Binder1 aug 3,2014

Sunday Edition

Sanctity of Truth

N150 Sunday, August 03, 2014

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Vol. 1 No. 166

Sanctity of Truth

ON SUNDAY

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Page 15, AUGUST 3, 2014

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NEWS

POLITICS

NIGERIA LACKS WISE LEADERS - ONAIYEKAN

GAS TO POWER: FG TARGETS 5000MW

Tinubu, Daniel, Bankole are spent forces - Kashamu

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How clash with Diezani caused NNPC GMD’s exit

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Adeola Yusuf he ousted Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Engr. Andrew Yakubu, fell out of favour with the Presidency over

his cold war with the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, New Telegraph on Sunday gathered yesterday.

President Goodluck Jonathan had in a late Friday night statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben

Abati, announced the removal of Yakubu and his replacement with Dr. Joseph Thlama Dahwa, ‘with the immediate effect’.

The new NNPC boss is the sixth GMD in just five years.

Yakubu is the fourth GMD since the emergence of AlisonMadueke as the minister and

was the 15th NNPC boss.

The minister came in after the sacking of Mohammed Sanusi Barkindo who was later replaced

by Mallam Shehu Ladan.

He too was also swiftly sacked to pave the way for Austen Oniwon while Yakubu took over from Oniwon in June 2012.

Although the President did not give any reason for the removal of Yakubu, a source at the Ministry of Petroleum Resources told our correspondent that the minister recommended Yakubu’s removal following what she felt CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Osun: Jonathan explains security deployment Adeolu Adeyemo

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resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday said the heavy deployment of security personnel in Osun State was done to prevent a repeat of the killing of 10 youth corps members during the 2011 elections in parts of the country.

Jonathan, who spoke at

the Grand Finale Campaign of the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in Osun State, Iyiola Omisore, also the deployment was meant in order to ensure a credible election on August 9.

The deployment has been criticised by the All ProgresCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

… INEC, PDP plan to rig - APC Lateef Ibrahim Abuja

T L-R: Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Adamu Mu’azu; Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees, Chief Tony Anenih and President Goodluck Jonathan, at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja... yesterday.

Boko Haram: Kwankwaso blasts Jonathan, govs Muhammad Kabir Kano

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ano State Governor, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, yesterday described the Council of State’s recent declaration that the Federal Gov-

ernment would end the Boko Haram insurgency

by December 2014 as “unrealistic.”

He said that for the target to be taken seriously, it should have been delivered by President Goodluck Jonathan or the Chief of Defence Staff, Vice Ad-

miral Alex Badeh, and not the governors of Niger, Babangida Aliyu; Akwa Ibom, Godswill Akpabio; and Enugu, Sullivan Chime.

The governors, who were in company with the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.), had spoken on behalf of

the council after its meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

However, the governor said, “From which position were they giving that deadline? Some serious people should have done it.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

he All Progressives Congress yesterday alerted Nigerians to what it called ‘a devilish plan involving an unscrupulous INEC official and PDP stalwarts’ to rig Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State.

The party, in a statement issued in Lagos on Saturday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, alleged that under the plan, some IT staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission had handed over the entire electoral register for the state to a Special

Assistant to a top PDP national official, with a view to manipulating it to disenfranchise many voters.

“For those who may see CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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HELEN PAUL WRITES: Memo to my compatriots (1)

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AUGUST 03, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 03, 2014

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Moments

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Dedication of Oluwatimilehin Raymond Chinedu Adebonojo on Saturday

L-R: Oluwatimilehin Raymond Chinedu Adebonojo; his father, Ibiyemi Adebonojo and mother, Jennifer, at the event… on Saturday

L-R: Mr. Modupe Daniel; Mrs. Taiwo Odunlami; Mrs. Joke Daniel; and Ms Yeside Odunlami

L-R: Director, Women Affair, Ministry of Women Affairs/Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Folashade Ogunnaike; Director, Child Development, Mrs. Alaba Fadairo; School Proprietor, Mrs. Funmilayo Lawson; Chairman, Littleland Schools, Yomi Lawson and Director, Admin L.G.S.C, Mrs. Tinuade Fowler, at the Littleland Junior School Award Day/25 years Anniversary Luncheon, in Lagos...on Thursday

L-R: Secretary, Sangotedo Baale Council, Alhaji Okeowo Adisa; CDA Chairman, Sangotedo Community, Comrade Wasiu Adewale; Executive Director, Protection Plus Services Limited, Mrs. Ivy King; Chief Executive Officer, Ubong King; and Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Eti-Osa East LGA, Mr. Olugbenga Arowolo, during the inauguration of Borehole Water Project at Sangotedo Community in Eti-Osa, Lagos… on Friday PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

Officiating Ministers baptising Oluwatimilehin Raymond Chinedu Adebonojo at Our Saviour Church in Lagos

Grand parents, Mr. Joe Best; his Wife, Ekatte; Prince Bimbo Olashore; Mrs. Vera Okoro; Mr. Simpson Okoro; and Mr. Segun Eboh. PHOTOS: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

L-R: Executive Secretary, Lagos State Board for Technical and Vocational Education, Olawunmi Gasper; Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Kayode Opeifa and Managing Director, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited, Mr. Ben Langat, at the graduation ceremony of Set 25 & 26 Trainees of the NBC Technical Training Centre in Lagos…on Friday

National Leader, Youths of All Nations Empowerment Association (YOANEA), Comrade Jeff C. Joshua, (right) exchanging pleasantries with a governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party in Lagos State, Mr. Adedeji Doherty when the group paid him a solidarity visit...on Thursday

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

L-R: Corporate Communications/Public Affairs Manager, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dr. Samuel Adenekan; Managing Director, Mr. Dharnesh Gordhon; Category Business Manager, Mrs. Doja Ekeruche; General Secretary, Nigerian Schools Sports Federation, Mrs. Olabisi Joseph and Vice President, National Collegiate Sports Foundation, Mr. Lanre Balogun, at the presentation of trophy for the finals of 16th edition of Nestle Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship in Lagos…on Friday. PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

L-R: District Governor, Rotary International, Dr. Dele Balogun; New President, Rotary Club of Ikoyi, Charles Okonkwo and immediate past President, Frank Akinbami, during the inauguration of Charles Okonkwo as the 30th president of the club in Lagos…on Friday

L-R: First runner-up of age 30 and above category, Binta Martins; Overall winner, Maua Ulugbe; Senior Brand Manager Maltina, Wole Adedeji and Second runner-up, Ephiphame Pascal, during the prize presentation Maltina Dance All season eight (MDA 8) audition in Lagos…on Friday

Special Adviser to Delta State Governor on Political Mobilisation Mass Mobilisation and Ethiope East Local Government chairmanship aspirant, Mrs. Faith Majemite (left), receiving a certificate from the Ovie of Agbo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Mike Omeru Ukori...on Wednesday

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Moments

SITTING, L-R: Director, Large Tax Payers, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Nike Disu; Managing Director/CEO, Policy and Strategy Consulting, Mr. Tunde Erinjogunola; Director, New Growth, LIRS, Mr. Bisi Alli; Board Secretary, Mrs. Bimpe Oluwa-Badmus; and other participants, at a workshop on Economic Growth and IGR organiSed by Policy and Strategy Consulting in Lagos…on Friday

R-L: President, Inside Design Association of Nigeria (IDAN) Mr. Anslem Tabansi; exchanging pleasantries with other members while Managing Director, Mrs Peju Adebajo and Business Development Manager, Mouka Limited, Mrs Georgina Ezekwem (left) look on at the private viewing of Sealy Sleep Gallery by IDAN at Akin-Adesola street, Victoria Island Lagos...on Friday.

L-R: General Manager, Marketing, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mr. Ola Ijimakin; Best Graduating Pupil of IfeOluwa Primary School, Agege, Adebayo Lateef; Desk Officer, Co-Curricular Activities, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mr. Alabi Kareem Adaramaja and Marketing Manager, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mr. Friday Enaholo, at the Astymin Brilliance Reward Prize Presentation to the Best Pupils of Lagos State Public Primary Schools in Lagos…on Friday

L-R: Director, Information, Anambra State, Emeka Ohuoha; Director General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Mrs. Sally Mbanefo; Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Anambra State, Chief Tony Onyima and Director, Tourism, Uzo Oguagha, during a courtesy call on the Director General by the Anambra State Government in Abuja…on Thursday

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AUGUST 04, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

News

Jonathan explains security deployment C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1

sives Congress and a crosssection of Nigerians, who described it as high-handed and a violation of democratic norms.

The security personnel, particularly Department of State Security agents, were accused of driving around parts of the state capital, Osogbo, last week in a show of force, during which they allegedly fired a number of shots. Their action was said to have caused a pandemonium while critics said it was a measure of desperation on the part of the party.

Speaking at the rally, Jonathan warned thugs to stay away from polling booths during the forthcoming election in the state.

The President, who spoke at Osogbo Township Stadium, said, “The clamour for security not to be deployed for the election was not justifiable considering the incident that occurred during an election in which ten NYSC youth corps members were killed. ”Miscreants should stay away from the state before, during and after the election or face the full wrath of the law if they attempt to foment trouble in the Osun election.”

He said the government would do all it could to preserve the lives and property of Nigerians.

“Anybody who thinks the government will fold its hands and watch miscreants

molesting its citizens will be disappointed on the day of the election.

“We will do all we can to see that a free and credible election is conducted in Osun State. That is why adequate security is being provided in the state. With the Osun election, we want to tell the whole world that we can conduct a credible election in the country,” he stated.

He said the PDP had put forward a credible candidate for the election and urged the people of the state to vote for him.

“We will work with Omisore in ensuring his victory at the poll. We charge the electorate to vote him in as the next governor of the state and leave every other things to us in terms of rapid transformation in the state.

“We will develop Osun State with Omisore. We need your cooperation to be able to do this. Vote for Omisore and leave the rest for us,” he pleaded.

In his speech, the PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, charged the people of Osun State to “replicate what happened in Ekiti State by voting for the candidate of PDP. “What he saw in terms of reception showed him that the party has worked assiduously to win the election and party members should further consolidate on the work done by mobilising people to vote for PDP.”

L-R: Group Managing Director, First Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Bisi Onasanya; Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun; Groom, Olusola Oladunjoye; bride, former Miss Omolola Aribike Onasanyam and Amosun’s wife, Olufunso, during the wedding of Olusola and Omolola in Lagos…yesterday.

‘INEC, PDP plan to rig Osun governorship election’ this as outlandish, they should recall that an INEC official tampered with the voter register used during the last gubernatorial election in Anambra State to remove the names of many voters.”

The party alleged further that the plan to tamper with the electoral register for Osun, coupled with INEC’s delay in issuing Permanent Voter Cards to registered voters, especially those who are APC members in the state, highlighted the desperation of the PDP to win the forthcoming governorship election at

all cost.

It said, “The truth is that the PDP knows it cannot win a free and fair election in Osun State. Everything so far points to the fact that our party will win by a landslide if the election is free, fair, credible and transparent. In fact, a highly-credible opinion poll carried out by the globally-recognised TNSRMS shows that the APC leads among voters in the state by 73%, compared to a paltry 19% for the PDP. “Apparently stunned by the reality on the ground, as against the propaganda by the PDP,

the party’s candidate, Iyiola Omisore, quickly conjured his own opinion poll, purportedly carried out by USAID, showing that he is leading the APC candidate and incumbent Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

“Fortunately, USAID has denied carrying out any opinion poll in Osun State, thus putting a lie to the PDP’s claim. There is no better indication of desperation than this,” the party said.

It called on the people of Osun State and APC members and supporters to be vigilant in order to

thwart the PDP’s alleged plan.

“As we have said repeatedly, we ask for nothing beyond a level playing field for all the candidates in the Aug. 9th election in Osun State.

“Also, we want all registered voters to be able to exercise their franchise without hindrance, since popular participation is the bedrock of democracy.

“If voting is done in the best tradition of free, fair and credible elections, whoever wins or loses will have no problem accepting the outcome,” APC said.

How clash with Diezani caused NNPC GMD’s exit C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 1

to be ‘insurbordination’ in the way the NNPC boss handled the controversy surrounding the N10 billion private jet scandal.

The scandal was one in a series of controversies in which the minister had been embroiled since she was appointed.

The NNPC had earlier denied a rift between the minister and the erstwhile GMD but the source declared that what he referred to as ‘cold war’ between both public officers led to the removal of the 15th NNPC GMD. “In fact, the removal of Yakubu could have been effected during the heat of the jet saga but it was delayed to avoid suspicion. The Presidency had since pencilled Yakubu down for sacking.”

NNPC Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Ohi Alegbe, had earlier said Yakubu was in a harmonious working relationship with Alison-Madueke, who is also the chairman of the NNPC Board of Directors.

Dismissing reports of a frosty relationship between the duo, Alegbe had said both Yakubu and

Alison-Madueke had in the last few months been working together on the various invitations by the National Assembly over the N10 billion alleegdly spent by the corporation to charter private jets for the minister.

“This denial is not abnormal, you should be aware of this,” the source insisted when New Telegraph on Sunday made reference to the statement, adding that the “removal, which was primarily caused by this has confirmed that the rift was only kept in the cooler.”

The President had through a statement by Abati in June 2012 said Yakubu’s appointment was “to further strengthen the ongoing reforms and transformation of Nigeria’s petroleum sector, and in furtherance of efforts to achieve greater transparency and accountability in government.”

Although NNPC went through turbulence on matters relating to graft under Yakubu, he fought hard to take the corporation through the murky waters.

The Central Bank of Ni-

geria had earlier raised the alarm over alleged unremitted $49.8 billion crude oil revenue.

This was, among others, followed by the alleged misappropriation of $10m on the private jets’ charter.

The major shake-up in the top echelon of the NNPC also consumed the Managing Director of the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, Mr. Victor Briggs.

The erstwhile NPDC boss, who only last March took over from Abiye Membere, will now also make way for Mr. Anthony Ugonna Muoneke.

The President also approved the appointment of Ms. Aisha Mata Abdurrahman as the Group Executive Director (GED), Commercial and Investment of NNPC as well as Dr. Attahir Yusuf as the GED Business Development.

With the appointment of Dawha, the NNPC has witnessed the appointment and replacement of six GMDs to superintend its affairs in less than five years, a trend which industry stakeholders described as undermining the corporation’s policy focus and

direction.

This seeming instability is a bad signal to investors and by extension may hurt the nation’s oil and gas industry.

The latest change at the NNPC which saw the replacement of Yakubu with Dahwa is said to have heightened concern.

“Why will the President no allow Yakubu to retire, when he has just about one year to retirement?” an oil and gas operator who craved anonymity “because of the risk this comment could have on his business concerns” asked our correspondent.

He added, “We have chased everybody away with our shoddy way of doing business.”

The late President Umaru Yar’Adua had inherited Mr. Funsho Kupolokun from the Chief Olusegun Obasanjo administration as NNPC GMD and after a keeping him for about four more months, replaced him with Alhaji Abubakar Lawal Yar’Adua.

Alhaji Abubakar Yar ’Adua (no relation of the late president) then took the corporation through 16 grinding months noted for a lack of

clear cut policy direction and rudderless leadership and was replaced in January 2009 with Dr. Mohammed Sanusi Barkindo.

Although Barkindo’s background, cerebral disposition and international background inspired hope and confidence in industry watchers, his 15-month spell at the helm of the corporation’s affairs was marked by constant rifts with National Assembly committees on petroleum and seeming state of perpetual disagreement with the IOCs over review of the Petroleum Industry Bill.

However, his leadership provided a concise programme regarding the transformation of the corporation from a stereotype national oil company to an international oil firm.

In April 2010, the Presidency announced his replacement with Mallam Shehu Ladan who had been retired in April 2009 and no reason was advanced for Barkindo’s replacement.

By May, 2010 a little over one month after Ladan was appointed and oil and gas industry operators were still trying to find their

rhythm, the Presidency announced his replacement with Oniwon who until his appointment was the Group Executive Director in charge of Refining and Petrochemicals.

The new GMD is from Borno State. He had also worked for the corporation as the Managing Director of Integrated Data Services Ltd (IDSL), a subsidiary of NNPC. Muoneke who is the new Managing Director of the NPDC, is from Anambra State. He had recently resigned from the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) where he served as the Executive Director, Finance and Administration.

Muoneke was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 and has over 29 years experience at both local and international levels in the oil and gas as well as the energy and power sectors.

The erstwhile GMD was appointed in June 2012 with a new group executive management team. He took over from Oniwon, who retired after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60 in 2011.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Ekiti NULGE directs members to shun postings to new LGs Adesina Wahab

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ADO-EKITI

he newly-created 19 local development council areas (LCDAs) in Ekiti State may have started on a wrong footing, as the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has directed its members to shun postings to them. NULGE, the umbrella union for local government workers, gave the directive, as a result of unresolved labour issues between it and the state government.

Confirming the action in a telephone interview on Saturday, the Ekiti State President of NULGE, Comrade Bunmi Ajimoko, said the action was taken in the best interest of the workers and the state.

“We are not opposed to the creation of new local governments or councils, but certain issues must be resolved and clarified. The creation of new councils will, no doubt, mean more expenses on the part of the government.

“However, there are issues that the state government is yet to resolve with us. They border on welfare and condition of service.

“We recently cried out over the issues such as Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS)/Consolidated

Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS among others.

The state government has not resolved them and our members are still denied these benefits and you want them to go and be using their hands to make ways in the forest. We told our members not to go to these new councils until all outstanding issues are resolved.”

NULGE had on July 15 given the state government a 21-day ultimatum to meet certain demands or risk industrial action. Ajimoko, who addressed a press briefing then, lamented that the government had looked away from the peaceful stance of the union, saying the workers’ complaints included non-payment of the minimum wage arrears despite deduction of N400 million from the councils to service e-payment.

Others, the NULGE boss said, were partial implementation of CONHESS, CONMESS, thus placing council health workers below their counterparts at the state level; and subjecting workers to untold hardship through undue delay of council staff deductions.

Ajimoko said the government should, within the period, address the “usurpation of the councils in the area of running grants and functions of the Ministry of Local Government which is at variance with the operations of past

Total pledges support to host communities Tony Anichebe UYO

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eputy Managing Director of Total Exploration and Production of Nigeria, Port Harcourt district Mr. Nicholas Brunet has said that the company would continue to demonstrate commitment to the comprehensive wellbeing of its host communities in Akwa Ibom State.

Brunet stated this during the flag off of the 2014 NNPC/TEPNG Healthy Living Awareness campaign programme for its host communities facilitated by FDUOS Integrated Healthcare Services held yesterday at the Council Secretariat Ibekwe, in Ikot Abasi local government area.

Brunet who was represented at the occasion by Mr. Iduoku Izu, Deputy General Manager Joint Venture Operations Community Affairs, said the overall objective of the effort which is in line with the company’s social corporate responsibility to its host communities was to draw attention perennial killer diseases easily

overlooked health conditions and lifestyles with fatal consequences.

“This year’s focus is on diabetes mellitus, hypertension and stroke. Health experts are in agreement that there is an ongoing epidemic of these noncommunicable diseases in the developing world, including Nigeria. They are silent killers doing severe havoc to the body long before their symptoms and signs are noticed.

“Early identification of the symptoms and signs will help us to seek medical help before it becomes too late for effective treatment. It is therefore imperative that we draw the attention of our people to these perennial killers and take proactive actions to forestall being victims.

He expressed the belief that the awareness campaign would yield result in effective and sustainable lifestyle changes that would help in preventing most medical emergencies and deaths, and thanked the council leadership, traditional rulers and entire Ikot Abasi community for availing the company the enabling environment to the success of the exercise.

administrations”.

He lamented under funding of the Local Government Service Commission and other local government agencies through an Act of Ekiti State House of Assembly to reduce its statutory grants from five per cent to between two and four per cents without due recourse to public opinion and other relevant key stakeholders.

The NULGE boss canvassed urgent payment of the 2013 leave bonus to health workers and 2014 leave bonus to all other council workers, as he lamented the non-capturing of palace staff in the biometric exercise thus making the

salaries, bonuses and allowances of the category of workers irregular and with tears.

The union had, about two years ago, gone on strike for about three months over sundry issues. It would be recalled that the creation of 19 new councils by the outgoing administration of Governor Kayode Fayemi has raised a lot of dust. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), whose candidate in the June 21 governorship poll in the state, Mr. Ayo Fayose, will be inaugurated on October 16, has faulted the methods adopted in creating the councils.

News

Ihedioha donates science equipment to 130 schools Steve Uzoechi OWERRI

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eputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Chief Emeka I hedioha, has donated science kits valued at over N100 million to over 130 public and private secondary schools across the 27 local government areas in Imo State.

This followed perceived intrigues allegedly initiated by government agencies which assumed that the gesture could advance the political ambition of the Deputy Speaker, with the former directing that the venue of the event, Holy Ghost College, be locked down. It took the intervention of Archbishop Anthony Obinna who called in from his vacation overseas to get the venue to be opened.

While officials of some secondary schools who had

attended the event told our Correspondent that they had to come without their students because of a directive barring them from participating in the exercise, other schools evidently defied the directive in the interest of their school.

In the elaborate distribution ceremony held on Saturday at the Holy Ghost College, Owerri, Ihedioha said it was obligatory on leaders to sustain the quality of education in the state with the right attitude; adequately motivating the teachers and providing qualitative instructional and research materials.

He regretted the apparent poor funding of qualitative education in the state, noting that science and technology has become an integral part of human existence.

Former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi (left), presenting a cheque of N5m to the Catholic Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, for a micro credit scheme for the poor in the diocese in Awka, Anambra State, recently

Impeachment: Group slams Enugu deputy gov

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nugu Professionals Forum has described the answers given by Enugu State Deputy Governor, Mr. Sunday Onyebuchi, to charges levelled against him by the state house of assembly as “untenable and utterly dismissible.”

The group in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Nebechi Ugo, said Onyebuchi’s response was full of “falsehood and inaccuracies,” which according to it was either as a result ignorance or a deliberate attempt by the deputy governor to mislead the public.

It pointed out that while the house of assembly had accused the deputy governor of operating a commercial poultry in a residential quarters in violation of a resolution of the House, Onyebuchi in his defence deliberately omitted the word ‘commercial’ and instead went to tell ‘long and wind-

ing tales’ of how the poultry came to be.

The statement reads, “The question is not whether the deputy governor was keeping a poultry in his residential quarters but whether he was running a commercial poultry there. If the answer is the latter, then he is guilty as charged and he even compounded the offence by refusing to obey lawful di-

rectives some of which came from the governor himself, to remove the poultry.”

The group also dismissed the deputy governor’s claim that he refused to attend the South-East Governors’ meeting because Chime did not formally hand over to him when he had cause to travel out of the state.

It noted that he (deputy governor) “ought to have

known and indeed knows” that there is no constitutional requirement for the governor to hand over power to his deputy except where he is going to spend more than 21 days or three weeks abroad.

The house of assembly had recently upon a motion signed by 22 of its 24 members directed the Clerk of the House to serve an impeachment notice on the deputy

Confab loses another delegate Onwuka Nzeshi ABUJA

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he Secretariat of the National Conference yesterday announced the demise of Professor Muhammad Nur Alkali, who was one of the six delegates representing the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA) at the 2014 National Conference.

Professor Alkali died at his residence in Maiduguri on

the night of Friday, August 1, 2014. He was 68 years old.

A Professor of History and two-term Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri (1985 – 1992), the late Alkali was Director General of the Nigeria Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee under the administration of General Sani Abacha. More recently, he was a member of the Com-

mittee on Insecurity in the North East (The Boko Haram Committee) He has since been buried according to Islamic rites.

Chairman of the National Conference, Justice Idris Kutigi, who was sad at the development expressed condolences on behalf of the Conference Secretariat and delegates to the family of the deceased and the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.

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AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

News

Peter Obi pledges to continue public service

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L-R: House of Representative aspirant, Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, Oyo State, APC, Mr. Adewale Ogunniran; Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Lagos State House of Assembly aspriant, Owolabi Gafar and publisher, Colossus Magazine, Razaq Olawale Sanni, during Eld-el-filtr celebration visit to Tinubu in Lagos

Nigeria works out modalities for regional forces with Niger, Chad and Cameroon

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Emmanuel Onani

s part of measures to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency at all fronts, the military high command is intensifying efforts at contributing troops to the Regional Force initiative.

The development is in fulfillment of the partnership agreement reached

by Defence Ministers of Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Chad.

It is also a follow-up on a meeting convened in Paris, France, a few months ago, by the French President, François Holland, to foster regional cooperation against terrorism.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), had quoted Niger’s Defence Minister, Karidio Maha-

madou,, as saying that the aforementioned countries, were determined, more than ever before, to “eradicate this curse” (insurgency).

He was further quoted as saying each of the neighbouring countries, is expected to contribute 700 troops (that is a battalion each), bringing the total number of troops expected to form the force, to 2800.

To underscore the importance the Federal Government attaches to the counter-terrorism war, and it’s readiness to support any laudable initiative geared toward containing the menace, New Telegraph on Sunday, gathered that the military high command, has begun preparations toward donating 700 troops to the force.

A highly-placed military

source, who spoke in confidence with New Telegraph Sunday, revealed that modalities on how the troops will be drafted and mobilised, were being worked out. The dependable source restated the avowed commitment of the military, to defeat Boko Haram, and restore order to the troubled North East zone, which is the fighters’ stronghold.

He said: “The military authorities are doing everything to end terrorism in the country, and we are prepared to support any deliberate effort meant to arrest the ugly trend.”

When asked when exactly the troops will be ready for deployment, he noted: “You know, after a decision has been taken at the political level, the military will now work out the frame-

work for implementing such decision.”

The source, however, assured that “modalities are being worked out to meet that demand.” Efforts to reach the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major Gen. Chris Olukolade, for comments failed, as calls put across to his phone, did not go through.

President Goodluck Jonathan had, at a Regional Summit on Security in Nigeria, held in Paris, France, a few months ago, disclosed that the Boko Haram insurgency, which he described as “unconventional war”, has “so far claimed over twelve thousand lives, with more than 8, 000 persons injured or maimed, not to mention the displacement of thousands of innocent Nigerians.”

Lagos PDP is govt in waiting -Ndigbo in PDP

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group in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ndigbo in PDP Lagos State has declared that the party is a government in waiting in the state come 2015.

Rising from a recent stakeholders meeting in Ikeja, the group said the oppressive tendency of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government in the state will force the people to reject the party in the 2015 elections.

Speaking through its

chairman, Polycarp Duru, the group particularly decried extortions and unnecessary harassment by the various agencies of the Lagos State government of the down trodden and none indigenes.

He said: “What happened in the Ekiti State gubernatorial election is an eye opener to all skeptics. The same thing will happen in Lagos State soonest, if we insist that the one man, one vote mantra that yielded that

result is also applied in subsequent elections.”

He insisted that the PDP will not only take over Lagos State, but majority of the states across the country in the forthcoming elections.

According to him, members of Ndigbo in PDP Lagos are working with other interest groups on how best to strengthen the party’s structures at the wards and local government areas of the state to achieve its goal come 2015.

“Here in PDP, we disagree to agree, and that is the essence of democracy.

PDP is the only political party that provides a level playing ground for everybody, and that has helped the party so much,” he pointed out.

The group also affirmed that President Goodluck Jonathan’s performance so far has earned him an automatic ticket to run for a second term in 2015, calling on all Nigerians to support him.

ormer Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi has said that the only passion he had now is to continue to contribute from whatever position he finds himself to the advancement of the society.

He said this while presenting a cheque of N5 million to the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor for assistance to the poor in the Diocese.

Obi, who recently presented N3 million to the Methodist Church in the State; N5 Million to the Anglican Diocese of Ekwulobia; N3 million to the Anglican Diocese of Amichi; among others is to institute revolving loan schemes targeted at the poor, assured that the money will go round all the dioceses in the state.

He said that besides assisting the poor, that he would, for the rest of his life, devote his time and resources to assisting the church in their various schools and other en-

deavors that were beneficial to humanity.

On why he is restricting the assistance to schools owned by the church, he said he did not want to interfere in government schools as he believed government would always take care of them.

“Much as I believe that government would always take care of their schools, I must confess that I was impressed the way churches in the state managed the schools we returned to them. Today, discipline, hardwork, diligence and morals are beginning to return to those schools. Insofar as these schools train our children, they are worthwhile venture to support and encourage,” Obi said.

Calling on the church to fashion out beneficial methods of deploying the money he gave to them for micro credit support, Obi said he would be encouraged to assist further and to call on his friends to assist as well once the scheme was on course.

A’Ibom raises the alarm over security threat Tony Anichebe Uyo

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kwa Ibom State government has advised citizens and residents of the state to be security conscious and be extra vigilant by promptly reporting suspicious movements of strange elements and other actions that constitute security threats to security personnel for immediate action.

In a statement by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah the government decried the spread of some text messages believed to have come from the terrorist Group, Boko Haram threatening the peace and security of the state.

He said these threat text messages were usually targeted at churches, markets schools and other public places.

Umanah assured all indigenes and residents of

the state of their safety as government has directed security agencies to step up surveillance towards not only tackling the threat, but to also ensure the safety and security of lives and properties, including sensitive and important installations in the state.

He, therefore, urged all law abiding citizens to go about their legitimate businesses as government is on top of the situation, maintaining that government is poised to sustaining the peace and stable environment which makes Akwa Ibom a safe place for visitors, investors and her indigenes.

CHANGE OF NAME MAUREEN

I, formerly known as Miss Maureen Aforka, now wishes to be known and addressed as Mrs Maureen Okwulogu. N.Y.S.C, public take note

PUBLIC NOTICE

I, OKEZIE George Obinna, Male, Christian,residing at No.4 Jibowu street ,Yaba, Lagos wish to add my father’s name OKEREKE to my children’s surname.

They will now bear OKEZIE –OKEREKE as their surname. All other documents remain valid.

The public, should please take note

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

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Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth – Buddha

SUNDAY, AUGUST 3, 2014

Borrowing to fight terrorism?

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resident Jonathan is seeking the approval of the National Assembly for a loan of N162 billion ($1 billion) to fight terrorism. “You are no doubt cognisant of the on-going and serious security challenges which the nation is facing as typified by the Boko-Haram terrorist threat… For this reason, I seek the concurrence of the National Assembly for external borrowing of not more than $1 billion,” the President told the members of the National Assembly in a letter.

The request has sparked a flurry of arguments including that from the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG ) which is bluntly opposed to the loan.

Chairman of the group, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, says TMG, in league with all civil society organisations that have kept a close watch on the Federal Government’s efforts and spending on the war against terror in the North East so far, are opposed to this request.

“We oppose any attempt by government to use the insurgency as an alibi to plunge Nigeria into further debt, knowing the implications of such for future generation of Nigerians, especially when unsustainable debts are incurred for purposes that do not impact on the welfare of the ordinary Nigerian. TMG’s reasons for kicking against the loan request spring from its belief that so much money conservatively put at an annual average of N968 billion ($6 billion) as provided in the 2014 Budget, for example, has gone into defence expenditure since 2011 without commensurate results in

terms of security and stability in the areas the military has been operating.

TMG also demands explanations on what has become of all of the monies budgeted for defence expenditure since 2009 and insists that borrowing of any kind for funding of the war against terror is not in the interest of Nigerians. Other contributors to the debate have also adduced the high cost of sophisticated military equipment, hardware and ammunition as reasons for justifying the President’s request. Such contributors are quick to cite the position of the Borno State governor, His Excellency, Kashim Shettima who recently declared that the Boko Haram insurgents were better armed and motivated than the military.

Such contributors to the debates argue that $1billion adds up to nothing in the ammunition market. According to them, one F16 Jet fighter with full gadgets is worth more than N3 billion ($20 million). A Raptor stealth fighter jet fully equipped also costs more than N24 billion ($150 million), while simple Apache Helicopters cost more than

Blaming ourselves has not and will never solve the problem either now or in the future. Sadly, no one else is in a better position to save us from us than ourselves. The time to act is now.

N1.5 billion ($10 million) each, all these without necessary add-on softwares and logistics. Those who are favourably disposed to the President’s idea maintain that $1 billion is grossly insufficient to fight terrorism, and argue that Spy Machines, hard and softwares for gathering information alone will consume that amount. 10 Unmanned Drone Aeroplane is $50 million.

But arguments also remain rife that the most efficacious strategy to break the backbone of the terrorists is to meaningfully engage the teeming unemployed youths and stultify the growing capacity of terrorists to easily lure and recruit them as foot soldiers and perpetrators of evil works.

This position seems shared by the Transition Monitoring Group in its submission that “TMG strongly believes that there is a nexus between the high youth unemployment in Nigeria and violent crimes that have continued to undermine our nation’s stability…(and that) in the North East, there is an army of teeming unemployed youths who are being recruited and brainwashed by the terrorists and used as cannon fodders in Boko Haram’s campaign of hate.”

We share the position of the TMG that “one crucial soft power strategy to stop Boko Haram is dependent on blocking their recruitment of jobless young people by getting these mainly impressionable youths into gainful employment in the strong belief that this strategy can effectively deprive the terrorists the human beings they have

been co-opting into their campaign of mindless violence and hate and save the future of our under-age children who are fast emerging ready tools in the hands of the devil-incarnates.

We advise caution in the frenzy of debates and suggest that all strategies must weigh in heavily to decode and destroy the complex architecture of terrorism, especially from the standpoints of intelligence, recruitment, channels of finance and logistics. The fight against terrorism is a marathon race that demands well-crafted, effectively and efficiently implemented strategies.

We further suggest that more strategic alliances and cooperation with willing bilateral and bi-national partners such as we already have with Britain, America, France and Israel should be explored to step up training, advise and intelligence assistance.

Overall, we need to rethink the loan option, seek more adept ways of absorbing more significant portion of huge security votes (that are more like free funds) given to various layers of elected public office holders in the effort to raise money for the fight. In addition, we must now allow political and ethnic sentiments and differences to be swallowed by national interest, and collectively work towards the common goal of winning the fight. Blaming ourselves has not and will never solve the problem either now or in the future.

Sadly, no one else is in a better position to save us from us than ourselves. The time to act is now.

GABRIEL AKINADEWO Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief FELIX OGUEJIOFOR ABUGU Deputy Managing Director/DEIC YEMI AJAYI Editor, Daily LAURENCE ANI Editor, Saturday EMEKA MADUNAGU Editor, Sunday JULIET BUMAH Deputy Editor (Sunday) LEO CENDROWICZ Bureau Chief, Brussels MARSHALL COMINS Bureau Chief, Washington DC SAM AMSTERDAM Editorial Coordinator, Europe EMMAN SHEHU (PhD) Chairman, Editorial Board BIYI ADEGOROYE Assistant Editor, News & Politics TIMOTHY AKINLEYE Head, Graphics ROBINSON EZEH Head, Admin.

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AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

OPINION

Osun and march towards agric self-sufficiency

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Adegoke Koleoso

ccording to him: “I had once contemplated leaving farming because in the recent past farm produce would be rotten away, because the cost of transportation was unbearable, and I found out that I was just working for nothing.But with the construction of the road leading to Mokore farm settlement by Aregbesola, my confidence has been restored and I am now more comfortable.”

The Aregbesola administration then allocated the acquired land to the farmer who showed interest in arable farming,the clearing of the land done for free, while service centers were established in the nine federal constituencies for the farmers to have access to input.

As at the time of filing this report, a farm located in Boripe local government has a pepper farm that could feed five states.

Having vowed to create markets for the farmers’ harvests, Aregbesola’s government quickly secured tens of hectares of land in Dagbolu, located in Olorunda local government for farm produce hub called O’ HUB. The plan of the government, according to the the Commissioner was to make the place a centre where huge farm produce Would be conveyed to Lagos by railway transport free of charge to the farmers, but at a cost to the

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government.

Adedoying stressed: “we had cleared some hectares of land in Dagbolu and contemplated the construction of warehouses there with a view to making it the hub of farm produce that would be conveyed to Lagos market, while the merchandize sold in Lagos would be brought too by our farmers and marketers free of charge, of course at a cost to the government.Our overall plan was and is to put more money in the pockets of the farmers and cause our marketers to sell their stuff at the Lagos price. The intention is to redirect the influx of marketers from other states to Osogbo, the state capital.

And if it works according to plan, then our state will soon become a commercial hub in the South West axis after Lagos.”

However, the governor has lamented that none of the state farmers has taken advantage of the free railway service, because meeting up with the demand of the Lagos market has become a herculean task, but the alternative market created by the school feeding programme has made some section of farmers to be smiling to the banks.

No less than 300,000 pupils of the public schools at the elementary level are fed with an egg per child among other menu list.Poultry farmers are empowered to work as much they could, a situation that has made them buoyant and productive.

Even so, their supply is still a far cry from

the demand of the public schools in the state.

Dr Charles Akinola who has O’REAP in his purview remarked thus: “Corroborating the feat recorded by the current administration in the agricultural programme, the state government went further in partnering with private sector such as TUNS Farm Nigeria Limited to promote broiler production to empower poultry farmers and create jobs under the Osun Broilers Out-growers Production Scheme (O’BOPS) with the sum of N539, 435,200. 578. Farms have been stocked with over 3,654,612 Day-OldChicks from inception in 2011 and Over N200 million have been made as profit by the Out-growers in the Scheme. These Schemes are meant to supply chicken and fish to O-MEAL Food Vendors to feed the Grade one to four pupils in the state public schools under the free.”

On agricultural investment and partnership, Akinola noted that 64,000 oil palm seedlings and 25,000 cashew seedlings have been raised for sale, 500,000 cocoa seedlings, 6,000 Kola and 6,000 bitter kola seedlings distributed free to cocoa/bitter kola farmers respectively across the state while an all year round vegetable production in Kuta on a 210 hectares of land are encouraged.

He explained further that 2,000 farmers were supported to plant 1.3 million plantain suckers for refined plantain

flour production, encouraged cooperative groups to cultivate 80 hectares of yam farm cluster for yam flour production, adding that over 5,000 new farmer cooperative groups have been registered in the state.

Under agricultural land expansion Dr Charles, Akinola further noted that land validation and perimeter survey in 9 farm settlements using GIS and Remote Sensing Technology, a first in the history of farm settlements in south west Nigeria has been carried out by the government.

Meanwhile, the production of honey, cocoyam, and cash crops in commercial quantities has been encouraged by the government, because cocoyam is on the menu list of the school pupils, while some honey farmers are making huge sale.The same trend is breaking forth for fish farmers and others on the value chain.

While noting that Aregbesola’s agricultural programme has within the last three and half years put food on the tables of the people of the state, created jobs and wealth especially for youths, Dr Akinola in conclusion remarked that the best is yet to come, stressing that with further initiatives,hardwork and resourcefulness,Osun will soon set the pace in maximum agricultural yields for others to emulate,approximate and followed through.

•Goke Butika

The Super ‘Alpian’ - Dora Akunyili

Zainab U Shariff s I lay on my bed meditating on how best to write this tribute about a Mentor, a Super ALPIAN, super pharmacist of international repute, I was over taken by emotions, sobbing with pains on the sudden departure to the World beyond of Dora Nkem Akunyili.

Since the announcement of her death, I have had course to ponder over the life of this woman of substance, a great Amazon, especially in her field of knowledge – A Pharmacist of Outstanding Courage and Excellence, the feats which she clearly demonstrated during her tenure as Director General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC. Dora Akunyili came to limelight in the early 2000’, when she was appointed DG NAFDAC. And quite frankly, there is no gainsaying about the unique role she played, despite the life threatening challenges she faced in the War against Fake and Counterfeit Drugs.

She spared nobody irrespective of your colour, tribe, or Nationality. NAFDAC become a household name in Nigeria, West Africa, Africa and the World due largely to the hardworking DORA. As ALPIANS, we were all proud of her as one of us with an unusualExhibit of Outstanding Academic Excellence. Pharmacists were all respected because of Dora. She made the profession of pharmacy recognisable as “lifesaving“, even a child could say; do you have “NAFDAC Number”?

As the National Chairperson of the Association and a very close associate of hers, anytime I called her, she picked my call and encouraged me to continue to Excel in my field of Promoting Medicinal Plants. I always reminded her that we look up to her as Our Mentor. Dora to Us was an Epitome of Beauty, Transparency,

Dora Akunyili

Honesty, Friendliness and Generous of Outstanding Intelligence.

At NAFDAC, all her staff exhibited the core ethics and value of Public-Service, Meritocracy, Loyalty, Patriotism, Diligence, Professionalism, Efficiency, Political Neutrality, Anonymity, Accountability, Transparency and Integrity. This was the secret of both leadership and followership at NAFDAC. These values are still entrenched with those she left behind.

Everybody walks into NAFDAC as an exemplary Agency of Government that has succeeded in carrying out its Mandates Objectively. “Dora was NAFDAC and NAFDAC was Dora”.

She encouraged the proliferation of local pharmaceutical companies to produce drugs of quality standards that brought market for Nigerian drugs especially in the West African Sub region and the Agency was seen as a Pioneer in West Africa. Our drugs were proudly bought and used by all in Africa. Currently, we have over 300 pharmaceutical companies in the Country producing locally. She ensured

that quality drugs were brought into the country through the inspection of drugs at source of manufacturing especially in India and China. NAFDAC staff had a unique international exposure as inspectors of high repute.

In tributes recently paid to Dora, the one missing was from her immediate constituency, the “Pharmacy Profession”.

With the vacuum her death has created, it necessitated the urge to eulogise her even in death on behalf of lady Pharmacists and Pharmacists in Nigeria. Dora’s death to us is an irreplaceable loss and we will continue to mourn her for a long time.

Dora preached the gospel of fake drugs at the slightest opportunity – Schools, Public gatherings and Social functions.

Dora as a great pharmacist loved her colleagues but was often misunderstood because of her intimidating and charismatic qualities, which she always exhibited.

As an ALPIAN, she was Active and above all, a founding member.

Dora was Passionate about Nigeria. This she clearly demonstrated when she was Minister of Information. As Information Minster, the Rebranding of Nigeria with the logo “Good People, Great Nation” adorned all products with the term proudly Nigerian. Gone are the days that products made in Nigeria were replaced with the names of other countries, which were regarded as “Inferiority Complex”.

Nigerians were ashamed of naming products as made in Nigeria. Dora removed this complex from the minds of Nigerians. Largely, her dressing was proudly Nigerian, very native and modest. Oh! Dora anywhere you appeared, you had that natural and innocent look with a focus for aspirations.

Those numerous awards are indelible points that will make You live on and hope some will be taken to the National Museum for History. In this regard we advise that Federal Government name the

street leading to NAFDAC Headquarters after “Dora Akunyili”. The NAFDAC, Oshodi complex, Lagos should also be named after her. Her Alma-Mata should also name the Pharmacy department in her Honour.

Needless to say late last year November to be precise, I called her on phone and After pleasantries I told her that I am currently the National Chairman of ALPS ‘’Association of lady pharmacists of Nigeria’’ and to inform her that she was a woman of great Substance, who has excelled and made us proud, therefore the need to “Celebrate her”. I said to her “Ma, we want to celebrate you while you are Still Alive”. Let’s have a one day programme and launch an activity in your name possibly donating drugs to the children’s orphanage as a mark and also talk about your life time in NAFDAC. Dora told me, it was not a bad idea but I should call her in January to confirm. I did not know that she was ill until her appearance at the National Conference, which confirmed her inability to pick my calls in January. I made efforts and called her home number but there was no response.

