godwin Alafia Kayode 9. Benjamin Atilade Bolarinwa AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To provide regular opportunities for public worship.

2. To advance the spiritual and welfare needs of members.

3. To propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ.

4. To cooperate with other Baptist Churches within and outside Abeokuta and follow the tenets of the Nigerian Baptist Covention.

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 thirty days of this publication.

ADEIFE & AKINOLA MEMORIAL CHILD FOUNDATION (CAC/IT/NO. 20665)

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

This is to notify the general public that the above named Chapel has applied to the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja for change of name and addition of aims and objectives under Part ‘C’ of the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.

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

FROM: ADEIFE & AKINOLA MEMORIAL CHILD FOUNDATION TO: ADEIFE & AKINOLA MEMORIAL FOUNDATION trustees remain the same

SCHEDULE DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. Providing primary health care services for pregnant women, children and old people in the community.

LUSSMANN FRANZ ERNEST Mrs Jennifer Lussmann Salini Nigeria Ltd, Abuja 2. Provide support for widow furtherance of the objects of this foundation.

WHO DIED ON THE 22nd May, 2013 Swindon Criclade Road, Wilts 3. Do all such other lawful things as are incidental to or conducive to the

The Widow of the said deceased attainment of the above objects or any of them.

Any objection to this change should be forwarded to the Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, DATED AT ABUJA THIS 9th DAY OF JULY, 2014 Maitama, Abuja, within thirty days of this publication.

SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ SIGNED FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR SECRETARY

IBA-MALARIA ERADICATION FOUNDATION

PEACE AND TOLERANCE DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVE

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

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

TRUSTEES: 1. GBENGA SALU 2. FUNKE DACOSTA 3. MAYOWA SALU AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. TO REDUCE THE NUMBER OF DEATHS IN INFANTS AND MOTHERS TO THE MINIMUM 2. TO PROMOTE INFORMATION ON THE DISEASE NECESSARY FOR BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE AND ERADICATION OF THE DISEASE. 3. TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE DISCUSSION AND INNOVATION OF EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS IN THE BATTLE AGAINST MALARIA. 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: ABDULWASI MUSAH, ESQ SOLICITOR. 08033880535

ANYOYI

PAMELA

I formerly known as MISS PRINCESS PAMELA PETERS now wish to be known as MRS PRINCESS PAMELA PETERSABAH. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

OLUWAYEMISI

I formerly known as MISS OLUWAYEMISI ADENIKE OJO, now wish to be known as MRS OLUWAYEMISI ADENIKE ERHUNMWUNSE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

AYENI

I formerly known as AYENI REUBEN EBENMOSI EREMA, now wish to be known as AYENI REUBEN EBENMOSI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

CHRISTIANA DUNGS Patton Lang Dunds & Josephine Ahkigbemen First Avenue 12 Crescent House No 5 Gwarinpa, Abuja WHO DIED ON THE 19th September, 2004 First Avenue 12 Crescent House No 5

Gwarinpa, Abuja

The son and daughter of the said deceased DATED AT ABUJA THIS 9th DAY OF JULY, 2014 SIGNED BARR. HAFSAT SODIQ FOR: PROBATE REGISTRAR

SIGNED: SAMUEL ABIMBOLA, ESQ (08067448250)

LEGAL NOTICE

I formerly known as MISS ANYOYI JOY OKOH, now wish to be known as MRS ANYOYI JOY AMADI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

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

SCHEDULE DECEASED NAME AND ADDRESS APPLICANTS FOR GRANT

TRUSTEES 1. Evangelist Kingsley Oiboh EQS 2. Mrs Janet Abare Oiboh 3. Elder Tunde. S . Adagunduro

- President - Secretary - Vice President

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote peace and tolerance amongst the people 2. To sufficiently educate, inform, enlighten and empower the people with knowledge of their civil, political, social and economic rights including rights to development and their fundamental freedoms to enable them resist unjustifiable deprivations and live in dignity and honour.

3. To popularise human rights concepts and values at the grassroots as well as schools, colleges and universities with a view to demystify the myth that human rights are purely legal concept.

4. To vigorously fights the roots causes of poverty, underdevelopment and ignorance in Africa to enable the people to live a full, secure, healthy, dignifying and fulfilling life and to strive to see that African joins developed world.

5. To propagate the right of everyone to the development of his talents, potentials and human personality and sense of dignity to its fullest through education and to strive to eradicate illiteracy and ignorance.

6. To campaign for the right of everyone to participate in government and the people’s right of equal access to the public service of the nation and to understand the unwritten social contract between the people and the government.

LOSS of OF document DOCUMENT LOSS loss OF DOCUMENT This is to inform the general public of the loss of the original Statutory Right of Occupancy of plot N0: 1 Cadastral Zone B08 Jahi, Abuja with file N0: MISC 87737 dated 10/5/2007, Original of Acknowledgement Letters and payment receipt issued in favour of Umra & Company Nigeria Limited belonging to SAMAILA UMAR SAMBO. All efforts made to trace the said document proved abortive. If found, please return to the nearest police station. General public to please take note.

LOSS of OF document DOCUMENT LOSS loss OF DOCUMENT This is to notify the general public that TAOHEED GLOBAL RESOURCES LIMITED have applied to Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority for granting of ATOL LICENSE from the NIGERIAN CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (NCAA) for the purpose of Airline business Any objection should contain reason(s) why the Agency should not be registered and should be made within 28 days of this publication.

MARYAM

I formerly known as MARYAM LAWAL GABDO, now wish to be known as MARYAM BELLO MALABU. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the registrar-general, Corporate Affairs Commission, Plot 420, Tigris Crescent, Abuja within 28 days of this publication.

Signed: Mrs Janet Abare Obioh Secretary

FATIMA

I formerly known as FATIMA AHMED, now wish to be known as FATIMA A. IBRAHIM BALLAH. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

I, FORMERLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MUKTARI MOMOH, NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS MOSES MOMOH. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID. GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

CHIAZOR

I formerly known as MISS CHIAZOR ALEX-OKOROAFOR, now wish to be known as MRS CHIAZOR ORJI. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Immigration Service and the general public to please take note.

BANKOLE

I formerly known as Miss Ogunmodede Adeola now wish to be known as MRS BANKOLE ADEOLA RAPHAT. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

adenike

I formerly known as miss adenike olayinka olufemi, now wish to be known as adenike olayinka adekanola. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

AMIEJAYO

I formerly known as MISS AMIEJAYO ONOKATUE EBEWELE, now wish to be known as MRS AMIEJAYO ONOKATUE UME. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

AGATHA

I formerly known as MISS AGATHA AMARACHI IKEH now wish to be known as MRS AGATHA AMARACHI OKAFOR. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

ENEKOLE

I FORMALLY KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ENEKOLE ATABO NOW WISH TO BE KNOWN AND ADDRESSED AS ENEKOLE ELI. ALL FORMER DOCUMENTS REMAIN VALID GENERAL PUBLIC TAKE NOTE.

BRIGGS

I formerly known as MRS BRIGGS SODIEPRIYE AMANGIAKA AJIANGABOKA, now wish to be known as MRS BRIGGS AMANGIAKA AJIANGABOKA. All former documents remain valid.

General public to please take note.

FOR SALE 3X2

JOHN

I formerly known as EZEKIEL OMALE, now wish to be known as JOHN OMALE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

CYNTHIA

I formerly known as CYNTHIA NNEKA AZIKE now wish to be known as CYNTHIA NNEKA EKWUDU. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

OGOH

I formerly known as CALEB DDIEATACHEKO JOHNSON, now wish to be known as OGOH HARRISON ODIRI. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

YETUNDE

I formerly known as YETUNDE OMOLAYO OLANREWAJU, now wish to be known as YETUNDE OMOLAYO AYEGBE. All former documents remain valid. General public to please take note.