Nevertheless the foundation laid by this lady of substance in NAFDAC, has made it easy for the current DG to build upon and continue the good works. I pause to commend Dr. Orhi for continuity by taking NAFDAC to the next level. He has clearly shown that he believes in Dora and the works she did in NAFDAC and is willing to continue. This has made NAFDAC the toast of all Nigerians.

In the mind of most Nigerians Dora lives on and will continue to be remembered for her charismatic war on fake drugs.

Adieu DORA – THE GREAT ALPIAN! •Pharm Shariff, National Chairman, Association of Lady Pharmacists, wrote in from Abuja.

Letters Editor to the

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

AUGUST 3, 2014

You have a right to be heard! Send your letters and photographs to sundayletters@newtelegraphonline.com.

Letters should not be more than 150 words and must have the name and address of the sender.

Dr. Amos Adamu and CAF Presidency Dear Editor Before I proceed to make my points, let me state upfront that Dr. Amos Adamu as a Nigerian is entitled to hold any office in Nigeria and to represent Nigeria in any international body. Two, let me also put it on record that I love this country called Nigeria with all my heart and with all my soul, it’s imperfections notwithstanding. Now, to the reason for this post : In the last few days, people have sought to sell the idea of Adamu as CAF President. They have gone on and on about how experienced and connected he is and how Nigeria will benefit from his Presidency in CAF. With all due respect to those who canvass this view, I say it is absolute nonsense. I have yet to see how his membership of FIFA benefited Nigeria or how the donkey years he spent in the commanding heights of Nigerian sports, lifted our sports. Perceptive people in matters like this go for their best and brightest and I do not think that Adamu is our best and brightest.

If it happened, for instance ,that he was in the race for the CAF Presidency and my vote would give him the job, I would gleefully set aside my love for Nigeria and vote against him. We must move forward and shed dead weights. Our sports has wallowed in mediocrity for too long; let’s try and save it. So. please, nobody should try and use me as a sounding board or recruit me into in any PR initiative for Adamu. I am not interested. Finally, a word of advice to Tammy Danagogo, our Sports Minister, ‘run from Adamu as fast as your legs can carry you before you end up in the belly of the Tiger’.

Nnamdi Okosieme Lagos

Araromi cries for development Dear Editor, Lagos State is a state that means many things to many people. The state consists of towns and communities of which I live in one. My community is Araromi Quarters, off Mile 12, Ketu. It is a swampy and bushy community that is underdeveloped. The area has only one junior secondary school, with no direction. During the raining season, flood covers everywhere and when the Ogun River overflows its banks, nearby houses are covered. Sometimes, the people are rendered homeless. This leads to poverty and a decrease in the standard of living of inhabitants. At the moment, we don’t know when development and improvement in terms of the provision of social amenities and infrastructure like good drinking water, creation of primary healthcare centres and creation of good roads will dawn on us. However, we look forward to having the next local government administration turn our community around positive.

Odili Esther Ajegunle, Ikorodu, Lagos State

Let there be PEACE… PHOTO: SULEIMAN HUSAINI

FG should focus more on agriculture Dear Editor, Agriculture is one of those means which the government of any country that knows its value can use to improve the lives of her citizens and the economy. Unfortunately, the government is yet to show keen interest in agriculture which would have been a major source of revenue than crude oil. Cocoa is the Leading non-oil foreign exchange earner, but the dominance of smallholders and lack of farm labour due to urbanization hold back production. The Agricultural sector requires large labour force; as this is also one of its major challenges, as well as low patronage and inadequate resources. Employment opportunities are other benefits which are created for Nigerian unemployed graduates and those who are not gainfully employed. Furthermore, with the involvement of the youth, which will keep them busy, then the menace of crime in our Society would be reduced.

Steve Otigba Oji River, Enugu

Revisiting the Kaduna twin blasts Dear Editor, We need to critically look into the Kaduna bombing to ensure it was not politically motivated, if it has not got the signature of Boko Haram.

Two simultaneous bomb explosions in one state; curfew declared and suspended within 24 hours?

I hope these are not political diversions? We are in a country and state of possibilities. Let the intelligent do more of their work now and let intelligence be the watch word of everyone too. The insurgents have penetrated everywhere and everyone. Otherwise, how would they have known of Gen. Muhammed Buhari’s and the other lucky victim’s movement, timings and routes, without the support of some insiders? So, everyone like every agency must now be critical of the insider threats.

John Ojikutu Lagos

Touts on Benin by-pass and Niger Delta Dear Editor, May I use your medium to alert the National Council against touting of the continued presence of touts in the name of revenue collectors, who harass motorists to extort various amounts of money in many parts of the Niger Delta.

Many travelers must have either observed the presence of or have been victims of these touts at areas like Benin, (usually at the by-pass linking Uromi/ Asaba/Warri roads or on the Akure-Benin Road), in Edo Stata, at Asaba, Warri and some parts of Port Harcourt.

Armed with spikes full of nails with which they force motorists to a halt, the boys, numbering about 10 in each instance, ask for various local government permit-radio, television and others running into about N36,000 depending on the size of the vehicle.

After forcing their victims to a halt, they ask for the obnoxious permits even from private vehicles and where one is unable to produce them, they extort various amount of money depending on each person’s bargaining power. While one cannot ascertain the legality of the permits, whatever is collected, goes into their pockets since no receipt is ever issued.

When caught in lonely roads like the Owo-Benin Road by these menacing and usually violent boys, one can imagine the fear which the victims can face. It is not a pleasant experience at all. On three occasions, I have run into these boys and each was a harrowing experience. They usually feast on noneNiger Delta vehicles, especially those from Lagos and North.

It is obvious that these people have either defied various state governments’ efforts or are usually political thugs who enjoy tacit support of the politicians. Also disturbing is the presence of armed robbers on the Benin By Pass. Woe betides abyone whose car breaks down or has a flat tyre on that road.

The Federal Government should address these trends by ensuring that the Council and police patrols these roads and arrest these criminals.

Osnobu Idehen, Palmgroove, Lagos State.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Life

BBC’ll gladly air Yoruba, Igbo programmes –Africa GM Joel Churcher is Vice President and General Manager for Africa at BBC Worldwide.

He heads the commercial activities in Africa. That is channels business involving TV content sales to channels across Africa. It also includes live events and other aspects in promoting Africa is what they do. Churcher also says Igbo and Yoruba content can make the BBC’s list if they have willing providers. He spoke with Sony Neme in Mauritius during the Multichoice Africa Content Showcase

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What are the challenges working in Africa from the UK? n BBC Africa we had a restructure last year, and the point of the restructure was to appoint general managers for local markets. So we have general managers in Poland, Asia and Latin America. The whole idea is to appoint somebody who will take charge of the African market. So in September, we will open an office, which I will move into in Johannesburg. And my plan while there is to see how we can grow our business from where we would operate across the whole of the African continent, because that is how we can really serve the continent better.

We need to be in Africa.

Why the choice of South Africa and not Nigeria?

On the choice of South Africa, ultimately we have a business relationship with Multichoice Africa and they are in Johannesburg. Also for us it is very important because we have to be based in a place where we have affinity with Multichoice and they can speak our language. From Johannesburg, we can exploit the whole of Africa.

But Nigeria is a huge market for BCC…?

We actually appreciate that. Our vision is to grow the expansion in the whole of Africa. That is our plan, but we have to start from somewhere. I have been to Lagos and I love it. There is a great opportunity to grow our business in Nigeria. But you look at it from a pay TV perspective. South Africa is the biggest pay TV region in Africa. DStv controls five million homes in South Africa alone. And outside of South Africa I don’t think DStv has a total of four million in the whole of Africa.

It makes sense for us to be in a place where we have five million Pay TV subscribers with Multichoice platform. I must say here that we have plans in the future, as our mission is to go across the whole of Africa, especially in Nigeria. It is number two on our list.

Investment is about money making, do you make more money from Pay TV than from advertisers?

It is about the same. It is not just about money making, but about growing our plans.

Your company prides itself as a great content provider. Are there plans to invest in talents in Africa to provide you with content instead of just feeding us with your programmes?

Sure you have talents in Africa. Remember, we are just launching our office in September. When we move in we will be looking at how we start looking producing from local sources. May be we will be looking at local channels in some local markets.

Currently, we schedule our programmes and channels to suit the African audience. But I can’t really know what it looks like if we go get African buyers, which we appreciate. Going forward, we will look at exactly how we can adjust to that and calibrate that. What we will be looking at is how do we make the BBC entertainment a lot better? How do we make our channels feel more Nigerian in their flavor? These are what we will be looking at; how to make it more receptive.

Which of our channels has more Nigerian viewership?

We will provide more of that. Could it be comedy, food or whichever that attracts more viewers? We will be providing more of that. We will be providing more channels for Nigeria. And we will do the same in Kenya, same in Botswana. We will roll it out in a way that each region will have different look for each

BBC channel.

Will you be sponsoring the productions of TV content in Africa?

Yes, BBC is very proud of its connection with independent producers. We work with over 200 independent producers around the world. We will look at what makes sense and start working with local production companies when we are ready to come and make local show. We are looking for local shows in each local market.

UK no doubt is a second home to most Nigerians. Is there anything to show that this synergy is for real?

That is a very good question, because are aware that Africa, especially countries like Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa have a very great affinity with Great Britain.

We know that our stars and celebrities make our channels remain relevant to the aspirations of Africans. Secondly, the step for us is how do they remain very relevant. That for me is the way we look at channels, propositions and our online channels which are local shows.

If we think something works for Nigeria, why not make a Nigerian version of it?

We have got 200 formats in our catalogue. We don’t stop making local formats.

What is your viewership strength in Africa?

We have got five million in South Africa and four million in the whole of other African countries. We also sell our shows to national stations. You will be watching BBC shows outside the BBC channels broadcasting stations across Africa. To answer your question directly, we have got millions watching BBC shows across the continent. About 40 per cent of our bbc.com viewers come from Africa. And bbc. com has got 80 million viewers.

about television content, which everyone is passionate about in television content, is really exciting to us, because we are the premium content provider globally. Again, it allows us a lot of opportunities for you to have access to BBC. I don’t know how much access those in different African countries have to BBC, to get close and ask relevant questions on content and get the understanding of BBC strategies and get exactly how it will work for Africans.

Most Nigerian artistes have chalked up awards in the UK. How does that make you feel?

For us in the UK we have so many Africans that are UK citizens. For us we have successfully incredible artistes with African roots. We look at it from the UK perspective than from the Nigerian, Kenya or Bostwana perspective.

What are you taking back home?

Lots of business cards. I am giving a lot of thought to how BBC can make success in Africa from a local perspective, which was your question on how can we make BBC more relevant to Africa.

There is going to be a lot of focus on that. And BBC has a big strategy team back in London. And your idea will be how we can develop ideas and make it a really strong brand from Africa. That might be one of the biggest challenges that I am going to have in the next years to come.

The whole essence of Africa Rising here in Mauritius is to get Africans entertained. What does it mean to you?

It is an incredible opportunity. First of all the idea that we can bring a whole continent together to talk

You have a Hausa programme. Why not Igbo, Yoruba and other major languages in Nigeria?

BBC Hausa is a content provided to us. If we have people who are ready to provide us with such content, why not? We’ll gladly air them.

13

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

News

Gas to power: FG targets 5000MW James Nwabueze

I

ABUJA

n a bid to address the shortfall of electricity supply being experienced in the country, the Federal Government has developed a short-term intervention strategy aimed at adding 370mmcf/d gas supply that will push up power generation capacity to 5,000 megawatts within the next five months.

This step is under a new cross-sectoral approach conceived by the ministries of Petroleum and Natural Resources, Power, National Electricity Regulatory Commission, Central Bank of Nigeria and other stakeholders

to address the current inadequacies of electricity supply.

This was unveiled at a press conference in Abuja by the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezan Alison-Madueke.

Diezani was in company with the Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo; CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele; Managing Director of Pipelines and Products Marketing Company, Mr. David Ige; Chairman of NERC, Dr. Sam Amadi; and the new Group Managing Director of NNPC, Joseph Dawha, as well as other stakeholders.

C u r r e n t l y, about 750mmcf/d of gas is being supplied to the power sec-

tor, resulting in an aggregate generating capacity of about 4,000 megawatts.

If this effort is achieved, it will raise power generation capacity to 9,000 megawatts by December.

Besides, electricity consumers are expected to pay more as the government has announced a new benchmark of $2.50/ mcf for gas supply, and $0.80/mcf as transportation costs for new capacity from 2014.

The cost implication of this new benchmark implies that electricity tariff might rise by 150 per cent since the National Electricity Regulatory Commission benchmark was $1.5/mcf as against the new approved $3.30/mcf

benchmark.

Alison-Madueke said the government had resolved to find a lasting solution to abysmal power supply in the country.

She said, “A review of gas pricing is now being implemented to further reflect market value. The ministry of Petroleum Resources and NERC are in ongoing deliberations to finalize work to ensure that the pricing mechanism of gas to power will reflect market value. In the short term, it is anticipated that this will quickly boost gas supply and in turn power output. In the medium to long term, this new price regime should trigger additional investment in the infrastructure

Tinubu, Daniel, Bankole are spent forces -Kashamu

•You lack political experience, says Daniel

K

unle Olayeni, Abeokuta A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Buruji Kashamu, has described the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress Congress Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; exSpeaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole; and a former governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, as spent forces.

Kashamu, who spoke in an interview with New Telegraph on Sunday (see Pages 28&29) in Abeokuta, said Tinubu had lost influence in the South-West, while Bankole betrayed the Yoruba race in the tussle for his successor.

Kashamu, who is the chairman, South-West PDP Mobilisation and Organisation Committee, said Daniel could not be trusted.

However, Daniel fired back in an interview with journalists in Abeokuta yesterday, describing Kashamu as a political neophyte.

Referring to one of Tinubu’s traditional titles, which is the Jagaban of Borgu in Niger State, he said the South-West PDP had produced more Jagabans in himself; Ekiti State Governor-elect, Mr. Ayodele Fayose; the party’s governorship candidate in Osun State, Iyiola Omisore; and three others he didn’t name.

He flayed Bankole for allegedly scuttling the

emergence of a Yoruba, Mrs. Mulikat AkandeAdeola, as his successor.

He alleged that Bankole instead supported a candidate from the North-West, Aminu Tambuwal, against the wishes of South-West leaders, noting that this amounted to a betrayal of Yoruba aspirations.

On Daniel, he also described the former governor as a traitor, who dumped the PDP and went to form the Peoples Party of Nigeria. He said that having failed to realise his agenda through PPN, Daniel jumped to the Labour Party, adding that the former governor’s offer of support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election bid should not be taken seriously.

He also declared that PDP would never enter into an alliance with LP. However, Daniel said Kashamu’s comment was borne out of “inexperience and exuberance.”

The former governor noted that Kashamu was not in the best position to determine the possibility of an alliance between PDP and LP in Ogun State for the 2015 poll, saying the Presidency would at the right time decide the desirability or otherwise of any collaboration between both two parties.

He, however, stated that his party’s willingness to cooperate with any other political party would not necessarily be towards Ogun State PDP,

stressing that the LP was determined to forge ‘strategic partnerships’ to unseat the ruling APC in the state.

He said, “It is common knowledge that if you added the votes of the PDP and the PPN together, they could have overwhelmed ACN’s votes.

So, now that the situation has become like this, a political leader must listen to his followers. The people of Ogun State are now asking for change again; the same change they asked for in 2010/2011 when PDP was fighting itself.

“And our people keep telling us, ‘OGD, this job will be a lot easier if you can combine with PDP’.

What I simply said was that if this is what the people want, fine. And if anybody said something totally different from that, I will put it to inexperience.”

Daniel observed that elections require strategies beyond money, adding that every support and vote that politicians can muster counts.

He said, “You can’t be too sure that you can win election; you win election with one vote and lose with one vote and you don’t know where that one vote is coming from. So, I think it’s unnecessary overconfidence if anybody can say he doesn’t need others.

“Even the people who are sitting at the centre in

Nigeria will not say they don’t need anybody. If anybody says they want to work with you, they are most welcome; that is what an experienced politician will say. So, the person who spoke, I would put it to lack of experience in this matter.

“And so, if they now say that it is time for us to work together, he is not in a position to determine that. And the people of Ogun State have a choice.

Now that things are no longer settling within the camp of the ruling party, there are other strategic partnerships that can rescue the people of Ogun State, if it’s necessary. If the Labour Party can do it alone, the Labour Party will go ahead.

“As far as I’m concerned today, the strongest political structure in Ogun State is the Labour Party.

But nobody can talk until election day. So, if his own boss is still looking for allies, how can somebody who is not even sure where he stands be saying otherwise? No, that is not how politics is played.

“Jonathan is still looking for supporters. But instead of Jonathan to say that I don’t need anybody, you see him running looking for additional friends.

So, that statement by that man is clearly borne out of inexperience and I’m sure that if some people sit with him and explain it to him, he probably would change that statement and support it.”

for gas to power. In furtherance of this commitment, NERC has approved a new benchmark price of $2.50/mcf for gas supply and $0.80/mcf as transportation costs for new capacity from 2014 this benchmark will rise with US inflation annually.

“To give confidence to stakeholders in the gas sector, regarding the willingness of the power sector to settle its outstanding debts for gas, the CBN will support initiatives to clear up the most recent gas-related debts of the power sector. Specifically, the CBN is looking at banking sector-led measures to pay off N25 billion of debts owed to gas suppliers.”

The petroleum minister

also stated her ministry was focusing on a number of gas supply projects to help cushion the effects of supply shortage in the short-term, including the Utorogu field expansion comprising accelerated work over of some wells and completion of the new gas plant which is expected to add 60mmcf/d.

She said other projects include the expansion of Oben gas plant and drilling of new wells to add 100mmcf/d, and the re-entry of the Odidi field. She stressed that revamping of the processing plant and flowliness will deliver 40mmcf/d among other projects.

Boko Haram Kwankwaso blasts Jonathan, govs CO NTINUED F R O M PAGE1

“The Chief of Defence Staff should be the one if the President is absent, but a governor is only controlling a small portion of the country. Of course, there is no serious security outfit under him; may be somebody sent them.”

Kwankwaso further dismissed the fundraiser for victims of insurgency, saying it was “not a durable means of solving the problem. Government must come with a marshal plan on truly helping the North-East through a more formidable means of raising internal finances not begging or asking for help.”

He said as it is now, Jonathan’s administration is totally confused on what to do about the insurgency, because the President had failed to deal with the challenge of insecurity in the country.

“He cannot even go and see his people in Chibok.

He sits in Abuja only concerned about re-election while lives continue to be wasted on a daily basis,” he said.

He also accused Jonathan of reducing his administration to a provincial one.

“As it is today the President has succeeded in reducing his government to more of a provincial one rather than a unique federal one that is concerned about the wellbeing of the overall Nigerian.

“Today, President Goodluck Jonathan has turned the (Presidential) Villa

into a hiding place for the those who are perpetuating stealing and corrupt practices in Nigeria than giving sound and excellent leadership,” he declared.

He said so many cases had clearly shown how unserious the President is in dealing with insecurity, corrupt practices and the insurgency.

The governor noted that rather than produce a clear blueprint on how to end the insurgency, Jonathan was busy raising donations for victims of insurgency.

He said, “Today you have rather a President who is so powerful in dealing with the opposition rather than dealing with the insurgency. They went to Ekiti State with all the forces and more like an armed robbery mission, they ensured victory for PDP. As if that was not enough, they went to Adamawa State and forced everybody into making sure that Nyako was removed at gunpoint.

“And they have forgotten that security is supposed to be for the welfare of all Nigerians, including the opposition. But they are now using them (security agents) against the opposition, which is a dangerous precedent, because if it is the Army, it is the Nigerian Army not anybody’s village Army. If it is the police, they are the Nigeria Police not Villa Police and they should be seen to work for the interest of the country at large not anybody, no matter who he is.”

14

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

News

Akande flays Jonathan over soldiers’ deployment, impeachment threat Adeolu Adeyemo

I

OSOGBO.

mmediate Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief Bisi Akande yesterday blasted President Goodluck Jonathan, describing his administration as the worst in the country.

Akande who stated this at a reception organised for him by the Ila-IfedayoBoluwaduro Federal Constituency to commend him for his political activities so far, argued that “Jonathan’s administration is the worst in the history of Nigeria, as there are serious setback in the lives of ordinary Nige-

rians under the Jonathan’s administration.”

“This current regime is the worst. No peace, no infrastructures, no electricity, no employment, no industry, no prosperity, no orderliness and no peace of mind. Instead, there is panic everywhere.”

“Today, Nigeria which is one of the wealthiest and most naturally endowed place on earth, because of deliberate incidence of corruption and consequence misrule by the military administrations and the PDP over the years, is breeding the poorest and most deprived citizens within its jurisdiction.”

Speaking on the security

deployed in Osun State for election monitoring, Akande said, “I condemn the militarisation of Osun State with the men of the Department of the State Security, soldiers and the policemen.”

“The militarisation with sporadic shooting by the Directorate of State Services officers everywhere in the state scare away the voters and intimidate supporters of the APC”.

“In the recently held governorship election in Ekiti State, hundreds of APC supporters and leaders were hounded into detention at the eve of the election, only for the federal government to hoodwink

the global community to believe that the election was free and fair when in truth, the process had been skewed in favour of the PDP in the pre- election processes.”

“The same scenario is playing out again in Osun with the militarisation of the state by men of the State security services that are shooting sporadically everywhere in order to scare away the voters and intimidate our people before elections.”

“The military has no business in civil activities like election and the electorate.

The set back of Nigeria was as a result of the misrule of the military regime”.

“The PDP and the presidency have begun moves to destroy opposition parties out of intolerance in their bids to hold on to power and continuing enriching themselves against the wish of the electorate”.

“Hunting for powers and enable them be accountable to no electorate, PDP and its presidency have begun to destroy opposition all over Nigeria by using massive federal powers to impeach governors and fully arming the police and soldiers to protect and cover up their corrupt leaders while

Ebola: Lagos bars private mortuaries Appolonia Adeyemi

A

L-R: New Group Managing Director , Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Joseph Dawah; Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Sam Amadi; Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele; Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison -Madueke and Minister of Power, Chinedu Nebo, after a joint press conference on inter-agency collaboration on Gas to Power in Abuja… yesterday PHOTO: ELIJAH OLALUYI

New gas policy affects sellers –FCT police Emmanuel Onani

T

he Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has cleared the air on a subsisting gas policy introduced by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mbu Joseph Mbu, in the wake of bomb explosions in the capital city.

There had been speculations in Abuja and its environs, that the police commissioner had directed both sellers and users of gas, to register with Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) in their local areas, to enable authorities regulate and monitor the use of the highly-inflammable commodity.

However, the police command yesterday, clarified its position, stating that at no time did the commissioner of police issue directive for

users of cooking gas, to register with the police.

In a telephone conversation with New Telegraph on Sunday yesterday, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Altine Daniel, said the policy was only targeted at gas sellers in the city and adjoining suburbs.

Her words: “It is not true that gas users are affected by the CP’s directive. The CP’s directive was for gas sellers to register with DPOs, and the move is to checkmate the suspicion that gas cylinders were being used for all manners of things”, the PPRO stated.

When asked what the level of compliance was, she declined comments, saying she could only ascertain same, after receiving reports from the divisional officers.

Parents urged to keep children engaged during holiday.

A cross-section of teachers on Saturday in Abuja, advised parents to engage their children and wards in useful and productive activities during this long vacation.

The teachers, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), enumerated such activities to include craft, arts, music, and gardening, among others. They said that engaging them in these productive activities would check the temptation of participating in deviant acts.

They urged parents to also spend more time with their children to enable them identify the strength and weaknesses of the chil-

dren.

Mr. Solomon Abel, a music teacher, said that children should be exposed to the knowledge of music from early stage of development to help them build their individual personality and confidence.

“It helps the body and mind to work together, promoting co-operation, sharing, creativity and builds concentration. It also helps them learn sound and meanings of words, self-expression, it provides joy and strengthens memory and skills, “he said.

Mrs. Mabel Ojo, an arts and craft teacher, called on parents to engage their children and wards in crafts to help them develop individuality, patience and sense of beauty.

fraudulently manipulating the wishes of Nigerians at the pools with absolute impunity”.

“History does not change. It is the people who fail to learn the lessons of history. It was this type of actions by the then ruling parties that led to the collapse of the first and second republics of Nigeria due to the reckless use of brutal force by the ruling parties against the opposition.

“The present ruling PDP is already toeing this line at the risk of our hard earned democracy for which some of our compatriots paid the supreme sacrifice.

“With PDP in power, votes do not count and, therefore, the electorate are not important in PDP’s culture. That is why Nigeria has been sinking and failing under PDP governments.

s a strategy to check the spread of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Lagos, the state government has warned private mortuaries to reject corpes without death certificates.

It has also urged them to reject corpses whose certificates are believed to be fake.

A surveillance system in the country is being strengthened through the alert management system in order to identify potential cases of EVD with a view to protect patients and their communities as well as entire population.

Commissioner for Health in Lagos State, Dr. Jide Idris, who disclosed these plans said the government would schedule a meeting with operators of private mortuaries this week

(from Monday) where they would be provided with any information they require to implement the directive and the process they need to follow in handling copses with a view to check the spread EDV. “Private hospitals in Lagos should be careful now.

Any case that has no certificate or any case with suspected death certificate should not be handled by them. Rather, “they should alert us(Ministry of Health) first before handling such cases”.

Similarly, he said government would meet with traditional rulers, top officials of local governments, local council development authority and faith-based organisations to let them know how they will handle their congregation with regards to the issue of controlling the spread of the EVD.

Nigerian Navy needs funds, says FOC Flora Onwudiwe

T

he Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command (WNC), Apapa, Rear Admiral Ilesanmi Alade has called for increased funding to the Nigerian Navy to enable it acquire more platforms to protect oil shipments.

Speaking during a diplomatic visit with her (HMS) Iron Duke, Alade said such has become very vital to ensure effective protection of oil, the mainstay of the nation’s economy from people carrying out illegal bunkering.

Rear Admiral Alade said that the visit was important

because it afforded opportunity for events and training exercises in navigation, engineering, damage control and fire-fighting, boarding party and security operations.

Also, a passage exercise which included four Nigerian Navy ships; NNS Burutu, NNS Dorina, NNS Andoni and NNS Bini were grouped as town class patrol boats, left Lagos channels in sequence in order of arrangement along with her (HMS) Iron Duke with selected Defence Correspondents to sail on the high sea to performed an exercise which was code named ‘ex-chiojomune’ meaning farewell.

Sanctity of Truth

ON SUNDAY

Page 15, AUGUST 3, 2014

NTWEEKEND ONLINE AT www.newtelegraphonline.com/body&soul

My style is simple and chic -Sarah Ladipo Manyika

Real men get their nails done

16

Body&Soul

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

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Contents 03.08.2014 COVER

I love fashion and style. It is one of the things that I love to see coming back to Nigeria. When you grow up in Europe and America, people only wear many different shades of black and grey. Here in Nigeria, it is not like that at all -Sarah Ladipo Manyika

} 18-19

BEAUTY

We all know how bad a wet hair day can be. If not properly managed, this can damage your hair and even more so, your w e ave - o n / extensions.

T h e Te a m Juliet Bumah (Editor)

Vanessa Okwara (Correspondent) Wole Adepoju

} 22&43

ACCESSORIES

The ankle strap, be it a pump or sandal, is the footwear of the season and seasons to come.

The straps are positioned on or above the ankle bone, giving you a beautiful appearance

Biwom Iklaki (Correspondent) Abimbola Sodeke Ugochukwu Nnakwe (Graphics) Edwin Usoboh (Graphics) +234 (0) 811 675 9770, +234 (0) 701 110 1014 chibumah@yahoo.com julietbumah@newtelegraphonline.com

Associates

} 17

} 21

GLAM DUDES Most ladies like men with neatly clipped, clean nails.

Manicure and pedicure are

FASHION

Colourful vibrant everyday wears can be created with the African print mixed with lace, chiffon, silk and sheer fabrics to bring out the sexy feminine side of a woman

therefore a necessity for the man as part of his overall grooming

} 44

BED, WORK & LIFE

“You mean your wife doesn’t cook for you and your children?” She asks him.

Dave shifts uncomfortably.

“She does,” he replies and wishes he has told her the truth -that he does not have a wife, has never been married

and is, in fact, hopelessly in love with her.

} 20

Helen Paul

Stanlee Ohikhuare

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Accessories

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17

Body&Soul

18

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

My style is simple and chic Sarah Ladipo Manyika is a Nigerian-British writer, university lecturer and the chairman of judges at the second edition of the Etisalat Prize for Literature. In this interview with VANESSA OKWARA, she relives her childhood days in Nigeria, inter-cultural marriage and passion to see great writers come out of the African continent Briefly describe your background My father is Nigerian and my mother is British. I grew up here in Nigeria. I lived initially in Lagos and then I moved to Jos, Plateau State until I was 14 years old. I attended Hillcrest School in Jos, Plateau State. Then my family moved to Kenya.

I lived in Nairobi for a few years before moving to England. I did my degree courses in England and France and then did my PHD in America. I teach at San Francisco State University. I am a writer and currently working on another novel.

I write short novels and essays. But I am also really very involved in supporting the arts in general. I am speaking of African artists in particular. I am a board member of a museum in San Francisco called the Museum of the African Diaspora and I am also on another board that supports women writers. I also judge book awards, one of which is the Etisalat Prize for Literature.

Are you still in touch with your Nigerian roots, siblings and relatives?

I have a brother. He is also a Nigerian and working here. Nigeria is very close to my heart. I have not lived here for a long time but I am passionate about supporting anything good that comes from my country. I love to support the arts in Nigeria and Africa in general. Nigeria is where my roots are and that is where I come from but you know I lived in East Africa as well. I’m married to a Zimbabwean, so I see myself as very pan-African. But in terms of my roots, I am from Ibadan, Oyo State. I have many uncles and aunties but increasingly, like many other families, our family has become dispersed across the globe. So, I now

have a lot of relatives living in many different parts of the world.

You’ve been selected as the chairman of the judges for the second edition of the Etisalat Prize for Literature. How does that make you feel?

I am happy to be joining for the second year. Having served as one of the judges in the first year, I now feel that I have some useful experience. One aspect of the prize that I think is very laudable is the change of the judges every year. It is good to mix it up while keeping one judge from the previous year with some experience for the sake of continuity. So I was very honoured when I was asked to stay on for the second year and since I am passionate about this, I am quite excited to be part of it again.

What is your perception of African writers when compared

to their counterparts abroad?

I think the landscape for African writers in general is actually very bright. You know there was a time when we only spoke about writers like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka and Ngugi Wa

Thiong’o who are all great writers; but the list has now expanded. Most of the names we spoke of in the past were male; so it’s exciting to see how many more women writers we speak of now. It’s very exciting because there is a lot of new talent out there. I am not saying that everything that is coming out is fantastically written, but it takes time for a writer to own their craft.

If you are to give a general overview of the books submitted for the last edition from across the continent, how will you peg it?

I think just like with every prize, it was mixed, and that is the whole point of the prize. You look through and try to pull out those you feel are strongest. It was very interesting to see the diversity in terms of books coming from across the continent and I am really hoping that this year we will have even more diversity; with greater publicity we will have more entries.

The prize is only as good as the entries that we receive. We saw great diversity of books coming from different countries in Africa from men and women and in terms of genre and style of writing. That was really reflected in the three books shortlisted. It was a Zimbabwean that won the prize.

Her name is NoViolet Bulawayo, with her book, ‘We Need New Names’. The two other shortlisted writers were Karen Jennings, a South African, with her book, ‘Finding Soutbek;’ and Yewande Omotoso, a Nigerian resident in South Africa with her book ‘Bom Boy’.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Body&Soul

-Sarah Ladipo Manyika Do you think African writers like Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe received enough accolades as their counterparts abroad?

I am always eager to hear more about our African writers. But you know there are many writers whose names are still not well known and not just African writers alone. Here again it brings me back to the importance of the Etisalat prize.

One of the great things about this prize is that it is coming out of Africa and I am very happy to see more international attention for the prize because it is often prizes that drive readers to new writers.

So I am hoping that through the publicity for this prize, people will know more about great writers coming out of Africa.

You wrote a book titled, ‘In Dependence’, centred on life in Nigeria and Britain in the post-independence era. Why did you decide to write such a love story and in the era which you situated it?

It’s actually a book about the people of my parents’ generation. I wrote it because I was longing to read these stories that were not written. I found the 1960’s a fascinating era and especially for the continent of Africa. Pan-Africanism was vibrant and there was a lot of hope in the continent. A lot of countries were gaining their independence and yet in a very short space of time, a lot of that initial hope disappeared. You get to see books titled ‘Things Fall Apart’ or Tsitsi Dangarembga’s book ‘Nervous Conditions’. The titles themselves are almost a reflection of what’s happened in a few decades. There was a part of me that for sociological and historical reasons wanted to go back and really explore that period. Yes, it is a love story, in part, but it’s more than that. It is also a book about friendship and faith and intercultural and intergenerational relations.

Does that mean you are a romantic person?

Who does not like a love story? Everybody has a romantic side. I think that sometimes the word ‘romantic’ can be misunderstood. Some men might think that romance is only what women read about; but the truth is that men fall in love as much as we do. There is a love story at the heart of the book but it is a lot bigger than that.

At least we have one person out of the continent currently making waves internationally, Chimamanda Adichie. What do you think of her books?

She is one of the more well-known writers of my generation and I think she is a very good story teller. So I applaud what she has done and I’m glad that her fame is drawing more attention to other writers as well because there are many other writers in addition to her.

Her film adaptation of her novel has brought new attention to books written by Africans. What did you make of the ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ made into a movie. Are you also hoping your book, ‘In Dependence’, can be turned into a film soon?

It is interesting that you asked that question because I am very interested in films. I think it’s great that ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ was made into a film. I would of course love for ‘In Dependence’ to be turned into a film. I think it will make a good one if I am permitted to be a little biased. And back to the question on how

we can encourage people to read more: I think maybe one of the avenues is through film and we have seen how well Nollywood has done.

That is another effective way of delivering stories. That is another way you can get people to be hooked to books. When they see a film and enjoy it, then they may go and read the book.

What inspires you?

I’m driven by stories that I’m longing to hear b u t could n o t find.

I’m always very i n t e r-

artist you are. So don’t expect that things will come quickly. At this stage in my life, I say often that those things that are great really take time. So I will encourage people to read and have faith.

From what you said earlier, you have lived in different countries.

How did that affect your childhood?

I feel very privileged to have lived in many countries. Being exposed to different cultures has allowed me to be more curious about the way others live. And the way it came about is that in my early childhood, my father was a pastor, so we travelled a lot as a family with his work. As I mentioned earlier, I am married to a Zimbabwean. I think whenever one has the opportunity to travel, it widens one’s horizons and it has certainly done that for me. It has exposed me to many different ways of living around the world.

How did you meet your husband?

My husband and I have differe n t

ested in people. So, I find myself often watching people and wondering what their story is. I am also drawn to invisible stories and things people will not necessarily notice.

stories about how we met. It will take a long time to give you both versions. The short version is that my husband did his PHD at Oxford University.

His name is James Manyika. My brother happened to be at Oxford University as well at that time and I’m very close to my brother. It was in the course of spending time with my brother that I met James.

What is your advice to youths who desire to be writers?

My advice is for them to continue to read, read and read!

I continue to improve my craft by reading. Another bit of advice that I would give is that it t a k e s time to o w n your craft, whatever of kind

Does being in an inter-racial marriage have a positive or negative influence on you? How have you been able to blend the cultures together?

I always knew that I would have an inter-cultural marriage. It would be very unlikely that I would marry someone with the exact same mix as me – which is Nigerian-English. The cultures are very different. Zimbabwean culture is different from my own mixed culture. But everyone in this world is very different from others, irrespective of whether they marry within the same culture or not. I’m coming up to my 20th wedding anniversary. I think marriage in my experience has been about trying to communicate as best as

you can and growing with the other person. It has been a wonderful experience.

We have our ups and downs, but he is a very wonderful man.

How many kids do you have?

I have one son.

In your 20 years of marriage, what is it about your husband that has made you to stick with him all this while? What is the secret?

Don’t know if it is a secret but I have always said I would like to marry someone that I would grow with as a person.

I think I have grown into a better person by being married to him. Maybe he will say the same but we communicate well and don’t take each other for granted.

Your maiden name is a part of your full name. Is there a particular reason for that?

It is my way of still identifying with my roots. When people see ‘Ladipo’ in my name, they will recognise it as a Nigerian name and Manyika is a Zimbabwean name. I happened to take my husband’s name as a surname but I wanted a legal identification with Nigeria to also be there.

Describe your style.

I think my style is simple and chic. I love beautiful shoes and striking jewelry.

What is fashion to you?

I love fashion and style. It is one of the things that I love to see coming back to Nigeria. When you grow up in Europe and America, people only wear many different shades of black and grey. Here in Nigeria, it is not like that at all. So I just love to see the way people dress up, do their hair and makeup. I think frankly this is one of the wonderful things Africa offers to the world. And it is interesting to see the attention people pay these days to fashion coming from this continent.

Do you like perfumes and what are your favou-

rites?

I love perfumes. I have used Chanel for many years but I have just recently discovered a new perfume that I love which is Acqua d’Elba. I am drawn to scents that are citrusy and light.

How do you take care of your hair? It looks very natural.

I think in the Nigerian context, my hair will not be approved of because it is not relaxed, straitened and I don’t have extensions on it. It is natural and I don’t do anything to it. I live a very active lifestyle.

I enjoy running, walking and cycling. So my hair is very practical and does not need much to take care of it.

Who are your favourite designers?

I love the designers here in Nigeria. I love works from Ituen Basi, Oluwu Duro and Tiffany Amber and the beaded dress I wore in some of my pictures is from the Nigerian designer, Iconic Invanity. If I had all the money in the world, I think I’d like to be dressed in Nigerian attire.

Describe Sarah Manyika in one word?

Oh this is so hard! Perhaps I would say that I’m a warm person and I enjoy being with people. I’m also a perfectionist.

20

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Body&Soul with

Juliet Bumah +234 81 1 675 9770

chibumah@yahoo.com

I’ll get a hubby in six weeks (4)

H

er heart thumping loudly, Kathryn steps out of her room, gingerly, penknife at the ready. She expects her visitor to lunge at her. Nothing happens. She moves to the outdoor; it is locked.

The kitchen...empty. She checks every other place and moves towards the guest room and listens, no noise.

She then taps lightly on the door and hears the rustling of clothes as someone jumps out of bed.

She calms down a bit.

“He must have overslept like I did,” she tells herself.

After a few minutes, the door opens and he walks out looking good but tired.

“Good morning Kathryn. Sorry, I slept off. You invested a lot in comfort in your home,” he says, wishing he could say more.

His heart is actually thumping.

She is looking like a star prize, more beautiful than the Kathryn he has been romancing in his dream.

“Good morning Dave,” she replies, relaxing a bit.

“Too bad you are married. You actually look good,” she says in her mind.

“I need to run now. Thanks for sheltering me. I owe you one. Em...em... can we have dinner, later today?”

Dave says. He actually doesn’t feel like leaving.

“Oh no, I have a date this evening,” Kathryn lies. She doesn’t want anything to do with a married man. She is tired of warming men’s bed and wants a man of her own -her own husband.

Sadness flickers across Dave’s face.

“What about tomorrow? Can we see? I really want to see you again,” he says urgently.

“Let’s talk about that tomorrow after church service. I think you have my phone number,” she replies.

Dave doubts if he’ll have rest of mind until he sees her again.

As Dave heads towards the door, Kathryn remembers it’s the last Saturday of the month. There won’t be movement till after 10am because of the environmental sanitation exercise.

“Dave, you can’t leave now. There’s sanitation. No movement till after 10am,” she calls out.

Dave’s heart leaps for joy! Any opportunity to stay around her is welcomed.

“Oh, ok,” he says, walking back to the sitting room.

“I’m hungry. Wanna prepare breakfast. Care for some?” she calls out as she moves to the kitchen.

“No....em...yes,” he replies, moving to the divan.

Kathryn busies herself in the kitchen.

Cooking is one of her hobbies...and she’s a darn good cook.

As she pours some whisked eggs into the pan, she prays for that man that’ll appreciate her culinary expertise. She is so engrossed in her chores that she does not notice her visitor observing her from the kitchen door.

The aroma from the kitchen is so sweet and strong. Dave couldn’t concentrate on the television. He moves to the door and watches as Kathryn moves about her chore.

She has a well-toned physique. Her big butt and killer legs make him giddy with lust. He feels his blood rush downward.

No doubt, he is hopelessly in love with this stranger.

“How am I gonna win this prize?

How am I gonna get her as my wife?

She has turned into a virus in my system. I must get her,” he mutters and clears his throat.

“Mind if I help you, goddess?” He says aloud.

Kathryn turns. She is startled. She opens her mouth to decline but finds herself accepting. There’s something about her visitor that is inviting. Beyond his tough, rich looks, he appears vulnerable and yes...lonely.

“You wanna help me? Can you cook?

You can help, anyway,” she tells him kindly, surprised at her voice.

Dave moves into the kitchen. Her voice sounds like honey in his ears.

“I can’t cook, but I can help clean up... with the right supervision,” he says.

They look at each other and laugh. It is a sincere laughter, none tries to impress the other. They laugh like friends.

Kathryn relaxes her guard. Somehow, she feels safe with him. Suddenly, it dawns on her that she’s beginning to like him the more.

“Can you chop onion?” She asks.

“Yes. Though I haven’t done that in a long while,” he replies, picking a knife on the sink.

“Um..that’s a penknife, not kitchen knife,” she says, laughing, and passes an onion bulb and a knife in a bowl to him.

She watches as he chops the onion into uneven sizes and smiles. His fingers are well-groomed and so is the man. She likes him!

Pity he is married.

Dave feels happy being beside her.

She smells fresh. Underneath her tough exterior, Dave suspects she’s a very soft woman, the type that makes a good wife and mother.

“It’s obvious you do not cook,” she tells him.

“Yeah, I eat out most times,” he replies without thinking.

Kathryn wonders why a married man will eat out most times, unless his family are not based in Nigeria.

They finish in the kitchen and move to the dinette. They eat like man and wife. The meal is scrumptious.

“You’re a good cook,” he says.

“Aided by you,” she replies and they both laugh again.

“I didn’t add anything to your cooking. I haven’t tried cooking since I left school. My brothers do cook once in a while at home since my cook got a foreign job and left,” he says and Kathryn wonders what his wife does when she’s around.

“You mean your wife doesn’t cook for you and your children?” She asks him.

Dave shifts uncomfortably.

“She does,” he replies and wishes he has told her the truth -that he does not have a wife, has never been married and is, in fact, hopelessly in love with her.

Something doesn’t ring right to Kathryn but she doesn’t want to prod further.

After clearing the breakfast table, they watch a film, chatting half of the time.

He’s got a great sense of humour and they laugh so much.

“My gawd, that lady talks like she’s got hot potato in her mouth,” he says of a Nollywood actress who is desperately trying to sound American.