FOR SALE 2X2

LEADERSHIP FRIDAY

DAY

30

July 11, 2014

Top Ten Players

After Semi-finals

FIFA Throws Out Appeals Of Suarez, Uruguayan FA

By ONJEWU DICKSON, Abuja

Suarez

The FIFA Appeal Committee has decided to reject the appeals lodged by both the Uruguayan player Luis Suarez and the Uruguayan FA, and to confirm the decision rendered by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on 25 June 2014 in its entirety.

According to a statement made available

yesterday, the terms of the decision taken by the FIFA Appeal Committee were communicated to the player and the Uruguayan FA yesterday.

“The relevant decision is not yet final and binding, i.e. an appeal to the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) is still possible (cf. art. 67 par. 1 of the FIFA Statutes) by the player and/or the Uruguayan FA, subject to certain conditions.”

Toni Kroos (9.79)

FIFA On Suarez Karim Benzema (9.74)

The relevant decision is not yet final and binding, i.e. an appeal to the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) is still possible (cf. art. 67 par. 1 of the FIFA Statutes) by the player and/or the Uruguayan FA

Yesterday’s results • Rest Day

Arjen Robben (9.7)

Tomorrow’s Match • Brazil Vs Netherland • 9pm

Top 10 After Semi-final

• Toni Kroos, Germany (9.79); • Karim Benzema, France (9.74); • Arjen Robben, Netherlands (9.7); • Thiago Silva, Brazil (9.66); • Oscar, Brazil (9.63); • Stefan de Vrij, Netherlands (); • Thomas Muller, Germany (9.56); • David Luiz, Brazil (9.54); • James Rodriguez, Colombia (9.51); • Neymar, Brazil (9.48).

Argentine fans celebrate in Buenos Aires

Kroos Masterclass Secures Top Billing Just over three weeks have now passed since Toni Kroos sat in a press conference at Germany’s Campo Bahia training base and faced a question from one reporter about the perception that, prior to arriving in Brazil, he had failed to truly shine on the international stage.

As a player fresh from a fine season with Bayern Munich and who, moreover, had just caught the eye with his laser-precision passing in Germany’s 4-0 opening victory over Portugal, he seemed understandably affronted. Now, though, there can be no more awkward questions, particularly given the way that Kroos sparkled in Germany’s stunning semi-final demolition of Brazil.

Kroos delivered one of the outstanding performances of the FIFA World Cup™ semi-final round and in the process climbed 18 places to the top of the Castrol Index ranking. The 24-yearold scored Germany’s third and fourth goals in Belo Horizonte – the third an impressively fierce first-time strike from the edge of the box – and contributed as much as any player in Joachim Low’s side to a remarkable team display.

According to FIFA’s match statistics,

he was responsible for 12 of Germany’s 39 deliveries or solo runs into the final third while only Bastian Schweinsteiger covered more ground than the 11.7km that Kroos managed.

The Castrol Index statistics also highlight his overall contribution to Germany’s run to Sunday’s Final against Argentina: he has made more passes (443) than any other player bar two at Brazil 2014 – upcoming opponent Javier Mascherano and colleague Philipp Lahm – and only the same pair have surpassed his pass completion rate of 85 per cent.

Kroos is one of two Germany players in the Castrol Index top ten, with Thomas Muller in seventh place after opening the scoring against Brazil with his fifth goal of this World Cup. Meanwhile, Mats Hummels, in 11th, is the highest-ranked member of a German defensive unit which conceded just one shot on target against Brazil.

The Germany squad has the highest average player rating among the 32 teams involved, with Argentina, their Final opponents, second. La Albiceleste’s highest-ranked player currently is defender Ezequiel Garay in 12th place

while Lionel Messi, who had a quiet night against the Netherlands, is 14th.

Elsewhere, the top ten features two players from the Dutch squad who bowed out following their semi-final loss on penalties to Argentina. Arjen Robben climbed into third place after yesterday’s tight contest in Sao Paulo, his individual score boosted by the fact that, in a match of few opportunities, he came so close to winning the game with a burst into the box and blocked shot in the final moments of normal time.

His team-mate Stefan de Vrij climbed to sixth place, meanwhile, on the back of his efforts in helping to stifle Argentina’s attack. Of the other vanquished semifinalists, the one Brazil player to move upwards into the top ten after a crushing night for the host nation was Oscar, scorer of a goal that provided zero consolation for A Seleção.

Finally, Karim Benzema of France still claims second place in the Index for his efforts earlier in the competition. The fact he missed not a single minute of the Les Bleus campaign means that he has yet to be penalised for his inactivity on the two semi-final nights.

Thiago Silva (9.66)

Oscar (9.63)

Stefan de Vrij (9.59)

71

July 11, 2014

Evra Declines Manchester United Stay, Opts For Juventus

Suarez in action for Liverpool

Suarez Joins Barcelona For €88m Luis Suarez is on the brink of officially completing his sensational transfer from Liverpool to Barcelona after the terms of a deal worth just over €88 million were agreed on Wednesday night.

The agreement comes after a week of negotiations between the clubs, with an announcement expected in the coming days - perhaps even within 24 hours.

Barcelona have captured Suarez in a straight cash deal after agreeing to meet the release clause in the Liverpool contract he signed last De-

cember.

It is believed that Suarez will undergo initial medical examinations from Barca doctors in his native Uruguay, where he has been staying following his country’s elimination from the World Cup. Officials from the Catalan club have been negotiating with their counterparts from Merseyside in the last week over the structure of payments in the deal, with Liverpool pushing for a higher initial sum.

An agreement has now been reached and the final

formalities will be completed before Suarez is announced as Barcelona’s marquee signing of the summer.

The 27-year-old is currently serving a four-month ban - which runs until October 26 - for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini while playing for Uruguay in his nation’s final World Cup group stage match.

Under the terms of the suspension, Suarez is not allowed to train with his club or enter the confines of any stadium during his ban.

Barca will partly fund the

signing of the 27-year-old by selling Alexis Sanchez to Arsenal. The Chile World Cup star will move to Emirates Stadium after Arsenal agreed a package worth €40m (£31.8m) with the Spanish club.

Liverpool will now look to strengthen their squad using some of the money from the Suarez deal. The Merseysiders are on the verge of completing a triple swoop for Benfica winger Lazar Markovic, Lille striker Divock Origi and Southampton defender Dejan Lovren.

Manchester United leftback Patrice Evra is set to complete a €3.5 million move to Juventus after agreeing a two-year deal with the club, Goal understands.

The France international signed a new one-year extension with United in May with the understanding he would compete for the position with €38 million-arrival Luke Shaw.

Juve’s renewed interest, however, which emerged earlier this week, convinced him to reluctantly leave Old Trafford.

The Italian giants will match his €125,000-aweek-plus wages as a combination of Champions League football, as well as family reasons, have seen him decline the opportunity to remain in Manchester under new boss Louis van Gaal.

Dutchman Van Gaal, who is set to begin his du-

ties as the Premier League club’s new manager in the coming days, was reluctant to lose a player of Evra’s experience from his defence and even matched Juve’s two-year contract offer.

But Evra, who joined United back in January 2006 from Ligue 1 club Monaco, is keen to embark on a new adventure in Serie A, where he will follow former United skipper Nemanja Vidic, who has signed for Inter on a free transfer.

Juventus have also been tracking Manchester City centre-back Matija Nastasic although were rebuffed by the Premier League champions after making an enquiry in recent days.

However, Juventus have acquired Juan Iturbe for a fee of €27m and are also set to announce the signing of Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid.

FIFA Ban: Kurfi Wants Jonathan’s Intervention

By SALIFU USMAN, Abuja Alhaji Aminu Balele Kurfi, the former Personal Assistant to former chairman of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Abdulmumini Aminu and PDP chieftain has described Wednesday’s ban of Nigeria Football Federation by the world soccer governing body (FIFA)

Kurfi

as unfortunate and the worst thing that could happen to the nation’s football sector.