Kathryn laughs again and he joins her. Their laughter is sincere.

Kathryn wishes he’s not married. She likes him a lot. In fact, she’s fallen in love with him.

Yes! By the time Dave is leaving some minutes after 10am, they have agreed to have lunch together after church service the next day.

“Thank you,” he says at the door.

“For what?” She asks.

“For sheltering me, feeding me...in fact taking care of me,” he says gently, looking into her eyes, searching for a sign that she feels something for him.

“Oh, that’s nothing. I enjoy your company,” she says sincerely.

She hands a gate pass to him. As he takes it, he looks into her eyes again and holds her gaze.

Kathryn finds herself in his arms, she doesn’t know how. Their lips meet and they taste love. They hold on to each other briefly, each deep in thought.

Kathryn wishes, for the thousandth time, that he is not married.

“Unfortunately, I can’t have anything to do with him,” she tells herself without conviction.

Dave is sure he’ll go crazy if he doesn’t make her his wife. He is crazily in love with her, although an alarm is ringing somewhere in his mind. She kisses like she’s a graduate of ‘school of love’ - very professional.

Anyway, he pulls her back into his arms, his lips moving from her neck towards her mouth...

What happens next? Let’s find out on Sunday!

Dear readers, it’s getting exciting once again. What happens next? Join me here on Sunday!

Send your observation to julietbumah@gmail.com

21

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

Care for rain-soaked hair, weaves

Biwom Iklaki

M

ore people visit the salon these days. Patrick, a Lagos-based hair specialist, says the rains are responsible. According to him, more ladies get their hair wet during these fre-

quent downpour and have to visit the salon more often.

We all know how bad a wet hair day can be. If not properly managed, this can damage your hair and even more so, your weaveon/extensions.

Here are a few tips to

keep in mind this rainy season: 1. Get an umbrella! Besides staying indoors and in your car, the umbrella will protect you from most of the showers that are synonymous with the season. It will keep you and your hair dry and put

together wherever you go.

2. Always blow-dry your hair. With your natural hair, you may get away with skipping this step.

But if you are wearing extensions, the hair underneath often traps water. If not properly dried, it will smell. Place a towel on you

head and gently wring out the excess water. Then blow dry your hair using a wide toothed comb.

3.Condition: When you dry wet hair, it gets brittle and lank. You need to introduce moisture to combat the excessive dryness.

If not, it can lead to break-

age and split ends. Massage conditioner into the hair, then blow dry it with medium heat.

4. Go to your hair stylist as often as possible to get professional touches so you can maintain a healthy, luxuriant head of hair, irrespective of the

22

Body&Soul

43

Chic, flirty print dresses

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Hardball Tinubu, Daniel, Bankole are spent forces - Kashamau p.28

biyi adegoroye, ASSISTANT Editor, Politics biyi.fire@yahoo.com

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Tel: 08033024007

AUGUST 3, 2014

Interview Obi: My eight years as Anambra governor were tough p.30

23

Politics ON SUNDAY

Lagos 2015: Agbaje’s declaration alters equation in PDP Lately, there has been an uptick in activity at the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) towards the 2015 elections. WALE ELEGBEDE examines the developments that led to the visit of former governorship candidate of Democratic Peoples Alliance, Jimi Agbaje, to the PDP secretariat, his recent declaration for the party, his chances and implications for the PDP

Agbaje

Obanikoro

Bode George

rdinarily, the Ikeja GRA secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party is not always a beehive of activity on Mondays. Rather, only the conspicuous sight of the party’s flag, aspirants banners, canopies, chairs and posters that could easily give the secretariat away on Mondays as a party’s headquarters and not a private organisation.

However, the party secretariat lost its balance penultimate Monday when party supporters trooped out early in the morning to welcome the governorship candidate of the Democratic Peoples Alliance in the 2007 election, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, into their fold after several months of speculation.

Before now, Agbaje, who in some quarters has been regarded as a possible future governor of Lagos State owing to his personality and campaign force in 2007, has been linked with virtually all the leading parties in the state for 2015, thereby making him the beautiful bride with many suitors.

Jay-Kay, as Agbaje is popularly called, became a household name in 2007 when he attempted to govern the Centre of Excellence.

He contested alongside Musiliu Obanikoro of PDP, Femi Pedro of the Labour Party and Babatunde Fashola of then Action Congress.

He evolved as one of the leading contenders for the election with his unique charismatic and colorful campaign tunes that are still fresh in the minds of Lagos residents who were around then. His campaign tunes, ‘Everybody Loves Jimi Agbaje’ and ‘Who is the Best Man for the Job’ were a household mantra in the state. His campaign poster signature, ‘JK is OKAY’ was also treated with admiration then

by Lagosians. The soft-spot notwithstanding, Agbaje eventually came third in the election behind Fashola and Obanikoro.

After a stint with the civil society and the Yoruba socio-culture group, Afenifere, Agbaje and his supporters seems to have gathered their arsenal to give a shot at the governorship. They are hinging their confidence on the goodwill, pleasantness, charisma and intelligence of their candidate.

Burying the speculation that stretched for too a long time, Agbaje arrived the party’s secretariat alongside his campaign manager, Rahman Owokoniran; a former student union

leader, Lanre Adeleke (Legacy); and Nollywood actress, Binta Ayo-Mogaji, among other members of his Lagos Agenda team.

Incidentally, Owokoniran was the DirectorGeneral of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Campaign Organisation in 2003 and later served as Commissioner for Housing under the Tinubu administration.

Leading the 14-member State Working Committee (SWC) to welcome Agbaje and his supporters to the secretariat was the party’s state chairman, Capt. Tunji Shelle (retd).

Addressing the state executives, Agbaje said he was already a registered member of PDP, having registered in Ward B Apapa area of the state.

He said, “I am here on a courtesy visit and I deliberately chose the State Working Committee as the first structure to meet in Lagos PDP. We are interested in change in Lagos and the group I represent, the Lagos Agenda, found out that the only viable platform to promote this change is the PDP.” Highlighting some of the efforts of his group in the last few weeks, Agbaje said he was bringing along with him non-PDP members

O

and non-politicians, adding that he would soon confirm a working relationship with other 10 performing political parties in the state.

Welcoming Agbaje into the party, Shelle assured him that the platform would be fair to all aspirants, noting that the party has no grouping or caucus.

He added that the party is determined to win the governorship election in 2015. Shelle said that the greatest asset the PDP has now to oust the ruling APC in 2015 is the disenchantment of the people of Lagos with the ‘anti-masses policies’ of the government. He urged Agbaje to prepare his mind for whatever may be the decision of the party for 2015.

Less than 24 hours after Agbaje’s courtesy visit, a chieftain of the party, Olaseni Akinpelu from Ifako Ijaiye Local Government, petitioned the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, over the rumoured plan of the party to present Agbaje as its governorship candidate in 2015. He noted that a man of Agbaje’s status cannot just sneak into the PDP without an official statement by the party leaders.

“The peddlers of Agbaje’s candidature apparently have scant knowledge of how our great party works. I have even seen a couple of entertainers come together under the aegis of Agbaje For A New Lagos (4NL) but they were smart enough not to include on what platform that New Lagos would come about.

“We do not need somebody that would make us not partake in this change. We do not want an Agbaje that would make the PDP lose traction. What we need now is a man like Musiliu Obanikoro, currently the Minister of State for Defence.He is aA grass roots politician who is at home with the prosperous and proletariat and has paid his dues in the history of Nigerian politics.

“Any attempt to impose Agbaje on the longsuffering members of the PDP would spell doom for us in 2015. We need a man that has been with us through thick and thin; a man that understands our nuances and lingo,” the statement read.

As at the last count, no fewer than seven aspirants have signified their intention to join the fray for the PDP ticket. While some could be described as pretenders, others are fully out to pick the ticket, predicating their motivation on the sweeping victory of the party in Ekiti.

Those aspiring for the governorship ticket include the party’s candidate in the 2011 election, Dr. Ade Dosunmu; a former CommisCONTINUED ON PAGE 24

24

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Politics / Analysis

When it rained billions for terror victims

T

he State House Banquet Hall now renamed as a multipurpose hall in the presidential villa, on Thursday night played host to select privileged Nigerians who gathered in honour of several terrorism victims across the country. On the invitation of President Goodluck Jonathan, they trooped in their numbers to help raise funds to support those who in one way or the other have suffered and are in pains as a result of the insurgency currently been experienced in parts of the country.

Across the organised private sector, big time oil industry players, bankers, leading telecommunication giants and self spirited individuals and foreigners, it was never a moment to hold back ones riches but contribute and support government in its efforts to fight terrorism especially as it affects the lives of innocent and poor citizens.

It was on July 9 this year, when President Jonathan announced government's decision to set up what is today called the Victims Support Fund (VSF) expected to operate as a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) in pulling together, resources through persuasions and appeal for the overall objective of providing succour to those affected by acts of terrorism.

But one could see on the faces of the guests, their readiness to a national call as they arrived at the well decorated venue mashed in orange and white colours, with exchanges of pleasantries in waiting for the chief launcher, Mr. President. Organisers of the fund raising dinner did not fail to realise the capacity of the president in pulling together a very rich crowd and so, designated him as chief fund raiser at the ceremony. The announcement of the commander in-chief's new responsibility indeed received a loud ovation from guests present at the venue. Renowned Nigerian born philanthropist and chairman of the VSF, General Theophilus Danjuma served as deputy fund raiser in chief.

With the President himself coordinating, governors of the 36 states of the federation

Anule Emmanuel emmyanule@yahoo.com were named senior fund raisers, ministers served as special fund raisers while the rest of Nigerians were announced as honourary fund raisers to the campaign. But to ensure that donors were moved to dip hands into their pockets, President Jonathan after inviting dignitaries for a one minute of silence in hounour of the victims, recapped the pitiable conditions of the victims and the urgency of support that they needed. That speech appeared historic and sparked off a soul touching moment.

Hear him: "Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, for those who have been victims, they need comfort, they need succour. We cannot replace the life of a child that has been snuffed out. We cannot replace the lives of men and women who have been killed. We cannot return broken limbs to their original state. We cannot take away the trauma that people have been put through".

"Definitely, every one present was moved by the provoking comments of the chief launcher. He continued "their memories are scared, some for the rest of their lives, over what they knew nothing about. The best we can do in this circumstance is to offer them a shoulder to lean on and stretch out our hands of fellowship to them and tell them we feel their pains and share in their sorrow".

With this invitation and the understanding that the victims support fund was part of government's on-going efforts to provide a comprehensive solution to the menace, the donation in fact took a competitive shape. The

President had first announced an individual donation of a private citizen somewhere from Abia State who sent to him a cheque donation of N5,000 even before the night dinner to be delivered to the committee chairman.

On behalf of the Federal Government, states and area councils in the FCT, the President announced a donation of N13.82 billion.

Charged by the news as well, Africa's richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote took the lead with a private donation, contributing N1billion to the fund. This was not without the assurances from the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr. Godwin Emifele as announced by the President that at least for the purpose of the fund raising, the apex bank had accepted to grant a waiver for receipt in cheque of individual donations above N10million.

In the category of the billion naira donation were Jim Ovia former Chairman of Zenith Bank group, the Tony Elumelu (N2.5 billion), Wale Tinubu-N1 billion, Chief Mike Adenuga and Danjuma who doled out $10 million (about N1.65 billion). Interestingly, every one of these opulent faces donated with excitement believing it was a cause worth contributing to, bringing peace to one’s own fatherland.

Collectively, major players in the oil industry led by the Minister of Petroleum Resources Diezani Allison Madueke pulled together N17 billion with operators in the banking sector contributing another N15 billion. Members of the National Assembly led by the Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Tam-

buwal donated N100million while the Federal Executive Council FEC, contributed N50million.

With government's expected projection of about $500million contributions to the fund in the next 12 Months, it is not in doubt that this target would be met giving the total amount that was raised only Thursday night. Not less than N60billion has so been realised. What is certain also is the fact that the chairman of the VSF, Danjuma must be comfortable with this development considering that the NGO had kicked off with an indebted portfolio of about N20million. The organisation is believed to have secured a loan from Ovia.

What is necessary now, is how best and efficient the funds realised and additional ones to be later raised are used to impact positively on persons directly affected by the insurgency.

Although there are comments from different stakeholders that with Danjuma on board, everyone can to go to sleep as far as the deployment of the funds is concerned. This is not enough.

In carrying out one of its mandates which is to ascertain the persons, communities, facilities and economic assets affected by terrorist activities therefore, the Danjuma-led committee on the VSF must put the fear of God central and advise government appropriately the required support in each case.

Now that the National Council of State, comprising former Heads of states and Presidents, governors of the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal capital territory, the National Security Adviser NSA, former and serving Chief Justices of Nigeria, the president of the senate and the speaker of the House of Representatives have collectively vowed to support the President in bringing to an end the activities of Boko Haram by December this year, it is hoped that how well the VSF is utilised will go a long way in helping Nigerians put behind them the damage caused by the current terrorism and forge ahead for a more united and progressive country.

Lagos 2015: Agbaje’s declaration alters equation in PDP C O N T I N U E D F R O M PA G E 2 3

sioner for Health in the state, Dr. Segun Ogundimu; a university lecturer, Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse; the Organising Secretary of the party in the zone, and Adedeji Doherty.

Others are a candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2011, Dr. Adegbola Dominic; a United States-based lawyer and former governorship aspirant of the party in 2011, Owolabi Salis; and Mr. Babatunde Gbadamosi.

Though the aforementioned aspirants have started testing the waters in their own ways, a party source said the visit of Agbaje to the secretariat is the first among the unveiling of strong candidates for the ticket.

Obanikoro’s factor Already, the grave doubts about the ambition of the Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, are beginning fizzle out owing to the underground moves of the formerNigerian high commissioner to Ghana and his supporters, especially at the local government and ward level. He said to be reaching out to various groups in the party; one of such moves being the recent donation of sets of plastic chairs to the South-South Forum of the party in the state.

Touted at a time to be the anointed candidate of the presidency and the PDP headquarters, the emergence of Agbaje seems to have altered permutations in the Obanikoro’s camp as feelers show that Agbaje has strong backers in the Presidency, South-West and in Lagos.

How Obanikoro, who had never hidden his intention to run for governor again, would

manage his silent role as one of the henchmen for the yet-to-be announced re-election bid of President Goodluck Jonathan and his desire to govern Lagos in 2015 would be a major test of his political shrewdness.

A fortnight ago, the Committee for the Restoration of Lagos Heritage (CORELAG), alleged that Obanikoro was scheming through the back door to become the party’s candidate in 2015, and called for a level playing ground and primaries for all governorship aspirants on the party.

The group in statement signed by its chairman, Dr. Adebukola Fatoyinbo, said Obanikoro was bent on scuttling PDP’s chances in the next election after failing woefully in the 2007 election in the state despite all the billions raised for him by the party.

Worried that Obanikoro wants the party’s ticket to be handed over to him without any contest, the group alleged that Obanikoro has been maligning Chief Olabode George and other leaders for insisting that all the PDP aspirants will be treated equally in determining the party’s candidate.

The group said it found the alleged ‘growing desperation’ of Obanikoro “very irritating and amusing.” It also said it was apprehensive about Obanikoro’s alleged desire to have a first shot at all appointments and even elective positions to the detriment of all other members of the PDP. “It is obvious Obanikoro is afraid of free and fair party primaries. He is up in arms against the presence of Jimi Agbaje in the party. Why is Obanikoro raising hell and brimstone over quality aspirants vying for our party’s ticket?”

it wondered.

But CORELAG agreed with George’s position that all the aspirants - Pearse, Gbadamosi, Doherty, Dosunmu, Ogundimu, Dominic and Agbaje - are all men of solid pedigree with impeccable credentials, arguing that none of them can be pushed aside in a fair contest.

It found it incredible that Obanikoro wants to contest for the post of governor, barely after spending less than three months as a junior minister, and called on him to resign his position honourably. Should he refuse to resign, the group threatened to demand his removal forthwith.

Meanwhile, some of the governorship aspirants of the party told New Telegraph on Sunday that there was no cause for alarm over the entrance of Agbaje into the party. To them, it’s a case of the more the merrier because the most important thing right now is for the party to defeat the All Progressives Congress.

However, they insist that all aspirants must go through an open process for the ticket.

Dominic, in his view, was very happy that Agbaje had joined the party, adding that there is no truth in the insinuation that he has been promised the party’s ticket.

“We have no room for automatic ticket because we have all agreed to go through the process and support the eventual winner,” he said.

For his part, Doherty said the entry of Agbaje is a welcome development, stressing that the primaries will be the testing ground for the popularity of all aspirants. Salis said the party had not adopted Agbaje or anyone as its candidate, adding, “It is not true that the

party has chosen Agbaje or anybody. Inasmuch as he is welcome to the party, it is not only goodwill that wins an election. Are you saying that those of us who have remained and kept faith with the party all along don’t have goodwill?”

A source within the party says the network of support for Agbaje is quite strong.

“Some elders of the party, including Chief Bode George, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, Bode Oyedele and others are already queuing behind him. I can tell you that aside George, Ogunlewe and others such as a serving governor in the South-West, have also sold the idea of fielding Agbaje in 2015 to the President,” he said.

The flip side of the coin, if Obanikoro finally decides to run, is that he would get the support of the duo of governor-elect of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, and the Chairman, SouthWest Mobilisation and Contact, Prince Buruji Kashamu, especially with his (Obanikoro’s) contribution to the victory of Fayose.

From whatever angle one slices the PDP governorship pie, it is clear that there are more hurdles for the party to first cross internally before fishing in another pond with the APC. Whether the party’s old wound of internal conflict would reopen or individual or group interest would be buried to fight a common battle, is a question waiting to be answered.

One thing, however, is certain - the party has a gathering of aspirants who stand shoulderto-shoulder in ranking.

But for now, the PDP’s aspiration to govern Lagos lies in the hands of a complex Lagos electorate.

25

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Politics / Column

Chidoka's eloquent defence before senators

W

hen the former Corps Marshal and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, Mr. Benjamin Osita Chidoka appeared before the Senate a fortnight ago, for screening and confirmation as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, it turned to be a period of lecture for the lawmakers as well as entertaining comics from both the Senators and the nominee.

President Goodluck Jonathan had nominated Chidoka as a replacement for the former Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, who was dropped at the peak of the controversy over allegation leveled against her in connection with purchase of 2 BMW bullet proof cars and the subsequent recommendation by the House Representatives Ad-hoc Committee that conducted investigation into the matter.

As if the Red Chamber knew that Chidoka would be assigned to man the Aviation Ministry, they asked him questions pertaining to Aviation Industry. Precisely, he was asked to comment on the nation's national carrier and what he thought should be done to develop the sector. Chidoka, who was honest to tell the politicians that he had shallow knowledge of the Aviation sector, assured that if assigned to head the Aviation Ministry, he would do everything within his jurisdiction to revolutionise the industry.

He noted that Nigeria was not doing well in her national career passenger traffic when compared to what obtains in other countries, including smaller African countries that depend so much on Nigeria's financial assistance for their socioeconomic survival.

His words:"I don't have a very good picture of the national carrier. But I must say this, compared to other African countries, Nigeria is not doing very well in terms of passenger traffic. Between Lagos and Abuja, Nigerian airports are connected to

F

or many journalists reporting activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission, this was the opportunity they were waiting for. And they made maximum use of it. Oluwale Osaze-Uzzi, is someone who has seen it all in INEC in the past 15 years. Since he joined the commission during the days of late Justice Ephraim Akpata as Chairman of INEC, Osaze-Uzzi has served in various capacities within the commission. His latest posting as Director in charge of Public Affairs and Voter Education is the first that will bring him in contact with the media.

Although, Osaze-Uzzi assumed his new office in February this year, it was only last week that he had the opportunity of interacting with INEC Correspondents. The meeting, which lasted for less than two hours provided the director the opportunity to know some of the challenges Correspondents face in the course of reporting activities of the commission.

Since, Professor Attahiru Jega assumed office in 2010, INEC Correspondents are having a raw deal in their attempt to access information from the commission. Not only did they no longer have access to the chairman, they were not invited to most activities of the commission. Getting access into the premises of the commission where the press center is located, even with the valid INEC identity card is a Herculean task.

After a five-day workshop in Kaduan State early last month, journalists covering the commission came out with some resolutions.

Part of it was that INEC Correspondents should have unfettered access to informa-

From the Chukwu David chukwudavid68@yahoo.com

We can't have a country of 160 million people and have 14 million passengers traveling in our airports.

The number is not good. It is too small for a country like Nigeria about 61 cities, out of which only about 32 are international cities. Oliver Thambo Airport in South Africa is connected to 130 cities around the world. The airport in Turkey, in Istanbul is connected to 170 cities around the world. Why are business class seats expensive in Nigeria? Because of constraints in supply.

"We can't have a country of 160 million people and have 14 million passengers traveling in our airports. The number is not good. It is too small for a country like Nigeria. The number of aircrafts coming in and leaving Nigeria is not big enough for the size of our economy. So I think that we need to open up our space, we need share our national aspirations to be a country that play in league with the GDP size we have.

"So we need to grow capacity and a national carrier may be the way to make good whatever strategies we need to put

in place to increase the number of seats that leave Nigeria is critical to making Nigeria open. If I do become the minister of aviation, I will talk to industry experts and stakeholders to see how we can unleash the vast potentials that Nigeria stands to gain", he stated.

Responding to a question on how his performance as the FRSC boss, the young officer told the Senators that within his seven years in office, he was able to expand and open the organisation to world in terms of personnel, infrastructure, training facilities and operational vehicles. According to him, the Commission grew from 11,000 staff, 170 patrol cars, 17 ambulances and a budget of N6.5billion in 2007 to 800 patrol cars, 20000 personnel, N30billion budget, and 375 V- Sat equipment connecting all the units of the FRSC across the country to the head quarters as at present.

He disclosed that the operations of the agency had been automated, which now empowered the Commission with the ability to know the number of deaths resulting from accidents in the country as well as the states with the highest incidences of crashes and fatalities in the country.

Chidoka also told the parliamentarians that the FRSC was now a data and knowledge driven organisation, claiming that the purported development had attracted and compelled some West African countries like Ghana and Sierra Leone to seek help from the Commission to enable them

set up similar traffic regulatory organizations.

He explained that it took an average of eight weeks for communications to pass from unit commands and back when he took over the mantle of leadership seven years ago, pointing that it has reduced to a few minutes through internet connections.

Finally, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu comically asked him to explain to the Senate why he dressed as Corps Marshal to appear for the screening. Chidoka, also responded saying, "well I am dressed as Corps Marshal because I did not take it for granted that I will be cleared by the Senate. So if I am not cleared I will go back to my office and resume work. So I am here for clearance and it may happen that I am not cleared.

If I had removed my uniform, I may not have a job after the clearance. So, that is the reason I came dressed in my uniform and also to continue to share my love and affection for an organization that has defined my early career.

He however, denied relocating FRSC School that was meant for Jos in Plateau State to Enugu. Senator Victor Lar from Plateau State had made the allegation against Chidoka and tasked him to defend himself. Without hesitation, he refuted the claim and said that there was never a Federal Executive Council decision to locate the FRSC School in Jos. According to him, the school was meant to be in Enugu but because they could not provide a site for the school it was temporarily located in Jos. And when the Enugu State Government provided land, the school was relocated.

Senator Chris Ngige, who is the Senator representing the officer, said that the suitability of Chidoka for the post of a minister was not in doubt, boasting: "a good product is a good product. This is our good son in whom we are well pleased."

Fostering better media/INEC relations

INECDiary Onyekachi Eze

tion concerning the electoral process. Other resolutions reached at the workshop, which was organised by one of the developing partners, include provision of a functional Media Center for journalists covering the commission as well as restoration of tour and observation of elections by members of the INEC Press Corps as was done in the past. They equally demanded the security of journalists on election duty.

These privileges they said they have been enjoying before the assumption of office of Jega but have been denied them. On the other hand, the INEC chairman has complained of bad press, although, Osaze-Uzzi, said he did not directly accuse INEC correspondents.

Since then, it was a cat and dog relationship between the commission and members of the Press Corps.

It was not only within the forum of the INEC Press Corps that there was disenchantment over the activities of the INEC under

ezekatchy@yahoo.co.uk

Jega. Other levels of the media professionals who had the opportunity of interacting with the INEC management have equally expressed misgivings on the commission's relationship with the media, which they said, has worsened in recent time.

Among administrations that managed the affairs of the INEC since the return of democracy in 1999, Jega's is the only one that has the most favourable media coverage. Incidentally, it is also the only one that treated the media with contempt.

The meeting with the new Director of Public Affairs was to bridge such gap. Though, he was trained as a lawyer and may not have had previous working relationship with the media, Osaze-Uzzi requested to be one of us.

Thus, he was extending a hand of fellowship to members of the Press Corps.

The interaction was frank and candid, and Osaze-Uzzi's response reassuring. It was indeed, a new chapter in the media/INEC

relationship, which is expected to promote and grow the nation's democracy.

Indeed, Osaze-Uzzi is taken a cue from his predecessors, the likes of Dr. Tony Iredia and Steve Osiemeka, who had very warm and cordial relationship with the media. He said as such during the interactive session.

Perhaps, INEC information managers should acquaint themselves with George N. Root III's the 10 principles of Public Relations, hinged on the need to promote a mutually rewarding relationship between an organisation and its publics. Already, Kayode Idowu, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman fouled one of the principles, which is "avoid looking looking to public relations practices only as means to react to a scandal".

Idowu have resorted to reacting to (instead of being proactive about) publications against the commission, which he felt, were done in bad fate. By so doing, he is doing more harm to the image of the commission.

Osaze-Uzzi's intervention was timely. In few months' time, the ban on political activities will be lifted, and INEC will have its hands full. The media will play a very important role in the exercise. This, they could not effectively do if there is a frosty relationship between the election management body and the media.

It is hoped that the decision to carry the media along by the Public Affairs department will transcend other departments in the commission especially the office of the chairman.

26

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Politics

A'Ibom gov aspirants must be treated fairly –Umana Mr. Umana Okon Umana, the immediate Secretary to Akwa Ibom State Government, whose sacking from office last year generated so much controversy in this interaction with journalists in Uyo insists that he will contest the 2015 governorship election notwithstanding threats to his life. TONY ANICHEBE was there

I

t was once rumoured that you said that Governor Akpabio promised to make you his successor. Was there any such promise?

Well, what is important is that I am in the race and I am committed. It does not really matter who could have made promises to me in the past or who offered to support me in the past. This is because whether the governor offered to support me in the past or whether he has changed his mind, what is important is that I have set out to run for the position of governor in 2015 and that I have something to offer in that regard, to better the lot of our people. I would not want to dwell on whether the governor promised to support me in the past or whether he is no longer supporting me. I only would like to concentrate on the fact that I am committed and I appreciate the massive support I have been shown all over the state.

You suddenly left office at some point. Why were you locked out of office? Did you actually resign your position or what transpired at that level?

You know, any position or appointment that you accept is retained at the pleasure of the governor. At any point in time, if you feel you can no longer continue, you have the right to resign. If the governor who appointed you also feels you can no longer continue, he also has the right to ask you to disengage. So I believe that based on my letter of disengagement, if we have to go by that, the governor thanked me for my services and contribution to the development of the state and wished me well. That is to say that we had come to that point where we say we had to separate.

But maybe the manner of separation was not ideal because I was out of town when I heard the story that my office was sealed by the police and SSS. I heard the story on AIT and Channels, so it couldn’t have been speculations. I saw it on the news bar of AIT and Channels and I believe that maybe the Commissioner for Information must have issued a statement.

Was it true that the governor’s wife led the delegation which locked you out of office?

I wasn’t in the office when that happened and I am not in a position to confirm who led the operation. But just like you, I also read that it was the wife of the governor who led the operation, but I was not an eyewitness. So, I am not in a position to confirm whether that was true. For the fact that the office was shut, I had to ask. You may want to ask, why that level of drama over a matter of a routine engagement?

Disengagement from office also ought to have been a routine affair. So the whole drama of sealing up the office was really unnecessary, I think that was taken too far.

Why are you running for the position of governor?

Well, this is the question that I would have to answer very well when the time comes, to explain to the people of Akwa Ibom State why they have to vote for me. Even though I can’t give you a full picture of what my blueprint would be, I want to say that for the fact that I have been involved in the last two administrations as Commissioner for Finance in the administration of Obong Attah and SSG in the administration of Gover-

nor Akpabio, I can appreciate the challenges of the state. I am aware that we still have a lot to do, especially in the area of infrastructure.

At some point, you raised the alarm about threats to your life. Are you suspecting the governor?

All I ask for is that people should be investigated, and that is not too much to ask for. If you drive into Transcorp, Abuja and you find suspicious movement, you have a right to call the police and say, ‘come and investigate’. So, for example, you are aware of the case of our Director General, Chief Sunny Udom, how armed men invaded his office, and thank God he was not around. We were told that they were robbers, and we felt we should write to the appropriate authorities so that the matter can be exhaustively investigated and dealt with. The next was my own personal experience. In December, I received a threat letter.

Of course, I submitted a copy of the letter to the police. I was asked to withdraw from the governorship race, else I would be attacked in Uyo, Lagos or Abuja. I did not pay too much attention to it because I had police protection. I travelled out, I was in Abuja when I got the report that my police detail had been withdrawn. It came as a surprise, a curious coincidence of police detail being withdrawn a few days after I received the threat letter.

When I made further enquiries, I was told that they were withdrawn on the orders of the governor. That is why we are saying that there is need for investigation. And it is against the background of what we witnessed in 2010/2011 when elections were around the corner, there seems to be a co-relation and the authorities should be investigated. So we call on the police and other relevant agencies to investigate and come out with a report, and if the report indicts any person, then the law should take its course. So we acted as responsible citizens by making a report and calling for investigation. We didn’t say anybody was guilty, but we suspect that there must be foul play and that the authorities should investigate further.

It is alleged that you were part and parcel of the alleged atrocities committed by the state government; that you even advised the governor on how to go about them. If that is true, why are you shouting now?

Okay, you think that because I served the last administration, so whatever transpired, I must have

been the one who gave advice. I don’t think that you can give advice for assassinations and murders of terminal magnitude. That wasn’t part of the mandate of my office; if you go and look at the constitutional demands of my office, I don’t think you would find anything on how to advice for killings and the rest. It wasn’t part of my mandate, so I only operated and acted within the mandate of my office.

And let me also point out that even in government, it is the governor who is the chief security officer because all the security chiefs report to the governor. He is vested with the executive powers to run things. The buck stops at his table, that means he must take responsibility. That means there is no way you would talk about Umana and Udom’s administration, everybody will talk about Akpabio’s administration, same way you talk about Attah’s administration. Nobody knows who was SSG, in few years, nobody would care.

Leadership means you must take responsibility for whatever you do, you don’t blame your subordinates, especially when you are vested with veto power. When people talk about Obasanjo’s administration, nobody would talk about Ufot Ekaette. Even the people who have been convicted for murder, it is only the governor who can sign for their execution. As SSG, I did not have the power to approve any item of expenditure and the treasury would only pay when the governor approves; that is the way it works. But sometimes, people feel that because you hold a sensitive position, you must know everything. There have been stories that Umana as SSG was very powerful that even some commissioners who were removed were removed at his instructions, I have read that in some of the papers.

It is absolutely ridiculous because it is only the governor who can appoint and fire. It is totally ridiculous because if I can have the power to sack a commissioner without the knowledge of the governor and then it would mean that maybe I also would go to the lodge and put a gun to the governor’s head to sign and approve a nomination letter

Umana

for new commissioners that would go to the house of assembly. I would also arrange and put a gun to his head to swear them in. It is totally ridiculous; it also goes to show that people could tell a lot of stories. So, if I recommended the dropping of commissioners, who recommended my own disengagement?

When I got fired, I also made the recommendation? It has even been rumoured that I also recommended my successor who happens to be my cousin, meanwhile I am not related to him in anyway; that is not to say that I have anything against him. The governor is the chief security officer, that is why if we have insecurity in the state, you cannot go and blame someone else. The governor must take responsibility for it, that is the way it is by law.

What is your relationship with the current SSG? Of course, it has to be cordial! He is a fine gentleman and from day one I wished him well and prayed for a successful tenure in office. Attending his swearing in ceremony was to underscore the fact that there is nothing personal about it; that if you stay in that kind of office, one day you’ll have to leave. It is not a permanent office, even the office of governor is not permanent, it has an expiry date. On May 29 next year, the tenure of the current governor will end, as provided by the constitution. So if such one would end, what is the big deal about appointive positions?

It would have to end. It was even to show an example to others who would come after me that there should be no ill-feeling, it’s not a permanent office, you stay, you make your own contributions and move on. So I did not feel bad that I had to leave as SSG, I was happy that I made my contributions and had to move on. That was why I attended the swearing in of my successor.

There are speculations that you and other aspirants are coming together to form a formidable force against the interest of government in terms of succession. Is that true?

Well, I don’t know why the government should have an interest as government. I don’t know why, because when we say there should be a level playing field, we are saying that let there be equal opportunity. Let the people of Akwa Ibom State decide who they want to vote for; that is all we are asking for.

We have been very consistent with our position. We have made references to the past.

When the incumbent governor also contested the primaries against 57 other aspirants in 2006, the state governor (Obong Victor Attah) did not interfere, he did not issue threats.

We didn’t have any report about the former governor threatening aspirants or delegates that they would die, or that they should not come close to the gate where the election will be held. There was nothing like that, everybody was given the opportunity to go round to make consultations. The party was open to all aspirants. The party was there for everybody, there was no discrimination, the party chairman was not barred from taking calls from certain aspirants.

So there is nothing wrong, the aspirants can talk to each other and form alliances, it is part of politics, there is nothing wrong.

27

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Politics

Al-Qadi: Jonathan needs help to fight terror Malam Muhammad Adam Al-Qadi is a former member of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Crises in Jos, a philanthropist and the youngest recipient of the Officer of the Niger. In this interview with BUHARI BELLO, he explains how the Boko Haram insurgency can be curtailed

H

ow do you feel about the bomb blasts that have in the recent past rocked the city of Jos? I am saddened by the happenings, most particularly when the city of Jos is gradually regaining calmness and relative peace; even though it wasn’t the first time that the blasts had occurred in Jos and even in Nigeria. Every day, people are becoming wiser than before, they understand themselves better and all these are pointers to the fact that every person in Nigeria, Plateau and Jos is desirous of peaceful living.

This invariably means that the people have disagreed with the plan to push them into a crisis and just like you have known that I served as the youngest member of the Late Solomon Lar-led Presidential Advisory Committee on the Jos crises, under which we recommended that the youths should be sensitised and enlightened. I can say some of these pieces of advice that we have given have impacted positively.

The spate of bombing is not only peculiar to Nigeria alone, it is a global thing.

Ours is even lesser when compared to other places in the world. My prayer is that those affected in the blasts, both Muslims and Christians, that may Allah console their families, while those that have lost their properties may He replace them with more than what they have lost.

It is a calamities that has affected everybody, the old, the young, the men, the women and even children. My clarion call to the people is that they should be wary of spreaders of rumours.

I also say the abduction of the Chibok school girls was unfortunate. I condemn it and pray for their release.

How do you look at the menace of unemployment in the country?

We have very determined and vibrant youths here in Plateau State, most particularly here in Jos. You need not call any one of them whenever things happen. Rather, you just see them coming to lend a helping hand in solving any situation. It may impress you if you go round the city of Jos, in the afternoon and at night, where you will see them on the streets just working like well-trained security operatives.

They are giving their best and it is now left to us, the well to do individuals and our leaders who are politicians, to support them. Their actions are indicators that we have a good future; I am proud of them.

Our parents have given us good moral values and all I can say to the youths is that they should be law abiding and may Allah

Al-Qadi

strengthen them the more.

People often rush to the scene of a blast whenever it occurs. What call do you have for these people?

People should be very careful; you know it is already in our training to quickly rush to the scene of any incident to render first aid, but the issue of bomb is so delicate, that people should be careful. However, by and large the various government agencies should continue to create awareness, the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the police as done by the Commissioner of Police, must be seen doing that.

Nigerians recently celebrated 15 years of uninterrupted democracy. How do you assess our democracy so far?

Two major things are the bane of Nigeria’s development, and they are insecurity and corruption. On the issue of insecurity it isn’t only Nigeria that is not at peace, rather the entire world is in chaos. Look at what is happening in Syria, in Libya, in Iraq, in Egypt, in Lebanon and even in America, when you weigh it you will see that God is on our side, that despite what is happening in Nigeria, ours is still better than that of others. Ours is happening here in the North, in a particular portion of the country.

To the people that are accusing government, they are making mistakes. As journalists you are all aware of the attack on the World Trade Centre in America and I ask: where were the FBI and CIA when that happened? So it is gradually that actions will be taken. The spate of insurgency is a thing that is not known to our soldiers and other security agencies. Some of them were not even trained in it because it is a thing that had just occurred to us, unexpectedly and has put the country in chaos. I am very

sure that the government is doing its best on the issue of security, but people will not understand that. All we can say is that it should also improve to achieve more.

But there were some international organisations that are saying that Nigerian security agencies are not proactive in their response to information against terrorism?

Like the Amnesty International which few weeks ago released its report, in which it said that people reported an impending attack on Gamboru Ngala town to soldiers but no action was taken. Just like you have heard, so I also heard. But Amnesty International is not the country’s NSA or DG SSS and if they have any evidence of prove that, they should show it to Nigerians. The spokesperson for the President, Dr. Reuben Abati, has challenged them to prove that.

My call to Nigerians is that we shouldn’t allow some people to ignite a crisis in our country, like what is now happening in Libya. Today, every Libyan is regretting what his country has turned into, just like every Egyptian is not happy with what is happening in that country today.

To be honest with you, I’m always loyal to my government, and if you ask me, the best thing for us is that whenever the government does wrong is to correct it. Those in leadership are human beings and they are bound to make mistakes. But we should also be aware of the fact that it cannot do things alone.

For instance, when you take America as a case study, there are security organisations as well as private organisations, and their duty is to gather intelligence reports and sell them to the Federal Bureau of Investi-

gation and Central Intelligence Agency. But here in Nigeria, we don’t have them. The American government is one of the strongest in the world yet it is making use of such organisations to achieve its aims. The latest deal was bought at $850 million. So Nigerians should set up such organisations and recruit our graduates who read Psychology, Political Science, Crime Management and others to occupy those positions and serve the nation.

Don’t you think that allowing foreign security agents into the country is a failure on the part of the government?

It is not a weakness, it is not a failure and like I said earlier, terrorism is a new thing to us in Nigeria. We never thought of it.

Remember, our security men excelled all over the world, whenever they went on assignments. So their coming to assist us is not a sign of failure, is not a sign of weakness. That you have a problem and decide to allow your neighbour to assist you does not mean that you have failed. I think this is what I will say about security.

Every day people are saying that corruption is more rampant in this current government. But let us be fair and look at things in the past leadership. Take for instance from the regime of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, who is a father to all, an elder statesman, who has done well for the development of Nigeria, despite series of allegations; then came in the administration of Gen. Sani Abacha, whose family up till now has not wriggled out of allegations of fraud, and Nigeria is still collecting the stolen money that they have taken out of the country; to the regime of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar; to that of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo during whose tenure a lot of corruption took place; to the extent that whenever he attended any international engagement he was disrespected, People looked down on him, and he wasn’t happy. That was why he decided to set up EFCC, not because he wanted it but it was as a result of pressures from the international community. He set up the anti-graft agencies, in order to restore the integrity of this country.

It was under his government that privatisation and monetisation were done, what kind of miss or fraud that we did not see that had happened. People kept quiet and why only the pressure on this present President, we should be fair and just to tell ourselves the truth, that black mail and hatred is not what will move this country forward.

We all most love our country because we don’t have any other. That is why even in our national anthem, we stress that we will give our best using all the strength we have and conclude by seeking help from God. We should be conscious of our pledge to this country. We should shun all forms of tribalism, religious or regional sentiments.

We are a nation and I say one nation one destiny, which should go by its ideology.

Much of the youth restiveness and insurgency have been attributed to unemployment. What is your take on that?

The issue of unemployment should not be seen as the only problem, but I say if you people travels around the world, they will see wonders. Most of the problem with our youth graduates is that everybody wants to work for the government. Until we are able to change the mindset of our boys and girls right from primary school, we will continue to have problems. We must fashion out the means where if someone studies say tourism he will be able to secure a job. When you go to some countries you will find some youths engaging in tourism work. They receive guests at the airport and from their deals with hotels, market places they made their gains from commissions.

28

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Politics / Hardball

Tinubu, Daniel, Bankole are spent forces - Kashamu

Prince Buruji Kashamu is a billionaire businessman and politician whose tentacles spread beyond his home state of Ogun. Having entrenched himself in the Peoples Democratic Party through a series of judicial victories, the Ijebu Igbo-born politician is today the Chairman, Mobilisation and Organisation Committee of PDP’s South-West zone. He tells KUNLE OLAYENI why he has a grouse with former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and ex-House of Representatives Speaker, Dimeji Bankole.

T

he governorship election in Osun State is fast approaching. How prepared is your team – the Mobilisation and Organisation Committee of the PDP of which you are the South-West chairman – to win the election?

You see, Osun people will be the ones that I would beg. I’ve said it before; if Osun people want progress for their state, we have done all what we could do in order for us to support them. We have advised them, we have educated them, we have showend them that the only way for Osun to continue to be progressing is for them to vote PDP. You see, human beings are human beings; one can come to discuss with you, another one can come to discuss with you but how do you digest and know the truth? It is when God guides you. If God doesn’t guide you, you will make a lot of mistakes in taking any decision. Aregbesola believes in propaganda. Sometimes in politics, many people believe in propaganda; so he has done a lot of things to change the people’s minds. We have

been in Osun now for almost one month with about 80 coordinators of Mobilisation and Organisation Committee of the South West PDP working ward by ward, unit by unit, local government by local government. We have been distributing kerosene, we have been distributing rice in order for people to see and for their minds to be open so that they can be able to think in a direct way. If many Osun people refuse to follow these propagandists, there is no way that we will not win. You know that PDP does not believe in propaganda, we believe in something that is real. But my prayer for Osun people is for them to know that anybody that works with Almighty God can never lose. Therefore, anybody that works with a national party like PDP where it’s not that one person will sit in his corner and be giving directives on what each governor should do, if Osun people can be able to see this clearly, there is no reason why we will not win on the 9th of August.

The PDP’s victory in the Ekiti State gov-

ernorship election has been criticised

by APC chieftains who attributed it to scientific rigging and distribution of rice.

What is your take?

You can see that Fayose is a grass roots person that we all know. He has done a lot of things to identify with the common man and the less privileged. He has mingled well with various stakeholders.

He has done that several times. Somebody who has done that, why won’t they like him? Can’t you see that he won in the whole 16 local government areas of Ekiti? Can’t you see the gap was too much? So, what do you want the APC to say? We beat them in a way that all of them are shaking. All of them are still panicking. Can’t you see that in all the states, they themselves are sharing rice, they are distributing cars, they are paying workers’ salaries? All the people they have sacked before, they tried to recruit them back. Can’t you see all Aregbesola has been doing? If they believed that the election was rigged, there is no way they would be doing this kind of thing they are doing. My brother, rice

or no rice, our people are poor. You came here now and saw a lot of people that I’ve been giving rice. This is what I’ve been doing over the years. When we are talking about mobilisation and organisation, of course, it is to talk to people and address them. If there is anyone that is having problem of food, resolve their problem. If there is anyone that wants to pay the school fees of his children and doesn’t have the opportunity, help him.

If there is anyone that is in the hospital, help him and save his life. If there is anyone that does not have clothes, give him clothes. It is normal. There is no way you would see me. I go to Lagos for two weeks and work. If I make N1 million in two weeks, I will bring N500,000 to my people here and share with them. I see many of them that go to my office every week, those who would collect N5,000; those who would collect N10,000; those who would collect N20,000. I’ve been doing that for over 20 years. So, for me to go and share rice in Osun and all the places that I have Omo Ilu Foundation is nothing to me. As I do it, God will reward me uncountable times. It’s not because of election, that’s how I’ve been doing it. But I cannot say because election is coming I will not share rice. I cannot say because election is coming I

29

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Politics / Hardball

Tinubu,Daniel,Bankole are spent forces- Kashamu house where all of us are, how would I know if somebody wants to come out; if somebody is having an ambition or not? But the only thing I know is that in the structure of the party, some people have come out. Chief Ojesina has come out, Abiodun Akinlade has come out, Chief Ogunleye has come out, Hon. Kayode Amusan has come out, Sikirulai Ogundele has come out and some other people. We have almost 16 governorship aspirants that we know.

will not share kerosene. For over a year, I’ve been sharing kerosene and rice in Ekiti; Fayose himself has been sharing rice in Ekiti. Don’t forget that when Fayose was in government in his first term, people came to his house every morning to eat. This is not about politics. Our people are poor and you know for sure.

So, if APC can’t touch their lives, why can’t we touch their lives? This does not have anything to do with politics. It is APC that goes about with money during election to entice people to vote for them, you will never see PDP do that.

If I give you rice to go and eat, how can that change your mind? So, the issue of sharing rice to entice people to vote does not arise.

So, what do you think would be the outcome of the petition filed against Fayose at the election tribunal by the APC? How can that one be possible when we defeated Fayemi and the second day, he raised his hands up and said he has accepted defeat? How can somebody who called himself the boss of APC stay in Lagos and say that they will go to court when the owner of the matter himself has already conceded victory? Fayemi is from Ekiti, Tinubu is not from Ekiti.

Akande who used to be their national chairman is not from Ekiti. The person who is the executive governor that was beaten has conceded victory and somebody that stays in Bourdillon will head to court? Do you think all these judges don’t have eyes? So, how are they going to win?

In Osun State, the APC alleged that Omo Ilu Foundation and PDP are distributing adulterated kerosene and expired rice.

What is your reaction?

If Aregbesola can appear on television and be insulting himself thinking that he is insulting me or my foundation by saying that we are distributing adulterated kerosene and expired rice, it is propaganda. And the more they do that, the more people love me and believe in me. If you are not important, there is no reason that people will be saying this kind of thing against you. It’s because they are afraid of me. It’s because they know they have second Tinubu in PDP now. Even we are about four or five now. Fayose is a Jagaban of South-West, Omisore is a Jagaban of South-West, I’m following them. So, if you are talking about Jagaban, we are about five or six now in PDP that are ready to fight the Jagaban of APC. If anybody is saying rubbish that we are distributing expired rice, how can that be possible? The rice that they ordered and we did the repackaging, have you seen anybody in Osun complaining of stomach pain? People are cooking and eating it and they are happy and calling for more. Yesterday, we went there with about 12,500 bags. People love that rice and they are requesting for more every day. So, whatever Aregbesola is saying about it is nonsense. We are touching lives.

You have invested heavily in PDP in other states. What is the situation like in the party in your home state because we still hear about friction?

You know what is happening here now. How can I leave my house if it’s not settled, then go into another state to do mobilisation? I have to be sure of

myself. This Ogun State PDP will not have any problem. If we come for election today, you will see that Amosun will go like this and his cap will go like this. Yes, the big cap of Amosun will go on the right side and he himself will go on the left side! There is no APC in Ogun State. The PDP is united and we don’t have any problem.

Is there any possibility of an alliance with any other party, probably with the Labour Party because we’ve been hearing about some kind of working arrangement?

PDP does not need any alliance with any party. The leader of Labour Party, former Governor Gbenga Daniel, is deceitful; he’s not a stable person. When Gbenga Daniel entered PDP, you know where he was. He benefitted for good eight years and so on but at the end of the day, what did he do? He betrayed the PDP. The person who couldn’t manage PDP, who could not manage PPN, can that kind of person manage Labour Party? Nowadays, how many people do you see that want to go to Labour Party?

I don’t know why OGD will leave the glass house and go inside the bush to go and be staying in a hole of crabs. It’s going to be difficult, they can never succeed. There is no way; PDP doesn’t need Labour Party. We don’t need to associate with Labour Party. We have done a lot of work, we believe in ourselves. What is he doing in Labour Party? He cannot be saying he will destroy PDP governorship by fielding a candidate in Labour Party to fight against us. He knows that if they vote today, they can never have 10,000 but he wants to prevent PDP from succeeding. And at the same time he

would be saying that during the presidential election, he would support the president. In what way? If you love me, you must love my dog. Does he love the party? The answer is no! What matters for him is his own interest. But, for me, I can make this declaration now that we PDP will never work with Labour Party and we don’t want Labour Party to work with us. We are capable of winning our elections, we are capable of winning the governorship election, we are capable of winning the presidential election. Let Labour Party come out with their presidential candidate if they believe they are not a mushroom party. Gbenga Daniel should not say Labour Party wants to vote for our president and fight against our governorship. He should do his own, we will do our own. We believe that with what we have done, we will defeat them.

On the issue of former House of Representatives Speaker Dimeji Bankole, what efforts are you making to bring him to the fold?

Is he somewhere? Is he into another party?

His camp claimed that you are frustrating his governorship ambition?

Look at this house now, we said we are a family, we have a family house. So, if somebody now says his own father is different from PDP, that his father did not marry his own mother and then he decides to go behind the yard of his father’s house and he tries to put up a small house behind the fence of his father’s house, how does that one concern me? What can I do about that? If the person doesn’t come to stay in his father’s

But there are speculations that Bankole is the anointed candidate of the Presidency?

Bankole should stop dropping Mr. President’s name. There is no way Bankole can stand in front of me and be saying that Mr. President was the one that anointed him. It’s not possible.

Mr. President doesn’t anoint anybody.

The man is a man of rule of law. The man believes in due process, he does not believe in imposition. He doesn’t have anything to do with this. You could see clearly in Ekiti that all the aspirants went for primaries and you saw that Fayose won with almost 99 per cent of the total delegates. That is Jonathan for you. And if somebody wants to be dropping Goodluck Jonathan’s name, not somebody like Dimeji Bankole. Don’t forget that Dimeji Bankole was a betrayal to the whole nation. Dimeji Bankole was a betrayal to his South-West people. Don’t forget that Dimeji Bankole did everything to block the destiny of Mr. President. God showed Dimeji that power does not lie in Dimeji’s hands but that power lies in His own hands.

Can’t you see Goodluck Jonathan? He was deputy governor and later became governor, from governor to vice president, from vice president to president.

Have you ever seen anybody in this country in the history of politics that his history goes like that? The answer is no. President Jonathan has been anointed by Almighty God and nobody can block his way. As we are talking now, if it is the wish of people for the man to come out and contest and somebody says he wants to block his way, it’s not going to be possible. Can’t you see our Baba Obasanjo here? He tried all his best to block his way. I didn’t know him from anywhere but I stood up; it’s God who entered my heart and said go and fight for this party in South-West in order for Baba Obasanjo not to be able to succeed to fight a God-send. So, Dimeji cannot go anywhere. Dimeji is a joker, Dimeji is a loser. Don’t forget that when he contested, he lost his local government. How can he be dropping Mr. President’s name everywhere when we know that it was Dimeji that brought Aminu Tambuwal, our own Speaker now? This speakership was supposed to come to South-West but he blocked it. So, if Tambuwal is among those who are creating problems for PDP, how do you think that you will go and bring Dimeji now to come and be governor of Ogun State? If Dimeji wants to contest, let him come to the party structure and declare his intention; all of us will go for primaries and from there we will know his capacity. But because he knows that he will not be able to win, because he knows that people will never follow him in Ogun State, because we know that he is a betrayer; that is why he’s trying to put his gallery behind the fence.

30

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Politics / National

My eight years as Anambra gov were tough –Peter Obi

I

t’s nice to meet you again. How was it like ruling Anambra State for eight years?

Nice to meet you too and thanks for your question. I keep telling people that eight years as the Governor of Anambra State was like eight years on the battle front. I say this because of the complexities in the state, which the support of the masses, their prayers and divine guidance helped me to overcome.

What do you mean by complexities in Anambra State?

How do I explain this? You remind me about an author I was reading on general topics from a philosophical perspective.

The author was at a loss on how to explain Yoga and ended up saying, “only through Yoga may Yoga be known.” It is only through active participation in the governance of Anambra State would one discover in its fullness the complexities in the state. Anambra people are good, very industrious, proud of their heritage and are justifiably the ‘Jews of Nigeria’. But over the years, through the misplacement of values, our state came very low and at a point even became a byword for rascality.

I met all the challenges and complexities associated with a people that had lost their sense of values because the dregs among them took over the arena. I am happy that today, we are reconquering ourselves and have gone far in the process of reclaiming our state for ourselves.

You were today bestowed with a special award by the Nigeria Computer Society because of your efforts towards what they called the ‘ICT Revolution in Anambra State, when you were the governor. How do you feel about it?

Generally, conferment of awards and granting of dignities are ways by which the society acknowledges people that have done well or are doing well for humanity. I am therefore happy and elated that the Nigerian Computer Society found me worthy to be honoured.

As they said, they had wanted to honour me when I was the governor, but I declined in line with my belief that awards that are not time-bound are better given after one had left office. I maintained this position because as soon as I became the governor, the request to give me awards started coming in torrents; even in my first year when I have not done anything for an organisation to want to honour me. Very soon, I discovered that most of the awards were predicated on one’s support; therefore I said no awards until I have served my terms. Awards like Sun or Businessday Man of the Year were accepted because they were tied to specific years.

Again, I said that before I accept any award, besides the organisation convincing me, I must be convinced within me that I genuinely merited it. Today, if an organisation says they want to honour me as a former Governor with the Best improvement on Internally Generated Revenue Generation, I should be honest to myself to know it is not true.

I am therefore happy to receive the award. I am also happy to receive the award by Librarians of Nigeria, the Lagos Business School, among others, because from their submissions, it was obvious that I really came out the best in the area

Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, was recently bestowed with the Nigeria Computer Society Award for the ICT revolution he led in Anambra State during his tenure. The former governor spoke to some journalists shortly after the event and TONY OKAFOR was there.

Obi

of the award.

Take the issue of librarians that honoured me, they made it clear that I built the first library in Anambra State since the state was created and the first e-library in the South-East. They also acknowledged that billions of Naira we made available to all the government and missionary-owned secondary schools in the state for the provision of libraries as well as the provision of infrastructure to the libraries and the purchase of vehicles for librarians, among others.

Coming to the award by the Nigeria Computer Society, they enumerated the reasons for the award and they are verifiable. I bought over 30,000 desktop computers and laptops for public and missionary schools in the state. In fact, our last purchase was 22,500 laptops at the ratio of 1 to 10 students, a feat not achieved by any state in Africa. We provided Microsoft academies and over 500 generators to schools to power the facilities. We connected our schools to the Internet. We employed computer teachers for the schools and commenced the computerisation of departments of government in the state, among others.

Are you satisfied with the teaching and learning of ICT in Nigeria?

First and foremost, let me repeat: any country or state desirous of equipping her people for competition in future must not joke with education. The critical part

of modern education is ICT-enabled. Recently, different examination boards said their examination would be through the computer. For people from Anambra State, there is no need to be panicky. We have invested in the sector that we would not be disadvantaged no matter how they want to do it. We have also employed, trained and retrained ICT teachers.

I want Nigeria to look more deeply on how to make ICT education readily available to Nigerians. I would like to encourage those in charge of our education to consider a programme to make computers available to students in tertiary institutions as soon as they enter year one. I am sure with about N35 billion yearly budgets, it is doable. That amount is not up to 30 per cent of what the Federal Government spends on paying for one form of subsidy or another monthly.

We were able to provide about 30,000 computers in Anambra State because we talked directly to the manufacturers or their representatives without going through first, second and third parties and were able to secure generous discounts. It is about time our people learnt to be more transformational rather that sustaining the current culture of transaction pervading the country.

As an international businessman, how can you rate ICT penetration between Nigeria and South Africa?

When you compare that based on popu-

lation, South Africa being about 53 million and Nigeria being 168 million, you will agree that South Africa tops Nigeria.

With conscientious planning and adequate deployment of resources, Nigeria has the capacity to surpass South Africa just as our GDP has recently surpassed theirs.

Much has been said about the poor GSM services in Nigeria, especially in the area of dropped calls. What do you think should be done to improve on it?

I remember when people travelled hundreds of kilometres to receive a phone call. I remember when people queued in NITEL offices to make calls; today it is no longer the case. I say this to let you know that the history of telecommunication has been impressively progressive. Today, phones are no longer status symbols.

Today, secondary school students have phones. Due to an increase in subscriber base and vandalism of equipment, especially in areas we have security challenges, we have been witnessing dwindling call quality. The way to improve it is by telecoms companies investing in infrastructure more than they do now. Moreover, telecoms regulators should monitor service providers more for compliance with minimum standards.

I am aware that the power problem also affect telecoms companies and I am confident that President Goodluck Jonathan is doing everything to solve the power problem.

Rich companies that are dependent on power should also work out how to invest in power in the country.

Following the increasing awareness about ICT, Nigeria is fast becoming a dumping ground for second hand and obsolete computers, laptops and phones. How can this be addressed?

People buy used things because they cannot afford new ones. Today, most Nigerians are buying new vehicles because of INNOSON Motor Manufacturing Company in Nnewi. Government should encourage the local manufacture of computers in order that new ones will be available to Nigerians.

Do you think the Nigeria Communication Commission has the capacity to moderate GSM providers in Nigeria?

Yes, it does. I have not read the law setting it up, but I have seen their adverts telling GSM providers what to do and what not to do. This means they have that mandate. I hope they also are empowered by legislation to punish recalcitrant ones.

Comment on the increasing rate of cybercrime in the country and how you think Nigeria’s cyberspace could be better secured.

Crime of any form is not acceptable insofar as it is contrary to the norms of the society. Once we support President Goodluck Jonathan in his Transformation Agenda, part of which is job creation, the problem of crime will be reduced, whether cybercrime, armed robbery and what have you.

News Good times for Osun farmers with Aregbesola’s agric revolution p.36

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AUGUST 3, 2014

Market&Malls Abia explains relocation of Umuahia Main Market traders p.39

31

Business AZUBIKE NNADOZIE, ASSISTANT EDITOR, SUNDAY

azubike.nnadozie@newtelegraphonline.com

ON SUNDAY

ABC’s earnings rise to N6.64bn A

Paul Ogbuokiri BC Transport Plc has released its audited results for the year ended December 31, 2013, recording a growth of 2.03 per cent in turnover over the 2012 result. Turnover increased from N6.5bn in 2012 to N6.64bn in 2013, representing an increase of 2.03 per cent while Gross profit declined slightly by 7.24 per cent from N1.77bn recorded in 2012 to N1.64bn in 2013. Profit before tax, however, grew by 0.49 per cent from N566.01m in 2012 to N568.80m in 2013, while profit after tax declined by 2.15 per cent

from N362.89 in 2012 to N355.08 in 2013.

A statement by the company on Friday said the directors shall propose at the forthcoming AGM a dividend of 6 Kobo per ordinary share of 50 kobo each for the year ended December 31, 2013.

The statement Head of Customer Service, Ijeoma Onyenekwo, said the Register of Members and Transfer Books of the company would be closed on August 11, 2014 to August 15, 2014, both dates inclusive, for the purpose of determining those entitled to the payment of dividend. Consequently, if the dividend as proposed is approved, dividend war-

rants will be posted on September 12, 2014 to all shareholders whose names appear in the register of members at the close of business on August 8, 2014.

She further said that the directors shall equally recommend a bonus share for members in the proportion of one (1) new share of 50 kobo for every ten (10) shares held at the close of business on August 8, 2014. All this will be considered for approval at the 21st Annual General Meeting schedule to hold at the Mayfair Suites and Conference Centre, Plot 40, Egbu Road, Owerri on Friday, August 29, 2014 by 11a.m. at which shareholders will con-

sider the proposed dividend, among other business.

Meanwhile, New Telegraph on Sunday learnt that ABC Transport is set to inject new coaches and mid-buses to its existing fleet, although there are concerns from its management given the prevailing industry challenges in passenger and cargo transport business.

Onyenekwo said that challenges which result from the heightened security uncertainties (with the resultant personal risks and psychological effects), poor nature of certain major highways, and the spate of multiple taxation and illegal levies disguised as taxes; all of which have continued to exact

a toll on many business concerns, ABC Transport not excluded.

She said instances where touts harass and intimidate road transport operators, even mounting roadblocks, smashing side mirrors, and resorting to other violent means in collecting illegal levies and rates will keep disrupting businesses and retarding economic growth.

She said, “Until the Federal Government resolves to enforce absolute compliance with the Taxes and Levies Act, until there are concerted efforts from the appropriate statutory authorities to harmonise taxies and levies nationwide, many companies will remain at the mercy of illegal taxation.”

ABC Transport Plc is Nigeria’s leading coach operator and the only road transport operator quoted on the Nigeria Stock Exchange. It also provides cargo services nationwide as well as haulage services for WAPCO-Lafarge,UNICEM, Nestle Waters, GZ Industries and Beta Glass, besides running third party warehousing and City Transit Inn, a budget hotel in Utako, Abuja.

INSIDE

L-R: Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Lagos State, Mrs. Sola Oworu; winner of CEO Award for Excellence, Mr. Unyime Idem; Managing Director/CEO, Airtel Nigeria, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya; and Chief Executive Officer, Interswitch Divisional, Mr. Charles Ifedi, during the presentation of the grand prize 2014 Toyota Land Cruiser SUV by Airtel CEO to the Channel Partners in Lagos

Oron Union lauds MAN rector Tony Anichebe UYO

T

he leadership of Oron Union, an apex socio-cultural organisation in Oro Kingdom, Akwa Ibom State has lauded the Rector of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Mr. Joshua Okpom, for positively transforming the academy to meet international best standards through the provision of quality infrastructure, state-of-the art facilities and skilled manpower for the institution.

The Central Executive Committee members of the organisation,

said this during their recent visit to the academy.

The union’s President-General, Chief Asuquo Inuikim, in his address thanked the rector for his efforts at bringing peace to the warring people of Idua and EyoAbasi villages, which are hosts communities of the institution.

Iniukim described Okpo as an agent of change and apostle of peace who has demonstrated sincere commitment to the development of the academy.

He added that the effort of the rector to secure seatime opportunities abroad for cadets was laudable.

He, however, urged him to fasttrack the process of making the institution a degree-awarding institution.

Earlier, Okpo had said that the academy was repositioning to attain international best standards based on strict adherence to best global practices.

He said besides the huge infrastructural development taking place in the academy as a result of management’s determination to transform the institution and upgrade its status, MAN has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the PiriReis University in Turkey with

a view to exposing the cadets to sea-time training on the GOBTC platforms.

He said the academy was in discussions with foreign institutions such as Cape Peninsular University of Technology and Marine Crew Services (MCS) of South Africa, saying they are nearing formalisation.

He, however, decried the lack of a training ship and sea-time berths for its teeming cadets and ex-cadets. According to the rector, the academy is an institution anchored on dual organs of standardisation viz, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and STCW convention as captured in the Manilla 2010 amendment, must always work extra miles to sustain prescribed standards.

I treat compere jobs as a competitive business pitch – Obidiegwu

pg 34&35

Hyundai Genesis: Priceless luxury

pg 32

SundayTransport 32

PAUL OGBUOKIRI, paulogbuokiri@gmail.com 0802-779-0557, 08037613380

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNRDAY

AUGUST 3, 2014

Hyundai Genesis: Priceless luxury

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Paul Ogbuokiri he Koreans are making frantic entry into the luxury car segment where premium carmakers like Cadillac, Lexus, BMW, Mercedes Benz and Audi have for some time now enjoyed unrestricted access.

But the coming of Hyundai Genesis into the fold could change the trend and somewhat reposition the Korean Hyundai automaker as the new kid-on-the-block.

The USNews rankingsandreviews.com acknowledged this revelation in one of its recently released analysis of 2015 luxury cars, where it ranked the inventiveness of the redesigned Hyundai Genesis No. 3 out of 14 luxury large cars.

It also described as inviting the well-crafted cabin and powerful engines of the fully redesigned Genesis which offers luxury amenities at a lower price than most rivals.

“This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of reliability and safety data of the Hyundai Genesis,” USNews explained.

Stallion Media Advisor, Manny Phillipson, in a statement on Wednesday said the new Hyundai Genesis has no doubt taken a wisely conservative approach with the new Genesis that offers exactly what buyers are looking for in an executive sedan - bold grille treatment, with some neat detailing around the lights, a sharp crease running down the side and a sleeker rear end.

He said that the refinement is sincerely impressive; even when you really push the V6 engine it makes a good noise and the gearshifts are superbly slick to ensure better handling.

The car is powered by either a 3.8litre 311Hp V6 GDI engine or 5.0litre 420Hp V8 engine both mated to an eightspeed automatic transmission. The Genesis produces ample power to satisfy most drivers and it idles smoothly and offers immediate throttle response.

International automotive journalists report that the Hyundai Genesis offers a comfortable ride over rugged roads with sharp steering and well-controlled handling in turns.

They said that the striking design and inspired craftsmanship with innovative safety technology have to some extent given the Genesis an edge over rivals. This is in addition to the spacious, comfortable seats for all passengers and a stylish interior that features premium materials and excellent fit and finish.

Auto writers report that the Genesis’ audio, phone and navigation settings are easy to access, with buttons and a control knob that operate similarly to Audi’s MMI infotainment system.

Standard features include a rear-view camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touch-screen navigation system, Bluetooth, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system, proximity key, pushbutton start, satellite radio, HD Radio and a USB port.

What’s more, the Genesis is equipped with Lane departure warning, blind spot detection, automatic emergency braking, an HD 9.2-inch LDC screen navigation system; a panoramic sunroof with a head-up display, a power rear sunshade and two Lexicon sound systems are available.

Inside, the Genesis combines space with newfound swagger. The trunk is enormous and smartly finished, and it hides a full-size spare tyre. A Smart Trunk feature pops

T

here are spaces on the road demarcated by lines to guide traffic flow moving in the same or opposite direction. The lines may be broken or solid, indicating whether or not they may be crossed. Usually broken lines may be crossed while solid lines are not expected to be crossed. i Lane Rule Keep between the traffic lane markings.

Stay on the right-hand lane unless you are ready to overtake, to turn left or pass an obstruction.

Do not unnecessarily hop lane. If you need to move into another lane, first use

the lid when you stand behind the locked car for roughly three seconds with the keyfob in your pocket, without requiring an under-bumper foot waggle as with Fords.

The cabin is conservative, comfortable and ergonomically impressive, including navigation, infotainment systems and apps that are easier to use than anything from the Germans.

Mounts for the transmission and subframes are up to twice as stiff as before, helping to suppress noise, vibration and harshness.

The front shock towers are aluminum. Hyundai claims the wheels tilt 23 percent less during high-speed cornering, improving steering feel and control.

These changes produce a far quieter, better-riding and sharper-handling sedan such that the suspension doesn’t have to mask the chassis’ weakness with supersoft tuning that oozes over every ripple and bump. Instead, the car feels professional and confident even with standard 18-inch wheels or 19inch wheels.

The advantages of a reardrive car include superior weight balance, and the Genesis delivers with 52 percent of its mass up front, 48 percent in the rear.

Hyundai had also claimed first in one technology: Because high interior carbon dioxide levels can make occupants drowsy, a CO2 sensor pumps in fresh ambient air when carbon dioxide levels exceed two thousands parts per million.

And the Genesis Smart Trunk also opens within three seconds so long as the key is in your pocket and you’re within

One reason to buy the priciest Genesis trim line is the superb head-up display that is only on the Genesis Ultra.

It indicates cars in your blind spot (also current speed, posted speed limit, lane departure warning, forward collision, warning, and adaptive cruise control).

Automatic emergency braking can halt the Hyundai when it recognises an impending collision or unsafe closing speed.

Ironically, the Genesis isn’t a sport sedan in the manner of the Cadillac CTS or Audi A6 even though many drivers may perceive it as exactly that. Hyundai had called on Lotus Engineering, the British Zen masters of handling, to help develop and validate the handling dynamics.

three feet, and stand there for three seconds. It pops it open.

Auto Clinic

your mirror and if it is safe to move over, signal before doing so.

After joining the highway, stay on the inside lane long enough to blend to the speed of traffic before overtaking. ii Two Lanes Drive in the right hand lane on a two-lane carriageway, except when overtaking iii Three Lanes On a three-lane carriageway, you may stay in the middle lane when traffic is slower on the inside lane, but you should return to the inside lane when you have passed them. The outside lane is for over-

taking ONLY. If you use it always move back into the middle lane and then into the inside lane as soon as you can, but without cutting in. iv Overtaking Overtake only on the left lane, unless traffic is moving in queues in all lanes and you have no choice but to keep moving forward where you are. v Other Area Slow Moving Vehicle Slow moving vehicles on a single carriage way must ensure that they pull-over when four or more vehicles queue up behind

them. Failure to pull-over is a traffic violation. On a dual carriage way, all vehicles must keep to the slow lane except when overtaking. It is an offence not to do so.

Traffic Gridlock In a traffic gridlock so-called “traffic jams”, do not try to “jump the queue” by cutting into another lane or unauthorized use of siren to overtake the vehicles waiting in front of you.

NIGERIA HIGHWAY CODE 2013, page 92-93 (FRSC)

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Sunday Transport

Quality headlines Isuzu surge into Africa

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Paul Ogbuokiri s the new Isuzu Pick-up continues its engagement in key African markets, ongoing processes of quality management and engineering development ensure that the new Pick-up is built in Africa, for Africa.

Engineered and built by General Motors in South Africa for both the domestic and export markets, the Isuzu Pick-up followed extensive testing and engineering leading up to its launch in 2013 - covering some 1.3-million kilometres of strenuous driving in extreme conditions.

“With the sixth generation Isuzu Pick-up, we took an unprecedented approach to its development with specific focus points directly related to the African markets in which it is designed to serve.

“Along with our highly qualified and experienced engineering team, and involving the various departments who are jointly responsible for the design, development and production of this world-class pick-up, we left no stone unturned in the development process. The Isuzu heritage of innovation, toughness, durability, reliability and functionality was put to the ultimate test,” says Quality Manager at General Motors South Africa (GMSA), Andy

Seme Customs seizes N5m poultry products

I

n continuation of its anti-smuggling campaign, the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Thursday seized prohibited frozen poultry products worth N5 million in the bush paths of Seme border.

The seizure of the goods ostensibly being brought into the country from Republic of Benin may have been targeted at the end of the Muslim fast.

The Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Willy Egbudin, who supervised the destruction of the seized poultry products, described the seizure as a warning signal to desperate smugglers who, during every period of festivities, push their unlawful trade far by daring the resolve of the Customs.

“This seizure is a warning signal to anyone who attempts to dare us during festivities or any other time of the year. Because we are aware of their antics, our men are deployed in the bushes while normal patrol and manned approved check points are sustained.

“Our Comptroller General’s zero tolerance for smuggling is being pursued with renewed vigour and zeal. Therefore, any attempt to undermine our presence will be dealt with in line with the Customs and Excise Management Act,” he said.

Alexander.

New Telegraph on Sunday learnt that with the harsh environments of the African continent dictating vehicle specifications and design - including fuel quality, road conditions, consumer demands and vehicle versatility - Isuzu engineers not only had to design and develop specific elements of the Isuzu Pick-up to cope on a longterm basis, but also ensure the quality of each and every aspect that goes into the production of an internationally renowned pickup - to ensure complete peace of mind and trouble-free motoring for the customer.

Also, it was stated that built-in

quality (BIQ) at the Struandale plant in Port Elizabeth, South Africa is the most important element in this regard. At every stage of the production process - from the body shop and paint shop to assembly and final inspection - each element is verified to ensure maximum quality in all respects.

Clear objectives for Pick-up in Africa Benefitting directly from GMSA’s high engineering involvement with the new Isuzu Pick-up, it was stated that the vehicle was fine-tuned and toughened to operate without problems in the harsh African environment.

The company said in a statement

that: “Engineering and testing, which began as far back as 2010, included important factors which are particularly significant for the region - such as high altitudes, a large operating temperature range, high proportions of very dusty roads, particularly corrosive environments, varying fuel quality, bad road conditions, and specific towing and load requirements.”

It said the new Isuzu Pick-up features a number of uniquely African solutions to the problems and challenges that were identified. For example, a larger radiator is fitted to assist in improved cooling, and the radiator fan is in-

deed placed behind the radiator to remove the risk of fan blade damage when entering water at speed.

The high-ride suspension design which allows for ground clearance of up to 224 mm (linked to high profile tyres) enables for enhanced peace of mind when driving on particularly bad roads. Furthermore, specific attention was paid to underbody components like fuel lines and side skirts, where special protective plates were added to prevent damage from stone rash on the move, the statement added, saying the on the engine front, all engines are capable of running on even the lowest quality fuels.

L-R: Communication Consultant to CFAO Group in Nigeria, Dr. Oscar Odiboh; Managing Director, CFAO Automotive Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Pelletier; Deputy Managing Director, CFAO Motors, Mr. Kunle Jaiyesimi; and Area Manager, CFAO Motors, Mr. Kehinde Amao, during the unveiling of CFAO Motors’ sole distributorship of MITSUBISHI FUSO in Lagos recently.

Stallion opens Abuja facility

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tallion NMN, authorised Nissan sales company, has restated its commitment to the Nissan brand and its growing customers with the inauguration of a State-of-the-art 3s (sales, spares & service) facility in Abuja.

Stallion NMN, who was in April 2013 inducted as the Nissan Sales Company, described the new Abuja 3s facility as one of its core strategies of delivering world-class consumer experience. It added that the growing consumer base will soon become increasingly motorised with Nissan at the forefront of initiatives to capture the Nigerian automobile market.

Managing Director, Stallion NMN, Parvir Singh, who made these observations in his keynote address at the ceremony said, “Nissan’s three-year objective conveys the responsibility of repositioning and enhancing Nissan’s influence in the Nigerian market.”

He said Stallion NMN has “consistently intensified efforts to make Nissan Nigeria’s preferred brand and that was why we rolled out in April the first set of madein-Nigeria Nissan vehicles, including Nissan Almera / Sunny, NP300 pickup and high end SUV

Patrol at our plant in Lagos.

“We also told President Goodluck Jonathan at the presentation of these vehicles in Abuja recently that we aim to reaffirm our commitment to the New National Automotive Policy, initiated by the Government of Nigeria.”

The policy seeks to encourage vehicle assembly against importation of fully built vehicles, thereby giving better value to customers and saving valuable foreign exchange for the country while generating local skills and employment opportunities.

Meanwhile, Stallion NMN has expanded the Nissan lineup with the addition of iconic models like GT-R and 370Z with some recently introduced exciting B, C, D, SUV and LCV segment (Almera/ Sunny, Sentra, Teana/ Altima, Pathfinder and Urvan) vehicles.

These vehicles are competitively priced and are capturing significant market share, Singh added.

He said Stallion NMN is already reaping the dividend of Nissan global mid-term plan - Power 88 - which he described as proactive.

“Even though we were inaugurated only last year, we took off on a high note with favourable

growth indices that are significant to our achievement. Our sales volumes are consistently growing due to the favourable patronage that we have received from our valued customers,” he added.

He enumerated plans to expand Nissan service network through the appointment of more dealers to enhance customer satisfaction by providing high quality service at a reasonable price.

We’ll change face of driving, says AA Rescue Taiwo Jimoh

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hief Executive Officer of AA Rescue, Mr. Otonye Efebo, has said that the company is out to change the face of driving school and other logistics in Nigeria.

Efebo, who said this on Thursday during a news conference in Lagos noted that the company was into transport logistics training to change the driving culture of Nigerian motorists. According to him, the company hopes to change the culture through the transfer of knowledge of best road practices to drivers.

“AA Rescue Driving School is focused on users’ responsibility because driving challenges on Nigerian roads are enormous. Therefore, we make sure that our drivers are well informed to master and handle driving skills with care.

“Driving responsibility also means that as an organisation, we educate drivers not to drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs and allow their friends, and family to drive even though impaired as this could be a hazard to others.”

He said the company was in some other parts of the country teaching young and old drivers about new trends in driving.

Head of the drivers’ training department, Mr. Adekunle Akinbola, said, “Aside training drivers, the school is also into carjacking.

Whenever a car breaks down on the highway, we respond to a call immediately and you find us there.

“AA Rescue is not just about been making money, we also partner the Federal Road Safety Corps and Lagos State Traffic Management Authority whenever a car breaks down on the highway.”

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AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Interview

I treat compere jobs as a competi Chido Obidiegwu is the Special Assistant, Events to Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano; public speaker and professional Master of Ceremony. Having worked as a compere at various events, he states that the future of the industry is bright

M

Let’s meet you sir y name is Chido Obidiegwu.

I was born on July 31, 1964, almost 50years ago in the university community of Nsukka. I hail from Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. I had my secondary education at the famous St Theresa’s College, Nsukka. My first degree was in History at the great University of Benin while my masters degree was in Mass Communication at the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

After my masters degree, I had a stint in print journalism at African Innovations magazine from where I moved to Sunrise Marketing Communication and later to Minaj Broadcast International (MBI).This period afforded me the privilege to earn an exciting career experience garnering print media tutelage, vast and varied pedigree in integrated marketing communications and rich electronic media exposure, both in content development and airtime marketing.

Talking about executive management, I have run a company called Integrad Marketing Support Services limited, a bespoke integrated marketing communications, event and mobile marketing company. Integrad also offers Talk Services Provisioning for live events, radio and television programmes including ‘Inspiring health with Vivien’ on Inspiration FM and Giving Back TV show breaking on national television soon. I have also been chairman, Board of Directors of Wellnet limited, a burgeoning network marketing company.

For over two decades, I have been opportune to be involved and immersed in packaging and managing several brand building campaigns, epochal national and networth events, radio and television shows.

I am a Pan African University CSR Masterclass certified and have attended various relevant capacity building marketing, brand management and event marketing professional courses both at home and abroad.

I am happily married to Vivien, a dental technologist and multilevel network marketer and we are blessed with four children - Chizaram, Chimamanda, Daberechi and Makuachi.

How did you become a compere?

It was a clear case of a hobby or talent that turned to a treasure at St. Theresa’s College, Nsukka. I was the president of junior and senior debating societies respectively which exposed me to early public speaking. I was always leading my school team to debating competitions, some of which were telecast on local television and it was always a pleasure doing so.

The pleasure and knack for public speaking continued during my undergraduate and graduate days. This time around, my interest expanded to anchoring birthdays, weddings and other social events.

At Sunrise Communications product launches, seminars were part of my purview. In some of these cases when we had challenges with the comperes, I naturally stepped in as the emergency compere for some additional stipend. When friends had birthdays, weddings and other celebrations, I always took the compere role and would be exempted from making the financial contributions others make towards the event.

Working at MBI provided a veritable platform for my compere beat to begin to crystallise. The broadcast window exposed me to greater visibility and contacts that later propelled me when it was needed.

In the course of running Integrad, we have been blessed with a good clientele base.

The MC is the soul of the event and drives its mood and flow.

He introduces key players at the event in their deserved courteous manner and directs the event flow. He guides all players to be timely in their delivery Among those in our stable are MTN Nigeria, Etisalat, Nestoil Plc, Ordrec Investments, Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority, Zinox Computers, Dozzy Group, ATCON, ISPON, NCS, Fidelity Bank Plc etc.

Working on a brief during this period, I had a providential and divine chance meeting with a man who discovered me in professional compere business. He remains my mentor and professional father- Chief Ikenna Ndaguba (Onwa) of blessed memory. We were packaging the launch of Ichie Daniel Obiesie Orjiako’s biography and I had the honor of being listed as Onwa’s assistant compere. Working under him was for me an elevation and I must confess I was not only careful but cautious of everything I did at the event under his superintendence. At the close of the event, he drew me close with unusual fondness and asked me what I was doing for a living. I responded that I was an Advertising and Public Relations consultant and that being a compere was more like a past-time. Onwa thought through my response and quickly retorted, “My son, in all my years in broadcasting I have heard a few voices with the kind of depth and decibel like yours. I am impressed with your diction and your handling of the event wasn’t bad at all. I advise you to take event anchoring very seriously. You have a great future here.” His last sentence kept reverberating in me for several days and nights. I was initially confused but after some days I got convinced, telling myself that these words coming from Nigeria’s doyen of broadcasting and grandfather of public speaking cannot be controverted even by my self-doubt. I immediately said a short prayer, asking God the father to confirm the prophecy of my earthly godfather over my life. I said, ‘Amen’.

Onwa did not stop there. He began the process of chipping off my rough edges. From time to time, he would invite me to handle some events he would not do as a result of his very busy schedule. That is the story of the making of Chido grand master compere today.

How important are MCs to events?

At the risk of being too patronising to my trade, I make bold to say that the success and failure of any event depends largely on the compere. Suffice it to say that assuming all other things were in place and you make the wrong choice of a compere, your event is a disaster waiting to happen.

The MC is the real host of the event. He should have a good understanding and appreciation of protocol. He should speak the right language that communicates effectively to the audience. He should be armed with a right sense of humour. When I say humour, I am not talking about comedy. I mean such humour that is in tandem with the essence of the event and not the type that will insult the sensibilities of the guests.

The MC is the soul of the event and drives its mood and flow. He introduces key play-

ers at the event in their deserved courteous manner and directs the event flow. He guides all players to be timely in their delivery. To achieve these, the compere needs to research and read voraciously about the event with emphasis on the who’s, the whys, for whom, for what, at where, when and how, by which means.

Before now, MCs were regarded as persons without any professional background.

What are requisite qualifications and attributes a contemporary compere should be armed with to deliver on the job?

There is this misconception and wrong perception that MCs are basically praise singers, making it an all-comers affair. This stemmed from the days of the yore when MCs were merely court jesters. We are in a dynamic world where the only thing constant is change and this change which affected other vocations that suffered similar fate has equally accentuated the emcees status.

Today, governments, corporate organisations and high networth individuals engage thoroughbred MCs who are armoured with sound academic background, relevant professional experience, warm disposition, ad lib skills or oratorical skills and ability to think on the spot, embellish as the event demands and dictates.

The MC of today should be versatile. For instance, when anchoring an event on banking, he must not necessarily become a banker but must have the reasonable knowledge base to speak the language bankers understand.

Same goes for when he is anchoring an event on telecommunications or oil and gas. I once anchored an event sponsored by a brand of hypertension drug. To be up and doing, I had to roll my sleeves and excavated copious information on cardiovascular ailments.

After my entry behaviour, the event chairman, a professor of cardiology, in his opening remarks made an allusion to the effect that the MC must have attended a good medical school. Little did he know that I don’t even have a science background, that I belong to those referred to as ‘Igbo, igbo, BK’.

When I receive a brief to compere any event, I treat it as if I am going for a competitive business pitch. For me, no event is small and none should be underrated. I strive to read everything I can find on the event and on the subject matter for the event. I must say that this attitude or approach to the MC trade is largely influenced by my academic background in history and mass communication coupled with hands on rigour and vigour in the blast furnace of Advertising and Public Relations and Broadcasting.

Therefore, the MC of today should be fairly educated and should be able to boast of a reasonable relevant cognate experience and ability to search and research for information relating to his event. He ought to be imbued with rare confidence and charm garnished with a good voice for effective delivery. These attributes are surely not for intellectual pedestrians.

What do you cherish more and also what are your regrets about being an MC? I fondly cherish the opportunity being an MC affords me to network and often being in the midst of the who is who in the society.

The challenge some of the events pose and present for fresh intellectual intercourse is equally alluring.

It also provides me with a window to subtly embark on some advo-

cacy on societal issues of concern. I must not forget to add that the pay is beginning to get better.

My challenges not regrets are mainly not having adequate time to spend with my family as duty calls and one is hopping in and out of aircraft. But I try to make it up to them during the down times of the business. It is also regrettable that some friends and even professionals hardly understand why an MC should be paid handsomely for, according to them, “just talking for two or three hours.”

They forget that talk is no longer cheap.

What in your opinion is the future of MCs in Nigeria?

The future is bright. More and more people are beginning to appreciate the essence and importance of MCs at occasions. They are being accorded respect. The remuneration of MCs is also looking up. I am confident that, as my mentor put it, there is a great future here.

Share with us your biggest embarrassment as an MC. I had to anchor an event for Ordrec Investments Limited and I came late as a result of a terrible traffic jam. Someone else had to stand in for me. As soon as I got into the hall, I took the microphone and mistakenly introduced the Managing Director of Ordrec, Dr. ABC Orjiako, as Dr. ABC Nwosu.

The audience echoed in unison to correct me “no, ABC Orjiako.” It was a very bad one because I have too close a relationship with the man, such that I shouldn’t forget his name. Since that day, I’ve made it a point of duty to get to the event venue early

35

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Interview

itive business pitch – Obidiegwu enough to eschew shoddy and hasty jobs.

Which event would you say has been your best outing so far as a compere?

I cannot really say for sure. But judging from what my clients and personages I meet at events say after most events, I would say that judging by what people say, God has been kind to me here. If it is true that the voice of the people is the voice of God, then quite a good number of my outings have been great.

Some former presidents and heads of state have offered me generous marks after events they chaired or attended. A good number of state governors have said charitable things after anchoring their state events. My appointment as the Special Assistant on Events to His Excellency Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State is partly as a result of my MC dexterity, at the risk of being immodest. My former state governor, His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi for good reasons retained me unofficially as the state MC for years. Lagos state governor Babatunde Fashola; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio; former Imo State Governor, Ikedi Ohakim; Abia State Governor, Theodore Orji; governors of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo and Dr. Ezeife have all said kind words over several jobs I did for them. I won’t forget motivating words from heads of government parastatals and corporate Nigeria that I have worked for, including MTN Nigeria, Etisalat, Fidelity Bank, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Seplat, Nestoil Plc, Dozzy Group, Zinox Group, Ekulo Group, Chisco Group and a host of Advertising and Public Relations agencies who on several occasions have said kudos to Chido. These applauses actually humble me and make me not to rest on my laurels. To these divine helpers I mentioned, I heartily express my profound gratitude and say that if I am professionally tall today, it is because they offered me their shoulders to stand on and I remain eternally grateful.

How does being events MC fit into your new assignment as Special Assistant on Events to Governor Obiano?