Speaking exclusively to LEADERSHIP Friday Sports on the sad development, he said he is not surprised that FIFA has finally wielded its hammer on the country’s football and appealed to President Goodluck Jon-

athan to intervene immediately to avert the impending doom.

“FIFA has finally banned us? I’m hearing it from you. But if it is true, we cannot afford to bear the brunt now.

“I saw it coming. I spoke against it and even tried to educate them on the dangers of it, but they refused to listen. This is not the time to blame anybody. Instead, we should all be united together and resolve the problem we have found ourselves.

“I am appealing to President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene fast before the matter gets out of hand. We should go to the court and vacate the order against the NFF’s board and return to status-quo as demanded by FIFA so that they would rescind their decision.

“Maigari and his board have less than six weeks to complete their tenure and the best thing now is to recall them after which we will now begin to talk

of election,” Kurfi said.

According to him, Nigeria has invested and achieved so much in football that it cannot afford to drag backwards.

“We are the defending champions of the Under-17 World Cup and very soon we will start defending the title. We have also invested a lot in the U-20 women team, Falconets who are expected to be in Canada now preparing for World Cup. A lot of Nigerian youths depend on football as their only source of livelihood. This present government has spent a lot of money in developing sports and also achieved a lot in the process.

“I know the Honourable Sports Minister was misled by self-seeking individuals and should apologise to Nigerians for this unfortunate situation. You dangle with FIFA because we all know how it frowns at government interfering in football matters of federating nations.”

Mcilroy

Mcilroy Breaks Course Record In Aberdeen Rory McIlroy has broken the course record in the first round of the Scottish Open at Royal Aberdeen.

The Northern Irishman recorded seven birdies in an opening round 64 to establish a one-shot clubhouse lead.

Sweden’s Kristoffer Broberg carded a six-under-par 65 in his first round, with Northern Ireland’s Michael Hoey a shot further back.

Marc Warren is the leading Scot on four under, with defending champion Phil Mickelson three under.

McIlroy, who has not played in the event since 2009, has had mixed success in Europe this season, winning the PGA Championship at Wentworth but then miss-

ing the cut at his home Irish Open.

Broberg declared himself happy with his opening round at Royal Aberdeen and was pleased with his approach shots.

“I played really, really well,” said Broberg, who won four times on the Challenge Tour in 2012, three of the victories coming in the space of four weeks.

“I hit very good shots and a lot of close ones, so this helps a bit. And I kept away from those bunkers and stayed patient.

“I woke up at 4am and saw the wind out there. There was a little less wind to start, but it got more windy after eight holes so it’s the same for everybody.”

AMUSEMENT PARK

what were you when you were alive?

— Henry Youngman

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY c

www.leadership.ng

NIGERIA'S FIRST FRIDAY NEWSPAPER

No. 60

N200

11.07.14

The Debt I Owe azu@leadership.ng Twitter: @azuishiekwene

Text only: 08052100356

I

’ve told this story many times before, but never publicly. It’s a personal story of two men who gave me a place to stand and whose lives have remained shining examples for me. I met the first one in 1985. I was one of the 22 or so students in the Mas 101 freshman journalism class and it was the first lesson and first encounter with the University of Lagos lecturer.

He wiped the board clean, wrote the title of the course and wrote his name, “Dr Olatunji Dare”. He then turned to the class and asked us to introduce ourselves and say why we were there. The first part sounded familiar but I thought the second was strange.

One by one we introduced ourselves, each with his own story. There were those who chose to study journalism to get a big chance to travel far and wide. Some hoped that a career in journalism would bring them face to face with rich, influential and powerful people. A few said they themselves wanted not just to report the rich and powerful but also to become rich, influential and powerful.

Dare listened patiently, showing absolutely no emotion, only motioning from row to row, until the last student had spoken.