I dare say that most governments today utilise events as platforms to build their brand status, create awareness and market acceptance for their policies and programmes as well as attract investors. Anambra State under Governor Willie Obiano is right on the front burner on this. My responsibilities as the Special Assistant on Events to Governor Obiano include, among other things, to create, design and develop ingenious concepts to be hosted by the state, interface with internal and external event providers for viable collaborations, synergise with relevant stakeholders to develop state event diary and also compere all state major official events.

As arduous as these tasks might be, they are familiar terrain and I am humbled by the confidence my governor reposes on me to deliver on the beat. By the special grace of God, my tool box and other arsenals I employ to duty all emanated from the pedigree pointed to ab initio. That is talking about early exposure to public speaking on stage and on radio and television, or-

Anambra State as we speak is experiencing unprecedented agricultural revolution with free supply of tractors, fertilisers, seedlings to farmers and employment of labour for the youth in the farm settlements and clusters in the state

ganising debates, bachelors and masters degree in history and mass communications respectively garnished with robust hands-on professional exposure in advertising, public relations, event management and broadcasting.

Anambra State recently celebrated 100 days of Governor Obiano in office. What is your unbiased assessment of him in office so far?

You are making me a judge over a matter I have utmost interest in. Permit me to say first of all that His Excellency Chief Willie Obiano (Akpokuedike) the Executive Governor of Anambra State is running an all-inclusive government where a wider spectrum of the state’s stakeholders are allowed a space in the scheme of things. He abhors the winner-takes-all syndrome. On being sworn in and also at a stakeholders’ dinner, he offered an olive branch to his opponents in the election to join hands with him in taking the state to the next level. In all sincerity, come to Anambra State today and my governor’s strides stare glaringly and speak eloquently to all and sundry - friends and foes alike. During the campaign, he promised to continue, complete and commission all the laudable projects of his predecessor and also commence his own new projects.

He termed this an acronym - 4Cs.To the chagrin of his traducers, he is keeping to his words. Anambra today is like a city state construction site. There are no abandoned projects or white elephants but work in progress. During the election, the slogan was ‘Willie Will Work’. Today, Anambra people are now saying ‘Willie is Working’; which is a clear expression of a momentous leap in just 100 days. He is not resting but still marching on. He has also made giant strides in the execution of the four transformational pillars of his government, which are Agriculture, Trade and Commerce, Oil and Gas and Industrialisation. Anambra State as we speak is experiencing unprecedented agricultural revolution with free supply of tractors, fertilisers, seedlings to farmers and employment of labour for the youth in the farm settlements and clusters in the state. All necessary infrastructure and superstructure that facilitate the movement of produce from the hinterland to the markets are being provided. Trade and Commerce by so doing is receiving a boost and a boom is on the way. Oil and gas deposit in the state is receiving optimal attention as the exploration, exploitation and refining are receiving an accelerated push not to talk about the efforts geared toward the transmutation of the state to an NDDC status. All these in place are intricately intertwined with growth in industries which the governor is pursuing with unusual rigor and vigour. Time and space may not permit me to also share with you that Governor Obiano pointedly stated that to ensure that those four pillars stand firmly like the rock of Gibraltar, one enabler among his other enablers must be gotten right and that is security. In Anambra State today, criminals are on the run. Robbers have taken a dive and kidnappers are on their heels. Like they say in local parlance, people can now go to bed in Anambra state with their two eyes closed. You can drop a sack of money in the hitherto dreaded Upper Iweka and come back to meet it in the same place. I hear that other governors are now wondering and consulting to learn how and where Governor Obiano got the security talisman. These are impregnable testimonies and testaments to the effect that Governor Obiano is expanding the frontiers of excellence in Anambra State.

You are just turning 50. What is your 50th birthday wish?

At a time like this when life expectancy is waning tremendously as a result of multi-faceted challenges, I ask God to grant me a most befitting birthday with good health, contentment in my means of livelihood, good, healthy, dependable, reliable and brilliant wife and children, trustworthy relations, friends and divine helpers. At 50, I can say that God has been faithful in granting me those. His faithfulness further manifested in giving me a special 50th birthday using His Excellency Chief Willie Maduabuchi Obiano, the Executive Governor of Anambra State who chose this time to appoint me as his Special Assistant on Events. This is a most cherished

and highly priced birthday present. I cannot but ask for God’s stupendous blessings upon my Governor and First Lady, Her Excellency Chief Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano (Osodieme) the vessels He used to afford me this rare privilege. At the same time I cannot do without praying for additional wisdom to accomplish God’s purpose for sending me on this errand.

How does it feel like being 50?

For me, it comes with an additional feeling of excitement tamed with a tinge of responsibility, checking one’s indiscretions in order to save more verve and vitality to propel the second half of the sojourn here. It also requires a more positive attitude to life,reconciliatory rapprochement with God and man all necessary for running the race of the youth of old age.

Would you say you are fulfilled or successful at 50?

There is this saying that if a man is not strong at 30, wise at 40 and rich at 50 and so on then he is not successful. Deepak Chopra struck a deep chord in me when he posited that: “There are many aspects of success and material wealth is only one component. Success also includes good health, energy and enthusiasm for life-fulfilling relationships, emotional and psychological stability, a good sense of well-being and above all peace of mind.” I unequivocally buy this position on success and make bold to say that using that barometer to measure, by the special grace of God, I am indeed successful.

Any regrets at 50?

Not necessarily. As human beings we are bound to have expectations that may not come true and we may be disappointed. Most times we map out our plans as we wish but things beyond our control begin to happen that shape our destiny in ways we might never have imagined. Since it is the Lord that orders and directs my steps and He says in all things we should give him thanks and that He holds the key to every door which when He closes, no one can open and when He opens, no one can close, I have no regrets whatsoever.

How did you meet your wife?

On a street in Lagos. She was visiting her school mate who was my childhood friend’s younger sister to help her cook for my friend ‘s birthday party. Coincidentally, I was also going to the same place. When I tried to talk to her at the bus stop, she wouldn’t oblige me only for us to end our journey at the same house. As they would say, one thing led to another and about two years later we got married.

With all the threats to matrimony in the society today, would you say you got your right wife?

Oh yes indeed. A few women can tolerate me like my wife does. With all my excesses and indiscretions, she remains patient with me exploding only once in a long while when I become unbearable. She has continued to be an affectionate help meet indeed and a very caring and loving mother to my children. At 50, I want to make it known publicly to her that if I should come this way again after this life, I will choose her over and over again as my wife.

You have been married for 15 years. What lessons have you learnt from marriage?

Fear of God, genuine love, patience, forgiveness and humility are the keys to a good marriage. When there is a good dose of these in any marriage, it is bound to work.

How do you unwind?

When time permits I do indoor games, read mostly authorised biographies and hang out with the boys.

What five books have you read that shaped your thinking?

The good book - the Holy Bible, Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, Shakespeare’s Julius Ceasar, Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom and A Testament of Hope: The essential Writings and Speeches of Martin Luther King Jnr. What is your favorite quote?

Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you.

What is your philosophy of life?

Live and let’s live.

Any mentor(s)?

Yes. Chief Ikenna Ndaguba and from a distance Martin Lurther King Jnr. What is your advice to younger ones who may wish to be like you?

My advice is simple though arduous but possible. Get a good formal education. Be patient to learn, relearn and unlearn, stay focused. Be humble and prayerful. The sky will be your starting point.

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AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Commerce

Good times for Osun farmers with Aregbesola’s agric revolution O sun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has stated the resolve of his government to evoke unprecedented agricultural programmes that would transform the state into a veritable bread-basket, while immediately revolutionising the status and rank of farmers in the state.

The governor also said that plans had been finalised to help each farmer in the state with inputs to the tune of N150,000 annually.

Aregbesola stated this in Ede during the official launch of the Farmers Input and Credit Support Programme.

He noted that the process of transforming the agricultural sector began with the identification of farmers and evaluation

of the farmland through the Geographic Information System (GIS), an arrangement which carefully enumerated 50,000 farmers in the state and carefully detailed their form of farming and requirements.

According to the governor, after the identification, evaluation and registration processes, each of the farmers would be given a Wema Bank Credit Card, which would enable them to go to any Farmers’ Input Supply and Service Company (FISCO) centre, which are available at every farm settlement in the state and collect their inputs without paying.

He charged the farmers to be prudent in the management of farm inputs collected, as they will not be able to collect more than their farmland size. He added

that at the end of each farming year, the farmers would either sell their farm produce to designated buyers or if they so choose, dispense with their farm produce by themselves.

It is after this has been done, the governor noted, that the farmers will pay the cost of the inputs, without any interest charged. The governor predicted that with the cooperation of farmers, the voluntary programme would boost the earnings and economic status of farmers, while enabling the state to become a gross producer of agricultural benefits in double quick time.

Speaking earlier, Director, Office of the Economic Planning and Partnership, Dr. Charles Akinola, said the programme is an indication that the present adminis-

tration in the state is conscious of every sector of the economy.

In their separate goodwill messages, Chairman, Farmers Association in the state, Chief Raimi Adeniji, represented

by Dr. Sangolade and Dr. Arigbede,, appreciated the government for the gesture.

They said it was an indication that the government appreciates the farmers and pledged their unalloyed support for the present administration in the state.

The governor, at the ceremony, distributed some ready credit cards to registered farmers, among whom are Mr. Adediran Abiodun, Mrs. Limota Shittu, Mr. Emmanuel Adewumi and Mr. Alagbe Kareem.

L-R: Timi of Edeland, Oba Munirudeen Lawal; Head, Card Business and Services, Wema Bank Plc Lagos, Mr. Demola Bolodeoku; Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Coordinator, Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Programme (OREAP), Dr Charles Akinola; and Zonal Manager, Wema Bank Plc, Osun Zone, Mrs. Bisi Williams, during the governor’s display of the Point of Sales (POS) Terminal to be used by Osun Farmers for Farming Input Purchase, at the Central Distribution Centre, Ede, Osun State recently.

Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (third right) giving a Debit Card to a farmer, Mr. Sikiru Omoniyi (second left), during the official launch of the farmers input and credit support programme, at the Central Distribution Centre in Ede. With them are Timi of Edeland, Oba Munirudeen Lawal (left); Head, Card Business and Services, Wema Bank Plc Lagos, Mr Demola Bolodeoku (third left); Coordinator, Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Programme(OREAP), Dr. Charles Akinola (second right); and Zonal Manager, Wema Bank Plc, Osun Zone, Mrs. Bisi Williams (right)

Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (second left) inspecting the Farmers Input, during the official launch of the Farmers Input and Credit Support Programme, at the Central Distribution Centre, Ede. With him are Timi of Edeland, Oba Munirudeen Lawal (third left); Executive Director, UniCapital Plc, Mr. Ayo Fatokun (left) and others

37

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Commerce

Success Nuggets

Julian Atufunwa S only) (08032810713 SM

080395121535 (SMS only)

What is Success?

S

uccess is not just setting goals for yourself and achieving them; success is discovering God’s purpose for your life and achieving them.

Success is not material acquisition, success is purposeful living.

It is needful to know that God alone decides whether you fail or succeed, it then behold us to stay forever connected to him, he is the source of our lives, the very reason of our existence cutting from him is death, you may say I am still living and doing well for myself, the truth is a branch of tree cut off can survive for a while.

God created you for a purpose, he knows all about you. You are not here by accident, your parent may not have planned your conception, there are no mistakes in God’s program, and he knew the right gene and DNA to combine to form you, components needed to fulfill your purpose. He made introverts, extroverts, all for a reason. Now if you have not found out yet why you are here, ask God he will reveal to you, it is the owner’s manual that reveals the purpose of an invention.

PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESS what are principles?

Principles are fundamental truth or laws. principles hold truth everywhere just like the law of gravity, in line with discovering God’s purpose for your life, you also need to discover that there are tremendous powers or force in the universe and these powers are governed by law or principles obedience to these laws bring success.

These principles make life predictable and provide a fair ground for all.

Different areas of life are governed by different principles or laws.

These success principles are 1. PRINCIPLES OF PREPARATION: if you want to be successful, get yourself ready for the great days you desire, anticipate good and become receptive to its possibilities before there is any evidence of it, your present realities should not be allowed to cloud your view of a preferable future. Get ready mentally, physically, and spiritually for the days ahead, just as they say success occurs when opportunity meet preparation, day dream write down plans of action and get ready.

PRINCIPLES OF PROGRESS; to have a shift in any areas of your life you must first have a mental shift. It is first within then without, input answers to output success is who you are, you can’t grow on the inside and remain stunted on the outside, fight negative thought, all things are possible, be committed to self development renew your mind daily with God’s word.

PRINCIPLES OF CONFESSION; You are your own prophet, defy your circumstances, say what God is saying about you, speak positive words, speak out when people say negative words to you. Anytime you speak you are activating spiritual forces that will affect your life, the biblical account of the children of Israel after the return of the spies, they said, they to God it would have been better

if they have died in Egypt or in this wilderness than to fall into the hands of the Anakims. They forgot that God said Canaan is a land flowing with milk and honey. This got God angry and he said in numbers 14 vs. 28, “As they have spoken in mine ears so will I do to them, their carcasses shall fall in this wilderness”. Speak the right words always.

PRINCIPLES OF SERVICE; Your reward in life are in direct proportion to the value you give to others.

You were born to make a contribution not just to take from life but to serve (to give back) service is a pathway to real significance the good news is, you have something to offer to the world around you. Your talents, your gifts, life experience, your background experience, your painful experiences are all tools to be a blessing to someone.

Make every situation a learning process because you will need it someday to encourage and add significance to your world.

PRINCIPLE OF DECISION; Making up your mind on the time, on where, what, when and how, nothing becomes dynamic until it becomes specific, most times it’s when you decide that the ‘how’ will come, make a choice, success is a matter of choices not chances, there is no luck anywhere.

You create your own luck by your decisions if you don’t make decision you help others make and implement theirs.

Airtel rewards trade partners for loyalty, commitment

L

eading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has rewarded its top performing trade partners with an array of exotic prizes, in line with its corporate culture of rewarding and celebrating exceptional business performance.

These include the latest editions of select luxury cars, highly-sought-after Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and top-rated business machines.

At a prestigious event held on Thursday at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, Airtel honoured its channel partners in grand style, celebrating their contributions and achievements in the past year while also encouraging them to continue in the path of high business returns and increased market performance.

Speaking on the occasion, the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Segun Ogunsanya, commended the company’s trade partners for their commitment, loyalty, focus and hardwork.

He said Airtel has emerged the country’s second largest operator because of the strong support it received from all its channel partners.

“We thank all our channel partners for moving our company forward and especially for the important role they played in realization of one of our key objectives of reclaiming market leadership. Due to their hardwork and commitment, the Industry regulator, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), recently, adjudged us the second largest telecoms operator in the country.”

He described Airtel’s partnership with its trade partners as an alliance rooted in shared interest to become the most loved brand in the daily lives of Nigerians, shared values that reinforce people empowerment and innovativeness, and most importantly, a shared passion to win.

He also assured of Airtel’s commitment to attaining one of its key corporate objectives of becoming Nigeria’s leading Internet Company as well as increasing its investment in network quality and performance.

According to the CEO, Airtel will not only win through data, it will also win through network performance and optimisation.

“We will continue to invest in the expansion of our network and the enhancement of quality of service.

Also, we are continuously evolving with innovative new products to offer telecoms consumers across the country with bespoke, world class mobile solutions that will enrich their lives and empower them to realise their full potential,” said Ogunsanya.

The event, which attracted over 150 Airtel Channel Partners drawn from across the country, featured special musical and comedy performances from top Nigerian artistes and comedians, including Duncan Mighty and Bovi.

Prizes presented to the winners included brand new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), luxury cars, utility vans, computers, generators and motor bikes, among others.

Some of the special guests who graced the occasion were Chief Operations Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Tolu Ojo; Chief Commercial Officer, Airtel, Maurice Newa; Board member, Airtel, Paul Usoro (SAN); Airtel’s Regional Operations Director, Lagos, Femi Oshinlaja; Director, Regulatory Affairs & Special Projects, Airtel, Osondu Nwokoro; Director, Human Resources, Airtel, Jibril Saba; Interswitch Divisional CEO, Mr. Charles Ifedi; Hon. Commissioner for Commerce & Industry, Lagos State, Mrs. Sola Oworu; Hon. Commissioner for Commerce & Industry, Ogun State, Otunba Abimbola Ashiru, among other top dignitaries.

Time for new form of awareness

N

Ikem Okuhu igeria is facing one of its most debilitating challenges since its history as a nation.

Those who analyse Nigeria’s journey to nationhood easily point to the civil war period of 1966 - 1970 as the worst period the country ever passed through. In churches as in mosques, prayers are always said, especially during the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration for God to avert anything like a civil war in Nigeria.

Although there are still cries and murmurs of self-determination by some of the ethnic and tribal groups that make up the country, it seems that God has heard all the prayers, at least to the extent of averting a full blown civil war. But it does seem the country is facing a new form of war that is not civil.

Since the year 2009, a new form of war that does not draw battle lines has been raging in the country.

As with most things in Nigeria, there are no reliable statistics; but most would agree that to date, over 12,000 lives have been lost since the Boko Haram insurgency began. The most challenging thing about this is the growing guile, boldness and sophistication of this terrorist group. It was initially thought that their operations were limited to the North-East, mainly Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. But with increasing boldness, inspired by serial successes and the apparent helplessness of the Nigerian security forces, they have been spreading. The nation’s capital, Abuja, has been badly hit several times. There have also been increasing attacks in Kano, Kaduna and Plateau states of recent while security reports indicate that Lagos and all the states in the south of Nigeria are potential near-future targets.

What this tells every Nigerian is that taking personal and community security for granted is no longer an option. Everyone, every institution, anywhere in the country is a potential future target. It was because of this that we created a platform on Facebook, easily the biggest social networking site in Nigeria today to facilitate the sharing of information on security to enable everyone to be prepared and learn to take measures that could facilitate personal, family and community safety.

The insurgents are human beings that live in our community. But often times, in a bid to “mind our business,” we ignore certain clear pointers to threats, even when they stare us in the face. Even other prevalent cases of house burglary, armed robbery, rape and kidnapping among others can be nipped in the bud where citizens care to take a second look at deviant members of their immediate communities.

A recent attack at a university in Kano was averted because of the vigilance of people around the area, who spotted the suspicious movement of a wouldbe female suicide bomber. Crime and evil cannot thrive in a community of vigilant citizens. But half the time, we recline in the deceitful comfort that security operatives are the only people trained to protect us. While this may be correct, we need to help them all the time. We need to help ourselves.

We need to help our communities. We need to help Nigeria.

In this space, we shall be sharing weekly tips on how best to deploy citizen vigilance to ensure we minimise the present evil threats to our existence.

While we may have a pool of information to share, we are aware that we cannot do it alone. Feedback and contributions are therefore welcome from anyone with a perspective strong enough to help us help ourselves.

Thanks and welcome to the Vigilante Nigeria column.

MARKETS&MALLS

38

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

AUGUST 3, 2014

Tel: 08027790557, 08037613380

Abia explains relocation of Umuahia Main Market traders

A

Paul Ogbuokiri

bia State Governor, Chief Theodore Orji, said the relocation of the Umuahia main market to Ubani has been concluded and is irrevocable.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ugochukwu Emezue, the governor also noted that the timber market

relocation’s to its new site is also in progress.

He said the action is aimed at beautifying the capital city to compete with other rapidly modernising cities in the old Eastern region.

Emezue said the governor is desirous to see these markets within the city centre move to their permanent sites, as part of the development of the state.

According to Emezue, with the relocation of the markets, there is space for develop-

mental projects at the city centre that would impact on the lives of the citizens positively.

He said apart from adding to the aesthetic value of the state capital, the relocation of these markets will enhance the free flow of traffic within the capital, Umuahia.

Emezue who gave December 31, 2014 as the tentative month for the completion of the new Ubani and Timber markets, urged traders to support the governor’s efforts in

providing a conducive environment for their commercial activities.

On the relocation of the Mechanic Village, Emezue said the governor was impressed at this development, as the state capital has begun to wear a new look.

He appealed to mechanics, who have yet to move to their new location, to do so. He vowed that the state government would not rescind its decision to clean up Umuahia.

‘Orlu Market now occupied’

I

mo State Government says the Orlu International Market is now fully occupied by traders, two years after it ordered traders to move to the market.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Mayoral Affairs, Orlu zone, Mrs. Stella Odimegwu, who stated this at a meeting with the traders at the local government headquarters, said there were over 2,000 shops in the market.

Odimegwu said the market was zoned to enable people selling the same commodity to stay together for easy access and expressed her preparedness to ensure that the market flourishes.

She said that all empty shops would be allocated to traders that are physically present and who are ready to do business.

She noted that the problems facing the traders in relocating to the international market include the zoning of the facility and the bad state of the access road and promised to channel the issues to the appropriate quarters.

Rotary Club floats N24m soft loan Chijioke Iremeka

T

he Rotary Club of FESTAC Town, Lagos, District 9110 Nigeria, has floated a total of N24, 332, 595 soft business loans for 30 indigent women in the community.

The sum is also for other developmental projects in the community, as a way of improving the living standard of the people.

While some of the money would go into funding the 30 indigent women’s business and training of 20 less privileged persons in some skills, the balance would be go into the development of supplementary projects within the community.

President of the club, Rotn. Gabriel Onyema, said this recently in Lagos during the induction of 2014/2015 Board of Directors and his investiture as the 33rd president of Rotary Club of FESTAC, at the Golden Tulip Hotels, Festac.

According to him, the club will also be spending another $20, 000 (N3,480,000) to send two children with hole-in-theheart to India for surgery, under the club’s yearly philanthropic gesture tagged, ‘Gift of Life’.

Umuahia Industrial Market, Umuahia, Abia State, currently under construction

Ifenyinwa Kanu wins Binatone star prize Chijioke Iremeka

A

n Abuja-based Ifenyinwa Kanu has won the Binatone Raffle draw star prize, titled: “Score Amazing Goals.”

She went home with Picanto car in the raffle draw organisd by Global Appliances Nigeria Limited, at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Festac Town, Lagos.

Kanu, who was in Abuja while the raffle was drawn in Lagos, was assured by the Managing Director of the company, Mr. G Sridhar, that the star prize of Kia Picanto car would be delivered to her in Abuja, where she bought the fan.

The prizes won during the draw, were the star prize of a Kia Picanto car, second prize were two Inverters and third, three refrigerators as well as several consolations prizes, including irons and blenders.

According to Sridhar the draw was the climax of the raffle designed to give back to their numerous customers across the country, as a corporate social responsibility (CSR), which kicked off on May 15, 2014.

The Head, Customer Feedback and Collaboration, Standard Or-

ganisation of Nigeria (SON), Engr.

Nwaoma Oluyie, who represented the standard organisation, said she was happy that the Binatone raffle draw had proved a number of people, who have lost confidence in lottery in the country as the draw was successful.

She said, “SON is happy to partner with Binatone and we expect continuous investment in Nigeria from other companies.

P

We are creating enabling environment to allow businesses thrive in the country. On behalf of the SON, I congratulate the Global Appliances Nigeria Limited on this occasion of Corporate Social Responsibility as they continue to do right.”

The Chairman of the Global Appliances Nigeria Limited, Chief (Dr) Alex Akinyele said, “I feel very have because I saw

the whole thing when it started, when I also won a prize from a company that do not know me too. You have seen it happened and it’s real.

“The only challenge we have today, are the fakers of our products.

In most cases, they even win us in the court, because they get the best lawyers in the town. Contest in the court is always determined on the type of lawyer you have.”

P&G boosts education

rocter and Gamble Nigeria has unveiled a new consumer contest titled, ‘Always Moving Forward’, to help boost girl-child education in Nigeria.

The contest is part of activities lined up to launch the company’s new thematic campaign tagged ‘Always Forward Ever’. The contest, which is open to all girls between the ages of 12 and 18 years, expects them to answer the question, “Who will you be in 10 years from now?”

The contestants’ answers, which will come in the form of a short profile titled, ‘Me in 10 Years’, will attempt to articulate their dreams and forecast their achievements

in the next 10 years. The 50 lucky winners who will emerge from the contest will be presented with educational grants worth N100, 000 each.

Speaking on the new campaign, Brand Operation and Integration Manager, Tolu Pogoson, said the competition is in line with the brand promise of Always sanitary pad, which is to improve the lives of females, especially the teenagers, inspiring and empowering them to achieve a bright future.

“The contest, apart from the rich financial rewards it promises to the winners, is designed to inspire these young girls by providing them with an opportunity to

think positively and work assiduously to achieve a bright future for themselves and the society,” said Pogoson.

Also speaking, Brand Communications Manager, Olatomiwa Akande, advised intending contestants to register on the ‘Always Moving Forward’ Facebook page and obtain the address for the submission of their profile entries, accompanied with three empty packs of Always Ultra sanitary towel.

She said the contest would close on August 15 and advised interested and eligible females to go to the Facebook page for more details on the contest.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Mixed reactions trail H1 numbers

…market slid by 0.91% in July

T

he Nigerian equities market sustained the loss of the previous week (-1.41%) as it posted 0.83% Week-on-Week (WoW) decline at the end of the week’s 3-day trading. Forty-one companies in all released results during the week. Whilst some surpassed expectations, others posted unimpressive numbers that dampened the mood of the market. CUSTODYINS and FLOURMILL declared a respective interim and final dividends of NGN0.06 and NGN2.10 at implied yields of 1.52% and 2.70%.

The U.S. Fed in its FOMC meeting concluded on Wednesday 30th July, further tapered its monthly bond purchases by USD10bn, the sixth consecutive reduction. This, according to FOMC, was as a result of the improving momentum seen in the economy in the second quarter relative to what was seen in the first quarter.

In our view, the prevailing sell sentiment in the equities market is not unconnected to continued tapering, mixed investors’ reactions to companies’ earnings releases and overall apprehension around the domestic polity as 2015 electioneering process draws closer.

In line with the market mood, volume and value of activities in the week tempered as they declined respectively by 24.24% and 48.59% following the market breadth that settled at 0.55x (27 advancers against 49 decliners). We analyze in the following sections, the specific sentiments around the respective sectors.

Banking Sector: Q2 numbers continue to disappoint, driving down sector return Only 5 stocks gained during the week as the sector suffered from the generally weak earnings performance in Q2:2014. STANBIC (6.57%), ACCESS (2.67%), and STERLNBNK (1.77%) were the largest gainers while the greatest losers were GUARANTY (7.01%), SKYEBANK (5.94%) and FBNH (5.39%). The weak performances resulted in sector returns shrinking by 3.26% WoW. A few more banks released their Q2:2014 numbers during the week including FBNH, DIAMONDBK, ETI, FIDELITYBK and SKYEBANK. DIAMONDBK and ETI recorded growth in both gross and after tax earnings. DIAMONDBK grew its top and bottom lines by 14% and 9% respectively. Gross earnings advanced by 14% to NGN98bn as earnings after tax advanced by 9% YoY to NGN14bn. The bank’s YoY growth was due primarily to lower taxation which was 53% lower YoY (Q2:2014; NGN2bn, Q2:2013; NGN5bn) as Profit before Tax was 9% lower at NGN16bn (Q2:2013; NGN18bn). ETI grew its top line by 13.10% to NGN225.26bn (Q2:2013; NGN199.17bn) while earnings advanced by 14.90% to NGN31.63bn (Q2:2013; NGN27.53bn).

FBNH and FIDELITYBK registered growths in gross earnings while earnings after tax declined. FBNH recorded an 8% growth in top line but a 19% decline in bottom line as the bank’s earnings was pressured by cost inefficiencies. The bank recorded an 8% decline in gross earnings to NGN212bn while earnings after tax declined by 19% to NGN37bn (Q2:2013; NGN46bn). FIDELITYBK recorded a marginal growth in gross earnings of 0.56% to NGN63.26bn (Q2:2013; NGN62.90) while earnings declined by 11.55% to NGN8.02bn (Q2:2013; NGN9.06bn).

SKYEBANK recorded declines in both gross earnings and after tax earnings as the bank logged in declines of 10.24% and 31.09% to NGN63.88bn and NGN5.81bn respectively (Q2:2013; NGN71.17bn, NGN8.44bn).

We expect that there might be a revision as investors take advantage of some of the attractive prices for stocks such as GUARANTY. Also, the release of results from ACCESS and GUARANTY may warrant a positive swing.

Industrial Goods: ASHAKACEM and WAPCO recorded growth in top and bottom lines The industrial goods sector was pressured in the past week as it shed 0.59% WoW contrary to our expectations of positive returns to be driven by impressive result releases.

Notwithstanding the prevailing negative mood in the market, ASHAKACEM, PORTPAINT and WAPCO recorded price gains of 9.02%, 3.45% and 0.88% respectively. We at-

tribute the positive sentiments witnessed on the stocks to the recent releases of positive half year numbers by the companies.

Following previous week’s result declaration by PORTPAINT and CCNN, ASHAKACEM and WAPCO also released their half year performance scorecards indicating improved YoY performances. ASHAKACEM grew top-line by 4.43% coupled with a compelling 204.19% growth in PAT. The company’s improved bottom line was driven by a 24.22% drop in cost of goods sold backed by a 28.08% rise in other income.

Lafarge WAPCO’s total revenue at the end of H1:2014 stood at NGN55.36bn, 11.88% growth from H1:2013. The company’s production and operating costs increased by 5.71% and 34.67% accordingly even as a 145.40% increase in investment income aided PAT as it settled at NGN15.56bn ( 6.66% YoY growth).

In spite of a remarkable half year performance ( 16.16% and 20.43% top-line and bottom line growths), CAP continued to experience sell pressure as the stock shed 4.88% to close at NGN39.00 thus dragging YtD further down to -19.50%.

DANGCEM, the cement industry leader, persisted in the negative zone following 0.86% WoW loss. The company is however expected to release its H1: 2014 result in the coming week.

Consumer Goods Sector: Modest H1 Releases tempered Sector’s WoW Returns Influx of half year earnings numbers drove the performance of players in the consumer goods space. NESTLE, HONYFLOUR, 7UP and CHAMPION released their half year numbers in the past week.

NESTLE reported a modest result (Revenue and PAT growth of 7.62% and 5.95% respectively). The sector’s heavy weight saw its performance pressured mainly by challenging operating environment and higher operating expenses (+17.33%). 7UP on the other hand sustained 2014FY performance expanding its 2015:Q1 revenue and earnings by 18.36% and 47.19% accordingly. HONYFLOUR similarly sustained a very strong performance for its 2014FY growing revenue by 20.51% (NGN55.084bn) thus surpassing our forecast of 18% while earnings grew impressively by 17.87%.

7UP appreciated by 6.97% WoW, the highest return for the week in the sector. FLOURMILL, NB and UNILEVER also recorded gains of 4.99%, 1.26% and 0.51% respectively.

On the flip side, INTBREW (-4.99%), CHAMPION (-4.90%), VONO (-4.86%), NNFM (-3.66%), HONYFLOUR (-3.29%), NESTLE

(-1.25%) and GUINNESS (-1.09%) all declined for the week.

Activities on the stocks in the sector may be tempered in the coming week as only a few other key players in the sector are yet to release their half year results.

Oil and Gas Sector: MOBIL and TOTAL post contradicting H1 numbers MOBIL sustained its Q1:2014 turnover growth, growing revenue by 8.84% YoY and PAT by 190%, largely buoyed by NGN2.78bn generated from asset sales. Finance charge dropped by 62.34% while operating expenses (OPEX) increased by 8.19%. The increase in OPEX can be attributed to rise in distribution costs from expanding operations.

On the contrary, despite a 2.44% growth in turnover in Q1:2014, TOTAL’s earnings declined by 9.59%. The decline in earnings was as a result of increasing direct cost notwithstanding 14.09% and 5.04% decline in OPEX and finance cost.

Oando Energy Resources, a subsidiary of OANDO Plc., on Wednesday finalized the acquisition of assets of ConocoPhillips at a ceremony held in Paris. With this acquisition, OANDO’s crude oil production will increase from the current production level of about 5000b/d to 50,000b/d.

On the back of this achievement, OANDO led the industry’s gainers for the week returning 6.01% to close at NGN27.00 while TOTAL and MOBIL shed 2.82% and 0.87% to close at NGN171.48 and NGN160.00 respectively.

FO was the only other gainer in the industry for the week advancing by 5.97% while ETERNA and SEPLAT shed 2.56% and 2.32% in that order.

We maintain our stance that both MOBIL and TOTAL are fully valued at their current prices while FO appears overvalued.

Agric Sector: PRESCO posts 3.50% revenue growth in H1:2014 During the week, PRESCO posted its H1:2014 result showing revenue and PAT growth of 3.50% (vs. 5.14% in Q1:2014) and 83.59% (vs. 0.88% in Q1:2014) respectively.

Profit before tax (PBT) growth of 112.85% was buoyed by a 3343% growth in biological assets revaluation gains, without which PBT would have declined by 45.54%. While cost margins for H1:2014 were higher than the corresponding period in 2013 (cost to sales: 68.62% vs. 65.07% and OPEX margin: 21.09% vs. 13.71%), we believe the gains inherent in the bio-gas plant will be reflected in costs going forward.

OKOMUOIL and LIVESTOCK gained 0.64% and 3.23% during the week to close at NGN33.22 and NGN3.20 respectively while PRESCO shed 2.66% on Friday to peg the sec-

tor’s WoW return at -0.41%. Other stocks in the sector closed flat.

We still await H1:2014 result for OKOMUOIL. Going by our valuation, OKOMUOIL is currently fairly valued by the market and it remains our sector top-pick. Even though we are upbeat on the other companies’ potentials, we believe they are currently overpriced.

Insurance Sector: Cautious trading inch sector’s index up marginally The insurance sector index increased marginally by 0.07% (as measured by MERI Insurance Index) as cautious trading played out.

Only two counters; PRESTIGE and CUSTODYINS gained 3.85% and 1.54% respectively while three counters; NEM, WAPIC and CONTINSURE depreciated in price by 7.32%, 2.22% and 0.88% in that order.

Three insurance companies—Custodian and Allied Plc., Linkage Assurance Plc., and Wapic Insurance Plc.—filed their second quarter (Q2) results in the week. CUSTODYINS’ result showed 28% growth in Gross Premium Earned (GPE) just as PAT increased significantly by 100%. The company shared the fantastic result with its shareholders by declaring an interim dividend of N0.06k/share (implying 1.52% dividend yield on share price as at the day of announcement), an improvement over the N0.05k/share declared in previous year.

Linkage Assurance Plc. also recorded 24% growth in top-line while bottom-line dipped by 26%. In spite of growth in top-line, the counter still traded at its nominal value of N0.50k which may not be unconnected to the poor performance in its bottom-line.

On a balance of factors, we remain optimistic on the sector’s performance in the coming week partly because of position-taking in counters which released good results and partly because of our modest growth expectation in the performance of other companies in the sector.

Healthcare Sector: Industry Giant declined in PAT, dipped sector’s index The healthcare sector appeared as the worst performing sector on the NSE for the week as its index waned significantly by 5.69%, owing to price depreciation of 5.77% from the industry giant (GLAXOSMITH). The decline in price may not be unconnected to the 39% drop in its PAT, owing to 23% surge in cost of sales, as revenue only grew by 12% in its Q2:2014 result.

Contributing to the decline in the sector’s index are FIDSON (which appreciated marginally by 0.63% in the preceding week) and MAYBAKER, each depreciating in prices by 5.66% and 2.94% respectively.

On the converse, investors took positions in PHARMDEKO which appreciated in price by 4.65% on the back of its performance in its Q2:2014 result as revenue and PAT enlarged significantly by 58% and 218% respectively.

EVANSMED also appreciated considerably in price by 9.71% to top the sector’s gainers’ list for the week.

Following the decline in PAT by GLAXOSMITH and given its weight on the sector’s index, we envisage that the counter might witness further sell-down and subsequently, further dip the index level in the coming week.

Services Sector: Sector index indicates relative calm The services sector experienced a relatively calm trading week as the sector closed sideways as measured by our Meri-SER index. 3 stocks recorded price gains while 5 traded in the negative zone.

UPL recorded the most gains of 6.97% to drive share price up to NGN107.00. NAHCO and AIRSERVICE also appreciated in value following price gains of 1.02% and 0.91% respectively. Coincidentally, NAHCO released its half year result showing 1.98% turnover growth and 19.24% growth in PAT which was largely driven by 65.61% decline in finance cost TRANSCORP and TRANSEXPR remained at NGN5.51 and NGN1.96 following previous week’s loss. The laggards for the week were LEARNAFRICA (-1.23%), ABCTRANS (2.30%) and CAVERTON (-4.96%).

South-East

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BEATS

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

AUGUST 3, 2014

Oriental touch in transformation at Federal Polytechnic, Oko Tony Okafor

W Awka

hen Prof. Godwin Onu was appointed the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State some four years ago, he vouched to lift the institution to a global level. He began by closing all the financial and material loopholes that hitherto existed in the institution and that had encumbered the progress of the school founded by the first executive Vice President of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, in 1979 before its ownership was variously transferred to the Anambra State Government in 1985 and finally to the Federal Government in 1992/1993.

On June 8, 2014, the polytechnic was literally placed on the academic world map when the Federal Government commenced the construction of an ultra-modern School of Aeronautics and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering as part of the new policy in the education sector.

Onu had shortly after his appointment travelled to the oriental countries of China, Japan and India for comprehensive study of what made those countries thick, technologically.

To Onu, a professor of Political Science, technology can be transferred.

So, when the Federal Government laid the foundation stone at the Atani Campus of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko on June 8, it was no way any surprise to most people, because the ground had been watered for it long ago by systematic feasibility studies garnered from the oriental world after by Onu’s familiarisation tours of the Far East.

Speaking during the foundation stone laying ceremony to mark the commencement of the project at Akili-Ozuzo, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, a former Minister of Aviation, Ms. Stella Oduah, said the project was aimed at inculcating practical and technical knowledge to the students of the institution. Oduah said the school when completed would among other things afford the students of the high institution the technical and practical know-how to be more employable, adding that the school would give the students the multiple knowledge and make them acquire experience.

“The school is going to contribute in multiple aspects of our lives and give our children knowledge for them to acquire skills and prac-

tical knowledge to be employable in the near future. I am a beneficiary of this noble Federal Government project which I’m sure will help the students to be better people in the future,” Oduah said.

The ex-minister expressed optimism that the project which was mapped initially to gulp N250 million would be completed on time and according to specification, while commending President Goodluck Jonathan for the innovations he had brought into the education sector.

In his speech, the rector said the project was part of his mission statement when he assumed office and was meant to expand the scope of learning in the school beyond what he met on assumption by bringing in school of Aeronautics and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering as well as Marine Engineering into the polytechnic.

Beaming with smiles, the rector said, “Apart from the aeronautics and aircraft maintenance engineering, the school shall also train students in marine science because of the proximity of River Niger to the campus and other sections of aviation like: training air hostesses, airport management and other people working in aircraft so that we will not again depend on using people abroad each time they need to maintain our aircraft. We shall be serving the aviation sector from here.”

He maintained that the project was being funded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), adding that the school would also have a mini-aircraft with runway to enable the students to build aircraft, fly and land at the airport.

The project is expected to be completed within a year.

The polytechnic is also currently collaborating with Sharda University, India, in boosting medical services rendered at the just completed multi million naira medical centre of the polytechnic.

Investigations revealed that previously, the medical centre attended to only minor health needs of staff and students of the institution.

But with the new development , the medical centre has widened its scope of services.

Briefing journalists on the feat, Onu said his mission statement and one of his priorities was to give the best health services not only to the polytechnic but to the host community and neighbouring states.

In keeping with this mission statement, he

upgraded the side laboratory of the health centre and procured a Non- Invasive Cardiac Machine for the centre, a chemistry analyser, digital X-ray machine and other equipment.

Also, the polytechnic has embarked on the building of a gigantic wing B Medical Complex which is expected to be opened later in the year.

According to Dr. Ifeoma Monago, areas of specialty under the proposed collaboration with Sharda University, India would include Dentistry, Ophthalmology, Radiology and General Surgery.

In a meeting between the delegation of the polytechnic and the Indian university which held in India, Monago said issues discussed included the sub-specialties for the cadre of personnel required from India, equipment and drug supply and so on.

Director, International Linkages of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Sir Walter Ezeanata, led the institution’s team on the trip while the Vice-Chancellor of Sharda University, India, Prof. J.P Gupta, led the Indian contingent.

Commenting on the giant strides in the polytechnic, the National Board for Technical Education described the institution as an ‘innovative polytechnic’.

The NBTE Director of Programmes, Mr. Jay Aboi, who spoke at a workshop entitled, ‘Enhancing the polytechnic of the moment through effective leadership’, said, “I am impressed with the Information Communication (ICT) turn around in the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.” Not yet finished with the oriental vibes in the polytechnic, the NBTE had to call for its upgrading to a degree awarding institution. It stated that the polytechnic had more structures than some of the universities in the country.

NBTE Director of Finance, I.A Sulaiman, who led bursars of federal polytechnics in Nigeria to a meeting at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, said, “From what I saw on ground in this institution it should be upgraded to a degree awarding polytechnic university. Today, the polytechnic has institutionalised Computer Based Test (CBT), Post Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (PUTME) as well as Semester Electronic Examination in the efforts of the management to improve the standard of education. Joint Admission Matriculation Board made use of the modern laboratory of the institution equipped with over 1,000 com-

puters in this year’s computer-based test.”

Some institutions across the country have also visited the institution to learn ‘Onu’s computer magic’. The digital rector, as he is fondly called, acquired a lot of electronic teaching devices.

In a memo to the Head of Public Administration Department of the polytechnic, Onu wrote, “The introduction of e-exams is in line with our vision of a digital and electronic administration, teaching and learning environment .”

The Public Relations Officer of the polytechnic, Obini Onuchukwu, told journalists, “Students of the institution now get their results some seconds after they have finished such exams, thereby reducing contact with lecturers; no more missing scripts, delay in computation of results, waste arising from printing of answer sheets and question papers, no more exploitations of students, lecturers now have to carry out their research.”

The founder of the school, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, and Senate Committee Chairman on Education, Uche Chukwumerije, were full of joy when the news of the reappointment of the rector reached them.

For Ekwueme, the reappointment of Onu “is a step the right direction,” while Chukwumerije said, “Federal Polytechnic, Oko is the fastest growing institution in the country.

I call for its upgrading to a Federal University of Science and Technology.”

He expressed hope that Onu would not disappoint on his reappointment and urged him to surpass his first tenure record through development strides.

This situation has made the polytechnic, a honeypot of a sort as development partners on regular basis clamour to be part of the development/ success story of the institution.

Ben Nwankwo, a member of the House of Representatives, is one of such development partners who is well pleased with the uncommon strides in the school.

According to Nwankwo, who was a student of the polytechnic some years back, “Today what we have is a polytechnic/university development regime. What we have seen today is a change in action. It is not easy. I implore all the polytechnic stakeholders to give this new change a chance.

“What the rector is doing is to move the polytechnic from analogue era to digital one.

I am proud of him.”

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Abuja Beats

Abuja Beats F

Yekeen Nurudeen

ollowing the death, in Lagos last week of Patrick Sawyer, the Liberian-born American believed to have imported the deadly Ebola Virus Disease, there has been palpable fear of an outbreak of the disease in every part of the country. Abuja is not exempted.

There is palpable fear among residents of the nation’s capital who are now exercising restraint in exchanging handshakes, hugs as well as fruits and foods with each other.

Ebola Virus Disease is a contagious disease which spreads through direct contact with an infected person. The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission.

Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are considered to be the natural host of the Ebola virus.

Though not many in the city are aware of the existence of the virus, those who have the knowledge of it through the conventional mass media and social media as a result of Sawyer’s death have been repulsive in relating with other people.

The fear became more heightened when FCT Beats interacted with some food and fruits vendors in the FCT who claimed they had not heard about the virus.

When FCT Beats moved around the city and spoke with residents, the experience was quite revealing.

Adamu Aliyu, who runs a kiosk where he sells fruits in Dutse area of Abuja, claimed ignorance of the disease. While answering questions from FCT Beats, he was busy peeling pineapples for sale.

To him, nobody has complained about fruits not being safe for consumption because of the virus.

A market woman selling frozen fish at Garki market said she only heard of a disease through an FM radio station in Abuja that broadcasts in Pidgin. But according to her, such a disease is not in Abuja. She said some of her customers too have also advised her to adopt more hygienic methods in how she handles her stock because of the virus.

“My brother, na for radio I hear about the thing. My customers self dey tell me say make I dey try dey clean my hands and fish well well,” she said.

Ebola: Fear grips Abuja residents -Avoid handshakes, hugs -No cause for alarm- Health Secretariat

FCT Minister, Bala Mohammed

According to a resident who gave his name as Ibrahim, he was just hearing about the virus through a friend who told him to be avoiding handshakes and not stay around anyone coughing. He told FCT Beats that his friend told him about the virus.

“I hadn’t heard much about the disease until about two days ago when one of my friends told me that if someone wants to have a handshake with me, I should just wave my hand instead because of the virus. He also said I should avoid anybody coughing around me,” he said.

A lady who declined to give her name said she didn’t know about the virus. She casually directed our correspondent to another person, saying, “Me I no know wetin that one mean. Ask that boy.”

Her companion, Godwin Agbo, said he was shocked when on Wednesday at one of the popular shopping malls in Abuja someone turned down his handshake for fear of contracting the virus.

Agbo said he had been following reports on the virus since news broke out about the Liberian national.

“Yes, I was surprised when someone

Tourism minister charges youth to create jobs Amadi Nnamdi

M

inister of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Chief Edem Duke, has charged Nigerian youths to fully develop and utilise their naturally endowed creative potentials to create jobs and diversify the nation’s economy.

Duke stated this while addressing a cross section of youths in Abuja recently.

While stressing the importance of creativity to national development, the minister noted that “globally, the creative sector has grown rapidly and become the cornerstone

for youth job and wealth creation.”

He noted that in 2013, the creative sector contributed 3.5 per cent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Productivity (GDP), adding that it has boundless opportunities that have not been exploited.

“In today’s era of globalisation and technological advancement, creativity forms the core activity of a growing sector of the global economy and Nigeria cannot afford to be a marginal player in taking the advantages this sector offers to deepen our economic growth,” he said.

The minister commended the achievements of Nigerian youths in the entertain-

ment and fashion sectors even as he further said that government has been introducing various strategic interventions to grow the sector in order to ensure sustainable development.

He also called on banks, especially the Bank of Industry, to effectively partner and fund the sector.

While speaking at the event, Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, represented by Mr. Charles Ojugbana commended the various motivational speakers invited to address youths on the occasion.

He added that these speakers would teach business secrets to the youths.

said he would not shake hands with me at EFAB Plaza because of the virus. They are not willing to take handshakes or hugs. But what I don’t know is whether there has been a reported case of the virus in Abuja or it is because of the one in Lagos that people are now avoiding one another like a plague?” Agbo said.

Toeing his line, Mrs. Jumai Ahmadu said there was no need for such apprehension among residents. She noted that it is only people showing clear symptoms of the disease that can be avoided.

Another resident, Jacob Shuaibu, said he knew about the virus about five years ago and also heard about the latest incident in Nigeria through the social media and newspapers.

“I read about it through social media and newspapers. Of course I knew about it about five years ago,” he said.

He, however, expressed reservations about people avoiding handshakes and sharing of food for fear of infection, saying, “I don’t think it has got to that extent of avoiding handshakes or hugs.”

Rather, he said government should be more proactive in preventing a possible spread of the virus while advising Nigerians to avoid wild animals that are the principal hosts.

“What I think is the best is to avoid those wild animals that are the main hosts, especially to avoid eating bush meat. Government should be more proactive because our borders are porous.

Health officials should be stationed at borders and airports to make sure that people who are coming into the country are thoroughly screened or quarantined,” he warned.

But the FCT Director of Public Health, Dr. Balarabe Hadiza, whose office oversees matters of this nature told FCT Beats that there was no cause for alarm.

She revealed that the administration had procured an adequate number of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which she said has been distributed to all the secondary health care facilities in the FCT. According to her, all the heads of Department of Health in the six Area Councils in the FCT have been supplied with all the necessary information about the virus in order to detect in earnest any manifestation of the virus symptoms on any patient that report for treatment at their primary health care facilities.

She said the same thing is being done with the private health care providers in the city, adding that the FCT Human and Health Secretariat has concluded plans to embark on sensitisation of local communities about the deadly disease.

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AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Abuja Beats

Behold FCTA’s N19m BRT road dividers Yekeen Nurudeen

W

hen in 2010 the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed, announced the introduction of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) into the transportation system of the nation’s capital, the news was received with joy and high expectations by the residents.

The measure, according to the FCT Secretary for Transportation, Jonathan Ivoke Achara, who unveiled the policy on behalf of the minister, was part of efforts to ease transport problems in the city.

He then said that 150 units of new the buses would be imported for the purpose in the interim as 500 buses were being targeted for the scheme.

To underscore the seriousness of the administration about the new transportation policy, he said a delegate was sent to Lagos to understudy the BRT scheme which is the first of its kind in the country. He noted that a committee had already been put in place to map out routes for the BRT buses.

Four years down the lane, however, the project is far from becoming a reality. One of the pitfalls of the project has been the inability of the FCT administration to delineate the designated BRT routes like it was done in Lagos.

Rather than demarcating the routes with concrete kerbs, the administration resorted to the use of plastic delineators. These delineators which were deployed majorly on Mararaba-Nyanya route have ended up not being utilised as they have failed to serve

Day Abuja stood still for Sallah Peace Fiesta Amadi Nnamdi, Abuja

M

onday July 28, 2014 will not be forgotten in a hurry by many residents of Abuja who attended this year Sallah Peace Fiesta held at the prestigious Freshland Hotel on Old Karu Road, Abuja.

The event, which was organised by Yamakis Entertainment in conjunction with Freshland Hotels, was strategically staged to coincide with this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

The overnight event which was jointly anchored by two popular Abuja OAPs, Willy-Willy of WAZOBIA FM and John Chukwura of Kapital FM, was indeed a memorable show for those who graced the occasion.

PIP Classic, one of the notable music stars of the night, thrilled the audience with three of their classic tracks: ‘Do What U Gat 2 Do’; ‘San Owo E’ (a praise song to GOD); and ‘I Love Naija’, which they used to preach national unity, peace, love and tolerance.

Another rave of the moment, Richy and Shojay - the show stopper, also gave good accounts of themselves as they got the audience dancing and singing along as they performed their songs.

Other artistes who performed at the event were Spanzy, MC Blaize, Rex, Stinger, MC Pump Action and other up and coming Abuja artistes.

The event culminated in a poolside party that lasted into the wee hours of the morning.

CEO of Yamakis Entertainment, Richard Yakubu, told Abuja Beats that “the show was conceptualized to bring Abuja residents together to celebrate the Sallah in a special way as well as use the opportunity to preach the gospel of the needed peace, tolerance and unity so as to ensure the a rancor free coexistence in the nation Nigeria. Abuja residents should expect more breath taking shows.”

Some of the road dividers

the purpose and caused a number of road crashes.

When FCT Beats visited the routes, the delineators havde been abandoned and many of them had been overgrown by weeds by

the side of the road where they were moved to after they failed to meet up with the demands of BRT. Findings by FCT Beats revealed that the plastic road dividers may have cost the ad-

ministration a whooping N19 million. It was gathered that about 4,250 of such items were procured by the administration at the rate of N4, 500 each.

This is just as the administration also plans to secure additional 8000 of the plastic delineators.

FCT Director of BRT, Wilson Unogwu, in a recent interview was quoted as saying: “We have purchased 4, 250 plastic delineators so far. The cost of one barrier is about N4, 500.

Contract for provision of over 8,000 plastic delineators has also been awarded.”

Another $50 million loan is said to have been secured for the project while plans are on to obtain a $50m loan for the project.

“We have secured a loan also from the African Development Bank (ADB) worth about $50 million. We want to secure a loan from Clin Technology Fund worth about $50 million to use in the procurement and implementation of the BRT,” Onogwu said.

As it stands, the BRT project in the FCT has yet to take off as the buses procured for the purpose are still plying the routes without designated lanes as is the case in Lagos. This reinforces the opinion that the N19m allegedly spent on the plastic delineators has gone down the drain.

Nigeria lacks wise leaders - Cardinal Onaiyekan Obinna Odoh, Abuja

T

he Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has lamented that Nigeria is well blessed with a lot of natural resources but lacks wise leaders.

Cardinal Onaiyekan made this assertion in a sermon at St Kizito’s Catholic Church, Kuje, as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the canonisation of her patron Saint Kizito and the First Parish Sociocultural Day. He said that Nigeria is blessed with enough resources to support the lives of Nigeria and tackle unemployment but its people are impoverished due to lack of wise leaders.

Quoting from 1 Kings 3:5,7-12, where King Solomon was asked by God to make a request, he said that instead of asking for wealth or the lives of his enemies, the king asked requested for wisdom to govern his people in justice.

Onaiyekan said God was pleased with his request and blessed him with everything.

Onaiyekan urged Nigerian leaders to borrow a leaf from that because, according to him, Nigeria’s soil is so rich that every state can produce enough food to sustain its citizens while some can generate food in commercial quantity.

He condemned the selfish attitude of the nation’s leaders, whom he described as lacking vision and interest of the people.

Speaking on the significance of the cultural day celebrations the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Michael Ngoka, stated that the programme was designed to capture and appreciate the potential in members of the church and further strengthen the unity of the country.

According to him, Nigeria is highly blessed with different ethnic groups having an appreciable cultural heritage.

He said if properly managed, it would improve the economic situation of Nigeria and s t re n g t h en the

unity of its people.

Rev. Fr. Ngoka lamented the worsening security situation in the country, despite government’s efforts to remedy the situation.

He explained that the parish was named after a Uganda martyr, St. Kizito, who died along 22 others in May 26, 1886 because he exhibited an admirable sense of maturity and prudence by rejecting the advance of a homosexual king of Uganda.

According to him, St. Kizito died at the age of 14 following his strong faith in God and resistance to unnatural sexual acts.

Cardinal Onaiyekan

Procurement Act has helped construction sector - Expert Yekeen Nurudeen

T

he Federal Capital Territory Administration has been commended for diligence in the procurement processes in the award of contracts, as it has reduced the cost of governance in the territory.

The FCTA’s procurement processes are also said to have assisted the construction sector in reducing the incidence of uncompleted buildings across the city.

Chief Executive of Kabola Associates, a private consulting firm, Alhaji Kabiru Olayiwola, made these observations while

speaking to our correspondent in his office. He noted that the sustenance of the Public Procurement Act has positively affected the construction industry in Nigeria.

He said while the credit goes to former President Umaru Yar’Adua, for the Act, President Goodluck Jonathan deserves commendation for promoting the bureau in the overriding public interest, thus saving the nation’s huge sums of money.

He said, “One of the greatest achievements of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua was the signing into law of the Public Procurement Act and the appoint-

ment of a capable hand to oversee the affairs of the agency. This Act no doubt has saved Nigeria millions of naira, especially in the construction industry.”

Speaking on facility management in the country, Olayiwola called on the government to ensure that round pegs are placed in round holes for effective management of public infrastructure.

He also used the occasion to state that the proposed commissioning of Kabola Associates office in the Federal Capital Territory slated for August 7 would mark a giant stride in the procurement sub sector.

very woman desires to make a fashion statement even in her everyday wear. The urban African lady is not left out in this quest and the African print, when properly styled,

E

Vanessa Okwara

stands her out in a crowd.

Colourful vibrant everyday wears can be created with the African print mixed with lace, chiffon, silk and sheer fabrics to bring out the sexy feminine side of a woman.

Designers are getting more adven-

turous with the African print. The fabric is inexpensive, available and affordable. It comes in a rich variety of colours and patterns.

You can use them to make trendy clothes that can be worn while at home, on a casual date, to a birthday

party or for ‘Thank God is Friday’ work day in the office.

If you want to be part of the current trend, add to your wardrobe some stylishly designed print dresses for that elegant and sophisticated look.

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AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Body&Soul

Real men get their nails done

Vanessa Okwara

S

ome men feel that caring for their nails is not manly.

They erroneously feel that manicure and pedicure are for ladies alone. Clean nails should be the priority of every human being, both male and female.

Neat, clean nails make a man look sophisticated and well put together. Dirty, long finger and toe nails are a definite turn-off. There is no class when you wear an executive suit and your nails are as dirty as that of a car repairer and as long as a caveman’s.

Most ladies like men with neatly clipped, clean nails.

Manicure and pedicure are therefore a necessity for the man as part of his overall grooming.

It is important to go for manicure and pedicure twice or thrice in a month. During pedicure, the feet is soaked in warm soapy water and dead skin is exfoliated, helping to diminish calluses and potential dead skin build-up that can lead to bigger problems. During manicure and pedicure, the cuticles are cleaned to eliminate unsightly

nails and rough edges.

There is no need to be shy about having your nails done in a salon, it’s called a MANicure isn’t it?

You can go with a female friend to a nail salon for moral boost. Ask the manicurist to trim your cuticles and buff your nails for a healthy shine, but don’t allow him/her to apply clear polish (it looks too artificial on a man).

At home, maintain your newly sculpted hands and feet with an all-in-one nail file and cutter.

Occasionally soak your hands and feet in soapy water. Applying a good hand cream every night before bed will keep your skin soft and prevent calluses from forming.

One of the quickest ways to soften and heal dry, cracked feet is to moisturize your feet each night before going to bed. Generously apply Vaseline, cocoa butter, or natural Shea butter to both feet then put on socks.

When you take the socks off in the morning you’ll notice how much better your feet look. This is a very ‘old-school’ method, but it really does work.

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

She’s not in Sokoto but your Sokoto

K

ayode is a successful business man living in Ogbomosho. He will be 39 years old in November and is yet to get married.

He is tired of attending baby ceremonies of family and friends as he has become the subject of their painful jokes and ridicule. The old women in the family have resorted to calling him ‘agbaya’, while his friends satirically ask him to pay the dowry of their little girls and wait for them to grow up since he can’t find a woman of his generation to get married to. He is tired and now desires to settle down by all means before his next birthday.

It’s not as if he has not been diligent in his search, but locating his ‘Miss Right’ is proving to be as difficult as looking for a needle in a hay stack! Just like water; there are women ev-

erywhere, but locating that particular woman that closely resembles his dream woman is not looking feasible and he is getting frustrated by this fruitless search.

His ideal soul mate is the big boob’s kind of woman. She must be tall and light in complexion with curves in the right places. She must also be a fantastic cook as he hates to eat in restaurants. He has seen a few women with these ‘assets’ but somehow, something is always deficient. It’s either the woman is married, a terrible cook, a teenager or just not meet his taste.

Take for instance; Bola, a pretty dark complexioned lady he met at a wedding recently. He struck a conversation with her more out of courtesy than instant attraction. She did not have his dream looks but, somehow, by the

time they got talking, he discovered that she had a pleasant and likeable personality. She is a caterer by profession and has this beautiful smile that will make any man to momentarily lose focus. They exchanged telephone numbers and

is not even tall, even though she meets my other criteria of an ideal wife, eh?” Kayode pondered.

Well, sorry to bust your bubble Kayode, but from the look of things, I think forever will not be enough time for you

Beautiful relationships begin with getting to know each other and building on a strong bond you must have felt with this person from the onset he promised to keep in touch. He has not called her back because she does not meet the physical qualities of the kind of woman he is looking for. His soul mate must have those physical attributes that always make his blood run hot.

“How can I marry a dark skinned lady that

to locate that woman of your dream. In fact, it seems you have actually signed ‘single for life’ on the dotted line.

If your definition of a soul mate is this perfect person that fulfills all your teenage fantasies; you may be searching for someone who does not exist. You

C NNECT NG vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com

keep searching with the wrong criteria, while your ideal partner may be that person lurking in the shadows of your everyday life, listening to you, being a friend while waiting for just a small sign that you might be interested in something other than mere friendship.

A soul mate is first and foremost a best friend.

He/she is someone you are most comfortable with and have a deep affinity to. You feel like this person adds profoundly to the quality of your life and you want to share important moments with him/her, as soul mates always share everything. Is there someone in your life with this description?

You will be surprised they can be your perfect soul mate if given the chance.

Beautiful relationships begin with getting to know each other and building on a strong bond you must have felt with this person from the onset. Fireworks may not crack but there

will be a ‘certain something’ about that person that deserves a second date and you can go on from there. You teach them about you, learn about them and then you both grow together into that ideal couple you have always dreamt of. Why search for a soul mate in Sokoto when you can find him or her in your Sokoto’ (Yoruba word for Trousers)?

Instead of looking for this fictional person of your dreams, you should put more energy and effort into really getting to know that person you have already met. You will be surprised to see that great things sometimes come in rough packages. Some people are indeed what you can call rough diamonds.

You’ll need to scrutinize and look deeply enough before you can discover that beneath their rough edges lie a great mind and a loving person who will compliment and love you beyond your wildest imagination.

Of flights, safety and other diplomatic matters

T

hese are not the best times to be taking to the skies for travelling. It seems to make sense more and more to travel closer to gravity than to venture into the skies. For some, travelling by air has become a case of ‘if the rockets don’t get you, then the weather will.’ And if you avoid these, then you may come in contact with someone who has Ebola. Needless to say, all of the aforementioned scenario has one ultimate result -death.

This sad situation has led to all kinds of unpleasant scenarios; trading of blames for the accident, accusations and counter accusations of supposed warring parties, and the ever present question of safety. This is especially pronounced in the case of the Malaysian Airlines MH17 plane that came down on the border of Ukraine and Russia. With the highest death toll of the series of air disasters that we have had in the spate of 10 days, it shall be the focus of our discussion this week.

I really want to start on the safety question before I proceed to the main focus of this piece. While many have asked if the crash of Malaysian plane MH17 is a safety issue, considering that it was probably shot down by the missile of rebel Ukrainian faction, I stick out my neck and say, yes, it is a safety issue and so officials of the Malaysian airline should share the blame.

Taking to the skies is always a safety issue. As a product of an oral tradition, I crave your indulgence in telling a quick folktale from the Yoruba people.

It is the story of the first venture by an animal to the sky. The wily tortoise heard of a great feast in the sky for all the birds and wanted to be a part of it.

He got feathers from all the birds and glued it to his back. However, he was given a strict warning; never to fly too close to the sun as this will melt the glue holding the feathers together. He agreed to this simple plan until he was air bound, and carried away by the joy of flying, flew too close to the sun and crash landed. Folklore would have us believe this is how the tortoise got his cracked shell, but the sense of my story is the emphasis on safety first when venturing into the sky. I believe Greek mythology has a similar tale with a far more dire result than a cracked shell.

In all, safety is always the first concern when it comes to aviation. There are unconfirmed reports that other airlines have been avoiding this airspace since the tension in Ukraine escalated into full blown war. However, putting economics ahead of safety, the Malaysian airline ventured into this airspace and was probably mistaken for a military jetliner.

Sadly, 295 people have paid for the disregard of simple and basic rule of air safety. Now, no one is talking of this people. They are just a simple statistics and their loss, a cause for diplomatic and political chess game.

Russia says it is not responsible, but it probably supplied the missile to the Ukrainian rebel faction. Ukraine is not

Sadly, 295 people have paid for the disregard of simple and basic rule of air safety. Now, no one is talking of this people. They are just a simple statistics and their loss, a cause for diplomatic and political chess game

responsible, the area is controlled by the rebels. The rebels are not responsible, em…the PR guy is still thinking of the right excuse. No one is to blame, all are saints. Please, we are talking of the lives of daughters taken away from their parents; fathers taken away from the family and dreams shattered by a fatal mistake.

Even the international media is not absolved of blame. All hell was going to be let loose if there was any American on the plane. It was confirmed that there was no American, so it was okay to carry on with playing chess with the lives of the others. Canadian press focused all their attention on the one Canadian involved and said nothing of the others involved. It seems the human race is only a race when a connection can be made.

Does this mean there is a prize on human life and an American life more valuable than the rest? I answer NO. Therefore, for the sake of all the innocent lives on that plane, it is time for someone to be responsible enough and do the right thing by admitting their error and taking responsibility for the crash. Now is the time to make the sky safer by tightening security and declaring all war zones ‘no fly zones.’ Only then can we say the world has leaders and not just political rulers.

Until then, I extend my sympathy to the families of all the victims of air disasters around the world. We share your pain.

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Better days roll in for Pastor Ashimolowo T

he Biblical verse that says, “Although tribulation may tarry, joy cometh in the morning,” aptly describes the situation of flamboyant man of God, Pastor Matthew Asimolowo, of Kingsway International Christian Centre. In a period that could be described as the best of times for the stylish Ashimolowo, trouble crept in and he was at the mercy of the British government, which took over his church in the United Kingdom.

The matter degenerated so much that Ashimolowo’s name was not only dragged in the mud, he was also affected financially. At a point, he had to stop work on the pri-

vate university he was setting up. Things got to the point that he had to sell off his high tower building in Opebi, a highbrow area of Ikeja, Lagos.

Behold, luck soon smiled on him when his church was returned to him and things began to look up for him. Ashimolowo, some months ago, achieved his long time goal when he completed his university project in Osun State. He has regained his ground. The man of God recently added another feather to his cap, when his son, Tomi, got married, days ago, to his Sierra Leonean lover in the United Kingdom, and the joy of his father has known no bounds since then.

Buba Marwa consolidates on guber hope

F

ormer Military Administrator of Lagos State, BrigGen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has long signified his interest in becoming the governor of Adamawa State, but all his efforts in the past proved abortive. Marwa, at a time ditched the PDP, to pitch his tent with the APC, but he has since retraced his steps; all

in a bid to actualise his governorship ambition.

The tide turned recently in the state when Governor Murtala Nyako, who would have had a say in who succeeds him, was booted out of office. Now, the leadership of PDP will decide who gets the ticket. A number of aspirants have emerged

on the platform of the PDP, waiting to clinch the governorship ticket, but Marwa may have taken the lead by getting himself to be endorsed by delegates in the state. Sources in his camp revealed to Celeb Lounge that the recent feat is only a step by Marwa to consolidate on his game plan to clinch the ticket.

Hitches for Sherrif Shagaya’s ambition

I

t is no news to those alive to happenings on the political turf of Kwara State that Sherrif, the son of billionaire business woman, Hajia Bola Shagaya, has a political ambition. He is nursing the ambition to sit in the House of Representatives in the 2015 elections.

Machinery has since been set in motion to make this dream a reality.

It is widely believed that the youthful Sherrif, who sits atop Kashton Concept, will actualise his dream based on the fact that his mother has become a power broker in Kwara State.

His mother is also a close friend of the First lady, Dame Patience

Jonathan, and the young man is married to Maryam, the daughter of the immediate past National Chairman of PDP, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur. But there are signs that the people of Ilori/ Asa West may have decided to work against the candidature of Sherrif. People of this federal constituency allege that Sherrif and his mother have just remembered them because of the election.

The House of Representatives member from the area, Hon. Moshood Mustapha, who is said to have hitherto been jittery, is said to be latching onto the new development and is taking it as an advantage.

Nona Adimora Chime, Ekweremandu feud deepens charts new course T

N

ona Adimora, younger sister to popular fashion buff, Nkiru Anumudu, is certainly not a new comer among newsmakers. The beautiful Anambra State-born lady is visible on the social scene and her influence on the high and mighty in the society has also drawn attention to her.

This guidance and counselling expert is currently charting a new course for herself.

Sources close to her told Celeb Lounge that Nona now deals in expensive jewelry and that celebrities and those that matter in the Federal Capital Territory are her clients.

Nona, upon parting ways with her husband some years back, relocated to Nigeria. After spending some time in Lagos, she decided to make Abuja her base and she has been doing well ever since.

here may not be an end in sight to the crisis which has pitched two Enugu prominent politicians apart. Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime, and Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, have been at loggerheads and this has caused a division in Enugu State PDP. According to information made available to Celeb Lounge, the lingering feud between Chime and Ekweremadu has become a source of concern to PDP national leaders and efforts are being made to reconcile the two factions. But it seems that the problem has gone out of hand.

R e c e n t l y,

the state house of assembly served an impeachment notice on the state deputy governor, Sunday Onyebuchi, and the likely outcome is still uncertain. Although the assembly has given the reason for its action, many are of the belief that the move against Onyebuchi is the unseen hand of his boss.

Chime is alleged to be cross with his deputy for alleged disobedience to his directives and a threat to his senatorial ambition. However, information from those who should know is that Onyebuchi’s travail may not be unconnected with his alleged closeness to Ekweremadu.

Evidence of the claim, according to sources, is that another assembly member and the younger brother of Ekweremadu, Mathias, did not sign the impeachment notice served on the deputy governor. The impeachment saga is further said to have worsened the feud between Chime and Ekweremadu.

What has been the bone of contention, some say, is the speculated governorship ambition of Ekweremadu, which is said to be against the interest of the incumbent governor.

47

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Paul and Peter unite wives

I

n Nigeria, the names, Paul and Peter, have come to be synonymous with twin brothers, P’Square - the Anambra State-born popular singers.

It’s common knowledge that these high profile singers are used to doing things in common. Although, not too long ago, some differences nearly tore them apart, things have since returned to normal between them. Information at our disposal has it that for the sake of oneness, the two of them have made moves to keep their wives together. It was reliably gathered that the wives of Paul and Peter, Anita and Lola, now live together in a house in Lekki, Lagos and that the singers now spend more time with their wives while their Omole home has become a power

house for music and business. What is not clear, however, is if the new bride in the Okoye family – the spouse of their elder brother, Jude - will also move in with her senior wives at Lekki.

T

he sons of former President Segun Obasanjo and late Gen. Sani Abacha - Gbenga and Mohammed respectively - have a lot in common. They are friends and their fathers were once the number one citizens of this country.

Celeb Lounge learnt that Mohammed has been of tremendous assistance to his pal, Gbenga, whom is said to have fallen in bad times for a while now. Gbenga fell apart with his father and his sister, Iyabo, a few years back when he accused his dad of having carnal knowledge of his former wife, Moji Akinwunmi, nee Onabanjo.

Magnum Lounge boss, Mascot marries

B

Memo to my compatriots (1) N

Between Gbenga Obasanjo and Mohammed Abacha

achelorhood has again lost one of its eligible members as the owner of popular hangout, Magnum Lounge in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Mascot Ikwechegh, days ago, got married to his lover, Ivory Nwoha, at a traditional wedding in Abia State.

Mascot, who is the brain behind Jumondx Group, Port Harcourt, is a former Personal Assistant to former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu. The event drew the attention of people that matter to Abia State.

Date for the white wedding is expected to be announced later but those who witnessed the traditional engagement said it was a grand event.

The new bride, Ivory Nwoha, is a Theatre Arts graduate.

with Helen Paul

Associates celebrate Osita Chidoka

W

hen the man who was calling the shots at the Federal Road Safety Commission, Osita Chidoka, was nominated for a ministerial appointment, some felt it was a well-deserved compensation for the perceived loyalist of the powers that be. On the other hand, many kicked against it, but whichever way it is, Chidoka has been confirmed as the new Minister of Aviation. Friends and well-wishers of the new minister, days ago, staged a dinner in his honour at Abuja. Various big boys and babes graced the event.

One of them had posted on a social medium that Kefee was quite close to him as a sister and bosom friend.

But out of annoyance, the second entertainer discredited the claim of the first entertainer.

He argued that if Kefee was actually his bosom friend, how come he didn’t use her photograph as his BB display picture (DP), or use it on any In Nigeria, we rarely celebrate our- social medium, during her birthday, selves. We do that only after death. I wedding and other celebrations. Kehave observed this since childhood, fee had never appeared on his DP, and it baffles me when people say all but it was surprising that at death, sorts of sweet things about deceased the same person was claiming they people. Meanwhile, they pretend not were bosom friends. to see anything good such a deceased As funny as the ‘fight’ between person did in his or her lifetime. It these two entertainers may be, it also amazes me why people spread surely depicts what happens when and cherish negative news more than we lose someone – what we see are positive ones. many pretenders craving cheap pubIn the entertainment industry licity with another person’s demise! I where I belong, for instance, it will always say that if we unite and rally interest you round people to know that when they’re The one that shocks me suffering from just one or two most is how we pretend one problem, people will call ailment or the to congratulate to love and care for other (the way you when you we do when win an award, our colleagues when get corporate they die), many they are down with one endorsement lives would have been or give birth to terminal ailment or the a child. But if saved. other, or when they die. they hear that When producyou’re divorced er, OJB Jezreel, That is when they will or enmeshed in was down with one scandal or an ailment that celebrate the victim with the other, that almost nicked condolence messages on is when you his life, many will start reentertainers their Blackberry phones, ceiving torrents took advantage of phone calls.

Twitter, Facebook and other of the situation The bitter truth to gain cheap social networks. Even those publicity. I’m is that such people are not sure that before who had not spoken to the happy about the sickness of your progress, the producer deceased person for many came to public and the fact that years will claim that “He glare, many of they call while his so-called you’re having was my bosom friend. He that problem friends and coldoesn’t mean leagues were was such a nice colleague… that they care aware of his – they simply agony, but they had nothing to contribute. want to mock you indirectly.

The one that shocks me most is how Thank God, OJB survived the orwe pretend to love and care for our deal. By now, he would have seen colleagues when they are down with what life is all about and be able to one terminal ailment or the other, or differentiate true friends from those when they die. That is when they will whose mission was just to gain uncelebrate the victim with condolence due public attention with his premessages on Blackberry Messenger, dicament.

Twitter, Facebook and other social I can go on and on to give examples networks. Even those who had not because I have seen many cases like spoken to the deceased person for this. It doesn’t just happen among many years will claim that “he was entertainers. I only used them (the my bosom friend. He was such a nice entertainers) as a case study because colleague…” Most times, such acts they are popular. This problem hapare crafted simply to get undue pub- pens around us everywhere: in lic attention. churches/mosques, families, friends, I almost laughed my heart out some etc. weeks back when two entertainers Next week, I will treat this issue engaged themselves on social media in greater detail. You can’t afford to war over the death of singer, Kefee. miss it. Till then, arise O compatriots. igeria is a great country, with a lot of great people as well. I usually boast whenever I’m abroad that Nigeria has the best natural talents, and that’s the truth. Despite all the challenges facing this country, for her to still stand united and earn respect globally speaks volume. However, there is one common attitude about many compatriots that makes me sick.

DIY on the GO

48

Body&Soul

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

Getting rid of household pests Abimbola Sodeke

P

ests are a nuisance and getting rid of them can be a nightmare at times.

While some people are afraid of bugs, others may be fascinated. But the one thing most people will agree on is that pest do not belong in the home.

Not only do they create unsanitary conditions, they’re also just plain annoying, from the buzz of a fly to the itchy bite of the mosquito. Bees, wasps and scorpions can cause painful stings, while fleas, mosquitoes and ticks can carry diseases that they transport

to pets or humans. Even the common cockroach can be a major contributor towards disorder in the body system.

Just like humans, insects need food, water and shelter to survive.

By eliminating their food supply and getting rid of bug’s favourite hiding spots, you can reduce the risk of insects taking up residence in your home.

Of course, the best way to prevent infestation is to keep bugs out entirely. To do this, you’ll need to seal up the cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior. By tightening up the entry points that insects use to gain access, you can great-

ly improve your chances of staying bug-free.

Ready to get started?

Take a detailed look around your house and identify the pests that are bothering you.

What attracts them to your house?

Clean the house and declutter.

Check your house for intrusion holes and possible entrances for pests.

Spray insecticide or chemicals in the house.

You need to leave the house for about 24 hours to prevent allergies in the body system. So, chemical insecticide is best sprayed when the whole family is traveling.

AUGUST 3, 2014 NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY

49

Wine & Dine

Body&Soul

Bubbles for the mind and body Ibukunoluwa Kayode

C

hampagne and other sparkling wines are a category of wine made from a blend of white grapes such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

This sparkling wine comes from the Champagne region of France, and claims the honour of being the most famous of the sparkling wines.

Technically, it is the only

sparkling wine that may be referred to as ‘Champagne’.

The wine develops its bubbles during the second phase of fermentation process where the winemaker takes still wine and adds a few grams of sugar and yeast. The yeast and sugar convert to carbon dioxide (bubbles) and, of course alcohol.

Champagnes are categorized as extra Brut and ex-

tra dry, depending on their sugar levels. Brut Champagne and sparkling wine is the most common of the bubbly, offering a typically crisp, dry palate appeal.

This is a classic wine that is most times reserved for classic occasions among the rich.

This classic wine is also classified as vintage and non-vintage label drink, which means they can either come from a single

year or a blend of several different years. The ‘vintage’ Champagnes are typically pricier while the non-vintage Champagne and sparkling wines make up the majority of those in the market and relatively cheaper.

The aroma can be reminiscent of fresh apple sauce, spiced apple and ripe pear with undertone flavour of citrus, strawberry, cream, vanilla, yeast

and nutty flavours -all demonstrating a smooth finish on the palate with a friendly food pair.

Sparkling wines do not only serve a refreshing purpose, it also serves as health booster. It helps in blood flow. Champagne drinkers experience a slower removal of nitric oxide from their blood.

This means, sipping a few glasses of champagne may lower blood pressure and

potentially reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.

Just like the red wines, Champagne is also rich in high level of polyphenols, an antioxidant that removes free radicals from the blood stream. It is also a mood booster. A few glasses of it helps protect the brain from damage that is commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease as long as you don’t abuse alcohol.

Corn moi-moi with snail and vegetable sauce Biwom Iklaki

A

ny chef worth his salt would advise you to cook with seasonal ingredients. Besides being fun, it is also one of the healthiest and safest ways to cook. This way, you can be sure that your ingredients are fresh and without additives that aid preservation. In the spirit of seasonal cuisines, let’s explore corn.

Fresh, juicy, with loads of healthy carbs that gives it a sugary sweetness, corn is quite popular this period.

Often roasted over a pit or boiled to golden delicious sun buds that burst in your mouth (with black pear or coconut as accompaniments), here is another way it can be enjoyed…

INGREDIENTS 15 corn on the cob 2 cups ground crayfish 2 smoked Titus Macerel fish 2 medium onions, chopped 20 red chilli peppers, pounded 5 stock cubes

2 cups palm oil 8-10 leaves of bitter leaf Green (Efo) Tomatoes 10 big snails, broken and washed with alum (optional).

Plantain/moimoi leaves (etere leaves).

PREPARATION

De-cob corn, wash and grind into a paste. In a bowl, add half the chopped onion, 1 cup crayfish, 1 of the smoked fish, half the pepper, palm oil, 3 cubes and salt to taste. Mix well. If too thick, add a little water.

Line your pot with the stems from your leaves.

Get your wrapping leaves

or bowls, if you prefer your moimoi in decorative shapes. Pour some in, add a bitter leaf and wrap carefully then arrange in the pot. Continue until you exhaust all the paste.

Pour a little water and put the pot on the fire.

Keep adding a little water until the moimoi is cooked.

This should take about 20-30minutes.

Put a cup of palm oil in a sauce pan, put a little salt to test how hot it is (it will crackle loudly), add the onions and chopped tomatoes. After frying to cook the tomatoes, add the remaining pepper, 2 cubes and salt to taste. After

about 3 minutes, add your efo (previously chopped and blanched in hot water, then strained) and already cooked snails and smoked fish. Mix thoroughly and taste to ensure everything is okay, then take it off the fire.

Serve the moimoi with the efo and snails as a side.

50

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Body&Soul

Back Packs to the rescue!

Biwom Iklaki

B

ack packs are a fun way for people to carry their belongings around safely, with the added advantage of leaving your hands free to do other things. For children, they need this accessory even more. Some children have only just learned how to walk and run, they have not mastered the art enough to carry things in their hands and move without restriction or falling over completely. For the older children and teens, they have

so many personal things to convey with them that it is impractical to carry them all in their arms.

That is where the back pack comes in to save the day. Back packs are an essential for every child.

They are very stylish while being one of the most practical items in their wardrobes. They carry everything from books to lunch boxes to extra clothing and toys.

Their designs may vary from one child to the other, depending on his specific need.

They often feature car-

toons, heroic characters and villains, princes and princesses, sports, cars, icons and items, etc. A shopping assistant at Jack and Jill, Ikeja Shopping Mall, believes that girls prefer the back packs with Hello Kitty, Disney princesses and pop stars, while the boys always go for Ben 10 or Sponge Bob square pants.

Now you know what to get for your boy or girl when shopping for a back pack, come ‘back-toschool season’.

Interview Celibacy makes Catholic priests unique –Aneke p52

Sermon Your antidote to achieving greatness p.55

TAI ANYANWU, titus.anyanwu@newtelegraphonline.com titusanyanwu.2012@gmail.com 0706 438 0029

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Sermon Develop a champion mentality p.56

51

Faith ON SUNDAY

Politics of settlement is hurting Nigeria – Eze

Rt. Rev. Sosthenes Ikechukwu Eze is the Bishop of Enugu North Diocese of the Anglican Communion in Enugu State. In this interview with UWAKWE ABUGU, he warns Nigerian leaders to be wary of a looming divine punishment if the impunity in the nation continues. He also spoke on various other issues.

Assessing the state of the nation and the current leadership of the country, especially as the 2015 elections draw near, what do you think politicians should do to douse tension and ensure smooth polls? ell, good leadership is something we need for any society to grow, develop and assess people in a more proper way, if you like. As a result of that, the Nigerian political system in relation to the 2015 elections, we want to say that while we thank God for our previous leaders and for the effort they made to try to affect our country in their own very best approach, I think that we need to actually get down to the proper leadership approach so that we can be better.

This is because many countries have developed because they have correct, groomed leaders.

In the event of the present situation we are in, we seem to be having too many challenges as result of the fact that political leadership has been made a business. It is not about what they contribute to the well-being of our society. It is about how much they gain, how much benefit they get, even how much business accrues therefrom. And as long as it becomes a business, it will continue to be a big problem for the country. I know that we are told that leadership is about influence, and not just influence but Godly influence.

And what we mean by Godly influence is adding value to the society, adding value to the lives of the people. I mean, if you come to lead a particular society, after five years, how much would have been said of you to have affected the lives of the society in terms of security of lives, in terms of the economy of the people, in terms of the improvement of the social life of the people, in terms of the infrastructural development of the place, economy and all of that? Now, if there is no change in those areas for the better, then we have not grown. Yes, we are talking about growing the society, growing the people. And if we have not got to that level of development in our political engineering, then I’m not sure we are making any progress. And that is why we need a whole range of reorientation, realignment. I think we need to come to a stage where we have to change our focus about politics and leadership.

Specifically, how would you assess Nigeria’s leadership based on this background picture you have painted; that is, the performance of the nation’s political leaders?

Well, in terms of development, I can give them a fair performance pass mark. In terms of security, we are nowhere.

In terms of infrastructural development, we have made some little progress and in terms of empowering the people,

W

no, no.

Why do you say so?

The reason is because our education is collapsing and our industries are collapsing and unemployment is on the increase. And there is so much money with which we can provide these but we are not doing it. So, as long as we have not gotten our people well enhanced, we are not there. There is a whole lot of difference between the salaries and allowances of politicians as against those of the public servants and the ordinary people; that is the public servants and the ordinary general public being at the receiving end. I tell you that this situation is what actually has created a lot of insecurity and led to a lot of Boko Haramic situations, kidnapping and all that because everybody wants to get to that place and make that kind of money, that is to get to the political leadership arena, to make that kind of big money. But to me, that is not what leadership should be.

Leadership is just about the position you hold but about how many lives you affect or change positively. It is about how many people you have changed, how many people you have translated your leadership into their lives.

So, for the present political system, the leadership seems to be trying but their trying is far from being enough. The whole nation seems to be concentrated on those who rule and that is why people want to kill, to steal to get there. I think we have got to a stage where we shall make politics a service in reality. That is, a situation where if you get into politics you will earn little and you will be judged by the amount of change you brought to society and not the amount of money you have acquired. And this is the huge difference between us and the developed world. It is a huge difference because, here you see a poor man who did have a kobo get into politics by circumstance and overnight he becomes a billionaire. So, why won’t people rush into politics in a crude, hook or crook manner?

Then, what should be done to reverse all these retrogressive tendencies?

I want join forces with those who have been advocating that politics be made a part-time job. You must be doing something meaningful before you join politics. And when you join it and hold an elective position, you earn an allowance, just to sustain you. For instance, why are all the labour unions usually going on strike? They go on strike frequently because they would not see a reason why one would train as an engineer, as a doctor, among other professions after so many years in the crucible of acquiring experience and professional certificates but suddenly someone who may not have actually passed his school certificate examination gets into the house of assembly and earns so much money that he orders you around. Until we reverse that trend, I’m not sure that strikes will ever stop in this country. That is the next stage of crisis that will daze this country. I tell you the truth, in Christ Jesus, I lie not. If care is not taken, whoever wins the 2015 presidential election may face a new phase of crisis arising from organised labour demands that may threaten a shutdown of the country.

Why that?

Why? They would not see the reason they would be labouring in classrooms, spending long hours in workshops and doing all they are required to do as public servants only to earn what would not last them till the end of the month while somebody would sit in the boardroom for few hours

and earn millions of Naira. Nigerians are getting more enlightened. People should be paid according to their productivity.

Salaries should be paid according to productivity not just about positions.

In that case, how would you assess the pay of politicians in terms of productivity?

Their job is to make laws, that is for those in the legislature.

How many hours do they sit in a week? So, legislators should be paid according to the number of useful hours they working judging by the number of laws they make. It is not just about the number of hours because they can spend so many hours doing little or nothing. It should be that by the end of the month, can we check the number of laws they have made and how those laws have affected our society? How they improved us? The President and the governors or whoever sits in authority, can we check how much Godly influence they have brought to bear on the society? If we do these, you find out that the greater majority of the populace would be happier.

And in playing partisan politics, you discover that gradually, only those who have genuine interest in service to the people would easily show much interest. They will only going into politics because the goal of changing the society for the better and not for the purpose of self-enrichment as the case is at the moment for many of them.

Most of these issues of non-performance on the part of public officers and more revolve around the irrepressible malaise of corruption in the nation’s body polity. From your pulpit realm, in which definite ways can this be tamed?