Then silence. I still remember how he shook his head and with a serious look on his face, said it was either he was in the wrong classroom or many of us had missed our way. Journalism could take you places. It could bring you face to face with the rich and powerful. It could even make you famous if you worked hard enough, with a bit of luck.

But those who thought here at last was the guaranteed route to money, riches and fame, should perish the thought. Our road would be rough and here was free advice to think again.

“And if it would make it easier”, he said, “I’m willing to help you get the faculty officer to arrange a change of course

This is my own thank-you note to Dare, as he marks his 70th birthday and a preamble to my next story about the debt of gratitude I owe another great man, Ogunshola

for you!” A number of us didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.

No one was likely going to take up his unsolicited offer of help but that, for me, was the baptism needed for the journey ahead. Over the next three years, I developed a closer relationship with him, and was especially fascinated by his teaching style and commitment to his students.

He would pose out-of-thetext questions and challenge us to solve them; he would ask of journalists whose names we had never heard of, like Oriana Fallaci, and point us to her famous interviews with Ayatollah Khomeini or Moummour Ghadaffi. He would send us out to file reports about life on campus and, when we turned them in, he would return our scripts bleeding in

red ink.

I still remember Dare refusing to mark our scripts once, and, when we pressed him, he responded that the copies were so bad he would have abridged his life by at least 10 years if he read them all! And boy, he was funny! He would walk into the exam hall and say there was no need to worry about failing. If you couldn’t answer the questions, he would joke, set questions of your own and answer them. No need to panic or faint.

I remember turning in a term paper in which I had boasted I would not score less than an A. As I submitted my paper in his office at the pre-fab of the Mass Communication building and made to go, he called me back. There was a visitor with him. “Azu,” Dare began, looking

very solemn, “what have you been reading?” Here at last, I thought, was my chance to show off my new collections!

“Oh, I have been reading David Copperfield, sir. Copperfield by Charles Dickens.”

He looked up from my script; shook his head, and laughed the only way Dare could laugh - from his stomach up and rocking with mirth. And then he said something like, “It’s not showing at all! I can’t see any trace of Dickens in your script.

This is a classic example of disco journalism!” He handed back my script and gave me another chance to rewrite.

I left his office devastated but knew he meant well. The repeat copy so pleased him that he urged me to adapt it for publication on his watchful eye. It turned out to be my first published article in the priceless op-ed page of The Guardian. I’ll never forget.

I had been following him on those pages and on my own practised as a wannabe satirist.

Once, when he wrote about

stalagmites and stalactites in his Tuesday column in The Guardian, I couldn’t figure out where that came from, until I later found that he had a top grade in physics and had actually taught science subjects in a secondary school!

I still remember the note he gave me on the back of his complimentary card to Nojeem Jimoh, who was then editor of PUNCH. That note gave me a shot at my first vacation job in a newspaper in 1986. The note would not only land me a vacation job, and later a fulltime job, it would also open the door for me to meet the former chairman of PUNCH, Ajibola Ogunshola, one of the men who would shape my thinking and career in the most profound way for the next over two decades.

This is my own thank-you note to Dare, as he marks his 70th birthday on Thursday, and a preamble to my next story about the debt of gratitude I owe another great man, Ogunshola, whose 70th birthday also comes up next week.

The payoff at the foot of the invite to the luncheon marking Ogunshola’s birthday, “We respectfully request that you send no material or financial gifts,” is as unusual as the man himself…

GHANA MUST GO Presidency not funding our campaign — Osun PDP

And The Drama Goes On In Brazil…

The thing that Brazilians feared most has happened to them – the World Cup finals without Brazil. Let’s face it, the current Brazil team has been less than sterling. Even though they topped their group, they have

struggled all along, showing signs of strain in their games against Croatia, Mexico and Chile. It was just a matter of time before coach Scolari would be exposed. I pray, for the sake of the $14billion the country

invested in the competition, that they get a consolation prize in the loser’s final against the Netherlands. A second defeat is all that the anti-World Cup protesters would need to bring down the roof!

Oil thieves then?

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