Well, number one, for any solution to come, God must be at the centre of it because corruption, as it were, comes from our nature. I take you back to the holy book. The Bible tells us in Genesis Chapter Three that Satan caused Adam to fail. That was the foundation of corruption and from that incident our hearts got corrupted. It is about corruption of the heart caused by the influence of the devil. But the redemptive work of Jesus Christ in cancelling the work of the devil begins with the conversion of the heart. If the heart is converted through repentance and change, then the heart will be trained to love righteousness, the heart will be disciplined to love righteousness, the heart will be prepared and determined to practice righteousness. Then, you will see that corruption will give way. I know when I say this it will be specific to Christian principles. But I want to do so that I talk about the one I know very well. I was told Sweden is the most developed nation of the world in terms of corruption and the free nature of her society. And a place like Guatemala has also been very positively affected by the words of the gospel.

So, for us to actually be able to deal with corruption in our country, we need to be determined to defy evil, resist evil; everyone of us has to resist evil. We need to develop our mind as a people as we trust God. God will not come down from heaven to change this situation for us. We need to make use of the various channels in which God talks to us for the redemption of this country. We must be willing to do this and purposed in our hearts not to be involved in corruption like the biblical Daniel. I don’t know how easy that is going to be but for me, that is one of the basic steps we are going to take.

My Lord, so much has been said and more still being said about this cankerworm but it is time people like you began to suggest in concrete terms what specific punishCO NTINUED O N PAGE 57

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NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

Rental costs rise as RCCG begins 62nd convention

Faith

T

Tai Anyanwu he dream to make quick profits at the 62nd Convention slated for August 4-10, 2014 might as well be a mirage for petty traders, who have rental spaces within the Redemption Camp on Kilometre 46 of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in anticipation of bumper sales.

Some of the petty traders, who expressed this fear, claimed that RCCG officials let out the spaces at exorbitant rates.

When New Telegraph on Sunday visited the campground, some traders told our correspondent that they rented a 3x4 uncovered space for as much as N50, 000.

A similar space with a movable canopy costs as high as N70, 000, our correspondent further learnt.

“We rented this space from Redeemed office. I paid N50, 000 for this space without a tent and the ground as you can see is not floored,” a female trader said while pleading anonymity. But the people who bought spaces with canopy had to pay between N60, 000 and N70, 000 to the office to get that allocation,” she exAdherents trooping to RCCG Campground on Friday plained.

Our correspondent noted that pockets of petty traders ed selling spaces, are just going to sell sachet water, soft were seen huddled at the allocated portions, looking rather drinks, roasted corn or pop-corn, cooked food, as the case confused and depressed. may be.

Some, who agreed to speak to our correspondent only “And you begin to wonder just how they can break even on the condition of anonymity, feared that they might not not to talk of make profit,” Nkwo lamented. recover their investment before the end of the convention.

New Telegraph on Sunday also gathered that many of A concerned member of the public, Philip Nkwo, de- the traders are RCCG members. scribed the cost of the spaces as ridiculous.

Effort to obtain comments from a top member of the “It is a rip off; this type of exploitation should not come church’s administrative unit, Pastor Johnson Odeshola, from the church of God. proved abortive as he was not on sit.

“Most of these same petty traders, who are made to Incidentally, the spaces had all been taken two weeks cough out between N50,000 and N70, 000 for unprotect- ahead of the convention, a trader told our correspondent.

He explained that three or four traders jointly rented a unit and would have to share the spaces in order to cut down on the high rental cost.

Meanwhile, the Redemption Camp now wears a new look, as its lawns have been trimmed and road networks graded.

The theme of this year’s convention is tagged, ‘The Holy Spirit’.

It was gathered that available chalets at the camp had been fully booked by intending visitors to the convention.

And an air of great expectation pervades through the campground.

Celibacy makes Catholic priests unique –Aneke

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Introduce yourself to our readers, please. ev. Fr. Chris Luis Aneke. I’m from Ebu in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

What does priesthood mean to you?

It means everything to me. It is a call to service. God called me to serve Him in a special way. Not that people can’t serve him in other ways. But this is one vocation in which God called me to serve him.

What is it like being a Catholic priest?

It has been full of grace, but not without its challenges, because I am a missionary priest. After my ordination in Nigeria I worked in a parish for one year; and in an office for three years. For the past 10 years, I have been working as a missionary in South Africa. And the church in South Africa is far different from what you have here, very challenging because the people there are not as responding to the church the way our people in Nigeria are.

Here the church is packed full. But where I am they are just few people.

And those few people you have to really encourage them to see the need to go to church, to see the need to continue going to church. But for them it is a big sacrifice. But what do you, do you keep praying for God to give you the grace to continue doing what you are doing to His grace?

You pray to God to continue touching the hearts of the people you are working with so that everything turns out to His glory.

What advice would you give to young people out there who may want to become priests? Well, there is no priest that will say he is successful, because priesthood is not where you strive for success. It is a place where you strive to do your best to

Rev Father Chris Luis Aneke who is a Catholic Missionary Priest to South Africa, will today be celebrating 15 years of priesthood. In an exclusive chat with New Telegraph at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Ikeja, Lagos, he spoke on his challenges and life as a missionary. He also shared his views on celibacy, and what it takes to be a successful priest among others in this interview with SONY NEME serve God in your own little way; and the grace of God guides your every step to remain faithful. May be the word ‘faithful’ should replace success. Priesthood is where you pray to God at all times, to give you the grace to be faithful. Not to be successful but just to be faithful. And to be always be there for the people of God that you are ordained to serve.

How do you cope with celibacy?

The Catholic priesthood is a call to celibacy. Nobody will say it is easy. But you have to strive and remain faithful as a celibate. Nobody is perfect, but that is the uniqueness of the priesthood of the Catholic Church; to forego marriage in order to serve God better, and to be available to serve His people. Though there has been a recent call for Catholic priests to get married. I don’t want to go into that.

But as an individual I think that is what makes the Catholic priest unique.

Have you been tempted and how have you been able to handle it?

As a human being I won’t say I am above temptation, because it is everywhere. I won’t say I am above it. I am trying to cope, and remain who I am and what I am called to do. It doesn’t mean that I am above temptation or I don’t have a feelings in me as a human being. But that is what I have decided to be, and that is what God has called me to do. To remain focused on the service of God. Just like a married man, who should be faithful to his wife, so also

I have to remain faithful to my calling. It is part of what you are aware of before you join. Not that it was imposed on you. I am dedicated to the service of God. Who inspired you into the priesthood?

A lot of people and factors inspired me. Some priests that I served and worked with encouraged me. I was a altar servant. I think my desire to become a priest came from there.

I am talking about people like the late Monsignor Omiseso, late Patrick Adegbite and of course, Monsignor John Aniagwu; whom I served for three years after my ordination before going on my missionary journey. To a great Rev Fr Aneke extent, he prepared me for what I am today because he reminds you that until you go on a missionary you won’t know what you are enjoying being in Nigeria.

A word to the faithful They are our inspiration. The faithful are there because they are to be ministered to. The priest cannot serve without them. So it is from the faithful we draw energy, we draw strength.

They are like a family. For the faithful in Nigeria they are doing marvelously well compared to what we see outside.

Each time I come on holiday and see the generosity of the people, I see the church parked full of people from morning till evening, it encourages me a lot. Because out there it is not like that. So instead of being discouraged out there, I get encouraged down here.

NEW TELEGRAPH ON SUNDAY AUGUST 3, 2014

wealth or long life, not even vengeance over his enemies. In fact for the same reasons, Yahweh gave Solomon much more, even what he did not ask for, namely wealth, fame and long life.

The virtues of wisdom The book of Wisdom in the Bible is the first important effort to express the faith and wisdom of Israel in a form which is adapted to Greek culture. It has become a storeroom for wise counsel on issues of pain death, and evil. It is also a repertoire of admonitions on good conduct for leaders and the led alike. “Love justice, you who rule over the world”, says the writer to rulers. (Wis. 1:1) No doubt, justice is the most important ingredient for a peaceful reign. Wisdom spoke tough words to kings and rulers thus: “Pay attention, you who rule multitudes and boast of the numerous subjects in your pagan nations.

For authority was given to you by the Lord, your kingship is from the Most High who will examine your works and scrutinise your intentions. If as officials of his kingdom, you have not judged justly or observed his law or walked the way God pointed out, he will oppose you swiftly and

POWER IN THE WORD with

Banke David

Tel: 08034156014

L

ast week, we started our series on Leadership principles. Today, as part of our discourse, we will be looking at the intrinsic set of values that a good leader ought to have.

Some schools of thought are of the opinion that leaders are born, while others believe that a good leader is made. Whichever opinion you stand for, the fact stills remains that a good leader is rare to find. What set of skills does a good leader need to have and can these be cultivated? At the end of this discourse, we shall be able to see more clearly whether or not leadership can be reared in an individual.

Last week, we defined extensively who a leader is, but in order to refresh our memories, here goes - a leader is one who leads, rules, comes first and is an inspiration to others. What set of skills or values should a good leader have and can they actually be cultivated?

1. Ability to see the big picture 2. Having a compelling vision 3. Ability to carry others along 4. Good interpersonal skills 5. Feelings of empathy and

Faith

Leaders and the wisdom of Solomon C Solomon and the promise an leadership in Nigeria today ever really conform to the will of God? I wish! How I wish some of the legends of the Bible could return. Dateline: Israel in the times of the first book of Kings.

Dramatis Personae: Almighty God and the young Solomon who had just been chosen king over Israel. He encountered God in his dream who said to him: “Ask what you want me to give you.”

(1Kgs 3:5b). Solomon’s response does not make much modern sense. “O Yahweh my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a young boy who does not know how to undertake anything. Meantime your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen – a people so great that they can neither be numbered nor counted. Give me, therefore, an understanding mind in governing your people that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this multitude of people of yours?” (1Kgs 3:7-9).

The Bible says that Yahweh was pleased with what Solomon asked for. He granted his request because Solomon did not ask for

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sympathy 6. Ability to say ‘no’ 7. Ability to delegate responsibility 8. Meting out punishment or reward 9. Ability to duplicate oneself in others 10. Creativity or serendipity 1. A good leader ought to be able to see the big picture or have the synopsis of the organisation to which he belongs. The ability to see the end from the beginning is an attribute of God and as such, in order to have an all-encompassing picture of things, we need to have the mind-set of God. He sees things not just as they are, but with the end in mind!

When we see things with the benefit of hindsight, we are equipped to make good decisions as a leader ought to. This skill or ability can be developed.

2. Having a compelling vision is one major pre-requisite a good leader should have.

How can one claim to lead if he has no basis for which to lead? A man who leads and no one is following is only taking

terribly; his sentence strikes the mighty suddenly.” (Wis. 6:2-5).

The woes of these times Would that it were possible today to cast our kings in the mould of King Solomon as regards his love for wisdom! Ours would be a better world! The words of the prophet Jeremiah put it all well. “If I go out into the field, behold those who are slain by the sword! And if I enter the city, behold, the diseases of famine, for both prophet and priest ply their trade through the land, and have no knowledge.” (Jer. 14) With leaders in our age, the prevalent concern is not wisdom or understanding. Talk about more power in order to rule for longer than anyone else! Talk of wealth and riches beyond anyone’s wildest imagination! Talk of asking God to bring down ‘Holy Ghost fire’ and sulphur upon the enemies of the throne and ensuring that their children’s children never know success or prosperity! Our times make power seem totally opposed to God’s will and kingdom.

Yet, we know that all authority belongs to God (Matt 28:18).

The wisdom of Solomon Solomon was not obsessed with

FIRM FAITH: RIGHT REASON by

Most Rev. Emmanu el Adebanjo

Tel: 08039494219 Email: revodege@yahoo.com how long he could rule for, nor was he paranoid about the enemies he might have during his tenure. He simply wanted to be able to discern between good and evil in order to lead God’s people aright. When he woke up from his dream, his reaction to this encounter emphasised the texture of his rulership. Solomon went into the temple, offered up burnt offerings and peace offerings and gave a feast also for all his servants (1Kings 3:16). Only one like Solomon would choose that. It is the difference between the wisdom of Solomon and the wisdom of this age.

The leader with a difference Only leaders who hope to see God can seek the Wisdom of Solomon over other goods. Jesus once spoke about that kingdom of heaven and how to get it. “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one

pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matt 13:44-45). This layout plan excludes the greedy ‘winner-takes-all’ leader. The rule for obtaining the kingdom is to give in order to get, to leave behind in order to forge ahead. Is it not curious that God does not make it possible to get the kingdom without having to sell off something precious? Things were the same with the rich young man who came to Jesus to ask: “Master, what good work must I do to receive eternal life?” The ultimate answer he got after we are told that Jesus loved him was this: “If you wish to be perfect, go and sell all that you possess and give the money to the poor, and you will become the owner of a treasure in heaven.” (Matt. 19:17-21).

It is a prospect that many leaders cannot even contemplate talk less accomplish. Yet, if God remains the same, how difficult it must be for the rich and powerful to enter the kingdom of heaven?

(Mk.10: 25).

Most Rev Emmanuel Ade Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo

Leadership skills (2) a walk! If one happens to lead and there is no vision which compels the people to follow, in no short time, the people will become disillusioned and cease to follow such a leader.

Have a compelling vision!

3. The ability to carry others along is a very necessary skill for a leader to have. This is because if people do not buy into your idea or vision and you are not able to convince them of its authenticity and viability, they cease to follow. Leaders need to have a good rapport with their followers in order to carry them along, since they are the ones to do the work or the burden bearers. A good leader should not be stand-offish but be approachable. The ability to carry others along though innate can be developed in an individual.

4. Good inter-personal skills are a must for anyone who wishes to occupy leadership positions. Though not all have a sunny disposition towards life, a leader should be able to relate well with people. When a person is cantankerous and difficult to please, people tend to withdraw from such a person. Having good inter-personal skills is quite different from carrying people along; though they are inter-twined but a good leader needs to have both skills.

5. A true leader will be sympathetic towards his followers and is able to show sympathy and empathy. This is the abil-

ity to show kindness, compassion, consideration for others or having fellow feeling. If a leader is not able to identify with the feelings of his followers, he distances himself from them and will eventually not be able to command their respect. The ability to show feelings of empathy towards one’s fellows is an inherent ability. It is essential for a leader to have this trait. If you don’t have this trait, you can fake it until you make it!

6. The ability to say no or refuse a proposal is necessary in the affairs of life. When a leader is too weak to reject a thing or stamp his feet down, it will be seen as a sign of feebleness. At the end of the day, the people under such a leader will tend to take him for granted and will do things in a shoddy way. If you are such a leader, you need to develop a thick skin and learn to say no!

7. Delegation of responsibility is a must in any organisation. No one can do it all and if a leader tries to always do all things by himself, the tendency is for the followers to take a back seat. If a leader who is autocratic and has a know- it- all attitude runs an organisation, the people will be relegated to the background and not offer the best of their services. Leaders need to take a back seat when it comes to other people’s duties and learn to delegate responsibilities. Allowing people to fail and then

making corrections will develop their potential and enable followers to make concrete suggestions that may help the organissation in the long-run.

Delegate responsibilities and have a well-structured organogram!

8. Meting out punishment when errors have been observed is pertinent to stability and growth in any organisation. When a person errs and is not disciplined, others will tend to play truancy as they see it as a sign of weakness on the part of the leadership.

They will definitely take advantage of this and as such, there should be laid-down rules for behaviour, work ethics and punishment for deviant behaviour. I have come to realise by experience, that followers respect a leader who enforces them to behave well and regard one who does not do so as weak. This trait can be cultivated.

9. Any leader who does not produce a successor is not a good leader. A leader should be able to encourage his followers and thus bring out the leader in them! This can be done through teaching sessions, seminars, trainings, impartations and a leader should not give up when rearing people because Rome was not built in a day. Expect people to fail, but correct them in love!

Nobody is perfect, so keep on and keep on keeping on.

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Faith

Interview

Datiri: Boko Haram wants to wipe out Christians in Borno

Rev. Dachollom D. Datiri is the President Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN). In this interview with MUSA PAM in Jos, he speaks on the Boko Haram target is to eliminate Christians and other issues.

What do you have to say about the incessant attacks on Christians in the Northern part of the country? he attacks on Christians have been incessant and persisting for several years. For me this a very sad and sorry development in this country, because I recalled years back when we use to co-exist peacefully whether Christians or Muslim, or whatever part of the country the person comes, we use to co-exist very well, but this is a very terrible development and for me is very unfortunate and what makes it more unfortunate is that Christians have always been the target, churches and Christians business have been the target which clearly reveals the sinister agenda to destroyed the church in Nigeria, that kind of agenda is devilish, and it is agenda state clearly to destroyed and if someone thinks that the way to destroyed Christians is to killed it members, and I thinks that man is not working for God, but working for the devil, but for me as a clergy, I see this as clearly as an attack on the church and the clergy, we have lost many clergy, COCIN as a denomination has lost quite a number of clergy, and even just last we lost a pastor in Toro local government of Bauchi state who was attack and killed, that is a very sorry development that we are witnessing in this country today.

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How will describe the situation that for the past three Months now there no any news about the Chicbok girls whom some of them are tour COCIN Members?

It’s very unfortunate and sad, as I said earlier this an attacked on the church, majority of those girls who were adopted are Christians and quite a number of them are COCIN members, it now hundred and some days since they were adopted and all we hear now is that they know where the girls are, but nothing has been done at least seen anything done to rescue them, if where they are is known why is it that stopped our security from rescuing those girls, I think that the problems is that the armed forces, the security operative are already effected, infested and diluted with members of the Boko Haram sects who are licking out information about any attempt to rescue this girls, otherwise I don’t see any other explanation than that, so that reveals a problem that is even more deep seated than we realised, more serious problem realised as a nation, I mean if the armed forces are infested and effected by this dreaded sects called Boko Haram than Nigeria is in trouble, and I believed that the president of the Federal republic of Nigeria and all those in government should take serious and drastic steps to arrest this situation, because this is a very dangerous situation we find ourselves in How do you view Boko Haram?

Boko Haram is an Islamic sect that has a plan to eliminate the Christians and that is very obvious now, perhaps at the beginning there were attempts trying to cover that, but now is very obvious because the facts

Anyanwu

Government should choose wisely the kind of people they send on pilgrimage, because the pilgrimage exercise for me I believe is a very viable tool for national transformation, because transformation begins in the hearts are there, it is very clear, take Borno state for instance, COCIN Has three Regional Church councils RCC’s in Borno state, one is RCC Borno with its headquarters in Kirkasama we have lost quite a number of Local church councils ‘LCC’ there, another one is RCC Gombwuru with the Headquarters at Mari Bakin-Kogi where we lost many too, and the worst of them is RCC Gwoza where we lost over twenty churches and most of this churches have a lot of congregation and if you are to count the congregation that we have lost, they are running to over fifty churches and that is seriously, that is to say that the church have been targeted and the aim is to weep out Christianity, Boko Haram is determining to weep out Christianity in Borno, come to Yobe State is the same thing, so we have lost quite a number of churches there too, I have been talking on COCIN, What about other denomination, I know that others churches have lost pastors and thousands of members so clearly this is an agenda to weep out Christianity, but we want to make bold to say that nobody has the power or the right to weep off Christianity because the church is the church of God and “Jesus said I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against

its”. Boko Haram is the aspect of the gate of hell they will certainly not prevail against the church, Boko Haram is an instrument of the devil, human being who have allowed the devil to use them, they will not triumph over God Many have predicted the division of Nigeria come 2015 as a clergy do you see it that way?

The happening over the years have painted a situation that is bad and perhaps that is why people have predicted doom for Nigeria, but I don’t think that is God wills that Nigeria will break-up, I don’t believed that is God will, because God brought Nigeria together and God wills is to see Nigeria survived, and I think what we should do now is to collectively as a country look for ways to address this problems that we faces and clearly we must fight terror, because terror is plans is to see Nigeria breaks up, but Nigeria will survived What is the voice of the church ahead of the 2015?

Well our voice as a church regarding the 2015

elections is that Christians must vote wisely, vote for credible people of integrity, people who enter politics to served not for selfish gain or for selfish reasons and the history of Nigeria and history of politics in Nigeria have revealed clearly what selfish politicians can do, and what honest genuine men and women of integrity can do the difference is clear so our word is Christians must vote wisely, what has been over the years is an attempt to discredit Christian been in government, but we know from what has happen over the years and particularly when President Yar’Adua was ruling, here on the plateau we know the persecution and suffering we pass through, so if someone is out there to try to paint a picture that the Christians cannot govern this country, it is only a deception and our eyes are wide open and we know what has been happening, so we are telling Christians to voter wisely There have been agitation that government should not support the pilgrimage any longer, what is your views?

Well those who are agitation for abolitions of the pilgrimage exercise do not know what they are saying or perhaps do not know the benefits that are there in going to the holy land, I know their bases of their argument is that there are people who go there for their selfish reasons, and if that is their point of argument, then what they should be saying is government should choose wisely the kind of people they send on pilgrimage, because the pilgrimage exercise for me I believe is a very viable tool for National transformation, because transformation begins in the hearts unless the hearts is transform, whatever else you try to do to transform people will fail and if people go to encounter God and they are transformed in their hearts, that is a plus again for the nation, so it will be foolish for government to abolish or not to support that, because I know what I have gain as a clergy, I received great inspiration from my visit to the promise land so it will be foolish for government to abolish that.

Is there any synergy or unity among all the denominations in Plateau State?

Well forces have come from outside trying to divide Christians on the plateau, but we have recognised and we are working hard to bring Christians together within the last few years, you can clearly see Christians on the plateau coming together, so we will work for more unity of Christians in the state, the reason why they want to destroyed the unity of Christians in plateau state is because it is a Christians state, and they want to destroyed the stronghold of Christianity in Nigeria and they will not succeed so my general advise is for people who are Christians to get to know their God, but for those who are not Christians to listen to what Christians are saying Christians have a message, it is a gospel and it is a gospel of salvation, so Christianity is more than just a religion, Christianity is a way of life of those who have received those salvation and are sure of where they are going.

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Faith

Events made clear by prophecy: Prosperity

THE ORACLES OF GOD by

Frank Oboden Olomukoro

R

frankolomukoro@yahoo.com, 07033621866

evelation 3:17 “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing: and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor and blind, and naked.”

The Laodicean age is where we are now. Prosperity in the church is a significant sign prior to the rapture. The immense proportion that prosperity has assumed in the churches is an indicator of the looming judgment of God upon the world, starting from the house of God (1 Peter 4:17), the coming rapture and fulfilling prophecies issued by God through His servants of old. The times are therefore exciting to those who know the Biblical signs and prophecies of the second coming of Christ.

Apart from the exposition of the Catholic Church and her love for prosperity, the Protestant denomination churches who are daughters to the mother church are dancing in frenzy on the platform of prosperity and finances. The church enemies are within and they are blasphemers and betrayers of Christ in the pew and on the pulpit. The behaviour of church leaders today is such that they sound as if they are God who can do anything. What does a servant of God need AK47-totting men for in church? What does a servant of God need a siren-blasting convoy and entourage for? What is the purpose? It is a sign of the last day Laodecian church. Because, they neither win souls into the

kingdom of God nor is God glorified by it instead they are all irritants that keep men and women away from receiving the grace of God. This haughtiness and arrogant disposition of many of the practitioners of Christianity are turning people away from God and it informs why men hate the church and its shepherds. Ephesians 4:17 Wealth, though good, is the fastest instrument or medium for spiritual abuse and decay, arrogance, pride, debasement and moral degeneration. For the love of money is the root of all evil. 1 Timothy 6:10-12. In the prophecy of Revelation 3:17, the church was proclaiming as Jesus revealed to Apostle John “Thou sayest, I am increased with goods.” This literally means: “I have spiritual riches.” Let us again examine this 20th Century Laodicean boast in the light of the word of God. If the church were truly spiritually rich, its influence would be felt upon community life.

But exactly what kind of lives are these so-called spiritual and influential men of the community living? Out there abounds wife-swapping, prostitution and band of children crashing parties, exacting a terrible toll in promiscuous sexual acts, narcotics addiction, gambling, stealing and all kinds of evil. And the church goes on claiming how full the churches are. The churches have turned the people over to

wholly motivational teachings on how to become millionaires and billionaires by faith and confessions instead of the quest for the divine nature of God. They have become bankrupt and they do not know it.

Take a good look around you.

Examine the people as they walk by. In the multitudes you see, can you pick out those that have the appearance of Christ?

No, but the quest to look like models and the craze for fashion are the main thing for those claiming to be born-again.

Watch how they dress, watch how they act, hear what they say, see where they go. Surely there ought to be some real evidence of the new birth among all those we see go by. But few there be. Matthew 7:14. Yet today, the fundamental churches are telling us they have millions saved and are even spirit-filled. Spirit filled? Can you call women spirit-filled who go around with frizzy bobbed hair, trousers, shorts and slacks, all painted up like Jezebel? Far from being adorned with modest apparel as becometh Christian women, no doubt it is a display of worldliness.

From Information Nigeria published on June 21, 2012 in Nigerian Current Affairs, the police round up seven pastors, bishops and prophets and paraded them in Kogi State for allegedly posing as pastors during a revival programme in Lokoja. They allegedly pretended to be pastors in order to win the sympathy of the audience

Your antidote to achieving greatness

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ne vital ingredient of dominion and greatness is prayer. The Bible says in the book of James 5: 17-18, “Elias was a man subject to like passion as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain and the earth brought forth her fruit.”

Prayer is establishing a connection with God that is able to do all things; the God that upholds all things by the word of His power. Prayer is talking out things with God, and communing with Him through the channel of prayers creates God’s presence around you. It brings you under the power of the glory of God because God comes down to dialogue with you in the place of intimacy in prayer.

Like it was with Adam, prayer is God coming down in the cool of the day to fellow-

ship with the praying saints.

God cannot be around and situations dominate you. When you are in constant touch with God through prayer, nothing can dominate you anymore because nothing can dominate God. Spending time daily in the presence of God causes you to radiate in the glory of God such that many people cannot look at you straight in the face, let alone for demons to hang around you. Friends, there is no alternative to regular fervent prayer, if you want to dominate those demonic forces and the opposing forces of evil that hitherto have tended to dominate your life.

There is no limit to the exploits that we can do through prayer – the destinies of nations have turned around and great revivals have been brought about when believers spend time on their knees. You are only powerful to the extent that you are prayerful. Prophet Elijah was a man of prayer and as

such he had power with God such that the kings of his days were afraid of him.

The words that came out of his mouth were like decrees because they carried so much power. A disciplined prayer life can also get you to that position, also because Elijah was flesh and blood like you and I. The Bible says in 1 Kings 17: “Elijah said to King Ahab, as long as the Lord God liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years but according to my word.” That was a prayer of authority. And God went into action immediate3ly. Each time you stand in authority in the name of Jesus, to make prophetic utterances by the Spirit of God, God moves into action to ensure that your words (God’s words) do not fell to the ground.

Many times, all we need to do is to issue an order just as Elijah did, instead of going into lengthy religious prayers.

to commit money to the book launch of the host pastor. Always, the motive and intention is money, money and money.

We also read of the account of November 23, 2012 titled: ‘Jail is too good for Nigerian pastors’.

Foremost Pentecostal preachers were accused of fleecing worshippers by making spurious claims and indulging in the exploitation of the gullible. Unbelievable and shameful that the so-called unbelieving (not born again) are condemning men of God for acting ignorant of the antithesis of faith, urging the people to give more money in return for blessings that were neither guaranteed nor cognisant of Biblical realities.

There are Pentecostal pastors in the UK and Nigeria known to scam worshippers by selling olive oil and black currant drink as ‘miracle cures’, capable of curing terminal diseases. They are sellers of 21st century indulgences and this exposes the underbelly of these merchant-pastors. They claim that God told them to keep covenant partners.

The issue is religion, exploitation and subsequent scandals will not go away. Not in this last generation because prophecies have made these occurrences so real and clear, attesting to the word of God that heaven and earth will pass away but God’s word will never pass away.

In Acts 11:24, when the world looked at professing believers, they saw in them

the character of Christ and called them ‘Christians’ for the first time in Antioch in the times of the Apostles. But today, when Forbes looked into the churches and made a report, they did not see Christ or anything of His divine nature. Instead, they saw wealth, they saw the richest Nigerian pastors. They did not see the Holy Ghost as in Acts 4:8: “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost…” But Forbes saw private jets, homes in London and US, publishing houses, newspapers, magazines, local television stations, satellite TV, hotels, extensive real estate, estimated net worth of $3 million - $150million, elite high schools, universities and a host of other worldly attainments.

Jude 11 says: “Woe unto them! For they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gain saying of Korah.” It is the Laodicean spiritually bankrupt condition prior to the rapture. This confirms that the stage is now set for the rapture. On whose side are you? On the side of the dazzling glamour of worldliness or on the side of the simple glowing divine nature of our master Jesus Christ?

Frank Oboden Olomukoro is a minister at Christian Ministry of Reconciliation, Km 14, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway (beside PUNCH Newspapers), Ogun State

The Seeds of by Greatness Apostle Clement by Ogbonna Bishop Lawrence Osagie apostleofgraceinwo

Tel: 08063250667, mail:powerlineministries@mail.com, www.powerlineministriesinc.org

A desperate situation requires a desperate approach. You can get to a level of relationship with God that, the thought of your heart that you voice out is regarded as prayers and God moving on your behalf makes sure they all come to pass before your eyes.

You may be wondering how it would be possible for you to attain such a level of relationship and authority with God in prayers. Start from the level you are now. Stand up and tell that situation facing you now, exactly what you want it to be and go to sleep. Joshua commanded the moon and the sun to stand still for him to accomplish his purpose in God and they obeyed.

Not because of Joshua but because of the God of Joshua who controls the universe. That God is your God. There was neither conspiracy

nor wicked device that could destroy Daniel because he was a man of prayer. Prayer causes God to move on your behalf and as He moves, all His (your) enemies will be scattered. When the situation confronting you becomes too complex and you don’t know what prayer to make, turn to the Holy Spirit and begin to pray in other tongues.

The Holy Ghost who searches the mind of God will help you pray God’s perfect will through in that situation.

Through the power of prayers, Esther turned the death sentence that was hanging over her people, the Jews, around. I don’t care what the enemy has brought against you, you can take authority and exercise dominion over it now through the power of your prayers. This is your antidote to achieving greatness.

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Faith

Unlocking the supernatural!

The Voice of

Dominion by

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Bishop David Oyedepo

Phone: 7747546-8; E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

he knowledge of the supernatural is very central to a life of triumph and fulfilment. Any man will lose control of the affairs of life without such knowledge.

Reason? Every natural happening is determined by events in the supernatural. The supernatural is, therefore, the foundation of all things.

Just as the foundation of any natural building, the reality of the supernatural may not easily be comprehended; yet it is the control room of all things. Let us recognise that the supernatural is real. Two main forces dominate the supernatural world. These are God and the devil; put differently, the forces of good and evil. These two forces cannot be compared in any way. One is greater and mightier than the other.

God is the Almighty, the source of all powers. He is life. He is existence itself. He created the devil and it is impossible for the creature to be as, or more powerful, than the creator.

However, God did not create the

devil as the evil one he now is. He was created as the angel of light, a perfect being (Ezekiel 28:12-15).

Lucifer was excellent in all his ways, until sin was found in him.

What sin did he commit? He wanted to rise up to the skies. He wanted to take the position of the most High, his creator (Isaiah 14:12-14).

He was created and called Lucifer, the son of the morning. The name Lucifer means ‘the shining one’.

He was one of the three mighty princes that exercised authority over the other angels. When Lucifer sinned, he was dethroned. He was cast down from heaven and from that moment, the devil emerged. He started his mission of countering everything God has created.

God did not create evil. Everything He created was declared good and very good. (Genesis 1:31) The devil himself did not create anything. All he did was to embark on his mission of reversing God’s creation. Good was reversed, and evil emerged.

This was entirely the devil’s doing.

Man’s Dethronement To The Natural Realm: Man was created by God in His own image and likeness, and put in the Garden of Eden. Satan, in his characteristic way, sought to dethrone man. He knew that the only way man could be driven out of the garden into his hands, was through disobedience and sin. He knew that God could not stand sin. He knew that God’s relationship with man could be severed, if man sinned; he therefore sought to make man disobey God. He succeeded through his subtlety. He went through the woman and deceived her. She in turn involved her husband.

They ate the forbidden fruit and their eyes were opened.

They were not physically blind, but they entered into a negative phase of existence.

Man lost his throne and placement. Man became miserable.

Man disobeyed God through Satan’s trickery. Like Satan, he was chased out of the Garden of Eden, stripped of all honour, dignity and power.

Man Is Re-Enthroned!:

Jesus came on an everlasting mission to restore man to the life of God, which Adam lost to Satan. The Bible announced the mission of Jesus in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The natural man, the man without Jesus in his life, is under the control of the evil one.

Only through Christ can anyone enter the covenant and be rescued from perishing. Through Christ, God once again re-establishes man in his position of dominion where he has control over all things. Man can once again live supernaturally on earth.

This means living out of the ordinary, through divine motivation. But how does this operate? How does one step from the natural into the supernatural? This will form the basis for my teaching next week. I will show you one of the ways you can unlock the supernatural.

Friend, unlocking the supernatural is the preserve of those born again. You are

born again by confessing your sins and accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. You can do so now if you haven’t been, as you say this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. I can’t help myself. Forgive me of my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. From today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour. Now I know I am a child of God.” I will continue this teaching next week.

Every exploit in life is a product of knowledge. For further reading, please get my books — Commanding The Supernatural, Operating The Supernatural and Walking In The Miraculous.

I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have four services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 7:35 a.m., 9:10 a.m. and 10.45 a.m. respectively.

I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.

‘Kairos’ moment “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” Ecc 3:1 here are situations you are passing through, in your marriage, business and every area of your life. You tend to be confused and you are asking questions.

Your case has become a wonder to many and they seem to be mocking you; they are asking, where is your God? If truly you are serving God, you should not be passing through all this. But I have come to tell you, to everything on earth there is a time and a season. God has His own time and timing which is different from ours; I mean a divine timetable. This is what is called the ‘kairos’ while the other is the ‘kronos’, which is the time we all calculate and work with.

“And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that

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which shall befall you in the last days.” Gen 49:1 Let me unravel a truth here; something mysterious is about to happen in your life because you are about to enter into your ‘kairos’ moment (Gen. 49:19; Mark 5:1-5,9-10).

“Gad, a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last.” Gen49:19 “And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.

And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit…, What is thy name? and he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.” Mark 5:1,2,9 The name, ‘Gaderene’ is connected to Gad (Gen49:19); also underline the word, Legion.

Jacob was telling his children what would be; these were issues of many years to come yet they

came up on his prophetic radar by the inspiration of God. He started from Reuben but when he got to Gad in verse 19, he was able to see through his bloodline and gene and said ‘I see a troop overtaking Gad but at last he shall overcome’ (he was referring not to Gad as a person but his future lineage).

Of the seed of Gad shall be overpowered by a troop (the word ‘troop’ is Hebrew while the Greek translation is ‘Legion’), which is 6,000 demons/spirits, 3,000 footmen and 3,000 horsemen but at last, he shall overcome. This was exactly what happened in Mark 5.

“Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure” Isa 46:10 Something has been declared concerning you but the counsel of God shall stand and you shall overcome.

Jesus had been ministering to the multitude just on the other side of Gadarene (Mark 4:35), which was Jordan. (When the children of Israel were crossing to the Promised Land, among the tribes that remained on this side of Jordan was the tribe of Gath (Gad) and in the days of David they were called the Gatherine but in the time of Jesus they called it the land of the Gaderenes.

Now while He was ministering on this side to a multitude

and great things were happening, Jesus in the midst of the ministration, received a signal from heaven and He downloaded what was next in ‘kairos’ time and it was then He said, ‘let us cross over to the other side…’

Until it is ‘kairos’ time, which is the appointed time, nothing happens.

Immediately Jesus caught the signal of what was on the mind of God and the message read, ‘This is ‘kairos’ moment, the fullness of time has come to free one of the seed of Jacob (which is Gad)’, He had to quickly discharge the multitude and cross over to the other side. Your ‘kairos’ time has come and it is now in the name of Jesus.

Now, Jesus crossed over, but they still tried to stop Him. They knew that it was his kairos moment and thus, time for his deliverance. They knew that eternity had stepped into time to set him free but they were not ready to let go. They employed every possible means - the wind, the storm and began to trouble the waters.

“And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.” Mk4:37 Little did they know that they were dealing with He that holds the power and key to the universe. The Bible says He holds all things by the word of His power.

When he said let there be light, darkness had no choice but to

obey and disappear, giving way to light.

You have been in that dungeon but this word of God is locating you this minute, not even the wind, storm or any other elemental force can withstand you because now is your time.

Once it is kairos moment, everything begins to fall in place and work in your favour.

“And we know that all things work together for good…, to them who are called according to his purpose” Rom 8:28 Somebody is reading this now, you have an appointment with destiny. This man of Gadarene eventually became an evangelist.

After this, he besought Jesus (in verse 18 & 19) to follow Him but He refused him, knowing that he had an assignment.

“And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him and all men did marvel.” Mark 5:20 He brought revival to 10 cities (deca - polis implies 10 cities) by publishing in these cities of the Lord’s doings. The enemy knows you are destined for greatness, hence, is set to destroy and frustrate your destiny. But that time is now and you will be delivered in the name of Jesus.

I know you have been blessed.

Write and share your testimonies, comments, etc.

Rev’d Femi Akinola – The Hebrews International, Lekki, Lagos

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MYSTERY OF ANXIETY with

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Bishop John Ogbansie gbe

he Lord Jesus Christ also instructed his disciples and said to them, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart,” Matthew 11:29.

The mind of Christ is the mind of humility. It is mind of power.

It is the mind of holiness, purity and righteousness. It is the mind of obedience and submission to the will of God. It is the mind of selflessness. It is the mind of sacrifice. It is the mind of love.

It is the mind of peace. It is the mind of glory. It is the very mind of divine communion, correspondence and divine intimacy with the Almighty God. In respect of this unique mind of God, the word of God declared “These word space Jesus,

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and lifted his eyes to heaven and said, father, the hour has come; glorify thy son, that thy son may also glorify thee – John 17:2. Here the above scripture emphatically expressed this mind more, and also expressed this major passion and obsession to the will of God and the salvation of the perishing mankind. This scripture also portrays its position as the God incarnate.

In the mind of Christ, we shall understand the mystery and essence of the cross more and inky then shall our passion for preaching Christ increase. And with this in-depth understanding of the cross, our central theme shall then be Christ and he crucified.

This was why the word of God

Overcome with humility declared, “For I determined to know nothing among you, except Jesus Christ and him crucified” – 1Corwenthians 2:2. The mind of Christ was also revealed on the cross. In the mind of Christ we see the beauty of Holiness. Our Lord Jesus Christ came into this world to reveal and demonstrate God’s love and his standard of Holiness. He also came to reveal the sinfulness of sin. The cross of our Lord Jesus Christ exposes the sin of sin, and man stands condemned before the righteous God. The cross revealed the mind of our saviour who knew no sin, and became so identified with us, that he gave himself substitutionary sacrifice on our behalf. The mind of Christ reveals an attitude of self emptiness and absolute humility, so profound, that he would empty himself, taking the form of a bond servant, and was made in the likeness of men. He also gave himself a ransom for sin. Being found in the appearance of a man aforesaid, he

Testimony of fruit of the womb

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hen I got married in January 1990, as an ordinary Orthodox Church goer, little did I know that I was going to stay so many years without a child.

My problem started when I got pregnant in March, 1990 and after five months, (August, 1990), the pregnancy refused to grow again. Neither was there any sign of miscarriage. I went to the doctor who described it as mixed abortion. This mixed abortion repeated itself three times, also at the fifth month

of pregnancy and all within the first one and half years of marriage. No doctor was able to diagnose exactly what was wrong.

Then I knew I had a problem. I went for several tests but received no significant results. I visited native women who gave me local herbs.

There was nothing I was not given to eat yet there was no result. Things got worse because after the last mixed abortion I earlier mentioned, there was no more pregnancy.

I started all over again, but the problem continued for

five good years. I visited many spiritual houses, native doctors in and outside River State where I spent so much money and was subjected to many negative things but they were not able to solve my problems.

The last place I was introduced to was Seaside Clinic, Port Harcourt where I had an X-ray of the womb. It was one of the most painful things I had ever experienced in my life. I suffered so much that I wanted to die so as to leave all the problems I was facing.

When the result came out, I

Politics of settlement is hurting Nigeria – Eze CON TINUED FR O M PAGE 51

ment should be meted out to those who fleece this country. What would you say?

Now, we need to have very strong disciplinary organisations manned by men of integrity and people who are fair. I know we have institutions like ICPC, EFCC, and the agencies of government involved in law enforcement. But because the inadequacies of these organisations, we can’t achieve a lot as corrupt minds still abound therein. We have to get people who are well-groomed, people who are disciplined, people whose character and nature have been tested, have been transformed, and who will be backed by the laws of the land and protected by these laws and even by the security system of this country to enforce discipline in this nation. Well, we know that in some instances, some people have been jailed and some have had their property confiscated. Unfortunately, what we seem to be seeing is what may lend itself to selective judgment, selective discipline. It is not total, it is not across board. It is a situation of ‘if you support us, we leave you but if you don’t support us, we use your failure to tame you’.

You seem to be alluding to the present wind of impeachment moves against governors of the opposition APC when you talk about selective justice, selective discipline.

Yes, but that does not exist only in the political parties. I see it all over the place, even also in the churches, the communities, everywhere. We seem to be partial as a society. We need transformed minds, we need people who are fair-minded. I can tell you that if APC was to be in power, they will do the same thing. PDP is doing that now because they seem to be in control, because they are now in power. And it tells you a lot about our nature as a

people. So, until we get a leader who is patriotic, who is revolutionary in thinking of transforming the country, a leader who is unbiased, we will remain in this state of affairs. I don’t know how we are going to get to that level. But my prayer is that we get to that level. How God will do it, I don’t know but God can do anything. My brother, I know much about what God has said about this country and I know that it does not matter how some people think they are now in charge being in power, and that they can do whatever they like. I think that the earlier Nigerians begin to know that God owns this country and that we should live in the fear of God Almighty, then we will see something dramatic in this country. How He will do it, I don’t know.

Is that a prophecy?

Yes o! you can quote me. If Nigerians don’t change, God will do something dramatic and Nigerians will be shell-shocked. See, people think that when they control power, they can be lawless, do things with impunity and they think they can drive us anywhere. But God will do something dramatic in this country.

Are you referring to God’s wrath coming?

(Cuts in)Whatever you want to call it, call it. But I know God will do something soon if we Nigerians don’t fear this our God. Even as He is interested in growing this nation and we continue in this impunity, then we take what we would see. All I know is that we cannot continue in this impunity where whoever gets into power wants to destroy the other people.

No, it doesn’t work. We must reign with equity and fairness. What we see now in Nigeria is a game of ‘settle me I settle you’. What kind of leadership is that? Settle me I settle you. No! This country belongs to God. This politics of settlement cannot continue like that.

humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death even the death on the cross. Philippians 2:8.

It must be borne in mind that our Lord Jesus Christ from the depth of his heart saw everything from the angle of perpetual relationship with his father; a burning missionary desire for man’s salvation and emancipation. He saw the whole universe related to his father, and for that reason, he gave his life in obedience to him. The major passion for our Lord Jesus Christ from the depth of his heart was to glorify his father in saving sinful man.

Therefore, I humbly and categorically say, that we have the mind of Christ, when we see the father in all his holiness. We have the mind of Christ, when we see sin as that which breaks the heart of a holy and righteous God. We have the mind of Christ, when we feel the passion of his soul in submission to the will of God, even unto death indeed, I believe that if

Faith

I have the mind of Christ I can see the infinite beauty of God’s holiness as he saw it, when he doted me in the robes of his perfect righteousness. He made himself of no reputation, and was made to become sin for us who knew no sin; that we might become the righteousness of God in him.

Do you have the mind of Christ?

Do you have the passion for the lost souls with equal force as it is in the mind of Christ? Are you ready to pour your obedience and sacrifice to the supreme will of the almighty God, even as our Lord Jesus Christ did? Are you ever ready to serve hi unconditionally without compromise, distraction, entanglements or any form of worldly conformity even as Christ did? Are you ready to yield your heart and mind to our Lord Jesus Christ?

Determine to have this mind from now. As you do so, may God perfect all that concerneth you and give you, all round victory in the name of Jesus Christ.

WORD OF LIFE by

Bishop Moses Kat tey Tel: 08087707486, Email: moseskattey@yahoo.co.uk

was told that my tubes were blocked and there were no chances of pregnancy until I could go for an operation to clean the blocked tubes. This was also a suggestion and not a guarantee for pregnancy.

Several doctors interpreted the result in different ways so I became frustrated. I did not know where else to go. I had reached the end of the road.

I did not want any operation. Because of the reproach of the people around, I was ashamed of myself and this was when the Almighty God stepped in.

A woman called me in March, 1994 and told me that my problem is a spiritual problem and I should go to Christian Fellowship Deliverance Church (now Commonwealth Covenant Church Int’l) for deliverance. I did not understand what she was talking about because I knew very little about deliverance and she explained how the Holy Spirit would bring out the root of the problem and solve it completely.

She said I was going round from place to place because I did not know the actual cause (root).

Although I still did not understand but I felt I should try since this idea was somehow different from all the other ones. So I discussed with my husband, not knowing that the mother of the General Overseer of the same Church had told him same thing.

On March 15th, 1994, (Wednesday, 9.00pm) we went for deliverance which lasted till about 1am. I could not be-

lieve what I heard, because God exposed everything the devil had done. They were reversed and I tell you, everything I suffered for five years ended in four hours! The Holy Spirit went further to promise me specifically that I would be pregnant in August that same year. I wondered how this could be possible but God does not promise and fail. He is not a man that he should lie so I decided to give my life to God based on this promise as advised by the General Overseer, Rt. Rev. Moses O. Kattey.

I finally gave my life to the Lord Jesus Christ and started to fellowship with the Commonwealth Covenant Church on May 21, 1994. I decided to depend on the promise of God and refused to take any more drugs or go to anywhere.

Just as the Holy Spirit promised, I became pregnant in August, 1994. I was a little afraid of the fifth month, but God worked a perfect miracle in me and there was no single problem for the nine months because whatever God doeth shall be forever. Nothing shall be added and nothing shall be removed.

On May 15, 1995, I was delivered safely of a beautiful baby girl. Ever since then, I have learnt to depend solely on God for everything and by the special grace of God I have two beautiful children.

God has done something wonderful in my life, and He has brought joy, peace and sanity to my home. Everybody should join and magnify the lord for His goodness.

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Faith

Develop a champion mentality

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ne other important factor that can help one to realize one’s goal in life is the development of champion mentality. If you want to excel in life, discard the idea of dressing like failure, thinking like a failure, discussing like a failure and associating with “failures” your life depends on the kind of mentality you have.

You will become what your mind tells you. If your mind tells you that you will fail and you believe it, then you will fail. OKE UMA MADUEKWE says: “success in any department of life whether physical, mental or spiritual- can only be achieved by a positive attitude. Our future is determined, to a very great extent, by what we think now”.

From the above statement, it is noted that man is what his mind tells him. If you have the mentality that tells you that you will never fail, you will never fail. You should be fond of saying, “I can do this, “ I will do this, “I must do this.” The grace of God is insufficient in your life to realize whatever goal you want to realize. Tell yourself that you can do all things through Christ Jesus. If you have this kind of mentality, you will not be finding things difficult.

When others say, you will not make it, tell yourself that you can make it. This is the kind mentality God wants from you. Joshua and Caleb excelled in their struggle to enter Canaan because they developed a champion mentality. They told Moses: Let us go at once, and Occupy it: for we are well able to overcome it. (Numbers 13:30)

It was the above confession that made God fell in love with Joshua and Caleb, and He gave them victory. A person who has a champion mentality does not fear death. He always says, “If I perish, I perish. He is interested in the war that confronts him. He does not fear any personality. He sees every challenge as a ladder that will help him climb to the height of success. He anchors his faith in God and believes that as long as Jesus lives, victory is his portion.

To have a champion mentality and self-confidence means one trusting oneself that can do all things. In other words, you can be what you want to be and get what you want to get when you respect yourself, have self-integrity, self-esteem and confidence in yourself. Self-esteem here according to Norman Vincent Peale means, “to like yourself, to have a good feelings about you as a person. Because it is the censor that produces bad or good feelings depending on your wrong or right actions it follows that day….”

The above statement also means that if you want to get anything or achieve anything in life, you should not consider your shortcomings. You should not consider that you are a lame man, a stammerer, a short man, a poor man, a disfigured man or woman. Believe in yourself no matter how you are. If the four lepers in the Bible could stand the attack of the enemies of the people of God and become Ministers of Agriculture, you as a person can conquer your own enemies and become what you want to be. If Moses,

DIVINE WORD by

Pastor Vero Ezeh

A

dvance Learner’s Dictionary defines “Trophy” as something kept in memory of a victory or success i.e PRIZE Catastrophe means sudden happening that causes great suffering and destruction. For instance, flood, earthquake, fire outbreaks etc. Are catastrophic. What I am driving home here is that, in that catastrophic condition lies a trophy.

No condition is permanent. What is permanent is change, and change will charge you to take charge.

Similarly, without connection, there will be no collection. Sometimes the road to connection is characterized by stress, pains and sorrow. There are prices to be paid for a prize (trophy).

Whatever that limits you from getting to the top must surely give way. Your present status does not determine your future status. It is a matter of time your real worth will manifest. The birth of Jephthah necessitated by sexual immorality between his mother and father was a knock out to his life status. The consequence of that was that, his half brothers born by Gilead’s legal wife grew and threw him (Japh-

Tel: 08033378287

thah) out of their father’s house and inheritance. They called him the son of a strange woman harlot.

Is your case similar or exactly like that of Japhthah? Hold your peace.

“Now Japhthah fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of Tob: and there were gathered vain men to Japhthah, and went out with him. And it came to pass in process of time, that the children of Ammon made war against Israel, the elders of Gilead went to fetch Jephthah out of the land Tob. And they said unto Jephthah, come and be our captain, that we may fight with the children of Ammon… then Japhthah went with the elders of Gilead, and the people made him head and captain over them: and Japhthah uttered his words before the LORD in Mizpeh’ (Judges 11:1-11).

Do you see why you should hold your peace and actively wait upon God for change in your life?

It does not matter how you are treated today. There is a divine deposit on the inside of you. Your activities in discovering your worth will facilitate your miracles.

Japhthah was chased out of the house to rot away in shame. But

a stammerer could defeat Pharaoh, you can defeat your own enemies. Note that the realization of your goal in most cases does not depend on your natural builtup. After all, David the smallest among the solders of Israel defeated Goliath despise that he was young. His elder brother called him “little rat,” and at the end of everything, it was that little rat that brought victory to Israel. So, do not allow anything to stand as a limitation before you if you want to excel in life. If people are saying that you are not tall and therefore cannot join them in what they are doing, then leave them and develop another thing that needs the attention of a short person. Whatever you are, be that to the glory of God and you will excel. Have you not heard that the young shall grow? Have confidence in yourself and love your body built-up and you will succeed in life. In fact, the first enemy of success is self-hatred.

When you hate yourself, you will hardly excel in anything you are doing or you want to do.

Another factor or principle of Excellence in life is your ability to develop an effective implementation strategy. When you make plans, also plan how to implement your plans. Do not allow your plans function aimlessly. Fix up the ways you will go in realizing your plans for the actualization of your goals.

A footballer in the football match cannot play very well if he fails to implement all the strategies his coach taught him.

He cannot be called a wonderful player when he does not know

Word of FAITH byby Apostle Clement Apostle Clement Ogbonna Ogbonna apostleofgraceinwof2010@gmail com, apostleofgraceinwo clementogbonnaya2007@yahoo.com Tel: 08036774737 .

how to implement all he heard from his coach. This is even what the Bible means when it says that not hearer alone are justified but the doers. If you hear anything and do not put it into practice, you will hardly get what you want to get. Do what you heard and you will get what you want. This is an effective key to success.

However, if you do all these things and do not have good friends, you may not succeed.

An adage says, “show me your friend and I will tell you who you are.” If you have bad friends, you will hardly get what you want. If your goals are nice and you want to realize them. Then befriend people that will help you realize them.

This is not an act of segregation at all. Jesus adopted this strategy and it helped him. The Bible declares that he was always going into secret place to discuss and pray with Peter, James, and John. Why did he not involve Thomas and Judas Iscariot?

Listen the extent you will go in life depends on the kind of friend you have. Success is at your door but you may miss it if you have bad and unprofitable friends I urge you now to select your friends. Avoid hypocritical friends. They are there to “eat you up.” When you fall, they

will run away. They do not know the meaning of “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” So, desist from whoever will not help you succeed in life. This means that for you to succeed in life, you must befriend people who have already succeeded.

Do not stay too long with people who are not progressively minded. They will kill your visions.

The Bible says that evil communication corrupts good manners.

If you are a good person and wants to excel in life, you should avoid bad companies. Your future is in your hands. You will become what you want if you know how to do the right thing at the right time and at the right place with the right people. In fact, in one of my articles entitled: “ THE PERSON I MUST NOT BEFRIEND,” I stated that a person who always thinks and confesses negatively; a person who is immoral; a person who is not serious with God; a person who is visionless and lazy; a person who is fault-finder; a person who is wicked and arrogant; a person who loves money and boasts because he is rich; a person who plans evil and is in enmity with men; a person who bears the devil’s mask cannot be my friend. My reason is that he does not and cannot have anything good to give me. So who is your friend?

looking for you. Japhthah now gave them his conditions by asking them to sign a memorandum of understanding.

The other time it was their turn, but this time, it was Japhthah ‘s turn. His people, who formerly connived and pushed him out, now agreed to his terms and made him their head and captain.

I declare to you today1.

From grass to grace 2.

From demotion to promotion 3.

From rejection to reception 4.

From contention to connection

was a trophy. What if he had cursed his mother for bringing him into this world uncherished and uncared for? What if he had engaged his brothers in a fight for disgracing and insulting him before the public? He rather proved them wrong by the self development of his divine deposit. That added meaning to his life and he became a “national hot cake” ardently needed. Go work on yourself, there is trophy in that your catastrophe.

What can you say of Joseph, Hannah, Esther, Job etc..? These and lots more passed through painful and humiliating experiences, yet God saw them through.

You too can make it.

Trophy in catastrophe

he braved it. Though mixed up with vain men (hooligans) in the land of Tob, Jephthah knew his worth. He never allowed his humiliation and the public opinion to put him off.

He had physical strength as a divine deposit. Instead of self-pity and hopelessness, he developed his military skill to on evitable estate. May you never waste away your resources in life because of man’s disregard.

God can generate problems in the midst of your critics and enemies just to announce your worth.

When the Gileadites saw trouble, they sought for the rejected and banished Japhthah. Those who have given up on you will come

In japhthah’s catastrophe, there

LABICO Hosts 16th Convocation

T

he Lagos Anglican Bible College is to produce a new set of Bible graduates towards further propagation of evangelism in the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion as it holds its 16th Graduation Ceremony on Thursday August 7, 2014.

The event is expected to hold at Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos at 10. LABICO was established by the Resolution of the First Session of the 27th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos on May 6, 1997 to hold convocation for the awards of Certificate, Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Biblical Studies of the college to deserving graduates.

The Lagos Anglican Bible College admits students from all other Christian denominations.

Visitors to the College are The Most Rev. Prof.

Adebayo D. Akinde, B.A., M.A. PHD, Dip.TH., J.P Archbishop of Lagos and Bishop of Lagos Mainland; The Most Rev. Dr. E. Adebola Ademowo Ph.D, OON, FNAL Bishop of Lagos and the Dean Emeritus, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion); The Rt. Rev. B. J. Adeyemi Bishop of Badagry Diocese; The Rt. Rev. Dr. J. Akin Atere Bishop of Awori Diocese; The Rt. Rev. James O. Odedeji Bishop of Lagos West.

Prince Duro Oyinlola is the Chairman of LABICO Governing Council; The Venerable Dr. B.O. Okunnuga is the Rector while The Venerable E. Oludare Otoki is the Registrar.

2015 CAN U-17 Qualifier Amuneke targets fresh victory over Congo p.63

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AUGUST 3, 2014

Commonwealth Games Gold haul for Team Nigeria p.63

Dapo Sotuminu, Deputy Sports Editor dapo.sotuminu@newtelegraphonline.com 08099400190, 08038154192

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Sp rt

Glasgow 2014 shows Okagbare’s value, as curtain falls on Games Dapo Sotuminu

T

Glasgow

he XX Commonwealth Games, Glasgow 2014 would come to a close this evening with an elaborate ceremony coming up at the Hampden Park Stadium, after two weeks of world class action.

Despite the negative reports from the positive dope test of weightlifter, Chika Amalaha, the major gains for Nigeria bothered on the discovery of Ese Brume who won gold in the women’s long jump in her first Commonwealth Games appearance and the main being exposition of Blessing Okagbare as a force to reckon with in international athletics.

In the Commonwealth Games she has finally learnt how to be dominant and powerful, com-

pletely obliterating her opposition which she did on her way to 100 and 200 metres gold performances.

Her Glasgow outing was something that has been a long time coming. Last year August, Okagbare made history when she became the first African female sprinter to win a medal at the World Athletics Championships. Usually, African female athletes are associated with long-distance running. The continent has delivered some of the finest long-distance runners of our generation, but Okagbare is a new breed of athlete, hoping to change the way Africans compete in international events.

The last 25 holders of the world record for the 100 metres sprint were black and, in 2007, a report showed that 494 out of 500 of the best-ever 100m sprint times were held by athletes of West African

origin - meaning they were either born there or they can trace their roots back there. There is clearly a need to foster the sprinting talents of this region of Africa. Much research has been done as to whether this is down to a genetic advantage, but no clear conclusions have been drawn yet.

Obviously, living in America has aided her career. When she won in Moscow last year, the Media Officer of Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Mr Duro Ikhazuegbe, admitted that athletics had been neglected for the last 15 years and that no new facilities had been developed, while the old ones were not being properly maintained.

Okagbare said: “When I started to train as a young athlete, transportation was a major problem for me. I had to walk from my house to the track; it was really far, a long

distance. And sometimes I would struggle to get a good meal to eat.”

When she was 18, she was spotted at the 2007 All Africa Games, where she won a silver medal in the long jump. She was afterwards given a scholarship to study at the University of Texas, it is while in this school that she took up sprinting, the sport that has made her a household name. She only started sprinting in 2009, after being advised by her coach.

“It’s an honour to make a bit of history for Africa. I may live in the United States but I am a proud African and moments like this are wonderful when I feel I am putting them on the map in athletics.

“When I won the long jump bronze at the 2008 Olympics I was only 19 and still naïve. But as I grew through the years I learnt so much.

At first it was difficult to cope with

the pressure and what people were saying. But athletes don’t go out to fail and when they do it is really tough for them.

“Now I don’t pay attention to what people say and I don’t worry about what may come in the future.

I just hope that people will look back and say I gave Africa something to smile about at a World Championships.”

She certainly did and now she has given her homeland even more reason to smile. She is fast becoming a modern-day athletics heroine.

Okagbare’s success at the Commonwealth Games can, hopefully, inspire others to follow in her footsteps and for the countries where athletics is being so neglected to finally wake up. With such a charismatic torch bearer at the heart of the cause, things might just be on the up.

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Sport

Chika Amalaha

Danagogo: Heads will roll over Amalaha’s dope issue The Minister of Sports and Chairman National Sports Commission, NSC, Tammy Danagogo, miffed by the stain inflicted on Nigeria by the dope ban slammed on 16-year-old weightlifter, Chika Amalaha, at the XX Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, has promised that heads will roll on the matter. He spoke with DAPO SOTUMINU in Glasgow on other issues bothering on the Games

CHIKA AMALAHA’S DOPE ISSUE Heads will roll on the issue of the disgraceful dope ban involving the country’s female weightlifter, Chika Amalaha, whose gold medal had been withdrawn by the Commonwealth Weightlifting Federation.

When I returned to the camp of Team Nigeria in Glasgow, after leaving them for a week to sort out some pressing issues in Nigeria, I came back to meet what I tag as mixed feelings, as the team had won some valuable gold medals which was good to celebrate. The other was a sad one though, as one of the country’s young talents was suspended and expelled from the Games for failing a dope test.

It was sad news for me and for my

people back home in Nigeria as we came to Glasgow to win and win clean without any stain, considering the situation at the last edition of the Games in New Delhi where three of the country’s athletes were banned for using performance enhancing drugs.

I am more pained as I saw the girl perform excellently at the last edition of the African Youth Games in Botswana, where she won the gold medal in the same category without failing any dope test. After her victory ceremony in Botswana, she told me her age and that she is a first year student in the university.

At the African Youth Games, Chika missed her school examinations. This showed her level of commitment and

patriotism to the country. We had started planning to send her to a sportsfriendly university in Europe where she could effectively combine sports with education. This is girl is too good to be involved in doping.

While asking her questions on why she took the banned substance, she revealed that she took a drug to reduce her body weight and never intended to cheat. In actual sense, from the report of the World Anti-Doping Agency, the drug she took was not particular meant to enhance her performance but, it has the capability of masking other banned substances if used at all.

After the Commonwealth Games a probe panel would be set up in Abuja to critically look into the situation as

the embarrassing case has been so celebrated across the world and we have a duty to let the world know what really happened.

Heads must roll in both the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation and the Nigeria Anti-Doping Agency, based in Abuja. It is a shame that we have such a place in the country and an athlete could sneak out to take banned substances which has embarrassed Nigeria.

Such ugly situation should have been nipped in the bud by the doping control.

The chief coach of the Weightlifting Federation told me that he did not know when the girl used the drug and it was done without consultation, while the doping control cannot tell me the

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same story, as it is their job to carefully screen all the athletes going for the Commonwealth Games. That is why we are saying that they must know that Chika took something. Somebody must be punished for this as the image of the country has been further dented and we won’t treat it with kid gloves. My worry is that the girl did not use drugs to lift the same weight in Botswana two months ago.

For me, I believe Chika is innocent and never knew that the kind of drug she took wasn’t for weight loss only.

In weightlifting, a reduced weight is always at advantage when it comes to stalemate. It was not a performance enhancing drug, this was a fact we have established, the only snag there is that the drug is prohibited. So, this girl won’t be condemned.

I have summoned the Director General of the Nigeria Anti-Doping Agency, as somebody must be punished for this mistake. We must help our country to clean off this stain.

USE OF FOREIGN ATHLETES I was told that the athletes with foreign names and ascent are Nigerians in the Diaspora and they have decided to compete for their fatherland at the Commonwealth Games. It is not a bad idea, but there are more to it than meet the eyes.

I saw some of them for the first time at the foreign training camp ahead of the Commonwealth Games, and I had the feeling that majority of them are not truly Nigerians. It is a bit confusing and I think there is a need for

us to investigate them to ascertain their true nationality. But since we have been using them, they have not been able to better our condition in terms of winning the desired laurels at international competitions.

It is now clear to us that these foreigners are not the salvation to Nigeria’s success at international events.

Those who are winning for us are the athletes we groomed locally; they are our local talents and I think the best bet is to spend more money to develop them to international stardom.

We have learnt our lessons at the Sports Ministry. We have studied the situation well before

we came out with this decision, but we shall keep observing them. This group of athletes are more prevalent in athletics, and we shall call on the president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Chief Solomon Ogba, to give us more details. One must be very careful.

I have seen the foreign Nigerian athletes at t h e

Danagogo

Commonwealth Games in Glasgow perform and they are not better than our local talents, which we have resolved to invest on.

Glasgow, for me, is an excellent experience where new talents have been spotted out and we have also identified that our already developed talents are world class. All we just need to do is to brush them up a little and they would become the best in the world.

I am happy that Nigeria is standing tall at this Games.

POOR ATHLETES KITS The indiscriminate use of kits by the athletes at the Commonwealth Games was caused by the late arrival of the official kits for Team Nigeria. This is not a good experience as athletes just wear what they have to compete.

Placements and orders for kits were made before I came into office as the Minister of Sports. I only met the bills on my table, and I don’t know the company producing it and the person who entered a business agreement for the kits to be manufactured. All I know is that I was the one who made the final payment.

It is quite unfortunate that when we finally paid, it was a little late as funds were not released on time. Between the Nigeria representative and the Austrian manufacturing company, there were complaints as the latter complained that they were paid the agreed fee in bits.

We paid for three sets of kits: The ceremonial kits, which were the ones Team Nigeria used in the march past, for the opening ceremony. The second set was the sports specific kits, which are supposed to be worn by the athletes

Sport

to compete. I was surprised to see the athletes compete in different unauthorised kits and brands, as the seven sports federations involved in the Commonwealth Games were settled financially. And it was a big surprise to see the athletes not wearing the kits given to them. While the only set of kits delayed were the general ones for everybody, from artisans to Sports Ministry officials, stakeholders and many more.

Blessing Okagbare freely used the Nike brand, as she has an existing endorsement from the American company. She is a star and free to enter into such deals as we cannot pay the amount of money Nike is paying her.

So, there is no problem with Okagbare wearing Nike. Even our footballers wear different soccer boots endorsed by kit manufacturing companies.

With her excellent performance in Glasgow, a brand new car is waiting for her in Abuja. This was bought by a sport-loving Nigerian who was thrilled

by Okagbare’s feats. There are other monies waiting for her already paid in by some Nigerians, all waiting for her to pick.

LATE CAMPING OF ATHLETES The athletes were in camp back home in Nigeria for a long time. Where we had problems were the foreign training tours earlier planned to prepare our athletes for the big challenge. We had delays in the release of funds, but notwithstanding some of the athletes went on foreign camping immediately we received our money.

The sport of Shooting had their own challenges and the shooters were prevented from competing at the Commonwealth Games because all athletes were supposed to come along with their equipment.

We got to know about this when the team arrived in Glasgow and it was too late to start applying for the release of firearms through the office of the Inspector General of Police.

It was when I arrived in Glasgow that the director of the State Security Service in Nigeria said he would have gone out of his way to convince the Inspector General for approval not minding the short notice.

RECEPTION OF ATHLETES Before the commencement of action at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, I told the athletes to try as much as possible to win enough gold medals that would encourage our sports-loving President, Goodluck Jonathan, to host them to a grand reception in Abuja after the Games. And I made it clear to them that the extra incentive for excellent performance would be different from their camp allowances and bonuses for winning medals.

The delay in the payment of allowances in Glasgow was caused by those Sports Ministry officials saddled with the responsibility of paying the athletes. They believed the athletes would be distracted as they would go on a shopping spree every day. Those in charge said they helped the athletes to save their money.

The athletes were also told that their reward won’t be limited to the allowances and bonuses already paid to them. I begged the athletes to surpass the country’s performance at the last edition of the Commonwealth Games, held in New Delhi, by winning more than 11 gold medals in all.

I am positive that Mr President would surely receive the athletes in Abuja.

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Sport

Meet legion of Nigeria’s foreign athletes at the 2014 Commonwealth Games Mozavos Edwards (100m) The 23 year-old ran 10.40 seconds in the 100m heat, and placed second behind England’s Adam Gemili, who posted 10.15 seconds. He qualified for the semi-final where he ran 10.30 seconds and failed to qualify for the final as he finished in 7th position.

His most memorable sporting achievement was when he competed at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, Germany.

In 2014 he began representing Nigeria in athletics after previously representing the United States.

In 2004, he received a public warning and was disqualified from his third place finish at the 2004 Norwich Union International in Birmingham, England, after testing positive to tetrahydrocannabinol [THC] or cannabis. His punishment did not include any ban, as he was a first time offender.

Mark Jelks (100m) Mark Jelks is 30 years old and he competed for Nigeria in the 100m at Glasgow 2014. In the heats, he ran 10.28 seconds. In the semi-finals, where he posted 10.13 seconds, he was very luck to qualify in third place after he looked back at other runners as he approached the finish line. If he had not looked back he would have won the race, but he still managed to book a place in the final where he ran 10.17 seconds and was only good for fifth place, thus killing his dream of winning a medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

In January 2010 he was inducted into the Indiana Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame.

He switched allegiance from competing for the United States in 2014 to compete for Nigeria, despite being born and raised in the United States. With his grandfather hailing from Warri South in Nigeria, he was able to get a Nigerian passport.

“There are more opportunities here to flourish, to be great and to have the opportunity to get to the bigger stage. So that was the deciding factor for me,” he said.

In August 2010 he was suspended from competition for two years after failing to notify the United States Anti-Doping Agency [USADA] of his location on three separate occasions in an 18-month period.

Alexander Al Ameen (200m) He was born in the United Kingdom but represented Nigeria in the 110 metres event at Glasgow 2014. The 25 yearold has a season best of 13.54 seconds, but ran 13.71 seconds in the heats, and dipped further in the final race where he clocked 13.77 seconds, finishing seventh in a race won by A Riley of Jamaica who breasted the tape at 13.22 seconds.

Christian Cuevas-Morton

More than ever before, Team Nigeria presented the highest number of foreign stars with Nigerian nationality at the XX Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. DAPO SOTUMINU takes a close look at the athletes, mostly from the United States, and their performances at the Glasgow Games

Tosin Oke

Alexander Al Ameen

Gloria Amumnu

Ugonna Ndu Mozavos Edwards

Stephen Mozia

Mark Jelks

Regina George

(400m Hurdles) The 24 year-old Cuevas Morton was born in the USA. He ran 49.62 seconds in the semifinals, while he dropped to 49.65 seconds in the final where he placed fifth. He has a season best of 49.39 seconds and a personal best of 48.79 seconds He began competing in track while in high school in the United States, where he was born to a Nigerian mother and Barbadian father. He began competing for Nigeria in 2009 after receiving advice from Nigerian athlete Patience Itanyi. However the 2009 World Championships in Berlin, Germany did not go well and he felt he was blamed for the Nigerian 4x400m relay team’s poor performance. In June 2012 he requested to be allowed to compete for the United States, but his mother talked him out

Stephen Mozia (Shot Put) 20 year-old Stephen Mozia was born in the United States.

In Glasgow, He threw 17.76 metres in the preliminaries which was not good enough to secure a place in the final as he finished in the seventh position.

His ambition is to compete at an Olympic Games. He was born and raised in the United States, and competed for the US at the 2012 Junior World Championships in Barcelona, Spain.

However, in 2014 he decided to represent Nigeria, the nation of his parents’ birth. “I have always wanted to wear the green and white colours of Nigeria, my fatherland,” he said.

Gloria Asumnu (100m) The 29 year-old Asumnu ran 11.43 seconds in the heats, did 11.25 seconds in the semi-finals and placed 8th in the final, where she ran 11.41seconds in a race won by Blessing Okagbare, who ran 10.85 seconds to also set a Games record.

Her ambition is to win a medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Born in the United States to Nigerian parents, her application to switch from representing the US to Nigeria was initially declined, before later being accepted by the IAAF. She joined the Nigerian athletics team in 2011 after failing to make the United States team.

In November 2013 she was banned from competing for six months by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria. Her ban was the result of what was described as “unruly” behaviour at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, Russia where she refused to compete in the 4x100m relay and made “uncomplimentary remarks” on social media. The ban ended in January 2014.

Dominique Duncan (200m) Duncan is 24 years old and was born in Texas, USA. In Glasgow, he ran 23.89 seconds in the heats to place third and qualify for the semi-finals of the 200m. In the semis, she ran 23.88 seconds to place sixth.

In late May 2014 the IAAF approved her request to switch from representing the US to Nigeria.

Regina George (400m) George, 23, who was born in the United States, ran 53.92 seconds in the heats and 53.48seconds in the semi-finals to place sixth.

She began competing in athletics at age 14.

Christian CuevasMorton

of changing his allegiance and he went on to represent Nigeria at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

citizenship. “I am Nigerian, it was never a change of nationality - if I changed to represent Qatar, that would be a change of nationality,” he said.

Hammed Suleiman (Long Jump) Hammed Suleiman is 24 years old and was born in California, USA. He got into athletics during high school. His sister was part of the athletics team at their school.

Tosin Oke (Triple Jump) The 33 year-old triple jumper was born in Great Britain. He got into athletics at age 16. He had grown up playing games like standing long jump and standing triple jump in Nigeria.

He was African triple jump champion in 2010 and 2012; All Africa Games champion in 2011, and Commonwealth Games champion in 2010, all in the colours of Nigeria.

He competed for Great Britain until age 30 when he decided to switch allegiance to Nigeria, where he also holds

Ugonna Ndu (100m Hurdles) Ndu is 23 years-old and was born in New Jersey, USA. Despite being born and raised in the United States, she elected to represent Nigeria in athletics due to the fact that her parents were born in Nigeria before migrating to the United States to study.

In Glasgow, she ran 13.35 seconds in the heats and placed fifth, which was not good enough to move to the next round.

Nichole Denby (100m Hurdles) Nichole Denby is 31 yearsold and was born in the United States. She ran 13.54 seconds in the semi-finals to place third after she stumbled at the last hurdle. Before she stumbled she was good for second place, which would have taken her to the final.

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Sport / News

Sanchez suffered because of Messi – Arsene Wenger

A

rsenal Boss, Arsene Wenger, believes Alexis Sanchez suffered the same way Neymar did at Barcelona because of Lionel Messi’s presence.

Alexis Sanchez

Sanchez signed for Arsenal last month for a fee of 40 million from Barcelona and the Frenchman believes it was difficult for the Chilean to shine at the Camp Nou, much like Neymar.

“He first came on my radar when he played at Udinese and then afterwards, when he went to Barcelona,” Wenger told The Daily Mirror.

“He is a striker. He’s a good finisher, who made a great impression in Italy. I saw him there and he was really outstanding. It was a bit more difficult for him at Barcelona but it’s like you can see with Neymar at that club, there you have Messi.

“When you see Neymar with Brazil and Neymar with Barcelona he’s not the same. I like the fact Alexis can play left, right, up front and that’s why I went for him.”

Barca keen to sell Alves B

arcelona have reportedly decided that they want to sell Dani Alves.

The 31-year-old’s contract is set to expire next year, and it had looked as though the right-back would see out the remainder of his contract with the Catalan side.

However, according to Sport, Barcelona have decided to get rid of Alves sooner rather than later, instead of losing him on a free.

The report also suggests that any funds generated from the Brazilian’s sale would go toward a bid for Fiorentina’s Juan Cuadrado.

New Barca coach Luis Enrique reportedly feels that it is time to

Chelsea fans OK Lampard’s Man City move

C

helsea fans are expected to be supportive of Frank Lampard if the former Blues vice captain moves to Manchester City on loan this season.

The ex-England international joined New York City FC on a two-year deal, but has been heavily linked with a temporary stint at the Etihad Stadium this season before playing in the MLS. However, the chair of the Chelsea Supporters Group, Trizia Fiorellino, believes that Lampard will not get a raw deal from the Stamford Bridge faithful.

Fiorellino is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: “You always get one or two idiots but the majority of fans will not go against him.

“It would be strange to see him in a Manchester City shirt but I could not begrudge him.”

kick off a new era at the club, and that means saying goodbye to long-serving players like Alves to allow the introduction of fresh blood.

Paris Saint-Germain have been credited with an interest in the defender.

Gold haul for Team Nigeria

•As Obiji, Oyema, Kehinde dominate in powerlifting

A

Ifeanyi Ibeh

s the Commonwealth Games come to a close on Sunday, Team Nigeria athletes churned out a series of amazing displays on Saturday as they won a clutch of gold medals to further push Nigeria up the medals table.

In the Weightlifting ParaSport Powerlifting Women’s Heavyweight category, Loveline Obiji beat others, including her teammate Bose Omolayo, to the gold medal.

Omolayo had to settle for the silver medal.

It was an impressive display from both Nigerians, and the one-two finish delighted spectators at the venue, including Nigeria’s Sports Minister, Tammy Danagogo.

Obiji was apparently made in a different planet when she astonishingly lifted 130 kg in her first lift. The applause in the hall was deafening and could as well have won the gold medal if she decided to quit. But not for the Nigerian who heaved yet another 140 kg successfully to the delight of Nigerians but surely to the envy of her other competitors.

Loveline Obiji of Nigeria celebrates after winning the Women’s Heavy Weight Powerlifting

She did not stop there though, as she finally powered to the gold with a breath-taking 144kg.

In the Women’s Lightweight category, Esther Oyema retained her Commonwealth title from four years with a new world record lift of 126 kg.

In the Men’s Lightweight

2015 CAN U-17 Qualifier

Amuneke targets fresh victory over Congo Charles Ogundiya Abeokuta

G

olden Eaglets chief coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, is very optimistic that his boys will record another victory against Congo DR in the second leg of the African U-17 Championship qualifier scheduled for the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta on Sunday.

The team currently in Abeokuta as a result of the renovation work going on inside the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar, will hope to secure qualification on Sunday with another victory.

Speaking to our correspondent in Abeokuta, the former Super Eagles winger said the team is ready for Sunday’s showdown.

“We have put the first leg victory behind us, and we are going to approach Sunday’s game as we did the first leg because we can’t allow complacency to set in,” said the 1994 African Footballer of the Year whose side defeated the Congolese by a lone goal in the first leg.

“The boys are ready, we have been training since we came to Abeokuta and nothing except victory is the target,” added the former FC Barcelona of Spain player.

Amuneke reiterated his stand that he is not setting any target for the team, but will take every game as it comes.

Golden Eaglets of Nigeria line up

He said: “I am not putting any pressure on myself or the team, the most important thing is to take every game one after the other, which is what we are doing. After a game, we put it behind us and focus on the next game.”

The Golden Eaglets last weekend handed a 1-0 defeat to their Congolese counterpart in Kinshasa.

“We always play to win and this is even more important because this is our first major match at home,” said Amuneke.” Though we know how passionate Nigerians are, we are not putting the boys under any pressure because they already know what is expected of them.”

Sunday’s match against Congo Democratic Republic would be Golden Eaglets’ 22 since Amuneke came on board and he has for the umpteenth time, dismissed comparison of his wards with the 2013 FIFA World Cup winning team.

“We are not trying to replicate the last team rather, we are building on the success they recorded,” affirmed Amuneke.”

It is good we see things from different perspectives but we are building a team that would be difficult to beat.

“By the grace of God, we shall win our match against Congo Democratic on Sunday because the boys already know how to compete right from the day we started,” he added.

category, Nigeria also claimed the top-two spots as Paul Kehinde edged teammate Rolland Ezuruike to the gold medal to become the first Nigerian male athlete to win a gold medal at the 2014 Games.

All of Nigeria’s other gold medals up till that point had been won by women.

First Bank open camp August 11 Ifeanyi Ibeh

R

eigning champions of the Nigerian Women’s Basketball League, First Bank, will commence preparations for the qualifiers for this year’s African Women’s Club Championship on August 11.

Making this disclosure was the team’s Head Coach, Adewunmi Aderemi, who is hoping to secure qualification to the continental championship after missing out last year, following his team’s failure to secure a top-two finish at the end of the 2012/2013 season.

“We have been on break since we concluded the league on June 21, so we are going to start our preparation for the qualifiers of the African Women Club Championship on August 11,” said the former assistant coach of the country’s women’s national team.

Aderemi who is still not over the euphoria of winning the 2013/2014 Zenith Women’s Basketball League after missing out on the title in the past couple of years, explained that preparations ought to have started earlier but had to be shelved until certain issues were sorted out.

Regardless, the former Head Coach of Lagos Islanders is hoping his side can qualify for the African Championship and perform better than the country’s representatives at last year’s tournament in Morocco – First Deepwaters and Dolphins.

Aderemi said: “It’s going to be very different this time around as we have been around for a while.

We have won it twice, finished second on like three occasions, and third about five times. Therefore we know what it takes in First Bank to do very well and by the grace of God, we will try our best to come first or second.

SPORT Danagogo: Heads will roll over Amalaha’s doping issue

}60

FAITH Sanctity of Truth w w w. new tel eg rap ho nl i ne. co m

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon and the truth. – Buddha

VOL. 1 NO. 166

SUNDAY, AUGUST 3, 2014

N150

Datiri: Boko Haram wants to wipe out Christians in Borno

}54

Between ideal and our reality M arch 1997. We were seated, journalists and political ‘stakeholders’ alike, in the sprawling living room of the GRA, Enugu, home of a prominent politician in Enugu State. Time was about 7.30pm. We were awaiting information on the conduct and, ultimately, the result of the local government chairmanship election contested by a candidate of one of the five political parties created by the government of the late General Sani Abacha. The candidate in question was an acolyte of the Enugu politician.

Suddenly, a stocky, dark-complexioned young man, identified later as a younger brother of the chairmanship candidate, ran into the sitting room, panting. Even in his breathlessness, he recognized one as his senior and a prefect in the secondary we both attended and called one by one’s name. It was I who then broke the ice, as it were: “Emeka, what happened,” I asked, calling him by his name. “Why are you panting; have you been running or something? What happened?”

The young man narrated how he escaped death by a hair’s breadth; how there was heavy shooting between rival political thugs in the local government headquarters where the results of the local government election in which his elder brother was a chairmanship candidate, were being collated; how some people might have been killed while others must have sustained serious injuries but that he didn’t wait to establish the fatalities (who could have?) because he took to his heels as soon as the shots rang out because he did not want to be cut in the cross-fire and probably lose his life.

Many people, I am sure, can connect with this story. I believe that there is scarcely any Nigerian who has ever voted or been to a polling station on election who would find this anecdote a far-fetched reality. And I am not talking about what people must have read in the papers or heard on radio or watched on television; I am talking about seeing these things unfold before our very eyes. From South East to South-South, South West to North Central, North West to North East, we have all, to be sure, witnessed the stifling heat that elections have generated in Nigeria and the mayhem they have caused in many a place. Houses have been razed, lives have been wasted and an entire political process has been truncated as politicians and their supporters match one another machete for machete, gun for gun, arrow for arrow, axe for axe, talisman for talisman, in the bid to undo the other in the contest for political power in Nigeria’s peculiar brand of democracy, where the sacred principle of universal adult suffrage—one man, one vote—is constantly violated by people who would rather vote with bullets and arrows than with ballot papers.

I am certain that how to provide security cover for elections in the country is one of the biggest challenges that every elections umpire in Nigeria (INEC Chairman) and the government have had to contend with for ages. How, indeed, do we police elections in this country to avoid the bloodshed that characterizes the exercise here? How do we ensure that what should ordinarily be our routine civic obligation to the land and people is not every so often turned into a shooting war (with resultant deaths and destruction) between two opponents who should rather fight at the level of ideas?

I read a report in one of the papers on Friday (August 1), where a group in Osun (or was it the ruling APC) insisted that the federal government must not put in place, for the Osun government election this Saturday, the same security arrangement as it did in Ekiti. They didn’t want any further ‘militarization of a

SUNDAY

NOTEBOOK

Felix Oguejiofor Abugu

Aregbesola

Omisore

democratic election’, they said, because voters would be intimidated.

And, true, who really wants soldiers in civil space in peace-time Nigeria? These gun-brandishing, perennially unfriendly folks are not supposed to be part of any democratic process, so why unleash them on us as part of the very same process? But, since the infamous operation wetie days of the First Republic in the wild, wild West, and Jim’s Vanguard-Ikemba Front tango of the Second Republic in old Anambra State, we have had regular police to deal with election violence and ancillary crises in our democracy and every time we have had such crises, Kam Salem’s men have always failed, have always been left high and dry, helpless and clueless. In management, didn’t they say that a bad manager is one who repeats the same process over and over again and expects a different answer?

Which is to say that if you are working towards a different, more palatable answer, you’ve got to try a different method.

I have always wished that elections and elec-

tioneering were as joyous here as it is, say, in the United States. I always love to see Americans walk by, drop into the polling booths, cast their votes without any fanfare and walk away, either to their homes, work or businesses. They exercise their democratic rights without let or hindrance. I can’t recall seeing a police officer near a polling booth while election is going on in the United States or the UK. That is the ideal practice we aspire to. But, Nigeria is neither the United States nor the United Kingdom. Elections there are like a festival period, here they are no tea party at all; they are war--literally.

So, if we say we don’t want tight security during elections, what other antidote do we have against ballot box snatching and or stuffing that characterize that otherwise beautiful voter power-mongering in these parts? How do we prevent rival political thugs from unleashing terror and mayhem on hapless voters in a bid to bend the will of the people to the whims of political paymasters?

I have had endless exchanges with some of

MAMA LASISI

my colleagues who have vehemently argued that the kind of tight security provided in Ekiti by the government during the June 21st governorship election in the Land of Honour ‘is not good for our democracy’ and must not be repeated in Osun. I hold the view that such argument is demagoguery at best and partisan at worst. Here was a state in an otherwise politically volatile South West, a sophisticated political block where people would violently resist any hint of cheating in an election, where a much-hyped election (there was pre-election violence) held without a single incident. Here was an election in a state in political Nigeria where there was no case of ballot box snatching or of anybody shooting into the air to scare people away so they would stuff ballot boxes with fake ballot papers thereby rigging the election, or at the people to kill political opponents, and I am told such a situation is not good for our democracy? If it is not, tell me, what is?

The big question is, what really do we want? Is our own democracy averse to peaceful election?

If we have nothing to hide, why are we afraid of such security arrangement as would make it difficult for election riggers, thugs and other purveyors of election violence to have their way?

Why should we object to a repeat of Ekiti where both victor and losers, voters and electoral officials, were unanimous in their declaration that the election was free and fair? Why denounce an election where everyone who wanted to vote voted because there was neither scarcity of electoral materials nor insecurity to hinder people from exercising their democratic rights unfettered. What is wrong with an arrangement which made it practically impossible for any voter to be disfranchised? And what if such hitherto implausible security situation obtained because the military was involved?

I had thought that the argument should centre around the dilemma for the nation of having a wonderful election in one or two states because we provided adequate security cover for the election but ending up holding a rather shoddy national election come next year because we do not have enough security personnel to police the exercise in all states of the federation. For me, Ekiti has simply opened our eyes to another Nigerian possibility, namely, that free and fair election can take place in Nigeria if we dare to take steps that do not necessarily comply with the dictates of ‘normal’ democratic process but would achieve a result that coheres to the overall objective of such ‘normal’ democratic process.

The truth is that here, as elsewhere, the reality is quite different from the ideal. As they say, if you do not have what you want, you do with what you have. Therefore, let’s secure Osun this Saturday as we did Ekiti in June; it’s good for all the parties involved.

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By Aliu Eroje